Chapter 75: Master of the Island, Please Calm Your Anger!

Jin’er arched an eyebrow, secretly marveling at the young man’s remarkable lightness of foot.

“Ye, what are you so anxious about? Any ordinary person who ate a Red Serpent Fruit would be poisoned at once. Look at her, hopping about lively as ever—does she look poisoned to you?” The youth laughed as he spoke, his curious gaze fixed on Jin’er.

It was indeed odd; she was much like his Little White—unafraid of the Red Serpent Fruit, even eating it with relish. The memory of her greedy, adorable look earlier made him want to laugh again.

Hearing this, Liu Ye finally came to his senses, releasing Jin’er’s hand and lowering his head to examine her closely. Seeing no sign of anything amiss, he relaxed somewhat.

“Little lass, who are you, that you can make this cold-faced fellow so tense?” The boy folded his arms, tilted his head, and scrutinized Jin’er with a puzzled air.

Under his scrutiny, Jin’er felt uncomfortable. He appeared no more than fifteen or sixteen, yet treated her with condescension, calling her “little lass.” This only increased her dislike, so she raised her brow, lifted her chin, and said, “None of your business!” With that, she tossed the last Red Serpent Fruit in her hand into the air, caught it in her mouth with flourish, tossed her head, and strode away.

“Hey!” The youth was taken aback by her attitude, a faint sense of defeat rising within him. But soon he crooked a slanted smile, turned to Liu Ye and said, “Rather proud, isn’t she? Interesting!”

Liu Ye noted the glimmer of amusement in his eyes and frowned coldly. “You’d best keep your distance from her.” With that, he ignored him and walked after Jin’er.

The youth raised an eyebrow, watching their retreating backs with growing interest.

“Are you really all right?” Liu Ye turned to Jin’er, suspicion in his eyes.

Jin’er nodded. “I could be bitten by a venomous snake and be fine. Maybe I’m immune to all poisons now.” The thought made her inwardly delighted.

If she truly were immune, she’d never have to fear poison or being secretly harmed in the martial world again. Just imagining it was thrilling!

“You’d better worry about curing the poison in your own body before you get too pleased.” Seeing through her thoughts, Liu Ye dashed her hopes mercilessly.

Sure enough, Jin’er’s smile froze, then faded like the tide. She shot him a glare. “Can’t you let me be happy for a moment? Really…”

Liu Ye ignored her and walked on. If what she said was true, it would indeed be a good thing. But for now, curing her poison was the most pressing matter.

Jin’er followed him for quite a distance, over a small arched bridge and through a stretch of green grass, until they came to a pavilion. The building was two stories, spacious, entirely crimson, with carved windows and pillars adorned with intricate designs, red gauze draped beside the windows.

Through an open window, she glimpsed a large round table and elegant furnishings inside—perhaps a meeting or dining hall.

She thought they would enter, but Liu Ye turned aside, and she followed reluctantly. Along the way, they met many people—guards, servants, maids—all of whom showed Liu Ye utmost respect.

“Hey, who are you here?” Jin’er couldn’t help but ask, curious.

But Liu Ye paid her no mind.

Jin’er pursed her lips, forced down her curiosity, and followed him around the pavilion. She then realized the island was even larger than she’d imagined, and, true to its name, flowers bloomed everywhere in myriad colors and forms, breathtakingly beautiful.

She thought, if one lived here, surely one would live a long life—and perhaps even age more slowly.

At last, they arrived before a palace.

“Flower Mist Palace?” Jin’er murmured, looking at the imposing, beautifully adorned hall before her.

“Master, you’ve returned.” The two sturdy men at the door bowed deeply upon seeing Liu Ye, casting only a sidelong glance at Jin’er before ignoring her.

Jin’er felt the sting of discrimination—yes, discrimination! How rude everyone here was!

She glared at the two men and entered after Liu Ye.

After passing through a spacious, elegant courtyard, they reached the inner chambers. Few people were in sight, but Jin’er’s instincts told her none were ordinary.

In the main hall, a middle-aged man approached, saluted Liu Ye, and told them to wait while he informed the island lord.

Jin’er then realized this must be the island lord’s residence—no wonder it was so grand.

“What is your relationship to the island lord?” Jin’er asked Liu Ye in a low voice, recalling her earlier curiosity. He couldn’t be the lord’s son, could he? The way he was addressed didn’t suggest that.

“When you meet the island lord, you’d best behave and do as I say. Don’t oppose me. Otherwise, I can’t help you.” Liu Ye turned, his expression stern.

Jin’er blinked, nodding obediently, a trace of anxiety rising in her heart. Was the island lord a fearsome person if even Ye was so cautious? She’d thought he feared no one.

Tsk, tsk… Best to behave for now.

“Ye’er, you’ve finally returned.” The voice preceded the man’s entrance. Jin’er turned to see a man of about fifty, richly dressed, gold coronet on his head, entering with a smile. Though he smiled, his very presence exuded a daunting aura.

“Master.” Liu Ye stood and saluted with respect.

Oh, so it was a master-disciple relationship. Jin’er stared for a moment, then hurriedly stood as well.

Liu Qiansha patted Liu Ye’s shoulder with a laugh. “More than a year away and you’ve grown steadier and even more handsome.”

“You flatter me, Master.” Liu Ye’s face was solemn, respectful, but not affectionate.

Jin’er noted this and thought, So he claimed to have no family? Isn’t a master like kin? Yet even facing his master, he’s so cold—he made the man out to be so fierce, worried me for nothing…

Just then, Liu Qiansha turned to Jin’er, curiosity flickering across his face. “And this girl is…?” As he spoke, his smile faded.

“Her name is Jin’er. She’s afflicted by a strange poison. I returned to ask Master’s help and request Madam Xue to detoxify her,” Liu Ye said, bowing his head.

Liu Qiansha raised an eyebrow, scrutinizing Jin’er intently.

“Jin’er greets the Island Lord.” Seeing his gaze, Jin’er hurriedly bowed.

At that moment, all trace of a smile vanished from Liu Qiansha’s face, his aura of intimidation growing stronger. Jin’er involuntarily swallowed, a chill running down her spine.

He was truly intimidating when he didn’t smile, especially with those piercing eyes that seemed to see through everything.

Just as Jin’er felt her skin crawl, he finally looked away.

“You know the rules here: you can’t bring outsiders in at will. Besides, you were never one to meddle. I want to know what’s so special in this case.” As Liu Qiansha looked at Liu Ye, a faint smile returned, but his words made Jin’er anxious.

Oh no, so many rules—would they expel her? Ye was right; the island lord was no easy man.

Suddenly, Liu Ye knelt, startling Jin’er.

What? Was he really kneeling to beg the lord to save her? Jin’er’s eyes widened in shock, rendered speechless and awkward.

“Master, forgive your disciple for acting first and informing you later—I have already taken her as my student. Please pardon my offense!”

At these words, both Liu Qiansha and Jin’er were stunned.

Student??!

“You!” Liu Qiansha’s brows drew together. “Did you teach her the Moonflower Divine Sword?”

After a moment’s hesitation, Liu Ye nodded. “Yes.”

No sooner had he spoken than Liu Qiansha flicked his sleeve—Bang! Liu Ye was sent flying, crashing into a stone pillar.

Jin’er gasped; she’d never expected such a dramatic turn, her heart in turmoil.

Blood trickled from Liu Ye’s lip as the island lord, his face now thunderous, strode toward him. Jin’er, alarmed, hurried forward to block his path.

“Island Lord, please calm your anger! There’s no need to harm your relationship over me—” Before she could finish, Liu Qiansha’s eyes narrowed, and in a flash, his powerful hand gripped her throat.

Liu Ye’s expression changed, and he moved, but ultimately gritted his teeth and held back, a strange look flashing in his cold eyes.

“Impudent little brat!” he spat, tightening his grip.

Jin’er gritted her teeth, her face flushed red. Damn it! She hated it when anyone grabbed her by the throat.

“You’ll regret this…” Jin’er forced out the words with all her strength.

Liu Qiansha raised an eyebrow, loosening his grip just enough for her to breathe. He sneered. “Regret? Why?”

Jin’er gasped for air and said with difficulty, “I—I’m extraordinarily gifted…a martial arts prodigy! If you miss this chance…wouldn’t it be a pity…” Though her breath was short, her face was full of confidence.

Inside, though, she was nervous. Talent isn’t self-proclaimed. Still, martial artists liked to take prodigies as disciples to pass on their skills, so she decided to gamble.

“Hmph! Such boldness for someone so young.” Liu Qiansha eyed her stubborn face but didn’t tighten his grip further.

“Master, she truly is a prodigy. She’s only studied the Moonflower Divine Sword manual for just over a month, and already grasped much, despite having almost no martial foundation before. Her comprehension even surpasses mine at her age.” Liu Ye stood, speaking seriously. “She also possesses another special ability—she ate the Red Serpent Fruit without any ill effect.”

Before he finished, a youthful voice called from outside—it was Tianyu, the boy Jin’er and Liu Ye had met earlier.

Liu Qiansha finally withdrew his hand.

“Really?” He looked to Tianyu, his face unreadable.

“Godfather, how could I lie? I saw her eat them with my own eyes—more than one. Ye was so anxious, he tried to make her spit it out.” Tianyu grinned, giving Liu Ye a meaningful glance.

Liu Ye turned away, a bit embarrassed.

Liu Qiansha glanced at Jin’er and Liu Ye, then went to sit, lifting a bowl of tea and saying, “If you’ve mastered so much, then let’s see a few moves.”

Jin’er was startled, glancing at Liu Ye, who nodded and tossed her his sword. She caught it, stepped into the center, took a deep breath, and began her sword dance.

Her movements were nimble and powerful, each form displaying the essence of the Moonflower Divine Sword. Though her internal energy was weak and she hadn’t mastered the sword’s true power, given she’d only practiced for a month and was self-taught, her performance was impressive.

Everyone present was highly skilled and could judge at a glance. After a short while, Liu Qiansha told her to stop.

“Come here,” he said, putting down his teacup.

Jin’er, unafraid, tossed the sword to Liu Ye and walked over.

Standing before him, Liu Qiansha seized her small hand.

Jin’er frowned, instinctively trying to pull away, but stopped when he glared coldly.

Seeing her obedience, Liu Qiansha’s expression softened as he began to feel her bones, kneading and pressing. At last, he released her hand, lips curling in a faint smile. “Indeed, a fine physique.”

Hearing this, Jin’er finally relaxed. Amazing—he could tell just by feeling a few moments? What a master…

No matter; as long as the result favored her, she was satisfied. It seemed she truly was talented.

Seeing his satisfied look, she believed he would not trouble her further. Her life was spared!

At that moment, Liu Qiansha’s smile faded. He turned to Liu Ye, frowning. “Regardless, you broke the rules. You know I am strict with reward and punishment. But considering this girl is promising, you’ll meditate in reflection for one month. If there’s a next time…”

“I wouldn’t dare, Master.” Liu Ye bowed his head, frowning. Clearly, his master was pleased with Jin’er, or the punishment would not have been so light.

“As for her, I’ll teach her myself.” Liu Qiansha turned to Jin’er. “Girl, from now on, you are my disciple. What say you?”

Both Liu Ye and Jin’er were surprised.

Liu Ye hadn’t expected his master to take Jin’er as a direct apprentice, and Jin’er herself was still adjusting to the sudden shift—from nearly being strangled to becoming his disciple.

Seeing her stunned, Liu Qiansha only smiled. “I know you’re dwelling on what just happened, but perhaps you don’t know—many in the martial world would kill for the Moonflower Divine Sword manual. I must be cautious, not letting it spread carelessly. Now that things are clear and Ye’er didn’t deceive me, I accept you as my disciple. Any objections?”

Jin’er blinked, thinking, The wise yield to circumstance—and she had no room to object. Besides, having such a master and help detoxifying her poison was all she could wish for.

She knelt hastily, saluting. “Disciple greets Master.”

Everyone was briefly stunned before Liu Qiansha burst out laughing.

“Good! Good disciple! Stand up.” He helped Jin’er up and said, “Now that we are master and disciple, let’s forget past unpleasantness. Let me offer you an apology.”

“Master, please don’t. As the saying goes, ‘No discord, no concord.’ I won’t take it to heart.”

“Haha! Well said! Enough of this. Come, let’s have a meal to celebrate.” He signaled a servant, who went to make preparations.

Liu Qiansha led Jin’er and Liu Ye to a pavilion in the rear courtyard, where they drank tea and discussed her detoxification. After hearing the details, he nodded. “I trust Madam Xue’s skills in medicine and poison. Let’s eat first; afterward, I’ll take you to her.”

“Thank you, Master!” Jin’er suppressed her excitement.

Liu Qiansha smiled. “Now that you’re my disciple, you’ll be fine. Don’t worry.”

Jin’er smiled, glancing subconsciously at Liu Ye, who also looked at her, seeming somewhat gratified before turning away.

Soon, the servants brought food and wine, quickly filling the table.

“Come, let’s eat.” Liu Qiansha led the way to the table, followed by Liu Ye and Jin’er.

Jin’er hadn’t eaten so lavishly in a long time; her eyes shone. Liu Qiansha smiled, serving her dishes. “Eat. It’s nearly midday; don’t starve yourself.”

Jin’er nodded, eating heartily.

Despite some lingering awkwardness, there was a marked difference in attitude now that she was his disciple—he was all kindness. She almost wondered if the earlier strangling had been a dream; the two sides of her master seemed impossible to reconcile.

As she ate, she discreetly observed the island lord and Liu Ye. Throughout the meal, they exchanged few words; Liu Qiansha asked after Liu Ye’s well-being, and Liu Ye replied tersely. Clearly, this was their usual manner.

Liu Ye was always quiet and cold, after all—it wasn’t strange. She shook off her wandering thoughts and focused on eating.

After the meal, they rested briefly, then set off for Madam Xue’s residence.

Jin’er, unfamiliar with the place, followed them out of Flower Mist Palace, winding through paths until they reached a wooden house in a grove. The house was modest yet not small, with a spacious yard where herbs and various snakes and insects were laid out to dry. The sight stirred a sense of long-lost familiarity in Jin’er, and she frowned slightly.

“Madam Xue? Are you home?” Liu Qiansha pushed open the gate.

“Who is it?” came a not-so-old woman’s voice. A moment later, a woman in a blue, white-flowered blouse and skirt, with a head of white hair, limped out.

Jin’er’s brows knit; though Madam Xue’s hair was all white, her face looked only about forty.

“Island Lord? You honor me with your presence.” Madam Xue was slightly surprised to see Liu Qiansha.

“What, am I not welcome?” he replied with a faintly regal smile.

“Of course you are. Please, come in.” She turned and reentered the house.

The three followed, settling in as Madam Xue made tea and served them.

“And this is…?” Madam Xue asked, bringing tea to Jin’er. She knew most people on the island, few as they were; such a pretty girl she’d surely have remembered.

“Oh, this is my new disciple. I’ve brought her to ask your help.” Liu Qiansha explained.

“Oh?” Madam Xue took her seat, eager to hear more.

Liu Qiansha explained, then had Jin’er recount her story.

“The Death-Loving Powder!” Madam Xue’s face grew darker as Jin’er spoke, finally uttering the words in bitter anger.

Both Liu Ye and Jin’er were surprised by her reaction. Liu Qiansha, however, knew Madam Xue’s history with the Poison Saint quite well.

“You know about the Death-Loving Powder?” Jin’er asked, unable to contain her curiosity.

“Know it? Hah!” Madam Xue spat in fury. “It was my father who created it!”

Jin’er was shocked, sensing a tangled past. Madam Xue’s ensuing account confirmed her suspicions.

“That scoundrel—what you call the Poison Saint—was once my father’s disciple. He was handsome and caring, and I fell deeply in love with him.

“But when he learned my father had created Death-Loving Powder but wouldn’t pass him the Ten Thousand Poisons Manual, he threatened me, seized both the powder and the manual, gravely injuring my father, then fled.

“My father died that night, from his wounds and grief. I lost both love and family in a day, turned white-haired overnight. That’s why I’m called Madam Xue.

“Afterwards, I searched for him everywhere, seeking vengeance, but he vanished for over a decade. Only a few years ago did he reappear as the Poison Saint and found the Sect of Ten Thousand Poisons. I sought him out, but his power had grown immense. Before I could see him, his minions gravely wounded me. I was nearly captured, but the island lord saved me and brought me here. Without him, I wouldn’t be alive—but my leg is ruined, and revenge is now harder than ever.”

Jin’er listened in silent sympathy. To lose both her beloved and her father in a day—the pain must have been unimaginable.

After a heavy sigh, Madam Xue composed herself, turning to Jin’er. “I can neutralize the remnants of the Death-Loving Powder, but the Silver Serpent’s poison—I’ve only read about it in my father’s manual. It is indeed a chilling poison, but I can try to counteract it. I cannot guarantee to cure it in one go, but your life won’t be at risk.”

Jin’er breathed a sigh of relief. If so, that was good enough.

“Thank you, Madam Xue.” Jin’er looked at her with hope.

Madam Xue smiled, turning to Liu Qiansha. “Since she’s your beloved disciple, I won’t stand by. Give me a few days to prepare.”

Liu Qiansha nodded with a gentle smile and rose. “Thank you for your trouble.”

After seeing them off, Madam Xue limped back inside, sat before her dressing table, gazed at her silver hair and faded beauty, her teeth clenched hard enough to break. Her eyes glinted with strange light.

After a long time, she picked up a wooden comb and gently combed her hair.

Once, that man had said he loved her long, black, silky hair…

Madam Xue laughed coldly, her hand tightening around the comb until—crack!—it snapped, splinters piercing her palm, blood dripping silently onto the dark-red, antique table, heavy and suffocating.

———

“Miss, you’ll live here from now on. Food, clothing, and daily needs will be delivered regularly. If you need anything, come find me—my quarters are in the servants' wing to the right of the Flower Rain Pavilion.” The maid led Jin’er into a small courtyard. “If there’s nothing else, I’ll take my leave. Your things will be brought soon.”

“All right. You may go.” Jin’er replied with a gentle smile.

Turning to survey the elegant, simple house, Jin’er truly liked it. The island was so beautiful—even a random spot was charming, let alone a special residence.

“I’m leaving too.” A low voice came from behind. Only then did Jin’er remember Liu Ye was still there.

“Hey!” She called as he turned to leave.

He paused, looking back.

“Um…thank you for before.” She said awkwardly. Grudges aside, if not for him, she wouldn’t be here safe and sound. He’d have to meditate for a month too—it probably wouldn’t be pleasant.

Liu Ye, seeing her ever-changing expression, said nothing, only turning to go, leaving behind a single sentence: “Study well. Don’t disgrace me.”

Jin’er was stunned, taking a while to react before shouting after him, “Hey! What do you mean, ‘don’t disgrace you’? You think you’re really my master?!” But by then, his tall figure had vanished.

Muttering, Jin’er stomped inside.

She explored the Flower Rain Pavilion and found that besides a lovely front yard, there was a spacious back garden. Only the perimeter near the wall was planted with flowering trees; the rest was open grass—perfect for martial practice.

A gentle breeze blew, scattering white and pink petals across the yard, swirling and dancing, a thin layer carpeting the grass, rising with each gust—a scene of indescribable beauty.

Jin’er took a deep breath, savoring the faint floral scent and letting her long-burdened heart relax. At last, her detoxification was in sight; she’d gained a master and could live and train on this fairylike island. If only all would go smoothly.

Just then, she sensed something dart past her feet. Startled, she saw a small white shadow flash up a tree and hide.

Curious, Jin’er approached and found a little creature peeking from behind the trunk—just its small head visible, bright black eyes turning, watching her with a mix of curiosity and caution.

Amused, Jin’er chuckled quietly. “Little one, come down.” She beckoned, smiling. The unnamed flowering tree was neither large nor tall, but she couldn’t reach it.

The little creature seemed eager, but shy—hesitating behind the trunk.

“Come on down,” she coaxed, spreading her arms.

Seeing this, the creature’s eyes shone, and with a swish, it leapt into her embrace.

Jin’er was surprised but caught it in time. Looking down, she saw a fox-like animal, about the size of a medium cat, pure white, smooth and sleek.

“Hey there, you understand human speech?” she asked, stroking it.

“It’s not that it understands words—it likes that gesture best.” A voice, tinged with laughter, came from behind. Jin’er turned to see the island lord’s adopted son.

She remembered that after her apprenticeship ceremony, he’d left and not stayed for lunch. What brought him here now?

“It likes that gesture?” She couldn’t help but ask.

Tianyu raised his brows, mimicking her gesture. Jin’er understood.

“It seems to like you a lot,” Tianyu remarked, watching as Little White nestled in Jin’er’s arms, playing contentedly with her hair.

“Your pet?” Jin’er asked.

“Shh!” Tianyu raised a finger to his lips. “It doesn’t like being called a pet. It’s got spirit.”

Jin’er glanced down, noticing Little White looking up, eyes rolling with faint displeasure.

She forced a smile, embarrassed. “Sorry.” As if it understood, Little White bowed its head and occupied itself.

“His name is Little White. He’s usually well-behaved, except for a little temper now and then.” As Tianyu spoke, he studied Jin’er carefully.

Sensing his scrutiny, Jin’er frowned and turned away. “Is there something you want? If not, I’m going to practice.”

“So diligent your first day? You should get to know the island first. I’m the Star Palace Lord, but you can call me Tianyu.”

“Palace lord?” Jin’er echoed.

Tianyu folded his arms and nodded. “I thought so—how can you not know Flower Mist Island? The island’s like a small country, divided into Five Palaces: Heaven, Earth, Sun, Moon, and Star. Each has a lord. The four, except Star, each have three pavilions, and each pavilion has a head.”

Jin’er nodded, considering, then looked at Tianyu with a half-smile. “So your position is just for show—no wonder you say I can call you by name.”

Anger flashed across Tianyu’s face. “What do you mean, just for show? No one here dares disrespect me! I’m young, that’s all—hence fewer subordinates!”

“Oh, so it’s because you’re the island lord’s adopted son?” Jin’er replied indifferently. How else could someone so young be a palace lord?

“You don’t understand!” Tianyu suddenly stood, snatching Little White from her arms and stalking off. Poor Little White, startled, peered back at Jin’er, reluctant to leave.

Jin’er stared after Tianyu, then at her now-empty hands, muttering, “Why is everyone on this island so odd? Their moods change faster than flipping a page…”

She shook her head and went inside. Soon after, the maid brought her clothes and necessities, then left.

It seemed no maids would be living in the Flower Rain Pavilion, which suited Jin’er—she preferred solitude.

She’d also noticed from the maid’s gait that she knew martial arts, and not weak ones at that. It seemed Jin’er really was the weakest one on the island.

Not a pleasant feeling.

Oh well, instead of moping, she might as well work to improve herself. With that, Jin’er took out the Moonflower Divine Sword manual, reading and practicing as she studied.

After a while, she put away the manual, went to the back garden, and was about to break off a branch to use as a sword when someone called her.

“Jin’er, come here.”

She turned to see her master and ran over, greeting him cheerfully.

Liu Qiansha led her inside. “Jin’er, give me the sword manual Ye’er gave you.”

Jin’er hesitated, but obeyed, handing it over.

Liu Qiansha glanced at it, then tucked it away in his robe.

Jin’er watched, anxious—was he having second thoughts?