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Yi Huawei's voice wasn't loud, but it carried a penetrating power that instantly froze the previously relaxed atmosphere in the cabin.

Shan Meixian's fingers, holding the teacup, tightened almost imperceptibly. Her expression remained gentle, but her eyes sharpened. Shan Wanjing also noticed the change; her curious gaze turned tense as she darted between her mother and Yi Huawei.

"Please ask, sir. I will answer whatever I know."

Shan Meixian slowly put down her teacup, her posture elegant, but her tone carried a hint of barely perceptible wariness.

"The sect leader of the Yin Gui Sect, Zhu Yuyan."

Yi Huawei looked directly into Shan Meixian's eyes and clearly uttered the name that was etched into her heart: "Where are you now?"

"!"

Shan Meixian's breath hitched! Even with her years of cultivated composure, hearing that name, especially coming from the mouth of this mysterious and unpredictable powerhouse, still stirred a tidal wave of emotions within her. Her deep, ocean-like eyes instantly contorted with incredibly complex emotions: resentment, pain, a hint of hidden affection, and a wary alertness as if her sore spot had been touched!

Her hands, resting on her lap, trembled slightly, her knuckles turning white from the force. The cabin was so quiet you could hear a pin drop; even Shan Wanjing held her breath. She had never seen her mother so distraught. Who was this "Zhu Yuyan"? Why was her mother so agitated?
"Young master...what brings you to my mother?"

Shan Meixian's voice carried a barely perceptible hoarseness, avoiding a direct answer and instead posing a deeper probing question. Alarm bells rang in her mind. This person's cultivation was unfathomable, directly pointing to her mother—was he friend or foe? Although her mother was the leader of the Demonic Sect and had countless enemies, someone who could so accurately pinpoint her connection was no ordinary person!
Yi Huawei took in Shan Meixian's reaction and understood her thoughts perfectly.

"I know a little about the pain in your heart, Madam."

His voice remained calm, yet it struck Shan Meixian's heart like a heavy hammer: "Bian Bufu, this scoundrel is despicable and vile, and his behavior is utterly unacceptable. It is only natural that you, Madam, left the clan in anger."

Mentioning the name "Bian Bufu," Shan Meixian's body trembled violently, and her eyes instantly flashed with a deep-seated hatred! The humiliation and anger that penetrated to the bone almost broke through the dam of reason. Although Shan Wanjing did not understand why, seeing the unprecedentedly intense hatred in her mother's eyes, she was also frightened and her face turned pale.

"For the sake of factional balance, or perhaps out of consideration for past relationships, Sect Leader Zhu has shown leniency and indulgence towards this villain, which has caused the Madam and her daughter to become estranged and flee overseas. This is her fault."

Yi Huawei continued, precisely dissecting that unbearable past: "Madam and your mother are connected by blood. Even with overwhelming resentment, the love between mother and child remains; it is human nature."

Shan Meixian bit her lower lip tightly, her face slightly pale. The other person's profound knowledge of her grudges against her mother and the Yin Gui Sect was chilling! Who was he? What was his purpose?

"I am seeking Zhu Yuyan, not for revenge."

Yi Huawei’s voice carried an unquestionable promise: “I can assure Madam that this trip will not harm her life in the slightest.”

He paused, his gaze landing firmly on Shan Meixian, and emphasized his tone:

"And, in exchange..."

“I can settle the score with Bian Bufu on behalf of the lady.”

"To settle the score is to fulfill one's duty!"
These five words exploded in Shan Meixian's ears like a thunderclap! She suddenly looked up, staring intently at Yi Huawei, her eyes filled with extreme shock, disbelief, and a hint of... a crazy light of hope that had been suppressed for countless days and nights!

Kill Bian Bufu! That beast she hates to the core, wanting to tear him apart alive! That culprit who brought her such humiliation, forced her to leave her mother, and sent her to flee overseas! That cancerous tumor that her mother has been protecting for the sake of the so-called "greater good"!

This condition was an irresistible temptation for her! It was a weight on the scales that could crush all her concerns!

The cabin was deathly silent. The only sounds were the gentle lapping of the waves against the hull and Shan Meixian's barely suppressed gasps, filled with hatred and agitation.

Shan Wanjing was completely stunned. She didn't understand who "Bian Bufu" was, but the words "ending" made her instinctively feel a chill, and her gaze towards Yi Huawei was filled with awe.

The elders seated at the lower level exchanged bewildered glances, their expressions shifting drastically. One elderly man, with white hair and a gaunt face, couldn't help but speak, his voice heavy with concern:

"Madam, this matter..."

Shan Meixian abruptly raised her hand, stopping Shang Bang from speaking. Her chest heaved violently, her eyes scanning Yi Huawei's calm face repeatedly, as if assessing the truthfulness of the promise and whether the other party truly had the ability to fulfill it.

After a long while, the turmoil in her eyes gradually subsided, replaced by a resolute clarity.

"Is what you say true, young master?" Her voice was low and hoarse, with a slight, almost imperceptible tremor.

"My words have been spoken, and Heaven and Earth bear witness."

Yi Huawei's answer was resolute.

Shan Meixian took a deep breath, as if she had made up her mind.

"it is good!"

She stood up abruptly, her long, moon-white silk dress billowing without wind, exuding an aura of decisive authority that came from someone long accustomed to a position of power: "This concubine may take you, young master, to find my mother!"

She abruptly changed the subject, her gaze fixed intently on Yi Huawei:
"But I also have a request, and I hope that you, sir, can lend me a hand!"

"Speak," Yi Huawei said, his expression unchanged.

"Our Dongming Sect is renowned for its superior weaponry, which is sold along the coast, but this has also attracted much covetousness. Recently, the Hai Sha Gang, which is based in the East China Sea, has repeatedly robbed our sect's cargo ships bound for the Central Plains, relying on the support of the Yuwen Clan. Their methods are despicable, killing our members and ruining our reputation!"

Shan Meixian's tone was icy, filled with deep-seated hatred: "Their leader, 'Dragon King' Han Gaitian, although not a master of martial arts, is an expert swimmer with many desperate men under his command. He also colludes with the government's navy, making him a very troublesome opponent. Our faction has launched several counterattacks and achieved some minor victories, but we have never been able to eradicate him. Instead, we have been harassed by him and suffered considerable losses."

Looking at Yi Huawei, her gaze was earnest and sharp: "Young Master, your cultivation is extraordinary. If you could lend a hand and remove this malignant tumor, the Sea Sand Gang, from my life, I would be eternally grateful! This is the only 'reward' I ask for!"

"A few trivial matters."

Yi Huawei didn't even lift his eyelids, as if he had only heard the sound of crushing a few ants: "I agree."

So straightforward! So nonchalant! It's as if the Sand Gang, which strikes fear into the hearts of coastal nations, is truly nothing more than a trivial "trivial matter" in his eyes!
A look of surprise and delight flashed in Shan Meixian's eyes. A huge weight lifted from her heart, and she bowed deeply, saying, "I cannot thank you enough! On behalf of the entire Dongming Sect, I thank you, young master!"

"Mother!"

Dan Wanjing couldn't help but exclaim in surprise. Although she also thought the Hai Sha Gang was despicable, this young master agreed too quickly! And could he really handle so many people?
Just then, there was a gentle knock on the hatch.

"lady."

A rigid and steady voice came from behind.

"Come in."

Shan Meixian composed herself and regained her composure.

The hatch opened, and walking in was Shang Ming, the capable-looking captain of the guards who had been in charge at the bow of the ship. Behind him were two others: one was a tall, thin old man with prominent cheekbones and shrewd eyes, Shang Bang, the elder in charge of negotiating the gang's weapons deal; the other was a short, stocky old man with a dark complexion and high temples, Shang Kuitai, an elder of equal rank and power.

Behind Shang Ming were two women, who were Shan Meixian's trusted protectors: the one on the left was tall and thin, with a serious face and sharp eyes like an eagle, and was Shan Qing; the one on the right was strong and fat, with thick arms, a splitting thorn hanging from her waist, and a steady aura, and was Shan Yudie.

As soon as Shang Ming entered, his gaze immediately locked onto Yi Huawei, who was seated in the guest seat. His eyes were filled with undisguised scrutiny, apprehension, and a hint of...rejection. He quickly walked to Shan Meixian's side and whispered:
"Madam, this man's origins are unknown, and his strength is unpredictable. Taking him to find... Old Madam, I fear..."

"Protect the Dharma,"

Shan Meixian interrupted him, her tone carrying an undeniable authority: "I have my own plan for this matter. Young Master has already agreed to resolve the threat posed by the Sea Sand Gang for my sect." "What?!"

Elders Shang Bang and Shang Kuitai were speechless at the same time, while Shang Ming stared wide-eyed at Yi Huawei in disbelief.

"The Hai Sha Gang has been entrenched for many years and is deeply rooted. How could it be..." Elder Shang Kuitai, being rather impatient, couldn't help but question. He looked Yi Huawei up and down. Although the other party had an extraordinary demeanor, he was, after all, alone and young. It was hard to imagine how he could deal with the Hai Sha Gang, which had thousands of members and numerous experts.

Yi Huawei slightly raised his eyelids and glanced at Shang Kuitai indifferently.

hum!
An invisible pressure, as overwhelming as a collapsing mountain, descended instantly!

Elder Shang Kuitai's expression changed drastically! He felt as if the entire East China Sea was pressing down on him! It wasn't just the pressure of power, but an absolute crushing force originating from the level of life and spirit! The true energy he had cultivated for decades instantly froze, making it incredibly difficult to breathe. His knees buckled, and he involuntarily stumbled back three steps until his back hit the bulkhead, barely managing to regain his balance. His forehead was instantly covered in cold sweat, and his eyes were filled with utter horror as he looked at Yi Huawei!

Shang Bang, Shang Ming, Shan Qing, Shan Yudie, and the others also felt an immense pressure bearing down on them, as if they were being pricked by needles. Their expressions changed drastically, and they all tried to resist by channeling their inner energy. Their hearts were filled with shock! Just one glance was enough to make these top-notch experts almost suffocate!
Shan Meixian was also taken aback, and her assessment of Yi Huawei's strength was raised once again.

Yi Huawei slowly withdrew his gaze, and the terrifying pressure receded like a tide. As if he had done nothing, he picked up the now slightly cool teacup and took a small sip.

"There's no need to worry about the Sea Sand Gang."

He put down his teacup, his tone calm and even: "Madam only needs to tell me the location of its lair."

The cabin was deathly silent. Elder Shang Kuitai leaned against the cabin wall, panting heavily, his face no longer showing any doubt, only deep fear.

Shang Ming's face turned ashen, but he dared not utter another word. Shan Qing and Shan Yudie gripped their weapons tightly, as if facing a formidable enemy.

Shan Meixian took a deep breath, suppressing the shock in her heart, and revealed a stunning smile, a smile that carried an unprecedented ease and a hint of anticipation:

“Young master is quick to speak! I will make the arrangements immediately. Once everything is ready, we will set sail to take you to see my mother. As for the Sea Sand Gang… their headquarters is on the 'Shark Tooth Reef' archipelago outside the mouth of the Qiantang River. I will provide you with a detailed nautical chart later.”

She turned to Shang Ming, regaining her sect leader's authority: "Guardian Shang, pass down the order to adjust the course. Destination—Ryukyu Island!"

"Yes... Madam!"

Shang Bang gave Yi Huawei a deep look, suppressed his complex emotions, bowed and accepted the order, and led Shang Ming, Shang Kuitai, Shan Qing, and Shan Yudie out of the cabin. Shan Wanjing was also signaled by her mother to leave first.

Only Yi Huawei and Shan Meixian remained in the cabin.

"Young Master,"

Shan Meixian bowed again solemnly, her eyes filled with earnestness and determination: "Bian Bufu... must be killed! If this villain is not eliminated, the knot between my mother and me will never be untied!"

"rest assured."

Yi Huawei replied with only two words, but they carried a weight heavier than a thousand pounds.

With a firm resolve in her heart, Shan Meixian gazed out the window at the vast East China Sea, her eyes filled with complex emotions.

The sea breeze, carrying a salty, damp feel, wafted into the cabin through the open portholes, slightly dispelling the previous somber atmosphere.

Shan Meixian poured Yi Huawei another cup of hot tea. The aroma of the tea filled the air, and the conversation between the two turned to the scenery of the East China Sea and the charm of the Ryukyu Islands.

Shan Meixian spoke tactfully, maintaining the dignity of the leader of the Dongming Sect while subtly probing, attempting to glean more information from Yi Huawei's calm responses. Yi Huawei, on the other hand, responded with composure, speaking little but always hitting the nail on the head, making Shan Meixian increasingly feel that this man was unfathomable.

“Tuk tuk tuk…”

A light knock sounded, carrying a hint of a young girl's excitement and trepidation.

"Mother?"

Shan Wanjing's voice came from outside the door.

"Come in, Jing'er."

After glancing at Yi Huawei, a knowing look flashed in Shan Meixian's eyes, and she said gently.

The cabin door opened, and Shan Wanjing, now dressed in a more streamlined, light yellow outfit, appeared even more striking, highlighting her youthful and elegant figure. She held a delicate fruit platter, laden with vibrant seasonal fruits and exquisite Ryukyu pastries. Her gaze quickly swept over her mother, finally settling on Yi Huawei with barely concealed curiosity and a hint of shyness.

“Mother, ...Young Master.”

Shan Wanjing tried to make her voice sound natural as she placed the fruit platter on the low table in front of Yi Huawei: "These are freshly picked fruits from the ship, as well as some special snacks from Ryukyu. Please have a taste, young master."

"Thank you for your help, Miss Shan."

Yi Huawei nodded slightly, his gaze sweeping over the fruit plate without lingering.

Dan Wanjing didn't leave. She stood to the side, her fingers nervously twisting the hem of her clothes, but her eyes sparkled as she looked at Yi Huawei, filled with the unique longing of a young girl for the powerful and mysterious. Taking a deep breath, as if gathering her courage, she asked in a clear voice:

"Young Master... I was struck by your extraordinary demeanor just now, and I dare to ask you... about sword cultivation."

Shan Meixian paused slightly in her tea-serving bowl, glancing at her daughter with a mixture of relief and a subtle, complex emotion. She knew her daughter was obsessed with swordsmanship, possessed exceptional talent, and her self-created sword style was sharp and swift, rarely matched among the younger generation of the Dongming Sect, even capable of sparring with masters like Shang Bang. But she also knew that the path her daughter had taken was worlds apart from the level of the person before her.

"Oh?"

Yi Huawei finally raised his eyes, his gaze calmly landing on Shan Wanjing. His gaze wasn't sharp, but it seemed to penetrate her skin, directly observing the energy and thoughts flowing within her.

"You practice swordsmanship?"

"Yes!"

Shan Wanjing straightened her back, her eyes sparkling with confidence: "Jing'er is not talented. I have not learned my mother's 'Flowing Clouds with Water Sleeves'. I have only comprehended a set of sword techniques based on my own feelings. Although I dare not say that I have mastered it, I do feel that it is somewhat agile and swift."

Her words carried the pride of youth, and even more so, her determination to follow her own path.

Yi Huawei neither confirmed nor denied, only saying indifferently:

"Show me your best move, the one you're most comfortable with."

Upon hearing this, Shan Wanjing's spirits lifted. She took a few steps back to create space, and with a wave of her hand, a maidservant presented her with a longsword. In an instant, her entire demeanor transformed! The girlish shyness vanished, replaced by a sharp and intimidating aura!
"Master, please look!"

With a clear shout, Shan Wanjing's figure moved swiftly! A sharp and swift sword intent burst forth from the air! Her movements were as fast as lightning, her steps were agile and unpredictable, and her turns were without warning. Her wrists flicked, and in an instant, she stabbed, slashed, pointed, and wiped. Several invisible "sword energies" intertwined in the air, emitting a faint "hissing" sound as they broke through the air!

Her moves flowed smoothly and seamlessly, displaying both the agility of a woman's swordsmanship and a ruthless decisiveness that pressed forward relentlessly! Her speed and unpredictability far surpassed her peers, and she had already glimpsed the threshold of a first-rate swordsman.

As she finished her final move and she sheathed her sword, she was slightly out of breath, her pretty face flushed with excitement, and her eyes sparkled as she looked at Yi Huawei with anticipation.

(End of this chapter)