Rebirth as a Wind Cultivator - Chapters 4-6

Chapter 4: Whispers of Air

Xiulan drifted into consciousness, enveloped by silk sheets and the subtle aroma of sandalwood incense. Every muscle protested as she pushed herself upright. Clean white bandages wrapped her injuries, and a light chemise replaced her heavy robe.

The ornate furniture and jade decorations surrounding her belonged in an honored guest chamber, not the modest servant quarters she typically occupied. This doesn’t make sense... unless...

The memory of confronting her sisters before the gathered officials surfaced. Lord Lin’s thunderous reaction. Of course—appearances mattered more than anything.

Her improved treatment served his face, not her comfort. It left a bitter taste.

How long will this last? Madam Zhang and her daughters wouldn’t let the slight pass. She was sure they’d already be plotting their revenge.

A golden bell-pull cord hung beside the bed, its purpose clear. Xiulan tugged it, sending a gentle chime echoing through the room.

The silence shattered as two junior servants burst through the door. Their unfamiliar faces beamed with eager attention.

“Miss Lin! You’re awake!” The first servant bowed deeply. “Do you need water? Tea perhaps?”

“Should we fetch the physician?” The second servant stepped forward. “Or would you prefer to break your fast first?”

Xiulan blinked at the rapid-fire questions. “I... water would be fine.”

The door creaked again as another maid entered, carrying fresh linens. Something about her struck Xiulan—the way she moved, the slight tilt of her head. Memory stirred like ripples in still water.

“Mei Chen?” The name slipped from Xiulan’s lips.

The maid greeted her with a smile. “Miss Xiulan?”

“Could I speak with Mei Chen alone?” Xiulan addressed the other servants.

The two exchanged surprised glances, but nodded. “Of course, Miss Lin.” They shuffled out, closing the door behind them.

“Miss Xiulan, are you feeling well?” Mei Chen clutched the linens to her chest. “You seem... different.”

“Do you know what happened?” Xiulan adjusted herself against the pillows.

“Yes, Miss.” Mei Chen set the linens aside. “But please, don’t provoke Madam Zhang or your sisters further. They’ll seek revenge.”

“I know that all too well.” Xiulan traced the edge of her bandage. “But what choice did I have? They tried to eliminate me. I just defended myself.”

Mei Chen’s hand flew to her mouth. “Surely they didn’t try to... to...” The words died in her throat.

Xiulan reached out to pat Mei Chen’s arm. “Can I trust you?”

“Of course!” Mei Chen straightened. “You’ve always shown me kindness. You’re my friend, Miss Xiulan.”

The embrace came naturally as she pulled Mei Chen close. “Thank you for being here.”

A strange disconnect washed over Xiulan. The memories of Li Mei clashed with her current reality. Was it right to leverage Xiulan’s relationships like this? But these memories, this body, this life—they belonged to her now, too.

Right? It was all so very confusing. But no matter what, she felt warmth toward Mei Chen and Zhang Wei, so what was wrong with that?

Mei Chen pulled back and pressed her forehead against Xiulan’s. “Are you truly well? You seem disoriented.”

“Just shaken.” Xiulan attempted a weak laugh. “I need to know what’s happened since I lost consciousness. How long was I asleep?”

“Two days, Miss. Doctor Jin visited daily to treat you. He predicted you’d wake soon.”

Two days. Xiulan’s mind raced through calculations. Tomorrow marked the last day of Madam Zhang’s banquet. Time pressed against her like a physical weight.

“What date is it?” Xiulan gripped the silk sheets tighter.

Mei Chen frowned. “The fifteenth day of March, Miss Xiulan.”

Spring. She had guessed right, before. The cherry blossoms visible through the window seemed to confirm it as well.

“And the year?”

“Kingdom Chronicle Year 885.” Mei Chen sat down on the side of the bed.

Xiulan blinked rapidly. The words echoed in her mind, refusing to make sense. “Kingdom Chronicle Year?”

“Miss Xiulan, are you well?” Mei Chen reached toward her forehead.

“Where...” Xiulan swallowed hard. “Where exactly are we?”

“In Lord Lin’s manor, of course. In Blackmere city.”

“Yes, but Blackmere is part of...?”

“The Ducal Province of Aeris.” Mei Chen wrung her hands. “In the Kingdom of Arinthia. Should I fetch Doctor Jin Wei? You seem unwell.”

Each name struck like a physical blow.

Kingdom Chronicle Year. Aeris. Arinthia. The familiar terms belonged to Li Mei’s memories, not Xiulan’s. They were names from Phoenix Kingdom Chronicles—the game she’d loaded just before stepping out for that fatal drink. The game she’d spent countless hours playing whenever she had free time.

The throbbing in her head intensified as two sets of memories warred within her mind. The modern world of Li Mei clashed violently against the medieval reality of Lin Xiulan.

What the absolute fuck? The coincidence stretched beyond belief. Phoenix Kingdom Chronicles had somehow become her reality—or she’d lost her mind completely.

“Miss? Miss?” Mei Chen shook Xiulan’s shoulder. “You’re scaring me.”

Xiulan patted Mei Chen’s arm and exhaled slowly. “I apologize for worrying you. The confusion from waking up... it’s passing now.” She managed a small smile. “I’m just grateful you’re here with me.”

“Of course, Miss Xiulan.” Mei Chen straightened the bedding. “Doctor Jin left specific instructions for when you woke.”

“Oh?” Xiulan shifted against the pillows.

“Yes. He insisted you get cleaned up and start with a light soup to rebuild your strength.”

A growl from Xiulan’s stomach punctuated the suggestion. “That sounds perfect. Could you inform the other maids to notify Doctor Jin?” She smoothed the silk sheets. “And perhaps arrange for that soup?”

“Right away!” Mei Chen beamed. “Should I help you wash and dress?”

“Please.” Xiulan swung her legs over the bed’s edge. The prospect of food awakened a fierce hunger she hadn’t noticed before.

Mei Chen darted from the room with quick steps. She returned moments later and guided Xiulan through ornate wooden doors into an adjoining washroom. Steam rose from a large wooden tub, and the scent of jasmine oils perfumed the air.

Red crystals glowed at the bottom of the tub, their warm light rippling through the clear water. Firestones. Of course.

This isn’t just historical China—it’s Phoenix Kingdom Chronicles.

The realization sparked through her mind like lightning. The game’s complex system of magic and cultivation existed here, layered beneath the mundane world she’d witnessed so far. Her family’s wealth meant access to basic magical items like firestones and spirit stones, though they lived firmly in the mortal realm.

Cultivation. The word echoed in her thoughts with new significance. The game’s progression system wasn’t just virtual anymore—it was almost certainly real.

The thought left her feeling tipsy. Superpowers could be achieved here!

“Let me help you, Miss Xiulan.” Mei Chen stepped forward with practiced ease.

The familiar routine flowed naturally as Mei Chen unwrapped the bandages and then helped remove her chemise. Fresh scabs marked Xiulan’s ankle where the skin had torn.

“Did Doctor Jin mention if I could submerge it?” Xiulan pointed to her injured foot.

“He said it should be fine now.” Mei Chen retrieved a small ceramic jar from a nearby shelf. “The risk of infection has passed. He left this ointment for your ankle and head.”

“Thank you for taking care of me.” Xiulan slipped into the wooden tub.

Heat enveloped her body, the temperature hovering just below what was bearable.

Warm water cascaded down Xiulan’s back as Mei Chen worked with gentle, practiced motions. The soft cloth swept across her skin, washing away days of sweat and worry. Steam rose from the firestone-heated bath, carrying the subtle scent of jasmine oil through the air.

Mei Chen hummed softly while tidying the scattered bandages and gathering fresh towels. The quiet domesticity created a peaceful bubble, allowing Xiulan’s thoughts to drift and settle.

A mortal noble’s daughter in Blackmere County.

The title felt both foreign and familiar. Blackmere ranked among the poorest counties in Arinthia, despite—or perhaps because of—its position within the Dukedom of Aeris. The sparse resources and constant political maneuvering left little room for advancement for mortals or immortals.

That would be both a problem and a blessing. Getting what she needed would be harder, but there would be fewer eyes watching her. Certainly less scary ones.

The bath’s heat seeped into her muscles, but couldn’t wash away the cold reality of her situation. Her own family sought her death. Even now, Madam Zhang plotted revenge while her sisters nursed their wounds and bruised pride.

Mortals die here. Often. The knowledge surfaced from Li Mei’s countless hours of gameplay. NPCs—no, people now—perished from monster attacks, political schemes, or simple accidents. Life held little value beyond the walls of major cities and noble estates.

The date nagged at her. Kingdom Chronicle Year 885. Five years before the game’s starting point. Before the fall of Arinthia. Before the monsters emerged in full force.

Before everything changed.

In the game, players had rebuilt from ruins, developed powers, and forged new destinies. But now? The kingdom stood intact. The cataclysm remained a future echo, a disaster that hadn’t yet struck.

I know what’s coming. The thought sent ripples through the bathwater as she shifted. But can I change it?

Xiulan slid deeper into the bath until the warm water touched her chin. The Phoenix Princess still lived. The royal family remained whole. No armies gathered at the borders. No monsters prowled the wilderness. The invasion existed only in her memories of a game not yet played out in her new reality.

She submerged until only her nose broke the surface, watching ripples spread across the water. Five years stretched before her like an open road. Five years to prepare for catastrophe.

Five years to change fate itself. Was she being melodramatic? Maybe it came from her Xiulan side?

Xiulan, do you want to save the world?

There was no response, not that she had expected one.

The water dripped from her nose as she surfaced with a frown. Her current position at the bottom of her family’s social ladder presented an immediate obstacle. The Lin family barely registered as minor nobility, and her status as a second daughter placed her even lower.

Worse still, her body lacked the strength and skill of a cultivator. No mystical energy coursed through her meridians. No supernatural abilities waited at her fingertips. Not yet.

“Status,” she whispered experimentally. Nothing happened. “Inventory?” Silence answered. “System?”

The familiar game interfaces remained stubbornly absent. No helpful menus appeared. No statistical readouts materialized, and there were no quest markers to point the way forward.

Steam swirled around her face as uncertainty crept into her thoughts. The game knowledge stored in her mind offered strategic value, but implementation required resources she didn’t possess. Her college and retail experience wouldn’t help her fight monsters or cultivate magical powers.

A chill ran through her despite the bath’s warmth. This wasn’t a game anymore. No save points. No respawns. Just the raw reality of a world on the brink of chaos.

She was going to need to get started, and quick.

Chapter 5: Sifting Winds

Li Mei held her arms out as Mei Chen dressed her. The silk fabric felt cool against her skin, a stark contrast to the rough cloth she had worn in her past life.

Not having to dress herself anymore was strange, but the attention was nice. Mei Chen’s gentle hands adjusted the layers with practiced precision, securing sashes and smoothing wrinkles.

“Thank you, Mei Chen,” Xiulan said, appreciating the care.

Mei Chen smiled, her eyes warm. “It’s my pleasure, Miss Xiulan.”

Another maid entered, carrying a tray with a steaming bowl of soup and a small, round pill. “Doctor Jin sent this health reinvigoration pill for you,” she announced, placing the items on the table.

Xiulan eyed the pill warily. In Phoenix Kingdom Chronicles, pills and medicine were significant. They could heal, enhance abilities, or even save lives. But they could also be deadly if tampered with or created poorly. Jin’s skill wasn’t in question, but the chain of custody was.

“Thank you,” Xiulan said, dismissing the maid with a nod.

That only left her staring at the soup. Could she trust it? Madam Zhang and her sisters controlled most of the household staff. Only a few exceptions, like Mei Chen, stood outside their influence.

Her stomach growled, reminding her of her hunger. She picked up the spoon and dipped it into the broth. The aroma of chicken and herbs filled her senses. She took a tentative sip. The warmth spread through her, easing some of her tension.

“If anything happens to me now,” she muttered, “Father would be suspicious.”

Mei Chen hovered nearby, concern etched on her face. Xiulan met her eyes and saw genuine worry there. She’d need to lean on Mei Chen more.

“Miss Xiulan,” Mei Chen said softly, “Doctor Jin wouldn’t let anything harm you.”

“I know,” Xiulan replied. “But we can’t be too careful.”

She picked up the pill and inspected it. It looked like any other health reinvigoration pill from the game—smooth, round, and slightly translucent. She hid it inside her robe’s pocket.

“Mei Chen,” Xiulan said, “I need your help more than ever.”

“Of course, Miss Xiulan,” Mei Chen replied without hesitation. “I’m here for you.”

Xiulan took another spoonful of soup, feeling a bit more at ease. “I want to go out today, see the city.”

“Miss Xiulan!” Mei Chen stepped back. “But you’ve only just recovered. Should you really—”

“Actually, it’s perfect timing.” Xiulan traced the rim of her bowl. “The festival means crowds everywhere. We won’t stand out. Plus, everyone who might cause trouble is either confined or busy with the banquet activities.”

She smiled. “Since I was injured, no one expects me to take part. I’m free to do as I please.”

Mei Chen’s shoulders relaxed. “That... makes sense.”

“We’ll need money, though. Could you fetch my purse?”

Mei Chen bowed and retrieved a small embroidered bag from a nearby cabinet. The silk clinked as she set it on the table.

Xiulan sipped another spoonful of soup. “Count it for me?”

Mei Chen emptied the contents onto the table, sorting through the silver pieces. “Eighty-seven taels, Miss Xiulan.”

The amount seemed substantial, but Xiulan frowned. Silver might work for common merchants, but cultivator goods required far more valuable currency. She’d need significantly more resources for her plans.

“Bring out my ornaments and jewels too.”

While Mei Chen retrieved several lacquered boxes, Xiulan finished the last of her soup. The maid arranged the boxes carefully on the table, their brass hinges gleaming in the morning light.

Xiulan opened the first lacquered box. A wave of sympathy washed over her for the original Xiulan. The meager collection inside spoke volumes about her position in the family.

Six loose gemstones lay scattered across the velvet lining: two pale jade pieces no larger than her thumbnail, a deep blue sapphire with a minor inclusion, a modest ruby that caught the morning light, and two small diamonds that sparkled despite their flaws.

The gold necklace featured a single emerald pendant—pretty, but nowhere near the quality noble daughters typically wore. Two sets of matching gold earrings completed the pitiful collection, along with a handful of silver accessories and bracelets strewn about like afterthoughts.

No gold bracelets. Of course not. Those came from admirers and betrothals—neither of which existed for the family’s forgotten daughter.

“Is this everything, Mei Chen?”

“I’m so sorry, Miss Xiulan.” Mei Chen bowed deeply. “This is all.”

“What about promissory notes? Other funds?”

Mei Chen’s shoulders dropped further. “Your monthly allowance remains at five taels, Miss. It hasn’t increased since you were a child.”

“And my sisters’ allowances?”

“I don’t know the exact amount...” Mei Chen twisted her hands. “But at least a few hundred taels each month.”

“Of course it is.” Xiulan drummed her fingers on the table.

“Miss Xiulan, if we’re going out, perhaps you shouldn’t wear your best pieces—“

“We’re bringing everything except the silver necklace and earring set.”

“But Miss—“ Mei Chen’s protest died as Xiulan raised her hand.

“Find me the quickest path to an honest jeweler.”

Mei Chen straightened her shoulders. “At once, my lady!” She darted from the room, leaving Xiulan to examine the meager collection once more.

Within minutes, Mei Chen returned with another servant in tow. Together, they wrapped each piece in silk, nestling them carefully into the lacquered boxes. The methodical process reminded Xiulan of how rare items were packed in the game.

A guard appeared in the doorway, his posture rigid. Perfect timing.

“Your name?” Xiulan asked.

“Guard Luo Han greets the Second Daughter.” He bowed stiffly.

“Good. You’ll carry these.” She gestured to the boxes and purse.

The morning air carried a hint of autumn crispness as they stepped into the manor grounds. Unlike the chaos of her arrival, their departure proved remarkably simple. The guards at the gate barely glanced up from their posts as the small group passed through.

The city streets bustled with activity. Merchants called out their wares while children darted between market stalls. The aroma of steamed buns and grilled meats wafted from nearby food stands. Xiulan’s stomach tightened with interest, but she pushed the temptation aside. Business first.

Mei Chen led the way and navigated the crowded streets with practiced ease. Behind them, Luo Han’s steady footsteps kept pace. The jewelry boxes remained secure in his arms.

The artisan district emerged around them, marked by increasingly elaborate storefronts. A modest building with polished windows caught Xiulan’s attention and ended up being their destination. A small bell announced their arrival as they stepped inside the jeweler’s shop.

The gentle tinkling faded as an elderly man emerged from behind a beaded curtain. His keen eyes sparkled beneath bushy white brows as he approached their group.

“Welcome to my humble establishment.” He bowed with practiced grace.

“I have some pieces that need appraising,” Xiulan said.

The jeweler gestured toward an ornate table surrounded by cushioned chairs. “Please, make yourself comfortable, young lady.”

Polished wood gleamed as Luo Han set the boxes down. Xiulan settled onto a plush red cushion, appreciating the quality of the furnishings. The jeweler produced a set of delicate tools and a jeweler’s loupe from his sleeve.

“Let us begin.” He opened the first box with reverent care.

The sapphire caught the morning light streaming through the window. The jeweler held it up, examining it through his loupe. “Despite the minor inclusion, this is quite valuable. The color is exceptional—worth at least 3,000 taels.”

He moved to the emerald pendant next. “Remarkable clarity. The setting is pure gold, and the craftsmanship is exquisite. This piece alone would fetch 5,000 taels.”

The ruby gleamed like a drop of blood in his weathered hands. “The cut is masterful. 4,000 taels, easily.”

The diamonds sparkled as he examined them. “These may be small, but their quality is outstanding. 2,500 taels each.”

The jade pieces earned an appreciative nod. “Imperial grade jade. 1,500 taels each.”

He assessed the remaining gold pieces with practiced efficiency. “The additional pieces total approximately 1,000 taels. Altogether, your collection is worth roughly 21,000 taels.”

“Miss Xiulan.” Mei Chen stepped forward anxiously. “The emerald pendant and the ruby were birthday gifts from Lord Lin. Perhaps we shouldn’t—”

Xiulan held up her hand to quiet Mei Chen. The maid’s concern was touching, but they had no time for sentimentality. She considered the jeweler’s appraisal.

It wasn’t wise to sell to the first appraiser, but their time today was limited. The prices seemed reasonable from what she remembered. In Phoenix Kingdom Chronicles, mortal activities were often summarized, focusing more on the immortal side of things. So she wasn’t exactly sure. Still, the values felt right.

The jeweler, sensing her hesitation, leaned forward. “Miss Lin, given the significance of these pieces and their origin from Lord Lin, I can offer an additional 1,000 taels.”

Xiulan’s eyes narrowed slightly. She nodded. “Agreed.”

“Excellent choice,” the jeweler said, his smile widening. “Would you prefer the payment in cash or a promissory note?”

“A promissory note,” Xiulan replied. “Carrying that much silver would be impractical.”

The jeweler nodded and disappeared behind the beaded curtain. Moments later, an official entered, carrying a contract and a seal. The official’s presence added a layer of legitimacy to the transaction, and the red-ink seal was as binding as a notary’s seal.

Xiulan signed the contract with a steady hand. The official pressed the seal into the wax, finalizing the deal. The jeweler handed her the promissory note with a respectful bow.

“Thank you,” Xiulan said, tucking the note into her coin purse.

As they left the shop, Luo Han carrying the now-empty boxes, Mei Chen couldn’t contain her curiosity any longer. “Miss Xiulan, what do you need so much money for?”

Xiulan smiled, a spark of excitement in her eyes. “Mei Chen, take us to the treasure pavilion.”

Mei Chen’s eyes widened in surprise. “The treasure pavilion, Miss Xiulan? Why would you want to go there? It’s not a place for us?”

Xiulan waved off her concern. “Just some business I need to take care of.”

Mei Chen laughed, shaking her head. “Miss Xiulan, you’re so active now. I shouldn’t be surprised by anything you do.”

Xiulan’s smile broadened. She hadn’t been sure if Blackmere had a treasure pavilion, but this confirmed it. Most counties in Phoenix Kingdom Chronicles did, but not all. They weren’t typical destinations for mortals, which was why Mei Chen’s confusion was fair.

The treasure pavilion dealt almost exclusively with spiritual items and cultivation relics. Immortal goods that held little value for ordinary people. Most wouldn’t even know what to do with them.

There wasn’t any clear list for mortals to even know what there was that they could use.

But that wasn’t true for her. Not anymore.

There was one thing she needed immediately to make her first steps.

“Let’s go.”

Chapter 6: Negotiating Breeze

The Treasure Pavilion stood tall, its imposing structure exactly as Li Mei remembered from the game. The streets thinned out as they approached the walled area surrounding the tower. It made sense; the Lin Family was the heart of the festival, and most celebrations centered around their manor house in the city. Still, the place wasn’t deserted. Blackmere’s streets rarely emptied, even during quieter times.

Two guards, clad in polished armor, halted them at the entrance. “Identify yourselves,” one demanded, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword.

Mei Chen stepped forward with confidence. “This is Miss Lin Xiulan, Second Daughter of the Lin Family, accompanied by her attendant and guard.”

The guards exchanged wary glances. “What business do you have here?”

Xiulan straightened, channeling every ounce of regality she could muster. “Has the Treasure Pavilion forgotten who the county magistrate is? Or have you simply become unmannered?”

The guards stiffened, chastised by her authoritative tone. “Our apologies, Miss Lin,” one said, bowing deeply. They stepped aside, allowing the group to pass as a servant hurried off to fetch the pavilion master.

The courtyard beyond the gates was a serene display of wealth. Ornate lanterns hung from meticulously pruned trees, casting soft colored light over polished stone pathways. Intricate tapestries adorned the walls, rivaling the opulence of her father’s own courtyard in the city.

In one corner, two men in flowing robes played a board game, their concentration intense. Xiulan’s heart skipped a beat. Cultivators. She recognized their aura from countless hours spent in Phoenix Kingdom Chronicles. She tensed, but they didn’t even glance her way.

The master arrived shortly after, his robes swishing as he approached. He dismissed the servant with a wave. “I thought it was a scam,” he muttered to himself before addressing Xiulan directly. “But it truly is the Second Daughter of the Lin Family.”

He bowed deeply. “Master Qingfeng at your service.”

Xiulan curtsied with practiced grace. “A pleasure to meet you, Master Qingfeng.”

Despite the throbbing pain in her ankle, Xiulan maintained perfect posture. “Might we conduct business in one of your trade rooms?”

Qingfeng’s eyebrows lifted. “Interesting. I wasn’t aware you’d done business with us before.”

“I know many things, of course.” Xiulan turned to her companions. “Mei Chen will accompany me. Guard Han, please wait in the courtyard.”

He didn’t like that. “Miss Lin, I must protest—”

“The Treasure Pavilion’s protection is more than adequate.” Xiulan’s tone left no room for argument.

Han’s jaw clenched, but he bowed stiffly and retreated to find a place to wait with the jewelry boxes.

Master Qingfeng nodded and led the way. Inside the pavilion tower, displays of precious artifacts lined the walls. Crystalline pedestals held everything from gleaming weapons to luminescent pills. The polished marble floor reflected the warm light from overhead lanterns, creating an atmosphere of refined opulence.

Qingfeng led them up a curved staircase to a secluded room on the second floor. Plush cushions surrounded a low table, and delicate paintings adorned the walls.

“Since you’re familiar with our ways,” Qingfeng said, “shall I arrange the full tea ceremony?”

Xiulan bowed. “I would be honored.”

After Qingfeng departed, Mei Chen knelt behind Xiulan as she took her seat. “Miss Xiulan, I confess I’m lost.”

“Everything proceeds well.” Xiulan reached for the parchment and ink set on the table. “Don’t worry.”

“That’s good then.” Mei Chen smiled.

Xiulan dipped the brush in ink and began listing items from her mental inventory of the game’s most crucial resources.

A servant glided into the room carrying a lacquered tea tray. The delicate porcelain clinked as she arranged the dishes with practiced precision.

Master Qingfeng entered and settled onto a cushion. “Since Miss Lin isn’t an immortal cultivator, I took the liberty of selecting a more suitable tea.”

“Thank you for your consideration.” Xiulan watched his movements as he began the ceremony.

The rich aroma of cinnamon wafted up from the cup as Qingfeng presented it. Sharp notes tingled in her nose. The first sip rolled across her tongue, smooth and pleasant.

Qingfeng took a drink from his own cup. “What do you think of the selection?”

“Excellent. I’m deeply thankful for the Heaven Grass tea.” Xiulan set her cup down. “I regret not preparing a gift worthy of such an expensive greeting.”

Qingfeng’s eyebrow arched. “The Second Daughter of Lin knows her herbs and medicines well enough to identify the tea by taste?”

Xiulan smiled as tingles spread through her injured temple, ankle, and knuckles. There weren’t many teas fit for healing mortals and immortals, and the description matched. She’d dealt with it enough in the game to be fairly sure. Some of her characters had even carried it around in jars to chug during fights!

She reached up and unwound the bandage from her forehead.

“Miss Xiulan, you’re hurt! You shouldn’t remove that!” Mei Chen protested.

“The healing herb has already taken effect.” Xiulan handed the bandage to her maid. “I’m fine now.”

Mei Chen’s shock turned into a deep bow before Master Qingfeng, her forehead almost touching the floor. “Thank you, Pavilion Master, for healing the Lin Family’s daughter!”

“Very generous, Master Qingfeng.” Xiulan inclined her head.

“I heard rumors about the banquet incident.” Qingfeng folded his hands. “After seeing your injuries, proper treatment seemed only appropriate for our guest.”

“If you treat all your guests with such generosity, I would love to become your customer as well.” Xiulan slid her parchment across the table.

Qingfeng chuckled and nodded as he accepted the list.

His smile vanished as his eyes scanned the parchment. Xiulan kept her expression neutral, though her heart thundered against her ribs.

“Most guests of your rank typically request special trinkets or talismans.” Master Qingfeng set the list down. “Perhaps a jade pendant to enhance spiritual awareness?”

“I understand, but these items are what I require.”

“Do you know what these ingredients are?”

“Of course.”

Master Qingfeng tapped each item. “Three measures of Blood Lotus petals, five portions of Thunder Root, eight pieces of Dawn Serpent scales, and one lesser spirit stone.” He leaned forward. “The total cost would be no less than fifty thousand taels.”

A sharp pain shot through Xiulan’s chest. She nodded to Mei Chen, who produced the silk purse. Xiulan extracted the promissory note and slid it across the table. “This is all I possess at present. Twenty-two thousand taels.”

Master Qingfeng stroked his pointed beard as he examined the note. “Perhaps we could substitute the Thunder Root with twice the amount of Storm Grass? Thunder Root proves difficult to source in these parts. That alone would bring this request into your budget.”

“The Thunder Root is rare and expensive, yes.” Xiulan’s fingers dug into her palm beneath the table. “But someone of your expertise should recognize the purpose of these specific ingredients. Do you intend to sabotage my efforts?”

“Ah.” Master Qingfeng raised his hand. “You’re not seeking ingredients for a Meridian Repair Pill, where Storm Grass would suffice. You aim to create a Meridian Opening Pill.” He straightened. “Such an endeavor carries grave risks. The recipe demands precise execution. Without proper guidance, the consequences could prove fatal.”

Master Qingfeng set the promissory note down. “Your request intrigues me, Miss Lin, but the funds appear insufficient. Perhaps I could interest you in something more... attainable?”

Xiulan squeezed her hands together beneath the table. The silk of her robes rustled as she leaned forward. “What I propose might seem irregular, but consider accepting partial payment now. The Treasure Pavilion would hold my debt—and a favor to be claimed in the future.”

“A favor from the second daughter?” Qingfeng’s lips twitched.

“My current standing might seem modest, but circumstances change. I’ve secured a hidden benefactor, and my position within the Lin family will soon shift dramatically.”

Qingfeng stroked his pointed beard. The steady drip of water from a nearby fountain punctuated the silence. “What makes you think I’d consider such a trade?”

“You didn’t reach your position as pavilion master without recognizing valuable investments.” Xiulan straightened her spine. “Consider this favor an investment that appreciates with time. The longer you wait to collect, the more valuable it becomes.”

Sweat trickled down Xiulan’s back as Qingfeng studied her. Without her status as the magistrate’s daughter, such an obvious scheme would have earned immediate rejection. Even with her lineage, the proposal reeked of deception. If Qingfeng accepted, he’d have to believe she’d found a cultivator patron—rare, but not impossible.

“What restrictions do you place on this favor?” he asked.

Xiulan bit her lip, then nodded. “My consent required for anything that could permanently harm myself or my future. Nothing that harms those I care about. Other than that—no restrictions.”

“An interesting proposition.” Qingfeng drummed his fingers on the table. “Though I wonder—why doesn’t this mysterious benefactor approach the Treasure Pavilion directly? That would simplify matters considerably.”

Xiulan’s heart skipped a beat. She hadn’t considered that angle. Her throat felt dry, and she wished she still had some tea left. She swallowed hard, forcing herself to maintain eye contact with Master Qingfeng. “Ah... I’m afraid they are not on good terms with the Treasure Pavilion.”

Qingfeng’s eyebrow arched, skepticism clear in his gaze. Xiulan’s mind raced.

“But that won’t affect our relationship in the future,” she added hastily. “This daughter is already very appreciative of the care she has received and would be very grateful for the master to grant her request that solidifies her future. Once I have the needed things, there won’t be the risk mentioned earlier, thanks to my benefactor, so you can be assured of a good result.”

The lie hung in the air between them. Xiulan’s pulse quickened, but she kept her expression serene. There wasn’t any benefactor, but she did believe in her ability to succeed.

She had spent countless hours in Phoenix Kingdom Chronicles mastering the art of pill-making, even if it was through a virtual interface.

In the game, creating medicine and pills involved a simple process of adding ingredients to boxes, setting quantities, and pressing a button. Thousands of pills could be produced this way, but the quality capped out at 90% even with maximum skill levels.

For a Meridian Opening Pill, which opened a mortal’s meridians to begin cultivation, Li Mei had opted for manual brewing to achieve the highest quality possible. And she had done it a lot—turning mortals into cultivators in the game added them to your character list.

And they could all be active at the same time.

With her time investment in the game, she had built up her very own sect clan. All on her own.

So she knew the recipe by heart: from herb preparation to precise timing. The temperatures were less critical and could be managed with a normal fire, sparing her the need for a specialized pill furnace.

She bit her lip, waiting for Qingfeng’s response. The silence stretched, punctuated only by the faint trickle of water from a nearby fountain. Qingfeng’s gaze remained fixed on her, unyielding and probing.

Master Qingfeng nodded with deliberate slowness. “Your proposal intrigues me, Miss Lin.”

Relief flooded through Xiulan’s body, releasing the tension that had coiled in her muscles. Her heart soared at his acceptance.

“The requested items will take time to gather.” Qingfeng poured another cup of tea. “Shall we arrange delivery to the Lin Family Manor in a week’s time?”

The elation dimmed as reality settled in. Xiulan steadied her breathing. He spoke truth—the things would need time to prepare, and during that period, she’d remain vulnerable to her enemies within her family.

“Miss Lin, perhaps there are other items you require immediately?” Qingfeng’s eyes sparkled. “Something to assist your endeavors while we procure the ingredients?”

Xiulan blinked in surprise at his unexpected offer of additional support. She swallowed hard, considering the possibilities from her game knowledge. “A silver poison sensing needle would prove invaluable.”

“Ah, a prudent choice.” Qingfeng stroked his beard. “Ten thousand taels, added to your existing debt.”

“Agreed.” Xiulan smiled. The cost meant little compared to the favor she would owe.

“Excellent. I’ll prepare the contracts and summon an official for proper authentication.” Qingfeng stood and bowed before departing.

“Miss Xiulan?” Mei Chen whispered. “I don’t understand what’s happening. Is everything alright?”

Xiulan reached across the table and grasped Mei Chen’s hands. A genuine smile spread across her face. “Everything proceeds perfectly.”

“That’s wonderful, Miss Xiulan!” Mei Chen beamed back.