[Wuxia] Embroidered Robes and Cloud-like Hair (Complete) - Part 2

Chapter Two: Peeking at the Truth at Night As

dusk settled, like a goddess veiled in a thin mist, the night finally descended upon the Mufu Mountains, much to Jiang Tiantao's anxious anticipation. The night followed, and for him, this half-day of waiting felt like half a year. He knew that entering the inner fortress was like entering a tiger's den. Although it was in his cousin Wang Yanling's boudoir, he couldn't be sure that unexpected events wouldn't occur.

Especially since the cunning and shrewd Poisonous Woman was constantly trying to drive Wang Yanling out of the Nine Palaces Fortress, eliminating this thorn in her side. Because the Poisonous Woman had observed Wang Yanling's strong dislike for Gouzi's upturned nose, she feared Wang Yanling had already noticed some clues. Therefore, Jiang Tiantao was particularly vigilant about entering the inner fortress.

He donned his sword-clad robe, draped his cloak, strapped his sword to his back, and tucked a black cloth into his bosom, preparing to act swiftly should anything happen. He waited anxiously in the stone chamber, occasionally peeking out the door to look at the tall, strangely shaped rocks behind the flower hall. The garden was shrouded in darkness; the star-studded night sky was occasionally punctuated by a few dark clouds, and the night breeze rustled the slender bamboo and short pines, making Jiang Tiantao, who was eagerly awaiting someone, even more suspicious of human figures. He anxiously stepped out of the stone chamber and looked up at the night sky; it was already past midnight.

Just then, a faint rustling sound suddenly came from among the strangely shaped rocks behind the flower hall. Jiang Tiantao's eyes lit up with joy; he knew that Ling had sent someone to fetch him. Excited, he rushed over. Reaching the rocks, he saw that the protruding part of one of the strangely shaped rocks below the steps behind the flower hall was slowly collapsing. Upon

seeing this, Jiang Tiantao suddenly realized that the joint of the hidden door was inside the protruding rock; no wonder he hadn't noticed it at noon. Before the thought was even finished, a slender figure suddenly leaped out from the small doorway on the strange rock. Jiang Tiantao had already recognized Xiao Cuihua, and immediately smiled as he hurried to meet her.

Xiao Cuihua, however, was not as sharp-eyed as Jiang Tiantao. Seeing a man dressed in black, with a long sword on his back and gleaming eyes, suddenly approaching, she was startled and nearly cried out. Jiang Tiantao, being incredibly clever, immediately sensed something was wrong when he saw Xiao Cuihua's pale face and sudden fall. In a flash, he was in front of her, covering her mouth just as she opened her mouth to cry out. At the same time, he hurriedly whispered, "Xiao Cuihua, it's me!" He then released her and took two steps back.

Upon hearing the familiar voice, Xiao Cuihua recognized Jiang Tiantao, the man she was looking for. She didn't understand why he was dressed in such a formal style with a sword on his back, but she noticed that he looked even more dashing, handsome, and elegant than when he wore simple clothes. Xiao Cuihua had almond-shaped eyes and arched eyebrows, and her delicate skin was quite beautiful and captivating. At sixteen, she was naturally mischievous and just beginning to experience the stirrings of love. The young girl thought of her fair face, which had just been touched by Jiang Tiantao's hand, and couldn't help but blush. Her heart pounded, and she remained speechless for a long time.

Jiang Tiantao, thinking he had startled Xiao Cuihua, quickly smiled and apologized, "Xiao Cuihua, I gave you a fright."

Xiao Cuihua, regaining her composure, realized she hadn't yet paid her respects. She hastily curtsied and said respectfully, "This humble servant greets the Young Master..."

Jiang Tiantao immediately smiled and said, "Don't address me like that. You'd better call me Wei Ming."

Xiao Cuihua, emboldened by Jiang Tiantao's amiable manner, feigned silence and lowered her head, letting out a wistful sigh, saying meaningfully, "This humble servant wishes the Young Master really was Wei Ming

, the one who waters the flowers." Jiang Tiantao wasn't oblivious to romance; he understood the implied meaning. A flower girl and a maid were perfectly natural. Thinking this, he reached out and pinched Xiao Cuihua's cheek, smiling slightly, "Little girl, your heart is fluttering with spring."

Xiao Cuihua, not expecting her feelings to be seen through, blushed instantly and quickly turned around, urging, "Let's hurry! If we're late, Miss will be angry!" With that, she led the way into the small stone gate.

Jiang Tiantao immediately remembered his serious business and stopped teasing her, hurriedly following Xiao Cuihua inside. Inside the small stone door was a sloping stone staircase. At the end of the staircase, on the wall, was a bright, exquisite palace lantern. Jiang Tiantao knew that Xiao Cuihua had brought it.

Xiao Cuihua quickly walked to the lantern, and as soon as Jiang Tiantao stepped down the staircase, she pulled a handle through a square hole in the wall, and the small stone door above slowly closed. Xiao Cuihua took down the palace lantern from the wall and whispered, "Please follow me, Young Master." With that, she walked ahead.

Seeing that Xiao Cuihua still addressed him as Young Master, Jiang Tiantao didn't stop her, nodded, and followed behind her. The tunnel was wide, about ten feet square, entirely constructed of huge stones, with iron sand filled in the gaps, making it very sturdy. Because the cave was dry and windy, it was certain that there were many secret ventilation openings. Xiao Cuihua, carrying a lantern, hurried ahead, with Jiang Tiantao following silently behind. In his heart, however, he was constantly wondering why Wang Yanling had invited him.

Reaching a shady spot, they suddenly heard Xiao Cuihua whisper, "The moat is above this section."

Jiang Tiantao looked around and saw many oily water droplets on the boulders, concluding that they couldn't be far from Wang Yanling's boudoir. Therefore, he asked with concern, "Xiao Cuihua, do you know why Miss wants me to go?"

Xiao Cuihua shook her head and said, "This servant doesn't know, but Miss seems particularly happy today." Just as

Jiang Tiantao was about to ask something else, he suddenly saw the tunnel abruptly curve inwards, doubling in width. Every three to five zhang (approximately 10-15 meters), on the inward-curving stone wall, there was a large iron gate of the same design, each with a large gemstone of a different color embedded in its lintel. A thought struck him, and he asked urgently, as if he had just realized something, "Little Cuihua, are these iron gates the Wanxiang Ancient Tomb beneath Jiugongbao?"

Little Cuihua nodded without hesitation and respectfully replied, "Yes." Jiang Tiantao felt a sharp pain in his heart. He thought of his mother, who had died giving birth to him, resting peacefully in the ancient tomb. Although it was so close, it felt like an eternity away. Tears immediately welled up in his starry eyes. Driven by instinct, he involuntarily walked towards the nearest iron gate inlaid with rubies.

Upon seeing this, Little Cuihua's expression changed drastically, and she blurted out urgently, "Young Master, please don't go near it!"

Jiang Tiantao was immediately jolted awake and turned back. But every time he passed a large iron gate, he would look at it with a sorrowful longing. He imagined the many traps within the tomb and his mother's kind face resting in the jade coffin. He silently asked himself when he would be able to safely enter the ancient tomb through one of these iron gates.

Before he could finish his thought, he suddenly heard Xiao Cuihua whisper, "Young Master, we're almost there."

Jiang Tiantao focused his attention and noticed a small, wide-open iron gate on the right-hand side of the stone wall. The spacious passageway curved inwards, its destination unknown. The two approached the small iron gate. Xiao Cuihua, carrying a lantern, led the way. After less than five zhang (approximately 15 meters), they reached a sloping stone staircase.

Xiao Cuihua turned and smiled at Jiang Tiantao, mysteriously pointing to the staircase. She said with a smile, "Miss is up there; she must be getting impatient." With that, she led the way up the staircase.

Jiang Tiantao followed with a smile, a surge of excitement and sweetness rising in his heart. He wondered how Ling's boudoir was decorated. Before he could finish his thought, they reached the top of the staircase. Before them was a narrow door draped with a scarlet velvet curtain, from which a warm, fragrant aroma wafted. Xiao Cuihua placed the palace lantern in the lamp holder by the small door, turned to look at Jiang Tiantao, and quietly pointed to the velvet cloth, gesturing for him to go inside.

Jiang Tiantao, upon smelling the familiar, warm fragrance, knew he had arrived at Ling's boudoir. He quickly tidied himself up and quietly lifted the heavy velvet cloth. The room was brightly lit. The first thing he saw was a dragon-tooth bed with a pink gauze curtain, neatly folded brocade quilts, and five slender red candles burning on a tall floor candlestick. He didn't see Ling; due to the silence, he concluded the room was empty. He then lifted the cloth higher, revealing a dressing table, a bronze mirror, a jade table, a brocade stool, and several potted plants on a high table by the window.

Before Jiang Tiantao could finish looking, Xiao Cuihua seemed to sense something amiss, quickly took two steps forward, peeked inside, and immediately whispered in surprise, "Miss isn't here!" With that, she slipped inside.

Jiang Tiantao was about to enter when he was immediately stopped by Xiao Cuihua, who whispered, "Let me go to the front porch first." As she spoke, she casually lowered the velvet cloth and turned to leave.

Jiang Tiantao was very puzzled and a sense of unease rose within him. He kept asking himself if something had happened to Ling-mei, otherwise, why wasn't she waiting upstairs when she sent someone to pick him up? His anxious heart made him nervously lift the veil again, and there he saw Xiao Cuihua walking anxiously into the room from outside the door leading to the outer room.

As soon as Xiao Cuihua approached, Jiang Tiantao eagerly whispered, "Is Miss outside?"

Xiao Cuihua replied in confusion, "No, perhaps something urgent has happened. Miss rarely goes downstairs!"

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao became even more uneasy and asked with concern, "What should I do? Can I go in?"

Xiao Cuihua immediately whispered a warning, "Young Master, please be patient. Whenever Miss is not here, Poisonous Lady always sends her trusted maid to strike up a conversation, taking the opportunity to spy on Miss's thoughts and actions." She paused, as if remembering something, and then solemnly added, "Every time Miss goes downstairs, she always leaves someone here. This time, she left without leaving anyone behind.

She would never do this unless there was a major incident." Jiang Tiantao felt this made sense and hastily agreed, but his palms were already sweating profusely due to excessive unease and anxiety. He was extremely concerned about Wang Yanling's safety, because Wang Yanling not only had to outwit the cunning and ruthless "Poisonous Lady," but also deal with the malicious harassment of the dog "Chao Yubi." A moment's carelessness could put her life in danger.

Just then, he heard hurried footsteps. Xiao Cuihua immediately whispered nervously, "Young Master, be careful, someone's coming!"

Jiang Tiantao wasn't afraid, but he feared his carelessness might endanger Wang Yanling and the other three. So he held his breath and stood quietly behind the curtain, listening intently to the footsteps approaching upstairs. As the footsteps became clearer, he heard a reproachful, anxious voice say, "Oh dear, why are you only coming back now? Miss was so worried!"

Jiang Tiantao recognized the voice as Xiao Shuixian's, and his tense mood immediately calmed down. Suddenly, he heard Xiao Cuihua anxiously whisper, "Where is Miss? Where did you go?"

Xiao Shuixian nervously whispered, "The old master has returned..."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao's mind went blank, and he almost fainted. He slowly leaned against the stone wall, his heart filled with mixed emotions of sorrow and joy. Tears welled up in his eyes. For eighteen years, he had longed to see his aging father, but he had never had the chance. This time, he absolutely could not let it slip away. In his mind's eye, he vaguely heard Xiao Cuihua whispering to him, "Young master, young master..."

Jiang Tiantao regained his senses, wiped away his tears, and went inside. The girl dressed in bright red, Narcissus, was startled by Jiang Tiantao's attire. Her pretty eyes widened,

and she asked nervously, "Young Master, why are you carrying a sword?" Jiang Tiantao had no intention of explaining, and immediately asked urgently, "Where is the Old Master now?"

Narcissus seemed hesitant to tell Jiang Tiantao, and stammered, "Miss said she asked the Young Master to go back first."

Jiang Tiantao wouldn't listen. His sword-like eyebrows arched, and he asked sharply in a low voice, "Quickly, where is the Old Master?"

Narcissus and Cuihua hadn't expected Jiang Tiantao to suddenly become so fierce; both were startled and involuntarily took two steps back. Especially Xiao Shuixian, gazing into Jiang Tiantao's bright, shining eyes, felt her legs go weak, and she stammered, "Dinner is in the Yingzhong Pavilion in the back..."

Jiang Tiantao knew that Xiao Shuixian wouldn't tell him unless he gave her a hard time, so he urged, "Show me where it is?" Without further ado, he grabbed Xiao Shuixian's delicate hand and hurried towards the outer room. Xiao Cuihua, knowing she couldn't stop him, leaped to the outer room and quietly opened the central door leading to the front hall.

Jiang Tiantao first cautiously glanced outside and saw that the courtyards were layered, filled with tall stone pavilions, all brightly lit, and servants hurrying about in the winding corridors below. He hesitated for a moment, then pulled Xiao Shuixian to the large stone pillars of the front porch and whispered, "Where is the Central Pavilion?"

Xiao Shuixian pointed tremblingly to a brightly lit, long stone pavilion several dozen feet away, and exclaimed anxiously, "That's the Central Pavilion!" Jiang Tiantao assessed the situation and decided to leave the courtyard's long corridor, leap onto the opposite stone building, and then, through the front courtyard, circle around to the high back of the stone building opposite the Central Pavilion. He thought that if he followed the shadows, he might not be discovered by the experts on the fortress walls. Thinking of the experts on the fortress walls, Jiang Tiantao involuntarily glanced at the satellite towers on the nearby and distant walls. After looking at them, he resolutely took out a black cloth and quickly covered his face.

Upon seeing this, Xiao Shuixian and Xiao Cuihua's expressions changed drastically. They covered their lips with their hands, their almond-shaped eyes widening, and trembled as they whispered, "Young Master...you...you absolutely...can't...take the risk..."

Jiang Tiantao wouldn't listen. He covered himself with a black cloth and immediately said in a broad voice, "You two quickly retreat inside. I'll handle anything that happens." With that, he gracefully descended, his toes barely touching the long corridor below. His figure soared into the air like a giant bat, flying silently to the opposite building and disappearing in a flash.

Xiao Shuixian and Xiao Cuihua, their slender hands still covering their lips, their hearts pounding in their chests, stared in terror at the rooftop where Jiang Tiantao had vanished. They were both stunned. They only knew that Jiang Tiantao was the true Young Master, but they didn't know he possessed such agile and astonishing movement and superb martial arts skills.

Jiang Tiantao moved swiftly along the shadows of the tall building, crouching like a crane, heading straight for the rooftop opposite the central pavilion. Although he wasn't afraid of being intercepted by the experts in the fortress, and was confident he could escape even if discovered, he didn't want to anger his father further after he heard the news of the stolen "embroidered robe" and the killing of the "chief steward." Furthermore, being intercepted by his father would only complicate matters further; if he surrendered and was captured, he would have no way to defend himself. If he forced his father to flee, the fortress's prestigious position in the martial arts world and his father's decades-long reputation for integrity would inevitably be tarnished. Therefore, he proceeded with extreme caution and care, moving swiftly and silently, like a ghost, finally managing to sneak onto the roof opposite the central pavilion.

Hidden in the shadows behind the ridge, Jiang Tiantao peered through the openwork windows of the roof at the central pavilion. The central pavilion was adorned with lanterns, illuminating it like daytime; its six front doors were wide open, revealing the interior. In the center of the pavilion, a sumptuous feast was laid out, but only Wang Yanling, the man with the upturned nose, and an elderly man with a kind face and an underlying air of authority sat there. The other servants and maids stood respectfully on either side.

The elderly man at the head of the table was square-faced with large ears and a ruddy complexion. He wore an apricot-yellow robe and a yellow felt hat adorned with a hero's cap. His eyes shone with a peaceful light, and he had long, cloud-like eyebrows and a long, flowing silver beard that reached down to his chest.

Upon seeing the elderly man in the yellow robe, Jiang Tiantao was overcome with emotion, his heart filled with sorrow, and his starry eyes immediately welled up with tears. He knew that the elderly man in the yellow robe sitting in the center was his biological father, the old lord of Jiugong Fortress, the Land God Dragon Jiang Haohai, also known as the Old Lord Jiang. But he could see that his father, stroking his silver beard, silently drinking his wine, his temples frosted with gray, and his brows slightly furrowed, clearly had something on his mind.

Upturned Nose sat upright on the right, striving to appear perfectly proper and obedient. Each time the old lord took a sip of wine, he rose to refill the old lord's cup. Wang Yanling sat on the left, occasionally serving the old lord fish and meat, but her delicate face was etched with worry, revealing her inner turmoil.

Jiang Tiantao knew that Wang Yanling was not only worried about her father's silence but also anxious to lure him into her boudoir. Not far behind Upturned Nose stood a seductive woman dressed in black, appearing to be only twenty-eight or twenty-nine years old. The seductive woman had an oval face, arched willow-leaf eyebrows, and a pair of peach-blossom eyes strikingly similar to Upturned Nose's. Her delicate cheeks were lightly powdered, still possessing the alluring charm of a young woman.

Although Jiang Tiantao had never met the Poisonous Lady Zhang Lihua, he recognized the seductive woman at first glance as his sworn enemy, the "Poisonous Lady." At this moment, he saw that the middle-aged "Poisonous Lady," already thirty-six or thirty-seven, still looked like a young woman in her late twenties. No wonder Gouzi's "upturned nose" aroused desire and stirred up fantasies.

The atmosphere inside the pavilion was extremely heavy. The other servants standing on both sides were also completely silent. Xiao Xianglan and Xiao Dujuan were also quietly nestled among the group of servants behind Wang Yanling. Jiang Tiantao concluded that they were talking about what happened last night.

At this moment, the old lord frowned slightly, took another sip of wine, and looked at the Poisonous Woman standing respectfully to one side. As if continuing his previous conversation, he said with emotion, "Chief Steward Min is loyal and diligent, fulfilling his duties to the utmost. For many years, I have entrusted him with the heavy responsibility of the entire fortress, allowing me to travel far away without worry..."

Jiang Tiantao shook his head upon hearing this, thinking: My father is kind and honest, but he trusted these cunning and hypocritical scoundrels too much. The old lord sighed sadly again and continued, "I never imagined that my one-day delay would lead to this eternal farewell to Chief Steward Min, who died chasing the thief. If I had traveled day and night to reach the fortress sooner, the thief would not have succeeded, and Chief Steward Min would not have met such a tragic end. Therefore, I always feel sorry for his spirit in the afterlife."

Hearing his father call him a thief, Jiang Tiantao felt both wronged and saddened, and could only shake his head helplessly. The Poisonous Woman, standing respectfully to the side, had furrowed brows, tears welling in her eyes, and a sorrowful expression on her face. Facing the old lord, she spoke in a reverent and sorrowful voice: "My late husband and I were deeply grateful for the old lord's trust and were entrusted with the management of both the inner and outer affairs of the fortress. We worked diligently and tirelessly, always vigilant, fearing we might fail in our duties and disappoint the old lord's expectations. This time, my late husband, Min Wu Kui, was shocked to learn that the old lord's beloved possession had been stolen. The dozens of experts in the fortress were powerless to intercept it. Although my late husband knew he was no match for the intruders, it was his duty..." "How could I fear death? Thus I risked leaving the fortress to capture the thief, but was ultimately stabbed by the enemy. Though my husband is dead, he died a worthy death, a small repayment of the fortress lord's great kindness. I heard the visitor was masked, ascending the tower as if on flat ground, clearly a member of the fortress. I, your humble servant, have lost my husband and have no other request but to humbly beg the old fortress lord to capture the traitor and punish him as he deserves. Not only will I be eternally grateful, but even my deceased husband in the afterlife will be thankful for your great kindness."

The Poisonous Woman finished speaking, tears streaming down her face, and she covered her face, weeping. Many of the servants standing on either side also shed tears of sympathy. Jiang Yanling frowned, head bowed, silent, but her upturned nose was filled with a vengeful, triumphant smile.

Jiang Tiantao, hearing the Poisonous Woman's words, was both shocked and angry, inwardly cursing her sharp tongue, while also marveling at the Poisonous Woman and Min Wu Kui's cunning foresight. Suppose that Gouzi "Upturned Nose" already knew that Min Wu Kui and Poisonous Lady were his biological parents. Even the most composed person would find it difficult to control their emotions and not burst into tears at this moment.

After listening to Poisonous Lady's tearful account, the old fortress lord looked extremely sad and immediately said somberly, "Just now in the main hall of the fortress, Zhen Guai Zhen Jiu Zhou Ma Yunshan, Xiao Li Guang, and the great heroes of Qi Lu also suspected that the person who came was a master lurking in the fortress..."

Upturned Nose immediately said respectfully, "As far as Tao'er knows, that person climbed up the tower to steal the treasure and flew across the suspension bridge in just a moment. If it weren't for the fortress lord's expertise, who could know so clearly about the mechanisms on the Star-Picking Tower?"

The old fortress lord frowned and said dismissively, "The principles of the Eight Trigrams have their own rules of change. Most people who are familiar with the principles of the I Ching know this, so it's not surprising. What's surprising is the person's courage, boldness, and amazing skills." Upturned Nose blushed at this and hurriedly nodded respectfully in agreement.

The old lord looked at the upturned nose and asked, as if he had just realized something, "Tao'er, I've been away from the fort for many years. Do you often go to the Star-Picking Tower to patrol?"

Upon being asked, the upturned nose blushed and stammered, "I...I sometimes go, but I still can't remember the changes in the elements..."

The old lord showed slight displeasure, but still calmly asked, "Why don't you learn from your sister Ling?"

The upturned nose could only stammer in agreement, not daring to answer whether he had ever learned it. The old manor lord looked at Wang Yanling again and said peacefully, "Ling'er, you should guide your brother Tao more in the future."

Wang Yanling immediately said respectfully, "Ling'er once taught Brother Tao the principles of the I Ching. He said that as the future lord of a fortress, he would have skilled stewards and guards to share his burdens, so why bother with all that trouble, memorizing those Bing-Ding, Zi-Wu, Qian-Kun..." Upon hearing this

, the old manor lord's face immediately turned angry, and he said angrily, "Fool, did you ever say such a thing?"

The man with the upturned nose was already so frightened that his face turned ashen, cold sweat poured down his back, and he stood up from the chair trembling, stammering and unable to speak clearly. A cold glint flashed in the Poisonous Woman's eyes, and a sneer immediately crossed her lips. She gave Wang Yanling a venomous look before respectfully interjecting, "Please calm down, Old Master. The Young Master has been weak and ill for the past six months and should not overwork his mind. He is honest and kind, and understands the bigger picture; he wouldn't say such nonsense. Miss Ling and the Young Master have a long-standing feud and often quarrel. Perhaps Miss Ling's words were just a jest by the Young Master!"

Upon hearing this, the man with the upturned nose secretly felt grateful to the Poisonous Woman and hurriedly nodded repeatedly to the Old Master, agreeing readily. The old manor murmured in bewilderment, glancing at Wang Yanling, whose brows were furrowed and head bowed, her delicate face frosty. He then continued, looking at the upturned nose, and said in a deep voice, "The family's 'Spitting Na' technique is enough to prolong life, strengthen the body, and enhance spirit. If you practice diligently without ceasing, how could you be so weak and sickly? It must be because you indulge in pleasure and lack ambition that you have ruined your health."

The upturned nose shuddered upon hearing this, and secretly blamed the Poisonous Lady for saying he was weak and sickly. So, he braced himself and stammered, "How could your son dare to neglect his beloved husband? The Mountain-Piercing Palm, the Beautiful..." "Star Sword, Authentic Tuna, Tao'er has never missed a day, and often goes to the front fort to ask for guidance and practice moves from various masters..."

Upon hearing the words of the man with the upturned nose, the old fort master nodded approvingly, stroking his hair, and asked in a more gentle tone, "How were the results of the sparring?"

Upon hearing the question, the man with the upturned nose perked up and replied without hesitation, "Except for Senior Ma, the Iron-Crutch Who Shakes the Nine Provinces, some were defeated, and some were drawn!"

Upon hearing this, the old fort master's brows furrowed, and he was very pleased, a peaceful expression returning to his ruddy face. With a "pfft," Wang Yanling, who had been lowering her head and biting her lip, finally couldn't help but laugh out loud.

The old manor lord already felt somewhat conflicted. If he diligently practiced martial arts, how could he be so frail and sickly? Seeing Wang Yanling burst into laughter, he frowned slightly and asked gently, "Ling'er, is what your cousin said true?"

Wang Yanling immediately smiled and respectfully replied, "My cousin would never dare to deceive my uncle, but he was afraid of hurting the young lord's pride and thus refrained from using his deadly methods."

Upon hearing this, the man with the upturned nose revealed his true colors. He jumped up from his chair, slammed his hand on the table, his face ashen, pointed at Wang Yanling, and complained: “Cousin, what have I done to wrong you that you have repeatedly and deliberately made things difficult for me in front of Father, embarrassing me?”

The old lord of the fortress was furious upon seeing this, trembling with rage. He shouted angrily, “You insolent brat, how can you be so ignorant of manners? Get out of here!”

Chaotianbi was startled and realized his mistake, but it was too late. He quickly bowed and stammered, “Your son deserves to die, Father, please calm down.”

Jiang Tiantao clenched his fists and gritted his teeth, his eyes blazing with anger. He never expected this fool to be so arrogant and unruly. Before she could finish her thought, she suddenly saw the Poisonous Woman glare at Wang Yanling with resentment. Then, she turned to the old man and said anxiously, "Old man, please calm your anger! I

have something to report!" The old man's face was full of anger, his tiger-like eyes fixed on the Poisonous Woman. He said in a deep voice, "Speak quickly!"

The Poisonous Woman respectfully agreed and said in a concerned tone, "Young master and Miss Ling often quarrel; it's become a habit. As the saying goes, 'When people don't see eye to eye, even half a sentence is too much.' Besides, Miss Ling's constant sarcasm greatly hurts young master's pride. Young master is young and impetuous, and his tolerance is insufficient. This cannot be entirely blamed on young master. As far as I know, before the late Madam, she had a betrothal agreement with Miss Ling's mother, the Shadowless Heroine. In my humble opinion, it would be better for young master and Miss Ling to consummate their marriage as soon as possible. Once they are husband and wife, their love will naturally deepen." If Miss Ling feels wronged and thinks the young master is unworthy to be her son-in-law, please leave as soon as possible, so as not to affect the young master's physical and mental health and academic progress. The above is merely my humble opinion, and I hope the old master will understand and make a decision soon.”

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao flew into a rage, his murderous intent rising. He instantly forgot where he was, straightened his back, raised his right arm, and swiftly gripped the hilt of his sword. However, when he gripped it, his right hand grasped nothing. His heart skipped a beat, his face changed drastically, and he was so shocked that he almost cried out. The sword that was firmly tied to his back was now just an empty scabbard.

Jiang Tiantao was utterly shocked, breaking out in a cold sweat. He quickly ducked and cleverly looked behind him. He saw towering stone buildings and rows of houses within the inner fortress, with the Star-Picking Tower standing tall against the night sky. The distant fortress walls were completely silent; not a soul was in sight. Jiang Tiantao knew that another expert had entered the Nine Palaces Fortress. The other party had taken advantage of his focused attention on the central pavilion, when he was agitated, to steal the longsword from his back. The person's agility was indeed superb. At the same time, he became even more convinced of his master "Fairy Begonia's" constant admonition: never be arrogant, for there are always people more skilled than you, and heavens beyond heavens.

Although he admired the sword thief's superb lightness skill and knew the other party had no intention of harming him, the theft of the longsword still felt like a mockery. Thinking this, he couldn't help but feel secretly angry. Because of the sweat on his forehead, he unconsciously reached out to adjust the black cloth covering his handsome face. Just as his right hand touched the black cloth, a faint, elegant fragrance suddenly filled the air.

Jiang Tiantao was startled, immediately recognizing it as the perfume used by girls. He sniffed carefully, finding the scent emanating from his right hand's fingers. He stared blankly at his fingers, feeling that this elegant, faint fragrance was quite different from the perfume his cousin, Wang Yanling, usually wore. Then he remembered touching Xiao Cuihua's cherry lips and holding Xiao Shuixian's jade-like wrist; perhaps it was the lingering scent from their touch? But, upon further reflection, he realized that while Xiao Cuihua and Xiao Shuixian also wore perfume, it wasn't as elegant. A thought struck him, and he quickly reached for the empty scabbard behind his shoulder with his left hand. He then brought his left hand to his nose and smelled it. Indeed, the elegant, orchid-like fragrance was even stronger now.

Jiang Tiantao deduced that the person who stole the sword from his back must be a mischievous, unruly, arrogant, and ill-mannered young girl. Because an older, more worldly-wise girl would never play such a prank. The thought that the thief was a young girl filled Jiang Tiantao with increasing annoyance and resentment. If the thief were an old man with a white beard, or a renowned swordsman, he could at least laugh at his own youth and lack of experience. With this thought in mind, he had no desire to stay any longer. He immediately rose quietly, moving with the agility of a heron and the stealth of a crane, and retreated swiftly towards his cousin Wang Yanling's building.

However, his gaze lingered on the scene in the central pavilion from time to time. Old Master Jiang looked somber, stroking his beard and nodding, as if he had just finished speaking. The man with the upturned nose remained bowed and composed, appearing utterly dejected. The Poisonous Woman's eyes gleamed, glancing between Old Master Jiang and Wang Yanling.

Wang Yanling, having risen from her chair at some point, faced Old Master Jiang and said respectfully, "Uncle, even without your explanation, I know the situation. However, when my grandfather, the Lord of Dragon Palace Lake, was alive, he once said that daughters of the Wang family were unworthy of men without talent. Uncle was able to marry my aunt only after defeating both my aunt, Xuanji Jade Maiden, and my father, Wang Jianxia, with a single set of the Radiant Star Sword Technique, thus gaining my grandfather's approval..."

Jiang Tiantao, who was leaving, was captivated by the story of his parents' marriage, and unconsciously ducked into the shadows again. Old Master Jiang frowned slightly, stroked his temples, and gazed intently, his white head swaying slowly, as if transported back to the golden age of the martial world decades ago. At this moment, the Poisonous Woman interjected slyly, "Now that Miss Ling's father has passed away and she has no brothers, even though the young master possesses astonishing martial arts skills, who will he learn from?"

Wang Yanling replied without hesitation in a deep voice, "Of course, he'll learn from me."

The man with the upturned nose trembled, his face changing drastically, and he couldn't help but look at Wang Yanling with pleading eyes. Wang Yanling didn't even glance at the man with the upturned nose and continued, "As long as my cousin can fight me to a draw, I won't refuse even if we marry tomorrow."

The old master, frowning in thought, was deeply moved and couldn't help but turn to look at his son, the man with the upturned nose, whose face was full of dejection and lifelessness. The old lord, who had been away from home for years, seemed to want to take this opportunity to see how much his beloved son's martial arts had improved. So, turning to Wang Yanling, he asked with a smile and gentle voice, "Ling'er, would you like to compete with your brother Tao in palm techniques or swordsmanship?"

Wang Yanling immediately replied respectfully, "My uncle's Lixing Sword Technique is unparalleled in the martial world, its fame resounding. Ling'er will compete with Brother Tao in swordsmanship!"

Upon hearing this, the man with the upturned nose was greatly alarmed, sweating profusely. Although the Poisonous Lady knew that Wang Yanling's martial arts were inherited from her family and that she used a sword, she had never seen Wang Yanling display her skills. She thought that whether it was palm or sword, Wang Yanling was unlikely to defeat the man with the upturned nose. Seeing that Chaotianbi was covered in sweat and looked anxious, Wang Yanling realized she had misjudged the situation and hurriedly interjected, "In a martial arts duel, weapons have no eyes. What if either side makes a mistake?"

Wang Yanling, intending to humiliate Poisonous Lady and Chaotianbi, immediately said coldly, "The essence of swordsmanship lies in composure and tranquility. When one has mastered it to perfection, one's intention precedes the sword's movement. Uncle is also a master swordsman. He can determine the strength of the opponent in just a few exchanges. How could there be any danger?"

Chaotianbi, knowing his own limitations, immediately turned to the old lord and said respectfully with a bitter face, "Tao'er has caught a slight cold these past few days."

Upon hearing this, the old lord was furious. He slammed his right hand on the table and shouted, "Bring me the sword!" This shout shook the stone pavilion, dust fell, and the servants and maids all turned pale with fright.

Hidden in the shadows, Jiang Tiantao was startled. Startled, he used his nimble skills to rush towards Wang Yanling's building. He was certain his father's loud shout would attract the attention of the experts on the fortress walls. Furthermore, given Jiang Yanling's recent sword fight with Chaotianbi, "Zhenguai Zhenjiuzhou" Ma Yunshan and Xiao Li Guang Zhongqing might come to investigate. Leaving then would be virtually impossible. In a flash, he leaped and bounded, reaching the building. He lightly touched the long corridor with his toes and soared up. Reaching the front corridor, he slipped inside and found it eerily quiet.

Confused, Jiang Tiantao rushed into Wang Yanling's boudoir. His expression changed drastically upon seeing Xiao Cuihua and Xiao Shuixian lying on the ground, both their pressure points sealed. He was shocked again, convinced it was the girl who stole the sword who had done it. He rushed to Xiao Cuihua and Xiao Shuixian, striking their vital points twice with his palms. Xiao Cuihua and Xiao Shuixian simultaneously awoke.

Upon seeing Jiang Tiantao standing before them, their almond-shaped eyes blinked slightly, their expressions changed, and they leaped to their feet, simultaneously exclaiming in alarm, "Young Master..."

Jiang Tiantao casually removed the black cloth, and before they could finish speaking, he made a gesture to stop them, indicating that he already knew who had used the acupuncture technique. Then, he asked in a deep, resentful voice, "What was she wearing? How old was she?"

Xiao Cuihua and Xiao Shuixian shook their heads blankly, saying in alarm, "We saw the Young Master off and immediately retreated inside to discuss how to inform Miss. But as soon as we entered the room, someone acupunctured us, and we don't know what happened after that."

Jiang Tiantao frowned, knowing that neither of them had clearly seen the sword-stealing girl's figure or face, and thus asked again with disappointment, "Did you two see what color clothes she was wearing?"

Xiao Cuihua blinked her big eyes, thought for a moment, and hesitated before saying, "It looks like she's wearing red."

Xiao Shuixian immediately corrected her, "No, it's more like a deep purple or dark green."

Jiang Tiantao knew that his opponent was incredibly fast and had taken advantage of their confusion to strike suddenly. Xiao Cuihua and Xiao Shuixian would hardly have been able to see clearly. Therefore, he glanced around the room and muttered to himself, "Where did she come in from?"

Xiao Cuihua replied without hesitation, "Of course, she came in through the tunnel."

Jiang Tiantao's face changed in shock, and he exclaimed in surprise. Thinking of the great importance of the tunnel's secret, he said anxiously, "This is terrible!" As he spoke, he leaped to Rong Wei, lifted the door, and all three of them were stunned. The small stone door was pitch black inside, and the exquisite palace lantern that had been inserted into the lamp holder was gone.

Jiang Tiantao regained his composure and looked at Xiao Cuihua in surprise, asking, "Didn't we close the stone door on the strange rock at the entrance?"

Xiao Cuihua's face turned pale at the question, and she stammered in fear, "Although I pulled the stone door back, I didn't lock the hinge. The mechanism can still be opened from the outside. I thought the young master might return to the garden soon, so..."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao deduced that the girl who stole the sword had already been hiding in the garden, and had seized the opportunity to follow him in once he and Xiao Cuihua closed the door. He was filled with shock, anger, and anxiety that the Nine Palaces Fortress's greatest secret had been discovered by outsiders. He resolved to find the girl and make her swear an oath to keep the secret of the Nine Palaces Fortress for life. Having made up his mind, he solemnly instructed Xiao Shuixian and Xiao Cuihua, "Don't tell the young lady about this for now, but you two must remain vigilant at all times." Then, turning to Xiao Cuihua, he said gently, "You don't need to be too upset. This was my oversight. Now, come with me quickly to fix the key." With that, he stepped through the small stone door and hurried down the steps.

Xiao Cuihua hurriedly followed behind Jiang Tiantao. She hadn't expected the young fortress lord to be so magnanimous, not only without a word of blame but also taking the blame upon himself. Overwhelmed with gratitude, she couldn't help but shed two tears. Anxious, the two hurried through the tunnel, crossing a section of the moat. They saw the palace lantern hanging in the distance at the tunnel's end, and quickened their pace. Reaching the lantern, they saw the stone door on the steps remained tightly closed. Jiang Tiantao leaped up the steps, pushed with both palms, and the door slowly tilted outwards.

He turned back to wave to Xiao Cuihua below, then lightly leaped out the door. Outside, it was dark, bamboo swayed, and flowers moved, an eerie silence prevailing. Jiang Tiantao glanced warily into the garden, concluding that the person had left. Behind him, a rustling sound followed, and the stone door on the strange rock slowly closed again. Jiang Tiantao stared blankly at the restored rock, a wave of confusion and bewilderment washing over him. He felt many questions weighing on his mind, leaving him unsure how to deal with them or where to begin.

He lowered his head in thought, strolling towards the stone chamber. The first question that crossed his mind was: Who was the girl who stole the sword? How could she have hidden herself in the garden beforehand? What was her purpose in coming here? What was her intention in stealing the sword and playing a trick on him? Lost in thought, he unknowingly arrived at the stone chamber. He lazily pushed open the door with his shoulder, slipped inside, and closed the door behind him.

His gaze instinctively swept across the room, and he suddenly noticed a snow-white sheet of paper on a small table. His eyes lit up, and he leaped towards it. Looking down, he saw a line of elegant cursive calligraphy written on the paper, with a faint begonia flower drawn in the lower corner. Upon seeing the begonia mark, Jiang Tiantao was overjoyed, his eyes sparkling. He exclaimed with delight, "Ah, Master is back!" Amidst his cheers, he respectfully read the note: "Tao'er, your master has returned from Mount Fanjing. Come to the Haitang Cave immediately upon seeing this message. Master's command."

Jiang Tiantao hadn't seen his master's kind face or heard her gentle voice for over half a year. Suddenly, a delicate, elegant fragrance wafted before him once more. Jiang Tiantao was startled, immediately remembering the stolen sword. He quickly brought the note to his nose and smelled it; the elegant fragrance indeed emanated from the note. A thought flashed through his mind: could the sword thief be his master, Fairy Haitang?

Indeed, it must be her. She often said, "Think carefully in all things, remain calm in times of danger, for a small act of impatience can ruin a great plan." This was clearly a practical lesson she had taught him. Then, upon further reflection, he felt something was amiss. His revered teacher had never worn makeup since his debut; where could this elegant fragrance on the plain paper come from? He was utterly perplexed.

Suddenly, his heart skipped a beat, and his expression changed instantly. He noticed writing faintly visible on the back of the paper. He hurriedly flipped it over and was immediately stunned. Sure enough, a seven-character poem was hastily written horizontally on the back. Judging from the hasty and blurry handwriting, he deduced it was hastily written with a young girl's eyebrow pencil. The poem read: "Standing alone behind the pavilion, shaded by the trees, I waited anxiously for the maid to come and guide me. My body was covered in stolen fragrance, my heart light and frivolous, stealing jade. Who knew that good things often come with obstacles? The wind has gone, the pavilion is empty, spring is desolate. I temporarily borrow a precious blade to return to the immortal abode, to awaken the dreamer in the Yangtai Terrace!" No name or mark was written below.

Jiang Tiantao was furious after reading the poem. He felt it was not only sharp and sarcastic but also brimming with jealousy. He concluded that the girl who stole the sword was a complete jealous woman, a shrew of nature. Then, he chuckled to himself, seemingly knowing who the girl was, but unsure. He quickly put the letter into his robes, tightened his sword-wearing armor, and quietly slipped outside. He glanced around the garden, then leaped over the flower wall and headed straight for the towering Fanzhou Peak to the north.

Jiang Tiantao traversed a forest of giant pine trees and reached the foot of the peak. With an excited heart, he soared like a giant crane towards the summit. Reaching the top, he looked back down and saw only darkness in the valley, with only a few faint lights visible within the Nine Palaces Fortress. He could no longer discern where his cousin Wang Yanling's tall building or the grand central pavilion were, but he was certain that Wang Yanling's sword duel with the girl with the upturned nose had already concluded.

Emerging from the clouds, his eyes lit up instantly. A crescent moon hung obliquely in the eastern sky, casting a hazy glow. The summit of "Xizhou Peak" was already faintly visible. Jiang Tiantao's spirits lifted, and he ascended even faster, reaching the peak in an instant.

Chapter Three: Embroidered

Robes Conceal the World. A gentle night breeze rustled through the pines, creating a serene atmosphere.

Jiang Tiantao skillfully flew over a patch of dark brown rocks, passed through a sparse and deformed pine forest, and sped towards a clump of bamboo deep within. As he flew, he noticed a faint white figure appearing in the clearing of the bamboo grove where he often practiced his sword. Upon seeing it, Jiang Tiantao immediately smiled happily. He knew it was his beautiful and graceful senior sister, Xue Danfeng, with her icy skin and jade-like bones. Xue Danfeng was in her early twenties, with a delicate physique, usually taciturn, and naturally melancholic. She possessed fair skin and a heavenly beauty, like Xi Shi Shi after her illness.

As Jiang Tiantao approached the edge of the forest, he found Senior Sister Xue, dressed in simple silk, still sitting motionless. He was puzzled and hesitated to speak. He had suspected that the girl who stole the sword and left the poem might be Senior Sister Xue, but upon seeing her pure and innocent figure, he immediately dismissed his assumption; she was definitely not that kind of girl.

He wondered what this beautiful, almost ethereal, Senior Sister Xue was thinking, sitting alone on a blue stone. He held his breath and quietly approached, standing behind a stone outside the bamboo grove, peering intently.

There sat the exquisitely beautiful, radiant Senior Sister Xue, quietly sitting on the blue stone where the two of them used to tell stories, her slightly haggard face tilted back, gazing intently at the crescent moon, her delicate eyebrows furrowed in a deep frown. Her two delicate, rosy lips seemed to be praying to the heavens, and two lines of crystal tears slowly flowed from her phoenix eyes, which were brimming with tears.

Jiang Tiantao was very puzzled. He didn't know why Sister Xue was so sad and upset. Why had she become so melancholy after accompanying her master to Mount Fanjing? He knew that Sister Yun had a tragic past, but she had lived a peaceful life for many years. His master, Fairy Haitang, had always been very fond of Sister Xue and would never easily scold her. But, who had wronged her and brought her here to cry in secret?

Then it dawned on him. Sister Xue must have been bullied by the old nun and her disciples at the Blind Nun Jin Fu's place on Mount Fanjing. Otherwise, why would Sister Xue be so sad and upset? Hmph, no matter whether Blind Nun Jin Fu's disciples were male or female, as long as they had bullied Sister Xue, I, Jiang Tiantao, would definitely not let them get away with it. In a moment of hesitation, he took two more steps forward, holding his breath. He saw Xue Danfeng, her expression sorrowful, her voice trembling, her beautiful face, like a pear blossom in the rain, already streaked with tears.

Jiang Tiantao dared not rush out, fearing to hurt Xue's girlish pride. Therefore, he wanted to first find out who had offended Xue before confronting her about the bullying. So, he held his breath, focused his attention, and listened intently.

He saw Xue Danfeng, her tearful eyes gazing at the crescent moon, her slender hand caressing her breasts, speaking in a broken, sorrowful voice: "...You've grown up...You're no longer a child...Don't you really know your sister's heart...In my heart, there is only you..." As Xue Danfeng finished speaking, she slowly closed her phoenix eyes, and crystal tears rolled down her long eyelashes like broken pearls.

Jiang Tiantao was startled and his heart leaped into his throat. He thought, "Could it be that I'm the one who angered Sister Xue?"

He then saw Xue Danfeng with her phoenix eyes slightly closed, her head shaking sadly with tears streaming down her face. She continued, "I know: at this moment you are with your cousin from a wealthy family... shoulder to shoulder in your boudoir... deeply in love... how could you have thought of me, your unfortunate senior sister..." As she finished speaking, her delicate body trembled, and she couldn't help but cover her face and cry suddenly. However, she still tried her best to suppress her grief and not let her sobs get louder.

Jiang Tiantao stood there, stunned. Sister Xue was indeed complaining about him; this was something he had never dreamed of. His beloved Sister Xue had actually fallen for him, while he had always regarded her as a sacred and inviolable goddess.

Just then, a kind and gentle voice pierced the air.

"Feng'er, hasn't your brother Tao arrived yet?" Jiang Tiantao was startled. It was his master, "Fairy Begonia," using telepathy to speak with Sister Xue.

He saw Xue Danfeng hurriedly wipe away her tears, quickly rise, and face the depths of the bamboo forest behind her, respectfully replying, "Reporting to Master, brother Tao hasn't arrived yet." From

the depths of the bamboo forest came Fairy Begonia's puzzled voice again, asking, "Who were you talking to just now?"

Jiang Tiantao's heart skipped a beat, and his eyes widened in surprise. Staring intently at Xue Danfeng's slender back, a flicker of jealousy and a fear of losing his beloved Xue-jie (Sister Xue) instantly swept through his heart. Only then did he suddenly realize that his love for Xue-jie was already deeply rooted, though he himself was simply unaware of it.

He then saw Xue Danfeng respectfully calling out, "That's Junior Sister Zhu!"

Jiang Tiantao was taken aback, thinking: When did Master take in another junior sister? Then he heard Fairy Haitang ask in surprise, "What, hasn't she returned to Mount Fanjing yet?"

Xue Danfeng immediately replied respectfully, "She went down the peak to see Brother Tao before leaving!"

A silence fell over the bamboo forest; Fairy Haitang's voice was no longer heard, presumably because she was uneasy about Zhu Caidie's visit to Jiang Tiantao. Upon hearing "Mount Fanjing," Jiang Tiantao suddenly understood. Zhu Caidie was the elfin girl in bright red with two braids who had been brought by the blind nun Jin Fu two years ago.

The thought of that beautiful girl with delicate, willow-leaf eyebrows and bright, capricious eyes filled him with resentment. Two years ago, when she visited, although she only stayed for two days, she repeatedly challenged him to duels of lightness skill and swordsmanship, all of which Jiang Tiantao ignored. While he somewhat disliked Zhu Caidie, he was quite fond of the golden-haired, red-eyed, and remarkably intelligent golden baboon kept by the blind nun… Lao Tao.

Hearing Xue Jie's reply, and recalling Zhu Caidie's competitive nature, the girl who seized the opportunity to enter Jiugongbao, steal the sword, and leave the poem—who else could it be but her? In the depths of the bamboo forest, the concerned voice of Fairy Haitang echoed once more: "Feng'er, what did your Junior Sister Zhu say?"

Xue Danfeng, who had been standing respectfully, hesitated slightly before replying respectfully, "Junior Sister Zhu didn't say anything, Master!"

Then Fairy Haitang asked in a deep voice, "Then why did she come back?"

Xue Danfeng hesitated again before answering, "Junior Sister Zhu said that Brother Tao is inside Jiugong Fortress!"

Fairy Haitang seemed quite surprised and immediately asked, "How did she know?"

Xue Danfeng respectfully replied, "Junior Sister Zhu said that she also went to Jiugong Fortress."

Fairy Haitang sighed softly and said with emotion, "This child has become so willful, spoiled by the Blind Nun Jin Fu." After a pause, as if remembering something, she immediately said with concern, "Feng'er, come in. Your Brother Tao may not arrive until after midnight."

Xue Danfeng respectfully agreed, lowered her head slightly, and slowly walked into the depths of the bamboo forest. Her sorrowful expression fully revealed her inner grief, loneliness, and disappointment. Jiang Tiantao gazed at Xue Danfeng's lonely figure, a pang of sorrow gripping his heart. He was certain that Xue's unhappiness was entirely caused by Zhu Caidie. Based on Xue's earlier tearful account, Zhu Caidie must have told her about the secret passage in the garden leading to her cousin's boudoir, causing the sentimental Xue to weep silently, believing he frequently visited her cousin. In

that instant, Xue Danfeng had already turned past a tall stalagmite. Jiang Tiantao's heart stirred, and he immediately leaped forward. Xue Danfeng, perhaps hearing the whistling of her clothes as he lunged, flashed back, her white form gleaming. Upon seeing Jiang Tiantao, she cried out in alarm, "Brother Tao!"

Her voice sweet and gentle, a smile as bright as a lily in bloom, she hurried towards him, but tears welled in her phoenix eyes. Jiang Tiantao rushed to Xue Danfeng's side, his body slumped, and he smiled excitedly, "Hello, Sister Xue!" He then warmly and naturally took Xue Danfeng's soft, boneless hands in his. Xue Danfeng's delicate face flushed instantly, her heart pounded, and her brows furrowed immediately, for her beloved brother had never been so bold and passionate before.

Although she felt that he was somewhat presumptuous, unlike his usual composed self, her heart was filled with happiness, joy, and sweetness. At the same time, she also noticed that he was more mature, more handsome, and possessed a more vibrant masculine charm than before. She tilted her slightly weary face up, a sweet smile playing on her bright red lips, her sparkling eyes fixed on his handsome face, speechless for a long time.

Jiang Tiantao held Xue Danfeng's two cool, delicate hands, not letting go for a long time; he wanted to warm her hands with his own warm touch. At this moment, seeing that Sister Xue remained silent for a long time, he asked affectionately, "Did you come back today?"

Xue Danfeng, still smiling as she looked at Jiang Tiantao, replied cheerfully, "I arrived just before dusk."

Jiang Tiantao immediately explained, "I only found out after reading my master's instructions."

Upon hearing the word "master," Xue Danfeng was instantly jolted awake from her sweet dream. Thinking of her master's superb martial arts, how could she not know that her younger brother Tao had already arrived on the peak? For so long, the two of them had been whispering to each other in this secluded place. How could she not laugh at the two love-struck fools? Her younger brother Tao was a boy, so it didn't matter, but she... Thinking of this, she felt both ashamed and anxious, and her face flushed red, reaching behind her ears. She hurriedly pulled away from his hand and whispered anxiously, "Master has been waiting for you for a long time, go quickly!"

Jiang Tiantao knew why she was blushing, but relying on his master's affection, he smiled happily, took Xue Danfeng's hand, and left, seemingly unconcerned. Xue Danfeng, feeling both sweet and angry, and flustered, couldn't help but feign a scolding, saying, "Little brother, the older you get, the less manners you become."

As soon as she finished speaking, the kind voice of Fairy Haitang came from the depths, asking, "Is that Tao'er?"

Jiang Tiantao's spirits lifted, and he immediately replied cheerfully, "Yes, Master!" With that, he and Xue Danfeng hurried deeper into the cave.

After passing several tall stalagmites, a stone gate cave appeared before them. A graceful and otherworldly Daoist nun stood smiling on the smooth, mirror-like stone ground in front of the cave. The nun had delicate eyebrows, phoenix eyes, a fine nose, cherry lips, and cheeks as warm as jade. Her hair was styled in a high bun, and she wore a milky-white Daoist robe with a pink-edged sleeveless long outer garment. A silver-penny whisk in her hand fluttered in the gentle night breeze. She appeared to be only twenty-eight or twenty-nine years old, but in reality, she was thirty-nine.

Upon seeing the middle-aged Daoist nun, Jiang Tiantao was like a child seeing his mother. He rushed forward, knelt down, and excitedly cried out, "Tao'er greets Master!"

The Fairy of Begonia noticed that Jiang Tiantao, whom she had raised from infancy, seemed to have grown even taller in the six months since she last saw him. A smile immediately bloomed on her dignified face. She said kindly, "Tao'er, rise. In the past six months, have you made any progress in verifying your origins?"

Jiang Tiantao knelt and stood up, respectfully replying, "Thanks to Master's blessing, Tao'er has found a part of the embroidered robe." He then took out the shimmering, multicolored left sleeve of the embroidered robe from his robes and presented it to the Fairy of Begonia with both hands, recounting his journey into the Nine Palaces Fortress and ascending the Star-Picking Tower.

Fairy Haitang took the sleeve, flipping through it as she listened to Jiang Tiantao's narration. As soon as he finished, she exclaimed with emotion, "Your mother, Jade Maiden Xuanji, is not only a chivalrous woman with astonishing martial arts skills, but also a visionary and insightful heroine. Her motives—embroidering the blue robe, being buried in the ancient tomb, and leaving a will in the jade coffin—were a wise move to prevent future troubles." She paused, then handed the blue sleeve back to Jiang Tiantao and continued, "Do you know where the rest is now?"

Jiang Tiantao respectfully replied, "I don't know. My cousin Wang is actively investigating."

Fairy Haitang frowned slightly and said tactfully, "Tao'er, in my opinion, I should personally go to see your father, the Land Dragon Lord Jiang, and expose the conspiracy that led to you being abandoned on the peak by Min Wu Kui and his wife. Given my reputation and standing in the martial world, I'm sure your father will believe me."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao immediately said, "My father still doesn't know the true secret of the embroidered robe, nor does he know that my late mother left a will. Whether the rest of the embroidered robe is in my father's possession is also questionable. If the embroidered robe is in the hands of the Poisonous Lady, and it's exposed, he can claim ignorance. Min Wu Kui was executed, and without witnesses, wouldn't that only make things worse?"

Fairy Haitang frowned, saying regretfully, "This whole affair was caused by your father. A few months before your birth, he went overseas, and ten years passed. By the time he returned to Jiugongbao, the only..." The woman who buried your mother and your aunt, the Shadowless Heroine, whom you had met several times, also died of illness at her old residence by Dragon Palace Lake six months before your father returned to the fortress. At that time, your cousin, Wang Yanling, although only nine years old, was already exceptionally intelligent. In her little mind, she firmly remembered what her mother had told her about her fiancé, Jiang Tiantao, who had a cinnabar mole between his left and right eyebrows, commonly known as a "hidden pearl in a crouching dragon." In the moment before your mother, Xuanji Yunu, passed away, she entrusted the embroidered garment she had woven herself to your aunt, the Shadowless Heroine, asking her to put it on her hand after your father returned to the fortress. She personally delivered it to Old Master Jiang, and told your father about the secret of the embroidered garment and the will. Your mother, Xuanji Yunu, fearing the severing of the marriage ties between the Jiang and Wang families after her death, specifically requested the Shadowless Heroine that if your aunt gave birth to a son, he would study martial arts with you; if it was a daughter, she would marry you. Since your father had not returned while your aunt was seriously ill, the Shadowless Heroine had no choice but to relay the embroidered garment and the instructions your mother had given her to your cousin, Wang Yanling.

Your father, Old Master Jiang, upon returning to the fortress, was shocked to hear of his beloved... His wife died in childbirth, leaving him deeply grieved, so he embarked on another long journey to ease his sorrow. Four years passed in the blink of an eye, and your cousin, now thirteen, traveled from Dragon Palace Lake with Xiu Yi and four young maids to seek refuge with your father. At that time, your father was still away on his travels. Upon entering Jiugongbao, Miss Wang immediately noticed the upturned nose and sensed something amiss. Coupled with the Poisonous Lady's persistent questioning about Xiu Yi's whereabouts and secrets, Miss Wang became even more suspicious and wary. Fortunately, a few days later, your father suddenly... Upon returning from their weary journey, the old man was overjoyed to see Miss Wang. She immediately handed the embroidered garment to the old man, who then casually entrusted it to the Poisonous Woman for safekeeping. Miss Wang was secretly alarmed, feeling that the old man trusted the Poisonous Woman and her ilk too much. Therefore, she dared not hastily reveal the secret of the embroidered garment and the will to the old man, for the will detailed her appearance, features, and the two vermilion birthmarks between her eyebrows. This explains why your father, to this day, still does not know the secret of the embroidered garment and the will. The reason.

Jiang Tiantao had already been listening with tears streaming down his face. As soon as Fairy Haitang finished speaking, he immediately said respectfully, tears still streaming down his face, "I have already heard about these things from Lingmei."
Seeing Jiang Tiantao's tears, Xue Danfeng was also very sad. So she deliberately changed the subject and said, "When Miss Wang invited you earlier, did she talk about the whereabouts of the embroidered clothes?"

Seeing that Sister Xue had specifically brought up Lingmei's matter again, Jiang Tiantao also wanted to take the opportunity to explain. So he wiped away his tears with his sleeve and continued, "For the past six months, Lingmei has refused..." "I entered the inner fortress, fearing I might be angered by the sights and cause trouble. Tonight, I suppose we have important matters to discuss, which is why I ordered my maid to guide me through the underground passage."

Xue Danfeng seemed eager to know the details of Jiang Tiantao and Wang Yanling's conversation, but also fearing he might be lying, she deliberately interjected, "Junior Sister Zhu has already told us about these events."

Jiang Tiantao feigned surprise and exclaimed, "Which Junior Sister Zhu?"

Fairy Haitang replied, "It's Zhu Caidie, the female disciple of the blind nun Jin Fu of Mount Fanjing!"

Jiang... After a moment's thought, Tian Tao exclaimed in a tone of sudden realization, "Master, it's probably her who stole Tao'er's sword!"

Haitang Fairy and Xue Danfeng were startled, realizing that only an empty scabbard remained inside Jiang Tian Tao's large cloak. They both asked in surprise, "Where's your sword?"

Jiang Tian Tao briefly recounted the events leading up to his entry into the inner fortress and the discovery of the missing sword and the poem. He then took out the plain paper and presented it to Haitang Fairy with both hands. Haitang Fairy already found Zhu Caidie somewhat willful, and after reading the intensely jealous and sarcastic seven-character poem she had left on the paper, she became even more displeased. Then she turned to Xue Danfeng and asked in a deep voice, "What did she say when she came to the peak for the second time?"

Xue Danfeng dared not hide anything and immediately replied respectfully, "Junior Sister Zhu said that there is an underground passage in the garden that leads directly to Miss Wang's boudoir, and that Brother Tao was led into the inner fortress by a pretty maid carrying a lantern."

Fairy Haitang handed the plain paper to Xue Danfeng and said in a deep voice, "Feng'er, take a look."

Xue Danfeng respectfully agreed and took the plain paper with both hands. When she saw the two lines, "Stealing fragrance with daring, and frivolous heart stealing jade," she couldn't help but furrow her delicate eyebrows. Jiang Tiantao, unwilling to accept defeat, immediately pleaded respectfully, "Please allow me, Master, to go to Mount Fanjing and retrieve the sword from Zhu Caidie."

Fairy Haitang frowned, hesitating slightly, and said, "Tang'er, it's not for your sake, but in terms of lightness skill, you are no match for your junior sister Zhu."

Jiang Tiantao immediately retorted, "In swordsmanship, I am confident I am superior to her."

Xue Danfeng, who loved her younger brother Jiang Tiantao, was naturally angry at Zhu Caidie's excessive actions. Moreover, Zhu Caidie had secretly visited Jiang Tiantao, clearly with ulterior motives, thus a hint of jealousy rose in her heart. Seeing his master praise Zhu Caidie's superb lightness skill, Jiang Tiantao felt somewhat unconvinced and retorted angrily, "Junior Sister Zhu only succeeds because she ate a Zhu Immortal Fruit."

Upon hearing this, Fairy Haitang frowned even more deeply, seemingly worried that her beloved disciple lacked such good fortune. Suddenly, her eyes lit up, and she said with a hint of understanding, "Tao'er, if you insist on going, it's best to travel day and night and reach Mount Fanjing before your Junior Sister Zhu. First, report the loss of the sword and the poem to the blind nun Jinfo." She paused, then suddenly added seriously, "But you must remember, absolutely do not speak ill of your Junior Sister Zhu in front of the blind nun, do you understand?"

Jiang Tiantao was secretly delighted that his master had allowed him to go to Mount Fanjing to retrieve the sword, and repeatedly replied respectfully. But inwardly, he resentfully thought: "Hmph, that old nun spoils me rotten! I'll definitely speak ill of Zhu Caidie to her face!" Thinking this, Fairy Haitang continued, "When you see Blind Nun Jin Fu, she will surely examine your bones and then give you a Vermilion Immortal Fruit. At that time, your Junior Sister Zhu's lightness skill will be far inferior to yours."

Jiang Tiantao respectfully agreed, and then heard his master, Fairy Haitang, continue, "To arrive as soon as possible, it's best to set off tonight. After you leave, I will send your sister Xue to the garden to inform Miss Wang. You can go without worry; I'm all right now, you may go." With that, she flicked her whisk slightly, turned, and walked straight into the cave, seemingly intending to give the young couple a chance to be alone before their brief encounter and subsequent parting.

Jiang Tiantao respectfully agreed, and he and Xue Danfeng stood at attention, bowing as they watched until Fairy Haitang's figure disappeared into the depths of the cave before they straightened up. Xue Danfeng and Jiang Tiantao had been separated for half a year. Having just reunited, they were about to part again, and her heart was naturally filled with reluctance. However, thinking of Jiang Tiantao's journey and how he would obtain a Vermilion Immortal Fruit from the blind nun, greatly increasing his power, she couldn't help but feel secretly happy. So, gazing affectionately at Jiang Tiantao, she cheerfully said, "Little brother, I'll see you down." With that, she lowered her head slightly, her delicate voice trembling with laughter, and gracefully walked towards the rock formations and bamboo groves.

Jiang Tiantao was naturally delighted and happily agreed, immediately walking beside the beautiful and ethereal Xue Danfeng. Although Xue Danfeng hoped that her little brother, Xiong, would walk beside her, hand in hand, she feared his excessive enthusiasm would make her heart race and her face flush, causing her to lose control. Seeing Jiang Tiantao clinging to her, almost as if he were about to take her arm around his waist, she hurriedly changed the subject, saying, "Brother, you should understand that our master allowed you to go so that you could obtain a Zhu Xian Fruit from the blind nun. Retrieving the sword is secondary. I hope you won't be willful and go against our master's wishes."

Jiang Tiantao, still unwilling to give up, said, "Zhu Caidie's teasing of me is also an insult to our master. I must get my revenge."

Although Xue Danfeng knew Jiang Tiantao's swordsmanship was superb, Zhu Caidie excelled in lightness skills. If Zhu Caidie used her agile movements to assist him, it would be difficult for her brother to win. Thinking of this, she was secretly anxious, fearing he might make a mistake. So, she frowned and said gently, "Junior Sister Zhu is still young and immature. As her senior brother, you should forgive her and not hold it against her." As they spoke, they had already reached the edge of the cliff at the summit.

At this moment, the crescent moon shone brightly, countless stars twinkled, the night sky was deep and vast, and a chilly mountain breeze blew. Jiang Tiantao stopped first, noticing Xue Danfeng's lingering expression. Remembering Xue Danfeng's earlier sadness, Jiang Tiantao felt a pang of pain in his heart, and reached out to pull her into his arms. Xue Danfeng was startled and tried to struggle, but found herself tightly held in Jiang Tiantao's embrace.

"Brother Tao, what are you doing..." Before she could utter a word, her cherry lips were captured by Jiang Tiantao's kiss. Her lips involuntarily parted slightly, and a warm, strange current flowed from Jiang Tiantao's mouth. Her saliva mingled with his sticky, soft tongue, swirling and churning in her mouth. Xue Danfeng felt a sudden rush of light, her mind going blank. Their lips intertwined, like two lovers who had not met for a long time, or like gods tasting forbidden fruit for the first time. They exchanged saliva, sucking each other's life-giving essence. Xue Danfeng felt dizzy and disoriented, unsure whether it was an illusion or reality...

Unbeknownst to her, Jiang Tiantao's hand covered Xue Danfeng's breasts. Wow, they were really soft. Xue Danfeng seemed to suddenly wake up, forcefully breaking free from Jiang Tiantao's embrace, panting heavily...

After a while, Xue Danfeng looked at Jiang Tiantao with a flushed face and said reproachfully, "Little brother Tao, you've become naughty..."

Jiang Tiantao looked at her affectionately and said, "I'm sorry, sister Xue, please forgive my abruptness, but I want to tell you, I love you, my dear sister..."

Xue Danfeng was stunned again: "What? Little brother, what did you say?"

Jiang Tiantao gently embraced her and said, "Sister Xue, I love you, I want to marry you."

Xue Danfeng asked in surprise, "What about Ling?"

Jiang Tiantao smiled and said, "Of course I love her too, and I will marry her as well."

Xue Danfeng was stunned again, and then came to her senses: "You want to marry both of them?"

Jiang Tiantao nodded and said, "I can't leave either you or Ling behind, sister Xue, don't be sad anymore, little brother will always love you."

Xue Danfeng suddenly understood: "You saw everything?"

Jiang Tiantao nodded and said, "I deserve to die, please forgive me, sister."

Xue Danfeng blushed and asked, "Will Ling agree?"

Jiang Tiantao nodded firmly, "She will definitely agree, sister, don't worry."

Xue Danfeng blushed and said, "It's just that you got off easy..." Before she could finish speaking, Jiang Tiantao kissed her tightly again...

After an unknown amount of time, Xue Danfeng pushed Jiang Tiantao away and said, "Brother, you should go."

Jiang Tiantao smiled and said, "Sister, please rest assured, I will act according to the situation. Sister, I will definitely come back as soon as possible..."

Xue Danfeng was pleased to hear this and immediately said, "Sister hopes you can return to see Master with a brand new look."

Jiang Tiantao laughed heartily, resolutely agreed, and said, "Goodbye, sister!" He floated down and plunged straight down the mountain...

Jiang Tiantao floated down, swift as a shooting star, stepping on slanting pines and touching protruding rocks, and in an instant he was below the clouds. Looking down, the valley was pitch black, and there was not a single light in "Nine Palaces Fortress". So, he gradually quickened his pace, and in a moment he reached the foot of the peak. He leaped into the giant pine forest and sped towards the vast garden at the foot of the western cliff. Reaching the garden wall, he glanced briefly at the garden, then leaped down and headed straight for the stone house.

Just as he reached the door and was about to push it open, the two half-closed doors suddenly opened. Jiang Tiantao was startled and took five steps back, about to demand an explanation. A face as beautiful as a lotus blossom, with furrowed brows and a delicate, pouting cherry-like mouth, slowly appeared. Jiang Tiantao looked closely and saw it was Wang Yanling, her hair piled high with emerald green, dressed in a brand-new yellow velvet robe. Overjoyed, he leaped forward, exclaiming in delighted voice, "Cousin, you've come at the perfect time! I was just looking for you!"

As he spoke, he leaped into the room and reached out to grasp his sister's jade-like arm. With her cherry lips pouting, Wang Yanling twisted her body and angrily dodged away, asking unhappily, "Where did you go? I've been waiting for you for so long."

Jiang Tiantao immediately explained excitedly, "My master is back!" He then closed the door behind him, took Wang Yanling's hand again, and hurried into the room.

Upon hearing this, Wang Yanling was overjoyed; the displeasure on her face vanished instantly. She asked in surprise, "Was it Senior Fairy Haitang who entered the inner fortress and subdued Xiao Cuihua and the other two?"

Hearing the question, Jiang Tiantao immediately thought of the willful Zhu Caidie, and couldn't help but snort, saying indignantly, "How could Master do such childish and ridiculous things?" He then had Wang Yanling sit on a stool and went to retrieve a small bundle from under the bed.

Upon seeing this, Wang Yanling immediately asked in confusion, "Brother Tao, what are you going to do?"

Jiang Tiantao replied, "My master ordered me to set off immediately and rush to Fanjing Mountain overnight." As he spoke, he opened his small bundle, inside which was a sky-blue scholar's cap, a light blue gentleman's shirt, and silk trousers and shoes.

Upon hearing this, Wang Yanling's face changed instantly. She abruptly stood up from the stool and said anxiously, "Oh dear! How can you go now? Uncle has already agreed!"

Jiang Tiantao was taken aback and asked in surprise, "What did Father agree to?"

Wang Yanling said anxiously, "Just now, in the Zhongge Pavilion, I was sparring with Chaotianbi. After only two or three exchanges, my little sister had me completely overwhelmed. Uncle was furious and determined to arrange another marriage for my little sister. My little sister immediately requested to follow the betrothal method Uncle used with Aunt, holding a martial arts contest to choose a husband. Uncle agreed without hesitation. Now you want Mount Fanjing? How can that be allowed!"

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao smiled happily and then said excitedly, "Although Mount Fanjing is a thousand miles away from here, my Xiaoqing is a precious steed, like..." " Traveling day and night, it will take three days to arrive, and at most ten days round trip. Although Father has agreed to the martial arts contest

for marriage, he will not act hastily on such an important matter..." Before Jiang Tiantao could finish speaking, Wang Yanling anxiously interrupted, "How could you know? Guge has been sending urgent messages to various martial arts sects, and she wants to build a high arena outside the fortress. I'm afraid that if a truly skilled master comes, it might turn into a real contest, and that would be terrible! So I've requested that we choose from among the masters within the fortress first. Uncle immediately suspected that I had fallen in love with Little Li Guang..." She paused, her delicate face flushing red, and then said shyly, "If we choose within the fortress, there's no need to be too formal. We can hold it anytime in front of the main hall."

Hearing this, Jiang Tiantao also became anxious, his two sword-like eyebrows furrowing tightly, and he remained speechless for a long time. Suddenly, his starry eyes lit up, as if he had realized something. She smiled and said, "The only thing I can do is ask you to pretend to be sick for a few days."

Upon hearing this, Wang Yanling blushed and burst into laughter. She seemed to agree that pretending to be sick was the best option. Jiang Tiantao shook his head with a sigh, smiled self-deprecatingly, and casually took off his large cloak.

When Wang Yanling saw the empty scabbard on Jiang Tiantao's back, she couldn't help but ask in surprise, "Brother Tao, where's your sword?"

Jiang Tiantao's handsome face turned red, and he could only recount the story of how he lost his sword.

Wang Yanling immediately cried out in alarm, "Brother Tao, the only tunnel connecting Jiugongbao to the outside world has been discovered by this Miss Zhu. You must not argue with Miss Zhu again, otherwise..."

Jiang Tiantao smiled and said, "I will handle it carefully..." Before he finished speaking, a sound of clothes rustling came from the direction of the flower hall.

Jiang Tiantao's heart skipped a beat. He leaped to the outer room and quietly opened the door a crack. He saw a little narcissus dressed in a light red dress running towards him. He quickly opened the door and whispered to Wang Yanling, who was following closely behind, "It's little narcissus." Before he finished speaking, little narcissus, looking slightly flustered, was already at the door.

Wang Yanling sensed something was wrong and hurriedly stepped outside. She looked at little narcissus and whispered, "What is it?"

Little narcissus hurriedly whispered, "Just now, the Poisonous Lady sent a maid to invite you, Miss, saying that the Old Master has important matters to discuss in person and asks you to come immediately. We had no choice but to say that you were asleep."

Wang Yanling immediately said urgently, "I have to go back quickly." She then turned to Jiang Tiantao, whose expression was grave, and solemnly said, "Brother Tao, you must come back as soon as possible. Min Wu Kui is dead, and perhaps no one has noticed what's happening in the garden these past few days." With that, she hurriedly followed behind Xiao Shuixian, heading straight for the strange rocks behind the flower hall.

Jiang Tiantao watched Wang Yanling and Xiao Shuixian leave in haste, then flew after them, anxiously reminding them, "Lingmei, be careful of the 'Poisonous Lady'—she might be up to something."

Wang Yanling didn't stop, quickly turning back and waving, "I know, go ahead without worry." Jiang

Tiantao didn't rush back inside until Wang Yanling's slender figure disappeared into the bamboo grove. He changed into a scholar's cap, blue robe, silk trousers, and shoes, exuding a refined and elegant air, his youthful vigor now tinged with scholarly grace. However, his handsome face, like that of a king, was filled with anxiety, and his temples and brows were tightly furrowed. He hastily wrapped his large cloak around his sword, picked up the empty tip of his sword, and hurried out of the room.

It was nearly four in the morning, the dew was heavy, and the wind was cold; the entire Mufu Mountain area was deathly silent. Jiang Tiantao leaped out of the garden, followed the edge of the pine forest, circled the valley entrance and ridge, and galloped straight down the mountain where the horses were being grazed. Under the bright sunshine, as dawn broke, a thin mist lingered on the western slopes of Mufu Mountain. A sudden, rapid clatter of hooves shattered the silence of the entire mountain range, echoing through the valleys and peaks. A tall, robust, and exceptionally spirited blue-maned horse, head held high and beard bristling, galloped out of the western mountain pass like a thunderbolt. Seated on the saddle was the handsome and elegant Jiang Tiantao.

Jiang Tiantao frowned, his lips curving downwards, his expression revealing worry. He sat firmly on the horse, gripping the reins tightly, and galloped straight towards the official road. Xiao Qing was a rare, magnificent steed from beyond the Great Wall, fierce in nature, intelligent and alert. Releasing the reins... Their hooves flew swiftly, covering hundreds of miles a day. Jiang Tiantao, anxious to seize the sword and worried about Wang Yanling's safety, traveled almost day and night, rarely resting.

He went from Pingjiang, through Ningxiang, to Ruanling, and past Gancheng, arriving in Songtao County by the evening of the third day. Although the journey was bustling, he didn't linger for a moment. Early the next morning, Jiang Tiantao was already leading the way, galloping out of Songtao City like a whirlwind. Sitting on his horse, Jiang Tiantao looked west and saw, in the hazy golden light of dawn, the distant horizon faintly revealing a winding mountain range. Xiao Qing, refreshed after a night's rest, continued along the official road… He sped off like the wind, heading straight west. His heart pounded with tension and excitement as the mountain shadows grew larger and taller. He only knew that the Golden Buddha Blind Nun's cave was located on the treacherous edge of the Golden Knife Gorge, but he didn't know its exact location.

He knew the Blind Nun was eccentric and unpredictable, especially doting and protective of her children, often lacking reason and emotion. This attempt to seize the sword might turn into a very unpleasant affair, and he wouldn't be able to get his hands on her Immortal Fruit at all. Looking up again, the majestic Mount Fanjing was already more than ten miles away. Suddenly, his brows furrowed, and his handsome face was filled with frustration, because he suddenly remembered Zhu Caidie, who wouldn't be able to return to the mountain for at least several more days.

Thinking of the purpose of this trip—to win the sword—with Zhu Caidie absent, who could he challenge, and who could he seize the sword from? This thought filled him with increasing frustration. If Zhu Caidie was delayed on the way and didn't return for half a month, and he couldn't wait long, wouldn't this trip to Mount Fanjing have been in vain? Although Jiang Tiantao hesitated, his steed, Xiao Qing, kept going. Just after dawn, they arrived at the eastern foot of Mount Fanjing. Jiang

Tiantao looked around; the peaks were majestic and verdant, with a central peak, as if cleaved by an axe, from which several waterfalls cascaded down. Below the waterfalls lay the famous Golden Knife Gorge. In the blink of an eye, Xiao Qing had already rushed into a mountain pass, following a rugged mountain path... The horse galloped straight into the depths of the mountains, swift as the wind, its speed undiminished. The mountains were dotted with numerous temples; as far as the eye could see, the golden ridges of palaces were faintly visible on the mountainside, amidst verdant bamboo and pines, and the vibrant colors of sunset—truly the premier mountain of Guizhou.

Jiang Tiantao rode swiftly, surveying the mountain scenery, his mood gradually brightening, forgetting his troubles. Reaching the depths of the mountains, where the path ended, Xiao Qing's speed gradually slowed. They came to a deep valley, less than a hundred feet from the two towering peaks of Jin Dao Gorge. Jiang Tiantao dismounted, casually tying the reins to the saddle, and looked up. The towering peaks seemed to pierce the sky, impossible to see... Seeing the summit and remembering that Zhu Caidie hadn't returned, his mood sank into depression once more.

Then he thought, since he was already here, he might as well make the best of it and climb the broken peak to get a panoramic view of Mount Fanjing; that would make the trip worthwhile. So, he patted Xiaoqing's long hair, used his light-footed skill, and headed straight for the peak. In a short while, he reached the summit. The area on the peak was vast, the mountain sloped upwards, and the highest, protruding peak was still more than a mile away. The peak was covered with towering ancient trees, and wild grass and fallen leaves covered the ground, far less beautiful than the scenery below.

Jiang Tiantao had no interest in looking closely and sped towards the protruding peak a mile away. Passing through a forest of towering ancient trees, he found himself amidst lush bamboo groves, where the wind was gentle and the sun was warm. A fragrant aroma of flowers wafted through the air, accompanied by melodious birdsong. The mountain sloped gradually upwards, with a narrow path seemingly leading to the highest peak. Fragrant flowers lined the path, creating a different scene altogether.

Jiang Tiantao felt a surge of joy and hurried along the path. He knew that as long as he followed it, he would easily find the cave of the blind nun Jin Fu. As he sped along, he looked up and saw a glittering yellow shadow at the very top of the peak, like a shooting star or a golden bead rolling on the bamboo and treetops, heading straight towards him.

Upon seeing it, Jiang Tiantao immediately smiled happily, waving his right hand high and shouting repeatedly, "Old Glutton! Old Glutton!" The

rolling golden bead suddenly stopped at the sound, seemingly surprised. Its two small, lamp-like eyes flashed, and then its speed increased dramatically, like a shimmering golden lamp. At the same time, it emitted a series of joyful cooing sounds. Although Jiang Tiantao was eighteen years old, he was still a big kid at times, his childlike heart still burning brightly. Upon seeing the glutton, all the troubles he had been carrying vanished instantly.

The rolling golden shadow arrived in the blink of an eye—it was a three-foot-tall golden baboon with a dog's mouth, a monkey's body, a lion's tail, a pair of eyes, and golden fur all over its body…the glutton. Upon seeing Jiang Tiantao, the glutton jumped and hopped, cooing and whining, its tail wagging wildly, fully displaying its uncontainable joy. Jiang Tiantao loved the golden baboon glutton the most. Two years ago, when the blind nun went to Mufu Mountain, he… Jiang Tiantao and the gluttonous old man traversed the entire Mufu Mountain area, almost inseparable.

At this moment, Jiang Tiantao held the old man's front paw with one hand and stroked its golden fur on the back of its head with the other, greeting it repeatedly like a long-lost friend. Simultaneously, he took out a pre-prepared food bag from his waist and immediately handed it to the old man. The old man tore open the bag and saw braised meat, hard-boiled eggs, and fatty chicken legs. He was overjoyed, his golden eyes fixed on Jiang Tiantao, wagging his tail, and immediately began to devour the food.

Jiang Tiantao squatted beside the old man, watching it devour the food in an instant. Jiang Tiantao shook his head with a smile, thinking, "No wonder the blind nun named you 'Glutton'." The old man, thinking Jiang Tiantao was indicating it was finished, let out a cheerful yelp, tugged at Jiang Tiantao's sleeve, and turned to run away.

Jiang Tiantao knew he was taking it to see the blind nun, so... Jiang Tiantao raced after the gluttonous beast, but strangely, the beast didn't take the narrow path, heading straight for the highest peak. The gluttonous beast's movements were indeed swift and miraculous, arguably the best in the martial arts world. As it ran, it darted up and down, leaping and bounding, occasionally even somersaulting playfully. Jiang Tiantao displayed his full lightness skill, but it seemed the golden baboon wasn't exerting itself fully yet.

In an instant, they reached the highest peak. Looking up, Jiang Tiantao saw a vast expanse of clear, green water—a celestial pool several acres in size. On the southern edge of the pool, there was a gap of about two zhang (approximately 6.6 meters), from which a waterfall cascaded down, plunging into the Golden Knife Gorge below, its roar deafening. The gluttonous beast didn't stop, rushing towards the gap in the waterfall. Jiang Tiantao had no choice but to continue following.

At this moment, Jiang Tiantao was facing a sheer cliff, the edge of which was at most... Ten feet below, the ground was covered in thick green moss, and the spray from the cascading waterfall made the stone surface incredibly slippery, like oil. Even with Jiang Tiantao's exceptional skill and daring, he couldn't help but feel a chill run down his spine; his legs went weak. If not for the old glutton, he would never have dared to come here on his own. Looking at the old glutton, he saw him still several feet away, jumping and shouting anxiously, as if urging him

to hurry. Jiang Tiantao only knew that the blind nun's cave was located on the edge of the cliff at the summit of the broken peak, but he never imagined it would be such a perilous and treacherous place. He then thought of Zhu Caidie, who often leaped and moved freely through this slippery and dangerous place; her agility was indeed superb. At this moment, the old glutton's gurgling and shouting intensified the urging. Jiang Tiantao dared not rush forward any further, and could only hold his breath and slowly move forward, drops of icy water occasionally splashing onto his face.

After advancing a few more feet, he reached the edge of the pool. The strong wind whipped his clothes, making them flap loudly. Jiang Tiantao realized he couldn't go any further and cautiously crouched down. He watched as the gluttonous creature, using both hands and feet, slowly crawled towards the opening of the waterfall. With each step, it dug its iron claws, harder than steel hooks, deep into the stone, producing a clanging sound.

Jiang Tiantao was utterly puzzled, but he was certain the blind nun's cave wouldn't be in such a desolate place. Suddenly, he noticed the gluttonous creature was crawling towards a glossy, green, broad-leaved herb growing beside the waterfall. Within the herb grew three golden-red fruits, larger than longans. The gluttonous creature stretched out its steel claws, plucked two, and then tossed them away—a shower of red droplets shooting directly towards Jiang Tiantao's face.

Jiang Tiantao quickly raised both hands and caught the two golden-red fruits. A strange, refreshing fragrance wafted towards him. Although he didn't know what the golden-red fruits were, he was certain that the glutton had risked his life to pick them for him, so they must be rare treasures. Before he could finish thinking this, he saw the glutton flick his wrist, and a red shadow flew towards him again.

Jiang Tiantao, holding one golden-red fruit in each hand, hurriedly put one into his mouth first, then reached out to catch the last one that flew towards him. The golden-red fruit filled his mouth with fragrance as soon as it entered his mouth, instantly turning into saliva. Before he even chewed it, it had already gone down his throat, its coolness reaching his lungs, making the hairs on his body stand on end. Jiang Tiantao found it very delicious and unconsciously ate another one, but he left the last one he caught for the glutton.

At this moment, the gluttonous old man crawled back tremblingly. Seeing Jiang Tiantao still holding one, he groaned anxiously. Although Jiang Tiantao understood, he felt embarrassed and shook his head, saying, "Gluttonous old man, I've already eaten two. This one is for you." He then offered the remaining golden-red fruit to the old man's mouth.

Unexpectedly, the old man grunted and pushed the fruit back to Jiang Tiantao's lips. Although Jiang Tiantao felt embarrassed, he couldn't refuse the old man's hospitality, and besides, the fruit was truly delicious, so he ate the last one without hesitation. He thought to himself, "There must be plenty of this fruit on the peak; perhaps the old man is already tired of it."

Just as he was about to thank the old man, he suddenly felt an intense heat in his abdomen, a sharp, cutting pain, as if all his bones were dislocated. Jiang Tiantao was terrified, thinking he had been poisoned. Suddenly, the old gluttonous beast appeared, gurgling and making strange noises, while simultaneously adopting a cross-legged sitting posture with its eyes closed. Jiang Tiantao immediately understood and hurriedly tried to regulate his breathing, but his abdomen felt like it was on fire, sweat poured down his face, his lips were parched, his tongue was dry, and his throat felt like it was about to

burst; he simply couldn't regulate his breathing. The old gluttonous beast, seeing Jiang Tiantao's pained expression, stared wide-eyed, completely dumbfounded. Jiang Tiantao was in unbearable pain and hurriedly crawled to the edge of the pool, bowing his head and gulping down the water. The pool water was strangely cold, like ice, but as soon as it entered his abdomen, the burning pain immediately stopped. Jiang Tiantao drank like a glutton, feeling relaxed and extremely comfortable. Looking at the terrified old gluttonous beast, its golden eyes blinking incessantly, still in a cross-legged posture, an idea struck him. He closed his eyes again and began to regulate his breathing, and with a slight movement of his energy, the heat surged again. Jiang Tiantao tried his best to endure it, drawing the heat into his dantian.

Gradually, his whole body felt like it was on fire, and sweat poured down like rain. He had no choice but to go to the pool again and drink the cold water voraciously. After repeating this three times, Jiang Tiantao gradually entered a state of absorption. He didn't know how much time had passed when the deafening roar of the waterfall startled him awake. Jiang Tiantao opened his eyes and was stunned: the sun was just rising in the east, the wind on the peak was biting cold, and he was completely soaked. Where was the Golden Baboon?

Looking at the rising sun, it was early morning, around 3 AM. He wondered if he had been sitting there for a whole day and night. Thinking this, he suddenly felt extremely hungry, so he hurriedly took out a prepared meal from his waist. Opening it, he was stunned again. The two ears of wheat and the braised eggs and meat in the bag were completely soaked and somewhat rotten. He smelled them and knew they were spoiled.

Jiang Tiantao was greatly alarmed, realizing he had been there for far more than a day. Panicked, he leaped up. Surprisingly, with a leap, he felt as light as a willow catkin, and with a slight effort, he rose several meters into the air. Jiang Tiantao landed on the ground, stunned for the third time. He slightly circulated his internal energy, and his true qi flowed freely, surging like the Yangtze River, continuously flowing from his dantian.

Jiang Tiantao was overjoyed, and suddenly remembered the Golden Baboon Glutton. He immediately held his breath and gathered his qi, heading straight back the way he came along the cliff edge. This time, he no longer felt the strange slipperiness under his feet; he only felt his body moving like reeds and willow catkins, as if propelled forward by a strong mountain wind. After advancing several dozen feet, he saw the Golden Baboon Glutton curled up under a rock, staring blankly into the distance, looking utterly dejected.

Upon seeing him, Jiang Tiantao leaped forward, his movements faster than an arrow, and shouted loudly, "Glutton, Glutton, I'm awake!"

Before his voice had even faded, he was already there. The glutton, seeing it was Jiang Tiantao, was first stunned, then jumped and hopped around him, howling and barking wildly, practically going mad. Jiang Tiantao's skills had greatly improved, and he deduced that Jin Fufo must be grieving because he thought he was dead. As for the golden-red fruit, the golden baboon only knew it was a delicious treat, unaware of its preciousness, and especially unaware of the agony it would cause if eaten in excess. Seeing the golden baboon's ecstatic joy, he immediately laughed and said, "Old glutton, quickly take me to see Senior Blind Nun! I need to hurry back to Mufu Mountain."

Upon hearing this, the golden baboon stopped jumping, but continued to grumble. At the same time, it raised its front paw and pointed to the cliff below the southeast slope. Jiang Tiantao followed the baboon's direction and saw, several hundred feet away, a sparse grove of pine and bamboo growing along the cliff edge. The grove was filled with colorful flowers, as vibrant as brocade, and beautifully manicured. The southwest slope had been neatly cut off. After observing this, Jiang Tiantao concluded that this was the Blind Nun's cave. So, he affectionately patted the back of the golden baboon's head twice, patted its shoulder, and said with a smile, "Thank you, old glutton, goodbye!" With that, he waved to the smug old glutton and pounced towards the sparse woods hundreds of feet away on the slope.

Jiang Tiantao's pounce was truly swift as a flying swan, as fast as a shooting arrow. He felt as if he were "walking on clouds," incredibly fast, leaping down from the sparse woods as if flying towards him. In the midst of his pounce, he suddenly saw the back of a slender girl with flowing hair, dressed in a red satin outfit, and a long sword tucked into her back, appear amidst the vibrant flowerbeds. Jiang Tiantao's heart stirred, and he quickly slowed his pace, drifting closer to observe.

He saw the girl in red sitting on a stone bench behind a stone table, her jade hand supporting her chin, silently gazing at the narrow path extending from the woods, as if waiting for someone. Although Jiang Tiantao couldn't see the red-clad girl's face, he knew she was Zhu Caidie, the woman he had come to find. Upon seeing her, he felt a surge of anger, his mind in turmoil. Zhu Caidie had returned to Fanjing Mountain, while he had been sitting by the Heavenly Pool for at least four or five days. Thinking of his cousin's martial arts contest for marriage, he was filled with anxiety, wishing he could return to Jiugongbao immediately. He arrived

at the edge of the forest, but Zhu Caidie, her gaze fixed on the east, remained motionless, seemingly unaware of his arrival. An idea struck him; he resolved to use her own methods against her, stealing her sword in the same way. He wanted Zhu Caidie to know that stealing someone's sword while they were distracted wasn't a real skill, something he, Jiang Tiantao, could do just as well. With

his mind made up, he held his breath and silently moved towards Zhu Caidie's back.

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