Tome of Troubled Times
Chapter 873: A Disciple with Secrets?

Chapter 873: A Disciple with Secrets?

Yangzhou was still some distance away, but at this range, it should be safe. If someone were bold enough to assassinate the bearer of a Demon Suppression Bureau jade token or steal King Zhao’s saber right outside a key stronghold of the empire, then Her Majesty might as well issue a self-condemnation edict. The presence of Lady Baoqin alone was proof enough that the imperial vanguard had arrived to receive them, and judging by the situation, even stronger reinforcements were likely en route.

As far as the jianghu was concerned, this region was the very heart of the Cao Gang’s domain. The river had long since been secured under their control.

And yet, Ling Ruoyu still could not shake the sense of unease. This was precisely the kind of moment when people tended to let their guard down—when one assumed the storm had passed, only to be struck by lightning. Someone could very well be lurking in the shadows, waiting for precisely this opening. The fact that Wan Dongliu, the Cao Gang’s leader, had not shown up yet was bizarre... and troubling. Had he simply decided that Lady Baoqin’s presence meant there was nothing to worry about?

But Lady Baoqin was currently being carried into a cabin, and who knew what they were doing in there? For all they knew, she might already be doing something indecent. What help then could she possibly offer?

Fuming with indignation, Ling Ruoyu sat cross-legged at the bow, silently keeping watch. She could not help but feel she had somehow gone from a glorious gladiator to a glorified doorman. The indignity was unbearable.

As for what Lady Baoqin was currently up to... it was hard to say if it counted as “indecent.” At the moment, she was simply nestled in a man’s embrace, being kissed. Just moments ago, she had been fuming and stomping about in anger, yet a single kiss had been enough to dissolve her fury completely.

No matter how many years she had spent acting as a stern and upright imperial official, whenever she saw her young miss and her young master, Baoqin always felt like she was still just a maidservant.

A little maid, infatuated with her master, who had been waiting all these years for his affection.

And wait she had. Three full decades. Her beauty was unchanged... but was her heart still that of a young girl?

“You seduced me and ran off, you stinky heartless bear...” Baoqin sniffled. “If you hadn’t teased me back then, the young miss would’ve married me off ages ago. I wouldn’t be here, waiting thirty damn years. It’s not like you’re the only man in the world...”

“Then do you want to marry someone else?”

“No. Good thing you did tease me, or the young miss really would’ve made me marry someone else.”

So, which is it? Are you mad I teased you or grateful that I did? Zhao Changhe marveled at the twists and turns of a woman’s heart. He murmured, “I never meant to disappear for so long. Back then, you were still quite young. I figured there was no rush and even dropped hints to Wanzhuang... that I’d return, and then... I’m sorry.”

This was the danger of declaring “I’ll marry you after this war.” You would think that someone from the modern world would have long since learned of this by now.

“Do you think I’m old now?” Baoqin huffed and lifted her head.

“Not even a little.” Zhao Changhe looked down at her delicate face, which was still as charming as ever, and kissed her brow. “Compared to the past, there’s a sharper edge in your eyes now... and that makes you even more alluring.”

“Hmph. Well, aside from Cui Yuanyang, I’m still the youngest. You’re surrounded by women on the verge of menopause—or worse, several million years old!”

“Ermm...” Zhao Changhe was about to say that immortals did not really go through menopause when Baoqin suddenly perked up. “And don’t count that little girl at the door! Don’t tell me you’re actually interested in her?”

Zhao Changhe laughed helplessly. “You’re overthinking it. I really do see her as a little disciple. You all keep taking things in that direction. Fine, ruin my reputation if you must, but my disciple deserves better. Even when I watch her fight, I make sure to sit at least one zhang away...”

Baoqin squinted suspiciously. “You’ve... changed? She’s gorgeous, you know? Slim waist, long legs, sharp and elegant, all that. Other than not wearing that rustic red outfit, she’s basically Yue Hongling’s clone, yet you’re not tempted?”

“She’s like River of Stars or Dragon Bird. How could I possibly even think that way about her?”

Baoqin’s suspicion deepened. “Wait a minute. Don’t tell me you have thought that way about Dragon Bird?”

Who the hell would think that way... Zhao Changhe could not be bothered to explain, so he simply leaned in again and kissed her to shut her up.

When it came to taming Baoqin, there was no need for argument. He just had to shut her up, by any means necessary.

It did not take long before the once-fiery Baoqin turned into a puddle in his arms, her breath soft and trembling. “Young Master...”

“...”

“Baoqin missed you.”

That single, breathless “young master” struck Zhao Changhe with more force than any bomb ever could. He felt himself heat up all over again.

Clearly, Baoqin had not been idle all these years. She had worked hard to maintain an excellent figure.

With the warrior’s berserker trait now thoroughly activated, Baoqin herself was not faring much better. In mere moments, her clothes had become a complete mess. Her collar had been torn wide open while her sleeves slipped off her shoulders, revealing pale, flawless skin and the graceful curve of her collarbones.

Clang!

Meanwhile, a clash of blades echoed from the prow of the ship.

Ling Ruoyu was outside, sword in hand, standing guard before the cabin as a swarm of black-clad assailants closed in around her in a tightening circle.

She really had become a door guard...

Glaring at the bloodthirsty figures advancing on her, Ling Ruoyu groaned inwardly. So her instincts had been right after all. This moment, when Yangzhou was just within reach, truly was the most dangerous.

There were at least a few Profound Control Realm cultivators among the attackers, but not a single familiar face. Just what is going on with the Tome of Troubled Times these days? Since when did Profound Control Realm demons stop being recorded?

Not only did they show no sign of recognition, but they did not even bother with words. The moment they appeared, they went straight for her vitals. Their attacks were swift and decisive, clearly hoping to kill quickly and flee with the saber before Yangzhou could even react.

Inside the cabin, Baoqin gasped softly, “Aren’t you going to help your disciple?”

Zhao Changhe replied, “Dragon Bird’s been cooped up too long... She’s been itching for a fight.”

Which Dragon Bird he was referring to was anyone’s guess.

In the next moment, while the Dragon Bird connected to Zhao Changhe came roaring out inside the cabin, the Dragon Bird outside the cabin leaped into Ling Ruoyu’s hands.

The girl blinked, suddenly finding a massive slab in her grip. A terrifying force surged through her, sending her spinning like a windmill, utterly unable to stop herself.

“You raggedy bastards think that I’m just here to spectate? I’ve had enough of this!”

Whoosh!

Ling Ruoyu turned into a spinning top that doubled for a meat grinder, causing the blood of the assailants to spray out like a fountain, limbs to fly out in all directions, and turning the river red.

Far in the distance, atop Yangzhou’s city wall, Wan Dongliu’s face twitched uncontrollably. There was simply no way to describe what he was witnessing. A dainty young girl carrying a giant saber nearly as tall as herself, spinning wildly like a top. It was equal parts adorable and horrifying.

Back inside the cabin, Baoqin was still breathless from the indulgent torment her beloved inflicted, yet she nevertheless reached for a pouch and stepped back toward the door.

Several streaks of black mist attempted to slip into the cabin, only to be sucked into the pouch alongside the earlier one she had collected.

With a smooth flick, she cinched the mouth of the pouch shut just as the door slammed closed behind her with a solid thud.

Ling Ruoyu was still seeing stars from her whirling slaughter, barely managing to glance back in time to catch a glimpse of a white, jade-like arm expertly tying off the pouch just before the door blocked her view.

Thud.

The girl collapsed onto the deck, utterly dazed, right as the ship finally docked.

She lifted her head with difficulty. A small army had gathered to welcome them ashore. At the forefront stood Wan Dongliu, who looked at her with deep sympathy before letting out a long sigh. “I’ve seen people bully others before, but I’ve never seen someone bully their own disciple like this... All this just to avoid a little suspicion? This poor child, she’s been through hell.”

Ling Ruoyu blinked groggily. “Senior... what did you just say?”

Wan Dongliu replied, “Nothing, nothing. I was just thinking... My youngest son ranks near the top of the Ranking of Hidden Dragons, and he’s still unmarried. I’ve had some dealings with your master in the past. Perhaps, young lady, we might—”

Before he could finish, Baoqin emerged from the cabin, her robes freshly adjusted and pristine once more. “Prefectural Governor of Yang, please see to our lodging. I’ll be troubling Yangzhou for the night. We’ll cross the river to Gusu at first light. As for you, Miss Ling, this is now an official matter. Don’t go staying with some shady gang of the jianghu. Come with me, I have questions for you.”

Wan Dongliu: “...”

Aren’t you trying to avoid suspicion? What is this now? And what’s this about a “shady gang of the jianghu”? We’re under the banner of the Four Idols Cult, personally assigned to Venerable Vermillion Bird herself. Why don’t you try saying that to her face?

Ah wait... You represent Prime Minister Tang, so I guess you really might say that to her face.

Wan Dongliu groaned and rubbed his temples.

* * *

Night had fallen, and the evening chill flowed like water.

Yesterday had brought the scattered rains of Qingming; today, the skies had cleared. The air was moist and fragrant, rich with the scent of renewal.

Having taken a comfortable bath and changed into fresh clothes, Ling Ruoyu now sat in the open-air courtyard, savoring a meal delivered by the Yangzhou authorities. She had dismissed all idle company, and at last, she could feel a serene sense of peace as though insulated from the rest of the world.

The storms of the jianghu in recent days now seemed like the remnants of a dream. Close brushes with death, walking on the edge of a blade... Yet, in quiet reflection, she knew they had profoundly enriched her martial arts path. She was keenly aware of how much she had gained; when the day came to ascend the Profound Control Realm, these experiences would be the bedrock of her advancement.

Were it not for the fact that Lady Baoqin and that ancient senior were seated before her—clear proof that the past few days had, in fact, occurred—she might have truly believed it had all been a dream.

Then again, even the scene in front of her eyes now still felt like a dream. The dignified Lady Baoqin was practically draped across that senior’s lap, feeding him bits of food with her chopsticks, her voice almost ridiculously gentle as she cooed, “You’ve been asleep so long. Have you forgotten the taste of worldly delights? Here, try this one...”

Ling Ruoyu poked around at her rice with her chopsticks, feeling like the most superfluous person in the world. Aren’t they supposed to be asking me something? Why does it feel like I’m just sitting here to be forced to watch their public display of affection?

If you two want to flirt, just say so. Why drag me into this? They say the Marquis of Wu’s son is a handsome young man, so why won’t anyone let me take a look for myself? Are you two my parents or something? Why are you policing my social life while doing this stuff in front of me?

Baoqin leaned in close to whisper in Zhao Changhe’s ear, “I’ve only seen her once before and didn’t get a full impression, but now that I have... Is your little disciple... not exactly the sharpest?”

Zhao Changhe replied by transmitting his voice, “She just got the wrong impression at the start. She stumbled into an ancient secret realm and encountered a reviving senior. Plus, I made sure not to act overly familiar with Dragon Bird. How would she have made the connection?”

“So why are you keeping it from her? Is it fun to mess with your own disciple?”

“I’m fishing, of course. The girl’s too honest for her own good. If she knew her master’s husband was secretly guarding her, do you think we’d have gotten that big haul in your pouch today? And we’d have missed out on some excellent blade testing opportunities. That would’ve been a shame.”

“Then, can you tell her now?”

“Not quite yet. I want to see the information on River of Stars. If I’m right, there’s going to be a major shake-up at Tang Buqi’s birthday banquet. Why are you so eager for me to spill it anyway?”

“Because if you don’t say anything, in her eyes, I’ll just be some shameless woman throwing herself at a stranger with a single look. It’s humiliating.”

Zhao Changhe nearly burst out laughing. “Did Wanzhuang send you?”

“I was already stationed in Gusu on her orders. I was overseeing some audits for the maritime trade. When the Tome of Troubled Times reported that your little disciple was escorting the saber into Jiangnan, of course, I came to see for myself.”

“Standing on your own now, huh, my little maid?”

“You abandoned your wives and child for thirty years, eh, young master

That shut Zhao Changhe right up. He silently resumed eating.

“I’m full.” Ling Ruoyu set down her chopsticks, gave a courteous bow, and said, “I’ll leave Dragon Bird with you, Lady Baoqin. I’ll return to my room now and leave you and this senior to your moonlit romance.”

“Hey, wait!” Baoqin called out. “You should keep Dragon Bird for now.”

“Why?”

Zhao Changhe suddenly spoke up. “Didn’t you sense the connection between you two? It’s not just anyone who can get Dragon Bird to spin around like that. Haven’t you noticed that Dragon Bird... likes you?”

Ling Ruoyu hesitated, then said, “I actually like it too. I don’t know why... I’m a swordswoman. I’ve never had the slightest interest in sabers. But when I’m holding it, it just feels familiar. And the more time I spend with it, the harder it is to part with it. It’s a strange feeling. It feels annoying, but also intimate in a way... I can’t explain it...”

Zhao Changhe’s gaze subtly shifted. He looked her up and down with growing intensity.

Ling Ruoyu instinctively took half a step back, eyes wary.

Zhao Changhe stared blankly. “What kind of expression is that?”

Ling Ruoyu asked coolly, “Senior, what exactly is your relationship with Lady Baoqin?”

Zhao Changhe casually wrapped his arm around Baoqin’s waist. “The exact kind you’re seeing right now.”

“If I’m not mistaken, today’s the first time you’ve even laid eyes on her.”

“That’s right. It was love at first sight.”

“And yet you’ve said you’re also fond of my master.”

“Also true. Who says you can only like one person?”

Ling Ruoyu’s face was devoid of expression.

“So,” Zhao Changhe said with the utmost seriousness, “I’m over here getting cozy with Baoqin while telling you I’m fond of your master. Doesn’t that clearly show you, little brat of a disciple, that there’s no way I’m looking at you like that? What are you making that face for?”

Ling Ruoyu’s mind went blank. How the hell did he turn that around so shamelessly? If anything, doesn’t this just prove that he’s a total lecher I should keep as far away from as possible?

Baoqin burst out laughing.

Ling Ruoyu snapped, “Lady Baoqin, what exactly did you see in him the moment you met?”

Baoqin beamed. “I just liked how strong and handsome he was. The moment he held me, my knees went weak... And he’s a man with a past, someone who’s lived through entire eras. He has stories, you know?”

“...” Ling Ruoyu’s voice was icy. “And what do you like about my master, exactly? I’ll tell her to change it.”

Zhao Changhe nearly choked from laughter. “I like everything about your master.”

Ling Ruoyu turned immediately to Baoqin. “See? This is the kind of man you’ve set your sights on. Really?”

Baoqin tried to suppress her laughter and said with a wink, “Nothing wrong with that. Any woman who gets to compete with the Sunset Divine Sword for a man should consider herself lucky.”

Ling Ruoyu looked like she was about to erupt.

Zhao Changhe said lazily, “Anyway, since you did us the favor of guarding the door today, why don’t you drop the sulking and take that battle loot of yours back to your room for a proper review? That kind of reflection is crucial. No one’s born a genius. Back in the day, I—well, someone I know used to cheat like that, using post-battle analysis to rack up years’ worth of experience in a few months.”

Ling Ruoyu could not really argue with that. In this matter, the senior had indeed helped her greatly. She hesitated, then admitted sincerely, “The entire battle plays back in my mind clearly. It’s as if the moon reflects perfectly upon the water. My master says it’s my natural gift.”

Zhao Changhe narrowed his eyes slightly.

Ling Ruoyu hugged Dragon Bird a little tighter and instinctively took another step back.

Seeing the girl’s wary expression, Zhao Changhe let out a soft laugh and waved her off. “Go on, then. Rest well. I’ll be resting too, with Qin’er[1].”

Ling Ruoyu let out a soft harrumph under her breath, then turned and darted off with Dragon Bird in her arms.

Baoqin snuggled against Zhao Changhe’s neck and whispered, “Do you think...”

Zhao Changhe, still watching his disciple’s retreating figure, murmured, “There’s a chance... But it’s strange. If she were River of Stars, I should’ve sensed it right away. Dragon Bird should’ve sensed it too. But so far, I’ve felt nothing. Dragon Bird hasn’t given me any clear answer either, just that she rather likes her. If she is, it could only mean that Hongling and Jiuyou had some kind of secret arrangement. It couldn’t have been done without Jiuyou’s involvement.”

As things stood, Zhao Changhe had just recently rebuilt his strength, regaining his third-layer Profound Control Realm cultivation. He had only grown marginally stronger overall, and he was still some distance from the peaks once reached by the Ye sisters or Piaomiao.

And now, Ye Wuming had already broken through that barrier, and Ye Jiuyou very likely had as well. The gap was widening yet again. If the two of them were involved in this, he could not be sure that he would be able to unravel it all in time.

“I’ll stay cautious. Either way, Dragon Bird’s staying close. She’ll know for sure soon enough.” He tightened his grip around Baoqin’s waist and strode into the room. “No matter how much chaos is coming, I’m not making the same mistake twice. A flower worth plucking must not be wasted. I won’t fail my little Qin’er again.”

1. If this sounds like an endearing nickname for Baoqin that Zhao Changhe came up with on the spot, that’s because it is. ☜