Chapter 861: Pulu Xiu! (Grand Finale)

“Master, you should discuss going to Mengqian Tower with your wife,” Dengpao poured tea for Li Ban.

“What trouble? Why should I consult her? Do I owe her? My whole life was ruined by her—why should I ask her?” Li Ban grew angry at the mention of Ku Pozi. “I just want to find a proper wife at Mengqian Tower—what’s wrong with that?”

Dengpao smiled easily: “Master, do you really need to go to Mengqian Tower to find a wife? I can handle this simple matter for you—tell me which girl you like, and I’ll go speak for you!”

Li Ban splashed tea into Dengpao’s face: “You speak for me? Then she’ll end up yours, won’t she? You’re so good-looking—how hard could this be for you?”

Dengpao wiped the tea from his face.

Danbuda poured Li Ban another cup of tea: “Brother, looks aren’t something you can force. I like Dengpao’s appearance just fine.”

As she spoke, Danbuda looked at Dengpao; her cheeks flushed, her gaze growing dreamy.

Li Ban splashed tea into Dengpao’s face again.

Dengpao wiped his face: “Master, don’t be angry—maybe someone actually likes your looks?”

Li Ban narrowed his eyes: “Who?”

“Your wife! She always says your face is too small!”

“Don’t mention her!” Li Ban poured himself tea. “Where’s your brother?”

“Zhong’er went to pick up his wife—”

Li Ban splashed tea into Dengpao’s face again: “His wife came too? Why does everyone have a wife?”

Dengpao wiped his face: “He has a wife—why are you splashing me?”

Zhong’er met Mijian at the train station; Chen Zhangrui came along.

“Master Chen, long time no see.”

After some polite exchanges, Chen Zhangrui said to Zhong’er: “I’m here for two reasons: to deliver your appointment letter, and to ask about Director Li’s whereabouts.”

Zhong’er analyzed Chen Zhangrui’s tone and replied in nearly identical fashion: “Master Chen, we’ve been investigating Director Li’s whereabouts too—no clear leads yet.”

Chen Zhangrui was dissatisfied with Zhong’er’s attitude: “As the newly appointed Balancer, I expect you to fulfill your duties properly. When I left, Director Gao Yina specifically emphasized that we need to repair relations with Pulu Province as soon as possible.”

Zhong’er nodded repeatedly: “Don’t worry, Master—I’ll fully carry out my duties and protect everything worth protecting.” Mijian poked Zhong’er’s finger: “But first, protect me—did you think it was easy for me to travel all this way?”

Zhong’er smiled, called two carriages, and took Mijian and Chen Zhangrui to their lodging.

On the way, Mijian kept complaining: “If it weren’t for you, I’d never come here—no internet, no electricity—”

“Can’t even make a phone call—how are we supposed to live like this? Tell me, how?”

The carriage stopped beneath a three-story Western-style villa. Zhong’er paid the driver and got out with Mijian.

Mijian stood in the garden, looking up at the villa: “Which room is ours?”

“All of them,” Zhong’er smiled. “Pick whichever you like.”

Mijian bit her lip: “You—you don’t think I really like this, do you? I actually—I don’t like it much—”

“Then what do you like?” Zhong’er said seriously. “Let’s go inside, have some iced water, and talk.”

“Do you have a refrigerator?”

“No fridge, but the teahouse next door has Cold Cultivators!”

Zhong’er invited Chen Zhangrui upstairs, but Chen waved him off: “I won’t go up—I want to meet an old friend. He’s retired; I don’t even know where he lives now.”

“You mean Master Liao Zihui?” Zhong’er checked the time. “At this hour, he should be at Xiaoyao Wai.”

Liao Zihui finished singing a tune: “Even if the fierce wind scatters my passion, mountains and rivers still hold our feelings!” The room erupted in applause.

Backstage, Manager Zhang handed him a pile of invitations—all asking him to join drinking parties.

Liao Zihui frowned: “What do they take me for? A courtesan? I won’t see any of them—I’m here to perform!”

Manager Zhang said: “You can refuse everyone else, but if Lin Fojiao is here, you’d better see him.”

“Why is he back?” Liao Zihui’s expression darkened. “Still about business?”

Manager Zhang nodded: “Judging by his demeanor, he’s not here for friendly talk.”

Liao Zihui thought a moment: “Tell Ma Wu about this—he needs to decide soon. I’ll hold the line for him.”

Manager Zhang brought another invitation: “Master Chen from Waizhou also wants to meet you.”

Liao Zihui said: “An old acquaintance. Tell him to wait—I’ll deal with Lin Fojiao first.”

In Lin Fojiao’s private room, Liao Zihui smiled: “Brother Lin, you’ve called for me again—you’re truly honoring me!”

Lin Fojiao smiled without warmth: “Master Liao, I’m surprised you’re willing to see me.”

“You’re being too formal,” Liao Zihui said, noticing someone else seated beside Lin Fojiao.

Lin Fojiao introduced: “This is Tang Chang, my most capable man in Waizhou. I brought him here to finalize our business—will Master Liao grant me this favor?”

Liao Zihui smiled: “I’ll gladly oblige—but the final decision rests with Master Ma Wu.”

“Then send for Master Ma Wu?”

“Master Ma Wu isn’t in Xiaoyao Wai today.”

“He’s not here, but his favor still is!” Lin Fojiao pressed. “I hear Jiang Mengting is singing tonight—can you ask her to join us for a drink?”

Liao Zihui shook his head: “Brother Lin, that’s asking too much. Jiang Mengting isn’t here to sell her company—she sings for joy, not to serve drinks.”

“Then it’s up to Master Ma Wu’s favor.”

Lin Fojiao ordered Tang Chang: “Go to backstage and ask Manager Zhang if you can bring Jiang Mengting over.”

Tang Chang went backstage.

He didn’t look for Jiang Mengting—she wasn’t here to sell herself, and right now she was receiving guests in her dressing room: You Xuehan and You Xuetao were with her.

Jiang Mengting served them tea: “Sisters, the Jiang family has benefited greatly from your care these days.”

You Xuetao laughed: “We’re family—no need for formalities.”

Tang Yuan nodded: “My sister’s right. Let’s skip the pleasantries—we’re here for one thing: where is our Director Li?”

Jiang Mengting lowered her head: “That’s a hard question—I want to know where Seventh Master is too.”

You Xuetao studied Jiang Mengting closely: “Jiang, the greatest singer of Xiaoyao Wai, Seventh Master doted on you most—if you truly know nothing, do you think we’d believe you?”

Jiang Mengting sighed: “If I could find him, I wouldn’t sing here anymore—I’d sing only for him, every day.”

Tang Yuan and You Xuetao pressed further, but Jiang Mengting said nothing more.

Tang Chang circled Jiang Mengting’s room, then turned to another chamber and found Yan Hong’er and Yan Cui’er: “Go find the City Lord—tell him Lin Fojiao is causing trouble again. Should we inform the Shopkeeper?”

Yan Hong’er and Yan Cui’er hurried off. Sun Tiecheng had bought a house near Xiaoyao Wai in Lüshui City; they arrived quickly.

Sun Tiecheng stood in the courtyard, face grim.

Yan Hong’er and Yan Cui’er rushed forward: “City Lord, you must decide—this is urgent.”

Sun Tiecheng scowled: “Urgent? It’s just Lin Fojiao. Let Tang Chang figure it out himself!”

Yan Cui’er stayed silent. Yan Hong’er said: “City Lord, Old Tang still works under Lin Fojiao—he can’t come up with a solution.”

“How can he not?” Sun Tiecheng roared. “How many years have you been sent out? Can’t even handle a small matter?

All you do is trouble Seventh Master! Tell Tang Chang to consult Ma Wu about this!”

“City Lord, Ma Wu has vanished these past days!”

“Then find Qin Tianjiu! Can’t that big Three Heroes Gate handle Lin Fojiao? Give him a beating—he’ll behave!”

Sun Tiecheng was in a foul mood; Yan Cui’er and Yan Hong’er dared not reply and turned to leave.

Sun Tiecheng shouted at the roof: “Get down here!”

Lao Huochē squatted on the roof and laughed: “I won’t come down!”

“Don’t break my roof!”

“I’ll tear your house down—do you believe me?”

“You dare!”

At that, Lao Huochē began singing: “Across flatlands, over mountains, smoke billows high, coal and water added—we roll on,

I’ll tear your house down with boundless strength!”

Sun Tiecheng flew into a rage. A Yu stepped out of the house: “Are you leaving or not?”

Jiu’er added: “Father, it’s time to go—she’s causing too much trouble!”

Sun Tiecheng pointed at the roof: “Is she not causing trouble? If I leave, what about him?”

A Yu said: “Let him rant here—first, handle the Sky Maiden’s matter!”

Sun Tiecheng grunted: “What does the Sky Maiden have to do with me? You’re her spirit—I’m not!”

“I’m your wife!” A Yu snapped. “You’re just ignoring my problems, aren’t you?”

“Wife? Even spouses keep accounts clear!” Sun Tiecheng crossed his arms and squatted on the ground. “I told you not to meddle—now you’ve caused trouble and want me to clean it up? The Sky Maiden isn’t easy to fool—I’m telling you plainly: this can’t be fixed!”

A Yu kicked Sun Tiecheng: “I hate seeing you act like this!”

“Hate it? Then let someone else look!” Sun Tiecheng leapt onto the roof and began fighting Lao Huochē.

Lao Huochē sang and danced as he fought, enjoying himself. A Yu gritted her teeth as the Suishenju whispered: “Leave now—I can’t stand watching him go mad!”

A Yu growled: “When the Sky Maiden goes mad, won’t you still have to watch?”

Suishenju sighed: “Deal with this quickly—I’m going to find Seventh Master. I’m sick of these people.”

Jiu’er called: “Sister, let’s go!”

A Yi stepped out of the house, watching the two men fight on the roof. She smiled at Lao Huochē: “Wife, don’t hit too hard—he’s my father, and your big brother-in-law!”

The mother and daughter left with Suishenju. Sun Tiecheng and Lao Huochē stopped fighting.

They climbed down. Lao Huochē sighed: “What good is fooling them? This time, something big is coming!”

Sun Tiecheng crossed his arms: “Let it come—it’s not my fault.”

Lao Huochē asked again: “What about Lin Fojiao?”

Sun Tiecheng said: “Didn’t I say? Let Qin Xiaopang handle it first.”

Lao Huochē shook his head: “Lin Fojiao’s an old fox—Qin Xiaopang can’t handle him.”

Sun Tiecheng trusted Fatty: “Don’t underestimate these youngsters—they all fought their way up under Old Seven.”

Tang Chang called Qin Tianjiu, and Luo Zhengnan delivered the message personally.

Yuan Miaoping was curious: “Master, I’ve followed you this long—why do you always shut me out when important calls come? Don’t you trust me?”

Luo Zhengnan shook his head: “It’s not that I don’t trust you—it’s about following proper procedure.”

Yuan Miaoping smiled: “You’re teaching me procedure?”

She wasn’t on TV, but she was dressed the same: jeans, flowered bangs, chewing bubblegum.

“Who else would teach you? Even if you’re close to Master Seven, you’re still my disciple!” Luo Zhengnan glanced outside. “Those two women outside—are they here for you? Try not to bring outsiders here.”

Yuan Miaoping blew a bubble, then sucked it back in: “I can’t control them—they’re Master Seven’s people.”

Luo Zhengnan stared at her gum with disgust: “Don’t chew this stuff during work—look how unprofessional you are.”

Yuan Miaoping stepped out the door. Two women stood outside: one wore a blue qipao with cloud patterns and short sleeves, holding a lady’s cigarette holder between her index and thumb, drawing lightly on its red lips.

The other wore a white shirt with floral collar and black trim, paired with black trousers, her hair in a ponytail—beautiful and sharp in bearing.

“What, come to spy on me again?” Yuan Miaoping glanced at the two women.

The qipao-clad woman smiled: “We heard everything you just said. Disrespecting your master? That’s not good.”

“Going to tattle to the boss again? You don’t even make earrings anymore—how’s your ear still so sharp?” Yuan Miaoping sneered, then looked at the shirt-wearer. “Did you record everything I said?”

The woman in trousers said nothing. She stood on one foot, spun gracefully in a ballet pose before Yuan Miaoping.

Yuan Miaoping snorted: “You love spinning so much—maybe I should put you back in a music box someday.”

Qin Fatty received Tang Chang’s call and learned about Lin Fojiao: “I’ll go see Boss Lin tomorrow. Today I’ve got something urgent—San Ying Men is paying respects to our ancestral founder today.”

Tang Chang thought Fatty was brushing him off: “Didn’t you just pay respects last month? Ninth Master, you’re stalling me!”

Qin Fatty said: “Brother Fa, you’re wrong. Our rules changed—we now honor the founder every half-month. I’ll go to Xiaoyao Wu tomorrow, but today I’m tied up.”

After hanging up, Fatty went to the main hall. He hadn’t lied—he really was honoring the ancestor today.

Eighty-eight meat dishes, eighty-eight vegetarian dishes—one hundred seventy-six large platters laid out. All members of the sect bowed in unison.

After the ceremony, everyone withdrew from the hall, waiting for the ancestor to dine.

By custom, Fatty was to leave last—but this time, he didn’t leave.

The ancestor appeared—and spoke.

“Today’s grand feast—and you serve me these few dishes? Who’s this supposed to feed?”

Qin Fatty licked his lips: “Ancestor, these are plenty. You only have one grand feast every half-month, yet you still eat three small meals daily. We’re barely keeping up.”

“What kind of talk is that? With this family’s wealth, am I short of a bite to eat?”

“It’s not just a bite—”

“How many things have I done for you? How many skills have I taught you? Don’t you know?”

“I know—I remember every kindness you’ve shown!”

“Then why do you mind if I eat two bites?”

“I don’t mind—”

“If these dishes aren’t enough, I’m not even allowed to complain?”

“I’ll have the kitchen make more right away.”

“Why didn’t you do this earlier? Not preparing enough food means you don’t respect me!”

“Are you done yet?!” Fatty snapped. “You eat more than I do coal, and still you complain all day!”

Fifth Lady also got angry: “What’s this mean? Trying to rebel?”

“Fine—I’ll rebel!” Fatty’s temper flared.

Outside the hall, a crowd heard the commotion inside.

One Elder rushed to find Feng Yuqiu: “Lady, it’s bad—the Great Golden Seal and the Ancestor are fighting!”

Feng Yuqiu’s face was expressionless: “Let them fight. It’s not the first time.”

Qin Fatty couldn’t possibly win against Fifth Lady. Soon he was black-eyed and swollen, crouching on the floor, silent.

Fifth Lady kept eating. She held no grudge: “I’ll tell you this—make me another full banquet exactly like this, and we’ll call it even.”

Qin Fatty nodded: “Yes, whatever the Ancestor says.”

Two women entered the hall. One wore a Western evening gown, radiating an air of noble refinement, like a lady from a distinguished family.

The other wore a red qipao with peony embroidery; her waist swayed as she walked, exuding charm—but after two glances, one felt drowsy, drained of energy.

Fatty had seen them before—they were the Ancestor’s friends—but he couldn’t recall their names.

They were discussing private matters. Fatty quickly left the hall and dismissed everyone.

Han Xue said to Fifth Lady: “We heard the Heavenly Maiden plans to cause trouble on Qunying Mountain. We came to inquire about the situation.”

Fifth Lady nodded: “I know about this matter.”

Meng De asked: “If you know, what do you plan to do?”

Fifth Lady shook her head repeatedly: “I can’t handle this. Only Master Qi can.”

Han Xue added: “A Tao has taken over Ghost Hand Sect and fears his position is unstable.”

Fifth Lady smiled: “I can handle that. Tell A Tao to rest easy.”

On Qunying Mountain, the Heavenly Maiden searched wildly for the Peddler’s trail.

Halfway up the slope was a rabbit hole—the Heavenly Maiden dug it out. The Peddler wasn’t inside.

In the woods stood an ancient elm—the Heavenly Maiden chopped it down. The Peddler wasn’t inside.

At the summit lay a massive boulder—the Heavenly Maiden tried to overturn it. Lu Qianjiao leapt forward: “Shrew, what are you doing?!”

The Peddler had no choice—he was hiding in a secret chamber beneath the rock.

The Heavenly Maiden stared at Lu Qianjiao: “Get out of my way. If you don’t move, I’ll erase you from existence.”

“Big talk!” Lu Qianjiao drew her carved blade. “Let’s see who dies first!”

The two clashed on the spot. The Peddler, in the secret chamber, wore a grim expression.

What should he do?

This meeting meant life or death!

Could he subdue the Heavenly Maiden?

Had he brought her to Qunying Mountain?

The Heavenly Maiden had regained much strength recently. She unleashed a brutal technique—Shadow and Form Parting—summoning a dozen shadows that surrounded Lu Qianjiao.

Lu Qianjiao didn’t hold back. Hundreds of carved blades materialized around her, ready to fight to the death.

Su Shenju panicked: “Go stop them! Drag the Heavenly Maiden home!”

A Yi stood tall, roaring: “Sister, I’ll go!”

A Yu shoved A Yi aside.

Jiu Dai urged: “Mother, she’s her spirit companion—she must go!”

A Yu snapped: “You’re all useless! If Hong Ying were here, she’d be the first to charge!”

Su Shenju sighed: “If Hong Ying charged, this storm couldn’t be contained.”

The Peddler heard this, nodded, and said: “Yes—this battle will be written into history.”

In Lixiucheng, Boss Lu led a group of literati compiling history.

This work should have been done at Moxiang Shop, but He Yuxiu spared no expense to honor Lixiacheng’s reputation, gathering vast historical records from the people and bringing Boss Lu on board.

Xiao Yeci sat under lamplight, flipping through a collection of notes from Ye Songqiao. As she read, tears suddenly welled.

Yi Xiuling stepped forward: “Little sister, why are you crying?”

“I told this story before!” Xiao Yeci wiped her tears. “I told it to him in Ye Songqiao.”

Yi Xiuling didn’t understand. He Yuxiu explained: “In Ye Songqiao, Yeci told stories to Old Seven every day.”

“I didn’t get it—but Old Seven understood. He’d listen all night without ever getting bored.”

Yi Xiuling dabbed Xiao Yeci’s tears with a handkerchief: “Seeing this reminds me of someone. I can’t even bring myself to write ‘Jade Fragrance Record’ anymore.”

Boss Lu said: “Miss Xiao, don’t read this volume anymore. Pick another.”

Xiao Yeci shook her head: “No—I must read it. There’s real historical value here. I need to record it.”

“My cultivation is so low, yet I’ve been given this important task. I’m truly honored. I only got this chance because of Engong ’s favor!”

Boss Lu shook his head: “It’s not because of his favor, Miss Xiao. Your talent and perseverance are obvious to all.”

He Yuxiu agreed: “Exactly! Yeci is talented! And you, young lady, are talented too.”

“But I must tell you this—Chunying has had serious conflicts with He Jiaqing. I’m not defending that beast—but if he dares lay a hand on Chunying, I’ll kill him!”

“But He Jiaqing is cunning. I fear Chunying won’t outwit him and will suffer badly.”

Xiao Yeci nodded: “I’ll find a chance to advise Chunying.”

Outside the door stood a massive shell-carriage. He Yuxiu glanced out, then went to invite Luo Shaojun inside.

Yi Xiuling smiled: “Sister, you’ve got such influence—you even got a Marquis from Neizhou to come!”

He Yuxiu shook her head: “Don’t flatter me. I don’t have that kind of influence. This is all because of Old Seven’s name.”

Luo Shaojun blushed: “Don’t tease me, Sister. I came to deliver historical records.”

Boss Lu hurriedly moved Luo Shaojun’s materials into the room. From the records of the Shang Kingdom, many references to Puluozhou could be found.

Luo Shaojun walked to Xiao Yeci’s side and whispered: “Sister, can we ever see Seventh Brother again?”

Xiao Yeci bit her lip, then smiled: “Yes—we definitely will.”

Luo Shaojun nodded: “I think so too. Behind my house is a Jade Emerald Tower. In it lives a sister named Jiang Linger. She says we’ll see him again. She’s made many clothes, waiting for him to come back and wear them.”

He Yuxiu sighed: “That Old Seven—he’s been silent so long. By the way, Miss Luo, have your sisters come yet? Invite them all to my place—I’ve prepared wine and food to welcome them.”

Luo Shaojun said: “Lijun went to Lüshuiya to look for Fifth Brother; Xiujun and Yujun went to Santoucha to find Xiao Shan.”

Yanjun is watching Chaoge. She says Chaoge may be about to face something major.”

“Chaoge truly is about to face something major. Please convey this to Miss Yanjun: avoid entering Ya entirely, and gather more forces. The imperial clan has suffered repeated blows—chaos may be coming.” Chu Shaohong and Chu Huaiyuan arrived at the study, bringing Lu Laoban a wealth of historical records.

He Yuxiu grabbed Chu Huaiyuan’s hand: “Huaiyuan, where have you been all this time? I haven’t seen you in ages—you haven’t been cultivating properly or tending your territory. Where have you been running off to lately?”

Chu Er lowered her head: “I went to Neizhou, visited many places—I went to find Seventh Brother.”

Xiao Yeci stepped forward: “Miss Chu, have you heard any news?”

Chu Er shook her head, and Xiao Yeci’s eyes grew slightly red again.

Yi Xiuling feared Chu Er might break down: “Huaiyuan, stay with us and help write the books!”

Chu Er shook her head: “I must find him—even if I search all eleven states and the Three Bow Kingdoms, even if I spend my whole life searching, I will find Seventh Brother.”

A woman brought Chu Er a cup of tea. Chu Er glanced at her: the woman’s eyebrows arched sharply upward, their tips sharp enough to pierce window paper. Her nose bridge was straight, yet the tip curved downward like a hook; her corners seemed hooked too, and her jawline bore a similar curve.

The woman was strikingly beautiful, yet her beauty carried a hint of sharpness.

Chu Er felt a sense of familiarity and asked: “What’s your name?”

The woman smiled: “I’m A Lian.”

Lu Laobao, pretending to write, casually said: “Miss A Lian was hired by me. She possesses a lost historical record—said to have been left by the Sage on Shengxian Peak. She knows Seventh Master well. You should all talk with Miss A Lian.”

At the mention of Li Qi, A Lian’s cheeks flushed.

As he spoke, the accountant Sheng Shan Zhou entered the room and told He Yuxiu: “Miss, the Ancestor says he can’t hold on anymore—he can’t finish today’s work.”

He Yuxiu frowned: “Which ancestor?”

“Your uncle!”

He Yuxiu laughed: “How can he not work? When he served the imperial court, he had endless energy. Now he can’t handle a little chore for me? Tell him to keep working—I’ll go see him myself when I’m done.”

Sheng Shan Zhou looked troubled: “He says he doesn’t want to see you—he wants to see He Jiaqing.”

He Yuxiu stepped outside, picked up a stick: “These old folks need proper discipline. Let’s see what’s made him so spoiled!”

“Jiaqing, you can’t keep letting this go on—Lu Chunying has seized many of our factories in Qingyan Ya!” Duan Shuqun held up the ledger. “We can’t keep bleeding like this.”

He Jiaqing held a knitting needle, weaving a sweater: “Just a few factories? Let it go. Lu Chunying is Li Qi’s person. Let her have the small things.”

“But our cultivation expenses are about to break us.”

“I’ll handle the money,” He Jiaqing said, holding the half-knitted sweater, turning to Shen Rongqing. “This flower pattern is hard to stitch.”

Shen Rongqing sighed helplessly, gently correcting He Jiaqing’s finger technique.

Datou added: “We’ve confirmed the Ghost Hand Sect matter. The man claims the surname Lu and says he once served as Junior Head of the Ghost Hand Sect.”

Da Tou said from the side, “We’ve cleared up the Ghost Hand Sect matter—the man claims his surname is Lu and once called himself Young Master of the Ghost Hand Sect.”

Duan Shuqun said: “Do you think he’s connected to the Lu family?”

He Jiaqing set down the sweater: “Not necessarily tied to the Lu family—likely connected to the Ghost Hand Ancestor. I’ll go check it out.”

He took Datou to the Ghost Hand Sect. After all, he had once been its Grand Boss—the sect’s Qianshou all bowed respectfully and led him straight into the main hall.

A young man sat in the center of the hall: about 1.7 meters tall, around thirty years old, weighing barely fifty jin—skin stretched tight over bones.

His eyes were unnaturally large; each blink made his eyelids slide across his eyeballs for a long time.

“Master Lu, long time no see!” He Jiaqing bowed first.

This man was Lu Wujiu, the former Junior Head of the Ghost Hand Sect. He Jiaqing had met the former Grand Master, Mo Juncong, thanks to Lu’s introduction.

Lu Wujiu rose and smiled: “Jiaqing, did you come specially to see me? Why come empty-handed?”

He Jiaqing clasped his fists: “I came in haste, Elder—don’t judge my gift.”

Lu Wujiu’s face darkened: “I’ll judge your gift. Next time you come empty-handed, don’t bother entering.”

He Jiaqing said: “I may not know the rules, but Elder, you can’t seize my position!”

Lu Wujiu asked: “What position did I seize?”

“When the Grand Master passed, he passed the sect to He Mou—every Qianshou can testify. You came uninvited and took the Grand Master’s seat. Is that proper?” He Jiaqing pulled out a fan and waved it twice.

Lu Wujiu saw clearly—he was preparing to use a technique.

Lu Chunying stepped into the hall from the back chamber: “He Jiaqing, you say Master Lu seized your position? We’ve never heard that. The Grand Master passed the seat to Master Lu—I can testify.”

He Jiaqing looked at Lu Chunying: “Chunying, this is a Ghost Hand Sect matter—you, an outsider, shouldn’t interfere.”

“An outsider?” Lu Chunying stood beside Lu Wujiu. “We both bear the surname Lu! We’re kin!”

“That’s right—we’re all family!” Another figure emerged from the back chamber: tall, over 1.9 meters.

But he was as thin as Lu Wujiu—skinny to the bone.

His face was long, his nose broad, his ears sharp, his eyes nearly the same size as Lu Wujiu’s.

Zou Guoming chuckled: “What kind of donkey face is this?”

Yuan Shoulu walked up to Zou Guoming: “Who are you talking to?”

Zou Guoming touched the dagger in his sleeve: “You look like a donkey—don’t you know?”

Yuan Shoulu glanced at Zou’s sleeve and smiled: “Want to draw your blade? Go ahead—draw it and let me see! I like using blades too—three cuts, and we settle this!”

“Why draw blades? Guests have arrived—first, serve tea!” An old man with white hair, bent and hunched, entered the hall carrying a teapot. “Sit a moment—I’ll pour tea for everyone!”

As tea filled the cups, steam filled the entire room!

“Tea alone isn’t enough—where’s the wine?” A stunningly beautiful woman entered, holding a wine gourd.

She had a slender waist, rounded hips and bust, wore a finely pleated skirt tied with a red silk sash, and moved with undulating grace. Her skin, dewy and fresh, glowed faintly like unripe melon flesh—especially her plump cheeks, like frost-covered pears that could drip honey if pinched.

She poured wine into the cups—the room filled with rich fragrance. Zou Guoming seemed drunk, dizzy—then a sudden chill breeze swept behind him, snapping him awake.

A stunningly beautiful woman approached with a wine gourd in hand. “Just tea and no wine? That hardly seems right!”

He Jiaqing turned and saw a woman standing in the courtyard: dressed in a robe, holding a long sword, tall and poised, with a striking face and beauty that could topple cities—yet lacking feminine softness, instead radiating stern resolve beyond that of any general.

She looked like a general—but why was her hair bun so high?

Lu Wujiu hurried forward and bowed: “Second Lady Hong, we’ve disturbed you!”

Hong Ying entered the hall, her aura making Zou Guoming shiver.

He Jiaqing stood firm and bowed quickly: “Greetings, Elder.”

Hong Ying didn’t waste time with pleasantries: “You came to seize the position?”

He Jiaqing fell silent for ten seconds, then turned to Lu Wujiu: “I came to congratulate Master Lu. My gift will arrive shortly.”

He turned and left with Datou in tow.

Hong Ying frowned: “A Lian, Seventh Master feared something was wrong here—he made me come. Had I known he was such a coward, I wouldn’t have bothered.”

Lu Wujiu hurried to explain: “He Jiaqing has real ability—he was just intimidated by Second Lady Hong’s aura. That’s why he backed down. How is our Master doing?”

Hong Ying said: “He still needs time. He specifically told me to ensure you all manage the position properly.”

He Jiaqing and Datou ran back to their lodging. Datou lay on the bed for hours, still trembling.

Duan Shuqun asked: “Who did you meet? Why are you so shaken?”

Datou shook his head frantically: “I don’t know who they were—but their influence is enormous!”

He Jiaqing gave no further explanation, only two instructions: “First, never mention the Ghost Hand Sect again. Second, never compete with the Lu family’s business again.”

Duan Shuqun silently speculated: Who exactly had they met?

Li Qi had been absent for a long time—who else could scare He Jiaqing like this?

He Jiaqing offered no further explanation, only gave two instructions: “First, never mention the Ghost Hand Sect again. Second, never compete with the Lu family’s business again.”

Ma Wu had vanished too—no one knew where he’d gone.

Qiuyi Ya, Qiuluoye summoned Che Wushang.

Ma Wu sat in the middle of the carriage, Pan Dehai on the left, Feng Dailu on the right.

Che Wushang lifted the carriage pole and said to Qiuloye: “I’ll only deliver you to your destination. Everything else is none of my concern.”

Pan Dehai nodded: “A man of virtue never breaks his word!”

Che Wushang shook his head: “I don’t trust you—I trust Old Qiu.”

Qiuloye said: “Don’t worry—I’ll handle everything on the road. You needn’t concern yourself with anything else. When it’s done, find me for payment.”

After settling the terms with the driver, Qiuloye and Shui Yongquan took turns warning Ma Wu: “Fifth Brother, once you arrive, speak calmly—we’re not here to provoke. We must find a way to bring Seventh Master back!”

Ma Wu nodded repeatedly: “Brothers, rest assured.”

Che Wushang lifted the pole and carried the three up into the clouds.

Pan Dehai led the way, taking Ma Wu and Feng Dailu to Ai Yeqing’s residence.

Feng Dailu disliked Pan Dehai, but she had to come—Pan had ties with Ai Yeqing and could speak for them; Feng had once had dealings with Mu Yuejuan.

Inside the house, Ai Yeqing brewed tea and warmed wine, warmly welcoming the three.

Ma Wu had no patience for subtlety—he asked directly about Li Qi’s whereabouts.

Ai Yeqing said: “When the chaos erupted, Yuejuan found a way out—we escaped first. Li Qi and Hen Wuyou hadn’t decided on a route yet—we don’t know if they succeeded.”

A portrait hung in the parlor. In it, Mu Yuejuan said: “Yeqing speaks truth—we truly wanted to save Seventh Master, but he must choose it himself.”

“So Hen Wuyou must know where Seventh Master is?”

Mu Yuejuan nodded: “They were the last to leave. Hen Wuyou is most likely to know Seventh Master’s whereabouts.”

Ma Wu said nothing more and rose to leave.

Ai Yeqing saw him to the door but didn’t step outside.

He couldn’t leave even if he wanted to.

Ma Wu said no more and rose to take his leave.

Ai Yeqing saw him to the door but did not step outside.

He wanted to leave, but could not.

He had originally chosen this house as his portal, because the house contained many copper coins—coins forged from his blood—so it was natural for him to return here, yet he became trapped inside.

The oil painting on the wall was painted by Mu Yuejuan herself; since she could never master pigments, she mixed some of her own blood into the paints, stirring and blending them repeatedly, making it a portal of deep foundation.

Now she is trapped within the painting and cannot leave.

Looking at Ai Yeqing, Mu Yuejuan still had the wit to joke: “Envious of my body? Come in and play?”

Ai Yeqing waved his hand: “Stop fooling around—I don’t want to get trapped in there. Where is Li Qi? Did he escape at all?”

Ma Wu arrived beneath the clouds; he was going to find Hen Wuyou.

Pan Dehai said: “According to what I’ve learned, Hen Wuyou seems to have gone to the Curse and Gu Ruins.”

Ma Wu told the driver: “Let’s go to the Curse and Gu Ruins.”

The driver shook his head: “I won’t go there.”

“I’ll pay you well—name your price!”

“This isn’t about money—I won’t go no matter how much you offer!”

Shui Yongquan urged: “Wu, the Curse and Gu Ruins aren’t a place just anyone can enter!”

Qiu Luoye said: “Don’t rush—I’ll go find my husband. No, wait—I’ll go ask A Yi; she might know something.”

Ma Wu’s eyes turned red: “Just tell me—how do I get to the Curse and Gu Ruins?”

Curse and Gu Ruins, village entrance.

Hen Wuyou led the Curse Cultivators; Yang Xiangjun led the Gu Cultivators; the two sides faced off.

“Yang, hand over the egg immediately—this is my territory!”

“Hen Wuyou, who told you this is your territory? The Grand Boss of Pulu Province is Seventh Master; Seventh Master ordered me to guard the Curse and Gu Ruins. Who the hell are you?”

Hen Wuyou flew into a rage: “I don’t care how you’ve wormed your way into Li Qi’s good graces—if you’ve got the guts, make him come find me. If you don’t, get out now!”

Yang Xiangjun sneered: “You want me gone? Show me some real skill. Gu and poison are inseparable—I’ll bring my sisters and give you a proper fight!”

Hen Wuyou was truly hard to fight—Yang Xiangjun’s methods countered her perfectly.

“You slut! Tomorrow I’ll take your life!”

“You bitch! No need to wait till tomorrow—you’ll be dead tonight!”

They each spat at the other, then returned to their camps.

Yang Xiangjun wasn’t bluffing—Hen Wuyou might truly die tonight.

Not long after she returned to her tent, Xu Han arrived with Ling Bai Tao and Xiao Genzi.

Hen Wuyou was startled: “Old Xu, what are you doing here?”

Xu Han pointed at Ling Bai Tao: “This is a descendant of the Ling family. Do you recognize her?”

Hen Wuyou’s heart tightened: “I don’t know her.”

Ling Bai Tao bowed to Hen Wuyou: “Elder, the curse arts of Baishun County—were they left by you?”

“What curse arts? I don’t know!”

Ling Bai Tao said: “In the Five Isles of Baishun, nothing grows except peaches. Were these curse arts truly your doing?”

Hen Wuyou fell silent for a moment, then looked up at Ling Bai Tao: “I once intended to establish a clan in Baishun County, but your Ling family refused to accept me—so I left these curse arts behind. Blame your ancestors for their ignorance.”

Ling Bai Tao bowed again: “Elder, I know little of my ancestors’ deeds. Times have changed—shouldn’t the curse arts of Baishun County be lifted now?”

Hen Wuyou shook her head and smiled: “I can’t lift them—I’ve forgotten the counter-spell.”

Xu Han chuckled: “Easy—I’ll help you remember. Genzi, hand me the bucket.”

Hen Wuyou gritted her teeth: “Xu Han, what does this have to do with you?”

Xu Han said: “All the brave men of Baiji County are my people. On my land, I must handle these matters. Shilong, have you planted the crops?”

Yi Wanlong called from outside: “Eggplants, cabbage, watermelons, oranges—all planted!”

“Jin Xiao, are the fertilizers ready?”

Tan Jinxiao called from outside: “Rest assured, we’ve got both yellow and white!”

“Songzi, are the workers ready?”

Bai Wusong hovered in midair: “Long ago! Even if she grew wings, she couldn’t fly away!”

Xu Han lifted the spoon: “I’ll ask you one last time—can this curse be lifted?”

Hen Wuyou gritted her teeth and attacked Xu Han.

Outside the camp stood a photographer in his thirties, with curled long hair, wearing a tailcoat, a high nose bridge,

deep-set eyes, and facial features full of artistic grace.

He loaded the film, cranked the camera, and recorded the struggle within the camp.

“Jin Xiu hasn’t fully taken control yet—this struggle still holds artistic merit; even Seventh Street wouldn’t find it too repulsive.”

A golden rain cloud drifted across the sky!

The photographer looked up for a moment, grabbed his camera, and ran off.

Ma Wu returned to Xiaoyao Wu , sat listlessly in his room.

He opened a bottle of wine, set out two cups, poured the liquor, drank two sips, and tears slid down.

Zhang the steward knocked and entered, handing Ma Wu a letter: “Qiu Zhiheng, the shopkeeper, sent you a letter. Have a look.”

Ma Wu opened the letter and skimmed it quickly.

He rubbed his eyes, then read it carefully again.

After reading, his eyes widened, and a smile appeared.

The steward didn’t know what good news it was, and asked cautiously: “The Fourth Master has come—will you see him?”

“Yes!” Ma Wu was in high spirits. “Let him in.”

Ma Junjiang entered the room, sat nervously across from Ma Wu, head bowed: “Father wants you to come home.”

Ma Wu stared at Ma Junjiang for a long moment: “Speak plainly—I’ve got things to do.”

“Junyang, our family’s fortune is gone—we can barely survive. I’m telling you straight: we can’t even afford rice anymore. Junyang, you can’t let Father beg on the streets!”

Ma Wu’s face darkened: “You conspired with the enemy. You’re still alive only because of my mercy.”

“But we’re still family—”

“When I starved in Lanyang Village, did you remember I was your family?”

“Junyang, I—”

Ma Wu pulled a box of silver dollars from his drawer and handed it to Ma Junjiang: “I’m in a good mood today. Take this and buy rice.”

Ma Junjiang took the silver, then said: “I have a son—your nephew Ma Yueling—he’s grown up now, it’s time he entered the Dao.”

“This medicine powder—”

Ma Wu frowned: “You’re coming to me for this? Don’t you have any medicine powder left at home?”

Ma Junjiang lowered his head: “We sold every last bit—none remains!”

Ma Junyang said: “Go buy it from a peddler. The money I gave you is enough.”

“Where do I find a peddler?” Ma Junjiang looked distressed. “I heard they’re all gone.”

“Nonsense!” Ma Junyang lit a cigarette. “Go to Yaowang Gou—peddlers have been active there lately.”

This was the content of the letter.

Qiu Zhiheng told Ma Wu that the peddler was in Yaowang Gou.

Ma Junjiang dared not say more, took the silver, returned home, gave Ma Yueling some money, and warned: “Don’t waste it. Take the train to Yaowang Gou and buy medicine powder from the peddler.”

Ma Yueling took the money to Yaowang Gou, asked around, and found Feng’s General Store.

Master Feng pointed Ma Yueling in the right direction—and he truly found the peddler outside the gully.

“Soap, face cream,

silk scarves, handkerchiefs, needle kits,

leather buckets, iron water,

matches, candles, iron shovels!

pickled vegetable jars, soy sauce pots, rice spoons, water gourds, cleavers!

A cart of fine goods, time-tested brand,

everything at fair prices—pick what you like!”

Zhao Xiao had grown tired of hawking, set down his cart, and leaned against a willow tree to rest.

Ma Yueling watched for a long time, his heart trembling.

Is this the peddler?

Is the peddler this beautiful?

Is he a celestial descending to earth?

He hurried forward and said to Zhao Xiao: “I—I want to buy medicine powder.”

Zhao Xiao looked at Ma Yueling: “Today I have six kinds: Cultivator, Wu Xiu, Poison Cultivator, Mistake Cultivator, Calculation Cultivator, and Literature Cultivator. Which do you want?”

Ma Junjiang had warned him beforehand; Ma Yueling said: “I want Literature Cultivator.”

“Literature Cultivator? For what?”

“So expensive?” Ma Yueling shuddered—he didn’t have enough money. “Can you lower the price?”

Zhao Xiao smiled: “You’re haggling with me? I’ve braved wind and rain all this way—this is my hard-earned wage. Is it easy?”

Such a beautiful person before him—Ma Yueling found it hard to bargain.

“Then I won’t buy it now.”

Ma Yueling left. Zhao Xiao didn’t stop him—she knew the boy would return.

Waited a while, Ma Yueling didn’t return.

Song Shu ran over in a panic, grabbing Zhao Xiaowan’s hand: “General Zhao, I’ve found a lead!”

Zhao Xiaowan snapped: “What lead?”

Since Li Banfeng went missing, Song Shu’s mind had been unsettled, always hovering around Zhao Xiaowan.

“I found a lead on Banfeng!”

Zhao Xiaowan chuckled: “Where’d you get this lead? Did someone trick you again? You can’t keep running around like this—go find your father and have Kang Zhenchang examine you properly.”

“I’m not lying—I really found it! I found Murong Gui, the spirit guardian of Ink Fragrance Shop—he’s lying by the roadside, [408] I don’t know if he’s alive or dead. [409] He’s Banfeng’s friend—he must know where Banfeng is. Go see for yourself!”

I don’t know if he’s alive or dead.

He’s Banfeng’s friend, he must know where Banfeng is, go check quickly!

“Ahbi? No, that Murong Gui came to Medicine King Gully?” Zhao Xiaowan was stunned—she hadn’t expected this.

“He’s barely breathing! Come with me now!”

Zhao Xiaowan abandoned the cart and followed Song Shu.

Once they were far away, Ma Yueling arrived beside the truck and reached for the cargo container.

The container had many drawers, but Ma Yueling couldn’t open any of them. Just as he grew frantic, a sharp crack echoed from the container.

Hiss!

What was that sound?

A cloud of white mist rose from the container, startling Ma Yueling into sitting down.

From the top of the container emerged a large trumpet, then two smaller ones.

The three trumpets slowly rose, and beneath them, a machine cabinet emerged.

Inside the cabinet glowed firelight; above it, two trays held rotating Yin-Yang records.

This—was a steam-powered phonograph?

Ma Yueling grew frightened and stood to leave.

Tap-tap-tap~!*

A man’s voice came from the phonograph: “Stop! Where are you going?”

Ma Yueling’s legs gave out and he sat again: “I—I’m not leaving!”

The phonograph asked: “Who are you?”

“My name is Ma Yueling.”

“The name sounds familiar—are you from the Ma family?”

Ma Yueling nodded frantically: “I’m Ma family—Ma Junjiang is my father, Ma Junyang is my fifth uncle!”

“So you’re Ma Wu’s nephew. What are you here for?”

“I came to buy medicinal powder.”

“To buy it—or to steal it?”

“To buy!” Ma Yueling dared not admit theft. “I have money!”

Two hands emerged from behind the phonograph—one holding a top hat, placing it on the trumpet’s mouth; the other holding a feather duster, tapping twice on the container.

“Which Dao school do you want?”

“I—I want Wen Xiu.”

“What do you seek with Wen Xiu?”

“I don’t have enough money.”

“How much?”

Gathering courage, Ma Yueling said: “Fifty?”

The phonograph was displeased: “You’re haggling hard—cutting nearly half off! Pick another Dao school—how about Jin Xiu?”

Jin Xiu?

The peddler earlier hadn’t mentioned Jin Xiu.

“How much for Jin Xiu?”

“One hundred!”

Ma Yueling suddenly remembered: “Isn’t Jin Xiu the Dao school with the barrel carrier?”

The phonograph lowered its hat brim: “What’s wrong with barrel carriers? Don’t they have their own merits? Besides, you have no money and still haggle?”

“I don’t want that Dao school—I want Wen Xiu. Elder, please, for the sake of my fifth uncle, give me a discount.”

The phonograph thought a moment: “Fine. Fifty’ll do. Cash on delivery!”

Ma Yueling quickly paid. The phonograph pulled a pouch of powder from the container and said: “Expose your belly.”

Ma Yueling pulled up his clothes, revealing his abdomen.

The phonograph applied the powder to Ma Yueling’s face.

Ma Yueling winced in pain—he didn’t know why he had to expose his belly, but the agony was too intense to think.

Half an hour passed. Ma Yueling suffered no ill effects. The phonograph tapped the feather duster: “The rules of cultivation—you Ma family should know them. I won’t repeat them. Once you enter a Dao school, don’t slack off. Read at least one book daily. Pay and receive—no debts. You may go.”

Ma Yueling bowed repeatedly and ran off.

Not long after, Zhao Xiaowan carried Murong Gui back to the truck and said to the phonograph: “My lazy Ahbi, he walked all the way from Ink Fragrance Shop!”

Hiss—the phonograph’s trumpet dripped condensation, its voice trembling: “Ahbi, you’ve worked hard.”

“Hmph!” Murong Gui brushed dust off his body, turned his face away, and leaned against the truck to sleep.

Zhao Xiaowan inspected the container: “My dear husband, did you sell the powder?”

Zhao Xiao checked the cargo container: “My precious husband, did you sell the medicinal powder?”

Li Banfeng said: “Sold. Fifty.”

Zhao Xiaowan smiled: “A bit cheap.”

Li Banfeng exhaled steam: “It’s fine. Fifty isn’t much, but still—it’s profit.”

He suddenly began stuttering.

Zhao Xiaowan gazed tenderly at Li Banfeng.

Li Banfeng shivered slightly.

“My dear husband, your voice sounds a bit stuck.”

“No, I—I’m perfectly smooth.”

Zhao Xiaowan lifted the oil can: “It’s clearly stuck, husband. Time for machine oil.”

“No, my wife—I’ve never used machine oil before.”

“Everything has a first time. Machine oil is wonderful.”

“Everything has a first time—motor oil works great.”

“With machine oil, my husband will soon emerge from the phonograph!”

“No need to rush! It’s warm here—it’s quite nice!”

“Your little servant is anxious, husband—don’t run away! Don’t you remember how you oiled me before? Do you really think I’ve forgotten?”

“My dear wife, let’s talk—I’ll sing for you, won’t that do?”

PS: A good story must be told in one breath. Shala poured all his strength into telling this good story.

Thank you, dear readers, for your help, trust, and support along the way!

Volume Three of *The Lord of Pulu* ends!

*The Lord of Pulu* is complete!

A post-completion reflection will follow shortly.

I’ll post the completion remarks shortly.