The Man Who'd Die If He Didn't Talk

The scenery along the way was like a painting. Deep in the mountains, where the clouds gathered thickly, a thin veil of mist and rosy clouds was tinted pink by the sunlight. Unknown wildflowers bloomed along the roadside, and a clear stream burbled past. An old stone bridge overgrown with vines spanned the water, its flagstones mottled by the passage of time.

Spirit birds frolicked among the trees, unafraid of strangers. They paused to watch, tilting their heads, then went on their way at leisure. Kingfishers called out, their cries crisp and clear.

A gentle, warm breeze brushed their faces, so soothing it made them want to drift away. The place was exceptionally quiet—a true paradise beyond the mortal world.

At the foot of the mountain, a spring tinkled over the rocks. Colorful fish swam through the water, and a little pavilion stood above it. Just looking at it made one want to stop and savor the beauty of the landscape.

"Master Bai, please continue alone from here. The others can come with me."

When they were still a hundred or so meters from the pavilion over the water, the young woman leading the way stopped and turned to Bai Yang, dipping into a slight curtsy.

Bai Yang frowned at her. "Can't they come with me?"

"Please forgive us, Young Master. The attendants accompanying the others ahead of you weren't allowed to proceed either. Please rest assured—I'll see to their arrangements. Nothing will happen to them in Tian Yin Sect," the young woman said gently.

Her voice was soft, but there was an unmistakable note of finality in it.

"Young master, go on. We'll wait for you," Little Cat said, looking at Bai Yang.

Bai Yang shook his head, then looked at the guide. "Miss, it's not that I don't