Li Muzhan pondered for a moment, then sighed, “It’s hard on the Sect Master; Sect Master Zhao will surely demand an exorbitant price!” Hai Yulan pursed her lips and smiled, “It’s a rare opportunity!” Li Muzhan said, “Forget it, no matter what, the fact that you can stay with Elder Fu means we can meet often—that’s the best outcome!” Hai Yulan shook her head, “It’s just being a little closer; it seems Master still doesn’t agree.” Li Muzhan chuckled, “Don’t underestimate the power of a little pillow talk. I think Elder Fu will agree eventually, especially with the Sect Master constantly whispering in his ear!” Hai Yulan smiled wryly, “I hope so.

I’ve been stuck by Master’s side, and it’s getting stifling. Take me back to Wanghai City for a visit.” “Return to Wanghai City for what purpose?” Li Muzhan asked.

Hai Yulan replied, “I’m uneasy about things there; I want to check up.” “You should let go, Yulan. The Hai family will thrive just as well without you; rest assured,” Li Muzhan shook his head.

“You are a woman; no matter how capable, some will never accept it. Your innate foundation is weak; there’s no need to force it.” “I refuse to believe that a woman can’t take charge!” Hai Yulan huffed.

Li Muzhan smiled, “That’s just how the world is. Why fight against the entire world?

The consequences might not be pleasant.” “I don’t believe it; I insist on leading the Hai family!” Hai Yulan firmly pressed her red lips together and sniffed. Li Muzhan looked at her, sighed helplessly, “Fine, since you insist, what can I say?

I’ll find a few experts to assist you.” “Wonderful! Give me Zhao Da and the others!” Hai Yulan said quickly.

She knew of the existence of the four led by Zhao Da. She had seen them during the previous wedding, and they were utterly changed from when she first met them.

Their cultivation had advanced by leaps and bounds, progressing so quickly it was staggering; they were all Grandmasters now. Though the Hai family was powerful with many experts, few matched their caliber.

They were sufficient to serve as pillars of support, making their utility immense. Moreover, they were Li Muzhan’s personal retainers; their loyalty was unquestionable, and they were clever, making them ideal candidates for handling important tasks.

Li Muzhan considered this and smiled, “Very well, I’ll ask them first. I won't force them if they are unwilling.” “Don’t worry, they will help,” Hai Yulan said confidently.

Li Muzhan said, “You tormented them quite badly back then; they might not be willing to help.” “That’s because you don’t understand their minds. If I lacked ability, they might hesitate, but since I subdued them, they are actually more inclined to assist,” Hai Yulan explained with a laugh.

Li Muzhan let out an “Oh,” then smiled, “Do they not hold grudges?” “If one’s skill is inferior and they are defeated by someone else, suffering some torment—what is there to hold a grudge over? It would be the same no matter who defeated them.

However, I was merciful; I only severed their tendons. Had it been someone else, their lives would have been taken.

So, they won’t hate me!” Hai Yulan chuckled. Li Muzhan shook his head, “Your thinking is a bit strange… Alright, I will ask them.

If they truly agree, you can go back.” “Then ask quickly!” Hai Yulan exclaimed excitedly. “No rush,” Li Muzhan smiled.

“Have you encountered any assassinations from the Heavenly Dao Alliance recently?” “No, we haven’t!” Hai Yulan shook her head. “Perhaps they were scared after those recent killings.

Did you wipe them out entirely, so they stopped coming?” Li Muzhan shook his head. “After witnessing the true foundation of the Heavenly Dao Alliance, I know their terror isn't so easily eradicated.

They might be brewing an even more intense wave of assassination attempts.” “What should we do then?” Hai Yulan asked, frowning. Fu Feihong and Yi Xingzhi were constantly together; since their marriage, they had been inseparable, as sweet as honey mixed with oil, causing the women around them to shake their heads helplessly.

Li Muzhan said, “I can only offer one more warning: if an assassination attempt truly occurs, rush over as fast as possible.” “I’m afraid it might be too late,” Hai Yulan pondered. “What if they don’t target Sect Master Yi, but instead attempt to assassinate Master?” Li Muzhan smiled, “What do you think?” “Perhaps you could give Master another jade pendant?” Hai Yulan suggested.

Li Muzhan nodded. “That is acceptable.” Hai Yulan smiled, her charm intoxicating, “Thank you so much!” Li Muzhan said, “Elder Fu is now the Sect Master’s wife, and she is your Master besides.

How could she possibly be in danger? Don’t worry!” “I’ll see Master first, and then I’ll head back to Wanghai City with Zhao Da and the others,” Hai Yulan stated.

Li Muzhan nodded. With a flicker of movement, he arrived at the Cloud-Soaring Sect, summoned Zhao Da and the others, and asked if they were willing to go out and provide assistance.

The four of Zhao Da eagerly agreed, filled with delight. Their reasons for not holding grudges turned out to be almost identical to Hai Yulan’s explanation.

Li Muzhan shook his head; he truly didn't understand their thoughts. The four departed for Wanghai City, while Li Muzhan proceeded to the main hall to pay his respects to Yi Xingzhi.

Yi Xingzhi, clad in a long green robe, was speaking with Gu Hengdi. Seeing Li Muzhan approach, he smiled and beckoned him over.

Li Muzhan stepped forward, took a look at him, and saw Yi Xingzhi glowing with vitality, appearing as refreshed as if bathed in the spring breeze. “Sect Master.” Li Muzhan cupped his hands in a respectful salute, “Thank you, Sect Master.” “Thank you for what?” Yi Xingzhi laughed.

“If anything, I should be thanking you. If you hadn’t exerted yourself behind the scenes during the last wedding, it might have been ruined!” Li Muzhan smiled, “It was merely what a disciple should do.” Yi Xingzhi shook his head, “That’s not something just anyone could manage.

Palace Mistress Leng, Palace Mistress Li—these are formidable figures who are hard to invite. Your ability to secure them as bodyguards for me greatly increased my standing!” Li Muzhan replied, “The fact that the Sect Master’s wedding proceeded smoothly was also due to Heaven’s blessing.

There is always a time when even the most careful plan fails.” “Hmm, it is rare for you to think that way. By the way, why haven’t I seen you around the sect these past few days?” Yi Xingzhi asked, patting his shoulder warmly.

Li Muzhan recounted his trip to the Heavenly Dao Alliance headquarters with Li Yubing. Yi Xingzhi mulled it over for a moment, then sighed, “The downfall of the Heavenly Dao Alliance has always been a mystery; it seems it is connected to this Tong Tianshu.” Li Muzhan nodded, not divulging all the intelligence gathered from Tong Tianshu.

He only mentioned the great battle with him, culminating in victory by utilizing the Heavenly Dipper God-Slaying Formation, and the spoils he had acquired. Yi Xingzhi exclaimed, “Remarkable, truly remarkable!” The Heavenly Dao Alliance was once incomparably powerful across the land, renowned not just in Xihua but even in Dali.

Li Muzhan raised an eyebrow slightly, “Sect Master, what deep grudge do you hold against the Heavenly Dao Alliance that they relentlessly pursue you with assassination attempts?” Yi Xingzhi shook his head and sighed, “I truly don’t know. Perhaps it is an old enemy who has remained hidden, but I cannot ascertain the reason.” Li Muzhan asked, “Has the Sect Master never been to Xihua?” Yi Xingzhi shook his head, “Never.

When I wandered the world, I only traveled within the borders of Dali. I haven’t even seen all of Dali; how could I go to Xihua?” Li Muzhan frowned and shook his head pensively, “That’s strange.

Why the relentless pursuit, as if you share an irreconcilable, mortal hatred?” “Alas… I have offended many people in my time. It’s not strange to have one or two enemies from Xihua.

Let it be; I can’t concern myself with every detail,” Yi Xingzhi waved his hand dismissively. “It is you, however, who has tremendous fortune.

With such a great harvest, how do you plan to proceed?” Li Muzhan explained his original intentions. Yi Xingzhi nodded, “That sounds excellent.” Gu Hengdi, who had been silent on the side, now spoke with a smile, “Wuji, you have accomplished another great feat.

Grandmaster martial arts are the foundation of a sect. You have laid an incredibly deep foundation for our Cloud-Soaring Sect.” Yi Xingzhi smiled and nodded.

Gu Hengdi continued, “Sect Master, you’ve truly made a profit this time!” “Heh heh heh…” Yi Xingzhi chuckled. Li Muzhan raised an eyebrow slightly and asked, “Master, how have you profited again?” Yi Xingzhi waved his hand, “Forget it, it’s nothing.” Gu Hengdi said, “Sect Master, he will find out sooner or later!

I’ll tell you now… Wuji, do you know that it was only after the Sect Master fought hard that Miss Hai was permitted to reside in our sect?” Li Muzhan smiled, “Thank you, Sect Master!” But what was the price? Sect Master Zhao is not known for being easy to deal with.” Gu Hengdi stated, “Two sets of Grandmaster martial arts techniques.” Li Muzhan gave a slight laugh and shook his head, “Sect Master Zhao is truly astute!” This is practically capitalizing on another’s misfortune.

Did the Sect Master agree?” Yi Xingzhi laughed, “Two sets of Grandmaster martial arts techniques are not much. Look at it this way: you’ve acquired twenty-two sets this time!

I truly have profited!” Gu Hengdi admonished him, “Wuji, you must treat Miss Hai well. Don't take her for granted and spend all your time chasing after other butterflies, lest you end up with nothing!” Li Muzhan nodded helplessly, “I understand, Master.” Gu Hengdi huffed, “What do you plan to do about Miss Song?

And Mingxue—surely you can see her intentions?” Li Muzhan showed a bitter smile, rubbing the bridge of his nose, remaining silent. Yi Xingzhi waved his hand, “Enough, Hengdi, don’t pressure him.” Gu Hengdi retorted, “Sect Master, if he possessed even a fraction of your devotion, he wouldn’t have these troubles today—having this one and then that one.

Can’t he restrain himself a little! From a woman’s perspective, Wuji, your behavior is utterly infuriating.

You might end up breaking their hearts completely and losing them all!” Li Muzhan felt genuinely helpless and nodded, “Master, I will handle this situation properly.” “How will you handle it?” Gu Hengdi huffed. Li Muzhan replied, “I will marry them all!” “Dream on!” Gu Hengdi scoffed, shaking her head.

“These girls are all proud and spirited. If you manage to marry even one, consider it divine protection.

You want to marry them all? You are too greedy!” Li Muzhan sighed helplessly, “This is the only path now.

Otherwise, marrying any one of them will wound the hearts of the others, and I truly cannot bear that.” “This is precisely why you are so infuriating—you cannot bear to hurt others outside your circle, and in the end, you hurt everyone!” Gu Hengdi glared at him irritably. Yi Xingzhi sighed, patting Li Muzhan’s shoulder, “Wuji, as a fellow man, I understand your predicament.

You naturally wish to gather all the beauties of the world, but one must make choices. You cannot always have things your way.

Among the three thousand waters of the weak river, one must be content with a single cup—that is the wisest course.” Li Muzhan sighed, “Sect Master, at this juncture, I have no other option.” “That depends on whether you can actually walk that path,” Yi Xingzhi waved his hand, frowning. “In my opinion, it’s unlikely.

Leaving aside Miss Hai for a moment, take Miss Mingxue—can she marry you?” Li Muzhan shook his head. He truly had no confidence.

His Senior Sister was too proud; asking her to marry him alongside other women would likely lead her to refuse marriage altogether. This was precisely why he hesitated, unable to commit to a decision.

Once decided, his Senior Sister would never retract her word, even if it meant suffering and regret; she would grit her teeth and see it through. Yi Xingzhi observed, “If Mingxue’s path is blocked, what about the others?

If you insist on this, you can’t marry Mingxue. What about Miss Hai?

I heard Miss Song is also from a prominent family, proud and aloof—a goddess-like, cold figure. Would she agree?” Li Muzhan’s brow twitched as he looked at Yi Xingzhi.

Yi Xingzhi continued, “Naturally, I want to help you find a solution. I’ve looked into the Song family; they are merely a moderately successful lineage, lacking deep roots but possessing potential for growth.

Should we lend them a hand?” Li Muzhan shook his head, “Forget it. Their character is lacking, their vision is limited.

They are like mud that cannot be molded into anything useful.” “Then how do you plan to marry Miss Song?” Yi Xingzhi frowned. “The Song family might not agree either.” Li Muzhan sighed, feeling helpless, “I am troubled by this now too.

I can only take one step at a time; the road will present itself when the carriage reaches the mountain.” “Hmph, if there’s no living path, there’s a dead one!” Yi Xingzhi admonished him irritably. “You are simply too greedy, and you will suffer a great loss sooner or later!” Gu Hengdi added, “You don’t even learn from the Sect Master!” Yi Xingzhi laughed, “Hengdi, let it go.

Wuji and I are not the same type of person. Besides, this boy does possess some capital.

Otherwise, without a second thought, I would send Miss Hai away immediately, lest he harms the poor girl!” Gu Hengdi pursed her lips and smiled, “Sect Master, this fellow is usually worry-free, but concerning women, I fear he will end up turning friends into enemies.” Yi Xingzhi pondered, “How about this: you go and speak seriously with Mingxue.” Gu Hengdi hastily waved her hands, “No, no! I absolutely dare not speak of this with Mingxue.

She will surely give me a cold reception—I cannot bear that!” Yi Xingzhi shook his head, chuckling, “You, her Master, are afraid of your own disciple!” Gu Hengdi shook her head with a wry smile, “It can’t be helped. Her temper is ferocious; I can’t stand up to her as her Master.” “Then perhaps I should go talk to her myself?” Yi Xingzhi offered.

Gu Hengdi quickly waved him off, “Absolutely not! Sect Master, don’t get involved in women’s affairs!” Yi Xingzhi protested, “But I’m worried about Wuji!” Gu Hengdi sighed in resignation, “My advice is to leave him alone and let him handle it as he sees fit!” Li Muzhan quickly agreed, “Master’s words are wise; I will manage it myself.” After his persistent persuasion, Yi Xingzhi finally gave up the idea of intervening.

However, while the three were conversing, footsteps sounded, and Fu Feihong, clad in red, swept in gracefully. “Elder Fu.” Li Muzhan cupped his hands in salute.

As he looked up, he saw her—her face like a peach blossom, her bright eyes sparkling with captivating allure. Truly peerless in grace, her splendor surpassed what it was before, like a peony refreshed by rain and dew.

Li Muzhan inwardly marveled. This was all thanks to the Sect Master.

It appeared the two were living in harmony. Even in the main hall, in front of him and his Master, their glances communicated deep affection.

After so many years, the two had finally achieved their union, cherishing it all the more. Their bond was one Li Muzhan could not fully comprehend; it was certainly different from common love.

Gu Hengdi pursed her lips and smiled, “Wuji, you shouldn’t call her Elder anymore.” Li Muzhan laughed, “I should call her Madam. Congratulations, Madam.” “Call me whatever you like,” Fu Feihong chuckled, waving a hand.

“You, you finally showed your face. I’ve been sending people to look for you constantly, but couldn’t find you!” Li Muzhan asked, “What does Madam require of me?” “It’s about Lan’er!” Fu Feihong huffed.

“You two have been together for quite some time now. Isn’t it time to make things official?” Li Muzhan paused, “Official about what?” “An engagement, of course!” Fu Feihong raised an eyebrow sharply and insisted, “What?

Surely you have thought about it?” Li Muzhan quickly shook his head, laughing, “Of course I have! But…” “But what!” Fu Feihong stared intently at him, her bright eyes swirling, “Are you thinking of postponing it?” Li Muzhan appeared troubled, offering an awkward smile, “Well… I never expected Madam to agree, so I was surprised and didn’t react immediately.” Fu Feihong walked over and sat opposite him.

Extending her hand, Yi Xingzhi and Gu Hengdi sat down as well. Li Muzhan sat across from Fu Feihong, feeling as if he were sitting on pins and needles, utterly uneasy.

“You wicked boy, I know what you’re thinking—you want too much!” Fu Feihong stated plainly. Li Muzhan shook his head helplessly, offering no defense.

Fu Feihong continued, “But you underestimate Lan’er too much. There are countless young heroes in the world who wish to marry her; she cannot possibly share a husband with others?!” Li Muzhan coughed lightly and smiled, “How did Madam come to this realization?” He glanced at Yi Xingzhi, who kept his lips tightly sealed, displaying only a faint smile.

Fu Feihong also glanced at Yi Xingzhi and snorted, “It wasn’t without the Sect Master’s persistent persuasion, praising you up like a blooming flower. Seeing that you might be a decent match for Lan’er, I finally consented.” Li Muzhan exclaimed, “Thank you, Madam!” “Enough, no need for thanks.

I’m just worried you’ll gain her and fail to cherish her,” Fu Feihong waved her jade hand dismissively, casting a sidelong glance at Yi Xingzhi. “I know that’s the way you men are!” Li Muzhan sighed, “The Sect Master just married; wouldn’t an engagement right now be too rushed?” “Not rushed at all!” Fu Feihong firmly disagreed.

“It’s better to capitalize on the lingering festive mood; it will be even more lively!” Li Muzhan managed, “This… perhaps you could allow me a moment to discuss it.” “Discuss what?!” Fu Feihong’s lovely face darkened, her tone turning cold. “Are you trying to use delaying tactics?

Your Master and the Sect Master are both here; just state your intentions directly!” Li Muzhan felt extremely awkward but couldn't afford to show anger. He could only keep sending pleading glances towards Yi Xingzhi, but the Sect Master remained steady as a mountain, pretending not to see his expression, intently studying the teacup in his hand as if it contained marvelous flowers.

Li Muzhan inwardly sighed. He had fallen to such a pass; he could only turn to Gu Hengdi with a look of desperate appeal.

Gu Hengdi seemed unable to watch any longer and cleared her throat, “Madam, allow me to say something.” Fu Feihong’s bright eyes flickered, and she smiled slightly, “Hengdi, speak your mind—but do not speak well of this bad boy!” Gu Hengdi laughed, “This wicked boy, even as a woman, I find him frustrating. He’s too greedy, insisting on marrying several beauties at once.” Fu Feihong’s face immediately darkened, and she sneered, “He’s dreaming!” Gu Hengdi quickly nodded and smiled, “That’s exactly what I was lecturing him about—telling him to make his choices, that he can’t have everything his heart desires, as the world doesn’t revolve around him!” Fu Feihong huffed, “He should indeed make a choice!” Gu Hengdi continued, “However, this wicked boy is too soft-hearted and cannot bear to see any of the young ladies sad, which is why he has delayed until now, unable to decide.” “That’s easy to fix; I’ll give him a push!” Fu Feihong glared coldly at Li Muzhan.

“Forget about Lan’er. We’ll pretend we never knew each other, and you are forbidden from seeing her again!” “Madam Fu—Madam!” Li Muzhan immediately shook his head.

“That cannot be!” Fu Feihong huffed, “Why not! You want to marry several women?

That is pure delusion. My Lan’er will absolutely not marry you!” Li Muzhan scratched his head helplessly and sighed, “Madam, please allow me a moment to consider.” “Consider what!” Fu Feihong demanded coldly.

“If you need time to consider, it means Lan’er is not the most important in your heart. How could I possibly marry Lan’er off to you?!” Gu Hengdi intervened, “Madam, one cannot say it that way.

This isn't a question of priority.” “Then what is it?” Fu Feihong shot back irritably. “Indecision!

Li Wuji, where is the fierce spirit you usually possess!?” Li Muzhan sighed, “Madam, I wish to marry Lan’er, but…” “But you fear hurting Miss Song’s heart, is that it?” Fu Feihong sneered. “Then are you not afraid of hurting Lan’er’s heart?” Li Muzhan shook his head, “I don’t want any of them to be sad!

If I marry only Yulan, I will never be truly happy in this life, and moreover, how could Yulan ever feel secure? If I could abandon my initial women, couldn’t I eventually abandon her too?” “So you are utterly untrustworthy!” Fu Feihong nodded forcefully.

“I have persuaded Lan’er countless times, but she won’t listen, bewitched by infatuation. A man like you can never be trusted!

You had Miss Song, then you fell for Lan’er, and now that you have Lan’er, might you fall for another woman? A man like you, no matter how exceptional, cannot be a proper husband!” Li Muzhan lowered his head, unable to offer a rebuttal.

Every word pierced his heart. Gu Hengdi opened her mouth but could not say much.

While Fu Feihong’s words were harsh, they were the truth. She glared fiercely at Li Muzhan, hating how flighty her disciple was.

Yi Xingzhi coughed lightly and said helplessly, “Madam, I think it’s best to postpone this matter.” “Now you’re taking his side again?!” Fu Feihong glared, her bright eyes sharp and intimidating. “You are also a man; perhaps you envy his situation and wish for a left embrace and a right embrace yourself?” “Madam, what are you saying!” Yi Xingzhi quickly waved his hands in protest.

“You surprised him with this sudden accusation, so he is hesitating and struggling to decide. Give him time to consider carefully.” “Hmph.

Consider what? If you cannot agree without hesitation, I will not agree!” Fu Feihong waved her hand, sneering.

“Li Wuji, you are forbidden from seeing Lan’er again from this day forward!” Li Muzhan smiled bitterly and shook his head, refusing to agree. Fu Feihong glared at him, “Did you hear me?!” Li Muzhan sighed, “Madam, I beg your pardon, but I cannot agree to that.”

"Hmph, so you’re going to defy me now?" Fu Feihong sneered, turning her head to glare at Yi Xingzhi. Yi Xingzhi sighed helplessly, "Madam, let's set this matter aside for now. There’s no need to rush."

"Fine! You men are all birds of a feather, not a single decent one among you!" Fu Feihong spun around and swept away, leaving a lingering trace of perfume in her wake.

"Alas..." Yi Xingzhi watched her leave, letting out a heavy sigh before casting an annoyed glance at Li Muchan. (To be continued)