Chapter 69 Departure—Part One

It was autumn on the Phoenix Mountain hunting grounds.

Hundreds of thousands of cultivators chose a place where demons and beasts often lurk. They had to fight for prey within a set timeframe. This was what hunting was all about. The area spanned miles and miles, and there was plenty of prey. It was one of the three most renowned hunting grounds and had hosted numerous major hunting competitions. Such an important event was not only for sects large and small to showcase their skills and recruit talent, but also for rogue cultivators and new disciples to introduce themselves.

Phoenix Mountain was a vast plaza, fronted and surrounded by ten tall watchtowers. At their summits, heads bobbed, their cheerful whispers filled the air. The quietest tower was, of course, the tallest and most luxurious. Those seated there were mostly elderly cultivators, sect leaders, and their families. Behind them, rows upon rows of maids carried canopies or large fans. The women in the front row covered their faces with smaller fans, cautiously gazing down at the hunting grounds.

However, when the GusuLan Sect’s cavalry formation arrived, their reservations were no longer visible.

During night hunting, horses aren’t actually needed to hunt prey. However, horsemanship is an art required for clan members to learn. At such formal occasions, entering the area on horseback is not only a symbol of respect, but the horse formation also creates a majestic and beautiful atmosphere. In short, it’s nothing more than “rules” and “aesthetics.” 

Lan XiChen and Lan WangJi sat upright on two snow-white horses, leading the GusuLan Sect’s cavalry formation slowly forward. Both of them wore swords at their waists and quivers on their backs. Their white robes and forehead ribbons fluttered in the air, looking like gods. Their snow-white boots were so clean they could even outshine other people’s clothes. The two Lans were truly a pair of flawless jade, as if carved from ice. As soon as they entered, even the air felt refreshing. 

Many female cultivators were captivated by this. The more reserved ones simply lowered their fans, their gazes slightly sharper. However, the bolder ones had already dashed to the edge of the watchtower, throwing the buds and flowers they had prepared beforehand. A shower of flowers immediately fell from the sky. Throwing flowers at beautiful men and women as an expression of admiration had become a tradition. Because the GusuLan Sect disciples came from distinguished clans, their appearances were all excellent. They had long been accustomed to this. Lan XiChen and Lan WangJi, in particular, had been accustomed to this since they were thirteen years old. Both of them appeared extremely calm. Nodding toward the watchtower in respect, they didn’t stop and continued forward.

However, Lan WangJi suddenly raised his hand, stopping the flower that was thrown from behind him.

He looked back. At the side of the YunmengJiang Sect’s cavalry formation that hadn’t yet left, Jiang Cheng clicked his tongue impatiently, sitting at the front. However, the person beside him sat on a shiny black horse. His elbows were resting on the horse’s head as he looked to the side as if nothing had happened, chatting and laughing with two slender girls.

Lan XiChen saw that Lan WangJi had pulled the reins and stopped moving forward, “WangJi, what happened?”

Lan WangJi, “Wei Ying.”

Wei WuXian finally turned around, his face full of surprise, “What? HanGuang-Jun, you called me? What’s wrong?”

Lan WangJi looked cold as he held the flower. His tone was also cold, “Is that you?”

Wei WuXian immediately denied it, “No, it’s not that.”

The girls beside him immediately said, “Don’t believe it. It’s him!”

Wei WuXian, “How could you treat a good person like this? I’m so angry!”

Giggling, the girls pulled on their leashes and headed off to their respective sect formations. Lan WangJi lowered his flower-holding hand and shook his head. Jiang Cheng said, “ZeWu-Jun, HanGuang-Jun, I’m sorry. Don’t mind him.”

Lan XiChen smiled, “It’s alright. I’ll be thanking Young Master Wei for the kindness behind the flowers, not WangJi.”

As they slowly rode off into the distance, carrying with them clouds of petals and fragrance, Jiang Cheng glanced at the sea of ​​colorful handkerchiefs fluttering on the watchtower before turning to Wei WuXian, “Why are you throwing flowers with those girls?”

Wei WuXian, “I think he looks good. Can I throw some in?”

Jiang Cheng pointed his nose in the air, “How old are you? Who do you think you are, you can still play around like that?”

Wei WuXian looked at her, “Do you want one too? There are still plenty left on the ground. Shall I buy one for you?” As he spoke, he pretended to bow. 

Jiang Cheng, “Get lost!”

At this moment, Jin GuangYao’s voice rang out over the square, “QingheNie Sect’s cavalry formation is entering!”

Nie MingJue was extremely tall. When he stood, he gave people an overwhelming sense of oppression. When he rode, he exuded an even more oppressive dignity, as if he could overlook the entire plaza. When those of the taller ranks of cultivators entered, almost all of them were inevitably showered by the shower of flowers. 

As the seventh-ranked man, Nie MingJue was an exception. If Lan WangJi was ice amidst the cold, surpassing snow and frost, Nie MingJue was fire amidst the cold, as if he could ignite into a rage at any moment, making him even more unapproachable. Therefore, even though the girls could already feel their hearts bursting from their chests, clutching the sweat-soaked flowers in their palms, they didn’t dare to throw them away no matter what, afraid that the flowers would anger him and cause his sword to slash at the watchtower. However, many male cultivators who admired ChiFeng-Zun cheered for him. The cheers were almost deafening. On the other hand, Nie HuaiSang, beside Nie MingJue, was dressed as meticulously as usual. He wore a sword at his waist and a ring of jewelry, waving a paper fan. At first glance, he looked quite cool amidst the chaos. However, everyone knew that his sword never actually got a chance to be drawn. Afterward, he probably just strolled around Phoenix Mountain, enjoying the scenery.

After the QingheNie Sect, there is the YunmengJiang Sect.

Wei WuXian and Jiang Cheng rode in. Instantly, the rain of flowers fell again. Jiang Cheng’s face darkened, but Wei WuXian, bathed in the light, felt quite at ease. He waved his hand toward the highest watchtower. The best seat on the watchtower belonged to Lady Jin of the LanlingJin Sect. Sitting beside her was Jiang YanLi. Previously, Lady Jin had always held his hand, speaking affectionately. Jiang YanLi usually had a straight face, her features gentle. However, when she saw her two younger brothers waving at her, her face immediately lit up. She lowered her fan. After shyly saying a few words to Lady Jin, she walked to the edge of the watchtower and threw two flowers at them.

This exhausted all her strength. For a moment, Wei WuXian and Jiang Cheng were even worried that she would fall. Seeing Jiang YanLi calm down, they finally relaxed. Both of them reached out and caught the flowers, giving her the same gentle smile. With their heads bowed, they returned to Madam Jin. Suddenly, a line of cultivators in white robes lined with gold rushed out, wearing light armor and riding large stallions. The one at the front had a handsome face, protected by the same armor. It was the sect leader, Jin GuangShan.

Madam Jin immediately patted Jiang Yanli on the shoulder. Taking her hand, she dragged her back to the edge of the watchtower, pointing to the Lanlingjin Sect’s cavalry formation.

Amidst the neighing, a horse suddenly charged forward and galloped around the square before the reins were pulled. The figure of the man atop the horse was striking. Dressed in snow-white robes, his face was even more radiant than the blush between his brows. Drawing his bow, he exuded an increasingly handsome aura. 

Instantly, excitement flared among the crowd on the watchtower. The man glanced toward the watchtower, whether intentionally or not. Although he tried hard to maintain a stern expression, an undisguised pride still shone from the corners of his eyes.

On his horse, Wei WuXian sneered, almost laughing out loud, “I really can’t believe it. He’s like a peacock.”

Jiang Cheng, “Just be careful. Big Brother is still watching from the tower.”

Wei WuXian, “Don’t worry. As long as he doesn’t make shijie cry again, I don’t even want to pay attention to him. You shouldn’t have brought him in the first place.”

Jiang Cheng, “The LanlingJin Sect insisted. I didn’t have the face to refuse.”

Wei WuXian, “More precisely, it was Madam Jin who forced it. After this, she will definitely find a way to force Shijie and that man’s daughter into one place.”

As they spoke, Jin ZiXuan had already ridden towards the target range. Rows of targets formed a barrier before entering the official mountain range. Those who intended to hunt on the mountain could only enter if they could hit the targets from a certain distance. There were seven rings on the targets, corresponding to seven entry points. The closer the arrow was to the center, the more advantageous the entry point was. Without slowing down in the slightest, Jin ZiXuan nocked an arrow and shot it. The arrow landed precisely in the center. Cheers rang out from all the watchtowers.

Seeing Jin ZiXuan flaunt his prowess, neither Wei WuXian nor Jiang Cheng showed any emotion on their faces. Suddenly, a loud jeer rang out from somewhere nearby. Someone shouted, “If anyone is still unconvinced, feel free to try and see if you can shoot better than ZiXuan!”

The man was tall and sturdy, with dark skin, and a booming voice. He was Jin GuangShan’s nephew and Jin ZiXuan’s cousin, Jin ZiXun. Previously, during the LanlingJin Sect’s flower feast, an argument had broken out between Wei WuXian and Jin ZiXuan. 

Wei WuXian smiled, recognizing the hostility. Jin ZiXun was there to provoke him. Seeing that Wei WuXian didn’t answer, Jin ZiXun looked pleased. When the YunmengJiang Sect’s cavalry formation reached the target arena, Wei WuXian turned to the Two Jade Lans, who were drawing their bows on their horses. “Lan Zhan, do you want to help me?”

Lan WangJi glanced at him. He didn’t answer. Jiang Cheng asked, “What are your plans this time?”

Lan WangJi, “Apa?”

Wei WuXian, “Can I borrow your headband?”

Hearing this, Lan WangJi immediately averted his gaze and didn’t look at him again. Lan XiChen, on the other hand, laughed, “Young Master Wei, you might not know this, but…”

Lan WangJi, “Brother, there’s no need.”

Lan XiChen, “Alright.”

Jiang Cheng almost wanted to slap Wei WuXian off his horse. He knew Lan WangJi wouldn’t lend it to him, but he had to ask. He could do anything when he was bored. If it weren’t for the impossible situation, he swore he would. He said, “Why do you want his forehead ribbon? To hang yourself and commit suicide? I can lend you my belt, you’re welcome.”

Wei WuXian removed the black ribbon on his wrist guard as he replied, “You can keep your belt. I don’t want it even though I don’t have the forehead ribbon.”

Jiang Cheng, “Kamu…”

Before he could finish speaking, Wei WuXian had already tied a ribbon over his eyes to obscure his vision. He positioned his arrow, drew his bow, and released it—hit!

His series of actions were smooth and swift. The others didn’t even realize what he was trying to do. They couldn’t even see his movements clearly before the center of the target was pierced. After a brief silence, thunderous cheers echoed throughout the watchtower, even louder than the cheers for Jin ZiXuan.

The corners of Wei WuXian’s lips curled up slightly. Turning the bow in his hand, he threw it back. On the other hand, Jin ZiXun snorted loudly when he realized his popularity had now surpassed Jin ZiXuan’s. He looked displeased, both outwardly and inwardly. He said again, “This is just the opening archery match, and you’re already doing such flashy things. You’re closing your eyes now, but can you keep them closed during the hunt? Later, on Phoenix Mountain, we can show our true abilities and see who’s superior!”

Wei WuXian, “Tentu.”

Jin ZiXuan waved his hand, “Let’s go!”

All the cultivators rushed forward, as if they wanted to be the first to enter and immediately seize all the high-level prey. Seeing that his cavalry formation was so well-trained, Jin GuangShan felt quite proud. Seeing Wei WuXian and Jiang Cheng still on horseback, he smiled, “Sect Leader Jiang, Young Master Wei, what, you haven’t entered the mountain yet? Watch out, ZiXun might steal all the prey.”

Wei WuXian, “There’s no need to rush. He won’t be able to.”

Everyone around them was stunned. Just as Jin GuangShan was pondering what “he won’t be able to” meant, he saw Wei WuXian dismount his horse and say to Jiang Cheng, “You may go first.”

Jiang Cheng, “Just relax. Back off when you’ve had enough.”

Wei WuXian waved his hand. Pulling on the reins, Jiang Cheng led the YunmengJiang Sect people away.

Wei WuXian, with his eyes closed, leisurely strolled toward the entrance of Phoenix Mountain. It was as if he wasn’t here to hunt, but rather to stroll through his sect’s garden.

The crowd was confused. Could it be that he really wouldn’t remove the ribbon from his eyes until the hunt was over? How could he possibly participate in a hunt like this?

They looked at each other. Finally, they felt that it was none of their business and would just be a good spectacle. They left.

As Wei WuXian walked for a while, he finally found a deep spot in Phoenix Mountain that was comfortable to rest in.

The branch was very thick, growing from an even thicker tree trunk, blocking his path. Wei WuXian patted the dry, wrinkled bark several times. He felt that the bark was quite sturdy and easy to climb. 

The sounds of the watchtower had long been blocked out by the mountain forest. Wei WuXian leaned against a tree. He closed his eyes behind the black cloth. The sunlight shone on his face through the gaps in the leaves.

He picked up Chenqing and blew on it, his fingers moving. The clear sound of the flute shot into the sky like the sound of birds, echoing in the mountains.

As he played his flute, Wei WuXian swung one of his legs down and gently swayed it. The tip of his boot touched the grass beneath the tree. He didn’t care that the grass was damp with dew clinging to the blades of grass.

After the song ended, Wei WuXian crossed his arms and leaned against the tree in a more comfortable position. His flute was between his arms, while the flower was still on his chest, emitting a fresh and serene fragrance.

He didn’t know how long he had been sitting there. He was almost asleep when he woke up with a start.

Someone is approaching.

However, the man had no intention of killing. Therefore, he remained leaning against the tree, too lazy to get up. He didn’t even have the energy to remove the tape covering his eyes. He simply tilted his head.

A moment later, receiving no response, Wei WuXian couldn’t help but speak, “You’re here to hunt?”

The man did not answer.

Wei WuXian, “You won’t be able to get anything good from being around me.”

The person remained silent, but walked a few steps closer.

Now, Wei WuXian’s spirits began to rise. Most cultivators were a little afraid when they saw him. They didn’t dare approach him even when there were many people around, let alone being in the same place as him alone, or even approaching him. If not for the lack of killing intent on their part, Wei WuXian would have definitely thought they had ulterior motives. He straightened his body slightly and tilted his head, looking at them. He curled his lips, then smiled. Just as he was about to say something, he was suddenly pushed hard.

Wei WuXian’s back slammed into a tree. Just as his right hand was about to pull the ribbon, his wrist was twisted backward. The force was quite strong; he couldn’t even break free, but there was still no killing intent. Wei WuXian’s left sleeve shifted. Just as he was about to release the talisman, the person realized his intention and grabbed him just like before. They pressed both of his hands against the tree, their movements stiff. Wei WuXian raised his leg and was about to kick when he felt warmth on his lips. He immediately froze.

The touch felt both strange and unfamiliar, moist and warm. At first, Wei WuXian didn’t even understand what was happening. His mind was blank. When he finally came to, he was shocked.

This man grabbed her wrist, pressed her against the tree and kissed her.

Suddenly he struggled, wanting to fight and pull the tape, but failed. He wanted to move again, but somehow he restrained himself.

The person who kissed him seemed to tremble slightly.

Wei WuXian could no longer fight.

He thought,  “It seems like even though that girl is quite strong, her personality is both timid and easily embarrassed? She’s already so nervous.  Otherwise, she wouldn’t have chosen to sneak up on him at a time like this. She’s probably mustered up all the courage she could find. Besides, it seems like her cultivation isn’t low, meaning her self-esteem is even higher. If he were to take off the ribbon and accidentally see it, how embarrassed would she be?”

The two pairs of thin lips moved back and forth, cautious yet inseparable. Wei WuXian hadn’t even decided what to do when those soft lips suddenly became aggressive. Wei WuXian’s teeth loosened, allowing the other to enter. He was suddenly helpless. He found it a little hard to breathe, wanting to look away, but the other person grabbed his face and turned it around. Between the movements of lips and tongue, he also felt dizzy, until finally the other person bit his lower lip. After a while, the lips finally parted reluctantly, and he finally came to.

The kiss made Wei WuXian’s entire body feel weak. Energy only returned to his arms after he leaned against the tree for a while.

Raising his hand, he tore off the tape, but was suddenly stung by the sudden glare of sunlight. Finally, he managed to open his eyes, but there was nothing around him. Bushes, trees, grass, vines—no second person.

Wei WuXian was still a bit confused. He sat on the branch for a while longer. As he jumped, he felt weakness under his feet, almost dizzy.

He immediately leaned against the tree trunk, silently cursing his worthlessness. He had been kissed so hard that his legs felt weak. He looked up, glancing around, but there was no sign of anyone else. The previous scene felt like an absurd yet erotic daydream. Wei WuXian couldn’t help but think about the legend of the mountain creatures.

But he was sure it wasn’t a mountain creature. It had to be human.

Recalling the feeling, a formless tingle spread to the very core of his heart. Wei WuXian touched his chest with his right hand, but found that the flower that had been there was gone.

He searched the ground for a moment. The object wasn’t there either. It couldn’t have just disappeared, could it?

Wei WuXian was silent for a long moment. He subconsciously touched his lips, and after a while, he finally managed to say, “How could this be… This is mine…”

He didn’t see anyone even after looking around. Wei WuXian wasn’t sure whether to laugh or worry. He knew the person was most likely hiding from him and wouldn’t show up again, so he could only give up searching. He began to wander haphazardly through the forest. Soon, he heard a loud noise coming from ahead. When Wei WuXian looked up, he saw a slender figure dressed in white. Who else could it be but Lan WangJi?

Wei WuXian felt strange, “Lan Zhan! What are you doing?”

The person turned around. It was Lan WangJi. However, his eyes were red, and his expression was almost frightening. Wei WuXian was shocked, “Wow, so scary.”

Lan WangJi’s voice was harsh, “Go away!”

Wei WuXian, “I just came here and you want me to leave. Do you really hate me that much?”

Lan WangJi, “Get away from me!”

Except for the few days spent in the Xuanwu Cave, this was the first time Wei WuXian had seen Lan WangJi lose his composure so severely. However, back then, the circumstances were special, and it was understandable. Right now, everything was fine, so why was he acting like this?

Wei WuXian took a step back, moving away from him. He continued to ask, “Hey, Lan Zhan, what’s wrong? Are you okay? If you’re not okay, just say you’re not okay, okay?”

Lan WangJi didn’t look at him. He drew Bichen. Several rays of blue light struck the surrounding trees. A moment later, they collapsed.

He paused for a moment, clenching his sword. His grip was so tight, using so much force that his knuckles turned white. As if he had calmed down a bit, he suddenly turned around again, his gaze fixed on Wei WuXian.

Wei WuXian felt a strange, inexplicable sensation. His eyes had been covered with tape for over two hours. The sunlight was still too bright for him. After he removed the tape, his eyes continued to water. His lips were also slightly swollen. Wei WuXian felt like his current appearance must be terrifying. Being stared at so intently, he couldn’t help but touch his chin. “Lan Zhan?”

“…”

Lan WangJi, “Nothing.”

With a clink, the sword was sheathed. Lan WangJi turned and left. Wei WuXian still felt something was wrong with him. After thinking it over, just in case, he followed him, lunging to feel his pulse. Lan WangJi dodged to the side and glared at him coldly.

Wei WuXian, “Don’t look at me like that. I just want to know what’s wrong with you. You’re really strange. Are you really not poisoned? Or did something happen to you while hunting at night?”

Lan WangJi, “No.”

Seeing that his expression had finally returned to normal and that he was most likely fine, Wei WuXian finally stopped worrying. Although he was curious about what was happening, it wouldn’t be wise to interfere too much, and he started chatting. Lan WangJi initially refused to speak. After a few brief words, he finally answered.

The heat and swelling on Wei WuXian’s lips kept reminding him that he had just lost the first kiss he had cherished for twenty years. He had been kissed until his head was spinning, but he didn’t even know who the person was or what they looked like. How was that possible?

Wei WuXian sighed softly. He suddenly said, “Lan Zhan, have you ever kissed someone?”

If only Jiang Cheng were here, hearing him ask such a nonsensical and unreasonable question, he would definitely punch him.

Lan WangJi stopped as well. His voice was so cold that it sounded stiff, “Why do you ask that?”

Wei WuXian grinned, his face full of understanding. He closed his eyes, “You haven’t, have you? I know that. I was just asking. You don’t have to be so angry.”

Lan WangJi, “How did you know?”

Wei WuXian, “What do you think? With such a stiff face wherever you go, who would dare to kiss you? Of course, I don’t expect you to initiate a kiss either. I think you should save your first kiss for the rest of your life, hahahaha…”

He rejoiced alone. Lan WangJi’s face remained expressionless, but he seemed somewhat relaxed.

After laughing enough, Lan WangJi spoke up, “What about you?”

Wei WuXian raised his eyebrows, “Me? Of course I have a lot of experience.”

Lan WangJi’s previously relaxed face was now instantly covered in a layer of snow and frost.

Suddenly, Wei WuXian fell silent, “Shhh!”

Alertly, he listened attentively before pulling Lan WangJi behind one of the bushes.

Lan WangJi had no idea what he was doing. Just as he was about to ask, he saw Wei WuXian looking in a certain direction. Following his gaze, he saw two figures, one white and one purple, walking out from behind the clouds.

The person in front of him was slender. Although handsome, he still had an air of arrogance surrounding him. With a hint of bright red between his brows and gold adorning his white robes, the jewelry he wore shone even more brilliantly, especially against his high chin and haughty expression. He was Jin ZiXuan. The person behind him, on the other hand, was much smaller. With small steps, he lowered his head and said nothing, a stark contrast to the Jin ZiXuan before him. She was Jiang YanLi.

Wei WuXian thought to himself,  I knew Madam Jin would tell shijie and peacock Jin to go out alone.

Beside her, as Lan WangJi saw her humiliation, he lowered his voice, “What happened between you and Jin ZiXuan?”

Wei WuXian mendengus.

To ask why Wei WuXian hated Jin ZiXuan so much would require a long explanation.

Yu and Jin ZiXuan’s mother, Madam Jin, were once best friends. They had long promised that if both their children were boys, they would be sworn brothers; if both were girls, they would be sworn sisters; if one was a boy and the other a girl, they would naturally be husband and wife.

The concubines of both sects had a close relationship. They knew each other, and their backgrounds matched. Such a marriage was a perfect match; almost everyone called them a destined match. However, both parties felt otherwise.

Since birth, Jin ZiXuan had been the moon adored by the stars. He was born fair and delicate. With a bright red mark on his forehead, coupled with his elite background and exceptional intelligence, he was loved by almost everyone he met. Madam Jin had brought him to Lotus Pier several times. Neither Wei WuXian nor Jiang Cheng liked to play with him; only Jiang YanLi would feed him her homemade food. However, Jin ZiXuan didn’t pay much attention to her, which led Wei WuXian and Jiang Cheng to yell at him several times.

Back then, Wei WuXian caused a commotion in the Cloud Recesses and ruined the engagement between the Jin Sect and the Jiang Sect. After returning to Lotus Pier, he apologized to Jiang YanLi, but she said nothing, only stroking his head. Thus, Wei WuXian and Jiang Cheng both thought the matter was over. Ending the engagement would satisfy everyone. However, they only realized later that Jiang YanLi must have been feeling incredibly sad inside.

In the midst of the Sunshot Campaign, the YunmengJiang Sect had gone to Langya County to aid the LanlingJin Sect. Due to their lack of manpower, Jiang YanLi went to the battlefield with them.

She knew her cultivation wasn’t high, so she did what she could, busying herself with the cultivators’ food. At first, neither Wei WuXian nor Jiang Cheng agreed, but Jiang YanLi had always been a skilled cook. She felt happy, had good relationships with others, wasn’t overbearing, and was actually quite safe, so neither of them considered it a bad idea.

Due to the harsh conditions, the food was bland. Jiang Yanli was worried that her two brothers wouldn’t be used to their sumptuous meals, so she secretly made two extra bowls of soup for Wei Wuxian and Jiang Cheng. However, no one else knew that she was making a third bowl for Jin Zixuan, who was also in Langya at the time.

Jin ZiXuan didn’t know either. Although he enjoyed the soup immensely and was grateful for the cook’s kindness, Jiang YanLi never left her name. Little did anyone know that another low-level female cultivator had witnessed all of this. She was a servant of the LanlingJin Sect. Because her cultivation wasn’t high, she did the same job as Jiang YanLi. She was attractive and knew how to seize opportunities. Out of curiosity, she followed Jiang YanLi several times before finally guessing what was going on. Remaining calm, she lingered outside Jin ZiXuan’s house after Jiang YanLi brought the soup, deliberately letting Jiang ZiXuan see her reflection.

Jin ZiXuan had finally caught up with the person, so of course he would ask questions. Cleverly, the woman never admitted anything, instead denying it ambiguously, her cheeks flushed, making it sound as if she was the one who did it, but didn’t want Jin ZiXuan to know how much trouble she had gone through. And because of that, Jin ZiXuan didn’t press her to admit it anymore. However, in his actions, he began to respect the cultivator. He began to pay attention to her, even elevating her from a servant to a guest cultivator. For a long time, Jiang YanLi didn’t realize anything was wrong. This lasted until one day, after Jiang YanLi brought her soup, she ran into Jin ZiXuan, who was there to pick up a letter.

Of course, Jin ZiXuan wanted to ask what Jiang YanLi was doing in his room. At first, Jiang YanLi didn’t dare to say it. However, hearing her increasingly hesitant tone, no matter how anxious she was, she had to tell the truth.

However, someone has used this excuse.

One can easily guess what Jin ZiXuan’s reaction would be after hearing this.

And so, right then and there, he ‘exposed’ Jiang YanLi’s ‘lie’. Jiang YanLi had never expected something like this to happen. She wasn’t the type to show off; not even many people knew that she was the daughter of the YunmengJiang Sect. In a short time, she couldn’t find any solid evidence. She tried to protest, but the more she did, the colder her heart felt. Finally, stiffly, Jin ZiXuan said to her, “Don’t think that just because you come from a powerful sect you can steal and trample on other people’s feelings. Some people, even if they come from poor backgrounds, have much better character than others. Please pay attention to your behavior.”

Jiang YanLi was finally able to figure out some things from Jin ZiXuan’s words.

From the very beginning, Jin ZiXuan had never believed that a girl like her, born into a noble sect but with a low cultivation, could do anything on the battlefield or be of any help. Simply put, he thought she was just looking for an excuse to approach him, that she was only here to add to his troubles.

Jin ZiXuan never understood it, nor did he ever want to understand it. Therefore, of course he wouldn’t believe it.

After saying a few harsh words to him, Jiang Yanli stood there, sobbing. When Wei Wuxian returned, this was the scene he saw.

Although his shijie had a short temper, except for the time when they hugged and cried together on the day the three of them reunited after Lotus Pier was destroyed, she had never shed so many tears in front of others, let alone cried so loudly and so miserably in front of so many people. Wei WuXian was filled with panic. When he tried to ask, Jiang YanLi cried so hard that she couldn’t speak clearly. Then, when she saw Jin ZiXuan standing to the side, dumbfounded, she growled angrily, wondering why he was acting like a dog again. With a kick, she pounced on Jin ZiXuan. The fight between the two would definitely alarm the Heavens. All the cultivators around the base came to break them up. Amidst the commotion, she finally understood what was causing this, and became even angrier. She unleashed her harsh words, saying that one day she would definitely have Jin ZiXuan die by her hands, and she ordered people to drag the female cultivator out. 

After a series of questions, the truth was revealed, and Jin ZiXuan’s entire body froze. No matter how much Wei WuXian cursed him, he didn’t retaliate with words or fists, his face grim. If it weren’t for Jiang YanLi raising her hand moments later, while Jiang Cheng and Jin GuangShan came to pull Wei WuXian away, Jin ZiXuan likely wouldn’t have been able to attend the Phoenix Mountain hunt.

After that, although Jiang YanLi continued to work at Langya, she only went about her own business. Not only did she stop bringing Jin ZiXuan soup, she wouldn’t even look at him politely. Soon, the Langya crisis was resolved, and Wei WuXian and Jiang Cheng brought him back to Yunmeng. However, Jin ZiXuan, on the other hand, began asking about Jiang YanLi more frequently after the Sunshot Campaign ended, whether out of guilt or because of Madam Jin’s scolding.

Those who knew about this all said it was just a misunderstanding. What was wrong now that everything was cleared up? However, Wei WuXian didn’t feel the same way. He deeply hated Jin ZiXuan, who to him was nothing but an arrogant prince, a peacock who loved to show off, a man blind only to appearances. He simply couldn’t believe that a narcissist like Jin ZiXuan could realize his mistake and suddenly become interested in Jiang YanLi. He had probably been too hasty and had been scolded by Madam Jin, so he had been reluctant to complete his task.

However, despite his hatred, to avoid causing trouble for Jiang YanLi, Wei WuXian could only restrain himself from speaking. Lan WangJi turned to look at him as if puzzled, but Wei WuXian didn’t have time to explain. He put his index finger to his lips, signaling for silence, and continued to stare there. His bright eyes lingered on those plump, moist lips for a moment before turning away.

On the other side, Jin ZiXuan pushed aside the bushes and revealed the thick carcass of a snake monster. He bowed briefly before saying, “It’s dead.”

Jiang YanLi mengangguk.

Jin ZiXuan, “Ular Pengukur.”

Jiang YanLi, “Apa?”

Jin ZiXuan, “A monster from the Nanman region. However, when it sees someone, it will suddenly straighten up and compare who is taller. If they are taller, it will devour them. It’s no big deal. It just looks scary.”

Jiang YanLi didn’t seem to understand why he was suddenly explaining things like that to her. Logically, at a time like this, it might have been better to say some superficial words like ‘Young Master Jin is very learned’ or ‘Young Master Jin is very calm’. However, what he had just said was the most common sense. It was simply searching for words when there were none. Such obvious flattery, likely only Jin ZiXuan could say with a straight face. Jiang YanLi could only nod again. Wei WuXian guessed that she had been nodding along the way.

Silence enveloped the two of them once again. The awkwardness spread through the grass and quickly enveloped them both behind the bushes. A few moments later, Jin ZiXuan finally led Jiang YanLi in the direction they had come from. As he walked, he continued, “This Measuring Snake has scales visible, and its fangs are longer than its jaws. It’s most likely a mutant. Most people would have a hard time dealing with it. They wouldn’t even be able to penetrate its scales.”

After a pause, he added indifferently, “But there aren’t many. None of the prey in this hunt is difficult. They can’t harm the people of the LanlingJin Sect at all.”

Hearing the aura of pride resurface in the last two sentences, Wei WuXian found the situation quite irritating. However, he saw Lan WangJi staring at Jin ZiXuan expressionlessly. Wei WuXian found this odd. Following his gaze, he immediately froze, “  Since when does Jin ZiXuan walk on the same hand and foot?!”

Jiang YanLi, “It’s better if the hunt doesn’t hurt anyone.”

Jin ZiXuan, “What good is prey that doesn’t harm anyone? If you go to the LanlingJin Sect’s private hunting grounds, you’ll be able to see many rare monsters.”

Wei WuXian sneered silently,  Who would want to visit your sect’s hunting grounds?

However, Jin ZiXuan had already begun to decide the matter himself, “I happen to have time next month. I can take you there.”

Jiang YanLi’s voice was gentle, “Young Master Jin, thank you for your kindness, but there’s no need to bother.”

Jin ZiXuan paused for a moment in surprise, then said, “Why not?”

How could he possibly answer such a question? As if feeling uncomfortable, he lowered his head.

Jin ZiXuan, “You don’t like watching hunting?”

Jiang YanLi nodded. Jin ZiXuan, “Then why did you come this time?”

If it weren’t for Madam Jin taking the trouble to invite her, Jiang Yanli definitely wouldn’t have come. But how could she possibly say that?

Seeing Jiang YanLi’s silence, Jin ZiXuan’s face turned red and white. His expression was rather unsightly. After a while, he finally said, “Do you not like watching the hunt, or do you just not want to be with me?”

Jiang YanLi whispered, “No…”

Wei WuXian knew she was afraid that Jin ZiXuan had invited him only because of Madam Jin’s intentions and didn’t actually want Jin ZiXuan to be with her, so she didn’t want to bother him. However, what did Jin ZiXuan know about this? All he knew was that he had never felt so embarrassed in his life. This was not only his first time being rejected by a girl, but also his first time inviting a girl and being rejected. Anger welled up inside him. A moment later, he laughed coldly, “Very well then.”

Jiang YanLi, “I’m sorry.”

Jin ZiXuan’s voice was cold, “What do you have to regret? You can think whatever you want. Besides, I wasn’t the one who wanted to invite you. It’s okay if you don’t want to.”

Wei WuXian’s blood rushed to his forehead. He wanted to run out and start another fight with Jin ZiXuan. However, on second thought, he felt it would be better to let his shijie see the man’s true colors, so that she could discard him and not want him anymore. Therefore, he suppressed his anger, wanting to hold it in for a little longer. 

Jiang Yanli’s lips trembled, but she said nothing. She bowed to Jin Zixuan, her voice low, “Forgive me.”

He turned to leave, alone and silent. Jin ZiXuan was silent for a moment, looking away. A moment later, he suddenly shouted, “Stop!”

However, Jiang Yanli didn’t turn around. Jin Zixuan grew even angrier. He caught up to her in just three steps and was about to grab her hand when a shadow suddenly flashed before his eyes. Before he could see who it was, he was struck in the chest. Jin Zixuan swung his sword and retreated. 

When he could finally see, he raged, “Wei WuXian, what’s wrong with you again?!”

Wei WuXian blocked Jiang YanLi behind him, joining in the rage, “I haven’t even said it yet—why are you doing it again?!”

Jin ZiXuan, “Attacking without any reason, are you crazy?!”

Wei WuXian slapped him with his palm, “That’s what I’m doing! What do you mean without a reason? What are you doing trying to steal my shijie just because you’re embarrassed?!”

Jin ZiXuan dodged to the side and countered his sword strike, “If I don’t catch him, should I let him wander around the mountains alone?!”

However, the sword’s gaze was met by another gaze that shot up into the sky. Seeing who it was, Jin ZiXuan was shocked, “HanGuang-Jun?”

Lan WangJi drew Bichen. Standing between the three of them, he remained silent. Just as Wei WuXian was about to step forward, Jiang YanLi caught Wei WuXian, “A-Xian!”

At the same time, a series of scattered footsteps came. A large, thronging crowd charged into the forest. The person standing at the front shouted, “What’s going on?!”

As it turned out, at that moment, Lan WangJi and Jin ZiXuan’s sword gazes shot into the sky, startling the cultivators around them. They immediately realized that two people were starting a fight, which was why they rushed over and happened to see the strange stalemate between the four people in the forest. People often said that one could never avoid one’s enemies. The person leading the way was none other than Jin ZiXun. He said, “ZiXuan, is Wei looking for trouble again?!”

Jin ZiXuan, “None of your business, don’t worry about it for now!” Seeing Wei WuXian grab Jiang YanLi and was about to take her away, he said again, “Stop!”

Wei WuXian, “You really want to fight? I don’t mind!”

Jin ZiXun, “Wei, what do you mean by fighting ZiXuan many times?”

Wei WuXian stared at him, “Who are you?”

Jin ZiXun froze in shock before saying angrily, “You don’t know who I am?!”

Wei WuXian pondered, “Why should I know who you are?”

When the Sunshot Campaign first broke out, Jin Zixun insisted on defending the rearguard due to his injuries. He hadn’t gotten to see what Wei WuXian looked like on the front lines, as most of his knowledge of him came from rumors. He hadn’t paid much attention to him, considering them all mere nonsense. However, some time ago, Wei WuXian had summoned all the dark creatures in the forest with a whistle, summoning the ferocious corpses their group had been trying to capture, thus rendering their efforts futile. He was already feeling displeased. 

Now, right in front of him, Wei WuXian was asking who he was, arousing a strange sense of anger—he knew Wei WuXian, yet Wei WuXian didn’t know him and even dared to ask who he was in front of everyone. It was as if this had made him lose face. The more he thought about it, the more annoyed he became. Just as he was about to speak, a golden light flashed in the sky above them. A second group of people had arrived.

The group of people landed on their swords and landed firmly. Leading them was a middle-aged woman with a religious face, slightly stiff at the edges. She looked valiant when holding her sword, yet graceful when walking. Jin Zixun called out, “Auntie!”

Jin ZiXuan hesitated, “Mother! Why are you here?” Immediately after, he remembered that his and Lan WangJi’s sword gazes had pierced the sky. When Madam Jin watched from the watchtower, of course she wouldn’t come. He glanced at the LanlingJin Sect cultivators who had come with his mother, “Why did you bring so many people? You don’t need to interfere in the hunting affairs.”

Mrs. Jin, however, spat, “Don’t be so arrogant. Who said I’m here for you?!”

From the corner of his eye, he saw Jiang YanLi who had shrunk behind Wei WuXian, and his face immediately relaxed. He walked over and held her hand, then said in a soft voice, “A-Li, why are you like this?”

Jiang Yanli, “Thank you, Madam. I’m fine.”

Mrs. Jin was a bit sharp, “Is that damn little brat bullying you again?”

Jiang YanLi hurriedly said, “No.”

Jin ZiXuan shifted slightly. He looked like he was holding something back. Of course, Mrs. Jin knew what her son was like. She knew what was going on with just a guess. Instantly, she flew into a rage, scolding her son, “Jin ZiXuan! Do you want to die?!! What did you say before you came here?!”

Jin ZiXuan, “Aku!”

Wei WuXian, “No matter what your son said before he came out, Lady Jin, everything will be fine as long as he and my shijie walk on different paths from now on.”

He was in a rage, so his words were a bit rude. Fortunately, Madam Jin was busy comforting Jiang Yanli and didn’t pay much attention. However, even though she didn’t care, someone else took advantage of this opportunity. Jin Zixun shouted, “Wei Wuxian, my senior aunt. Speaking like this is a bit too presumptuous, isn’t it?”

The others felt this made sense. Everyone nodded in agreement. Wei WuXian replied, “That wasn’t directed at Madam Jin. Your cousin has repeatedly treated my shijie with harsh words. If the YunmengJiang Sect can tolerate that, then we don’t deserve to be called an elite sect! How could we be so presumptuous?”

Jin Zixun sneered, “How can you be presumptuous? How could there be any part of you that isn’t presumptuous? Today, in this important hunt involving all the sects, you’ve truly shown off your skills, huh? You’ve already taken a third of the prey. You must be happy, right?”

Lan WangJi’s head tilted slightly to the side, “A third of the prey?”

Although the more than one hundred people following Jin ZiXun radiated deep hatred, when they saw Lan WangJi, who was rumored to have a bad relationship with Wei WuXian, speak as if asking, someone immediately replied impatiently, “HanGuang-Jun, you don’t know yet, right? Some time ago, when we were hunting at Phoenix Mountain, we searched for quite a while and realized that there wasn’t a single ferocious corpse or vengeful spirit left in that place!”

“We only found out after sending people to ask LianFang-Zun in the watchtower that less than an hour after the hunt began, a flute melody was heard from within Phoenix Mountain, then all the corpses and spirits walked to the YunmengJiang Sect’s side one by one and surrendered themselves!”

“Of the three main prey categories on Phoenix Mountain, only fairies and monsters remain…”

“As for the ghosts, Wei WuXian himself summoned them all…”

Jin ZiXun, “You don’t care about others and only care about yourself—isn’t this quite presumptuous?”

Wei WuXian suddenly understood. After all, this was the hidden meaning behind it all. He laughed, “Didn’t you say so? It’s just an introductory archery match; we can show our true abilities on Phoenix Mountain.”

Jin ZiXuan laughed out loud  ,  as if he found it ridiculous, “All you’re relying on is a meandering path. They’re not what you’re truly capable of. You’re just playing a few tunes on the flute. How could that possibly be considered a demonstration of our true abilities?”

Wei WuXian sounded confused, “It’s not like I’m cheating or conspiring, so why not? You could play a few tunes on the flute too and see if any corpses or spirits would want to follow you?”

Jin ZiXun, “No matter how much you ignore the rules, it is no better than trickery and evil schemes!”

Hearing this, Lan WangJi frowned. Madam Jin looked as if she had just heard the argument taking place there. Her voice was indifferent, “ZiXun, that’s enough.”

Wei WuXian was too lazy to argue with him. He laughed, “Alright, then I don’t know what constitutes real ability. Please take it out and win for me so I can see what it is.”

If he could actually win, Jin Zixun wouldn’t be this upset. He paused for a moment, but the more he thought about it, the more annoyed he became. He sneered, “But it’s only natural that you don’t feel guilty. This isn’t the first time Young Master Wei has ignored the rules. You didn’t bring your sword to the last flower feast and this hunt. This is such a grand occasion, and you don’t care about manners. What good is it to us people who are present with you?”

However, Wei WuXian ignored him. He turned to Lan WangJi, “Lan Zhan, I forgot to tell you. Earlier, when you blocked my sword, thank you.”

Seeing that Wei WuXian didn’t seem to care about him at all, Jin ZiXun gritted his teeth, “So the YunmengJiang Sect’s discipline is nothing more than this!”