The afternoon sun filtered through the dense foliage, streaming through the windowpanes and casting a gentle light within the room. Although it was daytime, the illumination was rather dim, creating a somewhat somber atmosphere. Xianyue stood to the side, observing Luo Cheng as he diagnosed the injuries of the unconscious Lan Yixuan. Her expression was calm, and she refrained from urging him to hurry, yet her wide-open eyes and the tension in her clenched fists betrayed her anxiety.
Luo Cheng sat beside the bed, checking Lan Yixuan's pulse. His previously relaxed brow furrowed slightly. He rose to examine Lan Yixuan's eyes and scrutinized his injuries, his brows forming a pronounced furrow. After a considerable pause, he finally turned to Xianyue, suppressing the urge to sigh.
Before Luo Cheng could speak, Xianyue inquired, "How is he?"
Luo Cheng glanced at Xianyue, parted his lips, yet no words emerged. Her increasing worry was palpable. "Luo Cheng, what has happened to Young Master Lan? He has been unconscious for over half a month, with no sign of waking. His wounds have been healing, yet inexplicably reopen, and he suffers from intermittent fevers that seem to come and go. What could possibly be the cause?"
Bai Zhufeng stood behind Xianyue, his face etched with concern as he looked at Luo Cheng. His previous animosity towards Lan Yixuan had dissipated; observing Xianyue's distress, he understood that if Lan Yixuan were to suffer a grave misfortune, Xianyue would be haunted by it for the rest of her life.
"Did he ingest something?"
Luo Cheng met Xianyue's gaze, his tone uncertain. During the pulse examination, he sensed a tumultuous energy within Lan Yixuan, reminiscent of poisoning, yet no visible signs of toxins were present. The wounds had indeed formed scabs, but inexplicably tore open again without any intervention from him.
Xianyue sat at the table, her mind racing back to a chilling memory from the village in the Valley of Death, where she witnessed a man transform after drinking a broth—his eyes turning amber, as if under some malevolent control. Her eyes widened in horror, her fingers gripping the edge of the table, turning pale with dread.
Looking up, her gaze met Luo Cheng's puzzled expression. Her brow furrowed, her heart chilled, and she nodded. "He drank a broth made from the branches of a man-eating tree."
A man-eating tree? Both Bai Zhufeng and Luo Cheng stared in disbelief, their eyes widening. Could such a thing exist? A tree that devours humans? It seemed implausible, yet Xianyue's expression and reaction compelled them to believe her.
"Does that tree truly consume humans?"
Xianyue nodded, casting a glance at the unconscious Lan Yixuan. "Let us speak outside."
As she rose and stepped outside, Bai Zhufeng and Luo Cheng followed closely behind, the three of them walking toward the pavilion beside the well in the courtyard, where the local villagers had temporarily vacated the area for their arrival.
Xianyue took a seat first, the midday sun bathing her in warmth. Yet, recalling that horrifying scene—where Lan Yixuan had nearly fallen victim to a tree—sent a shiver down her spine.
"Lan Yixuan and I witnessed a robust boy being devoured by that man, only for him to regurgitate bones moments later."
Bai Zhufeng and Luo Cheng exchanged alarmed glances, their expressions mirroring each other's shock.
"The Valley of Death is not uninhabited; people live there, though it lags far behind the Zhou Dynasty. It is a matriarchal society that worships a man-eating tree as their deity."
The notion of a cannibalistic tree being revered as a god was beyond comprehension for both Luo Cheng and Bai Zhufeng.
"They offered young, handsome boys as sacrifices. Lan Yixuan and I were pursued by flesh-eating ants—"
"Flesh-eating ants!"
Luo Cheng exclaimed. A tree that devours people—could these ants be the same? How could such tiny creatures, barely noticeable on the skin, possibly consume a human? Xianyue nodded, confirming their fears. Bai Zhufeng placed a reassuring hand on Luo Cheng's shoulder, his brow furrowed. "Do not interrupt."
He turned to Xianyue, his voice earnest and filled with concern. "Please, continue."
What horrors lurked within that realm of death? What had they endured during this time?
"Lan Yixuan and I were pursued by the flesh-eating ants and stumbled upon a local sacrificial ceremony. They forced the boy to drink the broth from the man-eating tree. It was as if he were under a spell, racing toward the tree. Upon reaching it, the branches intended for brewing the broth ensnared him, and the eight large leaves at the top unfurled, revealing sharp and pointed thorns that enveloped him, leaving only a pile of bones behind."
Under the sunlight, Xianyue's face turned a crystalline pale, lost in her haunting thoughts. "He has become this way because of me."
Luo Cheng regarded Xianyue, his and Bai Zhufeng's understanding deepening. Those who dwelled in the Valley of Death shared the cruel and bloody nature of the tree they worshipped.
"From what you say, the man-eating tree can indeed manipulate the mind. Lan Yixuan's continued unconsciousness and fluctuating health are likely linked to the broth he consumed."
Xianyue pressed her lips together, remaining silent. She, too, believed this. Throughout their journey, she and Lan Yixuan had been inseparable, sharing the same food and drinking from the same river. If she remained unharmed, he should be fine as well. Only that intoxicating broth could have brought such a strong-willed person to the brink of falling into the jaws of the man-eating tree.
"What must be done for him to awaken?"
The wait was torturous; it had been far too long. Xianyue felt an inner fire igniting, an anxiety that consumed her.
Noticing Luo Cheng's silence, her heart sank. She murmured, "Will he ever awaken?"
Luo Cheng could not meet her gaze. Her usually bright eyes were now filled with a sadness he had never witnessed before, a sadness he had thought unimaginable. During their last parting, he had never imagined that she and Lan Yixuan would end up here. It wasn't a lack of feeling between them; rather, they had both been too rational. How could everything have changed so drastically in such a short span of time?
Xian Yue smiled, her bright gaze shrouded in a thin veil of mist, suffused with deep concern and sorrow. "Ro Cheng, do you have any idea what Lan Gongzi and I have endured during this time?"
Ro Cheng remained silent, while Bai Zhanfeng, standing behind Xian Yue, observed her slightly dazed demeanor, noting the rare hint of melancholy etched on her striking brow.
Xian Yue recounted the harrowing experiences she and Lan Yi Xuan faced after their fall from the cliff—beginning with her tender care for him, to their plunge over the waterfall and subsequent rescue, the attack by the venomous green snake, and how Lan Yi Xuan plunged into the marsh to save her. She spoke of the wild boar that appeared at a critical moment, and her declaration to Lan Yi Xuan that they would live or die together. Memories of the cannibalistic piranhas encountered during their bath surfaced, along with promises unspoken yet profound: that in this life, she, Feng Xian Yue, would marry no one but him, and he, Lan Yi Xuan, would do the same for her. They stood shoulder to shoulder against the marauding soldier ants in the brutal and primitive village of Death Valley. When they fell into the water, Lan Yi Xuan remained resolutely committed to her safety. Every detail was relayed with vivid clarity, as if each moment flashed before them in living color. In the face of life and death, they had prioritized one another, steadfast and unwavering.
Ro Cheng and Bai Zhanfeng listened, their hearts racing with fear. They had never fathomed that such a perilous place existed, fraught with dangers that could claim lives at any moment. As they regarded Xian Yue, they were struck by a sense of awe, followed by admiration. If their previous admiration had been mere respect, now it stemmed from the depths of their souls. That petite, fragile figure bore the weight of responsibility and courage in moments of crisis. Her vast knowledge, sharp intellect, and composure shone through.
In that instant, Ro Cheng truly understood why so many exceptional men fell under her spell. As Feng Jiulan had proclaimed in the First Tower of the Realm, such a woman deserved the heartfelt devotion of any man.
Ro Cheng glanced at Bai Zhanfeng, who turned to Xian Yue at the same moment. Both pairs of eyes were laden with concern. Ro Cheng worried that Bai Zhanfeng might struggle to accept the reality that Xian Yue was no longer his. Meanwhile, Xian Yue sensed the harshness of such an acknowledgment, recalling how more than a decade ago, Bai Zhanfeng's father, Bai Zhantang, had led a group of martial artists into Death Valley, only to vanish without a trace. During her journey, she had seen no remnants of those who had ventured there, their bones perhaps long since decayed after so many years.
"What difference is there between those cannibals and the ones we typically encounter?" Bai Zhanfeng pressed his lips tightly together, the sharp curve of his blade-like smile unwavering as he regarded Xian Yue for a long moment before speaking.
Xian Yue pondered for a moment before shaking her head, her voice dripping with unutterable cruelty. "None."
Suddenly, Ro Cheng realized something, his expression shifting to one of dawning comprehension. Feng Shidi's father was his master's junior disciple. Years ago, he and a group of martial artists had ventured into Death Valley, subsequently disappearing without a word. If there had been any lingering hope or optimism, Xian Yue's words extinguished that final flicker of hope.
"There isn't much difference from what we normally see. Individually, they pose no real threat; however, they come in swarms."
The three remained silent, the air around them thick with tension. Bai Zhanfeng, who had been standing behind Xian Yue, suddenly stepped in front of her. His typically straight posture seemed to tremble like leaves in the wind, and he slowly bent toward her. "I'm sorry."
Xian Yue stood up from the cold stone table, hands resting on its surface as she looked at Bai Zhanfeng, who was bowing in apology. She remained silent, while he held his position, unyielding. Ro Cheng felt no surprise at this exchange.
Not long after their wedding, news had arrived from the Chu Kingdom about the tragic fall of Princess Xi He of the Feng Kingdom into Death Valley. He, along with Xiao Yu and their master, were shocked and heartbroken. Along with their lament for Xian Yue, they harbored concerns for Bai Zhanfeng. Their master often remarked how Bai Zhanfeng resembled his father—seldom one to be swayed by emotions. Once he committed, it would be for a lifetime. Bai Zhantang had been fortunate to experience the love of Murong Xue, enjoying a relationship marked by mutual respect and deep affection. Ro Cheng couldn't help but wonder how Bai Zhanfeng would react; he had traveled from Pan Cheng to Ying Cheng, the once vibrant youth now dejected and lost.
According to Elder Bai, he had witnessed Xian Yue fall from the cliff. Initially, he had intended to jump in and catch her but was restrained. Ro Cheng understood the rationale behind Elder Bai's actions; had he been in that position, he would have acted similarly, as leaping would only result in another sacrifice. Yet, Lan Yi Xuan, who could have been saved, had repeatedly risked his life for Xian Yue.
He professed that Xian Yue was his woman, yet, in the face of death, it was another man—the one he had viewed as a rival—who held her hand tightly.
Perhaps he had always thought that the perpetually gentle Lan Yi Xuan was hypocritical and unworthy of Xian Yue, but reality shattered all those preconceived notions. The one unworthy of Xian Yue was, in fact, him. Such a woman deserved the devotion of any man willing to give everything. Once hesitance or withdrawal occurred, one was bound to lose this competition and face utter ruin.
"Why do you apologize to me?" Bai Zhanfeng looked up, his gaze fixed on Xian Yue. Wasn't it she who should express regret? Since her fall with Lan Yi Xuan, his heart had echoed this refrain daily.
"I'm sorry for not being able to grasp your hand in the face of death."
"I'm sorry for not being by your side during your most perilous moments."
Was he still worthy of being called a man?
"Bai Zhanfeng, you need not apologize to me, nor should you feel guilty. I have never made any promises to you; at best, we are merely friends. I will not sacrifice my life for someone who can offer me nothing, not even for someone I deeply love. If it had been you or Lan Gongzi who had fallen, I would have done my utmost to save you. But to abandon my life for yours? That is impossible."
Xian Yue's understanding and sincerity only deepened Bai Zhanfeng's pain, amplifying the sense of estrangement and formality between them.
"Everyone has their own responsibilities and obligations. I must consider my brother's feelings. Your parents are gone, and though he may have many grandchildren, you are the only one he truly cherishes. His every thought revolves around you, and everything he does is for your sake. Moreover, he is aging, and the Bai family's legacy needs an heir. Are you willing to see the century-old foundation of the Bai family crumble? The anguish of burying a parent is unbearable."
"During our time in Death Valley, it was only Lan Gongzi and me. I watched as he grappled with the swamp, wanting to let go. After he drank that potion, he seemed utterly entranced, rushing headlong into his own doom. I was terrified, truly terrified of being left alone. I thought, if he died, I surely could not continue living. I would have no idea how to survive in such a treacherous place, filled with danger at every turn. But now, that wouldn't be the case. Here in the Zhou Dynasty, there is Feng Jiulan, the Feng Kingdom, and the responsibilities and missions I was born to bear. Should anything happen to him, I might falter for a time, but I would soon regain my strength to fulfill what he wished to achieve. Perhaps I will never know happiness in this lifetime, but I will live on, for those who care for me and for those I care for."
"I will no longer heed the unfounded rumors of those around me, nor will I make needless sacrifices that harm both myself and those close to me. What of the longevity tree? It is all but a fabrication. I refuse to gamble my life on such uncertainties. Bai Zhanfeng, you are not at fault, nor do you need to apologize to me. In fact, I owe you my gratitude. During this time, I have experienced many things I had never encountered before, even things I never dreamed I would face in this lifetime. Yet, I am not empty-handed; I have found love. However, I believe that the bond forged between Lan Yixuan and myself through trials surpasses mere romantic affection. I have come to discern who truly cares for me and who has merely sought to exploit me. The one who should truly say 'I'm sorry' is I, for my impulsiveness has led Lan Gongzi to his current plight."
Xian Yue gazed at the absent-minded Bai Zhanfeng, a faint smile gracing her lips, willing to spend her lifetime atonement.
She spoke in one breath, believing Bai Zhanfeng understood her intentions. Perhaps he had grasped it long ago and had resigned himself to it. While he may have been persistent in his affections, they were both individuals who genuinely comprehended love. True love is not merely about clinging stubbornly; there are times when letting go is essential. Just like with Xiao Yu, where hope has dwindled, why cling so tightly when it merely adds to the sorrow?
Neither Luo Cheng nor Bai Zhanfeng spoke, the weight of silence palpable, the surrounding air seeming to grow colder. Xian Yue, however, maintained her composure, pouring herself three cups of tea in succession, licking her lips, and swirling the liquid in the pot. "If only it could be exchanged for wine," she remarked with a smile, her pale face tinged with a hint of color, her bright eyes sparkling like stars. "It has been ages since I last had a drink; I have nearly forgotten its taste."
Bai Zhanfeng felt a surge of emotion threatening to spill forth. The tender, hollow place in his heart felt as if it had been emptied. This was not mere weeping; it was a desperate howl that echoed from deep within him. In a fleeting moment of hesitation, he realized he had missed his chance with the one he loved. Such feelings had never surfaced in him before.
Everyone bears their own responsibilities and missions, he and Lan Yixuan included. Was Xian Yue burdened by too much? Thus, she chose to pursue Lan Yixuan, and he accepted that defeat. In this instance, he surrendered willingly, genuinely wishing to know who she would choose if both he and Lan Yixuan were to plummet down the cliff together. Yet, the world offers no such myriad of possibilities.
Though he may have lost in love, he must not lose his composure, lest he become a figure of disdain. Bai Zhanfeng was not one to shy away from defeat, yet he felt he had sacrificed far too much. The gaping hole in his heart grew larger, a vortex consuming him, yet no amount of pain could salvage what was lost.
Bai Zhanfeng managed a smile, though it felt forced, perhaps even more unsightly than tears. He no longer wished to be restrained by pretense, seizing the wine jug from Xian Yue's grasp and slamming it onto the table, shattering it into fragments within his palm. "When we reach Ying City, I will treat you to a drink."
Xian Yue merely smiled, neither agreeing nor declining. Luo Cheng gazed at Bai Zhanfeng, letting out a sigh inwardly.
Turning to face Luo Cheng, who was staring at Bai Zhanfeng, Xian Yue said, "Luo Cheng, you can tell me now whether Lan Gongzi can awaken. You may speak freely; I can accept any outcome."
"Lan Gongzi's left shoulder is severely injured, with a wound that has penetrated the shoulder blade. It is unlikely he will recover. As for his unconsciousness, it may be a result of the broth he drank. He might awaken tomorrow, or he may never awaken again."
Xian Yue's heart seized suddenly, understanding Luo Cheng's implication. Lan Yixuan was akin to a vegetative state, aware of their words, perhaps even able to hear them, yet trapped in a slumber from which he might never rise.
Her heart constricted sharply, and her brow twitched in distress. She made no movement, simply stating quietly, "I understand."
This caught both Luo Cheng and Bai Zhanfeng off guard.
Bai Zhanfeng spoke up, "Senior Brother, if we can obtain the ingredients for the broth and treat him accordingly—"
"There is a high chance of awakening."
Luo Cheng shared this sentiment, yet that place, true to its name, was known as the Valley of No Return, the Valley of Death. To venture there recklessly would be tantamount to sacrificing oneself unnecessarily.
Bai Zhanfeng was about to suggest he retrieve the broth's ingredients, but Xian Yue interjected, "There's no need to risk your life. I believe Lan Gongzi will awaken; he certainly will."
Having just vanquished their leader and escaped that place, the feral nature of those people would undoubtedly heighten their vigilance. Bai Zhanfeng, no matter how skilled, could not match the synergy between her and Lan Yixuan. If anything were to happen to him, it would only deepen her guilt.
"Is there any danger to his life?"
Xian Yue locked eyes with Luo Cheng, and when he shook his head, she felt relieved. "As long as he is alive, I believe he will awaken."
Her unwavering faith and conviction were palpable.
"What if he doesn't awaken?" Luo Cheng asked softly, looking at Xian Yue.
"Then I will wait until he does. If he could bear to die alongside me, how could he allow me to face all these tribulations alone?"
He had already overcome the effects of the medicine; since they had experienced it once, why not a second time?
Luo Cheng, observing Xian Yue's resolute demeanor and thinking of Bai Zhanfeng, felt a twinge of sympathy. "He has done so much for you, hoping only that you live well."
Balancing the burden of mundane affairs alongside caring for Lan Yixuan was an arduous task. Why not seek another person to share the load?
"Luo Cheng, if it were Xiao Yu lying in that bed, would you seek another woman to assist in caring for her?"
Luo Cheng felt uncomfortable under Xian Yue's penetrating gaze, his face flushing.
Luo Cheng felt somewhat uneasy under Xian Yue's intense gaze, and his face flushed red.
"Are you planning to stay here to care for Lan Yixuan until he awakens?"
Xian Yue fixed her gaze on Bai Zhanfeng, asking, "What is the situation outside?"
She had no enmity with Jun Pinyu; he would not seek her life without reason. After months in the Death Valley, surely the Zhou Dynasty had undergone some changes.
"Feng Jiulan has learned of your fall into the Death Valley, and he is furious. He has mobilized his troops northward and is currently stationed in Ye City, confronting the imperial army of Chu Kingdom. He demands the surrender of certain individuals; otherwise, he vows to raze Chu Kingdom to the ground with all his forces and exact vengeance for his fallen princess with the blood of theChu Kingdom."
Xian Yue let out a soft "Oh," her eyes stinging with the threat of tears. The actions of her brother always moved her deeply.
"And then?"
She appeared indifferent, as though it did not concern her at all, which only made Bai Zhanfeng increasingly anxious. "The two armies are now in direct confrontation, and war could break out at any moment. Do you not care about the prince of Feng Kingdom?"
Bai Zhanfeng felt a surge of anger; had she not just claimed that Feng Jiulan and the citizens of Feng Kingdom were her duty and responsibility? Why then this air of apathy? Did she only care about Lan Yixuan? Would she remain in this place forever if Lan Yixuan never awoke?
"Why should I worry? You feel guilty towards me, wishing to kill Hua Chuxue to relieve that resentment, yet you restrain yourself due to her royal status. My brother has marched north. If the troops under your Bai Family resist to the death, even he cannot reach Ye City in such a short time. This indicates that your family has not genuinely participated in this battle. Even if you pretend to resist, it would be merely for show. The Bai Family army is the regular force of Chu Kingdom, and the imperial army has already been mobilized. But those people are as indulgent and decadent as the king of Chu Kingdom; they no longer possess any fighting spirit and are no match for Feng Kingdom. Seizing this opportunity, we can strike decisively. Even if we cannot conquer the entirety of Chu Kingdom, seizing half its territory would be sufficient to stand alongside Xuanyuan and Lan Kingdom."
Xian Yue spoke candidly, calculating her own gains before Bai Zhanfeng.
He was taken aback by her words, his dark, profound eyes filled with shock and disdain. The disdain was not directed at her personally but at her schemes. "You shouldn't be like this."
He stared at her, his heart aching more intensely. Old Master Bai had been right; this woman was unsuitable for Chu Kingdom, for the Bai Family, and even for herself. Yet, cursed feelings—love had already taken root; how could he care about what was suitable or not?
Xian Yue stepped closer to Bai Zhanfeng, unwavering, meeting his gaze. "Bai Zhanfeng, this is how a princess of Feng Kingdom should be, and this is what I must do. I will marry Lan Yixuan, and the two nations will unite as one. I will help him achieve the prosperous realm he desires, while also safeguarding the Feng Kingdom that my brother holds dear. This is my intention and my obligation. While Lan Yixuan lies unconscious, I will fulfill his ambitions until the day he awakens."
Bai Zhanfeng struggled to articulate his feelings—sourness, envy, and perhaps jealousy. If he had ventured into the Death Valley alongside her, perhaps her sole focus would have been protecting Feng Kingdom and the Chu Kingdom that the Bai Family had always safeguarded amidst this chaotic era.
Shaking off these thoughts, he felt it necessary to remind her, "When I came to find you, the old man informed me that King of Chu has sought assistance from Xuanyuan, who has agreed to lend troops. The Xuanyuan army is skilled in battle, and when the time comes, it will be Feng Kingdom that suffers."
So this was the strategy of Jun Pinyu. Xian Yue, upon hearing this, exhibited no surprise, merely offering a soft, chilling smile, her lips curling in mockery. "Bai Zhanfeng, do you not sense that Chu Kingdom's fortune is waning?"
To invite the wolf into the fold—such folly.
"Then let us seize a few more cities before Xuanyuan's army arrives."
Since they had already deployed troops and recognized that Chu Kingdom could not escape its fate of division, they might as well share in the spoils.
Luo Cheng observed Bai Zhanfeng's face darkening, fearing he might lose control and argue with 弦月, leaving only regret for himself. He quickly interjected, "Xian Yue Miss, when do you plan to leave?"
Each served their own masters. As a princess, Xian Yue's actions were not unfounded; the royal families of Chu Kingdom and Zhou Kingdom were no different—indulgent, extravagant, and lost in debauchery. In such tumultuous times, this lifestyle could not continue. No matter how powerful the Bai Family might be, they were merely struggling to survive, barely maintaining their existence for a few more years. It seemed that Old Master Bai had finally seen the truth and no longer harbored hopes for the royal family.
With Yan Kingdom split in two, its power significantly diminished, the Zhou Dynasty had become little more than a shell of its former self. Chu Kingdom was merely a small nation, while Xuanyuan and Lan Kingdom stood supreme, particularly with Xuanyuan having wed a princess of Zhou Kingdom, making him legitimate. Lan Yixuan harbored ambitions for the world, and Luo Cheng realized that since Lan Yixuan possessed such aspirations, he must be at least equal to Xuanyuan Hao. Only Lan Kingdom could match Xuanyuan in strength, and since Xian Yue was determined to participate in this struggle as the future mistress of Lan Kingdom, her actions were entirely justified.
"Young Master Lan is injured and should avoid exertion for the time being."
Xian Yue had no desire to argue with Bai Zhanfeng. She spoke these words in hopes that he would recognize the reality and make his choice sooner.
Seeing Xian Yue frown, Luo Cheng reassured her, "Xian Yue Miss, rest assured, I will take good care of Young Master Lan."
"I may trouble you for the next few days. Lei Yun and Lei An should be arriving soon, and they will take good care of Young Master Lan."
"You all must be tired. Sister Cui Ju and the others should have prepared the rooms; you should go and rest."
After speaking, Xian Yue turned to leave, but Bai Zhanfeng seized her hand. He stared at her intently, and after a long pause, fearing he might irritate her, he asked, "Will we become enemies?"
Perhaps she would not care, but he truly did not wish to be her foe, for such an outcome was all too predictable—just like the last Martial Arts Conference at Pansheng City; he would lose again.
He couldn't bear to harm her, yet for Lan Yixuan and Feng Jiulan, she would undoubtedly show him no mercy.
"If you wish to be my enemy, then we shall be foes. If you do not wish to be my enemy, then we will not be."
Bai Zhanfeng looked at Xian Yue's hand, his fists clenching tightly, making a cracking sound. The silver gleam was blinding. He felt a simultaneous urge to embrace her and to use his iron palm to eliminate her.
One moment, she could be so considerate that it left you grateful; the next, she had the power to cast you into hell.
"Luo Cheng, can dragon fruit cure deficiencies?"
Luo Cheng stepped forward, shaking his head. "I've never heard of that."
"Then do not dwell on it."
Luo Cheng patted Bai Zhanfeng on the shoulder, but upon seeing the desolate expression on his face, he found himself at a loss for words.
There was nothing amiss; it was merely the torment of emotions. It reminded him of the past when he quietly watched over his junior sister, while she relentlessly pursued Feng Shidi. Perhaps he understood that sentiment.
After Xianyue left, she returned directly to Lan Yixuan's room, preparing water to cleanse his body. "Lan Gongzi, Bai Zhanfeng and Luo Cheng visited today. They informed me that the armies of the Feng Kingdom have already besieged Ye City. The Chu King, unable to contain himself, has sought aid from Xuanyuan. Xuanyuan's forces will soon arrive at Ye City as well. You lie in a coma, unable to do anything. But fear not, I will take care of the tasks you wish to accomplish. I cannot let you wake to find yourself completely disqualified from competing with Xuanyuan Hao, can I? Therefore, I may be gone for a while. Lei Yun and Lei An should return shortly, at which point I can leave with ease. Luo Cheng just told me that you have been in a coma because you drank soup brewed from the branches of a man-eating tree, perhaps never to awaken. I refuse to believe it; I am certain you will awaken. I am utterly exhausted from taking care of you since escaping that dreadful place known as the Valley of Death. I've had no time to rest and must hurry to Ye City, managing the responsibilities of two people alone. Lan Gongzi, do you wish for me to work myself to death before you wake? But I am not one to perish easily. Once you awaken, I shall feast heartily and then sleep for three days and nights."
Xianyue chuckled softly, "I just recounted everything that happened in the Valley of Death to Bai Zhanfeng, yet he seems unwilling to give up. Perhaps that's for the best; if you do not awaken soon, I might just marry him. What do you think?"
"Lan Gongzi, you are truly the most detestable person I have ever encountered. When you finally awaken, I shall make it a point to bite you to death."
With the arrival of Bai Zhanfeng and his companions, the once-peaceful He Village grew increasingly lively. Bai Zhanfeng had shaved off his unkempt beard and donned a fresh outfit. Though he appeared somewhat haggard, to the young women in He Village, who were of similar age to Xianyue, he was a striking figure. During dinner, several girls gathered around him, but he seemed so disinterested that they soon lost their enthusiasm and dispersed.
Unlike the outside world, the women of He Village were generous and forthright. In matters of love, they pursued mutual affection and never clung desperately to anyone. This place was neither the chaotic Valley of Death nor the Zhou Dynasty, where men could have multiple wives. Here, a monogamous system was upheld.
Three days passed, and Bai Zhanfeng began to feel restless. Though he remained in He Village, he kept in touch with Old Master Bai. Xuanyuan's troops had arrived at the camp and would reach Ye City within two days.
With the Feng Kingdom advancing with great force, clearing obstacles in their path under the banner of avenging the princess, their momentum was undeniable. The Chu army had been pent up for far too long, and once Xuanyuan's forces arrived, war was inevitable.
"Come dawn the day after tomorrow, regardless of whether Lei Yun and Lei An have arrived, we shall depart."
In the early hours of the third day, He Village lay in serene silence. The moon had set, and the sun had yet to rise. The sky outside was shrouded in darkness. Suddenly, Xianyue, who had been sleeping beside Lan Yixuan, heard a knock at the door. Since her awakening, she had been living with him for ease of care.
She opened her eyes but remained still, faintly hearing urgent calls from outside: "Gongzi."
"Xianyue, my lady."
It was the voices of Lei Yun and Lei An, interspersed with locals calling for Cui Ju.
Startled, Xianyue leaped up and flung the door open, rousing Bai Zhanfeng and the others, who hurried out behind her.
As Xianyue opened the door, Lei An rushed into her embrace, weeping like a child. "Xianyue, my lady."
Taken aback, Xianyue stumbled back a few steps, feeling his back drenched with moisture.
"Xianyue, my lady."
Lei Yun's reaction was less dramatic than Lei An's. In the dim light, one could sense the deep weariness emanating from him, suggesting he had rushed over as soon as he received the news.
No sooner had Lei Yun spoken than Lei An released his grip on Xianyue, his eyes red and swollen, clearly indicating he had shed tears aplenty during this time.
Looking around, he noticed the absence of Lan Yixuan, prompting Lei Yun to voice the same concern as they approached Xianyue. "Xianyue, my lady, where is our Gongzi?"
Bai Zhanfeng regarded Xianyue with worry; the sight of Lan Yixuan in his current state was disheartening even for him, let alone for the loyal Lei Yun and Lei An, who had been by his side.