Chapter Eight, Young Lady

Zhuo Hao let out a sigh of relief: "Thank you, junior sister, then I..."

In the distance, a young man in traditional Chinese attire is walking towards us, greeting the guests beside him with courteous bows and salutations. His demeanor is graceful, and his smile is as warm as a spring breeze, exuding a sense of cheerfulness and charm.

The heartbeat suddenly quickens

Zhuo Yaodao: "The day before yesterday, I heard that they had imprisoned the Palace Fairy. I hurried over and finally persuaded them to temporarily keep the Palace Fairy in Qinghua. However, this matter is of great importance, so I specifically invited you, esteemed one, to discuss how to handle it properly"

Zhuo Hao could not help but fly in front of her on his sword upon hearing this, sneering: "Are you already deceiving others at such a young age?"

Knowing that he is a disciple of the esteemed Master Chonghua, the disciple dared not be negligent and devotedly guided Chongzi around for sightseeing

Chongzi let out a disappointed "oh" and suddenly asked, "Who are they?"

Luo Yinfan furrowed her brows: "Whether that matter will lead to eternal damnation remains to be verified"

Noticing something amiss, Zhuo Hao was secretly astonished. Could it be that she was really not lying?

This was something Luo Yinfan had not anticipated. He raised his eyes to look around, feeling slightly awkward. In front of such a large crowd, the intimate actions between the master and his female disciple seemed rather inappropriate. However, upon further reflection, he couldn't help but chuckle. Zhong'er was just a child, pure-hearted, and it was rare for her to express such feelings; perhaps he was overthinking it.

Luo Yinfan also instructed Chong Zi: "Come and meet the Master of the Ming Palace of the Changsheng Palace"

Chongzi picked up a piece and brought it to his lips: "Master, eat."

Luo Yinfan expressed admiration: "The Cloud Fairy cares for the people, administering medicine to save lives. She possesses the compassionate heart of a Bodhisattva from the West, and is also adding blessings and virtues for the palace master, which can be considered the best gift for longevity"

Chongzi was filled with anticipation: "Does Master like it?"

Zhuo Yao had just taken his seat when he smiled and urged Luo Yinfan to drink.

Forcing a guest to compete is already disrespectful, let alone throwing the other party into the sea. Zhuo Hao knew he had caused a great disaster and was afraid of being seen, so he hurriedly dragged her into the room and threw her on the floor. After thinking it over, he decided it was not enough and simply lifted her up by her feet to make her vomit.

I have heard that they are going to confront the most powerful Demon Lord of the Abyss, which must be very dangerous

She gazed at the young man for a while, and suddenly broke into a smile

Zhong Zi scolded fiercely: "You only know how to bully those smaller than you, shame on you! If my master finds out, you will definitely not be spared!"

Zhong Zi obediently stepped forward, but the Ming Palace Master had already come over to support her, offering high praise.

The gaze circled around and returned to that most familiar and beautiful figure

The Ming Palace Master, with a look of helplessness, sighed and said: "The incident from back then actually had nothing to do with my niece; she was unaware of the location of the Abyss of Ten Thousand Tribulations. They sought revenge and simply captured her to interrogate her. The Nine Nether Demon Palace also intended to use her to threaten the Abyss of Ten Thousand Tribulations. Over the years, she has been hiding and living a very difficult life."

Although the Demon Palace has been scattered, Wan Jie remains the most powerful figure in the current demon realm, even the Demon Lord Jiu You must regard him with caution. While these individuals are certainly eager for revenge, their reckless actions in attempting to unite against him may lead to their own demise.

Chongzi tossed aside the items in her hands, beamed, and jumped to his side: "Senior Brother, let's hurry over."

"Little girl, do you dare to look down on our Qinghua Palace?" Zhuo Hao sneered, suddenly grabbing the back of her collar and lifting her up.

Zhong Zi admired the beautiful scenery for a while, picked up two sparkling stones, and couldn't help but think of Luo Yin Fan. Had she walked too far? Would her master be unable to find her later? Although she was young, she understood that Zhuo Yao had deliberately sent her away to discuss important matters with her master and the others. At this moment, returning hastily would likely disturb them, so she squatted down and said, "I am tired from walking; Qinghua Palace is truly vast"

It is utterly absurd that the disciple of Master Chonghua cannot perform any celestial arts! Could it be that she is doing this on purpose, intending to lead him astray in order to take revenge for the past grievances?

Zhong Zi has never studied immortal arts, so she does not understand their significance. She only feels that the young man is good-looking. However, after following Luo Yin Fan every day, no matter how beautiful a person stands in front of her, she no longer experiences the same shock as she did initially.

Zhuo Hao heard the laughter and instead leaned down, raising her small chin with his hand, arching his eyebrows: "This immortal has been waiting for you to strike."

Who would have thought that the disciple of Master Chonghua could not wield a sword? Chongzi, fearing that he might see through her, hurriedly said: "No need, no need, we will be staying for several more days, and I will come out to check every day."

Chongzi is worried about her master

The disciple smiled and said, "Respected one, you used to visit our Qinghua Palace often, and each time you stayed in the Sea Tower. This time, the palace master specifically instructed to keep the Sea Tower available for your reception. Since the junior sister is tired, I will take you there to rest first. Wouldn't it be inappropriate to wait for the respected one to return?"

Seeing him so serious, Chongzi's playful spirit was ignited: "May I ask who you are?"

As he gazed at his figure, the disciple's eyes instantly widened, and his mouth opened wider and wider, almost large enough to fit an egg.

Luo Yinfan followed her gaze and said: "The Kunlun Lord and his wife"

Then the disciple led Zhongzi, walking along the winding bridge.

The sword turned around, bringing that person to turn as well

Luo Yinfan said: "Fortunately, the sect master has the heart to save people; otherwise, the immortal sect would suffer additional casualties."

Upon hearing that Master Chonghua had arrived, everyone stood up to welcome him. Luo Yinfan responded a few times, and Zhuo Yao then let him in. They passed through the back door and climbed up the stone steps until they reached the front of the Fourth Hall

... ...

The disciple of Master Zhonghua does not know any spells, how can he speak such lies without fearing to embarrass his master! Zhuo Hao would not believe it; he was much taller than Zhongzi and felt no strain carrying her as he flew straight to the sea, saying, "I see you are still putting on an act!"

In just one day, it will be the grand birthday celebration of Zhuo Yao, and nearly all the esteemed guests have arrived. There are approximately two to three hundred people at the main banquet, all of whom are distinguished and prominent guests, encompassing both the immortal and mortal realms, including several princes and chancellors. Those who arrive late are guided to their seats by the disciples.

The Lord of Kunlun had a complexion as dark as coal, tall and imposing, yet he married a radiant wife, the Jade Fairy of Kunshan. Just now, the Jade Fairy took advantage of a moment when no one was watching to place a plate of fruit before her husband. The Lord of Kunshan seemed not to notice, sitting upright and proper, neither looking at her nor speaking. However, a hint of tenderness and understanding smile flickered in his serious Danfeng eyes.

Zhuo Yao first asked the two to return to their seats: "The palace fairy will temporarily reside in the Dragon's Abyss at the bottom of the sea. This time, Wanjie will definitely come to rescue. The Dragon's Abyss is easy to defend but difficult to attack, making it just right to trap him."

He sat calmly at the end of the long table, with a few willow trees nearby, their branches drooping into the water

Seeing that he had a contemptuous attitude towards his master, Zhongzi was greatly enraged: "The reason I cannot defeat you is that I have not learned the immortal arts. Once I have mastered the spells in the future, I will surely bring you down!"

Zhuo Yao nodded: "In terms of reason, Wan Jue's infatuation with the palace fairy has caused the Wan Jue Demon Palace to disband, and it should not be used to threaten him any longer. However, the fact remains that the Demon Sword was stolen back then, and three thousand disciples of the Immortal Sect perished. If it were not for the demonic power on the sword, Wan Jue would have never been able to become the Demon Lord, so it is no wonder they harbor suspicions. Moreover, the palace fairy is the daughter of the former palace master, who also perished in that incident, so it is only right to assist and confine Wan Jue to clarify the matter."

The Twelve Peaks of Nanhua are renowned throughout the world, while the Qinghua Palace is comparatively smaller. However, the arrangement of the mountain and water corridors is much more ingenious than that of Nanhua, complemented by the beauty of the unique peaks. Purple clouds float among them, and due to the recent longevity of the palace master, celestial music can be heard everywhere, enchanting all who listen

Seeing that both individuals were without swords, Chong Zi guessed that they were from the Spell Immortal Sect. Before she could examine them closely, the immortal had already smiled and stood up to greet her: "I have been waiting for a long time, esteemed one, you have finally arrived"

Several sect leaders and palace masters came over to greet Luo Yinfan, and Zhuo Yao also arrived. Upon seeing him, the guests all stood up, raised their cups in congratulations, and Zhuo Yao repeatedly expressed his gratitude, humbly acknowledging their kindness. After drinking a few cups of wine, the guests finally returned to their seats

Zhongzi pointed at the distant sea surface: "Qinghua Palace has no walls. What if someone flies in? Didn't they say that the Demon Lord Wanjie would come? Aren't you afraid?"

The other party believed that she possessed magical powers, but in reality, she did not. It would be a miracle if she did not drown after falling into the water. Chongzi gritted her teeth and fell straight down.

In the realm of immortals, age has never been a standard for judging a person. The other party is a disciple of the esteemed Zunzhang Chonghua. Although he may look down upon her, he would never dare to be too careless. He had been secretly on guard, preparing to engage in a confrontation when she became angry.

Swift and smooth, moving with ease, it is evident that this is a superior swordsmanship technique, showcasing his exceptional skills. However, as Chongzi is a guest and also a disciple of the Sword Immortal Sect, his display of such techniques may be perceived as provocative.

After coming to a realization, Luo Yinfan regained her composure and lowered her head to eat

Luo Yinfan nodded slightly and did not say anything further

Zhongzi lowered her head and pulled at her clothes, "My clothes are all wet!"

The emerald green table, made of an unknown material, is large and smooth, resembling jade. It is adorned with countless white jade cups and water crystal plates, each holding exquisite delicacies. As each cup and plate flows past the diners, it resembles flowing water. Those who wish to indulge can lightly touch it with their chopsticks, and it will automatically move in front of them. Immediately, fresh dishes will be replenished on the table, available for those who come afterward.

Luo Yinfan said: "I have heard that she generously dispenses elixirs, aiding the world and saving lives. I am already quite pleased; why must we meet? Three years ago, when the demon clan's fox poison was rampant, I passed through Qingzhou and had intended to visit her, but unfortunately, I was delayed later on."

Zhongzi was truly taken aback this time

He softly recited a couple of lines, waved his hand, and immediately, a great deal of smoke began to rise from the body of the heavy purple garment. After about the time it takes to brew a cup of tea, when he looked again, the clothing was already dry

The Qinhua Palace's Nine-Story Hall is constructed in accordance with the mountain's terrain, resembling nine steps that layer upon one another, reaching directly to the mountain's peak, creating an extremely magnificent sight. Although Chongzi has studied with Luoyin Fan for two years and has recognized quite a few characters, the main hall and its numerous side halls have a plethora of complex names. Additionally, children are not interested in those intricate names; they only remember the numbers, counting them in order. The first, second, and third halls, both the main and side halls, are all arranged to receive guests.

If there really were such a person, then the situation would surely be very beautiful indeed

The banquet is set in a large garden, which features a grand lotus pond, or perhaps it should be called a lotus lake. The lake is rippling with azure waves, vibrant red lotuses, and green leaves swaying in the breeze, exuding warmth and comfort in every corner.

Zhongzi thought without hesitation: "Who is afraid of you!"

What she said was indeed the truth, yet there is a saying among people that goes, "Looks are deceiving." A sword is a magical artifact of the immortal sect, typically representing status and glory. What Zhuo Hao wields is an ancient divine sword, which cannot be controlled without sufficient magical power. Although there have been many compliments from others in the past, none have ever praised its appearance, and hearing such remarks felt somewhat mocking.

... ...

In the midst of anxiety, a sudden gust of wind swept by my side

In the realm of heaven and earth, who truly deserves to sit there, and who will ultimately sit beside him

The phrase "The esteemed one is reluctant to part" sounds pleasant, yet Chongzi turned his back and ignored him

Zhuo Yao smiled and said: "My sister has always been like this; she often mentions how she hasn't seen the esteemed one for many years. The day before yesterday, I sent a letter and specifically mentioned that the esteemed one would be coming this time."

Zhuo Hao coughed twice to interrupt him: "Since the palace master is hosting a banquet, senior brother, please take her over quickly. I will leave first." He hurriedly exited.

Seeing the once obedient young girl in such a disheveled state, Zhuo Hao was also frightened into a cold sweat. He was momentarily at a loss for words and after pondering for a long time, he still could not find an appropriate line to strike up a conversation. He simply let out a light snort and said: "The disciple of the esteemed Chonghua is indeed so useless"

Zhong Zi, suspended in mid-air, grew even angrier and struggled, saying: "I told you I don't know any spells. If you don't let go, I will inform my master and Lord Zhuo!"

Zhuo Hao stood in the air with his arms crossed, looking as if he were watching a show

"I just saw her," the disciple said, suddenly looking up and exclaiming, "The young lady of the palace has arrived!"

Zhuo Hao made up his mind to stand by and wait for her to reveal herself, but the sea remained eerily still for a long time. As the situation grew increasingly concerning, he felt a twinge of guilt and could not help but go down to check. After confirming his fears, he became even more flustered, hurriedly reciting the water-avoidance incantation, and jumped into the water to pull her up.

She quietly pulled Luo Yinfan and said, "Master, it turns out being an immortal is so wonderful. I could only dream of eating so many delicious foods before!"

Due to the constraints of etiquette and the guest's status, Zhuo Hao could only endure and said, "This sword is named Anling"

Zhuo Hao was taken aback; how could a disciple of the Sword Immortal Sect be without a sword? It must be an intentional excuse. He had come with sincerity to spar, and considering she was Luo Yinfan's disciple, he spoke politely. Little did he expect that the young girl, relying on her status, would look down on him. Being in his youth, Zhuo Hao felt a rising urge to teach her a lesson

The child, with a whimsical nature, played in the room for a while, looked at everything that happened, found it uninteresting, and simply ran out the door. Alone, he leaned on the railing to gaze at the sea view. After waiting for half a day without seeing Luo Yinfan arrive, he could not help but start to indulge in wild thoughts

At the very least, this position now belongs to her, as she sits beside him! Chongzi is filled with joy, after all, she is not yet of sufficient age or mindset to be entangled in the ultimate ownership of this position, and thus she quickly shifts her attention to the table in front of her

Zhong Zi then saw clearly that it was a young man dressed in splendid attire, around fourteen or fifteen years old, yet his stature was already nearly that of an adult. He stood tall and elegant like a pine tree, with two sword-like eyebrows exuding a vigorous spirit, resembling a proud little peacock.

Tao Jiao? Chong Zi finally understood that he wanted to fight with him, and shook his head repeatedly: "I will not fight with you"

Suddenly, something flew towards her from behind, startling Chongzi greatly: "Who is it?"

The heavy purple vomited a great deal of water, and only then did it gradually recover. Its small face was pale, and for a long while it could not speak, merely sitting on the ground gasping for breath

Uncertain whether it was due to running too fast, her small face appeared particularly flushed. Chongzi somewhat avoided his gaze and quietly explained: "I waited for a long time at the Sea Tower, wanting to see my master sooner, so I ran quickly"

A mere little girl, as long as she is made happy, there will be no problem. Zhuo Hao made up his mind and quickly said: "Don't worry, I will take care of it for you right away"

Still, the master treated her the best! Chongzi felt even sweeter, curiously examining a dish shaped like a phoenix made of green fruit slices

In the center of the lake, there is a large platform adorned with lush willows, where the main banquet is set up, already filled with guests. Its scale is certainly not inferior to the preaching assemblies of the Western Buddha. At a glance, one can see lotus flowers and leaves spread out like a painting, with willow branches hanging low, creating a hazy and indistinct scene.

The seat next to him is vacant

Losing to Luo Yinfan is only natural, and Zhuo Hao does not feel ashamed. He smiles and says, "The esteemed elder is indeed remarkable. Well, the clothes are dry, and the courtesy has been compensated. I did not do it on purpose. Let's not bring up what happened earlier, so as not to harm the harmony between our two sects, shall we?"

The matter of the Sword of the Reverse Wheel is of great importance, and this is also out of necessity. Luo Yinfan said no more and asked: "What is the current situation in the Dragon's Abyss?"

You..." Zhuo Hao swallowed the word "fool" that was on the tip of his tongue, maintaining the good demeanor of a host. "Do you think everyone can enter Qinghua Palace? There is a barrier set up one mile outside the palace. Apart from the palace gate, no one can enter from elsewhere. Isn't it the same for you in Nanhua?"

I know, "I didn't catch what you said, but instead shifted my attention to the sword at your feet, "Your sword is truly beautiful."

The master is the most powerful being in the Six Realms today, having previously defeated the Ten Thousand Calamities Demon Lord, so he will certainly be fine this time as well. But what if something unexpected happens? She cannot bear the thought of him leaving like her brother the immortal. Without the master, Zizhu Peak would no longer be home to Chongzi. She is afraid; the master can protect her, but she knows nothing and cannot protect the master.

This time, the design of the ambush was conducted in secrecy, and naturally, it was not convenient to let too many people know. The Ming Palace Master coughed twice, instructing the disciples beside him to withdraw. Zhuo Yao, who valued Zi, found it uninteresting to listen from the side and quickly called a disciple to take her out to play.

The Ming Palace Master hurriedly said: "This time, my niece is willing to help us draw him out. If we can trap him, we will be able to reclaim the magic sword and bring solace to the three thousand lost souls"

Luo Yinfan subtly remarked: "I have already tasted these long ago. You may eat whatever you like; there is no need to ask me."

Zhong Zi glanced at him, got up from the ground, and foolishly raised his face: "My master doesn't need to chant spells."

Zhongzi then realized he had been deceived: "What did you say?"

Thousands of varieties of fruits and dishes moved before me, dazzling the eyes

Zhong Zi was soaked to the skin, nearly losing consciousness from choking on water

Zhong Zi nodded seriously, appearing to be enlightened: "Oh"

Hundreds of banquet tables were set up by the lakeside, primarily to host the accompanying disciples.

Luo Yinfan noticed her confusion: "This is Hailingzhi."

This young man bears a striking resemblance to someone; although he is clearly no more than two years older than her, he insists on adopting a mature demeanor. I wonder how he has been progressing in his cultivation on Yuchen Peak; he must be quite formidable by now

The seaside pavilion is built atop a small and low peak, in a secluded area. The building is exquisite, consisting of only five or six rooms. In front of the pavilion, there is a large observation deck. Standing by the railing, one can see the boundless blue sea, with the sounds of the sea breeze and waves faintly audible in the ears

Zhuo Hao impatiently said, "Isn't Junior Sister coming up yet?"

The willows are lush and green, contrasting with the white garments

The disciple laughed and said, "Although our Qinghua Palace is smaller than Nanhua, if we walk slowly like this, it would take several days to finish. Why don't we use our swords to fly and take a look instead?"

It is correct that the attitude has softened, Zhuo Hao said: "What does the junior sister want? Shall I offer you an apology?"

Zhuo Hao was originally unaware of the situation, so he deliberately prompted her to speak. Now, hearing her voice loud and clear, he knew that there was nothing wrong, and the heavy stone in his heart finally fell. Thus, he suppressed a laugh and half-squatted in front of her: "You are called Insect? Such an unpleasant name, yet you look quite good. I, the immortal, will give you ten moves. If you can defeat me, I will consider you my husband; if you cannot, then you shall be my wife. What do you say?"

She had never seen any of these dishes before! Chong Zi swallowed hard; ever since she learned the method of breath regulation, she had hardly eaten anything other than water. This was mainly because there was not much to eat in the Chonghua Palace. However, her past life as a little beggar had instilled in her an instinctive craving for delicious food

"You can perform magic, and I cannot hurt you."

Senior Brother!" Chong Zi interrupted him, turning around and waving her hand, "Senior Brother, come quickly and take a look, look over there!"

The young apprentice suddenly appeared before her, and Luo Yinfan was not surprised. She pulled her to sit beside her and said, "Why are you in such a hurry? You're sweating."

One should not be too obvious in burning bridges after crossing them. Moreover, although the other party is somewhat younger, she is still a light beauty. Zhuo Hao has always been very graceful in front of girls. Since he knows she won't tell on him, he has no more reservations and walks over to take a look: "What happened?"

I originally thought that Qin Ke had a lofty opinion of herself, but unexpectedly, one was more impolite than the other. Chong Zi also lost her patience and turned to enter the room: "Who deceived you"

Since there is no sword, we shall use the art of cloud riding. I will also spar with my junior sister barehanded, how about that

Zhuo Hao casually said: "I said that when you grow up, I will go and ask Master Chonghua to marry you, and then I will become your husband. Let’s see if you still dare to hit me."

Luo Yinfan clearly understood his intention and asked Zhuo Yao: "Where is the palace fairy?"

Zhuo Haonian is two years older and is already knowledgeable about affairs. Originally, he was just teasing her for fun, but upon hearing her words, he laughed heartily: "My little lady, your fierceness will scare me away."

At that moment, the earlier disciple returned from the Fourth Hall, standing at the door and calling out to her: "Junior Sister, the Palace Master has set up a banquet in the garden, and the esteemed one asked me to bring you there." Just as he finished speaking, he suddenly noticed Zhuo Hao beside him and hurriedly said: "Young..."

The other party suddenly changed their attitude. Chongzi had already guessed that he was afraid of being punished if he spoke out. Feeling quite displeased, she suddenly caught sight of the inkstone on the desk by the window, and her eyes lit up: "Alright, I won't say anything." She ran to the window to enjoy the scenery.

So many delicious foods

With a "plop," the little one indeed fell into the sea, splashing up small droplets of water

Having settled the matter of the heavy purple, the disciple shall return to report.

The little peacock reluctantly bowed and said: "I am Zhuo Hao, here in the name of Master Mu, hoping to seek some guidance from my junior sister."

Others are still acceptable, but when Chongzi saw that person, she nearly choked on the fruit.

About two zhang ahead, a sword with a golden hue and an ancient shape suddenly came to a halt in mid-air. A person, dressed elegantly, was perched upon the sword, facing away from her. It seemed that the earlier noise had been caused by him.

In the gathering, there are dozens of pairs of celestial couples, each husband and wife sitting side by side. Each pair exhibits different expressions, yet they always share a peculiar kind of tacit understanding that surpasses that of others. Even if their appearances differ, one beautiful and the other less so, there is not the slightest hint of discomfort; instead, it is wonderful and harmonious

It was clearly a casual action, yet Zhongzi began to daydream again

Zhong Zi, with a flushed face, shouted: "Nonsense, my master would never agree!"

Unexpectedly, after the little one fell into the sea, he did not soar up as desired, but instead struggled and floundered on the water's surface, and was soon pulled down by the whirlpool

Indeed, a man is meant to marry a wife, and a woman is meant to marry a husband, after which the two will live together. In the future, the master will also have someone else by his side, and then will she be married off? She certainly does not wish to marry the person in front of her

Zhong Zi angrily swatted his hand away

The emerald waves reflect the shadows, as if seated on a lotus platform

In the fourth hall, there were only two individuals; one was an immortal elder appearing to be in his thirties, sitting on a chair with an anxious expression, showing no interest in tea, while a disciple quietly stood behind him

Zhuo Hao flattered: "It is only because I have always admired the esteemed one. I heard that his esteemed disciple has also come this time, so I specially came to challenge you. I intended to test you, but I did not expect that you really have not learned any academic techniques. I apologize for my rudeness. How about this, junior sister, you can hit me twice to vent your frustration?"

For a moment, Chongzi found herself devoid of appetite

"Let her know, she will surely be happy for a while," Zhuo Yao said, suddenly realizing something. He turned to ask the disciple beside him, "Where is Hao'er? I asked him to come out first to greet the esteemed guests, yet he has not appeared for a long time, leaving the guests unattended. What kind of manner is this?"

Several disciples stood guard outside and, upon seeing Zhuo Yao and Luo Yinfan, all bowed in greeting

Luo Yinfan did not decline either, and accompanied with a drink, casually remarked: "Why do I not see Yunji?"

Anling? The blinking of the heavy purple is still the most beautiful compared to Master’s Zhubo

This child has suffered too much, Luo Yinfan fell silent for a moment, then reached out to take a plate and placed it in front of her

I cannot

Luo Yinfan is not difficult to find; everyone who steps onto the platform in the center of the lake will naturally look towards him, as if there is a mysterious force drawing them in.

This statement hits the nail on the head, and Chongzi happily agreed.

Before the words had left his mouth, Zhuo Hao had already loosened his grip, letting her fall from mid-air

A sudden inexplicable flutter surged within her heart, as Zhuo Hao's words echoed in her mind. Chong Zi turned her face to look around, for the first time in her life seriously observing those couples.

Zhong Zi was stunned for a moment, until he was bumped into by a passing disciple, finally coming to his senses. He crouched down and quietly slipped through the crowd, then jumped out: "Master!"

She was lost in thought, while the proud peacock over there appeared rather displeased. It glanced at her a few times, its gaze revealing a hint of disdain and disappointment, and then spoke: "May I ask if this esteemed lady is a junior sister from Nanhua? A highly regarded disciple of the Revered Chonghua?"

Zhuo Haotian was born with a strong competitive spirit. Upon hearing that the disciple of the esteemed Chonghua had arrived, he eagerly rushed over to compete. He had intentionally showcased his impressive swordsmanship to intimidate his opponent. To his surprise, the opponent turned out to be merely a beautiful young girl, which greatly astonished him and led him to develop a sense of contempt. Now, seeing her refuse to compete, he assumed she was merely relying on her status to act arrogantly, which made him even more displeased. He subtly provoked her, saying: "Although our Qinghua swordsmanship is quite ordinary, if we were to discuss it seriously, it may not be much inferior to your esteemed school's."

Zhongzi Dao: "I don't have a sword, how can I fly"

Zhuo Hao is already fourteen years old and has no interest in continuing to play around with the twelve-year-old girl. He chuckles to himself, and as he is about to get up and leave, he worries that she might go out and complain, which would inevitably lead to his father finding out and punishing him. After all, he is much older, and soon he comes up with an idea. He puts on a gentle smile to appease her: "Little junior sister, don't be upset, I was just joking with you. You are so well-behaved, of course, the esteemed one wouldn't want to part with you."

In the third main hall, many guests of special status were seated, engaging in lively conversation over tea. Among them were both mortals and immortals, with most being sect leaders or the foremost disciples. Those from the immortal sect often used magical tools to prove their identity; those wielding swords or weapons belonged to the Sword Immortal Sect, while those without swords were mostly Spell Immortals. Of course, there were exceptions, such as the Sword Immortal Sect of Xingxuan, which did not carry swords, and within the Spell Immortals, there were also those holding dust whiskers or spiritual pearls, but that is a matter for another time.

In the realm of immortals, marriage is permitted. Although the several immortal lords of Nanhua have not taken wives, their disciples have, and Zhongzi even attended a wedding banquet. Due to her young age, at that time, she viewed marriage merely as a change of title; for instance, someone originally referred to as senior sister might be called sister-in-law instead.

Zhuo Yao sighed: "She has lingered in the mortal realm for several years and has yet to return. I suppose she has even forgotten my birthday, as there has not been a single word from her."