[Wuxia] Embroidered Robes and Cloud-like Hair (Complete) - 6

Chapter Eight: Night Discussion on Capturing the Thief.

Upon reaching the inner fortress gate, Ma Yunshan, Ning Daotong, the Qi-Lu Twin Heroes, and Xiao Li Guang Zhong Qing, among others, all stopped and bowed in farewell.

Ma Yunshan, who had always suspected Jiang Tiantao's precious sword, hurriedly stepped forward as he stopped, saying respectfully with a meaningful tone, "If I have any opinions on the selection of those going to Dongliang Mountain, I would like to invite the old fortress master to the front hall for a detailed discussion later." The

old fortress master Jiang was certain that Ma Yunshan had something he couldn't say publicly, so after a moment's thought, he immediately nodded and said, "Very well, I will come immediately."

Based on the old fortress master Jiang's introduction of Jiang Tiantao into the inner fortress, Poisonous Lady knew that the old fortress master no longer valued Jiang Tiantao's past as a garden servant, and thus she was extremely anxious. A thought struck him, and he hurriedly and respectfully inquired, "Since Master Ma has matters to discuss, please return to the main hall to talk. Young Master Wei may be accompanied by the young master, and I will go with you to make the arrangements."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao immediately became alert and couldn't help but chuckle coldly to himself. The old master, of course, would not suspect that the Poisonous Woman had ulterior motives. Moreover, he was eager to know Ma Yunshan's recommendations, so he happily nodded and then smiled apologetically at Jiang Tiantao, saying, "I have matters to attend to and must temporarily excuse myself. Please forgive me, young master. I have instructed my servant, Tiantao, to accompany you to my humble abode to rest."

Jiang Tiantao hurriedly bowed and said, "Please proceed, senior."

The old master, not wanting to leave first, laughed heartily and immediately said respectfully, "Young Master Wei, please go first."

Jiang Tiantao, not wanting to refuse too much, respectfully agreed and turned to walk towards the door. The man with the upturned nose walked alongside Jiang Tiantao, with the Poisonous Woman following closely behind. Entering the inner fortress, Jiang Tiantao's eyes welled up with tears. Seeing the massive, ancient buildings and courtyards, winding stone corridors, he felt a surge of warmth. Thinking of how he had nearly lost his life at the hands of the vile maid, Poisonous Lady, and the head steward, Min Wu Kui, a fierce rage rose within him. If it weren't for his master's rescue, upbringing, and instruction in martial arts, he would likely never have risen above his circumstances. Exposing the two wicked servants' deceitful plot would have inevitably led to this ancient Nine Palaces Fortress falling into the hands of this vile woman.

Chao Tianbi simply walked forward with his head down, silent. He felt inferior to Wei Ming, who had once served as a servant in the back garden, in terms of martial arts, knowledge, looks, and temperament. Therefore, he harbored a deep sense of inferiority. Poisonous Lady, seeing this, was filled with jealousy and anger, her heart overflowing with resentment. She hated not only Jiang Tiantao but also her own worthless son, Chao Tianbi. Although, as the saying goes: wealth and honor are predetermined, and karma is unpredictable. But she remained unconvinced, refusing to believe her son was born a servant. Now, thinking of Chaotianbi's love of pleasure and his lack of ambition, no matter how much she pleaded, she couldn't help but shake her head in dismay. Seeing this, Poisonous Lady felt she had to reveal Chaotianbi's true origins to him beforehand, letting him know he wasn't the real young master of the fortress.

Jiang Tiantao, observing the inner fortress, felt Chaotianbi's dejection and inferiority. Poisonous Lady was preoccupied with how to make Chaotianbi realize he was her biological son and become her powerful ally in seizing the Nine Palaces Fortress, so the three of them proceeded silently, unaware of anything amiss. Following the right-hand corridor, past several pavilions, they came to a small, independent courtyard with a crescent-shaped archway and perforated stone walls. Jiang Tiantao looked closely and found that besides a solitary stone pavilion, a few pine trees, and a couple of clumps of bamboo, there was nothing else in the courtyard. The stone pavilion had two stories, surrounded by carved railings. Its ancient and vigorous style gave it an exceptionally serene air. Under the high eaves at the front, a black plaque hung horizontally, bearing three golden characters: "Yiran Pavilion."

After looking at it, Jiang Tiantao concluded that this secluded courtyard must be where his father often rested. Just then, he heard a voice from the sky above say, "That's my father's secluded courtyard, Yiran Pavilion

, up ahead." Jiang Tiantao, standing before his father's resting place, felt a longing in his heart. His expression was solemn, and he immediately nodded humbly. Upon entering the courtyard, a fragrant aroma of flowers immediately wafted through the air. Countless exotic flowers were planted around Yiran Pavilion, a riot of colors, reds and greens interspersed, making it even more serene and elegant. Just then, two young boys with their hair in buns rushed out of the pavilion.

One was about fourteen or fifteen years old, dressed in blue, and the other was about fifteen or sixteen years old, dressed in dark green. Both were handsome with red lips and white teeth. Two young servants approached Jiang Tiantao, bowing respectfully and saying, "Qing'er, An'er, greetings to the young master."

Jiang Tiantao immediately said in a deep voice, "This is Young Hero Wei. He'll be staying here for a few days. You two must listen to him. Quickly come forward and pay your respects."

Upon hearing this, the two servants immediately prostrated themselves on the ground and kowtowed. Jiang Tiantao nodded in return, a pleasant smile on his handsome face. As soon as the two servants rose, he affectionately patted their shoulders.

Poisonous Lady stood behind him, giving Upturned Nose a wink before saying humbly, "Young hero, you've been galloping and fighting so fiercely, you must be tired. Please rest early!"

Upturned Nose, unsure what to say to Jiang Tiantao, quickly bowed and said, "I'll take my leave for now, and come back to ask for your guidance later."

Jiang Tiantao was pleased to see Poisonous Lady and Upturned Nose taking their leave, so he quickly returned the bow, smiling humbly, "Please go ahead, both of you. I am indeed a little tired."

Jiang Tiantao then took the initiative, seeing Poisonous Lady and Upturned Nose to the door. Once they were gone, Jiang Tiantao immediately turned and entered the hall. Two servants had already brought a cup of fragrant tea and placed it on the sandalwood table in the center. The hall was simply yet elegantly furnished, with many ancient paintings hanging on the walls, depicting landscapes, figures, and horses, all by famous Tang and Song dynasty artists.

Jiang Tiantao ascended the stairs to the pavilion, his view suddenly opening up to a vast expanse of open doors leading to the sky, with a room on each side. Stepping out the front door, he leaned on the railing and gazed into the distance. The first thing he saw was the soaring Star-Picking Tower, seemingly reaching into the sky. Thinking of that night when he risked his life to climb the tower, only to receive a single embroidered sleeve as a reward, he felt a surge of hatred for the Poisonous Woman and the deceased Min Wu Kui. He glanced around the inner fortress and suddenly realized that the Yi Ran Pavilion he

stood in was directly opposite his cousin Wang Yanling's boudoir. He clearly saw Xiao Cuihua walking on the front porch. In a panic, he instinctively waved, but Xiao Cuihua didn't see him and turned to go inside. Jiang Tiantao looked around the fortress; tall buildings and stone pavilions stood side by side, with several courtyards separating him from Wang Yanling's boudoir. In that instant, he suddenly realized that entering his cousin Wang Yanling's boudoir again would likely be as difficult as ascending to heaven. Now residing in the pavilion, he was restricted in every way and could not move around freely. If he were to use the excuse of going to the garden, it would surely arouse suspicion. Even now, perhaps a confidant of the Poisonous Lady was secretly watching him from behind a tree.

Thinking of this, he regretted his rash gesture earlier and turned back into the pavilion. Entering the left room, he found it filled with ancient books and a Han Dynasty square table with writing brushes and ink on it. Jiang Tiantao knew this was his father's study. Moving to the right room, he saw a neatly made bed and bedding, and the layout of the room was very similar to his cousin Wang Yanling's boudoir. He knew this was his father's bedroom.

Jiang Tiantao sat down on a square stool. Thinking about returning from Mount Fanjing without having visited his mentor, he grew increasingly anxious. Now, he realized that entering the inner fortress was like entering a cage, making him feel less free. Frustrated, he sat cross-legged and pretended to sleep, but he could still hear the two young servants moving around and talking cautiously in the pavilion hall.

After an unknown amount of time, a faint, sweet fragrance wafted into his nostrils. Gradually, the fragrance grew richer and sweeter, causing his heart to flutter and his pulse to pound. A strange heat surged from his genitals, spreading throughout his body in an instant.

Jiang Tiantao was startled and instinctively tried to open his eyes, but his eyelids felt heavy and he couldn't open them. This shock was no small matter; his mind instantly cleared, and he realized his current situation. He tried to straighten his legs, intending to stand, but his limbs were unresponsive and extremely weak. At that moment, he realized the source of the rich, sweet fragrance, and simultaneously, a terrifying image flashed through his mind: "Poisonous Lady."

The thought of the cunning, ruthless, and resourceful Poisonous Lady sent a chill down Jiang Tiantao's spine. This cold war greatly helped him regain his senses, making him realize that his situation was extremely dangerous and that he should quickly circulate his internal energy to regulate his breathing. With a thought, the incantation immediately came to mind, and a cool and exotic fragrance of the Vermilion Immortal Fruit filled his mouth. His internal energy also condensed, and the strange and unbearable heat in his dantian was immediately weakened and expelled.

Just then, light footsteps, accompanied by the trailing of a long skirt, came from the outer room. Jiang Tiantao, now fully conscious and with his strength fully restored, slowly opened his eyes a crack. Finding the room pitch black, he was startled and wondered aloud, "What time is it?"

At the same moment, a sliver of candlelight shone in from the outer room. As the light widened and drew closer, a bewitching young woman with flowing hair and a face like a peony, carrying a candlestick, gracefully entered the room.

The woman was about twenty years old, with a high nose, cherry lips, and bright, clear eyes. She wore a tight-fitting, light red undergarment, covered by a floor-length brocade overgarment, revealing her high, firm breasts, supple body, slender waist, and plump arms. She waved the small, flickering red candle in her hand, her clear, autumn-water-like eyes seeming to search for Jiang Tiantao in the darkness. When she saw Jiang Tiantao sitting cross-legged on a stool, his brows slightly furrowed, eyes tightly closed, still meditating, she couldn't help but smile seductively.

She lightly bit her cherry lips, quietly placed the candlestick on the table, and boldly walked to Jiang Tiantao, deliberately scrutinizing him with alluring eyes. When she found Jiang Tiantao handsome and dashing, even surpassing the description of "jade tree in the wind," she was completely stunned; he seemed even more handsome than she had imagined. After a long while, she closed her slightly parted cherry lips, a glint of longing immediately flashing across her seductive face, her clear eyes occasionally sparkling with a strange light. She couldn't help but walk closer to Jiang Tiantao.

Jiang Tiantao, who was secretly watching her, now completely understood the intentions and motives of this youthful, beautiful, and alluring girl. At the same time, he was certain that this girl with her intoxicatingly charming smile and alluring, seductive body must be a confidante of the Poisonous Lady. The thought of the Poisonous Lady ignited a burning rage within Jiang Tiantao. Seeing the fox-like girl approaching with a lewd smile, he let out a low groan and abruptly opened his eyes. Two cold, lightning-like gazes, like two sharp swords, pierced the fox-like girl's delicate face. The fox-

like girl, lost in her reverie, was startled, her face instantly changing. She cried out in alarm and hastily bowed, saying in a trembling voice, "This humble servant, Huan Niang, greets Lord Wei."

Hearing her refer to herself as a servant, Jiang Tiantao knew she was a maid from the fortress and immediately said in a deep voice, "Get up!" He then rose from the stool.

The fox-like maid, Huan Niang, respectfully responded, slowly rising, her hands tightly clutching her hair, her head bowed in shame, and she gently took two steps back. She glanced at him anxiously and confusedly, and found that Jiang Tiantao's handsome face was rosy and his eyes were bright and clear, showing no signs of the madness caused by the "Joyful Mandarin Duck Dew Incense." The Poisonous Lady had told her that men poisoned with the incense had flushed cheeks, bloodshot eyes, and a crazed, almost frenzied expression, like a mad tiger. However, this handsome and dashing Prime Minister Wei was perfectly lucid, just like a normal person. She thought perhaps the Poisonous Lady had made a mistake.

Just then, a series of hurried footsteps sounded on the outer staircase. Jiang Tiantao listened intently and knew that there was more than one person. He also deduced that they must have come to investigate after hearing Huan Niang's scream. So he faced Huan Niang and asked in a deep voice, "How many of you have come?"

Huan Niang bowed her head respectfully and replied, "Besides this humble servant, there are Qinglian and Fenhe!" As soon as she finished speaking, with the approaching hurried footsteps, two more maids with surprised expressions and alluring beauty appeared at the doorway.

Upon seeing the scene inside, the two alluring maids' faces changed instantly, greatly surprised and stunned. Jiang Tiantao, who was standing with his hands behind his back, his handsome face exuding authority, immediately ordered upon seeing the two maids, "You two come in too."

The two maids regained their composure, realizing something was amiss, and hurriedly entered the room, simultaneously curtsying and kneeling, hastily saying, "Your humble servants Qinglian and Fenhe greet Master Wei."

Jiang Tiantao frowned and grunted, then said in a deep voice, "Who sent you here?"

Huanniang, Qinglian, and Fenhe simultaneously replied respectfully, "We are here to serve Master Wei on the orders of the old master of the fortress."

Jiang Tiantao smiled coldly and immediately said in a deep voice, "Why don't you say it's the head of your fortress, the Poisonous Lady?"

Upon hearing this, the three maids' expressions changed drastically, and they all involuntarily shivered, simultaneously lowering their heads in panic.

Jiang Tiantao said in a deep voice, "Report back to the headmistress of your fortress and thank her for her kindness. Just say that two young servants are enough here."

Before Jiang Tiantao could finish speaking, Huanniang immediately said respectfully, "Qing'er and An'er are both servants of the old fortress master. They have already gone to serve him."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao seemed to remember something, turned his head to look at the dark window, and asked urgently, "What time is it now?"

Huanniang and the other two replied respectfully at the same time, "The second watch has already passed."

Jiang Tiantao was greatly surprised and asked urgently, "Has the old fortress master come?"

Huanniang and the other two shook their heads at the same time, and Qinglian replied, "The old fortress master and Steward Ma are still discussing urgent matters in the front hall. I'm afraid they won't come tonight!"

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao realized that Ma Yunshan, known as "Zhenguai Zhen Jiuzhou," had been hired by his father as the external affairs steward of "Jiugong Fortress." But upon hearing that his father was still discussing matters in the hall, he couldn't help but feel suspicious.

He asked in a puzzled tone, "How do you know the old master is still in the front hall?" Seeing that Jiang Tiantao's expression had softened, Fenhe's fear lessened considerably, and she cleverly replied, "Because Madam Min was invited away by the old master and hasn't returned yet."

Upon hearing "Madam Min," Jiang Tiantao was furious. He hadn't expected the Poisonous Woman to dare call herself "Madam" among the servants. His brow furrowed, and he suddenly shouted, "The old lady has been dead for many years. Where is there a Madam in the fortress?" This sharp shout, sudden and deafening, terrified Huanniang and the other two, who turned and ran down the stairs.

Upon seeing this, Jiang Tiantao immediately realized his lapse in composure, but he simply shouted sternly, "I solemnly warn you three: if you dare to come here without being summoned, don't blame me for being ruthless and merciless, and killing you with my sword." Even after saying this, Jiang Tiantao was still unwilling to give up. Thinking of the Poisonous Lady's pretentious behavior, he trembled with anger and sat resentfully on the stool.

The night grew deeper, and after Jiang Tiantao's stern shout, silence immediately followed. Faint, trembling sounds of fear and wailing drifted up from the lower hall. Jiang Tiantao knew that the cries of fear from Huan Niang and the other two were due to excessive fright, and a trace of pity rose in his heart. However, he couldn't determine whether they were the Poisonous Lady's confidants or had been forced to come, and dared not make any move.

Hearing Fenhe's words, he concluded that the Poisonous Lady had been secretly directing things here all along, and had only been summoned by his father a few moments before. Thinking of this, he was deeply puzzled. What important matter had occurred in the fortress that led to such a gathering and discussion so late into the night? He walked out of the outer room, opened the main door, and looked up to see a light shining from beneath the Star-Picking Tower. Looking further, he was startled to find all the lights in the inner fortress extinguished, except for his cousin's boudoir, which remained lit.

Jiang Tiantao was not only confused but also uneasy. Finally, he decided to sneak up to the Star-Picking Tower and observe from the shadows. He felt he should share his father's burdens and that he had a responsibility to maintain the Nine Palaces Fortress's prestige in the martial arts world.

Just as he made his decision and prepared to take flight, he faintly heard cautious, light footsteps on the stairs behind him. Jiang Tiantao was startled. Fortunately, they hadn't left yet. He realized that if he couldn't get Huanniang and the other two to abide by the rule of not going upstairs without being called, it would seriously affect his plans. His mind raced, and he quickly turned towards the pavilion, deliberately shouting loudly, "Who goes there?"

The shout had barely faded when a soft rustling of leaves came from the southwest corner of the courtyard. Jiang Tiantao was startled and whirled around, following the sound. He saw a swift figure rising from a tall sycamore tree several dozen feet away and already disappearing.

Jiang Tiantao was greatly startled and shivered. He had never expected that someone was hiding in the sycamore tree outside the courtyard. Thinking back to how he had almost leaped onto the roof, he broke out in a cold sweat. In particular, the person's lightness skill was remarkable, and the figure closely resembled the gray-robed old man Chen Zhenze. He wondered: Could this old man be secretly colluding with the Poisonous Woman? Then he thought again and felt it was inappropriate. Since his father and others were discussing matters in the hall, and Chen Zhenyi was one of the most important members of the fortress, how could he have taken the time to secretly spy on his words and actions?

With this thought, he couldn't help but feel secretly grateful to the maid who had tried to come up earlier. If she hadn't shouted sharply to stop him in time, Chen Zhenze, hiding in the tree, might have mistakenly thought he had been discovered and fled in panic, and the consequences would have been unimaginable. Out of gratitude, he unconsciously turned back and went into the pavilion. Looking closely, he saw a petite figure lying at the bottom of the stairs in the darkness.

Jiang Tiantao was startled and rushed over. Looking down, he saw the alluring and seductive maid, Huan Niang, who had fainted from the stern shout. Anxious to save her, he bent down and lifted her full, supple body. Only then did he notice that she had changed into a purple-blue maid's dress.

Jiang Tiantao noticed the bright lights below and hurried down, urgently calling out, "Quick, Huan Niang has fainted!"

Qinglian and Fenhe, both pale and dazed, stood in a corner, completely terrified. Hearing Jiang Tiantao's deafening shout and seeing that Huan Niang hadn't come down, they both assumed he had already killed her.

Jiang Tiantao, carrying Huan Niang, rushed down and found that in the lower part of the pavilion, dozens of palace lanterns hung high, illuminating the room like daytime. In the center was still a table of food and drink, but only a wine cup and a set of chopsticks were placed on it. Then he noticed Qinglian and Fenhe still standing in a corner, lost in thought. He hurriedly called out again, "Quick, Huanniang has fainted from fright!"

Qinglian and Fenhe were startled again when they saw Jiang Tiantao frantically carrying Huanniang down. Hearing that Huanniang wasn't dead, they cautiously hurried over. Jiang Tiantao noticed wine on the table, immediately carrying Huanniang to the large chair set up for him in the center. He quickly filled a cup, about to pour it into Huanniang's mouth.

Qinglian and Fenhe's expressions changed drastically at the sight, and they hurriedly stopped him, saying in a panic, "Lord Wei, you mustn't! Lord Wei, you mustn't!"

Jiang Tiantao was taken aback and immediately asked, puzzled, "Why?"

Qinglian and Fenhe realized their lapse in composure and, after a long pause, shook their heads, saying, "Sister Huanniang doesn't drink!"

Judging from their expressions, Jiang Tiantao seemed to understand and examined the color of the wine in the cup closely. Qinglian and Fenhe's expressions changed again, their bodies trembling slightly, and they slowly retreated in fear. Jiang Tiantao was certain the wine was poisoned. Examining its color closely, he found it clear and bright, without a trace of poison. He raised the cup

and smelled it; it was rich, mellow, and sweet, without any off-flavors. Even so, he remained uneasy, for the Poisonous Lady was not only ruthless in heart and hands, but also possessed a repertoire of deadly hidden weapons, poisons, incense, and pills. He looked at the Phantom Lady in his arms: arched eyebrows, long eyelashes, a straight nose, a small, diamond-shaped mouth, full cheeks, rounded earlobes, high-set breasts, and heaving bosoms—a true sleeping beauty. As he scrutinized her, his heart suddenly fluttered, his cheeks flushed, and that strange, unbearable heat slowly rose from his lower abdomen.

Jiang Tiantao was startled, realizing that the rich, sweet fragrance still permeated the entire hall. Looking around, he noticed a delicate, exquisite stainless steel cauldron placed not far from the stairs by Gao Jiutu. A wisp of white smoke rose loosely, reaching the pavilion and drifting up the stairs. Jiang Tiantao, upon seeing this, was instantly enraged. He glanced at Qinglian and Fenhe, whose four eyes were fixed intently on his handsome face and the ethereal beauty in their arms, their gazes strange, unreadable—was it jealousy, envy, or resentment? His handsome face flushed, and he immediately roared, "Hurry up and take her!" With that, he lifted the unconscious ethereal beauty from his arms.

Qinglian and Fenhe, seeing this, hurriedly came over and helped to take the ethereal beauty, placing her on a wide bench. Jiang Tiantao picked up a wine cup from the table, strode to the small cauldron, lifted the lid, and poured the wine from the cup into the cauldron. With a soft hiss, a burst of pale green smoke erupted, and the sweet, cloying aroma intensified. Seeing that the wine poured into the cauldron did not ignite, Jiang Tiantao concluded that the wine was not poisoned. However, considering the panicked expressions of Qinglian and Fenhe, he felt that something was amiss.

He noticed that Qinglian and Fenhe appeared calm, just like ordinary people, and must have taken the antidote given to them by the Poisonous Lady beforehand. The reason he had not been severely poisoned was probably due to the spiritual energy of the Zhu Xian Fruit in his blood. So, he slowly turned his head and looked imposingly at Qinglian and Fenhe, who were already pale with fright and in a panic. Pointing to the small cauldron, he asked in a low voice, "What kind of incense is in here?"

Qinglian and Fenhe whispered in extreme fear, "...Jade...Dew...Incense..."

Jiang Tiantao immediately pressed, "What are its uses?"

Upon being asked, Qinglian and Fenhe's already pale faces turned bright red, and they lowered their heads in embarrassment.

Jiang Tiantao's heart skipped a beat, and he deliberately asked angrily, "What kind of fragrance is in the wine?"

Qinglian and the other woman trembled in shock and hurriedly whispered, "It's... Jade Dew... Fragrance..."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao suddenly realized that Huanniang must have gone up to invite him down for dinner, hoping to poison him with the wine after the incense lost its effect.

Based on his own physiological changes and the shyness of the three women, he knew that the Jade Dew Fragrance was already very effective. So, he smiled coldly and deliberately said in a deep voice, "Please tell your female headmistress that I have no long-standing feud with her, nor any recent grudges. Why play such a joke on me? If this gets to the ears of the old master, it will be disgraceful for everyone." After saying this, he snorted disdainfully and went up the stairs to the pavilion.

Once in the inner room, he felt anxious and extremely annoyed. He flicked his wrist and extinguished the red candle, then lay down on the bed fully clothed. His mind was still swirling with the series of unexpected events that had occurred. Before finding all the "embroidered clothes," he tried his best not to openly oppose the "poisonous woman," especially not to increase her suspicion. At the same time, he needed to win over Qinglian, Fenhe, and Huanniang, making them willing to serve him. Secondly, he had to contact his cousin to understand the situation in the fortress before he could act secretly; otherwise, living in the pavilion all day would be like being a blind man without ears.

Jiang Tiantao's thoughts surged, tossing and turning, sometimes sitting, sometimes lying down, sometimes pacing around the room, his mind in turmoil. Suddenly, his starry eyes lit up, his heart jolted, and he abruptly jumped off the bed. He discovered that his father's bedroom and his mother Xuanji Yunu's bedroom, now his cousin Wang Yanling's boudoir, were not only identical in style, but also had a large scarlet velvet curtain hanging in front of the stone wall beside the bed.

Jiang Tiantao deduced that there might be a hidden stone door and staircase leading underground behind the curtain. He quietly approached the curtain, lifted it, and was overjoyed to find that the shape of the stone wall was exactly the same as that of his cousin Wang Yanling's boudoir. He then silently channeled his inner strength, placed his palms flat on the third square stone, and pushed hard. A soft rustling sound came from the stone wall, and a door-shaped crack immediately appeared.

Jiang Tiantao was overjoyed, almost letting out a shout. His palms were covered in sweat from excessive tension and excitement. He continued pushing inward, and gradually a crack appeared, from which a chilling wind immediately rushed out. Jiang Tiantao dared not be careless and quickly retreated outside. He quietly went to the top of the staircase and saw that most of the palace lanterns in the lower hall were extinguished. He deduced that Huanniang and the other two had gone to rest in the side room and would not dare to come up again without being called. So he turned and went inside the stone door.

Entering the stone gate, he gazed intently and saw a sloping staircase, identical in design. He descended the steps, where another small iron gate stood. Jiang Tiantao quietly pulled open the gate and peered inside. Sure enough, it was a wide, inward-curving tunnel, with many large iron gates adorned with dazzling red and green gemstones.

He quickly assessed his location and sped along the wide, left-curving tunnel. After advancing twenty or thirty paces, he reached the wide tunnel leading to the garden outside the fortress. A thought struck him, and he immediately stopped. He considered the time; should he first go to Xizhou Peak to meet his mentor, Fairy Haitang? Ultimately, he decided to meet Wang Yanling first, and continued his rapid journey. Reaching the small iron gate leading to Wang Yanling's boudoir, he found it open.

Jiang Tiantao was startled. Could it be that his cousin, Wang Yanling, had gone to Xizhou Peak and was still discussing matters with his mentor and Sister Xue? Otherwise, why was the iron gate not closed? In that instant, he stepped through the iron gate, holding his breath as he ascended the steps. Reaching the end, the stone gate was also open, and the palace lantern remained in its holder. Therefore, he concluded that his cousin, Wang Yanling, was inside. He quietly pulled the velvet canopy open a crack, and a familiar, delicate, warm fragrance wafted out.

Upon smelling this fragrance, Jiang Tiantao's heart immediately filled with sweetness and joy. With excitement, he peeked inside and immediately sensed something was wrong. He saw Wang Yanling with her hair flowing over her shoulders, wearing a thin silk nightgown, her brows furrowed, pacing anxiously in the room. Her beautiful face was filled with worry, anxiety, and anger.

Little Cuihua and Little Narcissus stood quietly by the bed, while Little Magpie and Little Fragrant Orchid stood silently at the door. All eight eyes followed Wang Yanling's pacing back and forth. Suddenly, Wang Yanling hurried to her desk, looked down at it for a moment, and then paced back and forth anxiously and regretfully.

Jiang Tiantao looked closely and noticed a pale green silk handkerchief with gold trim neatly placed on the desk. Based on the numerous black dots on it, he deduced that it contained many words. This discovery puzzled him greatly; he wondered if Wang Yanling was troubled and anxious because of that pale green silk handkerchief.

Suddenly, Xiao Shuixian cautiously whispered, "Miss, it's past midnight, you should go to sleep!"

Upon hearing this, Wang Yanling immediately stopped, her phoenix eyes filled with annoyance as she looked at Xiao Shuixian and the other three, muttering, "You four are useless! You still haven't found out where he lives."

Jiang Tiantao, upon hearing this, immediately realized that Wang Yanling was worried about his whereabouts. Without further hesitation, he coughed. Wang Yanling and Xiao Cuihua were all startled, their eyes widening as they anxiously looked towards Jiang Tiantao's hiding place, whispering in unison, "Who's there?"

Seeing their nervousness, Jiang Tiantao couldn't help but smile inwardly, then quickly whispered, "Lingmei, it's me!" Upon hearing it was Jiang Tiantao, Wang Yanling was both surprised and delighted, and hurried towards the velvet curtain.

She eagerly whispered, "Cousin, come in quickly!" As she spoke, she waved to Xiao Xianglan and pointed out the window.

Xiao Xianglan immediately understood and went out to keep watch the moment Jiang Tiantao entered. Jiang Tiantao, both nervous and excited, entered the velvet curtain. Upon seeing Wang Yanling, he immediately called out "Cousin!" and sat down opposite her on the brocade stool.

Wang Yanling asked softly with great concern, "Which courtyard do you live in? How come Xiao Cuihua and the others couldn't find out anything about you?"

Jiang Tiantao replied softly, "I live in my father's Yiran Pavilion." He then recounted the whole story.

Hearing that the three maids of the Poisonous Lady had lit the "Joyful Mandarin Duck Jade Dew Incense," Wang Yanling was extremely anxious. She was truly afraid that Jiang Tiantao had fallen for the tricks of these three little vixens, and thus had overlooked the fact that the gray-robed old man, Chen Zhenze, was hiding in the paulownia tree outside the courtyard. Therefore, with furrowed brows and a blushing face, she anxiously warned, "You really have to be careful of their mischief in the future..." Before she could finish speaking, her face was already flushed red, and she couldn't utter another word.

Jiang Tiantao, being exceptionally clever, immediately explained why he hadn't been poisoned, and briefly recounted his journey to Mount Fanjing to cleverly consume the Vermilion Immortal Fruit. Upon hearing "Mount Fanjing," Wang Yanling seemed to recall something, her phoenix eyes glancing at the pinkish-green silk handkerchief on the desk. She immediately asked, puzzled, "Which route did you take to Mount Fanjing this time?"

Jiang Tiantao, upon hearing this, seemed to understand, yet still glanced at the handkerchief on the desk with a puzzled look. He deduced that Wang Yanling's question must be related to his encounter with the Rainbow Dragon Girl outside Songtao City. Therefore, after a slight hesitation, he finally revealed the exact route he had taken. Upon hearing this, Wang Yanling was furious and coldly asked, "When you passed through Songtao County, did you encounter Xiao Xiangzhen, the Rainbow Dragon Girl of the Three Hairpins Gang?"

Jiang Tiantao realized that he had guessed correctly; Wang Yanling's distress was indeed related to the Rainbow Dragon Girl. Without hesitation, he shook his head and said, "No..."

Upon hearing this, Wang Yanling's face darkened, and she suddenly stood up from the brocade stool. She sneered and then said indignantly, "In the afternoon, the Three Hairpins came looking for trouble, specifically asking to see the young master of the fortress, Jiang Tiantao. Then they struck down the man with his upturned nose, and finally left in a huff, leaving behind the hairpin. I suspected it was you at the time..."

Jiang Tiantao saw Wang Yanling's delicate eyebrows furrowed and her face frosty. She was so angry that her body trembled slightly. He thought it best to explain things clearly, so he recounted what had happened. Finally, he said, "Unless that masked woman was..."

Wang Yanling interrupted, "The 'Rainbow Dragon Girl,' Xiao Xiangzhen." "Saying this, he walked to the desk, pointed to the pinkish-green handkerchief, and said, "Look, what is this?"

Jiang Tiantao had already noticed the handkerchief. He walked to the desk, looked down, and his expression changed instantly. The handkerchief was pinkish-green and transparent, neither silk nor satin, with fine gold embroidery on the outside, looking very exquisite. In the center of the handkerchief were written beautiful, delicate characters, clearly showing that a lot of effort had been put into it. Upon closer inspection of those delicate characters, he realized that it was a poignant and moving poem, a final lament of unrequited love.

He silently recited the lyrics:
"Meeting you in Songtao East, stirred the jade maiden's boundless emotions.
Meeting was hasty, parting was hasty, endless longing and hatred!
Shamelessly calling out, hoping you would turn back, urging your horse to gallop like a dragon.
My heart is breaking, my eyes are brimming with sorrowful tears!
In the deep of night, in the stillness, we meet in dreams, fearing the rooster's crow,
facing the moon, sorrowful, my infatuation is in vain, unable to see my beloved's voice and face. " "
The ancient castle walls are as high as a city, a wild goose feather carries my love
for you across the tower; though we are not destined to be together in this life, I hope we can be together again in the next!"

There was no signature below, but beneath a blood-red phoenix hairpin in the lower corner, the words "Last Words" were written. Jiang Tiantao read it twice, his heart filled with both shock and emotion. He looked at Wang Yanling in surprise and asked, "Ling-mei, where did this come from?"

Seeing Jiang Tiantao's changing expression, Wang Yanling silently read it for a long time before replying, "Just now, at the beginning of the night, the skilled watchman on the castle tower spotted a petite, greyish-white figure anxiously pacing along the moat outside the castle, sometimes looking up, sometimes lost in thought, seemingly burdened with a complex and difficult decision. The watchman immediately sent someone to fetch my uncle, but by the time he rushed to the castle tower, a feathered arrow had already been shot into the castle." The guard picked up the arrow and presented it to his uncle, noticing a small lead tube tied to the feathered arrow. Opening it, he found the pink and green silk handkerchief inside. "

Jiang Tiantao exclaimed in surprise, his brows furrowed, slowly nodding, his lips moving as if weighing the consequences. Upon reflection, he suddenly realized the matter, seemingly simple, was actually serious; he had to go to Dongliang Mountain himself, or the consequences would be unimaginable. But what reason could he give?

Seeing Jiang Tiantao's prolonged silence, Wang Yanling asked疑惑地问道, "Brother Tao, what are you thinking about?"

Jiang Tiantao composed himself, immediately forcing a bitter smile, shaking his head, and said, "Now I've told you everything, what do you think I should do?"

Wang Yanling suddenly laughed and said, "Of course you should go yourself! The girl has fallen in love with you, so you go and tell her you like her too. Wouldn't you have another beautiful wife?"

Jiang Tiantao asked in surprise, "Aren't you angry? Aren't you jealous?" Wang Yanling smiled sweetly and continued, "

It's impossible for me not to be jealous at all. If you didn't tell the truth, I would not only be jealous, but also angry. But since you've told the truth and know that she fell for you first, what reason do I have to be angry? Besides, she's the renowned 'Jade Hairpin,' doesn't that further prove that my husband is extraordinary? Moreover, having a wife like her will be a great help to you in the future. As your 'official' wife, how could I not think of my husband's future?" Jiang Tiantao

said gratefully, "Lingmei, you're so kind." He then whispered in Wang Yanling's ear, "The circumstances don't allow it today, but I'll definitely thank you properly another day."

Wang Yanling blushed instantly and spat, "You're so improper, your head is full of lewd thoughts." Then, deliberately changing the subject, she said melancholically, "I heard that my uncle is very anxious about returning the jade hairpin and hasn't had dinner yet."

Jiang Tiantao, concerned for his father, exclaimed in surprise, "Wouldn't it be better to send either the Qi-Lu Twin Heroes or Old Escort Ning?"

Wang Yanling frowned and said, "The Qi-Lu Twin Heroes are very close to the Jade Fan Scholar, and every time they go to Dongliang Mountain, Chief Fu treats them as honored guests. It would be inconvenient for them to deliver the jade hairpin, especially after reading the inscription on this handkerchief. Although Old Escort Ning has retired, he offended many underworld friends during his time as a bodyguard. The Three Hairpins Gang is a mixed bag, so sending him..." This will inevitably lead to matters of revenge. Senior Ma, as the steward, is experienced and a suitable candidate, but he is currently preoccupied with many affairs at the fort and cannot spare the time. Furthermore, Senior Ma believes this matter involves personal matters between his children, so he cannot go..."

Jiang Tiantao frowned, and before Wang Yanling could finish speaking, he immediately said, "So, the only option is to ask Father to go?"

Wang Yanling immediately replied seriously, "Of course not." She paused, seemingly remembering something, and then asked in confusion, "Poisonous Lady suggested you go, why don't you dare go?"

Jiang Tiantao replied seriously, "It's not that I can't go to Dongliang Mountain, but what if someone comes with a sword? How will Father explain to them?"

Wang Yanling immediately said sweetly, "Just say you've been sick..." "Yes."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao immediately shook his head, then chuckled and said, "Your feigned illness caused quite a stir, making a huge fuss throughout the city and the country. It almost drove me crazy..."

Wang Yanling, recalling her brother's panicked expression when he arrived at the arena, smiled with satisfaction. Before Jiang Tiantao could finish, she continued, "That was because of that wicked woman, pretending to care. She had two doctors consulted in one day, but both said he wasn't sick. Seeing her uncle so anxious, she had no choice but to say he was cured." Jiang

Tiantao immediately complained, "This kind of marriage contest is no ordinary event. There are many heroes from all over the world, swordsmen from various schools, and many young and highly skilled individuals. What if Sister Xue isn't a match for someone else..."

Wang Yanling sighed mysteriously and smiled smugly. "Sister Xue failed, but there's still Senior Fairy Haitang!"

Jiang Tiantao's eyes widened in shock as he stared at Wang Yanling. After a long pause, he asked urgently, "How can Master go on stage?"

Wang Yanling chuckled and said, "She's not even forty yet, and looks like she's not even thirty. If she's disguised as a young person, my matchmaking contest will be a sure thing."

Jiang Tiantao suddenly realized, "You mean, Master was among the heroes in the audience?"

Wang Yanling nodded smugly. Jiang Tiantao thought of his mentor, Fairy Haitang, who had been like a loving mother to him for eighteen years, carefully raising him to adulthood. Such kindness was as high as the sky and as deep as the sea; even sacrificing himself wouldn't be enough to repay even a fraction of it. Now, for his sake, she had reappeared in front of the heroes, though not showing her true face, but it still disturbed her peaceful meditation. Overwhelmed with emotion, tears welled up in her eyes. Wang Yanling, her expression already somber, exclaimed excitedly, "Brother, you've returned, but haven't yet seen our master. I want to go now..."

Wang Yanling immediately stopped him, saying, "I went to the Begonia Cave at the first watch of the night. When I returned, Senior Begonia Fairy repeatedly instructed me to tell you that you can send me if you need anything..."

Seeing his master's instructions, Jiang Tiantao knew he couldn't go. Thinking of the Poisonous Lady's viciousness, he feared she might use this as an excuse to go to Yiran Pavilion and discover the secret of the stone door on the wall. He said anxiously, "Brother, I'm afraid that vile woman, the Poisonous Lady, will use this as an excuse to go to Yiran Pavilion and discover the secret of the stone wall."

Wang Yanling also felt Jiang Tiantao should leave, urging him, "The secret of the tunnel must not be known to that vile woman, otherwise, the consequences will be unimaginable."

Jiang Tiantao repeatedly agreed, glancing at the pink and green silk handkerchief on the desk, before turning and walking towards the stone door. Entering the stone gate, he quietly waved to Wang Yanling following behind, then descended the steps and walked out of the iron gate. Inside the wide tunnel, a chilling atmosphere permeated the air, a hazy, shimmering light slowly shifting. Jiang Tiantao gazed at the inward-curving tunnel, a thought striking him. He deduced it was circular; following the right-curving tunnel would surely lead to the iron gate of Yiran Pavilion.

With his mind made up, he sped towards the right-curving tunnel. After advancing twenty or thirty paces, he discovered another small iron gate on the right-hand stone wall. Jiang Tiantao's heart skipped a beat. He immediately stopped and, without any apparent purpose, pushed the gate open. However, as the gate opened, many rusty pieces fell out, and a musty stench billowed out.

Jiang Tiantao frowned, concluding that this iron gate hadn't been used in a long time. Driven by curiosity, he unconsciously stepped inside. Upon closer inspection, he noticed that although the stone steps were similar, the direction of their ascent was completely different. He ran up the steps, ascending diagonally, passing through three multi-doored circular stone chambers, until he reached the top. The top was shaped like a reclining chair, only wide enough for two people. Above the chair's top was a round hole, from which a beam of light shone.

Jiang Tiantao's heart skipped a beat. Just as he was about to climb onto the reclining chair to investigate, he suddenly heard the excited voice of the Poisonous Lady from below: "Old Master, in my humble opinion, we should immediately join forces to capture Wei Ming and torture him severely. I'm sure he'll confess to the theft that night."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao's face changed drastically, and he involuntarily shivered. He didn't know how the Poisonous Lady knew that he was the one who broke into the fortress and climbed the tower that night. Shocked, he hurriedly climbed to the round hole and looked down, instantly stunned. Below, the light was bright, and the hall was filled with hanging gauze lanterns. It was the vast hall below the Star-Picking Tower. All the experts who had been at the banquet at noon were present, except for two elderly men surnamed Rui and Xie.

Old Master Jiang, seated at the head of the table, was unusually solemn, stroking his beard in deep thought, seemingly considering Poisonous Lady's suggestion. "Suppressing the Nine Provinces" Ma Yunshan, the "Seven Heroes of Qi and Lu" Jin brothers, the old镖头 "Golden-Headed Turtle" Ning Daotong, the gray-robed old man Chen Zhenze, "Little Li Guang" Zhong Qing, and two other elderly men, all wore grave expressions and remained silent, the atmosphere in the hall extremely heavy. The man with the upturned nose looked dejected and listless, still sitting beside Poisonous Lady. Poisonous Lady, her eyebrows slightly raised, her face frosty, stood respectfully at the end of the table, her gaze fixed on Old Master Jiang, seemingly awaiting his command to immediately surround Yiran Pavilion.

Jiang Tiantao, seeing this, was extremely anxious. He had always suspected that something major had happened in the fortress, but he never expected that everyone was discussing how to capture him late at night. In a moment of thought, he suddenly saw Old Master Jiang slowly shake his head and say in a deep voice, "Based on the various points, Wei Xiaoxia is indeed highly suspicious, but before it is confirmed that he was the one who climbed up the tower and stole the embroidered clothes that night, we must not take any foolish actions that would be dishonest and damage the reputation of our fortress..."

Upon hearing the Old Master's decision, Poisonous Lady seemed very anxious and emphasized again excitedly, "With Steward Ma's sharp eyesight and rich experience, he certainly wouldn't be wrong..."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao's heart trembled again. He had not expected that Ma Yunshan's eyesight was so sharp that he could still see the outline of his face even through the black cloth. In a flash, Jiang Tiantao saw Ma Yunshan slowly stand up and calmly explain to Poison Lady, "I suggested this point of doubt to the old fortress master, but please note that I am not certain that it is Wei Xiaoxia, because there are too many sword masters in the martial arts world who have blue silk tassels on their sword hilts and red beads as sword pendants..."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao was startled again. He unconsciously reached out and grasped the blue silk tassel and pendant hanging on the long sword at his waist. He not only blamed himself for his carelessness and negligence, but also sincerely admired Ma Yunshan, who was known for his experience and meticulousness. In a flash, she saw Jin Jianying, the scholar in yellow robes and one of the two heroes of Qilu, with his delicate eyebrows, standing up respectfully and facing the old fortress lord. He asked in bewilderment, "We, your humble servants, were unaware that the treasure stolen that night was the embroidered garment woven by the late Madam. Now that we know the exact item, we can trace it back to whoever knows where the garment was kept."

Poisonous Lady raised an eyebrow and immediately said angrily, "After the old fortress lord entrusted the embroidered garment to me, I immediately went with my deceased husband and delivered it to the Star-Picking Tower under the cover of night. Only the old fortress lord, my deceased husband, and I knew the secret. The old fortress lord is not in the fortress, and my deceased husband has been assassinated by the intruders. Does Hero Jin mean to trace the matter back to my deceased husband and me?" As she spoke, her expression turned sorrowful, her peach blossom eyes flickered, and two tears immediately fell.

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao immediately understood. He deduced that the embroidered garment had been largely devoured by Min Wu Kui and the Poisonous Woman the moment it was delivered to the Star-Picking Tower. Suddenly, the yellow-robed scholar Jin Jianying calmly explained, "I was merely stating the facts; I had no intention of doubting any individual..."

Before Jin Jianying could finish speaking, a strong, suppressed sob erupted from the hall. Everyone was startled and looked in the direction of the sound. They saw the upturned-nose figure sitting at the very end, his face filled with grief, tears streaming down his cheeks, silently weeping. Seeing this, Old Master Jiang assumed that the acupoints sealed by the jade hairpin had suddenly taken a turn for the worse. He stood up with concern and anxiously asked, "Tao'er, are you feeling unwell?"

Upon hearing the question, the upturned-nose figure could no longer contain his grief and burst into tears. Everyone was stunned and bewildered. Upon seeing this, the Poisonous Lady knew she was in trouble and was already pale with fright. Seeing that Upturned Nose didn't answer, she quickly explained, "The young master still has his memories and misses the deceased old lady all the time. We were just talking about embroidered clothes, which must have stirred up those feelings in him."

Hearing this, Old Master Jiang's tiger-like eyes welled up with tears, and he hurriedly said with concern, "Since you're not feeling well, you should go and rest!"

The

Poisonous Lady helped Upturned Nose up and led him towards the side door, immediately silencing the hall. Jiang Tiantao was very puzzled, thinking: "We were just talking about embroidered clothes, why didn't Upturned Nose cry?" Just then, he saw the Poisonous Lady glare angrily at Upturned Nose as she reached the hall door, and at the same time, her grip on Upturned Nose tightened. Upturned Nose continued to sob, completely lacking the imposing manner of the young master.

Jiang Tiantao was secretly alarmed. He was certain that the Poisonous Lady had revealed the true identity of the Upturned Nose to him; otherwise, she would never have dared to be so bold. This also confirmed that the Upturned Nose's pain stemmed from mourning his ill-fated life and his deceased father, not from the loss of the embroidered garment.

In a moment of thought, Jiang Tiantao suddenly saw the old man, Jiang, facing the gray-robed elder Chen Zhenze, saying with a worried expression, "Brother Chen, please go to the outside of Yiran Pavilion immediately and ask Brothers Rui and Xie to return as soon as possible. Young Master Wei's skills are extraordinary; if he discovers us, it will backfire."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao immediately understood. No wonder the two elders, Rui and Xie, were not in the hall; they were both hiding outside Yiran Pavilion, secretly monitoring his movements. The gray-robed elder, Chen Zhenze, hurriedly stood up and said respectfully, "Brothers Rui and Xie are both hiding under the stone eaves of the long corridor. Young Master Wei is on the pavilion, making him extremely difficult to spot. I was careless for a moment and hid in a tree. Although Young Master Wei discovered me, I doubt he saw my face clearly."

Ma Yunshan immediately said respectfully and cautiously, "In my opinion, the hiding places of Brothers Rui and Xie are indeed difficult to find. It would be best to postpone our withdrawal for now."

The old man seemed to place particular importance on Ma Yunshan and immediately stroked his beard and nodded. Jin Tou Ao Ning Daotong interjected, "Tomorrow, when Brother Ma tests his skills against Young Hero Wei, it would be best to catch him off guard. He should launch a sudden, sweeping attack on his waist, followed by a crushing blow to his crown. At that moment, Brother Zhong should seize the opportunity to shout and thrust his spear forward. Under such circumstances, even if Young Hero Wei is somewhat prepared, he will inevitably reveal one or two moves of the sword techniques he displayed at the Star-Picking Tower that night."

Upon hearing this, Old Master Jiang and the others nodded in agreement, praising it as excellent. Jiang Tiantao, upon hearing this, broke out in a cold sweat. He clapped his hands in relief, thankful he had entered through the small iron gate; otherwise, Ma Yunshan's test of skills might have inevitably revealed flaws. Then, the gray-robed old man, Chen Zhenze, said worriedly, "I'm afraid that Young Hero Wei will force Brother Ma out of the circle in just a few moves..."

Jin Jianying immediately affirmed, "As a distinguished guest, Young Hero Wei is naturally humble in every way. He would never use his ultimate move unless absolutely necessary. But how will Brother Zhong explain to Young Hero Wei after his rash attack tomorrow?"

Jin Tou'ao Ning Daotong immediately chimed in, "If it is determined that it is not Young Hero Wei, we can all laugh and praise his skill. If there is indeed a flaw, we can seize the opportunity to capture him."

Old Master Jiang immediately said in a deep voice, "Brother Ning's suggestion is a good one, but it is still not very honorable. At that time, I should invite Young Hero Wei to a quiet place and ask him in detail why he broke into the fortress, climbed the tower, and took the embroidered clothes. Is there any hidden reason or hardship?"

Upon hearing this, everyone solemnly agreed, their expressions filled with respect for the old hero. Hearing this, Jiang Tiantao became even more convinced that his father's high reputation in the martial arts world was not undeserved, but rather the result of decades of amiable behavior, sincere treatment of others, and reasonable actions, which earned him the respect and admiration of the martial arts community. Just then, he heard Chen Zhenze say anxiously, "This matter should be discussed carefully after the headmaster returns." Upon

hearing "headmaster," Jiang Tiantao was immediately alarmed. Poisonous Lady had personally helped Upturned Nose back to the inner fortress. This was extremely unusual; a young fortress lord, not a child, why would he need assistance? Realizing this, he immediately sensed something was wrong. Poisonous Lady must have used this opportunity to go to Yiran Pavilion. In a panic, he turned and ran back, passing two multi-doored round chambers. Suddenly, he realized something was amiss. Thinking about the direction, it seemed he should be slightly to the right. Stopping and looking around, he noticed many steel rings hanging from the ceiling of the round chambers. He had no time to ponder the purpose of the steel rings; his only thought was to get back to Yiran Pavilion as quickly as possible. So, he turned and ran back.

He went up and down, left and right, passing through countless multi-chambered rooms and traversing hundreds of stone steps, but he couldn't find the exit through the small iron door. Even at the very top, he couldn't find where it led. Jiang Tiantao stood in a round room, realizing he had entered a series of interconnected traps, and panicked. He deduced that the Poisonous Lady was already at Yiran Pavilion, perhaps knocking on the door under some pretext, or perhaps she had already discovered the secret passage in the stone doorway. In his anxiety, he angrily stomped his foot.

Suddenly, his foot went soft, and a rustling sound immediately came from the surrounding stone walls. Looking around, he saw that iron plates had extended from the small doors, sealing them all. Jiang Tiantao was greatly alarmed, realizing he had accidentally triggered a crucial mechanism. In his panic, he looked up and saw six small doors around him, with six steel rings above them. He concluded that these six steel rings must be the key to opening the six iron doors. His mind made up, he didn't hesitate any longer. He raised both hands, grasped one ring in each hand, and pulled hard. With a whoosh, an eight-inch-sized dome suddenly appeared on the stone wall directly opposite him.

Jiang Tiantao instinctively focused his gaze and saw that the cave led to the second floor of the Star-Picking Tower. A loud crash followed, then a series of whooshing sounds… Inside the Star-Picking Tower, dazzling cold light clashed and intertwined. With a series of scraping sounds, nearly a hundred gleaming throwing knives were now embedded in the four walls of the tower. Immediately afterward, a deafening roar erupted as a massive iron cage descended from the top of the Star-Picking Tower, causing dust to fall and the stone walls to tremble within the circular chamber.

As soon as the sounds subsided, an urgent, piercing alarm bell rang. At the same time, several loud shouts came from afar: "Oh no! There's someone on the Star-Picking Tower!"

"Quick, climb up! They must have been captured!"

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao was extremely alarmed, almost going mad. He involuntarily loosened his grip on the double rings, then clenched his fists tightly together, stomping his foot in frustration, and anxiously exclaimed, "This is truly terrible!" As soon as the word "terrible" left his lips, a miracle occurred: the six iron doors simultaneously retracted into the stone wall.

Upon seeing this, Jiang Tiantao, like a bird released from its cage, leaped into a small doorway and, as swift as a wisp of smoke, rushed down the steps. By sheer coincidence, he had stumbled upon the correct location. Jiang Tiantao exited the small iron door, not daring to go right again, and headed straight north in the direction he had come from. As he sped along, he discovered that the small iron door leading to his cousin Wang Yanling's boudoir was still open, but given the critical situation, he dared not linger for even a moment.

The distance of sixty or seventy zhang was covered in the blink of an eye. Arriving at the small iron gate leading to Yiran Pavilion, he first calmed himself, wiped the sweat from his brow, and gracefully leaped into the air, landing lightly between the stone gates. At that moment, deafening shouts and furious yells came clearly from the direction of Zhaixing Tower. Jiang Tiantao dared not hesitate, quickly prying open the door a crack and peering inside. He found the door still tightly bolted. He then turned back, restored the stone door to its original position, and slipped out.

Meanwhile, the shouts and screams outside grew increasingly alarming. Jiang Tiantao returned to Yiran Pavilion, feeling relieved. Hearing the panicked cries of the guards and experts outside, he felt both ashamed and amused. Then he thought: he had to go out and show himself, otherwise his father, Ma Yunshan, and the Poisonous Lady would suspect him again. Having made up his mind, he hurried towards the door. Just as he reached for the door, before he could even pull it shut, he suddenly heard faint, fearful breathing and the rustling of clothes outside. Jiang Tiantao was startled, realizing that the Poisonous Lady was eavesdropping. He quickly stepped forward, abruptly pulled the bolt, and angrily flung the door open. A figure flashed, a fragrant breeze wafted towards him, and a petite figure lunged straight into his arms.

Jiang Tiantao knew he was in trouble; with his hands still parting the door, it was too late to dodge. A cry rang out, and Jiang Tiantao's waist was tightly embraced by the arms of a petite figure. At the same time, the woman cried out anxiously, "Master Wei, you can't go out! You can't go out!" With that, she slowly knelt down.

Jiang Tiantao then recognized the woman kneeling before him as his maid, Huan Niang, but he was confused and asked in a low voice, "Why can't you go out?"

Huan Niang, supporting herself on Jiang Tiantao's knees, suppressed her grief and fear, and cried shyly, "Because I told Madam Min that I had already served you, Master."

Jiang Tiantao naturally understood the meaning of "served," and thus was surprised by the arrival of the Poisonous Maiden. He anxiously asked, "Did she come up?"

Huan Niang shook her head, "No!"

Fearing she wasn't telling the truth, Jiang Tiantao pressed further, "When did she arrive here? How come I didn't know?" He then naturally reached out and helped Huan Niang up.

Huan Niang lowered her head deeply, slowly took two steps back, and said softly, "When she came, I was still unconscious. By the time she woke me up, there were already sounds of killing outside. She hurriedly asked the three of us a few questions, and then she flew away."

Jiang Tiantao compared the time when Du Niangzi helped Chaotianbi back to the inner fortress and then came here, and concluded that Huan Niang's words were true, so he nodded. At this moment, the sounds of killing, angry shouts, and violent cries below Zhaixing Tower had increased, seemingly even more intense than before. Jiang Tiantao felt very uneasy hiding in the pavilion, so he glanced at the dark window and anxiously muttered to himself, "I must go out and see." With that, he walked out of the room and headed straight for the pavilion door.

A figure flashed, a cry rang out, and Huan Niang rushed forward, blocking Jiang Tiantao's path once more. At the same time, she pleaded anxiously in a low voice, "Lord Wei, please save me! Please don't go out!"

Upon seeing this, Jiang Tiantao shouted, "Why can't I go out?"

Before he finished speaking, two petite figures suddenly rushed up the stairs, kneeling on the ground. They said shyly in a low voice, "Because the headmaster saw that Sister Huan Niang was covered in sweat and had fainted, and she seemed very pleased. She said that Sister Huan Niang would recover in ten days at most, but Lord Wei's true energy was greatly depleted. Without half a year of careful recuperation, he would be seriously injured, if not dead."

Jiang Tiantao blushed, and was about to say something when he suddenly saw a flash of red light on the window. The sounds of battle near the Star-Picking Tower intensified. At the same time, amidst the shouts and screams, there was a cacophony of powerful laughter and the clang of clashing weapons. Jiang Tiantao was utterly shocked. He leaped to the pavilion door and darted to the front porch. Knowing she couldn't stop him, Huanniang cried out and fainted again.

Although Jiang Tiantao heard Huanniang's anxious cries, the scene before him was undeniable. Before the Star-Picking Tower, flames blazed, and the sounds of battle shook the heavens. On the rooftops beneath the towering walls, swords flashed and figures darted about—a fierce fight was indeed taking place. Jiang Tiantao was stunned. The coincidence was unbelievable; someone had dared to break into the Nine Palaces Fortress and ascend the Star-Picking Tower at night.

He thought of his own night, when he had been protected by a storm, while this person had dared to enter the fortress after midnight, when the stars were shining brightly. This person's courage and audacity far surpassed Jiang Tiantao's. The fact that the newcomer hadn't been captured after so long indicated that he was no nobody. Furthermore, judging from the dragon-like, undulating movements of his sword, he must be a master swordsman. With this thought, he moved slightly, rising into the air and flying onto the long corridor outside the courtyard, heading straight for the Star-Picking Tower.

As he advanced, by the light of the fire, he saw his father, the Land Dragon Jiang Haohai, still standing on the high eaves of the grand hall below the Star-Picking Tower, at least twenty feet away from the fighting area. His upturned nose seemed to have recovered from its pain, and he stood solemnly beside his father, holding his father's famous Lixing Sword in both hands. The Poisonous Woman, with a dart pouch at her waist and deerskin gloves on her hands, was also guarding his father.

The five men stood in a semi-circle on three rooftops, their eyes fixed intently on the fighting on the rooftops seven or eight zhang away. Jiang Tiantao, observing the swirling sword light, suddenly saw a flash of cold light amidst the flying swords, sparks

flying, followed by a sharp clang, and a beam of cold light shooting straight into the air. A terrified scream escaped one of them; the man who had lost his weapon fled in panic to another rooftop. Unexpectedly, the man was none other than the gray-clad old man, Chen Zhenze. Jiang Tiantao looked again at the men charging into the fortress with swords drawn, and a thunderous roar shook his head. One of them, Xiao Li Guang Zhong Qing, held a spear in both hands, and his body swayed several times, nearly falling to the ground.

The person was dressed in a loose black robe, with a black veil covering their head. Two cold, lightning-like eyes pierced through the veil, and the long sword in their hand flashed with a dazzling light. Jiang Tiantao was greatly startled and quickly stopped, standing frozen on the high wall of the inner fortress, completely stunned. He never dreamed that the person who had appeared was Rainbow Dragon Girl Yu Chai Xiao Xiangzhen.

Just as he was anxious, sweat beading on his forehead, not knowing what to do, suddenly a furious shout rang out, and in a flash, Little Li Guang, famous for his spear skills, had already pounced. Little Li Guang flew to Yu Chai's side, and without saying a word, thrust his spear. Rainbow Dragon Girl also remained silent, her spear flashing, forcing Little Li Guang back two steps.

Ma Yunshan and the others, upon seeing this, changed their expressions drastically, all stunned. Jiang Tiantao could see clearly that although Little Li Guang's spear skills were formidable, they were still inferior to Yu Chai's. But he couldn't reveal himself at this moment. Caught in a dilemma, he broke out in a cold sweat.

Just then, a figure flashed, a gust of wind whistled, and the Poisonous Woman had infiltrated the wall and leaped up. Jiang Tiantao was startled and instinctively took a half-step back. He saw the Poisonous Woman standing not far away, her eyebrows arched, her eyes filled with venom, her foxy face brimming with murderous intent. Her right arm was slightly clenched, concealing her inner strength, and she gripped a dagger in her deerskin glove. She sneered through gritted teeth as she slowly approached.

Seeing that the Poisonous Woman had secretly crept up to the wall and leaped up, intending to attack him, Jiang Tiantao was suddenly filled with murderous intent. He resolved to take advantage of the chaos in front of the hall to kill her. His mind raced, he gathered his inner strength, and was about to strike when he suddenly saw his father, Jiang Haohai, standing on the eaves of the hall below the Star-Picking Tower, turn his head to look at him. Startled, she hastily cupped her arms in a respectful gesture, forcing a concerned tone, and asked urgently, "At this critical moment, why is your esteemed headmaster not guarding the old fortress lord in the hall? What brings you here?"

The Poisonous Woman, her face contorted with murderous intent, realized that Jiang Tiantao, whom Huanniang had served, still possessed the ability to escape Yiran Pavilion. A surge of anger rose within her, fueled by the perceived deception by Huanniang and her two companions. She deduced that if Huanniang and the others had lied to her, Jiang Tiantao must have already seen through her scheme. Therefore, she resolved to strike first, taking advantage of the fighting in the hall, when everyone was distracted, to quietly sneak up and deliver a dose of poison to Jiang Tiantao.

Just as she was about to strike, she noticed Jiang Tiantao glance warily at the Star-Picking Tower, then suddenly cupped his hands in a respectful gesture, his voice becoming extremely concerned. Startled, she turned to look. What she saw shocked her. Standing on the eaves of the hall, the old fortress lord Jiang stood with furrowed brows, his tiger-like eyes gleaming, looking at her with utter confusion.

Poisonous Lady was quick-witted and adaptable, and remained shrewd in the face of trouble. As soon as she saw that things were not going well, she immediately turned to Jiang Tiantao and said anxiously, "Young hero, you have come at the right time. Please lend our fortress a hand."

Seeing the Poisonous Lady's swift and unpredictable movements, Jiang Tiantao was both shocked and furious. Then, a thought struck him, and he immediately remembered her treacherous scheme. His brow furrowed, and he feigned difficulty, saying, "I have been traveling day and night, galloping at breakneck speed, and suddenly feel unwell, my internal energy is failing me..." Before he could finish speaking, a cry of surprise suddenly rang out from the rooftops in front of the hall, followed by a burst of cheers that soared into the night sky.

Jiang Tiantao was startled and abruptly stopped speaking. Looking up, he saw the Rainbow Dragon Girl wielding her longsword with unparalleled skill, like a silver rainbow, already forcing the renowned young spearman, Xiao Li Guang, to another rooftop. The situation was clear; within thirty moves, Xiao Li Guang would also be forced to retreat. Before he could finish his thought, he suddenly heard the Poisonous Woman before him, suppressing her excitement, urgently say, "Young hero, since you are unwell, please return to Yiran Pavilion to rest!" With that, she floated down and rushed towards the front of the hall.

Hearing the Poisonous Woman's words, Jiang Tiantao knew she firmly believed the poisonous plan had been devised; Huanniang, Qinglian, and Fenhe had not lied to her. At the same time, she must also be thinking about the test of strength with Ma Yunshan and the others tomorrow. He knew that due to his insufficient internal energy, he would surely die at Ma Yunshan's hands, and then, without anyone noticing, he would have eliminated the thorn in the Poisonous Woman's side.

Jiang Tiantao, realizing this, felt that if this vile woman wasn't eliminated soon, she would become a great threat. Just then, he saw Ma Yunshan standing with his crutch, his frosty temples flicking, and he shouted loudly, "Brother Zhong, please come down so this old man can capture him!" With that shout, he leaped through the air, over a rooftop, and struck directly at the approaching Rainbow Dragon Girl.

Rainbow Dragon Girl ignored Ma Yunshan's downward attack and continued her rapid sword strikes, forcing Little Li Guang into a flurry of movements that nearly caused him to fall off the roof. Just then, Ma Yunshan's iron crutch struck with overwhelming force. Rainbow Dragon Girl, with her agile movements and nimble footwork, perfectly timed Ma Yunshan's attack, deflecting the crutch as it struck. With a soft click and a few sparks flying, Ma Yunshan's body sprang to the side, gliding across the roof ridge.

Little Li Guang, already enraged, was now relieved and leaped forward again, shouting as he thrust his spear. At that moment, Ma Yunshan, wielding his crutch like a wheel, also launched a fierce attack towards Rainbow Dragon Girl's side, urgently calling out again, "Brother Zhong, hurry down!"

However, Little Li Guang, consumed by shame and anger, had lost his reason and refused to listen. Instead, he wielded his gleaming silver spear with the agility of a dragon playing in the water, creating a whooshing sound. Rainbow Dragon Girl remained silent, but her movements became even lighter and faster. Her swordplay was like a rainbow, different from before. With a long sword, she parried blows and deflected spears, slashing east and striking west. She single-handedly fought against two renowned masters from Nine Palaces Fortress, still handling the situation with ease.

Standing on the eaves of the hall, the Land Dragon Lord Jiang, the old fortress master, looked extremely solemn. His flickering eyes were filled with anxiety, seemingly uneasy about Little Li Guang's refusal to retreat. The fierce and ruthless Poisonous Woman Yin Yuan stood blankly beside the old fortress master, biting her cherry lips tightly, seemingly at a loss as well!

Jiang Tiantao was even more anxious. He wanted to intervene, but he was afraid that Rainbow Dragon Girl would publicly point out that he had claimed to be Jiang Tiantao to Jade Fan Scholar at the Xiangjiang Duck Tower. If he didn't intervene, Ma Yunshan and Little Li Guang would definitely be no match for Rainbow Dragon Girl in time. At that time, it would inevitably force his father to take action. If even his father couldn't stop Rainbow Dragon Girl, the reputation of Nine Palaces Fortress in the martial arts world would be completely destroyed. Thinking this, he broke out in a cold sweat.

Looking at Rainbow Dragon Girl again, her figure spun like lightning, her longsword wielded with divine skill. Ma Yunshan and Little Li Guang were already in grave danger, retreating step by step. Suddenly, a sharp cry rang out, and a figure flashed. Poisonous Lady, wearing deer-patterned gloves and clutching a handful of poisonous pills, leaped onto the rooftop where the fight was taking place without consulting Old Master Jiang. Jiang Tiantao's expression changed, and he involuntarily leaped forward two rooftops, quietly hiding behind a large tree.

Just as Poisonous Lady leaped onto the rooftop, Old Master Jiang roared, "Stop, everyone!"

This roar, born of the old master's anger, was like thunder, deafeningly loud. The Poisonous Woman, charging forward, stopped abruptly upon hearing the sound, while Ma Yunshan and Little Li Guang simultaneously retreated eight feet. On the ground, the fortress guards, who had been raising torches and shouting encouragement, fell into complete silence. The Rainbow Dragon Girl stopped, her sword drawn, her two piercing eyes peeking through her veil, staring at Old Master Jiang with surprise and bewilderment.

Old Master Jiang stroked his silver beard, his expression grave. Once the entire area quieted down, he calmly addressed the Rainbow Dragon Girl, dressed in a loose black robe and veiled, saying in a deep voice: "Young lady, your skills are superb, your courage extraordinary. You have fought three of our fortress's masters without defeat. If this fight continues, our victory will be dishonorable. I have decided not to trouble you further. Leave the fortress now!" Upon hearing the word "young lady," Ma Yunshan, Little Li Guang, and the others exclaimed softly, while the fortress guards, who had been raising torches and shouting encouragement, were stunned.

The Rainbow Dragon Girl, dressed in a loose black robe and veiled in a light gauze, trembled upon hearing Old Master Jiang's words, her eyes flashing with cold light, and she was momentarily stunned. Jiang Tiantao secretly rejoiced, and at the same time, admired his father's magnanimity even more; such a handling of the situation could not have been better. Seeing the Rainbow Dragon Girl regain her composure, she quickly drew her sword, cupped her hands, bowed deeply to Old Master Jiang, and without a word, turned abruptly. She then unleashed her nimble, light-footed skill, leaping up and down, soaring onto the fortress wall. With a light touch of her toes, she flew straight outside the fortress, disappearing in a flash.

Jiang Tiantao was deeply impressed by the Rainbow Dragon Girl's graceful and agile movements, and thus, his contempt for Jin Chai Fu Liying and Yin Chai Huangfu Xiang vanished. In that instant, he looked up again and saw Ma Yunshan, Little Li Guang, the Qi Lu Twin Heroes, Poisonous Lady, and others following Old Master Jiang as they descended from the rooftops. Immediately afterward, the flames died down and dispersed, and the guards who had gathered in front of the hall shouting encouragement also left. The entire Nine Palaces Fortress instantly darkened and fell silent once more, with only a bright light shining from the hall below the Star-Picking Tower, filled with the lingering smoke of torches.

Jiang Tiantao stared blankly in the direction of the hall. He wanted to go and hear what Ma Yunshan and the others were saying. How did his father know that person was the Rainbow Dragon Girl? But he was considered an outsider to Nine Palaces Fortress and would not be invited to the meeting. Of course, it was inconvenient for him to go on his own. Just then, two slender figures hurriedly walked out from the back door of the hall below the Star-Picking Tower and headed straight for the inner fortress gate.

Jiang Tiantao's heart skipped a beat, and he looked closely. It was Xiao Cuihua and Xiao Shuixian, the maids beside his cousin Wang Yanling. Xiao Cuihua and Xiao Shuixian looked nervous as they hurried forward side by side, occasionally opening their mouths as if they were talking quietly. After reading this, Jiang Tiantao suddenly understood. He deduced that his cousin, Wang Yanling, had already arrived at the hall to watch the battle, probably standing on the other side of the hall, which was blocked by the Zhaixing Tower, but could not be seen from this side. Seeing Xiao Cuihua and the other two come out of the hall, his cousin must have been participating in the discussion inside. As long as he took the opportunity to ask his cousin, it wouldn't be difficult to find out what his father, Ma Yunshan,

and the Poisonous Lady were talking about. With his mind made up, he turned and rushed towards Yiran Pavilion. Reaching the courtyard gate, he flew in, leaped onto the Yiran Pavilion, and slipped inside. A faint light shone up from the top of the stairs, and he knew that Huanniang, Qinglian, and Fenhe had not yet gone to bed. So, he entered the inner room, immediately lay down on the bed, and tried his best to calm his chaotic mind. But the image of the Rainbow Dragon Girl kept swirling in his mind.

As his mood gradually brightened, he concluded that the Rainbow Dragon Girl's entry into Nine Palaces Fortress must have been to spy on his whereabouts. Therefore, he deduced that when he shouted and pulled back the frantically running Xiao Qing at the fortress gate's drawbridge that afternoon, the Rainbow Dragon Girl, hidden at the valley entrance, had already discovered him. This explained his actions: lingering outside the fortress, shooting an arrow at the handkerchief, and finally resolutely barging into the fortress. He felt that although the Rainbow Dragon Girl had left, she might secretly return, because having discovered his whereabouts, she was determined to get to the bottom of things.

Considering the Rainbow Dragon Girl's nimble movements when she left and her ability to quietly approach the Star-Picking Tower without triggering any mechanisms, he deduced that the Nine Palaces Fortress's complex defenses were no match for her. He realized that he had accidentally triggered a mechanism, activating the alarm, which was why he had coincidentally discovered the Rainbow Dragon Girl hiding outside the hall; otherwise, his presence would have been discovered as well. At that time, if the two of them faced each other, she would inevitably interrogate them, and even engage in heated arguments, which would surely alarm his father Jiang Haohai, Ma Yunshan, Poisonous Lady, and others, and his planned scheme would be ruined as a result. Thinking of the possibility that Rainbow Dragon Girl might come again, he was extremely anxious and broke out in a cold sweat.

Just then, a soft rustling sound came from the stone wall behind the velvet curtain. Jiang Tiantao was startled and leaped from the bed, rushing to the curtain. He lifted it and his expression changed instantly. A crack in the stone wall had appeared. Jiang Tiantao was utterly shocked; his heart leaped into his throat. He inwardly asked himself in horror, "Who is this person?" In that instant, with another soft rustling sound, the stone wall receded five inches further. Jiang Tiantao was

agitated, his heart pounding with tension. He couldn't guess who had triggered the switch in the tunnel. If it was the Poisonous Woman, judging from his cousin's tone, that vile woman seemed unaware. If it was his cousin, she could easily come in. As for his father, a man of high moral standing and renowned throughout the martial arts world, he would never do something so dishonorable.

Suddenly, with another rustling sound, the stone door sank three inches deeper. Jiang Tiantao's heart tightened, and he blurted out in a low voice, "Who is it?"

A very faint but very familiar voice immediately came out, "Cousin, it's me!"

Jiang Tiantao's eyes lit up with joy and excitement. He pressed his right palm on the third square stone, and the stone door immediately opened with a creak. At the same time, he excitedly whispered, "Lingmei, come up quickly!" As he spoke, he looked closely and saw Wang Yanling, who was wearing all her jewelry, with her hair tied up high, and dressed in a yellow velvet dress. She was standing anxiously at the small iron gate at the bottom of the steps, beckoning to him anxiously.

Jiang Tiantao sensed something was amiss, and his initial excitement vanished instantly. He darted through the stone gate and rushed down the steps, frantically asking, "Lingmei, what's wrong?"

Wang Yanling, her expression flustered, frowned slightly, a hint of coquettish reproach in her voice. She complained first, "Why did it take you so long? I was dying of worry!"

Jiang Tiantao quickly explained, "I didn't know it was you! You scared me to death too!"

Wang Yanling had no time to argue. She glanced warily at the wide tunnel behind her, then lowered her voice and said, "Uncle and the others have begun to suspect that the masked man who broke into the fortress and climbed the tower that night was you."

Jiang Tiantao already knew this, so he wasn't surprised. He simply lowered his voice and said, "I know."

Wang Yanling asked in astonishment, "How did you know?"

Jiang Tiantao smiled mysteriously. Just as he was about to leave Wang Yanling's boudoir, he mistakenly entered the mechanism room and overheard Ma Yunshan's suspicion about the silk tassel on the sword hilt and the triggering of the alarm bell. He briefly recounted the events. Upon hearing this, Wang Yanling's expression changed, and she immediately

said anxiously, "No wonder Poisonous Lady and the others were certain that Rainbow Dragon Girl wasn't the only one who dared to climb the Star-Picking Tower tonight." Jiang Tiantao was startled and asked urgently, "How do you know?"

Wang Yanling continued uneasily, "Because when the alarm bell rang on the Star-Picking Tower, Little Li Guang and Chen Zhenze immediately leaped out and intercepted Rainbow Dragon Girl who was heading towards the fortress wall. Ma Yunshan and Ning Daotong hurriedly jumped up to the Star-Picking Tower to investigate and found that the eight iron gates were still tightly closed." The two entered the Star-Picking Tower after the trapdoor was closed, only to find no one inside. They concluded that the Rainbow Dragon Girl had been eavesdropping on the conversation from the eaves, and that someone else had triggered the mechanism inside the tower.

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao anxiously asked, "What did they say later?"

Wang Yanling said bitterly, "That vile woman still insists it was you, but Rui Anding and Xie Gan'en, who were lurking under the eaves outside the courtyard, confirmed that when the alarm bell rang in the Star-Picking Tower, they saw you rush out of the pavilion in a panic."

Jiang Tiantao angrily exhaled, gritting his teeth, "One day, I will tear that vile woman to pieces." He paused, then suddenly remembered something and quickly changed his question, "Cousin, how do you know that the person in black with a light veil was the Rainbow Dragon Girl?"

Wang Yanling continued to explain, "After the Rainbow Dragon Girl left, Ma Yunshan and the others, based on various clues, judged that the person might be the Rainbow Dragon Girl, Xiao Xiangzhen. Finally, the Qi-Lu Twin Heroes confirmed that it was indeed the Rainbow Dragon Girl." "

Upon hearing this, Jiang Tiantao exclaimed in surprise, "How do the Qi-Lu Twin Heroes know this?"

Wang Yanling solemnly lowered her voice and said, "According to the Qi-Lu Twin Heroes, this is the Three Hairpins Gang's top secret. Whenever a leader of the gang violates the gang's rules and betrays the gang, and for various reasons cannot be publicly executed, the Jade Hairpin will wear a black robe and a light veil to secretly execute the traitor..." Jiang Tiantao was startled upon hearing this, and at the same time, he suddenly realized that what he had encountered that night in the east of Songtao City was her execution of a traitor within the gang.

As he thought this, he heard Wang Yanling say, "They are all very confused by Rainbow Dragon Girl's series of actions today, and feel that they must send a suitable person to send the Purple Blood Jade Hairpin back, and to secretly find out the real reason why Rainbow Dragon Girl came to this fortress."

Upon hearing that someone was to be sent to find out the real reason, Jiang Tiantao was shocked and exclaimed in surprise, but said nothing. Wang Yanling continued, "My uncle and the Qi-Lu Twin Heroes both believe that returning the Purple Blood Jade Hairpin will be very difficult. It's extremely difficult to secretly spy on things in the heavily guarded and highly skilled Three Hairpins Gang headquarters. Especially since this matter can only be learned from the gang leader, Golden Hairpin Fu Liying, the three hall leaders, Silver Hairpin Huangfuxiang, and Jade Hairpin Rainbow Dragon Girl. Tell me, among the experts of our Nine Palaces Fortress, who has the ability to enter the vicinity of the Three Hairpins' boudoirs and eavesdrop without being discovered by them?"

Jiang Tiantao said, "This is indeed not an easy task, especially since even if one could get close to their boudoirs under the eaves or by the window, she... " "They might not even be discussing this at that time. Besides, spying on a young girl's bedroom is a shameful thing, so of course no one would want to go."

Wang Yanling said indignantly, "But Poisonous Lady was the first to suggest inviting you."

Upon hearing "first," Jiang Tiantao asked in surprise, "Who else agreed?"

Wang Yanling said, "The Qi Lu Twin Heroes and Ma Yunshan and others felt that inviting you was the most appropriate, but they all unanimously asked Uncle to give you a suitable identity to become a member of the Nine Palaces Fortress..." Before she finished speaking, two blushes suddenly appeared on her beautiful face, and she stopped talking.

Seeing that Wang Yanling suddenly stopped, Jiang Tiantao couldn't help but ask, "And then?"

Wang Yanling immediately smiled shyly and said, "Who knows what identity they would give you? I withdrew so that you would be prepared!" Based on Wang Yanling's shy and happy expression, Jiang Tiantao knew in his heart what identity his father wanted him to go in, even though he didn't say it, and he smiled smugly.

Upon seeing this, Wang Yanling blushed even more, and immediately feigned anger, saying, "Don't be so smug! Be careful of the Poisonous Lady's

wicked scheme—using someone else to kill two birds with one stone..." Jiang Tiantao had already seen through the Poisonous Lady's plot, and hearing Wang Yanling mention it again, an uncontrollable rage rose within him. He angrily retorted, "I already knew!"

Seeing Jiang Tiantao laugh, Wang Yanling let out a soft "Ah!", her face instantly changing. She hurriedly cried out, "Cousin, hurry up!" With that, she turned and, as swift as a wisp of smoke, sped away through the wide tunnel.

Jiang Tiantao was startled, knowing something was wrong. He listened intently, and the echoing laughter still lingered throughout the tunnel. Alarmed, he quickly closed the small iron gate, leaped down the stone steps, flipped the switch, and swiftly shut the stone gate. Stepping out from behind the velvet curtain, the window paper was already bathed in the pale light of dawn; daybreak had arrived.

So, he hurried to the front window, raised his little finger, and secretly poked a small crescent-shaped crack in the roof. Peeking out, he shuddered and his face changed instantly. He saw a dozen or so figures scattered on the rooftops near the main hall, all looking confused and pacing around. In the hazy dawn light, although their faces were indistinct, their clothing clearly identified them as his father, Jiang Haohai, and Ma Yunshan, among others. There were also figures on the Zhaixing Tower—the Jin brothers, the Qi-Lu Twin Heroes, and Little Li Guang, among others.

Fearing that people would suspect him again, and remembering the testimonies of the two elders, Rui and Xie, Jiang Tiantao unlatched the door and dashed out. He wanted those on the other side to see him and run out to investigate. Just as he rushed out of the pavilion and reached the vermilion lacquered railing, Poisonous Lady, Ma Yunshan, and others, escorting Old Master Jiang, leaped across the rooftops and rushed towards Yiran Pavilion.

In that brief moment of surprise, figures flashed and the wind whistled; Old Master Jiang and his entourage had already leaped into the air and landed on the Yiran Pavilion. Jiang Tiantao regained his composure, hurriedly cupped his hands, and bowed deeply to Old Master Jiang, whose expression was bewildered and slightly anxious, saying respectfully, "Good morning, Old Master Jiang!"

The old lord of the fortress also greeted him humbly, "Good morning, young hero Wei!"

Ma Yunshan was the first to ask in surprise, "Young hero Wei, did you hear someone laughing nearby?"

Jiang Tiantao's heart skipped a beat, but he tried his best to suppress his unease and heartbeat, deliberately frowning his sword-like eyebrows, and said in confusion, "I rushed out of the pavilion precisely because of that strange sound. I was dreaming and couldn't hear it very clearly. It sounded like a hissing sound, not laughter."

Ma Yunshan, the old镖头 Ning Daotong, as well as the Qi Lu Shuangxia, Xiao Li Guang, and the two old men Rui and Xie who had just arrived, all exchanged knowing glances and nodded to each other, as if some of them had also heard that hissing sound.

Jin Jianying, the leader of the Qilu Twin Heroes, stared at Jiang Tiantao, whose handsome face was pale and covered in cold sweat, and asked with great confusion, "Young Hero Wei looks terrible. Is it because you were too frightened or feeling unwell?"

Jiang Tiantao was secretly startled and couldn't help but glance at Poisonous Lady, deliberately frowning, "I have been traveling day and night for days, and last night I suddenly felt unwell and was extremely tired..."

Poisonous Lady was guilty and afraid that Jiang Tiantao would reveal the matter of Huanniang and the other two serving her under the questioning of the others, so she immediately interrupted before Jiang Tiantao could finish speaking, "Last night when Rainbow Dragon Girl and Senior Chen were fighting, Young Hero Wei was also present. I asked you to lend a hand, and at that time your complexion was already pale..."

The Qilu Twin Heroes and Ma Yunshan felt that Poisonous Lady's words were contradictory. Just now she was sure that it was Wei Ming who had dared to climb the Star-Picking Tower and triggered the alarm, but less than half an hour later, she was defending him. The three exchanged glances, about to say something, when Old Master Jiang said with concern, "Since young hero is unwell, please come inside and rest!" He then turned to the old man in blue, Xie Ganen, and earnestly said, "Brother Xie is a master of medicine, often called a 'Bian Que' (a legendary physician). Please stay here and examine young hero..."

Before he could finish speaking, Poisonous Lady, standing to one side, hurriedly said respectfully, "Young hero Wei's martial arts are superb, and his inner strength is profound. A slight discomfort is unnecessary; this humble servant believes that with a little rest, he will recover!"

Jiang Tiantao knew that Poisonous Lady feared Xie Ganen would see through her weakness and excessive exertion, thus forcing him to reveal the matter of Huan Niang's service and exposing her treacherous scheme, which was why she hurriedly stopped him. But fearing Xie Ganen might discover his illness was feigned, he quickly turned to the old fortress lord and respectfully said, "Senior, there's no need to worry. I'm only slightly unwell; there's no need to trouble you."

The old man in blue, Xie Ganen, was pleased that Jiang Tiantao addressed him as "senior," and thus became even more enthusiastic, hurriedly saying seriously, "Even those with exceptional martial arts skills are not immune to illness. Young hero, you must not conceal your ailment and avoid seeking medical help. If your condition worsens, it will eventually become incurable, and you'll regret it then!" Jiang Tiantao, seeing how serious Xie Ganen was, was both amused and exasperated, unable to refuse outright, and could only remain silent.

The old fortress lord and the others echoed his approval, then said in unison, "Young hero, please rest assured and recover. We will not disturb you any longer." With that, they leaped down from Yiran Pavilion and hurried towards the courtyard gate.

Jiang Tiantao stood respectfully with his hands clasped, watching them leave. Poisonous Lady's face was pale and anxious. She looked at the old man in blue, Xie Ganen, hesitant, seemingly wanting to stay and hear the diagnosis, yet also wanting to leave quickly with Old Master Jiang. Just then, Old Master Jiang and the others, who were leaving, suddenly stopped in the long corridor outside the courtyard, all looking at Poisonous Lady with puzzled expressions. Upon

seeing this, Poisonous Lady's expression changed again, and she hurriedly jumped down from Yiran Pavilion, rushing towards Old Master Jiang and the others. Jiang Tiantao smiled smugly upon seeing this; Poisonous Lady's strange words and actions over the past two days had clearly aroused everyone's suspicion. In that

instant, he heard the old man in blue, Xie Ganen, say humbly, "Young Hero Wei, please!"

Jiang Tiantao regained his composure and quickly bowed, smiling, "Senior Xie, please." Only then did Jiang Tiantao realize that the old man in blue, Xie Ganen, was a kind old man with frosty eyebrows, a short, round face.

As the two entered the pavilion, Huanniang and her two companions rushed over upon hearing their presence. They first served Jiang Tiantao and Xie Ganen a cup of fragrant tea, then moved another round stool to the table for Xie Ganen. The old man in blue, Xie Ganen, first invited Jiang Tiantao to sit down, carefully observing his complexion, and then smiled silently.

Jiang Tiantao, uneasy, was startled and anxiously asked, "Senior, how is it?" Xie

Ganen, the "Sai Bianque," smiled without answering, only gesturing for Jiang Tiantao to extend his hand. Jiang Tiantao, his heart pounding, immediately placed his hand on the table. The clever Qinglian had already placed a roll of brocade under Jiang Tiantao's wrist. Xie Ganen, the "Sai Bianque," gently extended three fingers, tapping the pulse point with his middle and ring fingers, lightly shaking his white head, slightly closing his eyes, stroking his beard with his left hand, and frowning in deep thought. Jiang Tiantao, his brows furrowed, anxiously watched Xie Ganen's slightly plump round face, as if trying to discern the diagnosis from his changing expression.

A moment later, Xie Ganen slowly opened his eyes, stood up, and said gently to the three women, Huanniang and the other two, who were standing by his side, "Bring me pen, ink, and paper!" Huanniang

and the other two women respectfully responded. Fenhe rushed into the study first, Qinglian hurriedly moved the round stool aside, and Xie Ganen sat down on another large chair. Jiang Tiantao was stunned that Xie Ganen was actually going to prescribe medicine for him. Fenhe placed the pen and ink on the table, Huanniang helped put the paper away, and Xie Ganen immediately picked up the pen, filled it with ink, and wrote with lightning speed. In a flash, a prescription was written. Immediately afterward, Xie Gan put down his pen, stood up, and pushed the prescription towards the astonished and bewildered Jiang Tiantao, smiling as he said, "Young man, you're feeling depressed and anxious, burdened by too many worries. Because your heart isn't at ease, your liver fire is excessive. Frankly, you're not sick!"

Jiang Tiantao, already standing, changed his expression slightly upon hearing he wasn't sick, and hurriedly explained, "But... I often feel dizzy, my legs are weak, my energy is often insufficient, and I frequently break out in cold sweats..."

Before he could finish, Xie Gan threw his head back and laughed heartily, then looked at Jiang Tiantao, stroking his beard and smiling. He said, "Young hero, you are suffering from kidney deficiency and weakness. Although my medical skills are rudimentary, I am not so foolish as to be unable to detect even this minor ailment." With that, he pointed to the prescription in front of Jiang Tiantao and said with a smile, "Young hero, why not take one dose of this prescription morning and evening? It will surely dispel your internal heat and bring you peace of mind."

Jiang Tiantao looked down and saw that the writing on the white basket was still not completely dry. Upon closer inspection, he found licorice root, ophiopogon japonicus, and white chrysanthemum, each weighing six qian (approximately 30 grams), all herbs for clearing heat and calming the mind, about seven or eight kinds in total—it was a herbal tea! Looking up, he saw that Xie Ganen had already come downstairs. Jiang Tiantao was startled, thinking of the lives of Huan Niang and the other two, and his own feigned illness. He blurted out urgently, "Senior Xie, wait!" With that, he grabbed the prescription and rushed down the stairs, finding Xie Ganen standing at the door, having heard his voice.

Seeing Jiang Tiantao rushing down like a wisp of smoke, Xie Ganen asked in surprise, "What is it, young hero?"

Jiang Tiantao stopped and stood firm, his face showing difficulty. After a long while, he resolutely said in a low voice, "When Headmaster Zhang of your fortress asks about my illness later, please feel free to exaggerate the severity of it, senior."

Xie Ganen frowned upon hearing this, exclaimed in surprise, and couldn't help but glance at Huanniang and the other two who had followed him downstairs. As soon as Jiang Tiantao uttered his words, he felt a pang of regret. Seeing Xie Ganen's surprised expression, he immediately bowed uneasily, saying, "Please forgive my inconvenience, senior."

Xie Ganen, a seasoned veteran of the martial world, was knowledgeable and experienced, especially skilled in medicine and adept at reading people. Considering the earlier situation—the Poisonous Lady's lingering presence and the three others following closely as if monitoring him—he quickly changed his mind. He nodded to Jiang Tiantao and said, "Please give me the prescription. I'll have someone prepare it and bring it to you, young hero."

Jiang Tiantao was overjoyed, handing over the prescription with both hands and respectfully saying, "Thank you, senior!"

Xie Ganen smiled kindly, took the prescription, waved, and left. Jiang Tiantao stood happily on the steps until the old man in blue, Xie Ganen, disappeared into the courtyard corridor before turning and entering the pavilion. He was certain that Poisonous Lady would come to inquire about the diagnosis from Illusion Lady and the other two soon, so he instructed them, who were standing quietly to one side, "I didn't sleep well last night, so don't call me unless it's necessary." After saying this, he climbed onto the tangerine.

Aside from the servant boy bringing medicine and the maidservants bringing food, the Poisonous Lady remained elusive until sunset. Even Ma Yunshan and Xiao Li Guang, who had planned to test their skills that day, did not appear. Jiang Tiantao was both puzzled and uneasy about the Poisonous Lady's absence. Given her repeated attempts to harm him, he was certain she wouldn't ignore Xie Gan's diagnosis. Due to her series of insidious schemes, he deduced that she might have already discovered the two cinnabar birthmarks between his brows, confirming his true identity. Her reluctance to actively harm him likely stemmed from the assumption that he was unaware of his origins and name.

Secondly, she might have considered him the biggest obstacle to seizing "Nine Palaces Fortress," thus constantly seeking to eliminate him as soon as possible. Otherwise, she might have simply never imagined he was the young master of the fortress, Jiang Tiantao, whom she had abandoned on Fanzhou Peak.

As he frowned in thought, a powerful voice, as resounding throughout the land as Ma Yunshan's, suddenly rang out from the courtyard: "Is Young Hero Wei in the pavilion?" Immediately, Huan Niang and the other two responded respectfully.

Jiang Tiantao was startled and abruptly stood up from his chair. He deduced that Ma Yunshan and Xiao Li Guang had come to test his skills. In a flash, he hurried outside, down the stairs, and arrived at the pavilion. He found only Ma Yunshan standing calmly on the steps. He quickly cupped his hands and cheerfully greeted him, "Senior Ma, please come in, please come in!" Ma Yunshan

, upon seeing him, also clasped his hands and laughed heartily, "Young Hero, how is your condition after taking Brother Xie's prescription?"

Jiang Tiantao immediately replied cheerfully, "Thank you, thank you! The medicine worked wonders, and I have fully recovered. Senior Xie's exquisite medical skills truly deserve the title of the modern-day Bian Que!" With that, both of them laughed happily.

Jiang Tiantao first stopped smiling and said seriously, "Senior, what brings you to Yiran Pavilion?"

Ma Yunshan immediately smiled and said, "The old master is waiting for you in the hall, and specially ordered me to come and invite you!"

When Jiang Tiantao heard that his father had invited him, he was sure it was about returning the Purple Blood Jade Hairpin to Dongliang Mountain, so he said happily, "Since the old master is waiting in the hall, let's go now!" So he hurriedly walked down the stone steps and walked side by side with Ma Yunshan towards the hall below Zhaixing Tower.

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