Chapter Eighty-One: The Guardian at the Gate—It Turns Out to Be Him

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The tunnel was so silent that not even the sound of breathing could be heard. Occasionally, a cold draft would sweep through, making the candle flames tremble precariously, as though they might be snuffed out at any moment. The feeble light cast shadows of the group onto the stone walls, lending an eerie and unsettling atmosphere that made fear creep quietly into their hearts.

Ever since Meng Youyuan had revealed that she had been possessed by that phantom woman, everyone—including herself—had fallen silent. It was as if each person was weighing something in their mind, unwilling to voice it aloud. For everyone to be gathered together yet remain speechless was a rare occurrence indeed.

As they pressed forward, a fragrance suddenly wafted toward them. Sometimes fresh and elegant, sometimes rich and beguiling, the scent unfolded in layers, each possessing its own unique note, much like the singular charm of every individual. But what could be the source of such an enchanting and mysterious aroma? It was more than the scent of flowers, carrying a hint of artifice, as if deliberately added; yet it was more natural than any crafted perfume, imbued with the breath of the wild. Its allure was that of a veiled maiden, making one yearn to lift the veil and glimpse her true beauty.

Uncertain how long they had been walking, the fragrance grew ever stronger, and the light ahead ever brighter, as if urging them onward to discover its secret. After a lengthy trek, they finally reached the long-awaited exit of the tunnel.

Without hesitation, they parted the thick vines and stepped inside—only to find themselves in another world entirely. Here was a green paradise of trees, a land unsullied by the smoke of battle, an ideal refuge for a hermit’s retreat. Untouched by deliberate cultivation, its natural beauty made it all the more precious in their eyes.

The trees were entwined as if growing from a single root, yet not so dense as to bar passage. It was as though they parted consciously to allow these intruders through, wishing only to grow in peace, undisturbed by the affairs of the world. This serenity left the group, ever ready for combat, perplexed. Was not this place supposed to be more perilous than the last? Yet the trees harbored no hostility, radiating only tranquility, as if inviting all living things to coexist in harmony.

Such peace seeped into their hearts, making them feel that to draw swords here would be to desecrate this sanctuary. If possible, they would rather not fight, lest they mar the land with their desires and destroy this haven that inspired gratitude.

But would the guardian of this place see it the same way? Surely, he would not let them pass so easily. At the thought, the group sighed in quiet accord, then exchanged helpless smiles. They set foot on the path of soft grass, inhaling the scent of rain-washed trees, their spirits unexpectedly lifted.

After crossing the woodland path, they came upon a clearing where, alone, a single remarkable tree stood. Its presence was almost lonely. Its branches were lush and vigorous, yet its sky-blue leaves and silvery trunk set it apart from all others.

Only then did they recall why the tree seemed so familiar—it was just like the two remarkable, beautiful trees by the waterfall in Orchid Mist Academy, whose leaves brewed a tea with an unforgettable flavor.

Though this tree closely resembled those two, it possessed an added aura of sanctity that made one instinctively respectful. Its sturdy trunk exuded a solemn, inviolable presence, outshining all other wondrous trees here.

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Only now did they notice something else unusual—the captivating fragrance in the tunnel had come from this very tree. One could hardly imagine what kind of extraordinary being could have transformed into such a tree: not only beautiful and fragrant, but also possessed of a remarkable bearing.

So wondrous was the tree that none could resist the urge to circle it, studying it closely. But as they reached the other side, they suddenly stopped short, their bodies tensing in surprise.

What could have startled them so? It was that, hidden on the far side of the tree, a man had been sitting all along—overlooked as they had focused on the tree itself. Now that he was discovered, it was clear he must be the guardian of this place.

Though the man’s back was to them, his silhouette was all too familiar. He did not need to turn for them to know who he was. But why was he here? Could he have anticipated their arrival and come early to wait for a confrontation?

His presence meant there would be no easy way forward; they might even have to fight to the death. His strength was unfathomable, but united, the group held hope of victory—though even then, someone would willingly lay down their life for him.

“So, you’ve only now made it here. Was this trial really so difficult? You know, I’ve been waiting for you a long time!” the man called out, turning slowly to face them. As he did, their suspicions were confirmed: it was the old Headmaster of Orchid Mist Academy, the man who could summon wind and rain at will.

From his tone, it was clear he had anticipated their attempt to enter the treasury and had come to await them. Regardless of what others felt, Yu Shang was determined not to leave empty-handed. Having come so far, it would be a waste not to seize what he sought.

“If it were so easy, there wouldn’t be so many who turned back in fear. Unfortunately, we are not ordinary people, so the final trial must trouble you, old sir, to handle personally,” Xiao Yin said with a cold laugh after glancing at the others. They might respect the old man, but he did not.

Seeing no one else speak, Xiao Yin continued, “But let me be clear: we won’t hold back just because you’re older. I advise you to step aside; we will not abandon our pursuit of the treasury for anyone.”

Xiao Yin’s words served both as a warning to the old man that they were not easily dealt with, and as a reminder to the group not to falter or waste their previous efforts just because their master or senior stood against them.

“Xiao Yin, the Headmaster is our elder; you shouldn’t be so rude. Still, I truly did not expect that the final trial would be guarded by you. I am quite astonished,” Yu Shang replied politely with a smile.

Though Yu Shang appeared to be chastising Xiao Yin, he was really signaling to the old Headmaster that if such an act of bullying the young were known, the world would ridicule Orchid Mist Academy for its weakness in needing the Headmaster himself to face a handful of youths.

“Master, I know that our intrusion will bring great trouble to Orchid Mist Academy. We may not leave alive,” Leng Huaiyi said softly, head bowed. He felt guilty, but had no regrets; not to take this risk would mean certain death for his close brother in the arena.

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“Hmph, knowingly breaking the rules makes the offense even greater. I had such high hopes for you, yet you’ve become so muddled!” The old Headmaster’s voice was harsh, but it was clear he still cared for his disciple; otherwise, he would have acted, not just scolded.

“It was wrong for us to break in, but the idea to enter the treasury and steal the clan scroll was mine, and I was the one who led them here. If a life must be given to settle this, then let it be mine—just let the others go. Only, please, let us retrieve the scroll first; then I can die without regret.” Leng Huaiyi, knowing the gravity of their offense, still took all the blame upon himself, revealing the depth of his loyalty.

“Leng, what nonsense are you saying? Headmaster, you know your disciple’s character best—how could he betray Orchid Mist Academy?” Yu Shang said coldly with a frown. “Everything was my doing. If you must punish someone afterward, take me. At worst, I’ll fight my way out—but I will not leave the treasury behind!”

Yu Shang’s determination was clear; he would not rest until he had the clan scroll. Since the group had entered for his sake, he could not let Leng shoulder the blame alone. He had already made enough enemies—what difference would a few more make?

“Senior, since you know we entered the treasury, then you must also know who opened the Orchid Demon Gate. I have long been prepared for punishment—do not involve anyone else,” Xun Mishuang said calmly, as she had anticipated something like this. That was why she hadn’t let Leng Huaiyi summon the entrance. She bore the responsibility for the academy’s survival, knowing they would never offer her as a scapegoat.

The others all seemed ready to speak, but the old Headmaster cut them off. Stroking his beard, he said, “What is this? Are you trying to show me the meaning of shared adversity? All clamoring to confess—why aren’t you so eager when it comes to other matters?”

He gave them a stern look, then continued, “Nevertheless, you are right—breaking into the treasury demands punishment. But I have no wish for your lives. Don’t forget, you still have to compete in the tournament. If you agree to one condition, I’ll let this matter rest.”

This was unexpected—the Headmaster was not out for blood, but spoke to them kindly. Yet, seeing the sly look on his face, the group couldn’t help but feel like lambs entering a tiger’s den. It seemed they were destined to be thoroughly fleeced by him.

“But what is this condition you require?” Yu Xiaoran asked cautiously. This old man was never one for a losing bargain. Knowing the magnitude of the trouble they had caused, and seeing he did not demand punishment, his price must be considerable—at least greater than the combined worth of them all.