Chapter 062: Lotus Volunteers for the Task

In the flower garden of the Snow Bamboo Grounds, Xueze sat quietly on the stone steps beneath a tree, lost in thought. The chill of the bluestone beneath her seeped straight into her soul, echoing her mood at this moment. The gentle breeze carried the fragrance of blossoms, yet within that sweetness lingered a faint sadness. She had no heart to admire the scenery, but still she saw petals drifting to the ground—truly, time could change many things.

An hour ago, Xueze had not felt such sharp discomfort at the shifting tides of fate, nor had she believed that the bonds of sisterhood in Tianshan could be so easily outweighed by rank or a word of praise. No matter how her senior brother or Lianzi tried to warn her, she had dismissed their concerns as needless anxiety. However her senior sisters acted or spoke, she simply thought it was the sharpness born of wholehearted devotion to Tianshan.

Everything changed when Jianrong brought the Celestial Lord Jiucang to the Snow Bamboo Grounds. Only then did Xueze truly understand the meaning of “all is changed, though the things remain.”

The Celestial Lord Jiucang decreed, “Every disciple of Tianshan must be single-minded in protecting our mountain, loyal to the end. Here we have rare medicines and many immortal physicians—how then can there be any talk of illness or leave? The previous words of Baiyu have been refuted; let Jianrong instruct her well. As for the matter of descending the mountain, assignments cannot be left to the whims of the juniors, but must be based on merit. For now, let the two disciples of the Snow Bamboo Grounds compete with Baiyu; the victor shall go down the mountain, and upon return may take charge of the Snow Domain, rise to the rank of Lady Official, and perhaps even assist Jianrong in overseeing the position of Celestial Master!”

How Jianrong persuaded Jiucang to change his mind, step over others to act as interim Celestial Master, and drag both the Snow Bamboo Grounds and Baiyu into this intrigue was truly impressive.

At this crucial moment, Lianzi, seeking to protect Xueze, volunteered herself. “Though I have only recently arrived, I have studied the ways of the mortal world, understand the tastes of the Beihua people, and am somewhat skilled in dance and music. Why not let me, Lianzi, take this opportunity? If I succeed, it will show the abundance of talent in Tianshan—that even a newcomer can shine. If I fail, it will not harm your honor, and others will not speculate.”

Jiucang beamed with pleasure, about to entrust the task to Lianzi. “Your words please me greatly!”

But Jianrong intervened. “Celestial Lord, reconsider! The contest has already been set and the stage prepared—how can it now be given to Lianzi alone? If Baiyu learns of this, she may complain of unfairness. Moreover, Lianzi’s claims are yet unproven. Let Baiyu, Xueze, and Lianzi settle it with a dance.”

“There is some sense in my sister’s words, but also error,” Xueze replied. “There are only two female disciples in the Snow Bamboo Grounds. For Lianzi, as a junior sister, to compete against her seniors is hardly proper. Senior Sister Baiyu must compete with me as punishment for her refusal, but my own senior sister has never shirked her duties nor been involved in these quarrels. Why implicate her?”

Jiucang glanced at Lianzi, then at Qiangui, whose expression was sour. He smiled. “So be it. Lianzi and Baiyu shall compete. If no further preparation is needed, come with us now.”

Xueze watched as Lianzi was led away, keenly aware of Jianrong’s malice.

“Master!” she called out.

“It’s all right.” Qiangui gently patted Xueze’s shoulder, then summoned Lanshui and Jilin. “There’s nothing urgent today—stay here in the Snow Bamboo Grounds. Lanshui, go observe the contest. Jilin, tend to the garden and make preparations.”

Lanshui nodded, understanding her intent. “Master still has important matters. Please take care.”

“Yes, I leave this place in your hands.” As Qiangui walked away, Jilin wanted to comfort Xueze, but could find no words. “Senior brother, perhaps I should go watch the contest and you stay here?”

“Very well, keep an eye on Lianzi,” Lanshui replied, watching Jilin leave, then turning to look at the silent Xueze. Though Xueze was kind-hearted, she saw things clearly and had a sharp mind. To find herself betrayed by those she trusted pained her deeply, yet she could not put her feelings into words.

The contest between Lianzi and Baiyu was like a stage with a script known to some. Those who understood had no expectations for the outcome; the others believed it an honorable necessity. Without her brother’s reminder, Xueze knew that Baiyu would deliberately lose to eager Lianzi.

Lanshui sat silently beside Xueze, keeping her company.

After returning from the contest, Jilin reported to Qiangui and completed many preparations. By then, the result was already known, though there was no need to announce it.

Soon, Lianzi returned as well. Seeing Xueze and Lanshui sitting quietly, she skipped over to them.

“Hey, what kind of deal could make the proud Baiyu willingly lose to me? What agreement did she strike to be so obedient to Jianrong?”

“Lianzi!” Xueze wanted to speak but stopped, countless thoughts swirling within her.

Lianzi noticed Xueze’s troubled expression and said with a calm smile, “Sister, don’t worry! I grew up in Lanxin Pavilion. Oh, senior brother, I think you had something to say to me?”

Lanshui smiled knowingly. “Lianzi, are you prepared for your journey down the mountain?”

“Don’t worry, senior brother! Master has already given me instructions; I know what to watch for. It’s just a trip down the mountain—one dance, take first place, then investigate what demons are plaguing the Beihua Kingdom.”

Lanshui smiled faintly. “You’re clever, but your cultivation is shallow. You’ll need some magical tools. Before you go, come with me to collect a set for yourself, along with other necessities.”

“That won’t be necessary, senior brother. Master already told me where to go, and second brother gave me advice. I know what to bring.”

“You’re new to Tianshan and unfamiliar with many things. Let me take you—it’s safer.”

“No need, second brother and I have arranged it. Besides, magical tools are not simply taken; fate must play a part. You’re busy with your duties—I won’t take up your time!”

“Are you sure you’ve arranged it with your second brother?”

“Yes, he told me to wait for him at the Bridge of Lost Souls!” Lianzi grinned. “You know second brother—he’s gone so many years without his own magical tool, he surely wants to try his luck! I might not get anything, but maybe he will.”

“Very well. Once you’re down the mountain, be careful and keep in touch at all times.”

“I will!” Lianzi’s gaze met Xueze’s, and Xueze looked back at her. Since coming to the mountain, they had ceased to be inseparable, always acting alone yet always worrying for each other—it was truly a sorrowful thing.

“Sister, don’t overthink it. We expected this would happen. After this, you’ll have learned and won’t trust so easily again—that’s a good thing. Besides, it’s a real opportunity: when I return, I’ll be promoted, and I’m glad for it. Just be careful in the days ahead—don’t let anyone take advantage when you’re vulnerable!”

Xueze nodded. “Of course, I understand everything. But when you’re down the mountain, be extremely careful—don’t act rashly. Beihua is full of hidden dangers and prying eyes. Take care of yourself.”

“I know. With my wits and Tianshan’s magical tools, no one can harm me. Just wait for my good news—I promise I’ll return safely!”

In the secret realm of Tianshan, Jianrong took on Baiyu’s appearance and stood among the flowers, watching ripples spread across the water’s surface.

“Baiyu, to help you reach your dreams, your sister will aid you one more time. I hope you understand my intentions.”

After a few sighs, she sent a message to Lianzi, thinking of her earlier conversation with Shuo:

“Master, Xueze didn’t take the bait. Instead, that foolish Lianzi stepped in. Should we let Lianzi go down the mountain, then get rid of her, or...?”

“Why are you so impatient? Do you mean to leave not a single soul from the Snow Bamboo Grounds? Do Xueze and Lianzi truly threaten you that much? In my view, neither could steal your position.”

“Then, Master, what do you advise?”

“Since you’re so eager to eliminate your rivals, and I’ve designed this trap myself, why not use the best among them as a sacrifice? Lianzi is of shallow skill, just a red lotus spirit from Lanxin Pavilion—not worth much effort. That Xueze, on the other hand, is of noble birth and beloved by all; let’s choose her.”

“Very well, I’ll see to it at once!”