“Chu Ruo! Have you lost your mind?!”
Chu Ruo’s heart was a frantic mess; she was in no state to register the sheer indignation and fury in that voice. To be precise, she didn't even notice what was said. She collapsed onto the floor, trembling and weak. “Ghost... there’s a ghost... a ghost...”
Nan Muxue was fuming, exasperated beyond words. She had truly never met someone so foolish—so utterly dim-witted. Clutching her bruised, blackened eye, she stepped toward her. “What do you think you’re—”
Before she could finish, Chu Ruo saw her approaching. Despite her jelly-like legs, terror gave her the strength to scramble across the floor. “Ghost! A ghost! Don’t come near me!” She scrambled behind the table, using it as a barricade between them.
“You!” Nan Muxue was practically hopping with rage. she lunged to grab her. “Get over here right now!”
Every time Nan Muxue moved to one side, Chu Ruo scurried to the other, keeping the table between them. “Don’t... don’t come any closer!”
“What kind of fit are you throwing?!”
“A ghost, a female ghost! Why did you have to pick me? If this room was yours, I’ll give it back! Just don’t come near me, please, stay away!”
“What nonsense are you spouting?” Nan Muxue stepped forward; Chu Ruo retreated. “Are you coming here or not?!”
“Heavenly spirits, earthly spirits, every debt has its debtor!” Chu Ruo pressed her palms together in a frantic prayer to the heavens. “Please make this ghost leave. Or let me leave, that works too!”
“Chu Ruo, I am asking you one last time. Are you coming over here?”
“No!” Chu Ruo stood her ground with a backbone that was, for once, surprisingly stiff.
Nan Muxue let out a cold laugh. The door was right behind her. She made a move to turn away, and for a second, Chu Ruo thought the ghost was leaving. Suddenly—*crash!* Nan Muxue spun back around and swept her sleeve. There were no clouds to be seen, but the table was sent flying with a violent tremor. *So powerful!* “Chu Ruo, what demon has possessed you tonight?”
“You’re the one possessed! Of all the disciples in the Hundred Flowers Palace, why did you haunt me? What did I ever do to you?”
“Who haunted whom?” Nan Muxue’s anger was peaking, and she couldn't even be bothered to explain the ghost misunderstanding. “Who was it that clung to me first? So, if I weren't the ‘Yan’er’ in your heart, you would avoid me like this? If you knew I was that ‘Little Snake-Scorpion,’ you would flee as far as possible, wouldn't you? Chu Ruo, is your love truly so shallow?”
Her words sounded strangely aggrieved. Chu Ruo paused. It was true—the first time, she had been the one to pull her close and insist on staying together. Even if... even if she wasn't the real Nan Gongyan, she was the one who had accompanied her through all those nights. To hell with it. Even if she was a ghost, she was a good ghost. Like Xiaoqian from *A Chinese Ghost Story*. Surely this Yan’er didn't have a Black Mountain Old Demon backing her up?
The alcohol was finally starting to clear from Chu Ruo’s system. Seeing the figure before her looking dejected and ready to leave, she rushed forward and threw her arms around her. “Yan’er, don’t! I was just drunk and confused. I just found out your identity and couldn't process it. Whether you’re a human or a ghost, I love you. Yan’er, you’re in my heart. Don’t be angry. I love you.”
“What was that... that last sentence?”
“I love you.” The setting wasn't romantic at all—it was messy and lacked grace—but she didn't care anymore. “Yan’er, I’m sorry. I shouldn't have run from you just now.”
“Is running the only thing you shouldn't have done?”
Chu Ruo failed to catch the strange edge in her tone. She simply held her tight. “Don’t be mad. Turn around, Yan’er. It’s been so many days; I missed you.”
Nan Muxue turned around, her voice harsh. “Get lost.”
“Don’t be like that.” Chu Ruo chuckled. At that moment, the dark clouds above obligingly drifted away, allowing the moonlight to flood the room. It was bright enough for Chu Ruo to see the massive shiner. “Your eye... pfft... Hahaha! Ahahaha!”
“You dare laugh?!” It was better left unmentioned. Nan Muxue’s fury flared anew, and she shoved the wretched girl away. “Fine! Stay here and laugh all you want!”
“Wait, I’ll stop, I won’t laugh... *pfft*... Hahaha! I can’t help it, hahaha!”
“Still laughing!” Nan Muxue didn't actually leave; instead, she began chasing her around the room. “I’ll give you something to laugh about!”
The two of them played a game of cat and mouse in the small room. Nan Muxue never imagined she would do something so mindless with another person. She had been hit, so why was she smiling? Why did her heart ripple with endless waves just by looking at that face?
“Alright, alright.” After a bit of chasing, Chu Ruo suddenly stopped and caught her by the waist. “Don’t be mad anymore. It was my fault. I apologize. Let me put some medicine on it for you.”
Seeing no refusal, she led her to the bed and sat her down, pulling out the medicine Nan Muxue had given her previously. “Hehe, all the medicine I have was given to me by you.”
“Shameless.”
Nan Muxue turned her head away, which actually provided a better angle for applying the ointment. Looking at the dark bruise on such a stunning beauty—a woman others wouldn't dare approach, who was only vulnerable because she trusted her—Chu Ruo felt a pang of guilt. “I’m sorry.”
Hearing the change in her tone, Nan Muxue turned back. Seeing the girl hanging her head in genuine apology, she cupped Chu Ruo’s face and smiled faintly. “Ruo’er...”
The familiar call, combined with their proximity, made Chu Ruo’s heart skip a beat. She leaned in, her lips pressing softly against the bruised skin in a tender kiss. “Yan’er...” The kiss carried all her longing. From the moment they left the mountain to arriving at this branch sect, many days had passed. She hadn't seen Yan’er in so long. She murmured, “Yan’er...”
Nan Muxue’s lips began to move as well. Before they could fully meet, Chu Ruo—driven by an unknown impulse—flipped them over onto the bed. She gazed down at the woman beneath her, her long fingers tracing her cheek before stopping at the bruised eye. Wait. The deep affection she felt was suddenly interrupted by a very mood-killing realization. “Wait a second. This black eye... you’re not a ghost?” She wanted to slap her own forehead. How could a ghost get a black eye? And she had been injured by Nan Menghua before. She had been so muddled. She was doomed.
“You’re the ghost!” Nan Muxue shoved her off in a fit of pique. “And a deathly stupid one at that!”
Fortunately, they were still on the bed. Chu Ruo shamelessly stuck to her side, hooking a leg over her. “My mistake. But you can’t blame me entirely. You’re so elusive, only appearing at night and vanishing before dawn. You’re exactly like that ghost story they tell about the Hundred Flowers Palace. It’s terrifying.”
“Then why did you still come close?”
Chu Ruo took the opportunity to drape an arm over her. “I don’t care what you are.”
This earned her a soft scoff. “I wonder who was acting like a fool just now. And my eye...”
Nan Muxue gritted her teeth at the memory. Chu Ruo saw the danger and quickly pivoted. “Well, well... you intentionally fed me sugar water and drugged me into blindness last time. One for one, we’re even now.”
“Oh?” The tone was suddenly very reminiscent of the ‘Little Snake-Scorpion.’ “So it’s my... my fault now?” She pinched Chu Ruo’s cheek hard. “Who was it that faked blindness to trick me?”
“Me... it was me... I was wrong.”
“If you dare try it again, it won’t be drugs.” She feigned a menacing look. “I’ll gouge them out myself.”
...That was definitely the Master’s tone. “Are you really Yan’er?”
“Are you quite finished?!”
“Alright, alright, I won’t ask anymore.” Chu Ruo snuggled closer. “Holding Yan’er feels so good. How could you be a ghost?”
Nan Muxue rolled her eyes. “Believing whatever people say. Foolish.”
“It sounds like you know something. Tell me, tell me!”
“Go rinse your mouth!” In the chaos, she hadn't noticed, but now that they were relaxed and Chu Ruo was so close, the smell of raw garlic... Nan Muxue frowned in disgust. She realized the girl had even kissed her earlier. She got up and hurriedly grabbed a wet cloth to wipe her face. “Yan’er, you’re exaggerating. You’re actually repulsed by me?”
“Go! Now!”
Chu Ruo got up reluctantly. “Fine, fine, I’m going. Wait for me.” Remembering there was a well nearby, she went to draw some water. To her surprise, the well water was murky with silt, perhaps due to the nearby mining. She rinsed her mouth haphazardly and then drank some specialized Hundred Flowers Honey. Besides being delicious, it was excellent for removing odors. It was a rare treat, and she usually couldn't bear to drink it, but today she indulged. The effect was instant; her breath was replaced by a faint floral fragrance. *No wonder the ladies of the Palace always seem so ethereal and sweet-smelling,* she thought, swaggering back to the room.
“Yan’er?” The other woman had already settled under the covers. Chu Ruo climbed in and resumed her usual position—limbs draped over her. “Hehe, did you wait long?”
“Boring.”
“Hurry up and tell me what’s really going on with that ghost.”
Nan Muxue sighed softly. “Part of the legend is true.”
“Which part? The ghost part?”
*Smack!* If not for the cool, comfortable sensation of the person beside her, Chu Ruo would have thought she was sleeping next to Xiao Guo’er. Why did everyone like hitting her head? “Are you going to listen or not?”
“I’m listening. Continue, Yan’er.”
Another roll of the eyes. “She was indeed very isolated. More than anyone realized. Everyone shunned her, to the point where she couldn't take the stress. she developed delusions and hallucinated a person—someone just like her, bullied and unloved. She made this hallucination her friend.”
*Schizophrenia?* “And then?”
“Then, the lie eventually crumbled. Just like the story says, a disciple saw her talking and laughing to herself one night and questioned her. She became very agitated and argued. Her mental state deteriorated.” Chu Ruo knew that people with split personalities often didn't realize their second persona was a fabrication; being confronted with the truth could cause a total breakdown. “Before, she only talked to herself when alone, but it became worse. She did it in front of others. Several timid disciples were terrified. We examined her and gave her medicine, but she didn't improve. Finally, one day, she ran to the cliff at Entering Cloud Peak in a frenzy and jumped.”
“She died?”
Nan Muxue shook her head. “It’s an abyss down there, much like the eastern side of Cloud Mist Mountain.” She sighed. “She was an orphan with no kin. Later, I punished the disciples who had led the bullying, severing their hamstrings and tendons before throwing them off the mountain. When the... the Old Palace Master found out, she scolded me, saying I shouldn't punish others for an insignificant disciple. She said if the girl wanted to die, it was her own business and her own weakness. Looking back, I suppose I carry some responsibility. If I had stopped it earlier, it might not have ended that way. Somehow, the story twisted as it was passed around. Now, it’s used to scare every new disciple.” She chuckled because of the person beside her. “I didn't expect you to be so terrified. Silly.”
...Chu Ruo was speechless. Her own cowardice was to blame. “I... I...” she stammered, “I was just...”
“‘I’ what? You’re a coward and you won’t admit it.”
If Chu Ruo had been more observant, she would have realized something was off. How could a mere Fourth Protector take responsibility for such an event or be scolded by Nan Menghua for it? That was a lecture meant for Nan Muxue, not “Nan Gongyan.”
“Whatever, I don’t care. If I’m a coward, I’m a coward.” Chu Ruo continued to hold her, then remembered something. “Yan’er, I have something to tell you.”
“What is it?” Nan Muxue noted the serious tone. She already knew.
“I originally wanted to wait until you, me, and the Little Snake-Scorpion were all together, but I’ve already spoken to her. She’s gone into seclusion, so she won't be free for a while. I want to take this chance to tell you... I...” Chu Ruo took a deep breath. “I like you. I’ve liked you for a long time. You’re the one who saved me and treated me well. I really like you. But... but I’ve done you wrong. Because while spending time with the Little Snake-Scorpion, I... I fell for her too.” Out of guilt and nerves, she began to stutter. “I know she’s arrogant, always acting like she’s the greatest and bullying me with that cold face. I complain about her to you all the time—well, I badmouth her—but she has her good moments. She cares for me, stands up for me, and protects me. I like her. I know this must hurt you. I like her just as much as I like you. If you ask me who I like more, I can’t say. I like you both equally. Because I know this is ‘scummy’—that means bad—I wanted to tell you: I’m grateful for your love and hers. I like you both, but I won’t be with either of you. I won’t be with anyone else either. I’ll stay by your sides and help you when you need it, but only as a friend. I won’t have any more improper thoughts. So, Yan’er... I’m sorry. I’ve failed you, and I’ve failed her. You can hit me. She didn't, but you can vent however you like. Truly, I brought this on myself.”
Nan Muxue had frowned at the mention of her “cold face” and “bullying,” mentally tallying it as the 1,902nd time she’d been insulted. But by the end of the speech, her lips curled into an involuntary smile. “You really like that Little Snake-Scorpion that much?”
“I’m sorry. I do like her. Yan’er, I’m so sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry...”
“Alright. Go to sleep.”
“Huh?” It was the same response as before. Chu Ruo stared at her. “Yan’er, you have nothing else to say?”
Nan Muxue snuggled into her arms. “Wait for her to finish her seclusion. We will give you an answer then. I only came tonight to see you specifically; I won't be free for a while either.”
“You both...” Chu Ruo swallowed. An answer? Were they going to discuss who got to keep her? *Sister, you take her. No, no, Little Sister, you take her.* Chu Ruo didn't dare ask. She whispered cautiously, “Are you going into seclusion too?”
Nan Muxue seemed content. “It won't be long. When she comes out, you’ll see us both.”
The next morning...
“Yan’er?”
“Awake?” Nan Muxue was already up, sitting by the bed waiting for her. “Take a good look. How is it this female ghost hasn't vanished into thin air yet?”
Chu Ruo immediately sat up and hugged her. “I was wrong! Stop teasing me.”
“Get up. I have to go.”
Reluctant to let go, Chu Ruo pouted. “You’re leaving already?”
Nan Muxue kissed her forehead. “While we aren't around, behave yourself. Wait for me.”
***
“Chu Ruo, let’s go down the mountain and have some fun!”
“I’m not going.” Without the Little Snake-Scorpion and Yan’er, life was empty and boring. Nothing felt right.
Duan Ning ignored her completely, hauling her up by the arm. “Xue’er is in seclusion, what are you doing moping here? Let’s go. Liuli, Ye’zi, A-Yue, and Guo’er are all coming. You said you were going to make stinky tofu and fried intestines. There’s a restaurant at the foot of the mountain owned by the branch sect. They have all the ingredients. Come on, let’s go.”
*Hey, you’re just hungry for my cooking!* “You’re awfully bold, aren't you?”
“It’s one of my best qualities. Let’s go.”
At the restaurant, the group sat around a table. Duan Ning nodded, thoroughly satisfied. “This is actually delicious! Liuli, try some.”
Except for Chu Ruo, everyone else avoided the stinky tofu and fried intestines like the plague. Some held their noses; others sat as far away as possible, sticking to the other dishes.
Yin Liuli refused, as did the others. Chu Ruo patted Xiao Guo’er’s shoulder. “Guo’er, look up there! A fish in the sky!”
“Please,” Xiao Guo’er didn't even look. “I’m not stupid.”
Duan Ning, however, looked up. “That looks like a kite.”
“Where, where?” Xiao Guo’er immediately turned her head. Not just her, but Ye’zi, A-Yue, and Yin Liuli as well. Seizing the moment, Chu Ruo shoved a piece of stinky tofu into Xiao Guo’er’s mouth.
“Mmph... I told you—” Chu Ruo hurriedly covered her mouth. “Don’t spit it out! Just taste it once. If it’s bad, I’ll let go.”
With no other choice, Xiao Guo’er chewed. Then, as the saying goes, she saw the light. “It’s good!”
The other three looked at each other, skeptical. “Is it really that good?”
“Yes.” Xiao Guo’er was already reaching for another piece. “It’s delicious.”
Watching the others start to try it, Chu Ruo and Duan Ning shared a look. “Success. Another teammate recruited.”
“I’m stuffed,” Chu Ruo patted her stomach. “I can’t eat another bite.”
“Mhm,” Duan Ning agreed. “Let’s rest a bit, then hit the streets. I’ve already arranged a place to stay.”
“You’re not going back?”
“That’s right. Liuli and I planned to stay down here for a couple of days. Why do you look so surprised?”
“You guys go ahead. I want to go back to the mountain.”
Duan Ning laughed. “Oh? I heard you were the most restless one in the Palace. Have you suddenly found inner peace?”
“I just...”
“Or are you missing someone?” Duan Ning saw a portion of stinky tofu that Chu Ruo hadn't touched and reached for it. “There’s an extra portion. I’ll take it for later...”
Chu Ruo guarded it like a treasure. “This isn't for you.”
“Xue’er won't eat that. Give it up. You’ve been with her so long, do you really think she’d let something like that enter her mouth?”
“That depends on who made it.” The fried intestines were too greasy for the Little Snake-Scorpion, and she didn't know if Yan’er was busy elsewhere. She had saved a large portion, enough for two. Even if the Master was in seclusion, she could leave it at her door. *Sigh, it’s so hard to even see her.*
“Fine,” Duan Ning said, intrigued. “Let’s make a bet. If you can get Xue’er to eat that, you win.”
“What’s the wager?”
Duan Ning beckoned her closer. Chu Ruo leaned in. “I’ll tell you a secret about Xue’er and Yan’er.”
“Really?”
“Yes. But if you lose, you have to clean the latrines for a month.”
...*A month of latrine duty for one secret? You’re a highway robber! Being a Protector is a waste of your talents.* But a secret about Yan’er and the Little Snake-Scorpion... it was too tempting. “Deal.”
“It’s a promise then. Alright, let’s walk around the streets to digest. You can head back in a bit.”
The group wandered the streets for about half an hour. Since it was past dinner time, Chu Ruo decided to head back. Xiao Guo’er usually followed her, and since Nan Muxue was in seclusion, A-Yue—her personal maid—came along too. Yin Liuli, Duan Ning, and Ye’zi went the other way, heading to the branch sect’s local lodging. They planned to visit the nearby countryside the next day.
The walk back was tiring. They hadn't even reached the base of Cloud Mist Mountain, only the outskirts of the city. The three of them chatted idly until Xiao Guo’er casually asked, “What was the Young Palace Master doing in your room last night?”
“Nothing...” Chu Ruo stopped dead in her tracks. Xiao Guo’er nearly crashed into her. “Are you crazy? You’ve been weird since last night.” She was using the modern slang Chu Ruo had taught her. It was a classic case of shooting oneself in the foot.
“What did you say? Who was in my room last night?” The Little Snake-Scorpion? Impossible. How could it be her?
“I said, the Young. Palace. Master,” Xiao Guo’er said with innocent bluntness. “Always so jumpy. You even mistook her for the Fourth Protector. What were you thinking?”
!!! “That white figure I asked you about last night,” Chu Ruo’s legs began to feel weak. “It wasn't Yan’er?”
“Duh. How many times are you going to ask?”
“Then why didn't you say so last night?!”
“You asked if it was the Fourth Protector. It wasn't. You didn't ask who it *was*.”
??? *You’re messing with me.* No, now wasn't the time for that. “Impossible. You must have seen wrong. Master started her seclusion last night. Sister A-Yue, didn't Master go into seclusion last night?”
A-Yue replied, “The Young Palace Master didn't require my service last night, but she was supposed to start her seclusion today.”
!!! *A bolt from the blue!* Chu Ruo nearly collapsed. She muttered to herself, “Let me think, let me think...” If it was the Master last night and not Yan’er, why did she lie? Had she been lying all along, or just last night? Chu Ruo’s mind raced through everything. Pieces began to fall into place. The Master always wore a mask. She and Yan’er were sixty to seventy percent similar. They had never appeared together. Yan’er’s reaction that first night. The grass butterflies and dancing cranes in the room. And the hairpin she gave Yan’er! Every sign pointed to one conclusion: they were the same person.
“Sister A-Yue,” she said, the truth becoming crystal clear. “Does my Master always wear a mask?”
A-Yue shook her head. “She often wears it when traveling, but not usually in the Palace. Strangely, after you arrived, she started wearing it every day.”
“And... was it the Fourth Protector who saved me and brought me back?”
“Who told you that?” A-Yue looked at her with amusement. “Well, you were unconscious when you were brought back, so it’s natural you don't remember. I wasn't with her that day, but I heard from a disciple who was. The Young Palace Master and the Fourth Protector found you. The Fourth Protector thought you were suspicious and wanted to kill you with one stroke. It was the Young Palace Master who insisted on bringing you back, even risking punishment from the Old Palace Master. That time she was punished—the first time you were given leave—that was because of you.”
All this time... had it been the Little Snake-Scorpion coming to see her every night? No wonder her reactions were so strange when Chu Ruo badmouthed her. No wonder they felt so similar. The Little Snake-Scorpion was such a petty person, yet she didn't mind Chu Ruo liking two people. All those double-entendres lately... How was she supposed to feel? The two people she loved were actually the same person! Chu Ruo felt a surge of excitement, as if she had received a double portion of love. The Master and Yan’er were one! She didn't have to be torn and miserable anymore. But it was still hard to believe. “My Master... did you see her this morning? Was there anything wrong with her eye?”
“The Young Palace Master went out early and was gone for a long time. When she returned, she seemed to have an injury on her face and was trying to hide it. I caught a glimpse; it looked like her left eye was bruised.”
Yan’er was the Master. The Master was Yan’er. Her mind was a whirlwind. She began to walk faster. “We need to get back. Now.”
She already knew the truth in her heart, but she had to confirm it. She felt both apprehensive and thrilled, her mood shifting with every step. *The Little Snake-Scorpion lied to me. No, Nan Muxue, you actually lied to me! Acting like Yan’er... you’re quite the actress, aren't you? Why don't you just fly to the moon? Talking about other people’s delusions... why didn't you mention your own split personality? Yan’er, you really put on a show. You... you’re dead meat if you don't give me an explanation today!* Chu Ruo rolled up her sleeves and charged forward, muttering to herself like someone possessed. Yet, she didn't forget the bag of stinky tofu, clutching it tightly. *No, the paper bag won't hold.* She stuffed it into her robe against her chest to keep it warm. With a bulging chest, she hurried on, leaving A-Yue and Xiao Guo’er in the dust.
“Sister A-Yue,” Xiao Guo’er whispered, tugging on A-Yue’s sleeve. “Is she... has she gone crazy from the shock? If the Young Palace Master finds out, are we dead?”
“But the Third Protector told us to tell her. If we didn't, our fate would be worse.” Duan Ning’s methods of torment were legendary in the Palace. Besides, remembering the hickey on the Young Palace Master’s neck that day... she hadn't expected her to go so far as to impersonate the Fourth Protector for Chu Ruo. But having served her since childhood, she wanted the best for her mistress. “It’s fine. Don’t worry.”
*Unbelievable, simply unbelievable! Nan Muxue, you are so dead! But... she really was good to me, whether as the Master or Yan’er. And technically, I was the one who misidentified her. She never actually said she was Yan’er. Still, lying is wrong! You’re finished!*
A while later, as they reached the foot of the mountain, Xiao Guo’er and A-Yue finally caught up. The "freak" was waiting for them, looking uncharacteristically suspicious. Usually lazy as a sloth, today she was faster than eight horses. “I’m... exhausted...”
“Shh!” Chu Ruo pulled them into the tall grass and covered Xiao Guo’er’s mouth. Despite her urgency to get up the mountain, she hadn't lost her reason. She lowered her voice. “Something’s wrong...”
Xiao Guo’er might be chatty, but she knew how to read a situation. Seeing Chu Ruo so serious, she stayed quiet and pointed toward the guard post. “What is it?”
“Those two disciples aren't the ones we saw when we went down.”
“Maybe they changed shifts?”
“No,” A-Yue shook her head. “Shifts are fixed. I’ve never seen those two before. They wouldn't suddenly change the roster for no reason.”
“And,” Chu Ruo added, “look closely. Usually, guards look outward for intruders. They keep glancing up the mountain, as if they’re afraid someone is coming *down*. This isn't right. Something has happened on the mountain.” To replace the guards so quietly meant a large group had infiltrated. But why was it so silent? A terrible premonition gripped her. Something catastrophic was happening.
Xiao Guo’er panicked. “Then we have to get up there!”
“Don’t be reckless. We don't know the situation, but this looks premeditated. Guo’er, you and Sister A-Yue go find Duan Ning and the others. Bring reinforcements. If I’m right, things are bad up there.”
As they spoke, two disciples stumbled down the path. Their movements were sluggish and swaying, as if they had lost control of their bodies. The two impostors immediately lunged with their swords. The disciples tried to parry, but they were weak and limp. They were cut down instantly.
“They’ve been poisoned.” No wonder the branch sect was so quiet. “Go, now! I’ll go up and scout.”
“I’m coming with you,” Xiao Guo’er insisted. “If everyone is drugged, you can’t handle it alone. You need help.”
“The two of us against who-knows-how-many is like throwing eggs at a rock. But fine, come along. I have a task for you, but I can’t protect you. You have to be careful.” Xiao Guo’er’s lightness skill was excellent and she was small; she should be able to protect herself. Otherwise, Chu Ruo wouldn't have let her come.
“Fine. Let’s go.”
A-Yue prepared to find Duan Ning. “Be careful, both of you. I’m going.”
“You too, Sister A-Yue.”
Under the cover of night, Chu Ruo and Xiao Guo’er crept up the mountain. They were utterly horrified by what they saw.
The once beautiful paradise was now engulfed in flames. The air was thick with the scent of blood and charred flesh. The white robes of the disciples were stained deep crimson, their bodies strewn everywhere. In the moonless night, the firelight illuminated the carnage with terrifying clarity. Occasionally, a disciple would stumble out of the flames, only to be shot down by a line of black-clad men with crossbows. The men then moved among the corpses, checking pulses to ensure no one survived.
“Animals! Those bastards!” She couldn't believe it. Just hours ago, this place was peaceful and beautiful. How could it become this?
“This...” Xiao Guo’er had never seen such a scene. She was already in tears. “How can this be? Everything was fine when we left. I’ll kill them!”
“Don’t do anything stupid!” Chu Ruo held her back. “We’re the only ones who can save them now!” She finally understood the Master’s words. This was the *jianghu*. If you don't kill, you will be killed.
“How? Tell me, how?!”
Chu Ruo suppressed her rage and pulled Xiao Guo’er along. “There are only a few here. I saw about a dozen black-clad men heading in one direction. Isn't there a cave over there?”
“But that cave is a dead end.”
“I bet some of them are hiding in there. Let’s go.”
When they arrived, about a dozen men stood outside the cave with torches. The entrance reeked of oil. The leader shouted, “Tell us where Nan Muxue and Chu Ruo are, and we’ll spare your lives!”
“In your dreams!” a weak voice cried from within.
The leader sneered. “Fine. If you want to do it the hard way, we’ll burn you out. We’ll find them eventually.”
He prepared to throw his torch, but it was knocked away by an invisible force. The men looked around wildly. “Who’s there?!”
Chu Ruo stepped out. Without a word, she attacked. Xiao Guo’er used the chaos to slip into the cave.
Chu Ruo was nervous at first. This was her first real battle. Before, she had always been protected. She hadn't heard the Master’s voice yet—had she... No, impossible. Because she was distracted, several men lunged at her with their swords. She focused, drawing the Ice Fiend from her waist. She pressed the handle, transforming it into a flying wheel, and hurled it. She knew the weapon was powerful, but she hadn't expected it to be so lethal. The eight men surrounding her didn't even have time to blink before they were struck. Blood sprayed, and they collapsed instantly.
Being surrounded, blood splattered onto her—hot and metallic. Chu Ruo had killed. Truly killed. But since coming here, she had gradually accepted the law of the jungle. The scene on the mountain only fueled her rage. These people deserved it! Her hand shook for a moment, but the Ice Fiend returned to her hand, transforming back into a curved blade. She wiped the blood from her face, looking like a blood-soaked asura. The blade remained pristine. Of the remaining three men, two were paralyzed with fear and one tried to run. She wouldn't let them call for help. She cut them down one by one, finally reaching the man who had collapsed. He was terrified. “Don’t... don’t kill...”
The innocence was gone from Chu Ruo’s eyes, replaced by cold fury. “Who sent you?”
“Fei...” the man stammered. “Heavenly Demon Palace. We’re from the Heavenly Demon Palace. Killing me won't help. We’re just the vanguard. There are more coming...”
*Slash.*
The body hit the ground. Chu Ruo didn't look back as she entered the cave.
Inside, several disciples were slumped on the ground, trying to circulate their inner energy. She scanned them but didn't see Nan Muxue. “Where is the Master?”
“We... we don't know. She should still be at the seclusion site. It’s hidden; it won't be easy to find.”
“How did this happen?”
A disciple shook her head. “After dinner, we started feeling dizzy and weak. We couldn't use our inner energy. Then these people came and started killing everyone. Some of them... and the miners... they took advantage... so many sisters...” The disciple was devastated. “We fought back, but we were outnumbered. We hid here. If they break in, we’ll die before we surrender!”
“Dinner? Who was in charge of the food?”
“The disciples take turns. There’s never been an issue.”
“Was there anything unusual today?”
“Nothing... except one of the two wells turned murky, so we all used the other one.”
The well. They had sabotaged one to ensure everyone used the poisoned one. To poison the Hundred Flowers Palace, experts in toxins, the poison must have been colorless and odorless. Chu Ruo cursed her own carelessness. They had started their move last night. If only she had noticed the well...
“I heard one of them say they’re just a small group. More are coming. You have to get down the mountain now.”
“It’s no use. All the exits are blocked.”
“There’s a secret path not far from this cave.” She had mapped out most of Cloud Mist Mountain. “Xiao Guo’er and I saw it was unguarded. It’s a hidden trail. The entrance is a cave that’s hard to spot, and the exit is further down the mountain. You should be fine. Xiao Guo’er and I will lead you there. Hurry, can you walk?” This was the escape route Duan Ning and the Master had prepared. They were far-sighted indeed. Whether at Entering Cloud Peak or here, there was always a back way. But after today, this branch sect was gone. It was a massacre.
The disciples who had made it this far either had strong inner energy or hadn't eaten much. They managed to stand. “Let’s go!”
They encountered a few more men on the way, all of whom Chu Ruo killed. At the entrance, Chu Ruo scanned the surroundings while Xiao Guo’er helped the others inside. “Guo’er, take them. Wait—don't go to the city lodging yet. If Duan Ning and the others haven't come by now, that place might be under attack too. Find a place to hide nearby. Wait until I find the Master and meet you.”
Xiao Guo’er grabbed her hand. “I’ll take them down and come back for you.”
“No,” Chu Ruo smiled. “Your mission is done.” She handed over her coin purse. “If we aren't down by dawn, don't go to the city. Find a place to recover for a few days, the more remote the better. Then head straight back to Entering Cloud Peak. Remember, be careful.”
Xiao Guo’er’s eyes welled up. “Chu Ruo...”
“Remember, Guo’er, you’re the best. You’ll definitely become a Great Disciple. Finally, I have one more task for you. The ones who attacked us aren't from the Heavenly Demon Palace. They’re from Feipeng Fortress. They’re posing as the Heavenly Demon Palace. That man I killed almost said ‘Feipeng’ before changing it. Remember that!”
“I’ll remember. Feipeng Fortress. Chu Ruo,” Xiao Guo’er hugged her, leaving tears and snot on her robe. “Take care.”
Chu Ruo never thought the *jianghu* would be like this—changing in the blink of an eye. Happy and carefree in the afternoon, facing life and death by night. She finally felt like a true part of this world. Her blood was boiling.
That night, Chu Ruo held the Ice Fiend and cut a path through the enemy. Exhausted, she finally reached the seclusion site. The stone door was open. She rushed inside. “Master!”
Three men were fighting Nan Muxue. Normally, she could have handled them easily, but she was in the middle of seclusion—the most dangerous time to be disturbed. Any attack could cause a deviation in her internal energy. She had been struck by a palm and slashed on her right shoulder. One of the men shouted, “The Master said not to kill Nan Muxue, don't forget—”
He didn't finish. Chu Ruo killed him instantly. The other two followed him to hell within two moves. “Ruo’er,” Nan Muxue looked at her, her heart racing. She felt her blood surge and spat out a mouthful of dark blood.
“Master!” Chu Ruo knelt beside her, using the Ice Fiend to prop herself up. “How are you? How do you feel?”
“Are... are you alright?” Nan Muxue looked at her blood-stained clothes, her disheveled hair, the blood on her face, and her trembling hands. “Where are you hurt?” Seeing no answer, she grew frantic. “I asked where you are hurt!”
*Even now, you’re only worried about me.* Despite the situation, Chu Ruo reached out and touched the half-mask. *To think you wore this constantly just for me. I don't deserve this.* “You’re Yan’er.” It wasn't a question.
Nan Muxue froze. She hadn't expected the secret to be revealed like this. She turned her head slightly, unable to meet Chu Ruo’s gaze. “You know.” *You finally know.*
Chu Ruo actually laughed. This time, she didn't ask. She slowly reached out and removed the mask. Nan Muxue didn't resist. The truth, like the mask, was finally laid bare.
It was a beautiful face—a masterpiece. How could anyone be so perfect? The bruise on her left eye, which should have been comical, now stood as a testament to their bond.
“Heh,” Chu Ruo laughed again. “It really is you. You Little Snake-Scorpion, you tricked me so well.”
“You...”
Chu Ruo helped her up. “I’ll deal with you once we’re down the mountain. I’m telling you, Nan Muxue, don't expect me to call you ‘Master’ ever again. You’re in for it.”
The secret path was so close, but a large group of men appeared. Their leader wore different clothes—clearly not a mere lackey. Chu Ruo gritted her teeth and pulled Nan Muxue into the cave where the disciples had hidden. The cave system was a labyrinth; if they went deep enough, the enemies might not find them.
“How are you? Is the injury serious?”
Nan Muxue shook her head. “No... but it will take time to recover.”
It was an understatement. Chu Ruo guessed she was barely holding on. In her state, she couldn't even fight a common thug. Seclusion was no joke. Both the Palace and Nan Muxue had suffered a devastating blow.
Chu Ruo hoped to wait for them to disperse, but more people gathered. It was as if they knew there was an exit nearby. Chu Ruo realized what was happening when she saw two men followed by several miners. *Those scum!* The Palace’s rule against men was justified. Not all men were bad, but these were worse than animals.
The leader stood outside, scanning the area. He was looking for them. “Nan Muxue! Chu Ruo!” he called out. “Come out now and I’ll spare you. If I have to find you...”
Nan Muxue was severely injured and couldn't even meditate to heal. Chu Ruo sat down beside her. “Let’s sit for a bit. We’ll go out after he’s finished farting.”
Nan Muxue smiled. “You really are...”
“Unrefined?” Chu Ruo leaned against the stone wall. “Master.”
“Mhm?” Nan Muxue turned her head. “Mmph...”
Before she could lose herself in the kiss, her pressure points were struck. Panic flared in her heart. “What are you doing?”
“Unblock me!” Nan Muxue hissed, not daring to shout.
“Alright, don't make me silence you too. Let’s talk.”
“What a shame,” Chu Ruo said, leaning back with a relaxed air that contrasted sharply with Nan Muxue’s fury. “Just as I find out who you are, we have to part.”
“Chu Ruo!”
“Listen to me,” Chu Ruo looked at her. “I’m so happy. Truly. I thought I had failed both you and Yan’er. To find out you’re the same person... I was so happy I nearly went mad. I was already planning how we’d eat and play together. You asked what I’d do if you lied to me—it really was a foreshadowing. And of course, as soon as the truth is out, we have to part. It might be a final goodbye.” Chu Ruo spoke lightly, as if this heavy topic were a joke. “Ye’zi said my fortune looked dark. She was right.”
“Ruo’er, don't do anything foolish,” Nan Muxue pleaded, her heart racing with fear and anger at Chu Ruo’s unilateral decision. “We can still find a way...”
“It’s no use. I can’t fight them all, and you’re hurt. If I’m right, the man outside is Liu Shaopeng. We can’t beat him like this. A-Yue went for Duan Ning, but they haven't come. The city branch must have been attacked too. I sent the others through the secret path.”
“You strike my pressure points and go to your death? What’s the point?! Chu Ruo, you’re an idiot!”
“Mhm, I always do stupid things. But not this time. Oh, right.” She pulled the stinky tofu from her robe. It was clean, miraculously unstained by blood. “It’s a bit cold now. It’s better when it’s fresh. Do you want a bite?”
She held it out. Normally, Nan Muxue wouldn't touch it, especially not now. But for some reason, she opened her mouth and took a bite.
Chu Ruo smiled, a single tear falling. “Tell Duan Ning she lost the bet.”
“Ruo’er, don't.”
Nan Muxue looked at the blood-stained girl. This morning she had been so carefree; now she was full of cold resolve. Chu Ruo straightened her clothes and stroked Nan Muxue’s hair. “It’s my fault for being careless. They poisoned the well. If I had noticed last night, those disciples wouldn't have died. It’s my fault.”
“It’s not your fault. Don't...”
Chu Ruo interrupted her again. “I owe them. And I owe you.”
“Chu Ruo, are you coming out or not?” the voice outside called again. “I sent you to Nan Muxue’s side for so long, and you did a good job. Come out now.”
The two inside ignored him. The voice continued, “Nan Muxue, aren't you curious about Chu Ruo’s background? Didn't you wonder why you couldn't find any information on him? I’ll tell you: I sent him to you! Hahaha!”
“Too noisy,” Chu Ruo muttered. She began to unfasten Nan Muxue’s outer robe. “I hope you’ll dream of me often. Actually, no—I’m your most embarrassing disciple. I’m going now, Master. That’s the last time I’ll call you that. You bullied me 1,902 times... I guess I won't be able to pay you back. I’m a talker, so one last thing: I love you, Nan Muxue. Whether you’re Yan’er or the Little Snake-Scorpion.” She brushed her lips against Nan Muxue’s and put on the outer robe. “Your pressure points will release soon. I’ll lead them away, and you can escape. Don't be stupid, Nan Muxue. Don't waste my sacrifice. You know going out now is suicide. Go back, heal, and avenge me. I’m off. Bye-bye.”
Chu Ruo left. She looked cool, but she was a mess. *Little Snake-Scorpion, Yan’er... I’m not afraid to die, but I’m reluctant to leave you. You saved my life. Today, I’m giving it back.*
It turned out the villains really were dim-witted. As soon as she flew out, they saw a shadow and shouted excitedly, giving chase. Especially the leader: “Capture Nan Muxue, and I will reward you handsomely!”
As soon as Chu Ruo led them away, Nan Muxue’s pressure points released. She struggled to her feet and stumbled out, only to be met by Xiao Guo’er emerging from the secret path. Nan Muxue nearly collapsed, but the girl caught her. “Young Palace Master, we have to go.”
“Move! I have to find Ruo’er!”
Xiao Guo’er stubbornly pulled her toward the secret path. “How dare you!”
“You can’t even push me away, how can you save her?” Xiao Guo’er’s voice was thick with sobs. “I came back and saw it. She’s using herself as bait to save you. You can’t let her sacrifice be in vain!”
“I won't leave her!” Nan Muxue cried, but the blood loss from her shoulder was too much. She began to lose consciousness. “Ruo’er... Ruo’er...”
***
Before her was a bottomless abyss. Chu Ruo knew there was no retreat. She threw the outer robe into the darkness; it vanished in seconds. She laughed coldly. “Liu Shaopeng, you really are a talentless hack. A single robe was enough to fool you all.”
Liu Shaopeng froze, then turned red with rage. Since his identity was out, he stopped pretending and used his inner energy to blast away his black disguise. “It’s me.” He waved his hand, and several disciples ran to check the cliff.
“It’s no use,” Chu Ruo said with feigned disdain, though her heart was pounding. It was a massive gamble, but it gave the Master a chance. “Do you think I’d give up my life so easily without ensuring she could escape?”
Liu Shaopeng fell for it and called his men back. He sneered. “It won't matter if she reaches the city lodging. I—”
“That’s why you’re stupid. You’re just not bright. You were going to say you sent people there too, right? Posing as the Heavenly Demon Palace. Do you think everyone is as dumb as you? My Master took a different path. She’s not going to Lingshui City, you moron.”
He didn't understand the last word, but the insult hit home. He raised his hand, and dozens of crossbows were aimed at her. She’d be turned into a pincushion. “Fine. If I can’t have her, your life will suffice. I told you I’d make you pay. The branch sect is in ashes, you’re about to die, and Nan Muxue is crippled. How satisfying.”
“Wrong.”
“Wrong?”
“The branch sect will be rebuilt. Master’s injury is nothing; she will definitely come for revenge. Ten of you wouldn't be a match for her. As for me...” She laughed, a wild, defiant sound. She stepped back, her heel hanging over the edge. She spread her arms. “I will die, but not at your hands.”
She leaped. Into the bottomless abyss, Chu Ruo fell backward, a mocking smile on her face as she watched the men above. Everyone knows you don't die from jumping off a cliff in a story. She wondered if she had that protagonist’s halo. If she died, would she transmigrate again? She was about to find out.
At that exact moment, miles away, the unconscious Nan Muxue let out a heart-wrenching scream. “Ruo’er!”
***
Enjoying the story? Rate this novel:
Master, Spare My Life: A Disciple's Sweet Rebellion | Chapter 42 | The Mask Falls | Novela.app | Novela.app
