Chapter 246: Birds of a Feather, A Meeting at the Lin Residence
These weren’t empty words of flattery but Hua Shuya’s sincere admiration.
During her travels with Lin Tianlu, she had encountered many wicked demons and ghosts. She had also witnessed and heard about Ren Yinshan’s many acts of kindness.
It was because of her generosity and compassion that several towns and villages had remained safe and peaceful. She deserved all the praise she received.
Hua Shuya didn’t care about social status, appearance, or whether someone was a demon or ghost. She valued kindness above all else.
Although she hadn’t met Ren Yinshan before, she had heard many positive stories about her and remembered them well.
“Miss Hua, you’re just as elegant and heroic as I imagined.”
Ren Yinshan returned a warm, gentle smile. After a brief appraisal, her gaze softened. “As expected of Senior’s beloved disciple, your talent is truly exceptional.”
“You flatter me, Miss.” Hua Shuya bowed her head modestly. “It’s all thanks to Senior’s guidance and support that I’ve reached this level of cultivation.”
“Alright, you two, let’s put a stop to the mutual admiration.”
Lin Tianlu chuckled, interrupting their exchange of compliments.
If they continued, they might spend the entire day listing each other’s virtues.
“You’re right, sir.”
Ren Yinshan covered her mouth with her sleeve and chuckled. “Since we’ve been introduced, let’s be on our way. I feel bad making you two carry all those ingredients. I’m also eager to meet your wives and see what kind of women have captured your heart, sir.”
Hua Shuya blinked, a hint of surprise in her eyes.
This Miss Ren…
Seemed to have ulterior motives.
But she didn’t sense any hostility. On the contrary, she felt a sense of warmth and kindness, her demeanor gentle and inviting, not at all like someone with malicious intent.
As Hua Shuya pondered this, Lin Tianlu was about to call for the waiter to settle the bill.
But Ren Yinshan stopped him, her voice soft. “I’ve already paid for the meal, sir. There’s no need for you to trouble yourself.”
“You’re truly well-prepared, Miss Ren. It seems I’ll have to cook a special lunch to repay your kindness.”
Lin Tianlu smiled, hefting the ingredients in his hands. “I guarantee you’ll have a satisfying meal.”
“Then… Eh?”
Both Lin Tianlu and Ren Yinshan paused, turning to look out the window.
Hua Shuya’s eyes narrowed, and she instinctively placed her hand on the hilt of her sword, her expression wary.
A chilling, oppressive aura suddenly filled the room, a formless pressure that could paralyze ordinary mortals!
“Crimson Demon Realm… no, perhaps even higher?”
“It seems you two are getting along well.”
A cold, indifferent voice echoed through the room.
Then, a graceful figure floated in through the window, her dress billowing around her as she landed lightly.
Shimmering golden hair framed her exotic face, her expression calm and serene. The dancer they had encountered on the street earlier stood before them, surprising Hua Shuya.
This Western woman truly possessed extraordinary abilities!
Lin Tianlu asked curiously, “What can I do for you, Miss?”
“Just passing by.”
The golden-haired woman looked him up and down. “You’re quite handsome, I must say. A rather unique charm.”
Lin Tianlu’s eye twitched.
Being appraised so openly by a woman was a rather unusual experience.
“An Ke Lin, don’t be rude. These two are my friends.”
Ren Yinshan frowned, her voice soft. “And put away your aura. You might scare the waiters. What did I teach you? You can’t use your oppressive presence in public like this.”
“I…”
The golden-haired woman, An Ke Lin, pursed her lips, sighed, and bowed her head. “I apologize. My tone and behavior were a bit… cold.”
“There’s no need to apologize. We’ve only just met, Miss. It’s natural for you to be a bit reserved.”
Lin Tianlu chuckled. “I just didn’t expect the dancer I met on the street to be acquainted with you, Miss Ren.”
Ren Yinshan smiled again. “Judging by her appearance, An Ke Lin is from the West. She’s been wandering around the Zhengyang Kingdom for the past ten years or so after an unfortunate incident. I took her in a while back. Although she seems cold, she’s actually quite gentle and kind-hearted, fair and level-headed. She travels around helping people in need, truly compassionate and caring for the common folk.”
“Oh?”
Both Lin Tianlu and Hua Shuya were surprised.
This foreign woman was a virtuous person?
“Compared to her, I’m ashamed of myself. I needed your guidance, sir, to find my way.” Ren Yinshan explained softly, “An Ke Lin was worried about me, so she came to Changling to check on the situation.”
“There’s no need to explain, Sister Ren.”
A faint blush appeared on An Ke Lin’s face, as if she were embarrassed by the praise. “Since this is the Mr. Lin you’ve spoken of so much, I won’t disturb you. If there’s any news or trouble in the county, I’ll come find you again.”
With that, she turned and left without another word.
She vanished in the blink of an eye.
“…”
Hua Shuya looked on in bewilderment, her hand still on her sword hilt, feeling a bit disoriented.
The woman had barged in with a chilling aura, only to leave just as abruptly.
What was she doing here?
“An Ke Lin was probably worried that I might be deceived by some man, so she wanted to ‘meet’ Mr. Lin personally and assess the situation.”
Ren Yinshan chuckled playfully. “She’s good in every other way, but she’s easily embarrassed. A few words of praise are enough to make her blush. She must be quite flustered right now.”
Lin Tianlu chuckled. “She seems like an interesting person. Perhaps we can get to know each other better if there’s a chance. But…” He paused. “Is it really alright to let her wander around alone? Should I ask her to come back and join us at my home? You two could look out for each other.”
“There’s no need to worry, sir. She prefers being alone and has already found an inn.” Ren Yinshan’s eyes curved into crescents. “Besides, she’s still unmarried, a pure and innocent young woman. Too much contact with strange men would make her uncomfortable.”
“Ah… I didn’t consider that.”
Lin Tianlu smiled awkwardly.
“But thinking back, all the women around you, Miss Ren, seem to be kind-hearted. This Miss An Ke Lin is no exception.”
He had sensed her demonic nature when he saw her dancing on the street.
But he hadn’t intervened because… he couldn’t sense any bloodlust or malice from her. She was pure and radiated a warm, sunny aura, completely different from the usual chilling presence of demons and ghosts.
If she hadn’t released that oppressive aura just now, it would have been hard to believe she was a spirit.
“Perhaps, birds of a feather flock together,” Hua Shuya murmured. “Those who are acquainted with Miss Ren can’t be bad people.”
“You’re both too kind. I’m quite embarrassed.”
Ren Yinshan blushed slightly and coughed. “Let’s leave this restaurant first. We can continue our conversation elsewhere.”
“Miss Ren, don’t forget your zither!”
“This… how embarrassing. I’m so forgetful.”
Ren Yinshan quickly retrieved her zither from the window, strapped it to her back, and blushed, clearly embarrassed.
…
…
A while later, the three of them returned to the Lin residence.
Since it was almost noon, Lin Tianlu rolled up his sleeves and volunteered to cook.
Hua Shuya, admitting her lack of culinary skills, sat quietly in the pavilion, meditating.
However…
Sensing a faint, chilling breeze, she couldn’t quite calm her mind. She opened her eyes slightly and glanced towards the main hall.
—The atmosphere in the house was… tense.
Three women were seated in the spacious hall.
“Seeing you in person, Miss Cheng, you truly live up to your reputation. Such breathtaking beauty makes me feel quite inadequate.”
Ren Yinshan put down her teacup and sighed in admiration. “No wonder that Prince Pei’s son was so infatuated with you, even at the cost of his own life. Few men could resist your charm.”
Cheng Yishi sat elegantly, her hands folded in her lap, a flawless smile on her face. “You flatter me, Miss Ren. Your beauty is no less captivating. I’ve heard about you from Tianlu. A woman who can maintain her integrity in these times… I truly admire you.”
Ren Yinshan smiled faintly, her gaze shifting to Mao Ruoyu, who was quietly sipping tea. “And Madam Mao… although this is our first meeting, I must say, you’re truly stunning.”
“You’re too kind, Miss. My appearance is nothing special,” Mao Ruoyu replied with a smile.
“I assure you, it’s not flattery…”
Ren Yinshan chuckled, her eyes still filled with admiration.
From the moment she entered the Lin residence, she had been constantly surprised.
Not only was the house filled with a mysterious aura she couldn’t quite identify, which seemed to suppress her Yin energy, but there was also a powerful weapon ‘guarding’ the courtyard. Even a faint trace of its aura sent shivers down her spine.
And after seeing Lin Tianlu’s two future wives, she was even more astonished.
These two women…
Were truly exceptional!
In terms of appearance alone, they were the most beautiful women she had ever seen, their features seemingly sculpted by heaven, like celestial beings from legends.
But what surprised her most was…
Their distinct yet equally captivating auras.
Although Cheng Yishi was still young, with a hint of youthful innocence, her demeanor exuded a mature confidence and grace, as if she commanded the world.
Her elegant manners were impeccable, her expression perfectly composed, even as she subtly appraised Ren Yinshan. She seemed even more refined than the daughters of noble families.
And Madam Mao…
Although she hadn’t spoken much, her smile was warm and gentle, her voice soft and melodious. Her eyes sparkled with kindness and consideration.
Even when Lin Tianlu brought a stranger like her home, Madam Mao hadn’t shown any displeasure, her smile unwavering.
This pure trust and devotion were truly touching. She seemed gentle and magnanimous, with the air of a virtuous wife.
And most importantly…
Her figure was truly spectacular!
Even though Ren Yinshan considered herself to have an enviable figure, she had to admit that Madam Mao’s was even more perfect and alluring.
Her ample bosom, her curvaceous figure, even hidden beneath her dress, hinted at the exquisite beauty of her legs.
“May I ask why you’ve suddenly come to Changling, Miss Ren?”
Cheng Yishi asked softly. “I heard you live in Ganchang Village, quite a distance from here. Is there something important?”
“It’s nothing major…”
Ren Yinshan collected her thoughts and replied, “I’ve been hesitating for a long time, but I finally decided to… try again, to see if I can find true love.”
Both Cheng Yishi and Mao Ruoyu were surprised.
Could it be that this woman…
“And I’ve come here for one person.”
Ren Yinshan pursed her lips, lowering her head sincerely. “I’ve come for Mr. Lin.”
Chapter 246: Birds of a Feather, A Meeting at the Lin Residence (Part 2)
These were not empty flatteries but Hua Shuya’s sincere admiration.
During her travels with Lin Tianlu, she had witnessed countless wicked demons and ghosts. She had also seen and heard about Ren Yinshan’s numerous acts of kindness.
It was due to her compassion and generosity that several towns and villages had remained safe and peaceful. She deserved the highest praise.
Hua Shuya didn’t judge people based on their status, appearance, or whether they were human, demon, or ghost. Kindness was her only measure.
Though she hadn’t met Ren Yinshan personally, she had heard many positive stories and held her in high regard.
“Miss Hua, you are as elegant and heroic as I imagined.”
Ren Yinshan smiled warmly. After a brief appraisal, her gaze softened. “As expected of Senior’s beloved disciple, your talent is truly remarkable.”
“You flatter me,” Hua Shuya replied modestly, bowing her head. “It’s all thanks to Senior’s guidance.”
“Alright, you two, enough with the mutual admiration.”
Lin Tianlu chuckled, interrupting their exchange of compliments.
If they continued, they might spend all day praising each other.
“You’re right, sir.”
Ren Yinshan chuckled, covering her mouth with her sleeve. “Now that we’ve been introduced, let’s be on our way. I feel bad making you two carry all those groceries. I’m also eager to meet your wives and see what kind of women have captured your heart.”
Hua Shuya blinked, a flicker of surprise in her eyes.
This Miss Ren…
Seemed to have an ulterior motive.
But she didn’t sense any hostility. On the contrary, she felt a subtle warmth and kindness. Ren Yinshan’s demeanor was gentle and inviting, not at all like someone with ill intentions.
As Hua Shuya pondered this, Lin Tianlu turned to call for the waiter to settle the bill.
But Ren Yinshan stopped him, her voice soft. “I’ve already paid, sir. There’s no need to trouble yourself.”
“You’re very thorough, Miss Ren. It seems I’ll have to cook a special lunch to repay your kindness.”
Lin Tianlu smiled, hefting the bags of groceries. “I’ll make sure you’re well-fed.”
“Then… Eh?”
Both Lin Tianlu and Ren Yinshan paused, turning towards the window.
Hua Shuya’s eyes narrowed, and she instinctively placed her hand on her sword, her expression wary.
A chilling, oppressive aura suddenly filled the room, a formless pressure that could paralyze ordinary mortals.
“Crimson Demon Realm… no, perhaps even higher?”
“It seems you two are getting along well.”
A cold, indifferent voice echoed through the room.
A graceful figure floated in through the window, her dress billowing as she landed lightly.
Shimmering golden hair framed her exotic face, her expression calm and serene. The dancer from the street stood before them, surprising Hua Shuya.
This Western woman truly possessed extraordinary abilities!
Lin Tianlu asked curiously, “What can I do for you, Miss?”
“Just passing by.”
The golden-haired woman looked him up and down. “You’re quite handsome, I must say. A rather… unique charm.”
Lin Tianlu’s eye twitched.
Being so openly appraised by a woman was a novel experience.
“An Ke Lin, don’t be rude. These are my friends.”
Ren Yinshan frowned gently. “And put away your aura. You’ll scare the staff. Didn’t I teach you not to use your oppressive presence in public?”
“I…”
The golden-haired woman, An Ke Lin, pursed her lips, sighed, and bowed her head. “My apologies. My behavior was a bit… cold.”
“No need to apologize. We’ve only just met,” Lin Tianlu chuckled. “I just didn’t expect the dancer I saw on the street to be acquainted with you, Miss Ren.”
Ren Yinshan smiled. “As you can see from her appearance, An Ke Lin is from the West. She’s been wandering around Zhengyang for the past ten years after an unfortunate incident. I took her in a while back. Though she seems cold, she’s actually quite kind and generous, fair and level-headed. She travels around helping those in need, truly compassionate and caring for the common people.”
“Oh?”
Both Lin Tianlu and Hua Shuya were surprised.
This foreign woman was a philanthropist?
“Compared to her, I’m ashamed. I needed your guidance to find my way,” Ren Yinshan explained softly. “An Ke Lin was worried about me, so she came to Changling to check on things.”
“No need to explain, Sister Ren.”
An Ke Lin blushed, seemingly embarrassed by the praise. “Since this is the Mr. Lin you’ve spoken so highly of, I won’t disturb you. If there’s any trouble, I’ll be back.”
With that, she turned and left without another word.
She vanished in the blink of an eye.
“…”
Hua Shuya blinked, her hand still on her sword, feeling slightly bewildered.
The woman had entered with such a chilling aura, only to leave just as abruptly.
What was her purpose?
“An Ke Lin was probably worried I might be deceived by some man, so she wanted to ‘meet’ Mr. Lin and assess the situation.”
Ren Yinshan chuckled. “She’s lovely, but easily embarrassed. A few words of praise are enough to send her running. She’s probably quite flustered right now.”
Lin Tianlu chuckled. “She seems interesting. Perhaps we can get to know each other better sometime. But…” He paused. “Is it really safe for her to wander around alone? Should I ask her to join us at my home? You two could keep each other company.”
“There’s no need to worry, sir. She prefers solitude and has already found an inn,” Ren Yinshan smiled, her eyes curving into crescents. “Besides, she’s unmarried, a pure and innocent young woman. Too much contact with strange men would make her uncomfortable.”
“Ah… I didn’t consider that.”
Lin Tianlu smiled awkwardly.
“But now that I think about it, all the women you associate with, Miss Ren, seem to be kind-hearted. This Miss An Ke Lin is no different.”
He had sensed her demonic nature when he saw her dancing.
But he hadn’t intervened because… he couldn’t sense any malice or bloodlust. She radiated a warm, sunny aura, unlike most demons and ghosts.
If she hadn’t released that chilling aura earlier, it would have been hard to believe she was a spirit.
“Perhaps, like attracts like,” Hua Shuya murmured. “Those who befriend Miss Ren can’t be bad people.”
“You’re both too kind. I’m quite embarrassed.”
Ren Yinshan blushed and coughed. “Let’s leave this restaurant. We can continue our conversation elsewhere.”
“Miss Ren, don’t forget your zither!”
“Oh dear… how embarrassing. I’m so forgetful.”
Ren Yinshan retrieved her zither, strapped it to her back, and blushed, clearly flustered.
…
…
Sometime later, the three of them arrived at the Lin residence.
Since it was almost noon, Lin Tianlu went to the kitchen to prepare lunch.
Hua Shuya, aware of her limited culinary skills, sat quietly in the pavilion, meditating.
However…
Sensing a subtle chill in the air, she couldn’t quite settle her mind. She opened her eyes and glanced towards the main hall.
—The atmosphere inside was… charged.
Three women were seated in the spacious hall.
“Seeing you in person, Miss Cheng, you truly live up to your reputation. Such beauty puts me to shame.”
Ren Yinshan put down her teacup, sighing in admiration. “No wonder that Prince Pei’s son was so infatuated, even at the cost of his own life. Few men could resist your charm.”
Cheng Yishi sat elegantly, her hands folded in her lap, a flawless smile gracing her lips. “You flatter me, Miss Ren. Your beauty is equally captivating. I heard about you from Tianlu. A woman who can maintain her integrity in these times… I truly admire you.”
Ren Yinshan smiled faintly, glancing at Mao Ruoyu, who was quietly sipping her tea. “And Madam Mao… though this is our first meeting, I’m truly impressed.”
“You’re too kind. There’s nothing special about my appearance,” Mao Ruoyu replied with a smile.
“I assure you, it’s not flattery…”
Ren Yinshan chuckled, her eyes still filled with wonder.
From the moment she entered the Lin residence, she had been constantly surprised.
Not only was the house filled with a mysterious aura she couldn’t identify, which seemed to suppress her Yin energy, but there was also a powerful weapon ‘guarding’ the courtyard. Even a trace of its aura sent shivers down her spine.
And seeing Lin Tianlu’s two future wives, she was even more astonished.
These two women…
Were truly exceptional.
Their beauty was unparalleled, their features seemingly sculpted by heaven, like celestial beings from legends.
But what struck her most was…
Their distinct yet equally captivating presence.
Cheng Yishi, despite her youth, possessed a mature confidence and grace, as if she commanded the world.
Her elegant manners were impeccable, her expression perfectly composed, even as she subtly assessed Ren Yinshan. She seemed even more refined than noble ladies.
And Madam Mao…
Though she hadn’t spoken much, her smile was warm and gentle, her voice soft and melodious. Her eyes sparkled with kindness and understanding.
Even when Lin Tianlu brought a stranger like herself home, Madam Mao hadn’t shown any displeasure, her smile unwavering.
This trust and devotion were truly remarkable. She seemed gentle, magnanimous, with the air of a virtuous wife.
And most importantly…
Her figure was truly spectacular!
Even confident in her own appearance, Ren Yinshan had to admit that Madam Mao’s figure was even more perfect and alluring.
Her ample bosom, her curvaceous figure, even beneath her dress, hinted at the exquisite beauty of her legs.
“May I ask why you’ve suddenly come to Changling, Miss Ren?”
Cheng Yishi inquired softly. “I heard you reside in Ganchang Village, quite a distance from here. Is there something important?”
“Nothing major…”
Ren Yinshan replied, “I’ve been hesitant, but I finally decided to… try again, to see if I can find true love.”
Both Cheng Yishi and Mao Ruoyu were taken aback.
Could this woman…
“And I’ve come here for one person.”
Ren Yinshan pursed her lips, lowering her head sincerely. “I’ve come for Mr. Lin.”
