Chapter 65 Marry Him

affection"Then cherish me," Rong Jing said after a long silence, his voice slightly hoarse."How should I cherish you" Yun Qianyue stared at the delicate features of Rong Jing's face. She could look a...Volumn 1: Smiling at the Splendor Chapter 65: Marry Him

The two stared at each other. Rong Feng quickly turned away, turning his back to her.

Even though he was far away, Yun Qianyue could still clearly see a flash of pain in his eyes. Her lips curled into a frown as she recalled that the owner of this body seemed to know and have some kind of deep connection with Rong Feng before. What sort of relationship did they share She suddenly felt her heart ache inexplicably when she thought back on what he had said earlier. Lowering her head, she reached out to press against her chest as she looked at herself in confusion.

Rong Jing’s gaze suddenly fell upon Yun Qianyue who was pressing her hand onto her chest; his clear eyes turned black and seemed as though they were going to suck the hand that was on her chest into a vortex.

The pain only lasted for an instant. When Yun Qianyue tried to explore it further, it vanished without a trace. She strained her brain trying to recall memories but did not find anything. Sighing softly, she raised her head again and saw that there was someone standing opposite Rong Feng, a young man around the same age as him whom she had never seen before.

"Weakling, you’re quite something; you actually managed to bring him back for this" Night Qingran said as he watched Rong Feng appear. He moved closer to Rong Jing and spoke in a low voice.

Rong Jing glanced at Night Qingran but remained silent.

Night Qingran snorted, "Even if he’s the disciple of Snow Mountain Elder, I’m not afraid of him; I can still win back Broken Snow for Moon Sister to play with."

"As long as you win against him." Rong Jing said in a cool tone.

"Just wait and see! I’ll surely beat him. You’ve already lost all your martial skills so there’s no way you can get Broken Snow back; Stringed Song isn’t my match," Night Qingran said confidently, his chest swelling with pride.

"Broken Snow is good but it only ranks third among the three most famous swords in the world." Rong Jing remarked.

“The first and second best swords were already lost a hundred years ago. As long as those two swords don’t appear, Broken Snow will remain the most valuable sword; I’m determined to get it today!” Night Qingran said dismissively.

"I hope you succeed and do not disappoint her," Rong Jing threw out a sentence without emotion.

“Of course I will!" Night Qingran looked at Yun Qianyue, noticing that the expression on her face as she watched the arena was different from usual. He followed her gaze to see that it had landed squarely upon Rong Feng. The look in her eyes wasn’t the usual pure and clear one; he couldn’t describe what exactly was different but felt certain that there was something unusual about it. Turning his head back towards Rong Jing, he asked in puzzlement, “Does Moon Sister know Rong Feng”

"I don’t know!" Rong Jing answered with a lackluster tone as he did not look at Yun Qianyue; "There are probably few who do not recognize her."

Night Qingran was taken aback, then pursed his lips and snorted at Rong Jing. “I’m only asking you a question; why are you acting as though I’d eaten dirt It’s normal that others know Moon Sister but it’s unusual that she appears to recognize this boy. He was sent away to the Heavenly Snow Mountain when he was young to be under the tutelage of Snow Mountain Elder; how could she possibly know him”

"Then you’ll need to ask your good little Moon Sister." Rong Jing replied in a cool tone that seemed indifferent but still sounded somewhat different from before.

“I will, but not now.” Night Qingran turned his attention away from Rong Jing and glanced at Yun Qianyue who was focused on the arena. He then followed her gaze to look into the arena as well.

"For the first round, Young Master Feng Fei of the Marquis Wen’s Manor versus Young Master Wen Sheng of the General Wen’s Manor; let the duel begin!" shouted a referee standing next to Fourth Prince loudly.

The people who were whispering amongst themselves straightened up and fell silent as they all turned their attention to the arena.

Hardly had the shout died down when the two on stage started fighting. Before anyone could see how Wen Sheng of the General Wen Manor was felled, he had already been sent flying off the high platform in a beautiful arc; he landed softly and only seemed confused as to why he’d lost so quickly.

"Excellent! Truly worthy of being the descendent of Marquis Wen!" The old emperor praised loudly.

“Yes, such skills are truly exceptional!” Dukedom Prince also gave high praise.

“Deciding a match with half a move and not injuring one’s opponent; he has the demeanor of a noble gentleman!” Cloud Prince also complimented.

"When Marquis Wen was famous for his talent, it is unsurprising that his descendent would have such skills." Xian Dukedom Prince felt that he should say something after everyone else had spoken. However, as Rong Feng was from the side branch of the Honor Manor, he didn’t want to praise him so only managed a backhanded compliment.

“Indeed, it’s true to say he’s Snow Mountain Elder’s disciple.” Night Qingran also praised as he weighed whether or not he could throw Wen Sheng offstage within half a move. Thinking this way, he felt that Wen Sheng was simply a weakling and thought himself capable of tossing him off the platform.

Rong Jing’s expression remained indifferent; it seemed he had expected such an outcome so made no comment.

"First round victory for Young Master Feng Fei from Marquis Wen Manor! For the second round, Little Lord Feng Yang of General Feng Manor will enter!" shouted the referee.

Someone flew up instantly, not waiting for the referee’s command to start before launching an attack. The moves were ruthless and aimed at Rong Feng’s face. He easily dodged, waving his hand as he did so; Feng Yang was sent flying like a piece of willow fluff and landed heavily on the ground once more. Everyone gasped again.

“Excellent!” shouted the old emperor once more.

The Prince of De and others nodded in unison, though they didn't speak their praises aloud, the admiration was clearly evident on their faces.

Although Yun Qianyue had lost all her martial arts skills, her eyesight was still better than an ordinary person's. She noticed that Rong Feng used simple moves but managed to effortlessly throw his opponent away, while those two people hadn't even touched a thread of his clothes; clearly, he was powerful in internal energy.

"The second round winner is the Marquis Wen Bo’s son! Third round contestant: Wang Tingyi, Minister of War's son!" The referee shouted again.

The moment he finished speaking, an older man quickly leaped onto the high stage.

Like the first two contestants, this person was thrown off the stage in no time.

"The third round winner is Marquis Wen Bo's son! Fourth round contestant: Wang Changwen, Governor of Wenchang County!" The referee shouted again. Another person jumped up from below. Just like the previous one, he was quickly defeated and thrown down.

"Fourth round winner is Marquis Wen Bo’s son! Fifth round..." The referee repeated his announcement.

Immediately after this, another person performed a similar action—right as they stepped onto the stage, they were thrown off.

The process continued; people kept ascending and descending from the stage. Within the time it took to drink a cup of tea, over twenty people had been knocked down.

The crowd in this pavilion was silent, with only the old emperor occasionally giving cheers.

About half an hour later, Rong Feng had defeated more than one hundred opponents. The referee continued announcing names without stopping, while Rong Feng on stage showed no sign of complaint.

Frowning, Yun Qianyue shifted her gaze from the stage to below and saw a dense crowd, likely numbering about a thousand people. She wondered how anyone could endure this endless round-robin fight when facing one person with such numbers. Turning back to look at those seated, she noticed that none of them had any objections; their eyes swept over Rong Jing's calm face and Ye Qingran’s earnest gaze, indicating they too were without complaint. Slightly pursing her lips, she turned to the old emperor and said, "Uncle Emperor, if he doesn't lose, will he keep fighting until he dies Look at all these people down below! If this continues, won’t he die of exhaustion even when he wins"

Yun Qianyue’s voice wasn’t low; everyone in the pavilion could hear her. Upon hearing that, they all turned to look at her.

The old emperor also redirected his gaze and said with a smile, "This is a tradition of our martial arts competition for generations; it tests not only prowess but endurance and strength. If one cannot endure, there's no way to become the Martial Champion!"

"But in previous years, was the number this large" Yun Qianyue asked with confusion.

The old emperor paused momentarily, then looked at the scene again before shaking his head and saying, "It might have been around half of these people."

"Then that’s it. In past years, there were only half as many participants, but this year the number has doubled. This is unfair! If he ends up dying from exhaustion, won’t our Heavenly Dynasty lose a talented individual" Yun Qianyue pointed out.

The old emperor frowned and looked at Rong Feng; it seemed he was carefully considering what Yun Qianyue had said.

"Miss Yun Qianyue, the rules of this martial arts contest were established a hundred years ago. Are you trying to change them" Prince Xiang asked from afar, his voice clear and unimpeded by distance.

Yun Qianyue countered with her own question: "Prince Xiang, who set these rules"

"Of course it was our ancestor!" Prince Xiang responded promptly.

"Ancestor was human too; he wasn’t a god. He couldn't foresee events a hundred years later. Since the rules were made by humans, why can’t they be changed Our ancestor is gone now, and my Uncle Emperor holds power over our Heavenly Dynasty. As a ruler, he has every right to amend regulations for better governance, adapting them with the times in order to build up our nation’s foundation more effectively. If we remain stubbornly clinging to old ways, how can we grow stronger It would be as if everything remains unchanged since the time of our ancestor! How could there then be any talk of prosperity and strength, great endeavors, or enduring achievements" Yun Qianyue had initially not planned on speaking up, but she couldn’t stand this outdated rule that was unjust. Besides, regarding Rong Feng, she felt an inexplicable unease as if it were a leftover emotion from the body's previous owner. So why not help him out

Prince Xiang was momentarily taken aback by Yun Qianyue’s arguments and looked at the old emperor. The old emperor too seemed surprised; he immediately retorted, "Ignorant child! How can one change the ancestral rules Miss Yun Qianyue has barely learned to read for a few days and already talks about governing the country—it's laughable!"

"I am foolish indeed, but I understand that such martial competition is unfair. If I don't speak up when I see this injustice, what use would it be if Uncle Emperor asked me to sit here quietly without speaking" Yun Qianyue shot a glance at Prince Xiang.

Prince Xiang retorted, "What do you mean by fair Has there ever been true fairness since ancient times"

Yun Qianyue immediately seized on this and laughed weakly, saying, "So this martial contest is inherently unfair from the start I thought it was proper and just, but turns out it's all for fun! Sigh. If I had known Uncle Emperor’s good intention in allowing me to watch, I wouldn’t have come. It’s so dull; always watching him fight alone. By the end, he’ll probably exhaust himself to death. No one will become a Martial Champion then. Tsk tsk, it might as well not be watched."

Prince Xiang was momentarily at a loss for words.

"Uncle Emperor, my younger sister has a point. If this continues, Rong Feng may die from exhaustion. This is indeed unfair," Ye Qingran interjected.

Night Tianqing glanced over at Yun Qianyue and seeing her listless face, felt pity; after a moment of hesitation, he also turned to the old emperor and said, "Father Emperor, my younger sister’s words are correct. In the past, this martial contest was set up for officials' descendants in the capital city only. Commoners couldn’t participate. Now that it has been over a hundred years, you wish to recruit talented individuals from among common folk too, giving them a chance to compete as well. Hence, increasing participants from dozens to thousands is indeed overwhelming for anyone. Even if Rong Feng has exceptional martial skills, he can't cope with this endless fight. This truly isn’t fair."

The Fourth Prince gave a glance at the Crown Prince, then swept his gaze over everyone else before he suggested: "This son also thinks that Little Miss Yuan is correct. Since the rule of only allowing high-ranking nobles to participate in the martial arts competition has been broken, this rule no longer seems fair."

Yun Qianyue knew that Ye Qingran would help her, but she hadn’t expected Ye Tianqing and Ye Tianyu to also offer their assistance. She glanced at those two people before fixing her gaze on Rong Jing. Seeing that he had no intention of speaking up, she withdrew her gaze and continued looking toward the center.

"Miss Yun Qianyue is right!" The Prince of Virtuous Concord nodded in agreement as well.

The Cloud King glanced at Yun Qianyue but didn’t understand why this daughter was helping Rong Feng. Was it because of Lord Jing Although the rules appeared to be set in stone, there were still ways around them in private. For example, one could rig the draw so that only later numbers would be given out if someone wanted to conserve their energy. Even though Xiao Wangzi Ye Qingran didn’t think it necessary to do such things, Prince of Virtuous Concord naturally chose a later number for his son’s benefit. Therefore, even though Ye Qingran had signed up, he still hadn’t gotten onto the platform.

He looked at Rong Jing; from the other man’s calm face, he couldn’t tell what Lord Jing was thinking. He wasn’t sure if Lord Jing wanted to help the Marquis Wen family regain its former glory or simply stay out of it and bring them down even further. Until now, he hadn’t been able to figure that out. If Lord Jing truly wanted to support the Marquis Wen family, then he should have helped Rong Feng get a later number instead of making him go first when everyone knew this wasn’t fair for him. However, if Lord Jing didn’t want to help at all, with his means, Rong Feng wouldn’t be able to return to the capital city or enter the competition.

After some consideration, the Cloud King nodded in agreement as well: "My daughter’s words make sense."

The main figures had given their opinions and now all the other ministers were also voicing theirs. But they spoke rather vaguely.

When everyone finished speaking, the old emperor fell silent.

In this pavilion, no one said anything more. Up on the platform, things continued as before. Rong Feng didn’t look tired at all.

"Hm, Little Miss Yuan is indeed correct." After a moment of silence, the old emperor nodded and turned to Rong Jing, who had remained silent this entire time: "Lord Jing, what do you think Tell me your thoughts!"

"Jing has no opinion on this matter! The Martial Art Champion Competition has been going on for over a hundred years. Although it’s not entirely fair, everyone knows about this rule. Before stepping onto the platform, each participant is clear of what rules they have to abide by and had signed up voluntarily. Life and death are dictated by fate, wealth and fortune lie in one's destiny." Rong Jing spoke indifferently.

Yun Qianyue suddenly looked at Rong Jing – did he mean that no matter how tired Rong Feng got, he’d do nothing

The old emperor nodded.

"Weakling, what’s your meaning" Ye Qingran asked Rong Jing.

“What you heard.” Rong Jing said coolly.

Ye Qingran frowned and suddenly stood up. He turned to the old emperor: "Uncle Emperor, I want to go up there too! This time, aren’t these over a thousand people who qualified I want to split them with him – half for me, half for him. Afterwards, we’ll compete against each other again. Don’t you think that no one will be able to beat the two of us"

"Oh You wish to go up there too Split it in half" The old emperor raised an eyebrow.

“Yes! This is fair and just!” Ye Qingran looked at Rong Feng on the platform: "I don’t want to take advantage of him. If he gets tired, others will say I won unfairly after beating him, and that’s not good for my reputation."

The Prince of Virtuous Concord frowned but didn’t stop Xiao Wangzi.

"This is also a fair way of doing things!" The Cloud King said with a slight nod.

"But isn’t this breaking the rules set by His Holy Ancestor Little Wangzi Ye, don’t you see that Rong Feng on the platform doesn’t look the least bit tired Perhaps he won’t even get fatigued after defeating a thousand people! Are you underestimating the descendants of Marquis Wen" The Prince of Filial Piety said.

Ye Qingran frowned: "After we split them up and compete again, if he defeats me, I’ll admit that his martial arts is better than mine. If I win against him, I won’t think it’s unfair to have beaten him either. How could I be underestimating the descendants of Marquis Wen" As soon as those words left his mouth, before Prince of Filial Piety could retort, he turned to the old emperor: "Please grant this wish!"

The old emperor seemed deep in thought before turning once again to Rong Jing and asking: “Lord Jing, what do you think about Little Wangzi Ye’s suggestion”

“Since Little Wangzi Ye doesn’t want people to say he won unfairly, his proposal is a good one.” Rong Jing said indifferently.

"Alright then, we’ll follow Little Wangzi Ye’s idea." The old emperor nodded and instructed the Fourth Prince: "Yu’er, tell everyone that the platform will be divided into two halves. We’ll have two simultaneous competitions. Allow Little Wangzi Ye to go up there to guard one half of the platform! If he can last until the end with Rong Feng, then they’ll compete against each other and decide who wins. But if anyone defeats either of them in the middle of the competition, then let the victors from both sides fight it out!"

"Thank you Uncle Emperor!" Ye Qingran was delighted.

"Yes Father." The Fourth Prince told the judge nearby.

The judge immediately shouted loudly: "His Majesty’s Decree – to ensure fairness and justice, we will divide the platform into two halves and have one competition take place on each half. Little Wangzi Ye shall go up there to guard his side of the platform! If he can last until the end with Rong Feng, then they’ll compete against each other and decide who wins. But if anyone defeats either of them in the middle of the competition, then let the victors from both sides fight it out!"

As soon as the judge finished speaking, everyone below erupted into a commotion, conversing with their neighbors.

When Yun Qianyue saw that some people immediately changed their expressions upon hearing Ye Qingran guarding the platform, she smiled, thinking that they must be worrying about their lives. If Ye Qingran threw someone from a high platform three zhang high, he might injure them severely.

Ye Qingran smirked and leaped up into the air with grace like the wind, landing on the high platform effortlessly in an instant.

"Well done!" The old emperor praised loudly, laughing heartily. "After seven years of training, this young devil finally has not wasted his efforts on martial arts! Although he still behaves recklessly when back, he is more mature and responsible now, which greatly pleases me."

The Prince Regent said, "It's worth it for Father King to kick him out of the capital city all those years ago."

Laughing, the old emperor said, "Ahaha! The dear old uncle dotes on this kid like a treasure in his palm; kicking him out was indeed a great effort. Today I will see how powerful this young devil's martial arts have become!"

The Prince Regent smiled and nodded.

No one else spoke.

Then, Ye Tianyu ordered another referee to announce loudly, "First round: Young Noble of Lord Dyeing versus the son of the Chancellor's Manor."

With the referee's words, people stopped chattering below. One person flew up onto the high platform.

The moment the referee announced the start, Ye Qingran delivered a light and delicate palm strike. The son of the Chancellor’s Manor could not block his move; in an instant, he was sent flying off the platform into the air with a beautiful arc before lightly landing on the ground below. Afterward, the young man from the Chancellor's Manor bowed with red cheeks and said thanks: "Thank you for sparing me, Young Noble of Lord Dyeing!"

Ye Qingran did not look at him, waving his hand dismissively, "No need to thank."

The people waiting below sighed in relief. As long as Ye Qingran showed mercy and didn't hurt anyone severely, it would be fine. Otherwise, even if they had passed the selection process and registered their names, none of them dared to fight him for fear that he might injure someone seriously.

The referee called out again loudly, "Young Noble of Lord Dyeing wins in the first round. Second round..."

At the same time, Rong Feng also knocked another person off the platform and glanced at Ye Qingran, who raised his eyebrows at him; he nodded slowly without a word.

The referee announced again loudly, "Round 138: The son of Marquis Wén wins! Round 139..."

"Your Majesty, why not call back Rong Feng and let him rest for now Wait until Young Noble of Lord Dyeing reaches round 138 as well before sending them both down. This way, they can start at the same time and avoid Rong Feng tiring out while still beating others. That would be truly fair," suggested the Prince of Filial Piety.

"Good idea!" Without inquiring about anyone else's opinion or thinking it over, the old emperor waved to Ye Tianyu: "Tianyu, call back Rong Feng and let him rest for now. Wait until Qingran catches up before sending them both down."

“Yes!” Ye Tianyu nodded, giving instructions to the referee.

The referee was about to announce the next round but changed his words upon hearing the emperor's command: "By imperial decree, the son of Marquis Wén may rest off the stage; this round is suspended for now. Resume when both Young Noble of Lord Dyeing and Rong Feng start at Round 138!"

The referee’s announcement prompted another wave of murmuring from the crowd below, who seemed puzzled by today's changes to the rules. But no one dared to protest with the emperor present.

Rong Feng appeared somewhat surprised and slowly turned around, looking into the pavilion.

"Have him come up!" The old emperor ordered.

The Fourth Prince announced loudly without using a referee: "His Majesty has invited Marquis Wén's Manor Rong Feng to the pavilion!"

Róng Jǐng looked at the pavilion but did not immediately enter. Instead, he observed for a moment before leaping up and flying over gracefully, landing lightly in the pavilion.

"Well done!" The old emperor praised again today.

Standing steadily after landing, Rong Feng bowed to the ground without looking at anyone: "I pay my respects to Your Majesty! Long live the Emperor!"

The old emperor waved his hand and said with great pleasure as Rong Feng was about to kneel down: "No need for formalities. Rise up." Then he added, "Bring him a seat next to Moon Girl."

Yun Qianyue was startled while Rong Feng seemed taken aback too. Ye Tianqin's expression changed slightly; Ye Tianyu’s eyes flashed; and Róng Jǐng merely looked at the arena indifferently, seemingly not hearing anything.

The Cloud King looked over at the old emperor, while The Prince Regent exchanged a glance with The Prince of Filial Piety. Everyone else was left wondering what to make of this unexpected development.

In the hearts of everyone in the Heavenly Sheng Dynasty, whether court officials or commoners, Yun Qianyue's identity was unique. As she was about to come of age soon, this period was very sensitive. Due to the founding ancestor emperor’s instructions, all men around her should avoid any suspicion. Especially with Rong Feng sitting beside her, it did not conform to etiquette. However, the Emperor had issued an order in such a setting. At that moment, everyone could hardly help but think: Is the Emperor unwilling for Yun Qianyue to enter the palace

For a while, there was complete silence under the pavilion.

"Thank you, Your Majesty! Rong Feng can stand!" Rong Feng lowered his head.

"Sit down! You have fought against over a hundred people. Of course, you are tired. I allow you to sit!" The old emperor ignored everyone’s different expressions and signaled Grand Eunuch Lu with a look, saying in a deep voice: "Grant him a seat."

"Yes, Your Majesty!" Grand Eunuch Lu immediately brought over a seat beside Yun Qianyue. He smiled at Rong Feng and called out, "Sir Rong Feng, the Emperor’s favor is great; you should come to sit down! This position isn’t one that anyone can take."

Rong Feng lowered his head and remained standing.

Yun Qianyue wondered if she had helped Rong Feng too much earlier on, making the old emperor want to test her Or did he mean for someone else to sit beside her even if it wasn't him today She didn’t have time to think about anything more. Composing herself, she suddenly smiled and beckoned at Rong Feng, "Hey, whoever you are, come over and sit down quickly! This seat is high up and offers a good view; you can see Ye Qingran’s every move clearly. When the time comes, you’ll be able to defeat him after knowing his strengths and weaknesses without having to put up with that little tyrant’s attitude of looking at no one. If I still had my martial arts skills, I would definitely challenge him, but then you must defeat him."

Rong Feng lifted his head abruptly and looked at Yun Qianyue.

"Isn’t he a simpleton Uncle Emperor, why is he standing there not moving Has the great favor of being allowed to sit beside Your Majesty made him too happy to move or has he never seen such a scene and been frightened into silence" Yun Qianyue looked at the Emperor sideways with a dazzling smile and in a crisp voice.

"You little girl, you’ve turned that decent young master of the Wenbo Marquis Manor into someone who’s not fit for company," said the old emperor as he playfully rapped Yun Qianyue on the head. Then, smiling amiably at Rong Feng, he said: "Come and sit down! Little Sister Moon is right; this seat offers a good view from its height. You’ll be able to defeat that little tyrant and humble him when the time comes."

"Yes, Your Majesty!" Rong Feng walked over slowly toward Yun Qianyue’s seat.

Just like at that day in Prince Yong's Manor when he was seen walking through the study of Rong Jing, his body was clad in a single white robe. Even after fighting so many people, there wasn’t even a trace of sweat or dirt on him. He walked slowly over with his back turned to the sunlight, seeming to be unsullied by any dust at all, as if he had stepped down from the peak of Snow Mountain amid clouds and mist, adding an aura of unreality.

Yun Qianyue tilted her head slightly to look at Rong Feng. She wore a smile on her face, and as soon as he sat down, she leaned forward eagerly and spoke to him in a casual manner: "Hey, whoever you are, your martial arts skills are really good! Can you teach me All that my old grandfather taught me was useless stuff that’s not fit for display. Your skills must be great; if I could learn from you, no one would dare make fun of this little miss anymore. If they did, a single punch from me would knock them out!"

Everyone there were embarrassed by Yun Qianyue's words.

"Miss Yun Qianyue, I am not some stranger you just met; my name is Rong Feng," Rong Feng looked at Yun Qianyue and said seriously.

"Oh, it’s Rong Feng! Alright then, Rong Feng. Then tell me: can you teach your martial arts to me" Yun Qianyue blinked her eyes and nodded solemnly before asking with a smile.

"Sister Moon, aren’t you putting others in an awkward position Didn’t Young Master Jing say that Rong Feng has trained on Snow Mountain since he was young There’s only the Old Man of Snow Mountain living there. Therefore, Rong Feng must be his disciple. As far as I know, the Old Man of Snow Mountain took only two disciples during his life and Rong Feng is his last one. The martial arts skills of the Snow Mountain Sect do not get passed on to outsiders. You would have to become Rong Feng’s disciple in order for him to teach you. But there are no such young masters, so I think you should give up on it!" Prince Four laughed as he spoke.

"Is that true Then what if I want to learn them badly Can I do anything else besides becoming his disciple" Yun Qianyue asked Rong Feng. As she thought about the matter, she decided to use this opportunity to test the old emperor a little and see what he was truly planning.

"There should be some other way!" Night Tianyu looked at Rong Feng and said: "Tell Sister Moon if there are any other methods. She’s so crazy about martial arts that whenever she sees someone who can fight well, she gets upset and wants to learn from them. On Clear Spring Mountain Spirit Terrace Temple, she even asked Young Master Jing to teach her the Hundred Steps Acupoint Strike!"

Everyone knew that the Hundred Steps Acupoint Strike of Prince Yong's Manor was a secret technique that had never been passed on before. They were all surprised and looked at Yun Qianyue with various expressions, even the old emperor, Cloud King, Duke De, and Duke Xiao. Seeing Yun Qianyue seemingly not hearing them but smiling as she watched Rong Feng waiting for his reply, everyone then turned to look at Rong Jing, who was watching Ye Qingran fight in the field without paying any attention. They all looked at Night Tianyu.

"But after she heard that the Hundred Steps Acupoint Strike of Prince Yong's Manor is a secret technique and can only be learned by marrying into Prince Yong's Manor, she immediately gave up on it and said that even if they killed her, she would never marry Young Master Jing. Haha, this little girl was there at that time when my brother the Crown Prince was also present. She looked as though marrying Young Master Jing would be a disadvantage for her," Night Tianyu paused, then met everyone’s gaze and laughed.

"So" The old emperor turned to look at Night Tianqing.

Although Night Tianqing wasn’t happy about Yun Qianyue cozying up to Rong Feng, he didn’t dare protest. He shot a cold glance toward Night Tianyu before turning and respectfully said to the old emperor: "Father Emperor, that’s how it was at that time! Sister Moon gave up on learning it after hearing."

"Haha, this little girl; being able to marry Young Master Jing is something many girls dream about, but she doesn’t like it," The old emperor laughed loudly. He looked pleased on his face but there was no telling what he actually thought.

Everyone also followed the occasion and laughed.

"Rong Feng, didn’t you tell her that besides拜師 (becoming a disciple) she would have to marry you in order to learn" Night Tianyu had been silent until now but seemed to be speaking more now.

One sentence made everyone’s eyes turn towards Rong Feng.

The old emperor also appeared to wait for an answer and looked at Rong Feng with a smile.

Cloud King's heart was in his throat. He opened his mouth, but seeing Yun Qianyue smiling brightly he swallowed the words back. He too watched Rong Feng eagerly, waiting for his response.

"What the Fourth Prince said is correct! It's indeed a rule of Snow Mountain Sect," Rong Feng pursed his lips and nodded at him.

"So, it’s true that as long as I marry you, I can learn your martial arts" Yun Qianyue's eyes lit up; for an instant her gaze was dazzling. She suddenly reached out to grab Rong Feng's sleeve with joy in her voice, "Then alright, I will marry you."

Her words were clear and decisive.

The crowd was shocked upon hearing this. No lady would be as audacious as Miss Yun Qianyue; she actually spoke of marriage loudly before the emperor and all officials present. They all looked at the old emperor simultaneously.

Ye Tianqiong's face turned dark instantly.

Ye Tianyu was taken aback— he had only been joking, but Rong Feng took him seriously while this little girl went along with it. He watched Yun Qianyue’s smiling face and the frozen expression of Rong Feng; then he looked at the old emperor.

Prince Dede was equally stunned. He thought Miss Yun Qianyue didn’t marry Jing Shizi but rather wanted to marry Rong Feng, who had no support behind him. Although Rong Feng belonged to Yong王府 (Yong Prince's Mansion), his lineage was too distant and the Wen Bo侯府 (Marquis Wen’s Mansion) he once belonged to was long gone. He basically lived alone without any backing. Yet Miss Yun Qianyue still wanted to marry him in front of the emperor—was she really that naive or intentionally doing this He felt as though this little girl wasn’t her usual self.

Prince Yun’s body nearly fell off his seat; his old face turned pale, fearing that the old emperor would punish Yun Qianyue. He opened his mouth to speak but closed it immediately under Yun Qianyue's gaze.

The Prince of Filial Piety scoffed inwardly— this little girl was indeed stupid, thinking she could oppose him like this She can dream on! As the eldest daughter of Yong Prince’s Mansion, wanting to marry someone else would be a blow to the royal family. He hoped that the emperor would punish her.

Rong Jing still watched the scene as though he hadn’t heard anything.

Night Qirran had already knocked one person off the stage and was now looking in this direction. Seeing Yun Qianyue grabbing Rong Feng’s sleeve, his brows furrowed. The referee shouted that another challenger would come up; with no time to think of other things, Night Qirran could only focus on the martial arts contest. But his thoughts had already drifted back to the pavilion— why did he leave the stage Fairness is worth nothing if it kills this guy instead. When did Moonie become so close to him Especially in front of Uncle Emperor.

The old emperor looked at Yun Qianyue and Rong Feng with an unchanged smile as though he hadn’t heard anything.

It seemed like there was no one here except for Yun Qianyue’s breathing.

"Hey, would you marry me" Yun Qianyue tugged at Rong Feng's sleeve. Her voice was soft and sweet, sounding both inquisitive and teasing— there wasn’t a hint of anything improper despite her posture or words. It seemed like she was asking for candy.

Rong Feng raised his eyes to look at her steadily.

Yun Qianyue noticed that he had beautiful amber-colored eyes, seemingly enveloping her in fog and clouds— although Rong Feng looked somewhat similar to Rong Jing, no one would take them for the same person. While Rong Jing’s appearance was as perfect as a painting or poem, with an ethereal beauty above the clouds, Rong Feng reminded Yun Qianyue of snow on a mountain peak, pure and clear amidst mist— she found herself entranced by his eyes.

Everyone watched them in silence, suddenly thinking that they made quite a pair. The man was handsome while the woman was beautiful; if one disregarded Yun Qianyue’s lack of education, it could be said that he had talent and she beauty.

"Cough…"

A low cough echoed in the quietness, sounding very clear. People turned to see Rong Jing covering his mouth with a handkerchief; though pale, he kept looking at the fight on stage instead of turning to look here.

Hearing this cough, Yun Qianyue tightened her grip on Rong Feng’s sleeve and was drawn out of her reverie. She didn’t turn around but still held his sleeve tightly. Suddenly she thought that marrying him would be a good idea if she had to marry someone.

At least it was better than marrying into the royal family, because she disliked competing with other beauties in the palace; better than marrying into the Crown Prince’s Mansion because she wouldn’t want to see Ye Tianqiong even if it meant her death; better than marrying Rong Jing because she didn’t wish to be killed by anger or hated forever; better than marrying Night Qirran since, although he was good, he already had a fiancée—she wouldn't do something as unkind as stealing another woman’s man. And much better than marrying Ye Tianyu, who was unpredictable and two-faced. As for Yun Muhuan, she could only see him as her brother— even if they weren’t related, there was no way he could like her after so many threats and mistreatments from her. In conclusion, if the old emperor forced her to marry someone, Rong Feng seemed to be a good choice.

With all of his family killed by assassins, it would make things easier for Yun Qianyue since she wouldn’t have to worry about managing an entire household. Moreover, he was handsome and clean— although not as perfect as Rong Jing, few could match him in looks; every day looking at such a man would be refreshing. Not only did his martial arts skill give her protection, but from the way he looked, she thought that after marriage he might always make concessions for her and take care of her. Most importantly, since the emperor had decided to marry her off, why not choose someone who suited her better instead Where could she find another man with such qualities

Yun Qianyue quickly came up with several reasons to marry Rong Feng— in a flash, she was convinced that she would marry him. She had no choice but him! Looking at Rong Feng, her eyes shone even brighter.

Rong Feng blushed under Yun Qianyue’s gaze and paled hearing the cough of Rong Jing— he stood stiffly there, looking at Yun Qianyue as his amber-colored eyes kept changing expression.

"Is Young Master Jing's illness still not cured" The old emperor turned to look at Rong Jing worriedly.

"I’m afraid it won’t ever be cured. Jing doesn't have any other desires; I hope that God will give me a few more years. It’s just a minor cold due to the cold air last night, Your Majesty needn’t worry," Rong Jing finally looked back with a shake of his head, glancing at Yun Qianyue with an indifferent expression.

"Sigh, I will continue looking for good doctors for you. In the future, our empire needs your support!" The old emperor sighed and waved to Rong Jing, speaking in a gentle tone, "Young Master Jing, if you are uncomfortable, leave early."

"I’m fine! It’s just a minor cold; I can still manage it. Your Majesty needn’t worry," Rong Jing shook his head. Jing really had extensive connections; he concealed his strengths but kept a tight rein on his young mistress no matter who it was, not even allowing her closest people to get close. Thankfully, he d...