Chapter 92: Gu Maiden (5)

“Insolent!” The maids behind the little gongzi rebuked her sharply. “How dare you speak to our master like that!”

“Silence!” The little gongzi’s handsome face turned cold, instinctively coming to Mei Luo’s defense. “She can say whatever she wants; who allowed you to interrupt?!”

The maids exchanged glances, bewildered. Given the little gongzi’s temper, they couldn’t fathom how he could tolerate such blatant disrespect from someone else. Could it be…

Hastily, the maids lowered their heads, daring not to utter another word.

The little gongzi sensed something was amiss with his own reactions. Despite the woman before him treating him rudely, instead of anger, he found her voice melodious and pleasing—even if she were to scold him, he’d gladly endure it. He had never apologized to anyone before, yet with her, expressing remorse came effortlessly.

Why would he break his principles for a woman he just met? It wasn’t like him at all!

“Could the little gongzi also invite my guard to sit down?” This excessively beautiful woman presented another request, one he was distinctly unwilling to fulfill.

The little gongzi disliked that eerie creature with white hair and red eyes; he abhorred anyone who defied him, especially one emanating such murderous intent. There was no way he would allow such a weirdo to get close.

“Sure,” the little gongzi heard himself reply, contradicting his earlier desire to escape from this woman. Instead, he involuntarily moved closer to her, “Your name is Xiling?”

He remembered the strange being addressing her by that name. At the thought of the oddity, his expression soured again. “How could you let a guard address you so informally?”

With the little gongzi’s consent, the eight guards stepped aside, allowing Salner to join them from the outskirts.

Upon hearing the little gongzi’s remark, Salner sneered immediately, “What business is it of yours?” However, when he turned to glance at the priestess, his gaze softened once more. The priestess had sought out this young master of Wan Jian Villa solely for Salner, insisting on making him apologize. She truly cared deeply for him.

“How is it not my business?! I…” Suddenly feeling a flush on his face, the little gongzi continued, “I don’t like you calling her that!”

Yes, this odd creature was far too obtrusive—how dare he linger near Xiling!

Salner took a seat on the other side of the priestess, casting a disdainful glance at the little gongzi. “Oh, you don’t like it? And just what gives you the right to object?”

In a softer tone, Salner asked the priestess, “Should we stay here any longer?”

This strange fellow intends to take Xiling away? Anger surged within the little gongzi, and without thinking, he blurted out, “No way! You can’t leave! She may go, but Xiling must stay!”

Salner’s eyes flashed with menace. “What did you say?!”

The little gongzi momentarily froze, bewildered by his own words. Why had he insisted that Xiling remain behind? It felt utterly peculiar, almost inexplicable.

The nearby guards and maids exchanged glances, silently marveling: their young master had finally learned jealousy and rivalry for affection. Indeed, everyone loves beauty—even someone as seemingly indifferent to women as their little gongzi.

Watching the escalating argument, the purple-clad woman sighed leisurely, “We haven’t even eaten yet…”

As Xiling spoke, the little gongzi hastily instructed one of his maids behind him, “Quickly, go to my usual restaurant and bring back their finest dishes.”

The four maids bowed respectfully. “Yes, young master.”

Employing lightness qigong, they swiftly set off to fulfill the little gongzi’s command at top speed.

The waiter, holding a tray, found himself caught between a rock and a hard place. “Um… Young Hero, you’ve already ordered…”

Before Salner could respond, the little gongzi disdainfully cut in, “Throw it out. The food here isn’t worthy of Xiling.”

The waiter, accustomed to the little gongzi’s mannerisms, simply replied, “Of course.”

Salner, however, was incensed. “You! This is the meal I ordered for Xiling—how dare you dispose of it without reason! And why waste perfectly good food like this?”

The little gongzi scoffed lightly. “Anything subpar has no place before me, especially when it comes to what Xiling deserves—the very best!”

Salner, somewhat agreeing with the latter part, found himself momentarily unable to counter.

[m577: …]

[m577] sighed once more, [Lust Gu truly is formidable!]

The characters of these two were completely falling apart, arguing so fiercely over such a trivial matter!

Tong Ling no longer paid attention to them and turned to the storyteller, saying, “Sun Lao, you don’t need to tell stories now. Just share recent events from the jianghu.”

As soon as the little gongzi and the foreigner showed signs of confrontation, Sun Lao had wisely retreated to a corner. In an inn, whether it was the waitstaff or storytellers like himself, they all honed keen instincts for avoiding danger and reading the room. Initially, he feared that the inn would face another closure for repairs, but unexpectedly, a sudden twist occurred—a beauty stepped in and resolved the conflict entirely.

Realizing that Miss Xi Ling held sway in this situation, Sun Lao obediently began recounting, “Apart from Xie Xuefeng’s campaign against the demon cult, the most significant recent event is the impending marriage alliance between the Xie Clan and Meng family.”

With great effort, the little gongzi shifted his focus from Xiling to the conversation at hand. “Meng family? Could it be that the intended bride for Xuezhu-gongzi is none other than Meng Qing, their esteemed eldest daughter?”

Sun Lao nodded. “Currently, Xie Xuefeng stands unrivaled in the jianghu, being the foremost talent among the younger generation. The Meng family, recognizing his potential, agreed to betroth their cherished pearl, known as the world’s first beauty, to him.”

When Sun Lao mentioned “the world’s first beauty,” he couldn’t help but glance at Miss Xi Ling. He had once met Young Lady Meng Qing and found it nearly impossible to determine which of these beauties outshone the other.

Young Lady Meng Qing and Miss Xi Ling represented entirely different types of allure. Meng Qing was ethereally graceful, her character refined like orchids blossoming in solitude, captivating all who beheld her with their enchanting purity.

As for Miss Xi Ling… she possessed a bewitching charm, radiating brilliance with every gaze and movement. Such unparalleled beauty would undoubtedly stir the heart and soul if only he were younger.

However, when considering marriage, Young Lady Meng Qing seemed the better choice—not that there was anything wrong with Miss Xi Ling. A woman with such striking allure inevitably raises concerns…

Lost in these thoughts, Sun Lao let out an embarrassed smile. How audacious of him to ponder such matters! Neither of these beauties is attainable by ordinary men; what right did he have to judge them? Truly, his mind must be muddled.

“The protagonist is considered the world’s first beauty?” Tong Ling asked the system.

M577 chuckled mischievously: “Surprised, aren’t you?”

“Not quite surprised,” Tong Ling said with understanding, “I now comprehend why Xie Xuefeng would forsake such a vivacious and enchanting beauty as the female supporting character.” He continued, “The Meng family is a prominent clan in the jianghu, offering not only social standing but also having Meng Qing, who is considered the most beautiful woman in the world. Marrying her would indeed be a splendid match. If it were me, I’d choose Meng Qing too—who doesn’t love a wealthy, stunning heiress?”

m577 felt that there might be some ulterior motive behind its host’s words: [Wh-what do you plan to do?]

“Aren’t we supposed to disrupt the engagement between the protagonist and antagonist?” Tong Ling replied with a grin, “Before heading to the Xie Clan, let’s pay a visit to the Meng family first.”

m577 was speechless.

In these times, even women aren’t safe anymore?

The little gongzi wholeheartedly approved of the news about the impending alliance between the two families: “A beauty for a hero; perhaps only Miss Meng Qing is worthy of Xuezhu-gongzi.”

Tong Ling snorted softly, “I don’t quite agree.”

Instantly sensing his mistake, the little gongzi changed his tune, “Hmm, they may not be well-suited after all.”

The little gongzi paused… It seemed he truly had a problem with consistency!

Salner shot a cold glance at the little gongzi and sneered, “Flattery and sycophancy, how predictable.”

“Who did you call an obsequious flatterer and sycophant?!” the little gongzi retorted angrily.

As the young master of Wan Jian Villa, when had he ever needed to grovel before anyone?

“Whomever it applies to,” Salner returned the remark.

Ever since finding his own priestess, Salner had become more attuned to matters of affection. Observing the little gongzi’s shifting demeanor, it was clear that the boy harbored intentions towards their priestess. Salner truly wished to take her back to their village, far away from these despicable Central Plainers!

The little gongzi had never faced such disdain before. He instantly thought about ordering his guards to apprehend this oddball, but upon seeing Xiling beside him, he managed to suppress his anger, refraining from losing his temper impulsively.

There’s a saying: “Even striking a dog depends on considering its owner.” Meng Chi was Xiling’s guard, and he couldn’t risk putting her in an awkward position…

At this thought, the little gongzi’s gaze became somewhat unfocused. Why would he ponder such things? And…he suddenly felt an urge to get closer to Xiling, even just a bit closer…

The little gongzi fell silent, and Salner, uninterested in engaging further, ignored him as well. This temporary truce allowed the surrounding guards to breathe a sigh of relief.

The little gongzi’s maids moved swiftly, returning with each one carrying a food box. They opened them gently and quietly arranged the dishes, each plate vibrant, aromatic, and enticing to the appetite.

“This is steamed pork belly, tender and succulent, with a refreshing flavor; this is white sauce shark fin soup, crisp and delicate…” The little gongzi, well-versed in culinary delights, began explaining each dish to Xiling, though his intentions were unclear.

After describing all the dishes, the little gongzi awaited Xiling’s first taste. As he watched her elegantly pick up jade chopsticks from the table and begin eating with grace, he couldn’t help but admire her intently, internally exclaiming, What a beauty, with a neck like a golden tortoise beetle and teeth as fine as watermelon seeds!

Tong Ling enjoyed the exquisite meal, her mood lifting visibly. With a smile, she complimented the little gongzi, “Wonderful, these dishes truly are exceptional.”

Her radiant grin stirred the little gongzi’s heart, making him feel as if he had savored the finest wine. Drunk on this sensation, he grinned foolishly and replied, “I’m glad you enjoy them.”

Salner remained silent, once again feeling the urge to draw his sword.

“Meng Chi,” Tong Ling gave Salner a meaningful look, “please eat.”

Salner obediently followed suit. The Central Plainers might not impress him, but their cuisine…was quite enjoyable.

Salner diligently noted down each of these Central Plains delicacies, planning to provide them for the priestess daily once he had sufficient funds.

After finishing their meal, Tong Ling stood up, and Salner promptly rose as well.

“We’ll book two rooms,” Tong Ling said to Salner.

The little gongzi hastily got to his feet. “You’re staying here?” A conflicted expression crossed his face. “Actually…”

In truth, Wan Jian Villa’s accommodations were far superior to those at the inn… But the words wouldn’t leave his lips. No matter how much he wished to keep Xiling close, inviting her to live with him upon first meeting would be wildly inappropriate and disrespectful.

“Tong Ling and I have just arrived, without any lodging yet,” she explained. “We must stay at the inn for now.”

Without any lodging…

The little gongzi pondered briefly before signaling one of his guards behind him to produce a silver bill. He carefully handed it to Xiling, saying, “You can use this to buy a residence. Inns, being frequented by all sorts, aren’t particularly safe.” Seeing that Xiling hesitated to accept the bill, he hurriedly added, “This is…because I consider you a friend. Between friends, there’s no need for formalities!”

Tong Ling exchanged glances with Salner, who understood her intent and reluctantly accepted the silver note, feeling as if he had somehow lost…

“Well then, we’ll take our leave.” With the silver note now in hand, Tong Ling didn’t linger further. After bidding farewell to the little gongzi, she led Salner out of the inn.

The little gongzi was left speechless. Just like that, they’re gone? He trailed after Xiling for a few steps, but when she didn’t look back, his heart swelled with a mix of bitterness and unease.

“Little gongzi, they’ve left,” the head guard reminded him gently. Miss Xi Ling’s figure was already out of sight, yet the little gongzi stood frozen at the inn entrance, appearing quite embarrassed.

“Do you need us to investigate her…?” one of the guards asked cautiously.

“No!” The little gongzi snapped back to reality. Why would he want information about some woman?! Absolutely not—he’d never stoop so low!

“Alright, shall we return to the villa?” the guards queried.

“Yes, let’s go.” The little gongzi’s interest in hearing stories had vanished entirely. What Xuezhu-gongzi, what demon cult extermination—all these matters suddenly seemed unimportant.

Before leaving, the little gongzi bit his lip and whispered hesitantly, “Wait, Qianyi.”

The little gongzi called out to the head guard, “Find out Xiling’s… whereabouts; see where she might purchase a residence.”

“Yes, young master!” Qianyi responded promptly.

The other servants and guards suppressed their laughter, averting their eyes respectfully as they followed the crestfallen little gongzi back to Wan Jian Villa.

Seeing that Tong Ling hadn’t taken the little gongzi along and had left decisively, m577 was surprised and remarked, [“I thought you wouldn’t let him go so easily…”]

Tong Ling shrugged nonchalantly, “There are countless people in the jianghu. Should I carry each one around with me? That would be far too inconvenient.”

[What is my host saying?] m577 wondered.

“Besides, he’ll come looking for me,” Tong Ling continued. “A good freeloader is one who offers their own money for meals.”

m577 remained speechless.

Confirmation: the little gongzi was just a tool!

“Xi Ling…” Noticing how passersby kept staring at the priestess, Salner, leading the carriage, couldn’t help but softly suggest, “Why don’t you return inside the carriage until we find accommodations…?”

“No need.” Tong Ling approached a shop and picked up a white veil, saying, “This will suffice.”

Tong Ling wasn’t afraid of being seen; rather, she recalled numerous scenes from martial arts dramas where a beauty dramatically unveils her face, captivating everyone present. This intrigued her, as maintaining an air of mystery was essential for a beauty. By appearing today at the largest inn in town, she believed others would soon come seeking her out.

Salner paid the shopkeeper, relieved to see the priestess donning the veil and concealing her face. Although some still glanced their way, reducing the intense stares and scrutiny directed at the priestess was undoubtedly beneficial.

Walking beside the priestess, Salner watched their intertwined shadows on the ground, feeling an irresistible surge of affection and tenderness in his heart.

“I’ll provide you with the best life possible,” Salner said earnestly. “I’ll work hard to earn money!”

He wouldn’t let himself fall short compared to that little gongzi!

Quickly dispelling Salner’s thoughts, Tong Ling responded, “That’s not your responsibility. You should focus on honing your swordsmanship instead. Aim to land more blows on Xie Xuefeng when we finally confront him.”

Salner’s thoughts were straying off course. They had agreed to seek vengeance for the Holy Cult; how could he let his determination waver onto other matters?

“I’ll diligently practice my swordsmanship, but…”

“No ‘buts’. We have money now, so you don’t need to worry about such things.”

Salner fell silent, feeling disheartened. “I understand.”

With the silver notes generously contributed by their little gongzi lamb, Tong Ling swiftly selected a picturesque and tranquil courtyard residence where they settled down.

After stowing away her meager belongings, Tong Ling turned to Salner. “Tonight, I want you to take me somewhere.”

At the priestess’s command, Salner immediately perked up. “Where?”

“The Meng family of the jianghu,” Tong Ling replied mildly.

In the current world of martial heroes, the most influential and revered clan was the Xie Clan. Apart from Xie Changyue being the Alliance Chief, much of this prestige stemmed from Xie Xuefeng’s role in annihilating the demon cult. People hailed Xuezhu-gongzi as a contemporary hero for single-handedly crushing the cult.

The Meng family, deemed worthy counterparts to this “hero,” naturally possessed deep roots and considerable influence themselves.

The Meng family’s eldest daughter, Miss Meng Qing, was renowned as the most beautiful woman in the land. They cherished her like the apple of their eye, protecting and watching over her at every turn, fearful that their charming and sweet-tempered daughter might be deceived by men outside their household.

Meng Qing’s parents were extremely selective about potential suitors for their daughter; many sought to marry her, but none without substantial standing seemed worthy of their precious pearl-like child.

Xie Xuefeng had finally caught their favor after much difficulty. His background, appearance, and abilities left no room for criticism from Meng Qing’s parents. In their eyes, a union between their daughter and Xie Xuefeng would undoubtedly be a heavenly match, a golden bond destined by fate.

Just yesterday, representatives from the Xie Clan arrived to discuss the marriage proposal. Within a few days, both families would formalize the engagement and choose an auspicious date for Xie Xuefeng and Meng Qing’s wedding.

Seated in her boudoir, Meng Qing couldn’t help feeling anxious at the thought of marrying so soon.

“Miss, Xie-gongzi is incredibly handsome and a celebrated hero,” the maid observed, noticing her mistress’s furrowed brow, and offered reassurance. “There’s nothing to worry about; just relax and look forward to your wedding day.”

“I know.” Meng Qing had met Xie Xuefeng before, and just as the rumors suggested, he was indeed a remarkably elegant and virtuous gentleman. However…she lowered her gaze, “For some reason, I can’t help feeling restless…”

“Every woman must feel this way before marriage,” the maid ventured a guess. “If it were my turn to wed, I’d surely be anxious too.”

Hearing the maid’s words, Meng Qing smiled. “It seems our Taozhi is also eager to get married.”

Taozhi gazed at Meng Qing’s face and declared earnestly, “No, I want to stay with you forever, Miss. Unless someone even more beautiful than you comes along, I wouldn’t leave your side!”

Meng Qing feigned annoyance, playfully scolding, “Oh, you! When will you ever cure your obsession with looks?”

“Well, aren’t most people like me?” Taozhi continued dreamily, “The only one who could match your beauty, Miss, is probably the second young master…”

Quickly covering Taozhi’s mouth, Meng Qing admonished, “Watch what you say! If word of this reaches my younger brother, not even I could protect you!”

Recalling the Meng family’s frail-looking second young master, who despite his delicate appearance had a stubborn and unpredictable temperament, Taozhi involuntarily shuddered. “I-I was wrong.”

“Alright, I don’t need you here anymore. You may leave,” said Meng Qing.

Taozhi bowed her head. “Yes, Miss.”

With Taozhi’s departure, silence enveloped the room. Meng Qing let out a soft sigh, only to be interrupted by a faint noise at her window—a cat’s meow echoed through the stillness.

“A cat?” Intrigued, Meng Qing rose to her feet and cautiously opened the window. Did the Meng household now have a feline resident?

As she pushed open the window, a splendidly blooming nocturnal flower peeked inside—its petals pure white, akin to fresh snow.

Another cat’s meow came from outside, this time with a hint of feminine charm absent before.

Meng Qing looked up to see a woman clad in purple, holding the night-blooming flower, gazing at her tenderly. Bathed in moonlight, she resembled a bewitching spirit from within the bloom, her beauty unforgettable at first sight.

“For a beautiful lady, a lovely flower,” the purple-clad woman chuckled softly. “Now I truly understand what it means when they say ‘as if a celestial maiden descended, one smile brighter than starlight.’ Young Lady Meng Qing, you’re absolutely stunning!”

Meng Qing had heard countless praises about her beauty, but never before had any left her… feeling so flustered…

“Would you accept these flowers from me?” the purple-clad woman asked again.

Numbly nodding, Meng Qing took the nocturnal bloom and whispered, “Have I encountered…a flower spirit?”

What a stunning flower spirit! she thought, as a blush crept across her cheeks.