Flower-Appreciation Gathering (3)

That was quite a lot of information to take in.

Upon hearing this, everyone unconsciously began quietly digesting the implications behind Shen Yuxi's words.

So it seemed that Medicine King Valley's chief disciple had been secretly in love with the Valley Master's daughter all along, yet she did not like him at all.

What was more, the Valley Master seemingly had no intention of marrying his daughter to him. He had even gone to great lengths to hold a flower-appreciation banquet, all to find his daughter a match after her own heart.

The father and daughter had already made their stance this clear, yet Gu Xiaoyue was still blindly confident that the Young Valley Master would eventually marry him?

Ah, this... Thinking about it carefully, it really was rather funny. Yet for some reason, everyone found the situation so absurd that they could not laugh.

"Childhood sweethearts always produce the losing dog!" Shen Yuxi stressed once more. "Even our Three-Nine CP, such a classic pairing, could BE. Let alone you, with your one-sided crush—you do not even have the most basic 'love' with the Young Valley Master! You are just narcissistically in love with yourself! The Young Valley Master would rather fancy a wild weed in Medicine King Valley than fancy you!"

Everyone froze upon hearing that. Compared to the claim that Medicine King Valley's eldest disciple had a "one-sided crush," they were clearly more concerned with the first half. Questions surged through their minds. Our family? Three-Nine? Could it be... What fresh gossip is this? How have we never heard it before?!

Wen Jian, who had suddenly been dragged into the conversation, went stiff all over. Sensing the belatedly inquisitive gazes cast his way by his senior brothers and sisters, he felt heat rise at his ears and swiftly spread across his entire face.

Embarrassed and angry, he snapped, "Second Senior Brother!!!"

Lin Huaixu said, "What, what? Third Senior Brother and Ninth Junior Brother have a thing going on? Why did no one tell me?"

Lin Huaixu wanted to hear more, but he also knew that Second Senior Brother most likely would not continue talking about Third Senior Brother and Ninth Junior Brother. Thus, Lin Huaixu decided to start with Ninth Junior Brother.

His eyes shone like a cat that had caught the scent of fish. He quietly sidled up to Wen Jian, tugged him a few steps behind the others, and lowered his voice. "Little Nine~ What is going on between you and Third Senior Brother? Second Senior Brother spoke as though he had eyes and a nose for it, so it definitely did not come from nowhere. Give me a little hint."

As he spoke, he lightly nudged Wen Jian with his elbow, his face full of anticipation.

Wen Jian's face turned even redder, and he hurriedly denied it. "What could possibly be going on?! Fifth Senior Brother, you only just came back, so you do not know. Everyone in the inner sect knows that Second Senior Brother loves making something out of nothing and tying red strings together all day. You cannot take what he says seriously!"

How could Lin Huaixu let it go? He continued pestering Wen Jian with a grin. "Is—tha—t—so? Little Nine, stop being stubborn. Second Senior Brother may love joking around, but how could he spout nonsense about something like this? There must be some basis for it."

Wen Jian was both furious and flustered, his face red as a fully ripened tomato. He growled in a low voice, "Fifth Senior Brother, can you stop messing around?! There is absolutely nothing between us. If you keep saying that, I am really going to get angry!"

Yet Lin Huaixu paid no heed to Wen Jian's anger. Instead, he became even more interested, grabbing Wen Jian's arm and shaking it back and forth. "Oh, Little Nine~ Just satisfy your senior brother's curiosity. How about this? I promise I will not tell anyone else, all right?"

Wen Jian had no way to deal with Lin Huaixu's pestering. Ashamed and angry, he gritted his teeth and threatened, "Fifth Senior Brother, if you keep refusing to let this go, do not expect me to treat your injuries in the future! I mean what I say!"

After saying that, he shot Lin Huaixu a fierce glare and quickened his pace to walk ahead, leaving Lin Huaixu standing there with a helpless expression.

Watching Wen Jian's retreating back, Lin Huaixu curled his lips. Little Nine is still so easy to tease. I only asked a few questions—was there any need to get so angry? Still, judging by that reaction, maybe what Second Senior Brother said really does have some truth to it. Interesting.

While the two martial brothers were making a fuss at the back, Chu Shihan at the front gave a light cough. Though it was not loud, it carried just the right amount of reminder.

He turned slightly toward Lin Mumu and said warmly, "Sixth Junior Sister, do not take that person too seriously. We came to Medicine King Valley to attend the Flower-Appreciation Gathering. Do not let such trivial matters ruin your mood for sightseeing."

His expression was calm and his tone gentle, but inwardly, he quietly became wary of Gu Xiaoyue's strange behavior.

Hearing Eldest Senior Brother's words, Lin Mumu obediently nodded. Yet her gaze could not help secretly flicking once more toward Gu Xiaoyue.

At that moment, Gu Xiaoyue was walking ahead with a straight, upright posture. Yet now that they knew his true nature, even his back seemed tinged with a shadow of sinister gloom.

Shen Yuxi, however, was still immersed in his thoughts. Gu Xiaoyue is a textbook ungrateful white-eyed wolf. The Valley Master kindly took him in and taught him everything without holding back, and what did he do? He barely learned any medical arts, yet he set his sights on the Valley Master's position and the Young Valley Master.

Hearing this, a flicker of disgust passed through everyone's eyes as they looked at Gu Xiaoyue. His conduct was truly beneath contempt.

"But it is understandable. Feelings need stimulation to grow quickly. Without a minor villain in the early stages to serve as a foil, how could we highlight our Eldest Senior Brother's outstanding bearing, noble character, and extraordinary cultivation? He is merely a stepping stone on Eldest Senior Brother and the Young Valley Master's path to love."

"Second Senior Brother is right."

As they ventured deeper into Medicine King Valley, the scene before them abruptly changed, and their field of vision instantly opened up.

Pavilions and towers were scattered throughout the valley in an orderly pattern. Though they lacked extravagant and ornate decorations, they exuded a simple, elegant charm.

Numerous Medicine King Valley disciples moved busily between them. Some were intently drying all sorts of precious medicinal herbs, while others were wholly focused on sorting herbs, creating a bustling scene.

Gu Xiaoyue led them before a magnificent pavilion. Carved beams and painted rafters adorned it, with soaring eaves and bracket sets.

Gu Xiaoyue stopped, turned around, and said respectfully, "Everyone, the Valley Master is currently inside the pavilion. Please follow me in to pay your respects."

Everyone adjusted their robes and followed Gu Xiaoyue into the pavilion. The interior was simply yet elegantly arranged, and curling sandalwood incense filled the air, creating a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.

A middle-aged man in plain robes stood before an enormous diagram of spirit plants, his back to the group as he wrote something at a desk.

Hearing their footsteps, he slowly turned around. Though he did his utmost to remain composed and tried to force a welcoming smile onto his face, a trace of anger faintly showed in his eyes, making that smile appear somewhat strained.

He stepped forward to greet them. "Old friend Yuqing, it has been far too long. For you to bring all these outstanding disciples here today truly makes Medicine King Valley shine in humble splendor."

True Person Yu Qing understood at once that Gu Yinchen was naturally shy and prone to nervousness before others. He promptly smiled and returned the greeting. "Valley Master Gu is too courteous. For such a grand occasion, naturally I had to bring my disciples to broaden their horizons."

Gu Yinchen's gaze slowly swept over everyone one by one. He nodded and said with feeling, "They truly are a group of spirited, vigorous young people. I hope everyone enjoys this Flower-Appreciation Gathering to the fullest."

After the brief pleasantries, Gu Yinchen lightly clapped his hands. Several Medicine King Valley disciples immediately stepped forward respectfully upon hearing the sound.

Looking at them with a serious expression, Gu Yinchen said, "Take the honored guests of the Profound Heaven Sect to the guest residences. Make certain that every arrangement is proper. There must be no neglect."

Seeing this, Gu Xiaoyue hurriedly stepped forward. "Master, this disciple has already prepared the guest rooms. I will take them there now."

"Very well." Gu Yinchen nodded, then said to True Person Yu Qing, "Sect Master Yuqing, the Flower-Appreciation Gathering will officially begin the day after tomorrow. Please rest well over these next two days."

True Person Yu Qing thanked Gu Yinchen. The Valley Master had specially arranged an independent courtyard for him.

The courtyard lay beside a secluded mountainside in Medicine King Valley, surrounded by verdant pines and emerald cypresses. Its environment was quiet and pleasant. The buildings within were exquisite and meticulously designed; whether the layout of the pavilions and towers or the interior furnishings, all displayed exceptional taste and fully reflected the respect accorded to True Person Yu Qing as an honored guest.

Before leaving, True Person Yu Qing exchanged a look with Lin Huaixu. Only after seeing Lin Huaixu nod in acknowledgment did he depart at ease.

The disciples then followed Gu Xiaoyue out of the pavilion. They traveled along a winding path, passing several clusters of flowers blooming in riotous purples and reds. A faint, secluded floral fragrance lingered around their noses, making their hearts and minds feel refreshed.

Before long, they arrived at a quiet, secluded courtyard.

The courtyard was not large, yet it possessed a distinctive elegance. Several guest rooms stood scattered within, their doors and windows all made of antique wood. Delicate patterns were carved into the window lattices—not overly elaborate, yet carrying a simple beauty.

The courtyard was silent on all sides. Only the breeze swept past, carrying wafts of rich floral fragrance, as though it had shut all the clamor of the outside world beyond its walls.

"This will be your lodging. I hope you find it satisfactory," Gu Xiaoyue said, breaking the silence. As he spoke, his gaze seemed to sweep casually over everyone, yet it lingered imperceptibly on Chu Shihan for an extra moment.

That gaze was like a hidden undercurrent—calm on the surface, yet concealing an indescribably complicated meaning in its depths. It seemed to be assessing him, while also carrying a faint hint of hostility.

Lin Mumu keenly noticed that subtle action. She could not help frowning slightly as she moved closer to Chu Shihan and muttered in a low voice, "Eldest Senior Brother, he looked at you again. His gaze was still strange."

Chu Shihan turned slightly and reassured her softly, "It is nothing. Do not mind it."

Gu Xiaoyue seemed to notice Lin Mumu's muttering, but his expression did not change. He gave a slight bow and said evenly, "If you require anything, simply instruct the servants. I still have some urgent matters to attend to, so I will take my leave first."

With that, he turned and walked away with steady steps. His figure gradually vanished around the courtyard corner, leaving only a string of receding footsteps behind.

If not for all his martial brothers and sisters being beside him, Shen Yuxi would nearly have been unable to stop himself from whistling.

"This cannon-fodder villain is rather sharp. Right from the start, he precisely locked onto his greatest threat."

Everyone entered their respective guest rooms and began settling in. Though the rooms were not luxurious, they were simple and comfortable, leaving everyone quite satisfied.

Lin Huaixu was quick and nimble. Before long, he had put away all his belongings. He had never been one to sit still, and the moment he finished unpacking, he began wondering what he could do to occupy himself.

After turning it over in his mind, the corners of his mouth lifted slightly. He already had an idea.

He crept lightly to Wen Jian's door. Just as he was about to knock, he heard Wen Jian's warning voice from inside. "Fifth Senior Brother, if you want to be needled into a pig's head at your next treatment, then keep asking about Third Senior Brother and me."

An awkward look flashed across Lin Huaixu's face. He gave two dry laughs, but still reached out and pushed open the door.

With a broad smile, he said, "Little Nine, do not be so angry. I promise I will never ask again. The Flower-Appreciation Gathering does not start until the day after tomorrow, and there is nothing to do these next two days. Wouldn't it be boring to just sit around? Why not go out for a stroll?"

Wen Jian was sitting by the bed, sorting through his medicine chest. Hearing Lin Huaixu's words, he shot him an annoyed glance. "Not interested. Find your own way to pass the time."

How could Lin Huaixu give up? He moved closer and continued persuading him. "Come on, do you not want to see Medicine King Valley's spirit herbs?"

Wen Jian's hand paused. He was clearly tempted. After hesitating for a moment, he looked up at Lin Huaixu. "We are really only going for a walk?"

"Really! I promise I will not say anything tactless!"

"I will trust you this once."

Having reached an agreement, the two decided to find their other martial brothers and sisters and invite them along.

They first went to Lin Mumu's room. The moment Lin Mumu heard that they were going out to explore Medicine King Valley, her eyes immediately lit up. "Sure, sure! I have wanted to take a look around for ages."

Next, they found Shen Yuxi and Ye Jingxuan. Neither wanted to dampen everyone's enthusiasm, so they nodded in agreement. Once the group had finished preparing, they were just about to set off when, upon reaching the courtyard gate, they were caught red-handed by the approaching Chu Shihan.

Seeing the spectacle they had assembled, Chu Shihan frowned slightly. "Where are you all going? Behave yourselves. Do not go causing trouble everywhere."

Lin Huaixu still wore a smile as he quickly replied, "Do not worry, Eldest Senior Brother. We are only taking a casual walk. Being idle is being idle anyway. Will Eldest Senior Brother come with us too?"

"Do none of you cultivate?" Chu "Workaholic" Shihan "Long Aotian" sincerely asked.

"Eldest Senior Brother, do you never rest from your labors?" Lin "Do As He Pleases" Huaixu "Fun-Lover" asked in return.

Chu Shihan was slightly taken aback by Lin Huaixu's words. After thinking it over carefully, he felt that Lin Huaixu had a point. Since they were away from home, taking an appropriate break was not necessarily a bad thing. Besides, everyone would be together, so no major trouble should arise.

Thus, his expression softened somewhat. "All right, then. But do not get separated. We are unfamiliar with this place, so look out for one another if anything happens."

Everyone nodded in agreement. After asking the gatekeeping disciples for the information they wanted, the group eagerly left the courtyard together.

Medicine King Valley's scenery truly was quite good.

Though the valley was filled with flowers and grasses, the more precious a medicinal herb was, the stranger and more demanding its growth requirements tended to be. Sunlight, soil, air, moisture, orientation, even companion spirit plants and spirit beasts—all had to be considered with care.

Thus, arrangements centered around precious spirit plants, each forming its own little world, could be seen everywhere throughout Medicine King Valley.

Walking along the way was practically like touring several completely different miniature secret realms.

The group proceeded along a covered corridor. The first thing that came into view was an area enveloped by a five-colored curtain of light.

The light curtain flickered gently, dreamlike and illusory. Within it grew a rare medicinal herb called Starmist Herb. This herb could only grow under the faint light of particular stars. Medicine King Valley's disciples had cleverly used a special formation to gather and imitate similar starlight, scattering it over the area.

The leaves of the Starmist Herb were unusually shaped, with no two leaves regular in form. They swayed gently within the light curtain, giving off a mysterious and soft glow.

After going around that area, a small stone hill appeared ahead, surrounded by murmuring streams and misty water vapor.

A type of lingzhi with extremely demanding requirements for moisture and soil grew upon the hill, called Frostjade Dew. Medicine King Valley had specially diverted mineral-rich spirit springs, allowing the water to wind between the rocks and create a damp, nutrient-rich environment.

The gills and stalks of Frostjade Dew were transparent, while only its cap and portions of its mycelium were snow-white. From afar, it looked like jellyfish drifting through the mountain forest. At that moment, tiny beads of dew had gathered upon its snowy-white caps, nearly merging with the translucent gills and making it impossible to distinguish one from the other.

Further ahead lay a grassland surrounded by spirit trees. These trees stood tall and straight, their branches and leaves interweaving to form a natural dome.

At the center of the grassland grew a Purple Amber Dragon Saliva Flower. Since this flower was exceptionally particular about air purity and companion spirit plants, the spirit trees transplanted around it could not only purify the air, but also release a special fragrance that echoed with the Purple Amber Dragon Saliva Flower.

The Purple Amber Dragon Saliva Flower's petals were deep violet, while amber-like liquid flowed from its stamens. The rich fragrance it released seemed capable of seeping into the depths of one's soul.

To ensure the safety of the various spirit plants and prevent their growing environments from being disturbed, every area in Medicine King Valley had been carefully planned and specially fitted with exquisite isolating formations. These formations were like invisible barriers, strictly dividing each area and preventing people from entering or leaving freely.

Only those spirit plants that were comparatively less precious were openly displayed without reservation for everyone to admire. Some were gorgeously vivid, while others had strange forms, all gently swaying in the breeze.

Even so, everyone could still discern traces of formations in other places. It was not difficult to imagine that, before this, the overwhelming majority of spirit plants had been protected by tightly guarded formations.

This time, however, in order to hold the Flower-Appreciation Gathering and allow guests from every side to view and appreciate these rare spirit plants up close, Medicine King Valley had specifically lifted some of the formations' restrictions. This alone showed their sincerity.

Everyone was immersed in the wondrous sights, exclaiming in amazement all along the way.

Complete Compendium of Spirit Herbs:

○ Starmist Herb

A detoxifying medicinal herb that can only grow under the faint light of particular stars. Its leaves are unusually shaped and irregular, its leaves and stamens are both black, its petals are white, and its roots are deep blue.

Its petals, stamens, and leaves can all be used in medicine. Its roots are mostly used for foot soaks or baths, while its deep-blue stems are highly poisonous. Use with care.

○ Frostjade Dew

A type of lingzhi with extremely demanding requirements for moisture and soil. It requires an environment rich in minerals, damp, and full of nutrients.

The gills and stalks of Frostjade Dew are transparent, while only its cap and portions of its mycelium are snow-white. From afar, it looks like jellyfish drifting through the mountain forest.

It generally appears in clusters. The longer it grows, the larger it becomes.

It is delicious and highly nourishing. Remember to control the amount when consuming it, or excessive nourishment can instead lead to poisoning.

○ Purple Amber Dragon Saliva Flower

A dwarf shrub that prefers fresh air.

Its leaves are clusters of tiny triangular leaflets. Its flowers are only the size of grains of rice.

It is exceptionally particular about air purity and companion spirit plants. If the air within ten li is even slightly polluted, it will tightly close its leaves and refuse to bloom.

The Purple Amber Dragon Saliva Flower's petals are deep violet, amber-like liquid flows from its stamens, and its floral fragrance is rich.

It is commonly used to nourish spirit roots. Its restorative speed is very slow, but it is a rare medicinal ingredient that produces no side effects whatsoever.