Love a Lifetime resumo, enredo, sinopse

Sinopse de Love a Lifetime

In order to help her father, Rong Jingfeng, to save the world, Rong Hua travels around the world to find the lost fantasy healing tool, the "Chi Hua Pearl".

When She is in trouble, she is always saved by a man named Na Lanyue, who is the young master of the Lingxu Pavilion and has a long-standing family feud with Rong Hua.

They fall in love at first sight and decide to put aside their family feud and use their true hearts to settle their grudge.

However, Rong Jingfeng is a hypocrite and tries to harm the clan of Na Lanyue again for his own personal desires. At the same time, Na Lanyue is given the magic power by the Ming Cult Master Mo Huan and almost goes mad.

But Rong Hua is convinced that he still has good intentions, so he guards him until he regains his original heart.

At that moment, they fight side by side, not only to eradicate the Spirit Sect, but also to reveal the sins of Rong Jingfeng to the world.

Since then, Rong Hua and Na Lanyue work together to fight against their enemies and return peace to Jianghu.

Resumos de Love a Lifetime

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A small boat glided across the river, creating ripples as Rong Hua, the second daughter of Dragon Howl City's master, calmly enjoyed the scenic beauty under her oiled paper umbrella. Suddenly, dozens of masked assassins appeared, approaching with chain attacks and throwing hidden weapons. Before they could reach her, Rong Hua concealed herself under her umbrella, feigning innocence at the boat's bow. The assassins demanded she surrender "the thing," threatening a quick death.

Rong Hua coolly replied that it had fallen into the water, suggesting they retrieve it themselves. Lin Jing, a mysterious young man who introduced himself as being from the Nanyang region, suddenly appeared, chiding Rong Hua for her weak fighting skills against mere scoundrels. Rong Hua, despite being cornered, insisted she had a "big move" to defeat them. Lin Jing allowed her to try, but when she was clearly overwhelmed, he quickly dispatched the assassins.

As they moved away from the danger, Lin Jing offered to escort Rong Hua back to Dragon Howl City, citing her poor self-defense. He revealed he knew her identity and explained that her sister, Rong Su, was known for her martial prowess, while Rong Hua was pampered. He further claimed he was helping her at the behest of his "unreliable disciple." Although grateful for his rescue, Rong Hua remained wary and sent a letter to Rong Su requesting an escort.

Rong Hua, restless with suspicion about Lin Jing, decided to slip away from their inn room under the cover of night. However, Lin Jing quickly discovered her attempt and pursued her, playfully accusing her of sneaking out to watch stars. He insisted on accompanying her for safety, leading her to a rooftop where he shared stories of constellations and their significance, inadvertently easing her suspicions and making her feel a connection.

During their time on the rooftop, Lin Jing also subtly detected someone else following them. Back in her room, Rong Hua realized the Chihua Pill was missing and confronted Lin Jing, accusing him of being a thief and potentially behind the initial attack on the boat. Lin Jing, proclaiming his actions were always honorable, challenged her to search him to prove his innocence.

At that moment, Xuan Ye, a subordinate of Rong Su, led assassins from the Hall of Emptiness to attack, aiming only for Lin Jing. As the darts flew, Lin Jing shielded Rong Hua, taking a poisonous dart from the Hall of Sickness, a specialized poison unique to Dragon Howl City. Realizing this was Rong Su’s doing and that the poison could only be cured within Dragon Howl City, Rong Hua went to confront her sister for the antidote.

Rong Su, feigning concern, claimed she had ordered her Hall of Emptiness disciples to secretly protect Rong Hua. However, Rong Hua retorted that her sister's actions had led to Lin Jing being poisoned. When Rong Su remained indifferent, stating Lin Jing’s unknown background made him a potential threat, Lin Jing suddenly appeared, having been hiding nearby. To save him, Rong Hua presented the Chihua Pill to Rong Su, exchanging it for the antidote.

Later, in the council hall, Rong Jingfeng and the hall masters awaited the return of the Chihua Pill. Rong Su presented the ornamental box, only for it to contain a creek stone instead of the prized pill. Rong Su immediately tried to shift the blame to Rong Hua.

However, Rong Hua, quick-witted, gracefully explained that she had placed the stone there as a memento for her father, recalling his romantic history at Sunny Creek with her late mother, thereby endearing herself to him and deflecting any accusation. Amidst the confusion over the missing Chihua Pill, Lin Jing spoke up, assuring everyone that since the Chihua Pill’s effects require a Dragon Howl City antidote, the thief would eventually be forced to seek them out.

Impressed by his insight, Rong Jingfeng asked about his identity. Rong Hua introduced Lin Jing, but as she did, Bai Weizhi, one of the hall masters, visibly reacted with dismay. It was then revealed that years ago, Bai Weizhi had been tricked by Lin Jing into becoming his disciple after consuming a poisoned roast chicken and wine combination, making Lin Jing now Rong Hua’s "grandmaster," much to her annoyance.

Meanwhile, Rong Su, intrigued by rumors of the mysterious Lingxu Pavilion, an organization that had seriously injured Master Xue, instructed Xuan Ye to investigate its true nature and origins. That night, Rong Hua, still harboring doubts about Lin Jing, attempted to secretly search his room for any incriminating evidence. Lin Jing caught her in the act, playfully teasing her for her clandestine entry through the window, unlike the prior body search she initiated.

Soon after, Rong Su arrived with her Hall of Emptiness disciples, claiming items had been stolen and demanding a search. They found Rong Hua and Lin Jing in a compromising position, wrestling on the bed. The incident quickly became a scandal within Dragon Howl City. While Rong Jingfeng chided Rong Hua for her impropriety, he then angrily accused Rong Su of attempting to assassinate her sister on the road to gain the City Master position.

Rong Su vehemently denied the charge. Rong Hua, to prevent a deeper rift between her father and sister, defended Rong Su, explaining that she had asked her sister to bring the Chihua Pill back and Rong Su had not even opened the box, thus having no knowledge of the stone. Touched by Rong Hua's unexpected defense, Rong Su, though still outwardly cold, promised to thoroughly investigate the assassin attacks.

Unbeknownst to Rong Hua, Rong Jingfeng had sent his subordinates to investigate Lin Jing’s background. The reports confirmed Lin Jing’s Nanyang origin and a story of escaping marriage, though solid proof remained elusive. Concerned for Dragon Howl City’s security, Rong Jingfeng concluded that he would rather eliminate a potential threat than risk its safety, and ordered Lin Jing's discreet assassination. Rong Hua, overhearing her father’s chilling decree, immediately confronted Lin Jing, urging him to leave the city.

Lin Jing, however, refused, confidently believing everyone in Dragon Howl City liked him except for her. Just then, the sounds of gongs and drums filled the night as a lavish wedding procession approached Dragon Howl City’s gates. Lu Yizhou, a young man in white, led the procession, loudly demanding Lin Jing be released for his wedding. Rong Su confronted Lu Yizhou at the gates, drawing her sword and slashing his neck as a warning.

Lin Jing then stepped forward to explain himself. Lu Yizhou, revealing himself to be Lin Jing’s confidant, chastised him for fleeing his arranged marriage to Miss Mei and putting him in a difficult position with his family. Despite Lu Yizhou's pleas and attempts to persuade him, Lin Jing stubbornly refused to leave Dragon Howl City.

As Lu Yizhou departed, he warned Rong Su that he would return daily as long as Lin Jing remained within the city walls, implying a continued disruption until Lin Jing left.

Lin Jing found himself affected by a potent stun gas and, in a confused state, trespassed into the Flower Sea, the forbidden area of Dragon Howl City. There, he was severely wounded by Rong Jingfeng. Fortunately, Rong Hua arrived just in time, intervening to prevent further harm and saving his life.

After Rong Hua took him back to his room to recuperate, Lin Jing explained that he had searched the entire Dragon Howl City for her, as they were supposed to practice swordsmanship together, before his disorientation led him to the Flower Sea. He then showed Rong Hua a mysterious letter, which he had mistaken for an invitation from her due to the stun gas.

Rong Hua recognized that the deliberate absence of guards and the use of the stun gas pointed to her Aunt Zi Yan acting under her father’s command. Understanding the implications, Rong Hua decided to keep quiet about the sender of the letter. She then tried to persuade Lin Jing to return home for his impending marriage, playfully hinting at jealousy while he praised his fiancée's beauty, character, and noble background.

Despite her efforts, Lin Jing dismissed his arranged marriage, leaning on her shoulder and confessing that no matter how good the girl was, she was not the one he wished to marry in his lifetime. Feigning pain from his wound, he vowed to leave only when she no longer wanted him there, securing his stay. Meanwhile, outside Dragon Howl City, Lu Yizhou was seen leisurely playing Go.

Rong Su, having learned of Lin Jing's trespass, confronted Lu Yizhou, accusing him and Lin Jing of conspiring to steal the Chihua Pill. She warned him that their intentions were exposed and advised him to leave. Lu Yizhou, however, scoffed at her accusations, stating that he held no interest in the Chihua Pill, which he considered a false treasure, and subtly hinted at Dragon Howl City's shallow understanding of its true nature.

He then challenged Rong Su to a game of Go, offering her the white pieces for a better chance of victory. Despite the clear advantage, Rong Su, in her arrogance, chose the black pieces, leading to an inevitable defeat.

After the game, Lu Yizhou presented her with a black piece, remarking that "turning the tide is just wishful thinking" and urged her to practice her Go skills for a future rematch, a challenge Rong Su accepted with a vow to reclaim her victory. Zi Yan later visited Rong Su, who was still recovering from old injuries. She brought medicine and advised Rong Su to manage her city affairs carefully to avoid exacerbating her condition.

She also encouraged Rong Su to see her father's decision to have both sisters oversee city matters as an opportunity for growth, reminding her that Rong Hua's cold disease hadn't recurred in a decade. Unmoved, Rong Su expressed concerns about Rong Hua's chronic illness, asserting that her sister's condition was merely suppressed by their father, not cured.

She questioned who would lead Dragon Howl City if a crisis struck and Rong Hua's illness flared up, hinting at her desire for the City Lord position. Zi Yan, wary of such remarks, cautioned her against speculating about the future, reminding her that Rong Jingfeng had his reasons for everything. Back in Dragon Howl City, Lin Jing sought out Lu Yizhou, dramatically feigning illness and loneliness to convince his friend to help him.

Initially reluctant, Lu Yizhou eventually agreed to assist. Lin Jing admitted that he was not in Dragon Howl City merely to escape marriage, but to uncover some truths, acknowledging that his life was in danger. Despite his claims of grave peril, he reassured Lu Yizhou that the "trouble" was manageable. In the following days, Lin Jing took on the role of Rong Hua's martial arts instructor. He diligently taught her practical defense techniques, often correcting her graceful but ineffective moves.

Their interactions became close and harmonious, much to Rong Jingfeng's displeasure, who watched them from afar. Upon Lin Jing's full recovery, Rong Jingfeng, citing Dragon Howl City's strict rules against outsiders, unceremoniously ordered him to leave the following day. With no room for argument, Lin Jing agreed, understanding that defying the City Lord would only cause trouble for Rong Hua. He departed the city alone, without farewells, lamenting the "heartlessness" of those who failed to see him off.

Rong Jingfeng then dispatched both Rong Su and Rong Hua out of the city on separate errands. In a calculated move, he used the Chihua Pill to extend Master Xue's life, thereby securing the Xue family's allegiance to Dragon Howl City for generations to come. Meanwhile, Rong Su took the opportunity to poison Rong Hua’s tea, aiming to trigger her sister’s cold disease and remove her from contention for the City Lord position.

Soon after, Rong Hua's cold disease flared up, leaving her vulnerable as she was pursued by masked assassins. Simultaneously, Rong Su, returning from her mission, was also ambushed by a separate group of assailants. Fortunately, Lin Jing and Lu Yizhou, seemingly anticipating these events, arrived to rescue them. Lu Yizhou valiantly defended Rong Su, noting the assassins' professional training and questioning who Dragon Howl City had offended. However, Rong Su remained ungrateful, accusing him of orchestrating the attack.

Lu Yizhou denied her claims, stating his sole purpose was to find Lin Jing, and pointed out that Rong Hua had also mysteriously disappeared. Rong Hua's cold disease rapidly worsened, forcing Lin Jing to take her to the renowned physician Mu Yan's residence. Finding the doctor absent, Lin Jing attempted acupuncture, relying on Rong Hua's instructions regarding moxibustion ingredients. His efforts proved futile as Rong Hua's condition deteriorated further. Just then, Mu Yan, a spry young woman, arrived.

She swiftly took charge, instructing Lin Jing on how to prepare the necessary herbs. Introducing herself as Mu Yan, she confidently asserted her superior medical skills. She quickly stabilized Rong Hua, identifying the "cold rouge powder" as the cause of her recurrence. Mu Yan explained that this rare and potent poison indicated deliberate, long-term planning by someone intimately familiar with Rong Hua's condition.

She further revealed the origin of Rong Hua's chronic cold disease: her mother was forced to give birth in a cold lake while being hunted, which instilled a chill in Rong Hua from birth. Despite her father's expensive remedies, Rong Hua had endured immense suffering from recurrent attacks. Observing Lin Jing, Mu Yan recognized his exceptional martial arts but cryptically stated that further advancement would be difficult unless he placed himself on a field of death before fighting to live.

Not long after, Master Xue was found brutally murdered within Dragon Howl City, his meridians severed, and the Chihua Pill in his chest destroyed by internal force. Rong Jingfeng, suspecting Lin Jing, vowed revenge and ordered the Hall of Emptiness to hunt him down, dead or alive. Although the Hall of Emptiness was forced to comply, Rong Su knew that the true culprit was Mo Huan, who was now living in disguise as the physician Mu Yan.

In the Hall of Emptiness, Rong Su was shown a box of extracted teeth, a grim warning from Lingxu Pavilion, who claimed to have captured some of her disciples. Rong Su was unfazed, confident that her Hall of Emptiness recruits were trained as loyal warriors who would rather poison themselves than betray information.

She dismissed Lingxu Pavilion's action as a desperate measure after failing to extract any intelligence, stating that she never intended for those sent to Lingxu Pavilion to return alive. Her immediate priority, she declared, was to locate Rong Hua and investigate Master Xue's murder. Meanwhile, at Lingxu Pavilion, Lin Ruohan, the Pavilion Master, was gravely ill. Her subordinate reported that the young master, who had gone to seek the Chihua Pill, had not yet returned.

The subordinate urged Lin Ruohan to consider using the Chihua Pill to extend her life. However, Lin Ruohan expressed her reluctance, seeing the Chihua Pill not as a cure but as a means to prolong a miserable existence. Her subordinate then detailed the true nature of the Chihua Pill: it is derived from a rare flower that blooms twice a season, yielding red parts for the pill and white parts for its antidote.

The pill, once ingested, parasitically repairs a patient's injuries but simultaneously consumes the healthy parts of the host's body, eventually exhausting them entirely. Despite its perilous nature, many in the martial arts world continued to seek it from Dragon Howl City, unaware of its true, devastating cost.

Dragon Howl City held a dark secret: all who consumed the Chihua Pill were registered in the Hall of Emptiness. If they failed to take the white flower antidote on time and the toxins activated, Dragon Howl City would dispatch disciples to kill them, ensuring the secret remained buried. This sinister policy was a central concern for Rong Jingfeng and the city. Lin Ruohan of Lingxu Pavilion, however, disdained relying on the Chihua Pill for extended life.

She opposed Rong Jingfeng's wicked ways, regretting her past failure to kidnap Rong Hua on the lake, a plan she believed would have forced Rong Jingfeng to cease his harmful actions by using his daughter's life as leverage. Her attempts were consistently foiled by Lin Jing.

Now, with multiple incidents involving the Chihua Pill, from its theft to its destruction right under Dragon Howl City's nose, Lin Ruohan noted the Hall of Emptiness's increased scrutiny, suggesting Rong Jingfeng was more prudent than she had initially believed. After a night of rest, Rong Hua awoke to find Lin Jing sleeping by her bedside, her cold disease seemingly at bay. Observing him quietly, she noticed a charm in his usually boisterous demeanor.

Lin Jing soon woke, expressing relief at her recovery and playfully suggesting he almost sent her back to Dragon Howl City, which Rong Hua warned would only lead to further misunderstandings with her father. He then asked if she was worried about him. He also inquired about the identity of the attackers from the previous night, remarking that they were clearly targeting Dragon Howl City and speculating if they were the same group from the lake.

Rong Hua confidently stated they were not, pointing out the distinct martial arts styles. Just as they were chatting, Lin Jing offered to teach Rong Hua martial arts, tailored to her condition, so she could protect herself. As they playfully bickered and chased each other, their master, Bai Weizhi, burst in, scolding them for their inappropriate behavior.

Lin Jing retorted, criticizing Bai Weizhi for failing to protect Rong Hua, who had suffered a cold disease attack and was chased by assassins. Bai Weizhi, concerned, asked Rong Hua why her old illness had recurred, also warning that Rong Jingfeng would not easily forgive Lin Jing this time. Meanwhile, Lu Yizhou informed Lin Jing that the recent assassins were from the Ling Sect, a faction believed to have vanished for years but now resurfacing with apparent sinister motives.

Lin Jing inferred that Rong Jingfeng must already suspect the Ling Sect, and that the group who lured him and Rong Hua out of the city were also members of the Ling Sect. He questioned their ultimate goal, noting the chaos in Dragon Howl City – Rong Hua and Rong Su's attack, Master Xue's murder, the Chihua Pill's destruction, and a body hanging on the city gate unnoticed.

Lin Jing declared he couldn't stand idly by, emphasizing their duty to fight evil. Despite Lu Yizhou's warning that Rong Jingfeng already considered him Master Xue's killer and sought his death, Lin Jing resolved to return to Dragon Howl City to prove his innocence, stating he preferred to confront the situation rather than flee. Lu Yizhou exasperatedly called him trouble-prone, but Lin Jing brushed it off.

Rong Hua returned to Dragon Howl City, immediately kneeling before Rong Jingfeng to plead for Lin Jing, insisting he was not Master Xue's murderer. Rong Jingfeng remained unconvinced, highlighting Lin Jing as the only outsider in the city and his disappearance after the murder as incriminating evidence. He dismissed Rong Hua's attempts to reason with him, ordering her to focus on becoming a Hall Master before meddling in city affairs, and blamed her for her sister's attack.

Rong Jingfeng confined Rong Hua to her room for three days. Just then, a disciple reported Lin Jing's return to the city gates, where he was surrounded by Hall of Emptiness disciples. Overhearing, Rong Hua rushed out to confront her father and the assembled crowd. To defend Lin Jing, she declared that her cold disease had returned the previous night and Lin Jing had saved and cared for her, thus proving he was with her when Master Xue was killed.

Rong Su, present at the scene, tried to undermine Rong Hua, suggesting her disappearance was to conceal her recurring cold disease. Rong Hua retaliated, revealing that her disease had recurred due to cold rouge powder found in a teacup Rong Su had prepared for her, implying Rong Su was responsible for the lax security during Master Xue's murder. Confronted by Rong Jingfeng, Rong Su's silence spoke volumes.

Rong Hua then asserted that while she once avoided conflict, she would now fight back, promising to go "all out" if Rong Su wished to compete. After Rong Hua and Lin Jing left, Rong Jingfeng ordered Zi Yan to thoroughly investigate the poisoning. Zi Yan confirmed the presence of cold rouge powder in the teacup, sufficient to trigger Rong Hua's cold disease, and reported that the Hall of Life's supply of the rare powder had been stolen days prior.

Enraged by the internal strife and machinations within his own city, Rong Jingfeng declared Dragon Howl City needed a proper rectification. On Bai Weizhi's suggestion, Rong Jingfeng decided to hold an open election for the long-vacant position of master of the Hall of Life, a move to balance power dynamics, particularly Rong Su's influence. Lin Jing, upon hearing this, expressed his intention to compete.

Rong Jingfeng tasked Zi Yan with setting conditions for Lin Jing to join Dragon Howl City and ensuring a thorough evaluation, clearly intending to make it challenging for him. Rong Jingfeng then dismissed Rong Su, who was still fuming, and ordered her to kneel in the Flower Sea as punishment. Despite their recent confrontation, Rong Hua visited Rong Su, bringing medicine and food, citing their aunt's concern.

Rong Su accused her of coming to gloat, but Rong Hua explained that she had long been aware of Rong Su's schemes. She confessed her reluctance to act as ruthlessly as her sister, having always prioritized their father's happiness over their rivalry. Rong Su, however, believed Rong Hua only cared about Lin Jing, prompting Rong Hua to declare that she would no longer yield and would fight to the bitter end, pushed to this point by Rong Su's actions.

Rong Su, in turn, vowed to retaliate. Lin Jing continued to treat Rong Hua's cold disease using the acupuncture methods taught by "Mu Yan," also applying the herbal medicine packets "Mu Yan" had prepared. However, Rong Hua closely examined the gold needles and the medicine, realizing they were not what the real Mu Yan typically used.

She questioned how her severe cold disease could be cured so quickly by someone who specialized in external injuries, and noted the absence of the actual Mu Yan for days. Lin Jing, prompted by Rong Hua's observations, also began to doubt "Mu Yan's" authenticity, suspecting she was an imposter. Meanwhile, the disguised "Mu Yan" (Mo Huan) was buying a kite in the market, where she was shadowed by unknown figures.

Lu Yizhou intervened, saving her from the assailants and striking up a conversation. Later, Rong Hua and Lin Jing lay in ambush at "Mu Yan's" supposed home, intending to uncover her secrets. To their surprise, Lu Yizhou arrived instead. The three conversed, realizing they had all been played by the imposter. The "Mu Yan" Lu Yizhou met had described Rong Su as "grumpy" and "stubborn" in her youth, suggesting intimate knowledge of Rong Su, which Lu Yizhou found strange.

Later, Lu Yizhou met Rong Su on a mountaintop for a game of chess, but his mind was preoccupied. He cautiously brought up his recent encounter at the market. Rong Su's demeanor immediately changed, clearly recognizing the description of the mysterious woman.

As she was about to warn Lu Yizhou against speaking further, Xuan Ye arrived with grave news: the real Mu Yan's corpse had been discovered at the foot of the mountain, confirmed to have been dead for at least three days. This directly contradicted Rong Hua's account of "Mu Yan" treating her recently. Rong Su, visibly disturbed, hastily dismissed Lu Yizhou, instructing him to leave.

Lu Yizhou, perplexed by Rong Su's sudden fear and evasiveness, sensed she was keeping a deep secret, one so significant that she threatened to kill him if he divulged any details. Rong Jingfeng, meanwhile, reflected on Dragon Howl City's long-held dominance, secured by the twelve Chihua Pills distributed across the land, offering protection to its users and allegiance to the city.

He expressed concern over the new enemy who dared to defy Dragon Howl City by destroying the Chihua Pills and killing their users, suspecting a specific mastermind behind these calculated moves. Fearing for the lives of Chihua Pill users after the revelation of the fake Mu Yan, Lin Jing, accompanied by Lu Yizhou, stealthily entered the Hall of Emptiness at night to examine the records of those who had consumed the pill.

To their surprise, Rong Hua arrived shortly after, seeking the very same information. Days later, in a secluded pavilion outside the city, Mo Huan, now in a striking red ensemble and no longer in her "Mu Yan" disguise, lay in wait atop a tree. As a palanquin bearing the emblem of the Xiaos' approached, she severed a kite string, silently dispatching several guards.

With a powerful palm strike, Mo Huan shattered the palanquin, only to discover that Lin Jing had bravely impersonated Master Xiao to lure her out. Already nursing injuries, Lin Jing was gravely wounded in the ensuing clash. Mo Huan finally retreated and flew away when Rong Hua and her forces arrived, preventing further harm to Lin Jing. Elsewhere, Rong Su was infuriated when she was denied entry to Rong Jingfeng's chambers.

She protested the perceived double standard, noting that Lin Jing and Rong Hua had faced no punishment despite breaking into the Hall of Emptiness, while she was barred from her father's presence. Zi Yan advised her against impulsive actions, urging patience and trust in Rong Jingfeng's decisions.

As the Hall of Emptiness roster was investigated, Rong Su intended to pursue those who trespassed. However, Rong Jingfeng shielded them, and Rong Hua actively defended Lin Jing, explaining his plan to use himself as bait. Rong Jingfeng expressed suspicion about Lin Jing's survival, noting that Mo Huan was one of the most formidable martial artists in Jianghu.

He recalled how, over a decade ago, Dragon Howl City united with other martial arts masters to attack the Ling Sect's main base, suffering heavy casualties and only managing to severely injure Mo Huan. Yet, Lin Jing, acting alone, returned alive from Mo Huan's attack, which raised doubts about his true identity and intentions. Rong Hua quickly interjected, urging her father not to speak ill of Lin Jing, reminding him that Lin Jing's actions were for Dragon Howl City's safety.

Lin Jing then stated that he would need to stay in Dragon Howl City for a while to recover from his injuries. Rong Su tried to approach her father but was blocked by guards. Feeling frustrated, she sat by the river where Lu Yizhou found her. After some verbal sparring, Lu Yizhou tried to comfort her, and Rong Su opened up about her past.

She revealed that she was kidnapped by Mo Huan when she was young and raised by her until ten years ago when the Ling Sect was attacked. It was only then that Rong Jingfeng discovered she was still alive and brought her back to Dragon Howl City. However, because she grew up in the Ling Sect under Mo Huan's tutelage, Rong Jingfeng had always harbored deep suspicions towards her.

The other halls, like Ziyan and Bai Weizhi, also seemed to care only for Rong Hua. Lu Yizhou sympathized, sharing that he was an orphan raised by Lin Ruohan, who treated him like her own son. He noted that Lin Ruohan's strictness helped him grow. He encouraged Rong Su not to overthink things and to believe that her father loved her, perhaps just not knowing how to express it.

Their shared experiences seemed to bring them closer, and Rong Su even managed a rare smile. To solidify Lin Jing's position within Dragon Howl City, Bai Weizhi formally acknowledged Lin Jing as his master in the Hall of Seniority, a public declaration that would allow Lin Jing to instruct disciples. Ziyan questioned Rong Jingfeng about his lenient attitude towards Lin Jing. Rong Jingfeng explained that he had deliberately sent away the guards, allowing Lin Jing access to the roster.

This was a calculated test; facing Mo Huan and surviving would prove Lin Jing's capabilities. With the Ling Sect making a comeback, if Lin Jing proved to be a talent, recruiting him would be a valuable asset for Dragon Howl City. Later, Lu Yizhou, tasked by Lin Ruohan and aided by Rong Su's subordinate, orchestrated a kidnapping to bring Lin Jing back to Lingxu Pavilion for his arranged marriage with Mei Xueman.

His men congratulated him, urging him not to untie "Lin Jing" before reaching the pavilion. However, when Lu Yizhou investigated a strange noise from the carriage, he discovered that the person he had captured was actually Bai Weizhi. Meanwhile, Lin Jing and Rong Hua celebrated the success of their ruse. Rong Hua wondered if it was truly right for Lin Jing to stay in Dragon Howl City, but Lin Jing playfully claimed he was helping Bai Weizhi.

Upon returning to Dragon Howl City, Bai Weizhi, though bruised, was cared for by Ziyan. He explained that his "sacrifice" was a necessary part of Lin Jing's plan, enabling Lin Jing to stay and protect Rong Hua. Rong Hua's maid, Xiaoxiao, expressed her frustration, lamenting that Lin Jing, despite having a fiancée, was receiving so much attention from Rong Hua, who was even personally preparing medicine for him.

She worried what Rong Jingfeng would think and urged Rong Hua to investigate Lin Jing's background. Xiaoxiao also reminded Rong Hua that Lu Yizhou had mentioned Lin Jing's engagement and his need to return home for the wedding. Lu Yizhou himself continued to press Lin Jing, highlighting his mother's worsening condition and the Mei family's offer of the Chihua Pill as a dowry. He urged Lin Jing to return and marry Mei Xueman to save his mother.

Lin Jing, however, steadfastly refused, revealing his two main objectives in Dragon Howl City: to uncover the truth about his father, who he believed had a profound connection to the city, and to find a cure for his mother's illness, confident that the Chihua Pill, a product of Dragon Howl City, held the key. During a sword practice session, Rong Hua's distraction was evident.

Lin Jing, noticing her unease regarding his engagement, firmly stated that he would never marry someone he didn't love, emphasizing that if Mei Xueman insisted on marrying, it would be Lu Yizhou, not him. He expressed his belief that marrying without love would truly ruin a person's life, and he would not repeat such a mistake. Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by Bai Weizhi, who rushed in, declaring an urgent matter.

In the Mei mansion, Mei Ying chastised Mei Xueman for secretly taking the Chihua Pill. Mei Xueman argued that they owed Lingxu Pavilion a great debt for saving their family from massacre years ago, and should offer the Chihua Pill to repay their kindness, even without the engagement. However, Mei Ying saw the Chihua Pill as their family's only leverage to restore their fallen status, refusing to hand it over until the last possible moment.

Mei Xueman, in a flashback, recalled Lin Jing saving her years ago and how she had harbored affection for him ever since. Before his departure from Dragon Howl City, Lu Yizhou arranged a beautiful display of river lanterns to share with Rong Su. He tried to persuade her to let go of her animosity towards Rong Hua, emphasizing their blood ties.

Rong Su initially responded with suspicion, convinced that Lu Yizhou was acting on behalf of Lin Jing and Rong Hua to spy on her. She believed his kindness had an ulterior motive and declared her determination to secure the Hall of Life master position. Lu Yizhou patiently explained that there were not so many conspiracies in life, and a simple smile could overcome much.

He expressed his genuine concern for her, confessing his worry as he was leaving Dragon Howl City the next day. Rong Su, touched by his sincerity, admitted that it was the first time someone had genuinely done something for her. She offered to repay him with a favor in the future, but Lu Yizhou simply asked her to let go of the past, be happy, and resolve her differences with Rong Hua.

Rong Su, however, bristled at his words, telling him he couldn't possibly understand her. After Lu Yizhou left, Rong Su was plagued by vivid flashbacks of Mo Huan's harsh teachings: "Those who get close to you must have ulterior motives. Those who treat you well must have a hidden agenda. No one in this world will treat you well wholeheartedly. They are just using you, that's all." These memories solidified her belief that she could not easily trust others.

Rong Jingfeng then led Lin Jing and Rong Su to the Flower Sea, explaining its vital importance to Dragon Howl City. He vividly described the annual cycle of Red Flame Lotuses and poison-eating insects, culminating in the rare Chihua Pill. Lin Jing observed that the pills, capable of consuming and breaking down thousands of poisons, demonstrated the interconnectedness of all things, where poison could also be an antidote.

Rong Jingfeng affirmed this, stressing that many in Jianghu coveted the Chihua Pills, but none could take them without his permission, not even his own family. He then announced that the Hall of Life would henceforth be responsible for the Flower Sea and all related matters. Observing this, Rong Su realized that her father's move was a strategic one, aimed at countering her influence by appointing Lin Jing as the Hall of Life Master.

Rong Jingfeng confirmed his intentions to Lin Jing, stating that while Lin Jing was not yet a true member of Dragon Howl City, appointing him as Hall of Life Master was to prevent others from secretly seizing control. He believed the Hall of Life could restrain the Hall of Emptiness. Lin Jing reassured him, then discussed the medicinal properties of greater galangal with Rong Hua, acknowledging Ziyan's expertise in drug-making.

Rong Hua expressed concern that the Hall of Life was currently weaker than the other three halls. Lin Jing noticed Rong Hua's fatigue and fragile health, urging her to rest and promising to prepare greater galangal for her, committing to healing both her cold disease and his mother's chronic illness. Meanwhile, Cang Qi, having received a letter from Mei Xueman, arrived at the Mei mansion.

Mei Ying greeted him, subtly asserting the Mei family's declining but still prestigious status as one of the four major families of Jiangnan, and questioned Lin Ruohan's decision to send only Cang Qi. Cang Qi countered, stating that Lingxu Pavilion valued strength and fear over empty titles, and that Mei Ying should prioritize maintaining the Mei family's current standing. Mei Xueman decided to accept Lin Ruohan's invitation to Lingxu Pavilion.

Remembering Lin Ruohan's susceptibility to cold, Mei Xueman decided to prepare a valuable fox fur coat as a return gift. While Mei Ying led Cang Qi to the plum garden entrance, Mei Xueman covertly placed the Chihua Pill inside the coat. Shortly after they left, Mei Ying realized the Chihua Pill was missing and rallied his men to pursue them. Mei Xueman quickly explained to Cang Qi that her brother had surely discovered the theft.

She also confessed her previous failed attempt to navigate Mei Ying's intricate plum forest formation and had written to Cang Qi hoping he could retrieve the pill. Realizing the danger, Cang Qi instructed everyone to blindfold themselves, explaining that the formation's changing layout and special plum fragrance were designed to disorient them.

Having used wine to counter the fragrance earlier, Cang Qi, despite not knowing the front gate's exact location, decided they must make a bold move to break through, citing the young master's philosophy of unexpected action for survival. Mei Xueman guided him, informing him that the heavily guarded front gate was in the northeast.

Lu Yizhou angrily confronted the river lanterns he once lit to please Rong Su, now finding the gesture ridiculous. Rong Su appeared, acknowledging he resented her and was venting his frustration on the lanterns, which she noted were also used to honor the dead. She questioned if using their past conversation to plant doubts in Rong Jingfeng's mind about her relationship with Mo Huan brought him satisfaction.

Lu Yizhou retorted, asking if he was merely an insignificant passerby in her life, secondary to her ambition to become a Hall Master. Rong Su admitted her life had been one of killing, not saving, and her pursuit of the Hall of Life was a desperate, perhaps absurd, hope born from a decade of despair, with him being the sole unexpected element. Lu Yizhou told her to blame herself for misplaced trust.

He then kissed her forehead, before sternly declaring that he knew she had been following him, and from that moment on, her sorrows would be none of his concern; they were to be strangers. Rong Su accused him of being a hypocrite. Lu Yizhou countered that hypocrisy was preferable to self-deception, to which Rong Su responded that he might have lost so much sincerity he would never find anyone willing to be hypocritical to him again.

Cang Qi successfully navigated Mei Ying's Plum Tree Forest Formation by setting fire to a section of the Mei family's plum forest. He expressed regret for the damage and promised to personally apologize to Mei Ying. Mei Xueman, however, was understanding, recognizing the necessity of his quick thinking to evade the guards. Cang Qi explained that Lin Ruohan's invitation for Mei Xueman to visit Lingxu Pavilion, though risky, was the only way to prevent open conflict with the Mei family.

Mei Xueman agreed, stating it saved her from being captured by her brother. They hastened their journey back to Lingxu Pavilion. Elsewhere, Jinque, the chief of Snow Union and an agent of Supreme Master Mo Huan, received a report that information regarding Lingxu Pavilion had been dispatched to Mo Huan. Jinque stated her work for Mo Huan was nothing, but remarked on Lingxu Pavilion's extreme caution and the Mei family's unexpected strength.

She disclosed that the first missing Chihua Pill from Dragon Howl City was with the Mei family, who planned to use it as a marriage dowry for Lingxu Pavilion. Jinque deduced that a high-ranking person in Lingxu Pavilion was in critical condition, necessitating such a valuable offering. She anticipated that Mo Huan would personally intervene, and predicted Lingxu Pavilion's actions would provoke Rong Jingfeng, leading him to seek them out soon.

Lin Jing, as the Hall of Life master, diligently oversaw the Chihua Pill, remarking on the current state of the white snow lotuses and red flame lotuses. He puzzled over how Mo Huan managed to infiltrate Dragon Howl City undetected to obtain the poison-eating insect for Lu Yizhou, despite the heavily guarded single exit. Rong Hua attributed Mo Huan's elusiveness to her shadowy nature, reminding Lin Jing that even he was fooled by her disguise as Mu Yan.

Lin Jing stressed the need for an urgent investigation, as current defenses were inadequate against Mo Huan. Rong Hua playfully teased his newfound seriousness, but Lin Jing insisted on fulfilling his duty to Rong Jingfeng. Rong Hua explained that the Chihua Pill, though sought for life extension, was toxic, and Dragon Howl City's true power lay in possessing its antidote, which instilled fear in other sects.

She warned that another theft of the Chihua Pill would jeopardize Dragon Howl City's standing. Lin Jing, acknowledging the disciples' inability to confront Mo Huan, proposed a unique strategy involving formations, noting the Chihua Pill's fruition during winter, reminiscent of the Mei family's plum blossom fragrance. Mo Huan effortlessly entered Dragon Howl City's council hall, mocking Rong Jingfeng for failing to recognize his former master.

Rong Jingfeng, feigning civility, inquired about her visit, which Mo Huan claimed was to remind him of his past as a fearless individual before he gained power and became timid. Rong Jingfeng, now referring to her as Mo Huan, threatened to protect Rong Su with his life if Mo Huan dared to harm her.

Mo Huan dismissed his threat, then accused him of betraying the Ling Sect years ago to steal the Chihua Pill, which she stated belonged to its rightful owner to save lives. She revealed that the first missing Chihua Pill was in Lingxu Pavilion and challenged Rong Jingfeng to a competition to retrieve it first.

Rong Jingfeng, attempting to gauge her martial prowess, attacked her, but Mo Huan easily deflected, inflicting a neck wound and criticizing his lack of improvement, assuring him their past grievances were far from settled. Rong Jingfeng, holding his bleeding neck, declared his resolve to protect Dragon Howl City, which he built himself. Lin Jing treated the precise and deep wound, explaining the necessity of a special technique to prevent fatal blood loss, and mused on Mo Huan's formidable martial arts.

When an Old Hall Master attempted to interfere, Lin Jing asserted his Hall of Life's sole responsibility for the matter. Rong Jingfeng then ordered Lin Jing to immediately take forces to Lingxu Pavilion to intercept Mo Huan and recover the Chihua Pill. Lin Jing was visibly conflicted, connecting the Chihua Pill at Lingxu Pavilion to his ailing mother. Rong Hua expressed concern about the perilous journey to Lingxu Pavilion, known for its impenetrable defenses.

Unbeknownst to them, Rong Su's subordinate celebrated the potential removal of Rong Hua as an obstacle, foreseeing Rong Su's return to power with Rong Jingfeng wounded and Lin Jing occupied. Rong Su subtly wished Lin Jing a safe journey. Lin Jing, concerned for Rong Hua's safety with Rong Su left in Dragon Howl City, invited her to accompany him to Lingxu Pavilion, which she readily accepted.

Rong Su's subordinate further speculated that Rong Jingfeng's orders for the Hall of Emptiness to protect Chihua Pill-owning sects was a ploy to extend Dragon Howl City's influence across the martial world. Rong Su agreed to fulfill this, but questioned Rong Jingfeng's true motive in entrusting Lin Jing with such a critical mission. As they left, Rong Hua worried about devising a strategy to confront both the powerful Mo Huan and Lingxu Pavilion.

Lin Jing reassured her, emphasizing his role as her grandmaster. Mei Xueman presented the Chihua Pill to Lin Ruohan. Cang Qi confessed his unauthorized collaboration with Mei Xueman to retrieve the pill, offering to accept punishment. Lin Ruohan, furious, feared the incident would jeopardize their marital alliance. Mei Xueman took full responsibility, urging Lin Ruohan not to blame Cang Qi.

She reiterated that she would accept Lin Jing's choice if he loved someone else and insisted the Chihua Pill was a gift, not a marriage dowry. As Lin Ruohan began to suffer a relapse, Mei Xueman attempted to infuse the pill with her internal energy, but it was Lin Ruohan who ultimately absorbed it. Revived, Lin Ruohan thanked Mei Xueman, then declared Mei Xueman her chosen daughter-in-law, solidifying the marriage alliance.

Shortly after, Mei Ying arrived at Lingxu Pavilion to retrieve his sister but was blocked by Lu Yizhou. Mei Xueman intervened, pleading with her brother not to blame Lingxu Pavilion. Unable to bear seeing her deceived, Mei Ying revealed that Lin Jing already had a sweetheart. Lu Yizhou reported his failure to bring Lin Jing back to the Pavilion Master, accepting any punishment. The Pavilion Master, however, was annoyed by Lin Jing's absence, believing he should have returned himself.

Meanwhile, Lin Jing and Rong Hua were ambushed by Mei Ying, who mockingly questioned Lin Jing's identity. During their struggle, Lin Jing almost exposed his full martial arts capabilities. Mei Ying then held Rong Hua hostage, threatening her life to force Lin Jing to drop his sword. Enraged, Lin Jing vowed to kill Mei Ying if Rong Hua was harmed.

Mei Ying continued to cast doubt on Lin Jing's true identity, but before he could reveal more, Liuli of Snow Union intervened. She declared the area Snow Union territory, emphasizing their rule of peaceful business, and warned Mei Ying that any further fighting would require permission from her crystal ball. Unwilling to clash with Snow Union, Mei Ying withdrew, vowing retribution later. Rong Hua thanked Liuli, who admitted her help was purely transactional, costing 300 taels of silver.

Lin Jing recognized Liuli as a member of Snow Union. Rong Hua explained that her father had spoken of Snow Union's unparalleled intelligence network, leading her to arrange for their assistance. Liuli offered to take them to meet Jinque, the chief, to discuss obtaining information about Lingxu Pavilion, though she warned the price would be substantial. At Snow Union, Jinque knew what information Rong Hua sought and questioned if she could afford it.

Rong Hua confidently offered any amount of money, but Jinque revealed her price was the Chihua Pill's antidote. Rong Hua refused, deeming the Chihua Pill Dragon Howl City's foundational secret, too important to trade. Lin Jing worried about missing such an opportunity, but Rong Hua proposed they investigate Lingxu Pavilion themselves, recalling Master Xue's ambush on the path of Suilin Valley as a possible entry point.

Deciding to stay overnight and investigate the path the next morning, Lin Jing and Rong Hua had a meal at an inn. Lin Jing attempted to confess something to Rong Hua, but an innkeeper interrupted, serving them complimentary food and wine from an "honored guest" in the inner yard. The innkeeper refused to identify the guest. Suspecting the guest was Lu Yizhou, Rong Hua went to the inner yard.

She approached a figure from behind and began speaking, believing it to be him. When the person turned, it was revealed to be Mei Xueman, startling both Rong Hua and Lin Jing, who had followed her. Lin Jing, recognizing her, asked why she was so quiet, sensing something was amiss, to which Mei Xueman replied, "It's actually not me."

Lu Yizhou looked uncomfortable as Mei Xueman slowly emerged from the inner hall, causing Lin Jing to appear embarrassed. Rong Hua stepped forward to greet Mei Xueman, but Mei Xueman's gaze was fixed solely on Lin Jing, completely disregarding Rong Hua's presence. She detailed the arrangements she had made for Lin Jing's journey, including his lodging and meals. Annoyed, Rong Hua turned and left. Seeing the situation spiral, Lu Yizhou also excused himself and departed.

After everyone else had left, Mei Xueman confessed her deep affection for Lin Jing. She recounted how she had initially dismissed rumors of him being involved with another woman but now felt utterly humiliated by what she had witnessed. Lin Jing truthfully told her that his heart already belonged to someone else and that he wished only to marry Rong Hua and spend his life with her.

Mei Xueman then brought up the matter of the Chihua Pill, which angered Lin Jing even further, as he refused to have his marriage dictated by external forces. Meanwhile, Rong Hua, wandering alone, inadvertently stumbled into Lingxu Pavilion territory. She was gravely wounded by Cang Qi. Fortunately, Lin Jing and Lu Yizhou arrived just in time to save her, but the ordeal triggered a severe Cold Disease attack, causing her to collapse.

Lin Jing instructed Lu Yizhou to ensure Rong Hua received proper care, while he had to return to Lingxu Pavilion to handle urgent matters. Mei Xueman, witnessing Lin Jing's devoted attention to Rong Hua, grew intensely jealous. She deliberately revealed to Rong Hua that Lin Jing was in fact Na Lanyue, the young master of Lingxu Pavilion, leaving Rong Hua stunned. Upon his return to Lingxu Pavilion, Na Lanyue brought Cang Qi with him.

Lin Ruohan, the Pavilion Master, pardoned Cang Qi for his failure to eliminate Rong Hua. Na Lanyue immediately confronted his mother, questioning why she relentlessly sought to harm Rong Hua. Lin Ruohan revealed that Rong Jingfeng was the true culprit behind his father's death, emphasizing that Na Lanyue absolutely could not be with Rong Hua. At that moment, the sounds of intense fighting erupted outside. It was Mo Huan, launching an attack on Lingxu Pavilion.

Mo Huan brazenly declared that only one of them, Lingxu Pavilion or Dragon Howl City, would survive. Lin Ruohan attempted to fend off Mo Huan but was severely injured in the process. Gravely wounded, Lin Ruohan disclosed the full story to her son. She explained that both she and Rong Jingfeng were once favored disciples of Mo Huan, the Supreme Master of the Ling Sect. The Ling Sect had strict rules prohibiting disciples from forming romantic attachments with outsiders.

However, Lin Ruohan and Na Lanyue's father fell deeply in love and eloped to be together. Enraged by their betrayal, Mo Huan dispatched Rong Jingfeng to hunt them down. Rong Jingfeng, however, harbored a greedy desire for Na Lanyue's father's ancestral Chihua Pill. He seized the opportunity to murder Na Lanyue's father, steal the pill, and betray the Ling Sect. Hearing this, Na Lanyue finally understood his mother's painful intentions and the depth of her suffering.

Having learned the painful truth, Rong Hua went to Lingxu Pavilion to confront Na Lanyue. Knowing he was in the wrong for his deception, Na Lanyue offered his life as a form of atonement. Rong Hua held a dagger, but her resolve wavered, unable to strike him. Tearfully, Na Lanyue explained that he had been forced into these difficult circumstances. Once she calmed down, Rong Hua listened to his explanation.

He revealed that "Lin Jing" was merely an alias he used while traveling the jianghu, adopting his mother's surname as a mark of respect for her, but she felt as though everything had changed. Under Rong Su's instructions, Xuan Ye visited the Snow Union to purchase information. Liuli, the Snow Union leader, presented her condition: she demanded the antidote to the Chihua Pill. Xuan Ye, without hesitation, readily agreed to her terms.

Meanwhile, Lin Ruohan questioned Lu Yizhou about Rong Hua's character. She expressed her hope that Lu Yizhou could persuade Na Lanyue to prioritize the greater good over his personal affections. She then assigned Lu Yizhou a new task: to closely monitor Rong Su in Dragon Howl City. The gentle Mei Xueman visited Na Lanyue, expressing concern for his injuries and suggesting that Rong Hua was not worthy of his love, hoping he would reconsider his affections.

Na Lanyue, however, observed Mei Xueman's outwardly gentle demeanor masking a surprisingly mature and astute mind. He pledged to assist the Mei family but stipulated certain conditions. Rong Hua sought a private audience with Lin Ruohan. Lin Ruohan revealed that the Chihua Pill had been absorbed into her heart meridian and offered Rong Hua a choice: either remove the Chihua Pill, or help suppress its poisonous backlash. Rong Hua chose to provide treatment.

Later that night, Rong Hua bid farewell to Lin Ruohan, informing her that the Chihua Pill, once consumed, had no antidote and was, in essence, a poison. Despite this, Lin Ruohan stubbornly refused to humble herself and seek the antidote from Dragon Howl City, enduring her suffering with grim determination. She believed it was better for Rong Hua to see for herself, rather than harbor false hope. Lin Ruohan remarked that, unless she was an exceptionally good deceiver, Rong Hua's character seemed vastly different from Rong Jingfeng's.

Na Lanyue and Mei Xueman stood before a gathering, proposing three toasts. The first was to his mother, Lin Ruohan, for her nurturing and care throughout the years. The second honored everyone present for their collective efforts, which had elevated Lingxu Pavilion to its current standing in Jianghu. For the third toast, Mei Xueman stepped forward, stating it was for each other and expressing gratitude for Na Lanyue's promise to her.

Na Lanyue then presented Mei Xueman with his personal jade pendant, declaring that with it, she could command the people of Lingxu Pavilion. Mei Xueman publicly swore to regard him as her brother, Lin Ruohan as her family, and all members of Lingxu Pavilion as her own people, vowing unwavering loyalty. Na Lanyue, in turn, vowed to protect his sworn sister for life, promising to relinquish his title as young master if he ever broke his oath.

Mei Xueman candidly explained her intention was for Lingxu Pavilion to help the Mei family regain their status in Jianghu, asking for forgiveness for her "selfishness." Observing this, Lin Ruohan chided Na Lanyue for making such a significant decision while she was incapacitated, calling him a schemer. Na Lanyue, trying to lighten the mood, claimed it was a surprise and pointed out that his mother now had another daughter to dote on.

Lin Ruohan, though still displeased, reluctantly accepted Mei Xueman, announcing that anyone who troubled her would be challenging Lingxu Pavilion itself, before taking Mei Xueman away. Rong Hua, who had initially watched with a pang of jealousy as Na Lanyue and Mei Xueman toasted, relaxed upon hearing they had become sworn siblings. Na Lanyue playfully winked at her, but Rong Hua, though having forgiven him, remained concerned for Lin Ruohan's safety.

She explained that her temporary suppression of the Chihua Pill's backlash would not last, making it imperative to return to Dragon Howl City for the antidote. Na Lanyue, reverting to his Lin Jing persona, offered to accompany her, requesting that she keep his true identity a secret once they arrived. Rong Hua agreed, assuring him he would only be known as Lin Jing, the Master of the Hall of Life, in Dragon Howl City.

Na Lanyue playfully told her not to forgive him too easily in the future, prompting Rong Hua to retort that he shouldn't make every unmanageable girl his sworn sister. Na Lanyue declared he would marry soon to deter other women, swearing his heart only had room for Rong Hua. He jokingly added that if she rejected him, he would simply settle down with Lu Yizhou. Rong Hua responded with a laugh, saying, "Good for you."

Meanwhile, Lu Yizhou brazenly arrived at Master Xiao's residence for tea, where Rong Su was also present. Initially, Lu Yizhou's subordinate had suggested a discreet approach, but Lu Yizhou insisted that given Rong Su's shrewdness, they must confront her directly. Rong Su immediately challenged Lu Yizhou for his bold presence, questioning if he feared no further attempts on his life.

Lu Yizhou deftly countered, suggesting that if he were to die at the Xiao's residence, the blame would fall on them. Rong Su demanded why he couldn't find another place to stay. Lu Yizhou praised the peaceful environment of the Xiao residence, subtly implying that Rong Su was the one stirring up trouble. Master Xiao, sensing the rising tension, intervened by praising the quality of his Lu'an tea and offering to brew another pot, attempting to diffuse the confrontation.

Xuan Ye reported to Rong Su that the Snow Union was demanding the Chihua Pill's antidote in exchange for information about Lingxu Pavilion, and expressed concern that Rong Hua and Lin Jing might successfully escape Lingxu Pavilion and return to Dragon Howl City. Rong Su dismissed the Snow Union's demands as greedy, acknowledging Lin Jing as a formidable opponent if Lingxu Pavilion failed to eliminate them.

She then revealed her plan to embark on a crucial mission to secure the Hall of Emptiness's standing. Rong Su instructed Xuan Ye to intensify surveillance on Lingxu Pavilion, ensuring that Rong Hua and Lin Jing would not reach Dragon Howl City before her. When Xuan Ye inquired about Lu Yizhou, Rong Su ordered him to stall Lu Yizhou and prevent him from getting involved in her dangerous undertaking.

Na Lanyue informed his mother, Lin Ruohan, of his intention to return to Dragon Howl City. Lin Ruohan vehemently opposed the idea, reminding him that she had never planned to survive after consuming the Chihua Pill and would not allow him to endanger himself. Na Lanyue pleaded with his mother to support his love for Rong Hua, assuring her that he was capable of resolving the previous generation's grudges on his own terms.

He expressed his pain at never knowing his father and witnessing his mother's lifelong struggle to build Lingxu Pavilion under the weight of responsibility. He urged her to live for herself and her own happiness, emphasizing that his relationship with Rong Hua was a personal matter, independent of the past enmities involving her, his father, and Rong Jingfeng. He asked her to trust him to handle everything.

Lin Ruohan then posed a difficult question: if the opportunity arose, would he personally kill Rong Jingfeng? Na Lanyue replied that he would resolve everything in his own way and provide her with a satisfactory outcome. He firmly reiterated that he must go to Dragon Howl City. Meanwhile, Mo Huan, despite her youthful appearance, felt her powers waning. She instructed her subordinates on their recent arrangements before retreating to a secret chamber for solitary cultivation.

Unbeknownst to her, Rong Su had discovered this secret and ambushed her, but still proved no match for Mo Huan, who expressed that dying by her master's side would be a fitting end. Fortunately, Lu Yizhou, who had been following Rong Su, arrived in time to rescue her. As they fled through a corridor filled with traps and Dark Soldiers, Rong Su was struck by a poisoned sword.

Seeing a stone door rapidly closing and realizing she was slowing Lu Yizhou down, Rong Su kissed him and, with a surge of strength, threw him out, declaring, "I don't owe you anything now," before collapsing. Lu Yizhou, despite his own injuries and the closing door, refused to abandon her. He managed to drag her out, but his right hand was severely crushed by the stone door. Later, in a secluded riverside cottage, Lu Yizhou tended to Rong Su's injuries.

Rong Su, pleased with her successful ambush, confidently stated that Mo Huan was severely injured and would need at least six months to recover, confirming her mission's success. Upon their return to Dragon Howl City, Rong Hua and Na Lanyue, who had resumed his playful Lin Jing persona, were greeted by Bai Weizhi, who exaggerated his worries during their absence. Na Lanyue teased Bai Weizhi for having gained weight despite claiming sleepless nights.

A subordinate then announced that Rong Jingfeng was waiting in the meeting hall. Rong Hua nervously asked Lin Jing if his plan would work with her father, and he reassured her. In the hall, Rong Jingfeng noted Rong Hua's weight loss. He then questioned Lin Jing about his first mission as Hall of Life master. Lin Jing reported that the Chihua Pill was indeed in Lingxu Pavilion.

Rong Hua admitted they hadn't retrieved it, leading Rong Jingfeng to question if Lingxu Pavilion was too powerful. Rong Hua explained she had the opportunity but chose to forgo it after much thought. Enraged, Rong Jingfeng demanded to know why Lin Jing allowed this, reminding him of the pill's importance to Dragon Howl City and accusing them of defiance.

Lin Jing explained that Mo Huan had declared only one of the two sects could survive, suggesting Mo Huan was instigating conflict. He advised a cautious approach, to keep options open and observe. Rong Hua supported this, stating the matter was too critical for her to decide alone, which was why they had returned for his counsel. Rong Jingfeng dismissed them to rest, deferring further discussion.

Later, Rong Hua's friend, Xiaoxiao, informed her that the Hall of Emptiness was now very influential, as Rong Su had successfully united various Jianghu sects to oppose the Ling Sect. However, Rong Su's current whereabouts were unknown, with only a messenger having returned to report. Rong Hua found this unusual, noting that her sister typically boasted about her achievements. Xiaoxiao lamented that this situation made the Hall of Life seem inferior, which would be embarrassing for her.

Lin Jing playfully questioned why a disciple of the Hall of Sickness was so concerned for the Hall of Life, to which Xiaoxiao replied that as Rong Hua's best friend and with Rong Hua working in the Hall of Life, she naturally worried. Rong Hua remained uneasy about her sister's uncharacteristic absence. While poring over historical documents, Na Lanyue found no records pertaining to the founding of Dragon Howl City.

Rong Hua explained what little she knew: the city was established by her parents, who had incurred the wrath of Mo Huan. During their flight, her mother gave birth to her in a cold pond and passed away soon after. She knew almost nothing about her father's past. Na Lanyue mused on the mystery surrounding Rong Jingfeng's formidable martial arts and the origins of the rare Chihua Pill.

Rong Jingfeng, without punishing Rong Hua and Lin Jing for their lack of success, inquired about Lingxu Pavilion. Rong Hua offered vague descriptions of its master as a cold, middle-aged woman, and asserted that their use of the Chihua Pill was not an act of hostility towards Dragon Howl City. Rong Jingfeng, however, maintained that using a stolen item constituted an act of enmity. He speculated that without an antidote, Lingxu Pavilion's master might not survive.

Rong Hua then suggested that Dragon Howl City should consider an alliance with Lingxu Pavilion to jointly confront Mo Huan. Rong Jingfeng rejected the idea, citing Lingxu Pavilion's erratic behavior and stating that a partnership should only be considered after a thorough understanding of their true intentions. Rong Hua later cooked fish for Bai Weizhi, who praised her culinary skills, which she credited to Lin Jing.

She then casually asked Bai Weizhi if he knew any martial artists with the surname Nalan. Bai Weizhi nearly choked on a fishbone, becoming visibly flustered. He feigned ignorance, claiming to only know a few Nalan acquaintances. Sensing her suspicion, he quickly excused himself, claiming urgent matters at his Hall, leaving Rong Hua to finish the meal. Bai Weizhi then rushed into Rong Jingfeng's study, where he encountered Zi Yan.

He anxiously asked her if she remembered the Nalan family, a highly sensitive "unspoken secret" of Dragon Howl City. Zi Yan, startled, questioned why he brought it up. Bai Weizhi revealed that Rong Hua had asked him about it, expressing his hope that he was merely overthinking. Zi Yan immediately concluded that Rong Hua must have met someone outside and insisted on reporting it to Rong Jingfeng.

However, Bai Weizhi stopped her, cautioning that Rong Hua's stubborn nature meant she wouldn't yield to direct questioning. He proposed secretly observing Rong Hua to uncover the truth and urged Zi Yan not to inform Rong Jingfeng yet, fearing that his sensitivity regarding the Nalan family might lead to impulsive actions and harm innocent people before the situation was fully understood.

Lin Jing and Rong Hua walked among the blooming flowers, pondering how to uncover the long-held secrets between their families. Lin Jing noted that the Red Flame and White Snow flowers, which produce the Chihua Pill and its antidote, are truly special. Rong Hua added that her father always said these rare treasures were the very foundation of Dragon Howl City.

She expressed her desire to obtain the antidote for her mother once it was ready, but worried because only her father knew the precise method, and her sister, Rong Su, usually handled its escort. They needed a plan that would bypass both her father and sister. Lin Jing thanked Rong Hua for helping him conceal his identity and for alleviating many troubles for Lingxu Pavilion.

Rong Hua waved off his thanks, stating that their priority was for Lingxu Pavilion and Dragon Howl City to unite against Mo Huan. She then voiced her confusion about the lingering grudges between the two factions, wondering if her father had offended the Master of Lingxu Pavilion. Lin Jing admitted he too wished to resolve the conflict and revealed that he had asked his own Master, whose reaction was peculiar. Unbeknownst to them, Bai Weizhi was hidden nearby, listening.

He reflected on his own knowledge, believing Rong Jingfeng to be ambitious and cruel, having secretly coveted the Nalan family's heirloom, the Chihua Pill. He concluded that Rong Jingfeng had seized the opportunity to kill Lin Jing's father and take the pill. Meanwhile, Rong Su, after deliberately sending Lu Yizhou away, met with her subordinate, Xuan Ye.

Xuan Ye expressed concern for her safety, but Rong Su ordered him to return to Dragon Howl City immediately and spread the news throughout the martial world that she had seriously injured Mo Huan. She wanted everyone to know that it was Rong Su, the Master of the Hall of Emptiness, who had defeated the once unbeatable Supreme Master Mo Huan.

Xuan Ye advised her to return to the city for treatment, but Rong Su refused, claiming she intended to stay longer to investigate the mysterious Lu Yizhou, which might help uncover Lin Jing's true identity. She assured Xuan Ye she would return once healed and strictly warned him not to disclose her injury to Rong Jingfeng. When Xuan Ye cautiously questioned if her real reasons for staying were truly just recovery and investigation, Rong Su sharply rebuked him.

Upon hearing Xuan Ye's news, Rong Jingfeng was ecstatic. He publicly lauded Rong Su, proclaiming her contribution as immense for buying valuable time for Dragon Howl City. The Hall of Life disciples, emboldened by the news, cheered Rong Su's name. Standing just outside the hall, Rong Hua overheard the commotion and felt a heavy burden on her heart. In the Snow Union, Liuli's curiosity ran wild as she observed the leader meticulously tending to a mysterious patient.

The leader warned her that some things were better left unknown. The patient was none other than the severely wounded Mo Huan. Her recent injury at Rong Su's hands had solidified her conviction: to truly master the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill, the Chihua Pill, capable of three life cycles, was absolutely vital.

She instructed her disciple, the Snow Union leader, to quickly finalize a deal with Rong Su, proposing an exchange of the Chihua Pill's antidote for all the secrets of Lingxu Pavilion. Rong Jingfeng convened an assembly of Dragon Howl City's key decision-makers. He expressed deep concern about Mo Huan potentially making a comeback, stressing the paramount importance of ensuring the antidote's timely production and safe distribution.

He acknowledged the previous year's method of Hall of Emptiness disciples delivering the antidote to various sects, but worried that such a predictable routine could be exploited. To prevent any loopholes, he declared a change: this year, all antidote recipients would be summoned to Dragon Howl City for direct distribution. He tasked Xuan Ye with this critical assignment, as Rong Su was currently absent.

With the blooming season imminent, Rong Jingfeng announced his decision to personally oversee the guarding of the flower garden and the antidote's creation, allowing no one else to be present. Later, Lin Jing learned from Rong Hua that only Rong Jingfeng knew the antidote's manufacturing method. Lin Jing, recalling his mother's words that the Chihua Pill originated with the Nalan family, found it peculiar that his family was unaware of the antidote method, casting doubt on his mother's statements.

They speculated that Mo Huan might also know the detoxification process, which would explain Rong Jingfeng's anxiety. As they looked at the blooming flowers under the night sky, Rong Jingfeng approached. He urged them to return to the city due to the chilly night air. Rong Hua, seizing the moment, asked if the antidote was truly made from the White Snow Lotus. Rong Jingfeng evasively replied that it was a top secret he would reveal when the time was right.

Back at the Mei family residence, an enraged Mei Ying accused his sister, Mei Xueman, of colluding with outsiders, lying to him, and burning down a large section of the plum forest. Mei Xueman defended herself, reminding him that Mrs. Lin had accepted her as a foster daughter, providing the Mei family a powerful backer, so their sacrifice of the Chihua Pill was not in vain. Mei Ying remained unconvinced, asserting that this wasn't a sustainable solution.

He lamented their family's decline, attributing it to their own martial incompetence and reliance on others, emphasizing that their historical strength lay in unique formations like the Plum Blossom Spell, not martial arts. He then pressed Mei Xueman on why Nalan Yue proposed they become sworn siblings instead of marrying. Mei Xueman stated her choice was voluntary, as she preferred Nalan Yue's appreciation over his resentment.

Touched by his sister's plight, Mei Ying vowed to diligently study the Plum Blossom Spell, declaring his ambition to one day make Nalan Yue regret his decision. He then announced he had to leave for a few days to resolve a secret matter that could become a significant problem if left unattended. Rong Su then met Master Xiao, who presented her with a newly forged knife, an identical replacement for Lu Yizhou's. Lu Yizhou approached, questioning her cold demeanor.

Rong Su claimed the knife settled their obligations and announced her return to Dragon Howl City the next day. Lu Yizhou, sensing her true feelings, stated he was also headed that way to seek Lin Jing's treatment for his Ling Sect injuries and suggested they travel together. Rong Su subtly agreed, confirming their departure for the next day. Rong Su's subordinate reported that Mei Ying had received her confidential letter and was rushing to their location.

Rong Su then revealed her meticulous plan. She recounted how the prominent Mei family had fallen due to the betrayal of their vice head, a master sword-forger, who conspired with the Tang Sect. This vice head then changed his identity and rose to power. Her subordinate realized that the cunning Master Xiao was the treacherous vice head.

Rong Su explained that since Rong Jingfeng was personally distributing the antidotes in the city this year, she had to create a situation where the antidote would be sent out. Her plan was to trap Master Xiao outside the city, forcing Dragon Howl City to send his dose to him, creating an opportunity for her to seize it. She callously stated her extensive preparations were precisely for others to be sacrificed when needed.

Anticipating an investigation into Master Xiao's inevitable death, she confirmed that the perfect scapegoat, Mei Ying, was already en route. She explained that Mei Ying held a grudge because Dragon Howl City had cruelly rejected his plea for the Chihua Pill for his dying father, choosing the Tang Sect instead. She had suspected Mei Ying's role in the recent killing of the Tang Sect leader but refrained from exposing him, saving him as a strategic piece for this very moment.

With her plan set, she commanded action: she would detain Lu Yizhou, while her subordinate would ensure Dragon Howl City dispatched the antidote. Within the heavily guarded Dragon Howl City, the antidote distribution was meticulously orchestrated. A guard expressed concern to Rong Jingfeng that Rong Su and Master Xiao had not yet arrived, citing a report that they had altered their route due to Rong Su's injuries.

Rong Jingfeng dismissed the worries, confident that the ambitious Rong Su would not jeopardize an opportunity to claim credit. Nearby, Lin Jing observed the heightened security. Seizing an opportunity, he feigned ignorance to Bai Weizhi, questioning why Rong Jingfeng collected the leaves of the Chihua Pill if only the petals were used for the antidote. Annoyed, Bai Weizhi fell for the trick, inadvertently confirming Lin Jing’s guess. Realizing he had been tricked, Bai Weizhi grew agitated.

Pleased, Lin Jing pushed further, and the exasperated Bai Weizhi revealed the entire process: the antidote could not be taken orally. First, a silver needle seals the recipient's heart meridian. Then, the middle finger is cut, and the medicine is poured into the wound. Finally, internal force is used to catalyze the antidote, sending it straight to the heart. Lin Jing listened intently, now armed with the critical secret.

As Rong Su journeyed back to Dragon Howl City, she deliberately slowed her pace, knowing an ambush was imminent. When masked assassins indeed attacked, she instructed Xuan Ye to escort Master Xiao ahead, explaining that her own injuries had delayed them and Master Xiao needed the Chihua Pill antidote that very night. As she fought, she told her subordinates to split up to distract the enemies, promising to meet them later outside the bamboo forest.

While Xuan Ye assured the ailing Master Xiao that Rong Su had a backup plan and someone else would bring the antidote, Rong Su met privately with Mei Ying. Mei Ying recognized her as Miss Rong Su of Dragon Howl City and questioned her intentions. Rong Su clarified that an enemy of his enemy was a friend. Mei Ying confessed his hatred for the traitor who conspired with the Tang Sect and became Master Xiao, causing his Mei family's downfall.

He thanked Rong Su for providing the opportunity to avenge his father. Rong Su, accepting his commitment to revenge, told him to remember that he would be the one to kill Master Xiao. Meanwhile, with Rong Hua not having returned on time, a council was held in Dragon Howl City to address the urgent antidote situation. The discussion focused on Master Xiao's critical condition, prompting Zi Yan, the Hall of Sickness Master, to propose delivering the antidote herself.

However, Bai Weizhi objected, deeming the mission too dangerous for her. He instead suggested Lin Jing undertake the task, warning him to guard the antidote with his life. After a sarcastic remark about Bai Weizhi always assigning him risky missions, Lin Jing accepted the responsibility on behalf of the Hall of Life, and preparations were made for his departure. Master Xiao awoke in the wilderness, suffering immense pain as the Chihua Pill poison took hold.

Mei Ying stood over him, mockingly addressing him as "Master Xiao." Mei Ying accused him of betraying the Mei family to rise to power, now ironically reduced to begging the Rong family for an antidote. Master Xiao, desperate, attempted to shift the blame to the Tang Sect, but Mei Ying angrily silenced him, producing a dagger Master Xiao had once given him to protect the Mei family.

Mei Ying declared he had dreamt of this moment for years, then stabbed and killed Master Xiao, fulfilling his revenge. Lin Jing and his escort group, carrying the antidote, were ambushed by masked figures. Cornered, Lin Jing threatened to destroy the antidote if they attacked further. A subordinate reported to Rong Su that Lin Jing was cunning and willing to die with the antidote.

Rong Su, calling Lin Jing hard to deal with, decided to retrieve the antidote herself but found it destroyed in a fire. Unbeknownst to Rong Su, Rong Hua, having trusted Lin Jing's analysis, had anticipated her sister's scheme. Knowing Rong Su's deliberate delays and likely ambush, Lin Jing had foresightfully swapped the real antidote for a fake before leaving, thus averting disaster. Rong Hua realized her sister had needed the antidote for some unknown purpose.

Lin Jing, having escaped the ambush, witnessed Mei Ying’s act of revenge. Mei Ying openly confessed to killing Master Xiao to avenge his father. Lin Jing ordered Mei Ying to be taken back to Dragon Howl City. Mei Ying, unafraid, addressed Lin Jing as "Young Master," hinting that Lin Jing's true identity was his protective charm. Later, Rong Su returned to Dragon Howl City, feigning serious injuries to gain Lu Yizhou's sympathy.

She told him Master Xiao had been killed by Mei Ying and that her own injuries rendered her powerless. Lu Yizhou, genuinely concerned, expressed relief at her safety and then voiced his worries for Lin Jing's well-being. While Lin Jing calmly studied medicine, Rong Hua grew increasingly agitated.

She urged him to go to the Hall of Sickness to retrieve Mei Ying, fearing that Mei Ying might expose Lin Jing's true identity as the Young Master of Lingxu Pavilion under interrogation. Lin Jing explained that Master Xiao's death was a plot by Rong Su to steal the Chihua Pill antidote, and Mei Ying was the only witness.

He insisted Mei Ying's testimony against Rong Su was crucial, believing Mei Ying would not betray him and risk the wrath of Lingxu Pavilion. Rong Hua, however, was skeptical, reminding Lin Jing of her aunt's cruel torture methods. She deduced that Rong Su must also be anxious about Mei Ying's potential revelations. Meanwhile, Mei Ying, held in the Black Room, endured agonizing hallucinations from its poisonous smoke.

Despite the torture, he defiantly maintained he had killed Master Xiao for filial revenge and challenged his tormentors to execute him swiftly rather than prolong his suffering. Zi Yan, supervising his interrogation, explained that the Black Room's toxins penetrated the skin, making Mei Ying's Art of Turtle Breathing ineffective against the illusions. Rong Hua went to the council hall to report to Rong Jingfeng, where she encountered Rong Su.

Rong Hua confronted her sister, accusing her of risking Dragon Howl City's safety for personal gain. Rong Su, in turn, rebuked Rong Hua, challenging her authority and accusing her of relying on an "unknown man" to seize control of the Hall of Life. The two sisters exchanged accusations regarding the antidote's destruction and its implications for their father's judgment, each believing their stance would reveal the true culprit.

When they presented their arguments to Rong Jingfeng, Rong Su demanded Mei Ying's execution to set an example, stating his actions shamed Dragon Howl City. Rong Hua countered that Master Xiao was a treacherous murderer, and Mei Ying's act of filial revenge merited respectful treatment to encourage him to reveal the true plotter. Their arguments, though opposing, seemed sound.

Rong Jingfeng, the cunning City Lord, subtly indicated his decision by giving Bai Weizhi a black Go piece to deliver to Zi Yan, signifying Mei Ying's release, as he already knew the true mastermind behind the events. Following Rong Jingfeng's coded instruction, Zi Yan proceeded to release Mei Ying. Opening the door to the Black Room, she found him without breath.

Recognizing he had used the Art of Turtle Breathing, Zi Yan noted that her toxins bypassed such resistance by penetrating the skin. She ordered Mei Ying immediately moved to the Hall of Life for treatment. Later, Bai Weizhi, surprised that Mei Ying was alive, questioned Zi Yan about Rong Jingfeng's unexpected decision. Zi Yan speculated that Rong Su might have privately informed Rong Jingfeng that the Mei family was involved in the disappearance of the first Chihua Pill.

She deduced that Rong Jingfeng intended to use Mei Ying to extract secrets about Lingxu Pavilion. Lu Yizhou, recuperating, received medicine from Rong Su, delivered by Xuan Ye. Lin Jing arrived during this visit and deliberately created a scene, accusing Lu Yizhou of prioritizing romance over friendship and mocking his partiality towards Rong Su. He also chided Xuan Ye for using Hall of Life treasures as gifts for Rong Su's personal favors.

The heated argument between Lin Jing and Lu Yizhou led Xuan Ye to report their discord to Rong Su. After Xuan Ye's departure, Lin Jing explained to a puzzled Lu Yizhou that their public spat was an act to confuse Rong Su, who was trying to win Lu Yizhou over. He then revealed his real plan: to feign animosity so they could secretly return the genuine antidote (which Lin Jing produced) to Lingxu Pavilion.

Rong Su, inherently suspicious, heard Xuan Ye's report but perceived Lin Jing's tactics as too obvious and remained unconvinced. Meanwhile, Mei Ying was being treated in the Hall of Life. Rong Hua, still worried about Rong Su's murderous intent, personally took charge of his care, thwarting an attempt by a disguised disciple to approach Mei Ying.

Mei Ying, realizing Rong Hua was protecting him, provocatively hinted at Lin Jing's "interesting encounter" with him, suggesting it could be valuable information for Rong Jingfeng. Rong Hua shut down his attempts to create further mischief, reiterating her father's order for him to simply rest. Despite Rong Hua's protective care, Mei Ying remained ungrateful and continued to badmouth Lin Jing.

Following her failed attempt to seize the antidote, Rong Su sent multiple letters to the Snow Union to extend their transaction time. Her subordinate reported that despite repeated letters, the Snow Union had not replied, suggesting they were aware of her failure. Rong Su, infuriated by this setback, held Lin Jing entirely responsible for thwarting her plan. Meanwhile, Mo Huan, having received similar reports from the Snow Union, shrewdly deduced Rong Su's failure.

She observed that Rong Su was attempting to continue extracting secrets about Lingxu Pavilion but believed Rong Su was now incapable of obtaining the antidote given the unrest in Dragon Howl City. Despite her subordinate's confirmation that Lin Jing had destroyed the antidote, Mo Huan questioned if Lin Jing would truly destroy a medicine vital for his mother. She concluded that Lin Jing had cunningly faked its destruction to hide the real antidote.

Mo Huan then ordered her agents to intensify their surveillance on Dragon Howl City, anticipating Lin Jing's next move to retrieve the antidote, which she was determined to acquire. She also instructed her agents to ignore Rong Su for now, intending to "tantalize" her.

Nalan Yue had arranged for the antidote to be sent back to Lingxu Pavilion, but it was ambushed on the way by Liuli and her subordinates from the Snow Union. Pretending to be ordinary escorts, Nalan Yue's disciples were quickly defeated, and all sacrificed themselves trying to protect the antidote. Liuli, confident in her ability to execute tasks for the Snow Union Leader, confirmed she had secured the antidote and ordered her men to bury the fallen, leaving no trace.

Cang Qi, dispatched by Nalan Yue to provide assistance, arrived shortly after the ambush. Finding no antidote and the escorts dead, he ordered his men to search thoroughly for clues while he returned to report the grave news. Meanwhile, Mei Xueman arrived at Lingxu Pavilion, seeking Lin Ruohan's help for her brother Mei Ying, who was rumored to have killed Master Xiao and been arrested by Dragon Howl City.

Lin Ruohan, though appearing frail, reassured Mei Xueman that Nalan Yue in Dragon Howl City would protect Mei Ying, and invited her to stay for her safety. Shortly after, Lin Ruohan coughed up blood and collapsed, exhibiting bewildering and severe symptoms. Just then, Cang Qi returned, confirming the antidote had been intercepted by assailants who seemed to know Lingxu Pavilion intimately.

Mei Xueman immediately deduced that a spy must be lurking near Nalan Yue, urging Cang Qi to send a warning to him as Dragon Howl City was no longer safe. Unexpectedly, Lin Ruohan, still in a dazed state, sprang up and began choking Cang Qi. It was only when Mei Xueman repeatedly called out Nalan Yue's name that Lin Ruohan's consciousness returned, revealing the terrifying effects of the Chihua Pill's backfire, which could turn victims against their closest loved ones.

In Dragon Howl City, Lin Jing and Lu Yizhou were anxious about the prolonged absence of the antidote messengers. Lin Jing tried to reassure Lu Yizhou, citing the prowess of Lingxu Pavilion's elite disciples and Cang Qi's support. However, rumors quickly spread among the maids about the handsome Mei Ying and his remarkable skill in making a dormant red plum tree blossom, even astonishing Rong Hua, who sought his advice.

Lu Yizhou, observing this, warned Lin Jing that Mei Ying was "more difficult to deal with than we had expected" and suggested finding a way to get him out of Dragon Howl City. Mei Ying, who had initially intended to retrieve his family's manual himself but was thwarted by Bai Weizhi's prowess guarding the Hall of Seniority, capitalized on Rong Hua's naivety.

He confided in her that Dragon Howl City's prized martial arts manuals, including his Mei family's Qimen Dunjia, were obtained through coercion from various sects, not willingly given. This tale stirred Rong Hua's compassion. When Lin Jing arrived, Mei Ying deliberately presented a red plum to Rong Hua, further fueling Lin Jing's jealousy. Lin Jing, denying his jealousy despite Rong Hua's teasing, swiftly pulled her away.

Lin Jing was summoned to the meeting hall, where Rong Jingfeng announced his punishment for the destruction of the previous antidote: a month of spreading manure in the Herbal Garden, with no one allowed to assist him. Rong Hua protested, deeming it a "filthy job," but her father was unyielding. Rong Su, meanwhile, found the punishment fitting for Lin Jing. Enduring the daily stench, Lin Jing was even avoided by Lu Yizhou.

One evening, as Bai Weizhi prepared chicken soup for Zi Yan, Lin Jing attempted to steal some, but Bai Weizhi, repulsed by his smell, declared the entire pot ruined. Meanwhile, Rong Hua, convinced of Mei Ying's plight, discreetly returned his family's Qimen Dunjia manual from the Hall of Seniority, believing it was the right thing to do.

Rong Su witnessed this exchange and, after Rong Hua departed, confronted Mei Ying, mocking his manipulation and dismissing the manual before tossing it aside. Mei Ying, though humiliated, silently vowed to bide his time. He began diligently studying the Qimen Dunjia manual, quickly mastering its intricacies. He later demonstrated his improved skills by trapping Lin Jing in a plum array.

Mei Ying then openly declared his growing affection for Rong Hua, provocatively telling Lin Jing that he was not a suitable match for her and he would actively compete for her love. That same night, Mo Huan stealthily entered Lin Ruohan's inner chambers, where she lit a Chihua Pill leaf, explaining that its smoke would intensify the ongoing backfire of the poison in Lin Ruohan's system.

As Lin Ruohan writhed in agony, Mo Huan mockingly reminisced about Lin Ruohan being her most brilliant disciple in the Ling Sect, now reduced to a pitiable state just to prolong her life. Lin Ruohan, however, defiantly countered, accusing Mo Huan of trying to kill her and pointing out Mo Huan's own desolate existence, surrounded by no trustworthy individuals, not even Rong Su, whom she had raised.

Lin Ruohan's words struck a nerve, as Mo Huan's own health was secretly failing due to her martial practices. After this bitter exchange, Mo Huan injected an antidote into Lin Ruohan, asserting she had saved her. She then warned Lin Ruohan that this rescue was merely a lesson in the Chihua Pill's power, and without future antidotes, Nalan Yue might eventually have to end her life.

Mo Huan then proposed a powerful alliance between Lingxu Pavilion and the Ling Sect to take revenge on Rong Jingfeng, promising Lin Ruohan continued antidotes if she chose to be her ally. Later, Rong Jingfeng visited Mei Ying, outwardly praising his flower-tending abilities but secretly probing his true intentions for remaining in Dragon Howl City.

Mei Ying feigned indifference to life and death, claiming he had already achieved his revenge by killing Master Xiao and had no desire to leave Dragon Howl City alive. However, Rong Jingfeng subtly tested Mei Ying with a low-power palm strike, which Mei Ying instinctively blocked with internal energy, injuring himself. Rong Jingfeng deduced that Mei Ying was far from indifferent to death, revealing his true vigilance.

Pressing further, Rong Jingfeng challenged Mei Ying to consider his "value" to Dragon Howl City. Mei Ying then revealed an old sword scar on his chest, claiming it was from a fight with Lingxu Pavilion. To explain why they were after him, he concocted a story: he was involved in seizing the Chihua Pill from the Tang Sect. He dramatically revealed that after this, he was pursued by Lingxu Pavilion members.

Crucially, he added that Rong Hua was also present at the Tang Sect during the incident, so Lingxu Pavilion was chasing both of them, unable to determine who actually had the Chihua Pill. Mei Ying dared Rong Jingfeng to confirm his story with Rong Hua. Rong Jingfeng, expressing skepticism, still left Mei Ying to ponder his true worth. Later, Mei Ying, alone, mused that his "value" was far beyond Rong Jingfeng's comprehension.

Concurrently, at the Hall of Life, Rong Su's subordinates aggressively demanded medicine, showing blatant disrespect for the rules. Lin Jing, as the Hall Master, publicly rebuked their arrogance, emphasizing the need for unity among Dragon Howl City's four halls against external threats coveting the Chihua Pill. He even offered the Hall of Life's "unconditional and wholehearted" support to the Hall of Emptiness.

The subordinates, however, dismissed Lin Jing as an "outsider" who had merely stumbled into his position, boasting about the Hall of Emptiness's superior strength. Rong Jingfeng, having overheard their disrespectful conduct, intervened decisively. He publicly chastised his daughter's subordinates, ordering them to punish themselves by striking their own mouths, and reiterated that the four halls were meant to be competitors, not enemies, warning against any future insolence.

After dismissing them, Rong Jingfeng questioned Lin Jing about the day he rescued Rong Hua. Lin Jing, surprised, clarified that he had not known the attackers were from Lingxu Pavilion and had only just learned this from Rong Jingfeng, who had apparently heard it from Mei Ying about Lingxu Pavilion's pursuit of both Mei Ying and Rong Hua after the Chihua Pill was taken.

Rong Jingfeng questioned Lin Jing, also known as Nalan Yue, about the Chihua Pill and Lingxu Pavilion, warning him to be wary of Mei Ying, whom he described as cunning. Rong Hua reassured her father that Mei Ying would not be able to take advantage of them, and Rong Jingfeng then advised Rong Hua to be more careful in the future.

After Rong Jingfeng departed, Lin Jing commented that the fake sword wound they created for Mei Ying seemed to have successfully deceived Rong Jingfeng, but Rong Hua cautioned that such a deception could not last indefinitely. Meanwhile, Rong Su expressed deep resentment towards Lin Jing, believing he had deliberately used Rong Jingfeng to undermine her and her disciples. She felt powerless to act against Mei Ying due to her father's authority.

Lu Yizhou then entered, his playful demeanor contrasting with Rong Su’s stern mood. He disregarded her protests and pulled her to the city wall for some air. From there, they observed Rong Jingfeng riding out of the city alone. Rong Su explained that her father made this annual trip every winter to personally purchase high-quality fox fur for Rong Hua, who suffered from a cold illness.

Lu Yizhou, however, found this explanation unconvincing, pointing out that fox fur shouldn't need to be bought annually. He suggested Rong Jingfeng had another purpose for his outing and persuaded Rong Su to secretly follow him. Rong Su agreed but warned Lu Yizhou that he would bear all consequences if their actions were discovered.

Zi Yan headed towards Mei Ying's quarters, but upon arrival, she overheard Rong Hua angrily complaining about Mei Ying's ingratitude, criticizing him for finding fault despite their efforts to save him. Rong Hua then spotted Zi Yan and attempted to pull her away, urging her not to bother with Mei Ying, whom she deemed unworthy of concern. Rong Hua even suggested they teach Mei Ying a lesson, but Zi Yan demurred, fearing Rong Jingfeng's displeasure.

As Rong Hua continued to try and pull Zi Yan away, she noticed Zi Yan's pale complexion and weak pulse, realizing that Zi Yan's body was riddled with toxins from her constant work creating poisons for Dragon Howl City. Zi Yan tried to dismiss her condition, but Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi insisted she seek urgent treatment. Rong Hua then openly encouraged Zi Yan to cease waiting for Rong Jingfeng and instead cherish Bai Weizhi, who clearly cared for her.

Meanwhile, Mei Ying was assisting Lin Jing in searching Rong Jingfeng's inner chambers for an antidote. Mei Ying warned Lin Jing about Rong Jingfeng's cautious nature, noting that any small alteration in the room could alert the City Master. He then remarked on Lin Jing's humility in undertaking such a task for an antidote, acknowledging Rong Hua's devotion to Lin Jing.

Lin Jing, also known as Nalan Yue, dismissed Mei Ying's insinuations about Rong Hua's affections, assuring him that he would not allow Mei Ying any opportunity to interfere between them.

Secretly, Lin Jing collected a sample of a mysterious white powder he found, then claimed to have found no clues in the room before proposing a deal: if Mei Ying used his Plum Blossom Spell to assist him in entering the garden during the Chihua Pill's condensation, Lin Jing would help him escape Dragon Howl City.

Mei Ying, however, expressed doubt about escaping Rong Jingfeng's reach and instead suggested that Lin Jing help him join Dragon Howl City, where he could become a respected figure like Master Xiao. Cang Qi discovered a crystal ball in the forest where the antidote had been stolen. Lin Ruohan concluded that the Snow Union was behind the robbery and that Mo Huan controlled the organization.

Recognizing Rong Jingfeng's growing power, Lin Ruohan believed that a complete downfall of Dragon Howl City would only be possible through cooperation with the Ling Sect. She sent a letter to Nalan Yue (Lin Jing), assuring him she had received the antidote. Lin Ruohan then decided to visit the Snow Union in person, instructing her attendant to convey her intention to meet Guan Buzhuo, Liuli's master.

She intended to ask Guan Buzhuo to deliver a message to Mo Huan: she, along with Lingxu Pavilion, was willing to help Mo Huan eradicate Dragon Howl City, accepting any punishment without complaint afterward. Guan Buzhuo, though having found love and established the Snow Union with his beloved, remained Lin Ruohan’s junior fellow-disciple and fiercely loyal to Mo Huan.

Moved by Lin Ruohan's humble request, he acknowledged her plight while also cautioning her about the unpredictable nature of the martial world. Meanwhile, Lu Yizhou and Rong Su followed Rong Jingfeng to a fur shop. The shop owner revealed that his superior fur products originated from the Northern Wastelands. When Lu Yizhou asked about the region, Rong Su explained that the Ling Sect had once been based in the Northern Wastelands, a place known for forging strong willpower.

Separately, Lin Jing was drinking with Rong Hua when he noticed his wine tasted sour. He realized Rong Hua’s finger, stained with the mysterious white powder he had secretly taken from Rong Jingfeng’s private quarters, had touched the cup. Lin Jing identified the powder as ice crystal, the core of a Millennium Ice Lotus, which grows in the frigid cliffs of the Northern Wastelands.

This ice crystal was unique in that its core never melted and required constant internal force to shatter before use. Remembering Rong Jingfeng's practice of entering secluded cultivation after preparing antidotes, Lin Jing concluded that Rong Jingfeng’s annual trips were not for fox fur, but to procure this powerful ice crystal, which demanded significant internal energy to process. Heartbroken and enraged by Zi Yan's deteriorating health and Rong Jingfeng's apparent indifference, Bai Weizhi burst into the council chamber.

He vehemently criticized Rong Jingfeng for his coldness towards Zi Yan, who had sacrificed her health to create poisons for Dragon Howl City. Bai Weizhi declared his intention to take Zi Yan away from Dragon Howl City in the spring, never to return. Rong Jingfeng countered by citing the strict rules of Dragon Howl City, forbidding anyone from leaving. Rong Hua arrived, interrupting their heated argument, and urged her father to acknowledge Zi Yan's long-standing devotion.

After Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi departed, Rong Jingfeng privately mused that he understood Zi Yan's feelings but was unable to reciprocate. Lin Jing later found Bai Weizhi, who was still deeply upset. Bai Weizhi lamented that despite his unwavering care, Zi Yan, in her poisoned delirium, still called out Rong Jingfeng's name, while Rong Jingfeng remained callously unconcerned.

Lin Jing tried to console him, playfully suggesting that Zi Yan must be truly confused to mistake him for the City Master. Observing the Chihua Pill's impending condensation, Lin Jing expressed concern that this might be their only chance to obtain its seed. Rong Hua then proposed using Zi Yan's critical condition to their advantage, believing that involving her would not only aid their mission but also reveal Rong Jingfeng's true feelings for Zi Yan.

As the Chihua Pill’s condensation approached, Dragon Howl City was on high alert. Mei Ying had deployed a Plum Blossom Array around the city walls, intending to confuse intruders and delay any potential attacks from Mo Huan. Lin Jing mentioned this to Rong Hua, expressing concern over their plan to acquire the Chihua Pill's seed. Rong Jingfeng then instructed Lin Jing to guard the entrance to the Chihua Pill's location, ensuring no one could breach it.

He sought Lin Jing's opinion on Mei Ying, asking if he could be trusted and how best to utilize his talents despite the past animosity between their families. Lin Jing suggested that Rong Jingfeng help Mei Ying rebuild the Mei family, believing that gratitude would secure Mei Ying’s loyalty to Dragon Howl City. Meanwhile, Zi Yan's health continued to decline, her body becoming dangerously cold, and the medicines proving ineffective.

Bai Weizhi, frantic with worry, feared she would not survive much longer and intended to summon Rong Jingfeng. However, Rong Hua arrived and offered to go in his stead, reminding him that Rong Jingfeng was currently preoccupied with guarding the Chihua Pill. Rong Hua rushed to the herbal garden, where Rong Jingfeng was observing the Chihua Pill and contemplating the relentless pursuit of power in the martial world.

She tearfully informed him that Zi Yan was dying, calling out his name, and implored him to visit her. Rong Hua accused him of being heartless and challenged him to tell Zi Yan directly if he truly held no affection for her. Rong Jingfeng initially hesitated, prioritizing the Chihua Pill's safety, but Rong Hua pressed on, revealing that all remedies had failed and only he could save Zi Yan, who had barely two hours left.

Confronted with the gravity of the situation, Rong Jingfeng ultimately left his post to attend to Zi Yan, who continued to murmur his name. Rong Hua observed her father’s departure, acknowledging that he truly harbored feelings for Zi Yan. With her father distracted, Rong Hua reminded Lin Jing that he had only one opportunity to obtain the Chihua Pill seed and instructed him to act immediately upon its condensation.

The twelve golden drums of Dragon Howl City resounded, a signal reserved for moments of grave crisis. Rong Hua went to investigate, while Lin Jing, discerning the Tang Sect’s true intentions, dispatched Lu Yizhou to assist her. The Tang Sect’s two grand elders, accompanied by elite iron-masked warriors, had arrived at the city gates, demanding Mei Ying. The fact that Tingfeng Town, Dragon Howl City’s forward outpost, had provided no prior warning of their approach suggested a premeditated conspiracy.

With Bai Weizhi absent and Rong Jingfeng occupied treating Zi Yan, Rong Su ordered Xuan Ye to open the city gates, allowing the Tang Sect members to enter only after disarming. Rong Su then confronted the grand elders, but despite Rong Hua’s attempts at mediation, a battle was inevitable. Fearing the city’s fall, Rong Hua urgently sought Mei Ying’s help. Mei Ying, acknowledging the potential danger to himself if the Tang Sect breached the city, agreed to accompany her.

As Lu Yizhou joined the fray, the Tang Sect forces suddenly retreated from Dragon Howl City. Rong Su deduced this was a ruse to lure Dragon Howl City’s disciples out. Despite knowing it was a trap, she declared she needed this fight. She instructed Xuan Ye to remain in the city to tend to the casualties, then led Lu Yizhou and other disciples to pursue the Tang Sect.

Outside, Tingfeng Town lay in ruins and deserted, clearly having fallen the previous night. The Tang grand elders stood amidst a fresh wave of elite iron-masked warriors. Rong Su and Lu Yizhou fought fiercely, eventually slaying all the iron-masked men. The grand elders remained unfazed, gloating that the Xiao family had already infiltrated Dragon Howl City and would soon claim the city lord’s head.

Indeed, inside Dragon Howl City, Xuan Ye was tending to the injured when seemingly lifeless bodies suddenly rose, attacking and knocking him unconscious. Meanwhile, in the Herbal Garden, Lin Jing sensed intruders. Three figures, known as the Nameless of the Xiao Family, confronted him.

Lin Jing revealed he knew their secret: they were not a single person but three individuals, members of the renowned Baili sword-forging family from the Nanhai region, bound by an old promise to protect the Xiao family. When they refused his offer to join Dragon Howl City, Lin Jing, revealing his true identity as Nalan Yue of Lingxu Pavilion, prepared to fight.

Rong Hua arrived and, working with Mei Ying, lured the Nameless into a tight space where she scattered Red Flame Lotus pollen, causing poisonous insects to swarm and bite them. As the Nameless were defeated, the Chihua Pill began to condense. Nalan Yue, Rong Hua, and Mei Ying then headed to Tingfeng Town to aid Rong Su and Lu Yizhou. At Tingfeng Town, Lu Yizhou took a poisoned blade to protect Rong Su from the Tang elders.

Just then, Rong Jingfeng and Bai Weizhi arrived. Rong Jingfeng ordered his men to unleash a purple mist into the air. The Tang grand elders scoffed, claiming their bodies were immune to all poisons. However, within moments, they began to vomit blood. Rong Jingfeng explained that the mist was not poison but the Jieyou Pill, specifically developed by Zi Yan for the Tang Sect.

When dispersed, the pill’s embedded antidotes would infiltrate the skin and hair, systematically neutralizing the various poisons in the Tang members’ bodies. This disruption would paradoxically cause poisoning symptoms in their toxin-accustomed systems, leading to irreparable damage to their vital meridians. As death approached, the two grand elders attempted to escape, vowing to expose Rong Jingfeng’s misdeeds. Mo Huan intercepted and captured the second elder.

The grand elder, now blinded and hiding in the forest, stumbled upon Nalan Yue and Rong Hua. With his dying breath, he revealed Rong Jingfeng’s true identity: a former close disciple of Mo Huan in the Ling Sect. To become the supreme martial arts master, Rong Jingfeng had betrayed the Ling Sect, severely injured Mo Huan, and massacred the Nalan family in the Northern Wastelands to seize the Chihua Pill.

The grand elder recounted witnessing the horrific bloodbath in the Northern Wastelands, a memory he would carry to his grave. Before Nalan Yue could press further, Rong Jingfeng arrived and summarily executed the grand elder. Noticing Nalan Yue’s profound distress, Rong Jingfeng grew suspicious. Rong Hua quickly intervened, downplaying the elder's words as delirious nonsense to deflect Rong Jingfeng’s suspicion. Nalan Yue, feigning ignorance of the Nalan family, probed Rong Jingfeng about his knowledge of them.

Rong Jingfeng deflected, speaking vaguely of the costs of ambition and the fleeting nature of history. He asserted that he had earned everything through painstaking effort and refused to dwell on past grievances, questioning if Nalan Yue’s own hands were clean. As Rong Jingfeng left with Rong Hua, Nalan Yue silently vowed to grow strong and avenge the Nalan family’s sacrifice, upholding justice in Jianghu.

Later, Rong Jingfeng questioned Rong Hua about Nalan Yue’s true identity, specifically his angry reaction to the Nalan family’s story. Rong Hua defended Nalan Yue, explaining his sadness for the innocent victims and emphasizing his loyalty in protecting Dragon Howl City and the Chihua Pill. Rong Jingfeng, still contemplative, expressed his own conflicted feelings about the stained world and hoped Rong Hua would understand his difficult path.

Zi Yan, despite Rong Jingfeng's efforts to expel the toxins from her body, remained gravely ill. Years of exposure to poisons had irrevocably damaged her heart and meridians, leaving her without a cure. Aware of her impending death, Zi Yan spoke with her disciple, Xiaoxiao. She reminisced about the eight years since she rescued Xiaoxiao from being sold by her father, bringing her to Dragon Howl City.

Zi Yan urged Xiaoxiao to strive for improvement, warning that without her protection, Xiaoxiao might not find a place in the city. She then asked if Xiaoxiao was willing to take over as the Hall of Sickness master, a position that, despite its apparent prestige, was destined for an early demise. Xiaoxiao, noticing the worsening bruises on Zi Yan's hand, realized her master's condition was deteriorating.

Understanding Zi Yan's profound dedication, Xiaoxiao readily agreed to undertake the arduous task of making toxins, vowing to help her master protect the Hall of Sickness. Since returning to Dragon Howl City, Lin Jing had been withdrawn, isolating himself in his room. Feeling guilty, Rong Hua spoke to him through the closed door as night fell. She mused that many things in life are fated, believing their meeting was predestined since birth.

Lin Jing urged her to return to her room to avoid a recurrence of her Cold Disease. Rong Hua lamented that if his mother, the master of Lingxu Pavilion, had been more ruthless during her last visit, she wouldn't be so remorseful and distressed after learning the truth. Suddenly, her Cold Disease flared up. Lin Jing quickly opened the door, helped her to the bed, and wrapped her in a blanket.

Rong Hua, still emotional, wished Lin Jing could be crueler to her, believing it might help her sever her feelings for him. Overwhelmed by the family feud, she felt lost, acknowledging her father's and Dragon Howl City's wrongdoing against the Nalan family. Lin Jing revealed he had already learned the truth about the Tang Sect grand elder while at Lingxu Pavilion but wanted to investigate it personally rather than relying solely on his mother's account.

He confessed that he previously thought his mother was consumed by revenge, but after learning about the Nalan massacre and seeing orphans like Lu Yizhou and Cangqi, he finally understood her pain. He admitted he couldn't forgive those responsible. Rong Hua declared her unwavering support, promising to protect Lingxu Pavilion with him and oppose anyone who dared to harm it, even those from Dragon Howl City.

The next morning, as Lin Jing walked through the bustling streets of Dragon Howl City, observing the smiling faces and peaceful atmosphere, he couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness, fearing that this tranquility would be shattered if Lingxu Pavilion ever attacked. Rong Jingfeng, hearing of his daughter's recurring illness, personally brought her medicine.

Lin Jing, having learned of the city lord's order to eliminate the Tang Sect, pleaded for the innocent women and children, arguing that the weakened Tang Sect posed no real threat and had only fought out of desperation for survival. However, Rong Jingfeng remained resolute, seeing this as an opportunity to eradicate future threats and establish Dragon Howl City's authority in the martial arts world.

Lin Jing then casually mentioned that Rong Hua had stayed in his room overnight due to her illness, and he had cared for her. Rong Jingfeng's expression darkened. Entering Lin Jing's room, Rong Jingfeng angrily chastised Rong Hua for her impropriety. Rong Hua, however, boldly declared that she and Lin Jing had secretly pledged their lives to each other, and the Lin family would soon arrive to propose marriage, asking for her father's blessing.

Rong Jingfeng was furious, deeming such a crucial matter too trivial to be handled so carelessly, especially by his daughter. Lin Jing interjected, taking responsibility for the unconventional proposal and attributing the delay to Dragon Howl City's affairs. Rong Hua then feigned hunger, sending Lin Jing to get her some hot food, allowing her to speak with her father alone.

She passionately reaffirmed her commitment to Lin Jing, stating that she, a sickly girl who didn't know how long she had to live, simply wished to spend her remaining days with the man she loved. She threatened to remain single for life if he disagreed. Rong Jingfeng, though exasperated, understood her stubbornness and her underlying fear that he might harm Lin Jing.

Rong Hua then warned her father that she would never forgive anyone who harmed Lin Jing, regardless of their identity. Meanwhile, Rong Su remained in Tingfeng Town, refusing to return to Dragon Howl City until its defenses were fully secured. She suspected the town's quiet fall indicated a deeper issue within the city's defenses. Lu Yizhou noted her persistence was similar to Lin Jing's, a comparison Rong Su quickly dismissed.

She scoffed at the rumor that Lin Jing was marrying Rong Hua for self-preservation, calling him a coward who used a woman as a shield. Lu Yizhou defended Lin Jing, asserting their mutual affection and Lin Jing's integrity, reminding her that Lin Jing had no need for such tactics given his merit in protecting the Chihua Pearl.

Lu Yizhou then urged Rong Su to return to Dragon Howl City to offer her blessings, hoping to mend the strained relationship between the sisters. Rong Su, however, subtly questioned if he would also leave with Lin Jing, revealing her unspoken reluctance for him to go. Lu Yizhou gifted her a pair of mandarin duck pendants, symbolizing mutual affection.

Rong Su, while outwardly dismissing them as vulgar, held them tightly, musing on the inevitable fading of beauty and the fleeting nature of love. Mo Huan, upon learning of Tingfeng Town's fall, anticipated Rong Su would attempt to reorganize it. She decided to set an ambush in the town, infiltrating it with Ling Sect members to remain undetected. Guan Buzhuo, seeking to protect Lin Ruohan, pleaded with Mo Huan, reminding her of Lin Ruohan's past difficulties.

Mo Huan, testing Lin Ruohan's loyalty, deliberately created difficulties for her. Lin Ruohan, undeterred, reaffirmed her allegiance to Mo Huan, pledging to obey her commands without complaint. Mo Huan outlined her plan, highlighting the importance of the "biggest lurker" within Dragon Howl City and an inside job with the Tang Sect elder to coordinate an attack. Lin Ruohan then began preparations for bringing betrothal gifts to Dragon Howl City.

On his journey to the Tang Sect, Bai Weizhi's path intersected with Lin Ruohan's group. He halted the procession, his senses captivated by the familiar scent of beech mushrooms emanating from her palanquin. Bai Weizhi, a connoisseur of fine cuisine, explained his delight, recalling the rare delicacy's unique taste. Lin Ruohan, acknowledging his discerning palate, instructed her attendants to present him with a bag of the mushrooms.

Bai Weizhi, grateful for the gift, attempted to offer her a book of gourmet recipes in return, but Lin Ruohan politely declined, suggesting he could repay her with a favor sometime in the future. As Bai Weizhi continued his journey, he enthusiastically planned to prepare a delightful soup for Zi Yan upon his return, then realized with a chuckle that he didn't even know who Lin Ruohan was to repay the favor.

Upon arriving at the Tang Sect, Bai Weizhi found it deserted. Rong Jingfeng then ordered Lin Jing to lead a team to support Bai Weizhi on his return to the city, fabricating a story about an ambush by the Tang Sect. This was a deceitful ploy to eliminate Lin Jing. Zi Yan, aware of Rong Jingfeng's true intentions, secretly sought out Rong Su. She revealed that Bai Weizhi was not ambushed and that Rong Jingfeng intended to kill Lin Jing.

Zi Yan urged Rong Su to help Lin Jing, reasoning that if Rong Hua married into the Lin family and left Dragon Howl City, Rong Su would face no further competition for the city lord's position. Rong Su initially refused, but after careful consideration, she departed to assist Lin Jing. Lin Jing and his men were ambushed outside the city by toxic smoke. Fortunately, Lin Jing had anticipated this and had prepared antidote-soaked masks, which provided temporary protection.

He speculated whether the attack was from the Tang Sect or Rong Jingfeng. As the smoke cleared, assassins attacked. Just then, Rong Su arrived, joining forces with Lin Jing to dispatch the assailants. Lin Jing thanked her, but Rong Su, dismissively, told him that the best repayment would be for him and Rong Hua to leave Dragon Howl City and never return. Lin Jing retorted that they first needed to survive.

Meanwhile, Lu Yizhou arrived at Dragon Howl City at the head of a grand procession, delivering betrothal gifts on behalf of Lingxu Pavilion. He publicly announced that Lin Jing, the Young Master of Lingxu Pavilion, intended to marry Rong Hua. Rong Jingfeng was enraged, realizing Lin Jing's true identity and Rong Hua's deception. He furiously rejected the proposal, claiming he would never allow his daughter to marry into such a distant place.

Lu Yizhou challenged Rong Jingfeng, questioning his refusal and demanding to see Lin Jing. He warned that Lingxu Pavilion's forces were already surrounding Dragon Howl City, and if their young master was harmed, the city would face a renewed war. Bai Weizhi, present at the scene, was stunned to learn Lin Jing was the Young Master of Lingxu Pavilion, feeling utterly deceived.

Rong Jingfeng defiantly retorted that Lu Yizhou should wait and see if Lin Jing could even return to the city alive. Rong Hua, witnessing her father's reaction, realized with horror that he had deliberately set a trap for Lin Jing outside the city.

Upon Lin Jing's safe return to Dragon Howl City, Rong Jingfeng praised him for successfully passing a test, revealing that the elaborate betrothal was merely a trial of Lin Jing's capabilities. Rong Jingfeng explained he needed to ensure Lin Jing was worthy before entrusting his beloved daughter, Rong Hua, to him, adding that he would rather keep her by his side forever than let her face a precarious life in the martial world.

Lin Jing addressed his concealed identity as Lingxu Pavilion's young master, clarifying that his mother, Lin Ruohan, genuinely adored Rong Hua and orchestrated the high-profile proposal to protect her under Lingxu Pavilion's name. After Rong Hua reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to Lin Jing, Rong Jingfeng consented to their marriage, instructing them not to return to the Flower Sea, as he would manage matters there.

Once Lin Jing departed, Rong Jingfeng revealed to Rong Hua that her aunt, Lin Ruohan, had risked his anger to secretly inform Rong Su about the test, prompting Rong Su to assist Lin Jing. He emphasized the deep love from her family, reassuring Rong Hua that Dragon Howl City would always be her steadfast home. Deeply moved, Rong Hua acknowledged her father's love and sensed his aging, lamenting their impending separation.

Lin Jing later questioned Lu Yizhou about revealing his identity, to which Lu Yizhou explained it was Lin Ruohan's decision, and she was already in Tingfeng Town. Lu Yizhou speculated that Lin Ruohan might use the proposal as a pretext to attack Dragon Howl City and reclaim the Chihua Pill. Expressing his reluctance for a war between the two factions, Lin Jing affirmed his sincere intentions toward Rong Hua and resolved to confront his mother.

Meanwhile, Xiaoxiao reported that Bai Weizhi, heartbroken after witnessing Zi Yan's romantic involvement with Rong Jingfeng, had left for Tingfeng Town to "reflect on life." Lin Jing immediately set off to bring him back. In Tingfeng Town, Mo Huan directly asked Lin Ruohan why she had exposed Lin Jing's identity.

Lin Ruohan explained that Lin Jing wished to live free from hatred, and as his mother, she aimed to facilitate his and Rong Hua's marriage, keeping the younger generation out of the elders' conflicts. Mo Huan scoffed at her "naive" thinking, stating that the ruthless martial world was beyond Lin Jing's current understanding. She then revealed her plan to destroy the very foundation of Dragon Howl City, not through a bloody massacre.

Mo Huan instructed Guan Buzhuo to monitor the Ling Sect disciples who had departed from the Northern Wastelands, requiring updates every 100 li. Lin Jing later found Lin Ruohan and questioned her about attacking Dragon Howl City. Lin Ruohan stated she only sought to reclaim the Chihua Pill, which rightfully belonged to the Nalan family. Lin Jing attempted to dissuade her, revealing he had stolen the Chihua Pill seeds and planned to cultivate them with Rong Hua at Lingxu Pavilion.

However, Lin Ruohan was resolute, declaring that allowing him to marry Rong Hua and bring her to Lingxu Pavilion was her ultimate concession, and she forbade him from further interference. She grew concerned when a report came that a drunken Bai Weizhi had disappeared from his room, fearing their location might have been compromised.

Meanwhile, following days of cold treatment from Rong Su due to his concealed identity, Lu Yizhou sought her out to apologize and explain, and she eventually relented. Elsewhere in Tingfeng Town, Lin Jing found Bai Weizhi, who was lamenting Zi Yan's newfound happiness with Rong Jingfeng. Bai Weizhi, still heartbroken, was preparing a final batch of soup for Zi Yan, insisting he needed to mourn properly before letting go. Lin Jing agreed to stay with him in Tingfeng Town.

Later, Rong Hua and Zi Yan arrived looking for Lin Jing, where they found Bai Weizhi happily cooking. Rong Hua noticed two extra tea cups, leading her to realize that Lin Ruohan was also in Tingfeng Town and she informed Lin Jing.

Rong Su informed Mei Ying that, with his wounds healed and his past assistance to Lin Jing, Rong Jingfeng had decided to release him and escort him back to the Mei family, assuring him of Dragon Howl City's backing to restore his family's glory. She also informed him of Rong Hua's impending marriage to Lin Jing.

Mei Ying offered congratulations, noting Lin Jing's extraordinary skills, but admitted that the fallen Mei family lacked the standing to compete for Rong Hua's hand. He expressed his confusion over the sudden, high-profile proposal from Lingxu Pavilion after Lin Jing's true identity was revealed. Wishing to reconcile before her departure, Rong Hua sought out Rong Su.

She recalled her childhood longing to know their mother and thanked Rong Su for helping Lin Jing, acknowledging their past conflicts but appreciating Rong Su setting aside their differences to support her happiness. Rong Su, though outwardly dismissive, presented Rong Hua with an exquisite jade pendant as a wedding gift, then teasingly questioned Rong Hua's courage in marrying into the mysterious Lingxu Pavilion.

Rong Hua affirmed her commitment to follow Lin Jing anywhere and finally explained the misunderstanding that had driven a wedge between them: years ago, when Rong Su returned to Dragon Howl City, Rong Hua had stood in heavy snow awaiting her, only to collapse from a severe attack of her Cold Disease, preventing her from offering a proper welcome. She expressed regret that this had led to their prolonged conflict.

Though Rong Su maintained her tough exterior, stating that only the strong truly survive, she agreed to Rong Hua's heartfelt plea to prevent future strife between Dragon Howl City and Lingxu Pavilion. To solidify their bond, the sisters cut their palms and joined hands in a blood oath, swearing that whoever broke this sacred promise, ensuring their factions would never become enemies, would be left with no remains.

That night, a fireworks display, the exclusive symbol of the Ling Sect, illuminated the sky above Dragon Howl City. Rong Jingfeng, recognizing Mo Huan's signal, instructed Rong Su to protect the city with the guards, then ventured alone to the Flower Sea. Mo Huan and Guan Buzhuo were already there, with Mo Huan remarking that Rong Jingfeng had never truly understood the Chihua Pill's power.

Guan Buzhuo confronted Rong Jingfeng about his past betrayal of the Ling Sect and his theft of the Chihua Pill. Rong Jingfeng scoffed, dismissing Mo Huan's teachings as mere tricks to exploit them. At Mo Huan's summons, Lin Ruohan descended from above. She revealed her intent to destroy the Chihua Pill, preventing Rong Jingfeng from further harming the martial world, and immediately threw a fire starter into the Flower Sea, which had been secretly doused with oil.

The Flower Sea was engulfed in flames, incinerating the Chihua Pill. Rong Jingfeng furiously confronted them, asserting that he could simply replant the Chihua Pill next year. Mo Huan, however, mocked him, stating that while he could replant, it would take over a year for new pills to grow.

She warned that without a readily available antidote, the martial world's major factions would besiege Dragon Howl City, leading to its collapse and Rong Jingfeng's ruin, affirming that Dragon Howl City would thrive by the Chihua Pill and also fall by it. Rong Jingfeng, realizing their treacherous planning, condemned their despicable use of oil but defiantly vowed that he would not easily admit defeat, nor would Dragon Howl City be destroyed.

Later, Lin Jing arrived at the devastated Flower Sea, witnessing the charred remains. He questioned his mother's relentless pursuit of the Nalan family's legacy, realizing that in doing so, she had also eliminated her own path to obtaining the antidote.

As evening approached in Tingfeng Town, Zi Yan enjoyed a bowl of savory soup, then suggested to Bai Weizhi that he should make it for a good woman he meets someday. As she prepared to return to Dragon Howl City, Bai Weizhi confessed his long-held affection for her, admitting he had always liked her and knew she might have noticed but avoided it.

He tried to claim that by speaking his feelings aloud, he was finally putting her out of his heart. Yet, his true feelings quickly resurfaced as he added that if Rong Jingfeng ever treated her poorly, he would immediately welcome her back into his heart. Teary-eyed, Zi Yan expressed regret for not accepting his love.

Bai Weizhi, attempting to appear nonchalant, tried to console her, saying it was for the best as he would no longer bother her at the Hall of Sickness. However, his inner turmoil was clear as he turned away to watch a street performer's fireballs, secretly weeping. Meanwhile, Rong Su stood alone by the river. Lu Yizhou found her there, explaining he had only located her after asking Lin Jing.

Rong Su questioned why he wasn't returning to Lingxu Pavilion with Lin Jing and Rong Hua. Lu Yizhou replied that he had stayed behind to find her, also inquiring about her wound. Rong Su coldly dismissed his concern, telling him to stop pretending. Frustrated by her continued disbelief, Lu Yizhou abruptly pulled her into a tight embrace, declaring his love.

He vowed that if she would ever abandon Dragon Howl City, he would leave everything to travel the world with her, settling wherever she desired, be it Jiangnan, the Northern Wastelands, or Diannan. Rong Su scoffed at his romantic notion, asserting that she would only leave Dragon Howl City when it was in ruins, unlike Rong Hua, who would sacrifice everything for worldly love.

Lu Yizhou reaffirmed his commitment, telling her not to refuse him again and promising to wait for her at Lingxu Pavilion. After he departed, Rong Su, visibly moved yet still guarded, privately wondered about such a stubborn and persistent man. With Dragon Howl City’s gates wide open, Rong Hua and Lin Jing walked out hand in hand.

Rong Hua turned back to gaze at the city plaque, reflecting on how much had changed, and wondered if Lingxu Pavilion would offer a starry sky as splendid as Dragon Howl City's. Lin Jing simply encouraged her to go forward. They reaffirmed their lifelong commitment, with Lin Jing expressing his desire for Rong Hua to be with him forever, to which she lovingly agreed, sealing their departure from the city.

Back in Dragon Howl City, Xuan Ye expressed concern to Rong Su that the Hall of Life remained leaderless after Lin Jing’s departure, fearing it would revert to Rong Jingfeng’s control. She advised Rong Su to take charge of its affairs to consolidate her power. However, Rong Su displayed a newfound composure, cautioning against rushing things, believing that hasty actions would backfire. She asserted that the four halls of Dragon Howl City should function as a united family.

She then inquired about Rong Jingfeng’s recent mysterious whereabouts. Xuan Ye reported that the guards of the Chihua Pill Flower Sea had been inexplicably relocated overnight, and Rong Jingfeng had forbidden entry to all, offering no explanation. Driven by curiosity and a sense of unease, Rong Su went to inspect the Flower Sea herself. She was horrified to discover it completely destroyed. Rong Jingfeng then appeared, revealing that Mo Huan was responsible.

He confessed that the destruction of the Flower Sea, once a symbol of his lifetime's efforts, was now a mark of his humiliation and defeat. He acknowledged his carelessness but stated that dwelling on the past was pointless. Rong Su, understanding the gravity of the situation, realized Mo Huan's actions aimed to destabilize Dragon Howl City.

Rong Jingfeng affirmed that while the flower sea could be replanted and new antidotes made, the immediate challenge was solving the antidote supply for the coming year, as failing to provide it would invite attacks from all martial arts factions and lead to the city's ruin. He then tasked Rong Su with covertly investigating how the master of Lingxu Pavilion had resisted the Chihua Pill's effects without needing the antidote, a mission Rong Su accepted, promising to remain undetected.

As Mei Ying was about to depart Dragon Howl City, escorted by disciples, Rong Su personally came to see him off, expressing surprise that he hadn't informed her of his departure. Mei Ying humbly thanked her for the escort, deeming her personal presence unnecessary. Rong Su declared that they were now "in the same boat," and as long as she remained the Hall of Emptiness master, Dragon Howl City would support the Mei family's resurgence.

Mei Ying reciprocated with gratitude, pledging to repay her kindness. Rong Su then mentioned her own upcoming journey to Jiangnan and asked for his guidance. Mei Ying, acknowledging his family's decline but still having some knowledge of Jiangnan, offered his assistance. Before parting, Rong Su subtly probed Mei Ying about his seemingly deep connection with Lin Jing and his knowledge of Lingxu Pavilion, especially since the Chihua Pill he stole had ended up with Lingxu Pavilion's master.

Mei Ying, however, skillfully dodged her questions, emphasizing his family's precarious position and the need for caution to avoid further disaster. Rong Su understood and wished him a safe journey. After a long journey, Rong Hua finally arrived at Lingxu Pavilion to an elaborate welcome. Lu Yizhou, along with numerous servants, had prepared a grand reception, an unexpected display that even surprised Rong Hua. Lin Jing explained it was all specially arranged for her.

Lu Yizhou introduced Cai, a clever and capable maid with years of service at Lingxu Pavilion, who was tasked with overseeing Rong Hua’s daily needs to ensure her comfort. Lu Yizhou then led Rong Hua to an elegant courtyard named "Warm Home for Hua." Cai further revealed that Lin Jing had personally designed every detail of the courtyard, from its layout to the calligraphy on its plaque.

Even while in Dragon Howl City, he had sent over thirty letters, meticulously detailing every aspect of its preparation, a testament to his profound affection for Rong Hua. Rong Hua thanked them, eager to explore her new home. However, upon entering her elegantly prepared bedroom, Rong Hua was met with the unsettling sight of white ribbons hung across the room.

Lin Jing, furious, immediately confronted Lu Yizhou, demanding an explanation for his mother, Lin Ruohan, allying with Mo Huan, something he hadn't been informed about. Lu Yizhou explained that Lin Ruohan had acted suddenly, choosing to deal with Mo Huan herself to shield Lin Jing and Rong Hua from danger, especially given Mo Huan's unpredictable nature.

He argued that Lin Ruohan, though outwardly stern, deeply cared for Lin Jing and had tacitly approved his marriage to Rong Hua by arranging the proposal in advance. Lin Jing, still reeling from the alliance, acknowledged his deep debt to his mother and resolved to protect her from Mo Huan, vowing to confront the demon decisively, unlike Rong Jingfeng's past failure.

Returning to Rong Hua, Lin Jing tried to lighten the mood about the white ribbons, but Rong Hua recognized it as a clear warning. She advised against punishing the innocent servants, understanding that her presence, coupled with Lin Jing's favoritism, naturally caused resentment. She asserted her intent to win over Lingxu Pavilion's residents through her own merit, though she insisted Lin Jing "pay" for the day's shock.

To cheer her up, Lin Jing led her to his own private room, a place no other woman had ever entered. Rong Hua playfully remarked on the stark difference between her lavish room and his more spartan one. Lin Jing, in turn, revealed a hidden compartment filled with childhood "trophies" he'd secretly collected by winning games against Lu Yizhou. He fondly reminisced about making the secret drawers at the age of eight to hide his toys from his strict mother.

Looking ahead, Lin Jing enthusiastically envisioned their future children playing with these very trophies, confidently declaring their offspring would outshine Lu Yizhou's. Rong Hua, initially embarrassed by his talk of children, playfully agreed that they would need many more secret compartments, leading Lin Jing to declare they would have "three, no, five children," much to Rong Hua's blushing delight and protest. Meanwhile, Lu Yizhou, following Lin Jing's orders, interrogated the servants regarding the white ribbon incident.

Cai, stepping forward, took full responsibility, but Lu Yizhou dismissed her self-blame, assuring her he trusted her. He then sternly reminded everyone that Rong Hua was Lin Jing's beloved and now a part of Lingxu Pavilion, and any rebellious actions would not be tolerated. Some servants dared to voice their discontent, reminding Lu Yizhou of Rong Hua's Dragon Howl City origin and her past act of stabbing Lin Jing.

Lu Yizhou immediately silenced them, asserting that it was the Young Master’s decision and their opinions were irrelevant. Cai reiterated her commitment to ensure Rong Hua's safety, and Lu Yizhou vowed to uncover the true culprit and prevent any further incidents. Unbeknownst to Lin Jing and Rong Hua, Lin Ruohan and her party arrived in the Northern Wastelands. Despite the passing of Jingzhe, the region remained desolate and frigid, devoid of any spring warmth.

While others disliked its harshness, Lin Ruohan held a special fondness for it, as it was where she first met her late husband. Gazing at the unchanging landscape, she felt a profound sadness, acknowledging that though the scenery endured, her companion was gone. Cang Qi, her subordinate, inquired about her eagerness to lead such a dangerous mission, knowing Mo Huan’s true intentions were sinister.

Lin Ruohan explained that Mo Huan's dispatched Ling Sect disciples were spies, and this journey was a test and a warning to Lingxu Pavilion, compelling her to come. Soon after, Cang Qi discovered a Ling Sect disciple's robe floating on a lake and followed the trail upstream. They found a hidden mountain ravine where several dozen armed men ambushed them.

The leader of the attackers, mistakenly assuming Lin Ruohan was Mo Huan, launched a furious assault, vowing to kill all Ling Sect members. Lin Ruohan easily subdued him and, noticing a Chihua Pill tattoo on his neck, ordered Cang Qi to dispatch the accompanying Ling Sect guards. She then demanded the captured leader take her to Granny Jin Ye, a name that visibly shocked him.

Lin Ruohan met Ms. Jin Ye, who introduced her to the surviving Nalan family members, led by Jing Yuan. Jing Yuan apologized to Lin Ruohan. Ms. Jin Ye recounted how Rong Jingfeng and the Ling Sect had massacred their family while attempting to steal the Chihua Pill. Their family head died protecting the children, and Lin Ruohan had fled with them, leaving Ms. Jin Ye to raise the remaining descendants.

Near death, Ms. Jin Ye expressed profound gratitude at seeing Lin Ruohan again before she passed away. She entrusted the Nalan descendants to Lin Ruohan, pleading for vengeance for their family. After Ms. Jin Ye’s death, Lin Ruohan vowed to care for them. However, the survivors declared their purpose was not merely to live, but to reclaim their lost treasure and uphold justice.

Rong Hua found the food at Lingxu Pavilion too bland and decided to gather honeycomb from the back mountain to add to her dishes. Cai, feigning concern, offered to send escorts with Rong Hua, but Rong Hua politely declined, wanting to keep her culinary efforts a "surprise" for everyone. Later, Cai and a group of disciples ambushed Rong Hua in the mountains. Cai revealed her deep-seated hatred for Rong Jingfeng, explaining Lingxu Pavilion's enmity with Dragon Howl City.

She accused Rong Hua of enchanting Lin Jing and admitted to placing the white cloth in Rong Hua's room as a warning. Outnumbered, Rong Hua cleverly threw a beehive, unleashing a swarm of bees that allowed her to escape. Following the failed assassination, Cai and her co-conspirators were brought before Lin Jing in the main hall. Lin Jing, expressing his profound disappointment in Cai, who had been raised by his mother, ordered their execution.

Rong Hua intervened, arguing that they did not deserve death and should not be consumed by hatred. To resolve the conflict, she challenged Cai to a martial arts duel, asserting that if she won, Cai and the others must sincerely accept her. Lin Jing was exasperated, reminding Rong Hua that Cai’s martial arts, personally taught by Lin Ruohan, were among the best in the jianghu. Despite Lin Jing's protests, Rong Hua charmingly cajoled him into helping her win.

Unwilling to see her lose face, Lin Jing compiled a unique combat strategy specifically tailored to Cai's fighting style, drawing from Lingxu Pavilion's extensive collection of martial arts manuals. Lin Jing then sought out Lu Yizhou in the Grand Hall, explaining his decision to marry Rong Hua and resolve the generational animosity between Lingxu Pavilion and Dragon Howl City.

Lu Yizhou, who had no memory of his own parents and understood the Nalan family's suffering caused by greed, pledged his unwavering support to Lin Jing and Lin Ruohan. He granted them the authority to decide the future of Lingxu Pavilion and the Nalan family, including the retrieval of the Chihua Pill. Meanwhile, Rong Hua began practicing her new moves and also attempted to cultivate Chihua Pill seeds in Lingxu Pavilion’s warmer climate, but with limited success.

She confessed to Lin Jing that while she had memorized the techniques, her internal energy remained insufficient for true mastery. Lin Jing tried to boost her confidence by intentionally losing several practice bouts when Cai was secretly observing. This tactic made Cai suspicious, causing her to wonder if Rong Hua possessed hidden strength or if Lin Jing was merely feigning weakness. After leaving Dragon Howl City, Rong Su arrived in Jiangnan to visit the Mei family.

Mei Ying, initially expecting Rong Hua, was visibly disappointed to see Rong Su. Observing the Mei family's diminished state, Rong Su subtly instigated Mei Ying to seek revenge against the Tang Sect and the Xiao family. Rong Su then asked Mei Ying to lead her to Lingxu Pavilion to visit Rong Hua. Mei Ying, wary of Rong Su's past ruthlessness, feared she might harm Rong Hua to consolidate her power as City Lord.

Rong Su dismissed his concerns, explaining that her father, the City Lord, sent her to check on Rong Hua, who was an outsider in Lingxu Pavilion, and to subtly display Dragon Howl City's influence. She reminded Mei Ying that she had kept his secret about receiving a martial arts manual from Rong Hua and implied that assisting her now would benefit the Mei family in the future. Mei Ying hesitated, but Rong Su left, confident that he would eventually comply.

Her subordinate questioned this confidence, to which Rong Su replied that Mei Ying, being shrewd, knew it was more advantageous to gain a favor by assisting her, especially since he secretly cared for Rong Hua and wished to be near her. Rong Su also hinted that her visit was not solely to check on Rong Hua but also to investigate Lingxu Pavilion and its master, Lin Jing, whom she deemed to be a complex man.

On the day of the duel, the disciples gathered to watch. Lin Jing attempted to announce rules for a controlled match, but Cai, determined to fight fiercely, declared she would give her all. Rong Hua, asserting her role as a guest, humbly offered Cai three unresisted moves as a gesture of deference. Cai lunged with an enraged attack, but Rong Hua deftly evaded her blade without a scratch.

Once the three moves were completed, Rong Hua shifted to offense, striking back with unexpected force. Cai, unable to withstand the sudden surge of internal energy, stumbled backward and was disarmed as her sword was sent flying, which Lin Jing quickly caught. The onlookers, including Cai and Lu Yizhou, were stunned by Rong Hua's rapid improvement.

Rong Hua, composed and resolute, declared that she came to Lingxu Pavilion to unite with Lin Jing and would treat everyone as family, committing herself to mending the deep-seated grievances between the two families and atoning for Dragon Howl City's past misdeeds. Deeply moved, Lin Jing, however, sensed an anomaly in Rong Hua's sudden power. He escorted her away, but she soon collapsed, vomiting blood.

Later, in Pleasant Home for Hua, Lu Yizhou discovered a Shunxi Pill in Rong Hua's dresser. He explained to a distressed Lin Jing that the Shunxi Pill, when taken by someone with a martial arts foundation, dramatically increases their power for a short period. However, the effects are highly dangerous: mild cases lead to unconsciousness and vomiting blood, while severe cases cause meridians to rupture, resulting in death.

Rong Hua confessed to Lin Jing that she took the pill before the competition. In a flashback, her aunt confronts her for taking the pill, which is meant for death squads on suicide missions. Rong Hua explains she only brought it as a precaution for her journey.

Rong Hua, who had narrowly escaped death shortly after arriving at Lingxu Pavilion, slowly regained her strength over half a month of recovery. One day, Nalan Yue and Lu Yizhou joined her in the courtyard. Nalan Yue, feeling guilty for her suffering and knowing she was bored, had taught her to make dough figurines. As they made the figurines, Rong Hua remembered a flashback to when she took instant pills from her aunt for self-defense before coming to Lingxu Pavilion.

Her aunt had playfully chided her for being "heartless," saying she was already taking her future husband's side before marriage. Rong Hua had explained she needed to stand firm in Lingxu Pavilion and not be looked down upon. Back in the present, Rong Hua confessed to Nalan Yue that she missed her family in Dragon Howl City deeply, even her sister Rong Su.

Nalan Yue apologized for her hardship, swore he would find a way to cure her cold disease, and promised to take her back for visits whenever she wished. Meanwhile, Rong Su, guided by Mei Ying, arrived at the entrance of Lingxu Pavilion. She remarked on the Pavilion's secrecy and heavily guarded nature. Lu Yizhou, hearing the news, was eager to meet her but also concerned about Lingxu Pavilion's strict rules against outsiders and the complications of Mei Ying's involvement.

Nalan Yue, seeing his friend's eagerness, teased him by asking if he wanted to carry Rong Su in a grand palanquin but ultimately tasked Lu Yizhou with handling Rong Su's reception. He emphasized that if it concerned Rong Hua, he would deal with it, but since it was about Rong Su, it was Lu Yizhou's responsibility.

Nalan Yue also worried that Rong Su's arrival, especially as Rong Jingfeng's daughter, would re-ignite the Lingxu Pavilion disciples' resentment towards Rong Hua and undermine her newly established trust. Lu Yizhou went to greet Rong Su, explaining that a secluded guesthouse outside the Pavilion was prepared for guests to ensure privacy. Rong Su was initially offended, believing she was being deliberately kept at a distance and that it showed disrespect for the impending marriage between their sects.

However, Rong Hua soon appeared and clarified that it was her own arrangement to meet her sister in a private location away from the heavily guarded Lingxu Pavilion. Mei Ying also vouched for this, and Rong Su relented. Lin Ruohan returned to Lingxu Pavilion, having met an "old friend," and was somewhat surprised by Rong Hua's actions. She acknowledged Rong Hua's purity and kindness, noting her resemblance to her late mother, who had once saved Lin Ruohan and her husband.

Despite her lingering bitterness towards Rong Jingfeng, Lin Ruohan believed that the grudges should not extend to their children. She then observed Rong Su's calculating nature, reminding her of Rong Jingfeng, which worried her about her own identity being exposed and sparking further conflict in the martial arts world, especially with the Chihua Pill situation and her own chronic illness. Lin Ruohan then instructed Rong Hua to handle internal conflicts on her own, rather than relying on Nalan Yue.

She further imparted a profound internal martial arts technique, specifically designed to treat cold diseases, which was far more advanced than what Nalan Yue had taught her. Moved by Lin Ruohan's kindness, Rong Hua volunteered to study medical arts to help cure Lin Ruohan's chronic illness and find an antidote for the Chihua Pill. Lin Ruohan, however, advised caution, concerned that if Rong Hua failed in such a monumental task, her position within the Pavilion would become even more precarious.

Rong Hua, touched, pledged filial piety to Lin Ruohan as the mother she never knew. Meanwhile, Cangqi, who had been with Lin Ruohan, was seen instructing Jingyuan to temporarily lead the Nalan family in hiding outside Lingxu Pavilion. He urged them to maintain a low profile to preserve their strength and assist Nalan Yue in the future. Jingyuan was angry, believing Nalan Yue was betraying their family by marrying Rong Jingfeng's daughter instead of seeking revenge.

Cangqi defended Nalan Yue, stating his actions in Dragon Howl City were to find an antidote for Lin Ruohan and that his concealment was to avoid alerting their enemies. Jingyuan, consumed by hatred, refused to listen. At the Ling Sect, Jinque received a report that the disciples accompanying Lin Ruohan to the northern wilderness had been killed. Guan Buzhuo, observing the scene, concluded they were likely eliminated by Lin Ruohan herself to protect someone, likely the Nalan family.

Concerned about exacerbating Mo Huan's deep-seated resentment towards Lin Ruohan and Rong Jingfeng, Guan Buzhuo pleaded with Jinque to conceal the truth from Mo Huan, fearing it would reignite their long-standing feud, especially as their master-disciple relationship had just begun to mend. Jinque initially hesitated but agreed to temporarily conceal the matter, suggesting they invent a story about an ambush, blame Rong Su, and imply Lin Ruohan was injured during an escape. Guan Buzhuo reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to Jinque.

Jinque agreed to secrecy but warned him to ensure Lin Ruohan did not arouse Mo Huan's suspicion. Meanwhile, Mo Huan, utilizing Liuli's intelligence and the Snow Union's network, ordered her to spread rumors throughout Jianghu that the Chihua Pill had been destroyed, with no possibility of an antidote. Her aim was to create chaos and trouble for Rong Jingfeng. Lu Yizhou used his time with Rong Su to further his affections.

He and Nalan Yue presented her with edible dough figurines, which Rong Hua affectionately called "solution to homesickness," prompting Rong Su to dismiss them as childish tricks. Nalan Yue and Rong Hua left them alone. Lu Yizhou then took Rong Su to picturesque spots, passionately describing a serene, carefree life outside the struggles of the martial arts world, telling her about a village where people lived simply and peacefully.

He confessed his unwavering love and desire for her to abandon her burdens in Dragon Howl City and share a peaceful life with him. Rong Su asked what he would do if she refused. Lu Yizhou replied he would "brazenly ask her again and again" until she agreed. He pointed out Rong Hua's seemingly blissful life with Nalan Yue and questioned if the fame, power, and responsibilities Rong Su carried were truly what she desired.

Rong Su was visibly touched by his heartfelt confession and the contrast of Rong Hua's peaceful life, admitting to herself a yearning for such tranquility. She expressed concern that if both Rong daughters were to join Lingxu Pavilion, Dragon Howl City would lose face. Lu Yizhou playfully suggested he could "join" Dragon Howl City to balance things out, further emphasizing his willingness to follow her anywhere. Rong Su found a rare sense of peace in his presence.

Later, Lu Yizhou approached Lin Ruohan about his desire to go with Rong Su to Dragon Howl City. Nalan Yue, however, vehemently opposed this, listing Rong Su's perceived negative traits—her harshness, cunning, and coldness—and questioned Lu Yizhou's decision to leave Lingxu Pavilion for such a person, fearing for his friend's happiness. He accused Lu Yizhou of being cold-hearted towards their brotherhood.

Lu Yizhou retorted by reminding Nalan Yue of his own past departure from Lingxu Pavilion to become the master of the Hall of Life in Dragon Howl City, questioning if Nalan Yue had considered his feelings then. Lin Ruohan, treating Lu Yizhou like her own son, surprisingly supported his choice, believing he was level-headed enough to know his heart. She even expressed a desire to meet Rong Su, despite Nalan Yue's fears of her identity being compromised.

Lin Ruohan dismissed his concerns, even joking that Rong Su could be blindfolded. She declared that she would not let her past filled with hatred obstruct their pursuit of happiness. Soon after, Cangqi returned from his mission, and Lin Ruohan instructed Lu Yizhou to bring Rong Su to her, leaving Nalan Yue to wonder about his own role.

Despite a recent quarrel, Lin Jing's deep affection for Lu Yizhou remained. As Lu Yizhou prepared to leave Lingxu Pavilion, he entrusted its care to Lin Jing, asking him to guard it until his return and emphasizing that Lingxu Pavilion would always be his home. An emotional Lin Jing offered a warm embrace, promising to welcome Lu Yizhou back should Rong Su's fiery temper become too much. Lu Yizhou, however, playfully dodged the hug, maintaining a lighthearted demeanor.

Lu Yizhou then escorted Rong Su to meet Lin Ruohan, assuring her that the Lingxu Pavilion head, despite her reputation, was warm and understanding, and would receive Rong Su as a family member rather than a political guest. Lin Ruohan presented Rong Su with a set of exquisite jade chess pieces, explaining they symbolized the balance and mutual understanding needed in a relationship.

Lu Yizhou reaffirmed his commitment to Rong Su, stating he would readily make concessions for her happiness, a sentiment Rong Su appreciated as she accepted the gift. Intending to speak with Rong Su privately, Lin Ruohan then dispatched Lu Yizhou to find Rong Hua, who was in the back mountain collecting spring bamboo shoots to prepare a meal for Rong Su. Meanwhile, while foraging for bamboo shoots, Rong Hua was intercepted by Jingyuan.

He mistook her for her sister, referring to Rong Hua's weak martial arts, prompting Rong Hua to try impersonating Rong Su by claiming she was the head of the Hall of Emptiness. However, Jingyuan quickly saw through her ruse, identifying her as Rong Hua. As a Nalan clansman, he expressed his deep-seated hatred for Dragon Howl City and Rong Jingfeng's daughter, vowing to kill her in revenge and disregarding Rong Hua's warnings about being on Lingxu Pavilion's territory.

As Jingyuan's attacks intensified, Rong Hua, recalling Lin Jing's martial arts instructions, managed to defend herself for a few moments before being swiftly overwhelmed. Just then, Lin Jing arrived, catching Rong Hua mid-air, but they both plummeted down a cliff. Waking up in a dark, cold cave, Lin Jing inquired how long he had been unconscious, to which Rong Hua replied it had been about two hours.

He noted the cave's hidden nature, realizing it was a secret location he had never known about despite living in Lingxu Pavilion for years. Inside the cave, they discovered ancient internal cultivation methods carved on the walls, describing stages like "Lian jing hua qi," "lian qi hua shen," "lian shen huan xu," and "lian xu he dao," which Lin Jing believed could help cure his mother's and Rong Hua's cold disease.

Rong Hua suggested the cave's frigid environment might also be ideal for growing Chihua Pills and questioned why Jingyuan, clearly an outsider, was in Lingxu Pavilion. As they explored, they stumbled upon an icy chamber containing a frigid skeleton. Rong Hua theorized the deceased was born with a cold constitution and that the carvings were related to his unique practice. Lin Jing vowed to investigate and properly bury the remains.

Back at Lingxu Pavilion, Lin Ruohan suffered a sudden relapse of her cold disease, and Rong Su promptly used her primordial energy to stabilize her. While doing so, Rong Su observed that Lin Ruohan's internal force resonated with that of the Ling Sect, sparking her suspicion about Lin Ruohan's connection to Mo Huan. Lu Yizhou then arrived as a disciple reported the disappearance of Lin Jing and Rong Hua.

Lin Ruohan dispatched Lu Yizhou to search for the missing pair, while Rong Su volunteered to guard her until his return, setting a deadline before nightfall. Lin Jing and Rong Hua soon found their way out of the cave by following the sound of the search party's calls, reuniting with Lu Yizhou and other Lingxu Pavilion disciples.

Lin Jing immediately declared his intent to find and expose their attacker, prompting Rong Hua to reveal it was Jingyuan, a man brought by Lin Ruohan. Meanwhile, Cang Qi was attempting to escort a defiant Jingyuan out of Lingxu Pavilion. Jingyuan vehemently refused to apologize for his actions and disavowed Lin Jing's leadership. Suddenly, Lin Jing, filled with a murderous aura, charged at Jingyuan with his sword.

Witnessing the escalating conflict, Rong Hua urgently appealed to Lin Ruohan to save Jingyuan. Lin Ruohan swiftly intervened, reprimanding both men for fighting amongst themselves instead of focusing on their true enemies, the Ling Sect and Mo Huan.

She firmly stated that Rong Hua had no part in the Nalan family's past grievances and, as Lin Jing's future wife and a member of Lingxu Pavilion, she was now under their protection, free from any ties to Dragon Howl City or Rong Jingfeng. Jingyuan, however, remained unyielding, refusing to accept Lin Jing as their leader. Lin Jing asserted his self-sufficiency, stating he knew his own path without needing anyone's approval.

Lin Ruohan then chastised Jingyuan for his insolence and instructed Cang Qi to promptly take him away. After the confrontation, Lin Jing brought Lin Ruohan to the secret cave, assuring her he only intended to teach Jingyuan a lesson, not kill him. Once inside, Lin Ruohan recognized the cave as the legendary site where a Nalan ancestor had cultivated.

She revealed that his father had spoken of this hidden cave, and she had been searching for it for years, a key reason she settled the Nalan descendants in Lingxu Pavilion. Lin Jing then realized the coldness of the skeleton was a result of the ancestor's cultivation using the cave's extreme cold to open his meridians.

Recognizing the cave's significance as Lingxu Pavilion's most guarded secret, Lin Jing decided to keep its existence confidential and promised to properly bury their ancestor's remains. During their private conversation, Lin Ruohan probed Rong Su about her loyalties, questioning whether Dragon Howl City or her relationship with Lu Yizhou was more important. She advised Rong Su that true freedom came from letting go of the past, emphasizing that power and position were irrelevant compared to love and acceptance.

Lin Ruohan also pointed out the deep similarities between Rong Su and Lu Yizhou, asserting that only Lu Yizhou could truly embrace Rong Su's fiercely competitive nature. Rong Su, in turn, inquired about Lin Ruohan's method for resolving the Chihua Pill's backfire, to which Lin Ruohan ambiguously replied that she had her own way and was not intimidated by Dragon Howl City's threats.

Later, Lu Yizhou took Rong Su to his childhood secret spot, a place known only to him and Lin Jing, where he renewed his offer for them to leave the martial world together. They agreed to meet by the river at dusk. Before her decision, Rong Su visited Rong Hua, gently applying medicine to her sister's wound.

Rong Hua tried to persuade Rong Su to embrace her love for Lu Yizhou, assuring her that their father would want her to find happiness. However, a messenger, Xuan Ye, arrived with urgent news: a rumor had spread that Dragon Howl City had been attacked and all the Chihua Pills destroyed. Alarmed, Rong Su immediately dispatched Xuan Ye to the Snow Union for assistance and to contain the news.

As dusk fell, Lu Yizhou waited by the river, but Rong Su did not appear. He understood she was burdened by her duties and reaffirmed his commitment, vowing to return to that spot every year until she finally joined him. Rong Su, watching from afar, clutched a jade chess piece and acknowledged her broken promise, hoping their paths would eventually intertwine away from the world's troubles.

News about Dragon Howl City's declining power and issues with the Chihua Pill has been circulating in the martial world, causing concern among Snow Union disciples who fear retaliation if Dragon Howl City discovers that Snow Union fabricated and spread the rumors. Liuli, however, assures them she is fully prepared and tells them to follow orders without question.

When a disciple reports that Xuan Ye from Dragon Howl City has been waiting at their gate for days, affecting their business, Liuli dismisses the request to meet him. Xuan Ye eventually forces his way in and attempts to secure a deal by offering a significant down payment, promising ten times the amount upon completion.

Liuli firmly refuses, citing Snow Union's strict rule against conducting a second transaction with the same customer, especially since Dragon Howl City had previously broken their trust. She makes it clear that while Xuan Ye can stay as long as he wishes, no business will be conducted. Lu Yizhou is dejected after Rong Su's departure, believing she had her reasons for leaving without a word despite their promise to live in seclusion.

Lin Jing tries to comfort him, blessing his relationship with Rong Su, but also teases him about why he fell for Rong Su's "fierce" personality. Lu Yizhou, taking offense, changes the topic. Later, Rong Hua discusses Rong Su's departure with him, suggesting she left due to her worries about Dragon Howl City. Lu Yizhou agrees, concluding that as they each have their own duties, they should not force their relationship. Meanwhile, Rong Hua is dedicated to cultivating the Chihua Pill.

In the Nalan cave, she plants the Chihua Pill seeds, watering them and talking to them, encouraging them to grow quickly and strongly, much like she adapted to Lingxu Pavilion herself. Lin Jing finds her endearing but teases her for talking to plants, to which Rong Hua asserts that all things possess spirits, and talking to them is her secret for their rapid growth. Lin Jing then asks about her internal cultivation progress.

Rong Hua proudly states that with the internal force methods suited for cold constitutions and Lin Ruohan's guidance, her internal force has significantly increased and her meridians, previously blocked by cold, have now opened. During a sparring match, Lin Jing is genuinely surprised by the power of her strike, which contained a decade's worth of energy, realizing he would have been seriously injured if her energy application wasn't still immature.

Lin Jing brushes off his minor injury, expressing happiness for her breakthrough, while Lin Ruohan insists on checking him for any hidden damage. Lin Ruohan later speaks with Lin Jing, urging him to reconcile with Jingyuan. She explains that she risked Mo Huan's detection to protect Jingyuan and others, all to preserve the Nalan bloodline and restore their reputation, foreseeing the need to ally with them against the Ling Sect and other evils.

Lin Jing understands his mother's intentions but firmly states that reconciliation is impossible unless Jingyuan abandons his murderous intent towards Rong Hua. He promises to speak with Jingyuan once he calms down. Rong Hua spots a mysterious figure flying past her room. Later, she discovers the same woman, dressed in red, inside her quarters. Unaware of her true identity, Rong Hua initially mistakes the woman for a new maid and attempts to test her martial prowess.

The woman, Mo Huan, displays unexpectedly potent and lethal moves, deliberately holding back to avoid gravely injuring Rong Hua. Impressed by Rong Hua's spirit, Mo Huan praises her unique personality, finding her far more interesting than Rong Su. She proceeds to teach Rong Hua three formidable moves, instructing her to diligently master and integrate them into her own fighting style, promising further guidance if she proves to be a quick study.

Lin Jing, having heard Rong Hua's description of the mysterious woman, immediately suspects it's Mo Huan and rushes to his mother, Lin Ruohan. Lin Ruohan, already aware of Mo Huan's presence, had subtly sent Lin Jing away to prevent a confrontation, fearing he might offend the powerful figure. Mo Huan, the Supreme Master of the Ling Sect, questions Lin Ruohan's actions, noting that Lingxu Pavilion would eventually fall under her sect's control anyway.

Lin Jing confronts Mo Huan, demanding to know her purpose for repeatedly intruding upon Lingxu Pavilion. Mo Huan deflects, claiming she was merely sparring with her "grand disciple" and noting Lin Jing's recent progress in martial arts. Lin Ruohan quickly intervenes, apologizing for Lin Jing's perceived disrespect due to his ignorance of Mo Huan's identity. Lin Jing then mockingly addresses Mo Huan as "old lady," drawing on a previous misunderstanding in Dragon Howl City where he called her "brother."

This provocation infuriates Mo Huan, who emphasizes the harsh lessons of the martial world and the importance of self-defense, reminding Lin Jing that his mother's indulgence doesn't extend to her. Lin Ruohan steps in to protect her son. Mo Huan then declares her intention to travel to Dragon Howl City to "join the fun," hinting at the possibility of Lin Jing's wedding coinciding with a funeral.

She pointedly questions whether Rong Jingfeng knows Lin Jing's true identity as a Nalan descendant, implying she might reveal this secret. After Mo Huan departs, Lin Ruohan and Lin Jing discuss her enigmatic motives, agreeing to enhance security around Lingxu Pavilion, especially concerning Rong Hua. Lin Ruohan also acknowledges her own involvement in the destruction of the Dragon Howl City flower sea. Rong Hua, knowing the precarious state of Dragon Howl City, prepares to return.

She takes Lu Yizhou to the Nalan cave to plant the Chihua Pill seeds. She explains that despite the Chihua Pill's cold nature making southern growth difficult, the seeds have miraculously sprouted there.

She entrusts Lu Yizhou with the task of regularly tending to them and using Northern Wastelands ice crystals, which he had helped her retrieve, to nourish the plants if they show signs of wilting, as a year or two for natural blooming is too long for Lin Ruohan's urgent need for an antidote. Lin Jing, having spent considerable internal force to shatter the ice crystals to accelerate the process, is present and hears her intentions.

Lin Jing vehemently opposes Rong Hua returning to Dragon Howl City alone, citing the extreme dangers on the road and the internal strife awaiting her. He urges her to give him time to devise a comprehensive plan, promising to accompany her when a safer solution is found. Rong Hua, though acknowledging the perils, insists on returning to her family, stating she cannot abandon them when her home is in crisis.

She expresses concern that Mo Huan might expose Lin Jing's Nalan identity to her father, potentially igniting a war between Dragon Howl City and Lingxu Pavilion. Lin Jing argues that the siege on Dragon Howl City is a manipulation, and her individual return won't alter the outcome. Despite their differing views, Lin Jing remains resolute in forbidding her solo return.

Recognizing his unwavering stance, Rong Hua feigns compliance, deciding to slip away secretly that night and apologize to him later after addressing Dragon Howl City's crisis. That night, Lin Jing is restless, seeing Rong Hua's silhouette leaving without a word. He is heartbroken, feeling that she perceives him as ruthless, prompting her to depart secretly.

Lin Ruohan finds him upset and explains that Rong Hua's concern for Dragon Howl City is valid, and his anger may have made her hesitant to speak. She assures him neither of them is truly at fault, as both are simply caring for each other. Lin Jing expresses his frustration, believing Rong Hua is impulsively heading towards certain doom given Dragon Howl City's dire state.

Lin Ruohan understands his concern but teases him for his "sharp tongue but kind heart," revealing she knows he secretly dispatched escorts to protect Rong Hua. She advises him to support Rong Hua's decisions rather than hinder them, urging him to provide silent protection. Lin Jing later confronts Rong Hua on her journey, playfully teasing her for running away like him.

Rong Hua reiterates her intention to return to Dragon Howl City only temporarily, promising to be back before their wedding. Lin Jing, having anticipated her departure, declares they will either face Dragon Howl City together or return together to Lingxu Pavilion. He agrees to accompany her, promising to protect her and stand before her in any danger.

He, however, warns her that his protection might not extend if Mo Huan exposes his identity to her father, to which Rong Hua assures him Mo Huan will fail. Lin Jing reassures her that he cannot ignore her home in crisis and reveals that Lin Ruohan has secretly arranged for Lingxu Pavilion disciples to provide assistance. They agree to be cautious and return to Lingxu Pavilion immediately once the crisis in Dragon Howl City is resolved, then depart together.

Meanwhile, various sect masters converge upon Dragon Howl City, where Rong Jingfeng hosts a banquet for them. A master from the Five Tigers Sect voices the general sentiment, stating they are not there to cause trouble but demand a satisfactory explanation regarding the widespread rumors about the Chihua Pill. Concerns escalate, with a master explicitly asking if the flower sea is safe and sound, fearing they will be without antidotes when the poison takes effect.

Rong Jingfeng calmly dismisses these concerns, attributing the rumors to malicious individuals coveting the Chihua Pill, who are attempting to use the situation to gain access to and steal from the flower sea. He questions why the intelligent masters would fall for such a ploy. However, the master of the Heavenly Dragon Sect proposes a compromise: if the flower sea is truly intact, Rong Jingfeng should permit one or two sect masters to inspect it.

This, he argues, would dispel the rumors, restore peace among the martial world, and resolve Dragon Howl City's precarious situation, leaving the specifics of the inspection to Rong Jingfeng's discretion. The other masters concur, believing this would bring safety and resolve the rumors.

The Chihua Pill, Dragon Howl City's most precious treasure, lies in the forbidden Flower Sea. Bai Weizhi chided the assembled faction masters for believing baseless rumors, warning that their mistrust was playing into an enemy's trap and could jeopardize their lives if the city lord withheld medicine.

Just as the masters deliberated, Rong Su arrived, swiftly defusing the tension by offering a compromise: once the Chihua Pill blossoms, her Hall of Emptiness would personally lead them into the Flower Sea to witness it. Rong Jingfeng agreed to her proposal, instructing her to make thorough preparations. Rong Su suggested that since few in Jianghu had ever seen a true Chihua Pill flower, they could subtly alter the Flower Sea before the masters' visit to stall for time.

She acknowledged that while this was a temporary fix, the antidote's true formula remained elusive. When asked about her investigation into Lingxu Pavilion, Rong Su admitted she hadn't discovered how its master avoided the Chihua Pill's backfire. However, recalling a cherished portrait Mo Huan kept, she asked Rong Jingfeng about the woman depicted.

Rong Jingfeng revealed it was Lin Ruohan, Mo Huan's most gifted disciple and his own junior fellow disciple, who years ago had eloped with the Nalan family master, thus betraying the Ling Sect and becoming a source of lasting pain for Mo Huan. He also confessed that Lin Ruohan had aided Mo Huan in destroying the original Flower Sea.

This led Rong Su to conclude that Lingxu Pavilion was the true power base of the Nalan family, and they were deliberately targeting Dragon Howl City, making future challenges difficult to predict. Meanwhile, Lingxu Pavilion began wedding preparations for Na Lanyue and Rong Hua. Mei Xueman, despite her lingering feelings for Na Lanyue, cheerfully agreed to Lin Ruohan's invitation to help.

Her brother, Mei Ying, however, was irritated, feeling that Lin Ruohan was inconsiderate of Mei Xueman's feelings after the broken engagement. Cang Qi interceded, explaining that Lin Ruohan had adopted Mei Xueman as her goddaughter, making her family, and valued Mei Xueman's talent. Mei Ying accepted the explanation but requested a personal meeting with Na Lanyue and Rong Hua to offer a substantial gift during their wedding, signaling the Mei family and Lingxu Pavilion were now united.

Mei Ying secretly speculated that Na Lanyue and Rong Hua might not be at Lingxu Pavilion if Lin Ruohan was comfortable with Mei Xueman helping. In the Nalan Cave, Jingyuan discussed the ice crystal he procured from the Northern Wastelands to accelerate the Chihua Pill's growth, hoping it would help Lin Ruohan with the backfire.

Lu Yizhou, sensing Jingyuan's underlying concern for Lin Ruohan, urged him to set aside his stubbornness and try to understand Lin Ruohan's perspective, and to accept Rong Hua. He reminded Jingyuan that while Lin Ruohan harbored deep hatred for Rong Jingfeng, her ultimate wish was for her family's safety.

He pointed out Rong Hua's selfless acts, including stealing the antidote and the Chihua Pill seed from Dragon Howl City to help Lin Ruohan, emphasizing that persistent hatred would blind one to others' kindness. Jingyuan, while agreeing not to harm Rong Hua for Lin Ruohan's sake, firmly stated his long-standing hatred would not easily dissipate. Lu Yizhou encouraged him to observe and learn while in Lingxu Pavilion.

At the Snow Union, Jinque confronted Guan Buzhuo for agreeing to Lin Ruohan's request to secretly protect Na Lanyue, accusing him of meddling. Guan Buzhuo argued it was his duty to assist an elder. Jinque, already overwhelmed with Snow Union's own issues, questioned Lin Ruohan's concerns, believing Mo Huan's primary target was Rong Jingfeng, not Na Lanyue.

Guan Buzhuo then suggested using Liuli to detain Xuan Ye, who had been waiting outside the Snow Union for days, to weaken Dragon Howl City. Liuli, acting on this suggestion, approached Xuan Ye. She explained that while Snow Union rules could not be easily altered, an alliance with Dragon Howl City could change things. She proposed using a "new truth to cover the old one," since rumors of the Flower Sea's destruction were already widespread.

Despite Xuan Ye's concerns about the time it would take, Liuli insisted on his help, directing him to gather information about the rumor-spreading factions to the south. Upon arriving in Dragon Howl City, Rong Hua cautioned Na Lanyue to be careful and to deny any knowledge if her father discovered their true intentions. Na Lanyue reassured her, promising to protect them both and to consult her before any action.

Bai Weizhi greeted them warmly, expressing his delight at their return and mentioning Mei Ying's unexpected presence in the city, which surprised Na Lanyue and Rong Hua. Rong Jingfeng welcomed them, expressing gratitude for their timely assistance during the city's crisis. He announced a change in plans: Na Lanyue, under his alias Lin Jing, would lead the faction masters into the Flower Sea, while Rong Su would guard the city gates.

Rong Su questioned the sudden alteration, but Rong Jingfeng remained resolute, insisting on his trust in Na Lanyue's capability. Zi Yan then distributed antidotes, instructing everyone to take them before entering the Flower Sea to prevent hallucinations. Bai Weizhi later brought soup to Na Lanyue, noting his room remained untouched, always ready for him and Rong Hua. He mentioned Rong Jingfeng had also enjoyed a bowl of his soup earlier, before leaving to join Rong Su on guard.

Na Lanyue led the blindfolded masters into the Flower Sea. Despite noticing a plum blossom scent, they were instructed to remove their blindfolds, revealing what appeared to be an intact Chihua Pill flower field. This convinced the masters the rumors were false. Suddenly, Na Lanyue felt disoriented and weak. Rong Jingfeng appeared, igniting the Flower Sea, trapping the masters in a circle of fire and mercilessly slaughtering them. A hallucination of Na Lanyue was seen as the perpetrator.

A bewildered Na Lanyue confronted Rong Jingfeng, who revealed that the soup Bai Weizhi had given him was drugged, explaining Na Lanyue's persistent disorientation. Na Lanyue realized Rong Jingfeng's earlier tension was part of this sinister scheme. A flashback revealed Mei Ying, seeking to secure his family's safety, had informed Rong Jingfeng of all Lingxu Pavilion's secrets, including Lin Jing's true identity as Na Lanyue, son of Nalan Xi.

Armed with this knowledge, Rong Jingfeng orchestrated the current trap: drugging Na Lanyue's soup and framing Lingxu Pavilion for the massacre to preserve Dragon Howl City's reputation. The sole surviving master from the Flower Sea escaped, accusing Na Lanyue of the slaughter. Rong Jingfeng feigned outrage, publicly condemning Na Lanyue (referring to him by his true name) for infiltrating Dragon Howl City to destroy the Flower Sea and steal the Chihua Pill, using the dead masters as irrefutable evidence.

Rong Hua, distraught and convinced of Na Lanyue's innocence, stepped in front of him to protect him. Rong Su, however, chastised her sister, reminding Rong Hua of her identity as Dragon Howl City's second miss and urging her to see Na Lanyue as a Nalan descendant and the murderer of the faction masters. Zi Yan and Bai Weizhi discreetly intervened, attempting to disarm Na Lanyue, providing a momentary reprieve. Rong Jingfeng, seeing his daughter's desperate pleas, feigned compassion.

He declared that while Dragon Howl City would not tolerate a criminal who destroyed their treasure, killing Na Lanyue immediately would be too lenient. He ordered Na Lanyue to be imprisoned, publicly promising to investigate and, in due course, lead an expedition against Lingxu Pavilion to avenge the slain masters.

Rong Su then told Rong Hua that Na Lanyue's life was safe and the truth would be investigated, attributing her sister's emotional outburst to being spoiled by their father and Zi Yan.

Rong Jingfeng confronted Na Lanyue in the dungeon, immediately recognizing him as Lin Ruohan and Nalan Xi’s son. He noted the familiar look in Na Lanyue’s eyes, a look he knew well from Nalan Xi.

Despite Na Lanyue’s defiance, vowing to protect his mother, Rong Jingfeng scoffed, mentioning Zi Yan’s potent poison and stating that a quick death would be too easy for him; he intended to inflict prolonged suffering, breaking Na Lanyue’s ribs and inserting poisonous worms into his body. Meanwhile, news of the sect leaders' demise in Dragon Howl City spread. Some disciples attempted to return to their sects to report the tragedy but were ambushed and killed by Liuli on the way.

Xuan Ye intercepted a secret letter carried by one of these disciples, learning of the recent events and Na Lanyue's imprisonment. Concerned for Rong Su, he decided to immediately return to Dragon Howl City. Liuli, however, playfully blocked his path, teasing him about his feelings for Rong Su, which Xuan Ye vehemently denied.

She then argued that rushing back would be pointless due to the distance, as he wouldn't be able to change anything and would fail to complete the task Rong Su had assigned them. Liuli then confessed her own feelings for Xuan Ye and reiterated that he should focus on their current mission. In Tingfeng Town, Lu Yizhou, having learned the grave news, rushed with Lingxu Pavilion disciples to provide assistance.

They nearly exposed themselves during a search by Hall of Life disciples, but Guan Buzhuo intervened by creating a diversion. Guan Buzhuo then warned Lu Yizhou against acting rashly due to his familiarity with Dragon Howl City and advised him to remain hidden in the town. Lu Yizhou pledged his life and the loyalty of Lingxu Pavilion’s disciples to Guan Buzhuo, who in turn promised to protect Na Lanyue.

Guan Buzhuo then covertly entered Dragon Howl City to formulate a rescue plan, intending to meet with Rong Hua. Rong Hua, heartbroken and distraught over Na Lanyue’s plight, had refused to eat for days. Her maid, Xiaoxiao, tried to persuade her to eat, advising her to accept that Na Lanyue had deceived her and to apologize to Rong Jingfeng to regain favor. Rong Su overheard this and, seemingly out of sisterly concern, ordered the guards removed from Rong Hua's door.

Mei Ying, curious about Rong Su's motives, questioned her. Rong Su explained that her intention was twofold: to grant Rong Hua a final meeting with Na Lanyue for closure, while simultaneously ensuring their escape was impossible due to heavy defenses she had already placed around the dungeon and along the city's exit routes. She also subtly encouraged Mei Ying to use this opportunity to win Rong Hua's affections.

With the guards gone, Rong Hua easily made her way to the dungeon. She found Na Lanyue suffering terribly from the poisonous worms and tried to help him. However, Na Lanyue, in agonizing pain and anger, vehemently accused her of betraying him and Lingxu Pavilion. Rong Hua, already hurt by her family’s misunderstanding, was devastated by Na Lanyue's distrust. Despite her attempts to explain her innocence and the pain she had endured, Na Lanyue remained unconvinced.

Heartbroken and believing her love was misplaced, Rong Hua left the dungeon in despair. News of Rong Hua’s visit quickly reached Rong Jingfeng, who confronted Rong Su, furious about her unauthorized decision to remove the guards and accusing her of sympathizing with the Nalan family. Rong Su defended her actions, explaining her intent was to make Rong Hua give up, and reiterated her belief that her defenses would prevent any escape.

Zi Yan intervened, vouching for Rong Su’s loyalty and meticulous planning. Rong Jingfeng, seeing Rong Hua emerge distraught from the dungeon, mistakenly believed she had finally given up on Na Lanyue. Rong Su then entered the cell to chastise Na Lanyue, calling him cold-hearted and unworthy of Rong Hua's love.

Later, Rong Jingfeng questioned Rong Su again, revealing he knew she had met Lin Ruohan at Lingxu Pavilion and suspected she had deliberately concealed Lin Ruohan’s true identity and Na Lanyue's lineage. He accused Rong Su of manipulating events to ensure Rong Hua's marriage and seize control of Dragon Howl City, emphatically stating that Rong Su would never become the City Master. Rong Hua’s health deteriorated further after her encounter with Na Lanyue.

Mei Ying visited her, offering comfort and expressing his deep affection. He claimed he was prepared to help rescue Na Lanyue and presented her with Plum Essence, a calming fragrance, to help her sleep. Later, Mei Ying openly declared his sincere intentions towards Rong Hua to Rong Jingfeng, hoping to formalize their alliance. Rong Jingfeng, who had already accepted Mei Ying's pledge of allegiance, warned him against hurting Rong Hua’s feelings.

Mei Ying reassured him of his unwavering loyalty to Dragon Howl City, asserting his family had no other recourse. Rong Jingfeng then formalized their plan to gather various martial artists and launch a full assault on Lingxu Pavilion to avenge the destroyed Chihua Pill, with Mei Ying offering to lead the charge. Executing their escape, Rong Hua, accompanied by Mei Ying, went to bid a "final farewell" to Na Lanyue.

Seeing them together, Na Lanyue feigned anger and, seizing an opportunity, knocked Mei Ying unconscious. He and Rong Hua then rushed out of the dungeon and boarded a waiting carriage driven by Guan Buzhuo, disguised as a coachman. At the city gates, guards, unfamiliar with Guan Buzhuo, stopped them. As tensions rose, Bai Weizhi appeared and intervened, ensuring their smooth passage out of the city.

Upon learning the truth of Na Lanyue's escape, facilitated by Rong Hua, Rong Jingfeng was enraged. He immediately ordered Rong Su to pursue Na Lanyue and disseminated false information throughout Jianghu, claiming that Lingxu Pavilion had abducted his second daughter, Rong Hua, to rescue their young master, Na Lanyue. He announced that Dragon Howl City would personally lead an expedition to uphold justice.

He reiterated to Rong Su that Rong Hua was to be considered a hostage, not an enemy, and was not to be harmed. Away from the city, Bai Weizhi expertly set Na Lanyue’s broken bones and tended to his wounds. Na Lanyue apologized to Rong Hua for his earlier harsh words, while Rong Hua reassured him that the blame lay with Dragon Howl City's deceit and reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to him.

Bai Weizhi provided them with wound medicine for their journey. Na Lanyue invited Bai Weizhi to join Lingxu Pavilion, but Bai Weizhi deflected the offer, promising instead to attend their wedding feast at Lingxu Pavilion before he departed. Meanwhile, in Tingfeng Town, Lu Yizhou bravely confronted Rong Su and her disciples, creating a diversion to buy time for Na Lanyue and Rong Hua. He pointedly reminded Rong Su that her departure from Lingxu Pavilion had clarified their opposing allegiances.

As Dragon Howl City forces pursued Na Lanyue, Zi Yan intercepted Bai Weizhi, who was impeding their progress. Despite Bai Weizhi's protestations that he was doing what was right, Zi Yan, concerned for his safety under Rong Jingfeng's wrath, used a poisonous needle to drug him, ensuring he would be taken back to Dragon Howl City and allowing the pursuit of Na Lanyue to continue.

Lu Yizhou confronted Rong Su at Tingfeng Town, lamenting how she had changed and asking if everything she told him in Lingxu Pavilion was a lie. He regretted ever bringing her there, acknowledging that all the disciples believed she betrayed Lin Jing. He still yearned for her to deny the accusations and prove her innocence, claiming he would choose to believe her again.

Rong Su retorted that he wouldn't believe her even if she denied it, stating that she had already realized his stance when they met. She then provocatively revealed that she had gone south specifically to gather information about Lingxu Pavilion, challenging him to kill her if he couldn't explain the situation to his sect. Lu Yizhou, enraged by her words, struck at her, injuring her arm. He then fled with his Lingxu Pavilion disciples providing cover.

As Lu Yizhou left, Rong Su collapsed, coughing blood, but a small smile played on her lips as she tightly clutched a black chess piece, whispering that she had repaid her debt to him and hoping he would escape. She then noted she might have taken too much poison. Rong Jingfeng continued his relentless pursuit of Lin Jing and Rong Hua, having anticipated their escape plan.

As Guan Buzhuo struggled to defend against Rong Jingfeng and the growing numbers of martial artists, Rong Hua urged Lin Jing to flee first, as he was her father's primary target. Rong Jingfeng ordered everyone to be captured, accusing Lin Jing of kidnapping Rong Hua. However, Rong Hua pleaded with her father to let them go, stating that she and Lin Jing were genuinely in love and intended to marry, and that the Flower Sea incident had other hidden truths.

Rong Jingfeng, however, dismissed her words as Lin Jing's manipulation. Suddenly, a powerful gust of wind announced the arrival of Mo Huan, the Supreme Master of the Ling Sect. Mo Huan immediately confronted Rong Jingfeng, criticizing him for using his strength to bully the weak and recalling his betrayal of the Ling Sect. Rong Jingfeng attempted to dismiss her interference, claiming it was a private feud between Dragon Howl City and Lingxu Pavilion.

Mo Huan then called upon Rong Hua to speak the truth, which Rong Hua did, reiterating her love for Lin Jing and denying any coercion. When the martial artists demanded an explanation from Rong Jingfeng regarding the Flower Sea's destruction, he skillfully deflected, reminding them that the initial accusation against Lin Jing came from the deceased sect leaders, not him.

Mo Huan, seeing through Rong Jingfeng's deceitful performance, called him a despicable and great actor, declaring she would not be fooled. With a furious wave of her hand, Mo Huan unleashed a devastating attack that caused widespread casualties among Rong Jingfeng's forces and left him with a severe internal injury. She had shattered his heart meridian with a poison that would ensure a slow, agonizing demise where his skin would rot, forcing him to live forever in the darkness.

In the aftermath, Dragon Howl City lay in ruins, its power in the martial arts world severely weakened without the Chihua Pill. Rong Jingfeng was deeply affected by the defeat and his grave injuries. Despite his anger, he initially refused treatment, wanting the pain to fuel his determination to reclaim what was lost.

Bai Weizhi, though not condoning Rong Jingfeng's actions, agreed to help, explaining to him that Mo Huan's internal force had poisoned his heart meridian, destined to slowly rot his skin and condemn him to a life in darkness. Bai Weizhi promised to find an antidote but insisted Rong Jingfeng first treat his internal injuries.

Meanwhile, Rong Su, having sustained her own injuries from Lu Yizhou and the poison she took to frame Lingxu Pavilion, was also tended to by Bai Weizhi and Ziyan. Rong Su inquired why Bai Weizhi, who seemed to side with Rong Hua, would help her. Bai Weizhi stated that despite his disapproval of her methods, he would not stand by and watch a member of Dragon Howl City die.

He confirmed that Lingxu Pavilion's people had safely escaped with Mo Huan's help. Rong Su found some relief in the current state of Dragon Howl City, believing it would at least delay direct conflict with Lingxu Pavilion. Meanwhile, Xuan Ye, having learned of Dragon Howl City's dire situation, forcefully carried Liuli back to the Snow Union headquarters for her safety. Liuli was indignant, accusing him of mistreatment and warning that Dragon Howl City might need their help again.

Xuan Ye, however, was resolute in his decision to return to Dragon Howl City to shoulder the burden for both the city and the Hall of Emptiness. After he departed, Liuli, still fuming, vowed to get even with him if they ever met again. Back at the Snow Union, Mo Huan chastised Guan Buzhuo for his reckless actions, reminding him that he would have died if not for Jinque's timely warning and Mo Huan's intervention.

She speculated that Rong Jingfeng would undoubtedly find a way to retaliate, given his history of turning situations around. Liuli reported that Lin Jing and his companions had returned to Lingxu Pavilion and suggested a period of peace for Dragon Howl City while it recovered. Mo Huan, anticipating further unrest due to the widespread impact of the recent conflict, instructed the Snow Union to keep a vigilant eye on Dragon Howl City's every move, ensuring no clue was overlooked.

Back at Lingxu Pavilion, wedding preparations were in full swing, with festive decorations and a bridal phoenix coronet and robes awaiting. Lin Jing was recovering from his injuries, thanks to Mo Huan's transfer of internal energy and Lin Ruohan's diligent care. He expressed concern for his mother's health, but Lin Ruohan reassured him, stating that after years of seeking revenge for his father and the Nalan family, her greatest wish now was his safety and happiness with Rong Hua.

She then presented him with a pea jade pendant, the first and only gift his father had prepared for him, symbolizing "safety at all seasons." Lin Ruohan urged Lin Jing to cherish Rong Hua, who had turned against her own father and Dragon Howl City for him, and now depended solely on him. Meanwhile, Rong Hua, alongside Mei Xueman, was also involved in the wedding preparations.

Mei Xueman sincerely congratulated Rong Hua and shared how Lin Ruohan, despite her anxiety over Lin Jing's injuries, steadfastly continued wedding arrangements, believing in his survival and wanting them to live happily. Rong Hua expressed regret for her past impulsiveness that led to Lin Jing's injuries and offered Mei Xueman a piece of cloth for her own wedding dress.

Later, Lin Jing confirmed to Rong Hua that he hadn't told Mei Xueman about Mei Ying's actions in Dragon Howl City, believing it was better for her to remain happy rather than burdened by the truth about her brother, who had a vastly different personality from her. Lin Jing reassured Rong Hua that Lingxu Pavilion would be their home and he would always be by her side.

Rong Jingfeng, still smarting from his defeat and injuries, was determined not to let Dragon Howl City fall. He summoned Xuan Ye, lamenting that he couldn't show his face in public due to his wounds and that many former allies were abandoning them. Rong Jingfeng ordered Xuan Ye to take the Hall of Emptiness disciples and eliminate the Mei family, accusing Mei Ying of betraying him during the Flower Sea incident.

Rong Su, having recovered from her injuries, pledged her readiness to assist and was dispatched to support Xuan Ye. Mei Ying, consumed by paranoia since his return from Dragon Howl City, had been reinforcing the Plum Tree Garden with defensive formations and increasing patrols. He frantically demanded updates on his sister Mei Xueman's whereabouts, sensing an impending attack.

Mei Xueman, having received a troubling letter from home, expressed her worries to Lu Yizhou, now calling him "Yizhou" as she had recognized Lin Ruohan as her sworn mother. She described Mei Ying's erratic and fearful behavior, and his refusal to explain his anxiety.

Despite Mei Xueman's desire to return home to check on her brother before Rong Hua's wedding, Lu Yizhou urged her to stay at Lingxu Pavilion and promised to send someone to investigate the Mei family's situation, assuring her he would share any news immediately. Meanwhile, Mo Huan learned of Rong Jingfeng's plan to destroy the Mei family.

She believed that while Mei Ying deserved his fate for his treacherous actions between Dragon Howl City and Lingxu Pavilion, Rong Jingfeng's true motive might lie elsewhere. She instructed Guan Buzhuo to warn Lingxu Pavilion to prepare defenses. As Mei Ying hid in terror, convinced that his enemies were near, Xuan Ye and the Hall of Emptiness disciples, joined by Rong Su, stealthily made their way into the Plum Tree Garden.

Lingxu Pavilion buzzed with festive decorations, vibrant silks, and red lanterns, as guests arrived bearing gifts. Attendants, their faces alight with joy, busily moved through the corridors, ensuring every detail was perfect. Inside, Mei Xueman helped Rong Hua prepare for her wedding. Just as Rong Hua’s bridal veil was about to be placed, a commotion was heard outside her room. Na Lanyue, impatient to see his bride, had been trying to bypass Cai, who insisted on adherence to tradition.

He eventually pushed open the window himself and personally drew Rong Hua’s eyebrows, declaring that no one could stop him from being with her. After much teasing from Cai and Mei Xueman, who secured an unconditional promise from Na Lanyue for her assistance, the wedding ceremony commenced. Na Lanyue and Rong Hua, exchanging vows amidst music and blessings, paid their respects to the heavens, their parents, and each other. However, the joyful celebration was abruptly interrupted by a distinctive whistle.

Mei Xueman immediately recognized it as a distress signal from her brother, Mei Ying, indicating that the Mei family was in grave danger. News quickly arrived that the Mei family had been annihilated by Dragon Howl City, with Mei Ying being the sole survivor, now pursued and hiding near Lingxu Pavilion. Mei Xueman, recalling Na Lanyue’s earlier promise, desperately pleaded with him for aid.

Despite Lu Yizhou’s counsel against leaving on his wedding day, Na Lanyue asserted his new responsibilities as Lingxu Pavilion’s Young Master and vowed to personally lead disciples to investigate and rescue Mei Ying. He instructed Mei Xueman to remain and manage wedding matters, assuring her that Lingxu Pavilion was now her home and he would resolve her brother’s situation. He also asked Rong Hua to wait for his return in their bridal chamber.

By the river outside the mountain, Mei Ying, severely wounded and exhausted from fighting numerous enemies, was on the verge of death when Na Lanyue arrived with his disciples, saving him just in time. Mei Ying cryptically warned Na Lanyue that Lingxu Pavilion would be next. It was then revealed that the Mei family's tragic annihilation was a strategic move in Rong Jingfeng's grand scheme.

Mei Ying, feigning escape to Lingxu Pavilion, intended to deploy smoke bombs and act as an inside agent for Dragon Howl City, ultimately aiming to destroy the Nalan clan. Mei Ying, whose face was disfigured by Mo Huan, expressed his desire for revenge against Lingxu Pavilion. Rong Jingfeng’s ambitious and Mei Ying’s ruthless plot to deceive everyone was uncovered.

Xuan Ye realized that he and Rong Su were kept in the dark, manipulated into believing Mei Ying's false escape and chase. Mei Ying detailed how the smoke and mist would provide an hour for Dragon Howl City to infiltrate Lingxu Pavilion, using defense information he had extracted from Mei Xueman. Despite Rong Jingfeng's indifference to Rong Hua's fate, Xuan Ye expressed concern that the Hall of Emptiness and Lingxu Pavilion would suffer heavy losses, allowing Mei Ying to profit.

Rong Su, acknowledging her mistake in trusting Mei Ying, declared that she had no alternative now but to fight for Dragon Howl City and find an opportunity to eliminate Mei Ying to secure her position and future. The celebratory atmosphere of Lingxu Pavilion turned into a brutal battlefield as Dragon Howl City's forces, led by the Hall of Emptiness, launched a fierce attack.

The sounds of clashing armor and blades filled the air, transforming the once-renowned sect into a scene of carnage. Amidst the chaos, Lu Yizhou, enraged, fiercely engaged Rong Su. He deliberately created an opening, allowing Rong Su to stab him in the chest, revealing his profound emotional turmoil. Rong Su, shaken, was left in shock and tears. Na Lanyue confronted Rong Jingfeng, accusing him of deceit and ambition, especially regarding the Nalan family and the Chihua Pill.

He vowed to bring justice to the martial arts world. Lin Ruohan skillfully uncovered Mei Ying's treacherous array. Mei Ying, attempting to deceive her by transforming into her late husband, Nalan Xi, was unsuccessful as Lin Ruohan maintained her composure and wounded him. Zi Yan intervened, saving Mei Ying, while Cang Qi covered Lin Ruohan's escape to a cave.

Meanwhile, Mo Huan, suffering from a severe backlash, could barely save Lu Yizhou, instructing her subordinates to rescue others from Lingxu Pavilion. She advised Lin Ruohan to stay hidden to ensure survival, explaining that Na Lanyue's fate now rested on his own. Lu Yizhou, recalling Na Lanyue's plea to protect Rong Hua, insisted on going to her rescue, willing to die if he could not fulfill his promise. Mo Huan reluctantly permitted him to go.

Rong Jingfeng, having captured Rong Hua and other disciples, tied her to a tree stump in her wedding dress, demanding to know the whereabouts of the other Lingxu Pavilion members. Rong Hua defiantly accused her father of ruthless ambition and of persecuting the Nalan family without cause. Rong Jingfeng condemned her for being foolish and betraying Dragon Howl City. He stated that Lingxu Pavilion abandoning her proved they did not consider her family.

He also claimed that Guan Buzhuo had already saved Na Lanyue and no one else would come for her. He recalled his promise to her dying mother to protect Rong Hua, urging her to confess her supposed wrongdoing. However, Na Lanyue arrived to rescue her, accompanied by Guan Buzhuo, Lu Yizhou, and disciples. He apologized to Rong Hua for being late but refused to leave his bride.

Cai ingeniously created a diversion by holding back Rong Jingfeng, allowing Na Lanyue to successfully take Rong Hua and escape with his rescuers. As Na Lanyue, Rong Hua, Lu Yizhou, and Guan Buzhuo fled on horseback, Rong Jingfeng mercilessly ordered his troops to unleash a volley of arrows, disregarding his daughter’s safety. Na Lanyue bravely shielded Rong Hua from the barrage, taking multiple arrows himself.

He endured his injuries in silence until they reached a seemingly safe area, where he collapsed from his horse. Guan Buzhuo found Na Lanyue's pulse extremely weak, fearing he had little time left. A distraught Rong Hua, heartbroken at the thought of losing him on their wedding day, begged Lu Yizhou and Guan Buzhuo to take Na Lanyue to safety in the cave. She then announced her intention to draw away Dragon Howl City's pursuing forces herself.

Lu Yizhou attempted to dissuade her, reminding her of Na Lanyue's specific instruction to protect her, but Rong Hua staunchly replied that as Na Lanyue's wife, it was her duty to protect Lingxu Pavilion and her husband, and she would not let her father continue his destructive path. She entrusted Na Lanyue's life to them and bravely rode off to lure away the pursuers.

Rong Su discovered Rong Hua by a lake. Rong Hua, still adorned in her wedding gown, held a bloody arrow, lamenting that her father, Rong Jingfeng, had used it to injure Na Lanyue, and that nothing she could do now would atone for his actions. Rong Su tried to reason with her, explaining that threatening Dragon Howl City with death would be futile, as only one faction—either Lingxu Pavilion or Dragon Howl City—could survive this conflict.

Desperate, Rong Hua questioned when the endless struggle would cease and begged Rong Su to ask Rong Jingfeng to stop. With a final, poignant message to Na Lanyue, expressing her intent to wait for him by the bridge to hell but urging him to live a long, full life before joining her, Rong Hua plunged the arrow into her own chest and fell into the lake. Rong Su watched in horror as her sister disappeared beneath the surface.

Inside a cave, Na Lanyue lay lifeless, his body slowly succumbing to the cold. His mother, Lin Ruohan, cradled him, her grief palpable. When his followers pleaded with Mo Huan to use her powerful martial arts to save him, Mo Huan revealed that only Lin Ruohan, with the Chihua Pill within her, could revive him—a life for a life. Lu Yizhou and others vehemently opposed this, fearing Na Lanyue's potential suffering and how he would cope with such a sacrifice.

However, Lin Ruohan was resolute. She asserted her right as his mother to decide his fate, declaring that she could not bear to watch him die and was determined for him to live. Her own health was already failing, and she no longer cared for her life. She instructed Lu Yizhou to tell Na Lanyue that this was the only thing she could do for him and that he should not feel guilty.

Mo Huan reiterated that living, even in a "dead-alive" state, was preferable to death. Lin Ruohan acknowledged that her past "womanly benevolence" had led to Lingxu Pavilion's ruin and that she was ashamed of her failure to protect the Nalan family and seek justice for them.

She resolved to join those who died for Lingxu Pavilion in the afterlife, taking full responsibility for past sins, but implored the survivors to remember this lesson, live on, and ensure the Nalan bloodline would not be extinguished. After transferring the Chihua Pill to Na Lanyue, Lin Ruohan requested to be buried alongside Lingxu Pavilion in the cave, feeling ashamed to face her husband and the Nalan family.

With her last breath, she marveled as the Chihua Pill finally bloomed, then passed away. Lu Yizhou pledged eternal loyalty to Na Lanyue, promising to guard him for life. After days of unconsciousness, Na Lanyue finally awoke to the devastating truth. Lu Yizhou explained that Lin Ruohan, wishing to avoid her body being disturbed, had instructed him and Cang Qi to cremate her and inter her ashes within the cave, a final resting place shared with Lingxu Pavilion.

Overwhelmed with grief, Na Lanyue insisted on burying his mother himself, refusing any help. He dug the grave with his bare hands, his fingers bleeding, consumed by profound regret. He recalled his childhood, when his mother always appeared stern, and how he, in his youthful ignorance, never truly understood her burdens or her deep sorrow of carrying the Nalan family's revenge. He expressed his pain, realizing he would never have the chance to atone for his past actions.

Lu Yizhou urged him to find strength, reminding him of his mother's unwavering concern and her desire for him to live. Na Lanyue, however, lashed out in his anguish, questioning why no one had stopped his mother from sacrificing herself, accusing them of not understanding his pain. Lu Yizhou tearfully admitted his inability to intervene, explaining that had he been in Lin Ruohan's place, he would have made the same sacrifice to save Na Lanyue.

He reminded Na Lanyue that his mother's ultimate wish was for his safety and survival, even above her own vengeance. Na Lanyue, having "died" once and been given life twice by his mother, vowed not to disappoint her again. He declared that he would bury his past sorrows and his mother's unfinished aspirations there, pledging to fulfill her quest for vengeance. With Lingxu Pavilion reduced to ashes, Dragon Howl City sought to solidify its reputation in Jianghu.

Rong Jingfeng tasked Rong Su with finding Rong Hua, dead or alive, commanding that she be brought back for him to personally deal with, as he found it heartbreaking that his daughter would choose death for Na Lanyue over admitting her "mistake." He then ordered his disciples to announce to the world that Lingxu Pavilion no longer existed. Purple Yan, observing Rong Jingfeng's suddenly healed face, questioned how he recovered when her and Bai Weizhi's efforts had failed.

Rong Jingfeng revealed that Mo Huan had not truly poisoned him severely; he had intentionally feigned illness and delayed his recovery with medication to manipulate other sects into targeting the Ling Sect. He also admitted to purposefully keeping Bai Weizhi ignorant and confined, fearing that Bai Weizhi's affection for Rong Hua would lead him to aid Lingxu Pavilion.

Purple Yan grew increasingly disillusioned with Rong Jingfeng, accusing him of trusting no one but himself and of covertly colluding with Mei Ying. She condemned his cruel decision to attack Lingxu Pavilion on Rong Hua's wedding day, which had devastated his daughter, whose whereabouts and survival remained unknown. Rong Jingfeng dismissed her concerns, believing his daughter was protected by fate.

Purple Yan expressed her profound disappointment, feeling Rong Jingfeng had betrayed her trust and had become someone she no longer understood. She argued that while Lingxu Pavilion was destroyed, Dragon Howl City had not truly won, having lost something significant that Rong Jingfeng would eventually realize. Mei Xueman awoke in an unfamiliar place to find her brother, Mei Ying, present.

He informed her that Lingxu Pavilion had been completely destroyed, burned to ashes by Rong Jingfeng's orders, just like their own Mei family. Mei Xueman furiously confronted Mei Ying, accusing him of betrayal, reminding him of Lingxu Pavilion's kindness to their family and to her, even sending men to protect them. Mei Ying defended his actions by claiming Rong Jingfeng had threatened him with a secret toxin, forcing his cooperation.

Unmoved, Mei Xueman denounced him as a coward who tarnished their family's honorable legacy, unlike their parents who died with dignity. She stated her preference for never having been his sister and scorned his ambition, pointing out he had ruined their father's legacy for his own survival. Mei Ying, unrepentant, argued that great ambitions sometimes required difficult choices, viewing Lingxu Pavilion's destruction as an opportunity to rise within Dragon Howl City and rebuild the Mei family's status.

He commanded her to return with him to Dragon Howl City and never speak of Lingxu Pavilion again. Disgusted by his cold-blooded pragmatism, Mei Xueman declared she would rather die than live with such shame and pulled out a dagger, intending to kill herself. In the ensuing struggle, Mei Ying was accidentally wounded.

Mei Xueman then dramatically severed their sibling ties, stating that his pursuit of power was no longer her concern, and challenged him to kill her if he desired revenge for the stab. Mei Ying, heartbroken, watched as she reaffirmed her resolve, stating she would not kill innocent people unlike him, and then left him in tears.

Rong Su visited a wounded Mei Ying, pointedly remarking on the emotional pain of being betrayed by his sister, which she surmised was worse than his physical wound. She noted that Mei Ying hadn't stopped Mei Xueman from leaving, to which he responded that their sibling bond was broken, and he wouldn't stop someone who wished to leave. Mei Ying then inquired about Rong Hua.

Rong Su, understanding Mei Ying's unspoken feelings for her sister, suggested he search for Rong Hua himself. She then revealed her suspicion that Rong Jingfeng's decision to attack Lingxu Pavilion was primarily motivated by his daughter, Rong Hua, though he hadn't explicitly stated it. Rong Su questioned whether Mei Ying's devotion to Rong Hua was truly worth it, given Rong Hua's unwavering loyalty to Na Lanyue, even to the point of death.

Mei Ying, weary, dismissed her, stating that fate determined life and death, and he could not change it. Rong Su advised him to recover, noting that all wounds eventually heal. Despite extensive searches by the Hall of Emptiness, Rong Hua's body remained unfound, enraging Rong Jingfeng, who demanded her return, whether alive or dead. Meanwhile, Xiaoxiao visited Bai Weizhi, who was confined. Unaware of the gravity of recent events, Bai Weizhi light-heartedly shared new recipes he developed during his imprisonment.

Xiaoxiao, distressed, asked if he had any concerns about his prolonged confinement, implying that critical information was being withheld. She tearfully informed him of Rong Hua's disappearance, acknowledging that as Rong Hua's master, he deserved to know. Upon hearing the news, Bai Weizhi immediately escaped his confinement. Xiaoxiao then cleverly created a distraction, directing the guards to pursue Bai Weizhi outside the city while secretly hoping that he would find and protect Rong Hua.

With many of her Snow Union disciples imprisoned, Liuli devised a plan. She disguised herself in a wedding dress, much like Rong Hua's, and staged her own "corpse" by a lake on the outskirts of Tingfeng Town, arranging for villagers to discover her and spread the news to the Hall of Emptiness. When reports of a wedding-dressed woman's body at the lake reached Dragon Howl City, Rong Su decided to investigate personally.

Xuan Ye, wary after days of fruitless searching for Rong Hua, suspected a trap and offered to check the body first, urging caution. As Xuan Ye approached the staged "corpse," Liuli sprung up, revealing her deception. She brazenly confronted Rong Su, rebuking Dragon Howl City for imprisoning Snow Union disciples and asserting that Snow Union feared no one in Jianghu.

Rong Su, angered by Liuli's defiance and disrespect, threatened violence, but Xuan Ye intervened, shielding Liuli and taking responsibility for his past rudeness towards Snow Union. He offered to personally escort Liuli back to her sect, requesting she stay with him for a few days. Initially dismissive, Liuli eventually relented, pleased by Xuan Ye's protection. Rong Su, having found no trace of her sister and recognizing the futility of continued searching, ordered a retreat back to Dragon Howl City.

Seizing the moment, Liuli then revealed that Snow Union possessed information about the whereabouts and fate of the person Dragon Howl City was searching for, and even offered to divulge information about someone else Rong Su cared about, hinting at her knowledge of Na Lanyue's condition.

At Lin Ruohan's grave, Lu Yizhou lamented her sacrifice, wishing it could have been him instead. Nalan Yue, overcome with grief, reflected on the past. He recalled a time when he and his mother set up a tombstone for their ancestors in a cave, promising annual visits. It was then that Lin Ruohan expressed her wish to be buried with Nalan Yue's father if Lingxu Pavilion could thrive.

Nalan Yue, in his youth, had dismissed her words, promising she would live a long life and see her descendants grow. However, Lin Ruohan had forewarned him about the martial world's unpredictability, where loved ones might part forever without a chance to say goodbye. She urged him not to feel guilty but to remember her love, calling him the most important light in her life. Now, Lin Ruohan was gone, leaving Nalan Yue heartbroken.

Lu Yizhou reported that there was still no news of Rong Hua and suggested they couldn't wait any longer. Nalan Yue, however, clung to the hope that no news was good news, knowing Rong Jingfeng would not give up easily. Standing before his mother's tomb, Nalan Yue vowed to avenge Lingxu Pavilion and his family, promising that the entire martial world would witness Rong Jingfeng's confession of guilt.

Rong Hua, having recovered under Jingyuan's meticulous care, lit a sky lantern daily, wishing for Nalan Yue's safe return. The lantern she released drifted down into a forest where Nalan Yue and Lu Yizhou were passing. Lu Yizhou suggested they add their own wish and release it again, but a grief-stricken Nalan Yue dismissed it as a trifle, and they moved on, missing the chance to see her message.

Jingyuan, despite his hatred for Dragon Howl City, recognized Rong Hua's kind heart, distinct from her father Rong Jingfeng's cruelty. He challenged her piety, arguing that prayers couldn't revive the dead, but Rong Hua maintained that belief depended on one's heart, hoping her wish would come true. She revealed her past attempt to commit suicide to stop her father, having lost all will to live, but Jingyuan saved her.

Understanding his animosity towards Dragon Howl City, she offered her life, but Jingyuan refused. He stated that Providence had saved her because as Rong Jingfeng's daughter, she was fated to survive and was responsible for repaying Lingxu Pavilion's grievances. Rong Hua, accepting this, vowed not to live in vain and promised to settle the scores between Dragon Howl City and Lingxu Pavilion.

Jingyuan also stressed that she must learn to stand on her own, reminding her that her cold illness and arrow wound still needed time to heal, and that saving her life was his greatest act of leniency. Mei Xueman, having severed ties with her brother Mei Ying, fled Dragon Howl City. She encountered Bai Weizhi, initially mistaking him for a pursuer sent by her brother.

Upon realizing he wasn't from Dragon Howl City, she expressed her heartbreak over Mei Ying's disregard for others' lives for personal gain. Bai Weizhi, who had also left Dragon Howl City, agreed that such a brother was better off gone. Recognizing her vulnerability without martial arts skills, he offered to accompany her. Mei Xueman then identified him as the renowned Bai Weizhi, the former master of the Hall of Oldness in Dragon Howl City and Rong Hua's master.

The two traveled together, enjoying local delicacies. As their funds dwindled due to Bai Weizhi's lavish spending, Mei Xueman recalled a rumor about an extraordinary martial artist living on Black Rock Mountain who suffered from an intractable illness and was offering a substantial reward for a cure. She suggested Bai Weizhi, known for his medical expertise, attempt to heal him, seeing it as a way to both help and replenish their travel funds.

Bai Weizhi concurred, realizing the importance of money in the martial world. Mo Huan gave Nalan Yue five days to decide whether to join her Ling Sect. Nalan Yue accused her of orchestrating events, knowing he would return empty-handed from his search for Lingxu Pavilion survivors, just to make him indebted to her. Mo Huan admitted her intelligence but asserted Nalan Yue had no choice.

Nalan Yue vehemently rejected her offer, declaring his intent to exact revenge on Dragon Howl City by his own strength, making Rong Jingfeng kneel and apologize for Lingxu Pavilion's and the Nalan family's suffering. He vowed never to be part of the Ling Sect. Mo Huan warned him of the severe consequences of his defiance.

Guan Buzhuo criticized Nalan Yue's stubbornness, likening it to his mother's, and questioned how he would survive without the Ling Sect's protection once Dragon Howl City discovered he was alive. Lu Yizhou urged Nalan Yue to accept, seeing their situation as a checkmate. Suddenly, Jinque announced that Nalan Yue's wife, Rong Hua, had arrived. At the mention of Rong Hua, Nalan Yue was overcome by pain as the Chihua Pill within him violently counterattacked.

Guan Buzhuo and Lu Yizhou frantically pleaded with Mo Huan to save him, reminding her of her promise to Lin Ruohan. Mo Huan revealed the true, terrifying nature of the Chihua Pill: after undergoing "three lives and three deaths," it transforms into something unique, requiring the user to master the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill to avoid its devastating, torturous poison. Otherwise, Nalan Yue would suffer daily, half-human, half-ghost, before dying a prolonged death.

She declared this to be his true "desperate situation," far worse than the fall of Lingxu Pavilion. Nalan Yue, horrified, asked if Mo Huan had forced his mother's sacrifice for him to become this way. Mo Huan coldly confirmed she had kept Lin Ruohan alive precisely to acquire Nalan Yue, stating he was her ultimate goal. Lu Yizhou confessed he hadn't known the full extent of Mo Huan's plan, only that she claimed it would save Nalan Yue's life.

Rong Hua, with Jingyuan, presented herself before Mo Huan at the Snow Union, asking for information on any Lingxu Pavilion survivors, promising to pay any price. Mo Huan acknowledged Rong Hua's miraculous survival and mocked her for not possessing her father's cunning, suggesting she could have prevented Lingxu Pavilion's downfall if she had. She then exposed Rong Jingfeng's elaborate deception, how he orchestrated a colossal lie and a massive trap, even against his own sister-in-arms, to annihilate Lingxu Pavilion.

Mo Huan challenged Rong Hua, asking if she would personally confront Rong Jingfeng and avenge Lingxu Pavilion. Rong Hua, aware of her family's deep transgressions, vowed to settle the score but reiterated her own approach. Mo Huan declared that all members of Lingxu Pavilion had perished in the massacre, with no survivors, their bodies burned to ashes by Rong Jingfeng's relentless ambush.

Rong Hua, however, remained resolute, stating she would persevere and still requested any information, promising to meet their price. Mo Huan then warned her that her father had ordered her capture, dead or alive, and that the Snow Union could easily sell her location to Dragon Howl City for a higher reward. Rong Hua defiantly embraced this possibility, hoping that if any Lingxu Pavilion members were alive, they would come for her in Dragon Howl City.

As Rong Hua was about to leave, she noticed the mirror beside her tremble. Behind it, Nalan Yue, watching her, was overcome with silent, tearful grief. As she reached out to touch the reflective surface, the mirror separating them like life and death, the Chihua Pill's effects surged, causing him to convulse in agony. Lu Yizhou quickly restrained him, urging him to endure and reminding him that Rong Hua's survival was his greatest desire.

As Rong Hua prepared to leave, Jinque informed Mo Huan that Xuan Ye had returned, escorting Liuli to the Snow Union. Mo Huan, testing Rong Hua, offered her an escort, noting Dragon Howl City's pervasive reach. Rong Hua, however, refused, asserting that if she couldn't even step out of the door unassisted, she had no hope of establishing herself in the martial world. Meanwhile, Xuan Ye relentlessly apologized to Liuli for past offenses, irritating her.

Just as Liuli was about to lash out, she spotted Rong Hua in the courtyard. Quick-witted, Liuli diverted Xuan Ye's attention, preventing him from noticing Rong Hua. Jingyuan seized the moment, discreetly throwing a silver needle to incapacitate Xuan Ye, rendering him unconscious. After Rong Hua and Jingyuan gratefully departed, Liuli dragged Xuan Ye back to his room. Rong Jingfeng was furious that Dragon Howl City's Hall of Emptiness had failed to locate Bai Weizhi, despite extensive searching.

Rong Su suggested they track down Bai Weizhi's former master from his youth. However, Rong Jingfeng dismissed this as naive, revealing that Bai Weizhi's old master was a formidable martial artist, whose power rivaled Mo Huan's, making it dangerous to even approach him. The master of the Hall of Life, Mei Ying, attempted to placate Rong Jingfeng, suggesting Bai Weizhi was merely letting off steam and would return if not pressured. But Rong Jingfeng was unyielding, demanding extraordinary measures.

When the Hall of Life Master offered his own forces to retrieve Bai Weizhi, Rong Jingfeng curtly told him to focus on finding his own missing sister, Mei Xueman, before taking on other tasks. Ultimately, Rong Jingfeng reaffirmed that the Hall of Emptiness would continue the search but warned them to keep the matter strictly internal.

The Hall of Emptiness master then privately assured the Hall of Life master that they would also try to bring his sister back if the opportunity arose. Rong Hua sent Jingyuan to Black Rock Mountain to investigate a renowned martial artist, Bai Su, Bai Weizhi's master, who was reportedly suffering from an intractable illness.

Rong Hua, recalling Nalan Yue had mentioned Bai Su's fame equaled Mo Huan's, and noting Bai Su was her master's master, saw an opportunity to leverage this connection to establish herself in the martial world. She believed that by gaining standing, she could then effectively negotiate with the Snow Union, who had previously shown her little respect, to get information about Lingxu Pavilion survivors. She decided to conceal her identity, cure Bai Su, and then make further plans.

Meanwhile, Nalan Yue, having learned of Rong Hua's probable location on Black Rock Mountain, decided to go there. Lu Yizhou accompanied him, describing Bai Su as an aloof and ill-tempered individual whom many physicians had failed to cure. On their way, they encountered Mei Xueman and Bai Weizhi attempting to seek an audience with Bai Su. Bai Weizhi introduced himself, offering his medical expertise to Bai Su, who immediately recognized and rudely dismissed him.

Mei Xueman was surprised that Bai Weizhi hadn't known his master's full name, and Bai Weizhi explained the local respect for Bai Su meant no one dared utter it directly. He recounted his past: expelled by Bai Su for being "greedy for food" as a boy, his continued rivalry with Rong Jingfeng led him to join Bai Su's school, only to later join Rong Jingfeng in Dragon Howl City after his expulsion, severing ties with his master.

Recognizing their current plan for money was thwarted, Mei Xueman suggested he reconcile with Bai Su, but Bai Weizhi claimed he no longer possessed the "thick skin" of his youth and resolved to find another solution.

Bai Weizhi, having been rebuffed and beaten by his master, found temporary lodging at an inn. The establishment bustled with various figures, including Rong Su, Xuan Ye, Lu Yizhou, Lin Jing, Liuli (acting as Lin Jing's messenger), and Jingyuan, who was tasked with protecting Rong Hua. Liuli met with Rong Hua, informing her that Rong Su and her disciples had appeared in the vicinity shortly after Bai Weizhi left Dragon Howl City.

Liuli suspected they intended to threaten Bai Su to force Bai Weizhi's appearance. Sharing a common enemy, Liuli offered her assistance, and Rong Hua tasked her with spreading important news. In the same inn, Liuli questioned Lin Jing about his plans regarding the Dragon Howl City members. Lin Jing sternly told her it was none of her concern and warned her against delaying their journey to the Northern Wastelands.

Later, Lu Yizhou questioned Lin Jing's harshness towards Liuli, an important member of the Snow Union, and probed if he still harbored feelings for Rong Hua. Lin Jing admitted he still cared for Rong Hua but reaffirmed his unwavering decision to proceed to the Northern Wastelands. He instructed Lu Yizhou to ensure Cang Qi and their allies exercised restraint, cautioning against rash actions that could alert their enemies, even though revenge was close at hand.

Lin Jing vowed to make Rong Jingfeng pay for Lingxu Pavilion's destruction, bit by bit, reflecting on his new identity as Na Lanyue, burdened by two generations of grievances and unfulfilled love. That night, contemplating his long journey to the Northern Wastelands and the uncertain prospect of reunion, Lin Jing entered Rong Hua's room. He found her asleep, murmuring his name "Yue" in what seemed like a troubled dream.

Lin Jing yearned to wake her and confess his feelings but hesitated, stopping his hand before it touched her face, overwhelmed by unspoken emotions. He quietly withdrew, leaving just as Rong Hua stirred awake. She saw only his familiar retreating silhouette and, desperate, pursued him through the bustling streets. Her search ended in disappointment, unaware that Lin Jing was watching her sorrowful departure from a hidden corner, his heart aching.

Cang Qi was sent to meet Mei Xueman in the town, where they observed Dragon Howl City operatives. Mei Xueman was updated on their situation and agreed to undertake a task before joining their group on the journey to the Northern Wastelands. Mei Xueman later met with Bai Weizhi, warning him about the increased presence of Dragon Howl City personnel in town, whom she believed were targeting him.

To prevent Bai Su from being endangered, Mei Xueman suggested they separate and advised Bai Weizhi to go to Blackrock Mountain to protect his master. She claimed she would find refuge with her late father’s friends. Bai Weizhi, though concerned for her safety, reluctantly agreed and bid her farewell, urging her to take care of herself. Rong Hua, accompanied by Jingyuan, approached Bai Su's retreat.

She informed him that, anticipating a threat from Dragon Howl City, she had arranged for his two top disciples, Wang Qingzheng and Wang Zhiyuan, to protect him, claiming they had already fended off assassins. She also expressed concern for Bai Su's "stubborn illness" and their desire for him to recuperate. Jingyuan then created a diversion, feigning burning down Bai Su's residence, which prompted Bai Su to grudgingly invite them in, remarking on Rong Hua's boldness.

Meanwhile, Rong Su led Dragon Howl City disciples up the mountain. After a significant delay with no reports back, she grew suspicious. As she and Xuan Ye prepared for a confrontation, they were met by Wang Qingzheng and Wang Zhiyuan, who quickly demonstrated their superior martial prowess. Just then, Bai Weizhi arrived. He sternly warned Rong Su to deliver a message to Rong Jingfeng: if he continued his relentless pursuit, they would become enemies.

Bai Weizhi also clarified that his senior brothers had merely subdued Rong Su's disciples, not killed them, and demanded that Dragon Howl City cease its intrusion. Rong Su, understanding she was outmatched, apologized and, seeing that Bai Weizhi would not return, requested the Hall of Seniority token. Bai Weizhi returned the token, reiterating his warning against any future trespassers. Wang Qingzheng and Wang Zhiyuan physically escorted Bai Weizhi to Bai Su’s abode.

Bai Su, sensing their "worldly" presence, immediately wished them gone, expressing his disdain for such company. Rong Hua attempted to take Bai Su's pulse, but he declared his strict diet of only morning dew and vegetables from his own garden. Upon seeing Rong Hua with Bai Weizhi, Bai Su angrily reiterated that he had expelled Bai Weizhi from the sect and would not welcome him, especially having heard that Bai Weizhi had taken another master.

He banished them all from his retreat, threatening severe consequences if they dared to return. Cang Qi, Mei Xueman, and Na Lanyue's group continued their journey to the Northern Wastelands. Mei Xueman inquired about Lin Ruohan, but Na Lanyue remained somber and urged them to hasten their pace, causing Mei Xueman a pang of guilt. As they neared the Ling Sect's stronghold, a disciple informed them that Supreme Master Mo Huan had anticipated their arrival.

He then arrogantly demanded they disarm, perform three kneelings and nine kowtows before entering to meet Mo Huan, mocking them as "underdogs." Infuriated, Na Lanyue immediately killed the disrespectful disciple and instructed the others to inform Mo Huan of his arrival. Upon hearing the news of the killed disciple, Guan Buzhu was shocked, but Mo Huan remained unfazed. She dismissed Guan Buzhu's concern, stating that the current Na Lanyue was no longer the naive young master of Lingxu Pavilion.

She ordered her disciples not to provoke Na Lanyue's group and to accommodate them without question, threatening severe punishment for any disobedience. Confined within the Ling Sect stronghold, Lu Yizhou grew impatient, questioning Mo Huan's intentions and Lin Jing's calm demeanor. Lin Jing, however, advised patience, calling their situation "adversity" that required them to be "flexible and calm" to avoid Mo Huan's traps.

He understood Mo Huan was trying to wear them down and resolved to wait her out, confident she wouldn't keep him if he were useless to her. During a private conversation, Lin Jing, acknowledging their deep friendship, confided in Lu Yizhou. He asked him to look after Rong Hua if anything unexpected were to happen to him and he couldn't return.

Lu Yizhou, though initially joking about his own marital prospects, ultimately promised his unwavering support, assuring Lin Jing that he would be fine with him by his side. Lin Jing, still suffering from the backlash of the Chihua Pill, was forced to confront his choice to become stronger and more ruthless. Mo Huan, aware of his struggle, believed only he could save himself by mastering the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill. Rong Hua prepared a feast for Bai Weizhi.

Seeing her sadness, Bai Weizhi became emotional, regretting not having been with her on her wedding day. Rong Hua shared her enduring trauma from Lingxu Pavilion's destruction, a memory she vowed never to erase. Bai Weizhi, echoing her sentiments, condemned Rong Jingfeng's cruelty and Rong Su's ruthlessness, warning Rong Hua against acting rashly. However, Rong Hua, having learned a harsh lesson from her family's betrayal, firmly stated that she would show no mercy to her enemies.

She knelt before Bai Weizhi, pleading for his help to avenge Lingxu Pavilion. Overwhelmed by her resolve and his own perilous situation (having fled Dragon Howl City for her), Bai Weizhi agreed to assist her. Rong Hua’s plan was to leverage Bai Su’s influence to rally support against Dragon Howl City, but first, she needed an introduction to his two senior disciples.

Rong Hua and Jingyuan had spent days collecting dew from Blackrock Mountain to investigate Bai Su’s persistent stomach illness but found no anomalies. Jingyuan grew impatient, questioning her approach. Rong Hua patiently explained her strategy: Bai Su's reclusive nature made trust difficult, but she believed she had a way.

Jingyuan then shared the intelligence he had gathered: Bai Su, despite having many disciples, only regularly interacted with the Wang brothers, Wang Qingzheng (a respected armed escort agency owner) and Wang Zhiyuan (a humble but influential ferryman who commanded vast intelligence networks, even for the Snow Union). Both Rong Hua and Jingyuan recognized Bai Su's formidable, yet untapped, power and lamented his lack of ambition, which left him detached from the martial arts world's affairs.

Rong Hua realized the problem lay with the vegetables Bai Su grew himself. Bai Weizhi then brought his two senior brothers, Wang Qingzheng and Wang Zhiyuan, to meet Rong Hua by a lake. They initially refused Rong Hua's respectful address, citing Bai Weizhi's expulsion from the sect. Rong Hua playfully noted Bai Weizhi's bruised face, causing him to complain about his lifelong bullying by his brothers.

The senior brothers were hesitant to get involved, as they were meeting Rong Hua in secret, risking Bai Su's wrath. Rong Hua presented her findings on the dew and explained her theory about the vegetables. Despite their skepticism about their master's own-grown produce being the cause, the Wang brothers agreed to secretly supply Rong Hua with vegetables for testing, strictly on the condition that Bai Su must never know of their involvement.

After an argument and a light scuffle, they departed. Rong Hua later asked Bai Weizhi about his past conflict with his brothers, but he dismissed it as "old times" and hurried off, eager for breakfast. After trying various samples, Bai Weizhi complained about endless "foretasting" for Bai Su's illness. Rong Hua confirmed that the vegetables she tested had no issues, leading her to conclude that Bai Su's stomach ailment was not related to his diet's ingredients.

She pondered how such a regular diet could cause the illness. Bai Weizhi, however, was simply relieved to be done with the tasting, fearing he might develop a stomach ailment himself. He later explained to Rong Hua that his sleepiness was due to overeating local snacks from open stalls late at night.

During a meal, Bai Weizhi appeared listless, a result of having indulged in the numerous local delicacies the previous night, which kept him from sleeping soundly. Rong Hua, who was already puzzled by the source of Grand-Master Bai Su’s stomach ailment, had an epiphany upon hearing Bai Weizhi’s confession. That evening, she discreetly entered Bai Su’s room and indeed found him sleepwalking, retrieving fine wine and delicacies from under his bed and feasting on them.

Rong Hua realized that Bai Su's strict daily diet, devoid of rich foods, had caused him to develop sleepwalking and overeating at night, leading to his stomach issues. She promised Bai Su she would keep his secret. The following day, Rong Hua prepared a prescription for Bai Su. Bai Weizhi, now aware of the true cause of his Grand-Master's illness, displayed a more appreciative attitude towards Rong Hua.

However, he still couldn't escape Bai Su's ire, and was publicly reprimanded by his Grand-Master whenever he spoke. Rong Hua, curious about why Bai Weizhi had been expelled from their sect, learned from the two Wang brothers that years ago, a young Bai Weizhi, in a fit of hunger, had cooked Bai Su’s beloved pet turtle as a dish to accompany wine. Bai Su, who cherished the turtle like a son, had expelled him in a rage.

Rong Hua mediated the reconciliation, and Bai Su, though appeased by Rong Hua, still assigned Bai Weizhi the task of planting and fertilizing vegetables in the backyard as punishment. Later, Rong Hua asked the two Wang brothers to escort her to town for medicine. They initially refused, but Bai Su, prompted by Rong Hua, ordered them to comply.

After Bai Su left, Rong Hua revealed to the two Wang brothers that she knew they had been secretly placing food under Bai Su’s bed, aware of his sleepwalking and its role in his illness. They confessed, explaining they acted out of kindness to ensure he ate enough, but feared embarrassing him by telling him directly.

Bai Weizhi used this information to subtly threaten his two senior martial brothers, who, worried about exposure, became compliant to Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi’s requests. Upon her return to Dragon Howl City, Rong Su reported to Rong Jingfeng. Bai Weizhi’s refusal to return meant the Hall of Seniority now lacked a master, so Rong Jingfeng appointed Mei Ying as its temporary head.

Rong Su was displeased by this decision and expressed her concerns about Mei Ying's loyalty to Rong Jingfeng, but he dismissed her worries, stating Mei Ying had proven himself during the attack on Lingxu Pavilion. Mei Ying, outwardly humble, secretly harbored ambitions for the City Master's position.

Xuan Ye, who had been investigating, revealed that Mei Ying was using the pretext of "embracing all rivers" to persuade Rong Jingfeng to recruit disciples from various sects, thereby secretly consolidating his power and influence. The Hall of Emptiness had suffered significant personnel losses after the Lingxu Pavilion battle, making the recruitment of new talents a pressing need. Despite her resentment, Rong Su decided to bide her time.

Xuan Ye advised her to remain calm, predicting that Mei Ying’s eagerness for success would lead to oversights, creating an opportune moment to defeat him. Meanwhile, Nalan Yue (formerly Lin Jing) decided to commence his cultivation. Mo Huan transmitted the incantations of the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill and arranged for Dark Soldiers to aid him.

However, the training for this skill was extremely perilous, requiring Nalan Yue to endure constant bites from venomous insects and, more importantly, to completely dissipate his existing internal energy to reshape his body. Only by surviving this ordeal could he achieve nirvana and be reborn; otherwise, he would be crippled for life. Mei Xueman, worried about Nalan Yue, was stopped by Ling Sect disciples from searching for him.

Cang Qi arrived, instructing the disciples not to impede Mo Huan's guests and telling Mei Xueman to return, assuring her Nalan Yue was safe but unable to disclose his whereabouts. The backlash from the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill intensified, leaving Nalan Yue with a persistent high fever and excruciating pain. When an elder from the Tang School attacked him, Nalan Yue found himself unable to gather his internal energy.

Mo Huan intervened, saving him and explaining that the Chihua Pill within him would use him as a host, and practicing the skill meant sacrificing all his previous internal energy to achieve greater power, akin to a phoenix rising from the ashes. Mo Huan warned him that if he gave up, he would remain an invalid, unable to avenge his mother and Lingxu Pavilion or fight Rong Jingfeng.

Nalan Yue, undeterred, affirmed his resolve to seek justice and witness the villains confess their sins. Mei Xueman tried to comfort the tormented Nalan Yue, who was pushing her away. She handed him Rong Hua's hairpin, an heirloom from Rong Hua's mother, recounting Rong Hua’s worries about him and her enduring love. Nalan Yue quieted down, lost in thought. Mo Huan tasked Cang Qi and Lu Yizhou with assisting Nalan Yue's cause.

Cang Qi reported that the Red Flame Lotuses transplanted from Lingxu Pavilion’s cold cave had successfully taken root, and they were now awaiting their blooming period to concoct the antidote, which was crucial for Nalan Yue’s survival and for Ruohan's peace. Lu Yizhou, having learned of Dragon Howl City's external recruitment, dispatched covert agents into the Hall of Sickness and eliminated the Hall of Emptiness's informants in the Northern Wastelands, marking the first step in their revenge plan.

Eight Hall of Emptiness disciples had infiltrated the Northern Wastelands to gather intelligence; seven were brutally murdered overnight, their bodies displaying bizarre, subtle wounds, Chihua Pill marks on their chests, and evidence of insect bites, indicating fatal internal injuries. The sole survivor was in a coma, delirious, repeatedly muttering about "karma for killing the Nalan family."

Rong Su, deeply suspicious, then overheard a new disciple, Yun, mentioning that mysterious individuals in the Northern Wastelands had been selling rare ice crystals capable of catalyzing growth, often used to cultivate "two-life flowers." Rong Jingfeng, who was accompanying Zi Yan and happened to pass by, was alarmed upon hearing this. Zi Yan quickly instructed Xiaoxiao to take Yun away, unaware of the subtle, knowing smile on Yun’s face. Rong Jingfeng recognized "two-life flowers" as Chihua Pills.

Rong Su believed that the Nalan family was plotting revenge and likely collaborating with the Ling Sect, which was located in the Northern Wastelands. She requested permission to personally lead an investigation into the Northern Wastelands. Rong Jingfeng approved, cautioning her to proceed with extreme care to avoid alarming their targets. Zi Yan, whose health was rapidly deteriorating, made a final request to Rong Jingfeng: that he promise never to let the Hall of Sickness fall into Mei Ying’s hands.

For several days, the Snow Union failed to gather any intelligence, leading to significant losses and threatening its reputation. Jinque and Liuli visited Wang Zhiyuan to investigate the source of the issue. To their surprise, Wang Zhiyuan demanded double the price for information and revealed that Rong Hua was behind it all. Rong Hua, following her grandmaster's arrangements and with the assistance of her senior disciples, first monopolized the flow of information in the martial arts world.

This tactic was designed to control the Snow Union and leverage their intel for her own purposes. The Mei Mansion had been sold by Mei Ying years ago, driven by vanity to support numerous disciples and servants, ultimately depleting his funds. With her senior disciples' help, Rong Hua acquired the mansion's title deed and sufficient funds, then instructed Jinque to buy and renovate it, anticipating this would draw Mei Ying out.

Meanwhile, Lin Jing successfully cultivated the first stage of the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill, enabling him to manipulate flower growth and accelerate the Red Flame Lotuses' condensation into Chihua Pills. He kept one Chihua Pill for future use. Lin Jing also secretly assigned Yun to monitor Mei Ying's movements and swap out a poisonous powder. Mo Huan noticed her body was beginning to show signs of decline.

Despite her ageless appearance, she struggled to maintain her physical form against the ravages of time. Lu Yizhou, having learned that Rong Su was approaching the Northern Wastelands, requested and received Mo Huan's permission to personally guard the entrance to the Ling Sect. Lin Jing understood that Lu Yizhou was trying to prevent him from shouldering the burden of revenge alone. Rong Su arrived at the foot of the mountain and dispatched an advance party.

However, as they entered the valley, they were ambushed, with only Xuan Ye managing to escape. Rong Su ordered Xuan Ye to proceed with their original plan, while she herself infiltrated the Ling Sect to gather information. She was ambushed by Lu Yizhou, who had significantly enhanced his martial arts. Despite her fierce resistance, Rong Su was subdued within a few moves. She assumed Lu Yizhou would kill her, but he stated that simply killing her would not be enough.

Liuli sent a letter to the Ling Sect requesting the blueprints of the Mei Mansion. Mei Xueman, entrusted by Lin Jing, personally delivered them to the Snow Union. She was overjoyed to see Rong Hua there and began to share news about Lin Jing, but Liuli promptly interrupted her. Rong Hua was concerned about Mei Xueman's reaction to her impending confrontation with Mei Ying.

However, Mei Xueman, understanding the gravity of the situation, affirmed that her brother's misdeeds were extensive, and whatever fate befell him would be his own doing. Upon hearing that the Mei family's property had changed hands and was undergoing renovation, Mei Ying immediately rushed to Lingxu Pavilion with his Hall of Life disciples to investigate. He intended to use a poisonous powder, unaware it had been swapped for a harmless one. Cang Qi suddenly appeared, swiftly eliminating Mei Ying's disciples.

Before Mei Ying could react in his panic, Lin Jing appeared behind him and struck him down with a single sword blow. However, Lin Jing planned to revive Mei Ying using a Chihua Pill, curious to see what Mei Ying would do in his desperation for an antidote. When Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi arrived at Lingxu Pavilion, they found bodies scattered everywhere but no sign of Mei Ying.

Recalling that her mother, the Pavilion Master, was buried in Nalan Cave, Rong Hua decided to go there to pay her respects. Inside the cave, she discovered fresh incense and candles before the tomb. Overwhelmed by this and earlier signs, tears streamed down her face as she called out for Lin Jing, pouring out her longing and pleading for him to reveal himself. Lin Jing, hidden nearby, was deeply pained by her cries.

As Rong Hua grew increasingly despairing, contemplating suicide with a dagger, he rushed out, snatched the weapon from her hand, and revealed himself. The reunited lovers embraced tightly, their emotions a complex blend of sweetness and relief, as if the world around them had faded, leaving only each other in their eyes. Rong Hua vowed never to let him go again, and Lin Jing admitted he too had dreamed of their reunion, struggling to believe it was real.

Rong Su, captured, resigned herself to death. Mo Huan mocked her for her self-importance, noting how she had recklessly trespassed into the Ling Sect just to gain favor with Rong Jingfeng. Lu Yizhou frequently lingered near the door, visibly concerned for Rong Su. Guan Buzhuo bluntly pointed out that while Rong Su would not die, she would suffer a fate worse than death due to her repeated defiance of the Ling Sect and Mo Huan's wrath.

Mo Huan intended to cripple Rong Su's martial arts and send her back to Dragon Howl City, believing this would make Rong Jingfeng lower his guard against his daughter. Meanwhile, Xuan Ye led his disciples in an attempt to attack the Ling Sect, currently lingering at the entrance.

Guan Buzhuo, observing Lu Yizhou's feigned indifference and reluctance to admit his concern, suggested that Lu Yizhou report Xuan Ye's invasion to Mo Huan and check on Rong Su's condition while he was at it.

Lu Yizhou arrived at the Sacred Temple at a critical moment to subtly stop Mo Huan and protect Rong Su. A messenger from Buzhuo had just informed Mo Huan that Xuan Ye was leading Dragon Howl City disciples in an attempt to breach the Ling Sect. Mo Huan questioned Lu Yizhou whether to prioritize dealing with Rong Su or Xuan Ye.

Rong Su, who was present, interjected, stating that she had anticipated the possibility of not returning and had instructed Xuan Ye to detonate gunpowder at the Ling Sect's entrance if she failed to return, intending for mutual destruction. Mo Huan acknowledged Rong Su's unexpected cunning but ultimately dismissed it as futile.

She then ordered Lu Yizhou to take disciples to guard the entrance, remove the gunpowder, and kill all incoming Dragon Howl City disciples but to specifically keep Xuan Ye alive. Xuan Ye was to be sent back to deliver a message to Rong Jingfeng: Dragon Howl City was facing its doom. Lu Yizhou followed the order, reiterating at the entrance that all but the leader, Xuan Ye, were to be killed.

Xuan Ye confronted Lu Yizhou, declaring that Lingxu Pavilion would not be slaughtered and that this was the beginning of Dragon Howl City paying its blood debt. Lu Yizhou countered that Rong Su knew she couldn't escape Mo Huan and had planned for a collective demise. He also revealed that the explosives had been disarmed. Lu Yizhou spared Xuan Ye's life to send a message to Rong Jingfeng, demanding that he personally atone for Lingxu Pavilion's blood debt.

Rong Su was then taken to the dungeon and bound by iron chains. Lu Yizhou visited her, intentionally taunting her newfound composure, which was a stark contrast to her usual unease at the mention of Mo Huan. Rong Su, understanding his deep-seated hatred for Dragon Howl City, resigned herself to his judgment, daring him to kill her and stating that she wouldn't beg for mercy or allow Dragon Howl City to yield.

She described his and Mo Huan's hearts as being as dark as the dungeon itself, noting her own familiarity with fear from growing up there under Mo Huan's cruel restraints. Lu Yizhou, however, claimed he no longer felt pity for her and revealed that all of her Dragon Howl City disciples were dead, except for Xuan Ye, who was sent back to report to Rong Jingfeng that this was merely the beginning of their suffering.

Despite his harsh words, Rong Su saw through his facade, telling him that this cruel persona was not his true self and that he couldn't deceive her. She challenged him, reminding him that he had protected her by intervening at the Sacred Temple just in time. Lu Yizhou vehemently denied any lingering affection, asserting that he would destroy Dragon Howl City, kill her father, and ensure no one survived, expecting her to feel no sentiment for him afterward.

Rong Su, calling his bluff, dared him to carry out his threat, saying it would also satisfy Mo Huan. In response, Lu Yizhou declared that in three days, at the Sacred Temple, he would personally sever her meridians and cripple her martial arts. He vowed to have her hands sent back to Dragon Howl City, eager to see if Rong Jingfeng valued his daughter's life or his position as city master more.

Rong Su, enraged by his words, demanded he repeat the threat while looking her in the eye. When Mei Ying awoke, he discovered the Chihua Pill had entered his heart meridians, causing him great distress. Just then, Xiaoxiao from the Hall of Sickness arrived, dispatched by Rong Jingfeng to assist him. Xiaoxiao immediately inquired about his injuries and the whereabouts of his Hall of Life disciples.

Mei Ying claimed his disciples were ambushed and all killed during their investigation of Lingxu Pavilion, implying survivors from Lingxu Pavilion were retaliating. Xiaoxiao openly questioned why he was the only one who survived. Mei Ying tried to assert his authority as a hall master, but Xiaoxiao scoffed, hinting that his position was obtained through disreputable means and stating that she was only there out of duty as ordered by Rong Jingfeng.

She reminded him that his recent promotion wouldn't protect him from blame for such heavy casualties. Xiaoxiao then asked to examine his injuries, but Mei Ying quickly refused, claiming they were minor. Sensing his evasiveness, Xiaoxiao departed but not before ordering two of her disciples to secretly monitor Mei Ying's every move and report any anomalies. After Xiaoxiao left, Mei Ying, alone, privately fretted over the Chihua Pill now within him, wondering who was behind this secret attack.

Rong Hua brought Nalan Yue to Black Rock Mountain and introduced him to her grand-master, Bai Su, and her master, Bai Weizhi. She explained that with their help, she had managed to cut off the Snow Alliance's intelligence network. On the way, Nalan Yue subtly revealed knowledge of the Mei Mansion's renovation, surprising Rong Hua since that information was supposedly confined to Black Rock Mountain.

He quickly covered his tracks by claiming he had merely inquired about renovations while visiting his mother's grave. Upon their arrival, Bai Weizhi was initially upset with Rong Hua for having caused worry, but his mood quickly shifted when Nalan Yue, after a brief slip, respectfully addressed him as "Master," explaining that since he was now married to Rong Hua, he should adopt her form of address and consider their past grievances settled. Bai Weizhi was overjoyed.

However, Bai Su remained observant. He directly questioned Nalan Yue about his disappearance and past injuries, to which Nalan Yue vaguely replied that he had been gravely wounded protecting others during a chaotic period and was too ashamed to face his people after Lingxu Pavilion's destruction. Rong Hua interceded on his behalf, offering to cook a meal for everyone.

Later, after Nalan Yue and Rong Hua had left, Bai Su told Bai Weizhi that Nalan Yue's evasive answers indicated he was hiding something and possessed a deeper mind than he let on. Bai Su ordered him to discreetly investigate Nalan Yue's recent movements, the nature of his injuries, and who had treated him. Meanwhile, Mei Xueman learned from a subordinate that Nalan Yue had reconciled with Rong Hua and was residing at Black Rock Mountain.

Distraught and worried that his actions were impulsive and that his still-recovering powers put him at grave risk, Mei Xueman decided to go to Black Rock Mountain. Cang Qi offered to accompany her. As they navigated the bumpy mountain paths, Cang Qi cautiously asked Mei Xueman why she persisted in her unrequited devotion to Nalan Yue.

Mei Xueman acknowledged the apparent foolishness of her feelings but confessed she couldn't help but want to be by his side, finding solace merely in his well-being, without needing his love in return. Cang Qi stated he understood her feelings. They soon spotted Nalan Yue's location, and Mei Xueman expressed her concern that his presence at Bai Su's residence would easily expose him, given Bai Su's formidable martial arts.

Nalan Yue appeared, reassuring them he knew what he was doing and instructed them to stick to their original plan to avoid detection by Bai Su and his people. He told them he merely wanted to confirm Rong Hua's safety before leaving. That evening, as the meal was served, Nalan Yue was nowhere to be seen. Worried he might have left without saying goodbye again, Rong Hua confided in Bai Weizhi.

He agreed that Nalan Yue seemed changed—more somber, taciturn, and with a colder aura. Rong Hua admitted she had noticed it too but hesitated to ask, fearing it would bring back painful memories of Lingxu Pavilion's destruction. She resolved that as long as he was safe, the change was understandable. Later, Nalan Yue joined Rong Hua outside. When she asked who he had been talking to, he feigned ignorance.

He then chided her for being out in the cold, but she explained she was worried he might leave without saying goodbye again. They shared a playful moment, with Nalan Yue joking about tying her up. He lamented that the rainy weather prevented them from stargazing, recalling their first encounter when she mistakenly thought him a thief, and how that night's stars were the most beautiful he had ever seen.

To cheer her up, he playfully said that while there were no stars in the sky, he could see one reflected in his own eye. Rong Hua blushed and teased him for his cheesy lines, but he earnestly declared his sincerity, even offering to let her "take his heart out" to see for herself. As Rong Hua reached out and touched his chest, Nalan Yue recoiled, appearing visibly nervous, which immediately piqued her suspicion.

He quickly covered by expressing his wish to watch the stars with her for a lifetime, and Rong Hua, seemingly pacified, agreed that they would have plenty of time once everything was settled. The next morning, Nalan Yue and Rong Hua were picking sweet fruit in the wilderness. During a playful exchange, Nalan Yue suddenly experienced a severe backlash from the Chihua Pill within him, forcing him to suppress the intense pain and hurry back to their lodging.

There, they found Liuli, who had come to deliver a message, tied up inside the room by Bai Weizhi, with the two bickering endlessly. Upon Rong Hua's intervention and untying of Liuli, Liuli immediately reported that Ziyan, in Dragon Howl City, was critically ill and in a coma, with not much time left. Bai Weizhi was distraught upon hearing about Ziyan's critical condition, blaming Rong Jingfeng for his neglect and regretting leaving Ziyan in Dragon Howl City.

He impulsively declared his intention to return, vowing to cure Ziyan or seek Bai Su's help if he failed, and then take her away from the city. Nalan Yue cautioned him that entering Dragon Howl City might be easy, but leaving would be far more difficult. Rong Hua urged Bai Weizhi to remain calm and formulate a well-thought-out plan.

She suggested that while Dragon Howl City might lack a cure, Bai Su, with his profound medical knowledge, surely had the means to heal Ziyan. Liuli then took Rong Hua aside, revealing that Mei Ying was lingering around his ancestral home in town, determined to find its new owner. Rong Hua saw this as an opportunity to deal with Mei Ying.

With a firm resolve, Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi approached Bai Su to inform him of their decision to return to Dragon Howl City to rescue Ziyan. Rong Hua asked for Bai Su's permission, while Bai Weizhi assured him that he had made all necessary arrangements for Bai Su's safety during their absence.

Bai Weizhi informs his Master, Bai Su, of his decision to return to Dragon Howl City to save Ziyan, asking for his permission. Rong Hua supports his request, assuring Bai Su that all necessary precautions have been taken for Bai Weizhi's safety. Bai Su, after hearing Rong Hua's description of Ziyan's critical condition, states that Ziyan is likely beyond any remedy, but allows Bai Weizhi to go if he wishes to "bid farewell" to her.

Bai Weizhi reacts with anger, asserting Ziyan will recover and forbids anyone, even his Master, from speaking otherwise. Rong Hua intercedes, reaffirming their resolve to try their utmost, emphasizing Ziyan's familial connection to her and her deep importance to Bai Weizhi. However, Bai Su remains displeased, complaining that their worldly attachments have disrupted his peaceful cultivation, dismissing their emotions as vulgar. He orders them to leave, prompting an angered Bai Weizhi to depart.

Na Lanyue, who had previously warned that Bai Su would not help, points out Ziyan's complicity in the destruction of Lingxu Pavilion. Rong Hua, acknowledging the past, reiterates her commitment to avenge Lingxu Pavilion by eventually taking control of Dragon Howl City and publicly clearing its name. Yet, she pleads with Na Lanyue to spare her father, Rong Jingfeng, and her sister, Rong Su, due to their family ties.

Na Lanyue counters, questioning if Rong Jingfeng ever extended such mercy to Lingxu Pavilion. Changing the subject, Na Lanyue suggests that Rong Hua capitalize on Mei Ying's presence in Tingfeng Town, given his status in Dragon Howl City, an idea Rong Hua agrees with, noting their shared strategy. As Bai Weizhi prepares to leave, he apologizes to Bai Su for his earlier outburst, promising to return and serve him after settling Ziyan's matter.

His senior disciple, Wang Qingzheng, stops him, admonishing his short temper. Wang Qingzheng then reveals that Bai Su had intentionally left a precious Zhenjin Pill for Ziyan. Bai Weizhi is touched by his Master's hidden compassion. Wang Qingzheng then imparts a warning, relaying news from Wang Zhiyuan that Na Lanyue, after Lingxu Pavilion's destruction, had allied with Mo Huan and the Ling Sect in the Northern Wastelands.

Expressing deep suspicion about Na Lanyue's sudden reappearance, Wang Qingzheng cautions Bai Weizhi and Rong Hua to be vigilant, suggesting that revenge can drive people to unexpected alliances, even between former enemies like Na Lanyue and Mo Huan. Mei Ying, receiving an anonymous invitation from the Mei mansion's new owner, attends a banquet alone. Upon entering, he finds a handkerchief bearing the Chihua Pill symbol and succumbs to a hallucinogenic incense, collapsing.

Na Lanyue, Rong Hua, and Cang Qi are revealed to be behind the trap. Na Lanyue comments that Mei Ying's punishment was too light but instructs them to keep him alive for future use. Cang Qi then reports that Xiaoxiao, the master of the Hall of Sickness, has arrived. Rong Hua confirms she was expecting Xiaoxiao.

Na Lanyue sees this as an opportune moment, remarking that Ziyan's death would significantly weaken Dragon Howl City, but reaffirms his promise to Rong Hua that he will protect Ziyan. Cang Qi confirms that Lu Yizhou is already en route, escorting Rong Su to Dragon Howl City, and Na Lanyue declares his intention to rendezvous with them the following day. Rong Hua then meets a relieved Xiaoxiao, who is overjoyed to find her alive.

Rong Hua explains her plan to use the Mei mansion as a base, having anticipated Xiaoxiao would investigate Mei Ying. Xiaoxiao, who has long disliked Mei Ying, expresses her pleasure at his predicament and her renewed confidence now that Rong Hua is back. Later, Rong Hua finds Na Lanyue deep in contemplation. She expresses her apprehension about revealing certain truths, fearing it might irrevocably alter their relationship. Na Lanyue encourages her to speak openly, promising full disclosure.

Rong Hua then confronts him with her suspicions: their encounters at her mother's grave and the Snow Union were not coincidental, and he was the one who punished Mei Ying. She admits her bewilderment over his disappearance and subsequent association with Mo Huan. Na Lanyue, in turn, confesses the full truth: his survival after Lingxu Pavilion's destruction was due to his mother's sacrifice, implanting the Chihua Pill into his body.

He explains that the pill, having undergone three life-and-death cycles, has an even more potent backfiring effect, leaving him no choice but to rely on Mo Huan to sustain his life and allow him to see Rong Hua again. Rong Hua, suspicious of Mo Huan's motives, vows to find a cure to free him from the pill's control. Na Lanyue, however, asserts that the Chihua Pill is beyond normal medical remedies.

He then presents Rong Hua with a heartbreaking request: should he lose control and become a threat to the martial arts world and innocent lives, he wishes her to be the one to end his life. Devastated, Rong Hua vehemently refuses, declaring she cannot live without him. She produces a hairpin, her mother's treasured heirloom, which she had intended as a wedding token, asserting it symbolizes their unbreakable bond and her commitment to face every hardship by his side.

The next morning, Rong Hua wakes to find Na Lanyue gone, the hairpin left on her pillow, understanding his unspoken message. Lu Yizhou, leading Ling Sect disciples, sets off with the captured Rong Su towards Dragon Howl City. Meanwhile, Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi arrive in Tingfeng Town, only to find it besieged by Ling Sect forces, with frightened citizens fleeing in panic.

Rong Hua confronts Na Lanyue, demanding to know if he is responsible for the siege, accusing him of exploiting Ziyan's illness and capturing Rong Su. Na Lanyue confirms his unwavering resolve for revenge against Dragon Howl City but reassures Rong Hua of his promise to ensure Ziyan's safety, instructing Rong Hua to stay in Tingfeng Town. Inside Dragon Howl City, Rong Jingfeng is consumed with worry for Ziyan. Mei Ying, now released and by his side, feigns concern.

Xiaoxiao, acting as a discreet informant, reports Na Lanyue's offer: Ziyan can be brought to the city's outskirts, escorted by Dragon Howl City personnel, where Bai Weizhi will treat her. From there, Na Lanyue himself would take Ziyan to Tingfeng Town. Rong Jingfeng is incensed upon learning Rong Hua is alive and collaborating with Na Lanyue, condemning her as his enemy and suspecting a trap to lure him out.

Xiaoxiao insists on Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi's integrity, even offering to escort Ziyan herself. Mei Ying then volunteers, arguing that as an outsider, his fate at Na Lanyue's hands would be a minimal loss to Dragon Howl City and would allow Rong Jingfeng to focus on defense. Desperate, Rong Jingfeng reluctantly agrees. At Ziyan's side, Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi assess her condition.

Rong Hua laments that even the Zhenjin Pill, administered with Bai Weizhi's internal energy to ease her suffering, will only prolong her life by a few days, as the years of poison have ravaged her body beyond recovery. Bai Weizhi blames his own medical limitations. At this moment, Rong Su, held captive, pleads with Lu Yizhou to see Ziyan one last time, offering to sacrifice a leg as collateral.

Lu Yizhou, recalling his own loss at Dragon Howl City's hands, tests her resolve by proposing a chess game, mirroring their first encounter; if she wins a single piece, she can see Ziyan. Rong Su, understanding the futility and danger, refuses to gamble with her aunt's precious remaining moments. Suddenly, a distorted, ghostly figure resembling Mo Huan during her Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill practice flashes past.

Rong Su recognizes it instantly, realizing Na Lanyue is suffering a severe Chihua Pill backfire. Lu Yizhou immediately gives chase, instructing a subordinate to guard Rong Su. Mei Xueman, seeing the commotion, tries to stop Rong Hua from leaving, explaining Na Lanyue's increasingly uncontrollable state and the dangers outside. Rong Hua, having already pieced together Na Lanyue's worsening condition, instructs Cang Qi to guard Ziyan and departs to find Na Lanyue. Ziyan, waking, asks for Rong Hua.

Bai Weizhi reassures her of Rong Hua's safety. Mei Xueman then rushes in, urging Bai Weizhi to retrieve Rong Hua, who has gone to find Na Lanyue amidst the danger. Ziyan tearfully expresses her desire to see Rong Hua one last time, prompting Bai Weizhi to promise her survival. Ziyan, accepting her fate, extracts a promise from Bai Weizhi to protect Dragon Howl City, Rong Jingfeng, and especially Rong Hua and Rong Su.

Bai Weizhi, despite his contempt for Rong Jingfeng, agrees to Ziyan's dying wish. He then leaves to find Rong Hua, instructing Mei Xueman to stay with Ziyan. Na Lanyue is seen struggling intensely, battling the Chihua Pill's rampant power.

Na Lanyue struggled against the powerful backlash of the Chihua Pill, managing to maintain control for the moment. Sensing the growing danger within the inn, he felt compelled to return to ensure everyone's safety. Lu Yizhou, however, assured him that Cang Qi was standing guard there and that their plan to undermine Dragon Howl City had proven effective, with Rong Jingfeng now fearful.

He urged Na Lanyue to prioritize his health and return with him to the Northern Wastelands to address the Chihua Pill's severe effects, emphasizing that seeking justice was a long-term endeavor. As Rong Hua's voice approached, Na Lanyue, not wanting her to witness his weakened state, asked Lu Yizhou to intercept her, then agreed to return to the Northern Wastelands. Meanwhile, Rong Su attempted to escape her confinement to see her aunt.

When Cang Qi recaptured her, he warned her to behave, stating he would have killed her for his master's revenge if not for Na Lanyue's orders. Rong Su defiantly challenged him. At the same time, Mei Ying covertly entered Zi Yan's unguarded room, surprised by the apparent negligence of Na Lanyue and Rong Hua. Zi Yan confronted him, accusing him of manipulating Dragon Howl City during its crisis.

Mei Ying, whose family had fallen from grace, revealed his ambition to reclaim his family's honor by seizing control of Dragon Howl City. When Zi Yan called him despicable, he shrugged off the insult. He then attacked her, stating that while she once saved his life, she now knew too much, and "only a dead person can keep a secret forever."

Mei Xueman, hearing the commotion, came out and helped diffuse the situation with Cang Qi, expressing concern for Rong Su's injuries. Mei Ying used his internal martial arts to sever Zi Yan's heart meridians. In a final act of defiance, Zi Yan pulled a poisonous hairpin and stabbed Mei Ying in the thigh before escaping through a window and collapsing outside.

Na Lanyue arrived just as Zi Yan fell, attempting to save her with his internal energy, but it was futile. With her last breath, Zi Yan pointed a finger towards her room before she passed away. Mei Ying fled, retreating to the backyard to carve out the poisoned flesh from his thigh. Bai Weizhi and the others rushed to Zi Yan's side.

Bai Weizhi furiously accused Na Lanyue of heartlessness and demanded to know what he had done, reminding him of their past promise that his vendetta was against Dragon Howl City, not Zi Yan. Rong Hua also pressed Na Lanyue for an explanation regarding her aunt's death. Although Lu Yizhou suggested there must be a misunderstanding, Rong Hua insisted on an answer, her trust wavering. Na Lanyue remained silent, deeply pained by her suspicion.

Later, Rong Hua confronted Na Lanyue again, revealing that Bai Weizhi determined Zi Yan died from an internal martial arts strike, leaving no chance of survival, and again pressed him for what truly transpired. Na Lanyue pointed out that her questioning itself signified a breakdown of trust between them. Rong Hua pleaded with him to deny it, promising to believe him.

Na Lanyue, however, countered by recalling how she once stood by him without hesitation when he was accused of mass murder, yet now doubted him because he seemingly had a motive against Zi Yan, who had been involved in Lingxu Pavilion's destruction. He recounted his unwavering sacrifices for her, including how his own mother, Lin Ruohan, had used the Chihua Pill to save him, exchanging her life for his due to his efforts to save Rong Hua.

He reaffirmed his eternal love for Rong Hua, but lamented that she no longer trusted him. Rong Hua apologized, expressing guilt over Lingxu Pavilion's fate, and wished for his safety, advocating for peaceful resolution over bloodshed. Na Lanyue conceded that there were indeed many ways to seek justice, but reiterated that her suspicion meant their bond was broken. He declared his pursuit of justice for all, not just personal revenge, and coldly dismissed her.

Heartbroken, Rong Hua expressed her fear that he was no longer the man she once knew. Na Lanyue then instructed Cang Qi to prepare a high-quality coffin and gather Ling Sect disciples to escort Zi Yan's body back to Dragon Howl City.

Mei Ying, feigning sorrow, offered to take Zi Yan back himself, but Na Lanyue scorned him, ordering his men to guard Mei Ying and stating that a "dog from Dragon Howl City" should be returned to its master for proper discipline. As Na Lanyue prepared to leave, Rong Hua, despite his coldness, insisted on placing a hairpin in his hand. Na Lanyue, accompanied by Ling Sect disciples, then escorted Zi Yan's body back to Dragon Howl City.

Rong Jingfeng opened the city gates to receive them. The two men exchanged harsh words, with Na Lanyue promising to personally deliver an empty coffin to Rong Jingfeng next time. Later, Rong Hua secretly returned to Zi Yan's room to search for clues, discovering no signs of a struggle. She shared her findings with Bai Weizhi, noting that if Na Lanyue had killed Zi Yan, it would have been a sneak attack.

However, Zi Yan's desperate escape from the room suggested a fight, implying the attacker must have been injured. Bai Weizhi agreed that the situation was suspicious and that the truth needed to be uncovered. When he questioned if Rong Hua was simply trying to clear Na Lanyue's name, she firmly stated that both Zi Yan and Na Lanyue were profoundly important to her, and she was determined to find the real murderer for both their sakes.

As Rong Su recovered from her injuries, Lu Yizhou acknowledged her deep affection for Zi Yan, remarking that she was not as callous as she appeared. Rong Su admitted that Zi Yan genuinely cared for her, even if not with the same warmth as for Rong Hua. She confessed to understanding Na Lanyue's actions, attributing them to a belief in retribution and destiny, and noted that he was too proud to explain himself fully.

Lu Yizhou then pondered whether the Chihua Pill's effects could transform Na Lanyue into a "devil," distinguishing him from Rong Jingfeng, whom he branded a "heartless devil." Rong Hua requested Lu Yizhou to allow Bai Weizhi to treat Rong Su's injured hand, fearing it would become permanently damaged. Lu Yizhou consented, promising to stand guard.

Rong Hua then proposed a plan to Rong Su: they would escape and return to Dragon Howl City together to prevent it from falling into outsider hands. She envisioned Bai Weizhi leading the Hall of Oldness, herself the Hall of Life, and Rong Su reclaiming her position as master of the Hall of Emptiness. Their first objective would be to eliminate Mei Ying. Rong Su hesitated, pointing out that this would betray Na Lanyue.

Bai Weizhi interjected, asserting that Na Lanyue was no longer the Lin Jing they knew and that Rong Hua was isolated. He urged the sisters to unite against Mei Ying, who had deceived Rong Jingfeng. Rong Hua further emphasized Mei Ying's cunning and her father's blindness to it. Surprised by their shared resolve, Rong Su agreed to join forces. Rong Hua reiterated her determination to return, confront her father, and find evidence to clear Na Lanyue's name.

Despite Bai Weizhi's warnings about the inherent dangers of returning to Dragon Howl City, Rong Hua insisted that Zi Yan's death had underscored the preciousness of family, and she would face any peril to protect her loved ones and the city. Bai Weizhi ultimately agreed to accompany her. Bai Weizhi secretly removed Rong Su’s handcuffs, provided her with a dagger, and instructed her to escape with Rong Hua, planning to meet later in Dragon Howl City.

However, Lu Yizhou had anticipated their escape and stationed additional guards at the back gate. He intercepted Rong Su, mockingly criticizing her overconfidence and reminding her that she had more than just him to contend with. As Rong Hua helped Rong Su flee, Lu Yizhou ordered Ling Sect disciples to seal off Tingfeng Town, forbidding anyone from entering or leaving before sunset.

Suddenly, Guan Buzhuo appeared, instructing Lu Yizhou to entrust the local affairs to him and to prioritize their main mission. As Lu Yizhou and Na Lanyue journeyed toward the Northern Wastelands, Lu Yizhou questioned why Na Lanyue deliberately caused Rong Hua to misunderstand him and cruelly pushed her away, refusing to explain.

Na Lanyue revealed that he didn't know how much longer he could survive due to the Chihua Pill's effects, stating that he should have been buried long ago and it was only the Chihua Pill and his burning hatred that had sustained his fragile body until now. He believed Lingxu Pavilion was beyond salvation, and endless hatred offered no true peace.

To spare Rong Hua further worry and pain, he chose to sever their ties prematurely, especially given the tragic lives lost in their families' feud. Lu Yizhou acknowledged Na Lanyue's painful decision and conceded that he too had long given up on his relationship.

Na Lanyue then confirmed his awareness that Rong Hua and her companions had likely reached Dragon Howl City by now, admitting he had deliberately stalled their escape and involved Guan Buzhuo in a charade to ensure Rong Hua completely gave up on him. Lu Yizhou, impressed by Rong Hua's resourcefulness and thoughtful planning, expressed concern about the increasingly difficult future and the uncertainty of their next reunion.

Back in Dragon Howl City, Rong Jingfeng welcomed Rong Su at the gates, but was shocked to see Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi with her. Bai Weizhi confronted Rong Jingfeng, accusing him of callousness towards his own daughter. Rong Jingfeng declared Rong Su his only child and ordered his guards to kill Rong Hua if she advanced, stating that "his Hua died a long time ago." Rong Hua confronted her father, demanding accountability for Auntie Zi Yan's death.

Rong Jingfeng vehemently blamed Na Lanyue. Rong Su intervened, explaining that Rong Hua had broken with Na Lanyue to save her, and that they would avenge Zi Yan together. She pleaded with her father to allow Rong Hua entry for Zi Yan's sake. Rong Jingfeng's anger subsided slightly upon learning of Rong Hua's split with Na Lanyue, and he reluctantly turned and left.

Bai Weizhi then warned Rong Hua that entering the city meant no turning back, but Rong Hua responded that she had nowhere else to go. Once inside Dragon Howl City, Rong Hua's demeanor was notably altered. After thoughtfully arranging Zi Yan's funeral, an act Rong Su greatly appreciated, Rong Hua ventured to the Hall of Life to search for clues.

There, she was confronted and rudely challenged by Dongqing, a senior disciple of the Hall of Life, who questioned her presence. Xiaoxiao appeared, intervening to stop Dongqing and expressing relief at seeing Rong Hua safe. Rong Hua confided in Rong Su that despite their past estrangement, Zi Yan had been like a mother to them, and that Dragon Howl City ultimately belonged to the Rong family, urging them to unite.

Having returned to Dragon Howl City with a changed perspective after Zi Yan's funeral, Rong Hua immediately began to assert her presence. She visited the Hall of Life, now under Mei Ying's control, to assess the situation. There, she encountered Dongqing, a senior disciple loyal to Mei Ying, who disrespectfully challenged her presence, stating that no one but the disciples of the Hall of Life could enter without Master Mei's permission.

Xiaoxiao, who was by Rong Hua's side and was soon to be the master of the Hall of Sickness, reprimanded Dongqing for his impudence. Rong Hua calmly told Dongqing to mind his duties as a disciple, pointing out several medicinal herbs misplaced in the pharmacy, a subtle critique of Mei Ying's management. Later, as Rong Hua was having tea, Xiaoxiao expressed her anxiety about the upcoming four halls meeting, where Rong Hua had no official place.

She explained the current power dynamics: Mei Ying had consolidated his control over the Hall of Life and the Hall of Seniority, while Rong Su diligently guarded the Hall of Emptiness, preventing Mei Ying from gaining any foothold. The Hall of Sickness remained secure under Xiaoxiao's stewardship due to Zi Yan's dying wishes.

Rong Hua, acknowledging her father's current distrust, decided to disrupt Mei Ying's power base by starting with the Hall of Seniority, aiming to cut off his source of new recruits and eventually reclaim the Hall of Life. That same night, Rong Hua and Xiaoxiao followed Mei Ying as he secretly entered Zi Yan's former room. After he left, they found Zi Yan's personal medicine box, containing various antidotes, had been disturbed.

Since Xiaoxiao couldn't identify which specific antidotes Mei Ying had tampered with, Rong Hua instructed her to replace all of them. Meanwhile, Rong Su discussed Rong Hua's return with Xuan Ye. Xuan Ye worried that Rong Hua might threaten Rong Su's position as the city master's successor. Rong Su dismissed his concerns, revealing her intention for Rong Hua to join in eliminating Mei Ying.

She reasoned that Rong Hua's past act of marrying Nalan Yue at Lingxu Pavilion made her disloyal in Rong Jingfeng's eyes, thus preventing her from ever truly leading Dragon Howl City. Xuan Ye praised Rong Su's strategic mind, contrasting it with Rong Hua's perceived emotional entanglements. Rong Su, however, was visibly affected by the mention of emotional attachment, hinting at her own suppressed feelings. The next day, Rong Jingfeng convened a meeting of the four hall masters.

Bai Weizhi announced plans to recruit more disciples to strengthen Dragon Howl City, emphasizing that all must pledge loyalty to the city and its master, forbidding any private power-building or factionalism. Rong Su reported her extensive preparations for defense against the Ling Sect, including strengthening city fortifications, increasing food supplies, doubling the number of outposts in Tingfeng Town, and deploying elite Hall of Emptiness disciples to Jiangnan and Northern Wastelands to gather intelligence for an attack strategy.

Rong Hua then entered the meeting hall to report on Zi Yan's funeral arrangements. Mei Ying publicly chastised her for bringing domestic affairs into a formal meeting. Bai Weizhi came to Rong Hua's defense, and Rong Hua seized the opportunity.

She formally requested to participate in the campaign against the Ling Sect to avenge Zi Yan, and boldly declared her intention to openly compete with Mei Ying for the mastership of the Hall of Life, invoking Dragon Howl City's tradition of valuing talent.

Rong Jingfeng, already hesitant, was further swayed when a disciple reported the unexpected arrival of representatives from Black Rock Mountain, the Snow Union, and other major martial arts sects, all explicitly stating they had come to meet "Hall of Life Master Rong Hua." Inside, Wang Zhiyuan and Liuli openly thanked Rong Hua for her past medical aid to Wang Zhiyuan's master, offering their support if she ever needed assistance.

Mei Ying tried to assert his authority as the current Hall of Life master, but Wang Zhiyuan immediately rebuked him, mocking his inability to protect his own ancestral home and questioning his medical skills, implying he had gained his position through dishonest means. The other representatives echoed Wang Zhiyuan's sentiment, further undermining Mei Ying's credibility. Later, Rong Jingfeng acknowledged Rong Hua's achievements during her absence, noting her positive impact on the martial arts world.

Rong Hua, expressing regret for her past immaturity, reaffirmed her commitment to protecting Dragon Howl City, asserting that the Hall of Life's true purpose was healing. To solidify his trust, Rong Jingfeng demanded that Rong Hua swear an oath before Zi Yan's shrine to sever all ties with Nalan Yue and to find Zi Yan's true killer. Rong Hua knelt and swore solemnly to avenge her aunt.

Meanwhile, Liuli provocatively intercepted Xuan Ye, expressing her fondness for Rong Hua and demanding that Xuan Ye show her around the city. Despite Xuan Ye's initial reluctance and warnings about city rules, Liuli clung to him, insisting that her presence would reflect poorly on Dragon Howl City if he didn't accommodate her. Xuan Ye, though verbally resistant, eventually conceded to her demands, his body seemingly complying even as his words protested.

Elsewhere, Guan Buzhu informed Mo Huan about Nalan Yue's recent actions in Dragon Howl City. Mo Huan understood that Nalan Yue's aggressive move was a necessary outlet for his pent-up anger, a step to realize that solo revenge was impossible, and ultimately, a way for him to settle his mind for deeper cultivation.

Mo Huan was particularly pleased that Nalan Yue had remained silent about Zi Yan's death, indicating a new maturity in concealing his thoughts and tempering his impulsive nature. Nalan Yue, now back at the Ling Sect, was progressing to the second stage of the Xuanbing Skill. The deputy master in the Tang School, still harboring resentment, attempted to poison Nalan Yue's drinking water, believing him to be vulnerable during his cultivation.

Nalan Yue, however, had already reached 20% mastery of the skill. He neutralized the secret poison of the Tang Sect and then, using the queen worm within him, manipulated the offspring worms to turn the deputy master into his first Xuanbing. Mo Huan, observing this, was satisfied with Nalan Yue's progress but cautioned him against haste, emphasizing the importance of precise control over the poisonous worms to truly unlock the skill's full potential.

Lu Yizhou, arriving shortly after, expressed his delight at Nalan Yue's breakthrough and offered to test the newly created Xuanbing. Back in Dragon Howl City, with Rong Jingfeng's tacit approval, Rong Hua freely moved about. She initiated a renovation of her courtyard, ordering the cutting down of several plum trees. Dongqing, upon seeing this, was enraged, trying to stop the workers and confronting Rong Hua about destroying trees Mei Ying had carefully tended.

Rong Hua, however, stood firm, reminding Dongqing that the property belonged to Dragon Howl City and that, with her father indisposed, she was in charge. She even threatened to use the plum tree branches as firewood for the kitchen, further infuriating Dongqing, who stomped off to complain to Mei Ying. Concurrently, Jingyuan, a resourceful and intelligent individual, joined the Hall of Seniority as a new disciple.

Noticing his capabilities, Bai Weizhi, knowing Rong Hua was in need of trustworthy staff, sent Jingyuan and another disciple to assist her. Mei Ying, still reeling from his humiliation and suspicions regarding the Lingxu Pavilion incident, confronted Yun at the Hall of Sickness, roughly grabbing her by the neck. He demanded to know who had instructed her to swap the powerful knockout drugs for an ineffective substance prior to his departure to Lingxu Pavilion, implying her involvement in the ambush.

Yun, undaunted and aware of Mei Ying's lack of concrete evidence, defiantly accused him of baseless slander, asserting that only the city master had the authority to judge such a matter. As Mei Ying, losing his temper, was about to resort to violence, Jingyuan suddenly appeared. Citing Dragon Howl City's strict rules against inter-hall interference and unprovoked aggression, Jingyuan coolly warned Mei Ying, forcing him to release Yun and leave in a huff. After Mei Ying's departure, Jingyuan turned to Yun, engaging her in a mysterious conversation about Mo Huan of Northern Wastelands.

Mo Huan, having discovered Lin Jing's secret alliance with Jingyuan, deliberately spread news to lure Yun Xu and others to a remote suburban area, intending to settle old grievances. Luckily, Lu Yizhou and Cang Qi arrived with their forces for a confrontation. During this confrontation, Lin Jing (who is also Nalan Yue) learned that Mo Huan was nearly a hundred years old, was from the Nalan clan, and was the daughter of the former clan leader.

Mo Huan attempted to sow discord, highlighting Lin Jing's alliance with the Ling Sect, but Lin Jing quickly dismissed her efforts, confirming their awareness of the situation and the Nalan family's forced allegiance since the destruction of Lingxu Pavilion. Yun Xu asserted that Lin Jing (A-Yue) would protect the clan members.

Lin Jing then directly questioned Mo Huan's hostility towards the Nalan family, and also voiced his suspicion that Mo Huan had always intended to turn him into an avatar soldier. Mo Huan revealed her true identity as the former Nalan clan leader's daughter, now almost a hundred years old. She recounted her past attempt to master the supreme Nalan martial art, the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill.

Her impatience led her to bypass using the life-and-death Chihua Pill to protect her heart meridians, resulting in severe backfire and a misstep that caused her to accidentally master another skill, granting her eternal youth. Lin Jing pressed her, asking why she relentlessly persecuted their clan and coveted the Chihua Pill, leading to so much tragedy. Mo Huan admitted that while the tragedy was her doing, her initial goal was to strengthen the Nalan family.

However, Rong Jingfeng, then a Ling Sect disciple, learned of the Nalan family's secret and coveted the Chihua Pill. Lin Jing then recalled how Bai Su had united various sects to severely wound the Ling Sect, prompting Mo Huan to send his mother, Lin Ruohan, to infiltrate the Nalan clan to steal the Chihua Pill and dominate the martial arts world.

Instead, Lin Ruohan met and fell in love with his father, Nalan Xi, the then clan leader, and "betrayed" Mo Huan and the Ling Sect, which ultimately led to Rong Jingfeng's slaughter of the Nalan clan. Mo Huan further clarified that Nalan Xi became the second clan leader after her father because she, the only daughter, had left the family and there was no other direct heir.

Mo Huan confessed that she had saved Lin Jing and compelled him to cultivate the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill to fulfill her own unachieved ambitions. She stressed the importance of preventing the Chihua Pill from falling into the wrong hands again. Hearing this, Lin Jing resolved to eliminate Mo Huan after mastering the skill, believing she posed a threat to Jianghu.

He then instructed Lu Yizhou to gather the Nalan clan members, currently settled by Yun Xu, and bring them to the Ling Sect to shield them from Rong Jingfeng's suspicions. Back in Dragon Howl City, Rong Hua learned from Xiaoxiao that the remedy in Zi Yan's room had been disturbed and Mei Ying had been secluded in the Hall of Life with a high fever.

Rong Hua suspected Mei Ying's illness was connected to Zi Yan's death and a missing hairpin, which Zi Yan cherished deeply as it was a pair with Lin Ruohan's. Shortly after, Rong Su informed Rong Hua that Nalan Yue had issued challenges across Jianghu, gathering disciples from various sects in Dragon Howl City to avenge their masters. During their conversation, Rong Hua experienced dizziness. When Rong Jingfeng later noticed Rong Hua's unwell state, Bai Weizhi quickly diagnosed her pregnancy.

To protect Rong Hua and keep the news from Rong Jingfeng, Bai Weizhi announced that Rong Hua was poisoned and took full charge of her care, forbidding anyone else from approaching her. Meanwhile, Rong Hua and Xiaoxiao deduced that Mei Ying's "testing poison" alibi was a ruse. The unique poison he was afflicted with could only be Zi Yan's special concoction, leading them to conclude that Mei Ying was Zi Yan's murderer.

They decided to keep this information secret for now, to ensure they had irrefutable proof before confronting him. An Nalan family disciple named Yun'er, disguised as one of Rong Hua's attendants, intended to send news of Rong Hua's pregnancy to Lin Jing, viewing it as good news that would reconcile them.

However, Jingyuan intercepted Yun'er, warning her against revealing such critical information, explaining that given the precarious situation in Dragon Howl City, where only Bai Weizhi could be trusted, revealing the pregnancy would only endanger Rong Hua further. Jingyuan also revealed that he had long been aware of Yun'er's true identity as a Nalan family member planted by Lin Jing to monitor affairs. Elsewhere, the battle in Pingchuan Forest intensified. Lu Yizhou and Cang Qi led their forces in fierce combat.

Lin Jing, observing the situation, used a special flute to control parasitic worms, reanimating several enemy corpses as avatar soldiers. Seeing their opponents' formidable power, the remaining enemy forces fled. Lin Jing ordered his disciples not to pursue them, believing that their escape would spread exaggerated tales of the Ling Sect's strength throughout Jianghu, which would aid his plans to destabilize smaller sects before directly attacking Dragon Howl City.

Back in Dragon Howl City, Xuan Ye, acting under the command of the Hall of Emptiness which was investigating Zi Yan's death, searched Mei Ying's room and found Zi Yan's missing hairpin. The Hall of Sickness confirmed that the poison on the hairpin was identical to the one afflicting Mei Ying. Rong Su immediately ordered the Hall of Life to be surrounded and prepared to capture Mei Ying.

Rong Hua, accompanied by Rong Jingfeng, arrived at the Hall of Life for a direct confrontation. Mei Ying, realizing he was cornered, swiftly grabbed Dongqing, holding him hostage in a desperate attempt to escape. As he faced the accusations, he scoffed, claiming Zi Yan's death was her own fault for being "unwise." Dongqing, seizing an opportunity, managed to break free and flee, allowing Rong Jingfeng to fatally strike Mei Ying.

After the dramatic events, Bai Weizhi felt deep remorse, secluding himself in self-reproach. Rong Hua, offering comfort, confessed her own regret for doubting Lin Jing and for how their relationship suffered a rift after she voiced her suspicions. She presented Bai Weizhi with the fake hairpin she had crafted, explaining the real one's whereabouts were unknown, and asked him to keep it as a memento of Zi Yan.

Concerned for Rong Hua's safety, especially with her pregnancy, Bai Weizhi urged her to leave the city. However, Rong Hua steadfastly refused, declaring that she had done too little for Lin Jing and was determined to stay in Dragon Howl City to prove his innocence and ensure their child would not grow up amidst hatred and injustice. Rong Su, reflecting on Mei Ying's cunning, now focused on Nalan Yue's imminent attack on Dragon Howl City.

Rong Jingfeng decided to hand over the Hall of Life to Rong Hua, viewing it as a better outcome than enduring Mei Ying's constant attempts to seize the City Master's position. During a headcount of the disciples Mei Ying had brought into the city, it was discovered that Dongqing, Mei Ying's most trusted follower, was missing. Rong Jingfeng quickly realized that Mei Ying had faked his own death by disguising himself as Dongqing to escape.

He dispatched his men to track down this "Dongqing," ordering them to capture him or, if he resisted, to execute him on the spot and return only his head. Later, Rong Jingfeng revealed to his inner circle that they had overlooked crucial details. Outside Dragon Howl City, an unknown group of people discussed Mei Ying's supposed death at the hands of Rong Jingfeng. Aware that Na Lanyue knew of the situation, they pondered his next move.

Meanwhile, in Tingfeng Town, Xuan Ye, leading Dragon Howl City disciples, was searching for the missing disciple. He encountered Liuli, who knew his mission. Observing that with various factions gathered, finding a hidden fugitive would be difficult, Liuli offered to share the Snow Union's expertise in tracking. She explained that fugitives prioritize survival, seeking water and food, and often follow waterways to find ferrymen for escape.

She advised Xuan Ye to send his men to the docks and alert all ferrymen to block the escape route. Xuan Ye noted her unusual experience, prompting Liuli to reveal her past: sold into a brothel as a child, she escaped by following waterways and was eventually saved by the Snow Union chief. Despite her vulnerable confession, Xuan Ye, in his literal manner, simply asked why she was telling him this.

Frustrated by his lack of emotional understanding, Liuli, who desired a world of eternal sunshine, exasperatedly called him a "blockhead" for not offering comfort before departing. Xuan Ye, however, finally grasped that she was seeking his assistance. As the Ling Sect's influence grew, causing widespread anger in Jianghu, Rong Hua, recognizing the gravity of the situation, sent a letter to Bai Su.

She invited him to Dragon Howl City to address two urgent matters: preventing Mo Huan from slaughtering the martial arts sects and attempting to remove the Chihua Pill from Na Lanyue's body. Upon Bai Su's arrival, Rong Jingfeng extended a courteous welcome, but Bai Su requested that Rong Hua show him around the City.

Rong Hua expressed her regret for troubling him, but Bai Su explained his imperative to intervene; remembering his past defeat of the Ling Sect, he knew Mo Huan would seek revenge on the martial arts world and he could not stand idly by. He also committed to doing his best to extract the Chihua Pill from Na Lanyue.

Feeling his age and loneliness, Bai Su invited Rong Hua to join him in Black Stone Mountain in the future for a peaceful life of playing chess and tending a vegetable garden. Rong Jingfeng grew suspicious of Rong Hua's continued pallor, despite Bai Weizhi claiming she was recovering from a debilitating but non-fatal toxin. Rong Jingfeng prepared her favorite treats, including Milk with bird's nest, and chestnut and osmanthus pastries.

However, his suspicion deepened when he failed to find any such poison in the Hall of Life pharmacy or Mei Ying's room, leading him to believe someone else was responsible for her supposed poisoning. Rong Jingfeng declared his intention for a thorough investigation.

Rong Hua attempted to deflect his concern, insisting that Rong Su and her master were handling her care, but her father accused her of collaborating with Rong Su to eliminate Mei Ying solely to clear Na Lanyue's name, and of faking her poisoning to frame Mei Ying. As he confronted her, he discovered she was pregnant, stunned by her concealment of such a significant secret.

With her pregnancy exposed, Rong Hua fiercely pleaded with her father to spare her unborn child. Rong Jingfeng adamantly refused, declaring the child a descendant of the Nalan family and thus an enemy of Dragon Howl City, with no place within its walls. Rong Hua defiantly swore that if he harmed her child, he would have to take her life too.

Though retreating, Rong Jingfeng warned that even Bai Su would be powerless to protect her and her child if they tried to leave Dragon Howl City. Rong Hua reminded him of her own mother, who had risked her life during a difficult birth in a cold lake to ensure Rong Hua's survival. Rong Hua vowed to protect her own child with the same unwavering resolve.

Overcome with emotion from the memory of his deceased wife, Rong Jingfeng was visibly moved, shedding tears before turning to leave without another word. Meanwhile, Na Lanyue and Lu Yizhou arrived near Dragon Howl City. Na Lanyue informed Lu Yizhou that he would enter the heavily guarded city alone to execute his plan, which was designed to trap Dragon Howl City in a predicament.

Lu Yizhou expressed concern that Rong Jingfeng, unsure of Na Lanyue's current intentions, might act even more ruthlessly than before. Na Lanyue confirmed his elaborate scheme, noting that Liuli had already set all the necessary arrangements in motion. Cang Qi arrived in Tingfeng Town to deliver invitations from Na Lanyue. Xuan Ye intercepted him, remarking on the Ling Sect's brazenness despite their lack of leverage.

Cang Qi stated his mission was peaceful but warned he was ready to fight if provoked. Xuan Ye ordered him to retreat from Tingfeng Town, challenging him to meet again in Dragon Howl City. Xuan Ye then ordered his disciples to kill any Ling Sect members found guarding the town entrance or attempting to enter in the future. Cang Qi retorted with a taunt, threatening to kill everyone in Dragon Howl City with his sword.

Xuan Ye, choosing not to escalate the conflict, allowed Cang Qi to leave. While Liuli gathered intelligence in Tingfeng Town, Xuan Ye arrived to bid her farewell. He presented her with an umbrella he had painted with a clear sky, telling her that even in the rain, it would always be sunny under her umbrella—a profound and touching gesture. Liuli was momentarily overjoyed by this unexpected romanticism.

However, Xuan Ye quickly expressed concern for her safety, urging her to leave Tingfeng Town as he needed to lead the Hall of Emptiness disciples to defend Dragon Howl City and would be unable to protect her. Liuli challenged him, asking if he truly wouldn't protect her if she stayed, before concluding that he must like her. Before Xuan Ye departed, they agreed she would wait for him in Tingfeng Town after the turmoil subsided.

Liuli gave him a crystal ball as a return gift, instructing him to keep it safe. Xuan Ye continued his pursuit of Mei Ying, who was still disguised as Dongqing. He confronted Mei Ying, revealing that Rong Jingfeng had seen through his elaborate ruse by noticing Mei Ying's leg wound, which Dongqing lacked, and the disguise needles found on the body thought to be Mei Ying. Mei Ying admitted his disguise could no longer be maintained.

Desperate, Mei Ying attempted to coerce an accomplice into helping him escape by reminding the person of his past financial support for their family and subtly threatening their relatives if he were to die. Xuan Ye declared that Mei Ying's time was up, initiating a fierce battle. Despite being struck by several arrows, Mei Ying fought ferociously for his life, eventually leaping into a river to evade capture.

Outside Dragon Howl City, disciples from various martial arts sects, led by the Tang Sect's Second Elder, amassed to settle old blood debts with Na Lanyue and Rong Jingfeng. The Second Elder provocatively announced to Rong Jingfeng that Na Lanyue had invited them all into the city and was already inside, irrespective of whether the gates were open. He vowed that they would enter and demand justice for past grievances.

The Second Elder then criticized Rong Jingfeng's destructive use of the Chihua Pill, revealing its true healing potential. He declared that an army of "soldiers," empowered by the Chihua Pill, now surrounded the city, and Rong Jingfeng would pay for his past atrocities. Rong Jingfeng, eager to test their strength, drew his sword. During their skirmish, Rong Jingfeng was shocked to witness the Second Elder's wounds heal instantly. The Second Elder then gave Na Lanyue's invitation to Rong Jingfeng.

Inside Dragon Howl City, Rong Hua heard distant fireworks and concluded that a significant event was unfolding. Disciples, acting on Rong Jingfeng's orders, prevented her from leaving her room. Her bodyguard, Jingyuan, arrived and confronted the disciples. Just then, Na Lanyue appeared, effortlessly overcoming the guards and reuniting with Rong Hua. He urged Jingyuan to take Rong Hua to safety, but she refused to leave him.

Overwhelmed with guilt for her past mistrust, Rong Hua insisted on staying by his side to help clear his name, revealing she had already summoned Bai Su. Na Lanyue conceded and instructed Jingyuan to guard the area, ensuring no one discovered Rong Hua's liberation. Rong Hua then suggested a way to remain concealed within the city. After receiving Na Lanyue's invitation, Rong Jingfeng proceeded alone to the Flower Sea, where Na Lanyue and Mo Huan awaited him.

Mo Huan remarked on Rong Jingfeng's failure to cultivate new Chihua Pills, questioning Dragon Howl City's continued authority in Jianghu. Na Lanyue greeted Rong Jingfeng, who then challenged him for daring to intrude. Mo Huan taunted Rong Jingfeng, questioning how he, alone, could hope to defeat them, especially with Bai Su now in Dragon Howl City.

Na Lanyue then exposed Rong Jingfeng's dark history, reminding him that the Flower Sea had long ago been burned down by his own mother and Mo Huan. He recounted how Rong Jingfeng had repeatedly failed to create an antidote for the Chihua Pill, and how he had then planned to gather all those afflicted by the Chihua Pill in the Flower Sea to kill them and frame Na Lanyue, knowing the martial arts community would discredit Mo Huan's testimony.

Na Lanyue declared that if the full truth were revealed, Dragon Howl City would be destroyed without him needing to lift a finger. Enraged, Rong Jingfeng furiously attacked Na Lanyue, but despite his best efforts, he could not inflict any harm, much to Mo Huan's amusement. Bai Su and Rong Hua swiftly arrived at the Flower Sea, with Bai Su immediately intervening to halt the conflict.

Rong Jingfeng, with feigned innocence, shamelessly implored Bai Su to help him defeat Mo Huan and Na Lanyue. However, Bai Su vehemently rebuked Rong Jingfeng, revealing he had overheard their entire conversation and declaring Rong Jingfeng utterly unworthy of being a city master or a leader in Jianghu due to his treacherous actions. Rong Hua added that thanks to Bai Su's intervention, the truth could finally be revealed to clear Lingxu Pavilion's name.

Realizing Na Lanyue had rescued Rong Hua, Rong Jingfeng angrily accused his daughter of conspiring with outsiders to harm him, expressing regret that he hadn't eliminated the "rebellious child" in her womb earlier. Rong Hua offered her father a chance at survival if he confessed the truth to the assembled martial artists, but he responded with defiant fury. Refusing to surrender and determined to preserve his reputation, Rong Jingfeng resolved to perish along with everyone present.

He triggered explosives hidden throughout the Flower Sea, causing a landslide that blocked the only exit, trapping Na Lanyue, Rong Hua, Bai Su, Mo Huan, and the sect disciples inside. Rong Su, alerted by the explosions, rushed to the scene. Her disciple confirmed that the tunnel was blocked and Rong Jingfeng was likely still inside. Frantic with worry, Rong Su, ignoring attempts to calm her, ordered her disciples to immediately begin rescue efforts.

Inside the trapped Flower Sea, Na Lanyue ensured Rong Hua was unharmed. Rong Hua urged him to save everyone, but Na Lanyue gravely implied that Rong Jingfeng had meticulously planned the entire trap. The martial artists, still believing Na Lanyue was responsible for their masters' deaths, attacked him, seeking vengeance. Rong Hua vehemently defended Na Lanyue, proclaiming his innocence, and attempted to rally them to rescue Bai Su from the collapsed tunnel.

However, the martial artists dismissed her, asserting that a master like Bai Su could not possibly be trapped. Na Lanyue, protecting Rong Hua, fought his way through the chaos. Rong Hua, fearing she was a burden, suggested he leave her to save himself, but Na Lanyue refused to abandon her. Meanwhile, at the blocked entrance, Rong Su confronted Mo Huan, demanding to know her father's whereabouts. Mo Huan delivered a chilling reply, suggesting that if Rong Su acted quickly, she might see him one last time, implying Rong Jingfeng's imminent death.

Outside Dragon Howl City, an intense battle erupted as numerous martial arts factions united to besiege the city. Mo Huan stood high above, observing Nalan Yue, who was almost out of strength and surrounded by enemies, yet she did not intervene. It was only when a volley of arrows rained down from Dragon Howl City that Nalan Yue, in a desperate attempt to protect Rong Hua, shielded her with his body.

This act fully ignited the hatred within him, fueling the Chihua Pill and allowing him to finally achieve the Illusion Butterfly transformation. Although Nalan Yue subsequently eliminated many of the faction disciples, startling everyone, he nearly succumbed to demonic possession and lost his sanity during the process. Fortunately, Lu Yizhou arrived just in time to suppress the poison in his body. Meanwhile, Rong Hua, having been injured during their escape, suffered a sudden hemorrhage.

Despite Nalan Yue's efforts with acupuncture, he could not save their unborn child. He quickly took Rong Hua to Mei mansion to recuperate, secretly vowing to master the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill to thwart Mo Huan's conspiracy and restore peace to the martial arts world. During this time, Mei Xueman, who had endured numerous hardships and lost her family, insisted on following Nalan Yue. However, her unrequited love for him led to growing resentment towards Rong Hua.

Cang Qi, worried that Mei Xueman might turn her love into hatred and unwilling to see her suffer further, confessed his feelings to her. Though he received no immediate response, he felt a sense of peace, having expressed his heart. Later, Cang Qi expressed concern when he saw Mei Xueman adding something to Rong Hua's medicine.

Mei Xueman reassured him it was only honey to make the bitter medicine palatable, and even drank some herself to prove her innocence, making Cang Qi realize he had been overly anxious and misunderstood her. He then confessed his own feelings to Mei Xueman, acknowledging his pain at seeing her sad and hurt for Nalan Yue, who would never reciprocate her love. Mei Xueman admitted she understood Nalan Yue was an unreachable goal, but found it hard to let go.

After the battle, Bai Su was critically wounded and unconscious. Fearing he would lose the support of the people, Rong Jingfeng falsely claimed that Mo Huan was responsible for the attacks and incited the various factions to unite against her, making it appear that Lingxu Pavilion had colluded with the Ling Sect. Lu Yizhou could not remain in Tingfeng Town any longer. Before leaving, he secretly entered Rong Su's room to bid her farewell in person.

Lu Yizhou then asked Rong Su if, given the chance to choose again, she would truly abandon everything and follow him, as he had once asked her. Rong Su understood their conflicting positions and the need to let go, giving him a black chess piece to symbolize that their past was now cleared, with no further entanglement. However, seeing Lu Yizhou tear up, she couldn't control her own heartache.

She admitted that if time could rewind, she would abandon her status and grudges to follow him to the ends of the earth, never to disappoint him. Yet, she recognized that after so much bloodshed, there was no turning back. They tearfully parted ways. Under Nalan Yue's meticulous care, Rong Hua's physical condition gradually improved. Although initially grief-stricken by the news of their lost child, her sadness was fleeting. She soon began researching nutritious recipes at Mei mansion.

She also worried about Nalan Yue's difficulty in controlling the Chihua Pill within him and actively sought solutions. Nalan Yue knew Rong Hua was not emotionless; her forced cheerfulness was merely to prevent others from worrying. He wished she would express her emotions rather than suppress them. Rong Hua, however, preferred not to add to her troubles, intending to dedicate her remaining years to remembrance, while also acknowledging the impermanence of life and the necessity of accepting all changes.

She believed her own hardships were insignificant compared to what Nalan Yue had endured, especially as she suspected changes in his Chihua Pill. Nalan Yue later revealed to Lu Yizhou that the backfire from the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill was becoming increasingly uncontrollable, posing a danger to everyone around him, including Rong Hua. He urged Lu Yizhou to keep this information from Rong Hua.

Meanwhile, Jinque, the leader of the Snow Union, accompanied by Liuli, went to Mo Huan to apologize, truthfully explaining that they had allied with Rong Hua to serve the greater good. Mo Huan rebuked them but then dismissed the matter, acknowledging that the Snow Union had served the Ling Sect for many years and, out of consideration for her beloved disciple Guan Buzhuo, she would spare Jinque.

Mo Huan also noted that Nalan Yue's Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill was almost complete, and that the previous battle, where his hatred erupted while protecting Rong Hua, was crucial for the Chihua Pill to transform into the Illusion Butterfly. She believed this experience had made Nalan Yue understand the importance of power, and he would eventually return to the Ling Sect.

Learning that Liuli was about to leave Tingfeng Town with Jinque, Xuan Ye rushed to see her off and conveyed a request from Rong Su to Jinque. Jinque noticed the affection between Xuan Ye and Liuli but did not comment. Liuli was reluctant to leave, holding many important words in her heart, intending to express them when they met again.

When Rong Su later asked Xuan Ye about his relationship with Liuli, he downplayed it, but Rong Su, realizing the importance of the Snow Union connection, instructed him to write to Liuli later, asking her to discreetly investigate Rong Hua and Nalan Yue's whereabouts. Rong Jingfeng, ever manipulative, sought to leverage discord for his own gain. He intended to kill the unconscious Bai Su, but Rong Su's sudden appearance forced him to temporarily abandon his plan.

Rong Su, sensing something amiss, immediately ordered Xuan Ye to investigate the matter in secret. Upon discovering that the explosives used to destroy the mountain tunnel originated from Dragon Howl City's own storeroom, Rong Su realized her father's true intentions and suspected that Bai Su's knowledge was vital to the fate of the faction leaders. Deeply disturbed by this revelation and concerned for Dragon Howl City's safety, Rong Su couldn't expose the truth directly.

She discreetly instructed Xuan Ye to quickly warn Bai Weizhi to protect Bai Su's life, fearing he might suffer further harm. A messenger then arrived, summoning Rong Su to the meeting hall for an urgent discussion with Rong Jingfeng, specifying that she was to go alone.

Rong Jingfeng summoned Rong Su, adopting a surprisingly affectionate demeanor and inviting her to sit in the City Lord's chair. Rong Su, though outwardly expressing loyalty, hesitated to sit, feeling such an act was presumptuous. However, at her father's insistence, she eventually took the seat. Rong Jingfeng spoke of his age and declining health, expressing his hope for her to inherit the position as she was the only family member remaining by his side.

Rong Su, however, respectfully declined the immediate offer, stating her desire to earn the City Lord's position through her own capabilities and the recognition of the city's disciples. She assured him of her unwavering dedication to Dragon Howl City and denied any improper ambitions for the leadership.

Rong Jingfeng responded with feigned satisfaction, then cautioned her about the heavy burdens of leadership, implying that the responsibility of protecting all of Dragon Howl City's disciples and their families would lead to difficult and unavoidable decisions, ultimately costing her personal freedom. Rong Su affirmed her understanding and thanked him for his advice. Meanwhile, Bai Su's health continued to worsen, and he spent increasingly longer periods in a coma.

Xuan Ye, tasked with protecting Bai Su under Rong Su's orders, attempted to rouse Bai Weizhi's suspicions. However, Bai Weizhi was too engrossed in concocting medicines to notice any underlying issues. When Xuan Ye helped Bai Su attempt to sit up, Bai Weizhi immediately chided him for moving a severely injured person, gently urging Bai Su to rest and postpone any discussions. After Bai Weizhi dismissed Xuan Ye, Bai Su, in a moment of frustration, shattered a bowl of medicine.

Xuan Ye then cautiously suggested that Bai Su might not be accustomed to Dragon Howl City's environment and might recover faster in a quieter location. Bai Weizhi, now suspicious, questioned Xuan Ye about any hidden truths, but Xuan Ye only reiterated his suggestion without elaborating. At the Mei Mansion, Rong Hua prepared a meal, inviting Mei Xueman to join her.

Mei Xueman, still holding resentment, coldly refused, citing Rong Hua's recent childbirth and the ongoing search for Lin Jing as reasons for Rong Hua to avoid public exposure. Mei Xueman also mentioned her need to prepare for her parents' upcoming death anniversary and lamenting Mei Ying's demise, making it clear she had only attended to Rong Hua previously out of concern for Lin Jing. When Lin Jing arrived to assist Rong Hua, Mei Xueman's mood darkened further.

Rong Hua, noticing her sister-in-law's lingering sadness, commented to Lin Jing that Mei Xueman had an emotional knot that needed to be untied. Later, Rong Hua offered Mei Xueman a sweet bird's nest and pear soup. She then offered to return the deed to the Mei Mansion, revealing that she had acquired the property and the funds for its renovation without personal payment, from a senior elder.

Mei Xueman, initially resistant to accepting the mansion without compensation and asserting her family's integrity, was surprised by Rong Hua's confession. Rong Hua then candidly disclosed that Mei Ying was still alive, having used golden needles to disguise himself and switch identities with a subordinate, then escaping Dragon Howl City after the subordinate was killed. Mei Xueman was deeply shocked but ultimately relieved, feeling that her parents could now rest in peace.

She thanked Rong Hua for alleviating her long-held grief. Rong Hua admitted her initial desire for revenge against Mei Ying for harming her aunt and Lin Jing, but stated she had since let go of that hatred. Mei Xueman, impressed by Rong Hua's honesty and integrity, finally understood Lin Jing's deep affection for her. Rong Hua then assured Mei Xueman that she too was now part of her family, to which Mei Xueman affectionately referred to Rong Hua as "sister-in-law."

Despite her reconciliation with Rong Hua, Mei Xueman could not easily let go of her feelings for Lin Jing. She later gently rejected an advance from Cang Qi, who graciously accepted her decision, offering to remain her friend and protector. Liuli arrived at the Mei Mansion, but upon seeing Lu Yizhou and Lin Jing, she tried to leave, believing they had summoned her. Rong Hua called her in, and Liuli clarified that Rong Hua, not others, was her direct contact.

Liuli then reported on the situation in Dragon Howl City, confirming that Rong Jingfeng had sustained minor injuries, but Bai Su was severely wounded and his condition was not improving. Liuli also reported that Rong Su had gained significant favor with Rong Jingfeng, becoming the most influential person in Dragon Howl City. When asked about Mo Huan, Liuli explained that Mo Huan was far away, and such information would only be privy to the Snow Union chief, not her.

Lin Jing advised Liuli to prioritize her self-preservation in the turbulent martial world. Rong Hua then requested a favor from Liuli. Lin Jing, despite his rapid cultivation progress to the final stage of the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill, struggled to control the Chihua Pill. This caused him to experience another bout of Illusion toxins, during which he lost control and harmed those around him.

Cang Qi restrained him, and Rong Hua quickly used golden needles to temporarily suppress the backlash. Recognizing this was not a permanent solution, Rong Hua then proposed an alternative to Mei Xueman: a risky method she learned from her mother, involving driving her own internal coldness into Lin Jing's body to mitigate his Illusion toxins, drawing a parallel between the Chihua Pill and the Illusion Butterflies.

Mei Xueman expressed concern that this could trigger Rong Hua's own cold disease, but Rong Hua dismissed her worries, stating she was accustomed to such attacks. She then asked Mei Xueman to help her prepare the necessary medicinal ingredients. Later that night, as Rong Hua performed the "driving coldness into the body" technique with Mei Xueman's assistance, Lin Jing's toxins were suppressed, but Rong Hua collapsed, unconscious.

Mei Xueman confided in Cang Qi, expressing her anxiety over Lin Jing's potential continued instability and her doubts about the rightness of their actions. Cang Qi reassured her, urging her to prioritize her safety and promising to protect Lin Jing. However, Mei Xueman steadfastly refused to leave the Mei Mansion, declaring it her home and Lin Jing her family.

When Lin Jing awoke and learned from Cang Qi about Rong Hua's sacrifice to bring him back to consciousness, he was enraged. He confronted Mei Xueman, who confessed to her part in helping Rong Hua and defiantly stated her willingness to die with Rong Hua if anything happened to her. Overwhelmed, Lin Jing sternly ordered both Mei Xueman and Cang Qi out of the room. He then shared a tender moment with Rong Hua as she slowly regained consciousness.

Later, Lin Jing confessed to Cang Qi that he had reached the final stage of the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill but could no longer predict or control its powerful backlash, endangering everyone near him. Despite Cang Qi's concerns about the toll on Lin Jing's body, Lin Jing decided he would launch a surprise attack against Mo Huan, telling Cang Qi to be prepared to evacuate Rong Hua and others at a moment's notice as a precaution.

Meanwhile, after receiving Rong Hua's message via Liuli, Wang Zhiyuan and Wang Qingzheng arrived at Dragon Howl City. They met with Rong Jingfeng, feigning gratitude for his care of Bai Su. In front of him, they deliberately argued about Bai Su's immediate future: Wang Zhiyuan advocating for returning to Black Rock Mountain for recovery, while Wang Qingzheng insisted that Bai Su was too frail for such a journey and should remain in Dragon Howl City.

Their dispute was interrupted by Bai Weizhi, who rushed in to announce that Bai Su was near death. Rong Jingfeng examined Bai Su, confirming his weak pulse and critical condition. Wang Zhiyuan angrily blamed Bai Weizhi for his master's decline. Bai Weizhi defended himself by stating Bai Su's proud nature would not permit him to die away from his home. The three disciples then agreed to transport Bai Su back to Black Rock Mountain for burial.

Rong Jingfeng, appearing to accept their decision, agreed to arrange for Bai Su's escort out of the city. Separately, Liuli was discovered in the Hall of Emptiness by Xuan Ye. She explained her presence was to investigate Bai Su's condition. She revealed her discovery that while Bai Su's medicine was clean, his pillow and quilt had been subtly fumigated with eaglewood. This substance, colorless and odorless, was chemically incompatible with Bai Su's medication, leading to his worsening condition and disorientation.

Liuli concluded that Bai Su was beyond recovery and speculated that Rong Jingfeng planned to have Bai Su and the Wangs killed once they left the city. She questioned Xuan Ye about Rong Jingfeng's motive for wanting to eliminate a reclusive elder like Bai Su, to which Xuan Ye cryptically replied, "The more you know, the quicker you die." Liuli then pressed Xuan Ye to consider his own future, questioning if he wished to remain a mere hall master, perpetually fighting for others, without pursuing his own aspirations.

Liuli waited for Xuan Ye in his room. As they sat together, envisioning their future, Liuli shared her plan to buy a large mansion in Jiangnan with her savings and invited Xuan Ye to join her there if he had no other plans. Xuan Ye, who rarely smiled, agreed that he would definitely seek her out if the opportunity arose. Rong Su wrestled with a difficult choice between family loyalty and justice.

She had considered revealing the truth to Rong Jingfeng. However, her father expressed regret that Bai Su was nearing his end, lamenting the waste of his martial arts expertise. Rong Jingfeng wished Bai Su could have been a useful pawn against Mo Huan, causing Rong Su to remain silent. Rong Jingfeng then lectured Rong Su on the harsh realities of the martial arts world, where only the strong survive, and implied she needed to experience setbacks to understand.

Later, Bai Su, accompanied by various martial artists, confronted Rong Jingfeng. Bai Weizhi demanded to know why Rong Jingfeng had poisoned his master. Rong Jingfeng dismissed this as an attempt to stir up trouble, claiming Bai Su was unwell and delusional.

However, Bai Su immediately exposed the truth to everyone present: Rong Jingfeng, a former disciple of Mo Huan, was responsible for the destruction of Flower Sea and the murder of several sect leaders, crimes he had framed the Ling Sect and Lingxu Pavilion for. Rong Jingfeng had tried to silence Bai Su, who had uncovered these secrets, by poisoning him, but Bai Weizhi had cleverly switched the decoction. Enraged, the gathered martial artists vowed to avenge their fallen leaders.

Rong Jingfeng attempted to use force to suppress them, ordering his guards to drive out the "trouble-makers." But Rong Su intervened, revealing she had already ordered all Dragon Howl City disciples to withdraw. Rong Jingfeng angrily questioned her betrayal, asking why she would invite trouble and defy her own father, who had spent his life planning for Dragon Howl City. Rong Su knelt, pleading with him to turn back.

She reminded him of his own words about making decisive choices for the city's future and cited Rong Hua's belief that true power comes from integrity, not false reputation, emphasizing that Rong Hua had cleared Lingxu Pavilion's name to prevent him from heading down a path of no return. Rong Jingfeng accused her of being outrageous and regretted bringing her back from Mo Huan.

When others accused Rong Jingfeng of being selfish and holding the Chihua Pill as leverage to control the sects, Rong Su tried to protect her father, but the sects were resolute, declaring Rong Jingfeng's crimes unforgivable. Seeing the resolute opposition and Rong Su's determination to protect him, Rong Jingfeng conceded defeat, asking for his daughter and Dragon Howl City to be spared.

Rong Su then declared, before all present, that her father would abdicate as City Master, and she would manage all city affairs. He would spend the remainder of his life imprisoned in the city dungeon, and if he ever tried to escape, she would personally end his life. She entrusted the prison key to Bai Su, and the crowd agreed to spare Rong Jingfeng's life in light of Rong Su's resolve.

Upon hearing the news, Rong Hua and Lin Jing expressed relief that Rong Jingfeng seemed to have repented. Lin Jing, now known as Nalan Yue, dispatched a secret message to Yun Xu, instructing him to evacuate all Nalan clan members from the Ling Sect immediately. He then tasked Cang Qi with finding a suitable, safe location for those who wished to settle down rather than fight.

Nalan Yue informed his clan that he intended to attack the Ling Sect and offered them a choice: join him in battle or settle in the new location. Although some were hesitant, many, including Cang Qi, declared their unwavering support for Nalan Yue. Meanwhile, Mo Huan, having anticipated Nalan Yue's defection, had already evacuated the Ling Sect, leaving only Guan Buzhuo and a small contingent behind. Her subordinate assured her that Guan Buzhuo would hold the fort.

However, Mo Huan expressed concern about Rong Su's collaboration with Rong Hua, which led to Bai Su's safe departure, the clearing of Lingxu Pavilion's name, and Rong Jingfeng's imprisonment. Mei Ying, who had been missing for months, deliberately leaked his whereabouts to the Snow Union because he desperately needed the Chihua Pill antidote. He presented himself to Mo Huan, seeking a way out in exchange for a cunning strategy.

Mei Ying revealed his "pledge of allegiance," explaining that Bai Su's influence stemmed from his disciples, particularly the Wang twins, who monopolized information in the martial arts world. He proposed a plan to undermine Bai Su by destroying the Wang twins' credibility. The opportunity lay in Rong Jingfeng; Bai Su had pledged to keep him imprisoned, and if that promise was broken, Bai Su's reputation would be severely compromised.

Mei Ying presented a detailed map of Dragon Howl City to Mo Huan, outlining his plan to release Rong Jingfeng. As part of Mei Ying's scheme, he leaked his whereabouts, leading Rong Su and her disciples to intercept him. Mo Huan appeared to protect Mei Ying, scoffing at the "youngsters" challenging her. Bai Su then arrived, revealing that their true objective was to stall Mo Huan, giving Nalan Yue time to attack the Ling Sect.

Realizing she had been outmaneuvered, Mo Huan eventually retreated with her followers. Bai Su stopped his disciples from giving chase, noting that her sudden withdrawal was suspicious and likely a trap. Lu Yizhou agreed and urged Bai Su to remain in the Northern Wastelands to help Rong Hua and Nalan Yue with the Avatar Soldier Art antidote. Simultaneously, Nalan Yue and his followers stormed the Ling Sect. Guan Buzhuo, leading the resistance, was confronted by Nalan Yue.

Acknowledging that Guan Buzhuo had previously saved his life, Nalan Yue understood his difficult position, being bound by Mo Huan's orders and a promise to his late mother, Lin Ruohan, to protect him. Torn between his loyalties, Guan Buzhuo chose to wound himself, allowing Nalan Yue to pass. He urged Nalan Yue to find a new path for the Ling Sect and the Nalan family, one not solely reliant on violence.

Back at the Ling Sect, Nalan Yue was elected the new Nalan clan leader by his people. He solemnly pledged, holding his late mother Lin Ruohan’s pea jade pendant, to cleanse the chaotic martial arts world and protect the Nalan family, upholding justice. In the ensuing chaos, Mo Huan engaged Bai Su, and while they fought, she subtly stole the prison key.

Mei Ying, using the map he’d given Mo Huan, directed two of his previously embedded Hall of Life disciples to abduct Rong Jingfeng from his cell. Rong Jingfeng fiercely resisted, not wanting to be taken by the "traitor," but was overpowered and taken out of Dragon Howl City. After the dust settled, Bai Weizhi was filled with regret, realizing his carelessness in entrusting the key to Bai Su.

Jing Yuan investigated Rong Jingfeng’s cell, finding signs of a struggle, which led him to conclude that Rong Jingfeng had been forcibly abducted. It was discovered that the two missing Hall of Life disciples were, in fact, Mei Ying's loyal subordinates who had skillfully avoided detection during previous purges.

Bai Weizhi instructed Jing Yuan to secure Dragon Howl City while he himself departed to search for Rong Jingfeng, stressing the importance of keeping the escape a secret to prevent further backlash. The backlash from the Avatar Soldier Art became increasingly severe, causing Nalan Yue to succumb to demonic possession more frequently.

Concerned he might lose control and harm others, he had Cang Qi forge special shackles from fine dark steel, instructing Rong Hua to bind him whenever the poison manifested. Rong Hua reluctantly agreed, while she and Bai Weizhi intensified their efforts to research a new antidote that could truly neutralize the poison without harming the Illusion Butterfly within him. Rong Hua made sure that Dragon Howl City's forces did not enter the Ling Sect to prevent further conflict.

Suddenly, Lu Yizhou arrived with alarming news: rumors were spreading that Rong Jingfeng had escaped Dragon Howl City and was heading to the Northern Wastelands to seek refuge with Rong Su. Consequently, various sects were already converging on the Northern Wastelands. Nalan Yue was surprised, wondering why they hadn't received this intelligence. Rong Hua quickly deduced that their information channels must have been cut off, expressing concern for the safety of the Wang twins. Nalan Yue immediately went to investigate.

To prevent further demonization, Na Lanyue needed to cultivate the Ling Sect's mental cultivation techniques, but these had been lost. As Guan Buzhuo prepared to depart, he offered a subtle hint, advising Na Lanyue and Lu Yizhou to search thoroughly, suggesting that Mo Huan always keeps her most cherished items in plain sight to feel at ease. Mo Huan, having recently recovered from the severe backlash of her confrontation with Bai Su, reflected on her past misjudgment of Na Lanyue.

She admitted that while she once placed all her hopes for the Nalan family on him, his independent spirit meant she could no longer rely on him. She viewed her recovery as "a blessing in disguise," unveiling a new plan. Instead of torturing Rong Jingfeng and completely destroying Dragon Howl City, she would seize control of the city for herself, taking all of Rong Jingfeng’s lifelong efforts and turning them to her own advantage.

She believed Dragon Howl City could still thrive under her, even without its former master. In an effort to sever Na Lanyue's access to information, the Snow Union drastically crippled its own forces. They burned all of Wang Zhiyuan's ships overnight, crippling his intelligence network. Furthermore, Wang Zhengqing's escort team became entangled in a murder case, leading to the sealing of all his escort companies and leaving him unable to help others.

Meanwhile, rumors from Black Rock Mountain led various Jianghu factions to mistakenly target Bai Su's disciples, accusing them of collusion. While Bai Su had already left to treat Na Lanyue at the Ling Sect, Bai Weizhi found himself surrounded. Fortunately, Wang Zhiyuan arrived in time to rescue him. Wang Zhiyuan then informed Bai Weizhi of the widespread disruption to their information sources and revealed that Rong Hua was currently within the Ling Sect.

Recognizing their need for allies, Wang Zhiyuan suggested they leverage Na Lanyue's power, arranging for Bai Weizhi to meet Rong Su. Soon after, Lu Yizhou arrived to invite Bai Weizhi to the Ling Sect, where Rong Hua and Bai Su were also present, allowing Bai Weizhi to relay the recent events. Inside the Ling Sect, Rong Hua overheard Na Lanyue discussing Rong Jingfeng with the deputy master of the Tang School.

Na Lanyue instructed that if Rong Jingfeng were captured, he should be killed if he resisted. Rong Hua was deeply conflicted by this command. Na Lanyue, concerned about the volatile situation in the northern wastelands, insisted Rong Hua remain within the Ling Sect, asserting that he trusted no one but himself to ensure her safety outside. Rong Hua, though resilient, acknowledged she had overheard his orders regarding her father.

Na Lanyue then explained the vulnerability of Dragon Howl City, its defenses compromised and information channels cut, emphasizing the critical need to find Rong Jingfeng to prevent wider repercussions from the Jianghu factions. When Bai Weizhi arrived at the Ling Sect, Yun Xu, a Nalan clan member, confronted Rong Hua.

He chastised her for allowing someone from Dragon Howl City into their sacred grounds, accusing her of being soft-hearted and reminding her that her past leniency contributed to Lingxu Pavilion's destruction. He feared she would again endanger the Nalan family and even suggested her expulsion for the clan's safety. Other clan members echoed his sentiments.

Enraged by their disrespect towards Rong Hua, Bai Weizhi fiercely defended her, stating she was not without choices and only remained for Na Lanyue, who had already caused her much suffering. He then sent a direct message to Na Lanyue, warning that if he failed to protect Rong Hua, someone else would cherish her. Bai Weizhi demanded to see Na Lanyue to settle the matter of right and wrong, but was told Na Lanyue was absent.

Lu Yizhou attempted to calm Bai Weizhi and escort him away, but he angrily refused and stormed off. Meanwhile, Liuli, realizing she was being tracked, met with Rong Su and pointed out Rong Jingfeng's hiding spot, marked by a distant fire. She warned Rong Su that this might be a trap orchestrated by Mo Huan, who intended to profit from a conflict between Rong Su and the Jianghu factions.

Rong Su, unwilling to let her father die, asked Liuli to enter the Ling Sect, find Rong Hua, and plead for her intervention to protect Rong Jingfeng and any remaining Dragon Howl City disciples. Liuli agreed to help. Rong Jingfeng, desperately trying to escape a mob of pursuers, pleaded for his life, claiming he was unwillingly taken from Dragon Howl City.

His pleas were met with cold disdain by the attackers, who vowed revenge for his past victims and accused him of breaking promises. Rong Su arrived, saving her father, and tried to explain that Mo Huan had orchestrated his escape, absolving him of blame. However, the crowd dismissed her, pointing to her familial ties to Rong Jingfeng. Rong Su then ordered Xuan Ye to take her father to the Ling Sect while she covered their retreat.

Despite Rong Jingfeng's resistance and distrust of Na Lanyue, Rong Su insisted, assuring him of Rong Hua's promised protection. As the situation escalated, Liuli swiftly informed Na Lanyue. Na Lanyue, with his Xuanbing forces, appeared and declared that Rong Jingfeng’s fate would be decided by him alone. He then invited Rong Su to return with him to discuss the future of Dragon Howl City. Intimidated by the Xuanbing, the other Jianghu factions stood down.

At the Ling Sect gates, Xuan Ye supported a weakened Rong Jingfeng, who defiantly challenged Na Lanyue to exact his revenge. Rong Hua attempted to rush to her father's side but was restrained by clan members, despite Liuli’s reminder of Rong Su's plea. Rong Jingfeng urged Rong Hua to leave and not beg for his life. Na Lanyue instructed Lu Yizhou to take Rong Hua to rest, but she fiercely resisted, pleading with him not to harm her father.

Na Lanyue coldly stated that this was a matter solely between the Nalan family and Rong Jingfeng, unrelated to her. When Rong Hua continued to struggle, Lu Yizhou was forced to knock her unconscious. Na Lanyue then stabbed Rong Jingfeng and inserted offspring worms into his body, effectively turning him into a "Xuanbing" puppet, much like the Tang School deputy master.

Onlookers reflected on the karmic irony of Rong Jingfeng's fate, now controlled by the very Red Flower Pill he once wielded. Overwhelmed by his new puppet existence, Rong Jingfeng tried to end his life, screaming that he didn't want to live this way and demanding to know Na Lanyue's true intentions. Na Lanyue, however, revived him, forcing him to endure this torment.

As Master of the Nalan family, Na Lanyue then proclaimed that with Rong Jingfeng brought to justice, the Nalan family’s blood feud was finally avenged. He declared an official end to all hostilities between the Nalan family and Rong Jingfeng, forbidding any further conflict, a declaration met with fervent cheers from his clan.

Distraught, Rong Hua was comforted by Bai Su, who gently explained that her continued presence at the Ling Sect only complicated matters for both her and Na Lanyue. He acknowledged her inability to abandon her father while also deeply devoted to Na Lanyue, whose poison remained untreated. Bai Su explained that the Nalan clan’s animosity towards Dragon Howl City, further inflamed by Bai Weizhi’s recent visit, put her in great danger.

He urged her to trust Na Lanyue to handle matters and then revealed that he had discovered a way to completely cure Na Lanyue of the Red Flower Pill poison, promising her a healthy Na Lanyue in the future. Despite Rong Hua's reluctance, Bai Su insisted she must leave the Ling Sect immediately, explaining that it would allow tensions to subside and pave the way for the Nalan family to eventually accept her. He reminded her that Na Lanyue's declaration of an end to the Nalan-Rong Jingfeng enmity was made for her sake. Accepting his wisdom, Rong Hua agreed to depart.

Rong Hua, preparing to leave the Ling Sect as previously arranged by Bai Su, unexpectedly discovered something amiss with a cherished portrait of Lin Ruohan, Nalan Yue's mother. The painting depicted a Chihua Pill with lifelike leaves, but now the pill itself was clearly missing, with visible marks of its removal.

Puzzled by this mystery, Rong Hua went to find Nalan Yue, only to discover him bound by shackles in a cave, his wrists bloody and his face contorted in agony as he struggled to suppress the virulent poison consuming him. Nalan Yue, aware of his own dangerous state, loudly warned Rong Hua to stay away and spoke harsh words, attempting to drive her off. Rong Hua, however, saw through his tough facade, understanding his desperate attempts to protect her.

Recognizing the deep emotional ties that were now threatening to harm them both, she decided that separating for a while was the best course of action to prevent further distress. Unaware of Nalan Yue's true suffering, Bai Weizhi mistakenly believed Nalan Yue had mistreated Rong Hua. As they traveled, he incessantly grumbled about Nalan Yue's supposed failings and planned to take Rong Hua back to Black Rock Mountain.

But Rong Hua, connecting recent events concerning her fellow disciples, sensed Mo Huan's manipulative scheme. She realized that Mo Huan, rather than abandoning the Ling Sect, might seize the opportunity of Dragon Howl City's weakened state to attack it. Thus, Rong Hua decided they must redirect their journey to Dragon Howl City to warn Rong Su and prepare defenses against the Ling Sect's impending assault.

Meanwhile, Nalan Yue, who had orchestrated Rong Hua's departure and his current predicament, spoke with Bai Su. Bai Su confessed that it was his first time lying, and it was for Rong Hua's sake, which had somewhat tarnished his lifelong reputation. Nalan Yue expressed gratitude to Guan Buzhuo for an earlier warning that helped him uncover Mo Huan's secrets.

Nalan Yue explained to Bai Su that he had discovered a faint scent of Doulongzhi on the Chihua Pill depicted in his mother's portrait. He realized that Doulongzhi has a catalytic effect, and when its powder is added to a dried Chihua Pill, it can cause the poisonous worms within to rapidly mature into extremely aggressive butterflies. These newly formed butterflies could then battle the Illusion Butterfly inside him.

If successful, he could use the new butterfly to destroy the Illusion Butterfly, thus surviving the devastating backlash of his cultivation. Bai Su worried about Rong Hua's emotional pain if she ever learned the full truth of Nalan Yue's sacrifices—how he intentionally led her to believe he was turning evil, provoked Nalan family members to disrespect her, and even faked Rong Jingfeng's death in front of her.

Nalan Yue believed these extreme measures were necessary to free Rong Hua from their intertwined fate and ensure her safety, preventing her from bearing his heavy burdens. He asked Bai Su to keep his secret from Rong Hua and to protect the Nalan family should he fail in his perilous endeavor. Bai Su, in turn, urged Nalan Yue to endure the upcoming ordeal, emphasizing that his survival was paramount to repaying Rong Hua's unwavering devotion.

Concurrently, Lu Yizhou relayed information to Rong Su about the Snow Union's drastic actions, including cutting off news sources by destroying Wang Zhiyuan's ships and implicating Wang Qingzheng's escort agency in a murder. He also reported that Mo Huan was indeed heading towards Dragon Howl City. Rong Su, while grateful for Nalan Yue's earlier help, initially suspected Lu Yizhou's accompanying her meant he was sent to monitor her regarding Rong Jingfeng.

Lu Yizhou clarified Nalan Yue's true, far-reaching intentions: to not only avenge the Nalan family but also to liberate them from the cycle of vengeance, clear Bai Su's name, and pacify the martial arts world by ensuring Rong Jingfeng's imprisonment. As Rong Su considered these profound strategies, news arrived that Mei Ying had appeared in Tingfeng Town. She quickly deduced this was a diversion by Mo Huan and decided to rush back to Dragon Howl City with Lu Yizhou.

Meanwhile, Mo Huan, having successfully lured many martial arts sects to Tingfeng Town in pursuit of Mei Ying, meticulously outlined her invasion plan. She instructed Guan Buzhuo to lead Ling Sect disciples to infiltrate Dragon Howl City through the east and west lookout posts, minimizing casualties, and then to directly attack the four halls, killing any who resisted.

Jinque was tasked with guarding Tingfeng Town and, upon seeing beacon fires lit in Dragon Howl City, to immediately send word to the gathered martial arts sects, inviting them to witness Dragon Howl City's change of ownership, signaling the Ling Sect's dominance. Mo Huan grandly announced that she herself would enter through the main gate. Inside Dragon Howl City, the guards desperately tried to close the gates as Mo Huan appeared.

Jingyuan heroically prepared to defend the city and urged a disciple named Xiaoxiao to escape and seek help, while he courageously confronted Mo Huan. However, Jingyuan was no match for Mo Huan's power and was quickly overwhelmed. Xiao Feng bravely sacrificed himself to protect Jingyuan, taking a fatal blow. Amidst the chaos, Ling Sect disciples declared Mo Huan's victory.

Outside Dragon Howl City, Guan Buzhuo intercepted Lu Yizhou and Rong Su, urging them to retreat as the city had already fallen. He revealed Mo Huan's brutal plan to annihilate all the disciples within Dragon Howl City. Seeing the beacon fires from the city and learning of Xiao Feng's death from the escaping Jingyuan and a disciple named Xiaoxiao, Rong Su was consumed by grief and resolved to return to the city and die alongside it.

Lu Yizhou, despite Guan Buzhuo's warnings, chose to accompany her. Mo Huan confronted Rong Su, explaining her vengeance: to make Rong Su and her father lose everything, just as they had betrayed her. She effortlessly subdued Rong Su but spared her life, wishing her to witness how the Nalan family's influence was now extending from the Northern Wastelands to Dragon Howl City. Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi arrived too late to save the city.

Rong Hua, recalling Nalan Yue's foresight, suddenly remembered the Chihua Pill antidote he had given her. A flashback showed Nalan Yue explaining that he had implanted a Chihua Pill in Mei Ying's heart, making the antidote Mei Ying's only lifeline.

Nalan Yue had carefully refined this antidote for Rong Hua, urging her to carry it always to control Mei Ying, despite the immense internal energy required for its creation which risked his own life amid the impending backlash of his cultivation. He had strictly forbidden Rong Hua from trying to heal him, unable to bear the thought of her being harmed.

Now, with Dragon Howl City lost, Rong Hua realized she could use the antidote as leverage against Mei Ying, forcing him to serve her. Bai Weizhi was overjoyed at this newfound hope, though Rong Hua remained concerned for her masters. Bai Weizhi reassured her that Master Zhiyuan had already cleared Master Qingzheng's name and that Bai Su was safe, diligently treating Nalan Yue. Meanwhile, Nalan Yue was undergoing his final, most perilous trial.

Bai Su administered the Doulongzhi-treated Chihua Pill, which caused the toxic worms to transform into powerful butterflies that entered Nalan Yue's body. Overwhelmed by the intense internal struggle, Nalan Yue lost consciousness, tore through his chains, and began to choke Bai Su. Bai Su desperately pleaded with him to endure the torment for at least twelve hours, for only then would he have a chance at survival.

Simultaneously, in the Ling Sect's main hall, the Tang School's deputy master and other Nalan family members who had been gathered there suddenly collapsed, convulsing in agony, as Nalan Yue's uncontrolled power manifested.

With Bai Su’s assistance, Nalan Yue worked to destroy the Illusion Butterfly within his body, unwilling to control others’ lives with the Chihua Pill. He also instructed Bai Su to use his internal force to inject ice crystals into the other Dark Soldiers, ensuring their safety and freeing them from the control of the offspring worms.

The Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill was successfully lifted, and Nalan Yue not only recovered from the poison’s backlash but also found his internal power significantly enhanced. The second elder of the Tang School and other disciples, who had nowhere else to go, were deeply moved by Nalan Yue’s integrity and magnanimity. They sincerely pledged their allegiance, vowing to serve only Nalan Yue from that day forward, through life and death. Meanwhile, Rong Jingfeng suddenly collapsed without warning.

Despite his disciples’ best efforts with acupuncture, his condition showed no improvement. Rong Su, noticing her father’s dangerously low body temperature, feared he was beyond help. Just as she was in a panic, Lu Yizhou arrived with ice crystals, sent on a mission by Nalan Yue. Once the ice crystals melted into Rong Jingfeng’s chest, his breathing and pulse gradually stabilized.

However, after regaining consciousness, Rong Jingfeng seized the opportunity while Rong Su was getting medicine to leave without a word. He hid in Tingfeng Town, observing the Ling Sect’s plots, and felt a profound sadness upon seeing Dragon Howl City reduced to its current state. After Mo Huan decimated the disciples of the Hall of Life, Xuan Ye was determined to rescue them. Liuli, knowing Dragon Howl City was crawling with Snow Union spies, tried to dissuade him.

When her pleas proved fruitless, she persuaded him to wait outside the town while she infiltrated Tingfeng Town to gather information. Unbeknownst to them, the situation both inside and outside Dragon Howl City was volatile. Mo Huan, fearing spies, had instituted a daily rule requiring everyone to wear a silver ring on their wrist. Mei Ying, noticing Liuli’s lack of a silver ring, easily exposed her and had her thrown into the dungeon.

Rong Hua devised a plan to help the two Wang brothers escape their predicament. To resolve the misunderstanding between Rong Hua and Nalan Yue, Lu Yizhou took it upon himself to disclose their location to Wang Zhiyuan, asking him to inform Rong Hua to meet at the medical clinic. Rong Hua suspected her father might have been staying there and found ice crystal fragments in a side room.

Despite Rong Su and Lu Yizhou’s attempts to deflect her questions, Rong Hua remained suspicious. Upon learning of Liuli’s capture, Xuan Ye rushed to Rong Su for help. Considering the tight security in Tingfeng Town, combined with Mei Ying’s presence and the deceptive formations he had set up, a direct breakthrough seemed impossible.

Mei Xueman, who had learned some of her brother’s lost formation methods and compiled them into a book for future use, now witnessed her brother’s descent into villainy and wanton killing. Understanding that achieving a great task requires making difficult choices, Mei Xueman decided to give the diagrams to Rong Hua, hoping she would publicize them to disrupt the Ling Sect’s plans.

Mei Xueman also implored Rong Hua to be more understanding and forgiving towards Nalan Yue, acknowledging that he often acted under difficult circumstances and had his own unmentioned hardships. Rong Hua assured Mei Xueman that she was well aware of Nalan Yue’s sacrifices for her. Liuli, imprisoned and subjected to severe torture for several days, remained steadfast, refusing to reveal Xuan Ye’s hiding place despite her grievous injuries.

Jinque, who had raised Liuli as her own daughter, was heartbroken by her suffering and exasperated by her foolish devotion, sacrificing everything, even her life, for an outsider. However, Liuli’s resolve was firm; she knew what truly mattered. To her, having Jinque and Xuan Ye care for her in this life meant that even in death, she would find peace.

She specifically asked Jinque to bury her after her death, hoping to preserve a beautiful image for Xuan Ye and spare him the sight of her battered body. Unable to get close enough to control Mei Ying, Rong Hua decided to have Mei Xueman deliver the antidote to him first, and then send someone to infiltrate Dragon Howl City to create diversions and weaken the city's forces.

Lu Yizhou volunteered for the dangerous mission, intending to meet secretly with Nalan Yue. Nalan Yue, having comprehended the Plum Blossom Spell, was adept at setting up formations. He established an Eight-Diagram Formation of the Mei family in Mo Huan’s villa, using the scent of plum blossoms to lure Mo Huan. He observed Guan Buzhuo falling into an illusion and getting lost. When Nalan Yue and Lu Yizhou then entered Mei Ying’s room, they witnessed Mei Ying taking the antidote.

Mo Huan discovered the scene, leading to her suspicion of Mei Ying’s betrayal. Mei Ying attempted to explain that Mei Xueman had stolen the antidote from Nalan Yue and given it to him, but Mo Huan, distrustful, questioned the origins of such a rare antidote, hinting at his potential disloyalty.

Guan Buzhuo questioned Mei Ying's loyalty, pointing to the Mei family's Eight-Diagram Formation set up outside his room. Mei Ying denied setting the formation, prompting Mo Huan, who was present, to deduce that Mei Xueman, after stealing the antidote to cure Mei Ying, must have set the trap to frame him instead. Rong Su and Rong Hua received a message from their father, "Come to Dragon Howl City as soon as possible."

Rong Hua recognized her father's handwriting and worried why he would enter a city now controlled by the Ling Sect. Rong Su surmised that Rong Jingfeng, having built Dragon Howl City himself, would never abandon it to villains, but she also expressed concern that he acted arbitrarily without consulting them. Rong Hua then insisted on accompanying Rong Su and Xuan Ye to Dragon Howl City.

Worried about Liuli's safety amidst the potential chaos, Xuan Ye approached Nalan Yue (Lin Jing) for assistance. He explained his fear that Liuli, imprisoned within Dragon Howl City, might not hold on much longer given the Ling Sect's strict defenses, and implored Nalan Yue to help him rescue her if the situation escalated into a battle. Nalan Yue assured him that he would not stand by, and would assist if an opportunity arose.

Soon after, a disciple reported that Rong Jingfeng had entered Dragon Howl City alone. Mei Ying eagerly offered to capture Rong Jingfeng, but Mo Huan ordered Guan Buzhuo to guard Mei Ying and ensure Mei Xueman was brought to her after she dealt with Rong Jingfeng. Inside Dragon Howl City, Rong Jingfeng boldly declared that the city was his, built by his own hands, and no one could take it from him.

He scorned the Ling Sect members, warning them they would die. Mo Huan confronted him, asserting that the seat no longer belonged to him and there was no place for Rong Jingfeng in the martial world. Rong Jingfeng reminisced about his past triumph in crippling the Ling Sect, then lamented that a single wrong step had led to his current predicament. Mo Huan countered that his tragic end was destined the day he betrayed her.

Rong Jingfeng defiantly declared that his best decision was leaving Mo Huan and the Ling Sect, whose disciples were treated as pawns. He expressed his deepest regret was destroying Lingxu Pavilion, as it caused Rong Hua immense suffering and led to his own downfall. Infuriated, Mo Huan vowed to settle their long-standing animosity, promising to make Rong Jingfeng greet Rong Su outside the city for a final farewell.

As Mo Huan moved to strike, Nalan Yue swiftly intervened, saving Rong Jingfeng and astonishing Mo Huan with his significantly increased power, having not only mastered Xuanbing Fu but also cured himself of the fantasy butterfly poison.

Nalan Yue berated Rong Jingfeng for his blind pursuit of power, reminding him he had sacrificed his daughter for a worthless status, but Rong Jingfeng remained consumed by his obsession, insisting Dragon Howl City was his and symbolized his status in the martial world. The battle raged, drums reverberating through Dragon Howl City as Nalan Yue fiercely fought Mo Huan. Outside the city, the drumbeats suddenly ceased, causing Rong Hua to fear the worst for her father.

However, Bai Weizhi reassured her that Rong Jingfeng knew the city's terrain better than anyone and would not be easily caught. Rong Hua clarified that her father's message indicated he was prepared for a desperate, final stand, leading her to believe they were walking into Mo Huan's trap.

Mo Huan, on the rampart, commanded her disciples to capture everyone in Dragon Howl City, intending to imprison them and force them to witness her unification of the martial world, punishing all who betrayed her, including the Nalan family. Rong Su and her companions saw activity on the rampart and realized it was Rong Jingfeng.

Bai Weizhi cautioned Rong Hua about her father's apparent madness, but Rong Hua, unwavering, declared she would fight her way into the city, even if alone. Lu Yizhou and Cang Qi arrived to protect Rong Hua, revealing that Nalan Yue was carrying out a critical plan, and any questions should be directed to him later. Witnessing his daughters' arrival, and seeing Rong Hua get stabbed in the ensuing chaos, Rong Jingfeng, standing on the city wall, was overcome with regret.

He lamented his lifetime of ambition, recognizing his miserable end was self-inflicted and a consequence of his obsession with Dragon Howl City, now destroyed. He wished for a next life free of power struggles, only to be with his wife and daughters. With a final, sorrowful cry for his lost home, Rong Jingfeng embraced the Dragon Howl City plaque and dramatically leaped from the city wall.

Rong Hua and Rong Su rushed to him, distraught, as he held their hands, expressing his wish that they survive and that his life's competitive pursuit was a mistake. Later that night, Nalan Yue approached the mourning hall where Rong Hua was weeping. She recognized his caution and thoughtfulness, understanding that his past actions were meant to protect her, though she still endured immense pain.

She acknowledged that he hadn't killed her father in the northern wastelands and had even asked Rong Su to bring him back, all for her sake. However, her brief glimpse of her father on the city rampart had become their final goodbye. She told Nalan Yue that she understood his hatred for her father and did not blame him for not entering to pay respects.

Nalan Yue admitted he could not bring himself to offer incense, as the vivid memory of Rong Jingfeng's massacre of the Nalan family still haunted him. Rong Hua sorrowfully stated that the chasm between them had widened, believing their destinies had diverged the moment her father slaughtered the Nalan family. Nalan Yue, seeing her exhaustion, urged her to rest and suggested they continue their conversation another day.

Driven by a new resolve to protect her loved ones and acknowledge the dangers lurking, Rong Hua understood that even with Nalan Yue's enhanced powers, he could not always be by her side. She realized the importance of self-reliance and repeatedly implored Nalan Yue to train her, to which he eventually agreed. From that point on, they trained tirelessly in the forest from dawn till dusk, practicing martial arts moves and cultivation techniques without interruption.

Despite her aching muscles and swollen hands, Rong Hua's determination never wavered, leading Nalan Yue to suppress his concern and continue their rigorous training, even when it pained him to see her suffering.

Mo Huan, severely weakened by a backlash from her recent battle, revealed to Guan Buzhuo that Nalan Yue had not only deciphered his mother's secret painting to detoxify himself but had also, by chance, mastered the final layer of Xuanbing Fu, making him a formidable opponent whom she might no longer be able to defeat. Due to her weakened state, Mo Huan had to temporarily postpone capturing Mei Xueman.

She ordered Guan Buzhuo to tighten security, reinforcing all vital pathways to prevent any infiltration, and reiterated the importance of closely monitoring Mei Ying. Guan Buzhuo assured her that defenses were heightened and Mei Ying was under strict surveillance, unable to cause trouble. Alone, Mei Ying worried about his sister, realizing he needed to find a way to prevent her from falling into Mo Huan's hands.

Mei Xueman informed Nalan Yue that her brother, acting under Mo Huan's orders, had invited her to Dragon Howl City, promising her a safe escape. Nalan Yue understood Mo Huan's intent to use Mei Xueman as leverage against Mei Ying, but doubted Mei Ying's ability to protect her. He formulated a plan: to make Mei Ying trust Mei Xueman while simultaneously sowing seeds of suspicion in Mo Huan regarding Mei Ying's loyalty.

This strategy, he warned Mei Xueman, would require her to endure some hardship, to which she readily agreed, hoping that by getting her brother imprisoned by the Mei family, he might find a final chance at survival. Shortly after, Xuan Ye implored Nalan Yue to rescue Liuli from her imprisonment in Dragon Howl City, as he feared for her life given the city's chaotic state and strict Ling Sect defenses.

Nalan Yue assured Xuan Ye that he had a plan that could address both Mei Xueman and Liuli's predicaments, reiterating the need for absolute secrecy from Rong Su and Rong Hua. Putting his plan into motion, Nalan Yue brazenly entered Mei Ying's room. Mei Ying, thinking he was safe within Dragon Howl City, threatened to call for help.

Nalan Yue retorted that if he were to openly escort Mei Ying out of the city, Mo Huan would undoubtedly suspect Mei Ying of secretly colluding with him, thus irrevocably ruining Mei Ying's reputation in the martial world. This left Mei Ying in a quandary. Following Nalan Yue’s provocations, Guan Buzhuo and Jin Que discovered Mei Ying's escape. They immediately suspected inside help and initiated a widespread search, reinforcing city exits while Guan Buzhuo personally checked the main gate.

Seizing this diversion, Nalan Yue infiltrated the dungeon. He found Liuli, who was surprised by his presence, and informed her that Xuan Ye had sent him, waiting outside for her. Despite Liuli's concerns about the numerous guards, Nalan Yue provided her with an antidote to quickly restore her powers, instructing her that she had only half an hour to escape.

Using the Mei family's secret art, he disguised Liuli as a Ling Sect disciple, enabling her to walk out of Dragon Howl City undetected. Outside, an anxious Xuan Ye, who had been waiting since dawn, recognized the disguised Liuli. They embraced tearfully. Xuan Ye apologized profusely for failing to protect her, vowing to guard and cherish her for the rest of his life.

He revealed his plans for them to retire from the martial world, having already secured a beautiful mansion surrounded by flowers in a picturesque location, a testament to his long-held desire for a peaceful life with her. Before fully embracing their new life, Xuan Ye and Liuli decided to bid farewell to Rong Su. However, disciples from the Hall of Life blocked their path, stating that Rong Su had explicitly ordered not to see Xuan Ye.

Xuan Ye insisted on a face-to-face meeting to clarify matters, but the disciples, despite acknowledging Xuan Ye's superior strength, remained firm in their duty. Frustrated, Liuli feigned departure but then swiftly used her crystal ball to immobilize the disciples, allowing them to proceed to Rong Su. Upon seeing them, Rong Su immediately struck Xuan Ye, severely injuring him.

Liuli vehemently defended Xuan Ye, recounting his years of loyal service and self-sacrifice for Rong Su, but Xuan Ye stopped her, humbly admitting his faults. Rong Su, after delivering a sharp rebuke about his supposed disloyalty for prioritizing Liuli, ordered them to leave. Liuli, however, defiantly asserted that if Xuan Ye were truly disloyal, he would never have risked returning. Without another word, Rong Su turned and left with her sword. It was Rong Hua who, with a heavy heart, then quietly allowed Xuan Ye and Liuli to depart.

After Xuan Ye and Liuli decided to leave Dragon Howl City for a life free from conflict. Xuan Ye, unaware of Rong Su's true intentions, felt deep shame and guilt for abandoning Dragon Howl City and Rong Su, believing himself to be a deserter who no longer deserved to wield a sword for her. Despite his heartfelt apology, Rong Su harshly dismissed him, calling him stupid and telling him to leave her sight.

Liuli, however, defended Xuan Ye, pointing out that his sincerity was evident as he chose to return for the insults rather than abandoning her entirely. Rong Hua tried to intervene, but Rong Su insisted Xuan Ye leave. As Xuan Ye and Liuli departed, he thanked Rong Hua and reiterated his perceived failure, to which Rong Hua remarked that Xuan Ye should know Rong Su's temper better than she did.

Once Xuan Ye and Liuli were truly gone, Rong Hua confronted Rong Su, telling her to drop her pretense. Rong Su admitted her relief that they had left. She confessed that her harshness was to ensure Xuan Ye, whom she considered her most loyal and trusted man, would not be dragged back into the endless struggles of Dragon Howl City, which was now a shadow of its former self.

Rong Su expressed that in such uncertain times, true sincerity was rare, and if she could fulfill Xuan Ye and Liuli's genuine love, she would, adding that Liuli, though mischievous, was truly sincere towards Xuan Ye. Rong Hua observed how much Rong Su had changed. Rong Hua then announced her intention to go to Tingfeng Town to find Lin Jing, but Rong Su cautioned her against the danger.

Meanwhile, Guan Buzhuo reported Mei Ying's escape to Mo Huan, confirming that Lin Jing had helped him leave Dragon Howl City. He also assured Mo Huan that her men were in pursuit. When asked about other movements in the city, Guan Buzhuo deliberately withheld information about Liuli's escape, claiming everything was normal. Mo Huan then inquired about Jinque's progress in finding the Rong sisters.

Guan Buzhuo replied that Jinque was working diligently and results would come soon, but Mo Huan expressed her suspicion that Jinque would be unable to harm her beloved disciple, Liuli. Mo Huan then declared she would give Jinque only half a day before taking matters into her own hands. Guan Buzhuo relayed Mo Huan's ultimatum to Jinque, who remained calm, believing Liuli's escape was her own fortune.

Jinque prepared to confess to Mo Huan to protect Guan Buzhuo, but he stopped her, emphasizing their shared fate as husband and wife. He reminded her of Mo Huan's ruthlessness—that she would rather kill an innocent person than let a potentially involved one off, citing Mei Ying as a prime example. Guan Buzhuo reassured Jinque that he had bought them time by pretending Jinque would torture Liuli, thus removing the guards.

He promised to protect her, but Jinque worried about escaping Mo Huan's grasp. Later, Mo Huan appeared in the dungeon where Jinque was tearfully cradling a female corpse, which Guan Buzhuo had disguised to look like Liuli. Jinque pleaded with Mo Huan to allow Liuli intact remains. Mo Huan seemingly agreed but then revealed she knew their deception, expressing disappointment that they couldn't execute their plan flawlessly.

Guan Buzhuo immediately took sole responsibility, explaining he tried to shield Jinque from Mo Huan's rage, knowing Jinque had been distraught since Liuli's escape and would have confessed earlier. Mo Huan pressed Jinque, who admitted she had attempted to help Liuli escape but the stubborn girl refused her help, and Jinque claimed ignorance regarding Liuli's actual escape.

Mo Huan then exposed her complete knowledge, revealing she had been monitoring Jinque all along and had placed tracking powder on Liuli, knowing she would try to flee. Mo Huan stated that Liuli herself was inconsequential; her true objective was the whereabouts of Rong Su and Rong Hua. With Lin Jing's power increased, Mei Ying's betrayal, and her own lingering injuries, Mo Huan felt a desperate need for trustworthy subordinates.

She sentenced Guan Buzhuo and Jinque to twenty lashes each and ordered them to remain in the city and spread the Rong sisters' location. Meanwhile, Rong Hua, under Lin Jing's guidance, had been practicing martial arts, making significant breakthroughs. Lin Jing received word from Cang Qi that Mei Xueman and Mei Ying were heading south towards the Mei mansion.

Soon after, Bai Weizhi brought urgent news that the Ling Sect had somehow discovered their escape route and that its disciples were converging to intercept them. Rong Hua immediately suspected foul play, knowing Cang Qi alone could not fend off the Ling Sect. She implored Lin Jing to go to Mei Xueman's aid.

Lin Jing hesitated to leave Rong Hua, but both Rong Hua and Bai Weizhi urged him to go, assuring him of their safety with Rong Su also present. Lin Jing, reassured, departed swiftly. At the Mei mansion, Mei Ying revealed to a shocked Mei Xueman that he had deliberately left markers along their path to prove his loyalty to Mo Huan. However, the Ling Sect disciples informed Mei Ying that Mo Huan's patience with him had run out.

Her current goal was to lure Lin Jing, and in doing so, Mei Ying and Mei Xueman were deemed expendable. The Ling Sect then attacked the Mei mansion. Lin Jing arrived during the fierce assault, fighting to protect the siblings, but Mei Xueman was severely wounded. As she lay dying, Mei Xueman expressed her surprise and joy that Lin Jing had come for her.

Realizing her end was near, she asked Lin Jing to promise to ensure Mei Ying could live out his days safely within the Mei mansion, despite his past misdeeds. She then made a final, poignant wish: in her next life, she hoped to be the woman Lin Jing would fall in love with at first sight, to share a life of unwavering devotion until death. Mei Ying, overcome with grief and regret, wept beside his dying sister.

At Rong Jingfeng's funeral, Rong Hua and Rong Su mourned their father. Rong Hua lamented the recent losses—first their aunt, then their father—and the rise of Mo Huan. Rong Su grimly noted that the other martial sects now sought revenge against the Rong family. As they prepared to depart, the funeral was violently interrupted by an attack from various martial artists.

Mo Huan then appeared, effortlessly dispersing the attackers, whom she called "ugly clowns" unworthy of taking the Rong sisters' lives. She admitted revealing their hiding place, adding that Rong Jingfeng would be "grateful" for her "masterly" intervention, after which his body was defiled and burned. Mo Huan then pointed to Rong Su's chest wound, explaining that if the bleeding wasn't stopped within the time it took for an incense stick to burn, Rong Su would die.

She then revealed that only she could save Rong Su. Rong Hua, realizing Mo Huan's meticulously planned scheme, bravely demanded to know her conditions if she intended to save them, or to simply kill them swiftly. Mo Huan, observing Rong Hua's defiance, found it amusing that Rong Hua's "begging" seemed more like a demand. Mo Huan then stated her condition: Rong Hua must pledge allegiance to the Ling Sect and serve her.

She gloated that Rong Jingfeng's death would not free the Rong family from her control, as long as any of their bloodline remained. To save her sister, Rong Hua submitted to Mo Huan. Rong Su awakened in Dragon Howl City, recovering under the care of Alliance leader Jinque. Jinque advised her to rest. Rong Su, defiant even in injury, declared she would rather die than serve the Ling Sect.

Jinque, however, reminded Rong Su of Rong Hua's sacrifice to save her life and urged her not to make Rong Hua's efforts in vain. Rong Su, concerned, demanded to know Rong Hua's whereabouts and what Mo Huan intended to do to her. Jinque revealed that Rong Su's martial arts had been crippled by Mo Huan and that if she truly didn't want to burden Rong Hua, she should focus on recovery.

Rong Su, knowing Mo Huan never spared a disabled person, immediately realized that Rong Hua must have made a grave concession for her life. She feared Rong Hua was suffering even more than she was. Mo Huan, in Dragon Howl City, confronted Rong Hua, asking if she was afraid. Rong Hua declared she feared nothing, not even death. Mo Huan countered that being her captive would be more painful than death, just as it had been for Rong Hua's mother.

Rong Hua accused Mo Huan of using Lin Jing to further her ambition, forcing him to cultivate the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill to control the martial world, especially after Mo Huan's own attempt with the Chihua Pill had failed. Mo Huan dismissed Lin Jing as having a "soft heart" and incapable of great achievements. She then revealed her "new weapon" to control Lin Jing: Rong Hua herself. Mo Huan intended to make an example of Lin Jing's betrayal.

She then implanted an offspring worm, cultivated from the red flame lotus and derived from her own queen worm, into Rong Hua's body. This new parasitic technique was designed specifically to counteract Lin Jing's enhanced Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill. Mo Huan explained that Rong Hua's life was now intrinsically linked to hers; if Mo Huan suffered, so would Rong Hua.

She then twisted the situation, suggesting Lin Jing would never be able to harm her, knowing it would also kill Rong Hua. Rong Hua, horrified, understood this was Mo Huan's ultimate plan to manipulate Lin Jing through her. Mo Huan reveled in the thought of Lin Jing suffering the same pain as Rong Hua, anticipating his reaction. When Rong Hua attempted suicide to escape her control, Mo Huan threatened to kill Rong Su as well, ensuring Rong Hua could not abandon her sister in death.

Mo Huan had implanted an offspring worm into Rong Hua, explaining that this parasitic worm was completely different from the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill. With Rong Hua as her puppet, dealing with Nalan Yue would be easy. Mo Huan warned Rong Hua that if she wished to die, she wouldn't let Rong Su be alone, threatening to kill Rong Su as well, so the two sisters could reunite with their father in hell.

Rong Hua questioned Mo Huan’s true motives, suggesting that if her goal was merely to control Nalan Yue, she could simply imprison Rong Hua without resorting to the offspring worm. Mo Huan acknowledged Rong Hua's intelligence, then commanded her to kill Mei Ying and bring back his head. This act, Mo Huan stated, would serve as a public declaration of Rong Hua's allegiance to the Ling Sect.

Mei Ying, imprisoned in the Mei mansion, was still defiant, demanding release and vowing revenge on Nalan Yue for his sister's death. He cursed Nalan Yue for sealing his meridians and declared he would escape and make Nalan Yue pay. Nalan Yue (Lin Jing) confronted Mei Ying, sternly telling him not to speak of Mei Xueman, highlighting her sacrifices for him and accusing Mei Ying of being responsible for her death by framing Nalan Yue.

Nalan Yue refused to kill Mei Ying, honoring his promise to Mei Xueman, but stated that Mei Ying was a mere cripple in his eyes, whether alive or dead. He informed Mei Ying that the Mei mansion gates would no longer be locked, inviting him to leave if he wished, but also warned him that many outside sought his life. Nalan Yue left Mei Ying to choose his own fate. Before leaving, Rong Hua sought to visit Rong Su.

Guan Buzhuo, tasked with guarding Rong Su, blocked Rong Hua, citing Mo Huan's strict orders against visitors. He expressed his dilemma, unable to defy Mo Huan without endangering those he cared for, but subtly warned Rong Hua that Mei Ying was no longer useful to the Ling Sect, implying a deeper meaning behind Mo Huan's command.

Rong Hua, not wanting to implicate Guan Buzhuo, simply asked him to ensure Rong Su's survival while she was away, then stated her necessity to obey Mo Huan's order to kill Mei Ying as the only way to save Rong Su after Mei Xueman's death and Nalan Yue's presence at the Mei mansion. Guan Buzhuo then asked if she would tell Nalan Yue the truth, to which Rong Hua replied that she would bear the burden alone.

He turned away, pretending not to see as Rong Hua entered. Rong Hua found Rong Su, who, weakened and confined, urged her sister to seize any chance to escape, fearing she would become a burden and that Mo Huan was using her to control Rong Hua.

Rong Hua rejected the idea of leaving, asserting that Dragon Howl City was their home and that by staying close to Mo Huan, they could discover her weaknesses and find a way to defeat her, which would require strategy rather than brute force. Rong Hua also mentioned learning moves in Lingxu Pavilion that could relieve her cold toxins and boost her martial arts with coldness, suggesting they brainstorm Mo Huan's weaknesses.

Rong Su then revealed her observations: the absence of guards, the lack of Mo Huan and many Ling Sect disciples, and Jinque's troubled demeanor when delivering medicine. This led Rong Su to believe that Mo Huan was plotting something significant, possibly related to an attack on the Ling Sect's main stronghold, the Northern Wilderness.

She believed Mo Huan was planning a major move that required her personal presence and many disciples, suggesting this was her "way" to deal with Mo Huan. Nalan Yue received urgent news that Rong Hua and Rong Su had both gone missing. Messengers from Bai Su reported that Mo Huan was certainly responsible and had located the sisters in Dragon Howl City. Bai Su believed Mo Huan intended to use Rong Hua as leverage against Nalan Yue.

Nalan Yue, deeply concerned, immediately prepared to go to Dragon Howl City, instructing Cangqi to guard Mei Ying. He refused offers of assistance from others, emphasizing the need for discretion. Just as he was about to leave the Mei mansion, Rong Hua suddenly appeared. Rong Hua rushed into Nalan Yue's arms, expressing relief at seeing him again.

She gave a partially true account of Rong Su's critical condition in Dragon Howl City, explaining that she had escaped to seek his help in rescuing her sister, stressing Mo Huan's impatience. Nalan Yue, overjoyed by her return, was completely unaware of any deception. He assured her he would help, confessing his relief at her presence.

Rong Hua then prepared a meal for him, during which Nalan Yue fondly reminisced about their happy past in Dragon Howl City and expressed his wish for a simple life with her. He asked about Mei Xueman's death, and Rong Hua confirmed it was related to the Ling Sect's pursuit of Mei Ying, whom Mei Xueman had died saving.

Rong Hua then shifted the conversation back to rescuing Rong Su, and Nalan Yue began outlining a plan involving Dragon Howl City's forces and the Nalan family. Suddenly, Nalan Yue collapsed, having been drugged by Rong Hua. As he lay unconscious, Rong Hua apologized tearfully, acknowledging that their idyllic future had become an impossible dream, and that by the time he awoke, everything would be over. Rong Hua, carrying her sword, confronted Mei Ying.

He was shocked to see her, realizing she was there to kill him on Mo Huan's orders, the very person he had hoped would save him. Mei Ying pleaded for his life, offering to reveal how to deal with Mo Huan. Rong Hua accused him of choosing the wrong path by not hiding after leaving Dragon Howl City, asserting that his death was for Lingxu Pavilion and Nalan Yue's mother, and that even if she didn't kill him, others would.

Nalan Yue, having prematurely woken from the drug, rushed in to find Mei Ying severely wounded. He tried to stop Rong Hua, arguing that while Mei Ying deserved death and his continued existence would harm more people, she shouldn't be the one to kill him. Rong Hua ignored him, revealing that she had drugged him, knowing he had mastered the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill, and had intended to kill Mei Ying and leave before he awoke.

She then delivered a fatal blow to Mei Ying, killing him instantly, while Ling Sect disciples appeared and engaged Nalan Yue, preventing him from further intervention. Rong Hua then turned to leave. Nalan Yue, reeling from her calculated actions, tried to hold her back, but she pulled away, telling him to let go if he still loved her, insisting she had to handle this.

Deeply disturbed by her transformation from her previously pure and kind self to a ruthless one, Nalan Yue could only watch as she departed, heartbroken. After completing her mission, Rong Hua returned to Dragon Howl City to report to Mo Huan. She fought her way through some Ling Sect disciples to demand an audience, but was informed by Jinque that Mo Huan was not in the city.

Rong Hua then visited Rong Su, who expressed relief that Rong Hua was safe but urged her to escape, worried that she was a burden and that Mo Huan was using her. Rong Hua rejected the idea of leaving, declaring Dragon Howl City their home and reiterating her belief that they could find Mo Huan's weaknesses by staying close to her.

Rong Su noticed the unusual quietness in the city, with no guards at the door and many Ling Sect disciples missing. Rong Hua confirmed she hadn't seen Mo Huan since her return and observed the significant reduction in Ling Sect forces. Rong Su, recalling Jinque's troubled expression when delivering medicine, speculated that Mo Huan was orchestrating a major move.

They both concluded that Mo Huan must be absent from Dragon Howl City to personally lead a large force to attack the Ling Sect's main stronghold in the Northern Wilderness. Lu Yizhou, anxious for news of Rong Su, often sat alone by a chessboard, lost in thought. Bai Su observed his melancholic state, remarking on his emotional reticence in pursuing love, and urged him to be brave in the present moment to avoid future regrets.

He also expressed hope that the newly completed secret tunnel would never have to be used, fearing another battle. Meanwhile, Mo Huan, moving with spectral speed, effortlessly infiltrated the Ling Sect's main headquarters in the Northern Wilderness. She swiftly dismantled the elaborate traps and mechanisms Nalan Yue had set up and injured the clan members guarding the Sacred Hall. Yun Xu arrived to confront her but was ultimately overpowered and killed.

As chaos erupted, Bai Su bravely stayed behind to confront Mo Huan, urging Lu Yizhou to lead the Nalan clan members to safety through the newly constructed secret tunnel. Lu Yizhou expressed his determination to return and help Bai Su after ensuring the clan's escape. However, as Lu Yizhou and the Nalan clan emerged from the tunnel, they were ambushed by Guan Buzhuo and a detachment of Ling Sect disciples who had been waiting outside.

Guan Buzhuo, while preferring them to surrender peacefully, demanded their surrender, but the Nalan clan defiantly vowed to fight to the death. Just as a fierce battle ensued, Lin Jing swiftly arrived. In a blur of motion, he precisely targeted the pressure points of all the Ling Sect disciples, immobilizing them.

Guan Buzhuo was astonished, having never imagined that Lin Jing had mastered the Command to the Dark Soldiers Skill to such a degree that he could contend with Mo Huan. He felt a sense of relief, believing that his Senior Sister Ruohan could now rest in peace, as Lin Jing no longer needed his protection. Lin Jing explained that he had rushed there upon hearing that Mo Huan was moving north from Dragon Howl City, sensing trouble.

He regretted arriving late, but Guan Buzhuo assured him that most Nalan clan members had escaped through the secret tunnel, though Bai Su was still fighting Mo Huan alone to buy them time. Guan Buzhuo then warned Lin Jing about Mo Huan's ruthless tactics, attributing her fearlessness to having no personal attachments or cares.

He cautioned that while Lin Jing possessed formidable power, his deep concern for his family and loved ones made him vulnerable, suggesting that victory belonged to whoever could control the other's emotional lifeline. Lin Jing countered that Mo Huan had always been the aggressor, relentlessly pursuing them even if they retreated into seclusion. Lin Jing rushed into the Sacred Hall and found Bai Su severely injured.

Bai Su urgently warned him to be cautious of Mo Huan, revealing that she had cultivated evil arts and her powers had multiplied. Mo Huan then appeared, provocatively gloating that Lin Jing's arrival was perfectly timed. She taunted him, claiming that he could not conquer the Ling Sect by killing a few disciples, and asserted that all would be under her control.

Lin Jing defiantly stated that even if she killed every member of the Nalan family, more would rise to fight her, and dismissed her claim of invincibility. Mo Huan then mockingly asked if he had seen Rong Hua, implying Rong Hua had not told him the full truth of her predicament.

Lin Jing, enraged, denounced Mo Huan's attempts to drive a wedge between him and Rong Hua by forcing Rong Hua to kill Mei Ying with Rong Su's life at stake. Mo Huan retorted that the killing of Mei Ying was merely the beginning, and that Lin Jing and Rong Hua were destined for separation in life or death.

As Lin Jing lunged with his sword, Mo Huan surprisingly made no attempt to defend herself, allowing the blade to pierce her body without a flicker of pain. At that very moment, far away in Dragon Howl City, Rong Hua experienced a sudden, sharp discomfort. Mo Huan stood her ground, smiling, as Lin Jing wounded her again, this time slashing her neck. To everyone's horror, the wound instantly healed, leaving no trace.

Realizing the gravity of the situation and recalling Guan Buzhuo's earlier warning about Mo Huan's dark powers, Lin Jing quickly withdrew his attack. Mo Huan continued to taunt him, hinting at Rong Hua's vulnerability to her control. As Lin Jing retreated with Bai Su, Mo Huan dispatched a disciple to follow them, while she confidently declared that Nalan Yue might escape her control, but Rong Hua could not.

Meanwhile, a servant rushed to Rong Hua, reporting that Rong Su had been convulsing for half an hour and no one in the city could help her, urging Rong Hua to examine her.

Mo Huan, having established her sect elsewhere and no longer needing the Ling Sect headquarters in the Northern Wastelands, commanded Guan Buzhuo to completely destroy the area. Guan Buzhuo reported that a new secret passage was discovered in the Ling Sect, and most of the Nalan family had escaped. Mo Huan confidently predicted they would head to Dragon Howl City and sent her people to pursue them.

When Guan Buzhuo asked about the Supreme Master's injury, Mo Huan cryptically replied that he would understand upon their return to Dragon Howl City. She then reiterated her order to burn the Ling Sect grounds, declaring the place useless. Following this, Mo Huan returned to Dragon Howl City with her disciples and felt reassured upon seeing Rong Hua seemingly well-behaved. Following the battle at the Ling Sect headquarters, Lu Yizhou confirmed that he had safely settled the Nalan clansmen.

Bai Weizhi, who had suffered severe injuries from Mo Huan, warned Nalan Yue that Mo Huan's martial arts had dramatically improved, possessing an extremely evil power that surpassed even the Xuanbing Talisman Nalan Yue had once practiced. Nalan Yue expressed his gratitude to Bai Weizhi and arranged for him to recuperate at Black Stone Mountain. Bai Weizhi then urged Nalan Yue to swiftly proceed to Dragon Howl City to rescue Rong Hua.

In Dragon Howl City, Rong Hua covertly examined Rong Su's medicinal herbs, discovering that Mo Huan had tampered with them, removing all medicinal properties and leaving Rong Su weak and paralyzed. Rong Su, feeling despair, questioned why Mo Huan bothered to torment her further. Rong Hua tried to reassure her, but Rong Su noticed a fresh blade wound on Rong Hua's neck. Rong Hua quickly fabricated a story about a "cold air backfire" during her cultivation to deflect suspicion.

Jinque arrived, warning them about numerous watchful eyes in the city and confirming that Mo Huan had instructed her to monitor them, ensuring their survival but little else. Jinque also commented that using golden needles to repair Rong Su's meridians would be a painstakingly long process. Rong Hua agreed with Jinque, but internally recognized a critical loophole: while Mo Huan's physical injuries would transfer to her via the mother-child worm, ingested poisons would not. She decided to exploit this weakness.

For several consecutive days, Rong Hua secretly prepared special, thin, water-resistant paper, impregnating it with a potent toxin called "bairiqing." She folded these into paper cranes, using them to deliver stolen vital information outside the city while simultaneously exposing Mo Huan to the poison. At night, she would also check herself for any signs of poisoning, confirming her hypothesis that the poison would not transfer. Ling Sect patrol disciples discovered several paper cranes floating in the city's drainage ditch.

Guan Buzhuo, while still traveling with Mo Huan, reported this. He explained that these special paper cranes, confirmed to be in Rong Hua's handwriting, were designed to float out of the city and into a creek near Tingfeng Town. Mo Huan, finding Rong Hua's intentions inscrutable, ordered all future paper cranes to be intercepted and sent to her.

Unbeknownst to Mo Huan, Rong Hua continued her daily ritual, feigning concern for the city's safety on the ramparts while internally verifying the poison transfer mechanism. Meanwhile, outside the city, Lu Yizhou and his allies successfully ambushed a Ling Sect disciple carrying one of these paper cranes. The captive revealed that Rong Su had been virtually incapacitated even before entering Dragon Howl City.

Upon examining the paper crane, Lin Jing recognized Rong Hua's unique code: the character "Hua" accompanied by the Big Dipper's handle pointing south. He accurately deduced this meant the Summer Solstice. Furthermore, the position of "Hua" relative to the stars indicated the Hall of Emptiness, pinpointing their location within the city. Bai Weizhi, observing the paper's cyan hue, identified it as soaked in bairiqing, a potent poison he himself had taught Rong Hua to create.

He explained its ability to penetrate the skin and damage meridians and the heart, a detail only experts would discern. This confirmed Rong Hua's intention to weaken Mo Huan. Based on these insights, Nalan Yue calculated that Mo Huan would lose her internal force on the Summer Solstice due to the poison.

He immediately summoned their forces and outlined the plan: he would personally confront Mo Huan, while Lu Yizhou would lead a team into the Hall of Emptiness to rescue Rong Hua and Rong Su. Back in Dragon Howl City, Mo Huan confronted Rong Hua, haughtily declaring that she would never leave the city and that Rong Su's meridian repair would take at least a year.

Rong Hua, maintaining her facade, countered by asking why Mo Huan seemed concerned if Rong Su’s recovery was so distant, to which Mo Huan replied that Nalan Yue would inevitably return.

Mo Huan also questioned Rong Hua about the dots on the paper cranes, to which Rong Hua feigned innocence, claiming they were the Big Dipper constellation, a star-gazing technique Nalan Yue had taught her, and that she was merely sending the cranes out to see the world since she was confined. Later, Rong Su, desperate for an escape from her confinement, insisted on going to the Hall of Emptiness.

Rong Hua, seizing the opportunity, subtly questioned Guan Buzhuo about his future aspirations. He confessed his long-held desire to leave the martial world with Jinque, to find a mine, gamble on stones, and carve jades, revealing his deep yearning for a life of freedom. Recognizing this shared sentiment, Rong Hua convinced Guan Buzhuo to allow her to take Rong Su to the Hall of Emptiness for fresh air on the upcoming Summer Solstice, a request he granted under strict conditions.

Meanwhile, outside the city, Nalan Yue finalized the attack plans with Lu Yizhou and Bai Weizhi. He instructed them to set the entire Dragon Howl City ablaze if he failed to emerge by the appointed time. Bai Weizhi, however, strongly cautioned Nalan Yue to ensure his own safe return, knowing that Rong Hua, given her personality, would otherwise certainly re-enter the perilous city. Lu Yizhou, showing unwavering loyalty, vowed to wait for Nalan Yue's return, no matter what.

On the designated Summer Solstice, Lin Jing infiltrated Dragon Howl City, single-handedly dispatching numerous Ling Sect disciples and successfully opening the city gates for the waiting allied forces. Amidst the chaos and fierce fighting that erupted throughout the city, Lin Jing directed Lu Yizhou to proceed directly to the Hall of Emptiness to rescue Rong Hua and Rong Su. Nearby, Guan Buzhuo and Jinque heard the frantic drumbeats and saw the Hall of Life engulfed in flames.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, Guan Buzhuo instinctively moved to aid Mo Huan, but Jinque urgently intercepted him. Rong Hua then revealed that Mo Huan had been poisoned by bairiqing and had temporarily lost her internal force, further explaining that an escape route for them was already prepared and their escorts were imminent.

Jinque reinforced the plea, pointing out that Mo Huan would never forgive their repeated failures, and this was their only chance for the free life they both yearned for. After a moment of profound internal struggle, Guan Buzhuo made his choice, agreeing to leave with Jinque. As Lu Yizhou arrived at the Hall of Life (Shengzitang) to lead Rong Su to safety, Rong Hua made the difficult decision not to leave with them.

Instead, after a heartfelt farewell, she declared her intention to assist Nalan Yue and proceeded towards the Council Hall. Meanwhile, Lu Yizhou led Rong Su and the other Nalan family members through the escape route. They paused for a brief rest, during which Rong Su expressed her concern for Nalan Yue, who was still in the city.

Lu Yizhou decided he must return to aid Nalan Yue, but before he could act, they realized they had walked into a meticulously planned ambush. Ling Sect disciples, under Mo Huan's explicit orders, declared they would kill anyone attempting to leave the city without permission. Guan Buzhuo, having lost his internal force due to the bairiqing, urged Jinque to flee for her safety, but she steadfastly refused to abandon him, vowing to stay by his side.

Amidst the brutal fighting, the Tang School's Second Elder bravely volunteered to hold the line, sacrificing himself to allow the others to retreat. During the chaos, Lu Yizhou shielded Rong Su from a barrage of hidden weapons, suffering severe injuries in the process.

Confronting Nalan Yue in the Council Hall, Mo Huan, now weakened by the bairiqing, raged at the betrayals around her, declaring that if she couldn't unify Jianghu and defend the Nalan family, she would ensure her traitors suffered by losing their loved ones. She taunted Nalan Yue, claiming Rong Hua would never leave Dragon Howl City nor her, fearing Nalan Yue making a grave mistake. To prove her point, Mo Huan deliberately cut her own face with a dagger.

Horrifyingly, the wound instantly vanished from Mo Huan but appeared on Rong Hua's face, revealing the insidious nature of the mother-child worm. After seeing the wound transfer, Mo Huan further revealed to Nalan Yue that every injury he had inflicted upon her in the Ling Sect had, in fact, been transferred to Rong Hua, causing Nalan Yue to finally understand their shared fate.

Seeing Mo Huan about to inflict further harm on herself, Lin Jing desperately disarmed her, but felt utterly helpless to truly protect Rong Hua from the indirect pain. Mo Huan then brutally attacked Lin Jing with her blade. When Lin Jing refused to retaliate, she unleashed a barrage of powerful palm strikes, causing him to stagger and cough blood.

Witnessing Lin Jing's suffering, Rong Hua, despite her own transferred pain, tightly gripped a sharp dagger and plunged it into Mo Huan. The emotional shock of the attack, coupled with her physical injury, caused Mo Huan's dark hair to rapidly turn white as her hairpin fell to the ground.

After Lin Jing is injured and made to spit blood by Mo Huan, Rong Hua, seeing her beloved suffer, takes a sharp weapon and plunges it into Mo Huan. Instantly, Mo Huan's black hair turns white, and her youthful face transforms into a wrinkled visage. Mo Huan, shocked, exclaims, "How could this be?" She declares to Rong Hua, "You still want to rule the whole martial world? Dream on! I won't lose. I'll never lose in my life.

When the queen worms die, your wound will never heal." Rong Hua, in her fading moments, whispers an apology to Lin Jing, "Yue, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have hidden it from you. To see you one last time is truly wonderful." As Rong Hua weakly falls into Lin Jing's embrace, he urgently calls out to her, distressed, "Hua, why did you do this?"

He continues to call her name, and believing her to be gone, states, "With Rong Hua accompanying me on the way to the Underworld, I won't feel lonely." Meanwhile, outside the city, a swarm of Ling Sect disciples launches a fierce assault, and the Nalan clan fights to the death.

Lu Yizhou, already repeatedly wounded and overwhelmed, instructs Bai Weizhi to aid Lin Jing, as Lin Jing should have rescued the Madam by now and reunited with them, but is likely trapped by Mo Huan. Bai Weizhi promises to bring them back safely. Lu Yizhou then tells his companions to protect themselves and fight their way out together.

He turns to Rong Su, imploring her not to use her internal power, to which she replies that he must also promise to leave with him. Recalling a past moment when she was too stubborn to follow him, Rong Su now confesses that she understands what truly matters and hopes her realization isn't too late.

Lu Yizhou questions why she didn't leave with the others if she understood, and she admits her concern for him, asking what he would do alone. He insists she leave at the first opportunity, assuring her he will find her himself and won't let anything happen to him. As they fight, Lu Yizhou takes an arrow, sustaining a severe injury near his heart.

Despite Rong Su's desperate pleas not to leave, he urges her to go, warning that both will die if she stays. Concerned about her condition, he again reminds her not to use her internal power. He then orders his disciples to forcibly take Rong Su away, stating he will handle things there and then go to assist Lin Jing. Rong Su protests, crying out that he cannot leave her, that he promised to wait, and begging him not to lie.

As she is dragged away, Lu Yizhou quietly bids her to "Take care." Inside Dragon Howl City, Cang Qi follows orders and commands his disciples to set the city ablaze, declaring that from now on, "there will be no Dragon Howl City." Outside, Rong Su is escorted to safety by Nalan clansmen who explain her severe injuries make travel difficult, and they are grateful to meet Jinque and her husband who were awaiting them.

Rong Su, however, just wants to be left alone for a while. As they watch, Dragon Howl City erupts in flames, causing despair among the onlookers. Jinque's husband expresses concern for Rong Su, noting her emotional pain at seeing her family's legacy destroyed. Rong Su, reflecting on her past actions, acknowledges her betrayal of the Supreme Master, stating that everything she did for the Ling Sect was against her will, done only for her master's sake.

Now, she desires only to be herself and avoid further conflicts. Her thoughts return to Lu Yizhou, desperately hoping he will return so she can bid him a final farewell, affirming he is the only one she has now. A nearby voice pronounces that with Dragon Howl City and the Ling Sect destroyed, the chaos has finally ended. Lin Jing and his remaining brothers battle their way out of the encirclement.

Lin Jing supports a fading Lu Yizhou, urging him to hold on for Rong Su. Lu Yizhou, however, is resigned, explaining he let Rong Su leave first because he didn't want her to see him in such a state. He asks Lin Jing to tell Rong Su he went somewhere else on business and wouldn't know when he'd return, and to take care of her, if she still holds hope.

Lin Jing vehemently refuses to accept this, insisting that Lu Yizhou must live to rebuild the Nalan family and that he would not know how to face Rong Su otherwise. Lu Yizhou, knowing his end is near, reaffirms his wishes, stating that he feels content to be remembered by so many. Lin Jing tries to motivate him by reminding him of his former lively self and playfully dismissing his talk of repaying debts in the next life, even childhood ones.

Lu Yizhou then makes a final, earnest request: that Lin Jing live well, travel, and experience all the beautiful sights and delicious foods he will now miss. He promises to clear all debts Lin Jing owes him. Lin Jing, still clinging to hope, tries to deflect, saying Lu Yizhou should do those things with Rong Su himself, as he is too busy. But Lu Yizhou finally collapses, unable to move further.

With his last breaths, he entrusts Rong Su's care to Lin Jing. Lin Jing, devastated, desperately tries to rouse his friend, but Lu Yizhou tragically dies in his arms. Three months later, the martial world finds a temporary peace. Rong Su, still recovering from her injuries, spends her days sitting in a pavilion, playing Go and speaking to an imaginary Lu Yizhou.

She muses about her improved Go skills and urges him to make his move, noting even Young Master Lu of Lingxu Pavilion is no match. Then, with a moment of trance, the deceased person seems to disappear, and she drops the piece, looking sad. Bai Weizhi arrives with her medicine, deeply saddened by her self-neglect. He gently chides her, warning that her legs will be crippled if she continues to torture herself.

Rong Su, however, expresses her longing for Lu Yizhou, hoping he would return and even scold her. Bai Weizhi reminds her that Lin Jing had explained that Lu Yizhou was seeking medicine for her recovery. Rong Su dismisses the idea of recovery, stating her only purpose is to wait for him, hoping for even a message to confirm his thoughts of her. She asks to be left alone, and Bai Weizhi, though hurt by her stubbornness, reflects on their past.

He acknowledges his own past favoritism towards Rong Hua due to her frail health, which led him to neglect Rong Su. He urges her to let go of her grief, arguing that life must go on, even for those who cannot forget. Rong Su then confronts him, asking if he has forgotten his own aunt, to which he admits he hasn't but reiterates that life continues regardless.

He advises her to find a new love, but his words do not reach her. Leaving the pavilion, Bai Weizhi worries that Lin Jing's decision to conceal Lu Yizhou's death has left Rong Su in a painful limbo, wishing they had had a proper farewell. Bai Weizhi, unable to convince Rong Su, eventually goes to the stream where Lin Jing is trying to pass the time by skipping stones.

Bai Weizhi playfully scolds Lin Jing for being hard to find, leading to some lighthearted banter. He then excitedly shares the good news that Rong Hua has woken up, and Lin Jing rushes back to their wooden house. Outside, Bai Su gently stops Bai Weizhi from entering, advising him to give the reunited couple some privacy after all they've been through, and even hints at hoping for grandchildren. Inside, Lin Jing and Rong Hua share a joyful reunion.

Rong Hua, radiating happiness, expresses her joy that their dream of a carefree life has finally come true. Lin Jing confesses he was so worried he almost planned to knock himself out to find her in his dreams. He assures her they will never be separated again, even by death. Rong Hua asks about his confidence in transferring the Chihua Pill (queen worm). Lin Jing reveals he had little certainty but acted out of desperation in a life-or-death situation.

He recounts how, when Mo Huan was on the verge of death and Rong Hua was gravely endangered, he chose to absorb the Chihua Pill from Mo Huan into his own body, despite knowing he would suffer the backlash again. In a flashback, he had defied Mo Huan, telling her that her power was meaningless without companionship, and that the counterattacking pain was nothing compared to Rong Hua's safety.

He promised that as long as he was safe, Rong Hua would be too, signifying his determination for a new era. Rong Hua, concerned, questioned if it was worth enduring the queen worm's control again for her sake. Lin Jing affirmed that eradicating evil and bringing peace to the martial world was worth it. With the Chihua Pill transferred to Lin Jing, Mo Huan rapidly aged, her face losing its youthful appearance, reverting to her old age.

In her final moments, Mo Huan lamented her ultimate defeat despite a lifetime of striving, expressing deep regret and wishing her disciples, Ruohan and Jingfeng, were still by her side, wondering how wonderful it would have been if they were still with her. Back inside, Lin Jing further elaborates on their intertwined fate, emphasizing that they are now bound together by both blessings and misfortunes.

He states that from now on, only a reckless Lin Jing remains, and all the past grievances of Na Lanyue have been buried with Dragon Howl City. He will protect himself for Rong Hua's sake. When Rong Hua asks about his future plans, Lin Jing enthusiastically shares his vision: to first have three chubby babies, one surnamed Lin, one Rong, and the third, Linrong. Rong Hua lovingly agrees to all his plans.

Meanwhile, outside, Bai Weizhi, still fuming about Lin Jing "stealing" his disciple, takes out his frustration by loudly cursing Lin Jing and attacking innocent vegetables, calling him treacherous, ungrateful, and a scoundrel who crossed the river and demolished the bridge. Bai Su arrives and, after some playful banter where Bai Weizhi complains about her favoritism towards Rong Hua, cleverly praises him as an "uncut gem," noting he's much more pleasing than other disciples.

Flattered, Bai Weizhi momentarily forgets his anger, only for Bai Su to then assign him the task of bathing "Weizhi Junior," a small turtle, much to his exasperation. Rong Hua then goes to visit Rong Su, who, now unable to walk and relying on crutches, is calm but reflective. Rong Su expresses that she ultimately ignored Rong Hua's earlier advice and used her internal power again, resulting in her current injuries and the loss of her martial arts.

She believes this is a fair consequence for her past karmic sins and mistakes, noting that losing her martial arts is a blessing in disguise. Rong Hua reassures her, stating that all her actions were for Dragon Howl City and that there's no right or wrong in their differing approaches. She promises that their grand-master will find a cure for her.

Rong Su, however, feels she has caused too much trouble for everyone, including Bai Weizhi and Bai Su, who had to move from Blackrock Mountain for the sake of Dragon Howl City. She states that with Dragon Howl City destroyed, she feels a newfound peace and asks them not to trouble themselves further for her.

Rong Hua counters that their help was given willingly, as they are family, adding that if Rong Su doesn't heal her injuries, she (Rong Hua) will feel guilty her whole life. Rong Su, however, feels she caused Rong Hua's suffering under Mo Huan. She decides to resign herself to her injuries, acknowledging her sister's love for travel. She encourages Rong Hua to live freely, pursuing her own desires, adding a playful warning to take Lin Jing away before they clash.

Rong Hua suggests they play a game of Go before she leaves, and Rong Su agrees. Having said their farewells, Lin Jing and Rong Hua embark on their journey together, hand in hand, for a life of peace and freedom. They playfully tease each other about the weather and past arguments.

Lin Jing reminds Rong Hua of their shared fate, where one's pain is felt by the other, wondering what there is to be happy about when they are so connected. He then dotingly asks her to choose their next destination, promising that whatever his wife says is right, and he will follow her lead completely. Rong Hua chooses to go east, to the place where her mother was born.

As they travel through scenic landscapes, the trials and tribulations of the martial world fade into the background. With shared fate, bound by the same "Gu" and unwavering love, the couple looks forward to a future where they will remain together through life and death, sharing bed and grave, having no regrets in this life.