“Master!” the two women cried out in alarm, rushing forward to support her. Though Gao Jingxuan’s complexion was ashen, her expression remained unchanged.

She waved away their supportive hands and glared at them impatiently, “Enough, I’m not dying. Why the fuss!” The two women anxiously urged, “Master, take your medicine quickly!” “Mm.” Gao Jingxuan pulled a porcelain vial from her robes, slowly pouring out a fiery red pill.

Her hand trembled as she guided it to her mouth, washing it down with a gulp of wine. Although her demeanor was calm and composed, Li Muzhan could tell from the sheer tremor in her hands that she was enduring excruciating pain, merely keeping it hidden from view.

“Master?” The two women kept their eyes fixed on her face. The medicine took effect swiftly, and a faint flush of color rose on Gao Jingxuan’s cheeks.

Li Muzhan asked gently, “Sect Mistress, might I examine this medicine?” Gao Jingxuan casually tossed the porcelain vial over. Li Muzhan carefully caught it, tipped out a pill, sniffed it lightly, and then brought it close to his eyes for a thorough inspection.

“Mr. He, is there something wrong with this medicine?” Zhu Chuyun quickly inquired.

Li Muzhan paused in thought, then looked up and sighed, “Sect Mistress, what a fiercely potent medicine!” “It seems you truly understand medicine,” Gao Jingxuan nodded. “It is indeed a potent remedy.” Li Muzhan countered, “Taking such a harsh, wolfish cure is merely drinking poison to quench thirst.

Sect Mistress, if you can avoid taking it, you should.” “Is there a problem with this medicine?” Yi Xiaoru asked. Li Muzhan nodded.

“Its medicinal force is too overbearing and harms the body. Sect Mistress is using poison to fight poison.

If taken frequently, or if the force is too strong, it will surely shorten your lifespan.” “Then what should we do?” Zhu Chuyun rushed to say, “Mr. He, since you are well-versed in medicine, please examine Master!” Gao Jingxuan managed a small smile and shook her head.

“You little girl, resorting to desperate measures!” Zhu Chuyun insisted, “Master, please just let Mr. He try!” She knew well that countless renowned physicians had been unable to cure her Master’s injury.

They could only suppress the affliction with medicine, taking it when it flared up. In the best-case scenario, if no internal energy or emotions were stirred, the medicine would hold; but if the injury truly erupted, no earthly power, not even a celestial being, could save her life once the suppressive effect failed!

Li Muzhan offered, “If the Sect Mistress does not mind, allow me to take her pulse, if you please.” Gao Jingxuan extended her fair wrist. “Then I shall trouble Mr.

He.” Li Muzhan placed two fingers on her pulse point, his eyelids drifting down slightly. He remained perfectly still.

The three women fixed their bright eyes on his face, watching his every subtle reaction. Li Muzhan’s expression was as calm as still water; nothing could be discerned.

After the time it took to brew a cup of tea, he slowly opened his eyes. “The Sect Mistress sustained an injury to her palm.

Who inflicted it?” “Zhao Yuanming of the Divine Sword Sect!” Zhu Chuyun muttered indignantly. Li Muzhan nodded.

“This internal energy is profoundly malevolent, refusing to dissipate, and it clashes severely with the Sect Mistress’s own internal art, making it exceedingly difficult to expel.” “Precisely,” Gao Jingxuan retracted her hand, shaking her head. “It is an old injury; nothing serious.” Li Muzhan suggested, “Why don’t I try to remove it?” Gao Jingxuan looked up at him.

“Can you truly dispel that internal energy?” Li Muzhan smiled. “Trying is harmless enough, isn’t it, Sect Mistress?” “Very well.

Let’s give it a try!” Gao Jingxuan agreed with a nod and a smile. — Yi Xiaoru’s heart hammered excitedly against her ribs, her cheeks flushed as if intoxicated.

She knew Li Muzhan never attempted anything without confidence; when he said he would try, he was sure he could succeed. However, now was not the time to voice this.

She could only watch him intently with her bright eyes. Li Muzhan gave her a reassuring smile, signaling her to remain calm.

To an outsider, their exchange looked like a silent flirtation, which earned Yi Xiaoru a sharp glance from Gao Jingxuan. Too caught up in her excitement, Yi Xiaoru failed to notice her Master’s expression and softly asked, “Are there any preparations needed?” Li Muzhan nodded.

“It would be best to be in hot water. The Sect Mistress is suffering from a cold toxin; heat is needed to neutralize it.” “Hot water?” Yi Xiaoru frowned, turning to her senior sister.

“Senior Sister, I’ll go boil some water!” Zhu Chuyun hesitated slightly. “Must it be in hot water?” If it required hot water, it would mean using the wooden tub reserved for bathing.

Even if they avoided complete nudity, dampening clothes would lead to a highly awkward situation. Li Muzhan clarified, “It is preferable, but lukewarm water will suffice...

In that case, let us begin with what we have now!” “Good.” Zhu Chuyun sighed with relief, secretly fearing Li Muzhan would insist on the bath setting. Though Gao Jingxuan was no longer young, Li Muzhan appeared middle-aged, and their ages seemed relatively close, making any intimate situation uncomfortable.

Li Muzhan stated, “We shall try after dinner... Sect Mistress, it may require a significant amount of time.” “It doesn’t matter; I have endured this for so many years, a few more days won’t hurt,” Gao Jingxuan replied.

Li Muzhan nodded. “I estimate it will take a full day and night to complete.” “Are you truly confident?” Gao Jingxuan asked, her brow furrowed.

Li Muzhan chuckled, shaking his head. “Let’s try, at least I cannot stand idly by!” Gao Jingxuan stated firmly, “However, Mr.

He, I must be clear from the outset: I will not hand Xiao Ru over to you simply because you saved me!” “Mas—ter—!” Zhu Chuyun chided, feigning outrage. Yi Xiaoru could only look helplessly at Gao Jingxuan, sighing softly.

Li Muzhan laughed. “Sect Mistress, where did that come from?

I am not trying to curry favor. Perhaps it is out of affection for you—seeing your condition, I simply wish to lend aid!” “That is good to hear,” Gao Jingxuan nodded.

None of the four had any appetite for a proper meal. After a hasty supper, Li Muzhan was not yet ready to begin; he first took a slow walk on the training grounds outside to aid digestion.

Half an hour later, as the moon climbed high, they ceased their movement and returned to Gao Jingxuan’s chambers. — Gao Jingxuan and Li Muzhan sat facing each other on the couch, cross-legged, eyes closed.

Li Muzhan placed both palms on her back, motionless, and began channeling his internal energy. The two women stood guard silently outside the room, ensuring no disturbance.

They were extremely cautious, knowing that any interruption during the energy channeling could lead to unpredictable and severe consequences. The moon slowly drifted westward until the darkness faded and the sun rose.

The two women glanced toward the room; still no sound, and they dared not move. They endured their hunger, maintaining their vigil outside.

The sun rose in the east and set in the west, yet silence persisted within the room. Since Li Muzhan had warned them it might take a day and a night, they did not rush in to check for accidents.

Night returned, and the moon ascended once more. Unconsciously, the two young women drifted closer together.

Suddenly, they felt a swift, cold breath pass, followed by a muffled thud. “Master?!” Zhu Chuyun called out softly.

Gao Jingxuan’s weak voice responded, “You may enter.” The two women rushed into the room, only to see Li Muzhan’s face as pale as paper, sitting motionless with eyes closed, breathing shallowly, his entire body soaked in sweat. Gao Jingxuan was also dripping wet, as if hauled from water, faint wisps of white vapor still curling from her head.

On the ground lay a pool of blood, radiating a distinct chill. “Master, how are you?” Zhu Chuyun asked softly, glancing quickly at Li Muzhan, afraid to disturb him.

A faint smile touched Gao Jingxuan’s pale face. “Yes, it is finally expelled!” “Really?!” Zhu Chuyun exclaimed with relief.

“Senior Sister!” Yi Xiaoru admonished, looking toward Li Muzhan. “Shhh!” Zhu Chuyun immediately placed a finger to her red lips in a hushed gesture, her face etched with apology.

She then turned back to their Master. “Master, is it truly expelled?” “Mmm,” Gao Jingxuan smiled.

“I truly hadn’t expected him to possess such pure internal energy!” “Master, are you alright now?” Yi Xiaoru asked quietly. Gao Jingxuan glanced at Li Muzhan, then shook her head with a sigh.

“I am fine, but I fear for him.” Yi Xiaoru’s expression instantly changed. “What happened to him?” Gao Jingxuan sighed.

“He likely expended too much energy and damaged his vitality. You two should find some wild game over the next few days and cook nourishing meals for him.” “...

Yes, Master.” Yi Xiaoru looked at Li Muzhan with obvious worry. Gao Jingxuan huffed impatiently.

“Don’t worry, he won’t die, but his vital energy is depleted and he needs time to recuperate.” “Master, keep your voice down!” Yi Xiaoru urged quickly. Gao Jingxuan shook her head helplessly.

“You little thing, you are completely head over heels!” Zhu Chuyun chuckled softly. “Master, you only just realized?

She’s sunk too deep now; she’ll never pull free. I say, just grant her wish, lest there be trouble later!” Gao Jingxuan snorted.

“Why are you pleading her case? Do you also have a sweetheart?” Zhu Chuyun jumped, quickly shaking her head and waving her hands.

“Master misunderstands! I do not!” “Hmph.

Then what benefit did they give you?!” Gao Jingxuan demanded. Zhu Chuyun smiled wryly.

“Master, regardless of anything else, he is my savior, is he not?” “Fine, let’s go outside so we don’t disturb him!” Gao Jingxuan conceded. — The three women quietly left the room and gently closed the door.

Yi Xiaoru looked back with a distressed expression. “Master, what is best for replenishing vital energy?” Gao Jingxuan pondered for a moment.

“He is a man, so some meat. Make it into a meat congee...

Alright, stop looking as if someone has died, little girl! He only needs nourishment to recover his vitality.

Look at you!” Zhu Chuyun let out a small laugh and shook her head. “Master, just leave her be.

Right now, all she has is a sweetheart, not us anymore!” Gao Jingxuan shook her head and sighed. “You truly are hopeless.

If you are like this now, what will become of you when you finally marry?” “Master?!” Yi Xiaoru’s bright eyes instantly lit up. Gao Jingxuan immediately waved her hand.

“Xiao Ru, don’t say another word. I will absolutely not agree.

That’s enough, go back to your own room!” “... Yes, Master.” Yi Xiaoru nodded with resignation.

Gao Jingxuan instructed, “Xiao Yun, I’m hungry. Hurry and prepare something to eat.” “Coming right away, Master.

Do you want to meditate for a while first?” Yi Xiaoru readily agreed. Gao Jingxuan waved her hand, signaling her not to press the point.

Only the two of them remained in the room. Yi Xiaoru frowned, her expression clouded with worry.

She knew she shouldn't appear so undisciplined in front of her Master, yet she couldn't help but be anxious. As soon as she consciously relaxed her brow, it would furrow again involuntarily.

Seeing her sullen face, Gao Jingxuan grew annoyed. She snorted, “Enough!

I said it’s not critical, so why are you acting this way?” “Master...” Yi Xiaoru complained, “He exerted himself this much just to heal you!” “Alright, alright, I appreciate him!” Gao Jingxuan said impatiently. “But I cannot simply hand you over to him.

Who knows what kind of person he truly is!” “If he weren’t a good person, why would he insist on saving Master?!” Yi Xiaoru countered with spirit. “If it were someone else, and Master refused them so coldly, refusing to give them face—would anyone else exert themselves so eagerly?!” “Little girl, are you lecturing your master now?” Gao Jingxuan glared with wide, bright eyes.

“Have you turned rebellious? Ah, so now that you have a man, you don’t need your Master anymore!” “Mas—ter—!” Yi Xiaoru protested.

“It’s not like that! Clearly, you’re the one being unreasonable!” “Fine, fine, just shut up!” Gao Jingxuan said irritably.

“Lest you make me so angry I die!” She could clearly see Yi Xiaoru was upset and had formed an opinion. Truly, a daughter who marries is like spilled water—and she hasn't even married yet, already siding with her man!

— Gao Jingxuan felt both angry and vexed. She shot Yi Xiaoru a glare.

“Enough, you go too. I need to meditate for a while!” “Master...” After venting her frustration, Yi Xiaoru immediately felt remorse and lowered her head shyly.

Gao Jingxuan sighed helplessly and shook her head. “You, girl, are too generous to men!

Men are not as wonderful as you imagine; don't give your whole heart away so easily!” “Master, I understand,” Yi Xiaoru replied with a smile. “You understand what...

Hmph!” Gao Jingxuan almost uttered a curse word but managed to stop herself. She felt both helpless and unwilling toward her youngest disciple, who was showered with affection—cherished and protected beyond measure, only to eventually be given over to a man and face potential hurt!

Yi Xiaoru said softly, “Master, I will not misjudge him!” “You...” Gao Jingxuan shook her head. Yi Xiaoru continued, “It is fate, Master.

I believe everyone’s destiny is different. Who one encounters is simply fate; there’s nothing to be done about it.” “Sigh...” Gao Jingxuan let out a bitter smile and slowly nodded.

Yi Xiaoru’s words struck a chord deep within her. No matter how shrewd or capable one was, what could one do?

Just like her second disciple—the most astute of all five—she was ultimately deceived by misplaced affection and met a tragic end?! Yi Xiaoru urged, “So, Master, stop worrying.

I trust he won’t be like that!” “Your second senior sister said the same thing when she met Mei Daoling,” Gao Jingxuan sighed, a flicker of pain crossing her eyes. Yi Xiaoru remained silent, knowing further discussion was futile.

An hour later, Li Muzhan slowly woke up. After eating some meat porridge, he returned to his room.

The next morning, he came out for breakfast, his face still pale. After eating, Yi Xiaoru escorted him back to his room and stood guard while he meditated.

Li Muzhan sat firmly on the couch. “Have you found out the situation regarding those people?” “...

Those great bandits?” Yi Xiaoru asked, surprised. Li Muzhan nodded.

“Is it that urgent?” Li Muzhan replied, “The sooner, the better.” Yi Xiaoru considered for a moment, then shook her head. “I didn’t have the heart to look into it these past two days...

Fine, I will arrange it as quickly as possible.” Li Muzhan said, “It’s very quiet here; I don’t need protection. You go attend to your business.” “...

Alright.” Yi Xiaoru thought his reasoning sound. In the evening, after Li Muzhan had resumed his meditative state, Yi Xiaoru handed him a small booklet.

Li Muzhan flipped through it and smiled faintly. After dinner, Li Muzhan’s complexion remained pale, his aura weak.

Zhu Chuyun grew somewhat concerned. “Master, should we ask the Medicine Sect for some pills?” Gao Jingxuan glanced at Li Muzhan, frowned in thought, and then nodded.

“That might be wise.” Li Muzhan quickly waved his hand and smiled. “Senior Sister Zhu need not trouble herself.

A few more days of rest should suffice.” “I don’t think you’ll recover quickly; it seems your vital energy was severely damaged!” Zhu Chuyun worried. Yi Xiaoru looked at Li Muzhan with deep concern; she had been worried sick these past two days.

(To be continued)