Chapter 241 -250

Bai Wushang, as always, was gone for days at a time.

During this time, Chen Zui visited several times, but Xuan Yuanli hadn't appeared since that day. Guiguzi was also at a loss. Only Murong Wei and Liu Jian were at the Li Wang Mansion.

"Did your master say when he would return?" Murong Wei asked casually, while making a list. Liusha Kingdom was a desert country with extreme temperature differences between day and night. It was extremely hot during the day, but like winter at night. The climate was dry, and supplies of materials and water often ran out along the way. Therefore, they had to be fully prepared for this trip to Liusha, otherwise they would fall ill before they even got started.Full novel: Greedy Baby: Abandoned Wife Mother Becomes a Concubine — read the rest free on N​o⁠v​e⁠l​C⁠o​d⁠e​x⁠.​o⁠r​g⁠

"I don't know," Liu Jian replied, sitting quietly to the side, lost in thought.

When he wasn't around, no one knew where he was. But when he appeared, he always had this expression, lost in thought, and no one knew what he was thinking about all day.

He was someone Bai Wushang had rescued. He had no memory and knew nothing about his own background, but he was surprisingly clear about things related to Xuan Yuanli's military treatise.

This guy must have a deep connection with the Xuanyuan Military Manual. As shrewd as Bai Wushang, why would he save someone for nothing?

"Find a way to send him a message, say I'm missing a few things and want to discuss them with him," Murong Wei said, carefully checking the list one by one.

"What do you need?" Liu Jian asked, not looking at her, staring intently at the gate, seemingly trying to remember something.

"Some medicines, only available in the imperial palace," Murong Wei said, not wanting to disturb Xuanyuan Li at this moment.

"What medicine?" Liu Jian finally turned around, asking expressionlessly.

"Liu Jian, why does your master smile so much, but you don't?" Murong Wei asked with a smile.

"What medicine do you need?" Liu Jian repeated.

Murong Wei frowned. Bai Wushang was right; this guy was like a block of wood, impossible to get a response from even if you knocked on him.

"These," Murong Wei handed over the list of medicines, all prepared according to each person's constitution.

Liu Jian glanced at it briefly, then tore up the prescription, took out paper and pen, and quietly rewrote it. "Follow this prescription. You can find these in any ordinary pharmacy. With these medicines, you can deal with common acclimatization problems and infectious diseases in the Flowing Sand Kingdom."

Murong Wei read it carefully and was immediately surprised. The combination of these medicines did indeed have the effect of her previous prescription, and it also added many medicines she hadn't thought of. The key was that these medicines were common and inexpensive.

"Have you lived in the Flowing Sand Kingdom?" she asked. Only someone who had lived there for a long time would be so familiar with it.

Liu Jian was caught off guard by her serious eyes. His handsome brows furrowed slightly. After thinking for a long time, he murmured, "Maybe. I really can't remember."

"Or, are you from the Flowing Sand Kingdom?" Murong Wei probed again.

Liu Jian still looked thoughtful. He didn't reject Murong Wei's probing, nor did he reject trying to recall, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't remember anything about himself.

"I'll go find the medicine. You stay here. The master will definitely return before we leave," he said calmly, rising to leave.

Murong Wei was filled with suspicion, recalling her first encounter with Liu Jian in the Han Kingdom. He was disguised as a young eunuch and seemed rather cheerful. How could she have imagined he would be such a cold-hearted person?

Just as she was about to follow, the old steward of the Prince's mansion suddenly rushed in, shouting, "Master, something terrible has happened!"

"Something terrible has happened! There's been a war!"

"Your Highness, there's been a war! Please, don't be afraid!"

...

"What happened?" Murong Wei was shocked. She knew that this continent hadn't seen war for a very long time.

"Where is the Prince?" the steward asked urgently.

"He went out. What happened?" Murong Wei asked.

"There's been a war in the Han Kingdom. It started this morning, and the news only just reached the capital. The entire eastern border is sealed off. I heard that this time the emperor is determined to annex the Han Kingdom," the steward said breathlessly.

"What's the situation?" Murong Wei asked.

"I heard that Han Kingdom offered no resistance, and the King of Han intends to surrender," the steward said.

"Surrender?" Murong Wei asked, puzzled.

"Han Kingdom is under the control of Prince Qi. The Emperor mobilized troops, but Prince Qi remained indifferent. How could the King of Han not be anxious? He's doomed sooner or later anyway. He might as well follow the example of other vassal states and appease the Emperor; at least he can preserve his wealth and status," the steward said.

"Han Kingdom's military strength is not weak!" Murong Wei probed. Having lived in Han Kingdom for so long, how could she not know?

Once a war breaks out, as long as Xuan Yuanche does his best, the war between Han Kingdom and Xuan Yuanche could last at least a year. If, during that year, Liu Sha Kingdom makes any move, Xuan Yuanche will be unable to attend to both east and west!

She once had a very bold guess: if one day Prince Qi gained the support of the four vassal states, then Xuan Yuanche, trapped in the center, would surely be his.

Unfortunately, almost all the vassal states had women residing in the Qi Prince's residence, and the Qi Prince had been delaying his arrival for years without any action. It was feared that the hostages held by Xuan Yuanlie in the hands of the vassal states were no ordinary people!

"Whether he's weak or not, it's only the Qi Prince who knows. This old servant is also puzzled that even if the Han King is anxious, he wouldn't so easily give up the Qi Prince's support," the old steward said, puzzled.

"The war has already started, and the Qi Prince has no reaction? Is he still accompanying us on our mission to the Flowing Sand Kingdom?" Murong Wei was more concerned about this matter.

"No movement, and I haven't seen him enter the palace to see the Emperor. I heard he's ill and hasn't left the Qi Prince's residence these past few days," the old steward said truthfully.

"Ill?" Murong Wei asked, puzzled.

"Doctor Murong should know. I heard he accidentally ate seafood at Consort De's place, which triggered a poisoning in his body, and his health is weak," the steward said.

"Accidentally ate seafood?" Murong Wei was increasingly puzzled. He clearly knew he was poisoned, and she had even warned him before. How could he have accidentally eaten seafood?

Just then, a servant rushed in to report that Young Master Chen Zui had come to visit again.

Didn't this guy just arrive this morning?

"Make an excuse that I went out," Murong Wei said impatiently, turning around and leaving through the back door...

Meanwhile, Prince Qi was indeed ill, staying in Jingxuan, lying on the balcony of the attic, basking in the sun, with Murong Yue kneeling beside him

, brewing tea and serving him. The fact that Murong Yue had stayed in Jingxuan as his personal maid had already caused a stir in Prince Qi's mansion, even Consort De hadn't expected it. However, no matter how much the commotion, no one dared to trespass into Jingxuan.

"Your Highness, Xuanyuan and Han Kingdom have gone to war. Shouldn't Si'er and I..." Murong Yue whispered. The prince hadn't mentioned the matter of the drugging that night, and she didn't dare to ask any more questions.

However, if war breaks out between the two countries, women like them, essentially no different from hostages, will not have a good ending.

This matter needs to be clarified.

Neither she nor Consort De had expected that Prince Qi would have such an attitude, completely standing by and watching. At least, according to the King, the Prime Minister, and her father's expectations, Prince Qi should have taken some action after what she brought.

Unexpectedly, he was actually willing to lose the Han Kingdom just like that!

"Fourth daughter?" Xuan Yuanche asked indifferently, his eyes closed, looking very tired. His pale face appeared even more ashen in the sunlight, as if he hadn't been exposed to the sun for years.

"Consort De is the fourth child in the Murong family, and Father always calls her Fourth Daughter," Murong Yue answered truthfully.

"Fourth daughter, her mother was General Murong's principal wife, wasn't she?" Xuan Yuanche asked.

"Indeed, but the lady passed away early," Murong Yue said.

"Also from the Han Kingdom? Which family's daughter is so fortunate to have caught General Murong's eye?" Xuan Yuanche asked again.

“My mother said that the Madam is not from the Han Kingdom, nor is she from a prestigious family. Her origins are mysterious, and not many people in the manor know about her,” Murong Yue replied.

“What is her name?” Xuan Yuanche asked

again. “This servant doesn’t know either. Your Highness, why are you suddenly interested in the First Madam’s affairs?” Murong Yue asked with a smile. She had been serving him carefully for several days and felt that although the prince was aloof, he was not serious. At least, there were some things she could ask him, and he wouldn’t get angry if she said something wrong.

“Just asking,” Xuan Yuanche said indifferently, turning his head away and slowly opening his long, beautiful eyes.

In the courtyard, Sister Li was hurrying over.

“Your Highness, the Han Kingdom…” Murong Yue probed again.

“I haven’t been involved in politics for many years. Since you and Consort De have entered the Qi Prince’s manor, it is my family matter. I suppose the emperor can’t interfere. In a great battle, two women can’t play a big role. When you have time, tell Consort De not to overestimate herself.” Xuan Yuanche said indifferently, then got up and went downstairs.

Murong Yue froze, forgetting to offer her a helping hand. Just a moment ago, she had thought this aloof man wasn't so difficult to deal with, but now she found him completely unfathomable.

This warning could be interpreted in several ways; which one was he trying to tell her?

Looking at the empty purple wooden rocking chair, she unconsciously rose slowly, mimicking his languid posture, lying down on it, facing the warm winter sun, slowly closing her eyes, inhaling the faint fragrance of pale summer violets, savoring his lingering scent.

In the courtyard, Sister Li was quietly reporting something. She wasn't curious; she simply watched from afar.

Regardless, she was content with everything she had, wishing he would fall ill forever, spending his days with her in Jingxuan, day after day, forever.

However, she would soon know that the forever in Jingxuan would belong only to her.

After a few words, Sister Li helped Xuan Yuanche out; the Emperor and the Empress Dowager had come to visit him.

As soon as Li Jie entered the main hall, Xuan Yuanche saw Xuan Yuanlie and the Empress Dowager sitting high in the main seats, with Consort Rong whispering something to the Empress

Dowager. "What's wrong? Is your illness so serious?" The Empress Dowager rushed forward to help Li Jie.

Xuan Yuanlie also rose and came over, frowning, "Has the poison in your body relapsed?"

"Yes, it's nothing serious, not as severe as last time, I can manage." Xuan Yuanche said calmly, bowed, and sat down to the side.

Consort Rong quickly brought tea, "Your Highness, it's been a few days, how come you..."

"Imperial Physician Lin, take a look." Xuan Yuanlie brought the imperial physician. Imperial

Physician Lin quickly stepped forward to take the pulse, and then examined the ears and nose, and was immediately shocked, stammering and not daring to speak!

"What's wrong?" Xuan Yuanlie said sternly.

"Your Majesty, Your Highness's illness... this poison..." Imperial Physician Lin still dared not speak.

"Speak!" The Empress Dowager's voice also turned cold.

Yelü Lingrong's expression changed drastically; she panicked. Murong Wei's diagnosis last time was correct, and Sister Li had searched everywhere for medicine. Not many people in the Qi Prince's mansion knew about this—only the demoted Consort Xi, Consort De, and herself.

A slow-acting poison, once it takes effect, is uncontrollable!

How could Xuan Yuanche fall ill so easily? How could he be so easily outmaneuvered?

She and her mother had placed all their bets on this prince; otherwise, why would she have married so far away?

With the war in Han Kingdom, it was the perfect opportunity for Liusha Kingdom to win over the Qi Prince. She hadn't even acted yet; how could Xuan Yuanche have fallen ill?

"Speak!" she roared at Physician Lin, unable to contain herself any longer.

Physician Lin stumbled and fell heavily to his knees. "Your Majesty, Empress Dowager, Consort Rong, this humble subject... this humble subject..."

"I know my own body very well, Physician Lin. Has the poison begun to take effect?" Xuan Yuanche said calmly, not only was his face pale, but his lips, already paler than usual, were now completely bloodless.

His thin body leaned weakly against the warm couch, utterly exhausted.

Physician Lin hesitated for a long time before finally speaking boldly, "Your Highness... Your Highness's chronic poison has indeed begun to take effect. The poison has entered the heart meridian, I'm afraid... I'm afraid... If we can't find an antidote, I'm afraid you won't last a year or two!"

Yelü Lingrong's face paled, and she stumbled backward. The Empress Dowager glanced at Xuan Yuanlie, remaining silent.

"Then get out and find the antidote!" Xuan Yuanlie roared angrily.

"Your Majesty, we have no idea what poison Qi has been poisoned with, and we can't find an antidote!" Physician Lin was extremely troubled.

"Then...then think of a way!" Xuan Yuanlie was both angry and anxious, his act making Xuan Yuanche want to laugh even as he watched coldly.

"Your Majesty, after Doctor Murong discovered the poison in Prince Qi's body last time, the Empress Dowager has been searching for a cure, but to this day she hasn't found one. Perhaps...perhaps we should invite Doctor Murong over?" Physician Lin said timidly.

"Doctor Murong is with Thirteen, isn't

she? Che'er, you shouldn't have sent her away in the first place. Now that you've invited her, she might not be sincere!" The Empress Dowager said with concern and sarcasm. Murong Wei was clearly forced away by the mother and son working together, yet they blamed Prince Qi.

Xuan Yuanche was stunned, silent, and didn't say a word.

"Someone, go to Prince Li's residence and call Murong Wei over! Immediately!" Xuan Yuanlie immediately gave the order, more anxious than anyone else.

"Seventh brother, don't worry, no matter what, your elder brother will definitely find the antidote for you!" Xuan Yuanlie said earnestly, like a loving older brother.

Xuan Yuanche still didn't speak, looking down, staring blankly at the ground.

"Che'er, don't worry too much, there will always be a way. Let's hear what Murong Wei has to say when she arrives," the Empress Dowager Xi advised.

"Your Majesty, we won't go to Liusha. The Prince needs to recuperate and cannot travel long distances. I will stay and accompany him!" Consort Rong choked out, kneeling beside Xuan Yuanche and tightly grasping his cold hand.

Putting aside the greater good of the nation, this man was her husband, the man she had longed for. How could she bear to part with him?

"Not going to Liusha..." Xuan Yuanlie frowned, troubled.

No sooner had Chen Zui left than Liu Gonggong, Xuan Yuan Lie's personal eunuch, personally came to invite Murong Wei to the Qi Prince's residence.

The invitation was merely a polite formality, but Murong Wei accepted without hesitation and went readily, inquiring about the general symptoms along the way.

However, as soon as she alighted from her sedan chair, she froze.

The handsome man was standing alone at the gate, waiting for her. In the few days since she last saw him, he had become much thinner, with a thick stubble, and wore the same disheveled clothes as before.

Gone was his usual spirited demeanor; his clear eyes were bloodshot and dull.

As she approached, she noticed the sandalwood scent emanating from him. She knew that he had been hiding in the temple halfway up the mountain these past few days; he had said it was his secret, a place he went to when he was sad.

Liu Gonggong quickly stepped forward and bowed, puzzled, "Thirteenth Prince, why do you look like this?"

Xuan Yuan Li ignored him, saying calmly to Murong Wei, "Come, I'll accompany you inside."

Had he come specifically for this?

He was worried about her coming to the Qi Prince's mansion alone.

She would never forget the day she walked out of the mansion alone, her mask removed, her body covered in wounds, carrying Ye Bao.

This child, whom she could still call a boy, had also been watching her from afar, waiting for her.

This fellow, this time, was going in the opposite direction.

"Thirteenth Prince, the Empress Dowager is inside too, are you..." Eunuch Liu kindly reminded him, consciously keeping his distance from Xuan Yuanli.

"Lead the way." Xuan Yuanli said coldly, so cold that Murong Wei's heart sank. She didn't want him to be like this at all. He needed to smile, be cheerful, be willing to open his heart to emerge from his secret. Unlike his seventh brother, whose coldness concealed shrewdness, he had no shrewdness or cunning in his heart, only secrets, secrets that kept him at a distance from others.

Eunuch Liu dared not say more, and also noticed the Thirteenth Prince's strangeness, so he quickly led the way.

In the main hall, seeing Xuan Yuanche's sickly appearance, Murong Wei was immediately shocked.

Empress Dowager Dong, seeing Xuan Yuanli's disheveled appearance, immediately flew into a rage and coldly summoned him to her side to reprimand him.

"Mother, Seventh Brother is ill. Whatever it is, let's talk outside," Xuan Yuanli said coldly, standing motionless at the doorway.

Empress Dowager Dong was about to speak when she saw Xuan Yuanli's displeased gaze and fell silent.

Murong Wei's gaze remained fixed on Prince Qi, filled with suspicion. Imperial Physician Lin might not know, but she knew very well that if Prince Qi's illness truly flared up, he wouldn't last a year, and it wouldn't be as calm as it was now.

Having suffered from the same poison as Old Bai, she knew far too much about it.

Once this slow-acting poison took effect, it would be like a violent storm, causing intense itching and pain, a sudden weakening of the heart, several times more severe than when Prince Qi first fell ill. From the onset of the poison to death, it wouldn't take more than three days!

She didn't need to take his pulse to determine that Prince Qi had done it intentionally!

This illness was caused by consuming seafood, and he had controlled the dosage quite well, which was enough to show that he himself was very aware of the illness.

When the war broke out in Han Kingdom, and before departing for Liusha Kingdom, why did he feign illness?

After a few polite words, she hurriedly sat down beside him, pretending to take his pulse with a serious expression.

She originally thought he would look at her, or at least convey some information to her with his eyes as before, and she would definitely give him a fierce look of contempt.

But he didn't.

His narrow eyes were almost closed, as if in despair, lying on his side, silent.

She remained silent for a long time, her brows furrowed, her mind weighing various interests.

Firstly, if Prince Qi accompanied Liusha on this trip, everything would be decided by Prince Qi from the beginning until they arrived in Liusha. If Prince Qi didn't go, the Thirteenth Prince would be in charge, making their actions much easier.

Secondly, with the war in Han Kingdom, if Prince Qi went far away to Liusha, Xuan Yuanlie would definitely be worried. Both the accompanying troops and the undercover agents would increase significantly, which would not be conducive to their operations.

Thirdly, she wasn't really willing to travel with this guy. His relationship with Ye Bao was something they both tacitly understood, and he seemed to be still scheming about it. She desperately wanted to stay away, so she pretended to be oblivious, even after her appearance had returned, she still brought up everything and asked about everything.

The one who acts first is often the most passive!

"Your Highness, the poison in your body has indeed begun to take effect. I advise you not to go to the Quicksand, but to rest and recuperate," Murong Wei said earnestly.

"Is there any cure?" Yelü Lingrong asked hurriedly.

Murong Wei frowned. This question truly stumped her. How should she answer? Many people present wished that Prince Qi was beyond saving.

"Your Majesty, I am unworthy. Firstly, I do not know what poison Your Highness has been afflicted with. Secondly, even if I did, the poison has already entered your heart meridian, and there is no way to cure it... Alas..." She sighed helplessly, not wanting to cause herself trouble, but still hastily wrote down a prescription, and then lamented, "This medicine, one bowl each morning and evening, can only alleviate the symptoms, not cure the disease. How long it can prolong life depends on fate!"

Imperial Physician Lin quickly stepped forward to take it, glanced through it, and, equally helpless, said, "That's all we can do!"

"All of it is useless!" Xuan Yuanlie said angrily, "Guards, convey my imperial edict, announce to the world, and offer a reward for a divine physician who can cure the poison!"

"Yes!" Eunuch Liu immediately obeyed.

Murong Wei couldn't help but look at Xuan Yuanlie. His move was ruthless; wasn't this announcing to the world that Prince Qi's life was nearing its end?!

"Thank you, Your Majesty." Xuan Yuanche finally spoke, his voice faint, weak yet still calm.

Perhaps, even without Ye Bao's background, she would have believed in this prince's indifference, his lack of ambition, and his fatalistic and nonchalant attitude!

"Your Majesty, I beg to stay and serve the Prince. Please grant me permission," Yelü Lingrong pleaded, kneeling urgently. "

Consort Rong, you should know your mother's temper well. That invitation was written by her personally, wasn't it? Such a grand Buddhist ceremony in Liusha, and Prince Qi couldn't accompany you home. I cannot give him an explanation, neither morally nor logically," Xuan Yuanlie said with difficulty.

"Your Majesty, Prince Qi is seriously ill. My mother will surely understand. I will write to her immediately. Please grant me permission!" Yelü Lingrong said hastily.

"If she can understand, that would be best. After all, I don't want Prince Qi to travel such a long distance again," Xuan Yuanlie said, gently patting Prince Qi's shoulder.

"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Yelü Lingrong exclaimed with delight.

"Take good care of Seventh Brother," Xuan Yuanlie said calmly, his gaze sweeping over the silent Xuan Yuanli before landing on Murong Wei. "Qi Xi is also ill. Doctor Murong, come with me."

"Have the imperial physicians in the palace been helpless again?" Before Murong Wei could even speak, Xuan Yuanli asked coldly.

"Thirteenth, what kind of attitude is this? Don't think that just because you're young, your brother won't punish you!" the Empress Dowager scolded.

"I was just asking," Xuan Yuanli said indifferently, showing no respect whatsoever to Xuan Yuanlie.

"Hehe. It was Qi Xi who insisted on having Doctor Murong come to the palace. You should ask Qi Xi about that, Thirteenth," Xuan Yuanlie said with a smile, showing great magnanimity.

"Then let's go. Don't disturb Seventh Brother's rest," Xuan Yuanli said.

The Empress Dowager frowned, about to pull him to her side, her hand already outstretched, but she immediately withdrew it. This son of hers, even she, as his mother, couldn't get close to him.

The group left one after another. Xuan Yuanche lay back, a hint of worry unconsciously flashing across his long, cold eyes. He said softly, "Sister Li, go to the palace and let the Empress Dowager know you're safe."

"Master, have you forgotten? The Empress Dowager has been traveling incognito with several masters these past few days," Sister Li reported.

"Heh, the Empress Dowager is the most carefree. Help me back, I'm tired," Xuan Yuanche said lightly.

Yelü Lingrong quickly came to help him, "Your Highness, let me help you back."

"Consort Rong, I may never be able to accompany you back to Liusha to visit your family. Will you blame me?" Xuan Yuanche asked softly.

"No! Your Highness, I'll also have the Empress Dowager find a doctor. Someone will surely be able to save you," Yelü Lingrong said, truly heartbroken.

"Murong Wei said, it's up to fate. Heh, let's see what fate has in store!" Xuan Yuanche sighed, a smile curving his lips, quite handsome.

“Sister Li, please leave. I have something to say to the Prince.” Yelü Lingrong said earnestly.

“Consort Rong, I am tired. You can tell Sister Li what you need to say.” Xuan Yuanche refused, showing no interest.

“Your Highness, it was the Empress who asked me to speak. I have kept this to myself for a long time. Now that the Han Kingdom is at war, it is…” Before Yelü Lingrong could finish speaking, Xuan Yuanche pulled his hand away and said indifferently, “If the Empress of Liusha has something important to discuss with me, she should go directly to the Emperor.”

With that, he dragged his weak and tired body away.

He truly had no interest. Everyone was eyeing Prince Qi, but Prince Qi seemed indifferent to everything, resigned to fate, and indifferent to everything. From now on, he would only stay at home, living a quiet life and recuperating…

The mansion was silent. Those unaware of the situation were all discussing Murong Yue’s favor with the Emperor. Perhaps, once the announcement was made tomorrow, the Qi Manor would never be peaceful again. Meanwhile

, outside the mansion, a struggle was brewing.

Xuan Yuanlie, his earlier magnanimity gone, coldly stared at Xuan Yuanli, unyielding. "What if I insist that Murong Wei get into this carriage?"

"The Prince Li's residence has its own carriage; there's no need to trouble Your Majesty!" Xuan Yuanli retorted firmly.

Murong Wei tugged at his sleeve, hesitant to speak, unable to get a word in edgewise.

"Thirteenth, your elder brother wanted to discuss Prince Qi's illness with Doctor Murong, and you got involved. Look at yourself! Go and tidy yourself up before entering the palace, or you can forget about stepping foot inside!" the Empress Dowager warned.

"Then I'll escort Weiwei to the palace later," Xuan Yuanli said stubbornly, already stubborn, but now even more so.

"Prince Li, are you challenging my limits again?" Xuan Yuanlie's voice turned cold.

"I'll escort Weiwei to the palace," Xuan Yuanli repeated.

"What if I refuse?" Xuan Yuanlie was now serious.

Xuan Yuanli didn't speak, but pulled Weiwei behind him. "

You have to give way!" "How dare you! Guards, seize Prince Li!" Xuan Yuanlie roared.

"Wait!" The Empress Dowager immediately stopped him, her voice cold. "Thirteenth, have you had enough?"

"Your Majesty, I made everything very clear in the Imperial Study. Do you want me to repeat myself here?" Xuan Yuanli asked with a sneer.

The mere mention of the argument in the Imperial Study

caused Xuan Yuanlie's face to turn ashen, and he fell silent.

"Enough! Enough! We're brothers, why are you arguing? Thirteen, do whatever you want, hurry up and go to the palace. Qi Xi can't wait!" Empress Dowager Dong quickly intervened to smooth things over.

Xuan Yuanlie snorted coldly and stormed off.

Empress Dowager Dong watched as Xuan Yuanli and Murong Wei boarded the carriage together before following behind.

Inside the carriage, Murong Wei frowned deeply. If the incident in the Imperial Study was the first time she had "heard" Xuan Yuanli's anger, then this was the first time she had witnessed his fury firsthand.

He was far more stubborn than she had imagined.

That time in the Imperial Study, it was clear she was using the hostages from the Flowing Sand Kingdom to threaten Xuan Yuanlie; he had no idea how much danger he was putting himself in.

"Thirteen, don't do that again. It's just a trip to the palace, it'll be fine," she said calmly.

Xuan Yuanli was eerily quiet, ignoring her completely. His head was lowered, his fingers clasped tightly together.

The rumbling of the cart axle was so clear in the quiet alley.

Seeing his silence, Murong Wei grew uneasy, fearing he might cause trouble again once they entered the palace. They were about to set off for Liusha; at this crucial moment, nothing could go wrong!

"Thirteenth, let's... talk, okay?" she tentatively asked, sitting down beside him.

Xuan Yuanli still didn't answer, his head bowed, seemingly lost in thought.

“Thirteen, don’t be like this. We’re about to leave the palace. After we cross the quicksand, we won’t go back, okay? Let’s use the excuse of sightseeing to go find Xuanyuan’s military treatise.” Murong Wei said with a smile. She remembered everything he said in the imperial study. He had two wishes: he wanted the head of the Quicksand Empress to hang high in front of his Prince Li’s mansion, and he wanted to leave the palace like Xuanyuan Che, to travel and enjoy life.

There must be a reason for wanting the Quicksand Empress’s head. She wanted to know, wanted to ask, but dared not.

It seemed that no matter what Murong Wei said, Xuanyuan Li would not answer.

She smiled helplessly. He didn’t react at all. She didn’t know what to say to him, what could she say to comfort him, what could she say to hurt him?

The two were silent. Murong Wei listened quietly to the rhythmic sound of the carriage wheels and couldn’t help but fall into deep thought. However, gradually, gradually, Xuanyuan Li actually moved. He slowly turned his head and leaned against her shoulder.

Murong Wei tensed up immediately, afraid to move or utter a sound, her body stiffening as she leaned on him.

This gesture was enough to show that he was still willing to open his heart to her, still willing to trust her! Such a gesture was enough; no more words were needed.

They remained silent, leaning on each other, until they reached the palace gate.

When changing to a sedan chair, he still didn't speak, nor did he get in, simply walking beside her sedan chair.

"Thirteen! What are you doing? How can the dignified Prince Li of Xuanyuan behave like this?" The Empress Dowager, like a shadow, followed behind, scolding him displeasedly.

Xuanyuan Li remained silent, gesturing for the sedan chair bearers to continue.

"All of you, stop right there!" The Empress Dowager seemed unable to contain herself any longer.

"If you don't move, I'll kill you all," Xuanyuan Li said coldly, suddenly drawing his sword!

"Dare to take a step, and I won't spare you!" the Empress Dowager threatened.

The four sedan chair bearers looked troubled, unsure whether to go forward or backward, not knowing what to do.

"Lower the sedan chair, I'll walk in!" Murong Wei hurriedly called out.

However, without Xuan Yuanli's permission, the sedan chair bearers dared not lower the chair, and the group stood frozen at the palace gate. Fortunately, it was late, and there were no people coming or going.

"Thirteen, let's walk in. It's not far from Qixi Palace." Murong Wei frowned and advised, intuitively feeling that Xuan Yuanli had come to argue.

"Aren't you leaving?" Xuan Yuanli's eyes darkened, and he looked at the sedan chair bearers with a sinister gaze.

"Your Highness, perhaps I should go and get a larger sedan chair so you and Doctor Murong can ride together?" the sedan chair bearer said timidly.

Without saying a word, Xuan Yuanli's sword flashed, and in an instant, the nearest sedan chair bearer was struck in the throat, collapsing to the ground before he could even recover.

Murong Wei was jolted and fell to the side.

Xuan Yuanli had already taken the carrying pole, hoisted it onto his shoulder, and strode forward. The other three sedan chair bearers dared not slacken and followed his steps with trepidation.

Behind her, Empress Dowager Dong stared in disbelief, only then realizing how unfamiliar this son was—he was serious!

"Your Majesty, with the Thirteenth Prince in this state, the Emperor may find it difficult to detain him," whispered Granny Gui beside her.

"A middle-aged woman, already has sons! How come I've given birth to two blind sons! I don't care anymore!" Empress Dowager Dong stormed off,

but Granny Gui rushed forward, "Your Majesty, Murong Wei's son's identity is too deliberate. Judging from the previous situation, it was highly likely he was Prince Qi's, but now it seems… Prince Qi also…"

"Has the child's whereabouts still not been found?" Empress Dowager Dong asked softly, her brows furrowed.

"The people the Emperor sent followed him to Shang Kingdom but lost track of him. It's highly likely he entered the East Sea," Granny Gui said softly.

"Who took him away?" Empress Dowager Dong asked.

"A man and a woman, their identities cannot be determined," Granny Gui answered truthfully.

"Where is Murong Wei? Have the people who went to Han Kingdom returned?" Empress Dowager Dong asked again.

"We can't find anything. We just got a new portrait and went to the northern city of Han Kingdom," Granny Gui replied.

Empress Dowager Dong nodded in satisfaction and whispered, "Go and see for yourself. Tell Lie'er to be more accommodating to Thirteen. After all, Thirteen is still young and has a quick temper. If he angers her and causes trouble for the hostages of Liusha, we'll suffer a greater loss."

"Yes, Your Majesty, don't worry, the Emperor will know what he's doing." Granny Gui accepted the order and left...

On the other side, Murong Wei lifted the curtain and quietly watched Xuan Yuan Li, who was carrying the sedan chair with a serious expression

. Her heart ached so much it felt like it was about to break. Why was he so stubborn? Why was he so good to her? As they headed towards Princess Qi Xi's palace, all the maids and eunuchs avoided them, whispering amongst themselves.

Xuan Yuan Lie stood at the palace gate and was stunned by the scene.

Thirteen... she

's just a woman. Did he really have to condescend to be so humble?

The sedan chair stopped, and Murong Wei was still staring at him blankly. He quietly straightened his clothes, tucked his messy long hair behind his head, wiped his sweat, and then turned to look at her.

"Weiwei, we're here." He said calmly, a gentle smile slowly curving his handsome lips.

He actually smiled! He

had been so serious and focused the whole way, but now he was smiling.

"What are you staring at? Get down." He was indeed smiling, extending his hand towards her.

Murong Wei was still stunned, unable to process what was wrong with him!

He sighed helplessly and scooped her up in his arms, saying, "Let's go, Qixi is waiting."

Not only Murong Wei, but Xuan Yuan Lie was also astonished. What was Xuan Yuan Li planning?

He escorted Murong Wei into the palace, passing by Xuan Yuan Lie.

Inside, there were no imperial physicians, only Xuan Yuan Qixi sitting alone on the heated couch, pouting, looking exhausted. Upon seeing them enter, she kept winking and making funny faces.

"I heard you were sick, so you insisted Weiwei come to see you?" Xuan Yuan Li raised an eyebrow and asked.

Xuan Yuan Qi Xi was still winking and making faces, but when she saw Xuan Yuan Lie follow her in, she immediately wilted, lazily leaning back and saying, "I... caught... a... cold..."

"How can you talk like that?" Xuan Yuan Lie frowned and sat down beside her.

Xuan Yuan Qi Xi was extremely unwilling, but she still sat up, extending her small hand to Murong Wei, saying, "I have a fever, a high fever."

Murong Wei smiled helplessly, walked closer and felt her forehead. It would have been better if she hadn't felt it, because once she did, she couldn't help but find that she really had a fever!

"When did it start?" she asked anxiously.

"Last night," Xuan Yuan Qi Xi replied.

"Last night? What time is it now? It's been a whole day and night! Where is the imperial physician?" Murong Wei was furious. A fever could be serious or minor.

"The imperial physician examined her, and no matter what he did, he couldn't bring the fever down, so he called you here," Xuan Yuan Lie said calmly, having looked at Wei Wei countless times since then.

This woman didn't look like she'd ever given birth, much less like someone with a six or seven-year-old child. Compared to Nangong Jingsi, although her looks were slightly inferior, her temperament was far superior.

It has to be admitted that a stubborn woman can evoke both love and hate, a desire to possess her.

Murong Wei carefully took her pulse, her brows furrowing. Xuan Yuan Qixi's high fever was normal, definitely caused by a cold. Why couldn't the fever break?

"What medicines did the imperial physicians prescribe? Did they use acupuncture?" Murong Wei asked.

"I don't know," Xuan Yuan Qixi shook her head pitifully.

Murong Wei looked at Xuan Yuan Lie, who looked worried, and said, "Someone, summon all the imperial physicians."

Murong Wei felt something was amiss, but couldn't quite put her finger on it. She glanced at Xuan Yuan Li and sat down beside him.

Xuan Yuan Qixi leaned wearily against the wall, her large, blinking eyes looking at them, as if she had something to say but couldn't. Murong Wei asked for more details, but couldn't find anything unusual.

Soon, several imperial physicians arrived. Murong Wei inquired about their treatments, and the physicians' prescriptions and acupuncture were all normal. Logically, the fever shouldn't still be high!

This couldn't continue. After

hesitating for a moment, she asked the physicians to stay and assist, administering a set of acupuncture and prescribing some medicine.

At this point, she knew she couldn't leave.

She couldn't leave until Qi Xi's fever subsided.

An hour later, the acupuncture had been tried, the medicine had been given, and ice had been applied to her forehead, but Xuan Yuan Qi Xi's fever remained high.

Xuan Yuan Li watched anxiously from the side, while Xuan Yuan Lie lazily rose and said, "Qi Xi, your brother has to attend court early tomorrow. Let Physician Murong accompany you tonight."

Xuan Yuan Qi Xi didn't speak, but forced herself to sit up, nodding and bowing, "Thank you for your hard work, brother."

"Hehe, Thirteen, Qi Xi is still a girl. If you want to stay with her, go sleep in the side hall," Xuan Yuan Lie said.

"Yes," Xuan Yuan Li coldly replied, respectfully seeing her off.

As soon as the dog emperor left, Murong Wei immediately asked, "Qi Xi, did he drug you?"

Her pulse was normal, a common cold, yet she had a persistent high fever?

There was only one possibility: she had taken some kind of strange medicine, or perhaps, some kind of poison.

Hearing Murong Wei's question, Xuan Yuan Qi Xi's eyes immediately reddened, and she pouted, refusing to speak.

"What happened? Tell me!" Xuan Yuan Li roared, his temper short and impatient.

Startled by Xuan Yuan Li's outburst, Xuan Yuan Qi Xi burst into tears.

Murong Wei quickly pulled Xuan Yuan Li aside, glaring at him fiercely, and said, "Don't talk!"

Xuan Yuan Li pursed his lips and actually shut up.

Murong Wei sat down beside Xuan Yuan Qi Xi, gently embracing her, and whispered, "Qi Xi, don't be afraid, tell me, what kind of medicine did they give you?"

"Waaah, I don't know, I only know that last night before bed I drank a cup of tea, and then my head started to hurt, and I just couldn't sleep!" Xuan Yuan Qi Xi said, choking back tears.

"Tea?" Murong Wei asked, puzzled.

"The servants cleaned it up. I didn't drink it, but Xi'er said it was the last batch of new tea that had been presented as tribute, so I drank it!" Xuan Yuan Qi Xi said.

"What did the imperial physicians say?" Murong Wei asked again.

"No, they gave me a lot of medicine, but it didn't help. My brother... I can't say!" Xuan Yuan Qi Xi was still wary of Xuan Yuan Lie

. After all, he wasn't the Empress Dowager's biological daughter, and she knew the proper boundaries. "What did they say?" Xuan Yuan Li asked anxiously, quickly moving closer.

Xuan Yuan Qi Xi just shook her head, unable and unwilling to speak.

"You brat, whose side are you on!" Xuan Yuan Li asked unhappily.

Xuan Yuan Qi Xi shook her head vigorously. Suddenly, she felt dizzy and fell to the side, her brows furrowed, her face contorted in pain.

"Tell me!" Xuan Yuan Li was indeed impatient.

Xuan Yuan Qi Xi immediately hid timidly behind Murong Wei.

"You brat, don't you know that Xuan Yuan Lie..." Before Xuan Yuan Li could finish speaking, Murong Wei pushed him away again, glaring at him fiercely. He took three steps back, lowered his head, and pretended to be indifferent.

Xuan Yuan Qi Xi remained hidden behind Murong Wei, refusing to come out.

Murong Wei turned around, smiling, and gently embraced her, saying softly, "Princess, is your head hurting?"

"Yes." Xuan Yuan Qi Xi nodded pitifully. "

Are you dizzy too? Want to sleep but can't?" Murong Wei asked again.

Xuan Yuan Qi Xi nodded again, her large, teary eyes looking at Murong Wei, looking pitiful.

"Hmm..." Murong Wei seemed thoughtful, then said very seriously, "Qi Xi, let me tell you, if you don't tell me what the Emperor said, I can't cure your illness. You'd better figure it out yourself." Xuan

Yuanli was stunned, his jaw nearly dropping.

Xuan Yuan Qixi stared in disbelief. In her mind, how could Murong Wei dare to threaten her?

Yet, she was indeed threatening her.

She smiled innocently and tidied up the used silver needles.

Xuan Yuanli, now incredibly patient, lazily sat down beside her, resting his chin on his hands as he watched.

Murong Wei finished tidying up and sat down to make tea.

Xuan Yuan Qixi felt her head throbbing, her body chilled, and she couldn't muster any energy, feeling sickly and weak.

Murong Wei and Xuan Yuanli entertained themselves by making tea and even started chatting.

"Thirteenth Brother..." she finally choked out, drawing out the word "Brother."

Xuan Yuanli ignored her.

“Weiwei…” She looked at Murong Wei, drawing out the word “Wei” for a long time.

Murong Wei ignored her, drinking her tea and fiddling with a few silver needles in her hand, her brows furrowed as she pondered.

“My Emperor brother asked me to find Doctor Murong, warning me not to say that he sent him,” Xuan Yuan Qixi said timidly.

Xuan Yuan Li frowned, drinking his tea without saying a word.

Murong Wei’s hand stiffened slightly, a complex expression flashing across her eyes. She stood up and went to Xuan Yuan Qixi, not intending to let her continue.

Who knew that once Xuan Yuan Qixi opened her mouth, it was something else entirely. Her voice, thick with sobs and hoarse, babbled on and on, “My Emperor brother likes Weiwei and wants to keep her in the palace forever. He said I must find a way to stick to Weiwei and cling to her, not letting her leave. He said if I dare to tell you, I’ll have to stay in the palace for the rest of my life.”

The veins on Xuan Yuanli's forehead bulged, and he crushed the teacup in his hand, spitting out a mouthful of something unintelligible as he cursed. Murong Wei, however, didn't react much. She sat down and said calmly, "

Qi Xi, you've been drugged. I'm going to use acupuncture on several key acupoints on your head. I can't guarantee it will bring down the fever, but it's the only way. If it doesn't go down, you'll be in danger."

"Will I not wake up?" Xuan Yuan Qi Xi asked timidly.

"No." Murong Wei said helplessly.

"You can't tell my brother the Emperor that I confessed, or I really won't be able to leave the palace!" Xuan Yuan Qi Xi was even more worried about this, completely unaware of the danger she was in.

"Silly girl, do you know that such a high fever can damage your brain?" Murong Wei said helplessly.

"Damage..." Xuan Yuan Qi Xi was horrified.

"To be precise, if you keep burning like this, at best you'll become mentally impaired, at worst you'll die." Murong Wei wasn't joking; she hadn't expected Xuan Yuanlie to risk the life of such a foolish girl to save her.

This was simply outrageous; heaven would punish him sooner or later!

Xuan Yuan Qi Xi froze on the spot, dumbfounded.

"Can you sit down?" Murong Wei asked.

"Waaaaah... I'll tell you everything, Wei Wei, save me, I'll tell you everything! My Emperor brother even told me to find a way to stop anyone from coming to see you, especially Thirteenth Brother!" Xuan Yuan Qi Xi said.

"Bang!" Xuan Yuan Li slammed his hand on the table, about to rush out!

"Thirteenth Prince, I need your help!" Murong Wei quickly stopped him; she couldn't afford to argue anymore, otherwise she definitely wouldn't be able to go to Liu Sha.

"I don't know, I'll find you a royal physician!" Xuan Yuan Li said coldly.

"The royal physician is useless, Thirteenth Prince, you support Qi Xi, I can save her!" Murong Wei said.

Only then did Xuan Yuan Li reluctantly return, pressing down on Xuan Yuan Qi Xi's shoulders.

"Qi Xi, bear with it, there are a few acupoints that will hurt a bit," Murong Wei said.

Xuan Yuan Qi Xi was tense, afraid to move or speak.

Murong Wei frowned; she had never used this acupuncture technique before and had to admit she was nervous.

Two needles were inserted into her temples, and Xuan Yuan Qi Xi didn't react much. Suddenly, two more needles were inserted into two major acupoints at the back of her head. Xuan Yuan Qi Xi screamed in surprise. Fortunately, Xuan Yuan Li held her down; otherwise, she would have definitely struggled much more.

However, the pain was only momentary.

Murong Wei turned around, her small hand probing down the back of her head. She didn't know what acupoints she found, but through her clothes, she slowly inserted another needle.

"Ah..." Xuan Yuan Qi Xi screamed pitifully, and soon her forehead was covered in sweat.

She was already unconscious.

"How could this happen?" Xuan Yuan Li was frantic.

Murong Wei didn't speak, but frowned as she took his pulse. Her brows furrowed even more, and she quickly took another set of silver needles, applying them to Xuan Yuan Qi Xi's back.

Xuan Yuan Li didn't dare to disturb her, watching intently. Seeing that Murong Wei's forehead was covered in sweat, he subconsciously took out a handkerchief, hesitated, and then hid it back.

After a while, the entire set of silver needles, large and small, was used up. Xuan Yuan Qi Xi's face was pale, and he was drenched in sweat. In just a short time, he was completely soaked.

Murong Wei didn't speak, watching intently, as if waiting for something.

Xuan Yuan Li was nervous, wanting to ask but not daring to. The earnest expression on Murong Wei's face when she first saved him inadvertently floated into his mind, and a faint pain appeared in his heart.

He didn't know how much time had passed, but Xuan Yuan Qi Xi stopped sweating. His face was flushed, and in the middle of winter, he actually smelled of sweat.

Murong Wei took her pulse again, then breathed a sigh of relief, her serious expression turning into a smile.

"What happened? Is she alright?" Xuan Yuanli finally dared to speak.

"The cold air entered her brain; once it's expelled, she'll be fine." Murong Wei wiped her sweat and smiled at Xuan Yuanli with relief.

"All better?" Xuan Yuanli looked incredulous.

"Feel it; the fever's gone down. No matter what kind of medicine it is, as long as it stays in the body for a short time, it can be expelled by the silver needles," Murong Wei said.

Xuan Yuanli placed Xuan Yuan Qixi on the couch, touched her forehead, and sure enough, the fever had subsided.

"Wait outside; I'll change her clothes," Murong Wei said.

Xuan Yuanli nodded and then checked all the doors and windows around them one by one.

"What are you doing?" Murong Wei asked, puzzled, not wanting to bring up the previous incident again. Since he was willing to talk to her now, it felt quite natural.

"I locked them all immediately," Xuan Yuanli replied.

"And then?" Murong Wei was still confused.

"I'll wait outside. After all, you're a member of my Prince Li's household. With Lao Bai away, I have a responsibility to you. If anything happens to you, I can't handle Bai Wushang," Xuan Yuanli said calmly. Murong

Wei was stunned. Xuan Yuanli had already closed the gate.

After waiting for a while, Murong Wei came out. By then, it was almost dawn.

"Thirteenth Prince, let's go," Murong Wei said.

"Aren't you going to call the dog emperor over to take a look?" Xuan Yuanli asked.

"Why would I call him? Let Qi Xi sleep for a while. By the time he finishes his morning court session, Qi Xi will be awake. It'll be fine, don't worry," Murong Wei said. She didn't even want to say goodbye to Xuan Yuanli.

He hadn't said she couldn't leave last night; she was only here to cure Princess Qi Xi's illness.

"Alright! Then let's leave completely," Xuan Yuanli said decisively.

"Completely?" Murong Wei was puzzled.

"After we return to the manor, before he knows, I'll send you away from the capital. You go to Liusha first, with Liu Jian accompanying you. You and Lao Bai go ahead; I'll go with the imperial forces," Xuan Yuanli said.

"Thirteenth..." Murong Wei was stunned, a wave of bitterness washing over her.

"Hurry! There's still some time before he comes here after court; we should be able to get rid of him completely," Xuan Yuanli said earnestly, pulling her along as they ran.

"Thirteenth Prince, actually..." Murong Wei wanted to say something more.

"Hurry up! Don't think I'm doing this for your sake; I'm only after the head of the Liusha Queen!" Xuan Yuanli said coldly.

News of Prince Qi's critical illness quickly spread throughout Xuanyuan and the four vassal states.

The most panicked place at this time was undoubtedly the Prince Qi

's residence. From the principal wife to the lowest servants, everyone was filled with worry. If Prince Qi were to die, the entire household would surely perish with him.

However, even those in the residence didn't know the full story. Only Yelü Lingrong, who was present that night, knew the details. Her courtyard was now packed with people, even the usually reclusive Consort De had come.

Meanwhile, a distinguished guest, Bai Wushang, who had never appeared there before, arrived at Li Jie's residence.

He sat lazily in a rocking chair, basking in the warm sun, his narrow eyes slightly narrowed. Besides his handsome face, his neck and arms were covered in large, red patches, as if he had been stung by something, suffering from a skin allergy.

Li Jie sat beside him, brewing medicine, glancing at him occasionally, a hint of suspicion in her eyes.

This master rarely appeared at the Prince Qi's residence dressed like this!

"Master, drink it while it's hot," Sister Li said softly.

Bai Wushang didn't speak, as if he were asleep.

"Master..." Sister Li cautiously probed again.

"Leave it there, I'm tired, don't disturb me." Bai Wushang's voice was very faint, revealing the languid weariness of a nanny.

"Master, you've eaten so much seafood, you should drink your medicine quickly," Sister Li advised.

Bai Wushang didn't speak again, turned to his side, his breathing even, as if he had fallen asleep from exhaustion.

Sister Li's eyes were full of heartache, she took a blanket and carefully draped it over him, and just then, a dark figure appeared out of thin air and landed to the side. It was none other than Liu Jian, his slender body, even in his black outfit, seemed as if a gust of wind could blow it away, his features were extremely delicate, his nose was straight and high, the kind of handsome and refined beauty, but unfortunately, he was a bit too thin.

"Shh..." Sister Li immediately signaled him to be quiet.

"It's urgent." He not only spoke, but his voice was also quite loud.

However, to his and Sister Li's surprise, Bai Wushang didn't wake up. This guy, whose vigilance was arguably the strongest in the world, was still asleep!

"Shh! He's been too tired lately! Let things rest for a while, let him sleep," Sister Li quickly whispered.

"Murong Wei has already left the city gate, and Guiguzi is with her," Liu Jian said, still in the same tone and volume as before.

However, Bai Wushang still didn't wake up, turned over, and continued sleeping.

"What's going on? What are they going out of the city for?" Sister Li was surprised.

"It's the Thirteenth Prince's idea. To avoid the Emperor, leaving first isn't without its drawbacks," Liu Jian said, stepping forward to wake Bai Wushang.

"Stop," Sister Li scolded in a low voice, "Insolence!"

"He needs to know, otherwise you can't bear the responsibility," Liu Jian said.

"I will tell him that I will take responsibility if anything happens," Sister Li said coldly.

"I've gone too far. You can't bear the responsibility. Guiguzi is no good. I'll hurry back," Liu Jian said, taking a step forward and suddenly slamming the ground down!

Suddenly, a jolt shook the ground, and Bai Wushang sprang to his feet, instantly drawing his sword and reflexively sweeping it around!

Liu Jian and Sister Li hurriedly retreated, quite used to his fierce defense.

Once they saw clearly, he fell silent, his long, narrow black eyes turning icy cold. "What happened?" "

The Thirteenth Prince sent Murong Wei to the Liusha Kingdom to avoid Xuan Yuanlie this morning. I followed her and will report back when the opportunity arises," Liu Jian said succinctly.

"Just Guiguzi alone?" Bai Wushang exclaimed in shock.

"I'll return immediately!" Liu Jian said, turning to leave without pausing.

Bai Wushang frowned, rose to leave, but stopped and sat back down. If Murong Wei saw him during this attack, she would surely be suspicious.

"Master, please drink your medicine quickly. Rest for two or three days; you'll recover. With Liu Jian here, nothing will happen," Sister Li said timidly.

"Is everything ready?" Bai Wushang asked, then lazily lay back down.

Sister Li quickly got up and went inside, returning a moment later with a large brocade box. Inside lay the brocade screen they had bought from Ren Fan; the painting had already been removed.

Sister Li slowly unfurled the gold-threaded brocade painting on the stone table. The painting was simply magnificent; it depicted a grand Buddhist festival at the temple fair, with exaggerated techniques and many abstract images. However, an eight-tiered treasure box was clearly visible, beneath a huge lotus pedestal of a Buddha statue.

"This Buddha statue? It's quite rare," Bai Wushang said, frowning. Cheng and Ren Fan had discussed it, but neither recognized the statue.

Xuan Yuanli had mentioned the legend of the Flowing Sands, that there would be two treasure boxes in the underground palace. Could this be the one from the temple fair?

"Master, where did Ren Fan get this brocade painting? Judging from the material, it's made of thousand-year-old silkworm silk. Although not from ice silkworms, it's still extremely precious, imperishable for a thousand years," Sister Li said, also a connoisseur.

“It was obtained by a slave owner under Ren Fan’s command. It was always hidden behind a screen. If Ye Bao hadn’t stumbled upon it, finding this thing would have been incredibly difficult!” Bai Wushang exclaimed. Liu Jian had seen it, and he immediately recognized that the temple fair scene depicted the grand ceremony of the Liusha Buddhist Kingdom, not a scene from the ceremony itself, but rather a scene from the underground palace.

This thing must have been unearthed from the tomb of the Liusha royal family.

“Master, judging from its shape and design, this should be a folding screen. It only has two sides; it’s missing two to be complete,” Sister Li said.

“A folding screen!” Bai Wushang noticed this problem only then. Folding screens, also known as curved screens, usually have four, six, or eight sides, with a minimum of four!

This screen only has two sides!

" Two more are missing!

" Bai Wushang laughed. "Hehe, Ren Fan and I both overlooked that." Perhaps the missing parts could explain why there was only one eight-layered treasure box in the painting, while the royal legend says there were two in the underground palace.

Sister Li looked at it carefully and said, "Master, if I remember correctly, this should be Dipankara Buddha, the Buddha of the Past in the legends of the Buddhist Kingdom."

"The Buddha of the Past?" Bai Wushang was puzzled. He always only believed in himself and didn't have much interest in the Buddhist Kingdom's beliefs.

"In the legends of the Liusha Buddhist Kingdom, there are three Buddhas: the Buddha of the Past, the Buddha of the Present, and the Buddha of the Future. The Buddha of the Past is Dipankara Buddha, the Buddha of the Present is Shakyamuni, and the Buddha of the Future is Maitreya Buddha," Sister Li explained.

"So, if there's a Buddha statue of the Buddha of the Past in the underground palace, there must be statues of the Buddha of the Present and the Buddha of the Future!" Bai Wushang exclaimed in surprise.

"Most temples only have statues of Shakyamuni and Maitreya Buddha, and rarely have Dipankara Buddha. But any temple with Dipankara Buddha must be a large temple, so all three Buddha statues would be there!" Sister Li said.

Her master was going to the Flowing Sand Kingdom, and she had done a lot of research.

Bai Wushang remained silent, staring intently at the eight-layered treasure box hidden beneath the lotus throne, deep in thought.

The silk painting was extremely exquisite; it was more like an embroidery than a painting. All the abstract images on the painting flowed smoothly, without the stiffness of ordinary embroidery, while the clear images were lifelike. If one looked at it for a long time, one would have the illusion of being in a Buddhist holy land.

"Master, it seems that if this painting is truly a scene from the Flowing Sand Palace, then, logically speaking, there are more than just two eight-layered treasure boxes in the Flowing Sand Palace!" Sister Li said timidly.

Bai Wushang didn't speak, silently holding the medicine and gulping it down.

"Master, perhaps, when Liu Jian gets there, he will remember more things." Sister Li probed again. Liu Jian was the most subordinate of the Flowing Sand Kingdom. Back then, when her master saved him, wasn't it from the Flowing Sand?

"That might not be a good thing," Bai Wushang said calmly.

“Master, perhaps we can find Liu Jian’s memories…” Sister Li hesitated.

Bai Wushang smiled, “Steward Li… why deliberately try to evoke the memories of someone whose face was burned beyond recognition by the fire?”

“But Master, keeping him by your side is, undeniably, the biggest hidden danger!” Sister Li said earnestly.

“One more or one less makes no difference.” Bai Wushang chuckled, lazily taking out an account book from his sleeve, which succinctly recorded all his grudges.

He flipped through it and asked, “Are the chrysanthemums in the Eastern Empress Dowager’s quarters still there?”

“The old lady loves them very much and waters them herself every day,” Sister Li said with a smile.

Bai Wushang nodded in satisfaction, flipped through a few more pages, then put away the letter from Qinglong that he had taken out from his other sleeve, a smile playing on his lips as he read it word by word again and again.

Sister Li hurriedly fetched paper and pen. Bai Wushang, holding the pen in his left hand, meticulously mimicked Ye Bao's handwriting, rewriting the instructions from Qinglong's letter with a different tone and expression, creating a version of Ye Bao's letter.

Sister Li shook her head helplessly, thinking that only Ye Xiaobao could make his master spend so much time and effort...

Meanwhile, deep in the mountains of Nanzhao, in a very secluded spot, high in the lush trees, Young Master Ye was fast asleep, his arms behind his head!

Right beside his little face, tiny Buqing hung upside down as if dying, sleeping just as soundly, sometimes quiet, sometimes snoring with its fangs wide open!

If a figure were to leap up from under the tree, its speed would make the monkeys in the tree ashamed and want to jump to their deaths!

The newcomer was light and agile, with a bun hairstyle, bright and mischievous eyes—it was Zhao Xueling!

She sat lazily at the base of the tree trunk, glanced at Ye Xiaobao and Xiao Buqing, and without saying a word, pulled out a large axe and chopped down with a loud "crack!"

"Ah..."

With a scream, Ye Xiaoshao followed the felled tree trunk, plummeting straight down through the branches and leaves!

Soon, "Thump... Thump..." two sounds followed, the tree trunk hit the ground, and Ye Xiaoshao landed immediately afterward. Half of the tree was swept away, leaving only Xiao Buqing hanging upside down in the air, stealthily and slowly curling up. But before she could climb back up, Zhao Xueling grabbed her, tied a knot, and tossed her aside.

"Ye Xiaobao, I'm going to teach you a lesson today! I made you memorize the Poison Scripture, and you actually came here to sleep!" Zhao Xueling roared, pulling out a giant black spider that Ye Xiaobao feared most and throwing it down!

One giant black spider wasn't scary; what was scary was that this thing would attract all the poisonous spiders in the entire mountain in no time!

In the afternoons of the Wanzhong Mountains of Nanzhao, a thunderstorm is inevitable.

At this time, lightning flashes and thunder roars, winds howl wildly, and a torrential downpour seems imminent. The sky is a dark, oppressive mass; gazing upwards for too long gives one the illusion that the sky is about to collapse, as if the entire world has turned gloomy.

In the dense forest, a towering tree, halved in half, still stands majestically, seemingly independent between heaven and earth. Beneath this tree lies the densest patch of flowers, and a sinister atmosphere, like the vines of a primeval forest, spreads wildly from this spot, emanating a chilling and terrifying aura—extremely dangerous!

Atop the tree, a woman in green sits lazily on the highest branch, arms crossed, letting the wind tousle her clothes and hair, her expression calm and collected as she watches below.

Countless hairy black spiders, large and small, swarm around her, crawling over her body, all the way down to the base of the tree.

Upon closer inspection, one could see that the entire tree trunk had long since turned black, densely covered with fuzzy black spiders.

All the black spiders were heading in one direction: to a recessed area in the dense undergrowth beneath the tree.

There, a six- or seven-year-old child lay motionless on his back, his exquisitely sculpted features contorted in a look of utter terror!

He was surrounded by a swarm of black spiders, poised to pounce. Even the smallest one was much larger than him; a single thread from any one of them could instantly bring down a large ox!

Zhao Xueling was serious this time!

His incredibly sharp eyes darted around, observing every single spider's movement! He had drawn a line around himself, silently telling himself that if a fuzzy black claw crossed that line, he would run—run for his life!

The black spiders, seemingly aware of his movements, remained motionless just outside the line, their enormous eyes fixed on him. A tense silence descended, the situation locked in a stalemate!

Suddenly, a rustling sound came from the nearby bushes. He immediately tensed, preparing to flee. All the surrounding spiders instantly stood on their eight legs, on guard.

Just then, a tiny spider, no bigger than his small palm, appeared out of nowhere, unexpectedly leaping over the larger spiders and...actually! It actually rolled onto the line! It

was on the line!

Instantly, the atmosphere became extremely tense!

Ye Xiaobao was stunned; the ends of his hair flew up as if electrocuted, and every hair on his body stood on end in a chilling daze!

Similarly, the surrounding large spiders, their fuzzy black hairs all bristling, also stood on end. This wasn't the first time they had attacked Ye Xiaobao, but the first time they had attacked him while Xiao Buqing wasn't around! It was understandable that they were nervous!

Ye Xiaobao's gaze fell on the little spider, seeing it rolling on its back with its eight legs pointing skyward.

Suddenly!

Suddenly, one of its legs touched the ground, stabilizing itself, and the other leg also touched the ground, finally allowing it to flip over.

Abruptly!

It flipped over in one breath, its entire body landing within his boundary!

"Mommy!" he shouted suddenly, instantly soaring high into the air. After jumping and leaping on countless mountains and various trees for so long, light-footed skills were a piece of cake for him.

As he leaped up, countless spider silks sprayed towards him, their sharpness no less than that of a shot arrow.

Soon, his little feet were bound by a bundle of spider silk!

"Master, spare me, I can recite the Poison Scripture!" he suddenly screamed hysterically, but before he could finish speaking, his other foot was immediately bound, and he was violently pulled down!

"Master, I really can recite it! Really... Waaah..."

His voice turned into a wail at the end.

Just then, a sudden "boom" erupted from the dark clouds, followed by a torrential downpour of large raindrops.

The green shadow on the tree had vanished; the heavy curtain of rain obscured all movement within the dense forest, and the sounds of rain, thunder, and wind ceased to be heard.

The entire mountain was enveloped in a world of rain… everything that had just occurred, even the earth-shattering events, was instantly submerged in the downpour…

A full hour later…

the rain stopped, a cool breeze caressed our faces, and everything felt refreshed, as if washed clean and fresh.

The woman in green slowly closed her paper umbrella and emerged from under the tree canopy, her usually mischievous face now bearing a serious and solemn expression—the first time in her life.

She slowly walked into the dense forest. The rain lashed down, the wind swept across, and a path strewn with broken branches and leaves. The surroundings were so quiet that even the chirping of insects was gone, save for the sound of her footsteps on the fallen leaves. She stopped before a puddle, a flicker of heartache crossing her serious eyes, which she quickly suppressed. She remained silent, looking down at the small hand clinging to the puddle at her feet.

It was covered in blood, a horrifying sight!

"Young Master Ye, get up!" she shouted sharply.

The water in the puddle was murky and yellowish, emitting a strange smell, similar to herbs, yet not quite. She didn't know how deep the puddle was, and she couldn't see him at all, only that small hand clinging tightly to the bank. Through the blurred bloodstains, she could vaguely see scratches, clearly the marks of spider claws.

There was no movement.

"Little Ye, get up!" she roared.

Finally, movement came from the water's surface, ripples spreading out, growing increasingly rapid.

Suddenly, a small figure burst out of the water and stood up abruptly. His wet body was covered in wounds, almost completely bruised. His tender little face was dirty, and he was biting a thick leg of a black spider in his mouth. His other hand was also holding a severed arm!

Upon seeing Zhao Xueling, he spat fiercely at the spider's claw, snarling, "You lied to me!"

"Where did I lie to you?" Zhao Xueling asked.

"Weren't you always joking?" Ye Bao questioned. No matter how mischievous or lazy he was, his master would never be serious. But this time, she made him fight the black spider in the pouring rain for a full hour!

If he hadn't truly memorized the Poison Manual, he wouldn't have been able to escape this battle.

This dense forest was full of herbs that countered the black spider's poison—herbs that dissolve in water. When it rained, the herbs turned to water and flowed into the nearest puddle. For a whole hour, he fought the black spider bare-handed in the puddle, even using his teeth in the end. In the end, the black spider wasn't actually killed by him, but rather stunned by the medicinal smell in the water.

"Knowing how to use these herbs, you've indeed memorized the Poison Manual. Why didn't you tell me?" Zhao Xueling said calmly.

"Give me ten days, and we'll talk again in ten days!" Ye Bao said confidently. With his photographic memory, he could memorize a scripture in a day, and he still had nine days to explore in the mountains, right?

"Do you know that my mother wants to see you tomorrow?" Zhao Xueling said calmly.

"My mother?" Ye Bao was taken aback, realizing that his master's attitude had been off since earlier and was definitely not a joke.

"It's my aunt, Princess Nangong. I just received the news yesterday that she'll be selecting a few of the newly initiated disciples." Zhao Xueling said.

"An assessment? You've only been here a few days, and there's already an assessment?" Ye Bao asked suspiciously.

"The timing and the assessment depend entirely on her mood. Don't be late for the main hall on the main peak tomorrow morning. As for your background, you should know how to explain it." Zhao Xueling finished speaking and turned to leave with a cold face.

"Master! Wait!" Ye Bao chased after her, but at that moment, a huge python suddenly appeared and blocked his path, its blood-red mouth lunging at him.

"Master, wait, Master, I still have..." Ye Bao's terrified voice was quickly drowned out by the dense forest.

Zhao Xueling didn't turn back and walked extremely fast.

Her personal attendants, Qinglong and Huofeng, appeared one after the other. Qinglong looked at the dense forest, reluctant to leave. Huofeng quickly caught up and whispered, "Master, what's wrong?"

Zhao Xueling suddenly stopped, her small hand pressed to her chest, exaggeratedly nervous, and said, "I can't bear to look! Seeing that child being abused, my heart can't take it! I'll soften my heart!"

Huofeng was stunned. Was this still the ruthless little poison demon of the Hundred Poisons Sect? She was actually afraid of softening her heart?!

She turned around and looked at Qinglong, only to see that Qinglong had already secretly drawn his long sword and was about to make a move.

"Stop!" she shouted sharply, quickly jumping away, "What are you doing?"

"That's Da Buqing. His Buqing King isn't by his side. He can't survive!" Qinglong said anxiously.

“Master, you have the right to decide. If he can get through this, he'll be safe when he sees my mother tomorrow. If he's destined to die, it's better to die here today than in the main hall tomorrow! At least he'll have a whole corpse!” Huo Feng said coldly.

Just then, a miserable howl suddenly rang out—it was Ye Bao's voice.

Qinglong abruptly pushed Huo Feng's hand away and leaped into the air. At the same time, a green shadow flashed past, its movement completely obscured. Qinglong was instantly thrown back, crashing heavily to the ground, coughing up blood!

Zhao Xueling landed and said coldly, “Anyone who dares to help him, I'll make them roll from the mountaintop to the bottom!”

“Master, Ye Bao is still just a child!” Qinglong said urgently.

“In the Hundred Poisons Sect, there is no distinction between age and gender!” Zhao Xueling said coldly, her face serious, and turned to leave.

Qinglong didn't say anything more, staring blankly at her departing figure. Wasn't that the direction she was heading towards Ye Bao?

Fire Phoenix looked bewildered. "Didn't Master say she dared not look? Did she go the wrong way?"

"Hehe, Master went..." Azure Dragon suddenly chuckled. "Hehe, with Master guarding her, Night Baby will definitely be alright! She'll definitely be alright!"

As Zhao Xueling walked, the seriousness on her face had vanished, replaced by a look of inner turmoil. Was she really that ruthless? Was she really that ruthless?

In the towering tree, Zhao Xueling huddled like an ostrich in a huge branch, her hands tightly covering her eyes.

In the silent forest, the sounds of a giant snake slithering rapidly, its tail whipping through the trees, mingled with the screams of a child, rising and falling. The

rustling sounds, sometimes near, sometimes far, grew louder and louder. Soon, flocks of birds took flight, and wild animals rushed out in disarray, shaking the entire forest.

The towering tree trembled, even swaying from side to side. Zhao Xueling, her brow furrowed, had already stood up, clinging to the trunk, gazing at the setting sun. Darkness was falling, and the danger in the forest was increasing.

Her eyes followed the sounds in the woods, hearing familiar voices—screams, screams, growing increasingly shrill—and her hands clutched her heart.

She had only known this child for a few days, yet she felt a strange affection for him, like a like-minded friend, a buddy.

Accustomed to his usual carefree and playful nature, hearing his pitiful screams and even pleas for mercy, she simply couldn't bring herself to be cruel.

Her hands nearly tore at the fabric of her clothes, but she finally couldn't resist and took out her bamboo whistle.

However, just as she was about to blow it, the Fire Phoenix appeared out of nowhere, earnestly saying, "Master, you can't!"

"He's too young," Zhao Xueling replied seriously.

At that moment, suddenly, a huge snake tail rose high, hovering in mid-air, coiling around a small body—it was Ye Bao!

"Little Ye!" Zhao Xueling cried out in alarm. She had raised the Great Green Serpent from a young age; its trump card, besides its deadly poison, was this giant tail—with just a little force, it could shatter stone!

She abruptly brought the bamboo whistle to her lips, about to blow it, but then screamed. A spray of blood, like a fountain, gushed out from the other side. Simultaneously, the snake tail loosened, and the small figure plummeted to the ground, disappearing in a flash.

"Hiss..." Bu Qing hissed angrily. His snake tail snapped off, and his head shot up, less than an inch from his eyes, bleeding profusely—he'd been hit by a dart!

The snake's head had barely risen when it plummeted backward, swooping down to chase after the figure that had appeared out of nowhere below!

In an instant, the figure vanished again, reappearing atop the massive snake head, a sharp dagger lashing out, poised to pierce the very center of the head!

"Hiss..." Even faster than his movements was a plume of white mist, spewing from the two holes on Bu Qing's head—poison gas!

"You brat, are you courting death?" Zhao Xueling immediately scolded, whistling sharply with her bamboo whistle. The poison manual clearly stated that Bu Qing's poison was difficult to find; at least, there was no antidote nearby. If the antidote wasn't found within three cups of tea's time, death was certain!

The bamboo whistle blew instantly, and she tiptoed forward.

But who would have thought!

Hearing the bamboo whistle, Da Buqing stopped reacting and slowly, gently, bent down.

Ye Bao, who should have collapsed on the snake's head, bleeding from all seven orifices, actually… actually… actually…

"You brat, stop!" By the time Zhao Xueling realized what he was doing, it was too late.

A sharp dagger pierced Da Buqing's head, causing it to shake its head violently in pain, tumbling several times before landing heavily, shaking the ground!

Ye Bao's figure had long since vanished.

Zhao Xueling landed on a tree, staring at the equally astonished Huo Feng opposite her, dumbfounded!

The Buqing poison hadn't worked on this kid!

How could this be?

"You brat, come out!" Zhao Xueling shouted.

No one answered her.

"Ye Bao! Come out, I have something to ask you!" she yelled sharply.

Still no one answered.

"Ye Bao, if you don't come out, there won't be any meat tonight!" Zhao Xueling roared.

"Master...I'm here." Finally, a weary voice came. Zhao Xueling quickly looked up and saw Ye Bao lying weakly on a tree trunk above him, covered in wounds, his clothes tattered, his face filthy, even his once-proud little face was covered in scratches. He looked like a wild child.

"You're not poisoned?" Zhao Xueling asked in surprise.

"My...my Qing'er, when she's angry, she bites me...I'm used to it..." Ye Bao said calmly, his voice very weak.

"How is that possible?" Zhao Xueling was astonished.

"Master, do you really want me to be poisoned?" Ye Bao said sadly.

"Are you really alright?" Zhao Xueling still didn't believe it.

"It's nothing! Old Bai got bitten and he's fine... This young master... is naturally beautiful... immune to all poisons... How, how is this possible..." Before he could finish speaking, his head slumped heavily, hanging limply from a tree branch, seemingly on the verge of death...

The next morning, when Ye Bao groggily woke from his dream of gold and silver treasures, he was met with Zhao Xueling's suspicious eyes.

He froze, not even remembering how he got back yesterday.

"Get up, it's time to go to the main hall." Zhao Xueling said, pulling him up.

Ye Bao looked at his arm suspiciously, then ran to the mirror to look at his face; yesterday's scars were all gone.

"Hehe, Master, wasn't Ye Bao amazing yesterday!" he asked proudly.

"Yes, amazing so much so that I had to carry you back in the end." Zhao Xueling smiled insincerely, but inwardly admired him. He should have fainted on Da Buqing's back yesterday, but he was still able to climb the tree; how much stamina did he have!

"Really? I remember I chopped off your big head with one strike!" Ye Bao said suspiciously, having no recollection of what they said in the tree yesterday.

"Fire Phoenix, put the mask on him and go to the main hall. I'll be there in a bit," Zhao Xueling said.

Fire Phoenix dragged him away without a word, while Zhao Xueling took out the blood sample she had just collected, put it in a brocade box, and carried it with her at all times. He

was actually immune to Bu Qing poison; this little guy's blood must hold some secret!

Along the way, Fire Phoenix told Ye Bao many things about the matriarch of the Hundred Poisons Sect, but when they arrived at the main hall, he was still stunned.

He saw a heavily made-up old woman sitting high on the main seat, surrounded by kneeling new disciples, and... and crawling all over the floor with various kinds of venomous snakes, some coiled around pillars and chairs, but many more wrapped around people's legs, waists, and necks.

None of the disciples were moved, and none dared to utter a sound.

"Fire Phoenix, bring the person in and close the door," the old woman said coldly.

"Night Treasure, with your abilities, just don't talk back and you'll be fine. Most importantly, try not to mention your master," Fire Phoenix whispered a reminder.

"Why can't I mention her?" Night Treasure asked, puzzled.

"It's not bad, don't be afraid. Since even Bu Qing couldn't do anything to you, nothing will happen this time," Fire Phoenix offered a rare act of kindness. "

Aunt Fire Phoenix, you're acting strangely," Night Treasure said suspiciously.

"Go in, go in," Fire Phoenix said, then hurriedly turned and closed the door, leaving.

Night Treasure frowned, carefully stepping over the venomous snakes scattered on the ground, and respectfully bowed, saying, "Disciple Night Nameless greets Mistress."

"Whose disciple are you?" the old woman asked.

"A disciple of Poison Spirit Residence," Night Treasure replied, not mentioning Zhao Xueling's name.

"Who is your master?" the old woman asked again.

"...Zhao Xueling," Night Treasure had no choice but to answer.

"Oh... Xueling..." the old woman seemed to understand.

Ye Bao forced a smile, sensing a trap.

"Ling'er...it's been so long since I've seen her," the old woman sighed.

Ye Bao maintained his smile, inwardly realizing he'd been tricked by his master.

"Heh heh, I love Ling'er's disciple the most. Men, throw her into the snake pit!" the old woman suddenly ordered coldly.

"Why?" Ye Bao blurted out. He knew the Hundred Poisons Sect's snake pit; he wouldn't be able to get out for at least three or four months.

"Because I really dislike Zhao Xueling!" the old woman sneered, signaling her men to act.

"I can change masters!" Ye Bao cried out, but before he could finish, his mouth was gagged. Two tall slaves grabbed him, one on each side, and dragged him away without a chance to explain!

"Someone, pass on the message: she won't let that brat leave the snake pit until she returns the two poisonous toads to me!" the old woman said coldly, ignoring the disciples of the prince, and got up to leave...

Meanwhile, at the Poison Spirit Residence, bright sunlight filtered through the bamboo forest. Beside the winding stream, Zhao Xueling leaned lazily against Da Buqing's large body, gently stroking his head, which was tightly bound with white gauze, while holding a glass bottle filled with blood aloft, examining it in the sunlight.

"Master, the Second Madam sent word that she won't release Ye Bao from the snake pit unless the poisonous toads are returned," Huo Feng reported truthfully. She had only learned this morning that her master had stolen the Second Madam's poisonous toads yesterday morning and refused to hand them over.

She knew Ye Bao would be very upset seeing the Second Madam today; no wonder she had suddenly trained him yesterday and suddenly shown such compassion and pity!

"The snake pit!" Zhao Xueling frowned.

"Yes! Even if the Second Madam intends to keep the area dry, it will take a month or two for him to come out," Huo Feng said.

"The snake's den, he actually went to the snake's den!" Zhao Xueling said thoughtfully.

"Master, perhaps..." Huo Feng hesitated.

"Huo Feng, do you think Ye Bao will hate me to death after he comes out?" Zhao Xueling asked seriously.

"Master, you don't need to wait for him to come out, he already hates you now," Huo Feng said timidly.

"I'm doing this for his own good!" Zhao Xueling said earnestly.

Huo Feng didn't dare to say anything more. She had already kindly reminded Ye Bao that coming to her master's side was a matter of good luck, but that boy just wouldn't listen.

"My heart really aches! But... the Snake Cave isn't a bad place. Staying there for a year is better than being a disciple of the Hundred Poisons Sect for ten years." Zhao Xueling muttered to herself, then lazily said, "Fire Phoenix, tell her that I'm not giving in. Let her torment Young Master Ye if she dares!"

Fire Phoenix's lips twitched slightly as she respectfully accepted the order and left...

There are two roads leading from the Xuanyuan capital to the Liusha Kingdom. One is the official road, which was used for transporting supplies during wartime. It's flat, wide, and has numerous post stations, making it the shortest route from Xuanyuan to Liusha.

The other is the so-called "black road." Liusha Kingdom is known for its unearthed treasures, most of which need to be transported to Xuanyuan for trade. This road was originally built to facilitate the smuggling of cultural relics. It winds through mountains and valleys, extremely rugged and hidden, traversing the continuous mountain range between Xuanyuan and Liusha, with many

treacherous terrains. Heading west, the winter north wind howled past her ears. Murong Wei wrapped her veil tightly around her head, carrying her toolbox on her shoulders, struggling against the wind.

"Guiguzi, is there really a road ahead?" she shouted. She had set off directly after leaving the palace that night, fortunately having made ample preparations beforehand.

"Yes, I've walked this road at least ten times, don't worry!" Guiguzi said in a strange tone, dismounting from his horse. He added, "The road ahead is right next to a cliff, let's not go any further."

Murong Wei was taken aback, almost not understanding what he meant. "Why not?"

"Those people behind us have been following us for a long time. If they attack from there, I can't protect you." Guiguzi shrugged and said in a low voice, his wide, all-black robe revealing only a pair of clear black and white eyes in the darkness, looking somewhat drunk.

This guy was almost always drinking, but she had never seen him truly drunk.

Murong Wei immediately became alert. Although her martial arts skills weren't great, she at least had a sense of awareness. Either this guy was lying to her, or the newcomer was a master.

"Are there many people?" she leaned closer and asked in a low voice.

"Quite a few!" Guiguzi laughed, raising his gourd to drink more wine. How much wine could such a small gourd hold? How come it never seemed to run out?

"What are you planning?" Murong Wei immediately became alert. In the middle of nowhere, she wouldn't mind dropping a few bombs!

"Hehe, I'm tired, going to sleep!" Guiguzi laughed, took a few more sips of wine, staggered a few steps, and then, laughing, threw a few drunken punches at Murong Wei. Suddenly, he stopped, plopped down, and lay on his back with his legs in the air. He actually... actually fell fast asleep!

"Hey!" Murong Wei frowned and carefully kicked him.

There was no reaction at all.

"Hey!" Murong Wei snapped, giving him a hard kick. She wanted him to escort her and hurry on their way, but he just wanted to sleep, drunk! He even said someone was following him. Who was he trying to fool?

No matter how much Murong Wei kicked him, Guiguzi wouldn't wake up, like a dead pig.

"Not getting up, are you?" Murong Wei narrowed her eyes, slowly squatted down, and pressed a sharp dagger against his black robe. She said in a low voice, "I'll count to three. If you don't get up and keep going, I'll tear your black robe off and see what you look like!"

Guiguzi still didn't react.

"One, two, three!" Murong Wei counted quickly, deliberately wanting to see his expression.

She flicked the tip of her knife, suddenly straining, but just as she was about to strike, a sharp "whoosh" came from behind!

The long whip lashed out at her waist, and before she could even react, she was pulled backward!

Her body felt as if it were gripped tightly by the whip, unable to move. Her hand twisted back, the dagger slashing down fiercely, the whip snapping in two, and she instantly fell backward, headfirst! The

dagger was thrown away, and she braced herself with her hands, flipping herself to her feet. She immediately crouched down and drew her short spear!

Leaving the capital, many things no longer needed to be hidden; she could do whatever she wanted!

However, there was no one around. She turned to look at Guiguzi, only to see him still lying on his back, fast asleep!

She remained silent, cautiously retreating to Guiguzi's side. Guiguzi must have his reasons.

The surroundings were dark and quiet, devoid of any movement or human presence. The whip had appeared out of thin air, vanishing without a trace, yet the severed piece was undeniably real! After

waiting for a long time, Murong Wei dared not relax her guard. She brought the toolbox to her side; inside was a genuine treasure box. Of the two treasure boxes they had acquired, she and Bai Wushang each guarded one.

"Whoosh..." Suddenly, the whip cracked again.

Murong Wei instinctively leaned back as the long whip, descending from the sky, struck the toolbox in front of her with a loud "crack." The whip's end bounced towards Murong Wei's face. Ignoring the pain, she flipped 360 degrees, grabbing the whip tightly with one hand and pulling hard without giving it a moment's respite.

"Snap!" The other party generously released her grip, the whip snapping back violently. She had no choice but to let go as well, dodging to the side!

Just then, a dark figure leaped upwards from the ground, a bamboo-green sword gleaming eerily in the moonlight, its sword energy sharp and fierce, piercing straight into the night sky with the shadow!

This sword energy was something she was very familiar with, something she had practiced for so long but could never achieve—it was transforming qi into power!

Guiguzi was also a practitioner of qi, and although his abilities didn't reach Lao Bai's level, they far surpassed what she had witnessed between the master and servant, Chenzui!

The black robe was too dark, and he was too high in the air; she could only see the eerie green light of the bamboo sword, not the figure itself.

She frowned, still on guard, and took a few steps back, then suddenly stopped. Her small hand slowly touched her cheek; it was blood, dripping in the darkness!

Whose blood was it?

She was startled and flashed forward, but her inner strength was limited. Although she had practiced diligently these past few days, she couldn't leap too high. At the height she reached, she could only see a faint green light, and had no choice but to land silently.

As soon as she landed, she immediately sensed someone approaching from behind. She flashed again, disappearing into the darkness, but still couldn't see the person.

Could the newcomer also know ninjutsu?

But they couldn't disappear for so long, and she was familiar with it; she could spot them at a glance.

So-called ninjutsu is nothing more than using space, speed, and color illusions to create a kind of disappearance illusion, while the person is always still around.

Her steps changed constantly, her figure appearing and disappearing in an instant; only in this way could she evade her enemy.

No matter who the opponent was, one thing was certain: they were definitely coming directly for them. After thinking it over, there were only three possibilities: Prince Qi, Xuan Yuanlie, and Chen Zui!

Her figure suddenly reappeared, her delicate brows furrowed, and she took a few steps back, about to disappear again, when suddenly a large hand wrapped around her neck, and another hand covered her mouth. She struggled violently, her short gun flipping in her hand, about to fire, when a familiar voice rang in her ear, "Murong Wei, you escaped really fast!"

It was him!

She was shocked. Of the three suspects, he was the least expected. He actually used such a method and openly revealed his identity. What exactly did this pervert want to do?

No matter what, she didn't mind killing him now, regardless of the consequences, and making the world without a ruler would be best!

"You caught up pretty fast too!" she said coldly, immediately cocking her gun. The silenced pistol fired without a sound, and even at such close range, it jolted her own back, causing the person behind her to stiffen.

A cold smile curled at her lips. This was completely unexpected. Xuan Yuanlie, you've got some nerve! Out in the wilderness, all alone, you dare to come out like this!

Aren't emperors supposed to be afraid of death, rarely leaving the capital, surrounded by countless shadow guards day and night?

He personally chased after her!

"Just now... what was that?" Suddenly, a cold, eerie voice echoed in her ears again.

He wasn't dead!

How could this be?

If a bullet didn't penetrate, it would ricochet!

What on earth happened?

She had to admit, she was stunned! Instinctively, she hid her pistol.

Just then, with a "thud," a dark object suddenly fell from the sky. Murong Wei's heart skipped a beat, and she almost cried out "Guiguzi!" But then, a familiar dark figure slowly descended, landing heavily on the corpse, also dressed in black.

Immediately, a circle of black-clad figures appeared out of thin air around them, each slender, dressed in black, their faces covered with black cloth, and wielding bows and arrows!

Guiguzi gave Murong Wei a complicated look, remaining silent for a long time.

Murong Wei couldn't speak; her mouth was tightly covered.

The stalemate lasted only a moment. Suddenly, Guiguzi tilted his head back and sighed deeply, then raised his wine gourd and continued drinking heavily.

Xuan Yuanlie, also dressed in black and masked, coldly snorted, grabbed Murong Wei, and turned to leave.

Guiguzi merely glanced at them, making no move, passively awaiting his fate. He was already struggling to deal with so many skilled assassins, all at the early stage of the third level of the Blazing Qi realm. Even Bai Wushang was only at the late stage of the third level. The person who trained these assassins was no ordinary individual. His priority was to preserve his life!

How could Murong Wei have offended such a powerful person?

He prepared to escape, but Murong Wei had already been thrown onto the carriage. Xuan Yuanlie personally drove, without a single attendant.

The horse moved with incredible speed!

As Murong Wei jolted in the carriage, she finally understood two things: First, why Xuan Yuanlie had been able to sit on the Xuan Yuan throne for so many years—when a person is exceptionally cunning, their abilities can also be exceptionally powerful; second, why had Prince Qi, Xuan Yuanche, such a capable man, remained so calm and indifferent for so many years, making no move?

The horse galloped at breakneck speed. Murong Wei hid everything in the toolbox, locked it with a combination lock, and then lifted the curtains. She realized the speed was lightning fast. Gritting her teeth, she tightened the toolbox and leaped out the window!

"Whoa..." Xuan Yuanlie immediately pulled on the reins, but the horse couldn't stop and tumbled headfirst. He leaped into the air and landed beside Murong Wei. Murong Wei, who had rolled a considerable distance, barely managed to regain her balance. Just as she was about to get up, a large foot suddenly stepped on her hand, causing her to cry out in pain, "Ah..."

Looking up, she met a pair of sharp, eagle-like eyes.

She frowned, about to speak, when he suddenly released her, abruptly retreating and leaping into the air as if on guard.

What was going on?

Murong Wei instinctively looked back and saw a figure in white robes fluttering in the wind, like a white lotus blooming in the dark night—so beautiful!

Clad in white, his hair as black as ink, even with a white veil covering his face, she immediately thought of one person upon seeing him: Prince Qi, Xuan Yuanche!

Snow-white and deep ink, only these two colors, flamboyant in the wind, surpassing even the most vibrant colors in the world.

Xuan Yuanlie behind her seemed to have no intention of fighting; he pulled her away and turned to leave.

She struggled desperately, but when she looked up, she saw that white figure blocking her path.

She was shocked! Such speed!

Before she could even react, she was momentarily stunned; Xuan Yuanlie's speed was terrifyingly fast. When she regained her composure, she realized she was already far, far away from the white-clad man.

"Who is he?" Xuan Yuanlie demanded sharply. From the moment the white-clad man appeared, he had been on guard. One was tense, the other calm and collected; the outcome had already been decided in Murong Wei's mind.

As for who he was?

Murong Wei didn't know either; she only felt he resembled someone, but wasn't certain.

"If you want to know, go and tear off his veil yourself," she sneered, deliberately provoking her.

Xuan Yuanlie snorted coldly, his wide black robe suddenly covering her, and he turned to flee again.

Murong Wei was surrounded by darkness, her arms bound, unable to move. Even through the black robe, she could hear the whistling wind; the two were bound to engage in a fierce chase.

Suddenly! He stopped, staggering several times. Overjoyed, she seized the opportunity to struggle violently, stomping on him fiercely!

"Behave yourself!" Xuan Yuanlie snapped.

She sneered, her movements becoming even larger and more erratic. She had plenty of strength!

She couldn't see what was happening outside the black robe, only struggling and stomping on him relentlessly!

Xuan Yuanlie was still unsteady, his steps constantly retreating! Retreating! Retreating again!

Murong Wei initially thought he was avoiding her, but unexpectedly, Xuan Yuanlie suddenly soared high into the air, still retreating.

Suddenly, she frowned, stopping at the sound of weapons clashing! Then came another series of sharp sounds!

The sound she had just heard, which she had mistaken for the howling wind, wasn't real wind, but the aura of their swords!

She finally understood. At the same time, Xuan Yuanlie seemed unable to hold on any longer and suddenly released his grip on her.

Caught off guard, she grabbed his heels as she fell, looking up to see the two already locked in sword combat. The white-clad man was actually… actually wielding an ice-blue longsword!

Xuan Yuanlie clearly couldn't support her weight and continued to fall. The white-clad man pursued him, his longsword piercing towards Xuan Yuanlie's head.

Murong Wei chuckled, a cold, wicked smile playing on her lips. With one hand still holding him, she swiftly drew a dagger and, without a word, slashed his boots.

Xuan Yuanlie immediately kicked down, but she dodged, aiming for his heel!

However, Xuan Yuanlie's next kick was aimed directly at her head, a vicious blow. Murong Wei groaned, and at the same time, several drops of blood splattered on her face!

Another kick was about to come, but she suddenly let go, tumbling to the ground several times. Her head was spinning, and she stumbled several steps before barely managing to steady herself.

Xuan Yuanlie and the man in white also landed simultaneously. Xuan Yuanlie's dagger was wounded, and the blood was his.

Both were extremely skilled swordsmen, almost without flaws. After several exchanges, neither had gained the upper hand, but the man in white clearly had a stronger aura than Xuan Yuanlie.

Xuan Yuanlie had only been blocking and dodging, without actually making a move, while the man in white had been relentlessly pressing forward!

He didn't seem to be there to rescue her, but rather to provoke Xuan Yuanlie!

Suddenly, their swords clashed, both vibrating and buzzing. Xuan Yuanlie's brows furrowed, and he was covered in sweat, while the man in white remained calm, holding his sword in one hand and keeping the other behind his back!

"Who exactly are you?" Xuan Yuanlie asked coldly.

The man in white snorted coldly, remaining silent. Murong Wei saw his hands, which were behind his back, suddenly clench, and knew something was wrong!

Sure enough, the icy blue longsword trembled violently, instantly unleashing a burst of icy blue energy, sharp and cold, adding to its fierce aura!

Xuan Yuanlie couldn't withstand it at all. Although he released the sword in time, his arm was still not spared. In an instant, his sleeve was torn to shreds by the fierce energy, leaving several wounds on his arm. His longsword, before even hitting the ground, shattered into pieces!

How much power must one possess to achieve such a level instantly?

"Late stage of the third level of Cold Qi!" Xuan Yuanlie exclaimed in surprise. Murong Wei was even more certain of who this man in white was!

Who else could this person be but Bai Wushang?

She immediately relaxed her guard, as if it were a habit. As long as he was there, nothing was unmanageable; as long as he was there, danger could always be averted!

She even considered sitting cross-legged to watch the battle intently!

In their previous exchange, Xuan Yuanlie was clearly a cultivator of fire-based energy. Murong Wei couldn't discern whether he cultivated blazing or freezing energy, but one thing was clear: his level was far below Bai Wushang's!

Xuan Yuanlie had even less intention of lingering and turned to flee again!

"Your Majesty! Are you just leaving like this?" Murong Wei deliberately shouted, reminding Bai Wushang of his identity.

A white figure swooped down, blocking Xuan Yuanlie's path once more. Xuan

Yuanlie abruptly turned and fiercely lashed out at Murong Wei with his whip. Murong Wei dodged the first lash, but the second struck.

However! Xuan Yuanlie was already parrying Bai Wushang's longsword with his whip, the whip whistling incessantly. Who had delivered this second lash?

"There's someone else!

" Murong Wei exclaimed in surprise. The whip cracked again. She listened intently, discerning the direction, but it was too late to dodge. Just as she tried to sidestep, the long whip, seemingly appearing out of nowhere, slammed into her arm, drawing a trail of bright red blood!

One whip fell, another lashed out. At the same time, a white figure flashed to her side, pulling her into his arms and grabbing the sharp whip with one hand, yanking it hard!

Murong Wei saw it clearly. She really saw a white-haired, masked man in black appear out of thin air, wielding the very same long whip that Bai Wushang had grabbed!

How could this be? Even ninjutsu couldn't reach this level. How did this guy appear?!

"Heh, it's been over ten years since I've seen a master of the late stage of the third level of the Cold Qi Realm! Kid, you have a bright future ahead of you!" the man in black sneered.

Bai Wushang didn't speak. His tightly gripped hand suddenly loosened, and the whip snapped back instantly. At the same time, he lifted her high into the air, his icy blue longsword slashing down fiercely, its sword energy like a ray of light, unstoppable, aimed directly at Xuan Yuanlie!

The white-haired man in black had no time to pursue, turning to protect Xuan Yuanlie!

Murong Wei thought Bai Wushang was going to escape, but to everyone's surprise, he turned back, raising his sword and thrusting it straight down.

The white-haired man in black had just helped Xuan Yuanlie dodge the sharp sword light, caught off guard by Bai Wushang's return, and hurriedly fled with Xuan Yuanlie!

Even after they were gone, Bai Wushang didn't stop. The tip of his icy blue longsword pressed against the blade, and he said calmly, "Weiwei, hold the sword."

"Huh?" Murong Wei was puzzled.

"Hold the sword!" he repeated, very seriously.

Murong Wei finally grasped the longsword, and the instant she held it, she felt the extreme chill emanating from the icy blue blade; her hand nearly froze!

"It's yours!" Bai Wushang immediately released her grip and leaped into the air again.

Murong Wei then flipped down, the icy blue longsword still clanging, clearly indicating that its sword energy wasn't fully released. What should she do?

Bai Wushang landed to the side, arms crossed, watching quietly.

Murong Wei was carried along by the sword energy, wildly swinging and thrusting, her movements unpredictable!

Bai Wushang frowned, silent, his expression hidden beneath his snow-white veil.

Murong Wei followed the sword, being carried further and further away, until it became the sword controlling her, not her!

How could she fully release the sword energy? This was icy energy, while she cultivated scorching energy!

After a long while, she barely managed to steady herself, the longsword in her hand still clanging, as if it might slip from her grasp at any moment!

"Transform Qi into Power, transform Power into Qi," the phrase echoed repeatedly in her ears.

Her internal strength was insufficient to wield the sword; she could only rely on external force. But how could she transform external force into Qi?

She persisted, pondering, feeling a strange power gradually gathering within her, converging on her sword-wielding arm, even exceeding her capacity.

This feeling was so familiar; she felt an innate power within her that she could never unleash, just like when Old Bai opened her meridians in the hot spring.

Now, this feeling was extremely intense! She was

somewhat at a loss. Facing the sword she could no longer control, she suddenly covered it with her other hand, gripped the sword with both hands, lightly touched the ground with her toes, and leaped into the air!

She didn't care about anything else, didn't care about the consequences. Now, it wasn't the sword that was driving her, but the power surging within her; she felt an urge to explode!

Instinctively, she raised her longsword high above her head, took a deep breath as if on instinct, and slowly let all her energy sink into her dantian. Then, she slashed down with the longsword. She felt a warm current burst forth from her dantian, spreading to every acupoint in her body, and surging outwards!

Instantly, the surroundings were as bright as day. She clearly saw a cold white sword light first emerge sharply, followed by a streak of firelight, sweeping down with unstoppable force!

In this light, a white figure was instantly engulfed!

"Bai Wushang!" she exclaimed in shock, chasing after him!

In a moment, the firelight vanished into thin air. She had already dropped the longsword and frantically pulled him up and down, checking him over, "Are you alright? Are you hurt anywhere?"

He just smiled, his narrow eyes full of bright laughter.

"Say something!" She frowned, abruptly pulling off his mask. The beauty mark a centimeter from the corner of his right eye, no matter what kind of smile he wore, carried a hint of desolation. It was indeed him, Bai Wushang!

"Weiwei, you did it, turning Qi into power." He said with a smile.

"Where did you go?!" Murong Wei shouted angrily, not caring about power or Qi at all!

Could this guy just disappear and reappear inexplicably every time?

At dawn, the wind was cool and refreshing, and the surrounding darkness was no longer so intense.

The silk painting unfolded on the ground. Murong Wei frowned as she looked at it, feeling both joy and worry after hearing Bai Wushang's explanation.

"You mean there are three eight-layered treasure boxes in the Quicksand Palace?" Murong Wei asked. Bai Wushang took out the item and explained why he had disappeared these past few days.

"Yes, the legend of the Quicksand royal family that the Thirteenth Prince heard is probably incomplete, just like this silk painting," Bai Wushang said.

"When will the Thirteenth Prince depart?" Murong Wei asked.

"Three days later. We'll rest for three days and then take the official road. We'll still travel with him," Bai Wushang said.

"Why?" Murong Wei asked, puzzled.

"The official road is safer; at least some people will be more discreet!" Bai Wushang said.

"You mean… who is that white-haired man in black?" Murong Wei asked, puzzled.

"I don't know, but he must be the dog emperor's master. Their martial arts styles and moves are roughly equivalent; the difference is the coldness they exude," Bai Wushang said.

"Cold Qi, are they like you?" Murong Wei asked anxiously.

"Most Qi cultivators in the world cultivate Cold Qi," Bai Wushang said, lazily lying back.

Murong Wei leaned closer and said, "Then why am I Fiery Qi?"

"Because you're from the Shen family. Cultivating Fiery Qi requires talent, and apart from the Shen family, there are very few with that talent in the world," Bai Wushang explained, naturally pulling her down and holding her in his arms.

Murong Wei suddenly sat up, "The Shen family?"

"At least, the original owner of this body, the real Murong Zi, has Shen family blood in her veins," Bai Wushang said.

"The Shen family, the Nanzhao Shen family, in Chen Zui's territory?" Murong Wei looked incredulous.

Bai Wushang nodded.

"Slap!" Immediately, a slap landed on her, "Bai Wushang, you investigated everything long ago. You intentionally approached me and Ye Bao from the very beginning!"

"Weiwei, my intentions are so obvious, you didn't just realize it now, did you?" Bai Wushang asked roguishly.

"You!" Murong Wei was furious. She immediately pressed the dagger to his neck, her voice cold. "Now, I'll ask, you answer. No more nonsense!"

Bai Wushang instinctively went on guard, his hands clenching into claws, even surprising himself.

This instinct was so strong, so often, that he couldn't control it.

He had to admit, this woman had a lot of nerve!

Murong Wei, however, didn't notice; it was merely a threat, not a threat to kill.

She calmly sized him up, saying, "First answer me, what is Aunt Li to you?"

Bai Wushang laughed, facing the sky, laughing heartily.

Murong Wei was extremely patient, waiting.

"Subordinate," Bai Wushang readily answered. Aside from one identity, he was happy to share everything with her.

"Why did you approach me and Ye Bao?" Murong Wei asked.

"It was because of the Shen family bloodline within you," Bai Wushang replied.

"You cultivate cold energy; what does that have to do with the Shen family bloodline?" Murong Wei asked again.

"Whether it's scorching qi or frigid qi, the highest level requires the assistance of the other party. It needs the help of a fellow late-stage ninth-level expert to achieve perfection," Bai Wushang said.

"So, you chose me?" Murong Wei sneered.

"It was you before," Bai Wushang smiled.

"And now?" Murong Wei asked seriously.

"Now it's all for you and your daughter!" Bai Wushang said sincerely.

Murong Wei raised an eyebrow at him, suspicious.

Bai Wushang slowly moved her dagger away, lazily stood up, shook his head helplessly, and sighed, "Weiwei, tell me, you're mine now, and I've even written the letter to Ye Bao. Are you going to back out now?"

He finished speaking and stared at her intently.

She immediately lowered her eyes and looked down at him.

He lowered his head even further than she did, looking at her sideways, and pressed, "Weiwei, you agree, right?"

"Old Bai, who do you think is behind Xuan Yuanlie? Is he more powerful than you?" Murong Wei quickly changed the subject.

"We're both late-stage third-tier experts, the difference is he's old, while I'm still young," Bai Wushang said with a smile.

"Xuanyuan Lie's relationship with Chen Zui is also quite good. So, does this mean his ambitions extend beyond the court to the martial world?" Murong Wei asked anxiously.

"Do you know why Guiguzi wanted Emperor Xuanyuan's coffin?" Bai Wushang asked.

"Is it related to this?" Murong Wei was shocked. Even though this guy had already told her many secrets, every time they talked, she still felt that he was hiding so many secrets. How deep was his heart? He could hide so many things and still not reveal them.

"It's a very direct relationship. Back then, when Emperor Xuanyuan unified the Divine Continent, the martial world was also under the jurisdiction of the court," Bai Wushang said calmly.

"Then the coffin is related to habits?" Murong Wei understood.

"Weiwei, when the world is in chaos, what do you think is the way of the king?" Bai Wushang asked.

"In chaotic times, force is the way of the king!" Murong Wei blurted out.

"In the struggle between nations, what constitutes strength?" Bai Wushang asked.

"The way of the general is strength!" Murong Wei replied.

"In the contest between individuals, what constitutes strength?" Bai Wushang asked again.

"Each person's ability!" Murong Wei said seriously.

"Therefore, before the world descends into chaos, we must obtain two things: first, the Xuanyuan Military Manual; second, the coffin of the Xuanyuan Emperor." Bai Wushang smiled, speaking with a smile despite the importance of the matter.

Murong Wei frowned, suddenly feeling that this guy was somewhat unfamiliar. She had always thought that their purpose in seeking the Xuanyuan Military Manual was simple: gold.

That manual could be exchanged for a great deal of gold.

Only she had ever considered destroying Xuanyuan and helping Xuanyuan Li.

She never imagined that this seemingly carefree guy had the greatest ambition!

"Bai Wushang, may I say this: whether you approached me and Ye Bao, or you've always made a living by shopping online, whether you previously allied yourself with the King of Han, or now with the Thirteenth Prince, your purpose has always been the same?" Murong Wei asked calmly.

Bai Wushang remained silent, a faint smile playing on his lips as he looked at her.

"You want to dominate the world?" Murong Wei asked, each word distinct.

She spoke earnestly, but he shrugged and raised an eyebrow, saying, "Is that not possible?"

Weiwei stared at him for a long time without speaking.

"What, you don't want to?" Bai Wushang asked calmly, his eyes filled with complex emotions.

"What about Thirteen? They've used him too thoroughly." Murong Wei spoke these words from the bottom of her heart, looking at Bai Wushang with a faint smile. Just as she was about to nod, Bai Wushang suddenly burst into laughter, "Weiwei, do you really think I have such grand ambitions? Then you and Ye Bao will suffer for many years following me. I just want to cultivate to the Great Perfection of Cold Qi. As for the world, the martial arts world, I have no interest in any of that. When no one can bully us anymore, I'll take you and Ye Bao and go around scamming food and drink!"

His smile was so handsome that she couldn't help but laugh too.

But she kept asking herself, was it really true?

She didn't want to think about that for the time being. The journey to find the tomb of Emperor Xuanyuan was still long, why think so far ahead?

"Hehe, it's a deal!" She laughed, lazily lying down beside him.

"I wonder how Guiguzi is doing." She suddenly remembered that guy.

"Liu Jian is over there, he'll be fine." Bai Wushang said, reaching out to put his arm around her shoulder, looking exhausted, his teeth clenched tightly... his hands and feet were unbearably itchy!

Weiwei curled up in his arms, hesitating for a long time before timidly speaking, "Old Bai, there's something I can ask you?"

"What is it?" Bai Wushang asked, his eyes fixed on her, truly unable to hold back.

Murong Wei paused for a moment, then turned to lie on his side, burying her face in his ear, and whispered, "Old Bai... that night... who drugged you?"

Her soft breath stirred his heart slightly, and he hesitated for a moment before answering.

She whispered again, "It was a woman who drugged you, wasn't it?"

"When I was looking for the silk painting, I passed by a restaurant and accidentally ate it," Bai Wushang explained.

"Which restaurant?" Her voice was still gentle, but Bai Wushang clearly sensed an interrogation in it. However, he couldn't care less; all his attention was on her hot breath on his ear. "Youlelou," he blurted out.

"Youlelou? Who drugged you?" Murong Wei asked again.

"Hehe." He forced a smile. "So many women in the world want to get close to me, how could you possibly remember them all?"

Murong Wei finally looked up, frowning in thought. She felt that what he said made a lot of sense. This guy was indeed very popular, rich, and charming. It was inevitable that he would be drugged in a restaurant. She knew a little about that kind of drug that night; it wasn't so easy to detect.

"Alright, I believe you," she said, lazily getting up.

Bai Wushang suddenly pulled her close, then turned and pressed her down beneath him, his deep eyes filled with a familiar look.

"Do you know you've been teasing me for a long time?" Bai Wushang asked in a low voice.

"Teasing?" Murong Wei wanted to protest, did this charming man even know what "teasing" meant?

He smiled warmly, slowly approaching.

"Wu...Wu...Lord Wushang, you...you...you...you can't be so easily 'teased,' can you?" she whispered.

He still smiled, his entire body almost completely pressed against hers; she could feel every part of him.

"It's been several days since we last met, let me hug you first!" he whispered in her ear. At this moment, the unbearable itch wasn't on her body, but in her heart.

The word "first?" kept swirling in her mind. "First" hug... what did that mean...?

...Separation line...forced addition...

Xuan Yuanli left the palace with Murong Wei that night. The next day, he inquired and found that Xuan Yuan Qixi was indeed alright, and neither the Emperor nor the Empress Dowager pursued the matter.

After seeing Murong Wei and Guiguzi off, the entire Li Wang Mansion returned to its former tranquility. The empty mansion was eerily cold, with only a few servants occasionally seen, all of them men, not a single woman in sight.

He was to leave the capital for Liusha early the next morning. At this moment, he was sitting alone on the stone steps by the pond, his chin resting on his hands, lost in thought.

"Master, I have prepared everything as instructed by Doctor Murong." The steward said respectfully in a low voice. Even he was uneasy with all the guests gone, let alone his master.

"Is Seventh Brother definitely not going?" Xuan Yuanli asked calmly.

"Yes, His Majesty sent someone yesterday to say that he has given instructions on many things. The guards he sent are already waiting in the main hall, and he requests that you personally select them," the steward said.

"Does my Prince Li's residence not have any servants?" Xuan Yuanli said unhappily.

"Master, this time you are representing Xuan Yuan, as an envoy. Since Prince Qi and Princess Qi are not going, your responsibility is even more important. In a little while, not only will servants come, but also some civil officials will come to discuss matters on the way with you, including the customs of the Flowing Sand Kingdom, the rules of the royal family, and some taboos of the Buddhist Dharma Assembly," the steward advised.

Xuan Yuanli snorted coldly, saying, "Xuan Yuan is on a mission to Liusha, and he still has to follow the rules of the Liusha royal family

. Does Xuan Yuanlie think he's sending hostages again this time?" The steward was so frightened by his direct use of the emperor's name that he immediately knelt down. "Master, walls have ears! This must be the capital! Liusha is nominally a vassal state, but the Liusha empress always refers to herself as 'Empress.' Liusha's power should not be underestimated!"

"Go to the main hall!" Xuan Yuanli stood up and said impatiently.

The steward wiped his sweat. Murong Wei was gone, Lord Wushang had gone after her, and Liu Jian and Guiguzi were also gone. There was no one in the manor who could persuade his master. He was really afraid that his master would have some kind of conflict with the emperor!

"Steward, you said..." Xuan Yuanli hesitated.

"This old servant is listening." The steward quickly replied.

"You said... Bai Wushang caught up with Weiwei, right?" Xuan Yuanli asked.

"Given Lord Bai Wushang's speed, he should be almost there." The steward replied.

"You tell me... if I had gone with him back then, would we have caught up too?" Xuan Yuanli asked.

"Your Highness, you are an envoy, you must travel with the main group. They are taking the underworld, we are taking the official road, the official road will be faster, we should arrive before them." The steward said anxiously.

"You tell me..." Xuan Yuanli said, then shook his head helplessly and fell silent.

He had personally sent Murong Wei away, and he had also sent Liu Jian and Guiguzi away. Bai Wushang would naturally go after Weiwei. He should have known when he sent Weiwei away that he would be the only one left in the end.

Oh well, he would deal with Xuan Yuanlie's spies!

The main hall was filled with neatly dressed, sword-wielding attendants, all of them Xuan Yuanlie's personal guards.

Xuan Yuanli glanced coldly at them, then sat down and said, "Commander, come out."

One man stepped forward and respectfully said, "This subordinate is Fan Zeng."

"You, and the ten in front, stay. The rest of you, get out!" Xuan Yuanli said coldly.

"Your Highness, the Emperor has ordered that twenty attendants remain for your personal protection," Fan Zeng said respectfully.

Xuan Yuanli slammed his hand on the table and stood up abruptly. "So, they're going to spy on me?"

"Your Highness, the Emperor and the Empress Dowager are worried about you, so they've sent extra men," Fan Zeng said.

The steward chimed in, "Your Highness, it's only ten more people. A larger force makes things easier."

Xuan Yuanli snorted coldly, about to speak again, when Fan Zeng added, "Your Highness, for this mission to Liusha, the Emperor not only provided you with twenty Imperial Guards, but also ten bodyguards for each minister. The cooks and servants accompanying you were all arranged by the Empress Dowager."

Xuan Yuanli's anger reached its peak. Wasn't this arrangement by the Emperor clearly making him a puppet envoy?

When he went as a hostage, who gave him a single bodyguard?!

"Get out! All of you, get out of here! Tell the Emperor I'm ill and not going!" Xuan Yuanli roared in fury!