Ich denke an dich, wenn der Wind weht

Kapitel 76

That's true. Although she was very pampered, she never had any friends of similar age. Besides her parents, she was always surrounded by older uncles and sisters, who were all very kind to her.

So she was very happy at that time, and even tried to please the boy...

She squeezed her wrist hard; the pain jolted her out of her confusion and finally calmed her down.

"I'm sorry, you've mistaken me for someone else. I appreciate your help, but I'm really not the person you're looking for."

Sixteen years.

Unable to stop it in time, he watched as blood trickled down his sleeve, his brow furrowing with pain. "I've been searching ever since you left, without stopping. I know it's too late, that we missed the moment when it was most needed, and that you can now pretend the past never existed."

She tried her best to remain calm, her tone becoming sharp and sarcastic. "Perhaps your judgment is flawed; do you think I look sixteen?"

The man's eyes were gentle and calm. "I know you are not sixteen. You are twenty this year, born on the eighth day of the seventh month. You lived in Yangzhou until you were four, were abducted to Tianshan at the age of five, joined the Cuifeng Camp at the age of ten, and became the Snow Envoy among the four envoys of the Demonic Sect at the age of fourteen, in charge of the affairs of the thirty-six kingdoms of the Western Regions. Not long ago, you joined forces with the other three envoys to kill the sect king. Two months later, you left Tianshan and came to Jiangnan with your personal shadow guards... He is Xie Yunshu. In Tianshan, you called him Shuying."

She was stunned once again; his understanding of her was frighteningly clear.

"How could you possibly...?"

“Finding these things wasn’t too difficult. After you left, Tianshan fell into internal strife and almost completely split up, providing many opportunities for espionage.” He smiled slightly, a hint of melancholy in his expression. “Of course, Xue Shi Jia Ye is also renowned throughout the Western Regions.”

She opened her mouth but couldn't make a sound; all she could hear was the soft rustling of falling snowflakes.

"Your sword is called Cun Guang, a keepsake left by your mother. The martial arts technique you practice comes from the ancient kingdom of Nan Yue, and it has already attracted a backlash from the force. The intervals between each attack are getting shorter and shorter, and in the future it will be even more..." He took a breath and continued. "I also understand why you deliberately refuse to grow up. You remember the past very clearly, but you won't admit that you are Pianxian. Even after returning to Jiangnan, you never looked for your old house, preferring to completely forget and sever all ties... I know why." His words softened, overflowing with pity and sorrow.

“I know you are Jia Ye, but you are also Pian Xian, the Pian Xian I have been searching for.”

He listened silently, almost suffocating from the sound. She began to shake her head, as if trying to escape something terrifying, denying it with all her might. He restrained his near-collapse, and looking at her panicked, evasive face, his eyes welled up with tears.

"I'm sorry, I ruined your life back then and made you suffer so much."

"I'm sorry... I only found you so late."

Tianya

"Eighth Junior Brother!" A voice stopped the man who was about to draw his sword.

The dejected man pressed down on his junior brother's hand and sheathed the gleaming sword.

"Senior Brother, are you really willing to just bow down and submit like this?" the Eighth Junior Brother asked, indignant and furious. "Are you really going to hand over the Hengshan Sect's years of accumulated foundation just like that?"

"What else can we do? Do you think I wanted things to come to this?" The man's face was gloomy and helpless. "The Xie family's power and influence are beyond our ability to contend with."

"I'd rather risk it all." The eighth junior brother looked around at everyone, and the older senior brothers and sisters lowered their heads under the sharp gazes of the young. "If Master were still here, he would think the same way. Since the eldest senior brother is temporarily assuming the position of sect leader, he should shoulder the responsibility for the reputation of the sect. It's better to risk his life than to be slaughtered by others."

The impassioned words were met with silence. If there were any chance of anything going wrong, who would be willing to bow down and be driven around by others? The once-renowned Hengshan School could never have imagined that it would be forced to this point.

However, the Xie family of Yangzhou has expanded rapidly in recent years, its strength has soared, its methods are astonishing, and its actions are secretive and cunning, forcing many deeply rooted sects to submit and relinquish their dominance. The remaining few strong sects have been ruthlessly swallowed up by this powerful force. In just a few years, the Xie family has transformed from a prestigious leader of the righteous path in Jiangnan into the true ruler of half of the martial arts world.

"Just who is this Xie San? If it weren't for him, we wouldn't be in this mess today." Someone cursed through gritted teeth. "The Xie family didn't always act like this."

"I heard he disappeared for seven years and his personality changed drastically." The eldest brother frowned, looking somber. "If it had been Xie Quheng who came this time, it would have been fine, but it turned out to be him."

"Since he dares to come, let's all attack and subdue him. Even if we can't get our uncles and masters back, killing him will at least vent our anger." The eighth junior brother was, after all, young and impetuous.

The eldest brother glanced at him, his expression bitter.

How could the usually impetuous and reckless junior brother understand the difficulties of being in charge?

The Hengshan Sect, though renowned for its prestige, had its elders lured out by the Xie family through a scheme, and they remain missing, their fates unknown. Their allies, under the Xie family's oppressive power, are trembling with fear, preoccupied with their own survival, and have no room for loyalty or brotherhood, especially with their master dead…

The second senior brother spoke up. "The eighth junior brother is full of passion, but Xie Yunshu is not someone to be trifled with. It is said that he is shrewd and resourceful, and has many experts around him. If he really makes a move, he will be taken down before he even gets close."

"He's the one who murdered Master! Are we just going to stand by and watch him swagger around and show off?" the eighth junior brother said angrily. "He's ruined the reputation of the Hengshan Sect! Master won't rest in peace even in the afterlife."

"Eighth Junior Brother!" Several people shouted in unison, and the hall fell into a deathly silence.

This is the part that the Hengshan School is least willing to mention.

The highly respected leader of the Hengshan Sect, Lingzhuzi, was assassinated in the inn where he and his sister-in-law were having an incestuous affair. This scandal has recently shocked the martial arts world. It has caused a great uproar, with many condemning the Hengshan Sect for its supposedly high moral standards. The sect has become the subject of ridicule and mockery, and the talk of the town has become a laughingstock.

Lingzhuzi's former friends, fearing damage to their reputation, mostly distanced themselves from him. The Xie family's encroachment only exacerbated the situation, forcing the Hengshan Sect to fight against the powerful enemy alone. The once-great sect was now teetering on the brink of collapse. Rumors also circulated that Lingzhuzi had murdered his junior brother years ago because of lust, his seemingly virtuous appearance masking his heinous acts. Although these rumors could not be confirmed, they fueled the conflict and societal shifts in the story.

The timing of the assassination was too coincidental. Killing a sect leader in a small room was no ordinary feat. There were no clues, but the Xie family undoubtedly benefited, making them the prime suspects in the disciples' deductions.

"Let's set aside the past and discuss how to deal with the current situation first," the second senior brother said after a long silence.

Just as the eldest brother was about to nod, the bell warning of enemy activity rang out from the foot of the mountain.

Dressed in black, handsome with sword-like eyebrows and a tall, elegant figure, he led a small group of riders into the mountain with an air of nonchalance, showing no sign of wariness. His casual, polite greetings, coupled with a sweeping glance that exuded a calm, regal aura, caused all the female disciples of the Hengshan Sect to blush.

Everyone in the martial arts world knows that the third young master of the Xie family has an outstanding appearance, but no one expected him to be this exceptional. Even in black, his dazzling charm cannot be concealed. Many people whisper among themselves, no wonder it is rumored in the martial arts world that the second young lady of the Bai family is infatuated with him and will marry no one else. He truly has extraordinary qualities.

"Is the visitor the third young master of the Xie family?"

The first to raise her voice was surprisingly the junior sister, her beautiful eyes sparkling. All the fellow disciples present sighed inwardly. The junior sister was the daughter of Master Wuliang. Now that her elders had fallen, the pampered and indulged girl had lost all restraint and was acting recklessly. It seemed that she had probably forgotten that her father was still in someone else's hands.

"My name is Xie Yunshu."

The man nodded slightly, and one of his two attendants presented him with an exquisite brocade box. "Please forgive any rudeness during this first visit."

“The Third Young Master has come with great power; there’s no need for such polite formalities.” The eldest disciple stepped forward. “May I ask the esteemed senior uncles and elders of our sect…”

"I am well and safe." Xie Yunshu smiled, his smile as bright as the sun and moon, captivating all who looked away. "The Xie family treats you as an honored guest. As long as your sect is willing to cooperate, you will be able to return soon."

"Does the Third Young Master intend for the Hengshan Sect to bow down and submit like other sects, to be at his beck and call?" Upon hearing that his elders were well, the eldest brother's expression softened slightly, but his voice remained deep.

"You flatter me. Many parties rely on your esteemed sect, and being an ally would be ideal." Although he held the upper hand, the man's words remained quite polite. "With the wisdom of the acting sect leader, you should understand that this is a mutually beneficial matter."

"Does Your Excellency think that our sect are all fools who would be willing to collude with the murderer of our master and debase themselves?" The Eighth Junior Brother spoke sarcastically, his sharp tone causing everyone's expression to change.

"What makes you say that?" Xie Yunshu glanced at him indifferently, his expression inscrutable. "I have always admired Senior Lingzhuzi. I have heard that there are hidden reasons behind the tragic news, but I do not know them well. I would like to hear the details."

"Stop pretending, it's all your fault..."

"Eighth Junior Brother!" The eldest senior brother interrupted him, forcing an awkward smile. "Please forgive my junior brother for being young and ignorant, believing baseless rumors from the streets."

The man snapped his fingers, and the two attendants behind him lowered their hands from their swords, resuming their solemn listening posture. "Acting sect leader, there's no need for such formalities. Time will tell the truth, and public opinion will judge Senior Lingzhuzi's character. There's nothing to fear."

The chilling killing intent faded with the laughter. The eighth junior brother, his face pale, stared at his eldest senior brother standing in front of him, barely suppressing his resentment. A scout had already reported back; though his anger was boiling, he knew the situation was beyond his control. The men before him dared to risk their lives so recklessly, relying on the Xie family's large force watching them from below. Given the Xie family's recent rise to power, if they were truly provoked, the Hengshan Sect might be wiped out of the martial arts world tomorrow.

Glancing at his fellow disciples, each with their own distinct expression, the eldest brother sighed and led them into the hall to receive them respectfully. The eighth disciple clenched his fists tightly, glaring at his enemy's retreating figure, his chest practically bursting with rage. A heavy pat on the shoulder followed, and the second brother whispered words of advice in his ear.

"You were indeed too reckless just now. Don't blame your senior brother. We must find a way to get our senior uncles and elder brothers back before we can proceed."

"Would Xie San really release them? Who knows what tricks he might pull?" The eighth junior brother lowered his voice involuntarily. "Master's death was suspicious; it must be his doing."

"So what if it is? What can you accuse without any evidence?" The second senior brother smiled bitterly, lamenting that he had committed a moral transgression first and now lacked the standing to fight for justice. "What if he asked why Master disregarded morality and had a secret rendezvous with a woman in a private room? You've always been straightforward, but this matter has already tarnished the reputation of the Hengshan Sect enough, so it's best not to bring it up."

"Second Senior Brother is right. Sixth Senior Brother, don't act rashly and disregard the overall situation, lest you harm our fallen teachers." The junior sister chimed in from the side, her tone tinged with reproach. Although she was the youngest in the family, her status was not low due to her father's name, and she had quite a temper. With a glare from her phoenix eyes, she fell silent.

The door knocker was knocked twice, and a clear male voice said softly.

"Please come in."

A beautiful woman in a rose-red dress smiled radiantly, like a lovely flower. Carrying a pot of tea and some snacks, she stepped through the doorway, closing the door behind her.

"Please have some refreshments, Third Young Master. Eldest Brother is discussing with his fellow disciples and will give you a satisfactory answer shortly."

The man looked up and smiled, watching her replace the pot of cold tea. "Thank you, young lady."

"We're all men of the martial world, Third Young Master, there's no need for such formalities." The woman responded generously, her bright eyes surveying him without any restraint. "May I ask how my father is doing these days?"

"The young lady refers to..."

"My father had no quantum."

"So you are the daughter of Daoist Wuliang." Xie Yunshu said with three parts surprise, as if she had suddenly realized something. "Your father is as healthy as ever, except for being a little temperamental, he is in good health."

"Thank you for informing me, young master. It eases my worries and anxieties." The woman stared at his face and suddenly smiled. "Don't call me 'Miss' anymore, just call me Xianglan."

Xie Yunshu smiled slightly, "It's probably inappropriate to call someone by their maiden name directly."

"Why be bound by etiquette and rules? If things go smoothly, we will all be one family."

"You're right, young lady." He took the fragrant tea she offered, picked up the lid of the bowl, and gently removed the floating leaves. The man's every move was elegant and composed, a truly pleasing sight.

Xianglan gazed at him for a long while, her beautiful eyes sparkling, and suddenly asked a question that seemed unrelated to the main topic. "The Third Young Master is a handsome and talented man; I wonder if he is married?"

Xie Yunshu took a small sip of tea and smiled faintly. "I've been busy these past few years and haven't had time to think about this."

"Given the Third Young Master's character and family background, countless women in Jiangnan must admire him, yet not a single one has been able to win his heart?" Ignoring any potential transgressions, she continued, "I've heard that the Second Miss Bai is deeply in love with you?"

"You jest, young lady," he said dismissively. "They're just baseless rumors."

"It is said in the martial arts world that the Xie family places great importance on family traditions, and perhaps the Third Young Master's self-discipline and restraint are precisely for this reason?"

"My father was indeed very strict in his teachings." He tapped the back of the chair lightly with his knuckles, his expression still patient and polite.

The woman smiled sweetly, her eyes sparkling with charm, and pushed over a plate of delicate snacks.

"Senior Brother is so slow. It must be almost ready. Please, Third Young Master, try the chestnut cake from Hengshan Mountain first."

"It's alright. Such an important matter needs to be discussed carefully. I was surprised by your sudden arrival." The man spoke politely, resting his chin on his hand, his gaze already turning to the window.

"Young Master, please try it. This is made from fresh chestnuts and is exceptionally sweet." Sweetie's smile deepened.

He glanced at it, reluctantly took a piece and bit into it, then his eyes flickered and he put down the remaining half.

"It's really good."

"Since it suits your taste, young master, you may wish to have some more." The woman pursed her lips, her eyes sparkling.

"I appreciate your kind offer, young lady, but unfortunately I have never been fond of sweets." Xie Yunshu pushed the plate back.

"Young master... you don't like it? What a pity, this was specially made by the kitchen for our distinguished guest..." Her beautiful face showed deep disappointment.

Xie Yunshu glanced at her, his deep gaze seemingly piercing through her heart. "Then I'm truly sorry, how could I refuse such a kind offer?" He paused, then called out, "Bi Jun."

"Yes, sir." One of the young attendants stepped in to await orders.

"This plate of snacks was prepared especially for us, but unfortunately I don't like sweets, so it would be impolite to refuse it. You can have it for me."

The order was quite strange, and the young man looked at it with a puzzled expression, but still obeyed.

"yes."

Before the other person could get close, the woman hurriedly stood up, her sleeve flipping over the teacup and spilling it all over the pastries.

"Oh dear, my apologies." Forcing back her fluster, she apologized sweetly. "This plate is unusable; I'll go get a replacement right away." Picking up the porcelain plate, the woman fled as if escaping.

"What's in the snacks?" Yin Hu asked, walking in with great curiosity.

"Aphrodisiac." The man shook his head and rinsed his mouth with tea.