The Beginning of the Hidden Scheme, the General's Secret Hand, the Madam's Brilliant Plan, Preparations Complete

On the other side, Zhao Yingqiong vaulted over buildings and crossed residences, traveling straight ahead without pause. After covering more than ten li, she arrived at a place called Dense Forest Ward. Slowing her pace, she spotted a shop by the roadside that sold all kinds of jianghu equipment. She went over and asked the shopkeeper, "What treasures do you have here that can conceal someone's face? Bring them all out for me to see."

The shopkeeper looked her up and down, his eyes lighting up as he thought, I've never seen such a dashing heroine. He cupped his hands and said, "Heroine, you're so valiant. With a face this beautiful, why hide it? Why not buy a fine sword or a good whip? Once you put them to use, that would be much more satisfying." Zhao Yingqiong's brows knitted. She slapped him across the face and cursed, "Who asked for your opinion? Whatever I want, just recommend it."

In Jade City, blades and weapons were strictly controlled. Any shop that could openly sell jianghu weapons had deep roots behind it. This shopkeeper truly possessed some standing, but seeing Zhao Yingqiong's lightly raised brows, her refined clothing, extraordinary bearing, and the authority hidden in her words, he did not dare lose his temper. With a pleasant expression, he said, "All right, all right. Heroine, please wait." He brought out four items: a mask, a bamboo hat, a veil, and a red box. Zhao Yingqiong picked up the mask, finding it rather interesting, and examined it carefully. The mask was entirely white, painted with a "Smiling Face Like a Flower" that looked vividly alive. Worn over the face, it concealed one's features while seeming to add another smiling countenance, without the slightest awkwardness.

The shopkeeper said, "This mask is called 'Smiling