Chapter 58: Collaboration (Part One)

Sunlight poured in through the window, spilling across Gu Xinyu’s body and wrapping him in a soft, hazy glow. He stood motionless, his tall figure as still as a statue. His gaze was unfocused, drifting into the distance as though searching for something unseen. Even when Wuming entered the attic, he didn’t notice; what was he thinking about so deeply that even his vigilance waned? If an assassin had come instead, his head might already lie on the floor, his soul lost to the underworld. What was happening to him?

A flicker of worry crossed Wuming’s eyes. She was about to step forward and report the latest news when Gu Xinyu suddenly murmured, “Leng Feng.”

It was a whisper, almost a call, so tender and full of longing. Could it be that he had been thinking of Leng Feng? That was her title. Was he truly so lost in thought because he missed her?

Her eyes grew hot and red, brimming with tears she stubbornly refused to let fall. Tilting her head back, she forced them to retreat, then brushed her sleeve to wipe away any trace and steadied her breath.

She stepped forward, her footfalls barely audible.

Gu Xinyu’s martial skills were far from ordinary; his hearing was many times sharper than most. He caught the faint sound of footsteps and snapped out of his reverie, a wave of irritation passing through him. How could he, with his abilities, only now realize someone had entered? Clearly, he’d been too absorbed in his thoughts. If the intruder were an enemy, he’d be in grave danger…

He collected himself, looking toward Wuming, who was about to kneel, his expression returning to its usual calm.

“Greetings, Master. Yinyao has sent a letter.” Wuming’s voice was mechanical, almost devoid of emotion.

The name Yinyao startled Gu Xinyu. He hadn’t expected her to seek him out—what could she want?

“Yinyao?”

Wuming nodded without a hint of surprise, producing a yellow envelope from her sleeve and offering it with both hands. She lowered her head humbly, concealing the redness at the corners of her eyes.

Gu Xinyu took the envelope without hesitation, opened it, and drew out the thin sheet within, reading it carefully. He was genuinely curious about Yinyao’s intentions.

“Yinyao asked me to relay this: ‘After you read the letter, you will understand. If you’re interested, meet me today at noon in the Elegant Chamber at Illusion Pavilion.’” With that, Wuming withdrew.

Illusion Pavilion—the name alone would make you think it was some secret society, but it was in fact a renowned restaurant, its allure surpassing even the famed Hundred Flowers Court, enchanting guests with its ethereal ambiance.

The Elegant Chamber was the most expensive private room in the Illusion Pavilion, a refined little loft. For Yinyao to invite him there showed she had truly changed in these three years; after all, Illusion Pavilion was hardly ordinary.

Collaboration? He was indeed interested!

Gu Xinyu tucked the envelope into his robe, glanced at the sky—still early—and went off to inform Chu Suyi, Muye, and Aishuo. He believed Suyi would agree to this alliance; Suyi never missed a chance to cooperate, especially with such a formidable partner.

Within a hidden stronghold of the Shadow Sect…

“Yaoyao! Are you really going to work with Chu Suyi and the others?” Li Su was visibly agitated, even pounding the table. He hadn’t expected Yaoyao to suddenly propose cooperation with Chu Suyi’s group. Didn’t she know their history? It had been hard enough to separate them; if they worked together, they’d see each other much more—wouldn’t that mean…?

“Li Su, calm down.” Yinyao lounged in her rocking chair, relaxed and at ease, waving her hand dismissively. Though she’d anticipated Li Su’s reaction and was prepared for it, a warmth still flickered in her heart at his concern.

Li Su looked at Yinyao in confusion. “Calm down?”—what strange words.

Yinyao realized her slip; she’d used a phrase from the twenty-first century, her own catchphrase. No wonder Li Su didn’t understand. She explained, “It means to stay composed, steady.”

“Oh.” Li Su nodded uncertainly, his expression a bit adorably dazed. Yinyao secretly smiled at the thought.

But the next moment, Li Su’s face darkened; hadn’t she just diverted his attention? He was angry about her telling him she wanted to work with Chu Suyi—how had the topic shifted so quickly?

With his striking, almost demonic features set in a grim expression, Li Su stared at Yinyao and squeezed out three words through clenched teeth.

“Why?”

“It’s simple. He has enough strength, and we share a common enemy.” Yinyao spread her hands, her tone light but her words cutting straight to the heart—forcing one to set aside personal feelings and seriously consider the matter.

Li Su’s stern expression gradually relaxed; he appeared to be thinking deeply, occasionally glancing at Yinyao. She smiled serenely, as if the matter were of no consequence, showing not a hint of curiosity. Did she really believe he would agree? Well, with such a valid reason, how could he say no? But still…

Though Li Su remained silent, Yinyao was actually nervous inside. Regardless of his answer, she would carry out the plan, but she hoped for his approval. Her confident, unconcerned demeanor was just a mask for her unease.

If Li Su knew what was in her heart at that moment, he wouldn’t know whether to laugh or cry…

“You don’t believe in my strength? Afraid I won’t be any help?” Li Su feigned hurt, accusing Yinyao.

Yinyao frowned at his question; it wasn’t a matter of distrust, but of ensuring victory.

“If that’s how you see it, so be it.” She chose not to explain further; if Li Su truly understood her, he wouldn’t trouble her any more.

Her reply left Li Su helpless—he hadn’t said he wouldn’t agree, just asked on a whim…

He smiled wryly.

“Fine, I’ll agree. What’s your plan?” Li Su settled onto a wooden bench, savoring a cup of pu’er tea, his expression tranquil. Why shouldn’t he trust Yinyao?

“Good—ah, excellent.” For a moment, excitement overwhelmed Yinyao and she blurted out the English word unconsciously—a slip.

Li Su eyed her suspiciously but, seeing her calm, let the matter drop.

“Illusion Pavilion, Elegant Chamber. Let’s go!” Yinyao crisply delivered the crucial detail, rose, and strode toward the door.

Li Su couldn’t help but think she must have known he would agree.

“You knew all along I’d say yes, didn’t you?” he said resignedly.

“Of course. And Gu Xinyu’s group will surely agree, too.” Yinyao replied lightly.

“You know us well.” It was not a question, but a statement. Li Su looked at Yinyao, something flickering in his gaze.

Yinyao said nothing more, didn’t look back, simply walked ahead, unhurried and steady.