097 A Visit from Murong Fenghua
Willow catkins drifted into the arena, igniting the crimson flames upon contact. The burning of a single catkin sparked a chain reaction, setting the others ablaze in turn. The entire venue was soon engulfed in swirling hues of red and purple, and at this moment, Yun Feiyue’s arrogance surged dramatically.
Yuqiao gently brushed his fingers over his mask and finally spoke softly, “Now even the duel has someone coming to interfere. Moyu, should I praise you, or should I discipline you?”
Moyu’s flute melody never ceased; it grew even more melodious and lingering. As the tune quickened, the atmosphere in the arena stiffened.
Yuqiao’s palm moved subtly, as if pushing open an invisible door; all the willow catkins were swept into this unseen barrier.
Seizing the moment, Yun Feiyue wielded her fiery whip, striking swiftly at Yuqiao.
Yet Yuqiao’s hands remained untouched by such assaults. Regardless of the attack’s nature, he effortlessly dispelled them one by one.
The willow catkins summoned by Moyu were drawn into that ethereal door and came to a halt, gazing at Ya Qing’s bitter melon.
A long while passed before he smiled brightly, “So that’s it. Yuqiao has truly reached such a formidable level—it’s enviable.”
He turned his head toward Moyu Xiangqing. “Second brother, will you not intervene?”
Moyu Xiangqing remained as gentle as ever, his demeanor as polished as jade. “It’s the first time the seventh brother has ever asked me to step in. If I don’t, wouldn’t that be letting you down? With that in mind, I suppose I must act.”
The Grand Elder turned around, smiling kindly at them as if looking upon his juniors with affection. “What a fine group of children. But this is just an examination. Rest assured, I merely wish to observe her strength. You need not be so earnest. Yuqiao is pure at heart; he would never truly harm her.”
With these words, Moyu fell silent, and Moyu Xiangqing nodded to the Grand Elder.
The portly Sixth Elder snorted, “What nonsense! Truly a bunch of fools who don’t know their limits. If the Elder Council truly intended to harm her, they wouldn’t do it this way. They’re only testing her strength, after all. After all, sacrificial offerings can’t be too shabby.”
His words were arrogantly spoken, his flesh trembling as if in tune with his harsh tone.
Meanwhile, Yun Feiyue and Yuqiao were locked in a fierce battle. Each of her moves was effortlessly countered by Yuqiao.
Even though Yun Feiyue’s power had multiplied manifold since breaking the Cloud Seal, she still fell short—this opponent seemed invincible!
How could this be?
Yun Feiyue was puzzled but found no time to ponder deeply.
Her fingers traced the air lightly, conjuring five blazing chains of flame that flew swiftly toward Yuqiao.
Yuqiao attempted to resist but found it impossible; this was Yun Feiyue’s strongest move, far beyond what he could simply dispel with his hands.
Enveloped by the flames, Yuqiao was burned fiercely as Yun Feiyue fueled the fire.
For a long time, only searing heat remained in the arena.
Hovering above on crimson lotus flames, Yun Feiyue approached slowly, grasping the Buddha Butterfly Sword again and thrusting it at Yuqiao.
Yuqiao dodged swiftly, simultaneously grasping the sword’s blade tightly.
Blood stained the blade, flowing inch by inch.
Yet he could not advance further.
In a faint voice, Yuqiao said, “This should be enough. It’s time to end.”
Suddenly, he released the sword and struck Yun Feiyue’s chest with a palm strike.
At that moment, Mo Feiyuan intervened, stepping before Yun Feiyue, lifting her up effortlessly, and retreating.
“That’s enough.”
His firm intervention baffled many but none dared oppose, given Mo Feiyuan’s status.
Watching the displeasure on their faces, Yun Feiyue was inwardly annoyed.
“Why did you help me? I could have handled it myself!” she frowned.
Mo Feiyuan smiled faintly, “I understand what you’re thinking, but I cannot bear to see the woman I care for harmed here.”
His words warmed Yun Feiyue’s heart; she coughed lightly, feeling somewhat shy.
“Fine, let it be. Let’s see if Yuqiao accepts defeat.”
Yuqiao stood not far away, his blue robe fluttering in the wind, long hair flowing. Beneath the golden mask, his expression remained a mystery.
In truth, she longed to lift that mask and see what lay beneath—why did it feel so familiar?
They stood silently side by side.
Yuqiao said nothing nor moved, but those nearby noticed his hands continued to bleed.
After some time, he chuckled softly, “Such deep affection between lovers. I truly have nothing more to do. In that case, I concede.”
Though his words hinted at lingering thoughts, the next moment he returned to the Grand Elder’s side.
The Elder made no objection, nor did he glance at Yuqiao, instead focusing on the two embracing in the arena.
“Things are becoming increasingly beyond control,” the Elder sighed softly.
Moyu Xiangqing glanced at the Elder and Yuqiao. “Not everything can be controlled. Perhaps a little unpredictability is not a bad thing?”
“Indeed. Since when did you, Moyu Xiangqing, speak such words? You used to be so calm and indifferent,” the Elder casually remarked.
Moyu Xiangqing smiled faintly without answering.
Suddenly, Moyu turned to the Elder. “What do you think of them?”
“Very good,” came the brief reply.
He watched Yun Feiyue, supported by Mo Feiyuan, return to the arena.
Such open protection naturally drew resentment.
Yet Yun Feiyue was strong and capable; even if some were displeased, they had to swallow their grudge.
Thus, the examination that Yun Feiyue had worried over ended just like that.
Moyu nodded approvingly upon seeing Yun Feiyue return and asked, “Are you alright?”
Yun Feiyue knew Moyu had just helped her and smiled warmly. “Thank you earlier. Those willow catkins were really beautiful, fluttering all over the sky.”
Moyu was momentarily taken aback but nodded again. “It’s the first time someone has said that.”
Though clearly beautiful, why was it the first time anyone had said so?
Yun Feiyue harbored a slight doubt but quickly forgot it, turning her attention to Yuqiao.
She wondered why he had not defeated her when he easily could have, but she refrained from asking.
Yuqiao’s hands continued to bleed, showing no sign of abating.
Luo Yunhuang applied medicine, and he seemed to improve somewhat.
At this moment, Moyu Mei emerged but said nothing. Yun Feiyue had initially planned to challenge Moyu Mei but suddenly changed her mind.
Moyu Mei posed little threat to her, and having twice broken the Cloud Seal had drained too much of her energy.
Such enormous exertion left her unable to continue fighting.
So, Yun Feiyue gave up on further combat, content to watch the remaining matches.
The contests no longer held the earlier excitement—progressively duller as they went on.
She sat in her seat, and Little Mu approached her, looking ingratiating.
“Mother, are you okay? Did you get hurt just now?”
Yun Feiyue nodded. “I’m fine. Why?”
“Nothing much, just missed you. You looked so beautiful earlier,” Little Mu said seriously.
Yun Feiyue sensed something was amiss; Little Mu never praised her like this unless there was something up.
She looked at him intently. “Speak. What’s the matter? Do you need my help?”
Little Mu sighed helplessly.
His mother knew him too well—like a worm inside his mind, always knowing his thoughts.
Despite the unpleasant metaphor, he shook his head.
“Mother, I just want to go out. I miss Xiao You and also Miss Sister.”
Yun Feiyue glanced at him. He had just returned and already wanted to go out again.
“Don’t be foolish. Your mother never goes easy on you. If you cause trouble, there will be consequences!”
Yun Feiyue warned sternly.
Little Mu felt extremely stifled. Finally, he sighed deeply, “I understand, Mother. But I really miss them…”
“All right, when you grow up, I’ll let you go out and play as you please.”
Little Mu’s face fell.
He looked pitifully at Yun Feiyue, about to speak again, but she was already gazing elsewhere.
His heart filled with sorrow and pain.
With no other choice, he shuffled over to Mo Feiyuan.
“Father.”
Mo Feiyuan hummed. “What is it?”
“Did you notice I looked especially handsome today?”
Mo Feiyuan glanced at him sideways. “I didn’t see it.”
Little Mu was speechless. Father and Mother were so alike; how was life to go on?
He was just about to seek out Luo Yunhuang when an announcement arrived.
“Report: Young masters Murong Fenghua and Murong Shengqing of the Murong family have arrived.”
Yun Feiyue’s dreamy eyes brightened. She recalled agreeing with Murong Fenghua to visit her grandfather.
But later, she had forgotten about it—not due to poor memory, but because she really did not want to go.
Her impression of her grandfather was poor, and being young, she feared succumbing to temptation.
Indeed, he was a handsome man!
“Summon them!” The Grand Elder spoke before Mo Feiyuan could.
Judging by his expression, he seemed pleased.
Yun Feiyue had nothing to say; even if she did, it would be useless.
Soon, the Murong family’s young masters entered.
The eldest cousin arrived riding a white crane, flamboyant as ever, with a feigned smile and elegant demeanor.
He first greeted the Grand Elder. “Grand Elder, Murong Fenghua pays respects.”
The Elder laughed heartily. “Fenghua grows ever more stunning.”
After some polite exchange, the cousin turned his attention to Mo Feiyuan.
They merely nodded to each other before looking at Yun Feiyue.
“Cousin, shall we go?”
She refused outright.
“Enough, cousin. I’m not well—just fought and haven’t recovered. I’ll go once I’m better.”
“But grandfather is already impatient,” Murong Fenghua said, grabbing Yun Feiyue’s wrist.
This was no invitation but a kidnapping.
Naturally, Yun Feiyue was displeased.
Mo Feiyuan stepped before them.
“Murong Fenghua, she is my wife. If you wish to take her, shouldn’t you first ask me?”
Murong Fenghua released her hand and turned to Mo Feiyuan.
“Then tell me, what do you intend?”
Mo Feiyuan said coldly, “I intend not to let her go.”
“Then don’t blame me for being rude.” Murong Fenghua raised her hand, producing a feather.
Mo Feiyuan blocked it, staring coldly.
It seemed a fight was about to break out.
Yun Feiyue cleared her throat. “Enough, enough. I’ll go. It’s bound to happen anyway, and I promised cousin before. Though reluctant, I must keep my word.”
Yun Feiyue valued her honor highly.
Mo Feiyuan nodded reluctantly when she said she would go.
“I understand. I won’t stop you.”
Yun Feiyue smiled. “Don’t worry. I’ll be fine. Trust me?”
Mo Feiyuan neither replied nor opposed, nor did he explicitly agree.
In the end, they exchanged only a smile.
Little Mu, eager to go out, seized the chance.
“Mother, I want to go with you.”
The Grand Elder was strongly opposed to Yun Feiyue leaving.
“Murong Fenghua, Yun Feiyue is the main wife of our Moyu family. It’s inappropriate for her to leave like this.”
Murong Fenghua scoffed at the Elder with displeasure.
“I act under the old master’s orders. Yun Feiyue is my cousin, granddaughter of the old master. Why can’t she go? What’s inappropriate?”
The Elder was at a loss for words.
Though displeased with Yun Feiyue, he dared not oppose Murong Qiandai.
Murong Qiandai was a venerable figure of great renown in their era—a true grand master.
Even the Elder treated him with respect.
So, the Elder fell silent.
With no objections left, Yun Feiyue had no choice but to go.
Almost without pause, Murong Fenghua led Yun Feiyue out of the Moyu house.
Just as they reached the door, Mo Feiyuan stopped them.
“Stop.”
Yun Feiyue did not understand but saw his reluctance.
She intended to argue but heard him say, “Since grandfather invited her, it would be improper for me, the grandson-in-law, not to accompany her.”
Yun Feiyue was surprised; he intended to go along.
Murong Fenghua glanced at Mo Feiyuan, hesitating.
“The old master said only cousin was invited.”
Murong Shengqing tugged Murong Fenghua’s sleeve.
“Brother, let Mo Feiyuan come along. I like cousin, so I like her husband too.”
Murong Fenghua, always weak to Shengqing’s words, softened immediately.
“Fine, so be it.”
Yun Feiyue secretly despised Murong Fenghua but admired Murong Shengqing.
Thus, ignoring the Elder’s opposition, Mo Feiyuan accompanied Yun Feiyue to the Murong family.
Riding “Snowstep,” they soon arrived at the Murong estate.
Nestled in the mountains, isolated from the outside world...
The peaks soared so high they seemed to touch the clouds.
The scenery was breathtaking, like the immortal palaces Yun Feiyue had seen on screen.
Full of classical charm and an aura of divinity.
At the estate’s center stood a massive incense burner, its fragrant smoke soothing and uplifting.
The place was quiet, unlike the lively Murong family Yun Feiyue remembered.
Though she had visited few times and never met grandfather, she knew the Murong family was populous.
Curious, she asked, “Why is the Murong family so quiet now?”
Murong Fenghua ignored her, but Murong Shengqing explained, “Most are in their own courtyards. Grandfather intends to enter seclusion for cultivation but had matters to settle first. Most are attending to those, so few are about.”
Yun Feiyue nodded, paying little heed, and looked around.
Every corner stirred faint memories, which gradually became clearer.
She stopped by the incense burner, recalling, “When I was young, cousin and I often played here. He often disciplined me.”
Murong Fenghua’s expression shifted. “Perhaps your memory errs.”
Yun Feiyue snorted; he refused to admit it, though she often was on the receiving end.
Well, it was in the past. Her impression of this cousin was never good.
After winding paths, they reached another palace.
Inside, people strolled leisurely, beauties moving with grace.
Yun Feiyue nodded in approval—this was the scene she remembered.
She wondered why grandfather had changed residence.
Murong Fenghua led her to Murong Qiandai’s room.
Behind a screen, a young man’s voice, melodious and seductive, spoke.
“Have they arrived?”
Yun Feiyue nodded. “Yes.”
Murong Qiandai’s tone sharpened. “I’m not asking you. I’m asking Murong Fenghua.”
Damn!
Yun Feiyue’s displeasure grew. Her impression of grandfather was poor, and now worse.
How rude!
If asking, he should address her, but instead, he questioned Murong Fenghua first.
Murong Fenghua nodded respectfully. “Yes, Grandfather. I have brought cousin here. If you approve, please look.”
How strange that sounded—like inspecting a concubine or a servant.
Murong Qiandai waved his hand, and two beauties moved the screen aside.
Behind it sat a man with silver hair, exquisite features, dressed in pale yellow embroidered robes.
Yun Feiyue was stunned.
He was even more handsome than she had seen via spiritual communication.
His skin flawless, face youthful.
Enchanting and beautiful...
She had thought Ye Qi and Moyu Xiangqing were handsome men, but before Murong Qiandai, they paled.
There was a man so stunning he seemed unearthly—that was Murong Qiandai.
Yun Feiyue mused that no wonder she was so beautiful—she had such a handsome grandfather.
Her own grandfather’s looks...
She quickly dismissed the thought, not wanting to dampen his spirits.
Blinking, she focused on Murong Qiandai, careful not to be swayed by his looks.
“Are you... my grandfather?”
Murong Qiandai sipped tea, seated on the floor, looking at her seriously. “Don’t I resemble one?”
Yun Feiyue shook her head. “No, I mean yes!”
Murong Qiandai studied her closely, then glanced at Mo Feiyuan.
His expression changed; he pointed at Murong Fenghua. “Now I see why you bully your cousin.”
Murong Fenghua frowned. “Grandfather!”
“Do you think Yun Feiyue looks like me?” Murong Qiandai said bluntly.
Yun Feiyue hadn’t thought so until he said it. Indeed, there was some resemblance.
She looked at her grandfather and then took out the mirror she’d won from the Sun Shadow and Moon Shadow, comparing herself.
Though she felt different—less masculine, gentler—her features were somewhat alike.
Murong Fenghua’s face stiffened. Though he wanted to protest, he said nothing.
Grandfather snorted. “At least she’s better than that ugly beast from the Yun family.”
Yun Feiyue kept silent. Though she loved her grandfather, he was no match for Murong Qiandai’s youth and beauty now.
Murong Qiandai waved dismissively. “You fool, go out and play. As for this...” He looked at Mo Feiyuan. “You must be Moyu’s son. You’re quite handsome—worthy of my granddaughter. But since I wish to reminisce with my granddaughter, you won’t be in the way, right?”
His temper was odd, and he spoke without grace.
Mo Feiyuan looked at Yun Feiyue, then nodded and left.
Murong Qiandai then fixed all his attention on Yun Feiyue. “Call me grandfather.”
Yun Feiyue was speechless.
How could she call this young man grandfather?
If he were older, she might, but this looked like her peer.
After much hesitation and under his scorching gaze, she finally said, “Grandfather. Why do you look so young?”
Murong Qiandai ignored the question, beckoning her over.
“Come here.”
Yun Feiyue sat opposite him. “Why summon me? After all these years, meeting again and making me call you grandfather—I’m not used to it.”
Murong Qiandai frowned, pinched her chin, and examined her closely.
He sighed, “You truly have the charm I had when I was young. You don’t know how magnificent I was in my youth.”
Though others had said such things, hearing someone boast about themselves was unpleasant.
Yun Feiyue looked around, thinking her grandfather was childish.
At that moment, Little Mu spoke, “Ancestor.”
Murong Qiandai noticed him, gave a disdainful look, and coolly asked, “Is that your son?”
Yun Feiyue nodded silently.
Little Mu snorted. He hated being called “ball” and was instantly displeased.
“You’re the ball! My name’s Little Mu.”
Murong Qiandai ignored him and turned back to Yun Feiyue, displeased. “I told you not to marry. Why didn’t you listen? Just like your mother... truly... unlikeable.”
Yun Feiyue frowned. “My marriage is my own affair. It shouldn’t concern you.”
Murong Qiandai snorted. “If you didn’t look like me, I’d have slapped you dead long ago. Here, take this.” He tossed a book titled “Cultivation Methods.”
It sounded powerful, but...
“Grandfather, I practice martial arts, not cultivation.”
This novel is originally published by Xiaoxiang Academy. Please do not reprint.