Chapter 933: The Valley Master of Hundred Flowers
Chapter 933: The Valley Master of Hundred Flowers
The sound of clattering chopsticks echoed as Mo Hua's chopsticks slipped from his hand and clattered on the table, leaving him stunned.
Perhaps others wouldn't have noticed, but Mo Hua was well aware of what he had done, and his heart sank.
Moreover, he had just seen the breathtakingly beautiful Valley Master of Hundred Flowers give him a meaningful glance.
Mo Hua's heart trembled.
"Has my entry into the Hundred Flowers Valley been discovered by their Sect Leader? No, it can't be... My luck can't be that bad..."
"Or did Shallow Senior Sister betray me? Did she secretly tell the Sect Leader about my dark past?"
"No, Shallow Senior Sister wouldn't do that..."
Mo Hua's heart was in turmoil, and the crab he was eating suddenly lost its appeal.
On the other side, Gu Shouyan also noticed the Valley Master's gaze and nodded slightly, understanding the situation.
The Valley Master of Hundred Flowers had come to the Gu family ostensibly to visit the disciples of Hundred Flowers Valley, but in reality, she had come for Mo Hua, the 'Array Dao Supreme'.
However, what he didn't know was that this 'Array Dao Supreme' was, in a sense, also a 'disciple of Hundred Flowers Valley'.
The Hundred Flowers Valley held a special status, and with the Valley Master herself making the visit, Gu Shouyan was extremely courteous.
"Valley Master, please take a seat."
As an unexpected guest, Gu Shouyan hastily arranged a seat for her.
Due to the Valley Master's esteemed status, her seat was arranged on par with the Patriarch's, to the right of Xia Supervisor, conveniently next to Mo Hua.
Xia Supervisor rose to greet the Valley Master, bowing respectfully, "Greetings, Valley Master."
His attitude was surprisingly reverent.
The Valley Master merely nodded slightly, then took her seat next to Mo Hua.
Mo Hua quietly picked up his chopsticks, sitting stiffly and holding his breath. He carefully picked at the crab meat with his chopsticks, looking meek and refined, a far cry from his earlier carefree and relaxed demeanor.
Xia Supervisor gave him a strange look, wondering how this young man had suddenly become so well-behaved. Hadn't he been quite talkative just a moment ago?
Xia Supervisor turned to look at the Valley Master, who was dressed in exquisite court attire, her face a vision of beauty. He found her expression somewhat peculiar.
The Valley Master sat gracefully, her fair and delicate fingers holding a jade cup as she sipped flower wine, her posture both elegant and dignified. Since taking her seat, she had remained silent.
Mo Hua, feeling like he was sitting on pins and needles, couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief.
"It must have been my imagination. This beautiful Valley Master probably doesn't know that I sneaked into the Hundred Flowers Valley..."
"I'll just pretend nothing happened, sit quietly and finish this meal, then slip away before she catches me..."
"This Valley Master looks so aloof, she probably won't pay me any attention..."
But as if his thoughts had been overheard, a clear and ethereal voice suddenly spoke up, "You're Mo Hua, aren't you?"
Mo Hua's body tensed, and he stiffly turned to face the Valley Master, whose beauty could topple nations and captivate cities, with a smile that seemed both genuine and mocking.
"Yes..." Mo Hua replied softly.
"Do you know who I am?" the Valley Master asked him.
Mo Hua's heart skipped a beat as he nodded.
"The Valley Master of Hundred Flowers Valley..."
"Oh," the Valley Master's eyes flashed, "Are you very familiar with the Hundred Flowers Valley?"
Mo Hua's heart sank.
It seemed the Valley Master knew everything.
But when did she find out?
It couldn't have been from the very beginning, could it?
Could it be that she had seen him wearing the Hundred Flowers Dao Robe and recognized him? No, that couldn't be!
The Valley Master's clear eyes fixed on him, and Mo Hua, feeling a bit guilty, replied, "I, I'm a little familiar with it... but not that familiar..."
After all, he had only been to the Hundred Flowers Valley once, and that too under the guidance of Shallow Senior Sister, who had led him around with a gentle and obedient demeanor, ensuring he saw only what he was supposed to see.
"Mo Hua..." the Valley Master murmured his name, then praised him softly, "A mid-stage Foundation Establishment Array Dao Supreme, even in the Qianxue State, is a rarity."
Mo Hua humbly responded, "Valley Master, you flatter me."
"I have a request, and I wonder if you, young master, would be willing to grant it?"
Mo Hua, feeling guilty, said, "Valley Master, please speak."
The Valley Master spoke softly, "My disciples in the Hundred Flowers Valley are all young girls who are used to tending flowers and plants. They are lazy by nature and not very skilled in formation techniques. Young Master Mo, if you have the chance, why not pay a visit to the Hundred Flowers Valley and teach them some formation techniques?"
Mo Hua wouldn't dare refuse, and he immediately agreed, "Of course, of course."
But as soon as the words left his mouth, he realized something, and asked in confusion, "But isn't the Hundred Flowers Valley forbidden to men?"
The Valley Master smiled enigmatically, "Oh, I almost forgot. The Hundred Flowers Valley does not allow men to enter, and you, young master, remember this well."
Mo Hua wished he could find a hole to crawl into.
The Valley Master saw Mo Hua's face turn as red as an apple and found the situation amusing. She didn't want to make things difficult for him, so she raised her wine cup and said, half-jokingly and half-seriously, "Young Master Mo, your future is bright. I offer you a toast. In the future, if the Hundred Flowers Valley needs your help, I hope you won't hesitate."
Xia Supervisor, sitting nearby, was surprised by the Valley Master's words, seemingly not expecting her to say such a thing.
Mo Hua quickly raised his wine cup in return, "I, Mo Hua, am unworthy of the Valley Master's praise. If there's ever a need in the future, I will do my best."
The Valley Master nodded in satisfaction and drained her cup of flower wine, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she looked at Mo Hua. "Young Master Mo, please sit. There's no need to be nervous."
After finishing his wine, Mo Hua bowed to the Valley Master before finally sitting down.
At the same time, he breathed a long sigh of relief.
Fortunately, the Valley Master was magnanimous and only asked for a promise, a small 'pledge of allegiance', before lightly brushing aside the matter of his unauthorized entry into the Hundred Flowers Valley without making a big deal of it.
Otherwise, he would have been in deep trouble.
Even if it didn't lead to disaster, losing face was a certainty.
The junior brother of the Great Void Sect, the Array Dao Supreme of the Qianxue State, had secretly entered the Hundred Flowers Valley while wearing their Dao Robe.
If word of this got out...
Just the thought made Mo Hua's scalp tingle.
The New Year's Feast continued, and Mo Hua didn't dare do or say anything out of the ordinary, let alone look around. He quietly ate his food, remaining silent until the feast came to an end.
The Valley Master, with her exquisite beauty, simply exchanged pleasantries with the Patriarch and then drank alone.
Her high status, stunning looks, elegant demeanor, and powerful aura ensured that no one dared approach her during the feast.
After the New Year banquet concluded, the Valley Master of Hundred Flowers rose to leave, and both Gu Shouyan and Xia Supervisor stood up to see him off.
"Please forgive us for any shortcomings in our hospitality," Gu Shouyan said.
The Valley Master smiled slightly, "I'm sorry for the sudden intrusion, and I appreciate your hospitality, Master Gu."
Gu Shouyan cupped his hands, "Not at all, I'll see you off."
The Valley Master nodded slightly and glanced back at Mo Hua before departing.
Mo Hua had drunk quite a bit, and the effects of the alcohol had not yet worn off. His cheeks still carried a faint blush, but his eyes were clearer than ever, and he stood on the high platform with a shy and quiet demeanor.
The Valley Master's thoughts stirred, and he couldn't help but imagine the scene he had witnessed from the high tower—Mo Hua, wearing the Blooming Valley Dao Robe, walking amidst the vibrant and colorful Hundred Flowers Mountain Dao.
"This child looks quite good in my Hundred Flowers Valley Dao Robe..."
After this brief glance, the Valley Master turned and left the Gu Family, then boarded the Hundred Flowers Valley carriage amidst a group of Hundred Flowers Valley women.
The carriage was adorned with exquisite flowers, emitting a pure and noble fragrance.
The Valley Master sat silently for a long time, then quietly took out a precious sword.
The sword was inlaid with gold and jade, exuding an ancient and precious aura, with the words "Longquan" engraved on it.
However, the sword had been sealed away, its scabbard untouched for a long time, much like its previous owner, whose pearl had been covered in dust, enduring countless hardships and vicissitudes.
The Valley Master gently caressed the Longquan Sword, his expression filled with a sense of loss, as if speaking to himself or to the sword, muttering:
"That day at the Array Debating Tournament, I saw this child single-handedly suppressing the Heaven-Exalted talents from the four major sects and countless other sects, his cold and domineering demeanor, with a gaze that seemed to look down upon the world, reminded me so much of you back then... I couldn't help but wonder if there was some causality between you two..."
"But today, this child is too shy and adorable, and he doesn't have a bloodline, nor does he have a good spirit root. You've never accepted such disciples."
"The disciples you accept wouldn't wear the Hundred Flowers Valley Dao Robe and run to the Hundred Flowers Valley..."
The Valley Master's expression held a hint of a smile, but it soon turned into deep melancholy.
Some past memories were sweet at first, but after chewing on them for a while, they became bitter. The more he reminisced, the more painful it became.
"In this life... will I ever see you again..."
These words pierced his heart.
But the Longquan Sword remained silent, unable to respond.
...
At the Gu Family banquet, Mo Hua watched the Valley Master leave and felt a sense of relief.
"I've narrowly escaped a disaster..."
"From now on, I'll never show my face again. In this life, I'll never go to Hundred Flowers Valley, no matter what."
Then, a question arose in his mind.
This extremely handsome Valley Master seemed to hold a high position. Not only did the usually strict and upright Master Gu treat him with great respect, but even Xia Supervisor, from a sixth-rank family and serving as a supervisor in the Dao Imperial Court, dared not show the slightest negligence.
Why? After all, Hundred Flowers Valley was just a twelfth-rank sect.
Was she not just the Sect Leader of Hundred Flowers Valley? Could it be that this Valley Master had some profound background or an extraordinary origin?
Mo Hua considered this but couldn't figure it out, so he stopped thinking about it, as it had nothing to do with him.
From now on, he just needed to avoid this handsome Valley Master. He couldn't let himself be caught by her again.
Mo Hua sighed softly.
He had thought that this New Year banquet would be like previous years, just a simple meal, but he hadn't expected to encounter so many unexpected people.
Moreover, they were all important figures.
Fortunately, he had managed to get through it and had learned many secrets about the great clans, making the trip worthwhile.
With that, the New Year banquet came to an end.
The guests gradually dispersed.
As usual, Mo Hua strolled through the Gu Family's courtyard to aid digestion and unintentionally bumped into Gu Hong, the Red Elder.
Gu Hong was still dressed in red, with a joyful expression.
Mo Hua asked curiously, "Red Elder, is there some good news? You seem so happy."
Upon seeing Mo Hua, Gu Hong invited him to sit down, poured him some tea, and offered him some melon, "Eat, and I'll tell you."
Mo Hua's stomach was already full, but he still picked up a piece of melon and took a small bite.
"It's about Chang Hui," Gu Hong said with relief, "In recent times, many clans in Qianxue State have sent matchmakers to propose marriages to our family..."
Mo Hua was a little surprised, "Uncle Gu's popularity is rising?"
"What popularity? You child..." Gu Hong complained, but it was clear that he didn't mind at all, and the smile on his face was uncontrollable.
"What happened?" Mo Hua asked curiously.
Gu Hong explained, "As I told you before, Chang Hui is a Registrar, and this position is usually a good one. But when it comes to marriage proposals among the clans, it's a bit inappropriate, and it's both dangerous and exhausting, keeping him away from home all year round."
"If he's not greedy, the treatment is too poor, and if he's a little greedy, he might easily stray onto the path of evil."
"Moreover, you know Chang Hui's personality. So, when we tried to arrange marriages for him in the past, we often hit a wall."
"But in recent years, I don't know if it's due to good luck or meeting a 'benefactor,' but Chang Hui has accomplished great things while working in the Dao Imperial Court."
"Not long ago, he even eradicated a Demon Sect with over a thousand members."
"This is quite an achievement, and the Dao Imperial Court is considering promoting him to the position of 'Deputy Director.' With his age and cultivation, if he works hard and reaches the Ascension Realm, and then accumulates more experience, if fortune favors him, he might even become the Director of Qianxue State in the future."
"Even if he doesn't become the Director of Qianxue State, being appointed as a local Director in other fourth or fifth-rank states would still grant him great power and an extremely promising future."
Even Mo Hua was shocked, "Uncle Gu has such a promising future?"
Gu Hong's expression was filled with relief, "Chang Hui himself is quite capable. In the Dao Imperial Court, whether it's his talent, family background, or abilities, he's among the best. Of course, his temper is a bit worse, and he's not as well-liked. But as a Registrar, his job is to offend people, so this isn't a significant drawback."
"The biggest issue before was his 'performance,' which was neither here nor there, so promoting or not promoting him was both acceptable."
"But now, with his achievements and experience, and with that Xiao Zhenhai, the Registrar from the Xiao Family..."
"Xiao Zhenhai?" Mo Hua asked.
"Yes," Gu Hong said, "Xiao Zhenhai had more experience than Chang Hui and was better at networking, but it seems he's gotten into trouble? He's gone missing."
"Mhm," Mo Hua nodded.
He had been the one who got him killed.
"So," Gu Hong continued, "Now, in the Dao Imperial Court, Chang Hui stands out among the rest, and if not him, who else would be promoted?"
He is a member of the Gu family. If he lacked the ability and was suppressed, then so be it. But now that he has the capability and experience, who would dare to openly antagonize my Gu family?"
Mo Hua nodded slightly.
Gu Hong, the Elder, said, "This person from the clan, indeed, has his foolish moments, but when he's clever, he's as sharp as they come. In Chang Hui's case, those with insight can see his boundless future and even the potential to become a 'Director.' Their attitude towards him is entirely different now."
"These past few days, those who came to talk to me about this matter almost wore out my doorstep."
Gu Hong couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as he boasted to Mo Hua.
Mo Hua was also happy for Uncle Gu.
However, he had his own plans.
Mo Hua asked in a low voice, "But... what about Xia Sister?"
Upon hearing this, Gu Hong paused slightly and couldn't help but sigh, "That girl is indeed good, but as I said before... Chang Hui might not be a good match..."
"Even for the future 'Director,' is it still not a good match?"
"You said it yourself, it's the 'future.' Who can say for sure what will happen in the future?" Gu Hong shook his head, "In the eyes of other clans and medium-sized families, this position of Director is of great importance. But for the Xia family of Dao State, it's not that crucial. Moreover, until the appointment of the Director is finalized, nothing can be certain..."
Mo Hua contemplated and said, "What if... I talk to Xia Supervisor and plead for him?"
Gu Hong was surprised, "You have a connection with Xia Supervisor?"
"A little," Mo Hua replied.
It was just a casual chat that led to this slight connection.
Gu Hong patted Mo Hua's shoulder and said with relief, "I understand your intentions, but these matters can't be forced. Sometimes, one's marriage in this life is destined by fate. In the end, it's up to Chang Hui's own luck."
"Don't go out of your way for him. Among the great clans, favors are precious. Without a family to rely on, keep these favors for your own use in the future, instead of always worrying about others."
Gu Hong's words were sincere, and he genuinely cared for Mo Hua.
Mo Hua felt grateful and nodded, "I understand, Elder Gu."
...
After bidding farewell to Gu Hong, Mo Hua went to find Gu Changhui.
Changhui was in his study, reviewing the Dao Imperial Court's case files.
Mo Hua couldn't help but ask, "Isn't the Demon Sect matter already taken care of?"
"There are still some loose ends," Changhui replied, lifting his head to glance at the fruits in Mo Hua's hands, "Did you come from Red Aunt's place?"
"Yes," Mo Hua nodded, "Elder Gu told me that many people have come to propose marriage, and you're almost ready to get married... I mean, you're almost ready to find a Dao companion."
Changhui hesitated for a moment and slowly said, "Oh."
Mo Hua observed his expression and asked softly, "What do you think, Uncle Gu?"
"What do you mean, what do I think?"
Mo Hua felt that he was pretending not to understand, so he gently nudged him, "What do you think of Xia Sister?"
Changhui paused for a moment, then said indifferently, "... She's just okay."
Mo Hua sighed at his contradictory behavior and thought for a moment, "Uncle Gu, let me tell you a story..."
"When I was young, I had a mentor for array formations named Master Yan. On the surface, he was just an array formation instructor in a small immortal city, but in truth, he carried the deep-seated grudge of his sect's demise. He spent his entire life searching for the sect's traitor to reclaim the sect's legacy."
"Master Yan had a chubby junior brother, always encouraged him to find a Dao companion to continue the sect's legacy, but Master Yan always refused."
"Finally, after relentless efforts, Master Yan found the traitor, reclaimed the legacy, and wanted to devote all his thoughts to rebuilding the sect."
"I also thought that Master Yan would end up alone."
"But later, Master Yan met a female array master. After seeing her portrait, he immediately pursued her without hesitation, and within two months, they were married..."
"Master Yan also told me that if you have the chance, you must never let go."
"So," Mo Hua concluded, "if there's no fate in this life, then so be it. Just focus on your own matters."
"But if there truly is fate, you must seize it, or you'll regret it for a lifetime."
Mo Hua's expression turned solemn.
Changhui stared at Mo Hua in a daze, and after a moment, he couldn't help but ask, "How old are you? How did you come to have so many complicated thoughts in your head?"
Mo Hua replied, "I can't help it; I was born with exceptional intelligence."
Changhui's face darkened, and he reluctantly said, "Alright, alright, go play. I still have work to do."
After saying this, he lowered his head to continue reviewing the files.
"Okay, then I won't disturb you." Mo Hua left reluctantly.
After Mo Hua left, Changhui looked at the files for a while, but he couldn't help but recall Mo Hua's words.
He lowered his head and looked at his hands, muttering, "If you have the chance, you must never let go..."
...
After leaving Changhui's study, Mo Hua wandered around the Gu family's residence for a while before deciding to return to his sect.
As in previous years, he would usually just have a meal and not stay overnight.
Now, with enough time to return, and after going back to the sect, he could continue practicing array formations in his Sea of Consciousness.
As for Uncle Gu's marriage, it was up to him to find his own fate; Mo Hua had done his best.
The Gu family personally arranged for a carriage to send Mo Hua back to his sect.
However, it was during the holiday season, and the city of Qingzhou was bustling with people and vehicles. It was only after leaving the city that he could board the carriage.
Mo Hua wasn't in a hurry and decided to take this opportunity to enjoy the night view of Qingzhou City.
At this moment, the red lanterns resembled dragons, and the colorful fireworks filled the sky. In the dark night, thousands of trees were in full bloom, creating a breathtaking sight.
As Mo Hua strolled through the night scenery, he gradually made his way out of the city.
While walking, he suddenly brushed past someone.
The street was already crowded, and Mo Hua didn't pay much attention at first. But as they passed each other, a chill rose from the depths of his heart.
His vision blurred, and a dark purple Heavenly Fate Causality slowly emerged, weaving and twisting together. It was ugly and dirty, yet it was also soaked in fallen desires, like a filthy heart or a withered "Poppy."
The poppy slowly bloomed...
It was just like that night by the Smoky Water Riverbank when he first saw the Crimson Boat.
Mo Hua's pupils trembled, and he immediately turned around.
At that moment, the young noble who had brushed past him also seemed to sense something and turned back.
In that instant, their eyes met, and they clearly saw each other's faces.
(End of Chapter)
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