Dushen and Ms. Ye crept closer to the heart of Ye Xuan's territory, the cages and broken structures casting long shadows under the fading light. Their eyes fell on the villagers, bruised and trembling, and finally on Ye Shanying, exhausted and restrained, yet defiant.
Suddenly, a cold, commanding voice sliced through the air.
"You've come far, Dushen. And yet, to retrieve your people, you must meet my condition."
Ye Xuan stepped forward, black aura flickering like smoke around him. His son, Ye Yubao, stood behind, a cruel smirk on his face. "Kill Master Lei, and all your villagers and kin will walk free. Refuse… and they suffer."
Dushen's jaw tightened. The words were sharp, impossible, unthinkable.
Ms. Ye's hand gripped his arm, her calm composure masking the storm within. "Impossible," she murmured, though her eyes darted to the caged villagers. The sight of the children, the elders, and especially Shanying, tugged mercilessly at her heart. "Dushen…"
Dushen exhaled slowly, calculating. "We cannot harm Master Lei. Not for any price." His voice was resolute, yet his eyes betrayed the torment of knowing that every moment they hesitated, another person suffered.
The villagers' cries rang through the air, hearts heavy with fear. The young, the weak—they could not endure much longer. Ms. Ye's chest tightened as she took in the scene, her mind racing.
Ye Xuan's gaze was unwavering, almost taunting. "Time is short. Choose wisely. Their fate rests in your hands."
Dushen's mind whirred. Strategies, powers, escape routes—they ran through every possible move. He glanced at Ms. Ye, then at Shanying, and the other villagers. His hand clenched into a fist.
"Master Lei's life is not forfeit," Dushen said firmly. "If they want him, they'll have to take him from us. And we will not fail our people."
Ms. Ye nodded, her own resolve solidifying. "We save them," she said, voice quiet but unwavering. "No matter the cost."
The black aura around Ye Xuan flared, as if sensing the defiance in their hearts. "Very well," he said, a dangerous glint in his eyes. "Then you fight. Only through battle will you prove your worth and claim your people's freedom."
The wind shifted, carrying the tense energy of an impending clash. Dushen and Ms. Ye shared a brief, determined glance. There was no turning back. The lives of their people rested on their courage, skill, and unity.
And as the first shadows of night fell across the land, the battle for their people—and for justice—was about to begin.
Dushen and Ms. Ye launched themselves into battle, the air thick with black energy as Ye Xuan's aura swept over the field. They moved with precision, combining skill and strategy, yet with every strike, every maneuver, it became painfully clear: Ye Xuan and Ye Yubao were overwhelmingly powerful.
Blasts of dark qi sent Dushen staggering, while Ms. Ye's carefully aimed strikes barely grazed their opponents. The villagers watched in horror, and the cries of the captured grew louder, feeding the weight of despair pressing down on Dushen and Ms. Ye.
Minutes—or perhaps hours—passed in relentless struggle. They gave their all, yet it was futile. Each attempt to break the cages, to reach the villagers, was met with a force too great to overcome.
Breathing heavily, sweat and dust covering their faces, Dushen and Ms. Ye came to a bitter realization. They could not win—not in this moment, not against such overwhelming strength. And every second of hesitation meant more suffering for their people.
Ms. Ye's eyes softened as she glanced at the caged villagers, and then at Dushen. "We… we have no choice," she whispered, voice tight with anguish.
Dushen's jaw clenched. His fists shook, but he forced himself to speak with steady resolve. " If it is the only way to save them."
The words left his lips like a bitter medicine. Every fiber of their being rebelled at the idea, but the lives of the innocent left them no room for pride or hesitation. They had tried, and failed; now there was only one path forward.
Ye Xuan's cold laughter echoed over the battlefield, sharp and victorious. "So… you understand your place. Good. Make your choice, or their suffering continues."
Ms. Ye and Dushen exchanged a brief, sorrowful glance. In that silent moment, they knew what must be done. The impossible task lay ahead, and their hearts weighed heavy with the knowledge of the cost.
Dushen and Ms. Ye stepped out of Ye Xuan's territory, their footsteps heavy on the uneven ground. The air felt thick, as if the forest itself mourned the choices they had been forced to make. Behind them, the cries and sobs of their people still lingered, echoing in the distance like a haunting reminder.
Mo Yuming slowly woke, her senses stirred by a soft, sweet voice. Blinking against the morning light, she found herself staring at a teenage girl—someone who bore a faint resemblance to herself.
"Good morning, Mother. Let's eat," the girl chirped brightly.
Yuming froze, her mind reeling. Mother? Me? Mother? she repeated silently, confusion twisting in her thoughts.
She got up and followed the girl, who led her to the dining area. The table was neatly set, and the girl placed a plate before her.
"Eat this, Mother. I made it for you," the girl said, smiling warmly.
Yuming's head spun. Her eyes darted around, trying to make sense of the scene.
A familiar voice cut through the quiet. "Did you just wake up and suddenly lose your memory?"
She turned sharply—and there he was. Ye Dushen.
"Dushen?!" she exclaimed, still bewildered.
The girl's gaze shifted to him, offering politely, "Father, come and join us."
Yuming's confusion deepened. Father? Him? He's… her father?
The girl cocked her head, puzzled. "Mother, you're always acting like that. Every time you wake up…"
Yuming's heart raced. "When did I ever… get a daughter? A husband? Oh—!"
"Hey! That hurts!" Dushen exclaimed, mock indignation in his voice.
For a few moments, the room was filled with laughter and light teasing, bantering like a perfect little family caught in a happy morning.
Then Yuming's ears caught another familiar voice—Mei'yin's.
But Mei'yin wasn't there.
Yuming blinked, startled, and slowly realized she was no longer in the dining hall. She awoke with a start—it had all been a dream.
From somewhere in the room, Mei'yin's teasing voice floated into her mind. "Calling out Dushen in your sleep, huh? Someone's quite fond of him."
Yuming flushed, her heart racing, a mixture of embarrassment and amusement as the echo of the dream lingered.
------
Days had passed quietly in Fengming Hall, yet the quiet was heavy with unease. Master Lei, once vibrant and steady, now leaned more often on his cane, his breaths shallow despite the many medicines surrounding him.
Ms. Ye stood at the window of the chamber, gazing out at the courtyard bathed in afternoon light. Her hands clenched and unclenched at her sides. She had refused the dark command from Ye Xuan—how could she bring herself to harm someone who had been so kind, so generous, to her and her siblings? Yet as she thought of her people—the sick villagers, the ones trapped under Ye Xuan's hand—her heart twisted painfully.
"They're suffering… and it's my fault they're caught in this," she whispered, almost to herself, her voice trembling. "Master Lei has done nothing but care for us, yet… yet my people are dying while I stand here, powerless."
She paced the room, her steps echoing softly against the wooden floor. The dilemma clawed at her chest: loyalty to the master who had nurtured her family, or the desperate need to save those who had nowhere else to turn?
Her mind raced, and images of her siblings—Ye Dushen, Ye Shanying, and the others—flashed through her thoughts. She could hear Dushen's calm, resolute voice in her mind, the way he would weigh every choice carefully. But even his wisdom could not provide a simple answer to this impossible situation.
"What am I to do?" she whispered again, her voice barely audible. "If I save my people, I betray someone who trusted me… but if I don't… I'm betraying everything I swore to protect."
The room fell silent around her, the weight of her decision pressing down like a physical force. Outside, the wind rustled the trees, indifferent to the turmoil within Fengming Hall, and Ms. Ye felt the cold certainty that time was running out.
She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath, as though the act itself could give her clarity. Her people were counting on her. And though it pained her deeply, she knew that sooner or later, she would have to choose—a choice between kindness and duty, mercy and survival.
In Baoli Zong
Bai Yujing remained seated, his fingers tracing the edge of his desk as his mind wandered.
Feng Xiaoyan approached, her posture graceful, yet her eyes held a soft warmth. "You've been quiet all day," she said, pausing beside Yujing's desk.
Yujing looked up, meeting her gaze. "I was… thinking," he admitted quietly, "about everything we've learned this year, and… the wedding coming soon."
Xiaoyan smiled gently. "Yes, it's almost time. The day will arrive before we know it. I can see that it's been on your mind."
Yujing shifted slightly, a small, nervous smile tugging at his lips. "I've imagined this day for so long… but now that it's actually close, it feels… different. Exciting, yes—but also… a little overwhelming."
"Overwhelming is natural," Xiaoyan replied softly. "Marriage isn't just about two people—it's about families, responsibilities, and expectations. But I've seen your heart, Yujing. You're ready."
Yujing's fingers tightened around the edge of his desk. "Yes I am. I want to be the kind of husband… worthy of you, worthy of our families."
Xiaoyan's lips curved in a tender smile. "You already are, Yujing. I've seen your strength, your kindness. And I'm lucky to be the one walking beside you. Remember, the wedding is just the beginning—the real journey starts after the vows."
The bell rang, signaling the end of the day. Students began filing out, their chatter fading into the hallways. Xiaoyan lingered for a moment, placing a reassuring hand on Yujing's shoulder.
"Don't let nerves cloud your joy," she said quietly. "This day is ours. Embrace it."
Yujing looked at her, gratitude and excitement shining in his eyes. "Thank you, Xiao. I… I will."
Together, they walked out of the classroom, sunlight spilling over the hallways. The wedding day was near—and with it, the start of their shared journey.
The day had finally arrived—the end of the year. The classes had concluded, and the halls of Baoli Zong were buzzing with a mixture of relief, excitement, and quiet nostalgia. Students returned to their respective residences, the weight of the year's lessons now replaced by anticipation of what the future held.
The gates of Fengming opened wide as the siblings returned from Baoli Zong.
Inside, the halls were alive with quiet domesticity. Madam Yan moved about, arranging dishes and calling lightly to the servants, her calm presence filling the rooms with warmth. Feng Xiaoyan was already checking the schedules for the coming week, her usual composed expression in place, while Feng Lingxi followed closely, making notes and reminders in her mind — helping her sister.
Feng Yangguang, true to form, lounged lazily near the balcony, enjoying the breeze and the familiar view of the courtyard. He greeted his sisters with a nod and a smirk. "Home sweet home," he murmured, stretching his arms.
Mei'yin took a deep breath as she stepped inside. The familiar feel of Fengming—the polished wooden floors, the gentle sunlight filtering through the windows, the soft murmur of household staff—brought a sense of ease she hadn't realized she'd been missing.
"Feels good to be back," she murmured to herself, letting a small smile spread across her face.
Xiaoyan glanced at her younger sister. "Take your time settling in. No need to rush after the trip."
Lingxi nodded, adding quietly, "It's been a long journey. Rest, eat, and get comfortable. We'll pick up everything else later."
The family moved through the hall together. The next morning, sunlight spilled gently into Fengming, brushing the wooden floors with warmth.
In the main hall, Master Feng Lei stood near the window, watching the first rays of light catch the banners of the estate. His tall frame was composed, calm, yet there was a subtle weight to his shoulders that didn't go unnoticed.
One by one, the siblings entered the hall. Mei'yin bounced in last, her steps light and playful, a mischievous glint in her eyes—but the moment she saw her father's serious expression, her grin faltered slightly.
"Good morning, Father," she said, her tone playful but softening, almost as if testing the waters.
"Good morning, Mei'yin. Everyone," Master Lei replied, his gaze sweeping over his children. "You're all back safely."
Mei'yin stepped closer, her usual naughtiness giving way to a flicker of worry. "Father… are you feeling all right? You look… tired."
He shook his head lightly, forcing a small smile. "Nothing serious. Just… the responsibilities of the household and preparations for the wedding. But seeing you all safe is more important."
Feng Xiaoyan and Feng Lingxi exchanged a glance, then Xiao spoke . "The wedding preparations are progressing smoothly, Father. The arrangements for the main hall, guest seating, and the banquet are nearly complete."
Yangguang, lounging nearby, added lazily, "And the fireworks, decorations, all that stuff? Don't worry, we'll make it spectacular."
Mei'yin's eyes brightened at the mention of the wedding—but she quickly lowered her voice, a hint of mischief still in her smile. "Father, we have to make sure everything's perfect… though I hope the bride and groom don't steal all the attention from us," she teased.
Master Lei chuckled softly, the warmth in his expression easing the tension. "The wedding is for joy, not rivalry. You all have grown so much. Soon, Fengming will be filled with laughter and celebration."
Mei'yin leaned slightly closer, her tone gentle now. "I just… want to make sure you're comfortable too, Father. We can handle the rest."
He reached out, lightly ruffling her hair, a gesture that mixed affection and amusement. "I know you will, Mei'yin. You all will. That's why I trust you to help make this day memorable."
The siblings smiled, the tension of the past weeks lifting slightly, replaced by anticipation and quiet happiness.
----------
Yangguang and Ms. Ye found a rare moment alone. The afternoon sun filtered softly through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the stone path.
Yangguang leaned against a low railing, eyes studying Ms. Ye with a warmth only she could evoke. "You've been quiet today," he said gently, noticing the faint tension in her posture.
Ms. Ye forced a small smile, though it didn't reach her eyes. "Just… thinking," she replied softly, her gaze drifting toward the distant hills beyond Fengming. Her mind, inevitably, wandered to Ye Xuan and the impossible condition he had demanded. The thought of her people trapped under his control gnawed at her, and she felt the weight of secrecy pressing down.
Yangguang reached out, covering her hand with his. "You don't have to carry it all alone, you know. You can tell me anything."
She looked at him, her chest tightening.
Yangguang nodded, understanding but still worried. "I see… but I can sense it, even if you don't speak. You've been tense. The sadness in your eyes… it's like a shadow that won't leave."
Ms. Ye let out a quiet sigh and finally rested her head against his shoulder. "I'm trying to focus on the preparations… the medicines for your father, everything here."
Yangguang held her tighter, his voice steady and reassuring. " If you're tired you can rest."
For a moment, the only sound was the wind rustling through the trees. Ms. Ye felt a bittersweet comfort in his presence—a reminder of what she could still hold on to, even as the shadow of responsibility weighed heavily over her.
She gave him a small, sad smile, gripping his hand. "Thank you… for being here. It makes it a little easier."
Yangguang kissed the top of her head softly, a silent promise that no matter the challenges ahead, he would remain by her side, even when the world seemed unbearably heavy.
The morning sun bathed Fengming in a shine bright, the courtyard alive with lanterns, silk banners, and the fragrance of blooming chrysanthemums. Red and gold decorations fluttered in the gentle breeze, each symbol carefully chosen to bring luck, prosperity, and happiness. Servants scurried quietly, attending to last-minute preparations, while musicians tuned their instruments, creating a soft, festive melody.
At the center of the courtyard, the wedding altar had been constructed—a magnificent structure of carved wood, draped in crimson silk, with intricate golden phoenix and dragon motifs. Incense smoke spiraled upward, mingling with the morning air.
Feng Xiao, radiant in a flowing red qipao embroidered with golden threads, led the procession of the bride's family. Her presence exuded calm grace, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Feng Lingxi and Mei'yin followed, carrying ceremonial items and gifts, their smiles bright yet tinged with a hint of nostalgia for the years of study and training now drawing to a close.
Guests from the allied clans gathered respectfully, murmuring in awe at the elegance of the ceremony. Among them, Ms. Ye stood beside Yangguang, the two keeping a subtle distance, their secret bond hidden behind polite smiles. Yet their eyes occasionally met, an unspoken promise shared across the crowd.
At the sound of a deep gong, the groom, Bai Yujing, appeared, dressed in ceremonial robes of crimson and gold, his presence commanding and dignified. Beside him stood Chenxing, and other family members, offering blessings and presenting gifts in accordance with tradition.
The bride emerged, carried on a beautifully decorated sedan chair, her face partially covered by a delicate red veil. The rhythmic beat of drums signaled her approach as she gracefully descended, her footsteps measured and elegant.
The officiating elder intoned the ceremonial words, calling upon heaven, earth, and ancestors to bless the union. The couple bowed in deep reverence, their movements precise, a symbol of respect and harmony. Then came the exchange of ceremonial cups of wine, each sip signifying unity, loyalty, and shared destiny.
Mei'yin, watching closely, felt her heart swell with happiness for her sister.
Finally, the veil was lifted, revealing the radiant faces of the bride and groom, and a wave of applause rose from the guests. The courtyard filled with laughter, blessings, and the joyous scent of incense—an unforgettable celebration of love, family, and tradition.
Even in the midst of the festive scene, Yangguang's hand found Ms. Ye's, squeezing it gently, a quiet reassurance that whatever troubles lay beyond Fengming, they would face them together.
Master Lei's eyes softened as he watched Feng Xiao walk down the aisle. A faint, proud smile tugged at his lips, though a trace of worry lingered in his gaze.
Madam Yan clasped her hands together, quietly beaming, eyes glinting with unshed tears of joy.
Master Jian's lips pressed into a firm line, giving a subtle nod of approval as he observed the ceremony, satisfaction hidden behind his composed demeanor.
Master Xiang's expression remained calm, almost serene, but the gentle lift of her eyebrows betrayed her quiet pleasure at seeing the union.
Master Bai Yue allowed himself a faint, approving smile, noting the careful grace of the young couple and the ceremony's solemnity.
Each parent and master watched in silence, expressing pride, approval, and quiet emotion through subtle gestures—soft smiles, nods, attentive eyes—witnessing the joining of Feng Xiao and her partner without uttering a word.