ã€ŠLast Dawn of Innocenceã€‹


 The Happy Tribe

    High in the mountains, nestled away from the world, lay their tribe that had gone into hiding for 60 years. Their legends still echoed through the martial world, a mystery surrounding their sudden disappearance.

    In this secluded realm, a 5-year-old girl named Shi Huanxin(shih hwahn-sheen) raced through the grassy fields, clutching her favorite snack: her aunt''s steaming dumplings. Her laughter rang like a bell as she zigzagged through the trees. "Xiner(nickname of Shi Huanxin), don''t run! You''ll fall!" her uncle called after her, concern lacing his voice.

    "Don''t worry, Uncle! I won''t!" she shouted back.

    Finally reaching her home, Huanxin set down a plate and eagerly unwrapped the dumplings. She gobbled them down quickly, determined not to let her brother steal a single bite. But just as she finished her first dumpling, her brother, Shi Wei(shih way), an 8-year-old with a playful grin, caught sight of her. Huanxin ran at the sight of her brother with the plate in her hands.

    "Hey! Don''t run! Share some, or I''ll tell Mother!" he teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

    "No way! Aunt made these just for me after begging her for hours!" Huanxin retorted, clutching the plate protectively.

    As they bickered, they spotted a woman pushing a vegetable trolley. The children began to circulate around her, giggling. "Stop both of you right now!" the woman shouted, her frustration rising.

    They froze, recognizing their fearsome aunt. Panic surged through them, and they sprinted off in opposite directions, the sound of their aunt''s voice trailing behind them: "Stop, both of you!"

    After finishing her dumplings, Huanxin tiptoed home, but she found Shi Wei in trouble. Their mother was scolding him, and Huanxin, feeling mischievous, tried to sneak past. But her mother''s sharp gaze caught her.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.

    "Xiner, where do you think you''re going?" their mother asked, a smirk dancing on her lips¡ªat least it seemed wicked to Xiner.

    "Mother, it''s not my fault! He came chasing after me!" Xiner exclaimed, pointing at her brother.

    "Shut up! As if I don''t know what you were up to. Can''t you share your dumplings with your brother?" their mother chastised, eyeing Shi Wei, who was now smirking.

    "Mother, he would have devoured every dumpling if I offered him any!" Xiner protested innocently.

    "Enough! And you," she said, directing her attention to Shi Wei, "what are you smiling about? All you do is run around. Learn something from your cousin, Shi Meng. He''s such a well-behaved boy."

    Despite their mother''s constant comparisons, Shi Wei felt no resentment toward Shi Meng. How could he? His cousin was simply the sweetest.

    "Yes, mother, I''m sorry," Shi Wei sighed, shoulders slumping.

    "I''m sorry too, Mother!" Xiner chimed in, hoping to appease her.

    "Do the horse stance for 40 minutes, both of you," their mother ordered.

    "Mother!" they exclaimed in unison, disbelief mingled with irritation.

    "DO IT NOW!" she commanded, her gaze unyielding.

    They reluctantly assumed the horse stance. After 15 minutes, Huanxin''s legs began to ache. She rarely practiced martial arts, while Shi Wei, who loved it, felt the burn from his extra exercises earlier that day. In 30 minutes, Huanxin''s legs wobbled like jelly. Their mother was busy in the kitchen, so Huanxin took a moment to relax.

    "Mother! Xiner isn''t holding the stance!" Shi Wei shouted, a hint of mischief in his voice.

    Their mother rushed in, her voice sharp. "You will do 5 extra minutes now, Xiner! You never learn your lesson!"

    Huanxin shot an angry glare at her brother, wishing she could turn him into a dumpling. Shi Wei only smiled, enjoying the moment. Just then, their father arrived home from the academy, a calming presence that saved them from their mother''s wrath.

    At the round dining table, they shared rice and pickled vegetables. Xiner animatedly recounted her dramatic battle for dumplings, embellishing the tale for her father.

    "Father, you won''t believe what I had to endure! I ran for miles, rolled down hills, and dodged my monstrous brother just to save my dumplings!" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement.

    Shi Wei stared at her in disbelief, but their father laughed heartily, and even their mother couldn''t suppress a smile at Xiner''s antics.

    After dinner, the family gathered for a board game, laughter filling the room as they cherished their time together. As night fell, the warmth of their bond wrapped around them, a perfect end to a lively day.

 The Spirit Of Community

    The morning was bustling in the tribe as the sun peeked over the mountains, casting a golden glow over the landscape. Excited chatter filled the air, accompanied by the rich aroma of spices and freshly baked goods. Everyone was busy preparing for the New Year, their laughter echoing against the backdrop of the majestic peaks surrounding them.

    In the Shi household, the hall was alive with activity. Huanxin''s mother, her brow furrowed in concentration, tied colorful strands of fabric to decorative lanterns, each hue symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. Huanxin couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride watching her mother work, the vibrant colors reflecting their shared hopes for the coming year.

    "Bring me the ribbons, Xiner!" her mother commanded, her voice firm yet warm.

    "Here, Mother!" Huanxin replied, her tone light and playful as she presented the bright red ribbons. She took a moment to admire the intricate designs woven into the fabric, each telling a story of the tribe''s history and hopes.

    "Go check on your brother and father. Don''t let them idle away, okay?" her mother instructed, her eyes narrowing in mock seriousness.

    "Okay!" Huanxin declared, puffing out her chest in determination. She swaggered away, her skirt swirling around her as she headed toward the kitchen.

    The kitchen was small but inviting, filled with the comforting scent of baked pastries mingling with the sharp tang of spices. Shi Wei was helping their father prepare the delicacies, his face scrunched in concentration as he tried to chop vegetables neatly, but with each slice, they seemed to tumble awkwardly.

    "Father, is Shi Wei idling away? Should I ask Mother to scold him for you?" Huanxin teased, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

    "Eh, why do I need your mother to scold him for me?" her father chuckled, shaking his head.

    "Father, you''re such a good person! What if you get taken advantage of by Shi Wei?" Huanxin replied, her concern tinged with playful sarcasm.

    Her father laughed, the warmth in his voice filling the small space. "No, I assure you, I''m not being taken advantage of."

    "You! Why would I take advantage of our father? You''re always the one who takes advantage of others!" Shi Wei exclaimed, flustered as he tossed a piece of vegetable into the air, which landed with a soft thud.

    "Wicked! I''m going to complain about you!" Huanxin shot back, her laughter echoing off the walls.

    "Okay, okay! Calm down, both of you," their father interjected, a smile breaking through the mock tension. "You are siblings; you shouldn''t fight. Now, Huanxin, go help your mother."

    "All right, Father! I''m going then," she replied, scampering back to the hall, a sense of excitement in her chest.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.

    As evening approached, the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant hues of orange and pink. Families emerged from their homes, each carrying gifts¡ªbaskets overflowing with harvests, handcrafted trinkets, and cherished books. Laughter and chatter filled the air, a harmonious symphony that wrapped around the village.

    In the center of the gathering, an elderly woman in a flowing white robe settled into a chair, her face adorned with a crisscross of wrinkles that told stories of wisdom and resilience. She rested her arms on the table, her gaze sweeping over the eager faces of children and adults alike, a spark of magic shimmering in her eyes.

    With a gentle smile, she began to weave the legends of their tribe. "Our tribe remains secluded from the outside world, not out of fear, but from a profound desire for peace. Long ago, our ancestors grew weary of the endless conflicts in the martial arts world. They sought solace in community, forging a sanctuary where kindness and understanding could flourish."

    Huanxin listened intently, her heart swelling with pride as she heard her name echo through the story. She had always known she was named after the legendary figure, but hearing it spoken aloud felt both like an honor and a heavy burden. Could she ever live up to such a legacy?

    "Among our ancestors was a remarkable leader named Huanxin," the storyteller continued, picking up a beautifully crafted sword from the table, its blade gleaming in the fading light. "She was known as the strongest, a warrior unmatched in skill and wisdom. Huanxin traveled the world, and her sword was a symbol of protection and justice. Yet, it was her heart that truly made her legendary."

    Huanxin''s chest tightened at the mention of her namesake. She felt a mixture of admiration and expectation¡ªcould she ever live up to such a legacy? The weight of the name settled on her shoulders like a mantle of responsibility, igniting a flicker of determination within her.

    The storyteller paused, allowing her words to resonate. "When she returned home, she led our tribe into hiding, not because she feared battle, but because she understood that true strength lies in unity and compassion. In our community, we value each other above all. We share our joys, our harvests, and our stories. We lift each other up in times of need, for that is the essence of our existence. The children are not just of one family but of the community; we are all one big family."

    A sudden rustle in the crowd caught Huanxin''s attention. A young boy, stood awkwardly at the edge, clutching a small, intricately carved wooden toy. He looked uncertain, for some reason. Huanxin''s heart ached at the sight.

    "Come, friend!" she called out, her voice clear and inviting. "Join us! Everyone is welcome here!"

    The boy''s eyes lit up, and he took a tentative step forward. Huanxin''s gesture drew smiles from those nearby, reaffirming the values they cherished. She felt a swell of pride, knowing she could contribute to the sense of belonging the tribe fostered.

    "Remember," the storyteller said, her voice steady and warm, "to be kind and help others. Never falter from your principles, and always cherish our community. Together, we can weather any storm. Let no one ever bully you or sow discord among us. For in our unity lies our true power."

    As she finished her tale, the villagers erupted in applause, their hearts filled with a renewed sense of purpose and belonging. Huanxin clapped along, but deep inside, she vowed to honor her namesake¡ªnot just as a legendary warrior, but as a beacon of kindness and strength for her tribe.

    As the ceremonies drew to a close, everyone gathered to watch the sunset. The sky transformed from orange to deep red, a canvas painted by nature''s hand. The air was rich with the smell of blooming plants and the earth''s musk. A soft breeze brushed through Huanxin''s hair, carrying with it the laughter of her friends and the whispers of her ancestors.

    She stood there, feeling the warmth of her people, her family, and her tribe envelop her like a protective cloak. In that moment, she realized her happiness lay intertwined with theirs¡ªa tapestry woven with love, laughter, and the strength of community.

 Fractured Silence

    The sounds of clashing swords and spears echoed from outside shattering Huanxin''s peaceful sleep. Huanxin rubbed her eyes, and stretched her arms, feeling a surge of frustration and thought angrily.

    "Is Shi Wei practicing again in the morning with his foolish friends? Doesn''t he have anything better to do? He must be doing it to annoy me again I am going to kill him".

    She left bed and walked to the door, determined not to let her brother slip away this time. She opened the door and saw what she never dreamed of her brother''s dead body lying on the doorstep. She was taken aback and froze with shock.

    Her mother saw Huanxin. She ran towards her daughter still holding her spear drenched in blood.

    She said, "Xiner, go in and hide in the room; you know what I am talking about. Xiner you must not come out at any cost until this ends. Don''t come out. " Sipping her saliva and holding back her tears, she continued "If we die, you must run from here in the southeast direction. Understand?".

    "Mother, brother he....he is dead," said Huanxin crying, sobbing, and breathing heavily.

    "You must not come out, you must save yourself. Understand?" her mother said, her voice a mix of anger and deep concern.

    Huaxin nodded and ran inside.

    She ran to the cupboard slid it and hid in the bunker beneath it. Her mother pushed the cupboard back. She was scared-terrified-but couldn''t do anything she was; afraid to see her brother''s dead body, her mother drenched in blood, and what about her father? Every question and thought she had was terrifying. She could hear swords, spears, and arrows clashing, along with cries and pleas. She hugged her knees and hid there.

    After some time, she heard footsteps approaching.

    "Nobody should be left alive; that''s chief''s order," ordered one man, "If anyone is left alive, we will be dead"

    "Yes," said a few people.

    Then came the noises of ransacking and searching. She could hear the cupboard opening, her toys and clothes being thrown out, and utensils clattering to the ground. From this commotion, she understood her parents were dead; she began sobbing and covered her mouth with her hands, crying.

    "Sir, there''s no one and nothing of value except this jade bracelet," reported a woman.If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    "This jade bracelet seems to be of good quality; we will get good money for this," said the man, laughing joyfully.

    Huanxin felt rage and hatred and wanted to go out, but she remembered her mother''s words: "You must not come out."

    The soldiers left, and she could hear a troop of soldiers assembling.

    "Did you check everywhere?" shouted a woman.

    "Yes, madam," replied the soldiers in unison.

    "Madam, we found this boy and girl hiding in the house. What do we do with them?" asked one.

    "What do we do?" said the chief mockingly "We kill them"

    "Yes," replied the soldier.

    The children begged not to kill them but no one listened.

    "Let''s go," said the woman.

    Huanxin heard the sound of horses and soldiers galloping away. She stepped out and ran toward the southeast without looking back. She couldn''t bear to see the dead bodies of her family and her tribe. In the distance, she spotted a city and sprinted toward it.

    The city was lit with lamps and a big sign that read ''Jinggu''(jing-goo), meaning Silent Valley. Contrary to its name, the city was bustling with people. As she burst into the city, the air shifted, thick with the scent of street food and the distant echoes of laughter and music. Towering buildings appeared magnificent. Crowds thronged the streets¡ªa sea of unfamiliar faces, each absorbed in their own lives, oblivious to the storm that had just engulfed her world.

    The streets buzzed with energy, vibrant murals adorned walls, narrating tales of struggle and resilience. Vendors shouted their wares, their voices melded into a harmonious chaos.

    Yet amidst the frenzy, she felt a strange isolation. The city thrummed with life, but her heart remained heavy, each laugh a distant echo of a life she had. As she navigated through narrow alleyways adorned with flickering lamps and colorful banners, the warmth of humanity enveloped her. Still, it felt like a cruel reminder of what she had lost.

    The spices filled the air with an intoxicating aroma, mingling with the sweetness of baked goods. Yet, even in this vibrant chaos, her mind replayed the horror¡ªthe faces of her loved ones, her brother''s lifeless body, her mother''s shattered state. The city offered solace and distraction, but it was a fragile shield against the haunting memories that clung to her like a second skin.

    Huanxin stepped away from the crowd and found refuge in a shadowy corner of a narrow alley. Overwhelmed, she cried and sobbed, memories of her brother''s lifeless body and her family''s joyful moments flooding her mind. Each wave of grief pulled her deeper into despair, but beneath the sadness, simmering anger began to rise.

    "Why did they do this?" she thought, clenching her tiny fists. The voices of the strangers who had taken everything from her burned in her mind, and an unfamiliar feeling settled in her heart: a fierce longing for justice, a need to make them pay for what they had done.

    Her heart felt heavy with bitterness, and the more she thought about it, the stronger that feeling grew. She might be small, but the desire to confront those who had caused her pain filled her with a fragile strength.

    At that moment, she realized she was alone in a world that had turned dark and unfair. With a deep breath, she wiped away her tears and rose to her feet, her heart thudding with sorrow and a newfound determination to face whatever lay ahead.

 Finding My Way

    Night had fallen, and Huanxin found herself in a deserted hut, the weight of her loss heavy on her heart. At just five years old, she had witnessed the horrific massacre of her tribe, forced to hide in a bunker while her world was torn apart. Her mother''s last words echoed in her mind: "Run southeast. You must save yourself" But what lay ahead? She had never ventured beyond her tribe''s hidden realm, and everything beyond was a mystery.

    As dawn broke, rays of sunlight streamed through the cracks in the walls, illuminating the dim space. Huanxin stood up, her heart aching, and ventured outside.

    The day felt quieter than the vibrant bustle of the previous night. The air was thick with the smell of sunlight, the remnants of firecrackers, and the enticing aroma of steaming dumplings. Memories of running around with her aunt''s dumplings, laughing and relishing them flooded her mind, and she struggled to hold back her tears. Her stomach growled, reminding her of her hunger.

    She approached a nearby stall where a vendor was steaming dumplings. "Can I have some dumplings, please?" she asked, her voice a mix of hope and desperation.

    The vendor glanced at her with a raised eyebrow. "Do you have any money?"

    "What is money?" she replied, genuinely confused.

    The vendor, taken aback, displayed a handful of coins. "This is money."

    Huanxin shook her head. "I don''t have any."

    The vendor''s expression hardened. "Then what are you doing here? Do you think I''m running a charity? Don''t come here if you don''t have money."

    His words cut deep, and she felt a wave of sadness wash over her, remembering how her tribe had always provided without the need for currency. Tears welled in her eyes. She noticed a group of ragged children begging men for coins. They looked dirty and weary, some receiving small change while others were ignored.

    Desperation clawed at her heart, and she decided to try begging too. One man approached her. "Do you want money?" he asked. She nodded, hope igniting in her chest.

    "Then give me that hairpin," he demanded, eyeing the delicate ornament in her hair.

    Huanxin shook her head fiercely. It was the last remnant of her family, a precious token of her past. "No, I can''t," she whispered.

    His anger flared. "Why are you begging for money? You''re wearing a precious hairpin!" He stormed away, leaving her feeling even more isolated.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.

    With trembling hands, she removed the hairpin, cradling it as if it were a fragile memory. Unable to bear losing it, she tucked it safely into her pocket, continuing her search for spare coins. A few compassionate souls noticed her plight and offered her small amounts of money, but it was still insufficient. By noon, she had yet to gather enough for even a single dumpling.

    Finally, after hours of begging, she approached the shopkeeper again, coins clutched tightly in her palm. "Can I have some dumplings now?" she asked, hope lighting her eyes.

    The shopkeeper nodded, taking her coins and handing her two steaming dumplings in a bowl. As she devoured them, a warmth spread through her, a small comfort amidst her sorrow. When she returned the bowl, the shopkeeper''s expression softened. "Keep it. You''ll need it for begging," he said, a mix of pity and authority in his voice.

    Grateful yet humbled, Huanxin accepted the bowl and continued her day. Soon, as evening descended, the storyteller arrived, drawing a crowd with his captivating presence. Huanxin joined the throng, eager for distraction.

    "I see a lot of youngsters tonight," the storyteller began, his voice rich and inviting. "Today, I will tell you about the glorious past of Jinggu."

    He continued, "This place was once the most powerful city in the martial world, a vibrant hub where legendary warriors trained and thrived. Though it still houses some of the oldest martial arts sects, it has lost its former status to another city, Tianle which now boasts the strongest martial arts sects.

    Yet, to honor Jinggu''s glorious past, we host the ''Ascendence of Champions,'' the most prestigious competition in the martial world. Held once a decade, this grand event showcases the prowess of martial artists from all walks of life. Anyone can participate, from eager children to seasoned elders, although masters typically refrain from competing, allowing the younger generation to shine.

    On this momentous day, the new head of the martial world is also chosen. The disciple of the sect that emerges victorious is crowned as the leader. Just yesterday, the championship took place, and as we all know, the Xianxi Sect (shyen-shee sect) continues its reign as the head. The Legacy Hall, situated in the heart of the city, has been the proud venue for this competition for generations."

    As the storyteller''s words washed over her, Huanxin felt admiration and longing. She wanted to be strong like the warriors he spoke of. But the faces of the strangers who had taken her family loomed large in her mind, fueling her desire for revenge. The crowd grew larger, the noise and excitement overwhelming.

    Suddenly, Huanxin felt a wave of determination rise within her. She didn''t belong here, lost among strangers celebrating a world she didn''t understand. She needed to find her path, learn the ways of the warriors she had heard about, and become strong like her parents. With resolve, she stepped back from the crowd, her heart racing.

    "I need to go," she whispered to herself. As the storyteller''s voice faded behind her, she turned away from the gathering, the weight of her loss pushing her forward.

    Just as she maneuvered through the throng, a flash of memory sparked in her mind. She remembered the signboard she had seen last night as she entered the city¡ªa sign that had read "Jinggu." The name resonated with her, grounding her in this unfamiliar place.

    With renewed purpose, she squeezed through the crowd, each step drawing her closer to her goal: to learn how to fight, to seek vengeance for her tribe, and to carve out a future in this unfamiliar world.

 Path to Tianle

    With her newfound determination, Huanxin practiced her tribe''s martial arts. Yet, her memories were hazy; she had never truly trained before. Each movement felt foreign and awkward, the techniques slipping through her fingers like sand. Frustration built within her, but she refused to give up.

    Desperate for guidance, she sought out various martial arts sects, hoping someone might take her in. However, one after another, she faced rejection. "Only noblemen''s or merchant''s children are allowed," they would say, dismissing her with glances that made her feel smaller than ever. She was just a beggar, unworthy of their time.

    Life was harsh. Huanxin survived on scraps, scouring the streets for leftover food to fill her stomach. Often, she found herself eating what others discarded¡ªa bitter reminder of her new reality. The clothes she wore were cast off from others, too big, frayed, and mismatched.

    After a month of relentless searching, she had stood at the doorstep of every martial sect in Jinggu, only to be met with cold indifference. "Wait a minute! Tianle, I can go Tianle." The storyteller''s words echoed in her mind: Tianle was the strongest city in the martial world, but it felt like a distant dream, obscured by the harsh reality of her life in Jinggu.

    To reach Tianle, there were two paths: the bustling merchant ships facilitating trade between the cities, or the well-worn land routes, where carriages rattled over cobblestones and travelers trudged along the official road. The cheapest way was by foot, but she needed enough money to make the journey.

    Determined, Huanxin turned to begging, offering to run errands and do odd jobs for anyone willing to spare a moment. Each day was a struggle, often forcing her to skip meals just to save a few coins. But with each small triumph, she felt a flicker of hope¡ªa reminder that she was still fighting, still moving forward.

    One fateful day, she spotted two young men, their laughter ringing as they discussed their plans to travel to Tianle.

    Gathering her courage, she approached them. "Excuse me," she said, her voice steady despite her nervousness. "I overheard you talking about going to Tianle. Could I join you?"

    The two men exchanged skeptical glances, their amusement fading. One of them, a tall fellow with fiery hazel eyes shaped with an oval face, tousled dark brown hair and thin lips, raised an eyebrow. "What does a beggar like you want with Tianle?" He looked her up and down, assessing her worth.

    Huanxin''s heart sank at the judgment in their eyes, but she quickly devised a story. "I... I was separated from my parents during the ''Ascendence of Champions'' here," she stammered, forcing tears to her eyes. "They came to Jinggu for the competition, and I got lost. I was supposed to meet them in Tianle, but I''ve been here, begging to survive."

    The other young man, a shorter fellow with calm green eyes, shaped with a square face, and tidy black hair, frowned. "How do we know you''re telling the truth?"This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

    Huanxin took a deep breath, willing her voice to remain steady. "I know my parents are there. They told me before the competition that we would find each other in Tianle if we got separated. Please, I just want to go home."

    There was a moment of silence as they considered her words. The taller man''s expression softened slightly, and the shorter one shrugged. "If she''s telling the truth, we should take her."

    Finally, the taller one sighed. "Fine. We''ll take you to Tianle. Just keep up, and don''t slow us down."

    Relief flooded through Huanxin, and she nodded vigorously. "Thank you! I won''t be a burden, I promise!"

    As they began to walk, Huanxin felt a mix of hope and fear. This was her chance, but would her lies hold up? With each step toward Tianle, she steeled herself for whatever challenges lay ahead.

    They stepped onto the official road, beginning their journey to Tianle. The tall fellow asked curiously, "My name is Lian Jun (Lee-ahn Jun), and he is Zhen Jian (Zhen Jyan). What is your name?"

    "My name is Li Lianfeng," Huanxin replied, adopting her new identity.

    "Lianfeng means persistent wind. Good name," said Zhen Jian.

    Lianfeng smiled, but a flashback flickered in her mind.

    "Father, why was I named Shi Huanxin?" she had once asked.

    "Shi is our family''s surname, and Huanxin was a great warrior¡ªa legend. We named you after her," her father had replied, stroking her hair lovingly.

    The flashback faded as Lian Jun placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, bringing her back to the present.

    "Where did you get lost?" he asked.

    "Nothing," Lianfeng replied, her heart racing.

    "What do you mean ''nothing''? I''m asking you where you got lost, Lianfeng," Jun pressed gently.

    "Oh, that... I got lost in the crowd," she answered, trying to sound casual.

    "Okay," said Jun, accepting her response for now.

    "There''s a restaurant up ahead. Let''s go eat," suggested Jian.

    "Yes!" replied Jun eagerly.

    They entered the restaurant, which resembled a lively tavern. A crowd had gathered around a large table, drawn by the excitement of a game. Intrigued, the trio moved closer to see the commotion. A woman was shaking dice in a wooden cup, and patrons were placing bets on whether the outcome would be big or small.

    The woman announced, "Big!" with a booming voice, eliciting cheers and groans from the crowd. Lian Jun''s eyes sparkled with excitement as if he had just won something great.

    Zhen Jian chuckled, glancing at Lian Jun. "You enjoy this, huh? Lianfeng and I will go get the food."

    "Yeah, I''ll catch up!" Jun said, still fixated on the dice game.

    Jian took Lianfeng''s hand and led her to the bar. "What do you want to eat?" he asked.

    "Can I order?" she asked hesitantly.

    "Of course you can," Jian replied with a warm smile.

    "I want to eat tofu," she said, her voice gaining strength.

    "Okay!" Jian grinned, placing the order before they made their way to a nearby table. He called Lian Jun, "Come join us for food!"

    "Coming!" Jun replied, still captivated by the dice.

    They enjoyed their meal together. This was the first time in months that Huanxin felt full, the delicious food bringing a warmth she had almost forgotten. She gobbled it down, and both young men watched her with kindness, their smiles genuine.

    After finishing, Huanxin took some coins from her pocket and nervously asked, "Would this be enough for my meal?"

    Zhen Jian smiled gently. "You don''t need to pay."

    Tears welled in Huanxin''s eyes, overwhelmed by their kindness. She couldn''t hold back anymore, and tears rolled down her cheeks.

    "Why are you crying?" Lian Jun asked concern etched on his face.

    "Nothing, nothing," Lianfeng replied, wiping her eyes quickly but the tears weren''t stopping.

    "Okay, okay. Don''t cry," Jun said softly, pulling her into a comforting hug.

    As she rested against him, Huanxin felt a flicker of hope in her heart¡ªa glimmer of the strength she needed to continue her journey.

 A Journeys End

    The night had taken hold, and the trio needed a place to stay. Zhen Jian, glancing ahead, said, "There''s a motel up ahead. Let''s spend the night there." The soft glow of lanterns illuminated the path, casting shadows.

    Huanxin, ever the curious one, asked, "How do you know every place? You knew about the restaurant, the shed, and the motel."

    Jian smiled knowingly. "Lianfeng, I memorized the map from Jinggu to Tianle and planned our way. The world is vast, but I like to keep a few important landmarks in mind."

    Lianfeng nodded, appreciating the meticulousness of her companions. It made her feel safer in this unfamiliar land.

    As they entered the motel, the warm hum of laughter and clinking glasses wrapped around them, momentarily easing their burdens. The motel, with two floors, exuded a cozy charm. A bar filled with laughter occupied the first floor, and to their left, a group was engrossed in a game of mahjong, their voices mingling with the intoxicating aroma of food wafting from the kitchen.

    They approached the reception, where a woman in her 40s stood behind the counter. Her face bore the marks of hard work, but her voice, surprisingly pleasant, welcomed them. "It''s just 70 coins for one night."

    "Okay," said Lian Jun, pulling out coins from his pocket.

    But Jian interjected, glancing at the lady. "Wait. We will pay 40."

    The receptionist raised an eyebrow. "60."

    "50," Jian countered firmly.

    "Done. Show the masters their room," she called out to a servant, her tone shifting as she regarded Huanxin''s ragged clothes. "Is that girl going to stay with you?"

    A flush of discomfort crept over Huanxin at the remark. I don''t belong here, not in this world that judges by appearances, she thought, choosing to remain silent.

    Lian Jun instinctively stepped closer, his body language shielding her from the judgmental gaze of the receptionist, and replied "Yes"

    Jun handed over the 50 coins, and the servant led them to their room on the second floor. The small room was illuminated by flickering candles, revealing two beds at opposite corners¡ªone larger than the other¡ªand a small cupboard. A familiar fragrant scent lingered in the air, reminiscent of blooming jasmine.

    Jian, with a warm smile, said, "You can take the smaller one, Lianfeng. Jun and I will share the bigger one."

    Huanxin nodded gratefully and made her way to the bed, lying down and closing her eyes. The scent of jasmine enveloped her, pulling her into a memory of her mother''s gentle smile.

    She remembered asking her mother, "Mother, why don''t we ever go outside the tribe?"

    Her mother had smiled gently. "Why do you ask? Don''t you like it here?"

    "I like our place, but I also want to see the outside world."This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.

    "You can see the outside world when you grow up."

    That flashback ended abruptly, replaced by the reality of her current life. She had seen the outside world, but it was not as she had imagined. What would it be like to feel that safe again? The tribe and her home were now echoes in her heart. She wanted to return, but she couldn''t.

    Morning arrived, and they continued their journey after a quick breakfast at the motel. The sun hung high as they passed a small town bustling with activity. A merchant''s stall caught their attention, filled with exquisite items¡ªexotic fabrics, handcrafted jewelry, and vibrant pendants.

    Huanxin''s gaze was drawn to a small dagger nestled among the treasures. It looked sharp and beautiful, its hilt adorned with intricate designs. Lian Jun noticed her interest and approached the merchant, asking, "How much is the dagger worth?"

    "60 coins. Don''t try to bargain. I have a fixed price policy," the merchant replied, his voice booming with authority.

    "Okay. I will buy it," said Jun, turning to Lianfeng with a smile. "This is our gift to you, Lianfeng." He extended the dagger toward her.

    Lianfeng hesitated, her heart swelling with gratitude. "I can''t take it."

    "You have to. You can''t refuse a gift," he insisted, his tone leaving no room for argument.

    Finally, she smiled, accepting the dagger with her tiny hands, feeling a rush of joy.

    Suddenly, two women appeared, drawn to a stall brimming with beautiful ornaments. Their eyes sparkled with excitement as they examined the delicate pieces, but their conversation quickly caught Huanxin''s attention.

    "Did you hear about the tribe''s massacre?" one woman exclaimed, her voice low but urgent as if she feared being overheard.

    "Which tribe?" the other replied, a hint of skepticism in her tone.

    "The one that went into hiding¡ªthe one we thought was just a myth. It''s real! They were massacred by someone. God knows who did it. Rumor has it the enemy launched a surprise attack. The news has spread like wildfire."

    The second woman gasped, her face pale. "I always thought they were just stories. Are you sure it''s true?"

    "Absolutely! My cousin travels to the east and says people are terrified. They claim there are no survivors."

    Huanxin''s heart pounded in her chest. Her childhood memories flooded back¡ªher mother''s soothing voice recounting tales of their hidden tribe, the warmth of family, and the lessons learned about the dangers beyond their borders. She felt a chill creep over her, and the cozy market suddenly felt oppressive.

    "What would drive someone to attack a tribe that has been hidden for so long?" the second woman wondered aloud, her voice trembling.

    "Desperation, maybe," the first woman replied, her expression grave. "Or a desire to erase them from history. It''s terrifying to think that even legends can bleed."

    Huanxin stood frozen, grappling with the weight of the women''s words. The world she had longed to explore now felt fraught with peril. The longing for the innocence of her childhood clashed with the harsh reality of survival.

    With a deep breath, Huanxin stepped away from the stall, the vibrant colors around her blurring as the weight of her memories pressed heavily on her heart. She couldn''t afford to be absorbed in memories, not now.

    "Let''s go," she suggested casually, brushing off her thoughts.

    They continued their journey, reaching the outskirts of Tianle as the sun dipped below the horizon. The city, surrounded by towering walls, pulsed with life. Huge banners from different sects fluttered in the evening breeze, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

    "This is as far as we can take you, Lianfeng," Zhen Jian said, his voice serious yet gentle, looking at Huanxin. She remembered hiding her identity and accepted it.

    "Thank you both for taking me this far. I will search for my parents. I''m sure I''ll find them," she replied, smiling.

    Lian Jun embraced her tightly in a hug "Goodbye, Lianfeng. If destiny has it, we will meet again."

    She hugged him back, feeling warmth amidst the uncertainty. Zhen Jian joined in, and the trio shared a heartfelt farewell before Jian and Jun turned away, blending into the bustling crowd.

    Alone again, Huanxin¡ªnow Lianfeng¡ªwatched their figures fade. She didn''t want to linger in the crowd any longer, so she purchased some dumplings and slipped into a narrow alleyway.

    That night, she plotted her next steps. She needed to find a deserted hut or risk sleeping on the streets again. Tomorrow, she would begin her search for a sect that would accept her. She had to move forward with her plan.

 Unbroken Spirit

    As dawn broke, rays of sunlight flickered across Huanxin''s face, startling her awake. She stood up and stepped out of the alleyway. The world was still in slumber ,except for a few patrolling guards. Setting her sights on finding a deserted hut, she wandered for an hour before discovering one on the outskirts of Tianle. It resembled the one she had lived in before¡ªwebs on the roof, a musty smell, dirty, and cramped. The only piece of furniture was a small, nearly broken table.

    After settling into her new refuge, she headed to the market for breakfast, opting for the cheapest option: congee. Living in Jinggu had taught her the hard lesson that one couldn''t simply eat whatever one desired; survival often meant making do with whatever fit the budget.

    Once she finished her meager meal, she sought a sect that might accept her, only to be met with indifference. The situation in Tianle mirrored the situation in Jinggu. Though the sects in Tianle preached nobility, their actions revealed them as wolves in sheep''s clothing. The divide between social classes was stark¡ªwhile the nobles reveled in luxury, the poor suffered in silence.

    Yet Huanxin refused to surrender. I can''t give up, I have to survive for my tribe, family and friends. I won''t be welcomed in any sect, since I am a beggar. I would have to learn in secret, but which sect? She recalled the tales of the "Xianxi Sect, reigning supreme." Known as the strongest among all, it was situated on the outskirts, covering an expanse that included an entire forest. High walls, about six feet tall, encircled the sect, keeping outsiders at bay. The sect was fairly close to her new hut making it easier for her.

    Positioned at Xianxi''s doorstep, she observed the disciples and masters. Clad in simple blue robes, most disciples hailed from noble families. Some resided within the sect, while others traveled from the city. The masters lived there as well, and it appeared the main entrance was the only way in, guarded by different disciples each day. Impressed by the discipline and techniques on display, she mused, "They truly deserve their top rank."

    Continuing to circle the high walls, Huanxin searched for a vulnerability and spotted a narrow gap between the stones, partially hidden by overgrown vines. Her heart raced as she approached the opening, just wide enough to squeeze through if she was careful.

    Gritting her teeth, she slipped through, feeling the rough stones scrape against her skin. On the other side, she found herself in a secluded area of the sect, away from the main training grounds. The laughter and shouts faded, replaced by rustling leaves and bird chirpings.

    She meandered around anf found a tall tree. Climbing the tall tree, Huanxin could observe the disciples while being hidden. After memorizing their movements, she practiced them alone. The tree became her sanctuary. Each day, she would enter through the narrow gap, and when someone passed, she would quickly ascend the tree to conceal herself. With each passing day, she grew stronger, both physically and mentally.

    This clandestine routine continued for two to three months until, one fateful day, she was caught. While practicing sword movements with a stick, two young disciples spotted her. They seized her immediately, one sneering, "How dare you? Did you think you wouldn''t be caught stealing our sect''s martial arts?"

    "Let me go. I was just trying to learn," Huanxin pleaded.

    "Very well. Say that in front of the chief, and let''s see if he''ll spare you," the other disciple replied.

    They dragged her to the training ground and into a large hall where numerous masters sat. At the head of the room, an elderly man with a long white beard and hair tied in a bun commanded respect. Despite his age, he exuded strength. All eyes turned to Huanxin as the disciples forced her to kneel, their gazes laden with judgment. She felt humiliation wash over her as she was forced to kneel.

    "This intruder was caught practicing our martial arts, and according to sect rules, we brought her here," one disciple announced. A murmur of outrage rippled through the room. "An intruder, and a beggar, no less!" one master scoffed. "How shameful," another added. Huanxin felt a swell of disgust at their hypocrisy.

    Suddenly, one woman rose from his seat, his expression fierce "Mr. Rong, we should punish her severely as an example to others who dare to act with such audacity. She deserves to be flogged thirty times."

    A man interjected, "But she''ll die if she''s flogged that many times! She''s just a child. Her crime is significant, but she doesn''t warrant such a harsh punishment. We should show leniency."If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    Some masters murmured in agreement, while others voiced their dissent. Just as the man was about to respond, the head of the sect spoke, "What is your name?"

    Huanxin, feeling the weight of their scrutiny, lied. "Li Lianfeng."

    "Do you have anything to say in your defense?" Mr. Rong asked.

    With defiance, Lianfeng retorted, "You claim to be benevolent and preach equality, yet you are nothing but sycophants of the nobles. Is it such a grave crime to wish to learn martial arts? I approached every sect but was turned away. Why? Because I am a beggar. You didn''t even test my skill, nor did you care. Yes, I am a beggar, but are you any better? At least I have morals, which you lack." She forcefully shrugged off the disciple''s grip and rose to her feet.

    Enraged, the man declared, "She deserves to die."

    "But it''s against our sect rules to kill a child," another master countered.

    "Fine, if you think we are unfair, we will give you a chance¡ªa chance to prove yourself. You will face one of our disciples of your age. If you can survive for ten minutes, we will let you go without punishment. But if you cannot, you will die," Mr. Rong announced, standing and approaching Lianfeng.

    Lianfeng hesitated for a moment, I don''t have an option if I don''t accept I would be killed. "I accept".

    "Very well. Call Chen Tao." commanded Mr. Rong to the disciples.

    "Yes," replied the disciple bowing before running away.

    As the call echoed through the hall, the anticipation in the air thickened. Lianfeng''s heart raced as she prepared for the fight of her life.

    When Chen Tao arrived, the tension was palpable. As he approached, Lianfeng felt a mix of fear and determination. This was her chance, her moment to prove herself.

    As the signal sounded, Chen Tao lunged forward, his movements sharp and confident. Huanxin felt her heart race but steadied herself, recalling her training. She sidestepped just in time, Chen Tao''s fist slicing through the air where she had stood moments before.

    "Is that all you''ve got, beggar?" said Chen Tao smirking.

    Fueled by anger and determination, Huanxin clenched her fist "I fight for something greater than you know!" she shouted back, lunging forward with all her might.

    Chen Tao dodged, his agility surprising Huanxin, and retaliated with a series of quick jabs aimed at her midsection. Huanxin blocked a few strikes, but one punch landed squarely, knocking the wind from her.

    Gasping, Huanxin forced herself to focus. She remembered her training: balance, timing, control. As Chen Tao lunged again, Huanxin feigned weakness, leaning back as if to retreat.

    Chen Tao, sensing victory, overextended himself. Huanxin seized the opportunity, pivoting and sweeping Chen Tao''s legs from under him. The crowd gasped as Chen Tao stumbled and hit the ground.

    "Not so confident now, are you?" Huanxin taunted, catching her breath.

    Chen Tao''s face flushed with anger. "You''ll regret that!" he shouted, scrambling to his feet and charging with renewed ferocity.

    Huanxin braced herself, blocking a series of rapid strikes. Each blow reverberated through her, but she stood firm, drawing on her emotions¡ªanger, grief, and determination¡ªto fuel her movements. She remembered her tribe, their faces urging her to fight.

    As Chen Tao launched another wild swing, Huanxin ducked low, rolling to the side and springing back up. She had learned to harness her instincts, and it showed.

    With adrenaline coursing through her veins, Huanxin closed the distance. She feigned a left strike, then quickly pivoted, delivering a solid blow to Chen Tao''s jaw.

    Chen Tao staggered back, shock and disbelief etched across his features. "How...?" he gasped, fury sparking in his eyes.

    "You underestimated me," Huanxin replied, her voice steady, determination radiating.

    As Chen Tao steadied himself, Huanxin knew the fight wasn''t over. Chen Tao lunged forward and landed a kick on Huanxin''s abdomen. Huanxin felt the blow and was sent a few steps back, pain radiating through her abdomen. She quickly regained her footing, eyes narrowing as she focused on Chen Tao, who was already preparing to throw another punch. Just as he charged forward, the sign blared, its sharp sound cutting through the tension in the air.

    Both fighters froze, caught off guard. The crowd''s excitement shifted to murmurs of confusion, and Huanxin glanced around her heart racing. "What''s happening?" she thought, her adrenaline still coursing.

    Mr.Rong stepped forward his authoritative presence commanding attention " The time is up. I will keep my bargain; you are free to go."

    Huanxin glanced around. All eyes had been on her. She walked out through the main door for the first time. Until now, she had only slipped through that tiny gap in the wall. As she stepped out, dark clouds gathered ominously overhead. She realized, with a pang of disappointment, that she wouldn''t be able to continue learning the Xianxi sect''s martial arts.

    Wandering aimlessly, Huanxin felt the sting of the new injuries from the fight, and the older wounds throbbed painfully. The rain began to pour, snapping her out of her thoughts. She looked around, disoriented, and found herself standing in the middle of the main street, soaked and shivering.

    As the rain intensified, she sought refuge under the awning of a closed shop. The streets echoed with closing shutters and hurried footsteps as vendors packed up for the day. Huanxin leaned against the wall, feeling the weight of exhaustion. Weakness washed over her, and before she could process what was happening, her vision blurred.

    With a soft thud, she fainted, collapsing onto the cold, wet ground, the rain drenching her further. The world around her faded, leaving only the sound of raindrops falling and the distant murmur of the city as it slipped into the night.

 Rescue in the Rain

    With a soft thud, she fainted and collapsed onto the cold, wet ground, the rain drenching her further. The world faded away, leaving only the sound of raindrops, and distant murmur of the city as it slipped into the night. She struggled to lift her head, her limbs felt like lead, cemented to the cold, wet ground. Panic flickered in her chest, but darkness swallowed her consciousness.

    Suddenly, a shadow loomed over her. A man in his mid twenties knelt beside her. His long black hair was tied neatly behind him, framing a square, clean-shaven face. His dark brown eyes observed her. He reached out, checking for signs of life "She has injuries all over her body and a high fever," he said with concern.

    Without hesitation, he scooped her up in his strong arms, her body limp against his chest. "Stay with me," he urged softly, holding an umbrella in one hand as he moved through the storm.

    Soon,he reached his home¡ªa small cottage where the air was fragrant with peony and the earthy scent of rain-soaked soil. The house glowed with yellow light from the candles. His wife and daughter waited beneath the awning, their faces lit with worry.

    "Su Yin, call Physician Yan. Quickly!" His voice was edged with urgency as he hurried inside, cradling Huanxin.

    He laid her on the bed, immediately rubbing her cold feet to stimulate circulation. His young daughter of 5 with her father''s eyes, Wu Hi, mirrored his actions, rubbing Huanxin''s hand with care. The man gave his daughter an encouraging smile, though worry still shadowed his features. Moments later, Su Yin returned, accompanied by Physician Yan, who carried a small, well-worn medical kit.

    As the physician worked, Huanxin drifted in and out of consciousness, the sting of her wounds and the heat of fever blurring the edges of reality. The warmth of the cottage clung to her, but her clothes were drenched, sending cold shivers down her spine. She was dimly aware of hands cleaning her wounds, a sharp sting followed by a numbing relief.

    In the fog of her fevered mind, she slipped deeper into a troubling dream.

    The sounds of battle roared around her. Huanxin stood amid the battleground, sword in hand, her body aching from countless blows. The air crackled with tension, filled with the metallic scent of blood. She heard the desperate cries of her people, the clash of swords, and the cries of the wounded and dying. As she wielded her sword, she fought only to feel, a sword piercing through her abdomen. Blood spilled from her mouth. Her armour turned crimson. She holded the wound and fell to her knees.

    The scene shifted violently.

    She was no longer fighting. Now, she stood on the doorstep of her home. Her brother''s lifeless body lay on the doorstep, his once-smiling face bruised and bloodied. She tried to call out to him, but her voice caught in her throat. His eyes stared into nothingness, and the pain of his loss surged through her like a fresh wound.

    Shadows crept closer as the faces of her tribe fell one by one. "Help us, Huanxin. Help us," they cried. "Fight Xiner, don''t give up," her parents urged with smiles. She rushed to hug them, but they vanished, leaving her alone, amid a battleground surronded by corpses¡ªsome faces she knew, some she didn''t. She was drenched in blood. With a gasp, Huanxin''s eyes flew open, her heart racing as the echoes of battle faded into silence. She trembled, her breath quick and shallow.

    A girl of her age, wearing a pink robe with her hair tied in two braids, rushed in. "Mommy, Daddy, she woke up!" The girl beamed and hurried to her side "How are you? Are you feeling better now? Do you still feel pain?" she bombarded Huanxin with questions but Huanxin hadn''t regained full consciousness, her mind clouded with her tribe''s pleas.

    The man and his wife entered the room, the wife gently said "Don''t ask so many questions, Wu Hi. She has just woken up; let her relax." "Okay, mother" Wu Hi replied, her tone appeasing.

    "How are you feeling now?" the man asked softly, worry etching his face.

    As Huanxin''s consciousness began to return, she was acutely aware of her body¡ªeach small movement sending waves of pain through her limbs. The ache in her abdomen felt like a burning brand, sharp and relentless, while her muscles were heavy and sore as if she had been trampled by a herd of wild horses.

    Yet, in stark contrast to her previous suffering in the rain, she was enveloped in a warm cocoon of blankets each layer like a protective shield around her, soothing her aching body. The bed beneath her was surprisingly comfortable, the mattress yielding gently to her weight, offering a refuge from the cold ground that had once felt so unforgiving.

    As she lay there, the warmth seeped into her bones, a welcome reprieve that made her momentarily forget the throbbing pain. She took a deep breath, the scent of peony lingering in the air, mingling with the antiseptic smell of the physician''s herbs. This soothing aroma tended to her.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.

    But with each inhale, the sharp reminder of her injuries clawed back, anchoring her to the reality of her situation. It was a duality of sensations: warmth and comfort battling against the raw edges of pain.

    She looked around and saw a man, a woman, and a girl staring at her. The man and woman appeared in their twenties; the man wore a blue robe while the woman donned purple. Huanxin noticed she was in a wooden room with a table at its center, surrounded by chairs draped in a purple table cover. The scent of medicine filled the air, accompanied by a vase of elegant blue pottery and a laughing Buddha.

    "Are you okay?" the woman asked with concern as Huanxin remained silent.

    "I am okay. But who are you, and what am I doing here?" asked Huanxin confusion evident in her voice.

    " I am Wu Xuefu(Woo Shweh-foo). She is my wife, Su Yin(Soo Yin) and she is my daughter Wu Hi(Woo Hee)." introduced the man. "I found you unconscious in the rain last night. You were running a high fever with bruises all over." the man explained.

    " Right," Huanxin lowered her gaze, her voice barely over a whisper "Thank you for saving me" she added, bowing her head in gratitude. "I have troubled you enough; I will get going."

    "Have breakfast before you go. My parents make tasty food." Wu Hi chimed in, her excitement palpable

    "Yes, she''s right. I''ve already made your breakfast, so you must eat before leaving," the woman insisted, making it clear she wouldn''t take no for an answer.

    "Thank you then, I''ll leave after eating breakfast" Huanxin complied, as her stomach also felt empty.

    As Mr. Wu and Ms. Su went to prepare breakfast, Wu Hi flitted around Huanxin, her energy contagious. "What''s your name?How old are you?" she asked, eyes wide with curiosity. "Why were you in the rain? Your parents must be worried!"

    Huanxin hesitated, feeling a tightness in her chest. "I''m Lianfeng," she said, the name comforting yet foreign. "I''m five, almost six. I''m... an orphan." The weight of those words hung heavily between them, and she wished to say no more.

    "That''s so sad." Wu Hi said, her voice filled with symphaty."I am also 5 years old. What do you like? I will ask Mother to buy it for you!" her tone changed to curiousity.

    Huanxin''s heart ached at the innocence radiating from the girl. She glanced down noticing that she was no longer in her ragged clothes but in a vibrant red robe¡ªwarm and clean. "Where are my clothes?" she asked.

    "Ms. Yan said you needed to change your clothes, because yours were completely soaked. Mother gave you my red robe since it fits you just fine," Wu Hi explained.

    ''I see." Huanxin replied, the girl''s cheerful demeanor easing some of her tension.

    When Mr. Wu and Ms. Su returned with an array of delicious dishes, Huanxin couldn''t ignore the warmth of the atmosphere. Breakfast was lively, filled with Wu Hi''s chatter. Yet beneath the cheerful banter, Huanxin felt melancholy as she watched the girl''s carefree spirit.

    After thanking the kind family again, Huanxin stepped into the garden, the morning sun casting a gentle glow over the wildflowers. The sweet scent of peony filled the air. As she moved among the flowers, she felt nostalgiic, the vibrant flowers reminded her of her brother''s favourite spot. She reminicised of her family, there wasn''t a single day when she didn''t think of them. She remembered the sound of her father''s voice, calm and steady, telling her about their ancestors. "We are strong, Lianfeng," he had said, "and we always protect our own." But now, all she felt was emptiness, a longing for the past that could never return.

    Each memory was a thread, weaving her past into the fabric of her present. As she grappled with her decisions, these flashbacks clamped her emotions, reminding her of what she had lost and what she must claim. The pain fueled her determination, transforming sorrow into strength.

    But that strength came with a cost. I can''t afford to return to the past, she thought, clenching her fists as the warmth of nostalgia turned cold. Her family''s laughter echoed in her mind, a contrast to her harsh reality. If I try to learn in secret, I''ll only put myself in danger again. I need a different way.

    If I want to survive, I need strength. But I also need to be free¡ªfree to choose my path, without the influence of any sect.

    As Huanxin watched Wu Hi chasing butterflies, laughter ringing like a bell, a pang of longing shot through her. She remembered when her days were filled with carefree joy¡ªwhen she had laughed without a care, the world around her vibrant and alive. But those days felt like a distant dream, overshadowed by the harsh reality.

    I was once like her, she thought, her heart aching. "I had a family, warmth, and safety. Now, all I have are their memories. I miss my mother''s arms wrapped around me, her laughter. I long my father''s tales.The sense of belonging, the feeling of being cherished¡ªI''ve lost those things for, forever. The laughter that had once filled her home was replaced by echoes of cries for help, the faces of her loved ones haunting her thoughts.

    Suddenly, Wu Hi stumbled, her laughter fading as she looked up at Huanxin with wide eyes. "Are you okay?" she asked, her concern palpable.

    Caught off guard, Huanxin met her gaze. "I''m fine, really," she said, forcing a smile, though it felt brittle. "Just thinking."

    "About what?" Wu Hi pressed, tilting her head.

    Huanxin hesitated, grappling with her emotions. "About... choices," she finally replied, her voice soft. "About what I need to do next."

    Wu Hi''s brow furrowed. "Can I help?"

    The girl''s earnestness pierced Huanxin''s heart. Help? But how could she explain the dangers lurking just beyond the garden? "You already are," Huanxin whispered.

    With a determined sigh, Huanxin turned away from the scene, feeling the weight of her choices pressing down on her. I can''t rely on anyone connected to those sects. I need a mentor who can teach me¡ªsomeone who can help me grow without their agendas.

    Each step away from the vibrant flowers felt heavy, yet a fire ignited within her. I will become stronger. I will claim justice. But the thought of being discovered lingered in her mind like a shadow. She would have to tread carefully, every decision significant in the path she chose.

    As she looked back at Wu Hi, who was now lost in her own world, Huanxin felt her resolve solidify. I''ll find my strength, and I''ll do it on my own terms.

 Broken yet Whole

    Huanxin began her search for a mentor in the bustling city of Tianle, where life thrived amid danger. The streets were alive with vendors shouting their wares, the air filled with the rich scents of spices and grilled meats. But beneath the lively surface, the cases of theft and kidnappings increased, constantly reminding her of the risks that surrounded her.

    Her injuries still throbbed, a constant reminder of her vulnerability. After spending her last savings on treatment, she was broke. Now, every alley felt like a potential trap, and children''s laughter often faded under the weight of fear.

    Back at her small hut on the city''s outskirts, Huanxin crafted a simple alarm system using wood from the nearby forest. She tied thin strings to small bells, hanging them at her doorway to warn her of intruders. As she worked, an unsettling feeling crept over her, as if someone were watching. The forest around her felt alive, the rustling leaves whispering warnings.

    Just as she finished, a loud crash echoed nearby. Her heart raced. She peered out, and in the dim light, she saw a group of rough-looking men approaching, their eyes scanning the area. Panic surged through her. They were known troublemakers.

    Huanxin quickly ducked behind a tree, her breath caught in her throat. She could hear their jeering voices, full of arrogance and menace. "We''ll find someone to entertain us," one of them laughed, and the others joined in, their laughter chilling.

    She held her breath, heart pounding, knowing she needed to stay hidden. The men were getting closer, and the idea of being discovered sent adrenaline coursing through her veins. This was the danger she had only heard about¡ªthe reality of being alone in a city filled with threats.

    As they approached her hut, one of the men leaned against the wall, casually flicking a dagger in his hand. Huanxin''s mind raced. She needed a way out. Her alarm bells were ready, but would they be enough to scare them off?

    Summoning every ounce of courage, she prepared to set off her alarm, hoping to startle them before they could reach her. But just as she was about to pull the string, a sudden movement in the bushes caught her eye. A shadow darted past her¡ªwas it friend or foe?

    Suddenly, two familiar figures burst from the underbrush. She recognized the faces instantly they were Lian Jun and Zhen Jian, her companions from the journey between Jinggu and Tianle. Relief washed over her as they rushed forward, but the fear of exposure gripped her tightly.

    "Get back!" Lian Jun shouted, brandishing a sword he had, his martial training evident in his stance.

    Zhen Jian nodded, his eyes sharp as he assessed the men. "We''ll handle this!"

    Without hesitation, they sprang into action. Lian Jun swung the stick with determination, catching one of the men off guard and sending him sprawling. Zhen Jian followed up with a quick jab to another''s side, creating a momentary distraction.

    In the chaos, Huanxin seized the opportunity to escape, her heart racing as she slipped away from the confrontation. But as she ran, Lian Jun and Zhen Jian quickly caught up to her, breathing heavily.

    "Why are you alone? Shouldn''t you be with your parents?" Lian Jun demanded, surprise and anger flaring in his voice.

    "Let''s not talk right now; we need to move. They''ll catch up with us soon," Zhen Jian urged, his tone urgent.

    As they burst into the crowded street, Huanxin''s heart raced. The vibrant colors and sounds of Tianle swirled around her, but they felt distant, muted by her adrenaline. She caught snippets of laughter, the sizzle of street food, and the chatter of vendors. Her daze broke when,

    Lian Jun with concern asked, "Where are your parents? Shouldn''t you be with them?

    Caught in her lie, Huanxin told the truth, "I am an orphan. I don''t have parents."

    Lian Jun furious with anger shouted at Huanxin "Lianfeng, why did you lie? Why? You made us fools, didn''t you?"

    Huanxin sobbed "I just wanted to come to Tianle, so I lied. Would you have taken me if I hadn told you the truth instead?"

    The atmosphere crackled with tension¡ªone heart pulsing with rage, the other heavy with fear.

    Zhen Jian, sensing the rising conflict, stepped in. "Let''s not discuss this out here. We need to find a quieter place. That restaurant over there looks nice."

    With a scowl, Lian Jun stormed towards the restaurant, his frustration palpable. Huanxin followed, each step feeling heavier, her guilt pressing down like a weight. Zhen Jian trailed closely, a protective presence as he kept an eye on her.

    Inside, the restaurant was calm and serene, with a soft glow from lanterns casting gentle light on polished wooden tables. The air was filled with the rich aroma of spices, mingling with the warmth of freshly cooked dishes. The quiet chatter of a few patrons created a soothing background, contrasting sharply with the storm brewing among them.

    Zhen Jian led them to a private room upstairs, where a square table awaited with four chairs set around it. Huanxin sat first, her heart racing, while Lian Jun and Zhen Jian took seats beside her, the weight of their unspoken feelings hanging in the air.

    Before Lian Jun could unleash his anger again, Zhen Jian gently wiped Huanxin''s tears and asked, "Why did you lie?"

    "I just wanted to come to Tianle. I thought you wouldn''t take me if I told the truth. I''m an orphan; I don''t have a family. I needed to survive. Tianle is so much bigger than Jinggu, and I thought I could earn more here," said Lianfeng breathing heavily. She lied again to them, she couldn''t tell them the truth even if they had been so kind she had lost all the trust she had in this world. She had built high walls around her, and she wouldn''t let anyone enter them.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

    "It''s okay. Don''t cry," Zhen Jian reassured her, his tone softening, but Lian Jun''s frustration simmered beneath the surface.

    "How do we know she isn''t lying again?" Lian Jun interjected, hurt and betrayal in his voice. He felt sympathy for her plight, yet the sense of being deceived stung sharply.

    "Let''s not make accusations right now. The world is already tough for her," Zhen Jian replied firmly, trying to mediate the tension.

    "I''m so sorry! I didn''t mean to hurt you. Please don''t be angry with me, brother," Lianfeng pleaded, her voice trembling.

    Lian Jun''s anger flickered. "Alright, I forgive you this time. But you can''t stay here; it''s too dangerous."

    "I have to find my way. I can''t rely on you forever. I need to grow stronger to survive," she insisted, her determination shining through her tears.

    "If you don''t want to travel with us, that''s fine. But let us help you build a better alarm. That little mechanism won''t protect you," Zhen Jian offered his voice steady and kind.

    "Okay," Huanxin replied, a small smile breaking through her distress.

    "Where''s the waiter? I''ll go order," Lian Jun said abruptly, rising from the table.

    As he left, the door closed quietly behind him, and Huanxin felt guilty watching him go. Zhen Jian noticed her distress and said softly, "Don''t worry. He''ll come around. We both think of you as our little sister. Do you know how much he talks about you? He''s always so worried about you."

    Huanxin smiled warmed by their kindness, but she still couldn''t tell them her truth. Torn between the urge to te the truth and the instinct to protect herself, she felt confused.

    They care for me. They treat me like family. But what if I let them down? What if I open up, and they realize I''m not worth their time? I''ve built walls for a reason, but these moments... make me want to break them down."

    Zhen Jian''s kind words offered a glimpse of hope, but her heart still ached with uncertainty.

    "Will they still think of me as their little sister if they knew the truth? Or will they see me as an outsider, unworthy of their friendship?"

    After their meal, the trio returned to the hut. Lian Jun observed, "Lianfeng has made this place livable. It''s surprisingly clean for a deserted house."

    He examined the mechanism Huanxin had crafted, an intricate design of wooden components and strings meant to protect her home. "What have you done here?" he asked, genuine curiosity breaking through his anger.

    Huanxin smiled, pride mingling with a hint of nervousness. "It''s an alarm system," she explained. "I used the wood from the forest nearby. The design is simple but effective."

    She gestured to a series of thin, nearly invisible strings stretched taut around her doorframe, connected to small bells and sharp wooden spikes hidden just out of sight. "When someone steps too close, the strings pull the bells, alerting me. If they''re not careful, they might even get pricked by the spikes."

    Zhen Jian leaned in, inspecting the craftsmanship. "This is impressive for someone your age. You''ve thought of everything," he said, nodding appreciatively. "But it needs to be stronger. A determined intruder could easily break through or bypass it."

    "They think I''m capable, but what if I fail? If Lian Jun and Zhen Jian knew how close I was to falling apart, would they still want to help? I need to prove I can stand on my own."

    As Lian Jun and Zhen Jian brainstormed improvements, Huanxin felt the warmth of camaraderie.

    Maybe it''s okay to let them in, just a little. But what if they see the truth? I''m just an orphan. I still haven''t punished the culprit of my tribe''s massacre. Can I allow myself to be part of something?

    Lian Jun stepped closer, his initial anger fading as he examined her work. "You''ve used the natural resources well. But we should make it more complex," he added, his voice thoughtful. "What if we add a tripwire that triggers a louder alarm, maybe even a series of small traps around the perimeter?"

    Huanxin''s eyes lit up with enthusiasm. "I was thinking of that! If we could use some of the larger branches and make them swing down, it would be an additional deterrent. Perhaps even some noise-makers to confuse anyone trying to sneak in."

    Zhen Jian''s mind raced with ideas. "If we can rig a few more bells to create a cacophony, it might scare off potential intruders. We can use whatever we find in the area¡ªstones, branches, anything that can create noise or movement."

    As they brainstormed, Huanxin felt a sense of empowerment. The young men were treating her as an equal, and for the first time, she saw her skills not as mere survival tactics, but as a means of standing her ground in this harsh world.

    "Let''s gather some materials from the forest," Lian Jun suggested. "We can fortify your defenses and create layers of protection."

    With renewed determination, the trio set off into the nearby woods, collecting branches, stones, and other natural elements. They worked together, laughing and exchanging ideas as they crafted a more intricate alarm system. Huanxin felt a sense of camaraderie, her heart swelling with hope as they built something stronger and more effective.

    Back at her hut, they constructed the upgraded mechanism. Lian Jun showed her how to properly position the tripwires so they would be less visible to an intruder. Zhen Jian worked alongside her, demonstrating how to balance the swinging traps to ensure they wouldn''t accidentally harm her if she forgot their placement.

    As night began to fall, the mechanism took shape¡ªan elaborate network of strings and bells, traps and alarms, ready to protect her from the dangers of the city. Zhen Jian wrapped up the final touches, his hands steady and precise. "You need to remember where every part is placed," he cautioned, looking her in the eye. "This can be deadly, so be careful."

    "Only a master can break through this," Lian Jun added a newfound respect in his voice. "You''ve done well, Lianfeng."

    Huanxin beamed at their praise, feeling a spark of confidence ignite within her. She realized that not only had she fortified her home, but she had also built connections that gave her strength.

    With their work done and the stars twinkling above, she felt a sense of safety she hadn''t experienced in a long time. The alarms, the traps, and the knowledge that she had friends who cared for her provided a shield against the fears that once haunted her.

    As the night deepened and they finished their meal, Huanxin felt a warmth in her heart¡ªa flicker of hope, ignited by the laughter of her companions. Their banter and camaraderie reminded her of simpler times with her own family."I''ve lost so much, but perhaps I can still find a place in this world."

    As they prepared to leave, she took a deep breath, a mix of gratitude and uncertainty swirling within her. "I can''t change my past, but I can embrace the future. I''ll let them in, little by little. They care for me."

    With renewed determination, she watched them walk away, a small smile on her lips. "I''ll write to them. I''ll let them know I''m here, fighting. And maybe, just maybe, I can build a new family."

    "Lianfeng, we will write you letters to you from now. So, you must write back too. Okay?" spoke Zhen Jian.

    "Yes, tell me your address so I can post the letter," said Lianfeng beaming a smile.

    "Silly child, we are travelers, we don''t stay in one place for long. In every letter we will tell you where to post your reply letter," said Lian Jun still, a bit of anger resided in him.

    "Okay," said Lianfeng giving him the biggest smile.

    Lian Jun chuckled, and Zhen Jian felt warmth in his heart as he watched the exchange. Despite the earlier conflict, their bond grew stronger with each moment.

    As they bid her a heartfelt goodbye, Huanxin felt a bittersweet mix of gratitude and sorrow. The young men departed on their journey. Huanxin looked at their disappearing figures.

    What if I never see them again? I''ve built a connection, but can I trust it? Am I strong enough to stand alone?

    Yet, their smiles and promises to write ignited a small spark of hope.

    Maybe I can allow myself to hope for something better. But can I risk it? Can I trust that this isn''t just another fleeting moment that will end in abandonment?

    Huanxin brushed her thoughts aside and stepped carefully into her hut.

 Acceptance

    Huanxin searched relentlessly, her heart set on finding a mentor in the bustling city of Tianle. The streets buzzed with life, filled with vibrant colors and mingling scents. She strained to overhear conversations that might lead her to a master not tied to the sects¡ªfigures as rare as precious stones. She paid special attention to martial arts traveller. They were often visiting masters. Each day of searching often left her feeling disheartened.

    Every morning, she practiced the techniques she had learned from the Xianxi Sect, the crisp sounds of her movements echoing in the quiet solitude of her hut. Each strike was a testament to her determination, yet her heart ached for guidance beyond physical prowess. What if I could find someone who truly understood my struggles?

    Then, one fortunate day, as a cold breeze swept through the city¡ªa refreshing contrast to the summer heat¡ªHuanxin overheard a conversation that ignited a flicker of hope. Two travelers laughing stood at the corner of a busy alley, their clothing vibrant and distinct from the locals.

    "Let''s go visit Ms. Su. It''s been far too long," the man said, his voice warm and rich, nostalgia evident in his tone.

    The woman nodded eagerly, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "I heard her husband is also a great martial artist. It''s such a pity they don''t join any sect. They''ve always seemed to hold disdain for them."

    Huanxin''s heart raced at the mention of Ms. Su. She sounded like the mentor she had been searching for¡ªsomeone who could offer wisdom outside the constraints of sect politics, someone great.

    With her heart pounding, she followed the duo closely through the winding alleys, her footsteps light and stealthy. They weaved past colorful vendors, and the mouthwatering aromas of grilled meats and spices. Finally, they approached a modest house, its wooden facade adorned with creeping vines and vibrant flowers blooming on the windowsills.

    The house felt eerily familiar, a tugging at her heartstrings. Suddenly, it struck her like a wave¡ªthis was Mr. Wu''s home. They were talking about Ms. Su Yin and Mr. Wu Xuefu!

    Shock and excitement coursed through her veins. My savior is one of the best martial artists? What do I do now? Anxiety wrapped around her thoughts like a vine. What if they think I''m here to take advantage of them? No, they won''t believe that¡ªthey''re good people. I should wait for them to come out before going in. She thought, glancing at the duo entering the house.

    Huanxin found a shadowed corner, her breath steadying as she waited. Hours passed, the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. The travelers finally emerged, exchanging warm farewells. Just as Mr. Wu turned to close the door, she stepped forward, heart racing.

    "Mr. Wu!" she called out, her voice trembling but filled with resolve. Before Mr. Wu could respond, she bent low in a deep bow, her forehead nearly touching the ground. "Please, take me as your disciple."

    Mr. Wu, momentarily stunned by her sudden request, studied her with a mixture of surprise and curiosity. "Get up. Come inside," he urged, his tone gentle yet commanding.

    They settled at a marble table, where fresh fruit hung heavy from the trees outside¡ªa sign of abundance and care.

    "Why do you want to be my disciple, Lianfeng?" Mr. Wu asked, breaking the silence, his gaze probing.

    Huanxin hesitated, weighing her words carefully. He remembers me. I can''t let him know my true motive. "Sir, I greaty admire martial artists and have always wanted to be one. Also, this city isn''t kind. I need strength to survive here," she said, her voice steady despite the tempest inside her.

    Mr. Wu scrutinized her eyes, searching for the truth behind her determination. "Why should I take you in? What do you have to offer?"

    She took a moment, heart pounding, before responding, "I don''t have materials or wealth. I can''t pay you, but I''ll do any work you ask of me. I promise to be dedicated," she bowed her head deeply, her pony flapping to the front. What if I''m not enough? What if he sees through my facade and rejects me?

    "Very well," he said, rising from his seat. "I will take you as my disciple, but you must follow my guidance without question."

    Huanxin''s heart soared. "Yes, I will!"

    "Then go and gather your things. You will live with us," Mr. Wu ordered, his voice leaving no room for argument.

    Huanxin felt a rush of excitement and trepidation. This is it. She bowed deeply again before rushing to her hut, her heart racing with the possibilities ahead.

    As she packed, she thought about the journey that lay before her. She carefully folded her few clothes, placed her wooden practice sword into her bag, and gathered the herbs she used for healing. Each item represented a piece of her past, but now they felt like tools for her future. At last, she took the hairpin which had been carefully placed in a wooden box. She casted a long look to it, I have done it. I have made my first step.

    Back at Mr. Wu''s house, Ms. Su had seen everything.

    She approached Wu Xuefu, her curiosity piqued. "You refused to take any disciple when I asked you. Why are you taking her in?"Stolen story; please report.

    "The ones who asked me before were noble''s children. They don''t need me. But she¡ªshe is different. You didn''t see the determination in her eyes. Isn''t it good anyway? Our Wu Hi will also have a playmate."

    Ms. Su nodded, her expression softening with understanding. "You pity her, don''t you?"

    Mr. Wu replied, "It''s just¡ªjust that I feel she is so similar to our Wu Hi."

    "She is of the same age. Anyways, since you have taken her in, I don''t have any objections." Su Yin said, smiling.

    Returning to Mr. Wu''s home, Huanxin stepped inside with a mix of nervousness and determination. The warmth of the house enveloped her, and she felt an unfamiliar sense of belonging.

    "Let''s begin," Mr. Wu said, guiding her to a training area filled with equipment. "Your training starts now. Show me what you got."

    Huanxin felt her heart leap. She picked up a wooden sword, its familiar weight grounding her. As she demonstrated her basic strikes, she felt the rhythm of her training flowing back.

    "Not bad," Mr. Wu remarked, his expression neutral but his eyes glimmering with interest. "But remember, martial arts require more than speed. It''s about control and intention."

    She nodded, determination swelling within her. He''s right. I''ve only ever fought to survive. What if I could learn to fight to thrive? I can do this.

    With each strike, she channeled her fears into strength, the sword dancing in her hands as she focused on the lessons of discipline and respect. As the hours slipped away, she felt a fire igniting in her heart¡ªa commitment to her path.

    Finally, after a rigorous session, Mr. Wu clapped his hands, signaling a break. "You''ve done well today. But remember, this is only the beginning. You must remain dedicated if you wish to grow."

    Huanxin nodded, breathless yet exhilarated. "I will, I promise."

    With the stars twinkling above, she knew she had taken the first step toward not just strength but toward forging her destiny. With Mr. Wu by her side, she was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, both in her training and her quest for justice.

    They returned inside the cozy home, where dinner was already served. Wu Hi was sitting at the table, her eyes bright with excitement.

    "Father, is Lianfeng going to live with us?" she asked, tugging at Mr. Wu''s sleeves.

    He smiled and replied, "Yes."

    "Yay!" Wu Hi shouted, her excitement bubbling over. "I''ll have a sister from now on!" She clasped Huanxin''s hand, beaming. Huanxin smiled back, a warmth spreading through her as she longed for the sisterly bond she had never known. But her thoughts quickly drifted back to her own family, a bittersweet ache settling in her heart.

    "How was your practice?" Mr. Wu asked Wu Hi, breaking Huanxin''s train of thought.

    "It was great! Mumma taught me new moves today. They look so magnificent!" Wu Hi replied, her eyes shining with pride.

    Ms. Su entered the room, her gentle presence filling the space. "How was your day, Lianfeng?" she asked, settling at the table.

    "It was great, Ms. Su," Huanxin replied, a genuine smile lighting up her face. In a long while, she felt a glimmer of hope and belonging in this new chapter of her life.

    As they settled in for dinner, the warm atmosphere of the house enveloped Huanxin. The table was laden with an array of dishes, each more fragrant than the last. As they ate, the conversation flowed easily, laughter punctuating the air.

    "Father, I want to show Lianfeng the new moves Mumma taught me!" Wu Hi exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

    "Is that so?" Mr. Wu replied with a grin. "What moves are those? The ones you picked up from your mother or the ones you learned from me?"

    Wu Hi giggled, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Oh, definitely Mumma''s! They''re much prettier." She struck a pose, mimicking her mother''s graceful stances, her arms flowing like water.

    "Prettier, huh?" Mr. Wu chuckled, leaning back in his chair, arms crossed. "You realize that ''pretty'' won''t save you in a real fight, right?"

    "But it''ll make my opponents so dazzled they won''t even want to fight!" Wu Hi shot back, her face scrunching in playful defiance. "Besides, Mumma always says martial arts is an art form. You have to make it beautiful!"

    As Huanxin watched Mr. Wu and Wu Hi engage in playful banter, she felt a swell of warmth in her chest, but it was tinged with a bittersweet ache. How long has it been since I felt this kind of joy? she thought. The laughter echoed in her mind, pulling her back to memories of her family¡ªtimes that felt so distant now.

    "Your mother sounds wise," she remarked, her heart warmed by the lighthearted exchange.

    Their ease with each other felt foreign yet inviting. It was a reminder of what she''d lost and what she desperately wished to find again.

    "Oh, she is!" Wu Hi said, beaming. "And her moves are the best! I want to be just like her."

    Mr. Wu raised an eyebrow, a playful challenge glimmering in his eyes. "Well, if you''re so set on being like your mother, you''d better work hard. Those moves require discipline and strength, not just beauty."

    Huanxin couldn''t help but admire his wisdom. He sees beyond the surface, she realized. It''s not just about beauty; it''s about strength and intention. I need to learn that too. The realization ignited a sense of purpose within her. If I want to grow, I must embrace discipline, just as they do.

    Wu Hi pouted, then smiled brightly. "But I can be both! Watch, Lianfeng!" She jumped up, clearing a small space in the room. With a determined look, she began to demonstrate one of her mother''s techniques¡ªa fluid combination of strikes and spins, graceful yet powerful.

    Huanxin couldn''t help but admire the girl''s energy. She moves with such confidence, Huanxin mused, a twinge of envy sparking within her. I wonder how it would be like to train alongside her. She is so unburdened. The thought lingered, weaving into her desire for strength and freedom.

    As she clapped for Wu Hi, Huanxin''s heart raced. She''s amazing, surely she is their daughter, she reflected. What if they discover my motives? Will they disown me? She shook off the thought, reminding herself that this was her chance. I have to be strong enough to protect myself.

    "See, Father? I can be fierce and pretty!" Wu Hi declared, striking a final pose, her laughter ringing through the room.

    Mr. Wu chuckled, shaking his head. "Alright, alright. You win this round. But remember, it takes more than just looks to master those techniques."

    "Maybe we can practice together, Lianfeng!" Wu Hi suggested eagerly, her eyes wide with excitement.

    For the first time in a long while, Huanxin felt the flutter of something new¡ªa bond, a sisterhood she hadn''t dared to dream of.

    Huanxin''s heart swelled at the invitation. "I''d love that," she replied, a sense of warmth enveloping her. The playful banter had woven a new thread of connection between them, filling the room with laughter and camaraderie.

    Ms. Su looked at both the kids and thought Xuefu was right in his decision. She looked at her husband with loving eyes and back at the children.

    As the night wore on, and the laughter filled the air, Huanxin felt a flicker of hope. Maybe this is the beginning of something good.

    Each laugh and shared story resonated within her. This warmth is what I''ve been missing, she thought, her heart swelling with possibilities. Could I dare to hope for a future where I''m not just surviving, but truly living?

 In the Balance

    It was afternoon in the sweltering summer heat. The sun hung high, casting golden light through the windows, warming the wooden desk. Outside, the air was thick with the scent of blooming flowers from the garden. Huanxin sat at the desk, picking up a pen and a fresh sheet of paper. She hesitated for a moment before putting her thoughts into words.

    Dear Jian,

    I received your letter, and I am so happy for Brother Jun. He''s finding love, and I truly hope that he and Ms. Sun can build a life together that lasts forever. They deserve it, don''t they? And I hope you, too, find someone who brings you the same joy.

    I don''t know if I''ve ever said this clearly, but I''m so grateful to you and Lian Jun. I think about that day often¡ªthe day you both saved me. If you hadn''t arrived, I might not even be alive to write this. You pulled me back from the edge in more ways than one. I never told you this before, but the day you and Lian Jun helped me build the alarm; it wasn''t just a wall for my home. It was a wall you helped build around my heart¡ªone that made me feel safer than I ever had. Before that, I didn''t realize how broken I truly was¡ªhow much fear I carried with me every day.

    There are things I haven''t told you, things that I still can''t share. But I want you to know that every moment you stood by my side without asking questions, every time you supported me without prying or pushing, you made me believe that perhaps, one day, I could tell you everything. Maybe, one day, I could trust again. You and brother Jun made me realize that there''s still light in the world, even after everything I''ve been through.

    I don''t know how long it will take me to believe that fully, but I''m trying. And for that, I owe you both more than words could ever say. The only ounce of trust and hope I have left is because of you both; if it weren''t for you, I wouldn''t even have that.

    Anyway, things have changed a lot for me. I''ve left the hut. I''m living with the Wu family now, and they''ve been so kind to me. They treat me like one of their own, just as you and Jun did on our journey. But being part of a family again feels strange, Jian. They laugh so freely, they share stories around the table, and they''ve embraced me in all of it. It''s both beautiful and terrifying.

    At times, I catch myself holding back, wondering if I truly belong here and deserve the kindness they show me. There''s this warmth, but I''m afraid of losing it and letting myself feel too comfortable. Do you understand that?

    When we traveled to Tianle, I could forget the past in moments of laughter and long talks, feeling like I was part of something¡ªa family, even if only for a while. I''ll always treasure those memories, especially when the world feels heavy again.

    But here, with the Wu family, things feel different. It''s not just fleeting moments of belonging; it''s... real. And I''m scared of what that means. What if they see the parts of me that I''ve hidden for so long and I end up letting them down? These thoughts keep swirling in my mind, but still, I try. I''m slowly learning to accept that maybe, just maybe, I can have a home again.

    I hope you''re doing well. I miss you both. Write to me when you can. Tell me more about Ms. Sun. I am excited to see what my sister-in-law will be like. I''m pretty sure she is a lovely lady.

    Your Sister, Lianfeng

    She looked at the name, which was her identity now but wasn''t hers truly, too. Should I tell them that I am Huanxin? But what good would that do? Knowing about my identity would do more harm than good. Maybe I am now Lianfeng, not Huanxin. Huanxin had been a joyful girl once, a heart filled with laughter and dreams, but that girl had died when she lost her tribe. Huanxin meant "joyful heart," a name that resonated with her past, but Lianfeng¡ª"persistent wind"¡ªrepresented her fight for survival and her desire for revenge. It was as if she were straddling two worlds: one that reminded her of the love she once knew and another that pushed her toward the darkness she battled within.

    As she contemplated her identity, Huanxin felt sad. Would she ever fully embrace the name Lianfeng? Did she have to abandon Huanxin completely to move forward? Each name told a story, yet both felt like masks. Lianfeng was a reminder of her resilience, but at what cost? It seemed like a betrayal to the joyful girl she once was. Was she becoming someone new, or was she hiding from the person she had been? She exhaled deeply, releasing a heavy breath.

    Lost in thought, Lianfeng was interrupted by Wu Hi''s bright smile and high-pitched voice, cutting through the heaviness in the air, "Lianfeng, come and help us! We are planting new plants today!"

    Lianfeng smiled, grateful for the interruption, and followed Wu Hi into the garden. The vibrant colors of flowers surrounded them, as Mr. Wu and Ms. Su''s laughter filled the space like a gentle melody. They each held a plant pot, with two others resting at their feet.

    Wu Hi picked up one of the pots and offered it to Lianfeng. "One plant for each of us!"

    She took a deep breath, feeling the warmth of the sun and the gentle breeze carrying floral scents. As they planted the flowers together, she realized each seed symbolized a new beginning¡ªnot just for the plants, but for her as well.

    "Let''s plant it together!" Lianfeng said, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her. She knelt beside Wu Hi and pressed the plant into the soil, grounding it as if to ground herself.

    "Look, it''s perfect!" Wu Hi exclaimed, her eyes shining with joy. "Now it can grow with us!"

    At that moment, Lianfeng felt a spark of hope. Perhaps, with time, she could truly belong here.

    Her thoughts drifted back to Jun and Jian. Her feelings for Zhen Jian and Lian Jun were complex, layered with gratitude and a deep, almost familial love. They had saved her¡ªnot just from a moment of peril but from a life of solitude. Their friendship had been her lifeline, a connection to the world that felt warm. With them, she felt seen and valued, but there was always a distance¡ªan unspoken barrier stemming from her fear.

    Jian and Lian Jun had supported her through the darkest times, but their relationship was tinged with the shadows of her past. While they provided her with solace and strength, she often felt like a visitor in their lives. There was a sense of obligation to keep her distance, to protect them from the remnants of her pain.

    In contrast, the Wu family offered her a different kind of connection¡ªa familial bond that enveloped her like a warm blanket. They didn''t know her past, yet they welcomed her without hesitation, treating her like one of their own, and engaging her in their laughter and shared experiences. This acceptance was unlike anything she had known before.

    With them, I am not just surviving¡ªI am living. They see me for who I am today.

    Yet, as she bonded with the Wu family, she grappled with the fear of revealing too much. What if they know my truth and turn away? Can I risk revealing the shadows that lurk within me?

    This contrast deepened her internal conflict¡ªbetween Jian and Lian Jun''s comforting familiarity and the Wu family''s untainted acceptance. Each family offered a distinct path: one grounded in the past and the other with promise.

    Lianfeng realized that to embrace her new life, she needed to confront her identity.

    It was another usual morning in the Wu household. The soft hum of daily chores filled the air as sunlight streamed through the open windows, illuminating the dust motes dancing lazily. Huanxin, with her hair tied back and sleeves rolled up, swept the attic alongside Ms. Su. Though dusty, it felt comparatively cleaner than others she had encountered in past.

    As she dusted off an old trunk, her eyes fell upon a family tree affixed to the wall. One thing was strange whichcaught her attention: beneath every picture, there were two name. Confusion etched her brow as she stared at the tree, her heart racing with curiosity.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    "Ms. Su, why are there two names beneath Wu Hi''s picture and every other picture?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Ms. Su turned, her expression warm and inviting. "Wu Hi is also Su Hi. She carries both surnames. In our family, we honor both our mothers and fathers. Wu Hi carries both legacies¡ªher father''s and mine¡ªjust like all the children in this household. See? I have two names as well." She pointed to her picture, the joy in her voice unmistakable.

    A smile tugged at Huanxin''s lips. The idea of carrying both legacies resonated deeply with her, echoing the complexities of her identity, torn between her past and the new life she was building. She felt a sense of longing, wishing to embrace the duality.

    "We choose which family name we want," Ms. Su continued, her eyes twinkling with fondness. "I chose my mother''s while Wu Hi chose her father''s. You know, her reason was quite silly. She said, ''Since I am choosing to learn your martial arts, I will choose my father''s surname.''" Ms. Su chuckled.

    Huanxin couldn''t help but chuckle too, though beneath her amusement lay deeper reflections. The freedom to choose one''s name and identity felt like a luxury she didn''t know. Despite her acceptance into the Wu family, her past lingered in her mind.

    Suddenly, Ms. Su removed a miniature portrait of Huanxin from her pocket and placed it beside Wu Hi''s portrait on the family tree. Huanxin''s confusion morphed into disbelief as she stared at the portraits side by side.

    "Ms. Su, I¡ª" she began, her voice trembling.

    Ms. Su smiled warmly, sensing her hesitation. "You are also part of our family, Lianfeng. You can choose which surname to carry later on."

    Tears welled up in Huanxin''s eyes, blurring her vision. The name Lianfeng, meaning "persistent wind," felt foreign and familiar, representing her struggles and quest for revenge. But in this moment, surrounded by love and acceptance, it began to transform into something else¡ªa name that could carry the weight of her past and a hopeful future.

    "But I am not your daughter. How can I be?" she whispered, uncertainty lacing her voice.

    "Who says you are not our daughter?" Ms. Su interrupted gently. "Blood doesn''t make a family, love does. And you, Lianfeng, are loved." Her words wrapped around Huanxin like a warm embrace, dissolving the barriers that had long isolated her heart.

    Huanxin felt a swell of emotion as tears spilled over. "Thank you. I will never forget your kindness," she said, her voice breaking. She rushed forward, wrapping her arms around Ms. Su, feeling the warmth and security mother''s love could provide.

    Ms. Su returned the embrace, her heart full. "Silly child, who says thank you to family?" she replied softly, her voice soothing like a balm to Huanxin''s troubled soul.

    As Huanxin pulled back, wiping her tears, a quiet resolve settled within her. I can carry both my past and this new life. I can serve justice for my tribe and find my place here. In her heart, she envisioned a future where she could embrace her past and her new family.

    At that moment, amidst the dust and warmth of the attic, Lianfeng felt the first stirrings of hope, her heart whispering promises of a future intertwined with love, legacy, and resilience.

    "Let''s clean the attic quickly. You have to help me prepare lunch today," Ms. Su said, breaking the silence.

    Lianfeng nodded. "Yes."

    As they moved to the kitchen, Huanxin felt a sense of belonging she had long yearned for. Chopping vegetables and stirring pots, she listened as Ms. Su shared stories of family gatherings¡ªthe laughter and love that filled their home. Each tale made her feel more entwined in their world.

    Suddenly, the kitchen door swung open, and Wu Hi entered, her face bright with enthusiasm. "Lianfeng! Help me with my training later! I need someone to spar with!"

    The invitation sparked excitement in Lianfeng. "I''d love to!" she replied, a smile breaking across her face.

    After lunch, Lianfeng stepped into the training yard, the sun casting a warm golden glow across the ground. The rhythmic sound of Wu Hi''s sword slicing through the air filled the space, accompanied by distant birdsong. When Wu Hi spotted her, her face lit up with infectious enthusiasm. "Come, Lianfeng!" she shouted.

    As they trained, Lianfeng felt the sunlight on her skin. Wu Hi demonstrated fluid movements, her sword glinting in the sunlight. Lianfeng mirrored her actions, her body awakening to the rhythm of the martial arts, every swing and block feeling like a dance.

    "See? You''re a natural!" Wu Hi cheered, her sword raised in triumph. "You''ll be a master in no time." Lianfeng''s pride swelled at the compliment, realizing this connection with Wu Hi was forging a sisterly bond.

    "Let''s try this move together," Wu Hi suggested, demonstrating a complex maneuver. They began again, the swords singing as they met with force and purpose. Each swing felt liberating, a joyful dance of trust and connection.

    "After this, we should celebrate your progress with a feast!" Wu Hi said, eyes sparkling.

    "Absolutely!" Lianfeng replied, feeling the warmth envelop her.

    Later that evening, as they gathered for dinner, Huanxin took a moment to observe the warmth of the family around her. Laughter echoed, and stories flowed freely, each person contributing to the tapestry of their shared lives. It struck her then how she had longed for this sense of belonging.

    "Lianfeng, would you like to share a story?" Wu Hi asked, breaking Huanxin''s reverie.

    Feeling a mix of vulnerability and courage, Huanxin took a deep breath. "There''s one story that always stands out to me," she began, her voice steadying as she recounted a moment from her past that shaped her resilience. "It was a time when I learned to fight back against my fears...."

    As she shared her story, she felt the weight of her past shift, no longer a burden but a piece of her journey that had led her to this moment. The Wu family listened intently, their support wrapping around her like a protective cocoon.

    As the night drew to a close, Lianfeng felt a sense of peace within her. The family that had once felt distant now embraced her, and she knew she would have their love and support forever.

    Sitting on her bed, she turned the hairpin over in her fingers, recalling vibrant memories associated with it. It was the only remnant of her past¡ªher tribe, her family, her childhood. As a child, she wore it proudly during festivals, where laughter filled the air and the fragrance of flowers enveloped her. It was more than an ornament; it symbolized joy and love.

    Closing her eyes, Lianfeng was transported back to her village. She could see her mother, her smile radiant as she tucked the hairpin into Lianfeng''s hair. "You are looking so beautiful," her mother would say, her voice soothing like a lullaby.

    She smiled at it, but the smile was tinged with sorrow. This hairpin had once been a symbol of joy, worn on the happiest days.

    She stepped outside into the courtyard, where the stars shimmered like scattered jewels in the dark sky. The moon cast a soft glow over the stone path, and a cool breeze stirred the air, carrying the sweet scent of flowers. For a moment, the peaceful night made her feel at ease, but deep inside, her heart stirred with an old, familiar ache.

    As Lianfeng stood in the courtyard, the stars shimmering above, her thoughts drifted to the last time she had felt so vulnerable. As she reflected on her past, a particular memory surged to the forefront of her mind: she had been desperately searching for help, her stomach growling with hunger.

    Desperation had clawed at her heart then, urging her to plead with strangers. One man had approached her, eyes glinting with opportunity. "Do you want money?" he had asked. Hope ignited in her chest as she nodded.

    "Then give me that hairpin," he had demanded, pointing at the delicate ornament woven into her hair.

    Huanxin had shaken her head fiercely, clutching the hairpin to her chest. It was the last remnant of her family, a precious token of her past. "No, I can''t," she whispered, her voice trembling.

    His anger had flared, turning his curiosity into disdain. "Why are you begging for money? You''re wearing a precious hairpin!" With that, he had stormed away, leaving her feeling even more isolated and worthless.

    With trembling hands, she had removed the hairpin, cradling it as if it were a fragile memory. Unable to bear losing it, she tucked it safely into her pocket, continuing her search for spare coins, her heart heavy with the weight of her loss.

    The flashback ended and she looked up at the sky, she murmured, "Mother, Father... I''ve found a new family. They treat me with the same love you did, and they''ve given me a place to belong. I have a sister now," she smiled.

    Her smile was soft, but her gaze turned sharp as she held the hairpin tighter. The memories of her tribe¡ªof the injustice that had befallen them¡ªrose within her like a fire. "But I will never forget our tribe. I''ll never forget what happened to us."

    Her voice grew stronger, filled with quiet resolve. "I will find the one responsible, and I will make sure they pay. I owe our tribe that justice."

    The stars above seemed to shine brighter as if her ancestors were listening and waiting for her to fulfill her promise. The weight of her vow settled over her, but it didn''t feel like a burden¡ªit was a purpose, one she was determined to see through.

    Huanxin stood a little straighter, her heart steady. Her new family had given her a new life, but it didn''t erase her old one. She could accept their love and still carry her past with her.

    With a deep breath, she walked back towards the house, her decision clear. She entered her room quietly, the wooden floor creaking beneath her feet. Moonlight filtered through the small window, casting faint shadows across the room. Kneeling by her bed, Huanxin reached underneath and pulled out a small, worn wooden box.

    Opening the lid, she stared at the hairpin in her hand¡ªher last tie to the life she had left behind. The delicate metal caught the light, shimmering faintly as if whispering the laughter and warmth of her tribe. For a long moment, she held it close to her chest, feeling the weight of her memories and the ache of everything she had lost.

    But she knew this part of her life had to be set aside for now.

    With a steady hand, she placed the hairpin inside. It wasn''t a goodbye¡ªit was a promise. A vow that she would carry her past forward, even as she became Lianfeng. Huanxin was not forgotten¡ªjust waiting for the right moment.

    She slid the box back beneath the bed as if tucking her childhood away for safekeeping. Rising, she lay on her bed, her body sinking into the familiar comfort. Closing her eyes, she let the quiet of the night wash over her. For the first time in a long time, her mind was at peace.

    Tomorrow, I will be Lianfeng.

 Frosted Ambitions

    14 years later,

    Winter''s first snow fell in quiet flurries, each flake drifting down to settle on the ground as a crisp, cold breeze swept through the wooden house. Inside, the room held a gentle warmth. At the center stood a round wooden table with a steaming kettle and porcelain cups arranged neatly. Wrapped in a black fur coat, Lianfeng looked out the window, her breath clouding the glass as she sipped her tea.

    Brother, it''s been 15 years since our tribe''s massacre, and I still haven''t found the one responsible. I am a loser, aren''t I?

    Just then, Wu Hi entered the room, her vibrant orange fur coat adding warmth to the winter scene. "There, you are. I was searching for you everywhere in the house", she exclaimed, relief evident as she settled on one of the stools. She poured herself a cup of tea, the fragrant steam filling the air.

    Lianfeng smiled and sat on the other stool. "Why were you finding me?" she asked, her heart lightening at Wu Hi''s presence.

    Wu Hi''s brow furrowed as she sipped her tea, concern replacing her usual exuberance. "Father said you''re planning to enter the palace," she said, flustered.

    "Yes", replied Lianfeng calmly.

    "But why?" Wu Hi pressed, worry lacing her voice. "It''s dangerous! You can''t just walk into the lion''s den."

    "I have to. The palace is where most of the information is. To find out who was behind my tribe''s massacre, I need to go there," Lianfeng explained, her tone firm but reassuring.

    "I''m going with you, then," Wu Hi said, her fists clenched at her sides, the determination in her voice sharp as winter air.

    "No, you can''t. You have to stay with our parents; they need you." Lianfeng''s tone was firm, yet a flicker of pleading crept in.

    Wu Hi''s eyes shimmered with unshed tears. "But what if something happens to you? We don''t know how dangerous it is! I can''t just leave you alone."

    "Don''t worry. I''ve gathered plenty of information," Lianfeng reassured, her voice steady despite the weight on her heart. "The hunt will begin in a few months, and before that, I need to become a palace maid to establish myself."

    "You won''t back down." retorted Wu Hi, protectively.

    "I can''t," Lianfeng said, her shoulders relaxed slightly as a smile tugged at her lips. "Do you remember what you told me when I told you about my desire for revenge?"

    Flashback:

    Young Lianfeng stood before Mr. Wu, Ms. Su, and Wu Hi, the room illuminated by the warm glow of candlelight.

    "I need to tell you something." Lianfeng''s voice wavered as she spoke, her eyes glistened with tears. "I had a family once... before everything changed. My tribe¡ªthey were massacred by strangers. That''s why I learned martial arts. I wanted to become stronger, not just for survival... but for revenge." Her voice cracked as she struggled to contain the flood of emotions. The pain of her past was etched in every word, and the weight of her confession hung in the air.

    "It''s so sad." Wu Hi sobbed as she rushed, embracing Lianfeng in a tight hug.

    Lianfeng was caught off guard but soon broke down, uncontrollably sobbing into Wu Hi''s arms as they hugged each other.

    At first, Mr. Wu and Ms. Su were flabbergasted but soon they exchanged soft smiles, watching the two.

    Ms. Su rose from her seat and hugged them, "It''s okay, my child. We will always have your back, Lianfeng."

    "She is right," added Mr. Wu, hugging the trio.

    Wu Hi chimed in through her tears, "I''ll help you too. We''ll all help you."

    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    "I remember," Wu Hi said softly, snapping back to the present. "That''s why I want to go with you."

    "Don''t worry," Lianfeng reassured her, placing a hand over Wu Hi''s. "If anything happens, I''ll send word. I''ve built a good network inside the palace."

    Wu Hi sighed, reluctant but resigned. "All right... Since I can''t change your mind, I''ll support you."

    Lianfeng smiled, grateful for her sister''s unshakable loyalty.

    The hunting grounds lay on the outskirts of Yuanfu(Ywen-foo) City, stretching across a vast forest glimmering under the sun. The air was crisp, filled with the scent of pine and the distant sounds of laughter from the royal family''s camps. Lianfeng mingled with the servants.

    The camps buzzed with activity, vibrant tents adorned in rich fabrics, and the aroma of roasted food wafted through the air. She noted the distinct camps of the royal couple¡ªone for the empress, cloaked in authority, and the other for the emperor, whose approachable nature made him an easier target.

    As she moved through the crowd, snippets of conversation floated around her¡ªnobles discussing recent hunts, whispers of court gossip, and rumors of potential alliances. Her gaze fell on the emperor''s tent, a lavish structure with golden embroidery. Guards and attendants laughed, their joviality contrasting sharply with the formality of the empress''s area.

    Lianfeng''s resolve hardened. This was her chance; the emperor would be vulnerable, away from the watchful eyes of the court. As she continued blending in, her heart raced, reminding her of the stakes. This isn''t just a hunt; it''s my first step to uncover the one responsible.

    In the afternoon, as the sun hung high, casting a warm glow over the spring landscape, the hunt began. The empress mounted her elegant horse, while the emperor took his place on another, their presence commanding attention. The security around them was tight, guards positioned strategically, eyes scanning the surroundings.

    Lianfeng, as a servant, moved towards the forest, carrying trays of food and drink to the royal party. Her role was to attend to the needs of the nobles.

    She slipped deeper into the woods, where the laughter and excitement echoed through the trees. She was on a mission, her heart racing with determination as she approached the area designated for the emperor. This was all part of her plan; if she could draw attention to herself, the emperor would have no choice but to come to her aid.Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.

    There he was¡ªa man in his mid-30s, clad in gleaming silver armor that caught the sunlight filtering through the leaves. He picked up his bow, aiming at a target set a distance away, and with a confident draw, he released the arrow.

    As she stepped into view, she executed her plan perfectly. The arrow flew past its intended target, veering off course and striking her straight in the shoulder.

    The sudden pain jolted her senses, and she stumbled backward, falling against a nearby rock. Warmth seeped through her fingers as she clutched her wound, a calculated move. The laughter around her faded into silence, replaced by her heartbeat.

    The emperor, realizing what had happened, dashed toward her, his jovial expression replaced with alarm. "What have I done?" he exclaimed, dropping his bow as he knelt beside her, panic etching his features. The weight of his title bore down on him; if anything happened to her, the court would blame him. And worse, how would the empress react?

    He picked her up in his arms, mounted his horse, and rushed to the camp. When he reached the camp, he called out urgently, "Bring the imperial physician!" His voice, usually filled with joviality, now quivered with concern. He could hardly bear to think of the consequences of this accident. What if she never recovered? What if she suffered because of me? The thoughts raced through his mind, each one heavier than the last.

    As the physician hurried to his side, the emperor''s heart pounded. "You''re going to be fine," he whispered to Lianfeng, though he wasn''t sure if he was trying to convince her or himself. Guilt hung in the air, thick and suffocating, as he realized that his actions, however unintentional, could have lasting impacts beyond this moment.

    She was laid gently on a makeshift table, the surface cold against her back. Around her, the camp was a flurry of activity; guards rushed to and fro, their faces a mix of concern and confusion. The laughter that had echoed through the forest moments ago was replaced by a tense silence. She smelled the rich incest which wasn''t of much help in her condition.

    The imperial physician arrived, his expression serious as he assessed her wound. "Stay still," he instructed, moving swiftly to clean the injury. Lianfeng felt a sharp sting as the cloth pressed against her shoulder, and she bit her lip to suppress a cry.

    Through the haze of discomfort, Lianfeng allowed her eyelids to flutter closed, her body relaxing into feigned unconsciousness. She sensed the emperor''s presence close by, the tension radiating off him as he knelt beside her. "I''m so sorry," he murmured, his voice low and shaky. "I didn''t mean to¡ª"

    "Your Majesty, focus," the physician interrupted, applying a fresh bandage. Lianfeng felt the man''s hands steady and professional, but his urgency only amplified her anxiety. Each tug and pull at her injury sent fresh waves of pain coursing through her. As she pretended to be unconscious, she caught glimpses of the emperor''s face, pale and drawn, a stark contrast to his usual jovial demeanor. Guilt lined his features, and she could see the conflict in his eyes.

    Finally, the physician stepped back, satisfied with his work. "Your majesty the wound is not deep, but it needs care," he said, his voice more reassuring now. Lianfeng kept her breathing even, feigning unconsciousness.

    "You''re going to be fine," he said softly as if convincing himself. "You''re lucky it wasn''t worse." Perhaps, her heart, racing with the knowledge that she needed to keep the facade intact. She had to play her role perfectly, to elicit sympathy from both the emperor and the empress.

    Just then, the empress arrived, her silver armor gleaming as she entered the camp with a sense of authority. She scanned the scene, her eyes landing on Lianfeng, and her expression shifted from worry to determination. "What happened here?" she demanded, her tone firm. When the empress entered, the emperor''s heart sank. He could see the tension in her jaw as she assessed the situation, and he braced himself for her reprimand, guilt gnawing at him.

    "Your Majesty, the servant was accidentally shot during the hunt by the emperor," the physician explained, stepping aside to let the empress assess the situation. The empress knelt beside Lianfeng, her gaze sharp yet filled with an unexpected softness. "You poor girl," she said, her voice dropping to a gentler tone. "You must rest and heal. We''ll ensure you have everything you need." Lianfeng was pleased that her plan had worked.

    As the empress turned to the emperor, her stern demeanor returned. "You should have been more careful. What if the wound had been fatal?

    "I know, but she appeared out of nowhere," he protested, running a hand through his hair in frustration.

    "That''s no excuse," the empress replied, her voice resolute.

    Lianfeng watched the exchange, feeling the tension in the air. It was a delicate balance of power, one she intended to navigate carefully. As they spoke, she knew she had played her cards right, this wound was the key to unlocking the answers she sought.

    The day passed, and the hunting party returned to the palace. Lianfeng was carried in a palanquin, her body still weak from the injury. It was the first time she had entered the palace through the grand main gate¡ªan entrance reserved only for court officials and royalty. The side gates, where servants passed, were a far cry from this grand display.

    As they approached the palace, Lianfeng felt a mix of emotions beneath her composed fa?ade. She had lived within these walls for months, always watching from the shadows. Now, she entered through the front, carried as though she were someone important, someone fragile.

    When they finally arrived at her destination, she was placed gently in a room she had once served in. The surroundings were familiar¡ªthe luxurious bed draped in silks, the ornate artifacts carefully displayed¡ªbut everything felt different now. The softness of the bed tended to her bandaged wound.

    The night passed in quiet. Morning came quickly, and footsteps outside her door stirred her awake. The emperor and empress had come to visit.

    Lianfeng opened her eyes slowly, blinking as if in confusion. She gazed at them with wide, pitiful eyes, her face pale against the dim morning light.

    The empress approached first, her armor exchanged for a gown of deep crimson. Her expression was softer now, concerned. "How are you feeling?" she asked in a gentle tone.

    Lianfeng hesitated, letting the question hang in the air before responding with a shaky voice. "Who... who are you?"

    The emperor and empress exchanged a confused glance, concern deepening in their eyes.

    Inside, Lianfeng''s thoughts were focused, and calm amidst the chaos. This is the moment. This is where it begins.

    Her eyes fluttered briefly, her expression wavering between confusion and fear. She could feel the tension in the room.

    The emperor explained, his voice low but clear, "I am the emperor, and she is the empress. I injured you accidentally on the hunting grounds."

    Lianfeng blinked her expression a mix of confusion and dawning realization. She raised her hand slowly, pointing an unsure finger at each of them. "You are the emperor... and she is the empress?" Her voice wavered as if trying to make sense of the situation, her eyes darting around the room. "So this is... the palace?"

    The ornate surroundings suddenly seemed to register, and without hesitation, Lianfeng moved swiftly to her knees, bowing deeply before the emperor and empress. "Your Majesties," she said, her voice filled with reverence.

    The empress stepped forward, her hands soft yet firm as she gently pulled Lianfeng to her feet. "Get up," she commanded with a warmth that was rare for someone of her status.

    Lianfeng stood quickly, her legs shaking slightly. The empress gestured for her to sit back on the bed, her concern evident as she looked over Lianfeng''s pale face. "Do you remember who you are?" the empress asked softly, her tone laced with genuine worry.

    Lianfeng stared blankly at the empress, her breath quickening as her eyes filled with what appeared to be fear. "Who?" she stammered, her voice small. "Who am I?"

    The emperor frowned, stepping closer to the bed. "It seems she has lost her memory," he said, turning to the empress. "Call the physician," he ordered a servant sharply, his voice lined with frustration and concern.

    Moments later, the physician arrived, eyes scanning Lianfeng carefully as he approached. He checked her pulse, examined her wound, and finally nodded solemnly. "Your Majesty," he said, his voice steady, "it appears she has lost her memory, likely from the injury to her head."

    The empress clasped her hands together, her worry deepening. "How long will it take for her memory to return?" she asked, her voice betraying her anxiety.

    The physician shook his head. "I cannot say for certain, Your Majesty. It could be days, months, or perhaps... never."

    The emperor''s face tightened with guilt, his gaze lingering on Lianfeng. "This is my fault," he murmured under his breath. "I never should have let this happen."

 In the Palace

    The emperor''s face tightened with guilt, his gaze lingering on Lianfeng. "This is my fault," he murmured under his breath. "I never should have let this happen."

    "Calm down. It was just an accident," she said, soothingly rubbing his arm. He must stay composed; a single crack could be catastrophic.

    Straightening to her full height, she turned her attention to the others in the room. She commanded, "What happened here does not leave these walls. If I hear wind of a single whisper, you will answer to me¡ªthere will be consequences."

    She arched her eyebrows. Her gaze swept over the room, her eyes as sharp as a blade, cutting through the servant''s faces, "I will not hesitate. Is that understood?" The court must not know about this.

    "We will heed your order," replied the servants in unison, their voices trembing with fear.

    The empress continued and addressed Lianfeng firmly, " Your name is He Ning. You are a palace maid but you will stay with us until your memory returns. I have heard that you possess exceptional martial arts¡ªsufficient to train the princes. Do you understand?"

    "Yes, Your Majesty," said Lianfeng bowing her head. He Ning was the name she used as a cover, she couldn''t use Huanxin or Lianfeng, as one was a legendary figure and the other was her name to the world. I hadn''t anticipated the empress would be so accommodating, she mused, but this unexpected turn of events made my plan easier.

    "I heard you were close with one maid. She will serve you and help you recover," the empress declared to Lianfeng.

    "Yes, Your Majesty" replied Lianfeng.

    Lianfeng was led to the training grounds in the afternoon, where the twin princes awaited her arrival. The training ground was a brown landscape, its dusty expanse surrounded by high walls, guarding against intruders. The sounds of sparring filled the air as the soldiers trained near the walls while the princes in the inner area.

    "This is your martial arts master," the maid announced, nodding towards Lianfeng before turning to the princes. "These are the two princes. This is Prince Fei(Fay)," she motioned to the prince at right.

    The elder one, sure looks like a responsible person.

    The maid continued "This is the younger prince Xian(Shyan)."

    Prince Xian scoffed, placing his hands on his waist, "Eh, I was born just a few minutes after him. It makes no difference."

    "Yes, your highness", replied the maid, not wanting to anger the prince.

    The maid bowed and left them alone. Lianfeng noticed the slight tension in Fei''s shoulders and the playful spark in Xian''s eyes. She hid a small smile; teaching these two would be as much a lesson in discipline as in martial arts.

    Prince Fei, formal and composed, gave her a respectful bow. Prince Xian shot his brother a sly look before mimicking the greeting with a slight smirk.

    Lianfeng told them "Be at ease. Have both of you warmed up?"Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    "Yes," replied Fei in a monotonous tone.

    "Okay, then I will teach you a martial arts technique. It is called ''shadow palm'' ", announced Lianfeng.

    "First, take the Iron Wall Stance," Lianfeng instructed, her tone firm. "Position your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent. Turn your body slightly sidewards to minimize exposure." She stepped back, watching closely. "Raise your arms¡ªone at shoulder level, the other by your waist. Your foundation must be rock-solid."

    She took a breath, giving her words a moment to settle. "If your opponent throws a punch, step back and deflect it with an open palm." She paused, emphasizing her words. "Forcefully, with your other hand, strike their chest directly."

    She looked at them both, eyes intense. "This will throw them off balance, creating your opening. Remember, this technique is not about aggression; it''s about precision and timing."

    "Now, perform the shadow palm technique", she instructed the boys.

    Prince Fei followed the steps trying to be precise, while Prince Xian experimented with the moves, trying to make it look effortless.

    Prince Fei aimed for perfection, while Prince Xian sought fun. Fei''s predictable moves lacked the excitement of experimentation, while Xian''s flair lacked his brother''s stability.

    Lianfeng called a halt. "Prince Fei, your stance and moves are stable. Prince Xian, you have a knack for experimentation. You both lack what the other possesses: experimentation" she said looking at Fei "and stability" turning her gaze to Xian.

    After some time of practicing, the bell rang announcing the end of training. The princes and Lianfeng bowed to each other before parting ways.

    On her way, Lianfeng reflected on the training session. I can benefit from the princes, but I have to ensure I don''t reveal too much about myself. Their relationship reminded her so much of her bond with Wu Hi¡ªone filled with energy and the other grounded in stability. I miss them, she thought, a pang of longing in her chest. But I must push forward with my plan. I have to succeed for everyone.

    The moment Lianfeng entered her room, the fragrant scent of jasmine from the incense burner flowed around her. A maid stood outside the door and bowed. "Greetings, miss."

    "I am Liu Ren, your maid," said a girl younger than Lianfeng.

    Lianfeng instructed, "Come in and close the door."

    Ren obeyed swiftly, standing attentively as Lianfeng seated herself. The sight of the young girl reminded her of a fateful encounter that had changed both their lives.

    Flashback:

    Ren''s ragged clothes fluttered as a man loomed closer, his grip tigthening on her wrist, "Come here, beauty. Come with me," he sneered.

    She struggled, her heart pounding¡ªuntil a sharp voice cut through the alley. Lianfeng jumped from the roof into the alleyway "Let go of her," she shouted, startling both the man and Ren.

    With her sheathed sword, she pushed his hand away and struck his chest, forcing him a few steps back.

    "How dare you!" the man roared, anger written on his face.

    "I dare. Now, get away from her, or you will regret it," she shot back.

    The man retreated, clutching his chest.

    "Are you okay?" Lianfeng asked her with concern.

    Everything happened in a flash. Ren was still processing the situation, her heart racing. Who is this girl? Why did she risk herself for me? She felt a mix of relief and confusion wash over her. I was just about to be taken, and now I''m saved by a stranger? The fear that had paralyzed her began to fade, replaced by a sense of hope. Maybe there''s still kindness in this world.

    She looked at Lianfeng, whose fierce demeanor gave her a sense of security. This girl is so strong. I wish I could be like her.

    Meanwhile, Lianfeng surveyed the scene, her anger simmering benath her composed exterior. How could someone be so brazen?

    Lianfeng turned back to Ren, sensing the fear in her. She shouldn''t have to live in fear. I know what it is like to feel helpless. No one deserves that. Her thoughts drifted to her past. If I hadn''t met my family would I have been like her?

    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    "Your plan has been smooth till now. What''s next? inquired Ren.

    "First, send a message to my family. I''ll tell you my plan later; let''s sleep now," Lianfeng stated. She doffed her shoes and let her legs rest on the bed, preparing for her next move.

 The Prophecy

    As the winds wrapped the palace, murmurs of rumors spread in the corridors. "They say Master Yong''s last prophecy foretold doom for those who had wronged the innocent," a whisper echoed through the hallways. "Some speak of a hidden force awaiting justice, ready to bring ruin upon the guilty. Others call it a mere tale, but... you can feel the tension." In a courtyard, two maids were sweeping the dust.

    "Hey," one maid whispered, glancing over her shoulder as though checking for eavesdroppers, "did you hear about Master Yong''s prophecy? It''s spreading like wildfire."

    The other maid paused, her broom stilling mid-sweep. "Yes, I did." She straightened up, doubt in her eyes. "But do you actually believe in it?"

    The first maid looked around, leaning closer, her eyes wide with conviction. "Of course. Master Yong''s prophecies have never been wrong. And this was his last one, right before he died." She clutched her broom tightly.

    "Hmmm." The other maid made a casual sound, resuming her sweeping.

    Their words traveled swiftly, winding through hallways and echoing in chambers until, at last, they reached the empress herself. Seated beside the emperor, her body stiff, her fingers tightening slightly around her cup.

    The emperor, noticing her stillness, lifted his eyes from his cup, his brows knitting. "You seem troubled," he murmured, reaching a hand toward hers.

    "Yes, the recent rumors¡ªthey''re causing quite a stir. Do you think it could truly be Master Yong''s prophecy?" she asked, her shoulders relaxing slightly, though a frown remained on her brow as she glanced at the emperor.

    The emperor took a leisurely sip of his tea. "Well, you''ll have to investigate to be certain, won''t you? And even if it is, I don''t see any harm in it," he replied, his voice light, dismissive.

    She let out a soft sigh, fingers tracing the intricate carvings on her chair. "You don''t understand. I''m concerned these rumors will be fuel for the courtiers¡ªthey''re always looking for reasons to cause trouble."

    "Don''t worry, nothing will happen," he replied dismissing the convo.

    But his words alone couldn''t ease the empress''s tension. Her fingers tapped lightly against the arm of her chair, betraying her inner turmoil. After all, old chapters could resurface, casting unwanted shadows on the present. She glanced at the emperor, noting his relaxed demeanor as he savored his tea, seemingly untouched by the unease.

    "You might be right," she said, forcing a smile, though her mind raced with thoughts of what the prophecy could stir up. Still, I''ll ensure this matter stays contained. The last thing we need are whispers threatening our stability.

    With a firm grip on her teacup, she resolved to quell the rumors before they gained more traction. She announced " Call Minister Qiao(Chow)". She is wise¡ªshe must have a solution.

    The empress waited patiently, her head rested on her fist as her eyes closed in contemplation, her arm rested at the chair. She heard hurried footsteps outside announcing, Minister Qiao''s arrival.

    "Your majesty, may I enter?" a clear voice asked.

    "Come in," instructed the empress, opening her eyes.

    The door swung open, and a dignified woman in her late forties wearing the official attire entered, bowing. "Greetings, Your Majesty."

    "At ease," ordered the empress, straightening as she collected herself, she questioned, "I assume you''ve heard the rumors."

    "Yes, Your Majesty. Are they your concern?" inquired Qiao.

    "Precisely, I am worried that those old schemers will stir trouble," the empress replied, her tone edged with frustration.

    Minister Qiao gave a slight nod. "They shouldn''t be your concern at all. On the contrary, Your Majesty, you could use the rumors to your advantage. Observing how the ministers react may reveal more about their intentions and you can investigate the rumours along."

    "Right," relief softened her expression as she continued "Who do you think is best for this job?"Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!

    "Prince Yan(Yen). His time in the investigation office has given him insight, and he is well acquainted with palace workings."

    "Agreed. Yan will handle the investigation, while you observe the ministers. Report anything unusual directly to me. And, if needed, employ more hands¡ªthe treasury will cover the expenses."

    Minister Qiao inclined her head. "As you wish, Your Majesty. I will take my leave."

    The doors closed quietly behind Minister Qiao, and the empress watched her retreat, her mind already moving ahead to the tasks at hand. She called for a maid and ordered "Invite Prince Yan for dinner."

    As night fell, the palace glowed with candlelight, casting a warm, golden light across the room. The dining table, draped in an intricately designed cloth, was set with delicacies, each dish meticulously prepared. The Empress had changed into more relaxed attire as she awaited Prince Yan''s arrival. He entered¡ªa young man of twenty, his expression serious, clad in a noble violet robe embroidered with threads of gold.

    "Greetings, Your Majesty," he said, bowing respectfully.

    "Come, sit," instructed the Empress, gesturing to the seat opposite her.

    Prince Yan moved swiftly, seating himself as the doors closed behind him, sealing them into their private meal. Silence lingered until the Empress finally spoke, "Now, to business. I need you to investigate the recent rumors spreading through the palace."

    "Sure," he replied casually, eyes still focused on the meal as he took a bite.

    She paused, her hands resting on the table as she studied him. "It won''t be easy," she added, voice soft but firm. "This is your first significant task." She looked at his unfazed face with concern.

    Prince Yan was her deceased brother''s only son. She had raised him as her own. She couldn''t help but worry about him. Everytime she looked at him, she could see her brother''s face, they were so identical.

    Prince Yan put down his spoon, meeting her eyes directly. "Don''t worry, Aunt. I''ll handle it well¡ªyou won''t have any reason to complain."

    A faint smile touched her lips. "Very well."

    The air grew lighter as Yan leaned forward, a glimmer of curiosity in his eyes. "Now, tell me about this new trainer," he asked, the formality softening as his intrigue grew.

    The Empress shook her head, but a knowing look crossed her face as she shared the story of Lianfeng, known as He Ning.

    Lianfeng lay on her bed peacefully, staring at the painted ceiling. Suddenly, Ren burst through the door, her face written all over with concern.

    "Lianfeng! Prince Yan is going to investigate the rumors!" she blurted, her voice a frantic whisper.

    Lianfeng turned her head slowly meeting Ren''s eyes with calmness." Okay," she spoke gently as she sat on the bed.

    "What do you mean ''okay''? Aren''t you worried?" she inquired in haste, her eyes wide as if they could fall out.

    "I have it all planned out," Lianfeng reassured her, a smirk playing on her lips. "Don''t worry, I''ve already chosen someone to take the fall."

    Ren leaned closer, and with intrigue, she asked, "Who?"

    "Head maid, Zhang Mei (Jahng May)," Lianfeng replied, her eyes sharp and focused, revealing a hint of satisfaction in her plan.

    <u>Flashback:</u>

    Ren was washing clothes in the courtyard, her hands dry and swollen, aching from the endless scrubbing. The sun bore down, adding to her discomfort, and each breath felt heavy with the scent of damp clothes.

    Suddenly, Zhang Mei appeared, her presence like a shadow darkening the afternoon. Without warning, she hurled a pile of freshly laundered clothes at Ren''s face, making her stumble backward. "Why are you so lazy? Work fast, does your salary come for nothing?" Zhang Mei sneered.

    Ren stumbled but quickly regained her balance, her heart filled with frustration. She was exhausted, she had been working nonstop for days. She knew Zhang Mei was deliberately making her life miserable. I have to continue for Lianfeng, for me, she reminded herself, gritting her teeth.

    With shaky hands, Ren placed the clothes in the basket. Her swollen hands pained and so did her legs at every step but she was determined.

    From behind a pillar, Lianfeng watched the scene unfold, her heart heavy with anger. Zhang Mei''s laughter rang in her ears, cruel and mocking, as she turned to the other maids, her voice dripping with condescension. "Look at her, barely able to keep up! You think you can be a maid without breaking a sweat? Pathetic."

    Ren''s eyes shone with unshed tears, but she forced herself to look away, focusing on the task. Lianfeng clenched her fists, rage boiling inside her as she took in Zhang Mei''s smug expression. This won''t go on for long, she vowed silently. I will make sure she pays for her cruelty.

    As Zhang Mei strutted away, satisfied with her torment, She hated Ren, she was a diligent, innocent and honest girl. She could bring her trouble in her dealings. She wanted to make her leave on her own so that no one will be suspicious of her.

    Lianfeng resolved to find a way to protect Ren from her grasp. I will make sure you regret it.

    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    "You saw all the torment, didn''t you?" it suddenly struck Ren, and her hands dropped to her side.

    "Yes, I did," Lianfeng admitted, drifting her look away to avoid Ren''s eyes.

    "But how are you going to do it?" Ren shifted the topic, curiosity mingling with concern.

    "We are going to make full use of our network," told Lianfeng, her eyes sharpened with determination.

    Ren sat down beside her, her brow furrowed. "I don''t understand one more thing. Why did you have to enter the palace? You''ve built an extensive network, so why go through all this trouble?"

    Lianfeng let out a soft sigh, laying back on the bed. "Some things can only be done by me," she said, her voice steady. "The palace holds the answers I need, and I can''t rely on others for this. It''s too personal... too important."

    Ren nodded slowly, absorbing Lianfeng''s words. The night wrapped and fell into deep silence, waiting for dawn to break.

 The Game Begins

    The training grounds as usual were filled with noises of sparring, grunting, and fighting. The dust flew with the wind blurring the vision. Lianfeng saw a silhouette of a man approaching. It was Prince Yan. As expected he did come.

    She politely greeted him, "Greetings, Your Highness."

    The twin princes, Xian and Fei snapped at his unexpected appearance. Halting their practice, they greeted him in turn. While Xian''s eyes brimmed with excitement, Fei was composed, though a flicker of amusement softened his expression¡ªthey knew this encounter would be entertaining.

    Prince Yan gave Lianfeng a mischievous smile. "How are you, my lady?"

    "I am fine, Your Highness," she replied, politely. "But, if I may ask what brings you to the training grounds?"

    He closed the distance between them. Xian''s excitement grew as he tried to stifle his smile. Although Fei generally had a cold demeanor, it melted away.

    "I came to meet you," Yan whispered.

    "Oh? And may I know what I''ve done to deserve Your Highness''s visit?" she whispered back, raising an eyebrow.

    "Your beauty is enough," he remarked, his smirk widening.

    Xian giggled, covering his mouth while Fei arched an eyebrow, tugging a smile at his lips.

    Lianfeng turned to the princes, "You both have had enough practice for today. You may go rest."

    Xian was reluctant to leave, casting a longing glance, he stated his dispiritedness "But-"

    Fei took his brother by the arm, taking him away.

    "Why are you pulling me away? We are missing a good show." Xian muttered to his twin.

    "If you stay, do you think they will continue? Now, get moving." Fei rebuked, quickening his pace.

    Xian took a sharp right, tugging Fei along with him.

    "What are you doing? Our quarters are at left," Fei whispered.

    "We''re not leaving. We will hide and watch." Xian replied with a grin.

    "You are one crazy streak." Fei sighed.

    Xian smiled at Fei, while Fei shaked his head right to left in disapproval.

    "Now, tell me the real reason." Lianfeng inquired, observing the princes out of sight.

    "Why would I lie?" Yan replied, still smiling.

    "Your Highness, you are always surrounded by beauties. I am no fairy myself. So, unless you have something important, you won''t come"

    "Perhaps, but you are far more interesting."

    Lianfeng turned as if to leave. "I''ll take my leave, then."

    "Wait¡ªI came because I need your help."

    "Why would Your Highness need my help?"

    "I need some information from the maid''s quarters."

    "You Highness, I lost my memory and am no longer a maid. I suppose you know that?''This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

    "Yes, I know and that''s precisely why I need you. Although you don''t remember others, they remember you."

    "I don''t understand what you mean by that."

    "If I question a maid directly, she won''t be honest. I need someone whom they won''t suspect."

    "Okay," she replied nodding her head. "What do you want me to find out about?"

    "The recent rumors, who started them.", Yan replied, thinking I want to see who you really are.

    "All right." she accepted the task, I was right; he is suspicious of me.

    Meanwhile, the twins listened from behind the camp. Fei shot a glare at Xian. "What ''show''? It''s just another investigation."

    "Fine, fine. It''s my fault. Let''s go now."

    They rose, tiptoeing their way out. But unfortunately, Xian slipped, shrieking as he fell while Fei slammed his head.

    Hearing the noise, Yan and Lianfeng came to investigate. They both were suprised to see the princes there. Xian quickly picked himself up.

    Yan enraged scolded the boys "You were supposed to leave¡ªhere you are eavesdropping. I will let your mother handle you both."

    "Brother, don''t tell mom. Everything else is fine." Xian pleaded, only to be not heard.

    "Go now, before I lose my patience," Yan ordered the boys.

    "All your fault," Fei muttered to Xian.

    "Yeah, yeah, just keep moving," Xian replied, brushing off the subject.

    Lianfeng entered her quarters, the dull echo of her footsteps trailing down the long pathway. Unlike the opulent halls where the royal family resided, this section was modest but far more comfortable than the cramped maid quarters. Her room was the first along the corridor, followed by numerous rooms of other  first-tier servants.

    As she approached, she spotted Ren waiting by the door. The moment she entered, Ren closed the door firmly behind her, casting a wary glance down the hall before turning to face Lianfeng.

    Lianfeng settled on the edge of the bed and said, "It was as we expected. Prince Yan approached me."

    Ren nodded, folding her arms. "I''ve done my part. The rumors about Zhang Mei are spreading like wildfire. The maids believe it easily¡ªso easily, in fact, that it''s taken on a life of its own. Now they''re saying she''s involved in everything from bribery to drug smuggling... even murder."

    "Good. Now I just need to make a final move¡ª" Lianfeng paused, her expression shifting as a realization struck her. "Oh no. I can''t visit the maid quarters myself. That''s precisely why he approached me. If I go, it''ll raise questions. The maids think I''m just a lookalike, and only a few who attended the hunting trip know the truth. Stepping foot there would directly violate the empress''s orders."

    She held Ren by her shoulders, her eyes sharp. "You''ll have to go in my place."

    "What??" replied Ren, her eyes widened in shock.

    "There''s no other way. If we want to shake Prince Yan off our backs and complete the task, you must do it."

    "But, I can''t-"

    "You don''t have an option, it''s an order."

    For a moment, Ren seemed frozen, torn between protest and obedience. Finally, she let out a resigned sigh. "Fine. I will do it."

    The next day, Prince Yan approached Lianfeng at the training grounds. The distant sounds of sparring and grunting filled the air. Drawing her aside from the twin princes, whose curious glances lingered.

    He asked in a low voice, "What did you find?"

    "The maids say it''s the head maid, Zhang Mei," Lianfeng whispered, glancing around to ensure no one overheard. It''s good Ren didn''t mess up. She''s been so reliable.

    "You''re quick," Yan remarked, raising an eyebrow as a faint smirk tugged at his lips.

    "The maids are easy to sway. I had Ren, my maid, handle it for me," she replied with a polite smile, keeping her tone light.

    Yan tilted his head, his smile lingering but his eyes probing. "Smart choice." A beat of silence passed, tension simmering beneath the surface. Then, his smile deepened. "You''re remarkably efficient. Almost as though you''ve done this before."

    Lianfeng''s smile didn''t waver. She gave a soft laugh, brushing an imaginary speck of dust from her sleeve. "I''m simply following orders, Your Highness. It''s my duty."

    She is hiding her claws. Let''s see how this plays out, he thought.

    As he left, Lianfeng took a deep breath relaxing herself.

    In the distance, one of the twins'' swords struck the ground with a sharp clang, breaking the moment. Fei called for a break, and Lianfeng straightened, smoothing her expression as if nothing had happened.

    The head maid was soon sentenced to punishment. The investigation unearthed far more than anyone had anticipated¡ªshe had faciliated corruption for years, weaving a web of corruption that extended deep into the palace.

    Lianfeng rested on her bed. Finally, I have taken Ren''s revenge. The next thing, I need to do is put my person in that position.

    A knock at the door broke her thoughts. She stood up, surprised by the interruption. Opening it, she found a maid standing there, her posture respectful but hurried.

    "The Empress is calling for you," the maid said with a polite curtsy.

    Lianfeng''s heart skipped a beat. The Empress? Why was she being summoned?

    Her thoughts raced, but her face remained composed. "I will go immediately."

    The maid stepped aside, and Lianfeng followed her down the corridor, feeling something significant hanging in the air. The Empress''s summons was never a small matter.

 Familiar Faces

    Lianfeng walked through the courtyard, the cool evening air bringing the scent of blooming orchid flowers. The flowers had begun to transition to new buds, a sign of changing seasons. Lianfeng followed the maid throught the lantern-lit pathway, leaving behind the serene courtyard for the hall.

    The hall''s walls had been painted in deep red, while the roof was painted yellow. The walls had intricate carvings predominantly the five claw dragon, representing the powerful authority of the royals. The flickering candles glowed casting shadows. The emperor and empress presided from their thrones. The empress rested her head on her fist while the emperor sat upright.

    Prince Yan and the twin princes stood to the side. All three had a similiar stance, poised and coposed. However, Prince Yan had complete calmness while the princes had subdued curiosity.

    Lianfeng knelt down and bowed deeply. "Your Majesties, Your Highnesses," she greeted, her voice steady. She turned her attention to the empress. "You summoned me, Your Majesty."

    The empress replied as she straightened, "Yes, I have an announcement to make. Starting tomorrow, you will no longer be teaching the princes."

    The twin princes exchanged glances, their eyes widened and their eyebrows raised in a identical expression of surprise. They had the same thoughts, What could have prompted this?

    "May I ask why, Your Majesty?" Lianfeng asked calmly despite the surprise, Has she discovered something?

    The empress''s gaze didn''t waver. She replied in an assertive voice, "The renowned martial artist, Mr. Wu, has agreed to train the princes. The emperor and I believe this will be a great opportunity for them¡ªand for you. You will train alongside them and learn from a master."

    Lianfeng inclined her head, "I will obey, Your Majesty."

    The empress continued, "Mr. Wu will be arriving tomorrow with his family. I would like you to welcome them with us."

    "As you command, Your Majesty." Lianfeng replied. She is not leaving me a way out.

    The emperor spoke for the first time, "That is all. You can leave now."

    Lianfeng bowed again. She bowed to Prince Yan, her eyes searching for clues, but expression remained unreadable. As she turned to leave, her mind raced. Why this sudden change? Is it truly for my benefit, or is there something more at hand?

    The next afternoon, Lianfeng accompanied the royal family to the palace gate to welcome Mr. Wu. The courtyard buzzed with quiet anticipation. Soon, the sound of rattling wheels echoed in the distance, growing louder as a modest carriage approached. Unlike the opulent designs often seen at the palace, this one was simple, unadorned; its plainness hinting at practicality. A second carriage followed close behind.

    A servant rushed forward, setting a stool for the passengers. A man in his early forties stepped out. His long black hair, streaked with white and gray, was tied neatly behind him, framing a square, clean-shaven face. His dark brown eyes scanned the surroundings with calm precision, his movements collected. Though his white attire and the carriages lacked extravagance, his presence radiated quiet authority, commanding attention without uttering a word.

    His steps were followed by a lady in her late 40s. Her long black hair, streaked with shades of brown and grey, was tied in a half bun with a yellow cloth. Her light brown eyes shone brightly with intelligence, framed by an oval face shape. Her elegance was accompanied by quiet sovereignty, that commanded respect. She wore a simple yellow robe, its fabric etheral.

    A lady in her twenties followed. She wore a pain blue robe with a crisp white collar, the fabric flowing easily with her movements. Her silky black hair was neatly braided into two braids that framed her oval face. Her dark brown eyes radiated a depth of understanding. However, her demeanor was uncomplicated, unaffected by the palace''s richness.

    Admiration sparkled in the eyes of royal family and servants. The celebrated Wu family stood in front of them. But Lianfeng froze, stunned. Her eyes locked on their faces, her mind processing their sudden appearance.

    As the servants unloaded the luggage from the second carriage, the Empress welcomed the martial artist, "Welcome, Mr.Wu. We are honoured to have you here. We are graced that you agreed to teach the princes"

    "Greetings, Your Majesties. "he said bowing, a courteous smile tugged at his lips as he continued, "What can I say? Everything has it''s own time." If not for my daughter, I wouldn''t have accepted. "Let me introduce my wife, Su Yin".

    "Greetings, Your Majesties." Ms.Su greeted as she bowed respectfully.

    "Welcome, Ms.Su. And this is?" the Emperor, asked his gaze shifted to the young lady.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

    "This is my daughter, Wu Hi." replied Ms.Su with quiet pride.

    "Welcome, Ms.Wu." Prince Yan offered a polite nod. His polite nod, however, carried a hint of curisosity.

    With formalities concluded, the party moved and the Wu family was led to their rooms by the servants. Lianfeng''s eyes followed them until they were out of sight, her emotions in turmoil. What are they doing here? Why would father mother come? She glanced at Wu Hi. I can understand Wu Hi can be unreasonable... but father mother?

    The Wu family settled in their rooms. Wu Hi was assigned a room next door to her parents. Her eyes skimmed through the intricate details of every piece of furniture. Lavish, yes¡ªbut cold, lacks warmth. Her gaze strolled to the walls, painted in bright colors. Wu Hi ambled in the room thinking about how to redesign it.

    Unexpectedly, her thoughts were interrupted. "Ms.Wu" a woman called out. Wu Hi turned around to a woman of her mother''s age. She was dressed in uniform, with streaks of grey in her hair, her face was lined with wrinkles. She stood straight, her posture extremely mannered. " Greetings, miss. I am the head maid Chen Yue (Chuhn Yweh). If you have any complaints or orders, these two maids are at your service, Liu Fang (Lyoo Fahng)" she said, pointing to a girl in her post teens. The girl had a common face, but she stood with confidence, her head held high. "and this is Lin Jingyi (Lin JingEe)." The girl''s soft features made her stand out, despite her simple appearance. Her eyes raised at her name.

    "Very well." Wu Hi replied, unsure if it was the right answer.

    Chen Yue bowed, her movements precise, before turning to leave.

    Liu Fang addressed Wu Hi, "Miss, shall we prepare your tea? Or would you like us to do something else?"

    Wu Hi hesitated, uncertain of how to respond to such formal treatment. "You both can relax. Actually, I would like if you are not so formal. It makes me uncomfortable."

    "Sure, if that''s what you like, Miss." replied Liu Fang.

    Wu Hi, still adjusting to the surroundings, said "You can leave me alone for a while," her voice more hesitant than commanding.

    The maids complied and left the room. Wu Hi closed the door behind and sat at the table. Her thoughts, shifted to Lianfeng. She didn''t look happy¡ªbut that was expected. She drummed her fingers on the table, as her mind raced. Is she angry? Should we have not come? No, no, she needs us, whether she accepts or not, she clenched her fist and her shoulders relaxed. We can''t leave her alone. What if something goes wrong? Who will save her then?

    Just as she got up, the door flung open. Wu Hi flinched at the abruptness, her heartbeat quickened as her eyes darted to the intruder. A maid entered, shutting the door behind her with calm. Confused, Wu Hi stared at the maid.

    Wu Hi''s breath caught as the maid turned, her confusion melting into surprise. "Lianfeng," Wu Hi spoke, her voice barely over a whisper. She took a pause, before continuing "What... what are you doing here?". Lianfeng stepped forward, her steps echoing, as the tension built.

    "What am I doing here?" Lianfeng''s voice was cold, her expression tight. "You should ask yourself that. What are you doing here?" she spoke in a low voice.

    "We came for you." Wu Hi replied, I knew she would be unhappy¡ªbut angry. The tears swelled in her eyes, but she held them back. Her hands shook slightly, but she tightened them.

    "You will be in danger in here. You are just adding to my worries." Lianfeng retorted, why doesn''t she understand? I don''t want to drag them with me.

    "Really, now I am a worry to you?" Wu Hi scoffed. The air in her lungs thickened. She took a deep breath before continuing, "What about us? Have you thought how worried we all were? For your old family, you came here. But what about us? Don''t we matter."

    "You matter. That''s why I don''t want to drag you all in this mess." Lianfeng''s shoulders tightened. "It''s not your fight. You are unrelated to this." She retaliated, as her brows crinkled.

    "Anything related to you, relates to all of us. We are family. There''s nothing unrelated between us." Wu Hi''s eyes filled with tears. Her throat felt sore, as her heartbeat fastened.

    "Fine, I won''t argue with you. You are a lost cause, anyway." Lianfeng gave up. She went out and closed the door behind her.

    Wu Hi shrunk to the stool. Her eyes stared at the floor. Tears rolled down her cheeks. She was strong, but family was her weakness, especially Lianfeng. Am I a burden to her? Why does she not want me? For the first time, her heart ever so warm felt cold. She tilted her head upward, looking for solace in the cold room. She needs me and I know that. I just want to protect her, is that so wrong?

    Meanwhile, Lianfeng walked hurriedly and ran to a corner. Tears flowed down, as she squatted. She could face anything¡ªanything but fighting with family, especially Wu Hi." Why doesn''t she understand? She will be in danger. The palace is not for her. She is too naive, too kind for the palace. I need to protect them. I can''t lose my family again. I have to do this alone. She looked up and stared at the empty courtyard as the wind picked the leaves, I just want to protect her, is that so wrong?

    Both wiped their tears and walked to their parents room, staring at each other for a second before entering. Mr. Wu and Ms.Su were playing cards on the table. They were startled by the sudden appearance of their daughters. Lianfeng spoke first "Why did you not inform me about your visit? In the first place, why did you come?"

    Ms. Su gently replied, "We came here to help you, of course. I know you are angry but you must hear us out first."

    "All right," Lianfeng reluctantly accepted.

    Mr. Wu explained, "We woud definetely be more trusted by the empress, which could help you. Also, if your plan fails through we will take you and run away."

    Both those are ridiculous reasons. Lianfeng didn''t unleash her anger and said, " The empress one is still a good excuse. But how do you think you will take me away? The palace is guarded tightly."

    "Even if we can¡¯t help much, just seeing you safe in front of our eyes would bring us relief." Mr.Wu pleaded.

    Knowing that they aren''t going to back down, Lianfeng accepted it "Fine." She then turned to Wu Hi. Her face bore marks of tears and the sight pierced her. Her heart tightened with guilt and she appoligized, "Wu Hi, I am sorry. I shouldn''t have been harsh with you."

    Wu Hi glanced down, taking a moment to compose herself before meeting Lianfeng¡¯s gaze. ¡°You are my sister. I will always stand by your side and protect you from harm. I don''t want you to ever speak to me like that again.¡±

    Moved by her sister¡¯s words, Lianfeng nodded earnestly, her throat tight with emotion. Though no more words were spoken, the connection between them felt stronger than ever.

 Silent Strike

    Lianfeng walked back towards her quarter with her head held high. I have to see if Ren has made any progress. Her thoughts flicked to her family. I need to find a way to make them return. I will deal with them later. She pushed the thought aside.

    The door creaked open, and she stepped inside. Ren was already there, sitting at the table, her foot tapping an anxious rhythm against the floor.

    She shot up from her seat, her eyes scanning Lianfeng head to toe. "Are you okay? Did someone see you?"

    "No, no one saw me and yes I am fine," Lianfeng answered.

    Ren exhaled, the tension in her shoulders relaxing. "Good. Quickly, change your attire. After that, we can review Minister Qiao''s report and see if it brings us closer to the truth."

    Lianfeng nodded and moved to the wardrobe. The small collection of clothing was practical, dark, and unrestrictive. She reached for a deep blue robe and quickly changed, the fabric soft but sturdy against her skin.

    Ren paced near the table, flipping through the papers. As soon as she was ready, Ren stepped forward and handed her the stack of papers. "Minister Qiao''s reports pinpoint half of the officials in the court. But that makes sense as most of them are corrupt."

    Lianfeng scanned the names and flipped through the pages.

    Ren broke the lingering silence as she squinted her eyes and asked, " Why are you so sure that the culprit is someone from the court or related to it?"

    Lianfeng looked at Ren and replied." Because only someone with official authority can mobilize so many people." She handed over the paper to Ren and said " Make another list containing the names of the officials in power 15 years ago. Also, highlight the most powerful ones."

    "This list''s not going to shorten much. The court is full of old geezers." Ren said as she rolled her eyes. But she quickly got to her work, sitting on a desk.

    Lianfeng curiously asked Ren, "How did you get Minister Qiao''s report?"

    Ren made a nonchalant flick of her hand, "It was easy. I pretended to be a servant in the house. Then, I sneaked into Minister Qiao''s room and copied the file."

    After she went to the maid quarters, her confidence soared. I wonder if that''s a good thing or a bad thing.

    Lianfeng gazed out of the window. The sun was setting on the horizon, casting long rays of sunlight in the room.

    Ren touched Lianfeng''s shoulder. Lianfeng was startled, realizing she had been in a daze. The sun had set already.

    Ren held out a bunch of papers. "Here''s the shortlisted list. Go through it."

    Lianfeng took the papers, her expression serious as she looked through them. "None of these stand out. Investigate further and shortlist the names."

    "Alright," Ren replied, her energy renewed. She turned and left the room, closing the door behind her and leaving Lianfeng alone with her thoughts.

    ### Revised Scene:

    The next afternoon, Lianfeng went to the training grounds as usual. But something was different¡ªshe was no longer a mentor, but an apprentice. Her steps slowed as she approached the inner area, where the princes were already training with Mr. Wu.

    She greeted him with practiced politeness, her voice steady. "Greetings, Mr. Wu."

    Mr. Wu returned the greeting with a nod, his expression unreadable. "Join the princes in their training."

    Lianfeng bowed slightly and humbly complied, picking up a training sword. As she practiced the sword techniques, she intentionally stumbled through a few motions, pretending to be unfamiliar. *It¡¯s good that I didn¡¯t teach them Father¡¯s martial arts,* she thought, her grip tightening slightly on the hilt.

    The princes exchanged uncertain glances but said nothing. Their mentor had suddenly become their peer, and it was clear they weren¡¯t sure how to address the shift. Choosing to avoid awkwardness, they returned their focus to the drills.

    Suddenly, Prince Yan strode into the training grounds. The princes, Mr. Wu, and Lianfeng stopped and greeted him with respect due to his rank.

    Prince Yan responded with a polite nod, his eyes sweeping across the group. He approached Mr. Wu, striking up a conversation.

    "Have you settled comfortably in the palace?"

    Mr. Wu offered a polite smile, his tone even. "Yes, Your Grace. The palace offers all that one could need for work and rest."This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

    Prince Yan¡¯s lips curved in a small smile. "I¡¯m sure it¡¯s a change from traveling the empire and teaching in different places. Do you miss the freedom?"

    Mr. Wu let out a soft chuckle. "Every place has its demands, Your Grace. Freedom on the road has its challenges, but the palace has its responsibilities. One must adapt."

    Prince Yan leaned slightly forward, curiosity flickering in his eyes. "And what do you think of the martial spirit of the palace? Are the princes living up to your standards?"

    Mr. Wu answered with measured words, his gaze steady. "They are diligent and show promise. Discipline and time will shape them further."

    Prince Yan nodded thoughtfully, his attention briefly flicking to Lianfeng. "And He Ning? Does she show promise as well?"

    Mr. Wu paused, his tone careful yet unreadable. "Every apprentice has their own path, Your Grace. It is too soon to judge hers."

    Prince Yan hummed in response, his eyes narrowing slightly before turning back to the princes. "Continue your training. I¡¯ll observe for a while."

    As the group returned to their drills, Lianfeng¡¯s mind raced. She kept her expression neutral, but inwardly, she analyzed every word of the exchange, noting the subtle layers of interest in Prince Yan¡¯s questions. What are you after, Prince Yan?

    The twin princes sparred nearby, their movements precise yet full of youthful energy. Lianfeng stood to the side, her posture calm but her senses alert. Prince Yan approached her with an easy confidence, his eyes gleaming with challenge.

    "Do you want to spar with me?" he asked, his tone casual, but the weight of the question was unmistakable.

    Lianfeng hesitated for a moment, unsure of his intentions. She responded humbly, "Your Highness, how can I? You are so strong; I¡¯m sure I don¡¯t stand a chance."

    Prince Yan tilted his head slightly, a sly smile playing on his lips. "My aunt can¡¯t have someone weak teaching the princes. Are you saying the Empress has poor judgment?"

    Bringing in the Empress. Clever. Lianfeng¡¯s mind raced, but her expression remained composed. She dipped her head slightly, her tone measured. "Your Highness, I would never question the Empress''s wisdom. I merely acknowledge my limitations compared to your esteemed skill."

    Prince Yan chuckled softly, his gaze narrowing as he took a step closer. "Flattery won¡¯t save you, apprentice. Strength is proven on the training ground, not with words." He gestured toward the open space. "Pick up a sword and show me what you''ve got.

    Lianfeng let out a soft breath and curtsied slightly to Prince Yan, "Since Your Highness is so adamant on sparring with me. I cannot refuse. But I ask for your mercy."

    Her eyes darted to Mr. Wu, who watched silently from the side. Concern was written over his face, but he quickly composed himself. What does Prince Yan want with Lianfeng? Does he suspect her?

    Prince Yan smirked, clearly enjoying her cautious yet respectful approach. "Of course. I¡¯ll hold back," he said, his voice laced with amusement.

    Lianfeng walked to the weapon rack, her movements deliberate as she selected a training sword. As she gripped the hilt, her mind sharpened, her years of experience hidden beneath the guise of an unassuming maid. Let¡¯s see what you¡¯re after, Prince Yan.

    They faced each other in the training ground, the air thick with anticipation. Prince Yan raised his sword, his stance confident but loose. "Ready?"

    Lianfeng nodded, adjusting her grip as she lowered herself into a defensive position. "Ready."

    The first clash of swords echoed through the training grounds, drawing attention. Everyone was interested in Prince Yan.

    Prince Yan moved with speed and precision, testing her defenses with calculated strikes. Lianfeng parried each blow, her movements smooth yet unassuming, giving the impression of someone competent but not extraordinary.

    She''s holding back. A sly smile played on Prince Yan''s lips. Let''s see what you''ve got. He thought as he moved and interlocked their swords.

    With a sharp twist of her wrist, she disengaged from the lock and stepped back, feinting to the left before sweeping her blade toward his exposed side. Prince Yan barely deflected it in time, his eyes widening for a fraction of a second.

    Prince Yan¡¯s smirk grew as he pressed the attack, his strikes coming faster and more aggressive. Lianfeng matched his intensity, and her calculated movements allowed her to maintain control without revealing her full skill.

    "Impressive," Prince Yan admitted, his tone low enough for only her to hear. "You¡¯re more than you let on, aren¡¯t you?"

    Lianfeng¡¯s eyes met his briefly, her smile enigmatic. "A mere apprentice, Your Highness."

    Their swords clashed again, the battle of wits as sharp as the steel between them.

    As their blades clashed again, Lianfeng deflected a sharp strike from Prince Yan, her movements precise yet restrained. She stepped back, her breathing steady as she calculated her next move. Prince Yan, noticing the careful precision in her form, pressed forward with a faint smile.

    His strikes came faster now, forcing Lianfeng to move defensively. She parried, sidestepped, and spun, her agility keeping her ahead of his relentless offense. If I keep this on, he will discover my real strength.

    Prince Yan saw his opportunity. He feinted to her left, then quickly shifted his blade upward in a smooth arc. Lianfeng knew this was her opportunity and pretended to block his move. His blade stopped just short of her collarbone.

    "Yield?" he asked, his tone neutral. I held back but she still lost. Is she bad or pretending?

    Lianfeng paused, her eyes meeting his. She slowly lowered her blade and stepped back, offering a small bow. "I yield, Your Highness. Your skill is unmatched."

    Prince Yan lowered his sword, and his smirk returned. "You¡¯re better than most. But not quite enough to beat me."

    Mr. Wu stepped forward, his expression unreadable. "Enough for now. Everyone, back to your drills."

    As the group dispersed, Prince Yan stopped and turned to Lianfeng, his tone more genuine this time. "You¡¯re good. But next time, don¡¯t hesitate. A real fight doesn¡¯t forgive hesitation."

    Lianfeng nodded, her posture respectful but calm. "Thank you for the lesson, Your Highness."

    Prince Yan strode away, leaving her standing quietly by the training ground.

    I had to lose, she reflected, watching his disappearing figure. For now, strength must remain hidden. But someday, there won¡¯t be room for hesitation.

    She glanced toward Mr. Wu, whose gaze lingered on her. He gave no sign of approval or disapproval and merely smiled. You held back. You are pretending. He turned back as the bell rang concluding the session.

    Everyone headed back to their quarters. Lianfeng stepped into her room where Ren awaited her, sitting by the window. When she saw Lianfeng, she quickly got up handing her a sheet of paper. "Here''s the list of the most suspicious officials."

    Lianfeng read through the list. The list this time not only contained the official titles but also their names. Her eyes locked on one name ''Shi Meng''.

 The Cousin

    Lianfeng read through the list. This time, the list contained not just official titles but also names, genders, and ages. Her eyes locked on one name: Shi Meng.

    Her heart thudded as she read the age: 25.

    "Shi Meng," she whispered, her voice faltering. The name struck like a blade, unearthing memories buried beneath years of survival. Her cousin had been nine on the day of the massacre. The age matched perfectly.

    "Why is Official Shi on this list?" she demanded, her voice tight, trembling with emotions she could barely contain.

    Ren leaned back. "I thought you¡¯d want to check him out. The surname Shi is rare, so I dug dipper into his background. And his background¡­ well, it¡¯s suspicious. He¡¯s an orphan, raised by a kind old lady. His studies were sponsored by a local county magistrate, and he rose to success unusually young. It all started... around the time of the massacre"

    Lianfeng took a shaky step back, her thoughts spiraling. Shi is a surname only used by the people of our tribe. It rarely left our land. "This¡­ this can¡¯t be," she murmured, pacing near the bed.

    Ren¡¯s brows knit together as she watched Lianfeng. "What can¡¯t be?" she asked, her voice soft but firm.

    Lianfeng sat on the bed, gripping the edge of the bedframe. "Shi Meng was the same name as my cousin. He¡­ he can¡¯t be my cousin, right?"

    Ren knelt slightly, her voice lowering. "Why can¡¯t he be?"

    Lianfeng¡¯s fists clenched at her sides. "Because everyone¡­ everyone was killed that day. I was the only one who survived."

    "Maybe you weren¡¯t the only one," Ren said simply, holding her gaze. She paused before adding, "He was found by that old lady around the same time as the massacre. The odds are strange, yes¡ªbut not impossible. Stranger things have happened."

    Lianfeng¡¯s chest tightened as memories surged¡ªher brother¡¯s laughter, the quiet boy who shared their games in the corner. Her cousin had always been a shadow, someone she barely knew. But now, that faint connection loomed like a thundercloud.

    Could it really be him?

    "Find everything about Official Shi¡ªhis friends, the places he frequents, his house, everything." Lianfeng instructed, her voice steady but her hands trembled faintly. She drew in a sharp breath before adding, "And arrange a casual encounter with him. I need to know if he truly is who I think he might be."The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

    The next few days, Lianfeng was consumed by anxiety. She tossed and turned in her bed, unable to sleep, her thoughts constantly circling back to Shi Meng.

    "Here¡¯s the information on him," Ren said, handing her a report one fine evening. "It details how he was found, how he got the sponsorship, and more about his past." She paused, her eyes gleaming with intrigue. "He lives in Silver Willow Lane and frequents Jade Pavilion. But the most interesting thing? He''s a close friend of Prince Yan."

    Lianfeng¡¯s gaze sharpened at the mention of Prince Yan. Ren continued, her voice light with amusement. "He¡¯s sociable, gets along with everyone, but it¡¯s only with Prince Yan that he¡¯s truly close."

    Lianfeng absorbed Ren¡¯s words in silence, her mind racing with the implications. Could Shi Meng really be my cousin? And why is Prince Yan involved?

    Lianfeng looked up, her voice steady despite the whirlwind of thoughts. "When does he visit the Jade Pavilion?"

    "In the evening," Ren replied. "He should be on his way there right now."

    Lianfeng stood abruptly, her resolve hardening. "We are going to the Jade Pavilion."

    Ren flashed a bright smile, her excitement evident. "Okay!"

    The Jade Pavilion was a place where all walks of life converged¡ªstreet vendors mingled with high-ranking officials. The three-story building had an air of grandeur, each floor catering to different crowds. The first floor bustled with families dining in the front, while the back was alive with gamblers placing their bets. The second floor was more modest, hosting merchants and local officials. The third floor, however, was reserved for the most esteemed dignitaries. Each floor had its own kitchen, ensuring the needs of the patrons were met with efficiency and care.

    Lianfeng paid the butler at the entrance, her gaze scanning the surroundings as she made her way to the second floor. Ren led the way, guiding her to a table with a good view of a group of scholars, allowing them to observe without being noticed.

    The butler left them with a menu. As soon as he was out of earshot, Ren leaned forward and whispered, "The man in the sky-blue robe is Shi Meng. The others surrounding him are likely his peers¡ªpeople who all studied under Mr. Mei at the same academy."

    Lianfeng gave a subtle nod, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Order some tea and food," she said in a steady tone.

    Ren called out to the waiter, placing the order. Lianfeng discreetly watched Shi Meng, finding it hard to believe that the introverted boy she remembered was now so sociable and carefree. He laughed with an easy air, as if the weight of the world didn¡¯t bother him at all. Is it really you, brother Meng? she wondered, even as she saw his features¡ªdark brown hair and eyes, the easy smile, and the sharp jawline¡ªresembling the brother she remembered, however subtly.

    Her thoughts were interrupted when the waiter arrived, breaking her daze with a tray. "Your iced tea and tofu," he said, placing the dishes down in front of them.

    "Thank you," Ren replied with a polite smile.

    Lianfeng blinked, looking up from her thoughts. "Right," she said, her voice softer than usual, "Thank you."

 In Search of Brother Meng

If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

 Reunion

    They entered the eatery. A one-storey building spanning across an area of 1200 sq.ft. It was fairly small with only 10 tables. The air was laden with the smell of spices.

    As they seated themselves in the corner under the window, a waiter came to take their order. "What would you like, sir and madam?"

    Shi Meng gave the order, realizing he hadn''t asked Lianfeng, he said, flustered, "I am sorry I didn''t ask you. What would you like?"

    Lianfeng replied with a polite smile, "No, what you ordered is fine."

    The waiter took his leave. Shi Meng initiated the conversation, "You seemed extremely calm for someone spilling the soup."

    Lianfeng laughed, "Let''s say that''s not the worst accident I have caused."

    Shi Meng replied, smiling, "Remind me to steer clear of you when you are carrying anything fragile."

    Lianfeng said, "Noted. I must remind you to watch where you are going."

    They both laughed, letting a moment pass to sink it in.

    Lianfeng asked with a profound expression, "They say daffodils symbolize resilience. Do you think they bloom more beautifully amidst adversity?"

    Shi Meng took a pause and said, "Even the most resilient flowers survive only when their roots are strong."

    Lianfeng''s suspicion grew stronger. There''s a 75% chance that he is him. She removed her ancestral hairpin from the small pouch hanging at her waist and slid it into her bun. Shi Meng didn''t notice it and looked for the waiter. You idiot.

    She took out the hairpin and placed it on the table with a click. Startled by the sound, Shi Meng turned back to Lianfeng.

    Lianfeng gave him an embarrassed smile. "Sorry, I am just clumsy." Now, look at it.

    Shi Meng''s eyes locked on the hairpin, his expression frozen in disbelief. He leaned forward as though confirming what he was seeing. "You, where did you get that hairpin?" His voice was low, almost trembling. He remembered his kind aunt''s bright smile. Her voice calling him softly. The hairpin had been passed down for generations, he couldn''t be wrong.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    Lianfeng offered an apologetic smile, though her heart raced. "It''s mine," she said evenly, suppressing the storm of emotions threatening to break through. It''s you, it is really you.

    For a moment, Shi Meng said nothing, his hand hovering above the table. Then, as if the realization hit him all at once, his eyes widened. "It''s you," he whispered, his voice barely audible. "It''s you, Huanxin."

    Lianfeng¡¯s heart clenched at the sound of her name, which she hadn¡¯t heard in years. She wanted to cry, scream, and demand answers, but she stayed composed, giving a small nod. Our roots were severed, yet here we are, two surviving branches.

    The weight of the revelation pressed between them, each searching the other''s eyes for confirmation of what their hearts already knew. The silence was broken only when the waiter returned with their order.

    The waiter¡¯s arrival shattered the stillness, placing plates before them with a polite smile. "Here¡¯s your order, sir."

    Lianfeng smiled and stated, "Thank you."

    The waiter smiled back and left them alone.

    "How did you survive?", asked Shi Meng, not completely able to let the realization sink in.

    "I hid in the room beneath. How''d you survive?"

    "I don''t remember. All I remember is waking up at the old lady''s house." Shi Meng said shaking his head slightly from right to left. He picked up the chopsticks and started eating.

    Lianfeng didn''t pursue the matter further and picked up the chopstick. After a short silence, Shi Meng said, his eyes watery, "I always wondered if anyone else from our tribe had survived. I never changed my surname because of this, in hopes that someone would find me."

    "Then, you did the right thing I found you because of the surname." She said, letting out a small laugh as she gobbled rice. "Did anyone else survive?" She asked, her eyes filled with hope.

    "Not that I know of," replied Shi Meng shaking his head.

    Lianfeng exhaled a long breath putting down her chopsticks. She picked up the hairpin and kept it in her pouch.

    They walked out of the eatery after paying the bill at the counter. The sun had lowered down casting a warm glow over the landscape. Lianfeng''s feet felt heavy as she walked the three steps. Her feet finally touched the ground. She turned towards Shi Meng meaning to say goodbye, yet the words didn''t come out.

    Shi Meng shared similar feelings. "Why don''t we meet again?"

    Lianfeng nodded slightly, "Sure. I will bum into you again on this street." She smiled.

    Shi Meng gave out a little laugh, "Then, I will wait for you to bump into me."

    Lianfeng smiled brightly in response and bid him goodbye. Shi Meng cast a longing glance at her back, before going on his way. As he was on his way, Lianfeng glanced longingly at him merging with the crowd. She smiled bittersweetly before going on her way.

 Between Secrets and Names

<div>

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

    </article>

 Pursuit and Pretense

    At this question, Lianfeng became confused. Who am I now? Am I Lianfeng or He Ning?

    Lianfeng feeling flustered replied, "Just call me Xin''er for now."

    Shi Meng noticing her fluster, decided not to pursue the matter, "All right."

    Lianfeng nodded slightly, still enveloped in her thoughts. She raised her eyes from the ground and saw Wu Hi at a stall buying pendants. Wu Hi- what is she doing here? What a stupid question I am asking. Of course, she is out shopping. Oh shoot, let''s run before she sees me.

    But luck isn''t on her side. Wu Hi sees her. Lianfeng grabs Shi Meng''s sleeve and turns back, startling Shi Meng. She walks at a fast pace, trying to avoid Wu Hi.

    "What happened?", whispered Shi Meng.

    "My sister happened," Lianfeng replied, whispering. Her brows furrowed and her lips curled.

    "Huh?", said Shi Meng, utterly confused.

    "I mean my adoptive sister saw us together."

    "You have an adoptive sister?"

    "I''ll tell you later about it. Run for now."

    She held tight to his sleeve and yanked him to an alley on her right. She ran at a fast pace dragging Shi Meng along. Shi Meng felt burn in his thighs as if they were on fire. His breath came in quick, shallow gasps, but Lianfeng was already pulling him forward, urging him to keep moving. It was tough for him as he rarely exercised, focusing entirely on his studies.

    After a few more turns, Lianfeng shot a look behind. Seeing no signs of Wu Hi, she stopped. Lianfeng was out of breath and took in quick breaths. But Shi Meng''s condition was worse. His legs were about to fail. He dropped to the ground pulling his knees into a fetal position. As he gasped for breath, he raised his eyes and spotted Prince Yan walking leisurely with a scroll in hand. He got up and grabbed Lianfeng''s wrist and ran into a narrow alley on his left.

    Lianfeng quickly caught up and took the lead. She shouted, "Who did you see?"

    "I saw Yan, Prince yan"

    "Why is everyone out today?"

    "He probably came to see me."

    "Why?"

    "I asked him for a scroll from the royal library."

    "Couldn''t you find it anywhere else?"

    "Why waste money?"This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    "Miser."

    The alley was so small that their arms bumed onto the walls. Shi Meng almost tripped over a rock.

    They stopped as they reached a crowded street. Thinking they had dodged Prince Yan, they gasped for breath holding their knees. The aroma of roasted chestnut was tempting but it made no effect on them. The onlookers gave them a look before moving on.

    As Lianfeng looked up, her heart sank when Wu Hi''s sharp eyes locked onto hers.

    "What are you doing out today, Miss?" she asked. How dare you run away?

    "I- I was out shopping today," Lianfeng replied with a smile. She''s not gonna believe that.

    "Yes, yes of course," Wu hi said politely. Common, come up with a better excuse. I taught you better than that. Her eyes fell on Shi Meng, who was still gasping for breath while holding his knees. Wu Hi raised her eyebrows. "And who is that?" She looked at Lianfeng with interrogative eyes.

    Shi Meng understood Wu Hi was talking about him. He composed himself and bowed 15 degrees in greeting. "Let me introduce myself. I am Shi Meng."

    As if summoned by the chaos, Prince Yan appeared with his hands at the back. His golden hairpin glinted in the sunlight, a crown on a prince who never seemed to hurry. His smile, ever so charming, seemed to be filled with intrigue.

    The trio greeted him in chorus. "Greetings, Your Highness."

    "Quickly, rise. We don''t want to attract attention, not that I ever do." Prince Yan gestured, his golden hairpin catching the sunlight.

    Says a man wearing a purple robe embroidered with golden threads and a gold hairpin. Lianfeng scoffed inwardly.

    Wu Hi was nervous and afraid that her relationship with Lianfeng would be exposed. Why is Prince Yan here? Shi Meng felt uneasy, unsure how to navigate the awkward situation. Trapped... I am trapped.

    The group of four sat around a table, in awkward silence. The room had elegant decor, with porcelain cups and the furniture of top quality wood. They were sitting in the best room at Moonlit Pavillion. There was no place quite like it in the entire capital¡ªMoonlit Pavillion,was, without question the finest of them all.

    Wu Hi fidgeted with her fingers while Shi Meng looked slightly tensed. Lianfeng remained composed but her mind rushed to find explanations. Prince Yan lookes at the trio with an amused smile while he fanned himself. He broke the silence by swinging his fan shut on his hand.

    ¡°You all look as if you¡¯ve been caught red-handed,¡± Prince Yan teased, his sharp eyes scanning their faces. ¡°Should I be worried? Or are you all simply trying to avoid being seen together?¡±

    "There''s nothing as such, Your Highness. We didn''t expect to meet you." Wu Hi offered a polite smile.

    "Well, isn''t this an interesting gathering? How exactly do you all know each other?" he asked, a playful grin tugged on his lips.

    Lianfeng and Shi Meng sat by his side while Wu Hi was opposite him. Lianfeng and Shi Meng shared a glance before she broke the silence, her tone deliberately light.

    ¡°I met Mr. Shi yesterday by accident,¡± she said, forcing a laugh. "I soiled his clothes, and we¡¯ve been bumping into each other ever since.¡±

    Shi Meng nodded, his face stiff with a polite smile.

    ¡°And Ms. Wu?¡± Prince Yan¡¯s gaze flicked to Wu Hi, who straightened under his scrutiny.

    ¡°We¡¯ve crossed paths a few times in the palace,¡± Lianfeng interjected smoothly before Wu Hi could respond.

    "Oh." Prince Yan replied, staring into Lianfeng''s brown eyes. You are amused. Aren''t you?

    None of the other broke the eye contact. Shi Meng and Wu Hi exchanged brief glances before turning to the other two. Shi Meng interjected, "It''s a rare occasion that we all gathered." The group''s attention turned to Shi Meng. "Let''s not dwell on how we know each other." He continued and shot a look at Prince Yan.

    He called out to the waiter and placed the order. Wu Hi gave Lianfeng a pointed look while Prince Yan slyly smiled.

    Lianfeng caught Wu Hi¡¯s pointed look, and she knew that the tension between them was far from over. But for now, it was set aside.

 Persistence

    After the tiring lunch, Lianfeng returned to the palace, her steps heavy but her expression composed. Ren, ever vigilant, waited for her at the gate. As they fell into step together, the soft fragrance of newly planted peonies filled the courtyard, their vibrant blossoms swaying gently in the spring breeze.

    Lianfeng glanced at Ren, her lips curving into a faint smile that didn''t quite reach her eyes. "You''ll never guess the circus I just endured," she began, her tone wry.

    Ren raised her eyebrows, and asked, "What happened? Was it a good show?"

    Lianfeng chuckled and said, "When I was talking with Shi Meng. I saw Wu Hi at a stall so I ran to avoid her, dragging Shi Meng along. As soon as we caught our breath, we saw Prince Yan. We ran to dodge him but. In the end, I had an awkward lunch with Wu Hi, Shi Meng, and Prince Yan."

    Ren calmed herself and spoke, "Quite the ordeal. Did Prince Yan discover your identity?"

    Lianfeng sighed and said, "No, but he seemed quite interested. If he pursues this matter, it could only mean trouble. We have to act more vigilantly from now on."

    Ren nodded and they continued to walk in silence. The scent of peonies grew fainter as they moved deeper into the palace grounds.

    Until Ren spoke, "Then, what about Shi Meng? Is he trustworthy?"

    Lianfeng replied," He is. From the way he handled things today, he surely won''t cause trouble for me." She paused and continued, "I am thinking of recruiting him in our plan. What do you think?"

    Ren thought for a moment and stated, "He has achieved great heights at a young age. He is surely an asset. I don''t think there''s any disavantage for us."

    Lianfeng nodded, she picked up the teacup and blew on it to cool it down. He can be helpful. But will he agree to be a part of my plan?

    As soon as the dawn broke, an attendant knocked on Lianfeng''s door. Lianfeng still half asleep, rose from her bed with great strength. She donned her robe and opened the door. The attendant was a young man. He wore a red robe, with a leather belt. A jade pendant hung at his waist. He bowed slightly and said, "Prince Yan has called you, Madam. He asks you to accompany him to the mountains."This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

    Lianfeng''s brows curved and her eye twitched. Why? Why is he calling me? It''s better to check it out myself. I can refuse him afterward.

    Lianfeng replied, "Please tell Prince Yan to wait. I will meet him after I freshen up."

    The attendant took his leave. He took small steps almost like a child''s.

    Lianfeng shut the door and freshened up. She donned a black robe and strode out. The sun had creaked out of the mountains and shined brightly. Some soldiers patrolled the palace while others were stationed at the gates. The palace was with little activity as it was still early.

    Lianfeng was met with Prince Yan and Shi Meng mounted on their horses. There were 2 horses at each of their sides. At some distance, she saw Wu Hi donning a blue robe.

    What are you planning?

    Prince Yan smiled slyly and spoke, "Well, didn''t we have an amusing encounter yesterday? I thought a little ride might help us clear the air, don''t you think?"

    You sly fox. Lianfeng lied, "I''m afraid I am feeling unwell today under the weather. Perhaps another time, Your Highness."

    "Oh", Prince Yan replied. "Ask the Imperial physician to check on her," he ordered his attendant.

    Before the attendant could move. Lianfeng replied with a courteous smile, "I have already checked with a doctor. No need to trouble the Imperial physician."

    "It''s no trouble. After all, it''s his duty as a doctor too."

    Shi Meng interjected with a smile, "Your Highness won''t take a no for an answer. You might as well join us."

    Lianfeng complied and mounted the horse and so did Wu Hi.

    What game is he playing? And why bring us all here?

    Adrenaline coursed through her as the horses thundered across the plains. Dust swirled beneath their hooves, and the sharp wind stung her cheeks. Lianfeng glanced at Prince Yan, who rode just ahead, his posture relaxed yet calculated. His sly smile hadn¡¯t faded, and she could feel his eyes flicking back to her now and then.

    Wu Hi rode a few steps back, her thoughts churning. What is Lianfeng hiding? Does Prince Yan suspect something? And what is his role in this mess? She glanced at Shi Meng who was all sweaty.

    As the horses galloped faster, the wind lashed against their faces. Prince Yan stole a glance at Lianfeng, while Shi Meng struggled to keep up, sweat glistening on his brow.

    Prince Yan finally slowed his horse, turning back to address them with a teasing grin. ¡°I must say, this ride is already far more enjoyable than our awkward little lunch yesterday. Don¡¯t you agree?¡±

    Lianfeng forced a polite smile. ¡°Indeed, Your Highness. It¡¯s... refreshing.¡±

    His chuckle was soft, almost indulgent. ¡°Refreshing, yes. Though I do wonder... what else might be uncovered in such an invigorating setting.

 Shadows on the Mountaintop

    Prince Yan flashed a wide grin, his confidence radiating as he urged his horse further up the mountain trail. The group trailed behind, their thoughts as turbulent as the crisp wind sweeping through the flora.

    He wants to know the truth. I see, but I won''t let you, I can''t. Lianfeng tightened her grip on the reins, giving her horse a subtle nudge. The animal responded, galloping swiftly ahead.

    He¡¯s suspicious. He suspects us. What should I do? Wu Hi felt her chest tighten, her heartbeat quickening as unease settled over her. No... I must stay calm. I can''t falter now.

    He is at it again. Shi Meng urged his horse forward, the strain evident in his taut jaw as he caught up to the others.

    When they reached the mountaintop, Prince Yan dismounted, his grin unwavering. ¡°Here we are,¡± he announced, his tone as light as the breeze.

    The others halted their horses and gazed at the breathtaking view before them. The sprawling capital stretched out beneath the clear sky, its labyrinth of streets converging at the imposing imperial palace in the center. From this vantage, every corner of the city seemed to pulse with life¡ªthe busiest of all being the east gate, where merchants and travelers bustled like ants in a hive.

    ¡°It¡¯s funny how people can climb so high, yet still remain in the shadows. Don¡¯t you think?¡± Prince Yan asked smiling at the group.

    "It is, I suppose." Lianfeng replied back, keeping her tone neutral.

    Before the air could grow heavier, Shi Meng stepped in, his voice steady but light. ¡°Let¡¯s go back.¡±

    "What''s the hurry? We''ve just reached here." Prince Yan replied.

    "If I don''t go now, I would be late for work." Shi Meng answered, his tone light.

    Wu Hi seized the opportunity to end the conversation. ¡°Let¡¯s go, then,¡± she said, her tone clipped, betraying her urgency. It''s best that way.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    Everyone mounted their horses and rushed back to the capital. The curious eyes of spectators followed them as they sped towards the palace. Shi Meng bid goodbye to the three on the peony street and went on his way.

    Back at the palace gates, the grou dismounted. Wu Hi and Lianfeng bid farewell to Prince Yan as they parted their ways. The silence stretching as servants led the horses away. Only when they were out of earshot did Wu Hi break the stillness, her voice hesitant yet firm.

    ¡°Who is he?¡±

    Lianfeng replied, her voice barely above a whisper. ¡°He is my cousin.¡±

    ¡°Why did you run when you saw me?¡±

    ¡°I¡ªI didn¡¯t know how to react.¡±

    ¡°So, you ran as if I was a monster? Tell me, why did you have to hide it?¡± Wu Hi¡¯s voice grew sharper, cutting through the delicate air of the palace gardens.

    Lianfeng sighed, her words heavy. ¡°I didn¡¯t want you to get further enveloped in my plan.¡±

    Wu Hi¡¯s eyes flared with frustration as she stopped in her track, gripping Lianfeng by the shoulders. ¡°Do you think any of us can be saved if you are exposed? Lianfeng, it¡¯s too late for us to back out now. We¡¯re already in too deep. The best thing you can do now is to be honest with us¡ªand let us help you.¡±

    Lianfeng stared at her, words caught in her throat. She didn¡¯t have a response, and the weight of Wu Hi¡¯s gaze pressed harder than any physical force.

    Finally, Wu Hi released her, her voice softer but no less resolute. ¡°Go now. And change into a fresh pair of clothes.¡±

    Wu Hi strided forward, while Lianfeng took small steps. She is right. It''s too late for them to back out. And it isn''t like they would do nothing if I get exposed.

    Lianfeng halted, letting the realization sink in. After a moment, she strided forward. If I can''t keep them safe by keeing them out, then it''s better to let them in.

    Lianfeng creaked open her room. Ren was sipping tea, sitting on the table. At the sight of Lianfeng, she kept her cup down and lunged forward. She revolved around Lianfeng, checking for injuries. She breathed a sigh of relief when she was sure Lianfeng wasn''t injured.

    "How are you? Are you fine? Did anything happen?" Ren asked, her eyes wide and face tense.

    "Calm down and sit." Lianfeng held Ren''s shoulders and made her sit on the bed.

    She sat next to her and recounted everything that had haened.

    "What do you think? Should I include them?"

    "See, they are excellent. But it depends on you, whether you will be alright with them."

    "I will be alright. I trust them."

    "Then, it''s decided. But the act of strangers must go on. We would pass message through our network. They know all about it, so there will be no complications."

    Lianfeng nodded, the weight on her shoulders easing ever so slightly. Yet, as she met Ren¡¯s gaze, a thought flickered in her mind. Trust isn¡¯t the issue. It¡¯s whether we can navigate the storm without sinking.

 The Rivers Pact

    Lianfeng sat by the riverbank, her legs submerged in the cool, gentle flow of the river. The verdant forest surrounded her, a haven of serenity untouched by the chaos of the world. The soft chirping of birds wove a delicate melody, harmonizing with the soft rustle of leaves in the breeze. A dragonfly skimmed over the water¡¯s surface, its fragile wings catching the fading sunlight.

    She gazed at the forest path, her eyes anticipating. She caught sight of Shi Meng, waving at her. He wore a simple robe unlike the other day at the mountaintop. His yellow robe swayed with the breeze. He sat beside her submerging his legs beside hers.

    So, why did you ask to meet me here?¡± he asked, his eyes warm but tinged with curiosity.

    Lianfeng gave a short, bittersweet smile. ¡°I need to ask something of you.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡± he replied, tilting his head slightly, his gaze steady on her.

    She hesitated for a moment before speaking, her tone soft yet resolute. ¡°Do you remember what our elders always taught us? That loyalty and brotherhood were the foundation of everything our tribe stood for?¡±

    "Of course. I do, how could I ever forget?" He replied, gazing at the other side of the river.

    "Do you still believe in them?" She urged, her voice expectant.

    "I do."

    She exhaled a quiet breath of relief before continuing. ¡°I want answers to the massacre. I want the truth. Will you help me?¡±

    Shi Meng¡¯s jaw tightened slightly, and he looked down at the water. ¡°Xin¡¯er,¡± he began, his voice low, "I have left the grudges behind. I don''t want to open up those wounds again. And I am sure they''d want us to be happy and leave the grudges."

    ¡°They would want us to be happy,¡± Lianfeng agreed, her voice softening. ¡°But don¡¯t they deserve the truth? Do those wounds no longer hurt you?¡±

    Silence fell between them. Shi Meng¡¯s shoulders were tense, his gaze unfocused as he wrestled with her words. Lianfeng turned to him, her expression earnest, her voice steady.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    ¡°We were children when it happened,¡± she said, ¡°but the pain hasn¡¯t faded, has it? If we don¡¯t seek answers, who will? I need someone I can trust¡ªsomeone who understands what we¡¯ve lost.¡±

    ¡°This isn¡¯t just about answers, Lianfeng,¡± he replied, his voice heavy with doubt. ¡°If something goes wrong... what happens to us? I¡¯ve worked so hard to build a life for myself. I can¡¯t let it crumble.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why I need you,¡± she countered, leaning slightly toward him. ¡°To ensure nothing goes wrong. And if it does, I¡¯ll take the blame. No one will know about your involvement. You can stay in the shadows.¡±

    Shi Meng¡¯s lips pressed into a thin line, his mind clouded with uncertainty. ¡°Are you sure about this?¡±

    ¡°I am,¡± she said firmly. ¡°This isn¡¯t just about what we¡¯ve lost¡ªit¡¯s about what others could lose if the same people remain in power. If we don¡¯t stop them, others will suffer. We have a chance to expose the truth and prevent it.¡±

    Lianfeng reached into her pouch and pulled out the delicate hairpin. The sunlight caught the intricate design, casting tiny reflections onto the water. ¡°I wore this on New Year¡¯s Eve. It was the last festival we celebrated together as a tribe. I remember our elders saying we must always help one another because our tribe is one big family. Are you fine letting the culprits go unpunished? Do their memories not haunt you?¡±

    The silence stretched longer this time. Shi Meng¡¯s expression shifted, the weight of guilt and duty settling over him. Xiner''s right. They deserve justice. I am doing them a disservice if the culprit goes free. And what about others? What is the guarantee that he won''t hurt others? But what about me? What about the life I''ve built? Would I be able to stay safe? Can I really remain in the shadows?

    He heaved a deep sigh, his shoulders slumping slightly as he turned back to her. ¡°Fine,¡± he said, his voice quiet but resolute. ¡°I¡¯ll help you. But I¡¯ll remain in the shadows. I won¡¯t act openly.¡±

    Lianfeng¡¯s lips curved into a small, relieved smile. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said sincerely. ¡°We will communicate through the Su bookstore or my attendant, Ren will come to you. Go to the Su bookstore and say, ¡®I want the three characters.¡¯ If there¡¯s a message, they¡¯ll lead you to a room. If not, they¡¯ll say, ¡®We don¡¯t have it, sir.¡¯¡±

    Shi Meng nodded, his gaze steady. ¡°I understand.¡±

    Lianfeng glanced at the horizon, the sun dipping lower into the embrace of the mountains. The golden light bathed the river in hues of amber and crimson. ¡°I should get going now,¡± she said, rising to her feet. The soft rustle of her robe broke the stillness.

    Shi Meng remained seated for a moment, watching her as she walked toward her horse. I guess I wasn''t wrong. She carries a lot of weight... How long has she been doing this?

    As Lianfeng mounted her horse, she glanced back at him, her expression unreadable. ¡°Be careful, Shi Meng. And remember¡ªno one can know.¡±

    With that, she rode off into the fading light, the sound of her horse¡¯s hooves fading into the distance. Shi Meng turned back to the river, the hairpin¡¯s reflection still lingering in his mind. This is a risk. But perhaps... it¡¯s a risk worth taking.

 First Plan

    I have to investigate faster. My position in the palace is secure, and Brother Meng can help with the ministers. Lianfeng thought, sipping her tea.

    She instructed Ren, ''Deliver a message to Shi Meng. He should get close to the Minister of Martial Affairs. We need documents about the tribe''s massacre from the ministry.''

    Minister Xiao is a cunning man; he wouldn''t pass up the chance to build ties with Brother Meng, given his favor with the Empress.

    Ren did as instructed and sent the message to Su stationery. Shi Meng had doubted his decision. He had made a reckless promise without considering the consequences fully. But a promise was a promise, he couldn''t go back on his words. He had been visiting the stationery daily. They hadn''t talked about how frequently he was to visit.

    As usual on his way to court, he stopped at the stationery. "I want the three characters", he said, thinking he would have no response today either. He had also doubted whether Lianfeng''s plan of communication would work or not.

    But to his suprise, the man at the counter gestured with his hands and led him to a room. The room was mostly empty except a chair and a small round table with a small box on it. Rays of sunlight broke through the windows. The clasp of the box shone with sunlight falling on it.

    The counter man glanced at him once before shutting the door, leaving Shi Meng alone with the box. Shi Meng opened the box. Inside was a piece of paper neatly folded. He picked up the paper and unfolded it. It read ''Brother Meng, get close to Minister Xiao from Minister of Martial Affairs. We need the documents about the tribe''s massacare. I want to see if we can find any clues. I will sneak into the palace archives and check the documents there. If you have any message for me, write it at the bottom of the page.''

    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.

    He wondered how he was supposed to write without ink and brush. His eyes fell on the box. He removed the red compartment and found brush and ink at the bottom of the box.

    Shi Meng tapped the brush against the inkstone, staring at the blank space below Lianfeng¡¯s message. Could he really pull this off? If Minister Xiao suspected anything, it wouldn¡¯t end well. But a promise was a promise. He let out a quiet breath and wrote, ''I will try to get close to Minister Xiao, but I can''t guarantee I''ll get the documents. Also, do not do anything rash. I will visit once a week to the stationery, if there''s an urgent message, have your attendant deliver it.''

    He placed the ink and brush at the bottom and the paper on the compartment. He exited the room quietly, closing the door before going. On his way out, he exhanged a quick glance with the counter man.

    In the Palace, Lianfeng had sent Wu Hi a message and was impatiently waiting for a reply. Her foot tapped against the floor, an unconscious rhythm of impatience. She drummed her fingers against the table, eyes fixed on the doorway. The only time I can sneak into the archive will be when the guards change shifts. I will need her to cover for me. Having Ren do it, will be suspicious and anyone else well they won''t have the ability to knock the guards unconcious if needed.

    Ren arrived bringing two pieces of news. "I have two messages; one from Wu Hi, one from Shi meng. Which you would like to hear first?"

    Lianfeng impatiently said, "Wu Hi one first."

    "She is ready to help and will cover for you. While Shi Meng has this note for you." Ren said removing a piece of paper from her pocket.

    Lianfeng grabbed the note and unfolded it quickly. After reading it, without hesitation, she folded it and held it over the lamp¡¯s flame, watching the edges curl and blacken before turning to ash.

    "What had he say?" Ren asked with curious eyes.

    "He¡¯ll try, but he isn¡¯t confident he can get the documents. He also warned me not to act recklessly." Lianfeng stated.

 Sneaking in the Archive

    It was autumn. The leaves on the trees were turning red and falling away. Night settled like a blanket, wrapping around the Palace''s commotion.

    Lianfeng wore muted brown and waited while speaking to a maid. The pieces were in place. Mr. Wu would draw the guards away, Wu Hi would hold the next shift guards just long enough, and Ren would keep watch. Lianfeng had only one task¡ªslip in unnoticed.

    Mr. Wu held two jars of wine in his hands. Lianfeng was too far to hear what he was saying, but he was laughing and chatting freely with the guards.

    After some reluctance, the guards eventually followed Mr. Wu. Lianfeng sent the maid away and slipped into the archive. Though rarely used, the archive was impeccably clean, its shelves illuminated by the soft glow of candles. She quickly made her way to the martial section, searching through the scrolls about the tribe. As she unrolled another scroll, the faint creak of a wooden shelf made her freeze. She held her breath, ears straining for any sign of movement outside.

    She sifted through a dozen scrolls before finally finding the one on the tribe. Pulling out a brush and a sheet of paper, she hastily copied the text in her messy script.

    I have to be quick¡ªthe guards could return at any moment now.

    Suddenly, the door burst open. Lianfeng stiffened, heart jolting. In one fluid motion, her fingers brushed the dagger at her shin, muscles tensed to strike¡ª

    But the maid barely spared a glance in her direction. She rushed to the study table, snatched something, and vanished just as quickly.

    Lianfeng breathed a sigh of relief, folded the scroll, and placed it back on the shelf.

    She walked swiftly towards the training ground. The training ground always remained open for soldiers to practice whenever they wanted. A few soldiers nodded in greeting, sparing her a glance.

    Mr. Wu was drinking with the soldiers, laughing heartily. The men were already swaying, drunk.

    "Brother, you are so good," one of the drunk soldiers exclaimed.

    Mr. Wu smiled. "You''re good too! Come on, one more drink," he said, pouring liquor into their cups.

    The soldier barely managed to finish his drink before slumping over the table, completely drowsy.

    Stolen novel; please report.

    "You lost," Mr. Wu said, giggling. Though his eyes were heavy and his cheeks flushed red, he held his liquor well, still managing to sit upright. His gaze shifted to Lianfeng. He got up, limping slightly, and took her hands.

    He held her hands and said in a small voice, "My daughter."

    He then turned towards the sparring soldiers, "Isn''t she great? My daughter," pointing at Lianfeng.

    When he turned back and saw Wu Hi and Lianfeng standing there, arms crossed.

    "My daughters!" he whispered drunkenly. He stumbled forward, attempting to hug them both.

    Lianfeng and Wu Hi exchanged a glance before supporting him and leading him back to his room. He continued rambling the entire way.

    After putting Mr. Wu to bed, the women gathered around the table. Su Yin poured hot tea into three cups.

    "It''s good that you arrived on time," Lianfeng said, blowing on her tea, "or else everyone would have thought he was talking about me."

    "Did you encounter any trouble?" Su Yin asked.

    "None. The plan worked fine." Lianfeng replied.

    After talking some more, Lianfeng left for her room.

    Lianfeng frowned as she walked back. The plan had gone smoothly.

    But that maid.....

    Why was she there? And more importantly¡ªwhat had she taken?

    Shi Meng had done his part. A copy of the document as already in Lianfeng¡¯s hands¡ªand hers in his.

    Lianfeng sat at her desk, candlelight flickering over the two documents. She ran her fingers over the ink, carefully reading each word. Shi Meng, in his house, did the same, his brow furrowed in concentration.

    Lianfeng''s grip on the parchment tightened again. The content of both documents was nearly identical, recounting the massacre of the tribe. The dates matched. The names matched. Even the descriptions of the event were the same. But there was a difference¡ªone that stood out like a blade in the dark.

    In the document she copied, the final lines read: "The matter was handled by provincial authorities."

    In Shi Meng''s copy, the wording differed: "The matter was reported by provincial authorities."

    Shi Meng exhaled slowly. The change seemed small, but its implications were huge. If the authorities only reported the incident, then who actually handled it? And why was this detail altered?

    Lianfeng didn¡¯t see just a discrepancy¡ªshe saw deception. Her jaw clenched. The wording shifted responsibility, and that wasn¡¯t an accident. Someone had deliberately changed the record. Someone was hiding the truth.

    Her pulse pounded in her ears. Only those involved in the cover-up could have manipulated the records. If the provincial officials merely reported it¡ª

    ¡ªthen the real power behind this was elsewhere.

    Shi Meng rubbed his forehead, thinking through the possibilities. The imperial court? No, the tribe had been in hiding. They possesed no threat to the imperial power. A local power? But why erase their role? He had a feeling the answer lay with those who handled the aftermath.

    It''s the magistrate. Lianfeng suddenly realized. He is the one who was responsible for the aftermath.

    It can''t be Mr. Wei. He is so kind. It must be a mistake by the clerk. Mistakes made by clerks aren''t too rare. That must be it. Shi Meng thought, pacing about the room.

 Back to Jinggu

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 On the Streets

    Lianfeng wandered on the streets. The streets where she bore the hardest period of her life, fighting for survival. The streets brought back memories and a lot of pain with them. The walls and alleys, though polished by new prosperity, still bore an oppressive air. Approaching the little hut that had once been her sole refuge, a place that had provided her shelter and relief, she felt a pang of loss upon seeing it replaced by a small school. She could hear the teacher inside, ¡°Confucius said ¡­¡±

    The school was called ¡®Wen school¡¯. It suddenly dawned on her that many shops, eateries and schools had the character ¡®Wen¡¯ in it. She was now curious as to why all these places had the character ¡®Wen¡¯. She asked on the streets and found about the famous Ms. Wen. People praised her and blessed her name every time she asked.

    Jinggu had changed considerably over the years. Although it had not regained its influence in the martial arts world, it had managed to become an important hub of trade. This was partly due to the new businesswoman who had arrived ten years ago¡ªMs. Wen. She was involved in every major business, from ports to carriages, from flowers to fireworks, from property selling to clothing. She was the most famous person after Mr. Wei in Jinggu.

    Ms. Wen was not only known for her talent in business but also for her kindness. She had opened schools for orphans and the poor, contributed extensively to charity, and promoted science. She was well-loved by the commoners¡ªyet there remained an unsettling irony.

    How could someone so benevolent rise in a place now ruled by a man like Mr. Wei? A man whose ascent was as ruthless as it was mysterious. A man who wore the mask of success yet harbored a darker legacy.

    What an interesting lady. I wonder if I will meet her.

    She decided to visit the hill where her tribe lived. She went to the outskirts of Jinggu and up to the valley. After crossing the cave, she stood at the entrance of her tribe¡¯s place, now covered with thick forest. The place which once had the melody of her tribe was now left with eerie chirpings of the bird. She didn¡¯t have the heart to visit the place. She tried to move her feet, but it felt like they had become lead and were caught in a swamp.

    If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    She just stood at the entrance for what seemed like an eternity. Someone tapped on her shoulder and she was surprised to find Shi Meng there. The sun had sunk low and was now casting long red rays of sunlight.

    ¡°I thought you¡¯d be here.¡± Shi Meng said with relief. ¡°Since you didn¡¯t return, I came to check on you.¡±

    Lianfeng asked, staring at the forest, ¡°Do you think that their spirits are still here, at this place?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. But I like to believe that they all ascended to heaven.¡±

    ¡°I still remember Shi Wei¡¯s face covered with blood. His dead body at the doorstep, the screams of the kids who were caught hiding. I heard Aunt Xue begging for mercy for her newborn baby. She wouldn¡¯t even say ¡®please¡¯ ever.¡± Lianfeng took a pause, and gave a wry chuckle. ¡°But that day, she groveled at their feet. And still, they showed no mercy.¡±

    ¡°Do you think they blame me, Xiner? For choosing to live my life and forgetting about them?¡±

    ¡°You didn¡¯t really forget them, did you?¡± She gave a comforting look to Shi Meng. ¡°You couldn¡¯t, could you? And as for choosing yourself, I think they had be happy. As you said that day at the river, they had want us happy. But I simply couldn''t let go of the grudge, that''s why I pursued."

    After a moment of silence heavy and unsaid words, Shi Meng said, "Let''s visit the hill. It''s been a long time."

    They both took steps towards the top of the hill. There were no remains to be seen, the forest had covered everything.

    Lianfeng took a deep breath and with a wry smile whispered, "We''re back."

    They returned soon after, their footsteps quickening with the thought of not worrying Aunt Li and Uncle Zhou. As they walked along the cobbled path, Lianfeng learned more about Magistrate Wei''s journey. Magistrate Wei was himself from humble beginnings and rose because of the imperial examination. Aunt Li and Uncle Zhou had been his earliest servants and followed him through life''s trials and triumphs, forging a bond as strong as family. Disrespecting them was equivalent to disrespecting Magistrate Wei. Once a young nobleman berated and kicked Uncle Zhou in the belly. Mr. Wei was so furious that he almost killed the young noble; but alas was stopped by Uncle Zhou. From that day on, no one in Jinggu dared to disrespect them. Mr. Wei had lost his parents at the tender age of 20, and Aunt Li and Uncle Zhou had stepped into the role of surrogate parents, their care enveloping him like a warm embrace.

    Lianfeng lay motionless on her bed, eyes fixated on the ceiling, thinking how the so good, so benevolent, so charitable; Mr. Wei was actually a cold-blooded murderer who had not even spared children.

 In and Out of Consciousness

    Lianfeng and Shi Meng were sitting in a private room in "The Valley Pearl." The Valley Pearl lacked the grandeur of Yuanfu¡¯s famed Jade Pavilion or Moonlit Pavilion. No golden lanterns or silk-draped screens, no scent of agarwood or musk wafting through the air. But within its polished wooden walls, deals were struck, ambitions whispered over cups of wine. It was where people of ambition gathered. Those not wealthy enough for Yuanfu¡¯s finest but with a desire to make their mark in Jinggu.

    Lianfeng was barely conscious from drinking too much wine. The porcelain cups and kettle sat between them, the scent of alcohol thick in the air. She sat with one knee bent, the other folded on the ground, foot resting against the opposite ankle. Her pinkish-red eyes stared at the wooden floor, unfocused.

    She placed one hand beside her cup and muttered in frustration, "We''ve wasted three months and found nothing on that damn Wei."

    She grabbed the cup, drank it in one gulp, and slammed it on the table. "Every lead we found ended in a dead end." Her voice cracked with anger. She reached for the kettle.

    Shi Meng tensed. "Stop now," he snapped, reaching to take it from her.

    She shoved his hand away, sending him a few steps back. He clenched his jaw but didn''t move forward again. Lianfeng tipped the kettle and poured the wine straight into her mouth. Some spilled over the corner of her lips, but she didn¡¯t care.

    She lurched to her feet, swaying as she took a step. "Fifteen years! Fifteen damn years, and still nothing on Wei Zheng. Everyone else¡ªI''ve got dirt on them. But him? It''s like the heavens themselves are shielding him."

    She lifted the kettle for another drink, but Shi Meng lunged forward this time, snatching it from her grasp.

    The kettle crashed to the floor, shards of porcelain scattering across the room.

    "Get a grip on yourself. We haven''t lost yet. We can still find the culprit," he said, his grip tightening around her upper arm.

    Lianfeng let out a hollow laugh. "I used to think so too. But these past three months¡ªno, these past fifteen years have proved me wrong. I am a loser."

    She jabbed a finger at his shoulder, glaring up at him with defiant, unfocused eyes.

    Shi Meng exhaled sharply. In one swift move, he struck a pressure point at the back of her neck. Lianfeng''s body went slack, her weight collapsing against him.

    "I am sorry to use your technique against you," Shi Meng muttered.

    With a sigh, he adjusted her against his chest and hefted her onto his back. He laid her in the carriage. When they reached the magistrate¡¯s house, the coachman helped him lift her once more, and he carried her inside.

    Aunt Li and Uncle Zhou were sitting in the courtyard. Aunt Li spotted Shi Meng and asked, "What happened?"

    "Nothing; she drank too much."

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    "Aiyoo! You should have stopped her." She scolded Shi Meng. "Give her to me."

    Aunt Li carried Lianfeng to her room and sighed, shaking her head as she wiped Lianfeng''s sweaty brow. ''This girl,'' she muttered, pulling the blanket over her. ''Drinking herself to ruin.'' Lianfeng mumbled something incoherent, lost in a drunken sleep.

    They spent a few more days at the magistrate''s mansion before deciding on returning to the capital.

    Lianfeng was packing her bags. I am sorry, brother. But I must return for now. I will make sure to bring justice to our tribe.

    After tying a final knot, she sat on the bed. Could Mr. Wei not be responsible for the massacre?

    She remembered Mr. Wei distributing food to the people due to the poor harvest this year. His daughter, Ms. Wei, was giving congee while he gave out loaves of bread, sweetly smiling.

    Someone knocked on the door, breaking her trance-like state. From outside came the voice of Shi Meng, "Xiner, we should leave now or we will miss the ship."

    Lianfeng rose and picked up her bags. She opened the door. "Let''s go."

    In the courtyard, they met Aunt Li and Uncle Zhou. "We''re leaving," Shi Meng said.

    "You should come back more often." Uncle Zhou said, with a squeaky and caring voice.

    Aunt Li took Lianfeng''s hand and said with warmth, "You should visit us too now and then."

    Lianfeng smiled and said, "I will."

    Shi Meng interrupted in between, "We should go and visit Mr. Wei now."

    Lianfeng nodded, and they went together.

    Mr. Wei was a scholarly man. He still looked charming even though small wrinkles were starting to form on his face. He noticed them and smiled with dimples on his cheeks. "You are leaving."

    "Yes," Shi Meng replied.

    "Come back soon and don''t forget to bring capital''s sweets for Jing this time. Or she will really kill you."

    "I won''t." Shi Meng said, chuckling. "She is my little sister."

    "Are you talking about me?" Wei Jing called from behind.

    Everyone''s attention turned to her. "Yes, we are talking about you, little demon." Shi Meng said, playfully pinching her nose.

    Wei Jing made faces and brushed off his hand, "I am not a little demon; you are one." She pouted and glared at him while he just smiled.

    Lianfeng was surprised to see this side of Shi Meng. In front of her, he had always been sophisticated and refined, but right now his joy was inhibited. She took a good look at the girl. She was a delicate girl of 14 or 15. She was sure to be an astounding beauty when she grew up.

    From behind, they heard a woman¡¯s voice, sharp and urgent. ¡°Why are you stopping me? I have something to report to Mr. Wei.¡±

    She was bickering with the guards at the entrance.

    Mr. Wei glanced over and ordered, ¡°Let her in.¡±

    The guards withdrew their spears.

    The woman stepped forward and bowed. ¡°My lord.¡±

    Mr. Wei nodded. ¡°You may rise.¡±

    Lianfeng barely registered their words. Her gaze had locked onto the woman¡¯s face¡ªround, with sharp, calculating eyes, and the posture of someone well-trained in martial arts. The way she carried herself, the clipped way she spoke¡ªit struck something deep inside Lianfeng¡¯s mind, like a blade scraping against bone.

    A voice echoed in her skull.

    "What do we do?"

    "We kill them."

    Her breath hitched. The sounds around her faded, replaced by the distant screams of the past.

    Steel clashed. The scent of blood thickened in the air. The desperate cries of children, the gurgled last breaths of the dying. A woman¡¯s voice repeating the words¡ªcold, certain, absolute.

    "We kill them."

    Lianfeng¡¯s chest tightened. Her vision blurred at the edges. She couldn¡¯t breathe.

    The hall, Mr. Wei, Shi Meng, and the lady¡ªthey all melted away. All she could see was the burning village. Dead bodies. Her mother¡¯s spear was slick with blood. Her brother was lying lifeless on the doorstep.

    "Run, Xiner! Run!"

    Her pulse thundered in her ears. Her skin felt clammy and cold despite the warmth of the afternoon.

    Someone grabbed her shoulder.

    Lianfeng flinched violently.

    "Xiner!"

    Shi Meng''s voice broke through the haze.

    His hands gripped her shoulders, steady, solid. She gasped¡ªair rushing back into her lungs. Her surroundings snapped back into focus. Mr. Wei¡¯s hall. The woman was standing before them. No fire. No blood.

    She was here. Not there.

    Her breath came in sharp, uneven gulps. Sweat dampened her brow.

 A Divided Truth

    "Where are you lost?" Shi Meng¡¯s voice cut through the fog in Lianfeng¡¯s mind.

    She blinked, her pulse hammering in her ears. A realization struck her, like a blade slicing through years of uncertainty. The woman standing beside her was the one. The one leading the troops that night.

    The room around her seemed to shrink. The air felt heavier. Darker.

    Getting no response, Shi Meng frowned. "Let''s go out. Ms. Bai has something to report."

    Lianfeng turned, but her legs felt rooted to the floor. She turned back to look. Her heart pounded against her ribs as she looked toward Mr. Wei.

    He stood near Ms. Bai, his expression calm as ever. Too calm. The room hadn¡¯t changed, and yet, a cold weight settled in her chest.

    The sunlight cast long shadows across his face, and for the first time, she noticed the sharpness of his gaze¡ªthe way it lingered on her, unreadable. It wasn¡¯t warmth she saw anymore. It was calculation.

    Had it always been there?

    A chill ran down her spine.

    Mr. Wei isn''t innocent. He is indeed responsible for the massacre.

    The realization churned in her stomach like poison.

    "Are you fine?" Shi Meng¡¯s voice held concern.

    Lianfeng forced herself to nod, though her mind was spiraling. No, I can¡¯t leave Jinggu. Not now. Not when I finally know the truth. But staying in the Magistrate¡¯s Mansion is no longer an option.

    She followed Shi Meng out, her steps feeling oddly detached from her body. The carriage ride to the dock passed in a blur. The rhythmic clatter of hooves against the stone streets barely registered.

    When they arrived, Shi Meng started toward the ticket counter, but Lianfeng instinctively reached out and gripped his wrist.

    I can¡¯t board the ship.

    Shi Meng frowned. "Are you feeling sick?"

    "No. Mr. Wei is indeed the one behind the massacre."

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    Shi Meng let out a frustrated sigh. "How do you know that?"

    Lianfeng¡¯s hands clenched into fists. "Because Ms. Bai led the soldiers that night. I heard her voice when I was hiding."

    Shi Meng gave a hollow laugh. "You heard that voice fifteen years ago. And now you think you recognize it? You have no proof."

    Lianfeng shook her head. "That¡¯s not the only reason, Shi Meng. We came back to Jinggu because the official records of that night were altered." Her voice hardened. "The original report said ¡®bandits raided the village.¡¯ But the revised one? It called it a ¡®necessary military action.¡¯"

    She took a step closer. "Necessary. Military. Action." She spat the words out. "That one change means someone powerful rewrote history to justify a massacre. And who had the power to do that?"

    Shi Meng¡¯s smirk faltered.

    Lianfeng pressed on. "We thought it might be a clerical error. But now I hear Ms. Bai¡¯s voice¡ªthe same voice from that night. This isn¡¯t just a coincidence, Shi Meng."

    Shi Meng exhaled sharply, rubbing his temples. "Even if the reports were changed, that doesn¡¯t mean Mr. Wei is guilty. You¡¯re connecting a lot of dots without real proof."

    Lianfeng¡¯s nails dug into her palms. "Then tell me¡ªwho else could have changed those records?"

    Shi Meng had no answer.

    Lianfeng clenched her jaw. "Believe it or not, he is indeed responsible. And I am not leaving until I execute justice. I was leaving because I doubted he was the culprit. But now, I am sure. I am not leaving."

    Shi Meng ran a hand through his hair, his patience thinning. "You don¡¯t have a single piece of evidence against him. And just from the voice you heard 15 years ago, you have decided he is guilty?" He turned back, eyes blazing. "Do you know how ridiculous you sound right now?"

    Lianfeng stood firm, her hands trembling at her sides.

    "That man is so kind that he has never hurt anybody," Shi Meng continued, his voice laced with exasperation. "Because of the documents, I did doubt him, but they were nothing more than a clerical error. He always puts people above himself, and you expect me to believe he is the culprit with no proof? Have you gone insane?"

    His voice had risen too high. Lianfeng could feel people glancing their way. The weight of their stares pressed against her skin, but she did not care.

    "I am not crazy," she said through gritted teeth. "I know what I am doing. I am not leaving. If you want to leave, go ahead. I am not stopping you."

    A tense silence stretched between them.

    "Fine then." Shi Meng¡¯s voice was clipped, but his stance was rigid. His fingers twitched, and for a moment, it seemed as if he wanted to say something else, something to pull her back from this decision. His jaw tightened, frustration flickering in his eyes before he exhaled sharply.

    "I am leaving. You stay here."

    He turned away, his steps brisk, but not without hesitation. As he walked toward the ticket counter, his posture remained stiff, his fists clenched at his sides. Mr. Wei had guided him. He had never seen the man as anything but kind. Lianfeng sounded crazy. But the worst part was¡­ part of him wasn¡¯t so sure anymore.

    Lianfeng watched him go, a dull ache settling in her chest. She had made her choice, and so had he. She turned around and booked a room in a small tavern called ''Daybreak'', near the dock. After changing, she lay in her bed. After all these years, this is how I found out. What a joke heavens have played!

    She changed direction and faced the white wall. I can''t investigate by myself. I will need help.