Context: SL was rescued from a Murong assassination attempt by bodyguards sent by the Apothecary Association. Chu 3rd Young Master, aka Chu3, was one of the bodyguards. He took an interest in SL because of her beauty and uses the fact he saved her life to get her to accept flowers from him and force her to go out on a date with him. NL calls SL by jewel during the ride to the Murong Clan. NL wasn’t allowed to read his messages due to military rules until days after the assassination attempt. SL messaged him during the attack to call for help. SL explains to him who she’s with and why. NL calls Chu3 directly and learns the date is to be at the Murong Patriarch’s birthday party. NL then hangs up on Chu3. Chu3 wants to show that SL is his friend and that the Murong’s should leave her alone. He also explains he’s NL’s childhood friend and tells her a little about NL’s past. They now arrive at the Murong Estate.
4393.第4390章 淡然若水
4390 A couple of teenage nobles immediately ask Chu3 to introduce SL to them. They look like they’re the type of little kids to follow Chu3 around wherever he goes. He tells them to buzz off. They feel he’s being stingy for not even introducing SL, but they can only helplessly stand aside. She’s so beautiful. SL is described as having ankle length hair and a white as jade dancing butterfly fairy dress. Her beautiful face makes everyone who looks at her unconsciously think of NL. Chu3 brings SL to the hall where only the top eight families are allowed in. Fewer people are here, only about a dozen young people, so fewer people stare at SL, but they still all turn and look at her. Chu3 is a little depressed when another group of boys ask him about her. He’s used to being the center of attention. Outside of NL, he’s always attracted the most attention. The one asking is Ning Tian Hao, or Ning1, heir apparent to the Ning, childhood friend of Chu3 and NL. Lin4 is with Ning1, he looks pale and a bit sickly.
4391 Ning1 and Lin4 were at the center of attention but now everyone is staring at SL, stunned. The boys all have stupid looks on their faces. The girls are all silent with odd expressions on their own faces. SL’s not interested in any of them, she’s only here because of Chu3.
Chu3 smugly introduces her to Ning1, “She’s Su Luo.”
Chu3 only introduces SL to Ning1, Lin4, and Murong1, or Murong Zeyu. Because of the way Chu3 introduces SL, many people who hear, look down upon her. By only saying her name and nothing else, it indicates she has no family worth mentioning and no backing. Murong1 has never met SL but recognizes her name. His eyes narrow. Chu3 asks for a private conversation with Murong1 and he agrees. Lin4 and Ning1 want to join in. Murong1 doesn’t like it but doesn’t mind too much because NL is not here. He sneers at SL while passing by to leave the room. Ning1 seems impressed by SL’s lack of reaction. Some other boys want to approach SL after they leave but the glares of the other girls restrain them. Only six girls are left and they all do the same thing.
4392 They all eye SL up and down like she’s a commodity to be traded. Murong Mo is one of them. The others are curious about SL but are not willing to accept SL into their circle just because of a few words from Chu3.
Murong Mo steps up to taunt SL, “Long time no see Su Luo. I didn’t think you’d still be alive.” She then tells the others she met SL while recruiting for the College in the lower worlds.
They are surprised, with her appearance and her surname, they thought she might’ve been part of the reclusive Su Clan. Lin Yue Ran, or Lin6, asks if Murong Mo if SL is really from the lower worlds. Lin6 is well known to be in love with Chu3. She’s sure to move against SL with Murong Mo. Murong Mo sneers and says Lin6 can ask SL directly. SL coldly smiles but does not answer when asked by Murong Mo. She was already prepared to meet Murong Mo upon hearing she was going to the Murong Estate. SL also doesn’t plan to interact with this group in the future. SL’s lesson to herself is to not owe others favors, they’re not easy to pay back. The way the women look at SL changes. Chu3 had introduced SL in such an ambiguous way they actually thought she was related to the Su. They immediately start mocking SL, saying Chu3’s sight is poor. That he goes through a new woman every week, how long will she last. Not all of them though.
4393 The two staying out of it are Ning5 and Murong12. Murong12 is the daughter of a concubine and too timid to say anything. Ning5 tries to model herself after her sister Ning3 and be aloof and above it all. However, she can’t stand how beautiful SL is and chooses to leave, “You girls continue.” She feels that staying here any longer will taint her noble personage. Right as she’s about to leave, someone tall and thin enters.
It’s NL. Everyone stills, and those who were leaving stay. Several lines from author about how beautiful NL is. NL is staring at SL. SL stares back. He continues to just stand there staring at her. SL wonders if she’s in a daze and blinks, but sees that he’s still just standing there. Everyone is staring at the two of them in shock. Ning5 breaks the silence and asks why NL is here, Chu3 earlier said he wouldn’t come. Ning5 is attempting to feign indifference, but not only is she smiling but she’s the first one to greet him. NL only glances and nods at her in greeting. He only glances at her but Ning5’s heart starts beating incredibly hard and her face turns red. She doesn’t know what to do with her hands and feet. The boys who left earlier return. Chu3 freezes when he sees NL, then shouts in amazement, didn’t you say earlier you weren’t coming?
4394 NL lazily eyes Chu3 and shallowly smiles. Chu3’s heart skips a beat. When NL smiles like that at him, it means he’s done something wrong. Chu3 asks why he hasn’t said anything.
NL lazily, “I’ve come to thank you.”
“Thank me? Hey come on, Gong2, what joke are you pulling? Even if I helped you inadvertently, why should you need to thank me?”
NL pats his shoulder and nods, “I’ve been incredibly busy. I’ve troubled you to have brought this girl over here. This girl is very mischievous. She hasn’t caused you any trouble?”
This girl? Chu3 still hadn’t figured it out before NL puts an arm around SL’s shoulder, and drags her tiny and cute self into his arms. Chu3 doesn’t feel so good. He stares blankly. They know each other? And their relationship seems really good too. Because of how suddenly NL appeared, and how intimate he seems with SL, everyone in the entire hall is stunned and dumbfounded. Ning1 recovers the fastest and knuckles Chu3’s chest.
“You kid, so you were helping Gong2 bring his girl. You didn’t say. We thought this girl was from your family.”
Lin4 chuckles, “Chu3, bro, you haven’t been straight with us.”
“He he” Chu3 can only laugh in a silly way. He still doesn’t know what’s going on. Chu3 looks at NL. NL still has an arm around SL. NL lazily looks at Chu3. It causes Chu3 to feel like a needle is pricking his heart. SL is looking at NL from the side. Her Nangong is not only earth shattering good looking, his every gesture is domineering. Others cannot help but look up to him. Ning5 looks at NL, then Chu3, then SL, and seems to have sunk deep into thought. She long sensed something wrong with the three. But she only cares about what NL thinks.
“Brother Liuyun, what’s your relationship with her?” Ning5 finally stops thinking about it and asks.
Some people start to coldly sweat for Ning5. You dare ask about NL’s matters? Just because you’re Ning3’s little sister doesn’t mean you can act like her.
Unexpectedly, NL looks at Ning5 and faintly smiles, “You’re asking about Su Luo?”
“Yes” Ning5 nervously responds.
NL looks down, “Girl, let’s ask you. What’s our relationship?”
SL coldly humphs. If you hadn’t lost your memory, our relationship would of course be husband and wife. But now…
SL indifferently smiles, “It looks like there’s not really a relationship right?”
“Nonsense.” NL pokes her head. “Every time we’re in the Capital, we sleep in the same house.”
4395 NL’s words sweep through like a hurricane. Everyone goes silent. If they sleep in the same house, just how close are they? Has their relationship already reached this stage? Does the Nangong family know?
SL glares at NL, “But in different rooms.”
NL lazily smiles and complains to the petrified onlookers, “Ah, as I’ve been saying, this girl is hard to court. It looks like this young master can only continue to work hard. Only then will I be able to get close to her.”
The men speechlessly stare at SL. The women all glare hatefully at her. Nangong 2nd Young Master would actually chase after somebody? And what’s more, he’s unable to catch her? Isn’t this too shocking? Who would believe it? The problem is that this came straight out of NL’s own mouth. SL may be very beautiful, her temperament is also very good, but she still refused!
Chu3 looks at SL amazed, “To live in plenty without appreciating it.”
SL: “…”
Chu3 sees things clearly. NL fancies her and even knew her first. Chu3 would’ve been willing to compete with anyone else, but NL? He’s not looking to get abused. Besides, he only had a hazy obsession with her. She’s so mysterious he became curious of her and wanted to tease her. Now that he knows NL is pursuing her, nevermind chasing her, he no longer dares get closer.
Earlier they were mocking SL for her lower world status and how Chu3 had poor eyes. But now NL even says he’s been working so hard pursuing SL and is still unable to catch her. SL is the enemy of all the women of the world! All these women hate SL so much. Such a perfect man and she refuses him.
SL feels all this hatred and glares at NL, this is all your fault.
NL casually, “What do they count for?”
Being the Lady of the Longfeng, his wife, will be the most difficult of tasks. Right now it’s just a bit of envy. In the future, NL smiles, he doesn’t really want to think about it.
Chu3 laughs at Murong1 and says that earlier, Murong1 didn’t give him any face, but now, with NL here, who here would dare not give NL any face? Murong1 has a dull look on face seeing how intimate NL and SL are. He doesn’t dare not give NL face. NL asks Chu3 wants going on. Chu3 laughs and asks isn’t SL your girl?
4396 NL nods. Chu3 then tells him the Murong family has been trying to kill SL. NL coldly looks upon Murong1. Murong1 has always been arrogant, but he feels inferior in front of NL. Murong1 bravely says that NL should not listen to only one side of the story.
Chu3 laughs at him and says if I hadn’t been there, “Little Luo Luo would’ve been killed by your family.” He then explains it’s because of this that Luo Luo owes him a debt and has come to this celebration.
NL only listens to the 2nd half, then nods his head and says he will take up SL’s debt. SL is relieved. Chu3 is excited. A favor from NL is worth a lot.
“You don’t want to swap favors?” NL looks lazily at Chu3.
Chu3 excitedly agrees. He says Luo Luo is all his and retreats back from SL.
NL coldly harrumphs at him, “You call her Luo Luo?”
Chu3 is depressed that he’s not even allowed to call her that and surrenders, agreeing to call her Su Luo. NL coldly grunts and decides to temporarily let him off. Murong1 feels cold seeing the brothers talk and knowing that the Murong’s won’t be able to go after SL if NL backs her. Before he can say anything, Murong Mo charges in saying she won’t allow it. She sneers at SL saying it’s not impossible to spare her life if she returns the Twilight Cloud Sword. Most people, including the Murong’s, do not know it’s one of the Twelve Artifacts. They just see it as a peerless sword of extraordinary origin. Others are surprised that SL would dare steal such a thing from the Murong and look on her differently. SL could just throw this problem at NL and have him deal with it but she doesn’t want people to think that the person NL likes is an arrogant useless bag of straw.
4397 SL faintly smiles while raising an eyebrow, “Murong Mo, so you never told your family how you tossed aside the Twilight Cloud Sword?”
Murong Mo grows cold hearing this. Murong1 casts Murong Mo a suspicious glance. Compared to Murong Mo’s anger, SL appears too calm, too righteous.
Murong Mo coldly snorts, “Having stolen my Twilight Cloud Sword, and now you ask how I threw it away? Su Luo, have you no shame?”
SL’s lips curve, “The Twilight Cloud Sword disdains you and you still want to be its’ owner? Murong Mo, have you no shame?”
Murong Mo tries to slap SL, but before she can even get close, NL waves two fingers as a blade and Murong Mo’s right hand is mangled. Everyone goes silent. They had all thought that NL was faking when he was spoiling SL earlier. He was only using words before. But now he’s used action to display his attitude in public to the Murong’s. Some look in sympathy at Murong Mo. Murong Mo’s eyes fill with tears and pain, she’s not sure how to react. Murong1 is furious and calls NL out.
NL ignores him and bends his head down, his eyes filled with concern, “Were you scared? Mm?”
Everyone becomes numb, they all want to complain. Murong Mo didn’t even land a hit. What’s SL to be afraid of? Murong Mo’s hand is mangled! While it can be healed by an Apothecary, it’s embarrassing. She won’t be able to go out like that. In the end, he doesn’t look at the crying Murong Mo, or pay any attention to the angry Murong1, he only cares if his house’s Luo Luo is scared or not. Can you not be so biased? But NL is very partial.
He drapes a large robe over SL and then sighs, “Wearing so little. You don’t even take care of yourself. Are you trying to anger me to death?”
Chu3 silently retreats. He was the one that chose that dress for SL to wear. NL wouldn’t blame him right? Sure enough, NL gives him a cold glance. If only he had known SL was NL’s girl. Even on pain of death, he wouldn’t have gone to provoke SL. In order to redeem himself, Chu3 steps out.
Chu3 coldly smiles at Murong Mo, “I feel it’s necessary to advise you. Next time you make a move against Su Luo, the part broken will be thicker than a wrist.”
The neck is thicker than a wrist.
Murong1 suddenly stands and ferociously glares at NL, “Nangong Liuyun, is this what you mean?”
NL languidly nods at him.
Murong1 sneers at him, “Do you want to declare war against my Murong family? For a woman like that?”
Chu3 is immediately dissatisfied with this term of address. This woman rushed through the Medicine King Valley to temper herself as an Imperial level Apothecary.
4398 Although he can’t talk about it because the Apothecary Association is trying to protect SL. If the Murong’s keep causing trouble, they can expect to be blacklisted by the Association!
Murong1 glares at NL and fiercely presses him, “Yes or no!”
Murong1 knows that the Nangong are not monolithic and united. If NL wants to marry someone, there will be trouble from within his own family. Even if NL is willing to go up to bat for a woman, that doesn’t mean his family will.
NL lazily smiles, “Are you provoking me?”
Murong1 is startled.
“So you want to lead your family in opposition?”
Murong1: “…” Of course not!
NL: “Is this your intention, or your family’s intention?”
NL steps closer and Murong1 steps back in retreat. No, no! He didn’t mean that!
NL coldly smiles, “Assassinating my house’s Luo Luo is equivalent to assassinating me. I, Nangong Liuyun, want to make a statement. Want to provoke me, just go ahead and try!”
Everyone, including Murong1 is stunned. Some time ago, an extremely large family tried to assassinate NL. Before the Longfeng Clan could even react, NL had already enacted his own plan, and with only his own wisdom and intelligence, completely uprooted and exterminated that family. Everyone from all three generations are scared of retaliation from NL.
Murong1 is stunned silly. Originally, he was the one in the right with justification, but under NL’s close questioning, somehow it became about him being provocative. Others are looking at him sympathetically. Murong1 is having a hard time backing down. Chu3 sees how stiff the atmosphere is.
“Alright, alright. Isn’t today the Murong Ancestor’s birthday? A 10,000 year birthday only happens once. It’s good for things to be lively. What do you say Gong2?”
NL has an arm around SL while sitting on the side of a soft sofa.
NL lazily, “As you please.”
Chu3 is relieved at NL’s attitude. Chu3 takes Murong1 by the shoulder and whispers to him, Buddy, I’ve prepared the stairs for you to step down. If you don’t hurry up, they’ll be taken away. Then when you do want to retreat, you won’t even be able to.
Murong1: “My little sister’s arm has been chopped off and you blame me?”
Chu3 laughingly looks at him, “You blame Gong2?”
Murong1 is alarmed, he cannot afford to. He swallows his anger. Chu3 is proud of himself.
Murong1 storms off, “You’ll have to entertain yourselves.”
No one really notices him leaving. All eyes are on NL.
4399 Murong1 is mad that no one notices him leaving, no one tries to stop him. Everyone, men and women are all paying attention only to NL and flattering him. No one cares about Murong1. He feels like he doesn’t even belong, even though it’s a Murong family birthday party they are hosting. It’s always been like this. From childhood until adulthood, he’s always hated the one called Nangong Liuyun. He leaves in a huff.
He first goes to check on Murong Mo. Fortunately, a Master level Apothecary is enough to reconnect a hand so Murong Mo doesn’t really suffer any problems. The two siblings look at each other and discuss getting the sword back. Murong1 says to forget the sword, opposing NL is tantamount to seeking abuse to oneself. Murong Mo says she refuses to let it go. She wants grandfather to intervene.
Murong1, face black, “Murong Mo! Do not pull grandfather into this! What kind of identity does grandfather have? You want to pull him into this mess?”
Even if grandfather takes the sword back, there wouldn’t be anything to be proud of. If grandfather makes a move and NL gets his family to protect SL, wouldn’t the Murong become a laughingstock. Murong Mo is incredulous, she asks if big brother thinks grandfather would fail to take the sword from SL. Murong1 says he’s not worried about a little girl who’s not even at Grand Completion. He’s worried about NL’s wisdom versus his grandfather’s. He feels like he must have brain damage for even making the comparison. Murong1 tells Murong Mo to drop it and not to cause trouble for SL. He walks away. Murong Mo whines some more.
Murong Mo takes out her jewel and asks Lin5 where they are. Lin5 is the one who was with Murong Mo earlier. [It was Lin6 before, doesn’t matter, super minor character] Lin5 tells her which hall they’re in and that she should come, she would enjoy the show. Murong Mo understands this means SL must be suffering in some way.
4400 With a white bandage still hanging around her neck, she quickly runs off to the Hall. The Hall is no longer so contentious but instead peaceful. Everyone’s playing a game at the suggestion of Ning5. When Ning5 first brought it up, saying it’s boring to sit around, everyone just looked at her. NL is here, what’s the point of playing a game? He’ll win for sure. Ning5 immediately excludes NL because his memory is too good. Everyone then figures out she must be targeting SL. Ning5 raises an eyebrow to tacitly agree with everyone’s assumptions. Ning5 basically dares SL into playing a game. SL feels compelled to agree even though the the rules and conditions haven’t been stated because she doesn’t want to make NL look bad. NL just chuckles when she agrees and rubs her head. Ning5 sees their display of intimacy and feels like she’s going to burst, but she endures it.
“I did not expect you to dare. However, once you lose, don’t come crying.”
SL smiles but ignores her. Ning5 wants to play a memory game. Chu3 points out she has an exceptional memory, especially with numbers, you’re not going to play that sort of game are you? Ning5 says she’s taking it easy on SL, if they competed in cultivation, wouldn’t she cry? Murong Mo bursts in to support Ning5 and says that SL is a freshman at College while Ning5 is a top student. Chu3 gives SL a look. Whatever she decides, he can veto this game.
SL casually smiles, “Whatever is fine.”
Everyone else already knows the game so it’s left to Chu3 to explain the rules to SL. Chu3 summarizes it as a dice number memorizing game. There are four groups of 100 dice. [I’m not going to translate the rules of the game. Basically they memorize the numbers that are rolled and recite them and later do calculations with them. So fun! /s]
4401 SL says she understands. Chu3 asks for the penalty for losing. Ning5 answers truth or dare. It’s clear Ning5 wants to use this to humiliate SL. This is just wishful thinking. Ning5 is unaware that after NL, the person here with the best memory is SL with her Wisdom Bone enhanced mind.
The game begins. NL orders in a lazy but no nonsense voice for the dice be rolled again. Murong Mo glares at NL. Everyone looks suspiciously at Murong Mo, she claims she did not cheat. No one believes her. Everyone observes as her face turns red. The dice are re-rolled. Six people participate; SL, Ning5, Murong Mo, Chu3, Ning1, and Lin4. The turn order is based on sitting position and goes in a circle. Ning5 has NL choose the starting place. NL chooses one of the most difficult to remember. Ning5 goes first and NL gives her answer a pass. Ning5 looks proud. She taunts SL and asks if she’s memorized it all.
“Just about.”
Chu3 frowns. He thinks SL is easy to trick. The question was a distraction to make it harder for her to memorize. Ning5 tries to pressure SL by saying if she fails on the first question, everyone will laugh at not just her, but NL as well. If it were her, she would be nervous at anything related to NL.
SL faintly smiles, “Do you have anything else to say?”
Ning5 humphs and blusters about not listening to her advice.
4402 SL is given the most difficult position to recite. Low confidence in her from the crowd. They look down on her for being from the lower worlds. She gets it right. They are surprised. Didn’t she just talk a bit with Ning5? The other players all live up to expectations and pass as well, except for Murong Mo. Since she’s eliminated, and Lin4 is the one who chose her position, he chooses her truth or dare.
Lin4 in an forthright and unconcerned way, “Truth or Dare?”
Murong Mo: “Truth”
Lin4 nods, “Earlier with the dice, did you cheat?”
Everyone stops what they’re doing to stare at Murong Mo. Murong Mo instantly turns red. Today is the Murong Ancestor’s birthday at the Murong Estate, and yet both a son and daughter of the Murong’s, one by one shame themselves. SL cannot help but give Lin4 a closer look after that. Chu3 had earlier introduced them and explained that NL, himself, Ning1, and Lin4 are all childhood friends with iron like bonds. Ning1’s eyes are indifferent to others and has a coldness that seems similar to NL. SL’s initial impression of Lin4 is that he is sickly, quiet and taciturn. She did not expect him to open his mouth and be so sharp, so sharp and to the point! She has a favorable impression of him. Murong Mo is furious, her fingernails dig into her palms.
Murong Mo grits her teeth and regrets her choice of truth, “I…earlier it was just because…a j-joke…so…”
Lin4: “Alright, you need not say more. Continue the game.”
He announces the next position. After Murong Mo’s interruption, Ning5 has started to grow fuzzy on some of her numbers but Lin4’s announced position is easy and she gets it right. Ning5 deliberately sat where she did so she could choose SL’s questions. How could SL not realize her intentions? But it doesn’t matter, with her absolute strength, SL doesn’t even care about little tricks like these. Ning5 asks which half SL remembers better. SL answers truthfully that it she’s fine with both. Ning5 sneers inwardly, she herself is starting to forget, how could a lower world girl remember. She’s about to say something but Chu3 interrupts her.
4403 “Ning5, why do I find that you are so filled with nonsense. If you don’t ask soon, I’m going to forget all my numbers.” Chu3 snaps at her.
Ning5 is Ning1’s little sister so he doesn’t outright expose her and gives her a little face.
Ning5 gives him a cold look and says it’s not even his turn, what’s he anxious about. However, she realizes if she delays any longer, everyone will be furious at her and continues with the game. SL gets it right. Chu3 suddenly remembers that SL is an Imperial level Apothecary. What Apothecary doesn’t have an excellent memory? If Ning5 knew SL was an Imperial Apothecary with such a powerful mind, wouldn’t she cry?
Ning1 frowns when he notices Chu3 giggling to himself and asks why he’s laughing. Chu3 tells him he’s laughing at Ning1’s little sister. Ning1 asks what’s wrong with her? Chu3 smugly tells him he’s just realized that they’ve all been wrong, that in front of absolute strength, schemes are useless. Ning1 frowns and says he doesn’t understand. Chu3 pats his shoulder and tells him it’s alright if he doesn’t understand, he already knows who will win. Ning1, Ning5, and Lin4 all look at Chu3 suspiciously. As the game continues, everyone’s memories start to get fuzzy. Lin4 is the first to drop out, then Ning1, then Chu3. SL and Ning5 are the last two remaining.
Ning5 is shocked and unhappy. She originally wanted to show how stupid SL is, but now everyone will think SL is a match for her. Ning5 cannot stand this. She must increase the difficulty to have SL tossed out. Ning5 says continuing the game as is would be boring. SL gives one of her ‘O’s.’ Ning5 wants to have a speed and accuracy recall of all the remaining dice.
4404 SL smiles, “After you.”
Ning5 sneers disdainfully at SL’s indifference. Keep faking it. Even I’m starting to forget. How can you be better than me. Chu3 volunteers to referee. He asks if Ning5 is ready. Ning5 frowns slightly at Chu3’s expression, it’s clear he expects her to lose and this annoys her. The more Chu3 believes in SL, the more Ning5 wants to crush her.
“Ready.” Ning5 casts SL provocative look.
“Ready.” SL gives her a faint smile, and leans against NL’s warm shoulder.
NL is very cooperative, his hand brushes a strand of hair from her cheek. He gently watches her, as if looking upon a rare treasure. Seeing such intoxicated eyes, how can Ning5 stand it? All the blood rushes to her head and she clenches her fists. Earlier Ning5 tried to mess with her. How could SL not be aware. Now she’s paying her back. Ning5’s mind has been disturbed.
SL smiles sweetly at her, “Miss Ning5, how is it your entire body is trembling? Are you cold?”
Ning1 looks helplessly at his sister. This girl is so arrogant, ambitious, and stubborn. She thinks she’s so smart, that she could ridicule others and they won’t notice. Ning1 looks deeply at SL, then tells Chu3 that he can start. The game begins. Both girls start writing. Ning5 noisily writes. SL in comparison is much slower. Because Ning5 is going so fast, she makes mistakes. While SL is slow, steady, and constant. Ning5 gets to the last group of number but she’s forgotten the numbers. She looks up and sees how slowly but confidently SL is answering. SL’s calm, indifferent, and confident appearance strikes quite a blow against Ning5.
4405 Ning5 sees that SL is at the last group.
“Are you going to copy mine?” SL faintly smiles at her.
Ning5 really has seen SL’s answer. If she were prudent, she would copy her answer just to be sure. She sees that SL has the same answer she wanted to write down. But after SL’s words, if she really wrote the same answer, wouldn’t everything think she copied her? Ning5 writes a different answer and gives it to Chu3. SL finishes just a bit slower than Ning5.
Murong Mo gives SL a proud look and says Ning5 was faster, if both answers are the same, Ning5 will win. Chu3 is worried, SL was indeed slower, but then he sees how calm NL and SL are. It’s true, the Emperor may not worry, but the Eunuch does. Chu3 starts going through the answers. Their answers match in the beginning. However, once he gets to the middle, he’s thrilled to see a difference in their answers. SL is indifferent to the results and gives no reaction. Ning5’s hands tighten into fists, if SL had not asked if she was going to copy her, she would’ve gotten it correct. Chu3 smiles and judges it a draw as SL was slower, but Ning5 was inaccurate. Chu3 continues to reveal more answers. More differences. Chu3 slowly reveals the correct answer, then Ning5’s answer. Ning5 is wrong. If Ning5 claims she made a handwriting error…
4406 She wouldn’t be able to claim so as she’s made two mistakes. It’s clear SL is better than Ning5. Everyone looks at Ning5. Ning5 is stunned to have lost. She can’t stand that SL is still here.
Ning5 accuses SL, “You must’ve cheated. How else could you have beaten me?”
Everyone gives Ning5 pitying looks.
Chu3: “Losing is not scary. What’s scary is not being able to afford to lose.”
Ning1 is also frowning.
“Unless she can prove she didn’t cheat, I will not accept this!”
Chu3 gives Ning1 a cold look, “Is your Ning family all like this when they lose?”
Ning1 glares at Ning5, “Enough! Losing is just losing. Don’t do anything more disgraceful.”
Ning5 feels wronged, “But she’s obviously cheating! Why doesn’t anyone believe it? I am not convinced!”
Right then, NL’s coldly but faintly asks, “Then what would convince you?”
While NL has been putting on displays of affection for SL, he has not actually struck out against Ning5. In fact, he seems to be helping her now. Ning5 jumps at this opportunity and says as long as SL recalls all the numbers Ning5 writes down, then she’ll believe it. NL didn’t even ask SL if she wanted to do this and yet he so eagerly agrees? Ning1 and Lin4 are confused, does NL favor SL or not? By contrast, Chu3 doesn’t think any of this is a big deal. Isn’t it just a bunch of numbers? Our Little Luo Luo is able to memorize thousands upon thousands of herbs and their variations. How could she be scared of your group of numbers?
Ning5 quickly scribbles several thousand numbers and sneers while saying to SL that she has five minutes. SL understands why NL agreed. Just as she was thinking of him, he’s now thinking of her. He’s giving her the chance to wipe away the label of cheater. Once SL sees something, she doesn’t forget, but that only applies to things with patterns, this includes the thousands of variations of herbs. These handwritten numbers are random so have no pattern, she can only memorize them. Ning5 sneers when she sees that SL is frowning. SL suddenly asks Ning5 if she’s capable of memorizing these thousands of figures in 5 minutes. Ning5 is surprised SL can still ask this question while memorizing. Ning5 sneers and says she cannot, if SL can, then she will acknowledge SL has a better memory.
4407 SL nods and continue to memorize. SL really could cheat, she has her crystal memory fruit, but she doesn’t need it. SL has decided to use this challenge to test herself. After 5 minutes, Ning5 flips over the board and taunts SL, saying it seems like to her, SL has not finished memorizing. Chu3 snaps at her, she talks too much nonsense, SL should begin immediately before she forgets. Ning5 coldly glares at Chu3, then leisurely looks at SL and says since she’s so confident, she can start. Chu3 runs over to Ning5’s side and says he will watch with her over the answer key. Ning5 cannot stand Chu3 and demands to know why he treats SL so well, she’s not of his family. Chu3 says that this is his brother’s girl, plus he’s worried Ning5 will purposely say SL is wrong while she’s reciting, even when she’s right, to try and throw SL off. Ning5 feels like someone’s stabbed her with a sword, this was exactly what she was planning. Ning5 sneers at him, saying that Chu3 has been friends with her brother Ning1 for so long, but it all falls apart over SL, this is all about a woman.
Chu3 gives her a look, “Utter nonsense, I’m friends with your brother, I am not friends with you. Ning5, do you really think you’re anyone of importance?”
The more these two talk, the more they irritate each other. Ever since childhood, they’ve never given each other face.
Ning1 loudly sighs, “Are we competing or not?”
Chu3 gives SL an apologetic look, “Begin, begin.”
SL faintly smiles, having Chu3 as a friend is great. SL stats reciting from the beginning. It’s very difficult, this many numbers is not unlike reciting a thick book, but SL looks calmly indifferent while doing so. SL leans her head against NL’s shoulder. SL rapidly but clearly recites the figures and soon a pattern is discernible to everyone. SL is not just saying the figures, she’s singing them. Each digit represents a note. Something that would normally be very boring to listen to has become a beautiful song.
At first everyone just thinks it’s nice to listen to. Chu3 and Ning5 are concentrating on the board to look for errors. However, soon they find they’re being entranced by SL’s song, it’s incredible. It must be known that SL has learned the Grand Dao’s 10 Star Sound Art. Besides NL, only SL knows the mysteries of the 10 Star Sound Art. While SL had only used it exclusively in the past as an attack against large groups, it’s not the only way to use it. At this time, while SL has not noticed, NL has tilted his head to gently look down at SL, his starry eyes intoxicated, admiring her. Just as everyone’s fully immersed in the wonderful music, as if discovering something it’s been searching for, the voice stops.
4408 Chu3 is the first to react, he looks at SL impatiently, “How could you just stop?!”
Ning1 and Lin4 look at SL with a touch of surprise in their eyes. Their hearts are strong, and yet they were still affected by her song. If they had been affected for just a bit longer, their cultivation would’ve increased, what a pity. Their impression of her improves slightly. At first they just thought she was beautiful and had a good memory, but now it can be seen that this is not simply a matter of having a good memory, but amazing talent others can only wish for.
Ning5 stares closely at SL, she feels there’s a world of difference between them, it leaves her feeling a sense of…anger? In the face of such absolute strength, she can’t even begin to feel angry. She gives SL a complicated look.
The one who benefited most is SL. The song put her in a trance and she promotes right in front of everyone. SL is now Deity 8 Star. Chu3 is stunned and asks if this is possible. Everyone in attendance is speechless. They’ve never heard of anyone promoting after singing. Even NL is slightly surprised, but then he smiles faintly. Miracles that happen around SL don’t count as miracles, this girl is after all a miraculous girl. NL seals off the area in a 3 meter radius, he’s willing to attack anyone who violates it. Ning5 is shocked silly staring at SL. This is the greatest shock in her life.
Murong Mo is also shocked silly, but her eyes are filled with hatred and envy. This SL, promoting at any time is good. But she deliberately promoted in front of so many people. Isn’t she just 8 Star Deity. Showing off her measly strength here!
After about a quarter hour, SL opens her eyes. Everyone was silent the whole time. NL asks if she’s finished consolidating. SL nods. At this time, the communication jewels of NL, Chu3, and several others ring. NL frowns. Chu3 looks hesitantly at NL.
SL looks at NL and laughs, “If there’s something then go, I’ll be here. It’s not a problem. Rest assured.”
Chu3: “The Elders say it’s urgent…”
NL affectionately rubs SL’s head, “Be good and stay. Don’t go anywhere.”
“Mm.” SL gives him a very well behaved smile with pursed lips.
4409 NL continues to touch her head, looking deeply into her eyes before turning away to leave. Chu3 nods at SL and leaves. The others with NL also leave, SL is now alone. Murong Mo decides to be annoying and tries to rile SL. SL doesn’t want to talk with her and keeps giving her one syllable answers.
Murong Mo, “You can only be NL’s concubine. The Longfeng Clan will not accept you.”
SL just smiles faintly at Murong Mo. Mo gets mad at the lack of reaction and asks why she doesn’t react.
SL lightly looks upon her, and even reminds her, “This isn’t anything new. Isn’t what you’re saying lacking in any shock value?”
Murong Mo is mad. She came here to anger SL but ends up riled herself. Murong Mo looks at the depressed Ning5 and sighs. SL’s amazing blow temporarily robbed her of the will to fight so she’ll have to take over for this fight.
Murong Mo’s hand still hasn’t healed, so she just humphs coldly, “So you want to hear something shocking? I’m just afraid once said, you wouldn’t be able to stand it!”
SL leisurely, “Ah…then don’t say it.”
Murong Mo: “…I’m inclined to say.”
SL casually nods her head, “Oh.”
Murong Mo wants to grab her by the collar and shake her. Do you even know how to hold a conversation! She takes a deep breath to keep from exploding in anger and then tells SL that NL doesn’t love her. He loves Ning3, Ning5’s older sister, Ning Jing Yi. She says Ning3 is NL’s beloved. Ning3 is an Imperial Level Apothecary and is stronger than Ning1, you can’t even compare with Ning1. SL doesn’t react other than to smile.
“Do you know why NL likes purple roses? Because Ning3 likes them.”
4419 SL faintly smiles, “Oh, I didn’t know.”
Murong Mo frowns. She’s trying to hard to upset SL but she’s so indifferent. Murong Mo then says out loud SL can only be this indifferent because she’s not in love with NL. She’s a gold digger who just wants his power. SL is speechless. Murong Mo seems to believe her own words. SL feels that if she keeps talking with her, she’ll get dumber. So, SL stands up and gets ready to go outside and take a walk. Murong Mo demands SL stand still and dares her to leave. SL ignores her and walks outside. Murong Mo wants to slap SL but Murong1 arrives at this time and grabs her by the arm and glares at her. He asks if she’s trying to make enemies with NL. Murong Mo puts on an aggrieved expression. Murong1 tells her not to make trouble for the family.
Murong Mo is unconvinced, “She’s just a smelly lower world girl!”
Murong1 tells her SL can do whatever she pleases as long as NL favors her. He pokes Murong Mo’s head for emphasis and says don’t say I didn’t warn you. Murong Mo is teary eyed with an aggrieved expression.
Murong1 has no time to comfort her, he only says, “It’s fine to verbally offend her, as for anything else, we’ll see.”
Murong1 is waiting for NL to abandon SL, then he’ll steal back the sword.
SL leaves the hall and enters the garden. It’s pleasant here. SL hears a sound behind her. There’s a lonely person in white laying in a hammock playing a flute. His figure is familiar. SL doesn’t disturb him. It’s a sad melody. SL waits for him to finish and applauds when he’s done. She’s not stingy in how much she applauds either. Ever since SL learned Sound of the Grand Dao, she’s taught herself music and can tell how well the flute was played. The music really resonated with her.
4411 Was SL really unaffected by Murong Mo’s words? No. In fact, when she heard that NL liked purple roses because of Ning3, her heart seized for a moment. Murong Mo doesn’t know, but when SL was at with NL at one of his courtyards, she really did see groups of incredibly vibrant purple roses. Originally, she thought they were pleasant to look at, but now that she’s heard there’s a connection with Ning3, she feels the urge to immediately find NL and question him on the spot about it. However, her reason argues against it.
So while SL was calm on the surface, she in fact, could no longer stand to listen to Murong Mo, or she would react in the negative way that Murong Mo wanted. She would’ve mistreated NL and caused a great misunderstanding.
The song makes SL feel like it’s from a friend. And she really does know him. When the slender young man turns around, he freezes.
“Senior Ning, long time no see.” SL gives Ning9 a brilliant smile.
No matter how unhappy she was, she won’t show it. The more unhappy she is, the more brilliant the smile. Ning9 is overjoyed to see SL.
“You!” Ning9’s head is full of SL’s smile. He doesn’t even think, his long arms pull her into his embrace.
SL is unaware that after she left the hall, the troublemaker Murong Mo followed her. Murong Mo feels that she’s discovered the truth when she sees SL being held in tight embrace by Ning9. Her eyes turn red and she trembles in anger. Senior Ning is mine! This SL, grabbing NL is not enough, she even ran to get Senior Ning. This wishy washy fickle woman. Murong Mo feels the urge to run up and slap SL but she knows she cannot beat Senior Ning. SL, just you wait! Murong Mo immediately sends a message to Ning5 and excitedly tells her SL is having a late night tryst with another man. Ning5 needs to get NL over here ASAP. Ning5 immediately gets to work.
SL is stunned by Ning9 embrace. She immediately tries to push him away, but he’s stronger than her. SL can only helplessly tell him to let her go. Only now does Ning9 realize what he’s done, and reluctantly lets her go. His beautiful eyes stare at her, stars filled with his love seem to surge from them.
“You’re still alive. How have you been? Are you hurt? When did you arrive at the Capital? Have you enrolled at the Imperial College? How are you at the Murong Estate?
“You really didn’t know I came back? No one told you?” SL is rather puzzled.
“No one told me!” Ning9 grits his teeth.
4412 This really was a mistake. None of the students back on the ship were qualified to speak directly with Ning9 and tell him SL was back. As for the teachers, Teacher Xu thought Teacher Stone would tell Ning9. Teacher Stone thought Teacher Zou would tell Ning9. As a result, everyone thought Ning9 already knew but no one actually told him.
SL sees the hammock and motions for Ning9 to sit. It’s a nice night and she rarely gets to meet with Senior Ning who’s she’s shared tribulations and trials with. Feeling talkative, SL starts from when she was separated from the ship they voyaged on. The two of them enjoy each others company and laughter can often be heard. Murong Mo is afraid of being found out so she hides at a distance, but this keeps her from hearing the conversation. Murong Mo tightens her hand into a fist, you can have the Twilight Cloud Sword, but you can’t have Senior Ning! What’s going on with Ning5, NL still hasn’t arrived!
At this time, SL’s communication jewel rings. It says it’s from NL so she immediately picks up.
NL coldly, “Where are you?”
SL doesn’t know how to answer this question.
SL to Ning9, “Where is this place?”
Ning9 doesn’t know who SL is speaking with but he can guess that this person is likely at the Murong Estate and is probably the one who came with her. Ning9 tells her.
SL nods at him, then to the jewel, “Murong Estate rear garden, near the Leisure Pavilion.”
“Wait in place. Don’t go anywhere. Don’t you remember?” NL’s voice is a trace cold.
SL recalls what he told her to stay in the hall, but she ended up running outside…
SL nods, “Yes.”
“Is it the one who brought you to the Murong Estate?” Ning9 asks casually.
SL nods, “Mm.”
“A man?” Ning9’s hand clenches slightly, only he is aware of how tense he feels right now.
SL nods, “Mm.”
To be able to enter the Murong Estate and freely move about, this person is definitely able to move about elite circles. Ning9 starts to feel things are getting complicated, if he continues to hesitate, will he be too late? But if he were to suddenly confess, wouldn’t that be too abrupt? There is a little genius called Young Lord Ning9, and he’s feeling not so calm right now, he’s anxious, shy and restless.
Just as Murong Mo is growing impatient, she hears footsteps. It’s NL. NL walks straight towards Murong Mo. Before Murong Mo can even greet him, he just as quickly walks past her. Murong Mo looks around for Ning5 but doesn’t see her. Doesn’t she want to watch the show of NL catching SL and Ning9 in the act? In fact, Ning5 never even saw NL. NL is here because SL told him where she is. SL and Ning9 are unaware NL has already arrived. Ning9 is currently concocting his confession.
4413 Because the person who brought SL to the Murong Estate has caused him to feel a sense of urgency.
“Su Luo…I…” Ning9 wants to speak but stops.
SL is admiring the moonlight so she absentmindedly replies, “Mm?”
“W…We…” Ning9 feels like a huge hand is clamping down on his throat, making it hard to speak.
“What about us?” SL turns her head, her beautiful eyes, clear as spring water, looks at him not comprehending.
“We…We haven’t added each other to our communication jewels!” Ning9 is inspired.
At the Imperial College, Ning9 may be sought by many, but before his beloved, he turns into a nervous fool. So this is love huh…
SL agrees and they sweep their jewels to connect them.
“Su Luo…I…” Ning9 takes a deep breath, he wants to confess, but…
A cold voice interrupts him, just as he had worked up the courage to confess.
“You didn’t stay in the hall, how is that you’re running about?” NL tone is lazy, he’s clearly about to breakout into a smile. He casually walks up to her side and puts his arm around SL’s slender waist, his attitude affectionate.
“It was too stifling inside. I came out for air.” SL sighs. She’ll never be able to enter the elitist circles of the younger generation.
NL lightly pokes her with a finger, “Next time don’t run about. Will you remember?”
“Mm.” SL gives him a brilliant smile.
The two of them are so intimate and affectionate. Ning9 feels lonely.
NL finally notices Ning9, his lips slightly curve, “Ning9?”
Ning9 is completely shocked silly. He’s always followed behind, practically hugging his older brother’s butt when going out. His older brother is Ning1 who’s close with NL so Ning9 could be said to be familiar with NL. Ning9 had long heard that NL had returned, but he’d been missing for so many years, he’s only seen him once since. This is now the second time. However, the most important issue is how intimate he is with SL.
“You…you…”
It’s only been a few dozen years since their time on the Rising Dragon ship but he feels like he’s already missed his opportunity. He still remembers how he talked about NL a bit with SL while on the ship. Who would’ve thought that the idol he most reveres, and the goddess of his thoughts would be standing so affectionately with each other.
“What’s this?” NL raises an eyebrow, “You know my family’s Luo girl?”
“Your, your family’s?” Ning9 stutters.
At the Imperial College, he may command the wind and summon clouds, but in front of his childhood idol, he’s just an immature brat.
NL nods at him, then looks down at SL, “It’s cold outside, let’s return.”
He then takes SL’s hand and leads her away, leaving Ning9 standing there, stiff as an ice sculpture.
Murong Mo is furious. This was such a great chance! Why didn’t NL get angry, why couldn’t there have been a big fight, why did it end so simply?
4414 She was originally hoping to see a fantastic play, but instead, NL just appears, says this is my family’s girl, and just leaves. As the audience, Murong Mo does not find this fun to watch one bit. Seeing that Ning9 is just standing there distracted, Murong Mo comes out of the shadows towards him…
NL is used to the cold but he pulls SL inside. He doesn’t look at her or says a word, concentrating on clearing a path forward. SL also doesn’t say anything. Earlier she was cooperating with NL. Their problems do not need the intervention of others. Denying it would just make things more complex and matters would spin out of control. Back on the road, NL is still cold and silent. SL still says nothing. They still hold hands. SL thinks about the purple roses and Ning3. Her mood sours and she tries to withdraw her hand from NL’s. However, with NL’s strength, is she able to do so? While SL is busy trying to secretly free herself, his laughter enters her ears. It’s a beautiful to listen to, intoxicating, but SL glares him, he dares laugh!
NL placidly looks at her, his eyes smiling, “Has anyone ever told you? When you’re angry, you look like a little frowning mouse.”
“You’re the little mouse!” SL angrily glares at him, “Let go!”
NL lazily laughs at her, “Not letting go.”
She tells him to let go again. The more he laughs, the angrier she gets. She’s been holding in her anger for so long, feeling conflicted for so long, what’s he laughing so happily about? Now he’s teasing her. She is not happy!
“Why should I let go?” More pleasant laughter from him.
SL willfully, “I don’t want to be led along by you, alright!”
NL looks at this little girl acting all proud, like a roaring little lion. The more he considers it, the funnier it gets.
In a lazy coaxing voice, as if talking to a child, “Alright, don’t be headstrong. This way of making a fuss, arguing and flirting in public, is this a good thing?”
SL angrily glares at him. What is wrong with this man? In public he’s so overbearing and domineering. In private, he likes to fool around and stick to her like glue.
“You let go, I have something to ask you!” SL’s decided she’s going to ask about Ning3 and make things clear, otherwise she would feel as if she has something lodged in her throat.
NL casually, “Not letting go, but I’ll consider answering your question.”
SL coldly snorts, “If you let go, will you die?”
NL: “I fear if you hear an answer you don’t like, you’ll run.”
Gloom sets in for SL, just as expected he’s right, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t have a way. Hmph! SL fiercely swings her hand…
*Crack*
“My communication jewel!” SL exclaims.
Just as she swung her hand, the white jade communication jewel started to crack.
SL glares angrily at NL, “It was because of you! Otherwise the communication jewel wouldn’t have broken!”
The angrier SL gets, the happier NL gets. He even gently straightens her hair, rubbing her little head, “It’s just a little crack. It’s not a big problem, I’ll fix it for you.”
4415 SL is surprised he can repair it.
NL proudly looks at her, “What can your man not do?”
“…Look how complacent you are, I’d like to see you repair it.”
With such a great distraction, she’s temporarily forgotten about Ning3. She hands him the jewel and folds her arms to watch. Can NL repair it? She starts wondering where the communication jewels came from.
The jewels were something first used by the military, and the Longfeng Clan is a military family. They were the ones to first prototype them. NL is actually quite competent at jewel repair. The cracks on the jewel close at a rate visible to the eye, he really didn’t cheat her. What SL doesn’t know is that at this moment, NL is hacking into her jewel and accessing its administration center, he’s found Ning9’s number…
NL’s lips curve slightly, he chooses delete. SL is unaware of the level of authority NL possesses over her jewel. When most people delete someone, they’re deleted, but when NL deletes someone with his authority, he can permanently blacklist someone.
“What are you doing?” SL sees NL’s casual smile and curiously asks.
“I’m patching a flaw.” When NL does horrible things, his face does not flush, he feels not even the slightest sense of guilt.
SL accepts it and tells him to do a good job, she wouldn’t want someone to hack her. She’s thinking of her previous life and computer bugs and patches.
“Good.” NL rubs her little head, this girl really is too cute. [He said ‘guai’ which means good as in you’re obedient. Talking to her like a child again]
If you think that’s the end of it, you’re wrong. NL also has authority over the central system the jewels use. He’s set it so that SL’s identity can never accept Ning Tian Lin’s friend invites. However, what he’s doing cannot be done lightly. He’s not doing this through official channels but actually bypassing it and technically hacking and tampering. Now it doesn’t matter who initiates or receives, SL and Ning9 cannot be friends through the jewels. Ning9 is now on SL’s permanent blacklist…
Ning9 doesn’t yet know about this matter. SL also doesn’t yet know about this matter. The vile NL is the only one in the know. However, he does all of this dispassionately.
He hands over the repaired jewel to SL, “Go ahead and wear it, however, during the repair period, receiving calls is fine, but if at all possible, don’t initiate a call.”
“O” SL never considers NL would be so nasty as to permanently blacklist Ning9. She obediently accepts the communication jewel.
Once NL strikes, poor Ning9 doesn’t even know what hit him. This is another reason why Chu3 changed his tune so quickly once he saw how much NL cared for SL. How could he dare grab someone NL has chosen?
SL looks at the good as new repaired jewel and gives NL two big thumbs up. She likes.
4416 NL laughs but SL finds his laughter strange and says so.
NL: “Shouldn’t you be saying, you laugh beautifully?”
“Beautiful, definitely beautiful. When are you not beautiful?” SL says grumpily and lightly snorts.
NL says it’s about time to go. SL asks why, they haven’t even seen the Murong Patriarch yet. NL laughs at her and says it’s better she not. What would she do if the Murong Patriarch asked for the Twilight Cloud Sword directly? SL doesn’t believe it, the Patriarch is the leader of the Murong’s, surely he wouldn’t be so shameless?
NL grumpily nods at SL, “Don’t you think, from top to bottom, the Murong family are utterly lacking in shame?”
Such a bold statement, only someone like NL would dare say so. SL nods, she cannot agree more with this statement. NL asks what she can conclude from what he said.
“Those below will follow the example set by those above.” SL’s smart. Just a little bit is enough for her to understand.
NL laughs, he rarely laughs so much from happiness. In front others he’s cold and indifferent. Even in front of SL, he’ll only slightly curve his lips, but in this instance, he really is pleased with her.
“My House’s Little Luo Luo has said it well. Those below will follow the example set by those above. These words will enter the heart of the Patriarch.”
Before they can leave the Murong Estate, someone politely walks up to NL. “Nangong 2nd Young Master, our House’s Master insists on inviting you to the birthday feast. The main table lacks only your presence.”
Among the younger generation, only NL is allowed to sit at the main table. SL recognizes the speaker. Chu3 had introduced him as the Murong Steward. SL notes that the Steward is polite to Chu3, but she can tell he’s in awe of NL.
NL leads SL along and then stands indifferent while lazily opening his mouth to speak, “Tell your House’s Master that daughters are not just born, they must be taught, have you heard clearly?”
NL is petty. With his strength, how could he not know that Murong Mo is listening while hiding behind a tree. How could he not know Murong Mo is trying to cause trouble. Dare to have designs on his people? NL has never allowed his opponent to know all he’s capable of.
The Murong Steward understands that one of the Murong daughters has offended NL, he just doesn’t know which one…He doesn’t really need to think about it, other than the great troublemaking Miss Murong Mo, who else could it be? Murong Steward nods repeatedly and says he will definitely convey these words to the Master. NL nods. The Steward then hesitantly brings up his place at the table. NL actually showed up, but if he doesn’t sit at the main table, outsiders will think the Murong family has offended NL…This would affect the Murong family too much.
4417 Under pain of death, the Master has ordered him to get NL to go to the celebration, this really is hard on him. SL sympathizes with the Steward. She recalls when she entered with Chu3, the Steward was proud and arrogant before all, even those from the Top 4 families, but before NL, he’s now taken on this appearance. SL can’t help but think, power, it really is a great thing.
NL lazily sweeps him with his eyes, “You’re blocking the way of this Young Master.”
His heart bitter, the Steward can only move aside and continue to beg NL. If he doesn’t get NL to come, he doesn’t know how he’s going to explain this to his Master. The Steward looks to SL for help. SL shrugs at him. The Steward says he’ll walk them out, but NL’s cold glare makes him change his mind and instead he simply bids them farewell from where he is. NL pulls SL along and they leave the Murong Estate, the Murong’s can do nothing to NL.
Once outside, SL takes a deep breath and comments on how it’s so much more refreshing here than inside. NL grumpily pats her head and says Let’s go. NL summons their ride, his mount is a 6 Star Grand Completion Snowy Hoofed Dark Dragon Horse. NL goes up to the Dragon Horse and pats its head while whispering a few words. The Dragon Horse coldly glares at SL. SL inwardly thinks the poorly tempered Dragon Horse has a similar pride like NL. It really is the case that this kind of master would raise this kind of mount. While the Dragon Horse is not very welcoming to SL, at least it doesn’t kick her. Like many things in this world, it only respects strength. With a master like NL, no wonder its eyes are set so high. NL flies onto the Dragon Horse’s back and outstretches a hand towards SL. SL takes his hand and hops onto the horse’s back.
NL tells the horse to go. SL thinks it’ll kick off with it’s legs and gallop away. Instead, the Dragon Horse slowly spreads apart two wings on both sides. They’re white feathered and dazzling in their beauty. It slowly rises into the sky with SL and NL on its back towards a certain pre-selected direction. SL, with eyes wide, looks back at NL. Aren’t you not allowed to fly above the Capital?
NL has an indifferent expression and says matter of factly, “Didn’t you know that some people are born with privilege?”
4418 SL glances askance at him peevishly. Sure enough, she doesn’t belong in the circles of the powerful. She’s considered NL’s privilege. She’s held close against his chest, the wind is blowing, it’s night and the fire flies are glowing down below.
The Dragon Horse is very fast and they quickly arrive at NL’s separate courtyard, Jing Courtyard. Last time SL was seriously injured, NL brought her here to recuperate. Previously SL did not think much of the name Jing Courtyard. She just thought it was a nice name. But now she knows Ning3’s name is Ning Jing Yi. When she sees the name again, it sends a slight shock to her heart.
SL pretends to be calm, “Nangong Liuyun.”
“Mm?” NL turns and looks at her in puzzled.
“You have such great handwriting, how come you didn’t write the words on this sign?” SL makes this seem like an incidental question. What she really wants to ask is, who exactly wrote it? It doesn’t look like a man’s handwriting.
NL’s eyes sweep indifferently across the sign, then just grunts. That’s it.
SL is not discouraged. She gives him a look, “I’ve found you’re really not good at having conversations.”
“How?” NL lazily looks at her.
“Other than ‘Mm,’ you have nothing else to say?” For example, who wrote it, when they wrote it, why they wrote it? SL pulls on NL’s sleeve, it looks like she’s being whimsical, but her heart can’t help but be agitated.
NL doesn’t seem to want to discuss this topic, he says indifferently, “An old friend wrote it.”
“A friend? Which one?” SL aggressively asks.
NL suddenly stops, he looks at SL meaningfully, “You don’t know them, don’t ask.”
“Why is it called the Jing Courtyard?” SL is clenching her fists, her eyes stare at NL.
Some impatience starts to show in NL’s eyes, he gives her a searching look, “Just what is it you want to say?”
“Jing Courtyard, Jing Courtyard. Is it because that person’s name has Jing in it?” SL couldn’t hold it in any longer, she says it. She feels freer having said it. She looks at NL seriously.
“Who told you?” NL’s eyes narrow dangerously, “Those at the Murong family?”
“Is who told me important?” SL quietly stares at him.
NL raises his eyebrows, his eyes are like sharp knives, SL starts to get uncomfortable.
“You…” NL points at SL, then he just pats her on the head, “Much ado about nothing.”
“What does that mean?” SL looks at him with a hint of greivance.
4419 NL sighs. He pulls her inside.
“Things from the Murong family are nothing good. So damned hungry. Come. Let’s eat something, stuff that stomach.”
SL wants to throw off his hand, but he’s holding her so tightly. SL hates her own weakness, how is it she’s this much weaker than NL. She doesn’t even have the strength to resist. Although they’re holding hands, SL feels oppressed. She tries to calm herself down and think optimistically while walking.
NL changed the topic, obviously this means he doesn’t like this topic, or maybe this means he doesn’t like her talking about Ning3. Upon reflection, SL feels that she’s not serious enough and taking things for granted. The way she is now with this NL, their understanding is not at the point where they’re fully in love. They met in the Xi Ka Forest, they lived together for a time at the Pastoral Village, they met today at the Murong Estate, so in fact, they’re not really that familiar. Or rather, SL is quite familiar with NL, but NL is not quite so familiar with her. So is she being so aggressive a bit too irrational? Should she wait for their feeling to develop more before asking again? SL has an annoyed thought. If the previous NL had dared to do this, she would’ve long ago had an outburst, but this current NL…SL feels somewhat not allowed to. She really has been spoiled. SL looks at his beautiful face, her heart bears grievances, but she has nowhere to vent. Her head lowers and let’s him lead her.
NL doesn’t seem to sense SL’s emotions. He’s used to being indifferent, as if what happened previously didn’t matter. NL enters inside, Steward Summer greets him and asks if he’s eaten. He let’s NL know that the kitchen is ready and that today Master Zuo is on duty. Steward Summer helps NL take off his coat. NL tells the Steward to inform Master Zuo to prepare his best dishes. The Steward smiles and says Master Zuo has been simmering glutinous rice and chicken porridge all day, it should quite good. Steward asks if he’d like to have his meal in the south courtyard. The season is hot, the stars are beautiful, there will be a cool breeze and beautiful scenery in the south courtyard. NL nods and pulls SL past.
Steward Summer unconsciously gives SL a good look. He recognizes her, this is the miss 2nd Young Master brought last time. Last time SL unexpectedly overcame the Thousand Mile Fire Cloud Beast and left a good impression on him. It’s just, when he looks at his House’s 2nd Young Master holding her hand, he seems to have some hidden emotion, but shakes his head and goes to inform the kitchen.
South Courtyard side patio. NL and SL sit at a fragrant Nanmu table. SL’s face is lowered, she’s silent and sullen. NL is a cold person who doesn’t like to talk, but when he sees SL like this, his heart aches a bit. NL sighs.
“This tea isn’t bad.” He names where it’s from, that it was shipped over night. NL is serving tea and making small talk at the same time. Ever since he was young, he’s never had to initiate small talk. Only in front of this person, but she doesn’t appreciate it. She has this sullen, don’t come near me face.
4420 NL can’t help but laugh. He says the tea was made specifically for an Emperor to drink, isn’t she going to try it?
SL coldly humphs, “My Divine Immortal Tea is no worse than your Bubbling Dragon Tea.”
“Oh? Pour a cup for me to broaden my horizons.” NL raises an eyebrow while smiling at her.
SL sneers, “You tell me to take it out, then you expect me to just take it out right then?”
NL grumpily, “If you don’t take it out, how are we going prove it’s better than Bubbling Dragon Tea?”
“Prove that it’s better than Bubbling Dragon Tea, then what?” SL is still sullen, she’s not very interested.
“Then I’ll tell you a story.” NL’s lips curve slightly.
“Who wants to hear you tell a story? Don’t want!” SL proudly refuses. However, this story, could it be…
“Is your story about the history of Jing Courtyard?” SL stares at NL.
“What’s so interesting to say about Jing Courtyard’s history?” NL disapproves, “However, you do seem very interested in this matter, why?”
Why? SL stares at NL. She’s already clearly stated why and yet he still asks.
SL sees that NL looks like he’s about to laugh. Is he laughing at her? SL starts to get ticked off. Then SL’s heart grows cold and her mind goes blank. The previous NL would’ve been thrilled to the point of happily dancing for her to be jealous. However this NL, not only is he not happy, he mocks her. With a crash, SL stands. SL’s feeling very sensitive right now, both to the look in NL’s eyes and the many things about him bothering her right now.
“What is it?” NL looks at her, “Are you feeling uncomfortable?”
“I’m not feeling well, I’m going back.” SL’s leg knocks a chair to the ground when she takes a step. She staggers and trips to the floor. NL looks at her indifferently while reaching out with a hand. SL ignores his hand and steadily rises. She walks away without turning her head. However, before she can take more than a few steps, NL’s hand grabs her own.
“Let go!” SL fiercely glares at him.
“If I let you go, you will leave.” NL looks at her seriously.
They stare at each other, no one speaks.
In the end, it’s SL who can’t keep it down any longer.
She holds her head up high and coldly glares, “Nangong 2nd Young Master, just what is the meaning of this!”
She’s never felt such a sense of grievance. Her face is flushed, her eyes watery. NL’s face is cold and expressionless but a hint of helplessness can be seen. SL’s line of sight falls upon a group of purple roses. She raises her head to look up and notices that above the patio, where she had thought was an empty plot, is a very large group of purple roses. She hadn’t noticed it earlier under the cover of night. SL hatefully throws off NL’s hand and goes up the path to slash horizontally with her Twilight Cloud Sword. The large group of purple roses fall apart under the 6th Realm of her Goddess Sword Technique. By the time NL realizes it’s already too late.
Just when SL’s about to strike a second time, NL arrives and reacts by fiercely pulling SL away, he asks in a rush, “What are you doing!”
4421 Due to his desperation, NL did not control his strength so when he tore at SL so fiercely, a snap could be heard.
He broke her arm.
After the snap, there’s only silence.
Reason finally returns to NL’s brain, “You…”
NL reaches a hand out to SL but SL vigorously refuses his open hand. Her eyes are like ice, they could freeze a person. Before this gaze, NL’s heart skips a beat.
“Luo Luo…”
NL moves forward, SL holds her broken arm and moves back. The way she’s looking at him is strange, so indifferent, like she’s looking at an enemy. NL feels a burst of panic, as if what’s most important to him is about to slip through his fingers and flow away.
“Nangong Liuyun, I did not expect…that these purple roses would hold such an important place in your heart.” SL’s voice is light, as light as falling leaves.
“These purple roses…”
“Shut up!” SL angrily points at him, “I don’t want to hear a single word!”
“Calm down a bit. We need to treat your injury.” NL forcibly pulls SL to get at her broken arm, but he did not think SL would resist so fiercely and decisively.
“Let-go-Let-go-Let-go-I demand you let me go!” SL screams madly and fights with everything she has, her arms, legs, she even bites him. NL takes this opportunity to set her arm and then steps back and raises his arms in surrender.
“Alright, I let go. Don’t be angry.”
SL stumbles and almost falls over. NL tries to hold her but SL pushes him away.
With a trembling voice, a bloodless face, and a stubborn set to her lips, the only way she can avoid crying, SL glares at him, her voice like a thousand years of frost, “Nangong Liuyun, since you care so much for these purple roses, then you can go ahead and hold them for the rest of your life. This young lady will not accompany you.”
Through teary eyes, SL gives NL a deep look, she stares into his eyes a moment, then resolutely turns and leaves. Her slender back fades into the night, her sleeves fluttering, her steps unsteady.
NL feels like a great hand has grasped his heart and is squeezing. It hurts so much his heart spasms. He presses his hand against his chest. Their love is clearly not so deep, why does it hurt so much here?
SL is absolutely determined to leave Jing Courtyard. She’ll release the Thousand Mile Fire Cloud Beast then leave. Then she suddenly realizes the Beast is not her’s but sent by NL.
SL coldly smiles and pats the Beast on the head, “From now on we’ll go our separate ways. Take care of yourself.”
SL leaves the Beast behind and disappears without a trace into the night.
Steward Summer has just finished issuing orders to the kitchen when he comes back to find purple roses strewn across the patio and both SL and NL gone.
“This…” The Steward is stunned.
4422 Without the Beast, SL can only aimlessly wander. SL’s is heart broken. Her mind blank. It’s like the whole world as abandoned her. A life without love is one of despair. She feels dazed, she doesn’t know where to go.
A shadow stands in front of her in the middle of the road, his black eyes show a hint of worry. It’s a slender teenage boy, bathed by the moonlight. It’s unknown how long he’s stood there and how long he’s waited.
SL stares blankly at him, her mind is slow to react, “…Xiao Ke”
After seeing Xiao Ke, SL can’t hold it in any longer and starts crying. But she doesn’t happily run into his arms, she runs past him. Xiao Ke doesn’t say anything, he just silently follows behind her. If she goes fast, he goes fast. If she goes slow, he goes slow. Xiao Ke doesn’t know how to comfort her. He can only follow her closely, protect her, and keep her in sight.
They eventually arrive back at the Imperial College. SL eventually talks herself out of her fugue, at least on the surface. She must rely on her own strength! If you rely on another person, well even mountains eventually fall. SL shakes her head and banishes NL from her head and takes on a more positive expression with a upraised shaking fist. She feels guilt towards Xiao Ke. This child doesn’t know what happened to her. He doesn’t know how to ask, how to comfort, but he has animal like senses and could feel her sorrow and accompanied her the entire night. Xiao Ke relaxes a bit and is relieved when he sees her smile.
He doesn’t ask what happened, he doesn’t say anything to comfort her, he just seriously says to her, “I’m here.”
SL’s withered heart feels like a bit of clear spring water has entered. She thinks of her past and what she needs to do in the future. Collect the 12 Paladin Artifacts, find mother and father, fight against the Heavenly Dao. And yet here she is, having an unnecessary romance like a child. She really shouldn’t have. She doesn’t want to deal with her feelings right now. She’d like to freeze them and seal them away to be dealt with later.
Because she has more important things to do! SL clenches her fists.
“Xiao Ke, we must be strong, very strong. That’s the only way not to be bullied.”
SL extends her fist towards Xiao Ke.
“Mm.” Xiao Ke’s fist meets SL’s mid-air.
Can she really just freeze her emotions because she said so? If NL makes a move, can she really parry it?
Demonic King Chases His Rebellious Wife 