The next morning, Ji Chun, Mu Miefeng, and Xue Yao had already packed their belongings and met downstairs. As they stepped out of the inn, a young woman came running toward them. When she drew closer, they recognized her as Wan Yao.
She hesitated, glancing at the three of them nervously before finally asking, "Ji Chun Dashi, Doctors... um, where is Shangguan Dage?" Her face flushed pink as she spoke, her shyness adding to her charm.
Ji Chun noticed her expression and understood her feelings. If she saw Su Ran in his current state, she would likely be even more captivated. The thought made him uncomfortable, and he lowered his eyes briefly before looking at her again, his face stern and cold. "Not long ago, I saw Shangguan Gongzi leave the inn. He hasn't returned since. I don't know where he went."
"Oh... I see," Wan Yao murmured, her bright eyes dimming. She glanced at the three men awkwardly, her embarrassment evident. "Then... I'll take my leave," she said softly, turning away with a lonely air.
The brief encounter passed quickly, and the three continued their journey. According to Xue Yao, the Yisheng Valley lay to the southwest of Jeju, about half a month's travel away. Ji Chun recalled that Shaolin was also in the southwest but further south than Yisheng Valley. Though the two locations weren't far apart, he wondered why his master had specifically tasked him with delivering the letter. Despite his confusion, he trusted his master's judgment and focused on the journey ahead.
"Shixiong, what have you been up to these past few years? Shifu always nags about you. You're definitely going to get an earful when you return," Xue Yao said with a grin, clearly delighted to be reunited with his Shixiong.
"Just traveling," Mu Miefeng replied with a faint smile, gently pushing Xue Yao away as the younger man leaned in. Xue Yao had always been clingy, even as a child, and it seemed he hadn't changed.
"Shixiong, you don't know this, but Shifu took in some new disciples and completely ignored me. He practically kicked me off the mountain," Xue Yao said, wrinkling his nose in mock indignation.
Mu Miefeng saw through the act immediately. "Really? Did Shifu kick you out, or did you leave on your own?"
"I was looking for you!" Xue Yao retorted quickly. "As soon as I left, I heard about the massacre of the Ouyang family. Only the young master survived, and there were notices everywhere seeking a divine doctor. I thought it over and decided to go, but then I got tangled up with that demon and almost lost my life! If it weren't for Ji Chun Dashi, I wouldn't have been able to find you, Shixiong!"
A flicker of coldness passed through Mu Miefeng's eyes, but it was quickly replaced by a soft smile. He tapped Xue Yao lightly on the head. "Stop acting pitiful," he said before turning to Ji Chun, who had been walking silently beside them. "Thank you, Ji Chun Dashi."
Ji Chun nodded politely, indicating it was no trouble. He was accustomed to silence, and though the two brothers chatted and laughed beside him, he didn't feel lonely. Still, there were moments when he missed his fellow monks at Shaolin. He thought that if time allowed, he would hurry back to the temple after completing his mission.
The trio traveled at a leisurely pace and arrived in Qufan County half a month later. Nestled in the southwest, Qufan County was surrounded by mountains on three sides, with only one accessible route. Its isolation made transportation difficult, and most trade routes bypassed the area. However, the region's favorable climate allowed its inhabitants to live self-sufficiently.
That night, the three rested at an inn in Qufan County, planning to ascend the mountain early the next morning. Yisheng Valley was hidden in a secluded valley to the west, shrouded in mist year-round. It was a place of rare herbs, mystical beasts, and breathtaking beauty—a veritable fairyland. However, the treacherous mountain paths and frequent encounters with wild beasts kept most people away.
That evening, Ji Chun followed his usual routine, reciting Buddhist scriptures and meditating. As he focused, he finally managed to fully integrate the strange energy within him with his own. This breakthrough allowed him to reach a new level of martial arts, and he felt a surge of power coursing through his body. His fatigue vanished, replaced by a sense of vitality and strength. His senses sharpened, and he felt no trace of sleepiness.
Deciding to take advantage of the night's tranquility, he slipped out for some fresh air. Not wanting to disturb the innkeeper, he exited through the window. The moonlight bathed the empty streets, and the only sound was the distant footsteps of the night watchman. Ji Chun savored the peace, walking slowly as he reflected on his experiences since leaving the mountain.
His thoughts drifted to Su Ran—his cold, beautiful features, his wild and unpredictable nature. Ji Chun clasped his hands together and murmured, "Amitabha," trying to suppress the strange emotions that arose. He reminded himself of his mission: deliver the letter to the Valley Master, resolve the matter of the Di Mang, and return to Shaolin to meditate and purify his mind.
As he walked, he passed a tavern. Glancing inside, he noticed a group of men drinking and chatting merrily. They looked familiar—he had crossed paths with them during his travels a few days earlier. It seemed they were heading in the same direction.
Ji Chun had never tasted alcohol, and he had developed an aversion to it over the years. He continued walking, but his heightened senses allowed him to overhear the men's conversation clearly.
"There's chaos in the sect right now. Sect Leader Su has ordered us to follow these people and report back to him at any time. It seems he has a plan in mind!"
"I don't think it's that simple. I've always suspected Master Chen wasn't to be trusted. Sure enough, while Sect Leader Su was away, he convinced half the sect to defect."
"Honestly, it doesn't matter who's in charge. We're just errand boys."
"Old Wang is right. Let's keep an eye on the monk and those two guys. Even if the leadership changes, it won't be our fault!"
It turned out these men had been sent by Su Ran to follow them. Ji Chun returned to the inn, his mind preoccupied. The Demonic Cult was in turmoil, and Su Ran must have gone back to deal with it. According to what the men had said, the leader of the rebellion was no ordinary figure. With Su Ran's internal strength diminished, what if...?
The dream he'd had recently resurfaced in his mind—Su Ran standing amidst a sea of corpses, bloodied and gravely injured. Ji Chun's heart ached unexpectedly. He silently recited scriptures to calm his thoughts, then lay down on the bed, pulling the quilt over his head in an attempt to force himself to sleep.
The night was restless. By morning, Ji Chun had dark circles under his eyes—a rare sight. His expression was grim and unsettling. Xue Yao, sensing his mood, didn't ask questions and remained quiet, giving Ji Chun the peace he needed.
They set out early in the morning, crossing numerous mountains before finally arriving at the Yisheng Valley as the sun set. The valley's entrance was marked by a tall, wide-open stone gate, surrounded by lush, neatly trimmed grass. Beyond the gate stretched a broad, flat path lined with towering evergreen trees.
At the end of the path, the view opened up to reveal a vast courtyard paved with smooth bluestone slabs. A row of low, exquisitely designed houses stood quietly, their doors half-open. A young man in white emerged, carrying a jar. His demeanor was refined, and he looked surprised to see them.
"Shixiong! You're back!" he exclaimed, his eyes shifting to Ji Chun. He quickly composed himself, stepping forward with a respectful bow. "Greetings, Dashi."
"He Qing, this is Ji Chun Dashi, a disciple of Abbot Hui Kong of Shaolin. He has brought a token to see the Valley Master. Go and inform him we'll be there shortly," Mu Miefeng explained, urging his Shidi to deliver the message.
"Of course! I'll go right away. Ji Chun Dashi, please excuse me," He Qing said before hurrying off.
"Ji Chun Dashi, our master is upstairs. Please follow us," Mu Miefeng said politely.
"Thank you," Ji Chun replied, following the two brothers.
They ascended a few stone steps, then descended others, eventually arriving at a medicinal garden surrounded by flowing springs. They crossed a wooden bridge, the air filled with the fragrance of flowers and herbs, accompanied by the soothing sounds of birdsong and running water. It was truly a paradise on earth.
Xue Yao enthusiastically pointed out each landmark to Ji Chun as they passed. By the time it grew dark, they finally reached their destination—the main hall of Yisheng Valley, where important meetings were held.
The hall was empty except for the Valley Master, who sat on a high seat. He appeared to be in his fifties, though his hair and beard were already gray. His every movement exuded the grace of a reclusive master.
As they entered, the Valley Master smiled warmly and gestured for them to approach. "Come in, find a seat. Ji Chun Dashi, don't be too reserved. I'm not that intimidating."
Ji Chun nodded and bowed respectfully. "I am Ji Chun, a humble monk. It's an honor to meet you, Valley Master." He then handed over the letter and the token. "This is the token entrusted to me by my Shifu."
The Valley Master examined the red jade thoughtfully before tucking it into his sleeve. He turned to Ji Chun and asked, "Young Dashi, you've had a long journey. How is your Shifu's health?"
"Shifu has always been in good health. Thank you for your concern, Valley Master," Ji Chun replied earnestly.
"That's good to hear," the Valley Master said with a sigh, his expression growing distant as if lost in thought.
Mu Miefeng and Xue Yao exchanged a glance before stepping forward. "Shifu," Mu Miefeng said softly, gently pulling his master back to the present.
"Hmm? Ah! It's getting late. You must be hungry. Xiao Feng, A-Yao, take Ji Chun Dashi to dine. I'll retire for the evening. I'm not as young as I used to be..." With that, the Valley Master stood, waved his sleeves, and left.
Ji Chun felt a pang of curiosity. He turned to watch the Valley Master's retreating figure, puzzled by the sudden shift in his demeanor. He then followed Mu Miefeng and Xue Yao to dinner before retiring to the guest room.
As he lay down, Ji Chun suddenly felt he had forgotten something important. He tossed and turned for an hour before finally falling into a deep sleep.