Chapter Nine, As If an Old Friend Has Arrived

"No, those who have left cannot return." With that, Lu Boyan swayed slightly, moving forward like a shadow, elusive and enchanting.

He gently squeezed her hand, looking at the book she had placed by her knee, and softly said: "The Shurangama Sutra states: 'Just as after a fresh rain, the clear sun rises in the sky, and light enters through the gaps. In the air, there are various dust particles, their substance swaying, while the void remains tranquil.'"

As soon as he spoke, everyone fell silent. The shopkeeper hurried out to smooth things over, saying: "Everyone, enjoy your meal, enjoy your meal. The shop has thin profits, so let’s not discuss national affairs, let’s not discuss national affairs."

Shi Yizhi sighed, saying: "You need not hate me. My true energy is in conflict with the Ren meridian, ceaselessly fluctuating day and night, beyond my control, causing immense suffering. Living in such a state, neither truly alive nor dead, without kin or friends, is far more difficult than death. This must be the retribution I deserve." He then changed the subject, asking, "Was it Qi Fengxiang who accompanied you to the General's mansion dungeon in Jibei last time?"

Su Lili discerned some clues and asked, "Uncle Shi, were you the one who injured him?"

"That is because I just used my internal energy to dry your clothes; with you replenishing so much vital energy, how could you not feel pleased?" A thin voice came from the corner of the room, and an elderly man with a striking appearance and a white beard stepped out, stroking his beard as he addressed Shiyi: "I have already made myself quite clear; what exactly are your intentions?"

Shi Yi smiled and said, "Do not make things difficult for him; he is merely a subordinate and has no choice in the matter. Moreover, he means no harm." He turned to Ba Zhua and spoke in a cold tone, "If you wish to follow, then follow. However, my niece does not wish to see you, so it would be best if you stayed away."

Jiang Qiudi was struck by his palm, flying and crashing beyond the palace wall, his energy center shattered, and his internal power lost. Han Zheming used silver needles to stimulate his meridians, preserving the little true energy he had left, but was unable to gather it in the dantian. Every day, he relied on the warm healing effects of the spring water in the Bi Bo Pool to circulate his true energy, struggling to maintain his life.

Su Lili lowered her head slightly and said, "I have no true energy left at all. Although it may seem useless, it does not make me a waste. In fact, being an ordinary person has its own advantages. You are simply accustomed to being highly skilled in martial arts and are reluctant to be an ordinary person."

Su Lili gritted her teeth and said: "Indeed, it has only been three days since we last met, yet one must look at each other with new eyes."

After finishing a meal, Su Lili could not help but ask Mu Tou, "Have you been eating meals like this for over a year?"

Shi Yizhi frowned, "Surely, it must be a wanderer from the martial world seeking medical treatment. If Mr. Han were to treat everyone, the place would undoubtedly be overcrowded, hence there is a rule regarding whom he treats and whom he does not. However, no one seems to know what this rule is, or perhaps it is merely based on momentary whims."

Shi Yizhi smiled and said: "You are not a person of the martial world, so naturally you do not know. The Three Character Valley is the residence of the divine physician Han Zheming. Mr. Han lives in seclusion, and all those seeking medical treatment can only go to him. Whether it is injuries from swords and knives or chronic and severe illnesses, he always has a way to cure them. Therefore, people in the martial world are not afraid that he cannot heal, but rather that he will not treat them"

A middle-aged man in a blue robe was seen pouring and drinking for himself. He had a beard on his lips, a somewhat gaunt face, and an indifferent expression. When he noticed Su Lili turning around, he gave her a slight smile. Su Lili was taken aback for a moment, then smiled back out of courtesy, pondering to herself: Could he be an acquaintance?

Su Lili was overjoyed and poked him on the shoulder, saying: "Talk about your parents"

Before she could finish her thoughts, the man had already brought over a wine jug, sat down on the bench beside her, and placed down his cup, saying: "Young brother, what brings you out here in such a manner?"

In the early spring, a light rain drifts down outside, resembling a sky filled with floating dust. Hand in hand, we ran into the pharmacy, beneath the copper lamp, with tiny raindrops clinging to our hair, like sparkling sugar crystals. Whether it was from running or the cold wind, Su Lili's cheeks were slightly flushed, making her particularly enchanting

Su Lili scrutinized his cold demeanor and asked, "Who exactly are you?"

The wooden figure rolled its eyes and replied with some effort: "I have long admired you, I have long admired you."

Su Lili expressed her doubts: "People in the martial world do not adhere to reason; what if he cannot defeat the other party?"

She could no longer stay in the coffin shop where Yu Fei once lived. She had helped Qi Fengxiang persuade him, which also meant she had indirectly contributed to his demise. Although he had countless justifiable reasons, she could not accept this reality. There were some answers that she still needed to seek slowly

The people at the table busily said: "What do you have? Don't keep it to yourself, my friend; share it with everyone to hear."

Su Lili pushed him down again without caring about the dirt on the ground, silently sat down beside him, and said: "Why are you dying so quickly?"

An old man slowly emerged from behind the stone, his face marked by the elements, dressed in a wide-sleeved long robe. The wind in the valley was strong, yet his drooping sleeves remained completely still, clearly indicating that he possessed exceptional internal skills. The old man slowly spoke: "Your internal strength is quite impressive; you can even hear the sound of my breathing."

The old man stood calmly and said: "I am not Han Zheming; my surname is Lu, and others call me Uncle Lu."

During the time of healing for the two, Su Lili, feeling utterly bored, ran to the small wooden house where Mu Tou lived. The room was only about ten feet square, with a table and a bed, yet it was neat and refreshing, just as he had kept it in the past. On the rattan trunk were stacked clothes, including the blue cloth robe that Su Lili had custom-made for him, which was now too short for his stature, and the cuffs were somewhat frayed, yet it was washed clean and placed there. This inevitably reminded her of the past, when she would draw a bucket of water from the well in the backyard and pour it into a basin to wash his white cotton clothes, doing so with gritted teeth.

At one moment, opinions were varied and numerous

Then... that, Su Lili glanced at the cliff, "You go back behind the rock first, I will come down again."

Su Lili was taken aback, her brows slightly furrowing. After pondering for a while, she shook her head and said: "Although I want you to save him, you harmed my mother. How can I acknowledge you as my father..."

In these extraordinary times, no one was unaware of the situation, so those who drank did so, and those who ate did the same. Su Lili could not help but glance back at the person who had just spoken; after all, they had somewhat helped her, the legendary and extraordinarily beautiful femme fatale, out of a predicament.

Alas, the result was that the woman presented her strategy to the emperor in person. Qi Huancheng was both captivated by her beauty and grateful for her contribution, ultimately taking her into the imperial harem and appointing her as a concubine. He sighed repeatedly

The wood collected a smile, "What else?"

The atmosphere in the Sanzi Valley has undergone a complete transformation. Mu Tou was overjoyed, finishing two bowls in quick succession; Shi Yizhi was also pleased, drinking down both the soup and the ingredients. Han Zheming, whose meals had improved after decades, was overwhelmed with joy and grabbed Mu Tou to strip off his shirt, swiftly and skillfully crafting it into a hedgehog. Lu Bo maintained a serious expression, yet he threw people with increasing vigor and satisfaction.

My injury is no longer serious, but his is not fully healed yet. We will continue tomorrow. He lit the candle, and the room became much brighter. The flame danced in his eyes, and the dark pupils reflected the firelight. Although his expression remained serious, there was a deep amusement in his eyes

He thought for a moment and said: "Feelings are not bound by cause and effect; fate determines life and death. This technique of Manjusha Flower is not passed down to secular disciples of Shaolin Temple. At such a young age, having this connection with Shaolin, you must be a member of the Linjiang Wang family"

The wood looked into those clear eyes, and his heart was no longer filled with the dead gray of desolation, but rather with a tranquil joy. He said softly, "I didn't do much, just killed an emperor."

The shopkeeper, already frightened, kept retreating in quick succession. Turning around, he shrank behind the counter, peeking out with the shop assistant, both half-exposing their heads to observe the three individuals.

Han Zheming nodded, "Agreed, this young lady has convinced him."

The figure known as Ba Zhua Lian slowly entered and said: "Your skills are impressive, my lord; I could not evade your chopsticks even from across the roof."

Some things are truly difficult to articulate. Shi Yizhi said slowly, "Your mother's swordsmanship is impressive; she was somewhat renowned back in Taiwei Mountain. She was quite proud of it and once claimed that she would only marry someone who surpassed her. My martial arts have always been better than hers, and she has always respected me. I thought that one day she would surely marry me. Who would have thought that the person she ultimately married would have no martial arts skills whatsoever"

The young man in blue set down his wine cup and said somewhat dejectedly, "Miss Su."

Su Lili was taken aback. When she first heard the name Han Zheming, she imagined someone refined and cultured, but instead, she encountered a frail, small old man, resembling a common street vendor, yet his eyes sparkled with a keen light. The old man said, "Your true energy is already abundant, and now that it has broken through the meridians, it is not guided by human effort, but rather has gone astray, beyond your control. If you do not disperse your internal energy, you will suffer the torment of true energy fluctuations for the rest of your life"

Su Lili looked at the few people in anger, feeling somewhat pleased in her heart. She slowly strolled out of the wooden house, where a grove of phoenix tail bamboo grew outside. As the evening breeze rose, it rustled softly. Su Lili wandered aimlessly through the bamboo forest, gradually distancing herself from the wooden house. The valley was tranquil, with intermittent bird calls, and the trees along the way were lush, not lacking in century-old fine timber. Su Lili touched the bark of a large banyan tree, secretly thinking that perhaps her entire life would be inextricably linked to wood.

Shi Yizhi picked up a chopstick and slightly raised his wrist. The chopstick flew straight towards the ceiling, breaking through the roof tiles with a crisp sound. Shi Yizhi shouted, "Come down."

Su Lili paused for a moment and said, "I do not hate you; what would be the point of hating you? You have harmed me, and I have also plotted against you; we are even now."

"Is today the day you pulled me up?" Su Lili asked

When Shi Yizhi was rejected, he clapped his hands and laughed heartily, saying: "Good, good, both of you are excellent. You remain steadfast in the face of setbacks and are unafraid of death. Mr. Han, how should we treat this internal injury"

One person beside him interrupted, saying: "It's hard to say; the Qi clan is about to pacify the north, and it remains to be seen whether they will then turn their forces southward."

At this moment, Shi Yizhi let out a hearty laugh, causing Lu Bo's old face to twitch slightly, and with a hint of thin anger, he said: "Mumbling is not acceptable!"

Shi Yi shook his head and said, "When someone requests treatment, one must not act impulsively; one can only proceed according to the established rules"

The next day, Han Zheming used acupuncture to seal several major acupoints of the two individuals to prevent the true energy from dispersing. Shi Yizhi cautiously attempted to channel his internal energy from the palm of his hand into the wooden palm, guiding it through the three yang meridians to the Tian Tu point, descending along the Ren meridian, and converging in the Dantian's Qi Sea, methodically repairing the damaged meridians. The conflicting true energy within Shi Yizhi's pulse found an outlet, continuously surging forth like a torrent, finally ceasing its chaotic rampage.

She was lost in thought when she suddenly heard a deep voice from a cold corner, speaking with a northern accent: "Whether the Yangtze River can be defended depends on whether there are capable generals in Jiangnan to withstand it. As for the current prefect, it is better not to fight."

This is the rule

Shi Yizhi frowned and said: "Everyone can disperse their true energy, but I have traveled this far precisely to seek a foolproof method"

... ... is.

What does your master say?" Su Lili laughed in anger.

Su Lili took a deep breath, watching the night gradually descend behind him, and slowly said: "Fortunately, I have been choked, shot with arrows, had a rib broken, and fainted twice. The shop was burned down when the city fell, but I have repaired it."

The Way of Time: "I am about to go to the Three Character Valley to see if I can heal my internal injuries"

Han Zheming let out a cold snort, "You know very well that it is impossible. I can teach you the method, but you refuse to follow it. So be it, you may leave the valley tomorrow. However, it is rare that you have become so obsessed that your true energy is in constant conflict; this is precisely the remedy for that person. While your injury may not lead to death if left untreated, his injury, if not treated, will be difficult to survive."

Su Lili had been listening for half a day and asked in astonishment, "Uncle Shi, why are you unwilling?"

Su Lili silently pondered for a moment, "What do I want?" She shook her head, "I don't know either. I just want to avoid being found by those who are looking for me." She raised her head in a daze and looked around; everyone else had finished their meals. "What is it that you want?"

Su Lili looked at him and said, "There is none left."

Su Lili did not believe, "Who is following me?"

She fell silent for a moment, "Why do you want to kill the emperor?"

The old man with a shiny face said: "The Qi family has long resided in the north and is not skilled in naval warfare. The Yangtze River is a natural barrier; they cannot cross it."

Su Lili felt a slight strain in her eyes, "Uncle Cheng was killed by someone; I saved a child, but later he was also murdered; Sister Yan Huan disclosed my situation, but she had no choice in the matter"

Mu Tou listened, his pupils slightly constricting under the light, yet his demeanor remained open and candid. "I will protect her for a lifetime, but not because I seek your inner strength. I will not make such a vow; if you wish to save her, then do so."

Su Lili stood up, feeling refreshed and invigorated, "How is it possible to feel this amazing?"

How can you eat something so unappetizing

The wood gazed at her face, "Jiang Qiudi, Jiang as in the river, Qiu as in spring and autumn, Di as in arrowhead."

All words, probing, the anxiety of gain and loss, and even the ruthless calculations burst forth like fireworks in the sky, only to wither and fade into nothingness. The only thing she understands is that all difficulties will eventually pass, just like the destruction of a family, like having nowhere to turn, like being harmed by others. Time flows like water, dulling the sharp pain into a heavy, eternal mark, while life remains ever vibrant

Shi Yizhi raised her head slightly, her expression calm yet her tone somewhat firm, "What kind of rule is this? Bullying the weak?"

The Way of Time: "So what are your plans?"

Yes

He paused for a moment and said, "I have always missed you."

What place is that

Shi Yizhi shook his head and said, "Mr. Han, I have no familial ties with that person. To expend decades of effort to save him is rather absurd."

Two days later, I arrived at a somewhat more prosperous town and found a restaurant that was neither good nor bad to have a meal. While eating, I studied how the Jianghuai cuisine is prepared. Northerners are rough and straightforward, while Southerners are meticulous and detailed. Even a group of big men can engage in conversation that is refreshing and lively, with voices both urgent and gentle. I could only hear a shiny-faced old man say, "In my opinion, it will take at least three to five years to distinguish the strengths and weaknesses among the various heroes of the world."

Su Lili, seeing him like this, said in a neutral tone: "Brother Jiang, why are you looking at me like that?"

Su Lili rested her chin on one hand while holding a piece of food with the other, frowning and pouting, suddenly feeling utterly bored. The rumors circulating in the martial world are simply outrageous! The nonsense she fabricated back then was only heard by Zhao Wufang and Ouyang Qin, and later Qi Fengxiang also learned about it. The latter two would not spread such tales; it is likely that Zhao Wufang was just talking nonsense, trying to bring Qi Fengxiang down a peg, embellishing the story with some scandalous details to gain popularity.

The wood feels pain, yet it does not argue, "I will not be like that again"

The sky was dimming, and there were faint rustling sounds in the thicket of leaves. Su Lili looked out and saw a shadowy figure in blue approaching from the valley, indistinct and hard to discern. As Su Lili turned to head back, she noticed that the person walked slowly and calmly, yet with a focused intent towards her. Gradually, the figure drew closer and closer.

Su Lili traced her index finger on the chopsticks, saying, "Just wandering around, we can talk about it when we run out of money"

*

The Three-Character Valley is located in the town of Lengshui, south of Huizhou. Su Lili looked around in all directions along the way and asked Shi Yizhi: "Where is he hiding? Why have I not seen him yet he has followed me all the way?" Shi Yizhi laughed heartily

Then you should give me a message later

The veins on the wooden forehead bulged slightly, and he lowered his head in submission

Shi Yi shook his head, "It was not me; it was the people at the bottom of the valley who saved you. The Three-Character Valley has never harmed anyone. The spring at the bottom of the valley has miraculous healing properties. Anyone who enters the valley and is thrown in will surely benefit. I can stay here to heal, so you can stay as well"

A young girl appeared outside the window, walking briskly, her apricot-red blouse contrasting vividly with the lush green trees. With a bright smile, she asked, "Father, is he willing to treat Brother Jiang's injury?"

Wooden Path: "You speak."

Mrs. Han Zheming is in her forties, with delicate eyebrows and a lingering charm. In her youth, she suffered from leprosy, and her parents and relatives regarded her as a calamity, abandoning her in a mass grave. In the freezing cold, she lay in the snow waiting for death, when Han Zheming happened to pass by and saved her life, even curing her illness, after which she married him. Mrs. Han is gentle and virtuous, excelling in every aspect, except for her culinary skills, which cannot be praised. It is said that practice makes perfect; after several decades, she has finally managed to cook rice without burning it, vegetables without undercooking them, and soup without over-salting it. However, the deeper she delves into the art of cooking, the slower her progress becomes. Mrs. Han is gentle and virtuous, excelling in every aspect, except for her culinary skills, which cannot be praised. It is said that practice makes perfect; after several decades, she has finally managed to cook rice without burning it, vegetables without undercooking them, and soup without over-salting it. However, the deeper she delves into the art of cooking, the slower her progress becomes

A person behind said: "You are unaware of this, but there are rumors that the Qi family has already obtained the imperial edict from the late emperor, making them formidable in both land and naval battles. Speaking of which, this matter is somewhat... haha, haha." He smiled meaningfully.

Su Lili looked up at him and couldn't help but ask, "How do you know my mother?"

Su Lili glanced at Shi Yi and did not speak further

Mu Tou smiled faintly and extended his hands to her. Su Li Li grasped his hands, feeling a somewhat unfamiliar yet delicate warmth that flowed from her fingertips to the depths of her heart. They held hands quietly, yet emotions flowed between them. Mu Tou gazed at her for a long time and softly said, "How have you been during my absence these days?"

What kind of person?!

A shadow floated down from the eaves, standing at the steps below, its face covered by a black veil, obscuring its features. However, Su Lili recognized it and exclaimed, "It is you!"

After embracing for a long time, she buried her face in his shoulder, wiped her tears with the fabric, and looked up to ask, "What is your name, Jiang?"

Understood! She has already gone far away

As soon as he spoke the words "Miss Su," Su Lili was taken aback. However, seeing his brow unknotted and his expression seemingly familiar, Su Lili stammered, "Uncle... Uncle Shi!"

The young girl glanced at Su Lili and exclaimed, "That's great, I'll go tell Mom." She turned around and ran outside.

That person gripped the table and said: "The old master may not be aware, but these young nobles are always eyeing what is in the pot while eating from the bowl. What kind of family background does the Fu family have? However, it is not certain that Young Master Qi would favor Miss Fu. Just speaking of Ye Zhiqiu's daughter, he brought her back to the capital to establish a separate residence, keeping her in a golden house, yet it still came to the attention of Qi Huancheng. Qi Huancheng was furious and wanted to kill that woman"

They lifted the wooden object and walked towards the cabin. He moved slowly and steadily, step by step. Su Lili, however, immediately noticed that he was not as agile and spry as before, feeling a twinge of regret for having pushed him earlier. Slowing their pace, they arrived in front of the cabin, where Han Zhen came out to greet them. Upon seeing the wooden object, he smiled with pure sincerity and said, "Brother Jiang, you are saved."

Su Lili stood to the side and turned her ankle. Seeing his expression was not friendly, she honestly replied: "I heard it is called Three-Character Valley."

At that moment, Shi Yi raised her hand and said to Su Li: "It's not just good; it's simply so good that I can't stand it. Mr. Han's martial arts are indeed on par with Zhong Bo."

The oily old man interrupted him, saying: "Nonsense. Young Master Qi San only married Miss Fu Liu when he was in Pingyu South, so where does this notion of being head over heels come from"

He spoke gently: "You need not be afraid. That day, my true energy broke through my meridians, and by some divine intervention, it unexpectedly cured the madness I had previously fallen into."

Su Lili interrupted him, saying: "Surname Jiang, given name Qiudi, courtesy name Mutou"

Do you know why it is called Sanzi Valley

Su Lili's eyes widened in surprise, and she couldn't help but sigh: "This person is truly a formidable enemy of the coffin shop!" She stood up and called to the shopkeeper, "Waiter, bring the bill." Turning to Shi Yizhi, she said, "Now that the meal is finished, let us part ways here."

Su Lili asked: "What does it mean?"

Upon waking, I found myself in a small, clean wooden cabin, with Shi Yizhi quietly sitting nearby. Su Lili slowly opened her eyes while leaning against the chair and looked up at the ceiling, asking, "Uncle Shi, did you save me?"

Shi Yi, however, stood with his hands behind his back, shaking his head and sighing: "The rules of the jianghu cannot be disregarded."

The location of Lengshui Town is somewhat remote, the houses are simple, and the people are genuine. One evening, while staying there, Shi Yizhi pointed to the smoke rising from the rooftops and said: "Li Li, look at the people here; although each has their own shortcomings, they never lack in caring for one another"

Twenty years ago, when the orioles flew and the grass grew lush, Shi Yizhi and Su Cixiu rode in red attire, finding joy in the mountains and rivers. What was once pure and untainted was altered by a chance encounter. The junior sister fell in love with a frail scholar and became his wife. The senior brother made his way to the capital, immersing himself in court affairs, solely to see her from time to time. Yet, when one's heart is not present, even daily meetings only serve to increase the sorrow.

The path of martial arts is akin to power; the more one covets it, the harder it becomes to extricate oneself. Shi Yi gazed at Su Lili, feeling an overwhelming sense of guilt towards her. If he were to lose his martial skills, he would consider it a way to repay her. After a moment of silence, he said: "Lili, what do you think I should do?"

It must have been someone who wrote the "Three Character Classic" who came here to treat the illness, Mr. Han did not receive treatment, and ultimately died at the bottom of the valley. Her voice was clear and crisp, and she spoke with great seriousness

With an expression devoid of any disturbance, Mu Tou gazed at Shi Yizhi and coldly replied, "My surname is Jiang."

It is said that she was extraordinarily beautiful, and when Young Master Qi San traveled to Jingbei, he encountered her. Alas, even heroes find it difficult to resist the allure of a beautiful woman, and he was utterly captivated by her charm

Su Lili's piercing scream echoed through the skies, her thoughts in turmoil. After a snap of her fingers, a dull sound resonated, and the water rippled, waves crashing against the shores like a harmonious chorus. Su Lili heavily plunged into a warm lake, water flooding her nostrils, as suffocation and fear surged deeply within her, breaking through her limits, leaving in her mind only a faint trace of clouds at the horizon.

Su Lili's tone was slow and hesitant, rolling off her lips and teeth, soft and profound like a lamenting affection, yet she still called out softly: "Wood."

The sound moved him instantly; before he could speak, Su Lili had rushed forward, pushed him hard, and shouted, "Where have you been?" Though her voice was fierce, her eyes were red.

Su Lili listened to him finish speaking, lowered her head without responding, her heart in turmoil.

Do you know the question of Shi Yi?

Su Lili said: "From now on, I will be called Jiang Mutou"

Han Zhen nodded and said: "The day you all came over for dinner, Brother Jiang was laughing while holding you. He has been here for a year, and I have never seen him smile like that. If he could see you and be this happy every day, I would be happy too"

Su Lili hesitated for a moment and said, "I have been with him for two years, and we have become familiar with each other. There is no talk of liking or disliking between us. I am simply happy as long as he is alive, and I only hope that he enjoys each day and is cheerful; that is enough to satisfy my heart."

He tilted his head back and drank the clear brew in his cup, "I have known her all along, since we were children. Your mother and I are fellow disciples. You may not know this, but your mother was originally from the martial world, not from a scholarly family."

Han Zheming's eyes sparkled with excitement as he exclaimed, "I have never treated someone whose energy center has been so severely damaged and yet can still recover!" He called out to the window, "Zhen'er, Zhen'er, quickly prepare the silver needles and medicinal concoction for me!"

Wood paused for a moment and asked, "Is there anything else?"

Your mother appears carefree and unrestrained, yet at times she can be quite stubborn. I know she will not turn back, and I also wish to let go and leave. It was at that moment that Ye Zhiqiu resigned from his official position and left the court, and I was ordered to pursue him. He sighed, saying, "At that time, I truly hated your father and wanted to kill him. However, your mother... you know how it is.

On the first day of the Lunar New Year, I crossed the river and found an inn to stay in. It was a small town in the Jiangnan region. Su Lili asked the innkeeper if there were any interesting places nearby. The innkeeper replied that in this remote area, there wasn't much to see, but upstream by the river, there was a large stone mill, truly enormous, which is why they called it Motan Town. She found the southern accent quite strange; the innkeeper, knowing she was from the north, spoke Mandarin with a thick accent, which made Su Lili laugh uncontrollably. Afterward, she indeed went to see it and was amazed by the sight of the stone mill, larger than a house, turning with the flow of the water. The southern accent she found quite strange; the innkeeper, aware of her northern origins, spoke Mandarin with a thick accent, which made Su Lili laugh uncontrollably. Afterward, she indeed went to see it and was amazed by the sight of the stone mill, larger than a house, turning with the flow of the water

At the beginning of the time, he gazed at her face and sighed softly, "You truly are the daughter of Ci Xiu, even your temperament resembles hers."

Su Lili felt that Shi Yizhi's words were quite accurate—everyone here has their weaknesses, yet there is never a lack of care among one another

The Way of Time: "Is His Majesty well?"

A year and a half later, Shi Yizhi saw again the bright-eyed young man in plain clothes. The memory of their fierce encounter that night, akin to a fish dying and a net breaking, remained vivid in his mind. After a moment of concentration, he asked, "Were you the one who was injured?"

Su Lili glanced at him. Apart from Uncle Cheng, she did not know this middle-aged man and found it inappropriate to inquire or decline. She simply replied, "I am studying in the capital, and my father is doing business in Huai. I am just about to return home. I was delayed for two days on the road due to some matters."

On the bedside lay a book. When Su Lili picked it up to read, it was the "Shurangama Sutra." She was momentarily taken aback, pondering how he had navigated life and death over the past year. As she turned a page, she noticed the slightly frayed corners, clearly indicating it had been frequently read. Su Lili's thoughts became entangled, her heart both light and heavy, as she continued to read the elegant and concise phrases.

Most people in the world do not have the opportunity to dominate the scene, and they eagerly watch those glamorous figures fall into the hands of women

After several days of travel, I arrived at the banks of the Yangtze River. I heard that Qi Fengxiang had indeed emerged from Hebei, directing his troops towards Shanxi. The gatherings and partings of life are met with a calm and tranquil demeanor. On New Year's Eve, sitting in a small boat on the river, I saw the lights of thousands of homes and recalled last year's New Year's Eve when he sat in the courtyard drinking, filled with schemes to deceive her into going to Hebei, which made me smile.

Su Lili gritted her teeth, her stubbornness rising. Why was he so calm, wanting to keep every word and action of hers under control? She turned and said, "Uncle Shi, why don't I go with you to Sanzi Valley? It's just that this person following me is quite annoying."

In the silence, his voice was low and pleasant, "Sister."

More than a year ago, Shi Yizhi was serving as the Chief of the Imperial Guards, overseeing the inner palace guards. At that time, the people's hearts were already scattered, the scholars were unmotivated, and the common people were struggling to survive. While the guards below were negligent, he remained diligent in his duties. One night, while sitting quietly in the side hall, he suddenly heard a faint sound from the main hall, like a cat pouncing on tiles. Shi Yizhi possessed profound inner strength and keen senses, and he leaped outside the hall, just in time to encounter a subordinate rushing in, urgently reporting, "Assassin."

Shiyi cupped his hands and said: "So it turns out you are Mr. Han's sworn brother, my apologies."

Su Lili's years have been unfavorable, and she has fallen into a stupor again

Su Lili released her hand, her gaze piercing into his face like a knife, "What have you been doing?"

I remember some things, I remember that day it rained, you accidentally killed my mother

Shi Yizhi nodded and said: "Although you are young, your martial arts are impressive. Why come here today to seek death?" As soon as the word "death" left his lips, he struck towards the opponent's neck with a palm, anticipating his response. Suddenly, he changed his move mid-way to a fist, aiming for his chest and abdomen.

Shi Yi shook his head and said, "You have been followed by someone all along, yet you remain unaware."

The clawed face continued understandingly, "I have always reported your messages to the capital."

This canyon is extremely deep, descending approximately one hundred zhang before landing on a broken stone. Behind the stone, a narrow wooden path is concealed. The edge of the large stone is as neatly cut as if by a knife or axe, revealing layers of weathered marks. Su Lili could not help but lean against the inner wall, losing her footing upon landing and falling to the ground with a cry of distress

Su Lili looked up, a wisp of blue smoke curling upwards, reminiscent of the days before she met Qi Fengxiang, as light as tea. She gazed at the vibrant tranquility of this rural village, feeling that this was a life rich and abundant

Shi Yizhi smiled slightly and said, "Qi Fengxiang is indeed a thoughtful person"

Madam Han regarded Su Lili as a treasure, inviting her to the kitchen every day to seek her advice on cooking. Han Zhen's youthful face was also filled with envy as she remarked that the meals Su Lili prepared were truly delicious. Su Lili thought to herself that what she excelled at was not cooking.

Because there may be no return.

Han Zheming said: "Prepare the medicine!"

That person took a sip of wine, wearing a gossipy expression, and said, "Do you know how the Qi family obtained the Emperor's Edict? It is said that this Edict has been missing since the former dynasty when the Crown Prince's tutor, Ye Zhiqiu, went into seclusion. The Qi family acquired it from a woman, who is none other than Ye Zhiqiu's daughter"

Shi Yizhi shook his head and said: "Once the true energy dissipates, it is akin to being a useless person; what significance does that hold"

In a single move, he changed his gesture three times, demonstrating utmost concentration, yet only brushed past the hem of his sleeve. Shi Yizhi had not encountered such a remarkable event in many years, and could not help but gather his spirits. Soon, the young man could no longer withstand the onslaught; within ten moves, he barely managed to counter eight, retreating towards the palace wall. Those on the wall responded by launching hidden weapons, forcing the palace guards to retreat. Shi Yizhi's subordinates showed no mercy, striking towards his vital energy center.

Shi Yizhi shook his head and said: "What is your relationship with him?"

"Thanks to your grace." The wooden voice is faint

The Three-Character Valley is located southwest of Cold Water Town, and after walking along the mountain path for half a day, Shi Yizhi mentioned that the man in black had stopped at Cold Water Town and did not follow them any further. Whether he followed or not, Su Lili was unaware and did not mind.

Su Lili had eaten for two days. On the third day, she exerted herself to the point of breathlessness as she made her way to the canyon. She went to Cold Water Town to buy a batch of homemade pickled vegetables, a piece of pork loin, three pounds of rice noodles, as well as bean flour, fresh ginger, coriander, sesame oil, and other items. Northerners prefer wheat-based foods, while Southerners have a penchant for rice-based dishes

He? Su Lili turned her head and asked Mu Tou coolly, "Young Master, what is your esteemed surname?"

Shi Yi could not help but smile, yet Lu Bo seemed unable to perceive the sarcasm in her words. He stated solemnly: "No. The rules of this valley dictate that anyone seeking medical treatment must say three words before I appear. Not two, not four, but three. Only then may that person enter the valley for treatment. Otherwise, I will have to throw you off this cliff. Your uncle just mentioned 'what kind of person,' but you did not, so according to the rules, I can only throw you down."

The rice noodles have a slightly glutinous texture, yet they are more refreshing than regular noodles. The pickled vegetables are washed and sliced thinly, with a small amount of ginger added to the broth; the pork is shredded and mixed with bean flour, resulting in a tender and smooth texture. Using a bamboo strainer, a scoop of the cooked rice noodles is placed into the soup bowl, gently swirling. As I take a bite, the sour broth awakens the palate; once consumed, the flavor is incredibly fresh and fragrant.

It is precisely the severe winter of December, yet the further south one travels, the warmer it becomes. Su Lili traveled directly from the capital to Huizhou. She had heard Qi Fengxiang mention that the Qi family currently had no intention of heading south, but rather aimed to move westward from the Central Plains. Carrying her savings accumulated over the years, she pretended to be quite poor, yet continued her journey southward.

As of today, he no longer appears as mad as he did when seen in Jibei, and Su Lili cannot grandly call him "Brother Shi." Upon seeing her somewhat startled, Shi Yizhi gave a faint smile and said, "Are you the daughter of Ci Xiu?"

Just a friend. Su Lili thought with a bitter smile, if he doesn't hold onto me, who would be willing to be his friend

Indeed, while Young Master Qi has fought tirelessly for the Qi family's legacy, his father is even trying to seize a woman for himself

In an instant, large tears overflowed from Su Lili's eyes, as clear as pearls, shattering on the floor. It was unclear whether he embraced her first or she leaned on him first; they were as close as swallows returning to their nests, completely unaware of any gap between them. Su Lili bit down hard on his shoulder, fiercely biting, and through gritted teeth, she resentfully said: "But you left!"

The wooden figure propped itself up and looked at her, gently saying: "No wonder your gaze cuts through me like a knife."

Yes

Su Lili was taken aback, glanced at the edge of the cliff, and swallowed before saying: "I... I also said three words."

Let me protect you along the way until you are tired of wandering

The wood lifted her up, gliding along her arm to her shoulder, the voice clear and bright, "It is like the fresh sunshine after the rain, sunlight streaming through the crack of the door, where one can see the dust dancing in the air, just as you have endured hardships and wanderings; the dust is light and floating, yet the void remains vast and silent, though invisible, it is always there accompanying you, just like me"

Han Zhen blushed and asked, "Sister Su, do you like Brother Jiang?"

The wood hesitated for a moment and said in a dull tone: "Once you get used to it, it will be fine"

Su Lili nodded, "I know Qi Fengxiang."

There is no one without weaknesses; she has only encountered one such person, and that is Qi Fengxiang. His eyes, filled with the emotions of autumn waters, seem to gaze yet also yearn, yet she can never truly discern what he is thinking, what brings him joy, or what causes him sorrow. Even when he is angry, he smiles; even when he is happy, he does not appear pleased.

The young man reacted swiftly, using his left hand to block towards the opponent's wrist while his right hand directly probed at the opponent's left rib. Shi Yizhi sidestepped and evaded, his fist technique still sharp, transforming into finger techniques. As he brushed past, he lightly tapped the opponent's left arm.

Su Lili was like a languid piece of seaweed, unfurling and floating at the bottom of the lake. As someone reached down to her waist, it felt as if layers of memory were being peeled away; the pressure she felt grew lighter and lighter, until the moment she came into contact with the air, she fainted. It was as if she coughed up some water, and a hand gently brushed over her brow, tenderly and slowly, as if imbued with emotion, bringing a sense of reassurance.

... ...

In the next moment, Su Lili had already soared into the air, gracefully descending towards the edge of the cliff. She watched as the misty valley appeared before her, then quickly turned to see the stone cliff flash past her, with Lu Bo's face bearing a hint of a sinister smile, alongside the pale clouds in the sky. The Buddha said that a snap of the fingers is equivalent to twenty moments, a moment to twenty thoughts, and within a thought, nine hundred lives and deaths.

The wood nodded slightly

The answer is: "Stabbed."

Su Lili paused for a moment, her eyes darting around, and urgently tugged at his sleeve, saying, "You won't die; there is someone who can save you now!" She glanced at the faint flickering lights beyond the bamboo grove and added, "Let's hurry over there."

Su Lili was taken aback for a moment, furrowing her brows, "What? Have I incurred a debt of romantic entanglements?"

The four individuals shook their heads in disbelief and exclaimed, "The Qi family father and son are truly immoral and shameless!"

Lu Bo was also not polite, nor did he make empty gestures, "You may go in, but she cannot."

He was startled yet composed, just as he was about to move forward, he saw a figure leaping out, its posture graceful, like a wild goose landing on the sand. Although Shi Yizhi's martial arts could not be said to be unparalleled in the world, he was still at the pinnacle of it. Seeing this person attempting to assassinate the emperor, he remained completely unflustered, and his movements exuded a sense of calm elegance. Feeling a surge of emotion, he employed the Shadow Step technique to approach the figure.

Lu Bo firmly replied, "That is also not acceptable."

Three people entered the room, and at that moment, Shi Yizhi was sitting cross-legged on the bed where Su Lili had just been lying, practicing the breathing techniques taught by Han Zheming. As Mu Tou stepped through the door, he suddenly came to a halt. When Shi Yizhi opened his eyes, his brows furrowed, exuding a cold and stern aura like frost. Noticing Su Lili standing beside him, with a familiar demeanor, he said in a deep voice: "Lili, do you know him?"

Lu Bomei frowned slightly and said, "I have excellent hearing and could never miss anything. What did you say?"

Tears suddenly welled up in Shi Yi's eyes, "I slipped up, haha... So do you hate me or not?"

Walking slowly along a narrow path by the cliff edge towards the valley floor, the mountain terrain is steep and rugged. Shi Yizhi looks down upon this mountain path with disdain; upon encountering a cliff obstruction, he grabs Su Lili's collar and leaps down. Su Lili has never flown like this since birth, and she is so frightened that her teeth chatter. Once they land, however, she feels that they should have flown a bit longer to make it truly thrilling

Su Lili shouted, "Uncle Shi."

The young man, with his garments fluttering, had eyes as cold and pure as ice and snow. He was neither complacent nor fearful, but instead exuded a sense of detached calm. "I have killed the emperor"

The wood was held by her, yet it smiled at her: "It cannot return."

Han Zheming and his wife, Lu Bo, and Shi Yizhi sat at the table waiting for their meal. They noticed that Mu's smile, though faint, was sincere; Su Lili's brows and eyes were captivating and enchanting. Standing together, there was an indescribable harmony that made one feel a sense of completeness, as if time was tranquil and pleasant. The others looked on and couldn't help but smile; however, Han Zhen appeared somewhat dazed.

Su Lili quickly organized her thoughts and said: "He went to kill that tyrant on my behalf, and I saved you in Chen Beiguang's dungeon at https://wwwhetushu.com. Yet you have left him in a state of near death. Now your vital energy is in disarray, and his injuries are a mess. By both reason and sentiment, you should be treating his wounds."

The person's footwork was fragmented yet unscattered, swiftly evading his thirteen strikes. With a flick of his left toe against the ground, he executed the move known as Manjusri Flower. By the banks of the Three Paths, the guiding flower blooms while its leaves fall, the flower and leaves never meeting in life. At this moment, Shi Yizhi was stirred by emotions, pausing to stand still, and carefully observing the individual. He saw that it was a young man in plain clothes, neither masked nor dressed in mysterious attire, whose brows and eyes revealed an air of simplicity and openness.

Shi Yizhi shook his head and said: "This is my niece; I demand treatment. She is merely accompanying me"

Before Shi Yizhi could speak, Su Lili had already angrily exclaimed: "Have you been following me all along?!"

Such a person, whenever you reach out your hand, you only touch the fragrant and elusive beauty of the other shore

Su Lili looked up at him and said softly, "I believe... if it can save a life, then it is worth dispersing the true energy to do so"

Su Lili earnestly and sincerely said: "I just fell down a moment ago and immediately exclaimed, 'Ouch!'"

The wooden figure could not stand properly, fell to the ground, yet looked up and laughed. Su Lili forcefully pushed him down and angrily said: "Why didn't you come back?!"

The person that Shi Yizhi needed to save was indeed him. Su Lili felt a slight sense of relief, but couldn't help but let out a cold laugh. Hmph, he has become the big brother. Brother Jiang? I'll turn you into Brother Garlic!

The wooden figure slowly sat up, "At that time, I had suffered severe internal injuries. Qi Fengxiang knew Mr. Han and brought me here. Mr. Han exhausted all means to save my life. I must stay in the hot spring every day to heal and sustain my life, without a single day of absence, while also occasionally retrieving those who have been thrown down."

The person beside, who had been listening intently, suddenly became interested and urged, "What was the outcome?"

This life was hers, or once was, or may be again

He looked at her and said, "I am made of wood"

Shi Yizhi nodded and said in a nonchalant manner: "He didn't suffer any loss either; he forced me into a state of true agitation, leaving me disoriented and falling into Chen Beiguang's hands, confined in a dungeon for several months"

Why didn't you tell me what you were going to do

I wonder if the capital is aware of this. Even if the news has not yet reached them, the various parties should be able to gather information. It is Qi Fengxiang who would pressure her, yet he remains so composed; is that not strange

The young man unexpectedly disregarded it and directed his internal energy to strike at his Dan Zhong. The Dan Zhong is a vital acupuncture point in the human body, where the heart meridian resides. At that moment, he was unable to gather his energy in time and was struck in the chest. In a state of panic, a surge of true energy reflexively rushed up the heart meridian, dispersing into the Ya Men and Feng Fu points, ultimately leading to a state of demonic deviation and madness. With the fall of the capital, he became a wanderer in the rivers and lakes.

Su Lili nodded in satisfaction, "That is still considered elegant"

Wooden Path: "Lower the sound of the water a bit"

Shi Yizhi gazed at her gentle face, feeling a sense of unreality. After a long while, he slightly nodded and said: "Very well, I will go along with your wishes."

Su Lili stood still as if entranced. The man before her had features as handsome as the stars and the moon, yet he had shed his youthful innocence, becoming more profound and striking. His stature was also increasingly tall, towering over Su Lili by a head. When he stood three feet away from her, his gaze held no sorrow or joy, only focus, set against the backdrop of dusk behind him, as if he had walked out from a previous life

Along the way, three groups of people were seen one after another, some supporting the weak and injured, while others were carrying or helping the sick. Each person was drenched, their hair sticking to their faces, resembling drowned rats. Upon seeing them, it was hard to tell whether the feelings in one's eyes were anger or despair, mixed with a hint of schadenfreude, which made Su Lili feel a shiver of unease.

Qi Fengxiang is truly outrageous! Su Lili felt somewhat annoyed, yet she coldly laughed and said: "No wonder I haven't been sold off during this entire journey; I've never had it this easy since birth. It turns out you have been following me in secret. This is not good at all; I will eat while you watch!" She slammed the table and sat down.

Shi Yi was slightly taken aback, "Why?"

Su Lili's eyes narrowed and then opened like a cat's, and she nodded with a sigh, saying: "My father's name is Ye Zhiqiu, a pleasure to meet you, a pleasure to meet you"

Then... then... she momentarily did not know where to begin asking.

The wood paused for a moment, gazing at the patch of bamboo, and quietly said: "My wounds will ultimately not heal, and I cannot leave the canyon hot springs. Letting you know would only bring unnecessary sorrow; even if you come to see me, in less than two years, I will still be dead, so what difference does it make if we do not meet."

Su Lili nodded slightly, unable to say much. Shi Yizhi asked, "Do you remember things from your childhood?"

My father was the former King of Linjiang, who was slandered by Bao Hui, leading the emperor to order the execution of nine generations of our family

Su Lili heard the huge splash and asked Mu Tou, "Was I that loud when I fell?"

The wooden board appeared to be hesitating, as if torn between compliance and refusal, and after a long pause, weakly protested: "The name given by my parents..."

Su Lili's hair was scattered by the chaotic wind. She brushed aside the strands by her cheek, caught between illusion and reality, and murmured, "Wood." Standing there in a daze for a while, their eyes met, yet it felt as if they had touched upon a once-bright clarity. It was the sparse and fragmented sunlight beneath the gourd trellis in the backyard, the green frost that formed on the roof tiles. People remember a period of time, not for its details, but because of various sights, sounds, touches, and movements, woven into a certain vague feeling, imprinted upon the soul

You have received over forty years of my internal energy, which not only can heal your internal injuries but will also significantly enhance your martial arts skills. My disciple's niece, Su Lili, is wandering alone in the martial world. You must vow to protect her throughout your life, ensuring she is not harmed by evil individuals; otherwise, all the internal energy I have bestowed upon you will be completely dissipated, and your meridians will be severed, leading to your demise

Su Lili came to her senses and smiled, "Is your injury healed?"

Shi Yi lowered his head to look at his sleeve, paused for a moment in silence, and then smiled, saying: "Very well, I never deserved to be your adoptive father." He raised his head to look at the wooden figure, "I can save you, but I would like to ask you to agree to one thing."

Unable to help but ask Shi Yi: "Why do all these people look like they've just been fished out of the water? In this cold winter, does Doctor Han treat patients by splashing them with cold water?"

As mentioned earlier, Ananda was tempted by the maiden Mo Deng Jia, which led to his loss of precepts. The Buddha sent Manjushri to recite a mantra for his rescue. When the Buddha began to expound the true Dharma and elucidate the concept of emptiness, it felt profound and difficult to comprehend. This was because he was reading a book, and she flipped back to the previous page to read again, yet still could not understand. Slowly closing the pages of the book, she held it in her hands, staring blankly at the small window, until a wooden hand waved in front of her eyes.

After listening to her persuasion for a while, Shi Yizhi's anxious demeanor was evident. After pondering for a moment, he said: "When you mentioned wanting to see me to Chen Beiguang, you falsely claimed that I am your adoptive father. Lili, since I am your mother's senior, how about I acknowledge you as my adopted daughter?"

The wood let out a bitter smile, "No. I'm about to die."

Mr. Lu, with his sleeves rolled up, expressed: "Little girl, do you know where this place is?"

However, the cries were even more mournful

He said with a faint smile: "The key is that you need to understand what you want"

Hmm

He is our enemy

Su Lili thought carefully, realizing that this cold dish must have been blanched in boiling water and then plunged into cold water to achieve such crispness. A touch of vinegar was added to enhance the flavor, leaving a lingering aroma. She couldn't help but tap the bowl with her chopsticks in satisfaction