"I told you, it is not befitting for a divine beast to bargain in the market."
"But Master, if I did not do that your money will be spent on unworthy products."
"Did you see how that old man scowled at you? He must be very displeased because you cut the price in half."
"Let him scowl. He is ugly anyways."
"Can your tongue any more sharp than that? It does not fit a divine beast to discriminate other people. Furthermore, you do not bargain; you are worshipped."
"Then would you want me to shape shift into my true form right now? Perhaps that old geezer might even give all of his vegetables to us for free as an offering."
"There's no need."
Feng XiaLin was grateful that even though he is a married man, his freedom was not reined at all allowing him to go wherever he wants and do whatever he wants. Several months later, he was urged to go to the downtown city for a short sightseeing. He did not bother inviting Rong ZhanWu though after seeing that the man was obviously busy with something for which Feng XiaLin did not know and did not care either.
Instead, he told the Sorcerer that he wanted to go downtown and used the excuse of buying some vegetables in the market. The man pondered about the advantages and disadvantages. But seeing those sparkly and hopeful eyes of the adorable Prince, how could Rong ZhanWu even forbid him? And so, he allowed Feng XiaLin to go with one condition. The thirteen divine beasts should accompany him and he would never leave their sight. Feng XiaLin gawked that instant. How could he even enjoy strolling around the city if thirteen pairs of divine creature's eyes were watching him?
Of course, Feng XiaLin rejected the suggestion without any hesitation, but Rong ZhanWu insisted that it was for his own safety. They were in stalemate in that argument, until Rong ZhanWu reluctantly changed the condition; at least one divine beast must accompany him.
Feng XiaLin was against the idea of treating the divine beasts as his guards or servants. No matter what, he did not order or boss them around; because for him, they were his friends. Ordering them around meant that he was treating them as servants. Through all this time, he grew fond of them that is why each one of them held a special space in his heart.
Feng XiaLin had no choice but to agree; and so Fu Zhan, one of the Red Horse beasts, went with him as his escort and guard. Sometimes, having an overprotective partner is a pain in the ass; Rong ZhanWu even reminded him to never accept anything from a stranger. What does Rong ZhanWu thinks of him, a naive child?
"Your Master is a worrywart." Feng XiaLin grumbled.
"Should I convey to him your message later?" Fu Zhan casually asked.
"There is no need." Feng XiaLin rolled his eyes, "I will tell it to him myself."
Feng XiaLin did not expect that strolling around the city would take so much time. He could not be blamed; the place was interesting and lively. There were many beautiful places and shops to go too! He also enjoyed watching the singers and dancers on the public stage, the humorous poet and story tellers were fun too! Before he knew it, it was already afternoon.
So he immediately went to the market and hastily bought anything his hands could land on. He was in a hurry that he immediately paid for the items without even checking the quality of the products.
And that was how Fu Zhan offended the old vegetable seller, the guy frankly pointed out how the products were not fresh but he still sold them for a higher price.
After buying almost everything, Fu Zhan carried the sack of vegetables on his back and they went on their way back home.
That afternoon, the sunset was particularly flaming orange and painted the sky in yellowish hue, few minutes later and the sky would darken. Their giant bird was waiting for them at the foot of the mountain, so they quickened their pace to reach the edge of the mountain faster.
But while walking, the Prince heard a sudden distressed cry of a woman. Feng XiaLin strayed from their path and sneakily peeked from behind a tree. There he saw several burly men surrounding a carriage. Each man carried sabres and spears, and by the looks of their clothing, they did not seem to belong to the class of proper men in the society. They all looked ragged and harsh, and the looks in their eyes were those of greed and lust.
Those men were bandits!
"Young Master, what are you doing?" Fu Zhan appeared out of nowhere.
Feng XiaLin almost jumped on his spot when Fu Zhan whispered the question.
"Look!" Feng XiaLin carefully whispered and pointed at the carriage, "They are in danger!"
Fu Zhan looked at them indifferently; he then retreated and said nonchalantly, "Is that so? Then let's go home."
Feng XiaLin was agape. Could this brat be anymore heartless?! He tugged at Fu Zhan's robe and anxiously whispered, "No! They need help! Do you not feel sorry for them?"
Fu Zhan, "It's their problem. My primary task is to guard you, that's all."
"What?" Feng XiaLin almost shouted in disbelief, "I know Rong ZhanWu asked you to guard me. But at least let's help those people."
Feng XiaLin pleaded with an innocent and hopeful look on his eyes. But Fu Zhan was undeterred; he just stood there adamantly with a blank expression. Suddenly they heard a woman's cry, "No! Let go of my daughter! Get your filthy hands off her robes!"
Distress crossed over Feng XiaLin's face; seeing this, Fu Zhan sighed, "How do you intend to help, Young Master?"
Feng XiaLin beamed at once, "Let's fight them a-!"
Fu Zhan raised his hand stopping him from continuing his speech.
"I mean no offense Young Master," Fu Zhan cut off, "but we know very well that you cannot fight."
Must he really tell it frankly to Feng XiaLin's face with a very serious expression? Of course Feng XiaLin knew!
"Then what should I do?" Feng XiaLin asked with a concerned look, "There is no way that I am going to call for Rong ZhanWu's help."
Fu Zhan, "I am your spiritual beast. All Young Master have to do is order me a-"
"No." Feng XiaLin stopped him, "Ordering you around is not an option. There's probably another way!"
"There is no other way." Fu Zhan responded resolutely, "It's either you command me to defeat them or let those hostages be assaulted by bandits."
Fu Zhan does not really care though. If Feng XiaLin commanded him to fight then he will comply, but if Feng XiaLin was still stubborn then the better, because they could go home before the sun sets.
Feng XiaLin turned to look at the distressed ladies, biting his lower lip he pondered with knitted eyebrows. Defeated, he sighed, "Alright then. Fu Zhan, I ask of you to defeat those bandi-"
But before he could finish his sentence, Fu Zhan already flew out of his sight and headed to that group of bandits. Well, someone looked like he was in a hurry so Feng XiaLin did not comment further. Feng XiaLin anxiously reminded as he shouted, "Have some restraint! They are still human, do not kill them!"
Feng XiaLin ducked down and peeked through the bushes. He watched in anticipation as Fu Zhan swiftly took down three burly men in one strike. The hostages were also astonished. Who would not? The youth defeated those men graciously; his movements were so swift as if he was dancing! One moment they were being harassed by these burly men, the next moment a heavenly youth with frosty expression descended out of nowhere and started beating up these scums!
Seconds later, a couple of groans and grunts of pain ensued; Feng XiaLin smiled at himself, feeling proud with Fu Zhan's execution.
When the leader of the bandits saw that his men were rapidly defeated, he was enraged and barked, "Where the hell is Su Yang?!" And who is this guy?!"
"Boss!" one of his men ran toward him, "He has not reported this morning yet! We have not seen him!"
"What should we do?" one of the men shouted while blindly swinging his blade at Fu Zhan, "We cannot defeat this guy!"
The leader groaned. He walked toward the carriage while angrily stomping is feet. A girl's shriek echoed after that.
"No! Let go of her!" the mother cried.
The leader hauled the beautiful girl off the carriage, pointing his sabre at the girl's neck he growled, "If you want this girl to live then stop and kneel down!"
Fu Zhan paused momentarily, then he decided to pounce forward and immediately hack off that man's head. But then he remembered Feng XiaLin asked him to not kill them. With no other choice, he only stood there but he did not kneel at all.
"Are you not listening?! I said kneel!" the leader impatiently growled.
Feng XiaLin was conflicted when he witnessed the scenario. Fu Zhan was in dire situation because of him, he needed to act fast!
"What are you doing right there?" a raspy voice rang from behind him; Feng XiaLin was frozen on his spot. Slowly turning his head he saw another ragged man with a sabre at his waist, he was grinning at him with a malicious glint on his eyes. Feng XiaLin gulped a lump.
The bandit leader was about to approach Fu Zhan to give him a hard punch when he heard horse's hooves pounding against the ground. Turning his head, he shouted, "Su Yang! Where have you been?! Do you see what kind of situation we are in?!"
"I am sorry boss! But here, I brought you a beauty as compensation!" Su Yang answered and he hopped off his horse. He proudly presented the boss his found prey and his boss's eyes gleamed at once. Fu Zhan on the other hand was restless, his face did not show it but his eyes were glazed with killing intent.
"He he..." Feng XiaLin laughed drily, "I am sorry Fu Zhan, they caught me..."
The leader ordered while looking at Feng XiaLin maliciously, "Su Yang, tie him carefully. Make sure he does not escape. He seems valuable, we can use him!"
All of the hostages including Feng XiaLin and Fu Zhan were gathered at the centre while several bandits surrounding them. The other members were ransacking the carriage for any valuable items aside from the beautiful maidens. Feng XiaLin, like Fu Zhan, could not move freely due to the rope bound around his body.
Feng XiaLin inched closer to Fu Zhan and whispered, "I am sorry..."
Fu Zhan flatly replied, "There is no need. What do you want to do now, Young Master?"
Feng XiaLin observed his surroundings; there were eight hostages, including him and Fu Zhan. The bandit's member was twenty-four in total. He sighed, "There is really nothing we can do."
"Young Master," Fu Zhan discreetly whispered, "just give me an order and I will kill them."
The bandits were happily drinking as they examined the box of treasures that they confiscated. Then suddenly, the area became misty and then a scream was heard. Everyone was on high alert; they stood up on their guard with weapons on hand. Fu Zhan on the other side bumped against Feng XiaLin, "Young Master, I advise you to duck down. The closer to the ground your body is the better."
Feng XiaLin nodded and instructed the other hostages as well in a hushed voice. Seconds later, screams of pain and the sound of body colliding to the ground ensued. Everything was not clear but Feng XiaLin somehow noticed some sparks in the air followed by the clanging sounds, as if several metallic materials were clashing against one another.
"What is happening?" Feng XiaLin asked anxiously.
Fu Zhan, "It is better to duck down your head and ask later, Young Master. We do not want your head to get skewered with these flying swords."
Feng XiaLin paled in fright; he immediately ducked down to the point that he was almost hugging the ground for dear life.
After few more screams and clashing sounds, the mist gradually dispersed and the silhouette of six people appeared until their form was finally distinct.
"Immortal Masters!" the mother of the girl cheered.
"Immortal Masters?" Feng XiaLin mumbled.
These Immortal Masters somehow reminded him of Qin Li. Their fiery red robes fluttered in the wind like dancing petals. Their long hair tied into ponytail, their sword neatly hung on their waist, and their posture emitted the air of bravery and pride.
Two Immortal Masters approached and untied them while the other four went to tie the unconscious bandits.
"A-Are they dead?" Feng XiaLin nervously asked.
"You do not have anything to worry about, they are just unconscious." a female practitioner answered him with a smile while dutifully untying him.
"Is everyone alright? Is there anyone injured?" a male practitioner asked.
Everyone slowly stood up while soothing their sore arms, and then they shook their head. Feng XiaLin was fascinated at how strong, and at the same time kind, these practitioners were. Fu Zhan only stared at them blankly, unimpressed and unfazed at all.
"Young Master," the female practitioner earlier called, "your wrists seem to be injured, let me help you."
They sat down and she took some soothing ointment from her pouch. Feng XiaLin flinched at the sudden contact; she calmly spoke with a smile, "Please bear with it."
Feng XiaLin nodded his head and the woman started blowing cool air to his sore wrists. Gradually, the area applied with ointment felt cold, Feng XiaLin sighed in relief. The woman's action did not go unnoticed under Fu Zhan's vigilant gaze, something to report to Rong ZhanWu later.
"Thank you Immortal Master." Feng XiaLin smiled. "You are so kind. You remind me of someone, though you are gentler."
"Oh?" she smiled back, "Is this someone a fellow cultivator?"
"She is!" Feng XiaLin answered excitedly, "She is also amazing, just like you! I wish I could become stronger like her."
"If I can then you also can." she answered while wrapping his wrists with bandages, "There is no background limitation in becoming a martial practitioner!"
"Really? I can? How can I become one?" Feng XiaLin asked curiously.
"Hm..." You have to form your core. By cultivation" she answered, "You have to find a Master that is willing to guide you, or you can also enter a Martial Sect. Your fellow disciples will also help you."
Speaking of cultivation, Rong ZhanWu also told him about that. He was using that method to replenish his energy. Rong ZhanWu also told him that dual cultivation was much more effective. Maybe if he learned it, he could help the Sorcerer greatly! And he will gain more friends too!
"I see." Feng XiaLin nodded, he inquired, "Do you know how to perform dual cultivation too?"
"There are several ways to perform it, but the most common way is the dual cultivation done by immortal partners." the woman's face turned beet red, she hesitantly smiled, "That...I have not done it yet, and I am in no place to tell it to a guy. But if you would enter a martial sect then they will guide you thoroughly."
"Luo Meng! Please help us here." a male practitioner called out. The woman, whose name was Luo Meng, smiled at him before bowing and left to tend to the other hostages.
Several minutes later they finally went home. While traveling on the air, Feng XiaLin was pondering whether to enter a sect or not. Maybe he had to ask for Rong ZhanWu's permission later. When they arrived, Rong ZhanWu and Qin Li were already standing at the gates waiting for them. Qin Li paced back and forth anxiously while biting her thumb, Rong ZhanWu on the other hand stood stoically on his spot with his arms crossed over his chest, his face impassive. Feng XiaLin gulped a lump. After all, it was already too dark, but Rong ZhanWu's intense stare did not dim on him.
After they hopped off the bird, Feng XiaLin nervously smiled at him while awkwardly scratching the back of his head, but Rong ZhanWu just turned around and went straight to their house. Qin Li stomped her feet as she rushed toward him, she glowered, "Feng XiaLin! You are dead!"
Feng XiaLin's face blanched, "W-What?!"
"And you, Fu Zhan!" she turned to the silent Fu Zhan, "You are supposed to bring Feng XiaLin home before the sun sets! Rong ZhanWu is so damn pissed right now! He is so angry that he does not even speak! I better get out of here right now and leave you to deal with this situation yourselves!"
And so, Qin Li turned and hurriedly followed Rong ZhanWu.
As Feng XiaLin entered the pavilion, the gloomy aura of the lonely Sorcerer had already contaminated the air. When he went to the kitchen, Rong ZhanWu was already placing the dishes and bowl on the table without uttering a single word. Feng XiaLin just got more nervous, but he tried his best to act normal. Rong ZhanWu sat down and stared at Feng XiaLin expressionlessly, but his eyes were clearly commanding Feng XiaLin to sit down and talk!
Feng XiaLin had no other choice but to sit down and absorb the cold aura that Rong ZhanWu emitted. He will absorb it even it takes him until daylight! It was the only way to melt Rong ZhanWu's cold and lonely heart right now.
Several seconds later, no one dared to speak, Feng XiaLin would not dare, and the chopsticks and the soup remained untouched either. It was utter silence. The atmosphere was heavy and awkward for Feng XiaLin. Who would not? When your husband just kept on staring at you without saying anything!
"Ahem..." Feng XiaLin cleared his throat, he tried wearing the most adorable expression that he could think of and asked hesitantly, "Rong ZhanWu...are you m-mad?"
Rong ZhanWu did not move, he just stared right back at him, "Do I look mad?"
It was written all over your face! And it is frightening!
"E-En." Feng XiaLin nodded his head; he was scared out of his wits.
Rong ZhanWu started pouring tea on his cup without looking, he grinned at Feng XiaLin but his teeth gritted, "Why would I be mad?"
What is this pretentious Sorcerer talking about? He was clearly angry at the moment that the tea on his cup started spilling! Feng XiaLin immediately held his hands to stop him from pouring more tea while exclaiming, "The tea!"
Rong ZhanWu allowed him to guide his hands away from the teapot, he woefully asked, "Is the tea more important than me?"
What the hell is wrong with him? Can his heart be even more fragile? Feng XiaLin did not know that his husband had the delicate heart of a maiden! He would even compare himself to a tea! Just how sensitive can he get?!
"Of course not!" Feng XiaLin disagreed, "You are more important! Most important!"
Rong ZhanWu raised an eyebrow, "Really? Then why would you notice it first before noticing how worried I am?"
Rong ZhanWu emphasized the last four words. Feng XiaLin bit his lower lip, he carefully explained, "Look, I am sorry, alright? I did not want to get home this late either. I was enjoying myself too much in the city and before I knew it, it was already afternoon. And... We encountered a small trouble on our way back."
"Is that so?" Rong ZhanWu plainly looked at him, and then he started eating.
"You believe me right?" Feng XiaLin was dumbfounded.
Rong ZhanWu turned to him, "I trust you. And I can always make Fu Zhan tell me the truth."
"Rong ZhanWu," Feng XiaLin displayed hopeful glimmering eyes, "It is my fault that we got home late. Please do not cause Fu Zhan any grief."
Rong ZhanWu, "Do not worry, I will not."
That night, Feng XiaLin tried wooing the Sorcerer in all possible ways he could think of. But Rong ZhanWu just would not budge. Until they were already in bed, Rong ZhanWu turned his back at him. Feng XiaLin felt sorry; he hugged Rong ZhanWu from behind and rested his chin on the crook of the man's neck. He dolefully said, "Rong ZhanWu, please do not be mad anymore. You are ruining that beautiful face. Do you intend to look scary until daylight?"
Rong ZhanWu turned around and stared right back at him, "There is nothing scarier than losing you."
Feng XiaLin begged, "I told you, I am sorry. I swear I will never do it again. Can you please smile for me?"
Rong ZhanWu was thinking for a bit; he commented with a shadow of triumphant smirk on his lips, "I do not feel that your apology is sincere enough."
"Then what do you want me to do? Tell me." Feng XiaLin showed a troubled look.
Rong ZhanWu confidently stated, "Get on top of me."
Feng XiaLin's eyes turned round and his face dusted pink, Rong ZhanWu asked, "Not doing it?"
"I will!" Feng XiaLin responded. He slowly got up and gently straddled the Sorcerer, "What now?"
Without warning, Rong ZhanWu pulled him to his chest and possessively hugged him against his strong build. Feng XiaLin was caught off guard so his face landed on Rong ZhanWu's firm chest causing him to accidentally kiss the smooth skin.
"Why the sudden pull?!" Feng XiaLin complained all the while hiding his blush.
Rong ZhanWu chuckled, "Promise me that you will not let anyone touch you except for me. I am the only one allowed to touch you like this."
Feng XiaLin was confident that he can satisfy Rong ZhanWu by just the nod of his head. But then he remembered that a female practitioner held his wrist earlier. Was that counted? But Feng XiaLin nodded his head guiltily in affirmation, "I promise."
That night, Feng XiaLin fell asleep on top of Rong ZhanWu while being enveloped by the Sorcerer's warmth.
The next day, Feng XiaLin mustered his courage to tell Rong ZhanWu about his decision to enrol in a Martial sect.
"No." Rong ZhanWu firmly objected. He averted his gaze and turned to his book.
"But why?" Feng XiaLin asked while blending the tea.
"It is not easy." Rong ZhanWu closed his book, "You will only harm yourself."
But Feng XiaLin wanted to get stronger, so Rong ZhanWu would not worry for him anymore.
"But I really wanted to." Feng XiaLin mumbled in frustration.
Rong ZhanWu stood up and sat next to Feng XiaLin. He held the Prince's shoulders and gave them a gentle squeeze, "Ah Lin, if there is anything you want to learn then I will teach it to you personally. If you want, I can also hire a superb teacher for you. Alright?"
Feng XiaLin nodded his head hesitantly.
During their breakfast, Feng XiaLin tried to act normally. But in reality, he was already plotting on finding a martial sect that he could join in.
"Ah Lin, I will be gone for two days. Is that alright? Can you handle yourself?" Rong ZhanWu spoke after sipping his tea.
"Really?! Then that's good!" Feng XiaLin cheered in excitement and he almost jumped out of his seat.
Rong ZhanWu stared at him in suspicion, Feng XiaLin corrected himself as he slowly sat down, "R-Really?...Where are you going?"
Rong ZhanWu sighed, "I am consulting an old acquaintance"
Feng XiaLin nodded, "I see. Then take care."
Few hours later after Feng XiaLin dutifully sent Rong ZhanWu off, he ran to the Giant Black Wolf beasts' den. When he got there, he immediately looked for Fu Zhan and dragged him outside.
Fu Zhan expressionlessly asked, "Young Master, what is it?"
"We are friends right?" Feng XiaLin carefully hushed.
Fu Zhan did not answer; he just stared at Feng XiaLin unblinking. Seeing that troubled look on the Prince's face, Fu Zhan sighed and calmly spoke, "If that is what Young Master wants, then I will be your friend."
Feng XiaLin's shoulders slumped, he sighed in defeat, "Aii... I did not know that you see our friendship as a master and servant relationship, even though I strongly disagree with that idea. Now that I am asking for your confirmation about our friendship, for you it is as if I am ordering you to be my friend. Well, it is better than nothing. Fu Zhan, help me with something!"
Fu Zhan nodded his head, "Anything Young Master wishes, I will obey."
Feng XiaLin smiled bitterly, "Alright. But before anything else, are you willing to promise me something?"
Fu Zhan, "What is it?"
Feng XiaLin wore a cheeky smile, "You will never tell anyone everything that happens today, not even to Rong ZhanWu. Understood?"
"En." Fu Zhan nodded his head hesitantly.
"Great!" Feng XiaLin cheered, "Then let's go to the giant bird's cage! We will leave now!"
Feng XiaLin packed his things and went to meet Fu Zhan in their meeting place. As the bird ascended, Feng XiaLin was not sure where to go as he did not know any Martial sect yet. He forgot about this because he was preoccupied on how to escape from the Sorcerer, but who would have thought that he would leave! Now that he had the chance, he would make sure that he would be able to enter a sect and learn diligently. He was also planning on gaining several friends.
"Where are you planning to go now, Master?" Fu Zhan asked when he noticed that Feng XiaLin was out of his mind.
"Oh, that is right!" Feng XiaLin snapped into reality, "About that, do you know a particular sect that is competitive, has diligent and devoted teachers, and accepts foreign disciples regardless of their background?"
Fu Zhan raised an eyebrow at the question, but he did not show his suspicion and answered instead, "I do know."
"Really?!" Feng XiaLin beamed and held both of Fu Zhan's shoulders, "What is it? Where is it located?!"
Fu Zhan did not know if he was making the right decision, but this is the only sect that matches his Young Master's criteria. He answered with hesitation, "It is the XianLiang sect, located right there."
"Huh?" Feng XiaLin was puzzled as his eyes followed where Fu Zhan's hand pointed at the northwest direction, "Where is it? I do not see anything."
"Of course you would not." Fu Zhan responded in deadpan voice, "It is still far away."
After almost five hours, a dull and deserted mountain appeared. There were no living creatures in sight, only the dry earth and withered trees.
"Fu Zhan" Feng XiaLin called out, "Where should we land? And are you sure this is the place? I do not see any person down there."
"I am sure Young Master." Fu Zhan reassured and looked ahead, "There is a plateau behind its barrier. We will land later."
"Barrier?" Feng XiaLin asked. He saw Fu Zhan form a hand spell, few seconds later he felt that the air around him rippled.
The next moment he opened his eyes, an enormous mountain greeted him. It was tall and the topmost was blanketed with clouds and mist. On the foot of the mountain was a clear river with huge pristine rocks. People bustled below as they formed a line to climb to the plateau at the back of the mountain.
The bird descended on the plateau. Everyone in the area stared at them wide eyed. Such a grand ride they have there! The few applicants were amazed at their entrance, while the others sneered in envy.
As they got down, Fu Zhan asked, "Young Master, are you intending to enrol in this sect?"
"Yes!" Feng XiaLin replied happily, "Thank you for bringing me here! Now wait while I enrol myself."
"Wait! Young Master!" Fu Zhan called out, but Feng XiaLin was already faraway and too excited to even mind whatever Fu Zhan was about to tell him.
"Does he even know that he needs an invitation or referral to be accepted?" Fu Zhan mumbled to himself before turning around and sitting on a corner to plant some mushroom.
Feng XiaLin ran toward a facilitator, he asked, "Excuse me Master, may I know the first step in the enrolment process?"
The teacher smiled at him fondly, he said excitedly, "I advise you to follow the line right there. Hurry up while the others are still climbing up!"
Feng XiaLin nodded his head, he ran toward the fourth line which had the least number of people yet and he was the thirteenth person. Several minutes later, the line behind him lengthened by triple, but there were only three people remaining in front of him left. He listened intently at the questions given to them and Feng XiaLin realized that the questions were rather easy! They were just basically asking for every applicant's personal information. Minutes later, it was already his turn.
The male interviewer smiled at him and asked, "What is your name?"
Feng XiaLin courteously answered, "Feng XiaLin."
The interviewer tilted his head, "Feng XiaLin of BingWenFeng?"
Feng XiaLin slowly shook his head, "It is Feng XiaLin of YunMingFeng."
The interviewer got confused; he took out a note and scanned through all the pages. He also called the other interviewers beside him and asked them questions, but all of them shook their head as answer.
The interviewer then faced Feng XiaLin with a troubled look, "Young Master, it seems that your family is not affiliated with our sect. You do not have a referral either. May I see your invitation card? Do you have one?"
Feng XiaLin also displayed a troubled look, "I am sorry but I do not have one."
"Then I am very sorry to tell you but I cannot allow you to partake in the enrolment. How did you even manage to enter the barrier without a card or referral stone?"
"What?" Feng XiaLin was shocked, "But I thought becoming a practitioner disregards a person's background."
"Yes it does," the man calmly stood up, "any other sect implements just that. But this is XianLiang sect; we have strict screenings when it comes to the recruitment of foreign disciples. We just want to avoid the incident that happened before. I hope this Young Master understands."
"Is there no any other way?" Feng XiaLin persisted, but the man regrettably shook his head and said, "The only way to enter is by invitation card or a referral."
"Then let him enter, he is my companion." a light and soft female voice interrupted. Everyone's attention dramatically turned to the source of the voice and the men all gawked in awe; except for Feng XiaLin who looked like he had swallowed a whole potato. The girl wore a radiant smile which captivated the males in the vicinity.
Feng XiaLin, "It is you..."
"It is I." the girl smiled as she greeted him.
It was the hostage Princess that they met the other day!
The interviewer explained himself after recovering from the shock, "I am very sorry Lady Xin, I was not informed. I thought he did not have an invitation card."
"Here is our invitation card." Princess Xin held her card and presented it to him.
The man bowed and turned to Feng XiaLin, "I apologize for my mistake Young Master. You two may now enter."
"Do not worry, it is all right!" Feng XiaLin smiled at him. He was then ushered to the side by the Princess.
"How can I repay this noble Princess?" Feng XiaLin respectfully asked.
"There is no need! I owe you one, this is incomparable to what you and your friend did for us yesterday." she humbly responded then added, "I am Xin Yang, but you can call me YangYang. What is your name?"
"Oh, I am Feng XiaLin. Nice to meet you YangYang." he replied.
Xin Yang, "Young Master Feng, where is your friend? I wanted to express my gratitude to him too."
Feng XiaLin's eyes turned round, he remembered Fu Zhan, "Oh, that guy? I will find him later. Do not worry, I will tell him for you your message."
Xin Yang's face lit up, she clasped her hands together in admiration, "Tell him that he is so amazing! I wish to meet him again. And if he has some spare time, would he mind if I invite him for some tea? Thank you!"
"I will." Feng XiaLin reassured her before turning around to find Fu Zhan.
After few minutes of running among the now vast amount of crowds, Feng XiaLin's eyes finally caught a glimpse of Fu Zhan's form. He was sitting under a tree, his face impassive. Feng XiaLin ran toward him while waving his hand in the air, "Hey! Fu Zhan! Sorry, it took me so long."
Fu Zhan stood up to greet his master, "How did it go Young Master?"
Fu Zhan still asked even though he was certainly sure that Feng XiaLin was rejected because he does not have an invitation card.
"I was accepted!" Feng XiaLin beamed.
"What?" Fu Zhan nonchalantly asked. He may be shocked, but his stone face had long been too paralyzed to form a rather comical expression. So with an expressionless face, he commented, "Is that so? Congratulations Young Master."
"Fu Zhan," Feng XiaLin sighed, "Can you be more happy for me?"
"I am happy for you Young Master." Fu Zhan replied without a change in his facial expression.
Feng XiaLin whose face was full of black lines, "..."
Feng XiaLin was about to grab Fu Zhan's face to give it a stretch when one of the teachers made an announcement; he called everyone who were accepted and assembled them at the centre. Feng XiaLin went and listened intently at the announcement. Apparently, those who were accepted had to proceed to enter the academy gates. They had assigned twenty four elder disciples to guide them on their way. When they got inside, they would be assigned to their respective quarters. The orientation about the school rules and etiquette would be held on the next day, so they were advised to take a good and early rest after settling themselves in their rooms.
Everyone nodded their head in approval with a 'yes' except for Feng XiaLin who showed a rather complicated expression. He immediately ran back to Fu Zhan, with a conflicted expression he cried, "Fu Zhan! It looks like I cannot go home yet. What should I do?!"
"This is not good Young Master." Fu Zhan stated.
"Why?" Feng XiaLin asked in distress.
Fu Zhan, "Because the Elder informed me that Lady Qin will be back in the afternoon. I must get you home before then."
Feng XiaLin gasped, "I am dead!"
Pacing back and forth all the while biting his thumb, Feng XiaLin anxiously tried to come up of a plan. The greatest hindrance, Rong ZhanWu, was out of sight. But Qin Li just had to jeopardize his plan!
Witnessing the distressed expression of his Master, Fu Zhan suggested, "Do you need help Young Master?"
"I really do." Feng XiaLin stopped pacing, he looked at Fu Zhan and started pacing back and forth once again, "But I do not know how!"
Suddenly, the elder teacher yelled from the edge of the gate, "Is everyone inside? We are now closing the gates."
"Oh no! Feng XiaLin exclaimed while clutching at his head, "Fu Zhan, what should I do?!"
Fu Zhan approached him; he took few strands of Feng XiaLin's hair and placed it near his lips. Feng XiaLin flinched, Fu Zhan was acting weird! He stuttered, "W-What are you doing?!"
"Young Master," Fu Zhan locked his eyes at him seriously, "I will act according to your needs and wishes. Leave everything to me."
Feng XiaLin gulped; this kid looks formidable, "Alright."
"But first," Fu Zhan pursed his lips, unsure of his own decision, "I need to get some strands of your hair."
Feng XiaLin sighed in relief, "Sure, if that is what you need."
After he finished his task, Fu Zhan turned around to take his leave. But before he left, Feng XiaLin tapped his shoulder and said, "Do not tell anyone about this matter."
Fu Zhan was conflicted, "But what about Master Rong ZhanWu?"
Feng XiaLin's eyes turned round as he remembered, "Rong ZhanWu will be gone for a while. Meet me here again tomorrow in the afternoon."
"En." Fu Zhan nodded in affirmation before he hopped on the bird and off they flew. Feng XiaLin watched Fu Zhan's form disappear; he wished that whatever he was planning to do, everything would work out fine.
He followed his fellow recruits in finding their room. Gladly, he was assigned on the second room nearest to the senior disciples'. His room was just quite simple, though much smaller than his Imperial room and the house that he and Rong ZhanWu shared, it was still complete with necessary equipment.
A window on the single bed's overhead, a mirror next to a single table and chair, lamps attached on the walls in every corner, and a decent bathroom. Feng XiaLin lied down on his bed, he smiled to himself, "I will do my best tomorrow. I will surprise Rong ZhanWu at how strong I will become. Just he watch!"
Feng XiaLin giggled at himself in excitement, and then his daydream was interrupted when he heard knocks on his door. When he came to open it, he was surprised to see Xin Yang greeting him with a warm smile.
"YangYang?" Feng XiaLin asked. He then remembered that he forgot to relay Fu Zhan her message! He asked in hesitation, "W-Why are you here?"
"I am here to invite you for lunch!" she happily said as she tugged at Feng XiaLin's sleeves, "Let's go!"
Feng XiaLin did not get the chance to refuse when Xin Yang hauled him out of his quarter and dragged him all the way to the females' sanctuary. The males' and the females' quarters were separated; this was to avoid indecent things, such as peeping, from happening. While being dragged away by a pretty, the stares did not go unnoticed to Feng XiaLin's eyes.
Did he offend them? Why were they staring at him like that?
After they entered the gate that separates the males and females quarters, several pairs of tantalized and enticed eyes turned at him. The females that they passed by bashfully blushed while the others stared at him in admiration.
They proceeded to a grand hall; and as soon as he set his foot inside, he already felt the effeminate air of the area. The hall was enormous, the pillars were tall and painted lilac, the soft and 'thin as a cicada's wings' curtains swayed listlessly, the sitting cushions and the table cloth all shared the same color of lavender. The enticing fragrance of the meticulously arranged flowers swam in his nose, and the soft laughter of the ladies hummed in his ears. Feng XiaLin was dazed for a moment, until Xin Yang waved her hand in front of him.
"Hello!" Xin Yang called, "Are you still there?"
"Oh! I am sorry! Did you say something?" Feng XiaLin asked as he woke up from his trance.
The women covered their mouth and laughed softly at Feng XiaLin's silliness, with a blush one of them said, "This person is interesting!"
Feng XiaLin averted his gaze to the window while blushing in embarrassment.
"Everyone, where are your manners?" a mature yet pleasant voice rang out, "Do not bully him. He is our guest after all."
A lady from the high pedestal stood up and her lusciously curved body came into view. She walked down and went next to Feng XiaLin's side. She eyed him for a moment and said in joy, "Young Master, please have a sit."
Xin Yang led him to a table next to her. At that point, Feng XiaLin did not realize that he was the only second person in XianLiang history to be ever invited in this area packed with beauties.
The beauty then returned to her seat, and with fluttering eyelashes she asked, "How shall I address this Young Master?"
Feng XiaLin stood up and respectfully answered, "My name is Feng XiaLin."
The lady chuckled and stood up with a cup of wine in her hands, she saluted, "For the new little sisters who joined us, and for Feng XiaLin's acceptance to our invitation!"
The females once again stole glances at Feng XiaLin before holding up their cup, they also saluted. Feng XiaLin was wary but Xin Yang tapped him on the shoulder and gave him a reassuring smile. Feng XiaLin then held his cup before gulping the contents down. After drinking, they all enjoyed digging in the foods.
"By the way," the lady earlier stated, "My name is Huang YanLin. From now on, I will be your shijie and of course you will be our shidi. If you need any help, do not hesitate to ask me. Understood?"
"Understood Lady Huang!" Feng XiaLin nodded his head respectfully.
"Shidi." Huang YanLin chuckled at him, "I am your shijie so you should call me your shijie, alright?"
Feng XiaLin smiled widely at her, he nodded his head, "Alright, shijie!"
The females' smiles turned wide and their eyes sparkled at him behind those fluttering lashes. Xin Yang poked him, her eyes revealed excitement and joy, "Isn't that great? Huang shijie allowed you to call her 'shijie'! I am very happy! Only the Peony circle members are allowed to call her that, especially not even the guys! That makes you one of us now!"
"Huh?" Feng XiaLin stared at her in confusion. He is a guy! Was it all right for him to be a member of their all females club? Feng XiaLin did not know but males were extremely prohibited to enter the ladies' sanctuary. The same goes for the females.
One of the ladies who sat across Feng XiaLin asked, the crimson tint on her face did not go unnoticed under those wide sleeves, "So, how old are you shidi?"
Feng XiaLin smiled at her with enthusiasm, "I am eighteen years of age shijie."
"Really?!" Xin Yang butted in, "Then that makes you my elder brother! I am fifteen years of age."
The females smiled at Feng XiaLin's direction, Huang YanLin commented with a light hearted laugh, "Then you can call him your Gege. Little apprentice sisters should also do so."
They nodded their head in approval; Xin Yang raised her hand respectfully, "To celebrate our bond, I will play music for you!"
The women's face lit up and their eyes sparkled in excitement as Xin Yang went to the centre with her guzheng. She calmly played a melody and everyone watched her with fascination. Feng XiaLin closed his eyes and absorbed the melody into his soul. Somehow, he remembered the time when he played the flute in Rong ZhanWu's watchtower.
After a few minutes of Xin Yang's performance, Feng XiaLin stood up and bowed, "I would also want to perform a song for you in gratitude to your kind invitation."
The women stared at him wide-eyed. There were only very few men in XianLiang who appreciates and were skilled in music. To come across a beautiful gent who volunteers to play music is a chance never to miss for! The women giggled and Huang YanLin pointed at the centre as she stuttered in excitement, "R-Really?! That is wonderful! Please perform at the centre!"
Thus, Feng XiaLin stood at the centre and gently placed his dizi in front of his lips. As soon as those luscious lips blew air to the flute, the lulling melody echoed around the room. Everyone inside felt as if they were floating in the vast sky, their heart felt at ease and their mind was at peace. Closing their eyes, they were in the illusion of riding the highs and the lows of the tune as they figured out how to get the heart of this virtuoso. After Feng XiaLin's performance, it was only after several seconds did the women woke up from the enthrallment.
"Wonderful! To know that we have a very talented shidi is an honour!" Huang YanLin cheered while clasping her hands together. All the females stared at him in admiration and awe.
"Lin ge!" Xin Yang called and asked with determination, "Will you teach me how to play magnificently like you? Please!"
Several female disciples flocked him as well saying, "Me too! Please teach us!"
Feng XiaLin was troubled; the girls were almost rubbing themselves, particularly their chest, at him. They did not care, but Feng XiaLin cared! A certain someone would definitely tear them apart if he knew! He then answered in defeat, "Alright. If I have spare time, I will teach you."
The women cheered in unison which made Feng XiaLin smile.
Before leaving the Ladies' Sanctuary, Huang YanLin gave him a passage card. Anytime he wanted to visit them, he would be free to do so without any trouble. Feng XiaLin once again thanked her then left. After he got home, he hid the card before taking his bath and rest.
The next day, he was woken by a soft knock on his door. He groggily stood up and opened it only to be met by a strange guy. The person was taller than him and a cheeky grin was plastered on his face, he greeted, "Hey, new recruit! The class will start after an hour. We are advised to prepare ourselves and take our breakfast before entering the class."
Feng XiaLin blinked at him then nodded before closing the door listlessly. The person's smile on the other side turned into an aggrieved frown. After taking his bath, he found a warm tray of food on his table. He ate his food in record breaking time before fixing his total appearance and stepped out of his door.
When he walked out, he saw few students walking to a certain direction; it was where the class would be held. He walked among the students when he suddenly felt someone tap him on the shoulder. He turned to his right side and saw the same guy earlier.
The guy showed a hurt expression and whined, "I was waiting for you to come out and have breakfast together, but instead you left me!"
Feng XiaLin stopped walking to stare at the weird guy in suspicion, "Who are you?"
"He he!" the guy laughed, "I am Lu Han! I am a repeater and I live next to your quarter; and that makes me your roommate."
"I see." Feng XiaLin nodded his head.
Lu Han scratched his head and smiled with mischief, "Really. I have not had breakfast yet because I was waiting for you. Should we skip class to eat then?"
"Huh?" Feng XiaLin walked again, "I already had my breakfast. It was placed on top of my table. Did you not get one?"
"What?" Lu Han was dumbfounded, "How can that be?! I have not heard of foods getting delivered to a student's room! Unless you are a Master, all of the students eat their food from the cafeteria or cook their own meal!"
Feng XiaLin was intrigued after hearing that, there was a sudden foreboding feeling in his gut. What if the food he ate earlier was poisoned?! But when he saw that everyone was rushing to the class, he quickly forgot it and quickened his steps almost leaving his new friend behind.
Inside the class, Feng XiaLin could not help but to let his mind wander around the room. The guys were sneakily whispering to themselves while secretly passing paper balls. The girls were gossiping among themselves, while the other's eyes were wandering around the majestic lecture room. He even caught several pairs of eyes locked on him! He was interrupted when someone threw him a paper ball from his left. He turned to the direction and saw Xin Yang's lively feature waving at him.
Even in the class, males and females were separated. The females were situated on the left while the males were on the right. Feng XiaLin smiled at her before turning his gaze to the crumpled paper. He opened it and read the content; Feng XiaLin looked at Xin Yang and gave her a nod.
The buzz and whispered were silenced down when the teacher tapped his flat wooden paddle loudly on to the table. He calmly stated, "Were you all listening? If not then I will have you do hand stands while writing 'Undisturbed mind bears clear reflection' two hundred times!"
Everyone gasped and they sat frigidly on their spot. The teacher continued the house rules, "Males are not allowed to enter the Females' Sanctuary, and the Females are not allowed to set foot on the Males' Sanctuary. Do not sneer at others. No wandering during curfew. No unsanctioned fights. Act modestly and be proud of your achievements. Do not take pleasure from the misfortune of others..."
Feng XiaLin's ears perked up, his brows raised in confusion. His shijies invited him to come to their sanctuary the other day! Did he just break a rule on his very first day?! Feng XiaLin was scared out of his wits so he clarified it to the Shifu after the lecture. Good thing this Master was considerate and understanding, or there will be hell to pay. Not from the teachers, but from the wrath of his shixiongs!
Lu Han finally managed to invite him for lunch in the cafeteria. While waiting for their ordered food, Feng XiaLin noticed several fierce gazes directed at him. He was utterly confused, was his presence enough to offend them? Mostly of the students in the cafeteria were male; only very few females dared to eat there because one, they prefer their own cooking; second, they were too ashamed to face the males.
Lu Han noticed Feng XiaLin's wariness and when he turned around, he caught a glimpse of several eyes staring relentlessly at the Prince before hastily averting their gaze. Lu Han narrowed his eyes and barked, "What is wrong with all of you? Why are you staring at him like that? Do you want to pick a fight?!"
One male stood up, he walked toward them followed by his two henchmen, and he spoke, "Lu Han! Do you know that the person beside you was acting very arrogantly for a newbie?!"
Feng XiaLin was brazen?! Brother, are you not even ashamed of your own accusation? Feng XiaLin had not interacted with other students yet and he was already criticized!
"Pei Xu!" Lu Han pointed at him while defending Feng XiaLin, "What proof do you have that Feng-xiong acted arrogantly? He has not even come out of his room yesterday!"
"That is one!" Pei Xu haughtily retorted as he crossed his arms over his chest, "New guy, even if you come over here riding a giant fire breathing bird, or even a dragon, you must greet all of your shixiongs to pay respect. But not only did you disregard that, you even allowed a woman to drag you around! Just how arrogant can you be?!"
"Pei Xu," Lu Han blocked Feng XiaLin from the enemies' view, propping his hands on his waist he stated, "all of our new brothers do not know about this rule yet, and Feng-xiong is not an exception. Besides, was not this rule removed by ZhiXuan-Jun already? Why must you insist on re-establishing this nonsense rule after so many years?"
Pei Xu stomped his way to him, he grabbed the front of Lu Han's robes and yanked it, "Because ZhiXuan-Jun is not coming back!"
Pei Xu raised his hand to flick at him; Lu Han prepared himself to fight back, he had been itching to beat this guy senseless. After raising his hand, Pei Xu's hand did not land on Lu Han's skin, but his arm was grabbed and locked behind him. Lu Han gasped idiotically, he stood rooted on his spot with wide eyes.
Pei Xu yelped in pain and cursed loudly, "Who the fu-!"
He was cut off his sentence when he turned around and saw the guy locking his arms behind him.
"G-Greetings, Pei Shixiong!" Lu Han hastily bowed.
The man smiled at him but his hand that still held Pei Xu's wrists remained tight, he calmly said next to Pei Xu's ear, "Pei Xu, unsanctioned fight is prohibited. Bullying is also prohibited."
"Let go of me!" Pei Xu yelled all the while struggling to break free. The man indeed let him go; Pei Xu gave him one last glare before running away along with his henchmen. The man turned to Feng XiaLin and asked with a smile, "I am sorry about that, Young Master. If ever he troubles you again, do not hesitate to ask for my help. By the way, I am Pei ZiXin. You are?"
Feng XiaLin returned the smile and answered, "I am Feng XiaLin. Thank you for the help Pei Shixiong!"
Upon better inspection, Feng XiaLin realized that Pei ZiXin and Pei Xu bore a resemblance. Both of them had a very noble look, the only difference was that Pei Xu's aura was hot, wild and carefree, while Pei ZiXin was warm, gentle and reserved. Were they blood related?
As a compensation for the trouble that disciple had caused, Pei ZiXin volunteered to be Feng XiaLin's personal tour guide and guard, but Feng XiaLin respectfully refused his offer as that would be too much. Pei ZiXin left after that. Feng XiaLin and Lu Han ate in silence now that there were no more eyes glued on them.
"Pei Shixiong and Pei Xu have a little similarity with each other." Feng XiaLin commented before eating his noodles."
"Of course they do, they are brothers after all!" Lu Han answered with a laugh, Feng XiaLin stopped eating and stared at him for a long while.
"Then," Feng XiaLin recovered himself, "why their characters doesn't match at all?"
"Pei Shixiong is good in nature, but Pei Xu is different. Do not mind that brat. He is just like that to the newbies, it will not last long. Before you know it, he will not bother looking at you anymore." Lu Han stated as a matter of fact before drinking a mouthful of soup. He picked up a chicken wing and continued, "By the way, I know that I lied and said that you were in your room the whole day yesterday. But where the hell did you really go?"
"Oh me?" Feng XiaLin pointed at himself before picking up a radish, he answered indifferently, "I was at the Females' sanctuary for lunch."
The chicken wing fell from Lu Han's mouth back to his plate, his eyes turned round in shock and his mouth agape with no sound coming out of it. He remained frozen like that for about a minute. Feng XiaLin was alarmed, "Lu-xiong? Lu Han?! Were you poisoned?!"
Lu Han's hands shot out to grab both of Feng XiaLin's shoulders, he shook him violently until Feng XiaLin almost saw stars, "Did you go to Females' Sanctuary?! Did you really go there?!"
Feng XiaLin who was shaken out of his wits answered, "Y-Yes. Is t-there a problem?!"
"Going there itself is problem!" Lu Han almost yelled at him, trying his best to remain calm he continued, "Do you know why Pei Xu was very angry at you? Not because of that majestic ride that you have, but because everyone saw you being dragged by that girl! He will get angrier when he discovers that you went to their sanctuary! Do not let him know about this; do not let any male know about this! Do not associate yourself with females further!"
Feng XiaLin smoothed his robes when Lu Han finally let him go, "Is there something wrong with associating myself with all of my shijies and shimeis? Why are the guys displeased about it?"
Upon hearing Feng XiaLin casually called the females his shijies and shimeis, Lu Han's face worsened and at the very verge of panic attack, he anxiously whispered with a rather comical expression, "Please do not mention your 'shijies' and 'shimeis' when I am with you. Let me tell you a secret, the root cause of why males are frightened of the females. Several years ago, XianLiang housed hundreds of beautiful and refined men. Not half a year later after ZhiXuan-Jun left the sect, most of the men fell victim to the women's harassments! It is said that the women lack reservation, so the sect head decided to make a wall between the two sanctuaries to avoid any more incidents. But not only did they persevere, they even retaliated! And since then, the men's undergarments did not see the living daylights ever again! Men cannot bath in peace in the springs or even in their chambers without being peeked at! Truly horrifying! Until few years later, Pei Shixiong became one of the victims. Pei Xu was seething with fury upon discovery. His dear elder brother was disgracefully harassed by those beastly women. Good thing ZhiXuan-Jun visited and arrived just in time before they could even lay their fingers on him, or else...Aii, I do not want to think what kind of shameless things they would do to Pei Shixiong..."
Well, it looked like someone had an overprotective brother. And since this ZhiXuan-Jun had left and not coming back, Pei Xu felt that his dear elder brother was once again in danger.
Lu Han continued, "After that incident, the men petitioned to ban the females from setting foot on the males' area. Of course to make it fair male were also not allowed to enter females' area. An individual is only permitted to enter if they are invited or given a passage card."
Feng XiaLin remembered that his shijie gave him a card, so he shook his head and did not mention anything. He drank his tea then asked, "Speaking of card, why must an enrolee have an invitation card or referral? The interviewer mentioned about an incident before, is it connected?"
Lu Han stopped eating, his face turned gloomy and his voice sorrowful, "About that, it was because of a certain person. This person, despite being a foreign disciple, was highly regarded by the Masters. He even managed to outshine the inner disciples with his head held high but his feet still remained on the ground. He was a prince and came from a prestigious family, but he did not rely on the royalty coursing through his blood to achieve his goals. He had an innate talent rare in every hundreds of years, and he was also a prodigy in all six arts. He became the pride of XianLiang sect and he gained his title, ZhiXuan-Jun."
Feng XiaLin nodded his head intently; it seemed that this ZhiXuan-Jun had some kind of impact to the whole sect as he already heard this title four times in this morning. He curiously asked, "I see. This Big brother seems to be a respectable man. What happened?"
"He was banished." Lu Han answered, his grip on the teacup tightened.
"What?!" Feng XiaLin exclaimed, "Why?"
"That is because," Lu Han's gaze fell intensely on Feng XiaLin, "he started practicing dark arts."
"What a pity...Why?!" Feng XiaLin asked in confusion. It was indeed a pity for a man as remarkable as ZhiXuan-Jun to be banished because of dark arts.
"His reason for practicing dark arts remains a mystery. And everyone started to think that he was a threat to the cultivation world. So he was immediately banished in order to leave the sect with some face. The sect leader left the management of XianLiang to his trusted student, who was now acting as temporary sect master. Up until now, the grandmaster has not returned even once after that incident. That was the reason why the screening for foreign disciples was stricter. They had to guarantee an individual's root first before they invite them to study in the sect so only long established families and trusted groups are allowed to join. They will give referral to the approved candidates."
Feng XiaLin nodded his head in understanding. He realized how lucky he was to enter XianLiang sect even though he does not have an invitation card or any referral.
In the lecture room, the ladies, especially Xin Yang who gave him a friendly smile, stole glances at Feng XiaLin. When Feng XiaLin tried to smile back at them he saw the menacing glare that Pei Xu was giving him. Feng XiaLin sighed and drew on his lecture note; he was very focused on his illustration that he did not hear the teacher's announcement that the grandmaster, who never set his foot in the sect after so many years, would be finally coming back. So that day, no one was allowed to get out of the XianLiang's vicinity. But being a carefree person that he was, Feng XiaLin excused himself to Lu Han after the class and went to the designated place where he and Fu Zhan agreed to meet.
"Young Master." Fu Zhan greeted when he saw Feng XiaLin's approaching form.
Feng XiaLin panted after running for a while, supporting himself by his arms propped against his knees, he gave one last forceful exhale before standing up and said, "So...how is it? Did Qin Li suspect anything?"
"No." Fu Zhan shook his head, "She was not suspicious at all."
Feng XiaLin, "Then that is good!"
"Then," Fu Zhan turned to look behind the Prince before staring back at him, "is Young Master going home with me now?"
"That..." Feng XiaLin trailed with a troubled look, scratching his head he said, "I cannot. If I go out then I cannot enter anymore because I do not have an invitation card or referral."
Fu Zhan hopefully suggested, "How about I transform as Young Master and stay here in your stead?"
Feng XiaLin stared at him blankly, crossing his arms over his chest he said, "Are you not listening? Even if you disguised as me, the truth that I left the boundary of the sect will remain a fact. Even if you stay here, I will no longer be able to enter the gates again. My efforts will be wasted."
"I understand." Fu Zhan turned to look at the ground, "Then, what do you want me to do Young Master?"
Feng XiaLin walked slowly around Fu Zhan, "Well, I will find a way to get myself a card. For the meantime please act as 'Feng XiaLin'. Do not worry, Rong ZhanWu is not hard to deal with; just woo him a little and he will be satisfied."
Fu Zhan gulped. He would not dare woo that Sorcerer! He would need a unique approach for this.
"I understand. Then, I will take my leave now Young Master." Fu Zhan calmly said as he bowed. He needed some time to plan out how to deal with Rong ZhanWu, so he better leave as early as possible. So, he turned around and left.
Feng XiaLin walked toward the gate and noticed a middle aged man wandering around. He had not seen this person before but the man wore a very strict expression. Feng XiaLin tried his best to walk silently hoping that the man would not notice his presence. But due to his carelessness, he accidentally stepped on a twig and it produced a crunching sound under his foot.
The man cautiously turned to Feng XiaLin's direction and barked, "Who is there?!"
The man's white robes fluttered; he had his sword in his hand and it looked intimidating as if he was ready to swing it at any moment! Feng XiaLin covered his mouth while he crawled forward as he does not want to get caught. Mustering his courage and a bit of luck, he bolted toward the gate without even looking back.
The night came and Fu Zhan once again disguised as 'Feng XiaLin'. The day went normally with Qin Li not suspecting anything. And that night, 'Feng XiaLin' helped Xia Ru in the kitchen to prepare their dinner. While they ate, aside from Qin Li glancing at him at some moments, she did not doubt 'Feng XiaLin's' taciturn behaviour on the table. After they ate, Qin Li thought that his silence was due to his stress of not seeing his beloved Sorcerer. So to cheer him a little, she decided to accompany him a bit and help him wash the plates.
"Good thing Feng XiaLin is here!" Qin Li cheered as she arranged the bowls, "Even Rong ZhanWu is not here, the foods are still pleasant. I do not know what to do if it is only Xia Ru I am left with!"
"En." 'Feng XiaLin' nodded his head as he continued to wipe the cups.
Suddenly, they heard some languid footsteps followed by a soft thumping on the table. The two turned their head at the table and saw the man sitting and pouring himself some warm tea.
Fu Zhan's heart sunk, but he remained impassive.
Qin Li's eyes widened in surprise, she walked to the table and greeted, "Rong ZhanWu! You are back already! That was quick."
Fu Zhan followed her all the while thinking of a secret plan on how to get out of this mess; he stood beside Qin Li without uttering a word. Rong ZhanWu's arrival this early was unexpected after all.
Rong ZhanWu gulped the tea and placed the cup gently on to the table, he sighed, "I came across an old acquaintance. He made my task easier so I immediately went back home."
Rong ZhanWu scanned his eyes around the room, but he cannot find what or 'who' he was looking for. He stood up and asked with his brows furrowed, "Where is Feng XiaLin?"
'Feng XiaLin' flinched. Qin Li's eyes narrowed at Rong ZhanWu, putting her hands on her waist she mockingly asked, "Have you gone blind? Can't you see him standing at my side?"
Rong ZhanWu tilted his head to 'Feng XiaLin' with a questioning look, he stared for a long while before asking, "Where is Feng XiaLin?"
'Feng XiaLin' smiled bitterly, "What are you talking about?"
Fu Zhan just barely managed to stop himself from addressing Rong ZhanWu as 'Master', but calling the Sorcerer directly by his name felt foreign to Fu Zhan's tongue so he did not dare add it to the question.
Rong ZhanWu closed his eyes and sighed. After a few seconds, he stared at 'Feng XiaLin' with a pitying look and smirked, "I admit that the disguise is perfect, but you are not a good liar Fu Zhan."
Qin Li's jaw almost dropped as she rigidly turned her head to the still tight-lipped 'Feng XiaLin'. 'Feng XiaLin' lowered his gaze, pondering if he should continue the act or not. He sighed before lifting his eyes to Rong ZhanWu, he admitted in defeat, "Master is indeed impeccable. I will try my best to learn the arts of lying perfectly."
"Wha-!" Qin Li choked out when he saw 'Feng XiaLin' slowly transformed into Fu Zhan.
Rong ZhanWu chuckled and patted Fu Zhan's shoulder, "There is no need. Your act was perfect; it is just that I am not easily deceived when it concerns Feng XiaLin."
"What?!" Qin Li turned to Fu Zhan and shook him violently, "So all this time, you were not Feng XiaLin? Since when? Why did you do this? Where is that brat?!"
Fu Zhan met her panicked gaze with his calm eyes and honestly answered, "Young Master asked me to keep his whereabouts a secret. Fu Zhan humbly apologizes to Master Rong and Princess Qin, but I cannot tell you the exact details."
Qin Li stomped her foot and angrily flipped her sleeves, hiding her concern he growled, "That brat!"
Fu Zhan inspected Rong ZhanWu's feature to see if the man was displeased with his actions, but to his confusion the Sorcerer just remained calm and sat down once again to pour himself some tea.
"Rong ZhanWu!" Qin Li tugged his sleeve, "What are you doing still drinking that tea?! Are we not going to find him?!"
"There is no need. Feng XiaLin is a grown man; he knows what he is doing." Rong ZhanWu placed the cup near his moist rosy lips; he took a sip before adding, "Besides, I have plenty of ways to find him. Both of you should go and get some rest."
Qin Li left hesitantly but Fu Zhan remained rooted on his spot. Rong ZhanWu glanced at his slightly guilty face, he said, "Feng XiaLin has caused you trouble this time. You should rest."
Suddenly, Fu Zhan bowed so low that his posture was almost painful to look at. He pleaded, "I was not able to persuade Young Master to go back home with me. Fu Zhan asks Master Rong for punishment."
Rong ZhanWu brought down the cup on the ceramic plate with a click, turning his head to the still arched man he said, "Stand up, Fu Zhan. That is not necessary. We already know how thick-skulled Feng XiaLin is. If he wanted to do something, he will definitely do it even if we forbid him."
Fu Zhan straightened up and met the gentle gaze of the Sorcerer. Rong ZhanWu smiled at him and said, "You do not have to be too harsh on yourself anymore. The pain of the past must remain buried in our graves. He is finally back; he will not leave us again anymore. Isn't that great?"
"En," Fu Zhan nodded his head. His eyes sparkled faintly, a gentle and genuine smile graciously formed on his lips.
"See?" Rong ZhanWu propped his elbow on the table and commented, "You can now even make that expression because of him. If his previous self were to see you now, he would be very pleased that he would even throw a banquet for you."
Fu Zhan's face turned crimson due to embarrassment, he fixed his expression and said with resolution, "Master, I swear that in this second life of his, I will definitely protect him. Even if it costs me my life."
Rong ZhanWu nodded; Fu Zhan excused himself before he left to retire for the night.
The next day, right after Feng XiaLin changed into fresh set of robes; a loud series of knocking assaulted his door. He expected that Lu Han came to bother him so early again. But upon opening the door, he was greeted by four figures with Lu Han among them. Without letting him speak, Lu Han dragged him out of his room and they walked steadily fast. While on their way, Feng XiaLin also noticed that several male students were also rushing to a certain direction. Some female students even dared to come and were very excited as they flocked in that direction.
Feng XiaLin asked in confusion, "Where are we going? What is happening?"
Lu Han tightened his grip on Feng XiaLin's wrist and responded in excitement with the twinkles on his eyes, "ZhiXuan-Jun has come back!"
What? That guy, who was excellent on almost everything but banished because of his crooked arts, has come back? First, the sect leader has come back, now it was this brother's turn! And what's more, everyone seemed excited! Is he everyone's respected elder brother that they missed so much?
"Y-You seem excited." Feng XiaLin commented all the while being dragged among the crowd.
"Everyone is excited!" Lu Han emphasized, "He is our Dashixiong after all! We admire him! Even though he walked the crooked path, he still never forgets to help us with our breakthroughs! He is mighty and respectable, but still approachable and reliable!"
"I s-see." Feng XiaLin agreed. Turning his head back to the three people still following them, he asked, "Then why are Pei Xu and his lackeys following us? Are they here to monitor me?"
"Ah! I almost forgot!" Lu Han stopped walking; he draped his arm on Feng XiaLin's shoulder and whispered, "It was Pei Xu who told me about ZhiXuan-Jun's arrival! He does not show it but he is more excited than me! This morning, he knocked on my door and asked if we could altogether greet Dashixiong! He he he..."
Feng XiaLin briefly glanced at Pei Xu. Pei Xu caught him and he barked with an awkward look, "Do not get the wrong idea! I only allowed you to come along so you could see how great Dashixiong is! A newbie like you should pay him proper respect! I am not befriending you!"
Pei Xu probably got a lecturing from Pei ZiXin the other day. Not only hot headed, but Pei Xu really had the temperament of a mistress! Feng XiaLin smiled at himself at how awkward this guy was.
They followed the crowd to the Great Jade hall. Feng XiaLin and his group slipped pass through the people that crammed like mushrooms in the place. After crawling for few meters, they finally made it in front of the room. The sliding door was opened and inside the smoke from the incense burner danced through the air. On the table, two figures sat across each other.
Feng XiaLin had not gotten a clearer look yet when Lu Han exclaimed, "Ah! Sect leader Yao has really come back! I did not see him yesterday!"
When Feng XiaLin looked at the person who was called sect leader Yao, he gasped in surprise when he realized that it was the same man he saw the previous day in the XianLiang woods!
But the surprise intensified tenfold when he saw the other person who sect leader Yao was speaking to. Turning he head to the other person, Feng XiaLin's eyes almost popped out of its sockets! His jaw hung open; he gaped foolishly for a good while like fish out of the water, when suddenly that person shot him a penetrating glance before smirking at him deviously.
Feng XiaLin quickly scrambled to his feet and retreated back. His heart was pounding madly against his chest and his head started spinning in panic.
It was Rong ZhanWu! Ah!
That was Rong ZhanWu! He could not be mistaken! Only his husband has that face in the whole continent so he could not be mistaken!
After squeezing himself out of the tightly packed admirers, Feng XiaLin was ready to make a quick run for it. But he suddenly felt someone grabbed him by his shoulder causing him to stop. His heart thumped loudly and he hesitantly looked back.
"Where do you think you are going?"