My Journey To You Recap, Plot, Synopsis

My Journey To You Synopsis

My Journey To You Recap

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In the world of martial arts, the assassination organization Wufeng was growing increasingly powerful, with almost no one daring to oppose them—except for the Gong family. Because of this, Wufeng was plotting to infiltrate the Gong residence, aiming to eliminate them completely. Yun Weishan was one of Wufeng’s pawns, ordered to pose as a bride and enter the Gong residence to carry out an espionage mission.

Han Yasi, who was in charge of training Yun Weishan, undertook the meticulous task of grooming her, knowing that even the slightest mistake in the heavily guarded Gong residence would ruin everything. While training Yun Weishan in the qualities a refined lady should possess, Han Yasi also explained the full situation of the Gong residence. The Gong family resided in the secluded Old Dust Valley, having remained isolated for a century and unbound by the rules of the martial world.

Their relationship with Wufeng was one of deep hostility. The Gong family was divided into four lineages: the Shang lineage, the Jue lineage, the Zhi lineage, and the Yu lineage. These four houses held the family’s power. The Elders' Council did not participate directly in management but would make final decisions in major matters.

Each lineage had clear responsibilities: the Jue lineage handled external affairs, engaged with the martial world, and oversaw business; the Shang lineage specialized in weapons manufacturing; the Zhi lineage was responsible for medicine, poison, and hidden weapons; and the Yu lineage managed internal affairs. The current Sword Wielder came from the Yu lineage. In Wufeng, female assassins were classified into four ranks: Chi, Mei, Wang, and Liang.

Yun Weishan was only at the lowest Chi rank and lacked combat experience, which is why Han Yasi was so dedicated to her training. He warned Yun Weishan not to trust anyone once inside the Gong residence. If she completed this mission, she would be free from Wufeng and could live the life she longed for—an irresistible offer that she accepted with determination.

The bride selection at the Gong residence was organized specifically for the young master, choosing eligible women from reputable martial families. Han Yasi and Yun Weishan picked a relatively unknown family to impersonate and sneak into the selection. Han Yasi made sure Yun Weishan remembered she was from Lixi Town. As she was about to leave, he was reluctant to part with her, hesitating to speak.

In his mind, he recalled the Wufeng leader’s order—to have Han Qi spread the word that one of the brides was a Wufeng assassin. But he couldn’t say it aloud, only urging Yun Weishan to act cautiously. Gong Ziyu, the second son of the current Sword Wielder, appeared to be idle and spent his days in brothels and taverns, overshadowed by the young master.

The Sword Wielder was unable to control him, especially since his mother had passed away early, leaving him more indulgent than strict. In truth, Gong Ziyu was sharp-minded and highly skilled, merely lacking a place to use his talents. Han Qi led his men to a pharmacy that served the Gong residence. The shopkeeper, sensing danger, triggered hidden weapons to fight back but was quickly defeated and knocked out.

Han Qi knew the shopkeeper was faking unconsciousness to avoid harm, so he deliberately spread the news that one of the brides was a Wufeng assassin. This turned the wedding into a deadly trap. The shopkeeper heard everything and, after Han Qi left, quickly tended to his wounds and rushed back to the Gong residence to report. On the way, the shopkeeper ran into Gong Ziyu, who was heading back.

He informed him of the news about the assassin among the brides before passing out. Gong Ziyu immediately ordered the shopkeeper’s rescue and then consulted Jin Fan on whether to inform their father and brother. He was worried that if their father found out, he might eliminate all the brides, resulting in the deaths of many innocent women. After returning to the valley, Gong Ziyu thought it over and decided to tell his elder brother Gong Huanyu first.

To his surprise, their father was also present, so he had to speak the truth. Unexpectedly, their father really intended to kill all the brides. Gong Ziyu tried to dissuade him, but his father’s mind was set, and Gong Ziyu had no choice but to find another way. All the selected brides, dressed in wedding garments, arrived by boat at the Gong residence. They believed it a great fortune to marry into such a powerful family.

But upon arrival, they were seized by guards and thrown into prison. Gong Ziyu, watching from the city wall, felt uneasy. Yun Weishan, however, remained calm. Her training with Wufeng had taught her to survive brutal trials—only those who emerged victorious in deadly contests could live. Now she faced a similar test. Gong Ziyu ultimately decided to let the brides go. Whether or not a Wufeng assassin was among them, most were innocent.

He recalled a secret passage that led out of the valley and, under the guise of drug testing, led the brides to it. But Gong Yuanzheng intercepted them.

Gong Ziyu opened the passage door, telling the brides it was filled with traps but was their only chance of escape. As they hesitated, Gong Yuanzheng rushed in. Gong Ziyu stepped in to stop him, and they fought. While counterattacking, Gong Yuanzheng released a pill that temporarily paralyzed the brides. During the chaos, Gong Ziyu secretly told Gong Yuanzheng that he was setting a trap to draw out the Wufeng assassin among them.

Gong Yuanzheng then played along and let Ziyu push him back. Eager to earn merit, Yun Weishan saw this as the perfect opportunity to assassinate Gong Ziyu. Just as she was about to act, Shangguan Qian pulled her back. At that moment, one of the brides struck and seized Gong Ziyu, attempting to escape with him. The Sword Wielder Gong Hongyu and the young master Gong Huanyu arrived with reinforcements.

Gong Huanyu knocked the bride unconscious, confirming she was the Wufeng assassin. Gong Yuanzheng became the interrogator. His concocted poison made life worse than death. Despite the inhuman torture, the captured bride revealed nothing. She had been sent by Han Qi to serve as a decoy and cover for the other Wufeng assassins. Her exposure meant she had fulfilled her mission. Earlier, Gong Ziyu had used his sister Gong Zishang’s mask to disguise Yun Weishan’s identity.

This mask was very important to him, so after the incident, he retrieved it from Yun Weishan. Just then, someone delivered a cup of Angelica Golden Herb tea to Yun Weishan. Gong Ziyu was surprised. Yun Weishan said all the brides had drunk this tea the night before. She asked if something was wrong. Gong Ziyu explained that although the tea was supposed to be a tonic for women, long-term use could affect fertility.

Seeing that the tea looked different from usual, he found an excuse to take it away. The young master Gong Huanyu heard that Gong Ziyu had visited Yun Weishan and suspected his brother had feelings for her. However, he said he would leave her to his brother. Just then, their father Gong Hongyu summoned them. Gong Hongyu harshly scolded Gong Ziyu for being lazy and nearly ruining their trap by acting without permission.

It turned out Gong Hongyu and Gong Huanyu had already decided not to kill all the brides, but rather to lure out the assassin. Before they could act, Gong Ziyu had jumped ahead. Gong Ziyu felt justified in what he did. If there had been a plan, why hadn’t they informed him earlier? It nearly caused a disaster. He also brought up the strange tea. Gong Hongyu explained that the formula had been changed to protect outsiders from poison traps.

Once again, he blamed Gong Ziyu for being irresponsible and spending his days in brothels. Feeling disrespected, Gong Ziyu threw the tea to the ground and stormed off. Since the assassin had been caught, the bride selection would continue. All the candidates had to be evaluated and assigned a token—gold, jade, or wood—based on their overall qualities. Those with gold tokens were the top candidates and would be considered first.

As expected, the bride would likely be chosen from among them. Yun Weishan and Miss Jiang received gold tokens, while Shangguan Qian received a jade one. If not chosen by the young master, the gold token holders might be picked by Gong Ziyu. Shangguan Qian declared that Gong Ziyu was the one she loved and warned the others not to compete with her. At the start of the selection ceremony, Gong Huanyu seemed to already know his choice.

He walked straight to Yun Weishan and studied her for a long time. Yun Weishan thought he would pick her, but he suddenly reached for Miss Jiang’s hand instead. Yun Weishan was shocked. Han Yasi had told her that failure to be selected would mean certain death. Realizing this, she began to plan her next move.

Gong Shangjue returned to the Gong residence and was summoned by Gong Hongyu, who was about to discuss the role of the next Sword Wielder when Gong Huanyu rushed in, reporting that the captured assassin was Zheng Nanyi, the second daughter of the Hunyuan Zheng family. Gong Hongyu immediately changed plans and told Gong Shangjue to investigate the Zheng family under the guise of business. Yun Weishan thought long and hard before finally knocking on Shangguan Qian’s door.

To her surprise, Miss Jiang was there too. She took this chance to create trouble for Miss Jiang, hoping to eliminate her and gain an advantage.

Before coming to the Gong residence, Miss Jiang already had someone she loved. However, under family pressure, she was forced to participate as a candidate for the bride selection. She was strongly opposed to the marriage. After chatting for a while, Yun Weishan put some drugs into Miss Jiang’s tea cup and watched as she drank it. The next morning, news broke that Miss Jiang had been harmed.

The guards immediately launched an investigation and called all the brides outside, but Yun Weishan was nowhere to be found. Shangguan Qian saw Yun Weishan in black hiding on the rooftop and signaled her to hide in her own room. Shangguan Qian then asked the guards if they were looking for Yun Weishan. After getting a positive response, she claimed that Yun Weishan had caught a contagious rash on her face and had been staying in her room.

Yun Weishan quickly understood her intention. She drank the antidote she carried with her, took off her clothes, and got under the covers. The guards entered Shangguan Qian’s room and, despite seeing the rash on Yun Weishan’s face, the leader still lifted the blanket and saw Yun Weishan’s bare back. Only then did they apologize and leave. Shangguan Qian handed over the antidote she had prepared. If Yun Weishan didn’t take it soon, her face might be permanently scarred.

Yun Weishan suspected Shangguan Qian might also be part of Wufeng and gave the secret code. Upon confirmation, she was surprised to learn Shangguan Qian was a higher-level Mei than herself. Suddenly, a great change occurred in the Gong residence, and the entire atmosphere was grim and oppressive. Gong Ziyu was summoned to the Elders’ Court, where they told him directly that his father Gong Hongyu and older brother Gong Huanyu had both died in an accident.

According to the rules of the Gong family, the absence succession rule was triggered, and Gong Ziyu would inherit the position of Sword Wielder. This unexpected change and sudden inheritance were hard for Gong Ziyu to accept. According to tradition, the person chosen to be the Sword Wielder must have secret characters tattooed on his back, signifying that his fate is now bound to the Gong family—born for the Gong family and must also die for it.

While enduring the pain of the tattooing, Gong Ziyu recalled his father’s words when he used to scrub his back as a child, and he couldn’t help but shed tears. Gong Yuanzheng, upon hearing that both the Sword Wielder and the young master had died and that Gong Ziyu had succeeded the role, was very upset. His older brother Gong Shangjue ranked ahead of Gong Ziyu.

The elder patiently explained that the Gong family could not be without a leader for even a day. Since both the Sword Wielder and the next heir had perished, the rules required that a substitute heir be appointed. As Gong Shangjue was not in the Gong residence, only Gong Ziyu was eligible, hence the unanimous decision by the elders. Snow fell heavily, as if mourning the deceased father and brother.

After the funeral of Gong Hongyu and Gong Huanyu, Gong Ziyu sat in front of the house, reminiscing about moments with them. Although his father had always been strict with him, he deeply loved him. Now that they were forever separated, Gong Ziyu was filled with sorrow. Jin Fan came over to comfort him, saying that what’s done is done and everything must move forward. Gong Ziyu slowly calmed down.

Although he didn’t desire the position of Sword Wielder, he could use it to uncover the truth behind his father and brother’s deaths. After learning that Ming Wuji was the last person to see his father, Gong Ziyu went to inquire under the pretense of greeting her. Ming Wuji said that the night before, she was in the study warming tea for Gong Hongyu and his son. Then someone brought in a captured Wufeng assassin.

She stepped out to avoid the situation and later saw the three inside fighting. Soon after, the lights went out. She called for the guards, but no one responded. Upon entering, she discovered all three were dead. Gong Ziyu then went to verify this with the guards and learned that it was his brother who had brought the Wufeng assassin to see their father. He suspected the female assassin was hiding something and went to search her belongings.

He found residual poison on her hairpin, but didn’t believe she had the capability to kill both his father and brother. Jin Fan then informed him about the poisoning of Miss Jiang and Yun Weishan. Gong Ziyu found it suspicious and went to investigate the women's quarters. Yun Weishan and Shangguan Qian, in this environment, had formed a kind of unspoken alliance. They had to help each other.

Shangguan Qian learned from Yun Weishan about the deaths of the Sword Wielder and the young master and initially suspected Yun Weishan. But Yun Weishan knew her concern was not for her own safety but for fear of implicating Shangguan Qian. Shangguan Qian straightforwardly ordered Yun Weishan not to act recklessly. Last time, her poisoning of Miss Jiang had nearly disrupted Shangguan Qian’s plan. She ordered her to immediately wash off the Koudan poison from her hands to avoid detection.

Gong Ziyu examined Miss Jiang’s condition and learned from the physician that the poison affecting her was unrelated to that which killed his father and brother. He intended to question Yun Weishan, but on the way, he happened to see someone floating lanterns on the river, which aroused his suspicion. He and Jin Fan split up to find the person responsible. Gong Ziyu eventually discovered Yun Weishan and engaged in a fight with her.

Both Shangguan Qian and Yun Weishan were afflicted with the Bone-Adhering Poison. If they didn’t deliver valuable intelligence within half a month, they would not receive the antidote. Yun Weishan had deliberately released the lanterns to cover for Shangguan Qian. Yun Weishan told Gong Ziyu she didn’t want to stay in this place and begged him to let her leave.

She then recounted her story—her father disappeared at sea and never returned, and she lit the lanterns to express her longing. Gong Ziyu saw the writing on the lantern, which revealed heartfelt yearning for her father. Believing her, he offered her his handkerchief and comforted her. Their relationship seemed to grow closer. He asked her to address him as Young Master Yu, as he still wasn’t used to being called Sword Wielder.

Gong Ziyu asked Yun Weishan about her poisoning the night before. She explained that she merely developed a rash on her face after drinking tea at Shangguan Qian’s place. It was Shangguan Qian who gave her medicine that cured it. Gong Ziyu grew suspicious and took Yun Weishan back to the women's quarters to investigate further. Seeing Yun Weishan and Gong Ziyu arrive together, everyone was filled with doubt.

Gong Ziyu quickly explained that he had matters that needed Yun Weishan’s help. He then ordered the entire residence sealed off and searched thoroughly. Jin Fan found the tea leaves in Shangguan Qian’s room and a bottle of medicinal powder belonging to Lady Song Si. She claimed it was for her asthma and brought from home. In reality, Yun Weishan had mixed the Koudan poison into the powder to clear suspicion from herself and Shangguan Qian.

Gong Ziyu ordered the powder made into a drink. Lady Song Si drank it without hesitation and soon developed a rash, confirming her as the poisoner. Though Lady Song Si repeatedly insisted she was framed, she was still expelled from the Gong residence for privately carrying medicine. As Shangguan Qian wasn’t in the residence, Gong Ziyu ordered a search for her, as he had other questions to ask.

Meanwhile, Shangguan Qian had gone to the clinic intending to find Gong Shangjue but was stopped by Gong Yuanzheng. She declared her opposition to Gong Ziyu becoming the Sword Wielder, believing the role should belong to Gong Shangjue. Before she could finish, Gong Shangjue appeared, and he seemed to develop a fondness for her. When Shangguan Qian returned, Gong Ziyu questioned her. She explained that the tea had passed guard inspection and the medicine was something she carried personally.

Gong Ziyu didn’t pursue it further but asked her to hand over the remaining medicine for examination. Although temporarily safe, Yun Weishan visited Shangguan Qian in the middle of the night. The two conspired to maintain a hostile front going forward. Since their missions differed—each forming ties with Gong Ziyu and Gong Shangjue respectively, who were at odds—their apparent enmity would help them operate more effectively. Shangguan Qian agreed and began to see Yun Weishan in a new light.

Gong Zishang had taken a liking to Jin Fan. She followed him to the clinic and flirted with him. Jin Fan smelled a strong medicinal scent and followed it with Gong Zishang to the backyard, where they found staff burning the wrong medicinal herbs. He found a bag marked with the character “Ling” and brought it back to show Gong Ziyu.

Gong Ziyu suspected someone had replaced the Baizhi Gold Herb Tea used by his father and brother, but as he lacked medical knowledge, he needed an expert to identify it. According to Gong family rules, the death of one’s father requires three years of mourning without marriage. However, due to recent events, it may be a while before new brides are selected from the martial world. The elders decided that the Sword Wielder must choose from the current candidates.

Gong Shangjue, not being young himself, could also choose a bride. Gong Ziyu joked that Gong Shangjue was so picky, didn’t he mind picking from his leftovers? Gong Shangjue replied bluntly that he never settled, and would be satisfied with keeping Shangguan Qian.  Soon after, Yun Weishan and Shangguan Qian were summoned to the Sword Wielder Hall. It was no surprise they were chosen by Gong Ziyu and Gong Shangjue.

But Gong Shangjue made a request that shocked them: he wanted painters to make their portraits and send them via fast courier to verify their identities with their families. Then, Gong Shangjue voiced his dissatisfaction with Gong Ziyu’s appointment as Sword Wielder. Gong Zishang spoke up in support of Gong Ziyu, but Gong Shangjue questioned his lineage. During a confrontation between Gong Ziyu and Gong Yuanzheng, Gong Shangjue slapped both of them. Gong Ziyu, taken aback, quietly resolved to reclaim his dignity in due time.

Gong Shangjue sent someone with portraits of Yun Weishan and Shangguan Qian to their hometowns for verification. This made Yun Weishan a bit anxious. She sought out Shangguan Qian to discuss countermeasures. However, Shangguan Qian was unconcerned because she was indeed Shangguan Qian, while Yun Weishan had assumed a false identity. Yun Weishan believed fleeing would be the best option, but Shangguan Qian suggested she wait.

Since Wufeng had sent her on this mission, they would surely help her resolve the issue. Yun Weishan recalled what Han Yasi had once told her: no matter the situation, she must always insist she is Yun Weishan. With that thought, she gradually calmed down. Gong Shangjue informed his younger brother that the carrier pigeon had delivered the verification results, and they should now retrieve their hidden weapons and put on a convincing act.

Meanwhile, Shangguan Qian came to Yun Weishan, asking what she would do if the information turned out to be different than expected. Yun Weishan replied that she would have to accept her fate. Shangguan Qian suggested she could take her hostage to escape, but Yun Weishan felt that wouldn’t work—would the Gong family really let a Wufeng assassin go just to protect Shangguan Qian? Shangguan Qian said the jade pendant she carried actually belonged to Gong Shangjue.

Until her origins were clarified, Gong Shangjue would make sure she stayed alive. It seemed like Shangguan Qian was looking out for Yun Weishan, but upon closer thought, Yun Weishan realized that if she did as suggested, Shangguan Qian would clear herself of suspicion—it was all for her own benefit. At that moment, someone came to summon them to the Sword Wielder’s Hall. Both were uneasy, especially Yun Weishan, unsure whether Han Yasi had made arrangements in advance.

Gong Shangjue revealed the results: Shangguan Qian's identity checked out, but Yun Weishan's was in question. Gong Shangjue asked whether her home had been burglarized on the day she came to the Gong residence. Yun Weishan claimed a thief had indeed broken in, but since nothing valuable was stolen, they didn’t report it. Gong Shangjue pressed further, saying the neighbors around the Yun household didn’t recognize the person in the portrait.

Yun Weishan insisted she was the eldest daughter of the Yun family from Lixi Town—perhaps someone had swapped the portraits. Seeing Gong Shangjue pressing aggressively, Gong Ziyu stepped in front of Yun Weishan to shield her. Seeing his tactic had failed, Gong Shangjue revealed the truth: a neighbor had vouched for Yun Weishan. She knew Han Yasi must have interfered somehow, and she gradually relaxed.

With the identities of the two brides confirmed, Gong Ziyu suddenly called for the steward Jia from the pharmacy. Steward Jia glanced at Gong Yuanzheng and pointed him out as the one who ordered the substitution of herbs in the Baicaocui formula, which led to the poisoning and death of the Sword Wielder and the young master. Gong Yuanzheng furiously denied the accusation, calling it slander. But Gong Ziyu was convinced it was true.

Gong Shangjue proposed imprisoning Steward Jia for interrogation. Upon hearing this, Steward Jia immediately released a smoke bomb and fled. Although the Gong family had all taken Baicaocui and were resistant to the poisonous smoke, Yun Weishan and Shangguan Qian fell unconscious due to poisoning. Gong Ziyu rushed to give Yun Weishan the antidote and then pursued Steward Jia. After the smoke cleared, everyone found Steward Jia dead in the courtyard with Gong Yuanzheng’s throwing dart in his body.

Gong Ziyu suspected he was silenced. Gong Yuanzheng scoffed that his dart only caused temporary paralysis—clearly, Steward Jia had taken poison he had prepared in advance. In response to Gong Ziyu’s suspicion, Gong Shangjue proposed imprisoning Gong Yuanzheng to investigate the truth, but warned that he wouldn’t tolerate torture. Gong Ziyu began doubting his own abilities, feeling that he was far inferior to Gong Shangjue and unworthy of the Sword Wielder’s title.

Jin Fan comforted him, while Gong Shangjue searched Steward Jia’s room and found a Wufeng assassin charm of the Mei rank. Gong Shangjue presented the charm to the elders and voiced his dissatisfaction with Gong Ziyu’s succession as Sword Wielder, demanding that he undergo the Three Realms Trial on the back mountain within a month. Elder Yue pointed out that Gong Shangjue himself had taken three months to pass the trial.

Gong Shangjue revised the deadline: as long as Gong Ziyu passed within three months, he would no longer object to the succession. The elders believed it was unnecessary for the current Sword Wielder to take the trial, but Gong Shangjue insisted. Gong Ziyu saw it as a chance to prove himself and accepted. After Gong Ziyu left, Gong Shangjue informed the elders of a conversation he had the night before the Sword Wielder and the young master died.

The young master told the Sword Wielder he had found a secret letter on Zheng Nanyi mentioning the supreme Gong family secret—Wuliang Liuhuo. The Sword Wielder then sent him out to investigate. With the assassin charm found, Gong Yuanzheng was cleared of suspicion. Gong Shangjue released him from the dungeon. Gong Shangjue speculated someone had planted the Wufeng charm in Steward Jia’s room not to help Gong Yuanzheng, but to harm him.

He then sent his younger brother to fetch Shangguan Qian. At the same time, Gong Ziyu arrived to fetch Yun Weishan. Shangguan Qian turned back midway, claiming she needed to retrieve a gift for Gong Shangjue. It was sealed with wax to prevent poisoning. She hinted to Yun Weishan to go back and check if anything was left behind, and Yun Weishan understood, asking Gong Ziyu if she could return briefly to check.

After receiving Shangguan Qian’s signal, Yun Weishan returned to her quarters to search but found nothing. Remembering Han Yasi’s teachings, she sensed Shangguan Qian meant something, but couldn't figure it out immediately and continued walking while pondering. Meanwhile, Gong Yuanzheng wanted to see what gift Shangguan Qian was bringing for his brother. Seeing her hesitant, he tried to snatch it. Shangguan Qian seized the moment to remove Gong Yuanzheng’s hidden weapon pouch.

Gong Yuanzheng discovered the gift was something resembling a golden token and mocked her, saying she didn’t understand his brother—he would never like such a thing. Though the Jue lineage residence was grand, it was deserted. Gong Yuanzheng explained that his brother preferred silence, and no servants would appear without his orders. Shangguan Qian said she needed to pay respects to Gong Shangjue per etiquette, but Gong Yuanzheng stopped her.

Then he brought out a bug to scare her, asking if she dared to undergo a lie test: if she lied, the insect’s sharp legs would pierce her skin, and she would rot to death within an hour. Shangguan Qian feigned panic but firmly took the bug, revealing that Gong Yuanzheng was merely testing her. A servant brought food. Shangguan Qian tested it with a silver hairpin and found no poison. She also checked the surroundings—everything seemed normal.

After tending to some spirit herbs, Gong Yuanzheng realized his hidden weapon pouch was missing. He had only interacted with Shangguan Qian and suspected her, ordering a search of her room. Shangguan Qian acted enraged and accused Gong Yuanzheng. Gong Shangjue arrived. Shangguan Qian hoped he would speak on her behalf, but he only listened to his brother and allowed the search to continue. When nothing was found in the room, they searched Shangguan Qian’s person.

Even when she shed tears, Gong Shangjue remained unmoved. The guards found a pouch on her, but it contained a jade pendant meant for Gong Shangjue. Then someone brought over Gong Yuanzheng’s missing pouch, saying Gong Ziyu had found it by the river. Gong Shangjue ordered Gong Yuanzheng to apologize to Shangguan Qian, and the matter was temporarily resolved. Gong Shangjue asked how she came by the jade pendant.

Shangguan Qian recounted that years ago, Gong Shangjue had coincidentally saved her, and the jade pendant had fallen from him at that time. It turned out that after stealing Gong Yuanzheng’s pouch, Shangguan Qian placed it in a marked spot while he wasn’t watching. Yun Weishan found it and handed it to Gong Ziyu, who recognized it and had it returned.

Late at night, Gong Ziyu couldn't sleep, haunted by memories of being bullied as a child and called a bastard. When he cried to his mother, she gave him no comfort. His father told him she treated him that way as well. Meanwhile, Yun Weishan was also troubled and went out for a walk, coincidentally running into Gong Ziyu.

They shared their feelings and grew closer, unlike the guarded tension between Gong Shangjue and Shangguan Qian—they were more like a couple. The next morning, Yun Weishan met Shangguan Qian in the kitchen. Shangguan Qian thanked her for the help, saying it would buy her half a month of peace. Yun Weishan, however, worried about what to do when the time was up.

As Gong Ziyu prepared for the trial at the back mountain, Yun Weishan carefully packed for him—food and a hand-sewn sachet to repel insects. Though it was useless to Gong Ziyu, he was touched and accepted it happily because it was made by her. Gong Zishang was frustrated after several failed attempts to develop a new weapon. After yet another explosion, a young man who called himself Xiao Hei pointed out the problem.

Gong Zishang was impressed by his insight and kept him around. When Gong Ziyu left, Yun Weishan offered to accompany him to the mountain entrance but was refused by Jin Fan and Gong Zishang. She could only urge him to take care. Gong Ziyu looked at her gently and reassured her to wait for his return. Yun Weishan noticed that Jin Fan looked troubled and suspected he knew something.

Though he had taken an oath, she questioned him with nods and shakes. When she learned the first trial tested internal strength, she offered to help Gong Ziyu. If he died, she wouldn’t survive either. Gong Zishang said she didn’t know martial arts and would only be a burden. Yun Weishan countered: if she could defeat Jin Fan, would she be allowed to help Gong Ziyu? In the ensuing match, Yun Weishan beat Jin Fan.

But he recognized her sword technique belonged to the Qingfeng Sect, which had been under Wufeng for years. Jin Fan then pressed his sword to her and demanded to know who she really was.

Yun Weishan was recognized by Jin Fan for using the Qingfeng Sect’s exclusive sword technique—Qingfeng Nine Forms. Since the Qingfeng Sect had already pledged allegiance to Wu Feng, Jin Fan questioned whether Yun Weishan was associated with Wu Feng. Yun Weishan explained pitifully that she came from an ordinary family and that over a decade ago, her father, while doing business, happened upon Zhuo Mei, who was being pursued by the Qingfeng Sect.

He saved her, and Zhuo Mei, out of gratitude, taught Yun Weishan the sword technique. However, Jin Fan did not believe this explanation. Yun Weishan added that Zhuo Mei had another motive—she wanted revenge and entrusted Yun Weishan to avenge her. Zhuo Mei had once been betrayed by her senior sister over love. Gong Zishang had heard of Zhuo Mei, who had stirred up a great commotion in the martial world back then.

Since Zhuo Mei had passed away, they couldn’t verify Yun Weishan’s story, but they could see her sincere intention to help Gong Ziyu. So, Jin Fan and Gong Zishang agreed to let Yun Weishan assist Gong Ziyu in his trial in the back mountain. Yun Weishan continued to play her cards, claiming she had heard from Shangguan Qian that Gong Shangjue and Gong Yuanzheng were plotting against Gong Ziyu, although she didn’t know the exact details.

This statement finally made Gong Zishang and Jin Fan lower their guard and start planning how to send Yun Weishan into the back mountain. Gong Zishang clung to Jin Fan every day, which irritated him but left him helpless. Gong Zishang knew Jin Fan was utterly loyal to Gong Ziyu, yet she jokingly tested her importance in his heart—whether she or Gong Ziyu mattered more. Jin Fan deeply bowed and chose Gong Ziyu.

Although Gong Zishang had expected this outcome, it still hurt her, and tears welled up in her eyes. As Gong Ziyu entered the cave, he encountered Elder Yue, who worried that Gong Ziyu, new to such an environment, might not adapt well and decided to accompany him for a while. As per tradition, Gong Ziyu had to be blindfolded. While walking, Elder Yue reminded him not to hesitate in his actions and not to regret his decisions.

He wasn’t doing this for himself anymore but bore the future of the entire Gong family and hoped he could stay firm on this path. Gong Ziyu silently counted the steps and asked Elder Yue if he was being led in circles. Elder Yue praised his carefulness and explained they were ascending, not moving on the same plane. Elder Yue led Gong Ziyu out of the cave.

When Gong Ziyu removed the blindfold, he was faced with his first trial—the Snow Palace. He hadn’t expected to see such a snowy scene in the back mountain, but he had no time to admire it, eager only to pass the trial. Young Master Xue and Xue Zhongzi welcomed him. Young Master Xue told him not to rush, that there was still time, and that he could rest before starting the trial.

Meanwhile, Jin Fan prepared a night outfit for Yun Weishan and mentioned he had something important to give her. He and Gong Zishang planned to distract the guards at the mountain entrance so Yun Weishan could slip in. Yun Weishan needed to enter the back mountain quickly because among the items she had prepared for Gong Ziyu was a scented sachet.

She could use the scent to find him, but the scent would only last for a maximum of twelve hours. Any delay would make tracking him difficult. Upon entering the cave, she found that the scent had nearly dissipated due to the smell from the candles lining the walls. The cave was filled with traps, so Yun Weishan tied up her braid and cautiously moved forward.

Xue Zhongzi led Gong Ziyu to a room to rest and gestured for him to eat. Gong Ziyu thought he was mute, and Xue Zhongzi simply played along. Young Master Xue lamented the increasingly dense miasma in the back mountain and hoped the new Sword Wielder could bear the responsibility and improve the environment. Xue Zhongzi didn’t have much faith in Gong Ziyu, given his low evaluation within the Gong family.

Xue Zhongzi handed a jade ring to Young Master Xue, asking him to take Gong Ziyu to the Ice Lotus Pool for his trial. The pool was located in Gong Ziyu’s room. Young Master Xue used the ring to unlock a tightly shut door, and the three entered a cold-filled room. He explained the first trial: beneath the cold pool lay a treasure chest containing the long-lost "Three Frost Techniques.

" Gong Ziyu had to endure the extreme cold and dive to retrieve the technique to pass. However, due to his natural cold constitution, this was an enormous challenge. Even Gong Shangjue was barely breathing when he completed this trial. Both Young Master Xue and Xue Zhongzi were not optimistic about Gong Ziyu’s chances. In the Jue lineage courtyard, Shangguan Qian led the servants in planting azaleas.

Gong Shangjue saw this and was furious, accusing her of making assumptions about his intentions. Gong Yuanzheng added fuel to the fire. Gong Shangjue ordered the servants to remove everything except the white flowers. Shangguan Qian felt a bit disappointed, but the servants were excited. Gong Shangjue’s change hinted that Shangguan Qian had a place in his heart. Ming Wuji, seeing Gong Zishang troubled by love, felt some pity.

She advised Gong Zishang to embrace her role as palace master and perhaps use the "play hard to get" strategy—maybe someday, Jin Fan would be chasing after her. When Ming Wuji returned to her room, she found the Gong Shangjue brothers had entered uninvited. Knowing they wouldn’t come without a reason, Gong Yuanzheng stated they wanted to know Gong Ziyu’s background. Gong Shangjue promised to help Ming Wuji leave the Gong residence and ensure no trouble would come her way.

Ming Wuji asked why they were so interested in Gong Ziyu’s origins. Gong Shangjue replied that he didn’t care personally, but if Gong Ziyu were to become the Sword Wielder, the truth must be uncovered. Yun Weishan failed to pass through the traps in the cave and was knocked unconscious. Xue Zhongzi rescued her and prepared an antidote, though he was suspicious of her identity. She claimed she had mistakenly entered the back mountain, yet she wore a night outfit.

Gong Ziyu had not fully prepared for the cold pool trial and returned to his room to warm up. Young Master Xue made him an herbal soup with snow lotus. Suddenly, they heard a commotion outside and rushed out to see Xue Zhongzi fighting with Yun Weishan. Gong Ziyu tried to intervene, but Young Master Xue stopped him. Yun Weishan was clearly no match for Xue Zhongzi.

Seeing Xue Zhongzi about to strike Yun Weishan with an ice shard, Gong Ziyu rushed forward to stop him, declaring that Yun Weishan was his Green Jade Attendant. Xue Zhongzi knew that Jin Fan was supposed to be his attendant, but Gong Ziyu said that, as Sword Wielder, he had the right to choose. Xue Zhongzi demanded she show the jade ring.

Gong Ziyu tried to cover for her, but Yun Weishan took it out—it turned out to be the important item Jin Fan had mentioned, the Green Jade Attendant’s jade ring. Seeing the jade ring, Xue Zhongzi put down his weapon. Young Master Xue proposed arranging a residence for Yun Weishan, but Gong Ziyu said she should stay with him since she was his betrothed, and the marriage had only been delayed due to mourning.

Back at his place, Yun Weishan told Gong Ziyu about her journey into the back mountain. Seeing her deep concern for him, Gong Ziyu felt warmed. He personally prepared porridge for her. Watching this scene stirred Yun Weishan’s heart. Her sister had once asked about her wishes—Yun Weishan said she just wanted a simple life, someone to cook for her, to live quietly away from the world. Perhaps this was what she had longed for.

Gong Ziyu wanted to grow closer to Yun Weishan and suggested calling her "A-Yun" from now on. Yun Weishan felt it sounded like a kitten’s name, but Gong Ziyu said he liked it. When he asked if the herbal porridge was bitter, Yun Weishan shook her head. Gong Ziyu promised she would never suffer again and that he would always protect her.

His words touched Yun Weishan’s heart, and tears rolled down her cheeks as she sipped the porridge, her feelings for him quietly changing. Elder Yue was assassinated. The assassin left taunting words written in blood, claiming the act was done by an anonymous Wu Feng assassin. Young Master Yue rushed to the front mountain. Numerous sky lanterns were released again in the Gong family. Gong Shangjue sensed trouble. Gong Ziyu also received the news.

As Sword Wielder, he was supposed to protect his family. If they were gone, the trial meant nothing. If he couldn’t protect them, he was unworthy of the role. Xue Zhongzi admired Gong Ziyu’s loyalty and hoped he would become as outstanding as his father. Yun Weishan watched Gong Ziyu leave, deep in thought. Elder Yue’s body was covered with a white cloth and placed in the council hall.

When Gong Ziyu arrived, he stated that Wu Feng assassins were still hiding within the Gong family. Given such a major incident, he questioned what the guards had been doing. Gong Yuanzheng gave an ambiguous reply, saying Elder Yue had deliberately sent away his guards, including his personal attendant, likely to meet someone important. By the time people noticed the strong scent of blood, Elder Yue was already dead.

Yun Weishan returned to the Yu lineage and unexpectedly found Shangguan Qian in her room. Yun Weishan was puzzled by Wu Feng’s frequent recent actions, fearing they’d be suspected again. Shangguan Qian believed the current incident wouldn’t target them, as it likely signaled internal strife in the Gong family. She was right—Gong Shangjue and Gong Yuanzheng pointed the blame toward Gong Ziyu. Yun Weishan’s Half-Moon Fly poison began acting up.

Shangguan Qian gave her a prepared suppressant, and Yun Weishan suggested adding gentian root for better effect. Gong Shangjue proposed taking over the investigation of Wu Feng’s assassins. Gong Ziyu argued that this was the Yu lineage’s duty. Gong Shangjue then brought up the trial, saying if Gong Ziyu ended it midway, it would count as failure. Elder Xue stood up to defend Gong Ziyu, saying his actions were out of deep emotion and deserving of an exception.

Gong Shangjue disagreed, claiming if they could break the rules for Gong Ziyu, then they could break them for anything. As Gong Ziyu insisted on continuing the trial, Gong Shangjue offered to manage all affairs of the Gong family and vowed to identify the assassin within ten days. If Gong Ziyu hadn’t passed the first trial by then, a new Sword Wielder would be chosen.

The two elders protested, saying such a rule never existed, but Gong Shangjue threatened to leave the Gong family if they didn’t comply. Gong Yuanzheng backed him up. At the height of the standoff, Young Master Yue suddenly appeared. According to Gong family rules, after Elder Yue’s death, his clan would appoint a successor. Gong Yuanzheng questioned Young Master Yue’s age and legitimacy, but Gong Shangjue reminded him to show proper respect.

Just then, Ming Wuji entered and declared she was willing to reveal Gong Ziyu’s background and provide both physical and eyewitness evidence. Gong Shangjue was surprised and asked why she changed her mind. Ming Wuji said she wanted a free life. Shangguan Qian came to help Gong Shangjue grind ink and secretly added bay laurel essential oil. Gong Shangjue saw through her little trick—the laurel’s flower language symbolizes victory.

Shangguan Qian wanted to win him over this way, just like how she planted azaleas earlier. The azalea’s flower language means "I will always belong to you. " Gong Ziyu used ice to adapt his body to the cold, trying to complete the trial quickly. Despite the biting chill, he forced himself to endure, thinking of Gong Shangjue’s relentless pressure. Yun Weishan and Shangguan Qian both suffered from their internal poisons.

Each tried to suppress the Half-Moon Fly’s toxin in their own way. Shangguan Qian restrained herself from circulating her internal energy, while Yun Weishan recalled what Han Yasi had once told her and suddenly thought of a solution.

Gong Ziyu attempted to experience the Cold Pool and entered an ice bucket for the trial, but ended up passing out from the cold. Fortunately, Yun Weishan arrived just in time to rescue him, otherwise his life would have been in danger. After waking up, Gong Ziyu learned that Yun Weishan had saved him. He suspected that Yun Weishan might have seen the secret script tattooed on his back.

Yun Weishan said she only saw his chest, and since they were husband and wife, it was no big deal. Yun Weishan was focused on helping Gong Ziyu pass the trial. She thought that a top-tier martial arts technique might help him overcome the first stage, which Jin Fan had mentioned was a test of inner power. Gong Ziyu said he had been practicing the "Melting Snow Mind Technique" since he was young because he had always feared the cold.

However, his cultivation of the technique was lacking. He recalled how his father forced him to train in freezing conditions, which he now realized was for his own good. Upon hearing this, Yun Weishan remembered her own life in Wufeng. She compared Han Yasi to her mother and shared her feelings with Gong Ziyu. She said that though parents show love in different ways, that love cannot be hidden. Gong Ziyu was moved and came to understand his father's intentions.

Yun Weishan suddenly came up with a way to rapidly boost Gong Ziyu’s inner power — using the Extreme Cold Poison to fight poison with poison. Gong Ziyu trusted Yun Weishan completely, but obtaining the Extreme Cold Poison was difficult since all poisons in the Gong family were managed by Gong Yuanzheng. Yun Weishan claimed that she had learned how to concoct the poison from Zhuo Mei and wanted to give it a try.

In truth, Yun Weishan also had a personal motive: she hoped to obtain gentian root to suppress the poison within her. Concerned that the Gong family's hidden guards might harm Yun Weishan, Gong Ziyu gave her a security map of the guards’ posts so she could avoid them. Yun Weishan was surprised by his trust. She took a lantern and headed to the medical hall, but was stopped by a hidden guard along the way.

Claiming she was fetching a calming remedy for Gong Ziyu, the guard let her through but urged her to return quickly. At the medical hall, Yun Weishan found the necessary herbs and also grabbed some to suppress her own internal poison before starting the preparation. Coincidentally, Gong Yuanzheng was also at the medical hall looking for Gong Ziyu's birth medical records. He discovered that the records were inaccurate. At that moment, he smelled someone concocting medicine and went to investigate.

Gong Yuanzheng held a blade to Yun Weishan and demanded to know the purpose of the poison she was preparing. Yun Weishan insisted she was making a calming remedy for Gong Ziyu. Gong Yuanzheng tried to trick her using the same parasite he once used to test Shangguan Qian, but Yun Weishan saw through the ruse. Gong Yuanzheng then made her drink the poison she had just made.

Yun Weishan did not hesitate and drank it — luckily, it could also suppress the poison within her. Gong Yuanzheng refused to let Yun Weishan leave. He attacked her to test her martial arts and even tried to kill her. Unexpectedly, Gong Ziyu and Jin Fan arrived in time and rescued Yun Weishan from his hands. Yun Weishan was touched to learn that Gong Ziyu had waited outside the medical hall out of concern for her.

She said the medicine was ready but was a bit short because Gong Yuanzheng had forced her to drink half of it. Gong Ziyu was worried and gave her his stock of Hundred Herbs Extract to detoxify her. Yun Weishan didn’t take it immediately but hid it in her sleeve. Gong Ziyu then took her hand, saying the roads were slippery in the dark and he’d lead her back to the Yu lineage. Yun Weishan felt warmth in her heart.

Gong Ziyu said that because he had always feared the cold, his hands were cold too — unlike Yun Weishan’s, which were warm. People say that warm hands reflect a warm heart. Yun Weishan commented that Gong Ziyu was someone who appeared cold but had a warm heart, opposite to herself. Gong Yuanzheng went to report to his brother about Yun Weishan concocting poison in the medical hall.

Gong Shangjue had already suspected Yun Weishan’s identity, believing she was not a true daughter of the Yun family. However, he had no evidence yet. Moreover, Gong Ziyu protected Yun Weishan wholeheartedly, so they needed to wait for the right time. Gong Ziyu took the medicine Yun Weishan prepared and recalled the martial arts chants his father had taught him in childhood. Gradually, he came to understand his father’s good intentions.

After recovering slightly, Gong Ziyu returned to the back mountain to continue the trial. He was in a good mood and exposed the identity swap between Young Master Xue and the Xue boy. Gong Yuanzheng went to Ming Wuji’s room to look for Lady Lan’s old medical records. After finding them, he encountered Jin Fan, who had come to see Ming Wuji.

Jin Fan was surprised to see Gong Yuanzheng and pretended not to notice, then waited outside to intercept him. They fought, and Gong Yuanzheng was no match for Jin Fan. Jin Fan seized half of the medical record, and Gong Yuanzheng fled in a panic. Back at the Gong residence, Gong Shangjue treated his brother’s wounds while discussing Jin Fan, suspecting he was no ordinary guard. Then, hearing a noise outside, they discovered Shangguan Qian, which raised Gong Shangjue’s suspicions.

Yun Weishan went to see Ming Wuji and asked if she had lost something. Ming Wuji immediately restrained her. From her moves, Yun Weishan deduced she was the Wufeng assassin “Nameless” hidden within the Gong family.

Ming Wuji suddenly grabbed Yun Weishan by the throat. Her moves were the same as Han Yasi’s. Yun Weishan instinctively concluded she was Nameless. Ming Wuji didn’t catch Yun Weishan’s muttered words but calmed herself and said she saw Gong Yuanzheng and Jin Fan fighting inside and outside her room — clearly over something important. Ming Wuji admitted she had indeed lost something: Gong Yuanzheng had taken Lady Lan’s medical record from when she was pregnant with Gong Ziyu.

Half of the record was seized by Jin Fan. Gong Zishang planned to hide the medical record with herself. Jin Fan worried it would put her in danger, but Gong Zishang cared less about danger and more about Jin Fan’s concern. Meanwhile, Gong Ziyu struggled mentally in the Snow Palace.

On one hand, he was naturally afraid of the cold and reluctant to enter the water; on the other, he felt a strong sense of responsibility, especially remembering the tragic deaths of his father and brother and the constant pressure from Gong Shangjue. In the end, he gritted his teeth and jumped into the freezing Cold Pool. Gong Ziyu tried hard to dive deeper, silently running the Melting Snow Mind Technique taught by his father. The cold gradually dissipated.

As he passed through the ice layer, he found the water at the bottom getting warmer, but his internal energy was being rapidly depleted. He hesitated again — if he continued downward to retrieve the box, he risked exhausting his inner power and dying. The only way to survive was to turn back. But he decided to gamble and dove to the bottom to grab the box. On the way back, he fainted due to inner power depletion.

At that moment, Yun Weishan suddenly appeared, transferring her breath and inner energy to Gong Ziyu mouth-to-mouth. Gong Ziyu regained consciousness. Yun Weishan gestured, showing a rope tied around her waist. Gong Ziyu understood and quickly surfaced with the box and the rope, then pulled Yun Weishan out. Yun Weishan woke up lying in bed. She recalled how Gong Ziyu had pulled her up and saved her, feeling a bit shy.

Gong Ziyu opened the box only to find it empty, leaving him confused. The Xue boy explained that obtaining the box itself meant he had passed the trial. This stage tested the resolve of the participant — if his mind wavered, he would turn back halfway. Only unwavering determination could bring him to the bottom. The Xue boy then returned the Green Jade Attendant token to Yun Weishan and said she could go back the next day.

He still had a few things to discuss privately with Gong Ziyu. The next day, Yun Weishan returned to her quarters and found Shangguan Qian waiting for her. Shangguan Qian directly stated she wanted Yun Weishan’s help retrieving what Jin Fan had taken. Yun Weishan refused, saying Jin Fan wasn’t as simple as he appeared. Though she had bested him once, he hadn’t even used thirty percent of his strength.

Moreover, he had taken half of Lady Lan’s medical record from Gong Yuanzheng. Shangguan Qian then realized how difficult her task from Gong Shangjue truly was. But the more difficult it was, the more determined she became — if she succeeded, she could get closer to Gong Shangjue. Yun Weishan refused to cooperate, knowing that the outcome could affect Gong Ziyu’s position as Sword Wielder. If Shangguan Qian succeeded, Yun Weishan’s mission would be voided.

Shangguan Qian insisted, using her status as a Charm-ranked assassin to pressure Yun Weishan, and physically subdued her, forcing Yun Weishan to agree. Yun Weishan specially made traditional pastries from her hometown in the kitchen and had a guard deliver them to Jin Fan. After eating them, Jin Fan felt unwell. Yun Weishan immediately informed Gong Zishang, who rushed over to check on him.

Taking advantage of the opportunity, Yun Weishan stole the half medical record and hid it in a secret spot marked with stones. Shangguan Qian saw the mark, took the record, and gave it to Gong Shangjue. Gong Shangjue was surprised she actually succeeded and curious how she managed something even he couldn’t do. Shangguan Qian lied, saying she had leverage over Yun Weishan and used it to force her to steal the record.

Gong Shangjue invited her to sit and play chess. Though his words were full of warning, it was clear their relationship had grown closer. Jin Fan realized the medical record was missing and suspected Yun Weishan. He and Gong Zishang confronted Yun Weishan, who played dumb. Jin Fan decided to let Gong Ziyu decide upon his return. Until then, Yun Weishan was not to leave her room.

Meanwhile, Gong Ziyu looked at the snowy scenery outside and recalled how his mother had once been gloomy. He lamented that he had spent his entire life in the Gong residence, watching the women yearn for the outside world but unable to change their fates. Though the men had the power to resist Wufeng, they chose to hide and preserve themselves. He admitted that he had little emotional attachment to the Gong family.

The Xue boy, however, offered a different view — that by guarding this pure sky alone, the Gong family gave people in the martial world something to yearn for. This was the Gong family’s purpose. He also told Gong Ziyu that Gong Hongyu had valued him deeply. Jin Fan was the only Red Jade Attendant, but Gong Hongyu assigned him to protect and accompany Gong Ziyu, even switching his Red Jade token for the lowest-rank Green Jade token.

Xue Zhongzi taught the Three Snow-Sweeping Techniques to Gong Ziyu, but the time was too short for Gong Ziyu to fully grasp them. He planned to return to the Gong residence, and before leaving, he told Xue Zhongzi that he would keep his promise to take them both out for a walk someday. He left the pastries Yun Weishan had made for Young Master Xue.

In return, Xue Zhongzi gave him a personally written note detailing the flaws in the Xue family sword techniques. Gong Ziyu left with deep gratitude, feeling the trip had been worthwhile. Gong Ziyu returned to the Gong residence full of joy, but only Jin Fan and Gong Zishang came out to greet him. The one he missed most, Yun Weishan, was not there.

He asked them about her situation, and Jin Fan briefly explained and told him to decide for himself. Gong Ziyu immediately went to Ming Wuji’s room, but the servant at the door said she didn’t want to see anyone, so he had no choice but to leave after sending his regards through the door. Then, he went to see Yun Weishan. He hesitated outside her room for a long time but didn’t open the door.

Yun Weishan, sensing he had inner turmoil, didn’t force the issue, and they began to talk through the door. Gong Ziyu said the first person he wanted to see upon his return was Yun Weishan. He wanted to tell her everything he had seen and heard at the Xue residence, but her actions made it difficult for him.

He could understand if Ming Wuji and Gong Shangjue had made a deal in pursuit of freedom, but he didn’t know what Yun Weishan wanted. If it was truly freedom, he would let her go. Yun Weishan, having promised Ming Wuji, couldn’t explain to Gong Ziyu at the moment and only hoped he would trust her. Gong Ziyu silently placed the gift he had prepared on the ground and left.

After Yun Weishan opened the door, she found the gift—a piece of cloud carved from thousand-year-old ice. She could feel Gong Ziyu’s affection but was also reminded of her identity. If she allowed herself to feel for Gong Ziyu, it would only lead to a tragic, inescapable ending. Elsewhere, Gong Ziyu recalled what Xue Zhongzi had told him and developed a different feeling toward Jin Fan. He asked Jin Fan whether all his sacrifices were worth it.

Jin Fan, initially puzzled when the old Sword Wielder exchanged his Red Jade Attendant token for a Green Jade Attendant one, had gradually come to understand his responsibilities, and his doubts had disappeared. Ming Wuji went to Madam Lan’s room, where the orchids and the portrait of Madam Lan brought back memories and sorrow.

She remembered the past with Madam Lan, who was always melancholic and had once scolded her for staying, saying that once someone entered the Gong residence, it was nearly impossible to leave. At that moment, someone summoned Ming Wuji to the council hall. She knew what was coming and had likely been waiting for it. Gong Shangjue confidently asked the three elders to verify Gong Ziyu’s identity, believing that with medical evidence and Ming Wuji’s testimony, victory was his.

To Gong Shangjue’s astonishment, Ming Wuji swore publicly that Gong Ziyu was indeed Madam Lan’s child, a premature baby, and exposed Gong Shangjue's attempt to recruit her. Gong Shangjue feigned composure and presented the medical record to the elders, trying to turn the situation in his favor.

Elder Hua confirmed it was written by a doctor from that time and stated that Gong Ziyu was not premature but born full term, proving Madam Lan was already pregnant before arriving at the Gong residence, thereby establishing that Gong Ziyu was not the son of the old Sword Wielder. Ming Wuji stepped forward, examined the record, and declared it a forgery with malicious intent. She knelt and begged the elders to investigate and clear Gong Ziyu’s name.

The elders immediately sent people to the medical bureau, and soon the guards reported that Madam Ling’s medical record was missing. Madam Ling, Gong Shangjue’s mother, had also come from Suzhou, as had Madam Lan. Both had been pregnant around the same time. Upon verification, it was discovered that the medical record Gong Shangjue presented actually belonged to his biological mother. This time, he had utterly lost.

Jin Fan, on Gong Ziyu’s order, was to escort Yun Weishan out of the residence and return her freedom. Yun Weishan felt reluctant but packed her things and left with him. Just as she was about to step out of the residence, Gong Ziyu ran up and stopped her.

He held her tightly and refused to let go, declaring that he would never let her leave again, as he now knew she and Ming Wuji had orchestrated everything to utterly defeat Gong Shangjue. Back at the Yu lineage, Ming Wuji explained the entire sequence of events, emphasizing Yun Weishan’s critical role. Gong Ziyu sincerely apologized to Yun Weishan, then asked Ming Wuji about what happened in the past.

Years ago, Gong Huanyu spared Madam Lan during a mission and told her to forget what happened. He fell in love with her at first sight, but Madam Lan had already developed feelings for a poor scholar. Later, the Lan family sought to ally with the Gong family and sent her as a bride. Gong Huanyu thought it was fate, but Madam Lan, haunted by her past, was perpetually sad.

Even after giving birth to Gong Ziyu, she remained melancholy and eventually died from emotional distress. Gong Shangjue was frustrated by his defeat and even drove Gong Yuanzheng away. Shangguan Qian wanted to comfort him, but Gong Yuanzheng told her not to bother, especially since the medical record she brought had caused all this. Yun Weishan had deceived her, which made Shangguan Qian upset.

Yun Weishan made medicinal food for Gong Ziyu. Seeing his gloomy expression, she tried to chat with him. Gong Ziyu said he had always observed people’s moods but never truly understood his parents or brother. Yun Weishan said she wanted to be a flower that could bring him comfort. Gong Ziyu, comparing people to flowers, said that to raise a flower well, one must praise it. Otherwise, even a glass of water can turn bitter if it's constantly criticized.

Yun Weishan curiously asked how to praise, and Gong Ziyu gently said she should be praised for her beauty, thoughtfulness, and eyes like stars. Yun Weishan joked that flowers don’t have eyes, and Gong Ziyu smiled, saying he wasn’t talking about a flower. Realizing his meaning, Yun Weishan blushed. At that moment, her poison flared up again, and she left in haste, with Gong Ziyu thinking she was just shy.

Shangguan Qian saw Gong Yuanzheng sitting alone and asked him about Gong Shangjue’s biological brother. Gong Yuanzheng, not wanting her to upset Gong Shangjue, spoke of Brother Lang. They had been very close, but ten years ago, both their mother and Brother Lang were killed by Wufeng, leading Gong Shangjue to deeply hate them. Since then, Gong Yuanzheng had become a substitute for Brother Lang—well cared for but never a true replacement.

Shangguan Qian later went to the Jue lineage and tried to pick up a cup Gong Shangjue had thrown. Sitting in the dark, Gong Shangjue shouted, startling her and causing a cut on her finger. Shangguan Qian tried to flatter him, saying he only appeared cold but was warm inside. Gong Shangjue had her come over and offered medicine but applied it painfully to make her realize he wasn’t gentle.

Shangguan Qian said her mother used to say that a wound heals faster if someone comforts it. Gong Shangjue noticed her hand was hot and told her to visit the medical bureau and get medicine. Shangguan Qian lied that she had a cold and wasn’t allowed in, so Gong Shangjue gave her his token, which granted unrestricted access in the residence. Gong Ziyu opened the box Ming Wuji had given him, filled with relics from the old Sword Wielder.

Inside, he found a note detailing the key techniques of the Three Snow-Sweeping Techniques. The next morning, he practiced according to the instructions and saw remarkable results. The ten-day deadline for tracking Wuming’s whereabouts had come, and Gong Ziyu, unwilling to miss a chance to retaliate, went to see Gong Shangjue with Jin Fan. Gong Shangjue, understanding his intent, analyzed the situation and pinned the suspicion on Ming Wuji.

Gong Ziyu accused him of revenge and demanded evidence, pointing out that the deadline had passed. Gong Yuanzheng reminded Gong Ziyu he still had two more trials in the Three Realms test and should save his energy. Realizing he couldn’t win, Gong Ziyu proposed a truce and left with Jin Fan. Shangguan Qian arrived, saying she wanted to go to the market to buy a calming pillow for Gong Shangjue, but he refused.

She then asked to visit the medical bureau, and Gong Yuanzheng agreed, saying he and his brother had more to discuss. After she left, Gong Yuanzheng said they just needed to wait a few days for Ming Wuji to slip up. But Gong Shangjue recalled a vow made ten years ago: to protect everyone in the Gong family and prevent further deaths. Yun Weishan’s poison flared up again, and it would be hard to last until the half-moon cycle.

She went to the medical bureau for medicine but was stopped by the guards without Gong Yuanzheng’s permission. At that moment, Shangguan Qian arrived with Gong Shangjue’s token, and the guards let her through. Shangguan Qian glanced back at Yun Weishan with a smug expression. Yun Weishan left a signal outside the bureau and arranged to meet Shangguan Qian at a nearby hill. In exchange for Shangguan Qian fetching medicine for her, she would trade it for her own supply.

But because Shangguan Qian didn’t bring enough, they had to return to the bureau again. Yun Weishan cleverly persuaded Gong Zishang to consider going to the Old Dust Valley. Then she called Gong Ziyu over, saying she wanted to celebrate his passing the first trial by visiting the market. Gong Ziyu initially refused but agreed after asking Yun Weishan.

Jin Fan was concerned about needing elder approval to leave the residence, but Gong Ziyu said there was no need—he was now the Sword Wielder and knew the secret exit well. The four of them left the residence through the hidden passage. The guards presented Yun Weishan and Shangguan Qian’s prescriptions to Gong Yuanzheng. After careful study, he found that although the two prescriptions appeared to be cooling and detoxifying medicines, if combined, they would form a deadly poison. Gong Yuanzheng became worried that Shangguan Qian might harm Gong Shangjue.

The marketplace was bustling with excitement, and all four found it quite novel. Yun Weishan candidly remarked that such a lantern festival was a great place for young people to fall in love. Gong Zishang, understanding her meaning, left Yun Weishan and Gong Ziyu some alone time. Gong Ziyu immediately sent Jin Fan to protect Gong Zishang and also instructed him to investigate Steward Jia’s residence.

At the Jue lineage, Shangguan Qian served the Eight Treasure Congee she had personally cooked to Gong Shangjue. Just as Gong Shangjue took the bowl and was about to take a sip, Gong Yuanzheng hurried in and suspected the congee was poisoned. He launched a hidden weapon to shatter the bowl. Gong Shangjue mistook this for an assassination attempt and retaliated with the porcelain shards. Gong Yuanzheng was struck in a vital spot and collapsed.

Gong Shangjue immediately called for help to save Gong Yuanzheng. Fortunately, an ancient ginseng helped preserve his life. Several Kongming lanterns once again rose above the Gong residence. Gong Shangjue, concerned for Gong Yuanzheng’s safety, held the dragon lantern Gong Yuanzheng had made and recalled past memories. Gong Shangjue’s mother and younger brother were killed by the people of Wufeng.

Gong Yuanzheng, having lost his father, had no one to teach him martial arts, so Gong Shangjue saw him as someone through whom he could express his yearning for lost loved ones. The two brothers got along well, until one day Gong Yuanzheng fixed the little tiger lantern made by Lang, which deeply upset Gong Shangjue. It was then that Gong Yuanzheng realized he was merely a replacement. Still, he remained fiercely loyal to Gong Shangjue.

Gong Shangjue transferred a great amount of internal energy to Gong Yuanzheng to help him recover. Just then, the guards brought news that Gong Ziyu had left the palace. He ordered them to keep a close eye on Yun Weishan and prepared to confront Gong Ziyu. He sensed that the invisible net was about to be revealed. Meanwhile, Gong Ziyu and Yun Weishan were enjoying riddles and exploring the market, having a wonderful time.

Gong Zishang wanted to find the largest lantern, hoping Jin Fan would spot her right away. She ended up buying an entire cart of lanterns. Seeing this, Jin Fan hesitated to approach her—until two ruffians tried to harass her. Jin Fan stepped in to help and gave her a firefly lantern he had bought. Gong Zishang cherished it and wanted to name it "Little Jin Zishang," but Jin Fan thought "Little Jinshang" sounded better.

They then went to check Steward Jia’s home and found that someone else had already been there investigating. Gong Ziyu bought two red threads and tied one to himself and one to Yun Weishan, symbolizing their mutual affection. As they walked with lanterns in hand, someone suddenly snatched the necklace from Yun Weishan’s neck. The ring on it was a memento from her sister and extremely precious. Gong Ziyu immediately chased after the thief.

Yun Weishan suspected it was a ploy to distract Gong Ziyu. Sure enough, a flute sounded, and she saw Han Yasi and followed him. Gong Ziyu caught up with the thief, who, unable to overpower him, obediently returned the necklace and begged for mercy. Gong Ziyu spared him, saying he was in a good mood today. When Gong Ziyu returned, Yun Weishan was gone.

He finally found her walking into Wan Hua Tower, just as he noticed Jue lineage guards spying on them. He revealed his Sword Wielder token and ordered the guards to stay put, then entered Wan Hua Tower alone. Inside Zi Yi’s room, Yun Weishan met Han Yasi. She suspected Zi Yi was a higher-ranking assassin, but Zi Yi didn’t confirm her identity.

Yun Weishan claimed she was there to get the antidote for herself and Shangguan Qian, as Shangguan Qian couldn’t leave. She exchanged intel for two portions of antidote. Suddenly, an alarm signal rang. Han Yasi fled through the window. As Yun Weishan turned to leave, she bumped into Gong Ziyu. Yun Weishan saw the signal from the teacup—it meant to eliminate Gong Ziyu and retreat. She noticed Han Yasi on the roof aiming a crossbow at Gong Ziyu.

After a brief hesitation, she stepped in front of Gong Ziyu and claimed she was there just to meet Zi Yi, having heard that he often visited her. Zi Yi played along. Gong Ziyu clarified that nothing had happened between them. Yun Weishan wouldn’t move aside. Seeing this, Zi Yi gave the signal and Han Yasi lowered his crossbow and left. Gong Ziyu took Yun Weishan’s hand and they left Wan Hua Tower.

The Jue lineage guards watching from outside assumed Yun Weishan had escaped and fired a signal arrow toward the Jue lineage. Just then, Gong Ziyu and Yun Weishan appeared before them. Ming Wuji was attacked by someone in disguise who fought with Xiao Hei. Unable to win, she fled and returned to her room, where she collapsed coughing blood—it was Shangguan Qian. When she awoke, she heard guards bustling outside.

She quickly cleaned up the blood and changed into her night robe. Just then, someone knocked—Gong Shangjue came to question her. Learning of the situation, he was about to order the door broken down when Shangguan Qian sleepily opened it. Gong Shangjue asked why she took so long to open the door. Shangguan Qian lied that she had taken some cold medicine and slept deeply.

Gong Shangjue had the room searched and noticed a heavy scent of incense, raising his suspicion. He found a drop of blood in the washbasin and turned to question her.

Faced with Gong Shangjue’s interrogation, Shangguan Qian didn’t know how to explain. The guards found a pair of shoes in her room with bloodstains and porcelain shards on the soles. Gong Shangjue suspected she was Wuming and ordered her imprisoned for interrogation. In the council chamber, many doubted that Shangguan Qian was Wuming. Gong Shangjue expressed his suspicion—her martial arts didn’t match Wuming’s level. Instead, Ming Wuji seemed suspicious, possibly staging the whole incident.

Elder Feng questioned how they explained the stealth clothes found in Shangguan Qian’s room. Gong Shangjue said to wait until he finished interrogating her. As the Sword Wielder, Gong Ziyu was punished for taking a woman outside the Gong residence and was confined in the Elders’ Hall. He had Jin Fan relay to Yun Weishan not to worry about him. Yun Weishan did feel guilty and was even more shocked upon hearing that Shangguan Qian was Wuming.

If Shangguan Qian were exposed, Yun Weishan’s own situation would also be in danger. At that moment, Shangguan Qian, tortured by two rounds of punishment, hung there covered in wounds. Gong Shangjue pressured her with harsher threats. Pretending to be terrified, Shangguan Qian asked if she would be spared if she told the truth. Gong Shangjue didn’t promise, only saying he wouldn’t let her suffer. After some thought, Shangguan Qian revealed her secret.

She wasn’t actually the young lady of the Shangguan family, but a survivor of the Gushan Sect. Years ago, Gushan was wiped out by Wufeng and Qingfeng. She alone survived and was later adopted by the Shangguan family. To repay their kindness and seek protection, she agreed to join the Gong residence. She said she had a blood feud with Wufeng for killing her father.

Upon hearing Gong Shangjue’s suspicion of Ming Wuji, she had gone to investigate and witnessed Ming Wuji staging the scene. Her injuries were self-inflicted. Gong Shangjue was half-convinced and tested her with poisoned wine. Shangguan Qian asked to be released, saying she had proof she was from Gushan. Gong Shangjue saw the birthmark on her neck and finally believed her. Gong Shangjue told all this to the now-recovering Gong Yuanzheng.

Gong Yuanzheng still found Shangguan Qian suspicious, as well as Ming Wuji. Just then, the guards reported that Ming Wuji had regained consciousness. Gong Shangjue went to “visit” her—ostensibly to check on her health, but in truth to probe for details. Gong Ziyu visited Ming Wuji, saying last night’s assassin Wuming was targeting him, and apologized for alarming his aunt.

Ming Wuji said at her age it didn’t matter, but Gong Ziyu carried the Gong family’s future and bore a heavy burden. Then Gong Shangjue arrived and questioned what had really happened. Gong Ziyu also wanted clarity. Ming Wuji’s account contradicted Shangguan Qian’s. Gong Shangjue couldn’t tell who was lying. Yun Weishan spoke up for Ming Wuji, saying the wound on Elder Yue didn’t match Ming Wuji’s soft sword length—proving she wasn’t the killer.

Gong Shangjue keenly picked up a flaw in Yun Weishan’s words, asking how she knew the wound’s length. Thankfully, Ming Wuji said she had told Yun Weishan, resolving the issue. Gong Shangjue then reported the entire situation to the elders, clearing Shangguan Qian of suspicion. The elders handed her over to Gong Shangjue. As he was about to leave, he overheard the elders discussing activating Wuliang Fire to intimidate Wufeng. He quickly objected, saying the time hadn’t come.

Gong Ziyu asked what Wuliang Fire was. Gong Shangjue scoffed, saying he should first pass the Three Realm Trial. Shangguan Qian only had superficial injuries. Yun Weishan visited her and brought a ginseng root, but even the box was held for inspection by Gong Yuanzheng. Yun Weishan secretly passed the medicine to Shangguan Qian and loudly acted out a scene, while secretly exchanging information—sharing that Ming Wuji might be Wuming. Gong Ziyu was about to enter the second trial.

Jin Fan asked if he had any instructions. Gong Ziyu asked him to protect Ming Wuji in case Gong Shangjue tried anything. They mentioned Steward Jia, who had a son in old age. The boy fell seriously ill two years ago but was cured by a Gong family doctor. Though he lived, he became strange and suddenly possessed great strength. Gong Ziyu told Jin Fan to keep investigating. Gong Ziyu and Yun Weishan were blindfolded and brought to the wild.

Young Master Yue personally received them. They boarded a boat to the trial site. Though everything seemed calm, the danger was real. Shangguan Qian struggled to drink the medicine when Gong Yuanzheng suddenly appeared, accusing her of feigning pity to gain Gong Shangjue’s sympathy. He said her brows and eyes screamed “Wufeng. ” Just then, Gong Shangjue arrived and personally fed her the medicine. Gong Yuanzheng watched, seething with jealousy. After leaving Shangguan Qian’s room, Gong Shangjue comforted Gong Yuanzheng.

A guard reported the thief from the Lantern Festival night was under Zi Yi’s orders. Zi Yi’s real name was Ye Xiao. She was sent to the Human Market, a place for the amusement of the wealthy. Her father and brother died there, and she was sold to Wan Hua Tower. Such a background aroused Gong Shangjue’s suspicion. Gong Ziyu asked Young Master Yue about the second trial. He said to wait until they landed.

As soon as the boat docked, his attendant attacked Gong Ziyu while he himself fought Yun Weishan. Gong Ziyu easily defeated his opponent with the Three Snow Styles. Young Master Yue used the same moves as Ming Wuji, Shangguan Qian, and Han Yasi to subdue Yun Weishan.

Gong Ziyu was very surprised to see Elder Yue restraining Yun Weishan and immediately pointed his sword at him, worried that he might harm Yun Weishan. Elder Yue only let go of her after feeding her a poison, then told Gong Ziyu that the poison was called "Moon of Heart Corrosion. " Gong Ziyu would only pass the second trial if he could concoct the antidote and save Yun Weishan.

Elder Yue then brought them to a place filled with medicinal texts and gave Gong Ziyu some hints. But there were simply too many texts, and Gong Ziyu feared that Yun Weishan would succumb to the poison before he found the antidote formula. Elder Yue told him to use his intellect—he would find a solution. Gong Ziyu calmed down and analyzed the situation.

Since Elder Yue said the Moon of Heart Corrosion takes half a month to take effect, it must be a slow-acting poison. With that line of thought, Gong Ziyu began his search patiently. Suddenly, he saw Yun Weishan faint on the ground. He hurried over, picked her up, and laid her on the bed. Not long after, Yun Weishan woke up and told Gong Ziyu her symptoms. At this moment, Elder Yue came to check.

Gong Ziyu revealed that "Moon of Heart Corrosion" was not the real name of the poison—it should be "Fly of the Half Moon," which matched Yun Weishan’s symptoms. Yun Weishan was shocked and saw hope that she would no longer be controlled by the poison. Elder Yue deliberately mentioned two medicinal herbs, Wújiāng and Jiěmáo, but one crucial ingredient was still missing. He had torn that critical page from the book to test Gong Ziyu’s capabilities.

After Elder Yue left, Gong Ziyu racked his brain in frustration. At that moment, he heard Yun Weishan murmuring in her sleep that the key ingredient was insect eggs. Gong Ziyu was skeptical but noted it. Elsewhere, Han Yasi met with Han Yaqi at the Wanhua Pavilion. Han Yasi handed over something Yun Weishan had retrieved and boasted about how his disciple played a crucial role this time.

Han Yaqi wanted to see what Yun Weishan had acquired, but Han Yasi refused to tell him, saying he would find out when Shangguan Qian sent out the next piece of intelligence. Following the instructions in the medicinal texts, Gong Ziyu concocted an antidote for the Moon of Heart Corrosion. But Elder Yue warned that the antidote was extremely potent and that most people couldn’t endure the pain.

Gong Ziyu, concerned about the effects and side effects, decided to test it on himself. He took the poison and then forced himself to drink the antidote he had made. He collapsed in pain, and in his daze, he seemed to see Yun Weishan running toward him. When Yun Weishan learned that Gong Ziyu had taken the poison to save her, she was deeply moved.

She thought it wasn't worth it, but Gong Ziyu believed it was—because Yun Weishan was the most important person to him. Yun Weishan was touched by Gong Ziyu’s actions and reminded him that they should discuss everything together in the future. Gong Ziyu promised that from now on, he would never keep anything from Yun Weishan. He asked her if she would ever deceive him.

Yun Weishan hesitated and only said she was loyal to him, but didn’t promise not to lie. She recalled the warnings from Shangguan Qian and Han Yasi—that the most dangerous thing for a spy is to fall in love, and now she was already deeply entangled. When Yun Weishan saw Gong Ziyu asleep in the Moon Palace, she quickly fetched a blanket to cover him.

Gong Ziyu woke up and felt moved, thinking he should have been the one taking care of her. Gong Yuanzheng came to tell Shangguan Qian that Gong Shangjue had gone out and that she should rest and not wander around. Shangguan Qian asked where he had gone, and Gong Yuanzheng inadvertently mentioned the back mountain. She was surprised to learn that the Gong residence had a back mountain. Realizing his slip, Gong Yuanzheng quickly changed the subject.

Gong Ziyu became increasingly reckless in testing antidotes to perfect the formula. Elder Yue couldn’t bear to watch and was about to reveal the truth when Gong Shangjue arrived and stopped him. Gong Shangjue tested Yun Weishan but found no signs of paralysis, indicating she had either taken the antidote or undergone poison resistance training. The people of Wufeng had been opposing the Gong family for years, and only they would train in poison resistance.

He tried to take Yun Weishan back to the Gong residence for interrogation, but Gong Ziyu blocked him. Elder Yue then produced a truth-telling herb. Yun Weishan had no choice but to drink it. In a daze, she recalled what Han Yasi had told her and the intense training she had endured. She managed to get through it, and Gong Ziyu let out a sigh of relief. Her perseverance temporarily cleared her of suspicion.

Elder Yue said the herb’s effects would wear off in half an hour. Before that, Gong Ziyu asked Yun Weishan if she liked him. Unexpectedly, Yun Weishan resolutely said, “I don’t,” leaving Gong Ziyu heartbroken.

Gong Ziyu was deeply upset because Yun Weishan, under the effects of the truth herb, said she didn’t like him. He had thought their feelings were mutual but now realized he was the only one invested. Despite his frustration, he hoped the truth herb had failed. After calming down, he decided to focus on creating the antidote. The responsibility of the Gong family was too great—he couldn’t be distracted by personal feelings.

Elder Yue saw through his thoughts and advised that sometimes a bit of selfishness isn’t a fault—unresolved emotions could be the one bright light in a dark heart. Gong Ziyu came up with a plan. He claimed he had found the antidote and invited Elder Yue to verify it. He told him the antidote was still brewing and offered him tea while waiting. Elder Yue drank the tea and soon became dazed—it had been laced with the truth herb.

Gong Ziyu then questioned him about the ingredients and quantities for the antidote. Although he felt shame for using such a method, he believed it was worth it to save Yun Weishan. The servants of the Moon Palace delivered the antidote ingredients, but the most crucial herb, Xūyú grass, was in limited supply—only enough for one dose. Gong Ziyu asked whether the herb could be found at the front mountain clinic.

The servant replied that all medicinal materials go to the Moon Palace first, and if it wasn’t there, it couldn’t be found anywhere in the Gong family. In fact, this was a test from Elder Yue to see how Gong Ziyu and Yun Weishan would choose. Gong Ziyu quietly played the qin while Yun Weishan listened from afar. After finishing the piece, he asked why she didn’t come closer.

Yun Weishan said she was afraid of disturbing him, but Gong Ziyu replied that it didn’t matter—if not for his numb legs, he would have gone to her. Yun Weishan then sat beside him. Two bowls of medicine were delivered—one to reduce Gong Ziyu’s internal heat, and the other to dispel Yun Weishan’s chill. Gong Ziyu then pulled out the antidote, saying he had prepared it specifically for Yun Weishan.

Knowing there was only one dose of the antidote, Yun Weishan pretended she would take it but suddenly subdued Gong Ziyu and forced it into his mouth. Then she drank her own medicine in one gulp. Gong Ziyu wasn’t angry—instead, he was overjoyed. He said he had made a bet with heaven: the real antidote was actually in Yun Weishan’s bowl. This proved that Yun Weishan liked him.

Upon hearing the truth, Yun Weishan was shocked and burst into tears in Gong Ziyu’s arms, overwhelmed with emotion. Suddenly, she began coughing violently and vomited blood before fainting. Gong Ziyu thought something had gone wrong with Elder Yue’s antidote and struggled to carry her back to the room. Shangguan Qian accidentally overheard Gong Shangjue and Gong Yuanzheng mention "Chuyun Chonglian," a miraculous medicine that could bring someone back from the brink of death.

At that moment, someone came to inform her that Ming Wuji wanted to share some Gentian root for healing. Shangguan Qian took the opportunity to visit the Yu lineage. When she met Ming Wuji, they both revealed their identities. Ming Wuji was curious why Shangguan Qian’s target was Gong Shangjue instead of Gong Ziyu. Shangguan Qian didn’t explain, nor did she mention Yun Weishan—Wufeng's rule was to never interfere in each other’s missions.

Gong Ziyu believed there couldn’t be anything wrong with Elder Yue’s antidote. He recalled the three herbs Elder Yue had mentioned—the first characters of their names formed the phrase “no need to cure,” suggesting that the poison only caused pain but wasn’t fatal. Soon, Yun Weishan woke up. She opened the window and saw Gong Ziyu playing the qin outside with a cheerful expression. When she went out to check, she found his paralysis was gone.

Gong Ziyu told her that the poison of Moon of Heart Corrosion required no antidote. Elder Yue then arrived and congratulated Gong Ziyu on passing the second trial. He addressed him as Sword Wielder, acknowledging him officially. In truth, he had wanted to tell Gong Ziyu everything when he tested the antidote himself, but Gong Shangjue arrived, and he said nothing.

The Fly of the Half Moon only caused bodily pain and wouldn’t be fatal—in fact, depending on the person, it could even enhance one’s inner strength. Gong Ziyu told Yun Weishan to return and report the news. Elder Yue still had techniques to teach him for passing the next stage. Yun Weishan went back and informed Ming Wuji, Gong Zishang, and the others. Everyone was happy for Gong Ziyu.

Meanwhile, a servant followed Gong Shangjue’s order and delivered new clothes to Shangguan Qian. Gong Yuanzheng, seeing his brother’s attentiveness toward her, felt dissatisfied—his emotions were written all over his face, which Gong Shangjue noticed instantly. Gong Ziyu deliberately cut his finger and used the excuse of getting wound medicine to steal some truth herb. In Elder Yue’s room, he discovered women's belongings.

He remembered the silver bracelet Yun Weishan had picked up during their sparring session—she had reacted strongly to it. It turned out the bracelet was one of Elder Yue’s personal keepsakes. Elder Yue later taught Gong Ziyu the three styles of Moon Severing, which appeared more powerful than the three styles of Snow Brushing. He explained that these moves required strong internal energy to be effective—otherwise, they were merely ornamental.

Jin Fan was drinking with the guards to celebrate Gong Ziyu’s success in the second trial. One guard told Jin Fan that on the night the former Sword Wielder and young master were killed, he had seen a graceful young man pass by the dungeon while he was drunk. The man’s figure was similar to Elder Yue’s—this raised Jin Fan’s suspicions.

The relationship between Gong Shangjue and Shangguan Qian unconsciously grew closer. After Shangguan Qian returned from Ming Wuji, Gong Shangjue came to visit her, comforting her and saying there was no need to compromise with Ming Wuji for the sake of gentian. Shangguan Qian said she didn’t feel wronged. What she did was not only for Gong Shangjue, but also for herself—because her goal was to find Wuming.

Gong Shangjue looked meaningfully at the flower buds beside them and said that once these flowers bloom, he’ll know whether he truly likes her. Gong Ziyu stole the Truth-telling Herb from Elder Yue. Originally, he intended to use it on Gong Shangjue, but he wasn’t sure whether the herb was real or not. Jin Fan curiously asked if there really was a drug that could control people’s minds. Gong Ziyu directly handed him the herb to try.

Jin Fan thought he was being set up. Helplessly, Jin Fan drank the decoction. Though he felt slightly dizzy, he could tell that the so-called Truth-telling Herb wasn’t real. Gong Ziyu secretly rejoiced—this meant that Yun Weishan’s earlier claim that she didn’t like him wasn’t genuine. However, she also denied being an assassin from Wufeng. Was that part true? Gong Ziyu began to question it.

Thinking back to Yun Weishan’s expression when she saw Elder Yue’s bracelet and the words she said before leaving, Gong Ziyu suspected that Yun Weishan was using code to arrange a meeting with Elder Yue at the Yu Palace. Indeed, Yun Weishan found an excuse to send away the servants in the medicine room, then poured the herbs from her pouch into the medicine pot. She intended to knock the guards out and create a chance to meet Elder Yue.

Gong Ziyu made arrangements in advance. To prevent the matter from being exposed, he had Jin Fan lead a group of armed guards to strengthen the Yu Palace’s defense. This scene was witnessed by Gong Yuanzheng, who quietly followed them, only to discover that all the servants in the Yu Palace were unconscious. Just as he was about to investigate, Jin Fan blocked his path.

Meanwhile, Elder Yue arrived to meet Yun Weishan and confirmed that he did know Yun Que. Yun Weishan then revealed that she was an assassin from Wufeng. She wanted to learn the truth behind her sworn sister Yun Que’s death. Hearing this, Gong Ziyu panicked and immediately entered, declaring that he didn’t want to hear any explanations from Yun Weishan. What intrigued him more was why Elder Yue would help someone from Wufeng.

At the Jue Palace, Gong Shangjue was soaking in a hot spring infused with healing herbs. When Shangguan Qian arrived, he invited her to join. Though he appeared cold, his heart was warm—Shangguan Qian had already entered it without realizing. Shangguan Qian asked Gong Shangjue to help her take revenge. She wanted to eliminate Dian Zhu of the Qingfeng Sect, who had exterminated her entire family.

Gong Shangjue asked why she came all the way to the Gong residence instead of seeking revenge directly. Shangguan Qian explained that two years ago, she had poisoned Dian Zhu once, but he remained unharmed. The poison was extremely potent, and without the Gong family’s secret antidote, Baicao Extract, it would be incurable. Gong Ziyu pressed Elder Yue for an explanation. Elder Yue then revealed that Yun Que had once infiltrated the Gong residence to steal Baicao Extract.

At that time, only Yun Que had practiced the art of Breath Concealment. She hid inside a small wooden box to sneak in but was discovered by Gong Yuanzheng while searching for medicine in the medical hall. She fled and was rescued by Elder Yue, who was still Young Master Yue at the time. To protect Yun Que, he proposed making her his test subject for his newly developed anesthetic, Drunken Blood.

Initially, Yun Que was reluctant, but after Elder Yue’s persuasion, she changed her mind. Remembering her sworn sister Yun Weishan’s words, she chose to live bravely. As she spent time with Elder Yue, they developed feelings for each other. Elder Yue found new meaning in life. To avoid bringing trouble to him, Yun Que planned to leave the Gong residence. In Wufeng, if an operative went silent during a mission, they would keep sending people to find them.

So Elder Yue devised a plan—using his drug to fake Yun Que’s death and hanging her at the entrance of the Gong residence for three days as penance. This was meant to deceive both the martial world and Wufeng. However, after the three days, just when Elder Yue thought they could live happily, Yun Que vanished. He grieved deeply, his hair turning white overnight, filled with longing for her. Yun Weishan then recalled seeing Yun Que’s corpse.

Han Yasi had said Yun Que was killed by a Gong family sword technique, which deepened her hatred for the Gong residence. But Elder Yue was certain it wasn’t the Gong family who killed Yun Que. He suspected that Wufeng discovered her fake death and killed her to frame the Gong family. In truth, Han Yasi had brought Yun Que back to Wufeng, hoping to give her freedom.

Unexpectedly, the Wufeng leader killed her with one palm and blamed the Gong family. Han Yasi, who had raised Yun Que, was powerless to stop it. Holding her lifeless body, he was filled with grief and regret, weeping bitterly.

Elder Yue thought everything between him and Yun Que had been flawlessly executed. In fact, not only did Wufeng know everything, even Gong Shangjue had noticed clues. He guessed that Yun Que had used her body to smuggle Baicao Extract out of the Gong residence, which saved Dian Zhu’s life. Shangguan Qian pleaded with Gong Shangjue to help her kill Dian Zhu and offered everything she had in return. Gong Shangjue meaningfully asked her what she still had left.

Jin Fan and Gong Yuanzheng began fighting. Realizing he was no match, Gong Yuanzheng fired a signal arrow for help. Gong Shangjue rushed toward the Yu Palace upon seeing it. By then, Jin Fan had already subdued Gong Yuanzheng and brought him inside. As Gong Shangjue’s voice rang out from outside, Gong Ziyu decided to hide Gong Yuanzheng.

Since none of them could use acupuncture techniques, Yun Weishan stepped forward and sealed Gong Yuanzheng’s acupoints, then hid him in a cabinet. Gong Shangjue entered and demanded that Gong Ziyu hand over the person, but Gong Ziyu flatly denied having seen Gong Yuanzheng. He claimed that he only invited Elder Yue to clarify doubts about the Zhan Yue Three Styles. Though suspicious, Gong Shangjue found no sign of Gong Yuanzheng and had to leave.

Just then, Gong Yuanzheng, hidden in the cabinet, deliberately bit his tongue, and the strong scent of blood alerted Gong Shangjue. He opened the cabinet and rescued Gong Yuanzheng, threatening to turn the Yu Palace upside down unless they unsealed his acupoints. With no other option, Yun Weishan had to release them. From Yun Weishan’s technique, Gong Shangjue recognized a Qingfeng Sect method and concluded she was a Wufeng assassin. The two brothers immediately tried to capture her.

Gong Ziyu couldn’t just stand by—he stepped in to protect her. Elder Yue and Jin Fan also intervened. Gong Ziyu told Yun Weishan to hide in the Xue Palace. On her way out, Yun Weishan was wounded by Gong Yuanzheng’s hidden weapon. She struggled to the back mountain, where Xue Zhongzi removed the weapon but couldn’t neutralize the poison. Elsewhere, Shangguan Qian recalled her intimacy with Gong Shangjue and the advice she gave Yun Weishan not to fall in love.

She realized she herself had fallen and was torn by conflicting emotions. The conflict between Gong Ziyu and Gong Shangjue alarmed Elders Hua and Xue, who summoned everyone to the council hall. The elders asked both to explain. Each insisted on their own version. Gong Ziyu accused Gong Shangjue of trespassing the Yu Palace with weapons and injuring a Sword Wielder.

Gong Shangjue claimed he suspected Yun Weishan of being a Wufeng spy and sent Gong Yuanzheng to investigate, during which he discovered Elder Yue and Gong Ziyu shielding her. Gong Ziyu argued that Gong Shangjue, envious of his position as Sword Wielder, was framing him. He countered by noting that Gong Yuanzheng hadn’t been drugged and had investigated the Yu Palace at night. Though Gong Yuanzheng had no retort, Gong Shangjue refuted all the claims one by one.

He also pointed out that Elder Yue had used fake Truth-telling Herb, demanding that he write down the formula for Gong Yuanzheng to prepare on the spot. Elder Yue claimed it was his personal research and not to be disclosed. Elder Xue reminded everyone that the Elder Council also had records of Gong Yuanzheng’s poison formulas and asked Elder Yue to comply. Reluctantly, Elder Yue wrote it down.

After reading it, Gong Yuanzheng was furious—the ingredients were so rare that even the Gong family could barely obtain them. The debate continued without resolution. Gong Shangjue suggested bringing Yun Weishan back for questioning to uncover the truth. The elders agreed and ordered Gong Yuanzheng to lead a group to capture her at the Xue Palace. Gong Ziyu volunteered to go as well.

Later, Jin Fan took the chance to inform Gong Zishang and asked her to infiltrate the Elder Council and steal Gong Yuanzheng’s hidden weapon formula. This was arranged by Gong Ziyu, and someone would come to collect it. Gong Yuanzheng led Huangyu Guards to the Xue Palace to demand Yun Weishan from Xue Zhongzi. Gong Ziyu arrived and asked Xue Zhongzi about her.

Understanding the situation, Xue Zhongzi said he had sent Yun Weishan to pick snow lotuses herself—dangerous, but not life-threatening. Gong Ziyu asked Young Master Xue to retrieve the antidote. Young Master Xue handed over the jade pendant needed to access the Cold Pool. Using the jade pendant, Gong Ziyu entered the secret chamber and locked Gong Yuanzheng out, infuriating him to the point of threatening to blast the stone door with explosives.

Yun Weishan, knowing she had been poisoned with something incurable, urged Gong Ziyu to turn her in to clear his name. But Gong Ziyu told her he already regarded her as his wife and would never let anyone harm her. Meanwhile, Gong Zishang, with Xiao Hei’s help and Elder Yue’s assistance, successfully obtained the hidden weapon formula. Later, Young Master Xue arrived, took the formula, made the antidote, and gave it to Gong Ziyu.

But Gong Yuanzheng’s poison was unusual—they couldn’t tell which weapon had inflicted the wound. Ultimately, Yun Weishan recalled the formula Shangguan Qian had acquired and identified the weapon. After taking the antidote, she was cured. When Young Master Xue unlocked the stone door with a spare key, Gong Yuanzheng saw that Yun Weishan showed no signs of poisoning and was shocked. Everyone gathered at the Sword Wielder Hall.

Though Yun Weishan appeared unpoisoned, the sharp-eyed Gong Shangjue insisted on inspecting the wound. While poison could be cured, the injury couldn’t heal so quickly. Gong Ziyu stopped him, stating that Yun Weishan, as the Sword Wielder’s wife, shouldn’t be disrobed in public. Ming Wuji volunteered to inspect instead. Gong Shangjue then demanded Shangguan Qian accompany her, since all three were from Wufeng.

Yun Weishan thought she could escape this ordeal—unexpectedly, Ming Wuji suddenly changed her stance, declaring that there was indeed a wound on Yun Weishan’s shoulder. Yun Weishan was caught completely off guard.

Gong Ziyu never expected such a turn of events. He could only watch helplessly as Gong Shangjue took Yun Weishan to the dungeon for interrogation. Gong Shangjue, full of pride, believed he had won this round. He was certain he would pry the secret from Yun Weishan and use it to overthrow Gong Ziyu. Gong Shangjue ordered Yun Weishan to give up resistance. Even if she could endure torture, Gong Yuanzheng’s poison was not something she could withstand.

Even the most renowned tough men in the martial world could not resist it, let alone a weak woman like her. Gong Shangjue questioned Yun Weishan if she was a spy from Wufeng. To his surprise, Yun Weishan directly admitted she was. Such a straightforward answer left Gong Shangjue dumbfounded—he hadn't expected her to confess so easily. Seeing Yun Weishan even smile faintly, Gong Shangjue was furious. He rushed forward and grabbed her throat, attempting to strangle her.

At that moment, a guard reported that Jin Fan had come under Gong Ziyu’s order to deliver chicken soup to Yun Weishan. Only then did Gong Shangjue let go, but he had already guessed Gong Ziyu’s intentions: the soup must contain herbal extract to counter the poison he had forced Yun Weishan to drink. Gong Shangjue ordered his men to confiscate the soup and send Jin Fan away. Young Master Xue returned to Xue Palace.

Xue Zhongzi pretended to be angry to coax some words out of him, then took him to the front mountain to help Gong Ziyu, an exception to the rule. Gong Ziyu was worrying about how to rescue Yun Weishan and was overjoyed when the two arrived. However, to raid the dungeon, they needed gunpowder, so they headed to the place where Gong Zishang was developing it.

There, Xue Zhongzi encountered Young Master Hua, the dark-skinned young man who constantly worked with Gong Zishang on the gunpowder. Both had broken the rule about entering the front mountain and could only keep it from each other. Gong Shangjue was preparing to dig deeper into Yun Weishan’s secrets, but unexpectedly, a masked man appeared in the dungeon. The guards were knocked unconscious, and when Gong Shangjue saw the masked figure, he was greatly shocked.

Gong Zishang, hearing that everyone planned to blow up the dungeon wall to rescue Yun Weishan, initially backed out. But when Jin Fan called out “Zishang,” she immediately changed her mind and led the charge. Gong Yuanzheng arrived at the dungeon to inspect and asked whether Yun Weishan had confessed. Gong Shangjue shook his head. Just then, a deafening explosion echoed through the dungeon. Gong Shangjue rushed over to check.

The group had rescued Yun Weishan, and Gong Shangjue chased after them and engaged in a fight. In the end, he was seriously injured and taken back to Jue Palace by Gong Yuanzheng. Shangguan Qian panicked upon seeing this. Gong Yuanzheng told her to quickly summon the physician. While treating Gong Yuanzheng, Shangguan Qian chatted with him about Gong Shangjue and learned that his mother and younger brother Lang had been killed by Wufeng agents.

Gong Ziyu had gotten into big trouble and thought of the best way to avoid it—going to the back mountain to complete the third trial. According to Gong family rules, no one was allowed to disturb those undergoing trials in the back mountain for any reason. If Gong Ziyu passed the trial, he would rightfully become the Sword Wielder of the Gong family, and no one would dare trouble him.

After realizing this, everyone took action to persuade the elders to downplay the matter. Young Master Hua was harshly scolded by his father, Elder Hua, who was deeply disappointed. Gong Zishang was also summoned back to Shang Palace by her father, Gong Liushang, and reprimanded for neglecting her duties and always chasing after a Yu Palace guard. Rumors were spreading that the Shang lineage had become mere followers of the Yu lineage. Gong Ziyu arrived at Hua Palace.

Elder Hua asked Young Master Hua to explain the trial details. He explained that the third trial required Gong Ziyu to forge a blade from thousand-year black iron and then challenge six famous blades of Hua Palace. If his blade could defeat any one of them, the trial would be deemed successful. He also suggested that Gong Ziyu bring along his guards for forging, and specially requested approval from the Elders’ Court to summon Jin Fan to Hua Palace.

Gong Liushang believed Gong Ziyu could not pass the third trial because the final forging required a human sacrifice—offering the life of one’s own guard. Due to Gong Ziyu’s nature, he would never allow such a sacrifice. Upon hearing this, Gong Zishang immediately rushed out to meet Young Master Hua, determined to stop Gong Ziyu from sacrificing Jin Fan. After regaining consciousness, Yun Weishan found Elder Yue in her room.

He advised her to leave the Gong residence for her own and Gong Ziyu’s sake. Yun Weishan agreed. Not long after, Ming Wuji came to visit her and said she brought a gift from the former Sword Wielder for his daughter-in-law. But when Yun Weishan opened the brocade box, hidden weapons shot out and wounded her.

Jin Fan understood the true reason he was brought to assist Gong Ziyu in forging the blade when he saw the inscription near the furnace. He was already prepared to sacrifice himself. Ever since the old Sword Wielder ordered him to protect Gong Ziyu, he had understood his mission in life. Now, even if it meant sacrificing himself for the trial's success, he would not hesitate. But Gong Ziyu was unmoved.

Even if the trial failed, he would never throw his long-time brother into the fire. He felt that doing so would betray the Sword Wielder's core principle of protecting people within the Gong family. Gong Zishang, fearing for Jin Fan’s safety and that Gong Ziyu might have a sudden change of heart, immediately sent a signal to arrange a meeting with Young Master Hua, asking him to lead her to Gong Ziyu.

Young Master Hua repeatedly warned her not to take the wrong path, especially not to enter the ancestral hall. Yet Gong Zishang still took the wrong path. As she turned to go back, she accidentally discovered a secret—Ming Wuji had been injured by a masked man. Frightened, Gong Zishang abandoned her plan to rescue Jin Fan and rushed to the front mountain for help.

When she returned with people to rescue Ming Wuji, she unexpectedly found the imprisoned young master Gong Huanyu inside the ancestral hall, shocking everyone. Although Gong Ziyu didn’t sacrifice Jin Fan, he still managed to forge a blade through skill and perseverance. Only then did he understand that the so-called sacrifice was a ruse, a test of the trial taker’s heart and resolve.

Upon receiving the news, Gong Ziyu rushed back to the front mountain and saw the tortured and broken Gong Huanyu. Elder Yue checked him and found that his internal force had been completely destroyed. Gong Huanyu pointed out that it was Ming Wuji who had imprisoned him in the ancestral hall and that she was the nameless assassin from Wufeng. Gong Ziyu was stunned. He wished this wasn’t true.

Though he might doubt the elders’ suspicion of Ming Wuji, Gong Huanyu’s own testimony left him no choice but to believe. Gong Ziyu went to see Ming Wuji. She struggled to say something to him, but her throat was damaged and she could only let out a terrifying rasp. Yet her hand clutched tightly onto Gong Ziyu, unwilling to let go. As Gong Ziyu left, he happened to meet the elders’ men who had come to execute Ming Wuji.

Gong Ziyu could not stop them and left in sorrow. When he returned to Ming Wuji’s room, he saw the sugar-coated hawthorns she had specially prepared for him. All the moments of her care over the years flashed before his eyes, and tears silently streamed down his face. Yun Weishan came to comfort Gong Ziyu. He asked whether all Wufeng members were cold and heartless.

Yun Weishan explained that Wufeng taught people to cut off emotions and love, which was why their actions seemed devoid of feeling. Since coming to the Gong residence, she had a profound realization: the Gong family uses blades, Wufeng uses swords. A blade is single-edged—capable of protecting and killing. A sword is double-edged—hurting both others and oneself. Gong Ziyu again asked Yun Weishan if she liked him.

He tried to test her with a fake Truth Herb, but Yun Weishan saw through it. This time, she spoke her true feelings: she truly liked Gong Ziyu and could even do anything for him. Gong Ziyu also declared firmly that no matter what, his choice would always be Yun Weishan. This was the Oath Herb—he made a solemn vow. Gong Yuanzheng excitedly went to find Gong Shangjue.

Shangguan Qian, seeing this, curiously asked about it and learned that the cloud lotus Gong Yuanzheng had cultivated had bloomed. He kept two flowers for himself and his brother, and gave the third to Elder Yue for research. Shangguan Qian was disappointed to learn she wasn’t considered. The two then had a verbal spat—Shangguan Qian said the mat Gong Yuanzheng gave to Gong Shangjue ended up being given to her, while Gong Yuanzheng sarcastically called her green tea.

Shangguan Qian met with Yun Weishan to obtain a map of the secret exit from the Gong residence. Remembering Gong Ziyu’s assessment of Shangguan Qian, Yun Weishan didn’t mention the "half-moon fly" but handed her the map of the secret exit anyway. Shangguan Qian then secretly left the Gong residence to meet Han Yasi and discussed launching an attack during Gong Shangjue’s recovery period to eliminate the Gong residence in one strike.

Yun Weishan took out the words Ming Wuji had left for Gong Ziyu, which stirred his sorrow. Gong Ziyu asked her for a gift. Yun Weishan made a knife handle for him, but her message disappointed him. “To meet is to part” spoke more of farewell than reunion. Gong Ziyu expressed that meeting was fine, but he didn’t want to part—they should stay together forever.

After returning, Shangguan Qian speculated on Gong Shangjue’s intentions, believing he didn’t want Gong Ziyu to become the Sword Wielder. Gong Ziyu’s weakness was Yun Weishan. She presented irrefutable evidence of Yun Weishan being a Wufeng spy: a drawing that marked all the hidden sentries in the Gong residence and a map of the secret passages in and out of the palace. Meanwhile, as Yun Weishan prepared to leave the Gong residence with great reluctance, she was stopped by Gong Yuanzheng in one of the hidden paths.

Yun Weishan was captured and brought back by Gong Yuanzheng. Gong Shangjue took out the secret passage map and questioned Yun Weishan. Yun Weishan didn’t deny that she had drawn it. She explained that when she first arrived at the Gong residence, she was unfamiliar with the paths and had casually sketched it to avoid getting lost. However, the annotations on the map betrayed her.

She had written down all the times and shifts of the secret sentries, which clearly contradicted her claim of it being a guide map. Elder Hua was furious and raised his blade to execute the Wufeng spy on the spot. Just then, Gong Ziyu suddenly appeared and used his newly forged blade to block Elder Hua, engaging him in a fierce fight. In the end, Gong Ziyu forcefully broke Elder Hua’s weapon, stunning everyone.

Gong Ziyu looked at Yun Weishan, who was already standing at the secret passage entrance, and earnestly asked her if she truly wanted to leave. Yun Weishan expressed that both Wufeng and the Gong residence were the same — high walls trapping her freedom. Now, her only wish was to leave, and she told Gong Ziyu to forget that he ever met a woman named Ayun. She then turned and left, leaving Gong Ziyu standing there, heartbroken.

As Yun Weishan reluctantly left the Gong residence, the crowd wanted to stop her and even issue a kill order. Gong Ziyu, now the Sword Wielder, stopped them. Since he had just broken Elder Hua’s weapon, which was one of the six swords of the Hua lineage's sword tomb, he now officially held the position of Sword Wielder. No one was to trouble Yun Weishan. If she truly desired freedom, then so be it.

Everyone obeyed and knelt before Gong Ziyu. Gong Shangjue and Gong Yuanzheng also knelt helplessly. In the Old Dust Valley, Yun Weishan encountered members of Wufeng. They had gathered all their elite forces to wipe out the Gong family in one strike. Not only were there Chi and Mei-level assassins, but even the four Wang — usually never seen — had shown up. As for Liang, even Han Yasi had never seen him.

Yun Weishan was taken by Wang to the Wanhua Pavilion, where the plan to attack the Gong residence was revealed to her. She was also told to pose as the bride and participate in the mission. Yun Weishan didn’t want to stay at the Wanhua Pavilion, so she made up an excuse to leave. The group ordered Han Yasi to keep a close eye on her, as they didn’t fully trust Yun Weishan.

After leaving the Wanhua Pavilion, Yun Weishan found a way to get a flower rope vendor to notify Gong Ziyu and deliver Wufeng’s plan to him. She then encountered Han Yasi. After questioning her true intentions, he decided to let her go. The matter of Yun Que already made him feel guilty; he didn’t want Yun Weishan to follow Yun Que’s path. Yun Weishan looked at Han Yasi and remembered all the moments during their training at Wufeng.

She knew that Han Yasi liked watching sunsets, as it was a reflection of his melancholy. So after ranking first in one assessment, Yun Weishan requested a reward — to watch a sunrise with Han Yasi. She told him that no wall in the world could block the rising sun, hoping to change his outlook with this gesture. After Yun Weishan left, Gong Ziyu felt a bit lonely.

He knew the responsibility he bore and went to the Hua lineage to continue mastering the Mirror Flower Three Techniques. But this technique, among the Flower, Snow, and Moon lineages, was the hardest to master. Even the former Sword Wielder had only grasped two moves. Gong Ziyu could only practice slowly according to Young Master Hua’s guidance. Since Gong Ziyu had become the Sword Wielder, Elder Hua shared the secret of the Boundless Fiery Stream with him.

This involved the Gong family’s founding secret. Long ago, mutated humans were discovered behind the mountain of the Gong residence. To prevent them from wreaking havoc, the Gong ancestors developed the Boundless Fiery Stream. Its power was immense and could only be used in the event of annihilation of the Gong family. It was sealed, and the blueprints were divided — one part hidden in the Hua lineage, the other tattooed on each Sword Wielder's body.

Suddenly, bad news came from the front mountain — the place where Gong Zishang was developing gunpowder had exploded. Gong Zishang was seriously injured. Luckily, thanks to Elder Yue’s efforts, her life was saved, but it was uncertain when she would wake up. Jin Fan deeply regretted not expressing his love when she was still conscious. Gong Ziyu comforted him, urging him to believe she would recover soon.

Jin Fan caught fireflies to make a lantern for Gong Zishang and sat by her bed, muttering his hopes that she would wake soon and that he would do anything for her. Unexpectedly, Gong Zishang suddenly spoke and told him to marry her. Jin Fan was stunned. Gong Zishang asked him to inform Gong Ziyu immediately that she had something important to tell him and specifically reminded Jin Fan not to tell anyone she had regained consciousness.

Gong Ziyu and Gong Shangjue jointly reported to the elders. In fact, they had already reconciled — their seemingly confrontational behavior was just a ruse to confuse the enemy. Now was the time to launch a decisive strike against Wufeng, and they needed the elders' support. At the Hua lineage, Young Master Hua was arranging troops and firepower for the final battle against Wufeng. The weapon “Mountain Crusher,” which he developed with Gong Zishang, was soon to be deployed.

He knew that he had always been looked down upon by his father due to his poor comprehension. This time, in the decisive battle against Wufeng, he swore to make his father proud. Jin Fan escorted Gong Zishang to the Moon lineage for safety, saying it was Gong Ziyu’s order and that he was to guard her personally. Gong Zishang was very pleased, feeling her brother’s care was well-placed.

Gong Ziyu brought a new hidden weapon pouch to Gong Yuanzheng, saying it was made by Young Master Hua and he had only added a silk pouch. Gong Yuanzheng’s impression of Gong Ziyu had changed for the better. He even poured hot tea to serve him, only to find Gong Ziyu had already left. The plan Yun Weishan sent revealed that Wufeng would act in five days — the same day as Gong Ziyu’s Sword Wielder inauguration.

Of the four Wang, only the southern Wang, Situ Hong, had not arrived at Old Dust Valley. The other three — Dongfang’s Bei Xu, Beifang’s Hanyi Ke, and Xifang’s Moqi Ai — had already arrived and would launch a three-pronged attack targeting the Boundless Fiery Stream. Moqi Ai would lead the first front to assault the Jue lineage while Gong Shangjue’s internal energy was weak, aiming to take it swiftly. Yun Weishan suggested Gong Yuanzheng deal with him.

The second front, Hanyi Ke, was not afraid of the Snow-blowing Three Techniques, targeting the Snow lineage. The third, Bei Xu, would head straight for the Hua lineage. He was the strongest and tasked with seizing the blueprint of the Boundless Fiery Stream. Zi Yi proposed that since Gong Ziyu would choose a new bride at the inauguration, Wufeng could send seven Chi assassins to intercept the bride, drawing his attention. Yun Weishan was also listed among them.

Gong Ziyu was already prepared. He not only deployed heavy troops and targeted defenses but also hid the Boundless Fiery Stream blueprint beneath the Cold Pool, a place Wufeng would never suspect. Xue Zhongzi and Young Master Xue abandoned the Snow lineage and fled to the Moon lineage. At the moment of the life-or-death battle, during Gong Ziyu’s inauguration as Sword Wielder, Yun Weishan was once again sent into the Gong residence as the bride.

Alongside her came Zi Yi from Wanhua Pavilion, who was actually Wufeng’s southern Wang — Situ Hong. It turned out that they never truly trusted Yun Weishan, and the plan they told her was a diversion. Moqi Ai went to attack Xue Zhongzi and Young Master Xue, while Hanyi Ke’s real target was the Jue lineage. Only Bei Xu’s mission remained unchanged — heading to the Hua lineage.

Hanyi Ke was the enemy who had killed Gong Shangjue’s mother and brother Lang years ago. Seeing his enemy again filled Gong Shangjue with rage. He and Gong Yuanzheng teamed up to attack Hanyi Ke. Only then did Hanyi Ke realize that the information provided by Shangguan Qian was wrong — Gong Shangjue had not lost his internal energy. Everything Gong Shangjue had done was a ruse to lure the enemy deep.

Mountain Crusher was unleashed, blasting the bride assassins one by one. Situ Hong was extremely powerful. Yun Weishan was injured and fell, and Gong Ziyu was poisoned by her gu. Just as she was about to kill them both, Han Yasi suddenly appeared to shield them. For Yun Weishan’s sake, Han Yasi changed his beliefs. In the end, he used Mountain Crusher to shoot and kill Situ Hong but was also killed by her.

Yun Weishan supported Gong Ziyu and fled to the back mountain. Seeing that Han Yasi had died to save her, she was overwhelmed with grief. Elder Yue used his energy to suppress the gu in Gong Ziyu’s body, but it could not be fully removed unless the Cloud Lotus was used, or the poison was transferred to another person. Jin Fan went to retrieve the Cloud Lotus, only to find it had already been taken by Shangguan Qian.

They fought, and although Jin Fan was no match and was seriously injured, he managed to snatch the Cloud Lotus back. He asked Gong Zishang to quickly deliver it to cure Gong Ziyu. Yun Weishan, in order to save Gong Ziyu, transferred the gu poison to herself. A miracle happened. Just as Gong Ziyu realized it and wanted to reverse the transfer, their internal energies fused and suppressed the gu poison effectively.

Xue Zhongzi and Young Master Xue teamed up to fight Moqi Ai. To protect Xue Zhongzi, Young Master Xue was killed by Moqi Ai. Xue Zhongzi used all his strength to kill Moqi Ai and avenge him. Han Ya Qi tried to help Shangguan Qian but was killed in the process. Before he died, he called out her name, hoping she might stay for him. Shangguan Qian tried to save him, but it was all in vain.

Bei Xu arrived at the Hua lineage and found that the blueprint of the Boundless Fiery Stream was missing. He threatened Young Master Hua to hand it over. Elder Hua tried to save his son but was gravely injured by Bei Xu. Young Master Hua was devastated. Before dying, Elder Hua told his son that in his heart, he had always been proud of him.

The gravely wounded Jin Fan was brought back to the front mountain by Gong Zishang, along with the Chuyun Chonglian. Gong Ziyu looked at Jin Fan, wanting to give him the Chuyun Chonglian, but was stopped by Gong Zishang. She told Gong Ziyu that this was something Jin Fan had traded his life for, and he would prefer for Gong Ziyu to use it.

Gong Ziyu stated that although Jin Fan was his bodyguard, after all these years together, he had already regarded him as family. His life was just as important as his own, and since his wounds had clearly improved, Gong Zishang finally agreed to give the Chuyun Chonglian to Jin Fan. Young Master Hua, facing a powerful enemy, had already prepared for the worst. He shut the cave door and ignited the explosives, perishing along with Bei Xu.

Meanwhile, Gong Shangjue and Gong Yuanzheng joined forces to kill Han Shanke. Although they had avenged a deep hatred, Gong Shangjue was gravely injured. Gong Ziyu, though victorious, could not feel joy. The death of his loved ones cast a shadow over his heart, and he felt an even greater sense of responsibility. A bodyguard brought a sword to Gong Ziyu, saying it was entrusted by Young Master Hua.

Gong Ziyu knew it was the Yun Zhi Yu and gave it to Yun Weishan, telling her to protect herself well from now on, and never again wield a sword that harms both others and oneself. The poison in Gong Ziyu’s body had not been fully expelled, and Gong Zishang was very worried. Gong Ziyu explained that if he hadn’t claimed his injuries were improving earlier, she would never have given the Chuyun Chonglian to Jin Fan.

Elder Yue observed that although the poison remained, Gong Ziyu was showing clear signs of recovery, which puzzled him. Gong Ziyu explained that his and Yun Weishan’s cultivation techniques had fused, suppressing the poison. Elder Xue asked what cultivation method Yun Weishan used. Upon hearing it was the Yun Jin Xin Jing of the Qingfeng Sect, he asked her to demonstrate it. From her moves, Elder Xue saw she was using the Three Wind Styles.

Back then, the rear mountain had four sects: Wind, Flower, Snow, and Moon. The Wind Sect focused on defense and played a supporting role, while the other three specialized in attack. Their techniques could be integrated. Wind could be combined with the other three’s sword styles, forming the Wind-Flower, Wind-Snow, and Wind-Moon styles, which were twice as powerful.

Since the poison in Gong Ziyu was not fully removed, Gong Yuanzheng brought another Chuyun Chonglian, saying it was from Gong Shangjue—he merely delivered the box. From afar, Gong Shangjue smiled knowingly, warming Gong Ziyu’s heart. When everyone arrived at the Snow Palace to retrieve the boundless Liuhuo blueprints hidden in the cold pond, they found them missing.

Gong Ziyu had already guessed who took them and went to the underground chamber where Gong Huanyu was, accusing him of the theft. Gong Ziyu had coated the box containing the blueprints with phosphorus—anyone who touched it would have glowing green hands. Exposed, Gong Huanyu no longer hid the truth and confessed his entire plan. Years ago, his parents were killed by members of Wufeng, and he was adopted by the former Sword Wielder.

He trained diligently and became the young master, aiming to take the Sword Wielder's position and activate the Liuhuo to destroy Wufeng. But the old Sword Wielder saw through his ambition and intended to pass the title to Gong Shangjue. Not wanting his revenge to fail, Gong Huanyu used Chuyun Chonglian to save Steward Jia’s child and gave the old Sword Wielder a fake herbal extract.

He then faked his own death and used Miss Zheng to fabricate the rumor about the boundless Liuhuo, luring Gong Shangjue away from the Gong residence. This allowed Gong Ziyu, who posed no threat, to inherit the position hastily. Ming Wuji was coerced into helping him but still fell victim to his poison. The internal strife between Gong Ziyu and Gong Shangjue had allowed Gong Huanyu’s plan to unfold step by step.

However, Gong Zishang discovered his birthmark and realized he had killed Ming Wuji. He then staged an explosion to eliminate Gong Zishang and frame Gong Yuanzheng. Just when he thought his plan was flawless, it was his own younger brother—whom he had considered useless—who exposed it. But none of that mattered anymore. He had regained his inner power, and no one present could stop him.

Gong Huanyu easily broke through the crowd and fled the underground chamber, only to run into Yun Weishan outside. Yun Weishan declared that she now belonged to the Gong residence, but Gong Huanyu refused to spare her because he knew that half of the Liuhuo blueprint was engraved on Gong Ziyu’s body. He planned to use Yun Weishan as a hostage to force Gong Ziyu’s hand.

Gong Ziyu guessed this as well and wanted to save Yun Weishan, but with his current strength, unless he mastered the Three Mirror Flower Styles, no one could rival Gong Huanyu. Elder Xue and Jin Fan transferred their inner power to Gong Ziyu so he could perform the technique. Everyone joined in the attack on Gong Huanyu to buy time for Gong Ziyu.

Elder Yue unlocked the meridians of Elder Xue and Jin Fan, allowing them to transfer inner power faster. He then rushed out to assist Xue Zhongzi and Yun Weishan in surrounding Gong Huanyu. Xue Zhongzi was knocked down by Gong Huanyu and told Elder Yue to protect Yun Weishan, since Gong Ziyu needed to team up with her to unleash the Wind-Flower Three Styles against Gong Huanyu.

Just as Elder Yue was about to be defeated, Gong Ziyu, having consolidated his inner power, arrived and saved him. Together with Yun Weishan, he unleashed the Wind-Flower Three Styles, whose power was indeed formidable. Gong Huanyu was stabbed but still managed to knock Yun Weishan down. At the critical moment, Gong Ziyu used the Mirror Flower Three Styles to strike down Gong Huanyu. This brotherly battle ended with Gong Ziyu’s victory. Despite Gong Huanyu’s cunning, he ultimately failed.

Shangguan Qian took the half of the Liuhuo blueprint from Gong Huanyu and was intercepted by Gong Shangjue while fleeing the Gong residence. She confessed her entire plan, intending to use the Liuhuo to eliminate Dian Zhu. In the end, Gong Shangjue let her go because she whispered in his ear that she was carrying the child of the Gong family. Fortunately, Gong Shangjue kept the blueprint she had intended to take.

Gong Ziyu, in his capacity as Sword Wielder of the Gong family, issued a declaration to the martial world, announcing that Wufeng’s Half-Moon Fly was not poisonous and would not cause death, but was merely a tool to shackle the martial world with illusions. The Qingfeng Sect’s leader Dian Zhu was in fact the head of Wufeng, known for his cruelty and for abducting children to train as his spies. The martial world was outraged but too afraid to act.

The Gong family’s notice was meant to alert all sects and heroes to rise against Wufeng’s tyranny and restore peace. Gong Shangjue visited Gong Ziyu and revealed a mystery in his heart. All along, Gong Ziyu had thought that the secret scrolls and helpful messages left behind by his father were his doing, but they were actually Gong Shangjue’s support.

This showed that Gong Shangjue was far more broad-minded than he appeared, which was precisely why the old Sword Wielder had chosen him as successor. Xue Zhongzi, in memory of Young Master Xue, recalled their days together. Meanwhile, Elder Yue remembered Yun Que, feeling as if she was right beside him. Someone delivered a bracelet crafted by Young Master Hua before his death, originally meant for Yun Que.

Now separated by life and death, it could only serve as a token of longing. Yun Weishan discovered her true identity—she was indeed from the Yun family of Lixi Town and even had a twin. This also explained why her identity was never exposed when Gong Shangjue sent people to investigate. Gong Ziyu gifted Yun Weishan a large chest of jewelry and once again confessed his love, hoping to spend a lifetime with her and never part.

He also wished that she could smile every day, unlike his mother who was trapped in the Gong residence and lived a life of sorrow. Yun Weishan gave Gong Ziyu reassurance, saying that wherever he was, was the most peaceful place in the world, and she was willing to spend her life by his side. Yun Weishan expressed a desire to return to Lixi Town for a short visit and promised to return in a few days.

They set a time to meet again, though Gong Ziyu regretted not being able to accompany her as the Sword Wielder. Jin Fan began to stick closely to Gong Zishang, unwilling to leave her side. Gong Zishang, in turn, acted playfully proud. Their bickering became a charming sight in the Gong residence. Yun Weishan returned to the Yun family in Lixi Town and unexpectedly encountered someone who looked exactly like her.

At the same time, the leader of Wufeng appeared at the Yun family home. At the appointed time, Gong Ziyu arrived early at the gate of the Gong residence to await her return, but from sunrise to sunset, Yun Weishan never appeared. A vague sense of foreboding rose in his heart.