The Jiuhua Sect earned its name "Jiuhua" (Nine Splendors) because it was divided into nine peaks, each named after the "Nine Stars of the Northern Dipper"—namely, the seven stars of Tianshu, Tianxuan, Tianji, Tianquan, Yuheng, Kaiyang, and Yaoguang, along with two additional hidden stars, Dongming and Yinyuan, collectively referred to as the Nine Splendors.
Among them, Tianshu Peak served as the main peak, housing the sect leader and the core of the sect. The remaining eight peaks each had a presiding master, equivalent to elders within the sect, holding esteemed positions.
Compared to other sects, the Jiuhua Sect stood out for its open and liberal ethos. On ordinary days, the nine peaks operated independently, yet in times of crisis, they united as one—a harmony in diversity that aligned with the grand principles of the Dao.
In the original story, Jiang Ruoshui was accepted as a disciple under Master Jinghai, the presiding master of the third peak, Tianji Peak.
To be fair, Master Jinghai was not a bad person. However, he had one flaw: having long occupied a high position and enjoyed smooth sailing, he had grown accustomed to looking down upon the world from his lofty perch. Not only did he fail to understand the suffering of the weak, but he also developed an arrogant and indifferent attitude, akin to the infamous "Why not eat meat porridge?"
When it came to Jiang Ruoshui, who endured relentless bullying, he believed she "lacked social skills and failed to better herself," adopting a laissez-faire stance with the reasoning that "one must first invite humiliation before others will humiliate them."
In his eyes, this was merely trivial squabbling among youths. If Jiang Baozhu and her clique targeted Jiang Ruoshui exclusively, there must be a reason—let them sort it out themselves.
Yet, when Jiang Ruoshui succumbed to qi deviation and injured Jiang Baozhu in retaliation, Master Jinghai was the first to step forward, sternly condemning her as cruel and vicious, incapable of enduring even minor setbacks, and thus doomed to never attain the Dao.
He famously declared, "The highest virtue is like water—water benefits all things without contention. Jiang Ruoshui, you are narrow-minded and vengeful. You are unworthy of this name."
When Shu Fu read this, she thought it was a load of pretentious nonsense. Back then, young and hot-blooded, she nearly chewed her keyboard in frustration.
—Jiang Baozhu bullied you for over a decade, but you dared to fight back? How dare you!
Having such a master was worse than worshipping a piece of roast pork.
This time, she would never become Master Jinghai’s disciple. In fact, she’d throw roast pork in his self-righteous face.
The storyteller, however, held Master Jinghai in high regard, lavishing praise upon him before adding, "Master Jinghai’s swordsmanship is peerless, though it falls just short of Master Mingxiao of Tianxuan Peak."
"Master Mingxiao?"
The Qi family’s red-clad young woman, Qi Xinlei, laughed. "You mean that female sword cultivator known as 'One Sword Chills Fourteen Provinces'? Is she truly that formidable?"
The storyteller nodded. "The Tianxuan lineage holds a prestigious position within the sect, second only to Tianshu. Naturally, its presiding master is extraordinary. Among the other peaks, Yaoguang Peak is the most renowned, producing talents in abundance."
He then briefly introduced the remaining peaks: Tianquan Peak excelled in alchemy, crafting pills that could extend a mortal’s life by decades; Yuheng Peak mastered arcane arts, capable of overturning rivers and seas with ease; Dongming Peak specialized in medicine, boasting the motto 'If they’re not cold, we can save them'; and Yinyuan Peak was unmatched in disguise and transformation, allowing its disciples to move freely even within demonic strongholds.
But the most unique was Yaoguang Peak.
Its presiding master, Master Tanhua, advocated "teaching without discrimination," taking in disciples rejected by other peaks—those with mediocre aptitude, eccentric temperaments, or even mixed demonic heritage—and guiding them with utmost dedication, withholding no knowledge.
Some suspected he was currying favor, while others mocked him for "collecting scraps." But given Master Tanhua’s profound cultivation, unpredictable temperament, and fierce protectiveness over his disciples, no one dared to voice such opinions openly.
Today, Yaoguang Peak had become a gathering place for talents—though most were unconventional or eccentric—forming an unassailable niche within the Jiuhua Sect.
Under Master Tanhua’s tutelage, there were no prejudices based on lineage or background, making it a rare sanctuary.
…
After listening, Shu Fu had already made up her mind. Aside from the "Number One Matriarchal Stronghold," the Xuan Jade Palace, her greatest admiration was reserved for this "scrap collector" of Yaoguang Peak.
In the eyes of others, she too was probably just another piece of scrap.
She silently resolved that, given the chance, she would do everything in her power to join these two places.
As the storytelling concluded, the teahouse patrons, still eager for more, began chatting idly about various topics. Eventually, the conversation turned to the Qi family’s rising star, the "Jade Lord" Qi Yuxuan, hailed as a once-in-a-century sword prodigy with unparalleled talent and destined greatness. If he joined one of the four great sects, they claimed, he would undoubtedly rise to become a legendary figure.
In a way, they weren’t wrong—because that was exactly how the original story went.
From their chatter, Shu Fu learned that the red-clad Qi Xinlei had a younger sister, Qi Yuwei. Both were cousins of the male lead, Qi Yuxuan.
…Cousins?
Shu Fu racked her brain, vaguely recalling that the male lead did have a few sisters—none of whom were positive characters. Their intelligence was middling at best, their morals nonexistent, and their sole purpose was to stir up trouble.
Today’s encounter proved their reputation well-earned.
Unfortunately, she couldn’t recall the specifics of these sisters’ roles or related plotlines.
This was hardly surprising—the original novel had too many villainous female characters, each with an IQ-reducing aura, as if their entire existence revolved around "worshipping the male lead" and "tormenting the female lead." They were practically carbon copies of one another; how could she possibly remember them all?
Based on her observations, Qi Xinlei was a textbook example of a low-tier villainess, the kind who’d be the first to perish in a harem drama—lasting maybe three episodes if she was lucky.
Meanwhile, oblivious to Shu Fu’s assessment, Qi Xinlei continued boasting to the crowd, "If I were to seek a Dao companion, it must be someone like Brother Yuxuan."
Someone interjected, "I heard he’s betrothed to the eldest daughter of the Jiang family? That young lady never steps outside her boudoir—one wonders what she’s like."
Qi Xinlei’s expression stiffened, her eyes flashing with disdain. "Hiding away in her chambers year after year, too timid to show her face—clearly, she’s not fit for polite society. The Jiang family only ever brings the second daughter to social gatherings."
"Sister, you shouldn’t speak so," Qi Yuwei chimed in, her tone sweet but her words no less cutting. "The Qi family values integrity. Even if they marry a delicate young lady who can’t lift a finger, they would never break their word."
Shu Fu, who had just taken a sip of tea, nearly choked on her laughter.
These young misses were still green, thinking themselves subtle when their envy practically oozed from every word, thick enough to suffocate.
Shu Fu, ever thick-skinned, paid no mind to their slander. She remained perfectly composed, even ordering another plate of spiced beans to better savor their bitterness.
Go on, keep seething. She loved watching people burn with jealousy over what they could never have—it was downright entertaining.
The so-called "sour delight" was when others were left sour, while she got to enjoy the delight.
The crowd, easily swayed by hearsay, quickly followed Miss Qi's lead and eagerly chimed in:
"Second Miss Jiang is graceful, gentle, and dignified—truly a lady of noble bearing. How can two children from the same Jiang family be so different?"
"I heard from Second Miss Jiang that her elder sister has a foul temper, always resentful toward her stepmother and younger sister, even extending that hatred to her father. Sigh, men will be men—how can the eldest daughter be so unreasonable?"
"Exactly. Sect Leader Jiang and his wife are deeply devoted to each other. What right does a junior have to meddle? If she’s so dissatisfied, why doesn’t she pack up and return to the Tong family?"
"Ah, come now. The Tong family has declined so much—where could she possibly go back to?"
"Between you and me, the late Madam Tong was as fiery as they come—what man could tolerate her? If not for the long-standing friendship between the Qi, Jiang, and Tong families, such a marriage would never have happened."
"Absolutely right!"
Qi Xinlei grew more spirited as she spoke, her eyes gleaming with triumph. "In my opinion, Eldest Miss Jiang’s temper is just like her mother’s. With such a personality, how could she possibly be worthy of Brother Yuxuan? I must find a way to help him—he can’t be tied to a petty, jealous woman. It would only bring endless trouble."
The crowd murmured in agreement.
"..."
Shu Fu’s expression darkened slightly, her previously indifferent smile fading. Insults should never target one’s parents—this little girl’s words had crossed the line.
But before she could speak, a sudden snort of laughter cut through the air. It was the red-robed woman again, unable to hold back her amusement.
This time, Shu Fu saw it clearly—her laughter was like the first bloom of spring flowers, her beauty even more radiant than before, captivating enough to steal souls. The man beside her, likely her Dao companion, wore a resigned expression but let her be.
Twice interrupted, Qi Xinlei’s temper flared. Her delicate brows furrowed as she snapped, "Fellow cultivator, what are you laughing at now?"
The woman didn’t miss a beat, repeating her earlier line: "I just remembered something funny."
Qi Xinlei pressed, "What funny thing?"
Without even glancing up, the woman leisurely traced the agate bracelet on her wrist and drawled, "A monkey demon once fell head over heels for my master, shouting about wanting to 'bear his monkeys.' My master turned green with fright. Don’t you think that’s hilarious?"
"Pfft—"
Shu Fu couldn’t help but laugh this time.
Before Qi Xinlei could react, she quickly added, "Some monsters also wanted to bear monkeys for my master."
Qi Xinlei looked bewildered, her gaze flickering between them. "Are your masters... the same person?"
"Yes, yes," the red-robed woman answered absentmindedly before catching herself and bursting into laughter again. "No, no. My master isn’t popular—he only attracts delusional monkeys. He’d never have such a lovely girl around."
She blinked deliberately and enunciated each word, "Though, in the monkeys’ eyes, they probably think they’re adorable. Otherwise, why would they strut around giving orders without even wearing pants?"
"What do you mean by that?!"
"Who are you calling monkeys? Are you looking for a fight?!"
The barb struck a nerve, and several people slammed their hands on the table in outrage. Qi Xinlei, realizing the implied insult, flushed red, then pale, then green. "You—you’re mocking me?"
"Miss Qi, you misunderstand. You’re not a monkey—why would I laugh at you? Pfft..."
"You are laughing at me! You haven’t stopped!"
Shu Fu noticed the red-robed woman had an exceptionally low threshold for laughter—tears already glistened at the corners of her long, elegant eyes.
Then again, Qi Xinlei’s flustered expression was pretty funny.
The man beside her finally intervened, handing her a handkerchief to wipe her tears. As she dabbed at her eyes, she composed herself and said solemnly:
"Miss Qi, I underwent rigorous training at the Mystic Jade Palace. No matter how funny something is, I never laugh..."
She paused, meeting the man’s incredulous stare, and reluctantly added:
"...Unless I can’t help it."
"..."
Qi Xinlei was momentarily stunned by her shameless audacity before recovering. "Wait—you’re from the Mystic Jade Palace?"
"I am Liu Ruyi, indeed from the Mystic Jade Palace," the woman replied with a smile. "A humble sect, waiting for the right offer—hardly comparable to the noble Qi family’s sophistication. My apologies. Sir, let’s go. We wouldn’t want to offend anyone’s delicate sensibilities."
The man sighed, "Offend? You’ve already left them fuming."
Still, he tossed coins onto the table and followed Liu Ruyi out of the teahouse with unhurried grace.
Just as they crossed the threshold, Shu Fu saw Liu Ruyi flick her sleeve—and suddenly, the cups and plates before the gossiping patrons leaped into the air, smacking them squarely in the face. The most foul-mouthed among them were even flung headfirst through the windows with a resounding thud.
Moments later, unrestrained laughter drifted in from outside:
"Oh, I can’t—that little girl is just too funny! Nitpicking here, sneering there, with the insight of a needle’s point and the audacity to lecture the world. Does she even deserve to look down on the Mystic Jade Palace? She asked if Master Mingxiao was strong—hilarious! Mingxiao could defeat Jinghai with one hand. The title of 'Number One Sword Cultivator' is undisputed. Who doesn’t know that?"
"Ruyi, enough," the man’s calm voice interjected. "I’ve told you—if you’re displeased, just act. No need to waste words on those beneath you. The moment you acknowledge them, you’ve already lost."
Liu Ruyi: "But I like scolding people. I even recorded her expression earlier with a memory stone. Want to see? It’s priceless."
The man: "No need. Why would I want to look at monkeys? Refine your tastes—don’t collect every trivial thing."
Qi Xinlei: "..."
Her face was smeared with pastry, two sticky sesame dumplings clinging to her eyelids. She swayed on her feet, face ashen, and would have collapsed if not for her sister’s support.
Shu Fu clutched her stomach, barely stifling laughter as she nearly rolled under the table.
Once she recovered, she slipped out of the teahouse like a fish and spotted Liu Ruyi’s striking figure in the crowd. Calling out, she hurried after them:
"Fellow Cultivator Liu, wait!"
Liu Ruyi turned, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Ah, the young lady from earlier? What brings you chasing after us?"
"Nothing presumptuous," Shu Fu replied earnestly, clasping her hands. "I wish to join the Mystic Jade Palace. Might you guide me?"
"Oh?" Liu Ruyi arched a brow. "Now that’s unexpected."
Liu Ruyi’s eyes flickered with amusement. "Just now in the teahouse, everyone spoke disdainfully of the Mystic Jade Palace while yearning for Lingxiao City. Yet you seem to hold the opposite view. Disciples of Lingxiao City get whatever they desire—glory, resources, opportunities—all at their fingertips. Isn’t that enviable?"
Her tone carried a hint of testing, as though probing Shu Fu’s character.
Shu Fu hadn’t expected the question, but she answered without hesitation, her voice clear and forthright: "In that teahouse, I heard plainly that if any other cultivator dares to bear the name ‘Phoenix,’ Ling Fengming and his family will suppress them relentlessly, forcing them to rename themselves after chickens, ducks, or sparrows—all for Young Master Ling’s amusement. Tell me, is that true?"
"..."
A faint sneer tugged at Liu Ruyi’s delicate brows. "Of course it’s true. If you don’t believe me, just ask around. Names like ‘Wang the Rooster,’ ‘Zhao the White Duck,’ and ‘Sun the Sparrow’ are a dime a dozen. Some refuse to yield, of course. If they’re under the protection of a major sect, they might survive. If not… well, their path to immortality ends there."
"Then I stand by what I said. If this is true, I have only one thing to say."
Shu Fu took a deep breath and raised her voice. "Lingxiao City treats others like beasts? In my eyes, they’re worse than beasts."
She had a fiery temper and a tendency to immerse herself in righteous indignation—every time she read about such villains, she’d curse them a thousand times over. Lingxiao City’s tyranny, treating lesser cultivators as less than human, had simmered in her chest all afternoon in that teahouse. Now, her outburst came from the heart, raw and unrestrained.
Liu Ruyi burst into laughter. "‘Worse than beasts’—what a splendid insult!"
The man beside her, gentle in demeanor, chuckled along good-naturedly and sighed softly. "Ruyi’s wit in mocking others is already unmatched, but you, young as you are, are just as sharp-tongued. If the two of you join forces, I fear you could verbally dismantle the entire world..."
He paused, selecting the most fitting word: "...into silence."
"Lingxiao City has run rampant for years. It’s high time someone gave them a wake-up call. If not for the Sect Leader’s face, I wouldn’t just reduce them to silence—I’d drive them to their knees."
Liu Ruyi waved off the concern, then suddenly grinned and ruffled Shu Fu’s hair. "This girl has remarkable potential, a fine temperament, and curses with flair. She suits my tastes. Why not bring her along for this trip?"
"As you wish."
Though the man spoke deferentially, his tone held no reluctance as he bowed slightly to Shu Fu. "My surname is Jiang, courtesy name Xuesheng. I am Ruyi’s... friend. May I ask your name, fellow cultivator?"
"I..."
Shu Fu hesitated briefly before answering candidly, "My name is Shu Fu. ‘Fu’ means ‘waterfowl’ or ‘wild duck.’ My parents never expected me to become a phoenix—they only wished for me to live comfortably. At least this way, Young Master Ling won’t go out of his way to force a name change on me."
"‘Live comfortably’—your parents were wise indeed."
Liu Ruyi sighed, then sobered. "Miss Shu, we’ve come to Qingcheng to hunt a demonic beast."
Shu Fu blinked. "A demonic beast?"
Liu Ruyi nodded. "Indeed. What do you say? If you’re unafraid, why not join us? Once the task is done, I’ll take you wherever you wish to go."
Shu Fu’s eyes lit up, and she agreed at once. "I’m eager for experience—of course I’m not afraid. What kind of beast is it?"
Jiang Xuesheng paused, as though wary of frightening her, and enunciated slowly: "One of the ‘Four Evils’—the Qiongqi. Have you heard of it?"
Shu Fu stiffened.
Her knowledge of demonic beasts was superficial at best, limited to skimming names in the Classic of Mountains and Seas.
But for Jiang Ruoshui, this name was a recurring nightmare.
Jiang Ruoshui’s birth mother, Tong Yao, had fought Qiongqi in a desperate battle, sacrificing her life to strike the final blow.
In that same battle, the Tong Clan suffered devastating losses, their decline marking the beginning of Jiang Ruoshui’s tragic fate.
Through Jiang Ruoshui’s memories, Shu Fu had seen clearly: Qiongqi had been slain by Tong Yao’s dying strike. How could another appear so soon?
The original novel hadn’t mentioned this!
Shu Fu realized her foreknowledge was failing her. This world’s scope far exceeded the million-word confines of the story she’d read.
But her chance to join a sect was at stake. After only a brief hesitation, she steeled herself. "I know of it. To be honest, Qiongqi and I share a history. I’ll lend whatever strength I can."
