A City Swept by Wind and Snow GL - Chapter 2
◎Like a little white-eyed wolf that can never be tamed—touch it and you risk being bitten◎
The legend of the “Three Blades, No Life” had been shattered by Xifeng, the High Priest of the Xiaoyao Divine Sect.
Of course, this was hardly known to the world. People only knew that the arrogant assassin, famous for years, disappeared on the night he attempted to assassinate Lord Zhuang Heqishu. Folk speculated: “No wonder he survived receiving a Cat Tail Letter—the target of such letters almost always meets the grim reaper.”
—They still habitually referred to the assassin’s targets as “prey,” for that killer moved like a fierce leopard, attacking swiftly and accurately, leaving no chance for survival.
Xue Qianxun couldn’t help but scoff inwardly. She knew very well that Lord Zhuang Heqishu was a hundred times more formidable than anyone imagined. And indeed, what happened last night far exceeded her expectations. The one who stood above tens of thousands, Lord Zhuang, had actually commanded Xifeng, the High Priest of the Xiaoyao Divine Sect, to act personally!
In the past three to four years, the Xiaoyao Divine Sect had risen spectacularly in the martial world. They never provoked others, but for those who offended them—regardless of status or morality—they spared no one, strictly following the principle: “If no one offends me, I offend no one; if someone offends me, I cut the grass to the root.” Their imposing momentum and ruthless methods drew strong condemnation from reputable sects, who rushed to distance themselves. Thus, the Xiaoyao Divine Sect existed arrogantly between the forces of good and evil, untouched even by the imperial court.
Xifeng was the second most powerful and mysterious figure in the sect, ranking only below the sect leader.
In Xue Qianxun’s impression, Xifeng had always been legendary. Tales from wandering heroes visiting Chunjiang Courtyard painted the High Priest of Xiaoyao as a cold, powerful devil who intimidated the martial world. It was only six months ago, during the famous “Takano Showdown” at Lingbo Lake, that she realized Xifeng was truly a demon. On that day, the four notorious villains of the Takano Gang, who once terrorized the imperial capital, were crushed like ghosts under Xifeng’s might.
Like many others, Xue Qianxun couldn’t help but wonder: if Xifeng was so domineering, who could be above her? Who was the Xiaoyao Divine Sect’s leader, known only through hearsay as the “Dragon’s Kiss”?
A soft “screech” sound made Xue Qianxun drop the scroll she was holding. She couldn’t help thinking of someone, though against her wishes.
“Lost in thought?” A figure in a purple robe swooped in. The voice was clear and calm, neither angry nor imposing, and a large hand emerged from the sleeve to catch the falling scroll midair.
Xue Qianxun took the scroll and smiled politely: “Your Highness, did last night disturb your sleep?”
Lord Zhuang Heqishu frowned, smiling bitterly: “You little one, when will you truly care about me? In the past seven days, how many have fussed about me in the imperial capital—some worried, some sympathetic, some just watching the fun. But you, even when the world collapses, barely react, and pay no attention to me at all.”
Xue Qianxun smiled: “They panicked, naturally. After all, that assassin was the Three Blades. For years, a Cat Tail Letter was almost equivalent to a death sentence. Yet what people do not know is that Your Highness was already above the reaper.”
Heqishu’s brow lifted: “Are you mocking me?” Even knowing Xue Qianxun’s clumsy flattery, a smile appeared at the corner of his lips.
Xue Qianxun said: “Not at all. I know Your Highness is all-powerful, capable of anything.” She paused, as if casually adding: “I just cannot fathom how you managed it.” Her eyes met his directly.
“It’s all just trivial fighting, nothing for a young lady to concern herself with,” Zhuang said, reaching out to stroke her nose. Xue Qianxun instinctively leaned back, making him miss.
His hand froze midair, but seeing her frank, dark eyes, he couldn’t help but smile wryly, shaking his head.
“What’s wrong?” she asked, noticing his sudden sigh.
“Nothing. It’s just… Qianxun, you’re…” He squinted at the beautiful woman before him, saying softly, “like a little white-eyed wolf that can never be tamed—touch it and you risk being bitten.”
“When have I ever bitten you?” Xue Qianxun protested.
“You haven’t. But remember last time I ruffled your hair—you turned and glared. Later, you barely forced a smile. I’ve never seen you act so stiffly, even in forced cheer. A woman like you… I’ve never met before.”
Xue Qianxun scratched her forehead: “I wasn’t angry, just worried you’d mess up my hair.”
“Hair… messed up…” Heqishu murmured, realization dawning, “Ah, I see.”
“I never touched your hair; why would you touch mine?”
Heqishu froze: “Qianxun… do you not realize your position?” Implying she was his, and all manner of contact should be unquestioned.
Xue Qianxun stiffened but remained silent.
Seeing her stance, he softened: “Don’t worry. I won’t force anything.”
“Your Highness,” she said solemnly, “without your protection, I couldn’t survive here. I will never forget your kindness, and in the future, I would risk life and limb for you without hesitation…”
“Stop.” Heqishu interrupted: “Where did you learn this? Didn’t I tell you to stop listening to those guests? And why would I need you to risk life and limb for me?”
“Then I’ll repay you double.”
“Am I short of money?”
“Hmm…” Xue Qianxun seemed deep in thought.
Heqishu smiled warmly: “You are growing up; you should know better now.”
Xue Qianxun looked at him, her gaze clear, still contemplating something.
He lifted his hand as if to pinch her cheek but lowered it, saying: “See how obedient you are? People shouldn’t be too arrogant. If it becomes a habit, it may cost them their lives.”
“Who was arrogant enough to die?” she asked.
“Who else? The one whose fame has recently soared.”
“Three Blades is dead?” Xue Qianxun exclaimed, her feelings complex. She should have expected it, yet a thought struck: if Xifeng won, why didn’t he summon the black eagle immediately? Why go to Qiongyu Garden instead? Or was it he was chasing Three Blades?
—Three Blades had come to the garden…
“Of course he’s dead,” Heqishu said, showing satisfaction. After a pause, he snorted: “If Three Blades hadn’t sent a Cat Tail Letter before the assassination, I might not be safe right now.”
Three Blades was indeed dead. Xue Qianxun’s fingers trembled slightly within her sleeve; a subtle change passed across her eyes. But this was good. From Zhuang’s words, Xifeng did not guard the manor constantly. Thinking of Xifeng, her thoughts swirled—wondering how he fared now.
“Qianxun?” Zhuang’s soft voice called, noticing her change in expression.
Xue Qianxun lifted her head, her smile returning. Zhuang asked: “Tired?”
She shook her head and said: “I’ll play a piece for you.”
She couldn’t let Zhuang come in vain. A professional musician, she took every opportunity seriously, especially given the large sums he spent.
He waved his hand: “No need, I have work to do. Ah, one thing—I want to ask you something.”
“Hmm?”
“What did you do at the Qiongyu Garden’s lotus pond last night?”
Xue Qianxun didn’t know if he had asked Jinse earlier. Thinking it best not to hide, she blinked calmly: “I went.” The garden was hers; she could go anywhere freely.
“Lotus in winter? What’s interesting?” He said casually.
“Snow-covered withering lotus—its charm is different from summer. If you visit, Your Highness will see.”
“Did you see anyone else?”
“Yes. Someone.” She didn’t hesitate.
“Who?” He fixed his gaze on her eyes.
Xue Qianxun looked away, frowning slightly: “A back, unclear. I didn’t dare approach.”
He exhaled softly: “Good, you ran well. As long as you’re safe.”
“Do you know who it was? Why did they enter the garden?”
Zhuang smiled: “How could I know? Jinse mentioned bl00d was found by the pond. Probably martial world disputes. Hmph! They even brought it to Qiongyu Garden! Qianxun, although you prefer solitude, in the future, bring some maidservants—or better, have Jinse accompany you in secluded places.”
Xue Qianxun nodded silently, inwardly cursing: “Nosy Jinse!”
After Zhuang left, she went straight to the top floor of the west wing—Jinse’s room.
Morning was quiet; Jinse, the owner, indulged her girls in sleep and leisure. Spring River Courtyard still prospered, thanks to her wealth.
Jinse, reclining, sipped tea and stroked a snow-white fox. Seeing Xue Qianxun, she squinted lazily: “I only made one cup, can’t give it to you.” She sipped.
Jinse was young, with ink-black hair, rosy lips, and crescent-shaped eyes—always smiling. Not native to the imperial capital, she appeared a year ago with a silver fox on her shoulder, instantly dazzling.
The previous owner died suddenly; Jinse inherited the Courtyard. A special legacy.
Xue Qianxun eyed Jinse indifferently, took the cup from her, pressing it down: “Nosy Jinse, how much did you get from Zhuang?”
“Got treasures for every secret I spilled. Here, half for you. Don’t bother me.” Jinse continued playing with the fox.
Xue Qianxun casually knocked a wooden box from the table—two green snakes leapt out.
Jinse laughed: “Little Qian, Little Xun, come, or get crushed.”
The snakes crawled to her, staring at Xue Qianxun.
Xue Qianxun walked forward, glaring: “I’ll crush your little snow!” She grabbed the fox, which chirped happily.
Jinse panicked: “No! You may not harm my precious Snow.” She smiled but looked serious.
Xue Qianxun released the fox, pointed at Jinse’s chin: “You said that?”
“You little heartless one, you saved the freezing wolf pup yesterday. I saved you from freezing at Yingxue Pavilion.”
Xue Qianxun pinched Jinse’s cheek: “You called me a little wolf pup and spread it around.”
“You’re sharp-tongued, fierce-eyed, truly the little wolf pup. Okay, I yield.”
Xue Qianxun sighed, turning to leave, threatening: “Next time you gossip…”
“Wait,” Jinse’s voice was cold. Xue Qianxun turned, seeing her rare serious expression.
“Even if you are stunning, the empire is vast, and Heqishu is not the only man. Your beauty is his honor,” Jinse said.
“I know my place,” Xue Qianxun snapped, angered.
“Knowing your place, practice fake smiles, flattery, and politeness. Don’t glare too often; it might alert others to your anger,” Jinse advised.
“Don’t worry. Today, I excelled.”
Jinse smiled indulgently: “Keep it up. Heqishu can elevate or crush you; after all, you’re a little wolf pup—your fangs are still tender.”
Xue Qianxun sneered: “Even if I fall, Spring River Courtyard will still thrive. Mind your own business.”
Jinse asked: “Where are the seven Night Pearls Zhuang gifted you?”
“Easy money, spent long ago.”
“Gave them to another man?” Jinse smirked.
Xue Qianxun’s expression darkened: “Don’t speak nonsense!”
“You really are clever. The assassin Three Blades’ client… wasn’t that you, little white-eyed wolf?”
Xue Qianxun’s face changed, then forced a smile: “Go tell stories at the tea house instead.”
Jinse continued: “Fun fact: Three Blades killed the prisoner Zhuang used as a stand-in. The assassin reported to his client, but was followed by someone he never expected.”
Xue Qianxun’s mind went blank—she realized the one following Three Blades was Xifeng.
“At the garden wall corner, the assassin’s blade met the masked swordsman’s sword. You never got your report from Three Blades. Too bad, and too bad for the deposit of three Night Pearls. How will she explain it to Zhuang?”
Her heart sank. Jinse even knew about the deposit! What happened to Xifeng afterward?
“Luckily, Three Blades didn’t carry the pearls.” Jinse smiled mischievously: “Whoever finds them keeps them.”
Xue Qianxun said: “Keep them safe; don’t let others see them or die for money.”
Jinse pouted: “Yes, little wolf pup. I hid the pearls for him.”
“Undoubtedly, you did it for Zhuang,” Xue Qianxun said.
“Yes, I do. You’re smart, little wolf pup.” Jinse’s smile was flirtatious: “Sorry for keeping secrets. Over the past year, the little white-eyed wolf sharpened claws, and I watched the fun from the sidelines.”
“You reported much to Zhuang, right?”
Jinse tapped Xue Qianxun’s forehead: “What about your own work?”
Xue Qianxun’s expression darkened slightly: “Don’t you want to live?”
Jinse mischievously: “I’m bad. Greedy, yet don’t let anyone relieve misfortune.”
Xue Qianxun smiled: “Take care; being bad isn’t that fun.” She pushed Jinse’s hand aside and started to leave.
“Wait,” Jinse said with ill intent: “Tell me why you wanted to kill Zhuang, I’ll keep it secret.”
“I don’t like storytelling,” Xue Qianxun replied.
“I’m skilled at interrogation,” Jinse teased.
Xue Qianxun paused, then glared with a deadly sparkle: “Because of resentment. Resentment makes one reckless and desperate. I hate him.”
“But he treats you well,” Jinse blinked innocently.
“He treats me well my foot!” Xue Qianxun ground her teeth. “Who trapped me here? Who denied me freedom? Who took multiple concubines and yet refused to accept me into the mansion?”
“Could it be… jealousy?!” Jinse gasped.
“Yes!” Xue Qianxun smiled wickedly: “After all, I am a woman.” Then she turned and left.
Jinse stuck out her tongue: “Oh, evil little wolf pup! What sour tricks have you learned? I almost believed it!”