Love and Sword Recap, Plot, Synopsis

Love and Sword Synopsis

A plain-looking urban girl named Fang Yi unexpectedly falls into the world of martial arts.

She thought she would embark on a legendary journey of righteousness and revenge, but instead, she becomes Rong Shukuang, a formidable swordsman whose martial arts skills are completely lost.

In a critical moment, the cold and ruthless bounty hunter Yan Shao comes to her rescue and takes her to the secretive and tumultuous Yuchi Manor.

Within the manor, Rong Shukuang tears apart deceitful enemies and exposes fake heroes, only to discover a hidden conspiracy and unknown tenderness in the martial arts world...

Love and Sword Recap

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Yan Shao galloped across the desert, heading straight for the Ghost Valley Alliance. However, he was stopped by a few men in black, who mocked him for thinking he could go alone to rescue someone from the alliance. Yan Shao, though, proudly declared that there was no formation he couldn't break. After a few simple moves, he effortlessly broke the formation.

At that moment, Rong Shukuang was hanging not far away at the Yuchi Mountain Manor, suspended for three days and nights without anyone coming to rescue her. Three men on horseback arrived, claiming to be the Four Immortals of the Free and Easy Sect. Since the eldest had been killed by Rong Shukuang, only three were left.

Rong Shukuang muttered to herself, not recognizing any of them, but from their conversation, she could tell she was regarded as a female knight. Just then, Yan Shao arrived on horseback, throwing a spinning blade intended to cut the ropes but instead accidentally cut Rong Shukuang's arm. Seeing the blood flow, she fainted. It was unclear whether Yan Shao had come to save her or to kill her.

Yan Shao quickly defeated the so-called Four Immortals with just a few moves, easily rescuing Rong Shukuang from her suspension and riding off with her. Yan Shao treated her wound, noticing she had many injuries and signs of poisoning. Rong Shukuang, still unconscious, experienced a vision of modern-day memories. She had lost her emotions and, feeling there was nothing worth living for, had tried to commit suicide.

Perhaps because of that failed attempt, when she woke up and saw Yan Shao, she thought they had given up on saving her, sending her to another parallel world. Fearing Yan Shao might be an enemy, Rong Shukuang cautiously asked if she had killed any of his relatives. Once assured he wasn't an enemy, she curiously asked why he had saved her. Yan Shao honestly replied it was simply out of a sense of justice.

Rong Shukuang noticed a jade stone on Yan Shao's sword hilt—it was the same jade her grandmother had placed in her palm before her rescue. Yan Shao took out a bounty order, revealing he had been paid three hundred gold to rescue her, but he was curious as she seemed different from the rumors. The rumors said she was a woman with a temper equal to a man’s, who spoke little, yet here she was, chatty.

Yan Shao speculated that perhaps it was due to the effects of the Xuanbing Cold Jade Palm. Rong Shukuang also realized she had crossed over from the modern world. When Yan Shao offered her wine, she hesitated at first but then remembered that in her past life, she had been allergic to alcohol. However, she wondered if her ancient body might not react the same way, so she took a sip and found it quite pleasant.

Yan Shao even helped apply medicine to her wounds, and Rong Shukuang, with her modern mindset, didn’t hesitate. Through their conversation, Rong Shukuang learned some information about the original owner of her body. She was the official match for Lin Shaoci, the lord of Yuchi Mountain Manor, and she had once publicly proposed to him but was rejected, losing face.

Shen Zuitian, the leader of the Ghost Valley Alliance, wanted to seize the treasure of Yuchi Mountain Manor, and rumors had it that the key to the treasure was in the manor. Shen Zuitian had captured Rong Shukuang to force Lin Shaoci to comply. Since Lin Shaoci was far away and couldn’t return in time, a bounty was issued, which led Yan Shao to her rescue.

Rong Shukuang gazed at the starry sky, and with the young hero by her side, she suddenly felt at peace, glad to be away from some troubling matters. Unknowingly, she leaned on Yan Shao's shoulder, enjoying the view of the stars. Yan Shao felt his heart stir. The next day, Yan Shao took Rong Shukuang out of the desert, only to be caught in a sandstorm.

He protected her in his arms, shielding her from the storm, then continued on his way to find water. They arrived at a small desert town where Rong Shukuang decided to change her appearance. She noticed the jade on Yan Shao’s sword hilt again and thought it might be useful, planning to take it if she had the chance.

Yan Shao noticed her interest and warned her not to have designs on his sword, but Rong Shukuang just smiled and followed him into the town. Seeing the town’s offerings, Rong Shukuang thought there must be some delicious food here that could sell well. She bought all the bread and meat, then had the meat chopped up to make a meat-stuffed bun. Soon, people flocked to buy it, and Yan Shao, curious, asked how long she had been planning this.

Rong Shukuang smiled, saying she had just come up with the idea. As she was enjoying the moment, she suddenly fainted. Yan Shao found someone to treat her and discovered she had been poisoned by the Cold Ice Palm. However, the healer said it couldn’t be cured. Yan Shao then revealed his true identity as Tang Wu of the Tang Sect and showed his sect's token.

From the healer's reactions, it became clear to him that Yan Shao was indeed Yan Shao. Tang Wu taught Yan Shao the method of treatment, and Yan Shao used his own energy to draw the poison into himself. Tang Wu didn’t understand why Yan Shao would risk his life for a woman, but everything Yan Shao did was with the hope that Rong Shukuang would never know the truth.

Tang Wu took Yan Shao to the Cold Pond, hoping the chilling waters could temporarily suppress the poison within him. He also informed Yan Shao that the poison had been inside Rong Shukuang for a long time, which meant someone had poisoned her. Suddenly, people from the Ghost Valley Alliance arrived in pursuit. Yan Shao hurriedly emerged from the Cold Pond, rushing back to hide with Rong Shukuang, protecting her in his arms.

Rong Shukuang, feeling his warmth, thought that dying here wouldn't be so bad after all. Using his excellent medical skills, Tang Wu treated a member of the Ghost Valley Alliance, correctly diagnosing his ailments and even gifting him a box of medicine, which made them retreat. Tang Wu, preparing to leave with his merchant convoy, bid farewell to Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang.

Yan Shao handed his token to Tang Wu in thanks, saying that if he ever needed help in the future, Tang Wu would be at his service. Tang Wu had already guessed Yan Shao's identity, and seeing the token only confirmed his suspicions. Afterward, Yan Shao took Rong Shukuang to the Wuqing Building. With a fee of one hundred gold, anyone could enter, but they had to hang their weapons on a tree outside.

By entering the Wuqing Building, it was like paying a protection fee, ensuring no one could pursue them inside. The building’s owner, Jin Buyao, initially planned to make Rong Shukuang pay, but upon learning her identity, he understood Yan Shao’s intentions and generously allowed them entry. He even arranged for Rong Shukuang to bathe. Meanwhile, in another room, Fei Wu and Feng Ming were helping Yan Shao by applying ice to control the poison.

Fei Wu couldn’t understand who could have hurt Yan Shao so badly and was even more displeased that he would damage himself for a woman. Every time Yan Shao drew poison for Rong Shukuang, it worsened his condition, only extending his life by a few years. But Yan Shao felt it was worth it, as it gave Rong Shukuang a chance to survive. Every time she slept, Yan Shao would draw the poison, secretly vowing to protect her forever.

In his heart, Rong Shukuang was the woman he had sworn to protect all his life—Fang Yi, who was actually Rong Shukuang. The next morning, Rong Shukuang wanted to say goodbye to Yan Shao, but he didn’t come out of his room. She assumed that Yan Shao had completed his mission and no longer needed to protect her, so she began considering ways to protect herself. Jin Buyao took her outside, where many martial artists were drinking in the hall.

Rong Shukuang tried to find someone to protect her, but after introductions, she realized that none of them were suitable. Eventually, she noticed a man sitting in a corner and approached him, hoping he would escort her to Yuchi Mountain Manor. To her shock, it was Shen Zuitian. Terrified, she immediately stood up and fled. At that moment, Tang Yingluo and Yu Linglong arrived, claiming they were there to protect Rong Shukuang.

She rushed to find Yan Shao, who had already sensed the situation outside. He knew that Tang Yingluo and Yu Linglong were only interested in meeting Lin Shaoci and had no true intention of protecting Rong Shukuang. Realizing this, Rong Shukuang suddenly realized that Yan Shao was the best person to protect her. She proposed that he be her protector, but Yan Shao pretended to refuse, urging her to wait patiently for people from Yuchi Mountain Manor.

Rong Shukuang, worried that Shen Zuitian might kill her at any moment, was about to leave in anger, when Yan Shao suddenly clutched his chest. Yan Shao took another bath to try to cleanse the poison. Just then, Shen Zuitian arrived in his room, testing Yan Shao’s abilities. Reluctantly, Yan Shao had no choice but to spar with him. Yan Shao won the confrontation, and Shen Zuitian asked why he was protecting Rong Shukuang.

He guessed that it wasn’t because of her character but rather because Yan Shao might be using her to obtain the treasure. He proposed that they join forces to attack Yuchi Mountain Manor and seize the treasure. Yan Shao refused, stating that he was unwilling to share a woman or wealth. Shen Zuitian warned Yan Shao that having friends was better than having enemies and urged him to reconsider.

Later, Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang entered the hall, where they saw Shen Zuitian feeding a dog named A Lie. Rong Shukuang, fearful of becoming the dog’s next meal, couldn’t help but worry. Yan Shao teasingly told Rong Shukuang that if she begged him, he would protect her, to which she rolled her eyes. Just then, Lin Shaoci suddenly entered, causing a stir. Though Rong Shukuang didn’t know Lin Shaoci personally, she immediately guessed his identity based on the commotion.

When Lin Shaoci arrived, it caused quite a stir. Tang Yingluo quickly reminded him to check that Rong Shukuang was unharmed, assuring him that he could now feel at ease. Lin Shaoci rushed to find Rong Shukuang but was interrupted by Shen Zuitian’s laughter. Shen Zuitian mocked Yu Linglong, saying that someone like her was willing to be controlled by Lin Shaoci, which only proved that Lin Shaoci's status was quite high.

Rong Shukuang, standing by, was curious about who would win if Lin Shaoci and Shen Zuitian fought. Yan Shao believed that Lin Shaoci was no match for Rong Shukuang’s abilities, since she had already been injured, so Lin Shaoci would naturally be weaker. Lin Shaoci, mocking Shen Zuitian, pointed out that abducting a girl while they were away didn’t make him a hero.

However, Shen Zuitian demanded the treasure’s key, claiming that the treasure should not be monopolized by Yuchi Mountain Manor. Lin Shaoci denied knowing anything about the key, but Shen Zuitian didn’t believe him and threatened to invade Yuchi Mountain Manor for a search. Rong Shukuang pulled Yan Shao into a room, but they accidentally entered a men's bath.

The men inside were about to protest when Yan Shao tossed his identity token, and the group immediately backed off, leaving Rong Shukuang confused. Rong Shukuang explained her thoughts, wanting Yan Shao to accompany her to Yuchi Mountain Manor to protect her. She had a feeling that the Manor wasn’t entirely trustworthy, but Yan Shao, although she didn’t know his background, wouldn’t harm her. In the end, Yan Shao agreed.

In the hall outside, Lin Shaoci denied knowing anything about the key, but no one believed him. They warned that if he didn’t tell the truth, Yuchi Mountain Manor would never know peace again. Enraged, Lin Shaoci grabbed one of them by the throat, and Jin Buyao intervened, reminding Lin Shaoci that this was not a place for fighting but for drinking.

Lin Shaoci came to see Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang, noticing that Rong Shukuang had lost a lot of weight. He then suggested speaking with her alone, but Rong Shukuang insisted on having Yan Shao as her personal guard. Lin Shaoci reluctantly agreed. Outside, Shen Zuitian’s men were present, so they decided to make a plan to leave. Shen Zuitian, having paid Jin Buyao for information, learned that Yan Shao and Lin Shaoci were preparing to leave.

Jin Buyao, having received the money, promised to provide information to anyone willing to pay. Shen Zuitian set up an ambush outside Wuqing Building. After Lin Shaoci and the others left, he intercepted them. Yu Linglong, covering for Tang Yingluo disguised as Rong Shukuang, helped her escape. Shen Zuitian quickly intervened, and during the scuffle, both Yu Linglong and Lin Shaoci were injured. Shen Zuitian also realized that Tang Yingluo wasn’t the real Rong Shukuang and demanded she come out.

At that moment, Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao had captured Shen Zuitian’s dog, A Lie, and forced him to release Lin Shaoci and the others. Shen Zuitian then learned that the desert checkpoint had been seized by a man and woman, so he immediately rushed to intervene. Finally, Yan Shao and his group left, and Lin Shaoci worried that Shen Zuitian would catch up. But Yan Shao was confident they wouldn’t be pursued.

He also released A Lie, as the people who had seized the checkpoint were all under Yan Shao’s orders. Everyone believed Shen Zuitian had let them go because of the dog, but only Yan Shao knew that Shen Zuitian wouldn’t be controlled by a dog. Soon, they arrived at Yuchi Mountain Manor. Lin Shaoci told the old Manor Master that Yan Shao had taken good care of Rong Shukuang on the journey and helped her with her cold poison.

Tang Yingluo knew that Rong Shukuang had a lot of cold poison in her body and needed someone to use their internal energy to heal her. Lin Shaoci wanted to heal her first, but Tang Yingluo still thought Yan Shao was more suitable. Although Lin Shaoci wasn’t entirely comfortable with Yan Shao, he had no other choice. He saw no harm in letting Yan Shao treat her, and apologized for his doubts.

Yan Shao, however, made it clear that he didn’t mind, as he was Rong Shukuang’s personal guard, not a guard of Yuchi Mountain Manor. After hearing about the events, the old Manor Master sincerely thanked Yan Shao but subtly suggested that Yan Shao leave. Rong Shukuang quickly stepped forward, asking the old Manor Master to allow Yan Shao to stay as her guard.

She explained that ever since she was captured, she had feared there might be an insider at the Manor, and having someone from the outside like Yan Shao was safer. The old Manor Master reluctantly agreed. At that moment, a maid came to report that Second Miss Lin Wanci had fainted. The old Manor Master hurried to her side, only to realize that Lin Wanci had faked her illness.

He explained that he had been too busy recently to visit her daily, and Lin Wanci had feigned sickness to get his attention. When Lin Wanci saw her trick had been uncovered, she took the old Manor Master’s arm and complained that he didn’t pay enough attention to her. Rong Shukuang, watching, couldn’t help but smile. Lin Wanci, seeing Rong Shukuang return, hastily stretched out her hand, coughing uncontrollably.

Rong Shukuang, thinking it was for a handshake, quickly took her hand. Lin Wanci reminded her that whenever she coughed before, Rong Shukuang had always pressed on her tiger’s mouth to stop the cough. Rong Shukuang, embarrassed, immediately pressed her tiger’s mouth and apologized. Lin Wanci, satisfied, let her father and sister go. The old Manor Master then led Rong Shukuang to a secret room and shared a past long buried.

The wall had a portrait of her mother, Su Shiyu. Su Shiyu had once been married to the Fang family, and along with Lin Shaoci’s and Lin Wanci’s mother, Rong Li, and their master, Chu Moxiong, they had all been trained under the same sect. Later, Su Shiyu married into the Fang family. The old Manor Master, along with Rong Li, took over the Manor’s leadership.

Soon after, he received word from Su Shiyu that the Fang family had been hunted, so they rushed to save them, only to find the Fang family had been a fallen royal family who had guarded the map and key to the Fuxian treasure for generations. The information had somehow been leaked, and they were pursued by martial artists.

By the time the old Manor Master arrived, the Fang family had been slaughtered, and Su Shiyu had fled with Rong Shukuang to Langyue Village. When the old Manor Master arrived, the village had already been destroyed, with only Rong Shukuang left. He brought her back, adopting her as a goddaughter. To hide her identity, she was made to take on Rong Li’s surname.

The old Manor Master wanted to ask about the events of that time, wondering if she remembered who had taken her. Rong Shukuang pretended to have a headache and couldn’t recall anything, avoiding further questioning. After leaving, she was stunned by the amount of information she had learned today. She even began to doubt if the original owner of this body was named Fang Yi, just like herself. This made her wonder if she had crossed into a parallel world.

Rong Shukuang was led to her room by the maid, only to find it was spacious, with a large courtyard. She couldn’t help but compare it to the house on the outskirts of the Fifth Ring, which was far inferior. The maid, who had been following her, noticed a change in Rong Shukuang. Her temperament had clearly shifted.

The old Manor Master and Lin Shaoci thought it was normal after her severe injuries, but the maid felt that when Rong Shukuang spoke with Yan Shao, she seemed like a completely different person—so casual and free-spirited. The old Manor Master didn’t know Yan Shao’s background, so he sent Lin Wanci to investigate.

Rong Shukuang brought many things with her, intending to propose to Yan Shao. She hoped to get Yan Shao to sign a marriage contract, claiming that she wanted to marry him. In reality, she wanted him to protect her safety. Yan Shao, who was always elusive, feared that if he left one day, he might not be able to find anyone. To his surprise, he signed the contract.

However, when he opened it, he discovered an additional condition: Rong Shukuang wanted him to obey her without question. Yan Shao purposely took the contract away from her, and when Rong Shukuang tried to retrieve it, she accidentally fell into his arms. The close contact between them caused some emotional changes.

During a meal, Lin Wanci and the old Manor Master tried to probe into why Yan Shao was willing to stay by Rong Shukuang’s side, and whether Rong Shukuang had met Yan Shao before. Yan Shao recalled seeing Rong Shukuang at a restaurant, performing cold, impressive martial arts in a fierce battle. However, he lied and claimed he had never seen her before.

Rong Shukuang also stated that she and Yan Shao had gone through life-and-death situations together, which made them trust each other more. Rong Shukuang admitted that she was no longer the same as before, but hoped that everyone would slowly accept the new version of her. She no longer wished to pretend to be someone she wasn’t, as it was too exhausting.

Rong Shukuang was eager to recover her martial arts skills, but when she saw Yan Shao’s eyes, she hurriedly expressed her trust in his medical skills and hoped he could treat her. At that moment, both Rong Shukuang and Lin Wanci almost stumbled and fell. Yan Shao rushed to help Lin Wanci, but as a result, Rong Shukuang fell to the ground.

Rong Shukuang shot an unhappy look at Yan Shao, while Yan Shao, concerned, thought that if he couldn’t find an opportunity to administer the poison in the next few days, it might take effect and cause her to faint. That night, taking advantage of the darkness, Yan Shao went to Rong Shukuang’s room to administer the poison. He suddenly noticed a red rash on her neck and tried to check it, but this woke Rong Shukuang up.

She mistakenly thought Yan Shao was trying to do something inappropriate and shouted loudly. Yan Shao quickly used acupuncture to calm her down, explaining that he was there to treat her with poison. Rong Shukuang then believed him. After administering the poison, Yan Shao hurriedly jumped into a water tank, and Rong Shukuang quickly followed. She guessed that Yan Shao must have felt the same intense desire for her and used the cold water to cool himself down.

Trying to lighten the mood, she joked that if they truly married and things didn’t work out, they could divorce. This angered Yan Shao, and he warned Rong Shukuang not to joke about marriage as if it were a game. Suddenly, Rong Shukuang noticed red rashes on her arm. Soon after, her breathing became labored, and she fainted. Yan Shao, ignoring his own condition, carried Rong Shukuang back to her room.

Rong Shukuang, at that point, even began to suspect that she might be leaving this place and returning to the modern world. Yan Shao didn’t understand what she was saying but insisted that she could not leave. His mind echoed with Su Shiyu’s wish for him to protect Fang Yi for the rest of his life. Yan Shao gave Rong Shukuang some medicine, and just then, Tang Yingluo and Lin Shaoci arrived.

Yan Shao asked Lin Shaoci to personally prepare the medicine, as he didn’t trust anyone in the area. Yan Shao also instructed Tang Yingluo to use the "Ghost Gate Thirteen Needles" technique to treat Rong Shukuang. Tang Yingluo had only learned the technique from her elder sister but had never used it herself. Though she was hesitant, she eventually agreed due to Yan Shao and Lin Shaoci’s insistence.

In her delirium, Rong Shukuang thought about her modern self, holding onto a piece of jade. She refused to let go, as it was a gift from her grandmother. When she finally opened her eyes, she was given the medicine by Yan Shao. Rong Shukuang realized that the symptoms were related to her allergy and wondered what exactly her body was allergic to. After asking Lin Shaoci, she learned that it was related to Liliang Grass.

Tang Yingluo remembered that Lin Wanci had recently brewed wine that might have contained Liliang Grass. Upon further investigation, it was confirmed that Lin Wanci had bought Liliang Grass. The old Manor Master scolded the maid for not taking proper care, allowing Rong Shukuang to come into contact with it. While performing acupuncture on Rong Shukuang, Tang Yingluo discovered some hidden toxins.

Yan Shao said he had already suspected this and asked Tang Yingluo if she knew that the family’s meals were prepared by Lin Wanci. He had come to investigate Lin Wanci and was now looking for clues in her food diary. Rong Shukuang, noticing Yan Shao coming out from Lin Wanci’s quarters, quickly followed to see what was happening. She worried that there was something suspicious going on, but instead, she found Yan Shao reading some booklets.

Thinking they might be love letters, she quickly snatched one away, only to find it was her own daily log. She scolded Yan Shao for being a voyeur, but Yan Shao explained that, as her bodyguard, it was only natural for him to check it.

As they looked through the log, they began to argue, with Rong Shukuang accusing Yan Shao of spending too much time with Lin Wanci, while Yan Shao accused her of spending too much time with Lin Shaoci. After their argument, they both calmed down. Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao began to analyze what she had been exposed to before falling ill. Eventually, they remembered that her personal maid, Liu An, had given her a bowl of water.

They decided to test Liu An, and from her pouch, they found Liliang Grass. Yan Shao confronted Liu An, demanding to know why she had tried to harm Rong Shukuang.

This matter was brought before the old Manor Master and others. Liu An explained her actions, saying that ever since Rong Shukuang returned, she noticed many differences in her behavior. To test her, Liu An had intentionally used Liliang Grass. While the red rashes and symptoms from the past appeared again, there were still many differences. Lin Shaoci recalled the scar on Rong Shukuang's arm from their youth, and sure enough, upon inspection, the scar was still there.

Lin Wanci felt that Liu An's words had some merit. Yan Shao explained on her behalf that when he saved Rong Shukuang, she had been injured by the Cold Ice Palm, causing her to lose many memories. Everyone began to feel sympathy for Rong Shukuang, and the matter passed. However, for fairness, the old Manor Master ordered Liu An to be punished with twenty lashes. The next morning, Liu An still limped as she brought breakfast to Rong Shukuang.

Rong Shukuang, holding the food, said she was going to find Tang Yingluo to eat together and advised Liu An to take a few days off to rest. Feeling stifled in the manor, Rong Shukuang encouraged Tang Yingluo to go shopping with her. Tang Yingluo worried about potential danger outside, but she was persuaded by Rong Shukuang and agreed to go. While they were browsing clothes, they were attacked. Tang Yingluo shielded Rong Shukuang and helped her escape.

Rong Shukuang fled upstairs into a restaurant, where she accidentally encountered Yan Shao, who was in the middle of a detox bath. Rong Shukuang misunderstood the situation, thinking Yan Shao was involved with a man in the room. However, upon seeing Yan Shao’s muscular chest, she inexplicably started to nosebleed. The sight made her faint again. When Rong Shukuang woke up, she found Yan Shao by her side, along with Liu An.

Yan Shao questioned Liu An, suggesting that besides using Liliang Grass to test Rong Shukuang, she must know that Rong Shukuang had other hidden health issues. Seeing that Rong Shukuang had woken up, Liu An hurriedly left. Rong Shukuang teased Yan Shao, asking if he liked men. Yan Shao then deliberately leaned closer to her, causing her heart to race. She quickly pushed him away and declared that she knew he didn’t like men.

Lin Wanci invited Yan Shao to discuss how to treat Rong Shukuang. Rong Shukuang insisted on going along. Under Lin Wanci's request, everyone wanted to see Yan Shao’s skills and how he could protect Rong Shukuang. Yan Shao had no choice but to demonstrate his martial arts, astonishing everyone. They realized that Yan Shao’s skills were unparalleled and drew from various schools of thought.

Yan Shao also revealed that he had studied medicine before and was willing to research ways to treat Rong Shukuang with Lin Wanci. Lin Wanci, impressed, felt that since meeting Yan Shao, he had realized how limited his own knowledge was and was eager to discuss things with him. Rong Shukuang, shouting that she too was a frog in a well and wanted to discuss as well, was dragged away by Lin Shaoci and the others.

Lin Wanci was concerned that Rong Shukuang wouldn’t recover in time and was feeling anxious. Yan Shao, worried about both the cold poison and hidden toxins in her body, agreed to begin immediate treatment and instructed a large dose of medicine according to Lin Wanci’s request. Tang Yingluo was worried that the medicine might be too potent and tried to stop it, but Yan Shao insisted.

The first bowl of medicine was too bitter for Rong Shukuang, and Yan Shao went to add sugar to it. However, Lin Wanci had prepared a second bowl and handed it to Rong Shukuang. While Tang Yingluo pretended to blow on the hot drink to cool it down, she secretly added a poison powder to counteract the effects of Lin Wanci's medicine.

She had only used this poison on animals before and wasn’t sure what effect it might have on humans. Upon discovering this, Yan Shao silently groaned in distress, but he knew that Rong Shukuang’s hidden toxins must not be revealed to anyone. Tang Yingluo was frustrated with Yan Shao’s shifting loyalties, sometimes siding with the eldest lady, sometimes with the second lady, and was unsure who he truly supported. After taking the poisoned medicine, Rong Shukuang developed a slurred speech.

Yan Shao helped her recover, and Rong Shukuang wished to regain her martial arts abilities quickly, so she could live up to the identity of a swordswoman. When she saw more medicine being brought to her, she became anxious. The people treating her couldn’t even agree on a treatment plan and seemed to be using her as a guinea pig.

Lin Shaoci’s guard brought Rong Shukuang a dessert, and she learned from him that there was a secret passage in her room. Excited, she rushed back to her room and began searching for the hidden chamber. By chance, a teacup fell, revealing a hollow in the floor. She quickly found the mechanism and opened the secret door, sneaking into the chamber alone.

Inside the secret room, there was nothing unusual at first, but as she explored further, Rong Shukuang started rummaging through boxes and cabinets. To her surprise, she found women’s clothes, realizing that even she had a girlish side. She suddenly came across Lin Shaoci’s flute and couldn’t help but feel sorry for him. It was a token of his feelings for Lin Shaoci, but she had been rejected during his proposal, which left her embarrassed in front of everyone.

As she continued to flip through Rong Shukuang’s books, she found that they were filled with drawings of Lin Shaoci. But the current “Rong Shukuang” only blushed and had a racing heart when she was around Yan Shao, making her feel like a bit of a flirt. Suddenly, she discovered a piece of paper with a poem and some escape clues drawn on it. These cryptic things made Rong Shukuang tear up, and she was surprised at herself for crying. Hidden in the shadows, a figure quietly released a small insect, which flew toward Rong Shukuang, releasing a cloud of smoke.

Rong Shukuang smelled the smoke and suddenly felt a rush of heat throughout her body. Despite drinking several cups of water, the discomfort didn’t go away. She had no choice but to seek out Yan Shao. Without saying a word, she leaned into him, making an intimate gesture. Yan Shao pushed her away, and upon checking her pulse, he discovered that Rong Shukuang had been poisoned again. Rong Shukuang regretted it and blamed Yan Shao for saving her.

She wondered if she had died, perhaps she would return to her previous world. She didn’t even know what this world was, whether it was her own world or from another time and space. Yan Shao couldn’t understand her words, but Rong Shukuang kept asking if she was his trouble. Yan Shao firmly responded that she was not, as he was willing to help her. Rong Shukuang remembered her earlier worries about losing her memories forever and becoming useless.

Back then, Yan Shao had promised that if she couldn’t remember, he would take her away from Yuchi Manor. With a dazed look in her eyes, Rong Shukuang kissed Yan Shao suddenly. Yan Shao struggled to control his emotions as he stared at her. But when he saw her growing more and more dazed, Yan Shao picked her up and threw her into a water tank. This brought Rong Shukuang back to her senses.

She begged Yan Shao to pull her out, holding his hand tightly. She called his name, feeling inexplicably safe whenever she said it. Perhaps this name was her amulet. Yan Shao comforted her, assuring her that he would always be there. The next day, while everyone was sitting together for tea, it was obvious that neither Yan Shao nor Rong Shukuang had rested well. They both lied, claiming they couldn’t sleep because of two wild cats fighting.

Rong Shukuang felt embarrassed thinking about how she had kissed Yan Shao the night before, so she hurriedly left. Yan Shao followed her to comfort her, telling her that nothing had happened, but this only made Rong Shukuang more upset and disappointed. She had kissed him, yet he didn’t respond. She didn’t know who was sabotaging her. Yan Shao presented evidence showing that it was Tang Yingluo’s doing. Furious, Rong Shukuang immediately wanted to confront Tang Yingluo and demand answers.

She couldn’t understand if Tang Yingluo was trying to help or harm her. She decided to sever their sisterly bond and never speak to Tang Yingluo again. Tang Yingluo, on the other hand, was happy. The old Rong Shukuang had always been cold and never referred to her as a sister, but now she was determined to call Rong Shukuang her sister. Although Tang Yingluo had used a charm to influence her, she only wanted to help Rong Shukuang.

But since Rong Shukuang was in good health, the charm didn’t affect her much. Yan Shao, however, felt dissatisfied because all of Rong Shukuang’s toxins would end up affecting him, which meant she would be fine. That day, martial artists from various sects arrived in the city. Lin Wanci and Lin Shaoci went out on business, and Rong Shukuang wanted to follow them.

Lin Shaoci was initially worried about Rong Shukuang’s safety but agreed when he saw that Yan Shao was going along. The martial arts competition would take place the following evening, and the winner would get to drink Hundred Flower Brew. Lin Wanci hoped that Yan Shao would come out on top, and he seemed confident about it. Lin Wanci noticed that the area between the East and West markets, usually unobstructed, had set up official checkpoints today.

Lin Shaoci thought it might be his father’s arrangement, worried that too many people might come and accidentally enter the Xuanhonghua Society. The Xuanhonghua Society held an annual event where martial artists from various sects gathered. Rong Shukuang enjoyed the bustling atmosphere and even noticed someone selling meat-filled buns. Lin Wanci, feeling unwell, almost fainted, and Yan Shao caught her. Rong Shukuang sarcastically teased Yan Shao about his wandering affections. The group arrived at a tavern to drink.

After Rong Shukuang took a sip of wine, she made everyone guess the ages of the tavern owner and his wife based on the scent of the wine. They guessed that the wife was older, but it turned out to be the opposite—an older wife with a younger husband. The wife was called Lihua Bai, and the husband was called Qiankin Xiao. Upon seeing Yan Shao, they exchanged a knowing glance.

When they saw a blind man doing fortune-telling, Rong Shukuang, curious, thought the blind man’s predictions were accurate. However, Yan Shao disagreed. Rong Shukuang approached him to test it and found that he wasn’t actually blind, but she still decided to have her fortune told. The fortune teller revealed that Rong Shukuang’s family business had never been prosperous, and she had neither land nor a noble family. She was destined to marry far away.

But as with all fate, both good and bad were intertwined. Lin Wanci, intrigued, also joined in. The fortune teller had Tang Yingluo draw a fortune, which revealed that her obsessive attachment to love would hurt both herself and others, but Tang Yingluo was still willing to accept it. Lin Wanci’s fortune was favorable, indicating that although he had shortcomings, he would live a life free from worry.

However, it also suggested that Lin Wanci’s current desires were unattainable illusions, and he should be cautioned not to dwell too deeply on them. Yan Shao intervened, advising everyone not to take these fortune-telling jokes too seriously. Meanwhile, the fortune teller discreetly swapped something with Yan Shao when no one was looking. The Tian Gang people had arrived, and Yan Shao had arranged to meet them at a specific time and place.

While others were distracted, Lin Wanci slipped into another room and met with Shen Zuitian. She informed him that official checkpoints had been added outside, and the leaders of the Feng and Lu halls were responsible for it.

Rong Shukuang colluded with Shen Zuitian, intending to capture all the martial artists who had come this time and establish Yuchi Manor as the unrivaled power. Shen Zuitian suddenly felt that the girl before him was somewhat terrifying—he had never seen someone who appeared delicate on the surface but was more ruthless than anyone else. Lin Wanci believed in the law of the jungle. Those so-called righteous sects were all hypocritical.

If Yuchi Manor could command the martial world, those people wouldn’t dare to say a word. Seeing Lin Wanci coughing non-stop, Shen Zuitian wanted to close the window, but she stopped him, saying that as long as her plan was unfinished, she would not die. Shen Zuitian thought that if it weren’t for Lin Wanci’s weak body, Yuchi Manor would have long been in her hands.

Lin Wanci sneered at him—if she were healthy, she wouldn’t need his help at all. Yan Shao came looking for Lin Wanci, suspecting that her behavior was unusual. However, he remained composed and instructed his subordinates to search the room. But by the time they entered, Shen Zuitian had already left. Martial artists from all over had gathered here, including those who rarely ventured out—like the Tang Sect’s leader, Tang Chanyi, and the Thousand Star Hall’s master, Jiang Cheng.

Manor Lord Lin warmly welcomed them, thanking them for attending the gathering at Yuchi Manor. But no one was interested in pleasantries. They demanded to go to war with the Ghost Valley Alliance, knowing that they had come for the treasure. In reality, everyone here was after the treasure. Some asked directly where it was.

Manor Lord Lin admitted that the purpose of this gathering was to discuss this matter and arranged for the guests to rest first, saying it needed careful planning. In private, the eldest lady of the Tang Sect met with Tang Yingluo. She knew that Tang Yingluo had admired Lin Shaoci for years, so she prepared a love-infused Gu poison for her, hoping she could get what she wanted. However, Tang Yingluo believed that love should not be obtained this way.

Manor Lord Lin and Lin Shaoci discussed their next steps. They couldn’t tell who among the guests was a friend or foe, but regardless, they had to remain steady. Then, Manor Lord Lin asked Lin Shaoci whom he truly liked. Yu Linglong and Tang Yingluo had pursued him for years, yet he spoke favorably of Rong Shukuang. He once saw her as someone like a man, even someone he relied on. But now, he found himself wanting to protect her.

Hearing this, Manor Lord Lin said no more. Rong Shukuang dressed herself up as a blade master, proudly showing off her outfit to Yan Shao. He complimented her, saying she lived up to the title of a blade master. This made her secretly pleased. Today marked the beginning of the Xuanhong Flower Festival. A red flower was hung in the center, and the scene was bustling. Jiang Ruhai greeted Rong Shukuang, but she no longer remembered him.

Yan Shao smoothed things over, and only then did she realize that during last year’s festival competition, she had crippled one of his legs. Feeling a bit ruthless, she generously declared that if Yan Shao won the competition this year, she would cover Jiang Ruhai’s medical expenses. Rong Shukuang pulled Jiang Ruhai to drink, but he found an excuse to leave. In the process, she bumped into a child, and a fire starter fell from the child's body.

She immediately chased after the child but lost him. Fortunately, Feng Ming, Yan Shao’s subordinate, had been protecting her the whole time. When Yan Shao was absent, Feng Ming would always be there. Sensing something suspicious about the fire starter, Rong Shukuang decided to investigate, and Feng Ming followed. They discovered a severely injured man hidden under a reed mat. Just then, Lihua Bai from the tavern arrived and suggested taking the injured man back to treat him.

Rong Shukuang agreed, unaware that before this, Qianjin Xiao and the boy she had been chasing had already met in secret and were passing along orders from the Ghost Valley Alliance’s Shen Zuitian. In past years, Rong Shukuang was the highlight of the Xuanhong Flower Festival, but this year, she wasn’t competing due to her health, which left many disappointed. Tang Yingluo found her and suggested she join the poetry contest instead.

Jiang Ruhai and Yan Shao were the first team to compete. On the table was a bowl of wine, and whoever successfully grabbed the wine and named it correctly would pass the round. Yan Shao won. The injured man that Lihua Bai had taken in later died from poisoning. Before his death, he wrote the number "one" on the floor with his blood, stating that he had drunk a specific kind of wine.

The second round of the Xuanhong Flower Festival was a poetry contest using the Flying Flower Order format. Even with cheat notes, Rong Shukuang couldn’t beat Yan Shao. Lin Wanci stepped in to answer in her place, but Yan Shao still won. Suddenly, Lin Wanci began coughing uncontrollably. Everyone suggested taking her back, but she insisted on resting in a nearby carriage to avoid disturbing the festivities.

Tang Yingluo and Rong Shukuang originally wanted to accompany her, but then Rong Shukuang smelled something familiar—the scent from when she had chased the little boy before. Onstage, Yu Linglong and Yan Shao were dueling when news arrived that Manor Lord Lin had received word—Lin Wanci had disappeared, though the carriage remained. He hurried off to find her. Meanwhile, Yan Shao had won the match and was now eligible to claim the top prize.

Rong Shukuang suddenly noticed the Ghost Valley Alliance members in the vicinity and connected the dots—all of them had fire starters, meaning there must be flammable materials nearby. The falling of the flower ball was the signal. Panicked, she shouted that Jiang Ruhai was suspicious and ordered his capture. Yu Linglong and Lin Shaoci rushed to subdue him. Rong Shukuang explained her deductions to Lin Shaoci, fearing someone would use fire oil to set the place ablaze.

When the flower ball fell, it would be the cue. Lin Shaoci leaped forward to snatch the flower ball from Yan Shao, but Yan Shao effortlessly caught it first. Realizing that Yan Shao was also involved, Lin Shaoci demanded to know what would happen when the flower ball dropped. But Yan Shao said nothing. Lin Shaoci questioned whether Yan Shao cared about Rong Shukuang or the lives of the city’s people.

Yan Shao simply replied that he cared for no one. At that moment, Rong Shukuang stepped forward, declaring her trust in Yan Shao. She believed he cared about every life present and pleaded with him to hand the flower ball to her.

Rong Shukuang reached out to Yan Shao, hoping he would hand over the flower ball. Just as Yan Shao extended his hand, he suddenly tossed the flower ball into the air. Instantly, the ball scattered into countless petals, leaving everyone in shock. The members of the Ghost Valley Alliance who had been preparing to set the place on fire were immediately subdued by people Yan Shao had secretly arranged in advance.

Among them, Qian Jin Xiao attempted to light a torch but was discovered by the Villa Master, Lin. The two engaged in combat, and Qian Jin Xiao was wounded by Tang Sect’s hidden weapons while trying to escape.

When Qian Jin Xiao returned to the tavern to tend to her wounds, she was startled to find Lihua Bai already sitting in the room, staring at her. On the floor lay a lifeless body, and beside its fingers was a single written character. Lihua Bai revealed that she had long known Qian Jin Xiao was with the Ghost Valley Alliance. She also admitted that she had consumed the deadly Yuye Jinhua Wine, intending to use her life to atone for the countless lives taken by the Ghost Valley Alliance.

Qian Jin Xiao couldn’t bear to see his wife perish, so he revealed that the wine outside wasn’t wine at all but a poison known as Tian Nü San Hua. Lihua Bai expressed her gratitude for his honesty and left.

Above the Red Blossom Gathering, countless Kongming lanterns were released into the sky. Lin Shaoci never expected Yan Shao to have everything under control. Such a brilliant strategist, yet he was willing to act as a mere guard? Without Yan Shao, Yuchi Manor would have been in grave danger today. However, Yan Shao believed that as long as Rong Shukuang was around, there were no true gaps in their defenses. He praised Rong Shukuang’s extraordinary sharpness.

Just as Rong Shukuang was about to celebrate with Yan Shao by opening a jar of wine, Shen Zuitian suddenly led a group of men to attack the martial artists, making everyone believe that Yuchi Manor had set a trap for them.

Standing on the rooftop, Shen Zuitian drew his bow and fired an arrow, aiming not at a person but at a wine jar. Realizing something was wrong, Yan Shao quickly covered the jar with cloth, recognizing that it contained poison. He immediately ordered everyone to evacuate.

Chaos erupted as the Ghost Valley Alliance members attacked ruthlessly. Yan Shao fought against Huang Pao, injuring him with a kick. He then whistled for his horse, mounted it, and rode away. Worried, Rong Shukuang chased after him, commanding him not to die—he simply could not die.

At that moment, Lihua Bai arrived and told Yan Shao that the poison inside the jar was Tian Nü San Hua, which could be neutralized with water. Yan Shao immediately spurred his horse toward the nearest water source, instructing Rong Shukuang to evacuate the civilians.

Tang Yingluo, Yu Linglong, and the Villa Master joined forces to fight off the assassins of the Ghost Valley Alliance. Meanwhile, Yan Shao carried the poisoned jar and fled, pursued by Ghost Valley’s killers who tried to shoot the jar out of his hands. Dodging numerous attacks, he finally reached the river, where he hurled both the jar and his pursuers into the water, triggering a massive explosion.

Madam Xing demanded an explanation from the Villa Master for the events of the day. He promised to investigate thoroughly and provide an answer. Lin Shaoci also demanded accountability from Jiang Ruhai of Qian Xing Hall for colluding with the Ghost Valley Alliance. Jiang Cheng assured that if the truth was confirmed, there would be no mercy.

As the crowd dispersed, Rong Shukuang stood at the street entrance, waiting anxiously for Yan Shao’s return. When she finally saw him riding back on his horse, her eyes welled up with tears, and she rushed toward him. Their gazes locked, and something unspoken passed between them.

However, Yan Shao suddenly turned in another direction. Suspicious, Rong Shukuang followed. He pushed open a door and entered a courtyard. Just as Rong Shukuang was about to follow him in, a group of people surrounded her. Feigning calm, she drew her blade and warned them not to forget that she was the infamous Rong Shukuang, known for her ruthless kills.

Before things escalated, Lin Shaoci and Tang Yingluo arrived, recognizing the people surrounding Rong Shukuang.

Yan Shao had come to confirm whether Shen Zuitian was still present because the arrow had been fired from this location. Lin Shaoci informed him that they had caught Qian Jin Xiao attempting to ignite oil. Yan Shao quickly led people to the second floor, where they found Qian Jin Xiao and Lihua Bai lying lifeless on the bed, their fingers interlocked, leaving everyone in somber silence.

Tang Chanyi discovered Jiang Ruhai in hiding and confronted him about his involvement. Jiang Ruhai admitted his role in the events but insisted that his only goal was to seek revenge on the Six Great Sects. He had waited ten years for Tang Chanyi, but they had never ended up together. Offering his life as an atonement, he told her to kill him. However, Tang Chanyi ultimately couldn't bring herself to do it and let him go.

Lin Wanci apologized to her father, explaining that she had left the carriage the previous night because she had felt unwell and needed fresh air, inadvertently causing him to worry. She also feared that the Six Great Sects would suspect Yuchi Manor of wrongdoing. The Villa Master did not blame her but instead reassured the Six Great Sects that he would uncover the truth and give them a proper explanation.

Yan Shao and Lin Shaoci reflected on the incident. Lin Shaoci acknowledged that Yan Shao had orchestrated everything perfectly—except for one thing: they hadn't realized the Baihua Brew had been poisoned. They were unsure when it had been switched. Yan Shao mentioned that someone had seen Lin Wanci pause for a while while transporting the Baihua Brew through the streets, suggesting that might have been the moment it was swapped.

Understanding the situation, Lin Shaoci expressed his gratitude to Yan Shao. The Villa Master also sincerely thanked him but couldn't understand why such a talented individual would choose to serve as a mere guard. Lin Wanci worried that the Ghost Valley Alliance would continue to target Rong Shukuang and was grateful that Yan Shao had helped protect her. Yan Shao, however, stated that he would have also helped if Lin Wanci had been in danger.

Lin Wanci said she wished to rest, and Yan Shao offered to escort her. Rong Shukuang followed them outside and overheard their conversation, sensing something hidden in their words. However, she couldn't decipher it and instead thought they were merely exchanging poetic verses, which frustrated her. Angry, she stormed off.

Lin Wanci noticed that Rong Shukuang had indeed changed. The old Rong Shukuang would never have been this easily flustered.

Determined, Rong Shukuang prepared a selection of snacks and formally knelt before Yan Shao, requesting to be his disciple. Yan Shao readily agreed.

Meanwhile, Lin Wanci visited the water prison to see the captured child from the Ghost Valley Alliance. She spoke of a rabbit she once kept that refused to eat or drink, so she sealed it away, causing it to suffocate to death. The child, alarmed, finally spoke, asking who had done such a thing. Lin Wanci simply handed him a steamed bun, put a finger to her lips in a silencing gesture, smiled faintly, and left. Fear flickered in the boy's eyes.

Early the next morning, Rong Shukuang pestered Yan Shao to teach her martial arts, but no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t generate any strength. Frustrated, she lamented how weak she was. Yan Shao speculated that her injuries were affecting her and told her not to force it. He demonstrated swordplay and guided Rong Shukuang through it.

As she moved alongside Yan Shao, Rong Shukuang's heartbeat suddenly quickened, and she realized she might have developed feelings for him. Yan Shao reminded her to focus and train properly. When Rong Shukuang leaped over Yan Shao, her heart pounded even faster, and there was a hint of longing in her gaze.

Suddenly, Yan Shao released his grip, causing Rong Shukuang to fall to the ground. He warned her that martial artists must never be distracted by desire and questioned what she had been thinking about. Without hesitation, Rong Shukuang blurted out, "I was thinking about you!" but quickly retracted her words, swearing never to think such thoughts again.

Yan Shao, noticing her dizziness, caught her in his arms and checked her pulse. Realizing she was merely exhausted, he gently advised her to rest.

Yan Shao went to the prison to find the captured young boy and accurately revealed his background. His name was Shangguan Tong, originally an orphan wandering the streets. He was taken in by the Junshan Sect and became the disciple of the sect leader. However, he later killed his master and defected, leading to a manhunt against him across the martial world. With no place to go, he disguised himself and sought refuge with the Guigu Alliance.

Many innocent people nearly lost their lives due to the oil fire he ignited. However, Yan Shao knew that the boy was not willing to commit such acts. Years ago, when he killed his master, it was because his master had suffered from energy deviation, was in unbearable pain, and begged him to end his life to preserve his honor. Shangguan Tong had been hunted ever since, but he never spoke the truth.

Now that Yan Shao had uncovered the truth, the boy confessed that Shen Zuitian and Huang Pao were both hiding in a winery within the city and a gathering place called Hua Jian Xiao. When Lin Shaoci arrived at the prison, he discovered that Shangguan Tong had already escaped and immediately ordered a search. Meanwhile, Shangguan Tong sought out Yan Shao, hoping to join Tiangang.

He had realized that Yan Shao was connected to Tiangang because only someone from Tiangang would have known about his disguise. Yan Shao neither confirmed nor denied it but instead gave Shangguan Tong a token and instructed him to use it to make contact with someone. Shangguan Tong then handed over the steamed bun he had been holding, warning that it was poisoned.

The bun had been brought by Lin Wanci, but the guards had also delivered food—he did not know who wanted to kill him, only that there was definitely a traitor among them. Afterward, Yan Shao went to Rong Shukuang's room and found that she had already fallen asleep. He began extracting poison from her body but unexpectedly collapsed from exhaustion.

When Rong Shukuang woke up and found her master lying beside her, she was stunned but did not push him away. Just then, a group arrived outside, searching for the escaped prisoner. Hearing them, Rong Shukuang anxiously tried to wake Yan Shao, but he remained unconscious. Left with no choice, she hurriedly hid him inside a secret chamber.

When Yan Shao regained consciousness, he found himself inside the hidden chamber, which was filled with Rong Shukuang's sketchbooks of admiration for Lin Shaoci. He couldn't help but sigh at his disciple—if only she devoted as much effort to her swordsmanship, her martial arts skills wouldn't be so poor. Just as he was about to leave, he suddenly fainted again.

After the search party had left, Rong Shukuang rushed down to check on Yan Shao, only to find him unconscious on the ground. Panicked, she tried using modern emergency methods to wake him, but just as she was about to act, Yan Shao suddenly opened his eyes and accused her of behaving improperly. The two started bickering again. Remembering the sketchbooks in the room, Yan Shao grew irritated. Rong Shukuang quickly explained that she did not like Lin Shaoci.

If she truly liked someone, she would want to watch the stars with them, share interesting stories, and enjoy delicious food together—all of which she had done with Yan Shao. Touched, Yan Shao’s eyes reddened, but recalling the sketchbooks, he found himself unable to distinguish truth from lies. For now, he focused on keeping Rong Shukuang safe, but in his frustration, he declared that they would be training with swords at dawn.

Early the next morning, Yan Shao was already waiting in the courtyard to teach Rong Shukuang swordsmanship. Curious, she asked what "qi sinking into the dantian" meant. At that moment, Lin Shaoci arrived, offering to personally teach Rong Shukuang, but Yan Shao refused. Rong Shukuang suggested they have a duel, with the winner becoming her master. Lin Shaoci immediately agreed, eager to expose Yan Shao's true nature.

As the two fought, Rong Shukuang suddenly recalled something from her sketchbooks and grew dizzy. Both Yan Shao and Lin Shaoci quickly ended the match to check on her. She asked Lin Shaoci which tea cup he liked best, but he could not remember. Rong Shukuang desperately tried to recall something, feeling that it was crucial, but Yan Shao advised her not to force herself.

Later, Rong Shukuang decided to sell all her sketchbooks of Lin Shaoci, believing that Yan Shao had been merciless in their training because of those books. Since Lin Shaoci was a renowned young hero, many admirers were eager to buy them, including Yu Linglong and Tang Yingluo. While browsing through the pages, Yu Linglong noticed a familiar emblem, and just as Rong Shukuang tried to take a closer look, Yu Linglong refused and raised the price to one hundred taels.

With no other choice, Rong Shukuang approached Yan Shao, hoping to borrow money to buy the sketchbooks. When Yan Shao questioned her, she lied, claiming she needed the money for women’s essentials. However, Tang Yingluo and Yu Linglong later agreed to lower the price to fifty taels and rushed to inform Rong Shukuang. Unfortunately, Yan Shao overheard their conversation.

Misunderstanding that Rong Shukuang only wanted the sketchbooks to please Lin Shaoci, he became furious and refused to lend her any money. That night, Rong Shukuang sneaked into the Hidden Pavilion to check the account books, only to find Yan Shao already inside. They accused each other of sneaking around. Just then, Lin Shaoci arrived with his men to investigate. However, they found no one, and Lin Shaoci realized someone was playing a game of cat and mouse with him.

Determined to see it through, he pretended to be at ease and left with his men. Meanwhile, Liu An had been secretly observing Rong Shukuang. She noticed that when Rong Shukuang exited the Hidden Pavilion, Yan Shao was with her. She immediately reported this to Lin Wanci. Lin Wanci speculated that Rong Shukuang might be short on money and intended to take control of the business by reviewing the accounts.

As for Yan Shao, she suspected he had an entirely different motive and decided to intervene. The next day, as Yan Shao was about to start sword training with Rong Shukuang, Lin Shaoci arrived and searched him. He found an ornate box on Yan Shao and accused him of staying close to Rong Shukuang just to steal its contents.

The box was rumored to contain the key to a treasure, confirming suspicions that Yan Shao had only come for the treasure. Yan Shao was imprisoned. Rong Shukuang requested to speak with him alone, and after sending Lin Shaoci away, she demanded an explanation. She had always trusted Yan Shao, but now he had nothing to say in his defense. Enraged, she slashed the ropes binding his hands, declaring that they were now even.

Yan Shao hurriedly grabbed her, asking if she truly believed he was that kind of person. Rong Shukuang shook off his hand and declared that none of it mattered anymore. From now on, they would go their separate ways, never to meet again in the martial world.

Yan Shao knew that both Rong Shukuang and Lin Shaoci had their own agendas. In order to uncover the truth about what she wanted to know, she needed to earn money. So, she created a type of crossbow and named it "Meteor Fire." Her goal was to refine it into a successful product and sell it for profit. After multiple trials, both Rong Shukuang and Tang Yingluo, who had been helping with the experiments, ended up with smoke coming out of their mouths due to the device.

In the marketplace, a storyteller began recounting a tale as per Rong Shukuang’s arrangement. He claimed that the leader of Xingfeng Cave had suddenly died and that before his death, he had developed a miraculous weapon called Meteor Fire. He also announced that two great swordsmen would duel at the pavilion in the center of the lake the next day, attracting a large crowd of onlookers. Disguised as a man, Tang Yingluo mingled with the crowd, ready to stir emotions at the right moment. Meanwhile, Rong Shukuang, dressed as a ruthless swordsman, made an appearance at the lake pavilion.

In the crowd, concerns arose that such a legendary weapon might be lost forever. The ruthless swordsman fired a shot, seemingly killing the opponent, but pretended to be injured by a fellow disciple. This led to a public outcry demanding that the Meteor Fire be destroyed. Instead, people began placing bids on the weapon. In the end, all of the Meteor Fire crossbows were sold at a high price. After earning the money, Rong Shukuang distributed the earnings among the actors she had planted in the audience, instructing them to keep quiet.

Later, Rong Shukuang sought out Yu Linglong to buy back the illustrated book. Yu Linglong questioned her about what kind of scheme she was running—why sell the book only to repurchase it at a high price? Rong Shukuang did not answer, instead carefully examining the book. She soon realized that each page contained the same hidden mark, leading her to suspect it was some kind of symbol or secret code.

Meanwhile, Lin Wanci noticed that the group had truly fallen out with each other and became even more convinced that something was amiss with the Hidden Pavilion. She instructed Liu An to infiltrate the location for investigation and provided information on the guard shift schedules.

That night, Liu An donned dark clothes and sneaked into the Hidden Pavilion. She discovered a small box and reached out to grab it, but as soon as she did, a trap triggered, releasing a flurry of concealed weapons. At the same time, Lin Shaoci had been waiting in ambush and launched an attack on Liu An. Liu An attempted to escape through the window but was hit by a Meteor Fire shot fired by Rong Shukuang from outside. Yan Shao also appeared, trapping Liu An. It turned out the entire event had been a setup from the very beginning.

After purchasing the illustrated book, Rong Shukuang had studied it closely and identified the repeating marks as signals she had previously used to mark the locations of suspected spies at the manor. The marked areas corresponded to places where spies had appeared, but since Rong Shukuang had not yet been captured by Shen Zuitian at that time, it proved that Yan Shao was not the one responsible. Yan Shao expressed his willingness to assist in the greater plan to capture the spies. Thus, they staged the drama at the Hidden Pavilion, making it seem like they had a falling-out, when in reality, they had never doubted Yan Shao at all.

When Liu An opened the box she had taken, she found only a slip of paper that read, "Thank you for your patronage." Furious, she attempted to escape but was quickly caught. Seeing that it was Liu An, Rong Shukuang was unsurprised, having long suspected her to be untrustworthy. Just as they were about to take Liu An into custody, Lin Wanci suddenly appeared, and Liu An took her hostage to escape. As she fled, she pushed Lin Wanci away. Yan Shao instinctively rushed to catch Lin Wanci, which made Rong Shukuang jealous. She accused Yan Shao of having feelings for Lin Wanci. Yan Shao explained that he had never deceived Rong Shukuang, but then questioned her—if one day he did deceive her, how would she react? Rong Shukuang, feeling guilty herself, countered with a question of her own: What if she were the one who had deceived Yan Shao first? Before Yan Shao could respond, she suddenly felt that everyone had secrets, and none of it really mattered anymore.

Rong Shukuang noticed that Yan Shao's face was slightly dirty and instinctively reached out to wipe it clean. The close proximity made her heart race. She asked Yan Shao, "In this world, there are two kinds of people—those who watch others burn and those who burn themselves. Which kind do you want to be?" Without hesitation, Yan Shao replied, "I want to burn myself so that you don’t have to."

Early the next morning, Lin Shaoci came looking for Rong Shukuang. The two spent more time talking, and Lin Shaoci admitted that in the past, he had not worked as hard as she did. He had only been determined to surpass her one day, which was why he trained so diligently. Rong Shukuang suddenly realized that in any era, a woman who was too strong could make men feel pressured. Lin Shaoci expressed that he had long since seen her as a woman, wishing that she had not been so strong in the past. Unintentionally, his true feelings slipped out, making Rong Shukuang flustered. She quickly found an excuse to go find Yan Shao instead. However, Yan Shao had already witnessed their conversation, and jealousy surged within him.

When Yan Shao trained Rong Shukuang afterward, his jealousy made him especially ruthless in his sparring. Forced into desperation, Rong Shukuang unexpectedly executed the "Flowing Cloud Sleeve Strike," cutting through a pillar in the distance with sheer internal force. Overjoyed, she likened the technique to the Six Meridian Divine Sword from stories. However, when she tried to perform it again, she found herself unable to. She begged Yan Shao to ambush her, hoping that in a moment of crisis, she could unleash the move again. But even when Yan Shao suddenly startled her, she still couldn’t replicate it.

Meanwhile, Liu An was hiding in an abandoned house, tending to her wounds when Yan Shao arrived with his men and captured her. Realizing that Yan Shao was not ordinary, Liu An questioned his true identity. Yan Shao, tired of being asked the same question repeatedly, told her that knowing his identity would do her no good.

Yan Shao then brought up the massacre at Longyue Village, pointing out that it was the Ghost Valley Alliance that had slaughtered everyone there. Su Shiyu had placed two jade pendants on him and Fang Yi, attempting to escape with them.

Yan Shao told Liu An that the Ghost Valley Alliance had killed her entire family, yet she was now working for them. However, Liu An believed that it was the Fang family that had caused the village’s downfall. She had personally witnessed Lin Qianyi take Fang Yi away and rename her Rong Shukuang. Liu An couldn’t understand why everyone else had died, yet the Fang family's daughter had survived.

Yan Shao handed Liu An a silver locket that had belonged to her younger sister and called her by her childhood name, "Ah Yue." Shocked, Liu An looked at Yan Shao in disbelief. He told her that she had been blinded by hatred, which was why she had failed to recognize him. Liu An recalled playing with Yan Shao as a child and suddenly realized that he was none other than Yan Wuying, the boy Su Shiyu had adopted. She also realized that he had come to find Rong Shukuang.

Yan Shao interrogated Liu An about what poison she had used on Rong Shukuang, where she had obtained it, and whether there was an antidote. Liu An revealed that the poison was called "Red Lotus Heart," a creation of Su Shiyu, and that it had no cure. But Yan Shao declared that as long as he was alive, he would find a way to save Rong Shukuang.

Lin Shaoci was discussing the current situation with Lin Qianyi. They had received news that various martial sects were being coerced or enticed by the Ghost Valley Alliance, and many had already joined. A decisive battle seemed inevitable. Just then, someone reported that Liu An had suddenly been sent back to Yuchi Manor, which surprised Lin Qianyi. Rong Shukuang, who was watching from the side, was curious about who would deliver such a "gift.

" Lin Qianyi wanted to investigate the mastermind behind this. Lin Wanci stepped forward, suggesting that something was suspicious and recommended imprisoning Liu An first before interrogating her. As Liu An was taken away, she glanced at Lin Wanci, while Yan Shao kept staring at Lin Wanci. This led Rong Shukuang to misunderstand that Yan Shao liked Lin Wanci, causing her to get jealous and give Yan Shao a kick.

Yu Linglong arrived at Yuchi Manor and informed everyone that their sect had been threatened by the Ghost Valley Alliance, hoping to receive help. However, everyone had their own concerns. Lin Shaoci insisted that they couldn’t ignore the Linghu Sect’s plight—if they turned a blind eye now, it would only disappoint others. Yan Shao agreed but believed that the only way to fight the Ghost Valley Alliance was to seek Tian Gang's help.

The group decided to visit Tian Gang together and invited Yan Shao along. Rong Shukuang also clamored to join them. Lin Wanci went to the prison to see Liu An, stating that she would not abandon her. She was certain that Yan Shao had captured Liu An, but Liu An refused to admit it. With no other choice, Lin Wanci left for now. Yan Shao and his group arrived at the Linghu Sect but found the atmosphere strange.

The leader was nowhere to be seen, and the disciples outside seemed unfamiliar to Yu Linglong. When she asked for her elder brother to meet Yan Shao and the others, her second brother privately informed her that their eldest brother had defected to the Ghost Valley Alliance. He had locked up their elder brother and the others and replaced them with unfamiliar guards. Yu Linglong, anxious to find her brother, was suddenly knocked unconscious by her second brother.

Soon after, her second brother personally brought tea to the guests, secretly lacing it with poison, causing Yan Shao and the others to lose consciousness. He then led the Yellow Robes into the room. However, the group had only been pretending. Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang attacked with the Fire Meteor crossbow, easily capturing the Yellow Robes. The second brother, panicked, rushed to seek Yu Linglong’s help and willingly handed over the antidote.

During the battle, many from the Ghost Valley Alliance were killed, but the Linghu Sect also suffered heavy losses. The second brother explained that he had no idea how the Ghost Valley Alliance had managed to poison the water supply. In order to save everyone, he had cooperated with the Ghost Valley Alliance to obtain the antidote. However, to atone for his actions, he took his own life.

After this conflict with the Ghost Valley Alliance, some worried that they had completely offended them. But Yan Shao argued that a confrontation was inevitable, so it was better to fight head-on. The group agreed to stand together against the Ghost Valley Alliance. Lin Wanci, curious about Rong Shukuang’s condition, wondered why the cold poison inside her had never been cured despite the long-term treatments.

She also wished she had a hero like Yan Shao who would always come to her rescue. Yan Shao promised that as long as Lin Wanci was in danger, he would definitely save her. This made Rong Shukuang jealous again. She sarcastically told Lin Wanci to scream louder for help next time, so Yan Shao could come running—even better if they lived together so he could always be on standby.

Annoyed, Yan Shao grabbed Rong Shukuang by the collar and dragged her away, warning her not to speak like that again—he was only her bodyguard. Yan Shao lied about going to a brothel to get rid of Rong Shukuang and then met with Feiwu and Feng Ming in secret. He tasked them with investigating the antidote for the Crimson Lotus Heart poison. However, both had already searched extensively and found no cure yet, though they promised to keep looking.

On his way back, Yan Shao happened to see Rong Shukuang practicing her sword skills, nearly injuring herself. He hurriedly stepped in, catching the falling blade and reminding her not to be reckless, or she would get hurt. But Rong Shukuang was more concerned that Yan Shao had gone to a brothel, scolding him for it. Yan Shao didn’t argue with her and continued teaching her hand-in-hand.

Rong Shukuang suddenly realized that the more she tried to control the sword, the harder it was to wield. Yan Shao praised her insight. Seizing the opportunity, Rong Shukuang asked if she could accompany him the next time he visited a brothel, but Yan Shao refused. Rong Shukuang then sought out Tang Yingluo, asking if there was any medicine that could enhance internal energy. Tang Yingluo took her, both dressed in nightwear, to the Hidden Pavilion.

She also mentioned Yan Shao, pointing out that Rong Shukuang's eyes sparkled only when she looked at him. But she reminded her that a disciple shouldn’t have inappropriate thoughts about her master. Rong Shukuang immediately objected, calling Tang Yingluo too rigid. Rong Shukuang was worried that her fluctuating internal energy wouldn’t fully recover. She wanted to regain her strength before the battle with the Ghost Valley Alliance.

She also increasingly felt that Yuchi Manor was her home and that she had to protect it. More than anything, she wanted to become the true Rong Shukuang. Yan Shao listened to her thoughts but was puzzled—what exactly did she mean by being the “true” Rong Shukuang? Tang Yingluo took Rong Shukuang to find ingredients for refining the Bai Li Dan pill. But the process required catching giant toads and centipedes, scaring Rong Shukuang into screaming.

She quickly abandoned the idea of taking the pill and instead pestered Yan Shao to teach her martial arts. Yan Shao decided to teach her lightness skills and demonstrated it for her. It was different from what she had seen in dramas, but she readily agreed to learn. Later, Yan Shao took Rong Shukuang to the riverside, guiding her to feel the movement of water and the touch of falling petals.

After learning Qinggong from Yan Shao, Rong Shukuang realized that it was merely about reacting faster than ordinary people. She planned to make a video exposing the secrets behind Qinggong when she got back. While chatting with Yan Shao, she mentioned his master, believing that the person must be extraordinary. Yan Shao, in turn, remarked that Rong Shukuang reminded him of his master but did not elaborate on their connection.

Rong Shukuang found it hard to believe that she could be as exceptional as such a woman. Rong Shukuang worried that if she was not truly Rong Shukuang but merely an outsider, would Yan Shao still treat her so well? If she was just a passerby in this place, would he still protect her? Yan Shao, however, had the same concern—if he were merely a stranger passing by, would Rong Shukuang still treat him the same way?

Yan Shao declared that he intended to leave, but Rong Shukuang refused to let him go, insisting that they were family. Yet, Yan Shao reminded her that there was no real difference between them. Lin Qianyi was merely a foster father to them both, and unless she married Lin Shaoci, this place would never truly be her home. Unwilling to part from Yan Shao, Rong Shukuang begged him to stay.

She only wanted him to be her guard and feared that he might really leave her. She repeatedly asked if he would abandon her, but Yan Shao remained silent. Meanwhile, Huangpao came to Shen Zuitian to admit his failure. Shen Zuitian, knowing that Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao had gone to the Linghu Sect, was not surprised that the plan had failed. He did not blame Huangpao but instead resolved to uncover Yan Shao’s true background. Rong Shukuang’s birthday was approaching.

Lin Wanci sought her out, asking what gift she would like. Since Yan Shao often wore red, Rong Shukuang wished for a red outfit. Lin Wanci readily agreed. Hoping to hint at her birthday, Rong Shukuang approached Yan Shao, eager to receive a gift from him. However, Yan Shao simply dragged her off for martial arts training.

In an attempt to remind him, Rong Shukuang spoke about her hometown’s customs—how people exchanged gifts, lit candles, made wishes, and sang on birthdays and festivals. Yan Shao smiled and asked her to describe her hometown. Since she could not recall it—nor could she reveal that she came from the modern era—she brushed it off as unimportant. However, Yan Shao reminded her that everyone must have a place they came from and a place to return to.

He then told her she was from Longyue Village. Though Lin Qianyi had mentioned it before, Rong Shukuang had no memory of it. Ignoring her hints, Yan Shao simply pulled her away to continue training. Later, Lin Wanci approached Yan Shao, using the excuse of delivering a set of clothes for Rong Shukuang. She also wanted to express gratitude for Yan Shao’s care for her sister and his contributions to the manor. She even offered to take his measurements personally.

However, Yan Shao avoided her, casually handing her an old robe of his, suggesting that she use it for reference. He also said that in the future, he could have someone provide his measurements instead. Angered, Lin Wanci left but noticed an eagle-bone whistle on Yan Shao’s table. Realizing it was a gift for Rong Shukuang, jealousy filled her heart, and she silently vowed that whatever Rong Shukuang had, she must also have.

The Yuchi Manor soon received a crimson feather from the Guigu Alliance—a clear declaration of war. To protect the manor, Lin Shaoci suggested forming an alliance with Tiangang. Lin Qianyi took charge of the matter, while Lin Shaoci questioned his father’s true motives. He suspected that Lin Qianyi sought the treasure’s secret. Otherwise, why had he returned all those years ago with only a little girl?

Lin Qianyi did not explain but merely stated that he would reveal the truth in due time. While searching for her rabbit in the courtyard, Lin Wanci encountered Lin Shaoci, who helped her find it. Curious, she asked what had happened, and Lin Shaoci truthfully told her about the Guigu Alliance. Lin Wanci reassured him, urging him not to worry. Lin Qianyi then sought out Yan Shao, directly stating that he knew Yan Shao was from Tiangang.

He hoped that Yan Shao would return and persuade his sect leader to join forces with Yuchi Manor against the Guigu Alliance. Without hesitation, Yan Shao agreed to deliver the message and facilitate the alliance. Soon after, Lin Wanci finished sewing the red outfit and brought it to Rong Shukuang. Seeing Lin Wanci’s reddened eyes, Rong Shukuang assumed she had stayed up all night making the clothes and felt touched.

However, Lin Wanci explained that she had cried all night because her rabbit had died. She also deliberately mentioned that she had made a red outfit for Yan Shao as well, as a gesture of gratitude. Her words made Rong Shukuang suspect that Yan Shao liked Lin Wanci. Rong Shukuang disliked the uncertainty surrounding her feelings.

Remembering that Yan Shao once spoke of snowfall in his hometown, she carefully crafted several kites filled with snowflakes and hung them in her room. When she heard approaching footsteps, she quickly hid and pulled the strings, causing the kites to release their snowflakes, sharing the beauty of a snowfall. However, the person who arrived was Lin Shaoci, with Yan Shao following behind. Seeing this, Yan Shao turned away in anger.

Rong Shukuang hurriedly chased after him, refusing to let misunderstandings fester. She boldly declared that she had prepared the snowfall just for him. She also wanted to tell him that he was no longer a man without a home—her home was now his home, and she herself was his place of belonging. Yan Shao believed her. Excitedly, she grasped his hand, hoping he would say something in return.

However, Yan Shao instead turned away, informing her that the Guigu Alliance was about to attack Yuchi Manor and that he had to leave. Rong Shukuang could not believe Yan Shao would abandon her at such a critical moment and demanded an explanation. But Yan Shao gave none. Instead, he handed her the eagle-bone whistle and told her to blow it if she was ever in danger—someone would come to save her. Then, he turned and left.

That night, Rong Shukuang had a dream. She dreamed that she had returned to the modern world, and her greatest fear was never seeing Yan Shao again. As she stood in a hallway, a doctor passed by, looking exactly like Yan Shao. Desperate, she yanked off her pillow and chased after him, only to suddenly wake up. Staring at the world around her, she realized she did not want to leave—because Yan Shao was here.

Just then, snow began to fall outside. When she opened the door, she saw Yan Shao in his familiar red robes standing not far away. Overcome with emotion, she ran barefoot through the snow, throwing herself into his arms. She sobbed, confessing her dream to him, telling him she never wanted to go back to a world without him. She begged him to take her wherever he went and never leave her behind.

But Yan Shao only drifted farther away until he vanished before her eyes. Rong Shukuang wept uncontrollably, heartbroken, before waking up again—realizing it was a dream within a dream. Clutching the eagle-bone whistle tightly in her palm, she bolted outside, determined to find Yan Shao.

When Rong Shukuang arrived at Yan Shao’s room, she found Lin Wanci there. Lin Wanci told Rong Shukuang that Yan Shao had already left the manor and regretted that he didn’t get to wear the clothes she had personally made for him. Lin Wanci asked if Rong Shukuang had feelings for Yan Shao; otherwise, why would she be in such a hurry?

Seeing that Rong Shukuang did not answer, Lin Wanci continued to persuade her, saying that although Yan Shao had always followed Rong Shukuang, he had never truly given his heart to her, so there was no need to feel so upset. Rong Shukuang felt even more sorrowful at these words. Shen Zuitian suddenly received a secret report stating that the Butterfly Fragrance had been left on Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang, allowing the colorful butterflies to track their whereabouts.

Shen Zuitian led his men in pursuit but found only a piece of clothing left on a tree, indicating that Yan Shao had already discovered everything. Shen Zuitian couldn't help but laugh, admiring Yan Shao’s clever countermeasure. After Shen Zuitian left, a figure hiding in the shadows—Shangguan Tong—revealed herself. While practicing swordsmanship, Rong Shukuang often recalled Yan Shao’s teachings. When she reached a good level of proficiency, she looked up and saw Yan Shao standing not far away.

Her heart filled with joy, but upon closer inspection, she realized it was merely an illusion. Chu Tianyao, the leader of Tiangang, sent a message stating that if they wanted an alliance with Tiangang, the condition was for Rong Shukuang to marry him. Lin Shaoci strongly opposed this, but Lin Qianyi wanted to hear Rong Shukuang’s opinion.

Only then did Rong Shukuang realize that Yan Shao had left to arrange the alliance, and it was Yan Shao who had sent the marriage contract. Lin Qianyi expressed that he also wished for Rong Shukuang to marry someone she truly loved. Rong Shukuang requested to discuss the matter privately with Lin Qianyi, and Lin Shaoci tactfully stepped out. Lin Qianyi handed Rong Shukuang the key to the Fuxian treasure.

There were two keys in total—one in Rong Shukuang’s possession and the other with the leader of Tiangang. Lin Qianyi specifically mentioned using this key as a betrothal gift. Rong Shukuang understood that she was merely a bargaining chip in this deal. Although she had long suspected that Yan Shao was not an ordinary person, she hadn’t expected him to be from Tiangang. Lin Shaoci had been waiting for Rong Shukuang outside.

When she emerged, he confessed his feelings and expressed his willingness to marry her. Rong Shukuang reminded Lin Shaoci that he had once rejected her before. Lin Shaoci admitted that, at the time, he had not thought things through. But ever since Rong Shukuang returned, he realized that things were different—he kept thinking about her and now knew that he liked her. However, Rong Shukuang told Lin Shaoci that they would always be family.

Back in her secret chamber, Rong Shukuang blamed Yan Shao for heartlessly leaving her and then adding insult to injury with the marriage contract. Since she never really had a home, it didn’t matter whom she married. Out of stubbornness, she agreed to marry Chu Tianyao. She then went to Yuchi Manor and declared her willingness to marry Chu Tianyao, instructing Lin Qianyi to publicly announce that she was taking the key with her as a dowry.

This way, everyone’s focus would shift to Tiangang. In reality, Rong Shukuang planned to take the key and find an opportunity to escape, embarking on a treasure hunt. If she managed to return to the modern world, she could boast about her adventure. Lin Qianyi had no choice but to agree and made all the arrangements for her departure.

Tang Yingluo helped prepare Rong Shukuang’s carriage since Rong Shukuang had previously mentioned that a soft and comfortable carriage made travel more enjoyable. Lin Shaoci volunteered to help. When their hands accidentally touched, Lin Shaoci quickly withdrew, while Tang Yingluo felt a sweet warmth in her heart. However, she made it clear that while she liked Lin Shaoci, she didn’t want him to feel pressured.

When Rong Shukuang arrived, Lin Shaoci tried to persuade her to change her mind, but she firmly stated that she would not regret her decision and urged everyone to set off quickly. The group continued their journey, unaware that Yan Shao and his men were secretly following them. During a rest stop, Rong Shukuang gazed at the stars in the sky. She recalled the last time she had stargazed—it was in the desert, alongside Yan Shao.

She clutched her jade pendant, lost in thoughts of him. Lin Wanci used a key to open the prison and released Liu An. Lin Wanci was grateful for Liu An’s care, as her family had always favored Rong Shukuang, but only Liu An had shown her genuine affection. She regarded Liu An as family. Although Rong Shukuang had taken Liu An away because of her cleverness, Lin Wanci had never forgotten her.

Liu An was touched and told Lin Wanci that Yan Shao was from Longyue Village. However, she warned that Lin Wanci was no match for Yan Shao. Fearing that her escape would bring trouble to Lin Wanci, Liu An hesitated, but Lin Wanci assured her that she didn’t care about the risks. During a rest stop, Lin Shaoci and his group were ambushed by assassins from Wuwang Pavilion.

The deadly Ten Directions Formation of Wuwang Pavilion proved formidable, and Lin Shaoci’s group was at a disadvantage. Just as they were struggling, Yan Shao secretly aided them by striking the enemy with well-aimed stones. Meanwhile, Rong Shukuang used her self-made Baxian Powder to capture a live assassin. Yan Shao, observing from the shadows, couldn’t understand why Rong Shukuang insisted on capturing someone when they had already escaped danger—it was truly troublesome.

Rong Shukuang and the others attempted to interrogate the captured Wuwang Pavilion assassin, Hua Qi, but before they could extract any information, she began succumbing to poison. The assassins of Wuwang Pavilion took poison before their missions so that if they failed, the toxin would activate after a certain time. Just then, the leader of Wuwang Pavilion, Hua Pavilion Master, arrived with reinforcements. Hua Qi begged the Hua Pavilion Master for an antidote.

When one of the subordinates was about to hand it over, the Hua Pavilion Master knocked it to the ground, reprimanding Hua Qi for failing her mission and declaring that she did not deserve the antidote. The Hua Pavilion Master demanded the key in exchange for letting them leave. However, the negotiations quickly escalated into a fight. In the chaos, Rong Shukuang picked up the antidote from the ground and gave it to Hua Qi.

Meanwhile, Yan Shao’s subordinates, Feng Ming and Fei Wu, secretly intervened, killing members of Wuwang Pavilion. After hearing a whistle, Yan Shao quickly departed. Rong Shukuang and her group, now accompanied by Hua Qi, escaped through a secret tunnel that Hua Qi had pointed out. She expressed her gratitude to Rong Shukuang.

Rong Shukuang noticed her smiling slyly and suspected a trap, but Tang Yingluo reasoned that Hua Qi had nearly died from the poison earlier, so her gratitude was likely genuine. The group proceeded into the secret tunnel. Following the whistle, Yan Shao arrived at a hidden location and rescued a bound girl. However, when he lifted her veil, he was shocked to find that it was Lin Wanci.

Yan Shao was utterly shocked, unable to comprehend why the eagle bone whistle was in Lin Wanci’s hands. Lin Wanci claimed that Rong Shukuang had given it to her. Without another word, Yan Shao hurried off to find Rong Shukuang. At this time, Rong Shukuang and the others had arrived by a small stream. After testing the water to confirm it wasn’t poisoned, Rong Shukuang lay down to rest, feeling exhausted.

Hua Qi, now untied due to their trust in her, was also resting. In her dazed state, Rong Shukuang mistook Lin Shaoci for Yan Shao and felt a moment of emotion. But when she saw clearly who it was, she couldn’t hide her disappointment. Yan Shao couldn’t understand why Lin Wanci had appeared here. Lin Wanci explained that she simply wanted to explore and hoped to follow Rong Shukuang’s group to Tiangang.

Impatient, Yan Shao wanted to send Lin Wanci back, but she begged him to take her along, offering to pay double whatever Rong Shukuang had paid him. However, Yan Shao remained unmoved. Seeing that Yan Shao was about to leave, Lin Wanci suddenly stumbled, forcing Yan Shao to help her up and continue walking. When Rong Shukuang woke up again, she found Hua Qi feeding A Lie while she herself was tied up tightly.

Rong Shukuang immediately guessed Hua Qi’s true identity. Hua Qi had deliberately used a shepherd’s flute sound, along with smoke and miasma, to knock everyone unconscious and bring them here. Rong Shukuang realized that Hua Qi must be the master of Wu Wang Pavilion. Hua Qi admitted that her real name was Hua Sixue, but she particularly liked the name “Hua Qi” because Shen Zuitian had given it to her.

Rong Shukuang couldn’t understand why Hua Sixue would like such a villain. Suddenly, she thought of a way to provoke her. She claimed that she had been captured by Shen Zuitian twice, yet both times, he had let her go, proving that he was a man who cherished beauty. This enraged Hua Sixue so much that she wanted to kill Rong Shukuang.

At that moment, Shen Zuitian arrived, and Hua Sixue immediately suggested cutting off Rong Shukuang’s tongue and feeding it to A Lie. Rong Shukuang quickly began revealing secrets to avoid giving Shen Zuitian an excuse to investigate further. Rong Shukuang claimed that she was not valued in Yuchi Manor. In the end, she was just an adopted daughter, and Lin Shaoci had even publicly rejected a marriage proposal. She insisted that she would never carry the key with her.

Instead, she suggested they go to Moye City’s Tiangang, where the other key was located, and that she could find a way to obtain it and give it to Shen Zuitian. However, Shen Zuitian didn’t believe her at all. He knew that Tiangang’s leader, Chu Tianyao, was mysterious and cunning.

Going to Tiangang would be a losing battle, so it would be better to take Rong Shukuang to Yuchi Manor, attack it directly, and wait for Chu Tianyao to come to them. When Lin Shaoci and the others woke up, they found that Rong Shukuang was missing. After searching fruitlessly, they went to the dock where they were supposed to meet Tiangang’s people at the agreed time.

There, they saw Feng Ming and Feiwu, as well as Lin Wanci, who had just stepped out of the cabin. Since Yan Shao found Lin Wanci to be a burden, he had handed her over to Feng Ming and Feiwu at the dock while he went alone to search for Rong Shukuang. Shen Zuitian also knew that Rong Shukuang’s reason for agreeing to marry Chu Tianyao was to divert Wu Wang Pavilion’s attention and sacrifice herself to protect Yuchi Manor.

This made him trust her even less. Just then, Yan Shao suddenly arrived, intending to take Rong Shukuang away. During the fight, Yan Shao injured Hua Sixue. As Rong Shukuang was about to fall off the cliff, Yan Shao frantically reached out to grab her. Seizing the opportunity, Shen Zuitian attacked, but instead, all three of them tumbled off the cliff and into the river below.

Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao were the first to regain consciousness and found Shen Zuitian still unconscious. Initially, they intended to leave him behind, but in the end, they couldn’t bear it and dragged him ashore, tying him up. Rong Shukuang felt sorrowful, believing she would never see Yan Shao again. However, she realized that if she wasn’t in danger, Yan Shao wouldn’t have shown up. Yan Shao teased that every time they met, things became catastrophic.

His leg was injured, but this time, Rong Shukuang didn’t faint at the sight of blood. She guessed that she was gradually adapting to this body. Yan Shao, however, didn’t quite understand what she meant. When Rong Shukuang went out to gather firewood, she suddenly questioned why she had saved Shen Zuitian in the first place. If not for him, she and her master could have had their own peaceful world. Now, they were stuck with a third wheel.

Yan Shao looked at the food Rong Shukuang had prepared and at Shen Zuitian, who was still unconscious. He gestured for Rong Shukuang to bandage Shen Zuitian’s wounds. Seeing this, Yan Shao was reminded of the time when Wu Wang Pavilion wiped out Longyue Village. He had hidden Rong Shukuang, and thanks to Shen Zuitian’s help in covering their tracks, they had narrowly escaped the massacre. Rong Shukuang fell asleep leaning on Yan Shao’s shoulder.

While she slept, Yan Shao secretly drew out the poison from her body, but Shen Zuitian happened to see this. Shen Zuitian recognized the poison as Red Lotus Heart. Years ago, when his father was pursuing Su Shiyu and forcing him to hand over the key, Su Shiyu had poisoned him with this very toxin. In the end, his father had died in agony. According to him, there was no cure for this poison.

Hua Qi continued ordering people to search for Shen Zuitian, while Lin Shaoci and the others secretly followed her, planning to find Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao before she did. When Rong Shukuang woke up, she found Yan Shao unconscious. Shen Zuitian told her that only he could save Yan Shao. Otherwise, Yan Shao would die, as he was not only poisoned but also severely injured.

Rong Shukuang refused to believe him and stomped on his wound, making his pain even worse. However, Shen Zuitian reminded her that he was the only one who could help Yan Shao in this situation. Only then did Rong Shukuang untie him. Shen Zuitian heated a sword and used it to remove the infected flesh from Yan Shao’s wound while assuring them that he wouldn’t attack anyone inside the cave. Just then, they heard A Lie’s call from outside.

Shen Zuitian wanted to go find A Lie, but Rong Shukuang knocked him out. When Yan Shao and Shen Zuitian woke up again, Rong Shukuang had already brought A Lie over and was even feeding him meat. A Lie obediently went to Shen Zuitian’s side. The next day, under Rong Shukuang’s arrangement, she made Yan Shao and Shen Zuitian catch fish together. As the leader of Wu Wang Pavilion, Shen Zuitian had never done such a thing before.

But now, with only Rong Shukuang as the only able-bodied person among them, he had no choice but to comply. Though her martial arts weren’t strong, she could still handle him. Rong Shukuang enjoyed the carefree life they were having now and wished they could stay like this. Just as she was about to confess her feelings again, a sudden whistle interrupted them.

Yan Shao used the sound of the eagle bone whistle to summon Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao back. As soon as they entered the cave, Yan Shao furiously snatched the whistle away. Rong Shukuang, fearing that Yan Shao might misunderstand, quickly explained that the whistle had never left her possession; it had been taken from her when she was captured. Yan Shao questioned Shen Zuitian whether he had searched Rong Shukuang’s body, to which Shen Zuitian explained that it was Hua Qi who had conducted the search.

Rong Shukuang took a deep breath, hoping Shen Zuitian would leave temporarily to give her and Yan Shao some privacy to talk. However, Shen Zuitian stubbornly shook his head, reminding them of their agreement—inside this cave, they must coexist peacefully and refrain from fighting. With no other choice, Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao continued their conversation under Shen Zuitian’s watchful gaze. Rong Shukuang emphasized how significant the eagle bone whistle was to her and how it had never left her side, only to be surprised that Lin Wanci had an identical one.

She innocently speculated that perhaps Lin Wanci had feelings for Yan Shao, but Yan Shao’s gaze darkened with complexity. He was convinced there was more to this than met the eye. He recalled how he had been secretly protecting Rong Shukuang, only to be led away by the sound of an eagle bone whistle used by Lin Wanci. This was no coincidence. Upon realizing that Yan Shao had been protecting her all along, Rong Shukuang felt warmth surge through her heart, and a smile unknowingly crept onto her lips.

As the three were lost in their thoughts, a swarm of venomous snakes suddenly slithered into the cave, and one bit Shen Zuitian’s arm. With the situation growing more dangerous, they were forced to evacuate quickly. Yan Shao deduced that the snakes were the original inhabitants of the cave and had tolerated their presence because of the fire they had been keeping lit. Now, having reached their limit, the snakes finally launched an attack. Amid the chaos, Shen Zuitian took the opportunity to secretly release A-Lie, setting the stage for future complications.

After escaping the cave, Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang planned to part ways, but the injured Shen Zuitian insisted on following them until they reached a simple thatched hut. Seeing that they were all safe, Rong Shukuang suggested they set aside their differences and help each other. Thus, Shen Zuitian used his inner strength to heal Yan Shao’s injuries, while Yan Shao helped detoxify Shen Zuitian. The two eventually reached a mutual understanding.

Taking advantage of the heavy rain outside, Rong Shukuang cleverly used bamboo to collect rainwater for Yan Shao’s bath. Meanwhile, she stood outside, playfully and shyly peeking inside. Shen Zuitian noticed this and teasingly caught a wild pheasant, joking about Rong Shukuang’s actions. Embarrassed, Rong Shukuang tried to help, but in the process, the pheasant escaped. As they chased after it, they accidentally stumbled into Yan Shao’s bathing area. Flustered, Rong Shukuang hastily explained, but her body instinctively leaned toward Yan Shao. Seeing this, Shen Zuitian deliberately suggested handling the pheasant himself, leaving the two alone. Just as Rong Shukuang was about to seize the moment to get closer to Yan Shao, Shen Zuitian’s voice suddenly interrupted, reminding her that the pheasant was getting away. Yan Shao urged her to go after it.

As night fell, the three gathered around the fire and drank wine. Rong Shukuang taught them a modern drinking game, but she ended up getting drunk first. Left alone, Yan Shao and Shen Zuitian continued drinking. Curious, Shen Zuitian asked why Yan Shao had repeatedly spared him. Yan Shao admitted that years ago, Shen Zuitian had once let them live, which was why he, in turn, kept sparing Shen Zuitian. Shen Zuitian was stunned, recalling the two children he had once released—one of whom was Yan Shao.

After getting Yan Shao drunk, Shen Zuitian placed him on the bed and entrusted him to Rong Shukuang’s care before thoughtfully closing the door. Rong Shukuang gazed at the sleeping Yan Shao, a mix of emotions surging within her. A smile played on her lips, but she reminded herself not to take advantage of him. Slowly, she leaned closer and eventually drifted off to sleep beside him in peace.

Meanwhile, Shen Zuitian drank alone, his thoughts drifting back to his childhood. His father’s dying words echoed in his ears—no matter what, he must retrieve the Fuxian treasure. As a child, he was forced to shoulder this responsibility, witnessing his father’s death firsthand, the burden nearly suffocating him.

In the middle of the night, Yan Shao awoke and silently communicated with Rong Shukuang using hand signals, planning their escape. They held hands and quietly left the courtyard, but before they could get far, they heard Shen Zuitian murmuring in his sleep. In reality, he had not truly fallen asleep; he was only pretending to talk in his sleep, deliberately letting them go. Injured and poisoned, he dared not act rashly, so he feigned sleep-talking. Taking advantage of the night, Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang hurried away. Along the way, they encountered Hua Qi and her men searching for Shen Zuitian, forcing them to hide.

Rong Shukuang suddenly recalled her past capture by Hua Qi and worried that the key had been taken. To be safe, she hid the key somewhere along the way. Yan Shao had no choice but to take her back to retrieve it. Along the way, Rong Shukuang asked Yan Shao if he would ever deceive her. Since he had saved her life, she chose to trust him completely.

Later, Yan Shao took Rong Shukuang to Tian Gang’s secret meeting point at the dock. Lin Wanci had also received word and arrived, urging them to depart quickly so as not to delay Rong Shukuang’s "auspicious day." Yan Shao agreed to leave but, considering the risk of traveling in a large group, insisted that Lin Wanci stay behind and act separately. Lin Wanci refused to comply, but Rong Shukuang tactfully declined her company.

On the carriage ride to their destination, Shangguan Tong, afraid of being recognized by Rong Shukuang, deliberately avoided eye contact. Yan Shao subtly helped conceal his identity. Rong Shukuang remained unaware of Shangguan Tong’s true identity. Meanwhile, Lin Wanci bid farewell to Liu An, who draped her coat over Lin Wanci’s shoulders, the two parting reluctantly.

During the journey, Rong Shukuang drank to drown her sorrows and confided in Yan Shao a shocking secret—she did not belong to this era. There was a rift in time, and she was not originally from this world. Yan Shao, unable to comprehend, assumed she was merely drunk and rambling.

At the same time, Shen Zuitian privately met with Lin Wanci and directly accused her of poisoning Rong Shukuang with the "Red Lotus Heart" poison. He also revealed everything Yan Shao had done to save Rong Shukuang. Consumed by jealousy, Lin Wanci swore to separate the two. She disclosed that she had left markers along the way—if followed, they would lead straight to them.

Rong Shukuang was awakened by the sound of fighting outside. When she stepped out, she saw Yan Shao engaged in battle with three members of the Junshan Sect. They claimed to be the senior disciples of Shangguan Tong and had come to take him back for punishment. Shangguan Tong, feeling guilty, was ready to take his own life as atonement, but Yan Shao stopped him.

Yan Shao assured the Junshan Sect members that after eliminating the Ghost Valley Alliance, he would give them a proper explanation and expressed his belief that Shangguan Tong had hidden reasons for his actions. Shangguan Tong admitted that his master had died by his sword but denied murdering him. Knowing they were no match for Yan Shao and trusting that Tiangang would uphold justice, the Junshan Sect members left.

Rong Shukuang recognized Shangguan Tong as the one who had previously attempted to ignite the fire oil and accused Yan Shao of deceiving her. Yan Shao admitted to the deception but promised never to lie to Rong Shukuang again. He also explained that Shangguan Tong was not inherently evil but had been manipulated. Rong Shukuang chose to believe Yan Shao but suddenly felt a pain in her chest.

Yan Shao quickly checked her pulse and, upon learning that she had been experiencing this discomfort for the past two days, attributed it to exhaustion from traveling. He said nothing more. The next day, Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang continued on their journey. While Rong Shukuang was asleep, Yan Shao suddenly felt unwell. When she awoke and saw him drenched in sweat, she anxiously asked about his condition. However, Yan Shao pretended to be fine.

Rong Shukuang brought up her impending marriage and expressed her dissatisfaction with marrying someone she didn’t even know, assuming that the leader of Tiangang must be old and ugly. Yan Shao, however, spoke highly of the Tiangang leader, which only made Rong Shukuang more upset—she thought Yan Shao was eager to marry her off to Chu Tianyao. Yan Shao, unwilling to argue, simply went to sit with Shangguan Tong, who advised him not to reason with women.

Shen Zuitian and his men had been tracking Yan Shao and the others. When they passed by Junshan Sect territory, Shen Zuitian decided to make a stop, instructing the others to continue the pursuit. Hua Qi wanted to follow Shen Zuitian, and he did not refuse. Due to the dispute over the marriage, Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang refused to speak to each other directly, instead using Shangguan Tong as a go-between.

Shangguan Tong felt that they were either flirting or playing with him on purpose. Liu An had been secretly following Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang, leaving markers along the way to guide Lin Wanci and the others. When Yan Shao’s group checked into an inn, Shangguan Tong, tired of being their messenger, asked the innkeeper for paper slips so the two could write their messages instead of making him relay them.

Shangguan Tong also prepared two masks for them, saying it would be better if they couldn’t see each other at all. Rong Shukuang always called Shangguan Tong a child, but he solemnly reminded her that he was no longer a child and asked her to stop calling him that. Meanwhile, Lin Shaoci and his group arrived in town. Lin Wanci noticed the markers left by Liu An.

Lin Shaoci and Tang Yingluo wandered the marketplace together, where Tang Yingluo spotted a hairpin that she knew Rong Shukuang would like. Lin Shaoci immediately bought it. At the same time, Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao were also strolling through the market. Seeing steamed buns made Rong Shukuang hungry, and she finally broke her silence with Yan Shao. While the two were busy buying buns, Lin Shaoci’s newly bought hairpin fell to the ground.

By the time he retrieved it, he had missed the chance to see Rong Shukuang. After returning to the inn, Rong Shukuang felt unwell again. Yan Shao hurried over to check on her and massaged her to ease her discomfort. He then insisted that she sleep on the bed. Unable to hold back, Rong Shukuang asked Yan Shao if he truly wanted her to marry Chu Tianyao.

Yan Shao did not answer, which infuriated Rong Shukuang, and she went to sleep angrily. Lin Shaoci looked at the hairpin in his hand and placed it back into his robe. He drank heavily, blaming himself for past mistakes. Tang Yingluo advised him to let go, saying that love was also about setting someone free. Lin Shaoci held Tang Yingluo’s hand and told her that he didn’t want her to suffer like he did.

After saying that, he passed out from drinking too much. The next day, Lin Wanci suggested leaving, but Lin Shaoci insisted on staying longer to look for Rong Shukuang before considering retreating. Yan Shao secretly met with Feng Ming and Feiwu and learned that Shen Zuitian’s group had arrived nearby. Yan Shao made the necessary defensive arrangements. Meanwhile, Rong Shukuang was helping a child retrieve a kite and almost fell.

Just as she prayed for someone to catch her, both Lin Shaoci and Yan Shao rushed forward at the same time, catching her together. Lin Wanci and the others also checked into the same inn as Rong Shukuang. This made Rong Shukuang suspicious—when they had first arrived, they were told the inn was full, which was why she and Yan Shao had to share a room.

Lin Wanci pretended to be concerned and held Rong Shukuang’s hand, trying to check her condition. She was surprised to find that Rong Shukuang’s symptoms had significantly improved, confirming what Shen Zuitian had told her—that Yan Shao had transferred the poison to himself. Rong Shukuang went to the innkeeper and requested another room, only to be told once again that there were no vacancies.

Worried about her reputation, she rushed back to the room and insisted that Yan Shao go stay with Shangguan Tong instead. However, Yan Shao refused to leave. Rong Shukuang deliberately moved closer to Yan Shao, making it seem as though she was about to do something improper. Alarmed, Yan Shao fled the room in a panic. Lin Wanci had been secretly watching Rong Shukuang’s room and saw Yan Shao step out.

Lin Shaoci came to discuss tomorrow’s plan with Yan Shao, only to find Rong Shukuang inside. Rong Shukuang awkwardly explained that Yan Shao had gone out and suggested discussing it tomorrow. After Lin Shaoci left, he took out the hairpin from his robe. Late at night, Lin Wanci stood by the window, watching outside instead of sleeping. She saw Shen Zuitian’s men entering the courtyard.

At that moment, Tang Yingluo woke up, thinking Lin Wanci was catching a breeze, and urged her to rest. Lin Wanci lied, saying she felt suffocated and needed fresh air. Afraid of arousing suspicion, she quickly reassured Tang Yingluo and lay down beside her to rest. Hongpao and his men ambushed Yan Shao but were discovered. The commotion woke everyone, and they joined the fight.

Just as the battle was reaching a stalemate, Liu An suddenly grabbed Rong Shukuang and threatened Yan Shao to stop, declaring that she lived solely for revenge. Yan Shao hesitated, not daring to act recklessly. Unexpectedly, Liu An pushed Rong Shukuang into Yan Shao’s arms before turning back and stabbing Hongpao. Realizing the situation had turned against them, Hongpao’s men took him and fled.

Yan Shao and his group were about to give chase when a cry for help came from Lin Wanci’s room. They rushed inside, only to discover that Lin Wanci had been taken. Some pursued the kidnappers, while Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang checked on Liu An’s injuries. Liu An revealed her long-harbored hatred, recalling that Hongpao had killed her father years ago.

Yan Shao pressed her for details about who had released her and brought her here, but she refused to say anything, only begging Yan Shao to take her back to Longyue Village. Shen Zuitian led Lin Wanci away. Lin Wanci scolded him for acting outside their agreement, causing mistakes and preventing her from obtaining the key in time. Shen Zuitian, however, explained that he had taken a detour to Junshan Sect, which no longer existed.

Yet, Lin Wanci did not feel any joy. Instead, she reminded Shen Zuitian that his next task was to personally capture Rong Shukuang. Just then, Hua Qi approached Shen Zuitian. Seeing Lin Wanci there made her uncomfortable. She felt that Lin Wanci was just as sharp-tongued as Rong Shukuang. Lin Wanci merely smiled and remarked that she and Rong Shukuang were not the same.

Rong Shukuang felt sorrow for Liu An, not expecting her obsession with revenge to consume her so completely. However, if she were in the same situation, she might feel the same way. Rong Shukuang blamed herself for being powerless and constantly burdening others. Yan Shao reassured her, saying it was only natural for him to protect her since she was the future wife of Tiangang’s leader. Annoyed, Rong Shukuang refused to continue the conversation.

Shen Zuitian discovered that Hongpao was already dead. Lin Wanci dismissed the Four Immortals of Xiaoyao as unimpressive, saying they weren’t even as capable as a servant girl from Yuchi Manor. She believed the useless deserved to die. Jiang Ruhai, who had been following behind, urged them to stop arguing over right and wrong and instead focus on solving the problem by catching up with Yan Shao’s group.

Shen Zuitian agreed but disliked constantly chasing after others, so he quickened his pace. Rong Shukuang offered Yan Shao a treasure, hoping to secure a promise from him for any future request. However, Yan Shao refused. When he returned to his room, he found a note and immediately furrowed his brows. Later, when he went to find Rong Shukuang, he discovered her making a wish upon a giant turtle, hoping not to marry Chu Tianyao.

Suddenly, heavy rain started falling, forcing them to take shelter. Rong Shukuang was delighted, believing in the effectiveness of her wish. Standing close to Yan Shao inside the shelter, she felt happiness and began cursing Chu Tianyao, scaring Yan Shao into quickly covering her mouth. He reminded her that Chu Tianyao was her future husband. Rong Shukuang, however, stated that she only cared about those who had true affection for her.

As her gaze landed on Yan Shao, he slowly loosened his grip on her mouth. Rong Shukuang began to feel certain that Yan Shao had feelings for her. If there was one responsibility in the world that Yan Shao could never shirk, it would be her. Just then, someone arrived to inform them that the road ahead had collapsed, preventing them from leaving. They resigned themselves to waiting out the rain in a temple, but suddenly, Rong Shukuang fainted.

Yan Shao examined her closely and found that the poison in her body had worsened. Lin Wanci realized that Hua Qi had feelings for Shen Zuitian and deliberately sowed discord, insisting that Shen Zuitian must have feelings for Rong Shukuang. Otherwise, Rong Shukuang wouldn’t have escaped so easily. She urged Hua Qi to act decisively to avoid losing the person she loved.

Hua Qi questioned Lin Wanci’s true intentions, but Lin Wanci merely stated that she, too, had once loved someone she could never have. When Rong Shukuang woke up, she found Yan Shao weak and questioned him about what he had done. Yan Shao refused to admit he had treated her poison, instead claiming he was merely regulating her blood flow. After settling Rong Shukuang in a hiding place, Yan Shao went out to gather information and find food.

Lin Wanci tried to drive a wedge between Jiang Ruhai and Shen Zuitian, pointing out that despite following Shen Zuitian, Jiang Ruhai’s status was lower than both A Lie and Hua Qi. Jiang Ruhai remained unmoved and demanded that Lin Wanci state her true purpose. Lin Wanci expressed her willingness to support Jiang Ruhai in achieving great things, believing that Shen Zuitian was courageous but lacked strategy. She preferred to collaborate with someone like Jiang Ruhai.

Shen Zuitian instructed Hua Qi to hold off Yan Shao while he captured Rong Shukuang himself. However, Hua Qi objected, insisting that she be the one to capture Rong Shukuang to prevent Shen Zuitian from getting too close to her. Though Shen Zuitian agreed, he warned Hua Qi not to kill Rong Shukuang, which further frustrated her. Shen Zuitian intercepted Yan Shao along the way, while Hua Qi appeared before Rong Shukuang.

Rong Shukuang asked Hua Qi where Shen Zuitian was, which only angered Hua Qi. Taking advantage of the moment, Rong Shukuang turned and ran, but Hua Qi quickly caught up. Blowing a whistle, Hua Qi signaled Shen Zuitian that she had succeeded. Yan Shao, recognizing the meaning of the signal, was unable to overpower Shen Zuitian.

After defeating Yan Shao, Shen Zuitian rushed to meet up with Hua Qi, but unexpectedly, Rong Shukuang used the Flowing Cloud Sleeve technique, injuring Hua Qi before running back, only to collide with Yan Shao, who had hurried back as well. Yan Shao held Rong Shukuang tightly, fearing she had been harmed. Rong Shukuang recounted the events and admitted she risked coming back because she was afraid Yan Shao wouldn’t be able to find her.

Severely wounded, Hua Qi attempted to return to Shen Zuitian but was intercepted by Jiang Ruhai and Lin Wanci. Realizing she had been used, Hua Qi was ultimately killed by Lin Wanci and Jiang Ruhai. By the time Shen Zuitian arrived, he only found Hua Qi’s lifeless body. Seeing the Flowing Cloud Sleeve technique on her corpse, he immediately concluded that Rong Shukuang’s martial arts had recovered and that she had killed Hua Qi, fueling his hatred for her.

Knowing that Rong Shukuang’s poisoning had worsened, Yan Shao decided to take her to Heartless Tower, where someone could cure the Red Lotus Heart poison. He informed Lin Shaoci of this and requested his help. Lin Shaoci immediately agreed but was shocked to learn about Rong Shukuang’s poisoning and was even more surprised that Yan Shao had been absorbing the poison for her. Rong Shukuang’s group rushed toward Heartless Tower.

As soon as they arrived, Yan Shao collapsed from his horse. Before losing consciousness, Yan Shao entrusted Lin Shaoci with one final task, crucial for ensuring their survival.

Yan Shao instructed Lin Shaoci to go to Heartless Tower and seek help from Jin Buyao; only then could they escape their predicament. However, Jin Buyao had once sworn never to leave Heartless Tower again, so Lin Shaoci was worried that he wouldn't be able to convince Jin Buyao. Yan Shao gave Lin Shaoci a message to pass on: "The bones of your loved ones by the lotus pond were buried by Yan Shao.

" Upon hearing this, Lin Shaoci rushed to Heartless Tower for help, while Yan Shao led his people into hiding. Meanwhile, Shen Zuitian also arrived with his men and began searching for Yan Shao. The lotus flowers beside the desert were worth a fortune, yet Jin Buyao was willing to place them next to his junior sister’s portrait, showing that he was a person of deep emotions and loyalty.

Yan Shao was the one who had buried Jin Buyao's master and junior sister beside the lotus pond and had planted lotus flowers all around, as they were his junior sister's favorite. Because of this, Jin Buyao owed Yan Shao a great favor and had once promised that as long as Tian Gang needed him, he would give his life without hesitation. When Lin Shaoci found Jin Buyao, Jin Buyao initially refused to go.

But upon hearing Yan Shao's name, he immediately rushed over with his people to help. Just as the two sides were about to clash, a sandstorm arrived. Shen Zuitian and his men had no choice but to seek shelter first. Seizing the opportunity, Yan Shao and his people followed Jin Buyao back to Heartless Tower. Tang Wu was also in Heartless Tower. Upon seeing Yan Shao, he immediately took him to a guest room to treat his injuries.

Jin Buyao stood guard outside, preventing anyone from entering, leaving Rong Shukuang to wait in another room. Rong Shukuang, uneasy about Yan Shao, wanted to go see him, but Lin Shaoci stopped her. Rong Shukuang sensed that Yan Shao and Lin Shaoci were hiding something from her. Lin Shaoci explained that since Jin Buyao had broken his vow and left Heartless Tower, the place was no longer safe.

Once the Ghost Valley Alliance caught up to them, everything would have to be decided. Rong Shukuang argued that if that were the case, they should discuss it with Yan Shao rather than acting separately. Lin Shaoci, however, firmly believed that Yan Shao had his own plans. Rong Shukuang was surprised—since when did her brother trust Yan Shao so much?

After treating Yan Shao’s wounds, Tang Wu quickly reminded him: if the Ghost Valley Alliance arrived, what would happen to the people downstairs? Tang Wu suggested they could fight together and need not fear the Ghost Valley Alliance. However, Jin Buyao insisted that the priority was healing Yan Shao because only if Yan Shao survived could the chaotic people in the tower also survive. Tang Wu also recognized Tang Yingluo—both she and Tang Chanyi were the children of his eldest brother.

Years ago, to escape their enemies, Tian Gang not only took in Tang Yingluo but also escorted Tang Wu to the desert. He had always remembered this favor and had specifically sought out the antidote to the Red Lotus Heart poison. Unfortunately, there was only one antidote. Tang Wu speculated that Yan Shao would surely use it to save Rong Shukuang. Yan Shao stated that only if Rong Shukuang lived would he truly be alive.

The guard Feiwu, standing outside, clenched his blade upon hearing this. Yan Shao, concerned about their ability to deal with the Ghost Valley Alliance, requested a temporary power-boosting medicine from Tang Wu. Tang Wu only provided him with two Soul-Recovery Needles. If inserted into the Tianchi acupoint, they could restore one’s martial strength for half an hour, but they could only be used twice. Yan Shao then emerged to meet Rong Shukuang and the others.

Rong Shukuang anxiously checked him for injuries. Yan Shao reassured everyone and prepared to face the imminent Ghost Valley Alliance. Meanwhile, Jin Buyao drank with the people downstairs, hoping they would leave after finishing their drinks. But no one was willing to go; they reasoned that if they died there, someone could at least collect their bodies, whereas if they left, they would die without a burial. Before they could finish speaking, the Ghost Valley Alliance had already arrived.

Shen Zuitian entered Heartless Tower with Lin Wanci bound, demanding that they hand over Rong Shukuang in exchange for everyone's lives. Otherwise, he would kill Lin Wanci on the spot. Hearing this, Rong Shukuang was ready to go out and trade herself for everyone's safety. Yan Shao stopped Rong Shukuang and handed her the pill, saying that taking it would restore her martial arts. Rong Shukuang refused, suspecting there was only one pill.

Yan Shao lied, saying he had already taken one. Rong Shukuang, however, insisted on going out, arguing that even if she took the pill, she might not be able to defeat Shen Zuitian, so it would be better for her to surrender and restore things to how they were before. Yan Shao then revealed that he was an orphan adopted by Rong Shukuang's mother and that they had grown up together.

He had promised his master to protect Rong Shukuang no matter what, and he could not break that promise. Rong Shukuang quickly clarified that she was not the person Yan Shao was looking for—she was from another timeline. Whether the person Yan Shao sought was even in this world, she did not know. She did not want to see Yan Shao sacrifice himself for her, so she told the truth and put the pill back into Yan Shao's hand.

Rong Shukuang still wanted to go out, unwilling to drag anyone else down. The situation downstairs had already descended into chaos. Seizing the moment, Yan Shao forcibly shoved the pill into Rong Shukuang’s mouth. Rong Shukuang, uncertain if they would meet again after this day, confessed her feelings—although she was not the real Rong Shukuang, from the first time she saw Yan Shao, she had. . .

Before she could finish, Yan Shao interrupted, stating that if she was not the person he was looking for, then from now on, they had no ties. He urged her to live well in Moyao City. Shen Zuitian and his men stormed Heartless Tower, and battle broke out. Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao fought side by side, but since Rong Shukuang’s power had not fully returned, Yan Shao frequently protected her.

Seeing the danger they were in, Jin Buyao stepped in to assist them. Yan Shao, still injured, coughed up blood. Just as Shen Zuitian was about to kill him, Lin Wanci warned Lin Shaoci to save him. Tang Wu also intervened, shooting needles to shield Yan Shao. Yan Shao then used the Soul-Recovery Needle on himself to restore his strength. However, at the critical moment, someone attempted to assassinate Yan Shao.

Lin Wanci stepped forward, using her body to shield him. To protect everyone, Jin Buyao activated a hidden mechanism, allowing Rong Shukuang and Lin Shaoci to escape, but he himself was killed by the Ghost Valley Alliance. Ignoring Lin Wanci’s protests, Yan Shao fought Shen Zuitian once again, delivering a powerful kick that sent him flying. Shen Zuitian vomited blood, and seeing the situation turn dire, his subordinate Huangpao and the others fled with him.

However, Yan Shao once again coughed up blood, and Lin Wanci rushed forward anxiously. Before taking his last breath, Jin Buyao pulled out his junior sister’s portrait from his chest. He had spent his life obsessed with wealth, yet this time, not only did he fail to make money, but he also lost his life. Before dying, he told Yan Shao that their debts were settled.

Yan Shao shed tears, placed the portrait in Jin Buyao’s arms, and praised him as the most honorable and loyal person. In her sleep, Lin Wanci kept calling Yan Shao's name. When she awoke, Yan Shao was in front of her, accusing her of all her past sins, demanding that she finally tell the truth.

Lin Wanci denied all her crimes, explaining that after being captured by Shen Zuitian, she had been thinking about how to deal with him and had never intended to go against Rong Shukuang. Yan Shao saw that Lin Wanci was not telling the truth and couldn't be bothered to continue speaking with her. However, Lin Wanci stated that she did not regret her actions and that, given another chance, she would still do the same.

At least this way, Yan Shao would look at her more and be willing to be with her. She hoped Yan Shao would see her as a good person, but Yan Shao simply replied that whether someone was good or not was not for him to judge—if a person was truly good, they would always be good. After escaping through the secret passage, Rong Shukuang and the others encountered a man making coffins.

Rong Shukuang believed that since Jin Buyao had sent them here, he must have had a plan. She hoped to make a deal with this man, who proposed trading for something from their belongings. Each person placed their most treasured possession into the box before them. Lin Shaoci put in his sword, and Rong Shukuang took out her saber. However, the man noticed that Rong Shukuang was not being honest and had not handed over her most precious item.

Only then did Rong Shukuang take out Yan Shao’s eagle bone whistle. Thinking about how determined Yan Shao had been to sever ties with her, she ruthlessly threw it away, but her heart ached. The man, however, did not take their items and willingly helped them find a carriage, stating that someone had already paid for it. Despite being gravely injured, Lin Wanci refused to take her medicine unless Yan Shao personally gave it to her.

Yan Shao mocked her for using such a desperate act as a ploy, but Lin Wanci expressed her grievances. She had always envied Rong Shukuang and wanted to be like her. She liked Yan Shao, but in her father and brother’s eyes, she was nothing more than a useless patient. That was why she wanted to achieve something—to prove to her family that she was capable.

Yan Shao also believed that Lin Wanci was merely using Shen Zuitian to make Yuchi Manor dominate the martial world. However, no matter her goals, she should not have treated human lives as mere grass. He hoped she would repent. Yan Shao then showed her his Red Lotus Heart and informed her that Rong Shukuang's had already been detoxified. Because of the Red Lotus mark, Yan Shao knew his days were numbered, and his heart was filled with sorrow.

Rong Shukuang was feeling uneasy. Tang Yingluo encouraged her to speak her mind, and Lin Shaoci knew that she could not let go of Yan Shao; otherwise, she wouldn't have hesitated to throw away the eagle bone whistle. However, Rong Shukuang believed that everything was in the past and that Yan Shao had already stated they had no ties anymore.

Lin Shaoci told her that Yan Shao had done a lot for her, but at this moment, Rong Shukuang thought that everything Yan Shao had done was for the real Rong Shukuang. Meanwhile, in their downfall, Shen Zuitian and his men realized that Jiang Ruhai was missing. They recalled Hua Qi’s words—Jiang Ruhai was unreliable. Shen Zuitian swore to reclaim everything he had lost.

Jiang Ruhai led a group to block Rong Shukuang and the others' path, but she effortlessly killed all of his men within moments and captured him. She pointed her blade at him just as Tang Chanyi arrived, threatening Rong Shukuang. If she dared to harm Jiang Ruhai, Tang Chanyi would make everyone pay with their lives. Rong Shukuang warned Tang Chanyi that if Jiang Ruhai did not have his legs severed, he would never be completely loyal to her.

Tang Wu examined Yan Shao’s poisoned wounds and sealed his acupoints, temporarily extending his life but preventing him from using martial arts. Tang Wu hoped Yan Shao would live well, but Yan Shao bid him farewell, choosing to leave. Tang Wu decided to stay at Wuqing Tower to take care of those in need. Lin Wanci chased after Yan Shao, wanting to follow him, but Tang Wu stopped her, persuading her to focus on recovering.

Lin Wanci’s gaze revealed her reluctance to part with Yan Shao, and she secretly swore that one day, she would make him realize how terrifying it was to oppose her. Wuchang Ghost retrieved the weapons that had been hanging on the tree outside Wuqing Tower, sighing over the fall of the tower. At that moment, Lin Wanci appeared, proposing cooperation. The bargaining chip in her deal was the Fuxian Treasure.

The six major sects gathered at Yuchi Manor to seek the Fuxian Treasure, and they needed to choose a leader among them. Tang Chanyi did not want to get involved, but she could not resist Jiang Ruhai’s persistent pleading. He promised to help her become the leader, and Tang Chanyi was tempted. Rong Shukuang and her group arrived at Tiangang, where they were greeted by Ye Guizhou, whom Rong Shukuang recognized as the fortune teller from before.

She marveled at how Tiangang’s people were everywhere. She requested to see Chu Tianyao but was told by Ye Guizhou that Chu Tianyao was ill and unable to receive guests. However, a room had been specially prepared for her, with everything arranged by Chu Tianyao. Rong Shukuang was quite satisfied with the accommodations. A maid named Wenzhu was assigned to take care of Rong Shukuang.

She introduced herself, explaining that she had grown up there and was very reliable, so Rong Shukuang had nothing to worry about. Rong Shukuang was pleased that Wenzhu had accurately addressed her concerns, which only made her more curious about the sect leader. Late at night, Rong Shukuang tried to sneak out to investigate but was followed by someone who claimed they were worried she might get lost.

Using her status as the future sect leader’s wife, Rong Shukuang intimidated the person into letting her go alone. As expected, she saw Feiwu and Ye Guizhou conversing. She followed them and ended up outside Chu Tianyao’s room, demanding to know where Yan Shao was. Feiwu reminded her that Yan Shao had already declared they had no ties anymore, and since she was here, she should prepare for her wedding.

Rong Shukuang suddenly barged into the room but found that Chu Tianyao was hiding behind a screen. She bluntly stated that Chu Tianyao only wanted to marry her for the key, but since she had already agreed, she would keep her word. However, she did not want a blind wedding—she wanted to meet him. Chu Tianyao reminded her that there were rules to follow and that with the wedding approaching, she should not cause trouble.

Rong Shukuang still tried to rush in, demanding to know where Yan Shao was. In reality, Chu Tianyao was Yan Shao. He stood behind the screen with tears in his eyes, deliberately telling Rong Shukuang that Yan Shao had been sent elsewhere on an assignment. But Rong Shukuang sensed that the person behind the screen felt familiar. Though his voice was different and even his height had been altered, she still found him familiar.

Feiwu urged Rong Shukuang to leave, and she pretended to do so. However, she suddenly turned around and stormed in, only to find that Yan Shao was already gone.

Rong Shukuang walked out of Chu Tianyao's room in disappointment and returned to her residence, where she encountered Tang Yingluo, Lin Shaoci, and the others. They were all concerned and asked where she had gone. Rong Shukuang truthfully admitted that she had gone to see Chu Tianyao and had also received a message from Yan Shao through him. She was informed that Lin Wanci was out of danger, but Chu Tianyao refused to reveal Yan Shao's whereabouts.

Rong Shukuang felt that Chu Tianyao's voice now sounded weak and feeble, like an old man. The others also commented on Chu Tianyao’s mysterious nature, leaving Rong Shukuang deep in thought as she returned to her room. Shangguan Tong took Liu An’s body back to Longyue Village. On his way back, he learned that Junshan Sect had been destroyed, which saddened him. Yan Shao comforted Shangguan Tong in his arms.

Feng Ming then privately revealed to Shangguan Tong that Yan Shao and Chu Tianyao were actually the same person but urged him not to disclose this to anyone, especially not to Rong Shukuang. Bai Gui Yekui delivered a letter to Shen Zuitian, which was from Lin Wanci. She invited him to meet at Moyao Mountain to seek the treasure together. Shen Zuitian couldn't help but smile upon reading it.

After piecing everything together, Rong Shukuang intentionally asked Wenzhu whether Yan Shao and Chu Tianyao were the same person. Wenzhu confidently said they were not, as their temperaments were entirely different — Yan Shao was superior to Chu Tianyao. However, Rong Shukuang remained skeptical. She deliberately asked Wenzhu to dress her up as a proper noblewoman before going out to look for Chu Tianyao again. On her way, she encountered Lin Shaoci.

Lin Shaoci complimented her beauty and gifted her a hairpin with a falling snow design, which happened to be one of Rong Shukuang’s favorites. At this point, Rong Shukuang already regarded Lin Shaoci as an older brother and happily accepted the gift. Later, Rong Shukuang went to a valley where she encountered Chu Tianyao. He immediately noticed the falling snow hairpin.

Rong Shukuang honestly told him it was a gift from Lin Shaoci and proceeded to ask Chu Tianyao about his true identity and why he always wore a mask. Chu Tianyao instead suggested that they enjoy the rainbow scenery together. Rong Shukuang stared intently at Chu Tianyao and increasingly felt that his eyes resembled Yan Shao's. She reached out, trying to remove his mask, hoping for honesty.

Chu Tianyao stopped her, saying that if she removed his mask, he would no longer answer any questions about Yan Shao. Hearing this, Rong Shukuang gave up on unveiling his face and instead continued asking about Yan Shao’s whereabouts. Chu Tianyao refused to answer but expressed his sincere feelings toward her, claiming he could wait until she moved on from the person in her heart. Rong Shukuang grew frustrated and angrily called him an old fox.

After returning, Rong Shukuang once again hung up the portraits of Yan Shao and Chu Tianyao, analyzing their personalities and discovering how similar they were. Determined to test her suspicion, she went to the kitchen to make roujiamo but almost set the kitchen on fire. Chu Tianyao rushed in with concern and pulled her out of the thick smoke. However, when Rong Shukuang woke up, Tang Yingluo told her that it was actually Feng Ming who brought her back.

Rong Shukuang took the roujiamo to Chu Tianyao, hoping to share it with him and deliberately talked about her past with Yan Shao. Chu Tianyao did not want to listen, but he could not refuse her persistence. As Rong Shukuang narrated their past, it brought Yan Shao’s memories back to when they were together. However, Chu Tianyao deliberately interrupted her with cold words.

Rong Shukuang tried to hand the plate to Chu Tianyao, hoping to use the chance to pull off his mask and confirm his identity. However, Chu Tianyao avoided it skillfully, causing Rong Shukuang to lose her balance and fall, her scream echoing throughout the manor. Meanwhile, Lin Qianyi was heading to Tiangang to form an alliance with the six major sects and decided to stop by Wuqing Tower to bring Lin Wanci back to Yuchi Manor.

However, Lin Wanci begged to accompany him to Moyao Mountain instead. Reluctantly, Lin Qianyi agreed. During their journey, he lamented that his daughter’s poor health prevented her from learning martial arts and exploring the martial world. Lin Wanci sincerely wished she could become someone like Rong Shukuang. Knowing that Rong Shukuang was beginning to suspect his identity, Yan Shao decided to dress up as himself again to dispel her doubts.

He deliberately wore his iconic red robe and spoke to Shangguan Tong, allowing Rong Shukuang to spot him from afar. When Rong Shukuang excitedly called out to him, Yan Shao intentionally ran away. Rong Shukuang immediately rushed back to Chu Tianyao’s room, only to find him in black clothes pretending he had never left. Furious, Rong Shukuang attempted to rip off his mask. In the struggle, they both fell to the ground, and Chu Tianyao pressed against her.

The familiar heartbeat confirmed to Rong Shukuang that Chu Tianyao was indeed Yan Shao. Later, Rong Shukuang deliberately told Shangguan Tong that she was ready to cut ties with Yan Shao and would wholeheartedly live as Chu Tianyao’s wife. When Shangguan Tong conveyed this to Yan Shao, he was furious, believing that Rong Shukuang had fallen in love with someone else. Feng Ming teased him, pointing out how ridiculous it was for Yan Shao to get jealous of himself.

Rong Shukuang then asked Shangguan Tong about Chu Tianyao’s type in women. Yan Shao, still pretending to be Chu Tianyao, intentionally told Shangguan Tong that he liked women who could sing, dance, and write poetry. Rong Shukuang immediately started practicing calligraphy and handed her writing of the character "狂" (madness) to Chu Tianyao, inviting him to meet at the waterfall. She also specially prepared a dance performance and asked Tang Yingluo to make fragrant powder, attracting many butterflies.

However, to their surprise, bees were drawn instead. Chu Tianyao quickly threw his robe over them and asked Rong Shukuang to take off her clothes to avoid the bees. This reminded them of the time they hid from a sandstorm, and Rong Shukuang clung to Yan Shao, secretly wishing the bees would linger longer. Yan Shao accused her of deliberately attracting trouble, while Rong Shukuang mischievously hugged him tighter.

To further tease Chu Tianyao, Rong Shukuang made a rainbow cake to commemorate the time they watched the rainbow together and declared her heart now belonged solely to Chu Tianyao. This infuriated Yan Shao, who clenched his fists and wondered where that left Yan Shao in her heart. Rong Shukuang insisted that Chu Tianyao take the cake back with him, watching his figure leave with a smug smile, knowing she had successfully made him jealous.

Upon returning, she ran into Lin Shaoci, who noticed she was draped in Chu Tianyao’s robe and curiously asked what had happened. Rong Shukuang casually explained the encounter with bees, emphasizing that she now had her heart set on Chu Tianyao and had completely forgotten about Yan Shao. This made Lin Shaoci feel deeply unworthy on behalf of Yan Shao. Yan Shao returned in a fit of rage, furious that Rong Shukuang only cared about Chu Tianyao.

Feng Ming teased him, pointing out that he was practically jealous of himself. When Yan Shao tried to taste the cake, he immediately ordered it to be fed to the dogs in frustration. Just then, Feiwu reported that Lin Shaoci and the others had requested an audience. Chu Tianyao knew it was time to meet them.

When Chu Tianyao met Lin Shaoci, the two simply exchanged polite greetings. Lin Shaoci informed Chu Tianyao that his father would be arriving soon. After meeting Chu Tianyao, Lin Shaoci felt that his figure was very similar to Yan Shao's. Rong Shukuang quickly covered up, claiming that she had seen Yan Shao before and that the two were not the same person.

At that moment, Ye Guizhou came to see Rong Shukuang, and unexpectedly, Rong Shukuang took the initiative to discuss the wedding and deliberately proposed to get married on the sixteenth of this month. Chu Tianyao did not object and instructed Ye Guizhou to follow Rong Shukuang's wishes. However, Feng Ming could see that Chu Tianyao was distressed, hoping to get a clear answer and understand who Rong Shukuang truly loved in her heart.

He still wished that Rong Shukuang loved Yan Shao and not Chu Tianyao’s identity. Feng Ming also understood that if Yan Shao married Rong Shukuang as Chu Tianyao, it would hurt both of them. Rong Shukuang had someone bring fabric to Chu Tianyao to measure his size for the wedding attire. Shangguan Tong praised Rong Shukuang highly. While measuring Chu Tianyao's figure, Rong Shukuang deliberately dropped the eagle bone whistle and mentioned how important it was to her.

She then acted resolutely, stating that she would sever her past feelings and destroy the eagle bone whistle. After leaving, she secretly hoped that Chu Tianyao would chase after her. As expected, Chu Tianyao fell for it and hurriedly chased after her, only to find that Rong Shukuang was gone. Just then, the sound of the eagle bone whistle came from a distance. Chu Tianyao followed it to an abandoned well and saw Rong Shukuang inside.

He found a rope nearby, climbed down, and set her dislocated arm back in place. He then carried her on his back, intending to climb out, but the rope broke, and they both fell to the bottom of the well. Finally having a chance to talk, Rong Shukuang candidly admitted that she already knew his true identity and would not marry someone she did not love.

The wedding date was her deadline — if Chu Tianyao still refused to be honest, she would leave on the day of the wedding. Hearing this, Chu Tianyao finally removed his mask, revealing Yan Shao's face. The two tightly embraced, confessing their deep love for one another. Yan Shao confessed that his feelings for Rong Shukuang began from a sense of responsibility and a promise, but the woman he fell in love with was the one he had saved.

Similarly, Rong Shukuang fell for the young man in red who had always stayed by her side. They sat at the bottom of the well, recounting the experiences that had separated them. Overcome with emotion, they couldn't help but share a passionate kiss. Watching from above, Shangguan Tong and Feng Ming noticed the situation but chose to sit aside and wait for them to call for help.

After returning to Yan Shao's room, he confessed to Rong Shukuang about his poisoning and that he did not have long to live. He explained that the reason he had planned to marry her as Chu Tianyao was to protect her. Rong Shukuang, in turn, shared her background — she came from the modern world and suspected that Bai Yu had brought her to this place, along with some fragmented memories from Rong Shukuang's body.

Yan Shao recalled their time in Longyue Village. Su Shiyu, as if foreseeing danger, had given jade pendants to both children before the massacre of Longyue Village by the Beigui Alliance. Afterward, Yan Shao was taken to Tiangang by Chu Moxiong, while Rong Shukuang was brought to Yuchi Manor. Yan Shao searched for her tirelessly and finally saw her standing up for justice in an inn, brave and heroic.

However, when he noticed Lin Shaoci taking her away and sensed Rong Shukuang's affection for Lin Shaoci, he chose to quietly leave. Later, when he learned that Rong Shukuang had been captured, he risked his life to rescue her and thus met the current Rong Shukuang. Lin Shaoci and the others heard that Rong Shukuang went to see Chu Tianyao and did not return all night, so they came to his room to look for her.

Rong Shukuang panicked and wanted to leave, but Chu Tianyao insisted that since they were now husband and wife, sharing a room was natural. Hearing this, Rong Shukuang reluctantly agreed, opening the door and explaining that she had an enjoyable conversation with Chu Tianyao the previous night. Chu Tianyao then put his mask back on but continued to exchange flirtatious glances with Rong Shukuang behind everyone's back.

Watching her lovestruck demeanor, Lin Shaoci felt a deep sense of bitterness, believing that Rong Shukuang had truly moved on from Yan Shao. After returning to her room, Rong Shukuang wrote down what she considered to be the most romantic thing in the world.

Although Rong Shukuang knew that Yan Shao didn't have much time left, she still hoped that every day could be filled with happiness and did not want to live in sorrow. During the day, the two would go out and enjoy romantic outings. Yan Shao even deliberately applied red lipstick to make himself look less pale, hoping that when Rong Shukuang reminisced about him in the future, all her memories would be beautiful. At night, Rong Shukuang would ask Tang Yingluo to bring her many medical books, hoping to find a way to cure Yan Shao's illness.

One day, Rong Shukuang made a steak in the kitchen and deliberately asked Feng Ming to play the flute to create a romantic atmosphere for a candlelight dinner. However, the sound of the flute accidentally blew out the candle. Yan Shao simply kicked Feng Ming out, wanting to enjoy dinner alone with Rong Shukuang. During the dinner, Rong Shukuang suggested that Yan Shao formally propose to her.

The next day, Yan Shao specially crafted a wooden wild goose in the kitchen as a symbolic gift for the proposal and also sent the traditional betrothal gifts to Yuchi Manor. Yan Shao then formally knelt before Rong Shukuang to propose. Without hesitation, Rong Shukuang expressed her willingness to marry Yan Shao. Just as the two were about to kiss, Shangguan Tong and Feng Ming showed up, disrupting their romantic moment.

Shortly after, Lin Qianyi and the others arrived. Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang prepared to meet them, holding hands and determined to face everything together. Yan Shao promised that no one would harm Rong Shukuang as long as they were there.

Chu Tianyao went to welcome Lin Qianyi and Lin Wanci, while Bai Gui Ye Ku secretly blended in among Lin Qianyi's attendants. Privately, Chu Tianyao expressed his willingness to support Lin Qianyi in becoming the leader of the martial arts alliance. He also promised that once Lin Qianyi ascended, he would destroy the key in front of everyone, ensuring there would be no more conflicts in the martial world. Lin Qianyi immediately agreed.

Lin Wanci, however, keenly noticed that Rong Shukuang seemed genuinely happy about the marriage. Out of curiosity, she deliberately asked Tang Yingluo and Lin Shaoci about Chu Tianyao's appearance, suspecting that Rong Shukuang couldn't have fallen for someone else so quickly. This suspicion made Lin Wanci begin to doubt Chu Tianyao's true identity.

Lin Wanci then approached Rong Shukuang and deliberately mentioned how she had saved Yan Shao in the past, and how they supported and cared for each other with sincerity. Rong Shukuang, however, firmly stated that Yan Shao was just her bodyguard, and her feelings for Chu Tianyao were different. She even told Lin Wanci to continue waiting for Yan Shao and maintain her sincere bond with him.

Later, Rong Shukuang sought out Yan Shao. Ever since Lin Qianyi and Lin Wanci arrived, she had felt uneasy, fearing that something would go wrong and ruin their wedding. She expressed her desire to get married as soon as possible. Yan Shao initially thought they should wait for all the guests to arrive, but seeing how anxious Rong Shukuang was, he agreed to have a private wedding with just the two of them.

The two then traveled to another hot spring valley. While there, Rong Shukuang discovered that Yan Shao had the same tattoo on his back as hers. Yan Shao explained that it was a Ghost-Eyed Butterfly, which was also the key to the Fuxian treasure. This meant that the two were destined to protect the treasure together.

Yan Shao expressed his wish to destroy the treasure during their wedding to prevent further bloodshed. Although Rong Shukuang found it a pity, she agreed, believing that as long as everyone could live in peace, the treasure was not worth it. In her heart, Yan Shao was the most precious treasure. Yan Shao, however, worried that he might not be able to protect Rong Shukuang for long, but Rong Shukuang reassured him that she could protect him instead.

Meanwhile, Tang Yingluo and the others noticed that Chu Tianyao and Rong Shukuang were missing and began to worry. Lin Wanci, however, speculated that the two might have gone on a date since they seemed to have mutual affection. She also felt slightly uneasy since the six major sects were about to arrive.

Rong Shukuang put on her wedding dress, smiling happily. Feiwu, however, was displeased, believing that Rong Shukuang shouldn't be so cheerful when Yan Shao was close to death. Rong Shukuang gently explained that everything Yan Shao did was to make her happy, and if she spent every day in sorrow, it would go against his wishes. She also acknowledged that she understood the difference between Yan Shao's affection for Feiwu and herself and hoped that Feiwu could get along with her for Yan Shao's sake. Feiwu was deeply moved by her words.

Shangguan Tong agreed to be Rong Shukuang's flower girl and scatter petals during the wedding. Under Ye Guizhou's officiation, Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao finally held their wedding ceremony. That night, the two entered the bridal chamber. Holding hands, Rong Shukuang playfully asked Yan Shao if he felt lucky to marry someone like her. Yan Shao responded sincerely, saying that ever since he met Rong Shukuang, his life had been filled with fortune.

Yan Shao intended to draw the tattoo on Rong Shukuang's back, but then suddenly remembered that the treasure was about to be destroyed, rendering the drawing unnecessary. Rong Shukuang then teased that the wedding night was precious, and with a laugh, Yan Shao tossed the paper aside and chased after Rong Shukuang, completing their bridal chamber night.

Meanwhile, Lin Wanci had been secretly instructing Gui Ye Ku to investigate Chu Tianyao's true identity. She already suspected that Chu Tianyao was actually Yan Shao, but she kept her suspicion to herself and instructed Gui Ye Ku to continue gathering information.

The next day, Rong Shukuang insisted on drawing a portrait of Yan Shao. Yan Shao guessed that she probably intended to carry his portrait with her after he died, just like the golden hairpin she kept. Rong Shukuang scolded Yan Shao for speaking nonsense, stating that she simply wanted to capture every moment they spent together. Ye Guizhou informed Yan Shao and Lin Shaoci that Rong Shukuang and Chu Tianyao had gotten married the previous day.

Rong Shukuang had mentioned that marriage was a matter between two people and did not care about the opinions of others. However, when the six major sects arrived, a grander wedding would still be held. Lin Shaoci felt disappointed upon hearing this. Rong Shukuang spent an entire day drawing Yan Shao, but the result looked rather childish. However, the moment she pouted in disappointment, Yan Shao immediately showered her with praise.

In truth, Rong Shukuang took out another portrait — a drawing of them in the desert. That scene had always been etched in her heart, and today, she deliberately asked Yan Shao to pose. Deeply moved, Yan Shao pulled Rong Shukuang into his embrace. Rong Shukuang specifically invited Lin Qianyi to Chu Tianyao's room to confess that she and Yan Shao had already gotten married. In front of Lin Qianyi, she removed Yan Shao's mask, leaving Lin Qianyi astonished.

He never expected Chu Tianyao to actually be Yan Shao. Yan Shao admitted that he was Su Shiyu's disciple and promised to protect Rong Shukuang. He also mentioned his plan to destroy the key during the Martial Arts Assembly, which Lin Qianyi agreed to support. Meanwhile, Lin Shaoci accidentally discovered a familiar-looking servant and followed him to Lin Wanci's room. He immediately recognized the person as Gui Ye Ku from Wuqing Tower.

Lin Wanci explained that she did not know Gui Ye Ku's real identity when she accepted him as a servant. Her intention was simply to expose him to the outside world instead of confining him within four walls. Lin Wanci then crouched down and pretended to persuade Gui Ye Ku to leave, giving him the chance to secretly reveal that someone planned to destroy the key.

Lin Shaoci chose not to make things difficult for Lin Wanci and refrained from saying more. Around the same time, Jiang Ruhai and his people arrived at Moyu Mountain. In the dark, Tang Chanyi secretly conspired with Jiang Ruhai, poisoning Jiang Cheng. Jiang Ruhai promised that once their plan succeeded, he would provide the antidote. Lin Wanci personally approached Shen Zuitian and informed him about Rong Shukuang and Chu Tianyao's plan to destroy the key, suggesting they alter their strategy.

Shen Zuitian showed no fear towards Chu Tianyao, believing that Chu Tianyao only relied on Yan Shao. Now that Yan Shao was poisoned and dying, there was nothing to fear. That night, Lin Wanci deliberately went to Rong Shukuang's room, draped herself in Rong Shukuang's wedding dress, and bitterly accused Rong Shukuang of always taking the best things in life. While Rong Shukuang made a name for herself in the martial world, Lin Wanci stayed home tending flowers and plants.

Lin Wanci admitted that she was willing to love Yan Shao sincerely, yet she could never win his heart. Yan Shao was poisoned with the Red Lotus Heart because of Rong Shukuang and was devoted to her alone. However, Rong Shukuang firmly told Lin Wanci that even without her presence, Yan Shao would never love Lin Wanci. Moreover, Yan Shao would never use the treasure to cause chaos in the martial world.

Lin Wanci, however, cynically declared that although Yan Shao would not open the treasure, Rong Shukuang might do it for him. Rong Shukuang emphasized that she was now Chu Tianyao's wife and had no connection with Yan Shao. Without hesitation, she drove Lin Wanci out of the room. After returning to her chamber, Lin Wanci smugly took out the drawing of Rong Shukuang’s back tattoo that Yan Shao had once drawn. With a sinister smile, she burned the drawing.

The following day, the six major sects gathered in the main hall. Everyone believed that the six sects no longer existed. Unexpectedly, Shangguan Tong stepped forward and declared herself as the representative of Junshan Sect, stating that even one person could represent a sect. She then publicly revealed the truth — that Ghost Valley Alliance poisoned her master, causing him to go insane.

She warned everyone that if they did not learn from Junshan Sect's downfall, they would meet the same fate. Jiang Ruhai took the opportunity to declare that he had joined the Ghost Valley Alliance under orders and was merely pretending to side with them. Jiang Cheng immediately testified in Jiang Ruhai’s favor. Tang Chanyi also stepped forward to compete for the position of alliance leader, and to everyone's surprise, the majority supported Tang Chanyi.

Jiang Ruhai then suggested opening the Fuxian treasure, hoping to use it to his advantage. However, Yan Shao publicly declared his intention to destroy the key, believing that eliminating the source of strife would end the chaos. Surprisingly, Tang Chanyi also expressed her support, agreeing that the key was the root of the conflict. Jiang Ruhai was utterly dismayed. In a shocking turn of events, Tang Chanyi crippled Jiang Ruhai’s leg in front of everyone.

Rong Shukuang had previously told Tang Chanyi that as long as Jiang Ruhai had his legs, he would never stop scheming. After crippling him, Tang Chanyi distributed the antidotes to everyone and declared the meeting adjourned. Jiang Ruhai could not understand why Tang Chanyi would turn against him. In fact, before the meeting, Chu Tianyao had secretly met with Tang Chanyi.

Tang Chanyi, having grown tired of the endless bloodshed in the martial world, understood that if Jiang Ruhai continued his path, chaos would never end. Thus, she agreed to cooperate with Chu Tianyao under one condition — a condition Chu Tianyao agreed to without hesitation.

Tang Chanyi hoped that everyone could spare Jiang Ruhai. Although Jiang Ruhai had committed numerous evil deeds, he was still her husband, and she wished to take him away. Chu Tianyao agreed to her request. Feeling unworthy of the position of Martial Alliance Leader, Tang Chanyi decided to pass the title to Lin Qianyi.

At that moment, Lin Wanci stepped out and saw Tang Chanyi leaving with her people. Chu Tianyao then exposed Lin Wanci's involvement with Jiang Ruhai in conspiring all those malicious acts. Lin Qianyi was deeply disappointed in his daughter for doing such things.

Lin Wanci admitted to it all, finding it amusing. In the eyes of outsiders, she appeared weak and innocent, yet she had committed so many terrible deeds. Just then, Shen Zuitian arrived with his men to seize the key. Chu Tianyao insisted on destroying it, but Lin Wanci proposed that Rong Shukuang should make the decision since the treasure belonged to the Fang family. To everyone's shock, Rong Shukuang suddenly changed her mind, refusing to destroy the key. Chu Tianyao, overwhelmed with emotion, held Rong Shukuang's hand, but Lin Wanci coldly revealed to everyone that Rong Shukuang's true love was not Chu Tianyao. She implied that the reason Rong Shukuang refused to destroy the treasure was because of the person she truly loved.

Chu Tianyao did not want Rong Shukuang's reputation to be tarnished, so he removed his mask in front of everyone. Lin Wanci was stunned to discover that Rong Shukuang had actually married Yan Shao.

Lin Wanci then told Yan Shao that the only way to find a cure for him was to open the treasure. She also revealed that the reason Lin Qianyi took Rong Shukuang back home back then was due to guilt. After all, how could outsiders possibly discover the highly concealed Longyue Village without someone from the inside betraying it? Rong Shukuang also hoped that Lin Qianyi would tell the truth, as she had overheard her mother's dying words to him.

It turned out that years ago, in exchange for medicine to save Lin Wanci's life, Rong Li had betrayed Longyue Village. Consumed by guilt, Rong Li entrusted Lin Qianyi with the care of Rong Shukuang, treating her as his own. She also hoped that once the key to the treasure was found, it would be destroyed along with everything else.

Lin Wanci further accused Lin Shaoci of never truly loving Rong Shukuang. She mocked him, saying that when Rong Shukuang liked him, he rejected her, but now that she was married, he was showing regret. She also accused Yan Shao of concealing his identity and marrying Rong Shukuang as Chu Tianyao, implying that his love was never genuine. Lin Wanci declared that everyone owed a debt to Rong Shukuang — her parents were dead, and everyone around her was responsible.

Rong Shukuang was overwhelmed with tears and seemed swayed by Lin Wanci's words. However, in the next moment, she suddenly turned her dagger toward Lin Wanci. Regardless of whether the others had wronged her, she was certain that Lin Wanci had caused her harm. Lin Wanci showed no fear, even urging Rong Shukuang to kill her. She claimed that her mother betrayed Longyue Village solely to save her life, and it was Rong Shukuang who should harbor hatred, not her.

Lin Qianyi, filled with remorse, admitted that although it was his wife’s fault, he too had wronged Rong Shukuang deeply. Overwhelmed by guilt, he handed over control of Yuchi Manor to Lin Shaoci and took his own life in front of Rong Shukuang to atone for his sins.

Rong Shukuang, realizing that Yan Shao's condition was rapidly deteriorating, decided to open the treasure to find a cure. Lin Shaoci and his men stayed behind to fend off Shen Zuitian, allowing Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao to escape.

Lin Wanci then approached Shen Zuitian and proposed joining forces to find the treasure. Shen Zuitian refused, but Lin Wanci revealed that she had memorized the map to the treasure. If she died, Shen Zuitian would never find it. Left with no choice, Shen Zuitian took Lin Wanci along.

Rong Shukuang and Yan Shao finally arrived at the Serpent Cave, only to be quickly followed by Shen Zuitian. Shen Zuitian found it amusing, as he had also been to this place before. Yan Shao and his group managed to open the treasure chamber door using one piece of jade. Upon shattering the other piece of jade, it revealed the key that unlocked the stone door.

Inside the treasure chamber were countless ancient, long-lost texts and scriptures. Rong Shukuang realized that these books were the true treasures — a treasure of knowledge. However, to the martial world, such a treasure might bring disappointment.

They also discovered the second half of the Helian Heart Sutra. Yan Shao began cultivating it while Rong Shukuang instructed Feng Ming to protect him. She herself went to confront Shen Zuitian, explaining that the ancient texts were the true treasure. Shen Zuitian and Lin Wanci refused to believe it, insisting that Rong Shukuang must be hiding the real treasure.

Shen Zuitian ordered his men to capture Yan Shao. Desperate, Rong Shukuang risked her life to protect him, engaging in a fierce battle with Shen Zuitian. Feng Ming joined the fight, but both of them were gravely injured. Just as Shen Zuitian approached Yan Shao, Yan Shao suddenly mastered the heart sutra and unleashed a powerful force, sending Shen Zuitian flying. Furious, Shen Zuitian realized Lin Wanci had lied about Yan Shao succumbing to the Red Lotus Heart poison. Enraged, he strangled Lin Wanci to death.

Despite being gravely wounded, Feng Ming still worried about whether Yan Shao had been cured. Upon hearing that Yan Shao's poison was cured, Feng Ming smiled in relief before closing his eyes and taking his last breath.

Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang joined forces to finally end Shen Zuitian's life. The six major sects arrived shortly after. Lin Shaoci, cradling the severely injured Lin Wanci, apologized for neglecting her for so many years. However, Lin Wanci, filled with bitterness, declared that she did not want anyone’s pity. She only wished that after her death, her body would not be brought back to Yuchi Manor but instead be buried in the amber sea of Jiang Hai.

Suddenly, Yan Shao collapsed in Rong Shukuang’s arms, his poison relapsing. It turned out that Yan Shao had not truly been cured but had instead used the Ghost Gate Revival Needle to temporarily extend his life to protect Rong Shukuang. Tearfully, Rong Shukuang held Yan Shao as he urged Lin Shaoci to bring the ancient texts back to benefit the people. With that, Yan Shao died in Rong Shukuang’s arms, leaving her devastated. The six major sects praised the two of them for embodying the true spirit of chivalry.

However, Rong Shukuang suddenly noticed a faint pulse from Yan Shao and immediately became overwhelmed with joy. Weakly, Yan Shao asked her to stop crying so loudly. Rong Shukuang, both laughing and crying, scolded him for deceiving her.

In modern times, Dr. Chu Tianyao fell asleep at his desk and dreamt of Yan Shao and Rong Shukuang's past. He suddenly woke up and rushed to Rong Shukuang’s hospital room, where she also happened to wake up. Grabbing Chu Tianyao’s hand, she smiled.

Later, the two of them traveled to the desert, with a piece of jade hanging from their car, as if the jade was still telling their story. They sought out an artist to draw a wedding portrait for them, as this desert was where their dream of the martial world began. Rong Shukuang curiously asked Yan Shao whether it was Fang Yi who dreamt of her, or if she dreamt of Fang Yi. Although they couldn’t explain it, one thing was clear — they shared the same dream of a martial world.

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