Chapter 5, Escaping from Death to Luoyang

Are the two young ladies accompanying us well? Do they still require the silver in our hands? asked Bian Zhen'er

Xun Yan, who was drinking medicine nearby, hurried over to support Bian Zhen'er, saying: "Take it slow"

However, transitioning from extravagance to frugality requires a process. You see, Bian Zhen'er and Xun Yan still need good food to nourish their bodies, don't they? Autumn is approaching quickly, and we also need to prepare warm clothing to fend off the cold. Yun Yao pointed out, discussing nothing but troublesome matters

"Liu'er, your hand!" Yun Yao exclaimed in astonishment, hurriedly pulling Liu Zhuiyi's hand to examine it, suddenly recalling that a poisonous insect had crawled over it when she was fetching the torch

"Alright, Miss Liu, take care as you go."

Yun Yao and Bian Zhen'er, both agile young men, quickly laid a layer of straw from the temple on the ground, and then placed two pieces of clothing on top to prevent discomfort from the hard surface

Liu Zhuiyi, upon hearing this, walked up to Bian Zhen'er, leaned in close to his face, and said seriously: "You must eat! Whether you want to or not, you have to eat today!"

"Well said, well said." Liu reminisced as Yun Yao and the others nodded their heads and continued with the next line. Xun Yan covered her face and stifled a laugh, while Bian Zhen looked on with a face full of displeasure

It is done. Under the obstruction of Liu, Xun Yan was left with a large stain of dark blood on her lips. Her body was already weak, unable to withstand the effects of the poison, and her consciousness blurred as she fainted.

After a while, Bian Zhen and the other two indeed got up one after another and went downstairs. Upon seeing the table laid out with a feast of fish and meat, Yun Yao exclaimed in surprise: "Liu'er, have you found some silver?"

In the room, Xun Yan was dozing off next to Bian Zhen'er, leaning against the bed. Bian Zhen'er regained consciousness, slowly opened his eyes, and through his blurred vision, he saw the frail figure of Liu Zhuiyi sitting outside the door, enveloped in the mist of rain.

Liu Zhuiyi asked: "Do you know which dance hall in Luoyang is doing well? Of course, it is the kind that has good business and is also short of dancers."

Bian Zhen'er did not shy away, saying: "This is called the 'eyebrow heart pupil', which can see things from a great distance"

It cannot be said this way. Yun Yao scoffed, saying, "How can those money-hungry, flashy individuals be compared to you?"

Sister Liu has gone fishing, Xu Yan replied

Liu recalled as he reached out to touch the cold, sweat-drenched face of Bian Zhen'er, and asked with concern: "Little monk, can you hear me? I will find a way to save you, and you must hold on, okay?"

Liu reminisced with a light scoff and said, "There are many women you have set your sights on; I do not feel lucky at all!"

Bian Zhen'er walked in and said, "The wind is blowing so fiercely outside, yet the clouds in the night sky remain completely still. It looks rather strange, everyone should be cautious."

Bian Zhen'er reached out to catch the thrown torch and swept it towards the crawling creature, which indeed retreated a step.

Liu Zhuiyi and Yun Yao sat in the driver's seat, their spirits akin to a bird that had escaped from its cage. As they drove, they engaged in a playful contest of songs, and whenever they disagreed, they would argue with each other

"I cherish it." Yun Yao smiled brightly, but immediately afterward, he received several punches to the head.

Will you still take care of us selling the solution in Luoyang City in the future?" Liu Zhuiyi tapped the head of the black tiger and asked

Bian Zhen'er helplessly shook her head, closed the door of the land temple, started a fire inside, and then lay down beside Yun Yao.

Liu reminisces about the days when he was playful, willful, and headstrong, yet at critical moments, he would always consider Bianzhen's feelings, even if Bianzhen was unaware of it

Alright. Bian Zhen'er turned around and began to pack up her things

Then let's make money; nothing can challenge me, young master." Yun Yao patted his chest and said

Keben Zhen'er knows that she is acting and often pretends not to see. Liu Zhuiyi is always so angry that he stomps his feet and shouts: "Little monk, you have no conscience!"

That is Chang'an, this is Luoyang. Besides, if you eat sparingly, it can still last for a few days. You can take the copper coins here to buy a few dou of rice, and even if you only have porridge, it can fill you up for a long time. Liu Zhuiyi could not stand him; a person who has been well-fed and well-dressed since childhood knows nothing of the importance of money. Even a single wen, at this time, is a treasure.

Xun Yan hurriedly said: "Young Master Yun, I have already recovered, it is fine, congee is also good."

"To eat, one must have money. Our current funds are only enough to stay at an inn," Liu reminisced, casting a sidelong glance at Chaoyun.

I have other matters to attend to, so I called you over to lend a hand. Liu Zhuiyi tore off another piece of beef for Hei Laowu, who took it and stuffed it into his mouth, saying as he ate, "Miss Liu, feel free to share whatever you need; I, Hei Laowu, will certainly help if I can, and if I cannot, I will find a way to assist you."

Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao stood protectively behind the two young women, vigilantly watching the newcomers

"Little monk." Liu recalled, leaning against the door frame, calling out to Bian Zhen'er with some concern

This is how you should behave. Liu Zhuiyi patted Bian Zhen'er on the cheek and sat back down with satisfaction

Xun Yan put all the silver coins into her pouch and said: "Bian Zhen'er, Sister Liu, Young Master Yun, we have earned some small silver today, let us leave first."

Black Old Five immediately returned the courtesy, saying: "Miss Liu, you are too polite, just call me Old Five. I will definitely visit you another day."

Outside, the thunderstorm raged fiercely. Liu Zhuiyi sat with her hands wrapped around her knees, feeling the chill in the air, and unconsciously rubbed her arms. Yun Yao returned to the room with a jacket, draping it over Liu Zhuiyi's shoulders, saying, "Don't catch a cold."

Ah—" Xun Yan suddenly screamed

Although the Ruyi Tower in Chang'an City is not a place of entertainment, it is still a venue for the consumption of high-ranking officials and nobles, and she knows what those wealthy individuals enjoy

Bian Zhen'er reached her hand back, firmly protecting Liu Zhuiyi. Upon seeing this subtle gesture, Liu Zhuiyi couldn't help but feel a sweetness in her heart

The crowd worked together to lift Bian Zhen'er onto the cart, while Yun Yao drove the carriage in front.

You speak. Black Old Five sits upright and solemn.

Liu Zhuiyi and others walked towards the inn, and one of Hei Lao Wu's subordinates, puzzled, asked: "Big brother, why are we enduring humiliation against a few little kids?"

In an instant, the dry grass blazed fiercely, and the flames surged violently. The insects, fearing the towering inferno, dared not approach even a fraction closer. After a moment of hesitation, they slowly retreated back to the *illustration* and *book*. Liu Zhuiyi finally let out a sigh of relief

Bian Zhen'er said: "There is no need to kneel before us; I never intended to kill anyone, so where is the grace of not killing?"

Bian Zhen'er shook her head and said, "Within fifty li, there is not a single household to be seen. There is only an uninhabited village."

During the performance of the art of contortion, it is necessary for a person to squeeze into a wine jar. Yun Yao, however, truly could not do this, so he had no choice but to push Bian Zhen out. Bian Zhen did not refuse, instead staring thoughtfully at the wine jar in front of him

Liu recalled taking out a small dagger from the car, warming it with a fire stick, and said: "Because I saved her, it was a close call for Bian Zhen'er, perhaps I feel guilty. She is fine, after resting for a while, I will prepare some medicine for her tomorrow morning."

But what? Liu Zhuiyi stared at him closely, preventing him from uttering a single falsehood

The questioner did not understand, so he could only scratch his head and give up

Yun Yao followed Liu Zhuiyi outside and sat down with her at the door. Xun Yan sat next to Bian Zhen'er, taking care of Bian Zhen'er

On a midsummer night, Liu reminisced as the four of them traveled for four hours, finally finding a dilapidated land temple in the wilderness, a place where they could rest

"Indeed, we are a good match, aren't we?" Yun Yao asked, raising an eyebrow upon hearing this

Bian Zhen'er frowned slightly and said, "It doesn't seem like it's going to rain"

Liu Zhuiyi immediately followed Hei Laowu outside, and this scene happened to be witnessed by Xun Yan. She furrowed her brows in contemplation, unsure of where Liu Zhuiyi was headed.

Under the city of Luoyang, four individuals engaged in horse trading were surrounded by a crowd. The vastness of Luoyang City is marked by countless merchants coming and going, and there are certainly no shortage of those who trade on horseback. However, these four individuals are somewhat peculiar, as there are actually two women among them, and one of the men is a monk.

Heihei Lao Wu hurriedly bowed and said: "No need, no need, young hero, please show mercy. I, Heihei Lao Wu, have eyes but fail to recognize Mount Tai!"

Thank you. Liu reminisced as he blinked at the dark old fifth.

On that occasion, they stayed at the inn for several days, and only after Liu Zhuiyi's health was restored did they set off towards the north. Along the way, the four of them had a small amount of adjustment, yet they lived comfortably and happily.

Black brother! Liu Zhuiyi understood that the rules of the martial world were unavoidable. She clasped her fists and said, "Then I will trouble you. When you have time, come to the Donglai Inn for a visit. I, Liu Zhuiyi, will treat you to a drink"

"Xun Yan, come, have some meat, it's good for your health." Liu Zhuiyi handed a fish to Xun Yan, who took it and looked at Bian Zhen'er, saying, "Bian Zhen'er, you should have some too."

The sound broke through the line of sight before the figure did. Liu, reminiscing, rolled up his pant legs and ran in barefoot from outside, cradling a fish basket in his arms, which contained several large grass carp flopping about.

On the following morning, before the inn officially opened, Liu Zhuiyi ordered a pound of good wine and beef, sitting in the most conspicuous spot to drink by herself. She knew that people like Hei Lao Wu, who frequently engaged in quick transactions, would surely rise early for a good piece of land. And someone like him, who toiled for a living, must have extensive connections; if one needed to inquire about something, it would be best to find him.

Because Xun Yan had previously drawn out the external bruised blood, Yun Yao squeezed and expelled the largest mass of toxic blood. The thick, dark bruised blood fell onto the clothing, and a strong, pungent smell wafted through the air. Bian Zhen'er seemed to feel a pain and tightly bit down on Liu Zhuiyi's finger, while Liu Zhuiyi furrowed his brow and endured the pain to alleviate it for him

No, it is just that we have high martial arts skills and want to find someone to rely on in order to have a better life in Luoyang City in the future. Based on her years of experience wandering the martial arts world, this is her intuition.

Perform the art of body shrinking

"Monks are not allowed to eat meat." Bian Zhen'er stubbornly turned his head away, but his stomach had already betrayed him with three continuous protests.

Xun Yan went to attend to her own matters, but she found it strange that despite coming and going many times from the laundry room and her room in the inn, she still saw Liu Zhuiyi sitting on the first floor, not having moved an inch, looking as if he was waiting for someone

The dark-skinned man wiped his face and disdainfully asked, "Are you from out of town?"

Bian Zhen'er felt like crying without tears, as the fish was held in his mouth, its rich aroma entering his throat, and he surprisingly found it to be delicious

Liu Zhuiyi quickly interrupted, walked over to Bian Zhen'er with a grilled fish in hand, handed it to him, and said: "Would you like to try my cooking?"

And for some, the feelings of cherishment need not be expressed in words

Yun Yao gently cleared his throat and said, "It's over, it's over"

Is that so? Liu reminisced with a slight smile at the corner of her lips, a plan forming in her mind

Yun Yao was almost fearless in the face of death, and Liu Zhuiyi would have him do whatever he asked. Fortunately, there was Bian Zhen'er to assist him; otherwise, with his frail constitution, he would have died a thousand times already

This area of wilderness is uninhabited, and it is quite normal to encounter some venomous insects. Yun Yao comforted Liu Zhuiyi

"Little monk, are you awake?" Seeing that Bian Zhen'er had woken up and her complexion was gradually returning to normal, Liu Zhuiyi set the fish basket aside and quickly jumped to Bian Zhen'er's side. This time, Bian Zhen'er did not avoid her gaze and smiled, "I am fine"

Bian Zhen'er placed two large blue stones on Yun Yao's body, then swung the stone hammer that was set aside. Everyone held their breath, and Yun Yao also braced his chest with internal energy to prevent injury later on

Liu gazed at him in silence, without uttering a word

Liu recalled and passed a color to Xun Yan, who lifted her dress to form a pouch and walked towards the crowd, saying: "Thank you all, thank you"

Yun Yao said: "I... I understand, that is not what I meant. I was just saying that we might need to prepare some things in these areas. Moreover, staying at an inn also incurs expenses, doesn't it? Today, performing won't earn us much money. I think it would be better if I go out with Bian Zhen tomorrow to see if there are other jobs available, and we can divide the work among ourselves."

Having finished speaking, she tossed her head, and her long braid swept across Bian Zhen'er’s face, causing a tingling sensation.

"Then I will roast fish for you to eat." Liu Zhuiyi turned around and poured the large live fish from the fish basket. When Bian Zhen'er recalled the scene when Liu Zhuiyi had teased him with a live fish during their first encounter, he hurriedly said, "Liu... Miss, this monk would rather eat dry rations. I am a monk and cannot eat meat."

On this night, everyone was sound asleep, except for one person who remained awake.

Bian Zhen'er trembled all over, her eyes continuously rolled back, her lips quivered, and she was unable to respond for a long time, finally managing to say, "Come out"

Yun Yao felt a wave of embarrassment on his face, and Bian Zhen'er comforted him, saying: "Don't worry, I will help you"

Once again, she played a trick on him, leaving his face feeling warm.

We still have a little bit of provisions left, just enough for tonight and tomorrow morning. Therefore, we must reach the market tomorrow to buy some supplies," Yun Yao said while packing his belongings. He took out the last bag of silver ingots and sighed, "It's a pity that we don't have much silver left; we still need to find a way to earn some money.

Yun Yao frowned slightly, feeling a twinge of pain. Look at her, there is a large swollen area on the back of her hand, and her finger has been bitten by Bian Zhen'er. Yun Yao sighed, took off the hairpin from Liu Zhuiyi's head, and said: "Liu'er, bear with it a little."

Fishing? The argument is truly incomprehensible.

Black Old Five found it difficult to say: "Are you, Miss Liu, going to become a dancer? I would rather not tell you about such places, after all, you are a young lady"

Yun Yao thought for a moment, and it was indeed so. He looked at Liu Zhuiyi, who was lying on the ground with her eyes closed, and walked over to squeeze in beside her, saying arrogantly: "Liu'er, let's sleep together." However, before Yun Yao could lie down, he was kicked out by Liu Zhuiyi, who shouted, "Get lost!"

Liu reminisced and pretended to be deep in thought, saying: "Then could you return these props to Master Li at the street corner of Sanyuan Street for us?"

Liu Zhuiyi, afraid of the pain, clutched the fabric of Yun Yao's clothing with one hand. Yun Yao pierced the swollen area on the back of Liu Zhuiyi's hand with a hairpin, and immediately a thick, viscous poison oozed out. Yun Yao squeezed the poison out for Liu Zhuiyi, who clung to Yun Yao's arm, gritting her teeth in pain.

"Alright, we are familiar with Master Li!" Saying this, he called over his brothers to help move the items. The enthusiasm left Yun Yao somewhat puzzled, and he whispered to Liu Zhuiyi, asking, "Could it be a trap?"

"I heard you are stealing business here?" the black man said, throwing his spear to the ground in a rough voice

Heiyang Wu, seeing Liu Chuiyi was not evasive, and feeling no need to be coy himself, said: "It is a brothel, and it is the largest brothel in Luoyang City. The most popular singer there has been bought by someone else, and they are currently in need of people."

Yun Yao approached with a cheerful smile, saying, "Haha, brother, we are all just trying to make a living—" Suddenly, a long spear came crashing down, stopping just above Yun Yao's face. He forcefully swallowed the word "eat" mixed with saliva, retracting his neck and stepping back.

"Black Old Five." Liu reminisced slowly as he called out his name

Liu reminisced as he crouched down, reaching out to pinch Bian Zhen'er’s cheeks, bringing the grilled fish close to his lips, and softly threatening: "Bian Zhen'er, you are not a monk at all"

After the two of them went out, Liu Zhuiyi closed the door and seemed to be lost in thought

Heilao Wu let out a furious roar, brandishing his long spear and thrusting it towards Bian Zhen'er. Bian Zhen'er, with bare hands, formed a palm strike; the palm wind was formless yet powerful, actually splitting the spear that was thrusting towards him in two. Heilao Wu was left dumbfounded, unable to react in time before Bian Zhen'er seized his shoulder and forced him to kneel on the ground

The cart jolted along the path for five days. During this time, they relied entirely on wild fruits to quench their thirst and fish and meat to satisfy their hunger. Occasionally, when they encountered a few households in the villages, they would go in to ask for some food to change their taste. Yun Yao often tugged at his own clothes and said, "Oh dear, I've lost weight again"

Liu glanced at him and said, "I never said I wouldn't leave either"

The silver was not found, just a little reward for everyone, after all, we will have to go out soon to find a way to earn some money, right? It is always about filling our stomachs while we are out and about, come, sit down. Liu Zhuiyi greeted them and added, "Little monk, don't be polite, after all, you have already broken your vows."

Liu recalled dividing the one or two pieces of silver and copper coins into four parts, placing them into their respective pouches, and said: "Alright, I will take on the task of division. Xun Yan, since you do not possess martial arts skills, you will stay at the inn to watch over our luggage."

Not worth it! Liu Zhuiyi stuck out her tongue at Yun Yao

Bian Zhen'er glanced at Liu Zhuiyi and said, "I will go out and take a look." He got up, walked to the door, and Liu Zhuiyi could only see a vague silhouette of Bian Zhen'er, along with the wind causing his clothes to rustle.

Xun Yan felt somewhat nervous and unconsciously moved closer to Liu Zhuiyi and Yun Yao. However, during the process of shifting, she felt something crawling over her fingers. She looked down and saw several dark-colored, hard-shelled insects crawling out of the straw, their two eyes glaring red!

Bian Zhen'er was quick-witted and agile in movement. He grasped Xun Yan's shoulders and lifted her up, stepping back on his heels to leap into an open space. Yun Yao also noticed that there were crawling insects moving where he was seated, and immediately supported Liu Zhuiyi to stand up.

At sunrise, Bian Zhen'er woke up, feeling none of the discomfort she had experienced the previous night

The silent Bian Zhen'er walked to the door, bit the tip of her index finger, and brushed over her brow. Her brow and pupils once again shone brightly. A faint red light flashed, leaving the three of them astonished.

Can it breathe fire

"What does it mean to endure humiliation and suppress one's anger, do you understand?" said Hei Lao Wu, "These few people can help you make money, do you know that?"

Xun Yan nodded and said, "Alright, I can also help you wash the clothes that have been changed out."

Yun Yao, squeeze out the poison from his blood. Seeing Bian Zhen'er in pain, tossing and turning, Liu Zhuiyi handed his hand to Yun Yao, moved forward, and held Bian Zhen'er's head, placing his fingers between his teeth

Heir Black Lao Wu blew on the tip of the long spear in his hand and arrogantly declared: "Since you refuse to accept my courtesy, then do not blame me for being impolite with this spear in my hand"

Liu Zhuiyi approached to assist Bian Zhen'er, but was suddenly confronted by a multitude of crawling creatures, which left her feeling quite perplexed. With her keen eyesight, Liu Zhuiyi noticed a pile of straw near the earth god's temple. Gritting her teeth, she said, "I apologize, dear Earth God, please do not hold it against me for my actions." As soon as she finished speaking, Liu Zhuiyi threw the torch onto the dry grass outside the earth god's temple.

Ah? Yun Yao looked like a wilted eggplant, her shoulders drooping down. "Then it seems we won't see anyone if we walk for the whole morning tomorrow."

Heih Lao Wu glanced at Liu Zhuiyi and Xun Yan, who were hiding behind, and said with a smile: "That's simple, you and the young lady beside you come with me, Heih Lao Wu, and hand over the money you just earned to me"

Bian Zhen'er remained composed and said: "I apologize, we four have just arrived in Luoyang and are unfamiliar with the local customs. We will pack our things immediately and leave this place"

Bian Zhen'er noticed Liu's poor complexion and said, "I have grown accustomed to wandering the world; in fact, it does not matter what I eat or where I stay."

Indeed. Yun Yao was fiddling with a pile of kindling that wouldn't catch fire, saying, "I didn't rest well, and early in the morning, I went to gather herbs and brew medicine for you all. Now I'm off to catch fish. Fish meat is good for nourishing the body." Just as Yun Yao's words, filled with a strong sense of vinegar, fell, a bright voice from Liu Zhuiyi came from outside the village, "Yun Yao! Is the fire ready? I tell you, the fish in that river are so fat, haha!"

With a swing of his black spear, he said: "Luoyang City is the territory of my Black Lao Wu. Dare to make money here without greeting me? Speak, what shall we do?"

"Come here." Liu Zhuiyi called to him, pouring wine into the bowl across the table. Hei Lao Wu sat down opposite him, downing the drink in one go, and asked, "Miss Liu, are you not going to sell your wares today?"

It doesn't hurt. Liu reminisced while enduring it.

Liu reminisced with a faint smile and said, "It's not difficult, I just want to inquire about something from you."

As the four of them hid outside the temple, they discovered that the area was also teeming with crawling creatures. Liu Zhuiyi turned back to look, just in time to see the creatures bypassing the bonfire that Bian Zhen'er had lit. She understood something in her heart and rushed over to pick up two torches. The creatures, sensing the movement, crawled up her hand. Liu Zhuiyi shook off the creatures and kicked one of the torches towards Bian Zhen'er, saying, "Little monk, catch this!"

Upon hearing this, Hei Lao Wu turned his head to look, then raised his gaze to examine the sign of the inn. He hurriedly walked in and said, "Oh my, it is Miss Liu!"

Liu Zhuiyi turned her head to look at Xun Yan, who was covering her with a garment, and softly asked: "Yun Yao, do you find the arrival of the poisonous insects strange?"

Yun Yao rubbed his bottom, returned to the other side in an orderly manner, and did not forget to wave to Bian Zhen'er, saying: "Come, little monk, let's sleep together"

"Alright then," Liu Zhuiyi gestured for Bian Zhen'er to let go. As Bian Zhen'er released her grip, Hei Lao Wu rubbed his sore shoulder, stood up, and smiled apologetically, saying, "Thank you, young hero, thank you, heroine!" Then, he urged his subordinate, who was lying on the ground and moaning in pain, "Why aren't you quickly expressing your gratitude for their mercy?"

"Alright, both of you return to your own rooms and rest early," Liu Zhuiyi said to Bian Zhen'er.

"Then what do you want?" Liu Zhuiyi asked, poking half of his head out.

"Yun Yao." Liu Zhuiyi handed a torch in his hand to Yun Yao, while Bian Zhen'er protected Xun Yan, clearing the way for everyone. Liu Zhuiyi and Yun Yao cautiously served as the rear guard.

If only we could continue to be this joyful forever

Then I want to see the performance of breaking large stones on the chest, breaking two pieces! Someone shouted first, and Yun Yao was almost shocked to the point of spitting blood. It turns out they were not performing, and breaking two large stones could be life-threatening!

It is well said, we shall meet again.

Heihei Lao Wu furrowed his brow and pondered for a moment, then said: "Miss Liu, to my knowledge, there has been no news of recruitment from the dance houses in Luoyang. However ... ... "

Heihei quickly took a step back, regarding Liu Zhuiyi as a benefactor, and clasped his fists, saying: "I dare not, if Miss Liu insists, I will certainly help you with this matter and will ensure your safety."

Xun Yan couldn't help but laugh at the sight of the two of them playfully fighting and teasing each other, saying, "Sister Liu and Young Master Yun are truly amusing."

Yun Yao clapped his hands and said disdainfully, "Do you really think we are paper tigers just because Grandpa doesn't want to cause trouble and is smiling at you?"

"There are no garments to cover the body, so after being crawled upon, it has become like this." Liu reminisced lightly, with a sense of calmness.

Heilao Wu closely followed Liu Zhuiyi and asked, "Miss, where are you coming from? Where are you headed? Is there anything I can assist you with? Heilao Wu is willing to serve."

Xun Yan was carried into the village by Yun Yao, waking up in a daze. As soon as she regained consciousness, she asked, "Young Master Yun, how is Bian Zhen'er?"

Liu Zhuiyi got up and walked behind Bian Zhen'er. Bian Zhen'er raised her hand, signaling her to stay inside the house and not to come out. Bian Zhen'er stepped outside the temple, cautiously investigating the eerie night.

He Lao Wu said: "Forget it, forget it. As long as the heroine spares us, I, He Lao Wu, along with my subordinates, will be at your service in Luoyang City!"

"The sky has fallen!" Liu Zhuiyi complained to him with irritation, then turned to look at Bian Zhen'er.

"Sister Liu," Xun Yan cried out in fear, "What should I do?"

The onlookers, upon seeing Black Lao Wu, consciously retreated a considerable distance away

I want to see a sparring match

Bian Zhen'er once again used her brow and pupil, saying: "Ahead is Luoyang City, Luoyang is indeed a grand capital, bear with it a little longer, and we will go there to eat some food"

Liu Zhuiyi held Bian Zhen'er’s hand, and with a swift motion, made a cut over the wound. Bian Zhen'er let out a muffled groan, and cold sweat poured down his body even more profusely. Liu Zhuiyi reached out to cover Bian Zhen'er’s forehead, gently stroking him to alleviate the pain from the wound

"Wow! What did you see?" Yun Yao glanced outside the temple and excitedly fixed his gaze on Bian Zhen'er.

Liu suppressed a laugh as he reminisced, while Yun Yao cooperatively flirted, saying: "Wow! This is so delicious! Liu, your culinary skills are truly remarkable, this is absolutely exquisite, this is the best fish I have ever eaten in my life!"

Seeing this, Yun Yao was filled with confusion

"Then let me suck it out; it was Bian Zhen'er who saved me and caused this to happen." Xun Yan said without further ado, lifting Bian Zhen'er's injured hand and sucking at the wound. Liu Zhuiyi's hand, which was reaching out to stop her, paused in mid-air before slowly lowering back down. Yun Yao, driving the carriage, seemed a bit anxious; the carriage was quite bumpy. She lifted the curtain and said to Yun Yao, "Let's stop for a moment."

At noon, Hei Lao Wu rushed in from outside, anxiously saying: "Miss Liu, Miss Liu! The old lady wants to see you."

"Little monk, is it going to rain?" Liu recalled, resting his hand on the straw, feeling a slight dampness in the air

Get up! Black Lao Wu signaled to his subordinates again

Bian Zhen'er was sitting with his back to them, intending to meditate quietly and recite scriptures, but the fragrance was simply too enticing, and he couldn't help but swallow his saliva

There were not many people throwing silver coins in the first round, but Liu Zhuiyi still had more tricks up her sleeve. She clapped her hands and said, "Alright, if after watching the performance of breaking stones with the chest, everyone still feels it is not thrilling enough, we will continue with the performances of stepping on steel knives and the art of bone contraction"

Hei Laowu immediately called his brothers and said, "Take the things back, today we will do other work." After that, he turned to Liu Zhuiyi and said, "Miss Liu, wait for my news"

"Are you just leaving like this?" Hei Lao Wu said, standing with his hands on his hips in a provocative manner

Liu Zhuiyi and the others returned to the inn, poured out the silver, and counted it. After counting the copper coins, it amounted to exactly one tael. Yun Yao sighed and said, "This amount of money is not even equal to my pocket money for a single day."

Liu tied her long black hair up high, tightly arranging it with willow branches. With her hands clasped in front of her, she addressed the gathered citizens: "Ladies and gentlemen, my three siblings and I have come from Chang'an in search of our relatives. Unfortunately, we have not found our kin, and our funds have been completely robbed by mountain bandits. In our desperate situation, we can only rely on the help of you, our respected elders and fellow townsfolk. Today, whatever performance you wish to see, we shall perform it until you are satisfied. We also hope that those of you who are able will generously support us financially. I thank you all in advance."

After finally squeezing out the venom, Yun Yao hurriedly bandaged Liu Zhuiyi's hand. Liu Zhuiyi looked at the bandaged back of her hand, which trembled uncontrollably in pain. Seeing her like this, Yun Yao found it amusing and said, "Still pretending."

"Go ahead, you have worked hard." Liu Zhuiyi sat on the stool, sipping tea after the meal

"That is not the case." Liu Zhuiyi deliberately shouted towards the place where Bian Zhen'er was, "I, Liu Zhuiyi, grill fish; the flesh is flesh, and the bones are bones. Even without seasoning, it can attract the deities from the heavens to descend. Back in the day at Ruyi Tower, the guests who came to listen to music and watch dances would have Liu Zhuiyi's grilled fish on every table! I dare not say it is the best in the world, but it certainly stands out in Chang'an City, and that is no small feat."

Earning money is indeed a trivial matter, but having walked for so long in this desolate area, I fear it will be quite difficult to reach the town. Liu Zhuiyi lay down on the spot, bending his legs, with one leg resting on the other, swaying them back and forth

"Not allowed to eat means not allowed to eat, Master will definitely blame me." Bian Zhen'er had her cheeks tightly pinched, her words unclear between her teeth. Liu Zhuiyi smiled as he stuffed the grilled fish into Bian Zhen'er's mouth, gently coaxing, "Alright, Liu Lang, it's fine to eat a little."

Good! Good! The enthusiasm of the crowd was ignited

At this moment, a louder noise came from outside the crowd, as a burly black man led a group of people, making a grand entrance through the throng. Liu Zhuiyi, sensing the fierce approach, quickly pulled Xun Yan back.

Heilao Wu also stood up, looked around, and quietly confirmed: "Miss Liu, are you really going to that kind of place?"

Bian Zhen'er sat down and ate the vegetarian dishes in an orderly manner. With delicious food available, Yun Yao disregarded everything else and began to devour it ravenously. After finishing breakfast, Liu Zhuiyi instructed Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao to go out first. The two of them did not harbor any suspicions and went out to look for work.

Liu Zhuiyi held the almost rigid right hand of Bian Zhen'er, whose skin was dark, and looked at the terrifying bite mark that resembled a pitch-black abyss, feeling a vague sense of unease in her heart. She tore a strip of cloth from her dress and tied it around Bian Zhen'er's wrist to prevent the spread of the toxin

"Come on, I will take you there," said Black Lao Wu

Liu recalled that he could clearly see that Xun Yan was showing signs of slight dizziness due to the effects of the toxin

Yunyao brought the horses and carriages tied outside the Earth God Temple and said, "The Earth God Temple is about to collapse, let's get in the carriage first. Liuer, you take a look at Bianzhen on the carriage."

Yun Yao sat by the fire and said, "You're awake, Xun Yan, prepare a bowl of medicine for him."

Xun Yan stood up and said, "Sister Liu, I am going to wash the clothes"

Liu reminisced that she did not understand how to feel pity for him at all. Throughout the entire performance, whatever the audience needed to see, she required him to perform. She truly regarded him as a professional who merely sold his skills like a traveling showman.

Upon hearing this, Yun Yao immediately curled up and hid behind Liu Zhuiyi, saying: "Liu'er, I will protect you"

When Liu Zhuiyi was angry, Yun Yao would go over to comfort her, saying, "Come, come, Liu'er, if you're tired, come into my arms." Liu Zhuiyi unceremoniously kicked Yun Yao in response and sulked angrily to the side.

Do you have a way to take me there! Liu Zhuiyi slammed the table and stood up, leaning forward; this was no longer a question, but a demand

Seeing the citizens of Luoyang so enthusiastic, Liu Zhuiyi quickly said, "Alright, alright, one at a time, everyone don't rush, let's first break the big stone on our chests." After saying this, Liu Zhuiyi exchanged a glance with Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao. Yun Yao lay on the ground, adopting a posture of resignation.

The swarm of crawlers is dense, and three people are simply insufficient to disperse them. Xun Yan has been holding onto Bian Zhen'er’s hand, completely defenseless.

Liu recalled seeing the affectionate expression on Xun Yan's face and stepped outside, saying: "I am afraid there may be further danger, so I will go out and keep watch"

"Good." Liu's expression appeared calm, but her eyes revealed a hint of fear. She felt quite uneasy inside, yet she did not know the source of this unease

"My leg..." Xun Yan suddenly became tense as several crawling insects climbed up her leg. When Bian Zhen'er saw this, she instinctively reached out to brush them away. However, the insects, sensing the attack, bit back without hesitation. Bian Zhen'er felt a sharp pain on one side of her palm but did not stop her actions for a moment.

No, no, no, young hero! There is no need for hostility!" Hei Lao Wu was pinned to the ground by Bian Zhen'er and could not move, quickly begging for mercy

"A perfect match," Xun Yan said with a smile

Thank you, young hero, thank you, young heroine! The subordinates kneel on the ground and bow their heads.

"Bian Zhen'er! What is wrong with you?" Xun Yan's anxious voice suddenly rose. Liu Zhuiyi turned his head to look, and saw Bian Zhen'er with purple lips, her body weakly lying in Xun Yan's embrace

Yun Yao finally ignited the fire and couldn't help but say: "What kind of ascetic monk are you to uphold such strict rules and precepts?"

Xun Yan is delicate and evokes sympathy. Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao take great care of her, never allowing her to do any heavy work. Liu Zhuiyi observes this and feels quite jealous, often deliberately walking in front of Bian Zhen'er like a fragile willow swaying in the wind, exclaiming: "Oh dear, I am so tired, my head hurts so much"

"Everyone, do not stay in the temple, move outside!" Bian Zhen'er shouted loudly

"Alright." Xun Yan nodded and poured a bowl of medicine for Bian Zhen'er. Bian Zhen'er took it and asked, "Where is Miss Liu?"

Bian Zhen'er felt somewhat relieved, the cold sweat subsided, her lip color gradually returned, and the injured hand regained warmth

I am not afraid, so why should you be? If you can take me there and persuade my mother to let me try, I will share half of the money I earn with you

"Alright." Liu Zhuiyi recalled and shook the sleeping Xun Yan, "Xun Yan, wake up." Fortunately, Xun Yan was a light sleeper and woke up immediately upon being called. However, Yun Yao lay sprawled out like a pig, unresponsive to any calls. Liu Zhuiyi had no choice but to pinch his thigh, and Yun Yao instantly sat up, confused, and asked, "What happened?"

Yun Yao stopped the car and took a glance inside

Yun Yao looked at Liu Zhuiyi, sighing heavily in his heart, as he helped Bian Zhen'er bandage her wounds

Bian Zhen'er helplessly looked at the two of them, performed a one-handed salute, and sighed: "Amitabha."

Should I eat? Will the Buddha and my master forgive me if I do? Never mind, I might as well recite the Heart Sutra a few more times. Bian Zhen'er held a grilled fish in both hands, took a small bite to taste, and indeed, it was delicious!

Take me there! Liu Zhuiyi forcefully threw the teacup onto the table, causing the remaining water inside to splash out.

Fortunately, her temper flares up quickly but also subsides just as fast, requiring no consolation from others, and everything will eventually be fine

Yun Yao drove to the deserted village that Bian Zhen'er had mentioned earlier. At this time, the sky was still bright, but an occasional rumble of thunder lit up the horizon. He and Liu Zhuiyi worked together to bring Bian Zhen'er and Xun Yan into the village just as the thunderstorm arrived

Since Yun Yao believes that nothing can challenge him, then the task of making money can be entirely entrusted to Yun Yao

Not at all, Liu Zhuiyi mumbled, hugging her knees as the wind carried in strands of rain, striking against her face

One is for Liu's reminiscence, and the other is for Yun's brilliance. As for Bian Zhen'er, no one knows what he thinks

Of course, as long as it is a performance by the seller of the solution, we will do it all. Liu Zhuiyi said respectfully

At the beginning of the hour of the Tiger, a strong wind was blowing outside the door, and the old redwood door of the earth temple could not withstand the disturbance and was blown down. The sound of the redwood door collapsing startled Bian Zhen'er and Liu Zhuiyi, causing both of them to sit up in surprise and rise.

"If it hurts, just bite me; my skin is thick," Yun Yao said

Upon seeing Hei Lao Wu captured, the subordinates rushed forward to assist. Liu Zhuiyi and Yun Yao swiftly maneuvered, their actions rapid as in the blink of an eye, all the subordinates fell to the ground.

Liu Zhuiyi raised the back of his hand, revealing a swollen red patch on it

After a hearty meal, the four individuals set off again

Is this the brothel? Liu reminisced, understanding the implication, and asked with a smirk.

"I am not hungry," Bian Zhen'er said. Then, his stomach growled.

As soon as these words were spoken, the crowd immediately became lively, and someone couldn't help but ask: "Can we really watch any performance we want?"

Perhaps some people feel that everything they do need not be known by others

After Hei Lao Wu left, Liu leisurely sat down and ordered a table full of sumptuous dishes. Calculating the time, it should be about the time that Bian Zhen'er and the others were getting up.

"Miss Liu, wake them both up," Bian Zhen'er said

As expected, shortly after the little second opened the door, while Liu Zhuiyi was halfway through his food and drink, he saw a group of people led by Hei Lao Wu passing by the Donglai Inn, armed with knives, guns, and clubs

Alright, thank you! Liu reminisced and nodded.

"Then we must leave; we cannot just wait to die," Yun Yao said

With a decisive strike from Bian Zhen'er, Yun Yao let out a muffled groan, and the two pieces of blue stone on his chest immediately shattered into halves. Upon witnessing this, everyone was astonished and began to applaud enthusiastically. Bian Zhen'er helped Yun Yao to his feet, and Yun Yao symbolically patted his chest before bowing to the crowd

The fish is quickly grilled, and the aroma wafts in.

He won't die. As soon as Yun Yao set Xun Yan down, she disregarded her own physical weakness to visit Bian Zhen'er. Seeing that his complexion had improved, a look of relief appeared on Xun Yan's face, "It seems he is much better."

Perhaps after walking exactly fifty miles, we will see it. Moreover, we have a horse-drawn carriage; how could we not travel for an entire morning

Liu recalled skillfully handling the fish, instructing Yun Yao to skewer the fish with a branch and place it over the fire to grill. Bian Zhen'er took a deep breath and said, "Amitabha." Then, he downed the medicine he had been holding in his hand.

"What a match! I have no interest in you at all!" Liu Zhuiyi rolled her eyes, and Yun Yao, with a cheeky grin, replied, "That's fine, as long as I have an interest in you, that's enough."

No! Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao spoke in unison

"Wow, Bian Zhen'er, what kind of magic do you possess?" Yun Yao ran over to join the excitement

Can you step on a sharp knife?

I do not know what this poison is, but it is quite potent. Now, I fear we must first find a way to extract the toxin before proceeding with any other treatment. Liu Zhuiyi said, feeling a sense of guilt in her heart, regretting that her limited medical skills were of no use at such a critical moment

You help me, how can you help me! That nasty girl made me come and perform!" Yun Yao shouted at Bian Zhen.

Bian Zhen'er said: "I will control the strength well, trust me"