Chapter Seven, where strange occurrences lead to a shattered heart

Liu reminisced with a sense of grievance in her heart; she found herself in a dilemma whether to vent her feelings or to keep them bottled up. Swallowing her sadness deep down was truly heartbreaking

After she finished speaking, she left, her footsteps growing increasingly rapid, until her emerald figure gradually blurred in Yun Yao's sight

Second Master weighed the money bag in his hand and said softly, "Wouldn't it have been better to give it earlier?"

Second Master, frustrated by the lack of ambition, gave Dog Brother a sharp reprimand, saying, "You worthless thing!" Then, he turned to Liu Zhuiyi and asked, "Who are you? What brings you to my Lingqiu County?" As he spoke, he glanced at Liu Zhuiyi, finally resting his gaze on the money pouch at her waist, and said, "Do you know the rules of my Luoyan Mountain? To pass through Luoyan Mountain, you must leave behind some wealth"

Bian Zhen'er stood before her, her gaze filled with confusion and concern. The two faced each other, enveloped by the howling north wind, exchanging no words.

Inside the carriage, Liu reminisced as Yun Yao and Xun Yan sat facing each other. Yun Yao would occasionally steal glances at Xun Yan, but whenever Xun Yan met his gaze, he would look away. Xun Yan asked, "Young Master Yun, what are you doing?"

Liu Zhuiyi became alert and asked, "What is it, uncle?"

Duan Ganshan looked at the deep bite marks on the tiger's mouth and frowned, saying, "Let her go hungry for a few days and then see."

This person is none other than the leader of Qiufeng Village—Duangan Mountain

They are all women, and her jealousy is something Liu Chuiyi understands all too well

"It is not that he does not trust you, but it is difficult to satisfy both sides, do you understand?" Yun Yao explained

Seeing this situation, Uncle Wu, who had come with Liu to reminisce, did not know what to do. Duan Gan Shan comforted him, saying: "Uncle Wu, you should go back first. This girl is too wild. I will keep her for a few days to teach her a lesson and then let her go. I will not harm her."

Duan Gan Shan caught a glimpse of Liu Zhui Yi's chin, tilted his head to look at her, and deliberately said: "You are indeed good-looking, and I also like your personality, so let's do as Er said."

The nights in the north have never been tranquil, sometimes accompanied by the howls of wolves from unknown places, and at other times by the wind sweeping over the mountain peaks, bringing with it a desolate wail

Liu reminisced as her eyes flickered, her delicate brows furrowed. She lightly bit her lower lip and after a long pause, said: "Go find some water, I will think of a way. If Xun Yan's intentions are truly impure, I will not let her off easily!"

Liu reminisced as he remained in a standoff with the three of them, the three men slightly bowing their heads, their faces alternating between red and white.

Yun Yao, astonished, asked: "What on earth is going on?"

Bian Zhen'er witnessed Liu Zhuiyi pulling the reins of the horse, causing it to harm Xun Yan. He rushed over to help Xun Yan up. Xun Yan covered half of her forehead, her eyes brimming with tears as she looked at Liu Zhuiyi innocently, crying out: "Sister Liu, why did you do this..."

Liu recalled and quickly got up to run towards Bian Zhen'er. Xun Yan was still in shock, holding Bian Zhen'er and crying incessantly. Bian Zhen'er comforted her, saying: "It's alright, it's alright"

Two individuals, each with their own thoughts, are adorned with various masks, making it difficult to discern what is real and what is false. Liu Zhuiyi has been observing Xun Yan, yet even with such scrutiny, she cannot uncover any underlying truth. With a flick of her eyes, she deliberately expressed envy, saying: "Ah, the further north we go, the colder the weather becomes. I wonder if luck will be on our side, and if we might encounter the snowy season when the red plum blossoms bloom. Hehe, the little monk promised to take me to see a scene of red plums amidst the snow, and I am particularly looking forward to it"

Duan Gan Shan asked again: "Wang ... ... Eight Eggs?"

How can I possibly drink so much by myself? One cannot take medicine indiscriminately, after all, " Bian Zhen'er said helplessly as he looked at the medicinal soup that Xun Yan had brought.

The second master and a few others stood by like spectators, shouting: "Big brother, don't let her go, this little girl is fierce, capture her and make her the wife of the stronghold!"

Elder brother. The three of them, including Second Master, clasped their fists in respect. Seeing this, Uncle hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Master Duan, Master Duan, this person was brought by the old man, please show some leniency."

"There is no wealth, only life; if you wish to take it, then do so," Liu recalled coldly

Liu Zhuiyi's expression grew increasingly grim. Not only had she suffered grievances at Xun Yan's place, but after traveling such a long distance and consulting so many doctors, the strange issues with her body remained undiagnosed. At this moment, she had hoped to meet up with Lingqiu and Bianzhen, but instead encountered a group of ruffian bandits on the road, who not only harassed her but also robbed her of her money

Bian Zhen'er, please don't leave me, okay? I am so scared, and I don't know what will happen next. I haven't done anything wrong; why does Sister Liu want to harm me?" Xun Yan cried pitifully in Bian Zhen'er's arms, while Liu Zhuiyi felt heartbroken and could only swallow her sorrow alone

Xun Yan cooked several bowls of wild vegetable soup in the set-up pot and said, "Everyone, drink some soup first to warm yourselves. After a while, Sister Liu's medicine will be ready. I will brew some medicine for everyone to drink, those who are ill can be treated, and those who are healthy should also take precautions." As she spoke, she ladled out several bowls of soup and handed them to Yun Yao and Bian Zhen.

I am not ill!" Liu Zhuiyi interrupted him, a hint of anger evident between her brows

Liu's eloquent tongue scolded the three gentlemen to the point where they could only stare blankly, swallowing hard, and for a moment, they were at a loss for words

Rejected by the butcher, Second Master found himself in a difficult position. He shouted, "If you won't go, then I will!" As he spoke, he charged forward barehanded, intending to seize the money pouch from Liu Zhuiyi's waist. Liu Zhuiyi retreated to defend himself, engaging in a struggle with Second Master.

Liu Zhuiyi divided a bowl and handed it over, but did not notice that a tiny gray worm had crawled down from Xun Yan's sleeve as she passed it to her

The pianist's attention was not fully engaged; he slightly turned his head, casting his gaze towards the place where Liu Zhuiyi was. On the hillside, the young girl curled herself into a ball, unaware of how much sorrow she had buried within.

Yun Yao was astonished and covered her mouth, as Xun Yan actually knew martial arts! ... If it were an ordinary person, being attacked by this red light would surely lead to fainting, but she ... . ... Yun Yao did not dare to make a sound at all, and after Xun Yan returned and went to sleep, Yun Yao hid in the shadows for a long time before daring to go back.

"Pervert?" Second Master laughed and said to Master Tu, "Old Three, let her see what a real pervert is!"

"What bad things? Don't be so mysterious." Liu Zhuiyi withdrew her hand, which he had been holding tightly, and continued to walk forward

Liu Zhuiyi incessantly cursed Duan Gan Shan while perched on Dog Ge's shoulder, yet Duan Gan Shan paid no attention whatsoever

Bian Zhen'er watched her figure depart, yet did not attempt to retain her, only feeling his gaze grow increasingly dim, as if a knife were carving into some part of his heart.

Old Man Wu trusted Duan Gan Shan's character, and having nothing more to say, he said: "Then I thank Master Duan." As he spoke, he drove the ox cart back towards Lingqiu County.

Qiufengzhai is the only mountain bandit stronghold in Lingqiu County. They are regarded by outsiders as the most inhumane bandits, yet revered by locals as guardians. The leader of Qiufengzhai is named Duangan Shan, a local who deeply cares for the local populace and enjoys their admiration. However, he is naturally rough and loves freedom, so he gathered a group of homeless individuals to camp and establish a stronghold on Luoyan Mountain, teaching them martial arts and forming Qiufengzhai, thus becoming bandits.

"Serves you right!" Liu reminisced with satisfaction

"Did you ever have any illnesses when you were a child?" Liu Zhuiyi asked, to which Bian Zhen'er shook his head. Liu Zhuiyi placed the prepared herbs on the ground, walked over, and lifted Bian Zhen'er's hand, resting his fingers on his pulse.

After being out for a long time, Yun Yao suddenly tightened his grip on Liu Zhuiyi and whispered, "Liu'er, I encountered something unpleasant yesterday!"

Once they leave, everything will be peaceful.

"Little monk, listen to me." Liu reminisced as he took a step forward, causing Xun Yan to step back in fright. The horse behind them neighed incessantly, and Xun Yan clutched tightly at Bian Zhen'er’s clothing, her hands sweating.

Xun Yan stood up and ladled the remaining hot soup for Bian Zhen'er, then washed the pot to prepare the medicine. After the medicine was ready, Yun Yao eagerly drank two bowls, giving the rest to Bian Zhen'er

Liu Zhuiyi, seeing that Yun Yao spoke so seriously, began to believe it a little and asked, "So... what do you mean?"

Among the three people, with Liu Zhuiyi absent, it seems that something else is also missing. Yun Yao remained silent, merely watching Bian Zhen'er and Xun Yan quietly. Perhaps Liu Zhuiyi's departure had upset Xun Yan, who appeared remorseful in front of Bian Zhen'er. Yun Yao clenched his fists tightly, feeling frustrated with his own lack of insight, unable to see what kind of person Xun Yan truly was.

Both the horse and the cart fell off the cliff; if they were to go to Lingqiu, they could only proceed on foot

I do not know exactly what kind of person she is, but I am certain that she will be detrimental to us, Yun Yao said

Although the Second Master’s martial arts skills are not high, his movements are as slippery as an eel. Before Liu Zhuiyi could even respond to the first move, the Second Master’s second move was already flying towards her, leaving her feeling flustered and caught off guard. Suddenly, Liu Zhuiyi felt a sharp flick on her forehead from the Second Master’s finger, causing her to take two steps back. At that moment, her wrist suddenly throbbed with pain, and both the dagger in her hand and the money pouch at her waist were snatched away. Just as she regained her senses and was about to reach for them, the Second Master raised the dagger and held it in front of her.

Liu recalled with red eyes, saying: "It was all my doing"

There are many merchants from both banks of the Hutuo River, selling goods that others need. Although the Hutuo River market is not large, due to the flow of business, there are also some inns and post houses for people to rest.

But this is too cold

"I am afraid of hurting her again, little monk, I shall take my leave." The voice echoed continuously in the mountains, leaving Bian Zhen'er and Yun Yao both speechless.

We found it difficult to speak up and said, "Go find..."

Liu reminisced in a huff: "I don't understand! Is it because of Xun Yan that you don't want to hear my explanation? What does that have to do with anything? It is clear to me that the little monk has been enchanted by Xun Yan and no longer likes me!"

As she spoke, she lowered her hand, revealing a large area of flesh where it had just been covered, with blood visibly flowing down, a shocking sight!

Duan Gan Shan chuckled and said, "Thanks to you, I have come to realize that our Luo Yan Mountain has so many advantages." He then walked around Liu Zhui Yi with his hands behind his back and remarked, "If one cannot manage to survive on our Luo Yan Mountain and ends up losing their wealth, do they then accuse us of being narrow-minded? Have you ever seen a mountain bandit with a broad mind? If passersby were to let you all through, would I still be a mountain bandit? Our group of brothers living on Luo Yan Mountain also needs to eat and drink, and if we do not wish to be robbed, we might as well take a detour around the mountain."

In the middle of the night, Yun Yao shivered as he got up to relieve himself. Upon returning, he noticed that Xun Yan was quietly getting up and approaching Bian Zhen'er near the place where the campfire was burning. Yun Yao hurriedly crouched down, using the swaying weeds to conceal himself, carefully observing every move of Xun Yan.

Liu reminisced, his brows furrowed, and his expression grave

Liu reminisced with difficulty: "However, Bian Zhen'er trusts Xun Yan very much. Even if we tell him this, that blockhead of his won't believe it."

"I am serious, I find Xun Yan very strange," Yun Yao hurriedly said. Since last night, he had been feeling uneasy and restless.

The howling sound at the mountaintop drowned out the last words of Liu Zhuiyi. Bian Zhen'er wanted to speak, but saw Liu Zhuiyi turn around and walk away from him, and before he could even call out "Liu'er," his voice had already vanished into the vastness of the world.

Bian Zhen'er did not know what had happened to the three individuals, so she had no choice but to go up and find out for herself

Therefore, we need to gather sufficient evidence and investigate the true identity of Xun Yan first

Bian Zhen'er shook her head and said, "There really is nothing going on"

Bian Zhen'er always found it difficult to argue with Liu Zhuiyi, and to avoid further embarrassment, she simply chose to remain silent. Liu Zhuiyi seemed oblivious to this, leaning closely against Bian Zhen'er’s shoulder and saying, "Little monk, you are truly wonderful; you are the best person to me in this world."

Bian Zhen'er did not understand Liu Zhuiyi's intentions, and gently said while tilting her head: "There is no need to accompany me, the wind is strong outside, you should go in and take shelter."

None of this is her true intention, yet she cannot articulate the reasons behind it. If she cannot even convince herself, how can she explain it to Bian Zhen'er

Yun Yao summoned a doctor, who applied medicine to Xun Yan. Originally a very beautiful woman, now half of her face was wrapped in gauze. Since the incident of being kicked by a horse, Xun Yan no longer dared to walk alongside Liu Zhuiyi. She had been hiding beside Bian Zhen'er, and whenever Liu Zhuiyi intended to find Bian Zhen'er to clarify things, Xun Yan would cling to Bian Zhen'er's hand like a frightened bird, her eyes filled with fear

Bian Zhen'er returned to the restaurant with Xun Yan, without saying a word to Liu Zhuiyi. Liu Zhuiyi felt an overwhelming sense of grievance that she could not express, and could only shed tears. She followed Bian Zhen'er back to the restaurant, standing to the side, afraid to speak up.

Liu recalled as he looked up at Yun Yao, while Bian Zhen'er took the hot soup and said, "It has always been like this since childhood; as the weather gets colder, the skin becomes cool."

"Save me! Bian Zhen'er!" Xun Yan cried out to Bian Zhen'er from the carriage, but the horse showed no signs of stopping, getting closer and closer to the edge of the cliff. Bian Zhen'er sprang forward, trying to catch up with the carriage, but the horse was too fast, and Bian Zhen'er always fell behind just as she was about to catch up. In a moment of desperation, a red light emanated from Bian Zhen'er's body, spreading like threads and knocking Liu Zhuiyi to the ground. Yun Yao hurriedly went to help Liu Zhuiyi up, who seemed to regain consciousness. Seeing Bian Zhen'er desperately chasing after the carriage that was heading towards the cliff, she exclaimed, "Little monk!" Bian Zhen'er sprang forward, trying to catch up with the carriage, but the horse was too fast, and Bian Zhen'er always fell behind just as she was about to catch up. In a moment of desperation, a red light emanated from Bian Zhen'er's body, spreading like threads and knocking Liu Zhuiyi to the ground. Yun Yao hurriedly went to help Liu Zhuiyi up, who seemed to regain consciousness. Seeing Bian Zhen'er desperately chasing after the carriage that was heading towards the cliff, she exclaimed, "Little monk!"

"Are you alright, Third Brother?" Master Tu and Second Master hurried over, ready for battle. Dog Brother raised a hand to stop them, but his eyes were glued to Liu Zhuiyi, a grin spreading across his face as he rubbed his hands together. He asked, "Miss, did you get hurt just now? Oh dear, what kind of knife play is this for a young lady? Come on, hand it over to your brother, hand it over to your brother now."

You ... ... "Second Master was so infuriated by her words that smoke seemed to be coming out of his seven orifices, yet what she said was indeed not wrong.

As dawn approached, the four individuals gradually awoke, realizing that their water supply was insufficient and that they needed to venture out in search of a water source. Yun Yao, like a child, coquettishly urged Liu Chuiyi to accompany him on the quest, and unable to withstand his antics, Liu Chuiyi agreed to join him in the search for water.

Liu reminisced as the four rested on the ground. Today, the moon was round and bright. Bian Zhen'er took the zither and gently played, still the same piece "Jinse", but beside him sat an additional person—Xun Yan

Liu Zhuiyi does not understand why one would simultaneously protect the citizens of Lingqiu County while also engaging in the act of kidnapping passersby, truly a peculiar individual

Liu Zhuiyi shook her head, her consciousness shrouded in a fog. She pushed aside Yun Yao and said, "I will go check if the horse is tied up properly"

If this is tolerable, then what is not? I have never seen anyone so arrogant while robbing money! Liu Zhuiyi thought to himself: Does he really think that I dare not fight back?

The young girl? "Second Master scoffed, saying, 'The young girl is ruthless; she almost stabbed my Fourth Brother's wrist.'"

"How embarrassing." Dog Brother covered his face, hiding behind Butcher Ye. It was truly humiliating; after spending most of their lives as mountain bandits, at this moment, they were actually scolded into silence by a young woman.

After Liu reminisced about her departure, she would stop by a small town to find a doctor and see what was afflicting her. However, not a single doctor could discern the underlying issue. They all claimed that her health was fine and that there was nothing unusual.

"Press down your second grandmother!" Liu Zhuiyi shouted at Lord Zhao Er.

"Then let's go back. By the way, have you seen any strangers?" Second Master asked again.

The wind has grown colder, seeming to penetrate through clothing and reach the very bones. Liu Zhuiyi's long hair is disheveled by the wind, and the unshed tears on her eyelashes are swept away by the northern breeze. She forces a smile and says: "I will walk alone, little monk..."

Yun Yao shook his head and said: "If that is truly the case, then I have nothing to worry about. I believe that Xun Yan has ulterior motives towards us"

Alright! Dog Brother eagerly came over, hoisted Liu Zhuiyi onto his shoulder, and playfully patted her on the backside, saying, "Be good, listen up"

Liu Zhuiyi became interested, sitting on a protruding rock, tilted his head and smiled, "Oh? What do you mean by impure motives?"

Liu Zhuiyi recalled a person sitting far away, but Bian Zhen'er did not listen to her explanation, leaving her at a loss as to what to do. Yun Yao approached and draped a coat over Liu Zhuiyi, noticing her reddened eyes with a twinge of sympathy, and asked, "Liu'er, what is wrong with you today?"

"Good... good." Yun Yao did not know what to do, so he could only listen to Bian Zhen'er.

"Alright, alright, but we can't go." Dog Brother quickly stopped and then said to Second Brother and Third Brother, "Put down your weapons, don't scare the young lady."

Second Master nodded and followed Duan Ganshan back to Luoyan Mountain

They saw their horses running towards the edge of the cliff as if frightened, while Xun Yan, who had originally been resting outside the carriage, was now crying for help from within the carriage! Not far away stood Liu Zhuiyi, with an indifferent expression, beside him lay a few wild fruits.

Suddenly, a flash of red light appeared at the center of Bian Zhen'er’s brow, and Xun Yan was taken aback. As she was struck by the red light, she stumbled a few steps before managing to steady herself.

But the little monk does not believe me, and does not even give me a chance to explain. Liu Zhuiyi felt even more sorrowful at this thought, and her words were choked with emotion several times.

"This sounds nice, go back, go back." Second Master waved his hand at him. Uncle turned to pull the ox cart, but suddenly he was grabbed by Dog Brother, who sniffed around him, his gaze becoming sharp, as if he were searching for some prey

Brother Dog stood aside, anxiously saying: "Second Brother, Second Brother, don't hurt anyone."

Are you cold? Liu Zhuiyi looked at Bian Zhen'er, who was dressed the least, and asked again

They believed that she had fallen ill due to recent exhaustion, but Liu Zhuiyi knew that she was not ill at all. In her heart, it felt as if thousands of hands were incessantly scratching, as if tearing through flesh and blood

"Quite spirited," Second Master remarked.

Four people watched as the sky gradually darkened, and after packing their belongings, they decided to stay here for the night. Although it was an open-air setting, they were fortunate to have a sturdy wall to shield them from the fierce northern winds

Liu, with red eyes, angrily shouted: "Rogue! Pervert! Despicable scoundrel!"

"What is wrong with scolding you?" Liu Zhuiyi pointed at the second master’s nose and said, "Scolding you is already being lenient! Ha! What Falling Goose Mountain, what Autumn Wind Stronghold, my uncle even told me that you are a group of good people, what a load of nonsense! In my view, you all are nothing but a bunch of thugs who would rob even a small girl like me of her money, and yet you pretend to be good people? Bah! Let me tell you, doing bad deeds is doing bad deeds, being immoral is being immoral, and being excessively deceitful is being excessively deceitful! In my view, you all are nothing but a bunch of thugs who would rob even a small girl like me of her money, and yet you pretend to be good people? Bah! Let me tell you, doing bad deeds is doing bad deeds, being immoral is being immoral, and being excessively deceitful is being excessively deceitful! And you still dare to maintain your pathetic image by claiming to care for the people of Lingqiu? Why don’t you just die! Wang! Ba! Dan!

Young Master Yun is truly eloquent

Just as Brother Dog was about to get angry, what he saw was a face of unparalleled beauty.

"What happened?" Yun Yao asked with concern as he approached.

Xun Yan and Bian Zhen'er walked at the back, unfamiliar with this strange place, constantly clutching a corner of Bian Zhen'er's clothing

Liu'er! Yun Yao ran up in surprise, grasping Liu Zhuiyi's shoulders, bewildered.

"Liu'er, do not be stubborn," Yun Yao said with a furrowed brow and a sigh

Liu Zhuiyi fixed her gaze on Bian Zhen'er, her eyes beginning to ache. She knew that Bian Zhen'er would never come to her defense with impartiality; at this moment, she realized that Bian Zhen'er cared more about Xun Yan, who was injured, than about her.

Yun Yao increasingly did not understand what was going on. He walked up to Liu Zhuiyi and asked, "Liu'er, what exactly has happened?"

Xun Yan turned her head to look at Liu Zhuiyi and said, "Sister Liu, could you share a bowl with me?"

Everyone was astonished, and Liu, recalling the past, retreated repeatedly, saying: "I did not!"

Xun Yan walked over to Bian Zhen'er, took his hand, and began to feel the pulse beating in his wrist. Then, she leaned down to sniff the scent on Bian Zhen'er, placing her fingertip on his forehead

"Are you sick?" Yun Yao extended his palm to press against Liu Zhuiyi's forehead, then placed his own forehead against hers, finding no heat.

Since you are so afraid of her being hurt, it would be better for Liu Zhuiyi to leave

Halfway through their journey, they arrived at the market by the Hutuo River

"There is a woman's scent." Dog Brother followed the scent and stopped beside the ox cart. The old man hurried over and said, "Dog Brother, what woman's scent could an old man have? At most, it was just a brush against some young lady when he returned, picking up a bit of powder."

The elder parked the car and respectfully said: "Second Master, Master Tu, Brother Dog"

"If this continues, will I die on the road?" Yun Yao wrapped himself in a blanket, hiding beneath a dilapidated wall.

As the ox cart reached halfway and entered Luoyan Mountain, the owner of the cart, an old man, said to Liu in reminiscence: "Young lady, you should hide, hide beneath here." The old man patted a bundle of straw on the cart as he spoke

This posture made Liu reminisce with both anger and embarrassment, and she struggled, saying: "Let go of me!"

With a sharp sound, the cold light sliced through Dog Ge's sleeve, instantly tearing his garment apart. Liu Zhuiyi leaped from the ox cart, swiftly dodging a few steps away, holding a dagger in his hand

Liu recalled and blushed, gritting his teeth and saying: "Bah! Pervert!"

As the sound faded, the newcomer stopped right in front of the Second Master and Liu Zhuiyi. He stood tall, and although a circle of beard adorned his face, it could not conceal his handsome and refined features. His eyes sparkled with vitality, filled with a sense of calm strength.

However, they had not been gone long when suddenly a cry for help from Xun Yan came from the resting area, and Bian Zhen'er and the others exchanged startled glances before hastily returning.

Duan Ganshan extended his hand in silence, signaling Uncle Wu to step back first. He circled around Liu Zhuiyi and stood in front of her, repeating the words she had just said: "Rogue, perverted, despicable little man?"

Liu reminisced as he ran out to sit beside Bian Zhen'er, saying: "Little monk, I will sit with you."

Xun Yan tightly grasped Bian Zhen'er’s arm, like a bird with broken wings relying on a branch for support

Bian Zhen'er woke up upon hearing a sound. He saw Xun Yan sleeping soundly and quickly gestured for Yun Yao to be quiet, saying softly, "Don't worry, I will go look for it with you."

The pulse, however, shows no abnormalities

The ox cart arrived at the foot of Luoyan Mountain, where two or three men with their arms partially exposed were sitting on a mound of earth. Upon seeing the ox cart pass by, they shouted, "Uncle Wu, drive the cart back."

Daring to say this, you are the first among the people of Qiufeng Stronghold

"It's nothing." Liu Zhuiyi waved his hand and said, "Perhaps... I didn't rest well."

Liu Zhuiyi approached Yun Yao and, without waiting for him to speak, took the initiative to say: "I am heading towards Lingqiu. You should bring the little monk over afterwards, and remember to be cautious of Xun Yan."

The three brothers referred to by the old man as Er Ye, Tu Ye, and Gou Ge are the best in Duan Gan Mountain. Each of them is robust and strong; one is miserly and frugal, yet agile as a leopard, another has a rough and intimidating appearance but possesses immense strength and values loyalty, while the last one is lewd and lascivious, yet unmatched in the use of hidden weapons

You need not be afraid, nor should you worry about what will happen next, Liu Zhuiyi said to Xun Yan, who was behind Bian Zhen'er.

The old man said: "We are almost at Qiufeng Village, where a group of bandits resides. Although they treat the local people very well, they specifically target outsiders. Young lady, you are an outsider, and there is nothing I can do to help you. You should hide quickly"

She got up early in the morning, went to pick some fruit, and wanted to explain to Bian Zhen'er and apologize to Xun Yan. However, for some reason, she uncontrollably forced Xun Yan onto the carriage, whipped the horses, and coldly watched as the carriage took Xun Yan towards the cliff.

That night, the four of them did not sleep together. At the foot of the hill, Bian Zhen'er was dozing off against the cart, while Xun Yan was lying beside him; on the hill, Liu Zhuiyi was lying on Yun Yao, with one of Yun Yao's hands resting on her shoulder, presumably to lull her to sleep, but in the end, he fell asleep himself.

Liu Zhuiyi felt no discomfort within herself, and moreover, after leaving Xun Yan, she had not encountered the previous situation again. Upon reflecting on this, a wave of fear surged within Liu Zhuiyi; if Xun Yan were the kind of person who could manipulate the hearts of others, that would be disastrous

The old man chuckled and said, "You all are quite clever; if there is any news from outsiders, you will definitely discover it before I do."

As dawn approached, the figure of Liu Zhuiyi was already absent among the four. The first thing Yun Yao did upon waking was to run down the slope and shout loudly: "Bian Zhen'er, Liu'er is missing!"

Yun Yao and others watched Zhen Er get up and walk a few steps away, expressing their concern: "She cried all night last night, saying that you were unwilling to listen to her explanation. I am worried that she might be feeling hopeless."

"Tsk tsk tsk," said Second Master, squinting his eyes. "You have quite a tough mouth. If you don't leave some money today, my friends and I will strip you of your clothes and hang them on Falling Goose Mountain."

Thank you, Second Master, the old man has no grievances

Liu recalled and nodded slightly, while Yun Yao was distracted during the latter part of their journey to find water. When they returned beneath the crumbling wall, everyone began to board the vehicle to set off, this time with Bian Zhen'er at the wheel

Liu Zhuiyi stood in front of the horse, affectionately stroking its mane. Her eyes were hollow and lifeless, as if her soul had been taken away by someone. Xun Yan approached her, worried, and asked: "Sister Liu, are you alright?"

Liu Zhuiyi took a breath, met the eyes of Duan Gan Shan, and said: "As long as you know it yourself, why must it be spoken out loud?"

Seeing this, the elder hurriedly mediated, saying: "Gentlemen, considering that it is just a young girl, please show some leniency!"

When encountering a cold wave at night, if they cannot find towns or villages, they can only seek refuge in an ancient temple or shrine. If they cannot even find an ancient temple or shrine, they can only squeeze under a tree and sleep on the ground. Yun Yao, perhaps accustomed to a life of luxury since childhood, has developed a body that cannot endure hardship, falling ill several times along the way

Bian Zhen'er was momentarily at a loss for words, with Xun Yan trembling behind him and Liu Zhuiyi frowning in front of him, evoking sympathy. He knew in his heart who he cared about more, yet he lacked even a shred of courage to defend Liu Zhuiyi.

The horse showed no intention of stopping, charging straight towards the cliff. At the moment the carriage fell, Xun Yan tumbled out, plummeting towards the abyss. Bian Zhen'er, his body radiating an unusual light, leaped off the cliff, catching Xun Yan in his arms. Using the momentum from the carriage, he propelled himself upward with Xun Yan, gracefully landing firmly on the ground.

Xun Yan fixed her gaze on Yun Yao, a slight smile playing at the corners of her lips as she said, "This is not the first time Xun Yan has met Young Master Yun. What, did you not notice what Xun Yan looks like before?"

"You big-headed ghost." Liu Zhuiyi, filled with anger, stretched her neck and bit down on Duan Ganshan's tiger mouth. Duan Ganshan winced in pain, furrowing his brows, yet he did not let go. After Liu Zhuiyi had her fill of biting, Duan Ganshan seized her with a reverse grip, slightly irritated: "Fourth, carry her back to the village!"

Upon hearing Xun Yan's words, Liu Zhui's gaze suddenly became sharp. She gritted her teeth and pulled the reins, causing the horse to rear up and kick towards Xun Yan. Xun Yan was so frightened that her face lost color; before she could dodge, she was kicked in the forehead by the horse and fell heavily towards the stable.

"Elder brother, how do you plan to deal with this woman?" Second Master asked as he walked over.

When she served the hot soup to Bian Zhen'er, Xun Yan touched his fingertips and couldn't help but frown, asking: "Bian Zhen'er, why are your hands so cold?"

As expected, whenever the topic of Bian Zhen'er was mentioned, a layer of gray clouds would spread across Xun Yan's face

"Listen to me until I finish speaking," Yun Yao said. "Do you know how powerful that red light is? Even from such a distance, I could feel its subtle force, yet Xun Yan was so close to Bian Zhen'er, and she was completely unharmed, only taking two steps back before steadying herself. Liu'er, do you think that even the strongest person I have ever seen is not as formidable as Xun Yan? She was actually able to stand firm under such intense light!" Liu'er, do you think that even the strongest person I have ever seen is not as formidable as Xun Yan? She was actually able to stand firm under such intense light!

I will go alone, little monk

"I don't know, as long as you are not around, there is a force that compels me to do this," Liu reminisced in a daze as she walked towards Bian Zhen'er and Xun Yan. Upon seeing her approach, Xun Yan hurriedly hid behind Bian Zhen'er.

Oh... alright. Liu Zhuiyi obediently burrowed into the grass pile, and her uncle covered her up snugly.

If I were truly ruthless, it would not be as simple as his clothes being torn at this moment said Liu Zhuiyi

Bian Zhen'er softly called out: "Liu'er..."

"Do not come over!" Liu Zhuiyi exclaimed, stopping him.

"No, Miss Xun Yan, you are beautiful, and I couldn't help but take a few more glances." Yun Yao quickly told a lie

Liu Zhuiyi scoffed and said, "Isn't she just someone who appears gentle and quiet, but is actually quite scheming?" When at the Donglai Inn, Liu Zhuiyi had already noticed something amiss with Xun Yan; she was constantly paying attention to her and trying to undermine her image in Bian Zhen'er’s eyes.

Bian Zhen'er smiled and said, "Don't worry, it's nothing, just a matter of physical constitution"

Master Tu felt somewhat troubled and leaned close to Second Master, saying: "Second Brother, she is a young lady, so let's not scare her. Just take the money."

Suddenly, Liu recalled how the hair at his temples was gently lifted by the wind, and the yellow sand on the ground was also stirred by the breeze. From the mountainside where the wild geese had fallen, a person suddenly flew down, holding a large knife in his hand, and a deep, rough voice came from the wind.

Inside the car, Xun Yan listened to Liu Zhuiyi's words with a blank expression, but Yun Yao noticed that her ten fingers were pressing down on the back of another hand, almost digging into the flesh. The unease in Yun Yao's heart grew stronger, and he saw a hint of fear in Xun Yan's eyes

"Nonsense, with me here, who is going to die?" Liu Zhuiyi glared at him, grinding the herbs in his hand

It is a fact that Xun Yan was injured

He exuded a powerful aura, and Liu Zhuiyi, standing before him, could feel an overwhelming presence.

Liu reminisced with a shy smile that seemed to be drenched in honey and asked, "Little monk, are you worried that I might fall ill?"

Yun Yao smiled broadly and said, "Today's discovery is particularly beautiful"

So frustrating

As night falls, the wind is slightly cold

Life is akin to grass and trees, experiencing a journey from initial flourishing to withering and eventual demise. It remains unspeakable what kind of era they belong to. After leaving the city of Luoyang, they continued their journey northward, as the weather grew increasingly cold, and all four donned thicker clothing

Liu Zhuiyi said: "Why do these inexplicable behaviors of mine only target Xun Yan? I must find out the reason. When we reach Lingqiu, we will meet there. The little monk cares for all beings, and even if he is biased towards me, I am powerless to change it. Yun Yao, take good care of the little monk, and also take good care of yourself." As she spoke the last sentence, her gaze was fixed on Yun Yao; this was the first time she had spoken to Yun Yao in such a gentle tone.

Her physical strength was insufficient, and when she was nearing Lingqiu, she encountered an ox cart. After explaining her reasons to the owner of the ox cart, he allowed her to sit on it

"Little brat! Leave the little monk!" Liu Zhuiyi shouted at Xun Yan as if she had gone mad, but as soon as the words escaped her lips, Liu Zhuiyi was taken aback. She had never thought of speaking to Xun Yan in such a manner, nor had she intended to say such words, yet it felt as if something was controlling her, and she could not resist.

Yun Yao also said: "Alright, I will find a way as well, let us think together"

"She won't do anything foolish. After I find her, I will have a talk with her," said Bian Zhen'er

"Sister Liu?" Xun Yan looked at Liu Zhuiyi with confusion and a hint of concern, saying, "I will go help Sister Liu." As she spoke, she followed Liu Zhuiyi, and Yun Yao, feeling uneasy, also followed after them

He had not slept all night, constantly pondering who Xun Yan truly was

Liu Zhuiyi recalled with a faint smile, yet her brows were wrapped in sadness. She said, "Wait until you call me Liu'er, I have waited for so long." Before Bian Zhen'er could speak, Liu Zhuiyi asked again, "Are you wondering what happened to me? Are you wondering if I am ill, if I am too tired, and why I am doing these things?"

Liu reminisced about their stay here and found a small restaurant to have a meal

"Liu'er, are you really going to leave?" Yun Yao asked

Bian Zhen'er helped Xun Yan to her feet, while Xun Yan covered her wound and hid in Bian Zhen'er's embrace, feeling deeply distressed. Liu Zhuiyi met Bian Zhen'er's gaze, and Bian Zhen'er did not shy away from Xun Yan's concealment in her arms; his eyes, directed at Liu Zhuiyi, were filled with confusion.

"Fourth Brother, what are you doing?" Master Tu asked upon seeing Brother Dog's appearance.

"Words of futility." Liu glanced at Bai and said

Hmph—" Liu Zhuiyi raised his head, crossed his arms, and said, "I, Liu Zhuiyi, have roamed the rivers and lakes for many years, encountering no shortage of bandits. If there are those worthy of respect, it is those who rob corrupt officials and treacherous villains to aid impoverished families. And you? As long as someone is an outsider, you bully them. You are not good bandits; bah! What good can bandits be? A group of narrow-minded petty people, bah bah bah!"

The second master blew on the straw he was chewing and said, "Be careful when you go out to work. If you suffer any grievances, tell the brothers, and we will stand up for you."

Liu paused suddenly, the scene piercing her heart with pain, as if among the myriad of beings in the world, she alone was superfluous

The second master feigned surprise and sighed in a tone befitting an elder, saying: "What is a good young lady cursing at someone for"

Liu Zhuiyi glanced back at them, and as she just entered the door, she suddenly felt a daze before her eyes, as if her mind had come to a standstill at that moment. She was momentarily stunned and stood still in place

Yun Yao vividly described: "Last night, I went out for convenience, and on my way back, I encountered Xun Yan standing in front of Bian Zhen'er. She touched his right wrist pulse with one hand, then his left wrist pulse, and even leaned over Bian Zhen'er, continuously sniffing at something. Later, she went on to touch Bian Zhen'er's forehead, resulting in a red light emanating from his forehead, striking Xun Yan.

"It is not makeup, but the natural scent that a woman carries!" Dog Brother's expression became excited as he pointed to the cart, saying, "Right here, right here!" As he spoke, he reached out to lift the bundle of straw, but Uncle quickly stopped him, saying, "Dog Brother, Dog Brother, she is just a poor little girl, please let her go!"

Duan Ganshan took off the pair of leather gloves from his hands, raised his eyes to Liu Zhuiyi, and said: "This money, neither a lot nor a little, was taken by my brother. If you want to get it back, you can just knock me down." As he spoke, he shamelessly spread his arms wide, closed his eyes, and said, "Hit me in the face."

Bian Zhen'er supported Xun Yan and said, "First, let's find a doctor to take a look." As he spoke, he turned to Yun Yao and said, "Go find a doctor."

Liu Zhuiyi swung a fist towards Duan Ganshan's face. Duan Ganshan sensed the wind from the punch approaching and reached out to grasp Liu Zhuiyi's small fist, holding it firmly so that she could not break free. Anxious, Liu Zhuiyi lifted a foot to kick, but Duan Ganshan slightly bent forward, wrapped an arm around her waist, and tossed her into the air. Liu Zhuiyi's face turned pale as her feet were about to land on Duan Ganshan's body, but she saw him push back with his other hand, causing her to turn her back to him. Duan Ganshan then pulled Liu Zhuiyi into his embrace, pinning her right hand at her waist with one hand while the other hand held her arm, rendering her unable to attack. Liu Zhuiyi, feeling anxious, lifted a foot to kick again, but Duan Ganshan slightly bent forward, wrapped an arm around her waist, and tossed her into the air once more. Liu Zhuiyi's face turned pale as her feet were about to land on Duan Ganshan's body, but she saw him push back with his other hand, causing her to turn her back to him. Duan Ganshan then pulled Liu Zhuiyi into his embrace, pinning her right hand at her waist with one hand while the other hand held her arm, rendering her unable to attack.

He would never listen to the old man's words; he only saw Dog Brother reach out and lift, causing the binding rope to snap, and the straw flew about chaotically. Amidst the chaotic straw, suddenly two flashes of cold light appeared; Master Tu noticed them before Dog Brother and hurriedly said: "Old Four, be careful!"

"I don't know either, but that was not my intention to act or say that way. You have to believe me..." Liu Zhuiyi hugged her knees, tears falling onto her lap. Yun Yao quickly comforted her, gently patting her head, and said, "Alright, alright, I believe you, of course I believe you."