The name Han Tan Yi carries a certain chill, a touch of coldness, yet the young man was spirited and playful. To win a smile from his beloved, he did not hesitate to play the role of a thief in the night, unaware that he was merely stepping into a trap long set by others. He had never glimpsed the exquisite beauty hidden beneath the purple veil, but fate works in wondrous ways. That graceful, peerless figure left an impression in a single glance that he could never erase. Was she Shui Linglong, or was she Shui Lianhua? How had the notorious demon of the martial world, once infamous across the land, now taken on the guise of a youthful maiden? Everything is shrouded in mystery. Dear reader, follow in the footsteps of Haitang Yue to unravel the secrets of this world of blades and shadows, where valor and tenderness intertwine in a realm of intrigue and chivalry.
If anything significant were about to happen in the world, at least for those inside this tavern, it would be that drinking is suddenly free. Who wouldn’t wish for such a windfall, a pie falling from the sky? But such chances are rare, though not impossible. At least today, in the city of Xingyang, it’s happened.
The tavern itself was not large; the grander establishments had long since filled to capacity. The waiter scurried back and forth, busier than ever, for it was a rare day to make a little extra money—a chance he had no intention of letting slip. After all, today’s drinks didn’t need to be paid for by these patrons; all that was required was a thirst and a willing spirit.
Jugs of wine were piled everywhere, and the place was packed with people. Even the corner by the wall, not usually favored, had been fitted with a small table by the owner. That spot could seat only a single person, and with one’s back to the room and face to the wall, it was not a comfortable position. Still, it didn’t matter—so long as there was wine.
Yet the man sitting there was an odd one, out of step with the lively atmosphere around him. He sat in silence, never uttering a word. In the dim light, his face was obscured. Alone, he drank at his own pace, not quickly; the small jug of wine before him seemed hardly touched, though he’d been at it for some time.
Such characters, the waiter left well alone—he was too busy to bother with them anyway.
“Hey, some things are better left unsaid. Here in Xingyang, if Master Shen hears you, there’ll be trouble. Today, he’s