Chapter 1: The Gathering at Clearwater

Three days later, Mo Qing finally yielded to her longing for Zhuang Yunzhen and forcibly left the White Garment Tower. Meanwhile, Liang Xi and Ji Anran, along with Gu Zhenzhen, had returned once again to the Nightshade Sect of the Heavenly Clouds. As a result, they were completely unaware of what was now happening to their senior brother, and so that matter shall be set aside for the time being.

Li Moqing had lived in the White Garment Tower since childhood. In all her years, she had only ever been to the River of Forgetfulness; as for other places, she had never had the chance. Yet this was not even the most serious issue. The real trouble was that Li Moqing, since she was a child, had been exceptionally well cared for. Aside from her formidable strength, she was utterly incompetent in other matters. In short, Li Moqing was hopeless with directions and had no concept of the value of primordial crystals.

This was hardly surprising. As the former young mistress of the White Garment Tower, whenever she needed anything, Uncle Li Feichen would always see to it for her. Now that she had become the master of the tower, this was even more so—she never had to worry about a thing. Therefore, to Li Moqing, everything outside the White Garment Tower appeared fresh and new. Though her beauty and bearing were like that of a fairy, there was now an innocent, almost childlike look upon her face.

Previously, Zhuang Yunzhen had learned the White Garment Tower’s Immovable Golden Body, enabling Li Moqing to sense his aura, which lingered not far ahead. On her travels, she would eat when hungry and find lodging when tired, never allowing herself to be wronged in the slightest. She was lavish in her spending, much to the delight of the innkeepers and restaurateurs she encountered, who vied to serve her attentively.

As for villains, she had never encountered any. After all, none were blind; a ravishing beauty carrying a fortune and strolling about so calmly could only be a noble lady traveling incognito with hidden guards, or a martial prodigy with strength to match an army. Clearly, she was of the latter kind, and none would risk their lives for a few visible primordial crystals.

On this day, Li Moqing finally left the borders of Xuanzhou. Gazing at the distant rolling mountains, her mood soared. She glanced back at the ever-fading silhouette of Yingxue Mountain. After all these years, she had finally left the White Garment Tower. This time, she was determined to enjoy herself to the fullest. The search for someone was but a pretext; in truth, she wanted to wander and play. Back at the Tower, anything she wished to do was forbidden. From the moment of her birth, she had been like a puppet, never allowed her own thoughts or desires, everything for the sake of the Tower.

She could not indulge in any personal hobby—such things were said to sap one’s will and lead to ruin. Her daily life consisted of nothing but cultivation and rule-following. The rules themselves meant little to her, but as a child, growing up in the Tower, she had to obey. She endured it year after year, and her rebelliousness grew ever stronger. Now, finally, she was free; she would at last become her true self and show everyone in the Tower that she was a living, breathing person, not a puppet in their hands.

The path ahead was unknown, but what of it? Even if she met danger, her Immortal White Flame had reached the fifth layer now. No matter how formidable the foe, she could handle it herself. Uncle, whether you understand or not, this trial is mine alone. Any peril that comes, I will bear it!

Determined, Li Moqing turned gracefully, her slender legs striding confidently into the unknown, her every movement stirring the air with a fragrant breeze. From Xuanzhou, one could reach the foremost of the four great water systems, the River of Forgetfulness, by water. By land, one would arrive at Baishui Market, a town that had flourished for a century by the banks of the Whitewater. It was said that over a hundred years ago, this place had been an abandoned dock. Later, a peddler, impressed by the scenery, decided to settle here.

With comings and goings, more people arrived, and gradually the dock became lively. Eventually, high city walls were built, and the old dock transformed into a moderately sized city. The original peddler, wishing for others to thrive, generously shared all his skills. Everyone was astounded; none had imagined this unassuming man possessed such mastery. Thereafter, all who came here became, directly or indirectly, his disciples.

After the peddler passed away, out of gratitude, the people named the place Baishui Market, honoring him as Master Baishui, sharing the name with the Whitewater beyond the city. Over time, the town developed a fierce spirit; when injustice was seen, they would intervene. But after their master’s death, this boldness brought them disaster.

Decades ago, they provoked the Taiyun Golden Valley. In terms of heritage, Taiyun Golden Valley was the equal of the White Garment Tower. Though the people of Baishui Market were strong, how could they match such a colossal power? After a brief conflict, Baishui Market was defeated. Yet the Valley Master, seeing their courage and loyalty, decided it would be a shame to destroy such heroes. After some negotiation, Baishui Market became a subordinate power under Taiyun Golden Valley’s protection. For the past decades, life here had been peaceful. The Valley only cared for strength; if ever they faced a crisis, their vassals were to aid them—otherwise, there was no interference.

Li Moqing knew nothing of this. Even if she did, she would not have cared. The scenery here was truly lovely. She could have chosen to ride, but as this was her first journey alone, she wished to savor every sight along the way. In fact, she came to Baishui Market by chance, drawn by its bustle after a long trek and hungry for food. At this moment, food was all that mattered.

The city walls of Baishui Market were built of bluestone, the main road smooth and even after a hundred years. There were only two kinds of people who came here: those seeking the legendary Pearl White Rice, a delicacy left by Master Baishui and famed across the land, and those who came to challenge the town’s martial spirit. Baishui Market was full of martial academies, and every day, duels and challenges took place. To eat Pearl White Rice while watching these contests—what could be more pleasurable? These two things were the pillars of Baishui Market. The city was not large, but its people were formidable.

A beauty like Li Moqing, in the eyes of the townspeople, was surely here to eat, not to challenge. Who would dare strike such a lovely woman? Besides, the people here cared little for appearances; at most, her presence was noted with a brief admiration.

Li Moqing and Ji Anran were of entirely different temperaments. If anyone, other than Liang Xi, approached Ji Anran with ill intentions, that person would surely meet a miserable end—if not death, then grievous injury. Li Moqing, however, possessed a natural warmth that allowed her to befriend anyone in an instant.

Baishui Market pulsed with vitality, so unlike the cold severity of the White Garment Tower. The city consisted of a single main street, Baishui Long Street, about five li in length, with many branching alleys on either side. From above, the streets resembled the branches of a tree, all radiating from the main street. It was said that this was where Master Baishui had first settled, yet after so many years, no trace of the past could be found. Perhaps even Master Baishui could not have imagined that this abandoned dock would become such a thriving place.

Pearl Residence was a three-story tavern. Though many places in Baishui Market served Pearl White Rice, none could match the Pearl Residence, which specialized in this dish alone. “At last, I can eat! I’m starving!”

Pearl Residence was famous, but its décor was plain and simple, though spotlessly clean and lovingly maintained. As it was not a mealtime, few guests were present. Otherwise, securing a bowl of the famed Pearl White Rice would have been impossible.

“Young lady, welcome! Please take a seat. I’ll prepare your meal right away; please wait a moment.” The attendant, seeing her beauty, dared not neglect her. The Pearl Residence had survived here for years by virtue of its keen judgment; without it, it would have long since closed its doors. A single glance told him that her plain robe was exquisitely made, likely the handiwork of Madam Li, the Divine Needle of Yingxue Mountain. Few could commission her work these days. To wear such attire, the maiden before him must be related to Madam Li or even her disciple. It was said Madam Li’s needlework struck fear in many masters; this woman must be from the White Garment Tower. Whatever her background, it was best not to provoke her but to serve her well.

“Damn it, what rotten luck today! Three times I challenged the Divine Sword Martial Hall, and three times I lost! Boy, bring me your best dishes, and don’t forget, I want wine and meat!”

Li Moqing had just sat down when a stream of curses erupted at the door. The newcomer was a burly man, carrying a jet-black broadsword on his back, his manners coarse and vulgar. Boisterousness and vulgarity might seem similar, but in truth they are worlds apart. A boisterous man’s eyes are clear and likable; this man’s were hateful and narrow, betraying a vicious, petty soul—truly repellent.

However, he had nothing to do with Li Moqing. Though she found him disagreeable, he was no concern of hers. She would not let such a person disturb her mood.

“My good sir, you must be joking. Our place is the Pearl Residence; we only serve Pearl White Rice. If you want wine and meat, the Zhenwei Tavern down the street is the best. The proprietor is a friend of mine; you are most welcome there. I’ll even cover your meal—how about it?”

The innkeeper, a capable middle-aged man, knew trouble when he saw it. The attendant alone could never handle this guest, so he came out himself. His words would have soothed any reasonable person and perhaps even made a friend. But the rude man, clearly frustrated by his earlier defeats, was spoiling for a fight. Now even this small tavern dared defy him—how amusing. He grabbed the innkeeper and sneered, “Old man, do you know who I am? If you hadn’t spouted that nonsense just now, I would have left. But you had to meddle! Fine, then I’ll tell you—I’m going to eat and drink here today. What are you going to do about it?”

He looked the innkeeper up and down. “You look like a snob. Is it because I’m dressed poorly and you think I can’t pay?” With that, he pulled out a red money pouch and shook it in the innkeeper’s face. The pouch jingled with the sound of many crystals.

“See? There’s plenty of primordial crystals in here. Wine, meat, even buying your whole tavern would be nothing to me. Now, bring me wine and meat—if you’re slow, I’ll ruin you!”

The innkeeper was a man of principle. Rules are rules, however minor. If he broke them for this man today, the Pearl Residence would lose its right to exist here tomorrow. He stood his ground: “Sir, as I said, this is the Pearl Residence. We do not sell wine or meat. If you want those, please try another place.”

The brute had not expected such defiance and, enraged, laughed coldly. “Very well. It seems everyone in Baishui Market is as stubborn as you. Have you forgotten the disaster decades ago? Fine, I’ll give you a chance: if you can take two of my blows and live, I’ll kneel and apologize. If not, I’ll see that the Pearl Residence is wiped out!”

“A hundred years of history, destroyed because of you—how admirable. Don’t bother hoping to escape; when I set my mind to something, no one can change it!”

The innkeeper realized he was in trouble, but as the owner, he had no intention of fleeing. Proudly, he retorted, “So, you’re a disciple of Taiyun Golden Valley. Hard to believe the Valley produces such bullies. I’m ashamed for your master, Qin Boyu!”

The brute was indeed from Taiyun Golden Valley. The person he respected most was Valley Master Qin Boyu; anyone insulting the master in his presence would die!

“You’ve got nerve—speaking ill of the Valley Master before me! Fine, today Xiong Zhen will kill you, and the master won’t mind!” Xiong Zhen was a fierce general of the Valley, famed for his natural strength and iron fists.

His savage fists thundered toward the calmly composed innkeeper. “In all the Valley, not one young disciple can stand against my punch!”

Bang!

The innkeeper braced himself for death, but the powerful fist never landed. A slender figure stood between him and the blow—it was the beautiful woman who had just entered.

“How unsightly. If it was only your looks, fine, but you’re ruining my mood and appetite. I rarely venture out, and now you’ve spoiled my good spirits. You’ll pay for this!”

Li Moqing knew that if the innkeeper took Xiong Zhen’s punch, he would surely die. She had to step in. The man had only brute strength; once exhausted, he was nothing. With a single finger, she blocked Xiong Zhen’s full-force attack, infuriating him even more. Was this a cursed day? Even a mere girl could withstand his fist?

Boom!

Li Moqing flicked her finger forward, and a tyrannical force sent Xiong Zhen sprawling. Having cultivated the Immortal White Flame since childhood, she possessed extraordinary reflexes and power. Even without using her inner fire, mere brute strength was enough to topple Xiong Zhen.

“So, natural strength? Today, it seems that’s nothing special. While I’m here, you won’t be allowed to run wild. Looking for a fight? Let me be your opponent. After all, you’ve ruined my mood.”

Xiong Zhen was aghast. How could such a delicate beauty have such strength? And she wasn’t even using any technique—just pure force had subdued him. He tried to rise, but found he had no strength left.

“What did you do to me?”

He knew all too well what a life without his power would be—after all his arrogance, he never imagined such an end.

Ignoring his howls, Li Moqing helped the pale innkeeper up. “Sorry for the trouble, but since I’ve intervened, you can rest easy. Prepare my Pearl White Rice—I’m hungry.”

The innkeeper knew this woman was not only of extraordinary origin but also incredibly powerful—she had subdued the arrogant Xiong Zhen in a single move. “Miss, you’ve brought disaster upon yourself. This man is Xiong Zhen, a disciple of the Tyrant Bear Hall in Taiyun Golden Valley. Offending him for my sake is not worth it. I have some ties to the Valley; you should go. He won’t dare harm me.”

Even now, the innkeeper was more concerned for her. Such a temperament deserved protection. For that alone, Li Moqing was determined to look after him.

“You wretched girl, how dare you!”

Bang!

Li Moqing had always frowned on Ji Anran’s ruthlessness, believing one should never go too far. But now she realized it was she who had been naive. Against certain people, if you show mercy, they become beasts who will destroy you. Uncle had always said she was too soft, and that as master of the White Garment Tower, in such a dangerous place, she needed a firm hand to protect those she cared about and deter her enemies. If you want others to heed you, you must be stronger than them all!

She gave Xiong Zhen no chance to speak further. With overwhelming force, she struck again, crippling his meridians and destroying his strength. Now, what could he do?

“Your strength is gone for good. If you’re not convinced, feel free to bring someone to deal with me. I’ll be here. But with your meridians destroyed, you’ll have to crawl out of here. And before you go, you owe the innkeeper an apology!”

Compared to Ji Anran, Li Moqing’s methods were still gentle; had Ji Anran been present, Xiong Zhen would likely be dead. But she was not a coward, and years of pent-up rebellion now surged forth.

Li Moqing resumed her serene composure. Outside the Pearl Residence, a crowd of martial experts had gathered. In Baishui Market, her actions would incur no blame—on the contrary, she would be respected. Xiong Zhen had been unreasonable; Li Moqing had only intervened out of fairness.

“That’s right! Xiong Zhen, relying on his status as a Valley disciple, has run roughshod over Baishui Market for days. We may not be his match, but we do not fear him. Today, unless he apologizes, he won’t leave! Even his master, Tyrant Bear Hall’s chief Ba Sandao, would not dare such insolence here. Brute strength alone, with no skill and no mastery of the Valley’s internal arts—what right has he to be so arrogant? Miss, you did well today. If Ba Sandao comes, let him see what a fine student he has raised!”

Taiyun Golden Valley was led by the Valley Master, beneath whom were the Flying Dragon, Green Fish, Tyrant Bear, and Golden Tiger Halls. Though the Valley was powerful, it was not aggressive, and its fame was limited to Baishui Market and Xuanzhou. Farther afield, few had heard of it. Its disciples were reputedly courteous—how could one like Xiong Zhen exist?

Xiong Zhen had never faced such a situation. With his strength, he had always been second only to the hall chief, sometimes even admired by the Valley Master. No wonder he had grown so arrogant. Now, at last, he had suffered a great loss—intolerable for someone like him.

Yet, what could he do? He could only swallow his rage for now, return home, recover his strength, and then bring a band of experts to raze Baishui Market and take revenge on that wretched girl. Let her gloat for now—once he regained his power, her days would be numbered!

“Innkeeper, I’m truly sorry. Please don’t take it to heart.”

Though Xiong Zhen was wildly arrogant, he was no fool. To continue would get him killed. As long as he survived, he would have a chance to turn the tables. He apologized, forcing himself to stand and staggered out, never looking back.

His current plight was his own fault; had he brought elite disciples, he would not have met such an end.

“This man is vicious, innkeeper—you must be cautious. But rest assured, since I’ve seen this through, I’ll see it to the end. If he quiets down, fine. If he dares return with reinforcements, I won’t be afraid. I may not be as invincible as Anran, but I can handle a few opponents.”

Li Moqing was born to privilege. Though she disliked harsh methods, all those she had met acted thus, and over time, her own nature had changed remarkably.

“May I ask your name, miss?”

But Li Moqing did not answer. She departed as gracefully as she had arrived, her beauty matched by the innate dignity she carried. In the presence of such a woman, all felt a natural sense of awe.

“Innkeeper, I’ll postpone my meal for now. When this matter is settled, I’ll return to taste your Pearl White Rice. If you wish to thank me, simply prepare a good meal for me then.”

Such an adorable girl! All she asked for was a meal of Pearl White Rice as her reward? Though the people of Baishui Market were fierce, there was always someone fiercer. Xiong Zhen had bullied the townsfolk for days; no wonder his downfall was met with such glee.

“What happened to you? How did you lose all your strength in Baishui Market? There was never such a master there. Tell me, what happened?”

Ba Sandao, the head of Tyrant Bear Hall, doted on his disciple. Seeing him return with internal injuries and his strength destroyed, how could he not be angry and grieved?

“Master, I won’t elaborate, but please let me lead a group of elite disciples to Baishui Market. I lost face there and must regain it by my own hand. Since becoming your disciple, I’ve never acted on impulse. Please allow me this one time.”

After three days of tempering in the Blood Pool, Xiong Zhen’s strength returned. Though he could not cultivate the Valley’s internal arts, with his natural might, he feared no one. The Blood Pool was a mysterious place—no matter how grave the injury, as long as one clung to life, their strength would be restored. Such a treasure, of course, came at a price: ten years of one’s lifespan per use.

Ten years, or even nine-tenths of his life—whatever it took, Xiong Zhen would pay to recover his strength and kill that nameless girl.

Normally, a master would not refuse such a request, but Ba Sandao explained, “Rest assured, I’ll gather the men you need. But we cannot use Valley disciples. You know the Valley Master is in seclusion, striving for the sixth realm of the Taiyun Sutra. The four hall chiefs cannot act rashly. To summon Valley forces now would require unanimous agreement.”

Xiong Zhen knew he was making things difficult, but his master always had a way. Whatever he intended, Xiong Zhen never questioned. Over the years, he had learned that if his master set his mind to something, it would be done.

“Thank you, Master!”

Li Moqing remained in Baishui Market for three days. The incident at the Pearl Residence caused little stir; the townsfolk, tempered by a century of hardship, were unafraid of trouble or danger. Life quickly returned to its peaceful rhythm.

Yingxue Mountain, White Garment Tower.

“Master Feichen, the matter is clear. The young lady taught a lesson to Taiyun Golden Valley’s disciple Xiong Zhen in Baishui Market. But it seems she knows nothing of our ties to the Valley. This could become complicated.”

Li Moqing’s departure had not escaped Uncle Li Feichen. He had foreseen this. The White Garment Tower had confined her too long—letting her see the world was for the best. If she wished to inherit the Tower, so be it; if not, he would handle it. As her uncle, how could he bear to see such a beautiful flower wither in a cold, lifeless place? How would he face his elder brother if that happened?

“Complicated? Why? You doubt Gui’er can handle this? What do we have to do with the Valley? Years ago, my brother arranged a marriage contract with Qin Boyu’s father, but the girl knows nothing of it, and she now has someone she loves. Are you asking me to break up a pair of lovers? I can be ruthless to all others, but never to the girl I raised with my own hands. If Xiong Zhen is so petty, what good can Qin Boyu be?”

“You were there when the contract was made, Old Yuan. Did anyone care about the girl herself? Never. They only wanted our Immortal White Flame. Rumor has it that combining the Valley’s Taiyun Sutra with our flame would enable a practitioner to transcend martial skills and reach true mastery. Who knows if it’s true? Either way, the girl did the right thing!”

“Our heritage is not for outsiders!”

Li Feichen’s thinking was simple: whatever the girl wanted was right. If she asked, he would gather experts and fight Xiong Zhen to the end. This was also a chance to cancel that tiresome engagement.

“By the way, didn’t my brother offer the Azure Luan Sword as a token of betrothal? This time, let the girl make a scene and retrieve the sword. Now that she’s reached the fifth realm of the Immortal White Flame—the Supreme Crimson Flame—she’ll need the Azure Luan Sword to unleash the Vermilion Bird’s Endless Blade. Old Yuan, stay out of this, understand? Honestly, aren’t you curious to see just how far the girl can go? I certainly am.”

Old Yuan had been with the White Garment Tower since its founding, known only to the top echelons. In terms of skill, he was the Tower’s strongest, but never liked to act—so for practical purposes, he could be ignored.

“You still dote on the young lady. But you’re right—our secrets are not for those wastes!”

No one loved the Tower more deeply than Old Yuan. He knew better than anyone how difficult its path had been, and its protection was his duty. Soon, he vanished.

“Girl, this time, enjoy yourself. Uncle believes in you, and I know you’ll never let me down.”

On the fourth day, at dawn, a pale light crept over the horizon.

A group of experts, led by Xiong Zhen, rode at breakneck speed toward Baishui Market. This time, he swore, none would leave alive. Ba Sandao had assembled these men in exchange for his matchless Three Blades. Each was a valiant warrior; to take on the humble Baishui Market, they would surely suffice.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

A barrage of mighty palms crashed against the city walls, but the fortifications, built to last a century, held fast.

“People of Baishui Market, come out and die!”

Li Moqing soared onto the city wall, her robes billowing, long hair flying, her beauty and dignity unparalleled. Looking down upon the attackers, she laughed lightly. “You got here quickly, Xiong Zhen. Do you think I’ll fear you just because you’ve brought numbers? I told you, as long as I’m here, you’ll not advance a step!”

Her figure flashed among the ranks; suddenly, the assailants’ mounts screamed and collapsed—each felled by her hand.

“Apologies, but apart from my brother, I do not look up to any man in this world. So, I’ll deal with your mounts first!”

No longer waiting, a dragon-shaped azure mark appeared on her smooth forehead. At the sight, the enemy’s faces changed dramatically. “The True Dragon Azure Flame? You’re from the White Garment Tower on Yingxue Mountain? Damn it, Xiong Zhen, why didn’t you tell us we’d be facing someone from there? If I’d known, I’d never have come!”

Boom!

The tyrannical Azure Flame struck, killing the man instantly. Such ruthless power left all stunned.

“What’s this? Afraid now? Too late. Since mastering the Immortal White Flame, this is only the second time I’ve used it. The first was to drive off Wan Ruyu of Hanjian Island and save my brother. Today, I’ll show you all just how powerful it is!”

“Five Dragons Ascend!”

Five colossal dragons of blue flame soared into the sky, their momentum unstoppable. Though Xiong Zhen brought many men, they were useless. This one move would settle them all.

“I never thought I’d see the Immortal White Flame again in my life. I always knew this girl was extraordinary, but she kept her secrets well. So, she’s from the White Garment Tower!”

The innkeeper had seen the Immortal White Flame before, but few now knew it. He had once owed the Tower a great debt; to be saved again after all these years, he doubted he could ever repay her kindness.

Screams of agony filled the air.

“Hmph! I thought you’d bring formidable experts, but they’re nothing. Want to settle a score? Come at me yourself, Xiong Zhen. I see your strength has returned—so fight me. Weren’t you arrogant before? Now, will you only cower behind others?”

“Hmph! You wretched girl, since you seek death, I’ll oblige you! My power is restored, and today I’ll repay you for the pain you inflicted on me four days ago!”