Time passed quickly in Tiandou City. The small shop under Yun Fei's careful management had become steady and well-protected, under the watchful eyes of the Iron Guards. Weeks turned into months, and slowly, Yun Fei's presence became a fixed part of Zhao Qing's life.
It had been one month since Zhao Qing had introduced Yun Fei to his friends. That evening, the shop was quiet, lantern light casting soft shadows over the counters. Yun Fei was finishing the day's accounts, while Zhao Qing sat nearby, his calm gaze fixed on her.
"Sister Yun Fei… I care for you," he said quietly, his voice steady yet filled with quiet emotion.
Yun Fei's chest tightened—not with affection, but with the knowledge that this moment was crucial. She lowered her gaze, letting her voice carry humility. "Young Master Zhao Qing… I am older, a widow, and not strong. You deserve someone younger, stronger, someone better."
His expression did not waver. "I do not care about age or strength. I care for you. That is enough."
She allowed a soft sigh, tilting her head slightly. He must see me as fragile… dependent. Perfect. "Even so… I have lived through hardships. I am cautious, and I cannot offer what you seek."
Zhao Qing leaned closer, gently cupping her cheek. "That is why I trust you. That is why I care for you."
Her pulse quickened, but outwardly she remained composed. He is mine now. Every trust, every hesitation… belongs to me.
Before she could speak further, Zhao Qing leaned forward—and their lips met. Soft, tentative, yet filled with unspoken intensity. Yun Fei's mind raced, not with love, but with calculation.
When they parted, she inclined her head gracefully. "I understand, Young Master Zhao Qing. Your feelings are… appreciated."
By the second month, Yun Fei and Zhao Qing's bond had strengthened. Their interactions grew less formal: subtle touches lingered, hands brushed under the pretense of helping with accounts, and small smiles and quiet laughter filled the evenings.
They spent several days together in Yun Fei's residence, sharing meals, planning the shop, and quietly enjoying each other's company. Though no boundaries were crossed beyond innocent touches and kisses, Zhao Qing's devotion deepened, and Yun Fei skillfully encouraged his trust without revealing her true intentions.
By the third month, Yun Fei knew the moment had come to act. Zhao Qing's trust and emotional attachment were complete. She began feeding precise, carefully measured information to the Bloodscale Clan Patriarch: the Iron Guards' routines, strengths, weaknesses, and their interpersonal dynamics.
The Patriarch's plan was set: lure Zhao Qing out, draw the four core members into a trap, and strike. Yun Fei's role was pivotal—she had softened Zhao Qing's defenses and made herself indispensable.
.....
Yun Fei had carefully woven Zhao Qing into her web of trust. That evening, she suggested a walk outside Tiandou City.
"Let's leave the bustle of the city for a while," she said softly, intertwining her fingers with his. "There's a quiet place nearby… the air is fresh, and the scenery is peaceful."
Zhao Qing smiled warmly. "Alright. Let's go."
They walked hand in hand along the path, away from the lights of the city, toward a stretch of hills and fields. Their conversation flowed easily, laughter and gentle teasing filling the evening air. It seemed like any ordinary walk for a couple, unaware of the danger waiting nearby.
Suddenly, shadows moved in from the edges of the path. Figures emerged silently, surrounding them before Zhao Qing could react.
He immediately stepped in front of Yun Fei to protect her—but froze in shock when she struck him. She… attacked me? His heart pounded, confusion and betrayal surging through him.
A deep, commanding laugh echoed through the quiet fields. From the darkness, a figure stepped forward, radiating immense power—so overwhelming that even Zhao Qing felt his chest tighten the presence alone made Zhao Qing's blood run cold.
The mysterious figure spoke, and Yun Fei moved forward, approaching him with a measured grace. "Father-in-law…" she said, bowing slightly.
The figure's voice was deep and imperious. "Good work, my precious daughter-in-law." He stepped closer and pulled Yun Fei into a controlled, firm embrace. The aura radiating from him pressed down like an invisible weight, leaving Zhao Qing stunned.
Zhao Qing's mind reeled. The woman he trusted… the one he believed cared for him… was part of this? Betrayal cut through him like a knife.
The mysterious figure released Yun Fei slightly and gave her a command:
"Your next task is clear. Go to Zhao Qing's friends. Tell them Zhao Qing is under attack and struggling. They will come to his aid, and you will guide them right into the trap. Do not fail me."
Yun Fei bowed subtly, hiding her thrill beneath a composed expression. "Yes, Father-in-law. I will carry out your command."
Zhao Qing's fists clenched in disbelief and fury. He had been deceived, used as a lure to draw his friends into danger. He lunged, attempting to resist, but four figures moved to restrain him—Soul Saints above level 75, far beyond his 68-level strength. The mysterious figure had not even shown his full power, yet Zhao Qing sensed it radiated far beyond the four Soul Saints.
Fear, anger, and realization surged in his mind. We have not offended anyone… but this force is overwhelming. Whoever they are, this is no ordinary attack… and Yun Fei… she's part of it.
Yun Fei made her way back to Liu Ming's house. Her dress was torn, streaked with mud, and faint bruises marked her arms—signs of a recent struggle.
As she entered, the three friends immediately noticed her appearance.
"Sister Yun Fei! What happened to you?" Liu Ming exclaimed, stepping forward, concern in his eyes.
Wang Yan and Chen Yu were equally alarmed, their gaze scanning her carefully.
"We were attacked," Yun Fei said urgently, her eyes sharp. "Zhao Qing is in trouble—he needs you! Come quickly, follow me!"
Without hesitation, the three friends moved swiftly, following Yun Fei through the quiet paths outside the city.
End of Chapter.