After exchanging a few words, Li Muchen wrapped his arm around her slender waist, flashed once, and returned to the Yunxiao Sect, going straight to pay his respects to the Sect Master, Yi Xingzhi.

Yi Xingzhi's room was quiet, attended only by Gu Hengdi; eight black-clad guards stood watch around them. They disliked speaking, and Gu Hengdi was not one for many words either, so the atmosphere was very still.

When Li Muchen and Feng Mingxue appeared, the two black-clad guards at the door nodded slightly. "The Sect Master instructed that you should enter once you arrived."

Li Muchen nodded in acknowledgement and smiled. "Has Uncle-Master Ping returned?"

"He returned yesterday." The black-clad guard nodded.

Li Muchen smiled and nodded. Although he hadn't sensed that Guard Ping was in danger, those fellows were simply too arrogant, and one couldn't be too careful.

The two entered the Sect Master's chambers. Gu Hengdi came out to meet them, whispering, "It's done already?"

Li Muchen shook his head. Feng Mingxue glanced into the room and lowered her voice. "Master, it's about something else."

"You didn't find out?" Gu Hengdi frowned and asked.

"The Sect Master is asleep?" Li Muchen sighed. "Those people are truly mysterious. We couldn't uncover anything in a short while. This can only serve as a catalyst, to see if we can draw something out."

"What catalyst?" Gu Hengdi asked.

Li Muchen smiled and looked towards Feng Mingxue.

Feng Mingxue announced, "Master, Junior Brother took the liberty of proposing marriage on the Sect Master's behalf, and Sect Master Zhao of the Nine Heavens Profound Maiden Sect has already agreed!"

"What?!" Yi Xingzhi exclaimed from the inner room.

Feng Mingxue pursed her lips and laughed loudly. "Sect Master, congratulations! Your long-cherished wish is finally coming true!"

Yi Xingzhi shouted from inside, "Come in, come in!"

The three entered the room. Gu Hengdi shot a glare at Li Muchen—this was a major event, yet he went ahead and settled it without a word. He was acting as the head of the house!

Yi Xingzhi was already propped up against the headboard, staring at them intently. "What in the world is going on?"

Li Muchen smiled. "Sect Master, Senior Sister and I investigated everything. We even ran into a group trying to assassinate us. Though we subdued them, we couldn't get any information."

Yi Xingzhi waved his hand, frowning. "And what about my matter..."

He knew it wouldn't be easy to investigate; otherwise, it wouldn't have remained unresolved for so many years. Even Li Wuji's prowess wouldn't be strong enough to hide it this well.

Feng Mingxue declared, "Sect Master, congratulations! You're getting married!"

"How come I don't know about it!" Yi Xingzhi said crossly. "Who did you propose to?"

Li Muchen chuckled. "Senior Fu, of course! Could the Sect Master possibly have another sweetheart!?"

"Don't talk nonsense, you brat!" Yi Xingzhi glared and grunted. "Did you speak with Sect Master Zhao?"

Li Muchen nodded. "Yes, I met Sect Master Zhao personally and proposed to Senior Fu on the Sect Master's behalf. Sect Master Zhao readily agreed!"

"Really?!" Yi Xingzhi looked at Feng Mingxue in disbelief.

Feng Mingxue smiled. "Sect Master, although Junior Brother has some... methods, Sect Master Zhao did indeed nod in agreement."

"What methods did you use?!" Yi Xingzhi asked.

Feng Mingxue looked at Li Muchen, who quickly smiled. "The method doesn't matter, as long as the goal is achieved, right, Sect Master?"

"You used dishonorable means?" Yi Xingzhi grunted.

Li Muchen hastily waved his hands. "Not at all!"

Feng Mingxue pursed her lips and smiled. "He slandered them, saying the assassination attempt was the Nine Heavens Profound Maiden Sect using a borrowed knife with ill intentions!"

"Nonsense!" Yi Xingzhi shook his head. He was certain the matter had nothing to do with the Nine Heavens Profound Maiden Sect.

Li Muchen smiled. "The Sect Master is certain they are not connected to the assassination?"

"Yes, it shouldn't concern them," Yi Xingzhi nodded and sighed. "If they planned to act, there's no need to rush; perhaps it was enemies of the Nine Heavens Profound Maiden Sect."

Li Muchen laughed. "That remains to be seen. The schemings of the Nine Heavens Profound Maiden Sect are extraordinary!... Sect Master, shouldn't you thank me?"

Yi Xingzhi shook his head and sighed. "You brat, you have thoroughly offended the Nine Heavens Profound Maiden Sect this time. How will you manage things with Miss Hai in the future?"

Feng Mingxue explained, "When he met Sect Master Zhao, he insisted the matter was related to them, then pleaded for mercy, and then wanted to spar with Sect Master Zhao. Out of helplessness, she could only agree."

"You're resorting to bullying by using your status," Yi Xingzhi shook his head with a wry smile.

Li Muchen laughed. "Matters of the heart require cutting through the red tape quickly. How about this, I don't see any hope for you two in this lifetime!"

"Nonsense!" Yi Xingzhi was unconcerned. "Since you won't say it, I was planning to mention it myself in a while."

Li Muchen countered, "The Sect Master lacks the face to say it, and even if you did, it would be useless. Sect Master Zhao would dismiss you in a few words. Only I could play the villain and force her agreement!"

Yi Xingzhi shook his head. "That's not a good way."

Li Muchen grinned. "Good or bad, as long as it gets done. Once you marry Senior Fu and the deed is done, everything will fall into place!"

Yi Xingzhi laughed. "Are you trying to piggyback on this and have Feihong agree to your match with Miss Hai?"

"I'm counting entirely on the Sect Master. A pillow whisper is the most effective!" Li Muchen chuckled.

Yi Xingzhi shook his head. "I won't meddle in your affairs."

Li Muchen quickly protested. "I helped the Sect Master, yet the Sect Master won't help me—that's quite unfair!"

Yi Xingzhi laughed despite himself. "You talk of fairness with me? You didn't even tell me beforehand, unilaterally deciding to propose! You're utterly audacious. I should be punishing you, not letting it go!"

Li Muchen turned to Gu Hengdi. "Master, look at the Sect Master."

Gu Hengdi gave him a sidelong glance. "You're causing chaos! How could you be so bold and reckless!"

Li Muchen said helplessly, "If such a great opportunity isn't seized, even Heaven would disapprove. 'Heaven gives, yet one refuses to take, incurring blame instead,' right, Sect Master?"

"Fine, I owe you one," Yi Xingzhi laughed. "Sect Master Zhao really agreed?... She won't go back on her word, will she?"

Li Muchen scoffed. "I doubt she has the nerve!"

Yi Xingzhi laughed. "You brat, don't rely on being a Grandmaster to bully people. The Nine Heavens Profound Maiden Sect isn't easily bullied either!"

Li Muchen said, "I know they have several hidden Grandmasters, but unfortunately, they won't emerge. Sect Master, I suspect those assassins will cause trouble."

"Hmm..." Yi Xingzhi nodded lightly, slowly agreeing.

Li Muchen smiled. "Sect Master, set a date. The sooner the better, to avoid complications arising from delay. The Nine Heavens Profound Maiden Sect and Fuyun Palace are already at odds; it might escalate. Before the chaos erupts, let's settle the wedding first."

Yi Xingzhi pondered. "I need to discuss this with everyone. Some disciples are still out training; we need to summon them back."

Li Muchen disagreed. "I don't think that's necessary. Keep it simple for now. Once the deed is done, everything else can be settled later, one by one."

Yi Xingzhi shook his head. "I want a grand ceremony!"

Gu Hengdi nodded and smiled. "The Sect Master is right; we can't be too hasty. It would be unfair to Senior Fu, and this is also an opportunity to promote our Yunxiao Sect."

Yi Xingzhi pondered for a moment, silent. After a while, he sighed. "Wuji, I suspect these assassins might be connected to those scheming against us. Could it be them?"

Li Muchen said, "It's very possible. Sect Master, rest assured, I will guard against them."

Yi Xingzhi nodded. "Well, with you as a Grandmaster presiding, I feel reassured. You possess the gift of foresight, don't you?"

Li Muchen laughed. "If they want to disrupt the wedding, it’s a perfect chance to lure the snakes out of their holes!... However, if outsiders see these assassins, they might think our Yunxiao Sect is easy to bully. It's better to invite fewer people."

"That is true," Yi Xingzhi nodded, sighing. "Then let's invite fewer guests."

"Absolutely not!" Gu Hengdi snorted. "Wuji, if you truly have abilities, this is the perfect opportunity to publicize the prestige of our Yunxiao Sect. Wouldn't that be ideal?"

"Hengdi, you..." Yi Xingzhi shook his head helplessly.

Their philosophies differed. Although Gu Hengdi was serene and usually kept out of mundane affairs, she disapproved of the Yunxiao Sect's policy of maintaining a low profile. She believed that true strength should be displayed openly, and once the Yunxiao Sect’s power was firmly established in people's minds, it could effectively protect its disciples.

Gu Hengdi stated, "Sect Master, let's do it my way this time. Invite more people, and hold a magnificent celebration!"

"...Very well!" Yi Xingzhi nodded slowly. "Send out the invitations widely and organize a proper event!"

Li Muchen looked helplessly at Gu Hengdi and could only agree. He wasn't afraid of other things, only that Sect Master Zhao might cause some new trouble. If things changed, the Yunxiao Sect would lose face. He had, after all, forced this matter through, and Sect Master Zhao was no pushover; she might realize the situation later and devise a scheme to humiliate the Yunxiao Sect.

Feng Mingxue pursed her lips and smiled. "Junior Brother, are you worried about Sect Master Zhao?" She, too, was deeply wary of Sect Master Zhao now. Li Muchen nodded and sighed. "I'm just afraid she'll resort to trickery."

"Does she have the gall?" Feng Mingxue asked.

Li Muchen sighed. "The Sect Master is marrying Senior Fu. Even if we don't consider her, if she tries some small maneuver, what can I do? I'll be constrained!"

"That is true," Feng Mingxue nodded slightly. "We can't afford to be careless."

Li Muchen mused, "It seems we'll have to get Miss Hai involved as an inside informant."

Feng Mingxue shot him a look. "Always coming up with terrible ideas. Sister Hai will never agree. Enough. Just be careful in everything. If she tries any tricks, she won't go too far; Sect Master Zhao knows where to draw the line."

That evening, Li Muchen was discussing defense strategies with everyone in the Yunxiao Sect—the eighteen black-clad guards and some of the second-generation disciples—who were to take up their posts to make Hengbo Island impenetrable, ensuring no mishaps occurred.

He suddenly sensed something amiss and excused himself from the group, flashing instantly to Yuanxin Temple. He had been busy arranging island defenses these past two days and hadn't had time to visit.

Outside the main hall of Yuanxin Temple, Li Yubing sat on a tree stump, smiling as she watched the surrounding fierce beasts frolic. Her snow-white silk robe made her look like the Bodhisattva Guanyin. Jikong and Jing'er stood to one side, watching her cautiously.

Upon seeing Li Muchen appear, Li Yubing smiled. "Little monk, you've been out of sight these last few days. Are you afraid to spar with me?"

Li Muchen laughed. "Palace Mistress, I have been occupied these past few days. Did you need me for something?"

Li Yubing stood up and stretched languidly, smiling indolently. "I have to leave."

Li Muchen's eyebrows lifted, and he cast a questioning look.

Li Yubing explained, "I'm tied up with trivial matters. Trouble has arisen in the Palace, and I must return to deal with it. I'm not like you, an otherworldly expert, able to focus solely on cultivation!"

Li Muchen shook his head and smiled. "I am hardly so blessed; I too am entangled in trivialities. Has anything major happened at the Palace, Mistress?"

"A minor issue, not worth mentioning!" Li Yubing waved her hand and smiled. "In a while, after I've sorted things out, I will seek you out again!"

Li Muchen smiled. "That would be excellent; I should be finished with my tasks then too."

Li Yubing added, "We've only fought five rounds; it's not satisfying enough. If I can't come to you, you must come find me!"

Li Muchen smiled slyly. "That sounds good. I will come find the Palace Mistress."

She reached into her robe and lightly tossed something out—a streak of dark light landed in Li Muchen's hand. "This is my token. Just ask someone, and you will find me."

He looked down at the dark wood plaque. It was weightless but extremely hard, impervious to blades or swords. One side was yin-engraved with the characters "Mo Li," and the other with the character "Bing."

He knew this was Li Yubing’s identity token. Li Yubing smiled. "Keep it safe; don't lose it. The disciples in the Palace will recognize this token as if they saw me."

Li Muchen smiled. "Then if I have need, I can command them?"

"Naturally," Li Yubing nodded lightly and smiled charmingly. "Feel free to command them!"

Li Muchen said, "Then I won't be polite!"

He placed the dark wood token in his robe, then took out a white jade pendant, crystal clear and warm, its glow shimmering as if holding a clear spring within. The white jade pendant floated into Li Yubing's hand. Li Muchen smiled. "This is my token. If you crush it, I will arrive immediately."

"Hmm, it seems you possess extraordinary divine abilities. Truly worthy of being a venerable Buddhist master," Li Yubing nodded slightly. She had just instructed Jikong and Jing'er to call her master back to see her. When they crushed the jade pendant, Li Muchen appeared instantly, confirming to her that he possessed a miraculous technique allowing instantaneous travel.

Li Muchen smiled. "However, I estimate that Palace Mistress will not need to use my token. If you truly require help in the future, you can bring the token to find me."

"Very well. If I need help in the future, I certainly won't be reserved," Li Yubing chuckled softly and waved her hand. "I'm leaving now."

Without waiting for Li Muchen to say more, her figure wavered, her shadow slowly dispersed, and she vanished.

Jikong stared at her dissipating shadow, envious. "When will I ever achieve such Qinggong!"

Li Muchen turned to look at him and smiled faintly. "Palace Mistress Li is a Grandmaster. If you wish to have her level of Qinggong, you need not only diligent practice but also something else."

"What else, Master?" Jikong eagerly asked.

Li Muchen replied, "Comprehension. Blindly practicing diligently is useless; comprehension is paramount. However, to enter the realm of Grandmaster, comprehension isn't the most critical factor; the key is Fortune and Virtue. Ah... these are topics for later. How have things been these past few days?"

"Master, many people wanted to see you," Jikong reported.

Li Muchen's eyebrows twitched. "Who were they?"

Jing'er chimed in, "Some dignitaries and several martial arts experts all wanted to see you, Master. Alas, since you were absent, they were very disappointed."

Li Muchen smiled. "It's fine not to see worldly people. Do not neglect your own cultivation!"

"Master, you won't see anyone at all?" Jing'er asked curiously.

Li Muchen laughed. "Why should I see them?"

"There were many beautiful women too," Jing'er pursed her lips and giggled lightly.

Li Muchen shook his head. "Your Master is a monk. Beauties are no different from skeletons. Alright, Jing'er, you have made considerable progress these few days!" He raised an eyebrow in surprise. "What kind of mental cultivation technique have you practiced?"

Jing'er lowered her head shyly. "Master, Senior Li taught me a few lines of incantation, saying I could practice it for fun, claiming it's the best for maintaining beauty."

Li Muchen shook his head with a wry smile. "Truly reckless."

"Master, is it wrong?" Jing'er was startled and quickly asked.

Li Muchen sighed. "Palace Mistress Li is truly causing trouble, passing on such profound mental cultivation—Alas! I owe her another favor!"

Jing'er hurriedly asked, "Master, is this mental technique very good?"

Li Muchen replied, "It is a secret technique of the Moli Palace. What do you think?"

Jing'er showed a look of pleasant surprise. "I thought it was just some trifle." In recent days, listening to Jikong recount matters of the martial world, and with the disciples of Moli Palace stationed in the town, everyone discussed them. She had learned of the Moli Palace's formidable power. A major sect like the Moli Palace, capable of producing Grandmasters, was one of the most unshakeable powers in the Xihua martial world. Yet, she had unknowingly cultivated their secret technique!

Li Muchen asked, "She said it was a trifle?"

Jing'er nodded. "Yes, she said to practice it for fun, claiming this technique has no other purpose than best preserving one's looks. Isn't Palace Mistress Li seventy years old, Master? Did you know?"

Li Muchen nodded and smiled. "Yes." When interacting with Li Yubing, it was hard to sense her true age. She looked around thirty, more like an elder sister than a grandmother, with a very youthful demeanor. However, in this era, besides himself, all other Grandmasters had entered that stage after turning sixty, and Li Yubing was no exception; being over seventy was entirely possible. Yet, when spending time with her, it was difficult to truly regard her as a seventy-year-old woman. Her skin was crystal clear and plump, resembling a radiant young woman in her thirties, and her temperament was lively and vibrant.

"Then you should practice it diligently," Li Muchen smiled.

Jing'er tilted her head. "Should I only practice this?"

Li Muchen instructed, "Practice the mental technique I taught you for one hour every day first. Practicing this one afterward will complement it, doubling the efficacy."

"Yes, Master!" Jing'er nodded excitedly. No matter her age, she was still a woman, and she cared deeply about her appearance, even more so than martial arts prowess. She had long favored this beauty-preserving technique but was afraid of her Master's disapproval, so she had held back from practicing it too much.

Li Muchen saw Jikong looking envious and shook his head, smiling. "Jikong, Palace Mistress Li's technique suits women; it won't work for you. If you diligently practice what I taught you, your achievements will surely not be less than Jing'er's!"

Jikong vigorously nodded, suddenly realizing: Master's achievements surpassed Palace Mistress Li's. Palace Mistress Li, despite her age, only managed a draw with Master. It was much better to practice Master's martial arts!

Li Muchen looked thoughtfully at Jing'er, considering how to repay this favor. The Moli Palace had a poor reputation in Xihua—unreasonable, domineering, treating unorthodox martial artists like pigs and dogs, earning the deep resentment of countless people. But the Moli Palace also wielded immense power, having gathered many unorthodox martial artists who possessed considerable cultivation. It was hard for him to offer them help; rather, he might need their assistance.

Jikong reported, "Master, yesterday an old monk came and said he wished for Master to become the head abbot of Miaolian Temple."