Bab 42: Take my life; go fetch it from the King of Hell
The gleaming dagger sparkled blindingly, striking with such speed that it left trails of white light, making it impossible to open one's eyes. In the midst of this unexpected turmoil, Xian Yue was taken aback. Although she was aware that Yan Yu Lou, in collaboration with Lan Yi Xuan, had orchestrated this grand banquet as part of their ambitious plans, she never anticipated that she would be the target.
In the center of the dance floor, the young ladies exuded a sensual and alluring aura that captivated the officials, who were lost in their fascination. A line of women clad in scarlet seamlessly encircled Xian Yue, effectively isolating her from the gaze of everyone else present.
The onslaught was fierce, akin to a thunderclap, and overwhelming. Yet, Xian Yue's reflexes were even quicker. She leaned back to evade the assaults from both sides, her clear, luminous eyes snapping open, shimmering with a brilliance that surpassed the stars in the night sky. However, that light was frigid, reminiscent of flames smoldering in the snow, as if it could freeze anyone in its path.
In this world, only the lips of the dead are the most reliable. Having uncovered Yan Yu Lou's earth-shattering secret, how could she not harbor even the slightest suspicion about this grand banquet?
The young women in crimson showed no hesitation. As Xian Yue leaned back, they followed suit, their swords aligning with her brow, pressing closer and closer. Suddenly, one of the scarlet-clad girls revealed a small porcelain vial from within her grasp. Beneath a thin veil, Xian Yue caught a glimpse of the beautiful face adorned with a smile that was ruthlessly sinister.
Bai Zhan Feng and the others were surrounded by the girls, engaged in drinking and laughter, completely oblivious to the unusual commotion at Xian Yue's end.
Caught in a three-pronged assault, no matter her moves, injury was inevitable. These three opponents were ruthless, and while she could only speculate about the contents of that vial, it was clear that whatever it held would be lethal.
Injured? Although her body was not particularly delicate, it was not something anyone could harm easily.
Seated on the ground, Xian Yue curled her lips into a smile, suddenly arching her body back and lying horizontally, effortlessly slipping past the low table before her and settling right in front of the scarlet-clad woman. The beauty in red had already uncorked the vial, and the white powder cascaded precisely onto the spot Xian Yue had just occupied. The luxurious cushion embroidered with exquisite patterns was instantly reduced to a pile of ash, disintegrating faster than the dry reeds of autumn.
Xian Yue sat on the ground, her gaze fixed on the small white vial in the red-clad woman's hand, a cold smile blooming anew on her lips. Like a nimble rabbit, she sprang to her feet, the two women brandishing swords stepped up to her, while those standing in the inner circle drew out delicate swords as thin as cicada wings, surrounding Xian Yue once more.
Lan Yi Xuan sat on the ground, accepting the drink offered by a young woman in crimson. He brought it to his nose, inhaling gently before taking a sip, then raised his eyes to offer a faint smile to the girl who poured the drink. She momentarily froze, and in the next instant, Lan Yi Xuan had already risen, his wrist flicking with a graceful motion, sending the liquid in the cup, infused with powerful inner strength, hurtling towards the faces of the women.
At that same moment, Bai Zhan Feng turned around, his gaze sweeping the area, unable to find Xian Yue. Sensing something amiss, he slammed his palm on the table, flames igniting in his hand. The girls encircling him and Nian Xiao Yu collapsed one after another.
"Ah!"
"Ow!"
The shrieks of pain instantly drowned out the echoes of laughter, as those scarlet-clad girls surrounding Lan Yi Xuan bore exquisite faces marred by sudden, elongated scars, shocking to behold. Strangely, however, not a single drop of blood flowed from their wounds. They each covered their faces, casting a look of disbelief at the composed Lan Yi Xuan, who seemed to be angry.
Meanwhile, the women around Bai Zhan Feng staggered back several steps, collapsing to the ground, blood spewing from their mouths, as the force of his palm had proven lethal.
"Ah!"
"Ah!"
The ministers and young ladies, previously enraptured, snapped awake at the screams, eyes widening as they beheld the bloodied women, their gazes shifting to the scarlet-clad maidens with gashes across their faces. Despite not bleeding, the sight sent chills down their spines, particularly among those sheltered young ladies who gulped nervously, some breaking into frightened sobs.
The Qing An Water Pavilion was thrown into chaos, as the self-important ministers and ambitious young ladies scrambled in a frenzy, colliding with one another, the sound of chaos echoing through the room. Those who stumbled fell victim to trampling, and those who found themselves in the fray soon became stepping stones for the panicked crowd.
Lan Yi Xuan soared above the girls clutching their faces in pain, moving with the grace of a soaring bird. He swiftly navigated through the chaotic crowd, soon emerging outside the circle encircling Xian Yue.
Xian Yue leaped into action, arms outstretched, her form akin to a celestial crane. One hand aimed for the white porcelain vial, while the other transformed into a claw, sharp as a freshly drawn blade, then into a fist aimed at her chest.
"Don't touch her!"
Lan Yi Xuan's sudden shout echoed as he hurled the cup in his hand towards the airborne Xian Yue. The cup, infused with potent internal energy, shattered mid-air, sending shards scattering. Xian Yue glanced at Lan Yi Xuan, garbed in purple, and instinctively withdrew her hand, performing several somersaults to return to her original position, her gaze still locked onto him.
Lan Yi Xuan landed gracefully, his movements strikingly elegant. He raised an eyebrow at the red-clad woman, his expression suggesting a familiarity that implied a prior acquaintance.
In the past, Lan Yi Xuan had always exuded grace and nobility, his smiles bringing warmth like a spring breeze. Yet now, Xian Yue sensed an icy coldness in his gaze directed at the red-clad woman, a hint of disdain that could not be concealed.
"Her body is laced with deadly poison."
His voice was calm and unruffled, as if the preceding chill had merely been an illusion.
The woman in red smiled slyly, tossing the vial to the ground. She bowed respectfully to Lan Yi Xuan, her demeanor remarkably deferential: "My lord."
The other women followed suit, offering their respects to Lan Yi Xuan.
Xian Yue leaned against Lan Yi Xuan's shoulder, whispering conspiratorially, "My assassination—could it possibly be due to you?"
Lan Yi Xuan tilted his head down, meeting her inquisitive gaze, before gently pushing her head off his shoulder with a sincere smile. "I'm not sure."
Xian Yue tilted her head, observing the group of murderous women, feeling neither relieved nor excited about her narrow escape. With a sudden laugh, she quipped, "Could it be that your master has taken a fancy to Lord Lan, seeing me draw close to him and wanting to eliminate the competition?"
Silence fell, the tension palpable, like steam rising in the air, intensifying by the moment.
Xian Yue pressed her lips together, deep in thought: "Oh, so it seems I was mistaken."
She laughed, her eyes gleaming with mischief, seemingly oblivious to the menacing aura. The group, however, remained fixated on Lan Yi Xuan, filled with trepidation.
Pushing away from Lan Yi Xuan, Xian Yue hopped back three steps in the opposite direction. "Lord Lan is the best person I've ever met, providing me with sustenance. But—"
She pointed at Lan Yi Xuan, "We really have no relationship—no ambiguity whatsoever."
Xian Yue winked at the women, exuding genuine sincerity.
Rei An and Rei Yun suddenly appeared, stepping in between Lan Yi Xuan and Xian Yue. They gazed at the beautiful assassins opposite, their eyes betraying an unmistakable coldness and disdain, even a hint of hatred.
Xian Yue chattered incessantly while the assassins remained poised, the two sides at an impasse.
Each face was exquisitely perfect, devoid of flaw. Yet their eyes were devoid of warmth, vacant and indifferent, representing the pinnacle of youthful beauty, akin to flowers blooming on branches—though they had yet to wilt, they were already withered.
Xian Yue regarded them, a twinge of pity escaping her lips: "What a pity—venomous beauties."
With that remark, her slender, snow-white fingers transformed into a tempestuous wave, intertwining in a chaotic dance. Her ethereal form shifted rapidly, enveloped in white, blurring the line between reality and illusion.
The wind surged past her, a refreshing breeze meant to invigorate the summer night, yet it felt as though ice had gripped them, rendering every pore frozen, rigid, and utterly immobile.
Panic, anxiety, bewilderment, and helplessness intertwined in their eyes, growing ever denser.
"Clink, clink."
"Sword clank, clank."
The swords fell, each clattering to the ground, producing a crisp sound.
Lan Yi Xuan gazed at the white figure, momentarily astonished by the penetrating gaze that seemed to discern all the secrets of the world. The petite form moved with the agility of a weasel, swift and light, so fast that her silhouette became elusive, a speed akin to lightning that he had never witnessed before.
Hearing the successive clatter of falling swords, Lei An and Lei Yun attempted to open their eyes, but the ferocious wind was too strong; they could only shut them tightly until the gusts subsided, allowing them to finally glance around.
Xian Yue stood in the center, casually clapping her hands. She arched an eyebrow at the smiling Lan Yi Xuan, while the seemingly frozen girls in scarlet stared at their empty hands, feeling utterly humiliated and filled with a rage that threatened to erupt, their eyes flashing dangerously as if they wished to tear Xian Yue apart.
Xian Yue chuckled softly, clearly amused, and pointed at Lei An and Lei Yun, who had just opened their eyes: "Lei An, Lei Yun, don't stare inappropriately!"
Lei An and Lei Yun exchanged bewildered glances, their expressions reflecting their confusion. Xian Yue pressed her lips together, stifling her laughter as she opened her palm toward the lovely figures poised to charge at her, blowing lightly at their waists.
The corners of Lan Yi Xuan's mouth lifted, tracing a crescent like the moon and stars, his ever-gentle smile remained unchanged, yet it seemed to radiate warmth. He sighed softly, "Why must women make things difficult for one another?"
Xian Yue laughed heartily, "This is all thanks to Young Master Lan, who has attracted so many beauties."
"Ah."
"Ah."
The astonished gasps echoed, rising like a wave. One by one, the girls picked up their swords, intent on seeking vengeance. Yet, just as they stood, their tightly bound sashes suddenly snapped, causing their skirts to unravel. Instinctively, they clamped their legs together, but in the next moment, the straps over their shoulders also broke free. Without thinking, they discarded their weapons and frantically clutched at the slipping straps, resulting in utter chaos.
Xian Yue carelessly poked at their smooth backs, observing the embarrassed expressions of Lei An and Lei Yun. Meanwhile, Lan Yi Xuan remained composed, silently acknowledging that the young master was indeed a young master, and a fox was just a fox, distinctly of different caliber.
Xian Yue stood behind one of the girls, playfully tugging at the strap in her hand, watching the pale, indifferent face turn a shade of angry red. She laughed, "In this scorching heat, wearing so much will surely lead to heatstroke. I'm just looking out for them, do you understand?"
With a feigned righteousness, she forcefully pushed the woman away, saying, "I am not a man; I don't know anything about cherishing beauty."
The girl, fearing her pants might fall, tightly clamped her legs, using one hand to grasp the slipping strap while trying to prevent Xian Yue from snatching away the one on her shoulder. Multitasking, she was utterly unprepared for Xian Yue's push, losing her balance and crashing to the ground.
"Kill them."
The cold, unquestionable tone emanated from Lei An and Lei Yun. As they regarded the icy visage, an inexplicable authority enveloped them, causing a brief pause as the carefree banter of the past flickered in their minds.
These individuals should not only be killed but could also be torn apart a thousand times; their resentment was too profound to quell, and they simply should not be spared.
Xian Yue turned to face the girl in red, sensing that behind the colorful veil, her face must be as vivid as a palette. She smiled and stepped back to stand before Lan Yi Xuan, pointing at the red-clad girl and gently blowing a breath, "It's your turn."
The red-clad girl, seemingly unfazed, was unlike the others—having faced hardships throughout her life, she was not easily intimidated.
She nudged Lan Yi Xuan with her elbow, glancing back at him: "She doesn't seem afraid of me; it's your turn."
Her tone was exceedingly casual as she stared at Lan Yi Xuan, her eyes darting, revealing a hint of unease.
Lan Yi Xuan took two steps back, unexpectedly drawing forth a gleaming sword from within his robes, the silver blade shimmering with an icy aura. He glanced at Xian Yue, stating, "I wonder if I'll soil my sword."
His words took Xian Yue by surprise, "Assassin, protect the carriage!"
"Protect the carriage!"
Yan Rongxu crouched on the ground, observing the chaos at Qing An Pavilion from beneath the chair he had previously occupied, shouting with a voice tinged with a hint of tears.
Yan Yulou was no better off, standing in the center, equally bewildered and stunned. He had issued an order to eliminate that rude woman, but the plan was not supposed to unfold this way. Why was everyone going after that woman? What about Yan Rongxu? And why hadn't anyone stabbed him in the shoulder so he could feign injury and collapse?
"Do not panic."
Bai Zhufeng glanced in Xian Yue's direction, his view interrupted by the fluttering purple robes of her unwavering, lofty figure. He looked up at Lan Yi Xuan, suddenly turning his head to shout at the chaotic crowd.
Nian Xiaoyu stood beside Bai Zhufeng, wielding a whip and pointing it at the throng, roaring like a river dragon, "Anyone who dares to panic, I'll whip them!"
The whip, as thick as a fist, was decidedly intimidating.
Bai Zhufeng, like a soaring eagle, obstructed the girls rushing towards Xian Yue, navigating through the fray with precision. His palm wind sliced through the air like a sharp blade, each strike sending foes reeling in bloodshed, swift and decisive without a hint of hesitation.
That woman, aside from eating and sleeping, how could she have provoked such formidable enemies?
"Brother Feng, I'm here to help you."
Nian Xiaoyu swung her whip and leaped to Bai Zhifeng's side, engaging in a chaotic melee with the assailants.
Outside, the Yulin Army, alerted by the cries from within, rushed inside. Bai Zhifeng, renowned in the martial world as a martial arts fanatic with his Iron Sand Palm, was unmatched. Nian Xiaoyu, as the beloved daughter of the former martial arts alliance leader, possessed formidable skills of her own, making her a formidable opponent against those who dared to challenge them.
Especially Nian Xiaoyu, her golden whip whirled with fierce intensity, displaying both audacity and strength. She fought and laughed heartily, feeling immensely satisfied as these women brazenly attempted to seduce her beloved Feng Ge while she sat beside them. She resolved that she would not let them escape unpunished.
Together, the two of them completely detained the remaining assailants. The Yulin soldiers rushed to Yan Rongxu and the others, drawing their swords to shield them from harm.
Seeing reinforcements arrive, the anxious ministers, who had been fleeing in panic, let out a sigh of relief. They peered out from beneath tables and behind trees, appearing utterly humiliated.
Yan Yulou scowled at the sight of the young and beautiful maidens, mentally deeming them worthless. He then turned his gaze toward the unscathed Yan Rongxu, realizing that if he missed this opportunity, once Yan Rongxu ascended the throne, he would surely meet his end. He couldn't allow this chance to slip by; however, with so many eyes upon him, he felt powerless to act.
With the protection of the Yulin Army that accompanied him, Yan Rongxu broke free from the encirclement. Yan Yulou clenched his fists, his eyes nearly bulging with rage, helplessly watching Yan Rongxu escape.
Suddenly, colorful fireworks erupted in the direction of the palace, illuminating the night sky. Yan Yulou's eyes widened in disbelief as he grabbed the wine cup and jug from the table and hurled them to the ground in frustration. Still not feeling satisfied, he crouched down and violently overturned the table he had just been sitting at.
In his rage, Yan Yulou's lovely eyes darkened. He then turned to the fallen women in crimson garb, the glimmer in his eyes gradually igniting. He commanded the guards beside him, "Kill all these assassins—leave none alive!"
The last four words slipped through his clenched teeth, leaving no room for dissent.
Amidst the chaotic three-way brawl, Xianyue stood leisurely to the side, observing as blood pooled on the ground, hot and steaming, shrouded in a mist of crimson.
What difference was there between the blood of animals and that of humans? She still could not discern it.
She lifted her gaze, watching as Lei Yun and Lei An dealt with the aftermath, while Lan Yixuan sparred with the woman in red. Clad in purple and crimson, Xianyue supported her chin with one hand, her brows slightly furrowing. Even now, Lan Yixuan moved with an elegance that resembled flowing water, his actions more akin to a chess match than a brawl, exhibiting an air of serene leisure.
Suddenly, Xianyue sprang to her feet, her eyes darting around. Yan Yulou had just mentioned a pair of sisters inside the Water Pavilion, yet she could not see either of them.
Raising herself on tiptoes, she spotted a fleeting figure clad in red hastily departing across the stone bridge outside the pavilion. If one wished to flee, one should not choose such a strikingly bright attire. Without a second thought, Xianyue plunged through the throng, chasing after the figure. As several skilled fighters took action and the Wangfu guards helped restore order, the Qing'an Water Pavilion quickly regained its tranquility.
Bai Zhifeng paused, scanning for Xianyue's presence, yet he couldn't find a trace of her. He turned to Lan Yixuan and asked, "Where is Xianyue? Why haven't I seen her?"
Lan Yixuan sheathed his gleaming sword, which shone like silver and exuded an intimidating aura, devoid of any bloodstains. He cast a faint glance at Bai Zhifeng, his smile growing ever more radiant. "Didn't you notice, Young Master Bai? Your lady has gone after another woman in red."
The deliberate emphasis on "your lady" caused Bai Zhifeng's heart to jolt. It was not an accusation, yet he felt it struck deeper than any rebuke from others.
He had always insisted that Xianyue belonged to him, yet he knew so little about her.
The one who understood her best was Lan Yixuan, an inscrutable man who seemed to cater to her needs, always aware of what she desired, offering her exactly what she wished for. In times of peril, he was the first to appear by her side. The only reason he was untroubled in engaging with those people was his faith in the calm, composed figure of Xianyue; he trusted that Lan Yixuan would keep her safe.
Damn it! How could he trust a man so attentive to his woman, oblivious to her whereabouts?
Didn't he care? Did he care?
He slapped his forehead, feeling disoriented, only to see Lan Yixuan gesture in a direction. "She went that way."
Bai Zhifeng cast a sideways glance at Lan Yixuan, puzzled by his thoughts. If he were fond of Xianyue, why hadn't he seized that earlier opportunity at Qiqiao Mountain? And now, why was he telling him this? Why not sneak away himself? Was he being overly generous?
If he did not like her, then why act so? Bai Zhifeng could hardly believe that he was genuinely so kind-hearted.
Of course, Bai Zhifeng was unaware that at Qiqiao Mountain, everything Lan Yixuan did was merely to create a fine garment for himself, and though he hadn't gone, he reaped the benefits.
There exists a type of person who prefers to fish with a long line, aiming for a big catch.
"Feng Ge, I'm coming too!"
Nian Xiaoyu called out loudly, following closely behind. In the Qing'an Water Pavilion, only Lan Yixuan and Yan Yulou remained, while Lei Yun and Lei An stood guard at the entrance.
The previous chaos had vanished, and the massacre felt like a mere illusion. The night breeze carried the thick scent of blood, overwhelming and sharp, yet a reminder of the grim reality.
Veils swirled around them, candlelight flickered softly, illuminating the noble and elegant figure clad in purple, a visage of sanctity that seemed inviolable.
Standing on the corridor by the entrance of the pavilion, Lan Yixuan observed the lotus flowers blooming in the pond under the night sky. The blood that splashed had long since mingled with the mud, yet the lotus remained as pristine as snow, radiating nobility and grace under the moonlight, truly rising from the filth untainted, unyielding to allure.
What difference was there between the blood of animals and that of humans? While human blood elicited disgust, animal blood did not.
"Third Prince, what do you think of these lotus flowers?"
Lan Yixuan pointed at a massive lotus blossom in the pond, still facing away.
Even if that lotus could transform into a delicate and charming maiden, Yan Yulou was in no mood to appreciate it. Seeing Lan Yixuan's relaxed demeanor, he felt increasingly irritable and shouted furiously, "What do you suggest we do now?"
His voice boomed, causing the Qing'an Water Pavilion to tremble as though an earthquake had struck. Yet Lan Yixuan maintained his calm, slowly turning around and pointing at the lotus in the pond. "What do you think, Third Prince?"
Yan Yulou stormed toward Lan Yixuan and forcefully slapped his hand away, glaring at him fiercely. "The palace has signaled; my father has passed away. If Yan Rongxu survives, he can ascend the throne openly. He won't spare me then."
His hands clenched tightly around the railing, his eyes almost bloodshot. "Having the stigma of disloyalty, I refuse to be a mere pawn for him."
Through gritted teeth, his face turned ashen, wishing to tear those men apart. Suddenly, a thought struck him, causing a smug chuckle to escape his lips. "Yan Rongxu has been poisoned. My fifty thousand troops are stationed outside the city. Even if he ascends, he wouldn't dare lay a hand on me. Once the poison takes effect, I will join forces with my troops outside, and the throne will still be mine."
His laughter was chilling, reminiscent of the icy wind that sweeps through the mountains in winter, sending shivers down one's spine in the stillness of night.
Lan Yixuan turned slightly to regard the self-assured Yan Yulou, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. His gaze was frigid, his laughter cold, and the gentle demeanor he often displayed transformed into a mocking chill.
"Third Prince!"
Yan Yulou looked up toward the palace, convinced that the golden dragon throne was rightfully his, reveling in his arrogance. Suddenly, he noticed Wang Fu hurrying toward him, a look of panic etched across his face, his eyes brimming with urgency, as though the sky were about to fall.
Wang Fu ran so hastily that he reached Yan Yul
Yan Yulou delivered a fierce kick to Wang Fu, and the moment his foot made contact with Wang Fu's clothing, the latter was sent sprawling to the ground. To his astonishment, however,燕宇楼 did not storm out in a fit of rage to confront those responsible. Instead, his pale, delicate face transformed into a ghastly shade of blue and purple, as he staggered back several steps, his breathing even more erratic than before.
"Get out, get out now!"
He glared at Wang Fu, pointing toward the exit of the waterside pavilion, his words escaping through clenched teeth.
Wang Fu jumped in shock, hastily pushing himself up and scurrying out in a panic.
"How could this happen?"
"How did it turn into this?"
Yan Yulou's expression was dejected, as if he were questioning both Lan Yixuan and himself.
"I had warned you long ago that with the flower thieves in Fan City, the king had already grown disillusioned with the crown prince. You could have placed your own people in the Yulin Army and the Imperial Guard, completely overhauling everything. With the troops from Fan City, you would have been guaranteed success. Why did you not heed my counsel?"
Lan Yixuan sighed. "The King has always doted on you and your mother. How could you bear to turn against him? Once he passes away, you will have no support left."
He shot a glance at Yan Yulou, his unruffled eyes betraying a hint of disdain.
Wise individuals do not strike at their foundations, nor do they foolishly close off all paths before they are fully prepared.
To lift a stone only to drop it on one's own foot is the height of folly.
"What do you know?"
Yan Yulou was both anxious and worried; though Lan Yixuan did not question him, each word felt like a needle piercing his heart.
"Doted on me?"
Yan Yulou scoffed, his dissatisfaction palpable.
"He is in poor health. Not long ago, the royal physician privately informed me that he is gravely ill, and it could be any day now before he dies. That so-called divine doctor, can he really bring the dead back to life? He is utterly useless.Yan Rong Xu is narrow-minded. If he ascends to the throne, he certainly will not tolerate the two of us. If he truly cared about us, he would pass the throne to me."
Courtly intrigues are fraught with danger. The Emperor can become disappointed with Yan Rong Xu over the flower thieves of Fan City and withdraw his military power. If he discovers my association with men, I could very well lose my title, and at that point, I would be reviled by all. Yet, if Yan Rong Xu claims the throne, the situation would be different; he would wield the power of life and death. Who would dare to question him?
"Who are those assassins?"
Lan Yixuan shifted the topic abruptly, no longer dwelling on the previous matter.
Yan Yulou turned his head away in irritation, his blue-purple face burning with anger. He paused in silence, unsure of how to respond: "Why do you ask so many questions? I saw that the twin sisters were breathtakingly beautiful. Surely the crown prince would be enamored with them. Who would have thought they would turn out to be so unreliable?"
He pounded his fists on the railing in frustration, feeling that those women had gotten off too lightly. Those who thwarted his plans, he vowed to feed their corpses to the dogs.
"Does the Third Prince not even know who they are?"
The tone held both mockery and pity.
He gazed at the pond filled with lotus flowers, their blossoms glistening in the night air. The mist enveloped them, creating an ethereal scene reminiscent of celestial beings clad in white, beautiful from a distance yet not to be trifled with. Thinking of the blood that had splattered upon them during the earlier scuffle only deepened his regret: "Stained with blood."
No matter how noble or pure, the reality of being tainted by blood could not be concealed.
"Do you still have the leisure to admire the lotus flowers? Think of a way for me!"
His tone was sharp and commanding, grating on the ears.
Lan Yixuan suddenly turned around, and Yan Yulou felt a chill sweep through him as he met his gaze. Those eyes were so bright and clear, as if everything in the world was transparent and nothing could hide from them.
At that moment, Lei An and Lei Yun, who had been standing guard at the entrance, strode in, standing behind Lan Yixuan with expressions as cold as steel.
"I despise when others point fingers at my young master, shouting and making a scene," Lei An declared, his eyes wide as he leaned closer toYan Yulou, startling him.
"If you had followed my young master's instructions, you wouldn't have ended up in such a predicament. Blame only your own cleverness."
Lan Yixuan pursed his lips and smiled slightly: "Lei An, how can you be so disrespectful to His Highness? Step back."
With a respectful gesture, Lei An pointed at Yan Yulou's head and retreated behind Lan Yixuan.
Yan Yulou's heart hung in the balance, still unsettled. Just then, outside the pavilion, flames flared brightly, illuminating the night sky. The silence of the night was shattered by the sound of hurried footsteps and the clinking of weapons and armor. Even from a distance, he could sense the ominous presence of danger.
Yan Yulou's eyes widened in terror as he looked at Lan Yixuan, suddenly dashing toward the exit of the pavilion. Upon reaching the main hall, chaos reigned throughout the Wang residence.
"Ah!"
"Help!"
"Don't kill me!"
Behind them, the Imperial Guard wielding knives pursued relentlessly. They ran heedlessly, shrieking in terror, darting toward what they believed was safety. Yet, in the entire Wang residence, was there truly a safe haven to be found?
On their youthful faces, the pallor of death's fear lingered. Beneath the flickering flames, each face appeared as white as parchment, with disheveled hair falling across their foreheads, resembling phantoms of the night. They sprinted desperately, but could not escape the blades slicing through the air behind them.
Blood flowed in rivulets on the ground, gradually merging into a small stream, filling the air with a dense, metallic scent. The bodies lay scattered, each with wide, bewildered eyes, reflecting confusion and the terror of impending death.
Today was the third prince's birthday banquet, a day meant for celebration. Just moments before, they had been welcoming esteemed officials who came to offer their congratulations. How could such chaos erupt, with the Imperial Guard bursting in to slash and kill? They pressed their lips together, gazing up at the stars, a bitter refusal etched on their faces, their eyes betraying a stubbornness that would not yield even in death.
Yanyu Lou hid behind a tree, witnessing the carnage unfold before him, his heart pounding wildly, legs trembling, and collapsing to the ground. He leaned against a door, curling into a tight ball, yet still feeling cold, an all-consuming dread swelling within him like an expanding black hole.
He longed to rise, but the escalating screams made his heart quiver, rendering him powerless and rooted in place. Turning his head, he caught a glimpse of a purple hem through the thicket.
Driven solely by the instinct to survive, he sat up straight and crawled towards the source of that purple fabric.
Tonight, the moon hung resplendent, its light brilliant against the backdrop of a star-studded sky. Red silk draped across the ground, its vivid hue intensified, a crimson that set one's heart racing.
"Young Master Lan, do you have any brilliant schemes?"
The voice, though not fragmented, trembled with fear, quaking so much that it was nearly inaudible.
He was like a ship adrift in an endless sea, devoid of strength, clinging desperately to a piece of wood.
Lan Yixuan remained silent, his gaze fixed on the ink-black sky, where the darkness thickened like blood pooling on the ground, turning ominously red and purple.
"What have you done to the crescent moon?"
Compared to the outside screams that could shatter eardrums, his voice flowed calmly, like a gentle stream, devoid of emotion.
Yanyu Lou's mind was a blank slate, utterly devoid of coherent thought. Lan Yixuan's question struck him as bizarre, and he shook his head vigorously. "No, I did nothing to her."
He looked up at Lan Yixuan's composed face, fearing disbelief, and nodded fervently, almost swearing, "I truly did nothing."
Lan Yixuan turned away, no longer regarding Yanyu Lou. "Did you want to kill her?"
It seemed as if he posed the question to Yanyu Lou but had already reached a conclusion. Yanyu Lou attempted to deny it, but upon meeting those bright, mirror-like eyes, he found himself speechless.
"I will never consider it again."
He had never imagined a day would come when he would kneel before a rogue, speaking in such a subdued tone.
That tall and upright figure seemed impervious to the calamity around him, gazing down at Yanyu Lou with a faint smile.
His nature mirrored his countenance—delicate and indecisive, cautious in every action, yearning for the throne but unwilling to bear any blame, yet undertaking acts of fratricide and patricide.
Tonight was his birthday, and with the prince attacked at his feast, even if he were gravely wounded, as long as he survived, how could he escape the weight of gossip? One who desires too much ends up with nothing.
"I cannot bear such a grand gesture from the third prince."
As soon as Lan Yixuan spoke, Lei An, who had stood like a shadow behind him, suddenly lifted the collapsed Yanyu Lou from the ground.
Lan Yixuan stepped past Yanyu Lou, the two standing back to back, gazing toward the city gates. "The princess and the young prince should have joined the fifty thousand troops stationed outside the city by now."
Yanyu Lou was taken aback, turning around in disbelief. "What about me? What will I do? You cannot abandon me."
Yuan Rongxu was narrow-minded and irritable, yet he was fundamentally timid, more inclined to torment himself than to truly kill him.
In the night wind, the purple robes billowed, and that face, hazy and indistinct, spoke, "If you dare leave me behind, I will inform Yuan Rongxu that it was you who orchestrated all of this. You could send me to Fan City, and the gold and jewels are yours to choose from; you can enjoy boundless riches."
The screams grew weaker and fainter. Yanyu Lou took a deep breath; such a choice would be clear to anyone not foolish.
Lan Yixuan remained silent for a moment, his tranquility and composure striking fear into Yanyu Lou. He swallowed hard. "You don't intend to kill me, do you?"
In the world before him, it was a choice between escape and death. From the day of his birth, he had been nurtured in comfort, unable to fend for himself, utterly incapable of escape.
Compassionate and noble, his smile more sacred than the lotus blooming by the pond, how could such a person ever stain his hands with blood?
"I do not relish killing."
He would never harm those who would brand him with guilt.
Yanyu Lou exhaled, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. Lan Yixuan pointed at him, suddenly speaking, "You need not raise a hand."
"Lan Yixuan, stop right there!"
Yanyu Lou gazed at Lan Yixuan's retreating figure, resembling a wild beast driven to madness, rushing forward. Midway, he stumbled and fell to the ground, struggling to prop himself up, pain shooting through his palm.
In the moonlight, his open palm revealed vast areas of bruised, purple skin, akin to thick fog lingering in autumn woods, slowly condensing, then wavering and spreading. Yanyu Lou froze, realizing a cool, sticky sensation beneath his nose; wiping it revealed a pool of bright red. Startled, he pressed one hand to his nose while the other attempted to staunch the flow, but no matter what he did, the blood would not cease.
He collapsed once more, feeling no pain in his entire body, and faintly sensed that purple figure receding, becoming increasingly indistinct.
Turning, he seemed to see a strikingly handsome boy squatting at his feet, that face inexplicably familiar, as if imprinted on his very soul.
He smiled, slowly removing his shoes, his fingers incessantly scratching the soles of his feet. Was it Qinghuan? He wished to call his name, but as he opened his mouth, laughter erupted uncontrollably, despite his efforts to suppress it.
Qinghuan, I'm sorry. He lay on the ground, limbs spread wide, staring at the night sky, laughing endlessly. Amid his laughter, tears began to stream down his cheeks.
As consciousness faded, his laughter subsided, clarity returning for a fleeting moment before the confusion set in. His eyes, once bright with laughter, now filled with profound bewilderment. He could not comprehend why the divine laughter he had prepared for the crown prince had turned to him instead. The crown prince had just departed—how could the Wang residence be surrounded so?
In a haze, he suddenly glimpsed that purple figure, a cup in hand, approaching those glamorous beauties. He smiled, offering three final chuckles, then slowly closed his eyes.
The crescent moon trailed the fluttering crimson garments, pursuing like a swift rabbit, fixated on the carrot ahead, yet maintaining a deliberate distance from its tantalizing prize.
They crossed the stone bridge by the water pavilion, soaring over rooftops and through bustling streets, with the crescent moon pressing closer yet always leaving an escape route. The cacophony of vendors faded into silence; the brilliant lights extinguished, leaving only the cold, serene moonlight to scatter across the ground. The trees, lush and leafy, cast dappled shadows in the pale light.
"Beautiful lady, are you not weary?"
The woman in red possessed exceptional lightness of foot, having not paused since her departure from the Wangfu; yet now, her pace was considerably slower than before.
Xian Yue sought refuge in the branches of a great tree, her legs swaying leisurely as she observed the red-clad figure continue her aimless advance. Her bright eyes glimmered with both mockery and pity. Having honed her skills for many years on Pear Blossom Mountain, she considered herself the second best in lightness of foot, a claim no one dared to contest. No matter how swiftly the woman in red ran, she could never escape the grip of Xian Yue's deftness.
The woman in red, however, remained undeterred, sprinting forward. A smile played at the corners of Xian Yue's lips as she plucked a handful of green leaves from the tree, narrowing her eyes at the fleeing figure and striking with precision.
The leaves, as light as a feather, brimmed with an incredible force. Rather than drifting aimlessly to the ground, they shot forth like arrows, imbued with tremendous vigor, soaring toward the woman in red from all directions.
Upon collision with the air, the green leaves ignited into flashes of white light, sparking like fireworks. Their speed was akin to lightning, slicing through the night. They grazed the woman in red's shoulder, head, and knee, embedding themselves into a nearby tree trunk. The branches trembled, sending splinters flying and striking her skin like a thousand needles, long and torturous.
Startled, the woman in red stumbled back several steps before regaining her footing. She hesitated, her gaze fixated on the tree-dwelling Xian Yue with a mix of shock and fear, her fingers gingerly poking at the green leaves.
"I warned you not to run," Xian Yue said, clapping her hands together before leaping down from the tree. "It wouldn't do for such a beauty to be maimed."
As Xian Yue stepped forward, the woman in red retreated, ultimately colliding with the tree behind her, leaving no escape. She stared wide-eyed at Xian Yue, terror radiating from her.
Xian Yue crouched down, tracing her fingers across her face and blinking innocently. "Am I really that terrifying?"
Her petite face, with exquisite features and a vermillion mark between her brows, bloomed alluringly under the moonlight. While her beauty may not have been world-renowned, there was an undeniable charm in her every gesture, an effortless grace that made her enchanting. Yet, she radiated an aura of fear, like the moonlight that poured down, seemingly beyond her control.
The leaves had sliced through the thick trunk of the tree, a feat requiring substantial internal strength. Yet, despite the flurry of leaves passing her by, the woman bore no marks, showcasing her astonishing skill at such a young age.
It was no wonder the young master felt secure enough to send her after him; even with a body full of poison, her intent to kill him would not pose much of a challenge.
"Quite the catch, indeed," Xian Yue remarked, raising an eyebrow and offering a playful smile. "After chasing me for so long, I must be hungry."
She caressed her stomach, glancing at the flustered beauty. "Surely, you owe me some form of compensation?"
Furrowing her brow, she basked in the silver moonlight that filtered through the dense leaves, casting a sprinkling of shimmering light around her. Propping her chin on her hand, Xian Yue bit her lip, her bright eyes gleaming with mischief.
"Ah," she exclaimed, her expression suddenly turning serious as she pointed at the retreating woman. "Who exactly is Lan Yixuan?"
In an instant, she floated towards the woman, her piercing gaze fixed upon her. "Don't assume that silence renders you a mute. If you cooperate and reveal the truth, I may spare your life. How does that sound?"
Xian Yue coaxed gently, "Rest assured, even if I learn the truth, I shall act as though I haven't. You can still return to your master and continue your pursuit of me."
The woman in red concealed the allure in her eyes, which were now clear and transparent, resembling a doll raised in a castle, devoid of soul. Within her gaze lay a steadfast resolve akin to granite. "I won't tell you anything."
She straightened her posture, her tone leaving no room for negotiation; even if it cost her life, she would remain silent.
Xian Yue nodded thoughtfully, then inquired in a diplomatic tone, "Then who is your master? Why is she intent on my death? What is her connection to Lan Yixuan?"
The woman in red locked eyes with Xian Yue, her expression unwavering. "Forget it. You'll never pry any information from me."
With a scoff, she stood tall, confronting Xian Yue. "If you have the courage, go ahead and kill me."
Her body was laced with poison; any flower or leaf that brushed against her would disintegrate into dust. Even with her deep internal strength, she could only inflict injury upon herself—murder was beyond her reach.
Compared to the other women in crimson, her skills might not have been outstanding, yet the lethal combination of her poison and exceptional agility placed her far above them.
"You shall not escape unscathed. Those you care about will not meet a favorable end either."
This was no mere curse but an ominous prophecy of the future.
Xian Yue's smile froze at the words that followed, but soon she erupted into laughter. "Whether I or those around me face a grim fate, you won't have the chance to witness it."
She retreated two steps, and the woman in red felt an icy chill sweep over her as dread washed over her, a flood of fear inundating her very being.
Xian Yue extended her hand, revealing a jade flute, its lake-like green hue immaculate, reflecting a soft glow.
With a self-satisfied smile, Xian Yue pressed the flute against the tree near the woman in red. "But mark my words, you will soon discover what it means to wish for death rather than life."
While one can indulge in many pleasures, certain words must remain unspoken.
Her scarlet lips pressed against the jade flute, and a melodious tune flowed forth—warm, pure, and gentle—like sunlight spilling into the courtyard on a winter morning, enveloping her in an indescribable comfort that made her want to close her eyes, shutting off all senses to follow the melody.
In the stillness of the night, the world awakened.
The returning birds soared into the sky, joyously flapping their wings. The once tranquil forest, where the rustling of leaves could be distinctly heard, suddenly erupted with life. The soil beneath their feet was slowly being turned, as if something beneath was wriggling, eager to break free. All around was a cacophony of sounds.
The gentle melody abruptly soared, piercing the clouds, transforming from its initial calm into an urgent crescendo, akin to rushing waters crashing onto the shore. A sudden storm swept in, causing the veil of a woman in red to tear down the middle. In an instant, her previously entranced visage shifted to a deep violet, her eyes fluttering open only to shut again, beads of cold sweat trickling down her forehead.
A figure in white danced gracefully, surrounded by an ethereal white aura that shielded her. Though she wasn't breathtakingly beautiful, one couldn't help but be drawn to her presence. In her vicinity, the flora seemed to take flight. The woman in red held her breath, feeling as though an enormous weight pressed against her chest, suffocating her. As the melody reached its peak, a colossal stone, akin to a veil over her face, shattered violently, striking her and leaving her with gashes that bled profusely. Pain surged through her, each part of her body aflame with discomfort.
The woman in red clutched her chest, leaning against the great tree behind her, collapsing to the ground. Beneath her, the once pristine fallen leaves became overrun with small creatures, a mix of yellow and green, teeming with insects—black, yellow, and white, swarming densely, both familiar and unfamiliar to her.
The elevated tune now resonated with newfound resolve, as the swarm of headless flies suddenly found their direction, inching toward the woman in red, their movements varied in speed. Startled, she wanted to scream, to flee, yet her body betrayed her, paralyzed with fear. She could only watch as they converged before her, oblivious to her desperate desire to escape.
Though she wielded poison, the sheer multitude of insects sent her heart racing. With wide eyes, she gazed at the crescent moon, her shock palpable. Who was she, really? Just a simple tune, and yet it had summoned these countless creatures of the forest.
"Where are you, woman?"
"Xuan Yue."
"Brother Feng, wait for me!"
Xuan Yue frowned, withdrawing the jade flute from her lips and tucking it back at her waist. She approached the wide-eyed woman in red, her expression more frightening than encountering a devil. "Why are you so frightened? I'm merely trying to startle you."
She smiled, her clear eyes appearing increasingly innocent, but then her gaze turned icy. "I cannot die just yet."
With a playful grin, she produced a dark purple pill, pressing it into the slightly parted lips of the woman in red, observing her shifting eyes. "If you want my life, go seek it from the King of Hell."
Crouching, she gently stroked the colorful insects, whispering, "Where you came from, return there."
"Bai Zhanfeng."
Xuan Yue glanced at Bai Zhanfeng, gesturing dismissively.
Bai Zhanfeng rushed to Xuan Yue, examining her closely. "What's the matter? Is everything all right?"
Xuan Yue smiled at him, waved her hand, spun in front of him, and raised an eyebrow. "See? There's nothing wrong at all."
Nian Xiaoyu, standing behind Bai Zhanfeng, moved closer. "Brother Feng, you never worry about me like that."
"And what about that woman in red?"
Nian Xiaoyu brandished the whip in her hand, her eyes narrowing in a reprimanding glare.
"She's dead."
"Dead?"
Her high-pitched voice pierced the night like a gust of wind, shocking the eardrums.
"I'll go take a look."
Fuming, she sheathed her whip, knowing that this woman was the root cause of her relentless pursuit, and longed to lash out in vengeance.
"Are you interested in corpses, Miss Nian?"
Nian Xiaoyu brushed aside Xuan Yue's restraining hand and dashed forward, only to quickly return. Upon witnessing her, Bai Zhanfeng followed, his face devoid of its veil, revealing a pale visage that betrayed his inner turmoil.
Bai Zhanfeng leaned closer, crouching down, but Xuan Yue grasped his outstretched hand. "She is covered in poison."
Bai Zhanfeng looked up at her, and Xuan Yue immediately retracted her hand, stretching and turning to him, winking. "Let's go back; otherwise, Lan Gongzi might become anxious."
Her playful demeanor masked something deeper, and Bai Zhanfeng sensed an underlying meaning whenever she mentioned Lan Yixuan. "What's got you so flustered?"
Before the Wang House, flames leaped skyward, illuminating the night sky, their ferocity palpable even from a distance, engulfing everything in their path.
The three stood at the entrance, frozen; apart from Nian Xiaoyu, Bai Zhanfeng and Xuan Yue remained silent, simply observing.
"We've only been gone a moment; how could it have caught fire?"
Nian Xiaoyu gazed at Bai Zhanfeng's face, lit crimson by the flames, her eyes reflecting confusion. She then turned to Xuan Yue, whose palm-sized face appeared frozen in contemplation, her crescent-shaped brows furrowed tightly.
"Xuan Yue, don't worry. Lan Gongzi is highly skilled and will surely be safe."
Assuming Xuan Yue was anxious about Lan Yixuan's safety, Nian Xiaoyu offered her reassurance. When silence ensued, Nian Xiaoyu turned, tugging at Bai Zhanfeng's sleeve and pointedly asked, "What's wrong with her?"
This blazing inferno was eerily quiet, devoid of screams or cries for help, and not a single soul emerged from within—its stillness was unnerving.
"Ha ha—ha ha."
Suddenly, Xuan Yue erupted into laughter, doubling over, her laughter so wild it brought tears to her bright eyes. Her mirth seemed manic, tinged with an unexpressed disappointment.
Bai Zhanfeng remained silent, allowing her to laugh. After a lengthy pause, Xuan Yue finally calmed, patting Nian Xiaoyu's shoulder. "Lan Gongzi is exceptionally powerful. Even if the entire world perished, he would undoubtedly remain unscathed."
She smiled, disregarding Nian Xiaoyu's astonished expression, and turned to leave.
On the twenty-fourth day of the sixth month in the twentieth year of Qian Ning, during the birthday banquet of the third prince of Yan, a group of celestial-like female assassins descended from the sky. The crown prince was injured at the banquet, and shortly thereafter, the Yan crown prince surrounded the Wang House on charges of assassination. The once-favored third prince was slain, and the Wang House blazed for a full day and night, claiming seven hundred sixty-three lives in the inferno. Fortunately, the young prince and the princess were spared as they were out paying homage.
That evening, the king of Yan abruptly passed away, and the common folk whispered, pointing fingers at the lavish new ruler, accusing him of fratricide to seize the throne.
On the eighth day of the seventh month in the twentieth year of Qian Ning, the Wang Fei, who narrowly escaped due to her pilgrimage, fled to Fan City with her two-year-old son, ascending the throne on the same day as Yan Rongxu, adopting the state name of Qing An.
Fifty thousand elite soldiers were stationed in the Marvelous Mountain Range, governing the border with Yan.
Yan's border governance, coupled with the ambitious Xuanyuan, expanded its territory, shattering the veneer of peace among the nations.
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
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