Chapter 4, The Seven Fairies, The Charming Night Demon

Oh, it turns out to be Miss Yun

I suppressed my breath, chuckled twice, and said with a bow: "I am a disciple of the Xiaoyao Sect"

He chuckled softly and splashed a bucket of cold water on me: "Xiao Mo, one must have self-awareness and not attempt what one cannot achieve"

Jiang Chen took a step forward, intending to leave. I hurriedly followed with small steps, grabbing his arm and whispering, "Jiang Chen, she is a princess, do not cause trouble, quickly go and apologize."

He let out a couple of cold snickers, glaring at me, his eyes shooting icy daggers.

Upon hearing that someone from the court had arrived, the master immediately summoned us to hold a brief meeting

Upon entering the living room, I was taken aback by the sight before me. Six enchanting beauties, who could easily grace both poetry and paintings, were seated within. In the center sat one such beauty, her nose adorned with a layer of white veil. Although her full visage was obscured, her pair of bright, watery eyes shimmered with brilliance, radiating life. She sat there gracefully, silent and smiling not, yet exuding an infinite charm, the light veil enhancing her ethereal and mysterious beauty.

What are you laughing so happily about? I secretly stood by the west courtyard gate and vaguely heard them shouting in the courtyard, "No gambling, whoever loses has to take off a piece of clothing, haha"

Why

He glared at me and said, "Even if I'm not hungry, I still have to go back to eat"

I hurriedly stepped forward to pay my respects

Jiang Chen smiled faintly, neither affirming nor denying.

I feel that the birthday of Master Yuan Zhao will be my opportunity to showcase my abilities and to wholeheartedly atone for my sins on behalf of Senior Brother Yun Zhou

I sighed softly, saying: "I don't like those who are good-looking; they tend to have many issues. I dislike competing with others for things the most."

"If you don't return in a quarter of an hour, I will take your life!"

Yun Zhou is quite a serious person, usually not one to smile or joke. If I were to directly say to him, "I can help you find a girl, you should take a look and see if you like her," he would surely leave with a cold expression. Therefore, I must subtly and indirectly bring them together "unintentionally".

The master furrowed his brow and tapped my forehead, saying: "Xiao Mo, what is it that you have in your head? Is it a mess of porridge?"

"You wretched girl, aren't you going down the mountain to buy anything? With no meat at all, how am I supposed to eat this kind of meal?"

As I listened to the name "Zi Zhao" and looked at the little princess with an expression that was both angry and playful, I felt a pang of bitterness in my heart. He had a name, yet he had never told me. The little princess's expression clearly conveyed a sense of coquettishness. It seemed that their relationship was not ordinary; perhaps the little princess had come here specifically to meet him under the pretext of congratulating Master Yuan Zhao on his birthday.

What kind of girl is suitable for him? I have thought about this question for a long time, so without hesitation, I replied: "I think a girl with a fierce demeanor would be more suitable for you"

I noticed he seemed a bit displeased, so I quickly said: "Rest assured, I will definitely find you a handsome night demon."

Her gentle beauty lasted only a moment before revealing its true nature; it seems that while the landscape may change, one's inherent character is difficult to alter, and beauty is no exception

Jiang Chen, did you not just say that you would take me to the back mountain to grill fish? Shall we go now?

Master, you are being a bit overly cautious. It's just that Uncle is having a birthday and everyone is coming to join the celebration. Why are you making it seem like a state of alarm, as if every sound is a threat?

Jiang Chen turned around and smiled at me: "Xiao Mo, Master asked me to call you back for dinner."

Master, this is a long story

I solemnly state: "It is a matchmaker." The term "媒婆" carries a somewhat derogatory connotation, while I find the name "红娘" sounds more elegant.

I am not hungry

I exclaimed: "That's great, it's easier to get things done with acquaintances"

Although Jiang Chen remained silent, there was not a trace of regret on his face. He stood there, tall and imposing. I became increasingly certain that only a fierce demon could subdue someone with his temperament

Have I perhaps entered the Jade Pool of the Queen Mother of the West? Is this person before me, perhaps, a celestial maiden? I was so captivated that I forgot to speak, my eyes fixed in a gaze.

Before long, the banquet was set, and everyone took their seats in turn. The young prince sat beside Master Zhaozhao, dressed in a light yellow brocade robe, standing out among a group of heroes clad in black, dark blue, and gray, resembling a delicate little yellow flower amidst a thicket of thorns, strikingly out of place.

The direct consequence of this statement is that, from that point on, the number of unmarried individuals in the Xiaoyao Sect has been increasing. By the time of my master’s generation, there were a total of eighteen senior brothers, of which only seven went down the mountain to marry, while the rest remained in the Xiaoyao Sect, becoming ancient iron trees that would never bloom. Nowadays, the expenses of the Xiaoyao Sect are growing larger and larger

His smile is exceptionally beautiful due to its rarity, like a bright moon emerging from the scattered clouds on a snow-capped mountain, casting its clear light over a thousand miles.

The courtyard is adorned with the enchanting beauty of spring, with flowers blooming in a dazzling and eye-catching display, attracting countless butterflies that flutter and dance gracefully. I slowly make my way towards the bamboo courtyard along the corridor.

"Who says women cannot have such thoughts? I believe that the figure of the little pouch is much more attractive than that of Master Seven. Master Seven, at a glance, resembles a complete black weight."

It is truly as if one is thinking of someone and that person appears! Just then, there was a knock at the door, and after Shui Muyun left, a moment later, a dashing young man in white was brought in, who was none other than Brother Jiang.

Indeed, the young princess has lost her temper! With a pointed finger, she angrily exclaimed, "You, how dare you!"

I cannot help but indulge in my thoughts, my heart surging with emotion

"Jiang Chen, do you know them?"

I am quite indignant: "Jiang Chen, are you jealous of Yun Zhou? Rest assured, if I see someone suitable, I will not forget you." I have always been someone who does not hold grudges. Although there have been some past grievances between us, every night I sleep on that cherry pit pillow. Just thinking about how he spent four years to accumulate enough to make this pillow softens my heart, and I forgive him.

The maid desperately kowtowed: "Your Highness, please spare my life. I beg you to grant me a little more time; I fear I will not be able to return in a quarter of an hour."

I looked over beside the young prince, but why did I not see that young princess? How strange, could it be that she has already left? I still wanted to see what the legendary royal noblewoman was like, what a pity

Thanks to Master, we have been assigned to the Bamboo Courtyard located to the south of the Mountain Shade Villa. To my surprise, the distant Mountain Sect, which I secretly covet, resides right next to us in the Lotus Courtyard to the east. You see, the Bamboo Courtyard and the Lotus Courtyard truly complement each other, as if it were destined by heaven

I am busy: "Quickly catch me a wild chicken, and I will express my gratitude later!"

Jiang Chen frowned and asked, "Do you not like those who are good-looking?"

He smiled and said, "What are you doing? Do you want to eat?"

A man from the Wuyapai immediately said: "Master Yuanzhao, you should not say that. Even if you are not the leader, we, as juniors, should still show some respect and gratitude. Don't you all agree?" Immediately, many people laughed and echoed in agreement.

I secretly asked my master: "Did you intentionally arrange for the old gentleman to do this?"

I said with a smile, "Master, may I go and have a chat with the heroines of the distant mountain sect?"

Alas, even the tone is distinctly different from the earlier reprimand of the maid, now soft and weak, carrying a hint of delicacy.

As soon as he entered, five out of the six young ladies blushed, with only Yu Muxi veiled, making it impossible to discern her complexion

Oh, it is Young Master Jiang. How is your esteemed mother’s health?

With a loud "bang," she swept the plate off the table, splattering the soup all over the little girl.

The four senior brothers who came together all expressed their unwillingness to engage with them, leaving only Jiang Chen and Yun Zhou silent.

Jiang Chen's lips twitched, and his expression grew even more sullen

As Master Yuanzhao is a lay practitioner who cultivates at home, and among the guests are disciples from the Shaolin and Wudang sects, the banquet is arranged with vegetarian dishes. However, at such gatherings, everyone being from the martial world, it is customary to enjoy wine, so Master Yuanzhao made a compromise and provided fine wine for the feast. After the toast, the aroma of the wine filled the air, and the heroes joyfully raised their cups to drink.

Jiang Chen slightly cupped his hands towards Yu Muxi and said: "Master Yu."

You

I shot him a glare and whispered, "It's nothing. I was just thinking how nice it would be if the fairies next door rolled dice, and whoever lost had to take off a piece of clothing." After saying this, I couldn't help but swallow, my words carrying a hint of moisture.

I turned my head and walked towards Penglai Pavilion, worried that the young princess might change her mind and vent her anger on that little girl again

Her expression softened considerably: "Then you should go quickly."

The master glared at me and said: "You always come up with terrible ideas. I was just about to ask everyone to keep their distance, and here you are, wanting to rush in for some close contact."

The young princess pointed at my nose and huffed, "Let this wild girl speak!"

He let out a soft "oh," squinting his eyes and looking at me with a smile that was neither here nor there: "What kind of woman do you think would be suitable for me?"

Oh, so she is the leader of the Yuanshan Sect, Yu Muxi! Such youth and beauty are truly admirable

I am busy saying: "Very soon, very soon"

Jiang Chen shot me a cold glance, then looked at the remnants of food on the ground and the little girl, and said to the young princess: "Since the princess has come to celebrate Master Yuanzhao's birthday, she should know that Master Yuanzhao is a recluse and does not consume meat. If the princess cannot tolerate the food here, she should immediately set off to return, as it is truly inappropriate to engage in acts of killing and eating meat in Master Yuanzhao's home, which shows a complete lack of sincerity in celebrating his birthday"

I nodded and smiled: "What the princess said is absolutely correct; I am not at all carefree, at most I can be considered to be just wandering about, hehe." I am someone who is best at self-deprecation

He suddenly broke into a smile and said gently, "Xiao Mo, what do you want to eat? Shall we go to the back mountain to fish and grill?"

Of course, it is convenient. Welcome, Miss Yun, please come in.

The master sat upright and said solemnly: "Our Xiaoyao Sect has always refrained from involving itself in any disputes of interests within the martial world or the court. Everyone must be aware of this and maintain a distance from those in the court."

She sneered and glanced at me: "How can the Xiaoyao Sect have a disciple like you? With your appearance, you are far from the essence of the words 'Xiaoyao'"

I glared and gritted my teeth. Why does he always turn his back on me? What is so impressive about him? Is it just that he is a bit taller and more handsome? Just wait, I will find a fierce demon to deal with you properly, hum!

Upon hearing the names of Master Yuan Zhao and the Xian Yao Sect, the "fairy" immediately broke into a smile that left me utterly mesmerized. How can she smile so beautifully?

I turned around and saw Jiang Chen staring at me with an unfriendly gaze, filled with a hint of displeasure. It was strange; I hadn't provoked him at all

After dinner, while the sky was still dimly lit, I stepped out of the courtyard and looked at the Lianhua Courtyard next door to the east. I began to ponder how I could find an excuse to invite Shui Muyun out and then bring Yunzhou along as well

I have made up my mind; even if she says it is inconvenient, I will still come to "play" with them, yes, just to gather some information and get a little closer.

Jiang Chen brushed his sleeves and departed

The master furrowed his brows and began to ask from a distance: "What is going on?"

In the hall, everyone presented their congratulatory gifts to express their sentiments. Master Yuan Zhao smiled and clasped his hands in thanks, saying: "Everyone is truly being too polite. I originally intended to invite everyone to gather and enjoy each other's company on the occasion of my birthday. It makes me feel quite ashamed that you all have come bearing gifts."

"Indeed, indeed." The crowd echoed in agreement

The roar of the lion from Hedong made my eardrums tremble, yet Jiang Chen seemed not to hear it and continued to stride forward.

The young maid's face was pale on one side, while the other side was red from being slapped, and she lowered her head, trembling. I felt a deep sense of discomfort; every time I saw a little girl from a poor background being bullied, I couldn't help but think of my own circumstances, and I couldn't resist stepping in. It was in this way that I saved the little pouch. However, the "bully" before me, who was tormenting the young maid, held a significant status, so I had to endure and outsmart him.

Jiang Chen stopped in his tracks, sizing me up with a glance, a smile that seemed to mock rather than amuse: "Do you want to be a matchmaker?"

She raised her eyebrow slightly, and there was a hint of affection in her eyes

I glared at him and said, "Of course I am."

How could a woman have such thoughts

Master said: "What does it mean?"

Xiao Mo, what are you doing sneaking around

Sister Mu Yun, how many people have come from the distant mountain sect

Jiang Chen's expression changed, and he stared at me in a daze for a long while before asking: "Xiao Mo, are you really a woman?"

I immediately ran to the banquet and secretly pulled Jiang Chen out. He had drunk a little wine, which only added to his charm, truly resembling beautiful jade, with eyes like spring waves, looking quite pleasing to the eye and delightful to behold

Including the sect leader, there are seven in total. How about you?

I accompanied with a smile and said: "Your Highness, how about I catch a wild chicken for you? Roasted wild chicken is particularly delicious"

I inhaled quietly, my tooth ached

I, I live next door to you, I am Yun Mo, a disciple of the Xiaoyao Sect. Master Yuan Zhao is my great-uncle

Shui Muyun said to the woman in the veil, "Master, this is Miss Yunmo from the neighboring Xiaoyao Sect"

Two maidens gently fanned the young princess, who leaned against the wall with a look of impatience and urged, "How long until it is ready?"

I quickly grabbed his sleeve, and in a moment of urgency, I pinched him hard through the fabric of his clothing.

What do you mean by that

Jiang Chen cupped his hands and said, "I dare not, I take my leave." After saying this, he flicked his sleeve with a blend of three parts elegance and seven parts defiance, and turned to leave.

I was taken aback, a spark ignited in my heart. I can tolerate what others say, but the word "wild" is what I detest the most. No matter how good my temper and cultivation are, I couldn't hold back any longer and coldly said: "There is nothing more to say. The princess can do as she pleases; we have nothing to discuss."

He paused for a moment, his gaze turned cold. After glancing at me, he took two steps forward and slightly cupped his hands in front of the young princess, saying: "I pay my respects to the princess"

I am filled with confidence in Jiang Chen's actions. I have mentioned before that I occasionally have a good impression of him, which mainly refers to the times he has cooked game for me. However, he is also quite lazy, only showing me his gratitude once every six months. Therefore, saying that I appreciate his kindness once every six months is not incorrect.

This fellow seems to be accustomed to leaving me in a huff, daring to employ the same tactic in front of the young princess; he truly must have the audacity of a bear and the boldness of a leopard. I couldn't help but gasp in surprise, feeling both a toothache and admiration.

I continued, "Your Highness, these are all mountain dwellers. Even when we reach the foot of the mountain, there is not much to eat, and it will only waste time. My senior brother is the best at roasting wild chickens. Please wait a moment, I will go and call him."

I sighed gloomily: "Everyone says that flowers are placed on cow dung, I have given up."

Unfortunately, he is not smiling at me. I swallowed hard, feeling as if something was stuck in my heart, heavy and burdensome

I never sent it out in my entire life, and I was sad for a long time. While comforting myself, I waited for the opportunity to act as a matchmaker for Yunzhou. My sincerity moved the heavens, and soon the opportunity arrived

This is a precautionary measure

I was born with a weak constitution and am particularly sensitive to the smell of alcohol; just a whiff makes me dizzy. Therefore, I quietly greeted my master and stepped out first

What I mean is, you can settle for marrying someone and that would be a complete achievement. Do not worry about others' affairs; you know there is a term called 'to do more harm than good'?

Upon thinking of this, I felt quite melancholic and sighed, saying: "Alas, next time, I will find someone extremely ugly; I suppose they could also be treated as a flower."

Jiang Chen glanced at me and turned to leave. I was taken aback; every time we were in the midst of an engaging conversation, he would abruptly turn and walk away, most likely irritated by me. I carefully observed his back, and indeed, this time it was as stiff as ever

Sister, what is your name, is it Dong Shuangcheng or Xu Feiqiong

Jiang Chen saw that there were others at Penglai Pavilion, and he seemed somewhat displeased

The young lady who just led you in, I feel she is perfectly suited for Senior Brother Yunzhou, what do you think

Hey! He has also become arrogant. I watched helplessly as the situation rapidly deteriorated, feeling a chill run down my back

If she were not a princess, I would truly want to teach her a lesson. However, considering her status, it is better for me to keep a low profile and not cause trouble for my master. I am trying to suppress my anger, using a joking tone and a kind, humble expression, yet I still ended up with a warm face against a cold backside

I can no longer bear it; this princess is truly bullying others. It takes at least a quarter of an hour to fly back up after descending the mountain and buying something, even if it is just a bird.

I hurriedly stepped forward and said with a smile: "Quickly pay your respects to the princess. The princess is not accustomed to the food here and wishes to have something meaty, so I recommended you to her."

He looked at me and said, "What of the princess? Just because she was born into a wealthy family does not mean she has an extra eye compared to others; rather, she seems to have gained quite a bit of temper!"

Just as I was thinking about this, two people approached me. Upon closer inspection, I realized it was my master and Yunzhou. I immediately broke into a cold sweat, as my master had advised me to keep my distance from those in the court. Now, not only did I go to them of my own accord, but I also got caught in the door.

I closed my mouth in frustration. Now, my mind is filled with schemes, and I wish I could resolve the issues of all the bachelors in the Xiaoyao Sect at once. Speaking of which, this matter can be attributed to the former leader of the Xiaoyao Sect, who held the position long ago. He never married throughout his life and lived to the age of one hundred. When people from the martial world came to celebrate his birthday, they asked him about the secret to his longevity. He replied, "It is because I did not marry that I have lived so long and attained such high martial skills"

The kneeling young girl said with a sobbing tone: "Your Highness, please do not be angry. I went to check, and there is indeed not a single meat dish in the kitchen."

I shrank my neck, watching him leave with a stiff flick of his sleeve, secretly regretting that I had once again fallen into the habit of speaking my mind.

Do not be angry, Your Highness; this servant will go at once

In my eyes, Yun Zhou is as perfect as an immortal on a cloud. If I must reluctantly point out a flaw, it would be that he is too handsome, and in the future, he will certainly attract many admirers. However, given his cold and aloof nature, flowers will wither upon his arrival. Especially the peach blossoms, which require the gentle spring breeze to bloom. Yet, my brother Yun has always been like a northwesterly wind, so this flaw can hardly be considered a flaw.

"Xiao Mo, Xiao Mo!" The master was chasing behind and shouting. I pretended not to hear and ran to knock on the door of Lianhua Courtyard. After a moment, the door creaked open.

Upon seeing him, the young princess's gaze immediately softened, and her brows relaxed. Alas, Brother Jiang's beauty is indeed irresistible. I feel that if a few handsome men like Brother Jiang or Brother Yun were to be added around the young princess, perhaps her temper would unknowingly improve.

Isn't this deliberately provoking that princess? I gritted my teeth and gasped, wanting to roast him and eat him! I secretly regretted my moment of weakness, wanting to help that little girl. Now, not only have I put myself in jeopardy, but also Jiang Chen, and who knows, I might even drag Master into this mess.

"Not happy." He coldly uttered a sentence and left with a flick of his sleeve

Xiao Mo, you, you like men, right? Last time, didn't you choose Yun Zhou?

The mere thought of Yunzhou fills me with excitement. The fairy before me is named Mu Yun. Tell me, is this not fate? I feel both joy and a sense of loss, believing that this journey of mine has not been in vain, and there are signs of a triumphant success ahead.

I spoke in a low and soft voice here, fearing that the princess might hear me, while he, on the other hand, spoke clearly and loudly, as if he were afraid the princess might not hear him

The expression on the little princess's face changed, and so did mine. I wished I could gather the words Jiang Chen had just spoken and stuff them back into his mouth.

I had a sudden thought: "Master, if one of our senior brothers from the Xiaoyao Sect could capture the young princess in one fell swoop, wouldn't that be a way to establish our reputation in the martial arts world and create a remarkable tale of romance!"

Upon returning to Zhu Zhi Yuan, I recounted the events in detail. The master initially intended to admonish me but refrained, turning instead to Jiang Chen and saying: "I say, Young Master Jiang, could you not be a bit more accommodating towards the young lady? She is a princess, and she cannot possibly endure your temperament."

I happily followed the "fairy" into the Lotus Flower Courtyard

The young princess shouted sternly from behind: "Come back here."

It is not feasible

I was staring blankly, only to realize that they know each other

While my heart is filled with joy, I also feel a great sense of responsibility. Time is pressing and the tasks are heavy, so I must prioritize Yunzhou first

This is strange, didn't you just say you were going to go?

As Shui Muyun entered the hall, she perfectly matched the image of the Seven Fairies. I was dazzled by the beauty of the ladies and mentally paired them with my senior brothers. Among my senior brothers, the most outstanding are Yunzhou and Jiang Chen. Yunzhou was easy; I immediately set my sights on Shui Muyun, as they resembled a couple of celestial beings. However, Jiang Chen was more challenging. I looked at the ladies before me, and none seemed to possess the right temperament. I have always felt that someone with a fierce and spirited nature would be needed to match Jiang Chen's character. Yet, Jiang Chen remained a challenge, as I observed the ladies before me, none of whom seemed to fit his temperament.

She was taken aback for a moment, probably confused by my exuberant demeanor. Little did she know the calculations I was making in my heart. Excluding me, our carefree sect consists of exactly seven male members. You see, the timing, the location, and the people are all in harmony, and even the numbers align so perfectly; it is simply fate.

He busily said: "I originally intended to say you were a flower, but later, after my brothers discussed it, somehow you became cow dung."

I whispered, "Our Xiaoyao Sect has many bachelors, and the Yuanshan Sect has many beautiful women. I was just thinking of finding a fairy for Brother Yunzhou, and your arrangement is truly perfect, with the right timing and place, like flowers in full bloom and a round moon."

Every year on his birthday, we all go to celebrate him, and the major sects of the martial world also attend. The opportunity lies here, within the martial world, where two major sects send beautiful women: one is the Emei Sect, and the other is the Yuanshan Sect. The Yuanshan Sect is a rising newcomer, named for the beauty of its members resembling distant mountains, truly living up to its name with a cloud of stunning beauties.

Early the next morning, the courtyard of Yuxuan was bustling with activity. Heroes from all walks of life gathered together, engaging in lively conversation and laughter, completely unlike the treacherous and unpredictable world of martial arts as described in legends. Ever since the highly respected Master Yuanzhao was elected as the leader of the martial arts community by popular acclaim, the martial arts conference had not been held for many years. He handled matters of the martial world with impartiality and sound reasoning, earning the deep respect and affection of everyone. Thus, his birthday celebration resembled a grand martial arts conference, lively and magnificent.

I felt a rush of heat on my face and quickly shook his sleeve off. There is a significant difference between pinching and touching, and their meanings are entirely different, but this is certainly not the moment to explain the distinction between the two to him

It is likely that my self-deprecation brought her some relief, as she no longer spoke to me much, and kicked that maid with a sharp tone, saying: "Why aren't you going quickly?"

I followed my master with a sour feeling, suddenly realizing something was amiss; what kind of jealousy was I feeling! Alas, stop it right there

I furrowed my brows and sighed inwardly; the temperament of the young princess resembles a dish: a combination of chili peppers, spicy sauce, and mustard oil

Master said: "Can I chat with you?"

I am about to report the whole story, when the young princess has already walked in with a "deng deng" sound.

I let out a sigh of relief, poured myself a glass of water, and as the tea entered my stomach, it made a hollow "gurgle" sound. It was only then that I remembered I had not yet eaten.

The princess stamped her foot and said, "Zizhao, they are bullying me."

Just as I was thinking, a burst of laughter came from the west next door, soaring straight into the sky. The Peach Blossom Dock next door is home to several heroes of the Wuyapai sect. I have seen them during meals, all dressed in serious and proper black attire, their faces exuding a righteous and stern demeanor. For some reason, I immediately thought of the brilliant peach blossoms, where a few black crows were perched.

"Miss, who are you looking for?" Alas, the voice of the fairy is so melodious, akin to that of a jade harp

Chef! Jiang Chen's already displeased expression darkened even further. I couldn't help but laugh out loud and quickly said: "He is my senior brother, and the roasted wild chicken he makes is simply a delicacy of the world. Jiang Chen, hurry up, the princess is hungry"

After a moment, Jiang Chen walked over, holding a small cloth bag in his hand. Isn't that too quick? Why do I feel that the small cloth bag doesn't seem to contain a wild chicken?

I raised my eyes and saw a young lady sitting in the Penglai Pavilion, exuding an air of nobility, dressed in splendid garments, yet her pretty face was contorted with anger. Behind her stood two maidservants, and in front of her knelt another. Given this situation, could she be the young princess? Master Yuan Zhao had specifically arranged for her to dine here alone, separate from the crowd, which was indeed thoughtful of him

I had no choice but to bid farewell to the Seven Fairies and follow Jiang Chen back to the Bamboo Courtyard

Upon hearing her poetic and picturesque name, I immediately felt regret. Why didn't I change the character "末" at the time of the name change? Comparing "水慕云" and "云末", the difference is like heaven and earth, one is a fairy and the other is cannon fodder

My goodness, is this how these seemingly righteous heroes behave in private? I hurriedly stood at the Lianhua Courtyard to the east, and suddenly a scene appeared in my mind... If the fairies of the Yuanshan Sect were to play dice, whoever loses would have to take off a piece of clothing, how alluring and enchanting it would be...

The master was taken aback for a moment, realizing that Yun Zhou's father was indeed a pillar of the court. How could he possibly allow the father and son to maintain distance? Thus, he excluded Yun Zhou and turned to Jiang Chen: "What is your opinion?"

The young princess lifted her foot and kicked, angrily saying: "You dead girl! Why aren't you hurrying up!"

I see! However, upon further reflection, I truly must thank my senior brothers for their courage to speak the truth, awakening me from my slumber. How could I have had such a spring dream? Alas

Upon arriving at Penglai Pavilion, the young girl was already kneeling on the ground, cleaning the plates and food scattered on the floor. With her bare little hands, she was picking up the fragments, her frail body resembling a leaf. For some reason, as I looked at her, my heart ached, and my eyes felt a bit swollen.

By the time we arrived at the Mountain Shade Courtyard, the courtyard was already filled with elites, with the leaders of various martial arts sects accompanied by their proud disciples. It is said that the young prince and young princess from Huai'an Prefecture also came with gifts to join the festivities

I quickly smiled and said, "Everyone who came with me are senior brothers, I find it quite uninteresting. I was thinking of coming here to have some fun, is that convenient?"

The six senior brothers all glared at me in unison, looking as if they were afraid that this task would fall upon their shoulders.

Master Yuan Zhao of the Ci'en Hall, who is also the current leader of the martial arts world, is approaching his birthday. Speaking of Master Yuan Zhao, he is truly a legend! At the age of twenty-six, he achieved the highest honor in martial arts examinations and led troops to campaign against the Jurchens, advancing with unstoppable momentum. The Jurchens speak of his name with both respect and fear, privately referring to him as the General of the Fierce Tiger. However, as the saying goes, a general's success is built upon countless sacrifices. Despite his remarkable military achievements, he felt deeply burdened by the weight of killing. Upon his return, he declined the imperial rewards and went back to his hometown of Tai'an to establish the Ci'en Hall, where he took in orphans and taught martial arts, while also practicing at home. He is the uncle of our master, and we, his disciples, hold him in great admiration and affectionately refer to him as Uncle.

I was also quite unreserved, sitting down with familiarity and quickly bonding with them. Except for the leader, Yu Muxi, the six young ladies were all laughing heartily at my jokes, to the point where my eyes were dazzled by their laughter. I couldn't help but think of Jiang Chen; he truly should have been here to witness such a delightful scene.

I believe that my choice of the surname Yun at that time was indeed wise, Miss Yun, it sounds truly ethereal and enchanting

Yu Muxi's eyes were curved like crescent moons, and with a graceful gesture of her jade-like fingers, she said, "Miss Yun, there is no need to be polite, please take a seat." Even with her face veiled, her smile was so enchanting that I was truly in awe.

He shot me a glance and said, "What are you touching me for?"

Master, look at me. I not only act as a matchmaker for Brother Yunzhou, but I also take care of a few other brothers. By the way, Master, do you need any help with this?

"Zizhao, you have arrived just in time; the Xiaoyao Sect has produced such a remarkable individual!"

The master quickly waved his hand and said, "Xiao Mo, I appreciate your good intentions on behalf of all the senior brothers, but we will only stay here for three days. It would be best for you to remain quiet and not cause any trouble, alright?" The master was somewhat taken aback by my ambitious aspirations, his complexion turning a bit pale, and his face becoming increasingly fair with a hint of red. With such a thin skin, it is no wonder he has become a striking iron tree, alas

The master looked at him helplessly and sighed, then walked out with his hands behind his back

She shot me a cold glance and huffed, "Who are you? Mind your own business!"

"She just said that on purpose to annoy that girl. Now, I am not going. " His expression was quite strange, and the anger seemed to arise inexplicably; I truly could not understand.

What is the matter?

I turned around in fright to glance at the young princess; her small face was visibly pale. The maidservants behind her were all ashen-faced, staring blankly at Jiang Chen, wearing expressions that suggested he was doomed.

"Your Highness, please do not be angry. I will take these two disciples back for instruction. Farewell." The master was very protective, pulling Jiang Chen and me away, leaving Yun Zhou to tidy up the mess. That's fine; after all, they are old acquaintances and can catch up slowly.

I clapped my hands in excitement: "Great, we have eight of us."

Thank you, Master Yu, for your concern; my mother is in good health

Passing by the Penglai Pavilion in the back garden, I suddenly heard a crisp sound.

Jiang Chen suddenly appeared from somewhere and startled me by pouncing next to my ear

The young prince of Huai'an said with a smile: "In recent years, the rivers and lakes have been calm and peaceful, and Master Yuan Zhao has put in considerable effort."

I hurriedly stepped forward and said: "Your Highness, the distance from the top of the mountain to the foot of the mountain is quite considerable, even for someone skilled in lightness techniques, it would take at least half an hour for a round trip. As for a maid, even if you were to bundle her up and roll her down, it would still take half an hour."

Jiang Chen snorted, squinting at me, and said fiercely: "I originally planned to take you there and specifically went to the kitchen to get the salt. However, now, I no longer want to go."

I only know Master Yu.

Jiang Chen wore a self-reproachful expression: "It was I who said it."

I watched Yunzhou give a slight bow to the young princess and realized that the two were acquainted. It turned out that Yunzhou already had a name, Zizhao.

The fairy sister chuckled and said, "Miss Yun, you are making fun of me. I am not a fairy; my name is Shui Muyun."

I do not have time to elaborate, I hurriedly said: "Yes, it is urgent, quickly go and fix it, then come to the back garden's Penglai Pavilion to find me"

He immediately withdrew his smile, and his face darkened at once

The young princess scrutinized him for a moment and softly asked, "Are you the chef"

The master took me and six senior brothers to Tai'an, just one day before the birthday of Master Yuanzhao. The court had bestowed the mountain shade villa of the former Tai'an Marquis upon Master Yuanzhao. The vast estate, with its intricately designed layers of courtyards, was quite remarkable. Master Yuanzhao chose the smallest Yuxuan courtyard for his residence, while the others were either designated for the disciples of the Cien Hall or reserved for guest accommodations.

A faint smile lingered on Yun Zhou's lips: "Your Highness, I wonder how they have offended you?"