Chapter 108: Taking Our Ancestors as Exemplars

In truth, if Yun Zui hadn’t spoken up, the fate of those two assassins wouldn’t have been much better. They reported Yun Zui dead, yet the real Yun Zui was very much alive. Once she revealed herself before everyone, those two assassins would undoubtedly face punishment. But by speaking out, their deaths would come swifter and more brutal—and she delivered them on their way herself. It was a fierce act of retribution.

While the others were still out hunting, she had already returned alone. Penetrating the place once was no simple feat, and even then, it was uncertain whether she could turn the entire Ling You Hall upside down. Yun Zui genuinely wished to explore, but movement between each zone was restricted, requiring different badges for entry. Ultimately, she gave up in frustration and decided to leave Ling You Hall for now. Lingering longer only meant courting greater danger; leaving promptly was the wiser course.

When Yun Zui stepped outside, she flashed her badge, and was immediately permitted passage.

Every time an assassin completed a mission, their badge was confiscated, so to leave again, they had to present a badge anew. Generally, assassins were forbidden to leave Ling You Hall at will; only when summoned for a mission could they return. At the gate, they were given their choice of a horse or carriage as transport. Yun Zui chose a carriage.

Once mounted, she spurred her horse forward at once, but after some distance, she abandoned the horse midway. It was Ling You Hall’s horse, and she never trusted using it herself. So Yun Zui decided to walk all the way to the imperial city.

She had no clue where 007 and the others were. She had fled so quickly, so urgently, that she left no trace behind. Fortunately, her own money house was flush with silver—she could easily withdraw spare coins. Disguised in men’s clothing, sporting a mustache, Yun Zui looked every bit the handsome young gentleman.

She needed to familiarize herself with the imperial city thoroughly and gain an intimate understanding of her surroundings. Here, she intended to thrive and carve out her own domain. In ancient times, merely having money was not enough to survive. A single careless word from a corrupt official could frame you, seizing your fortune. Power and influence were essential.

She spent the entire night walking, feeling the weariness settle in by dawn. After securing a room in a tavern, she collapsed into bed and slept deeply. Early the next morning, as the bustling street outside grew lively, Yun Zui dressed and rose to meet the new day.

She had left no clues for 007 and the others; amidst the vast crowds of the imperial city, reunion seemed daunting. Without reliable messengers, she could only rely on herself. Even Cao Cao of the Three Kingdoms built his forces alone. Cao Cao was skilled in employing talent and showing respect; as a modern person, Yun Zui’s knowledge far surpassed that of ancient times.

Ling Yuan stirred caution in her heart, and the Yun family bore her enmity. Yet she could not afford to be consumed by household struggles alone; she had to stand alongside Chi Nie at the summit. Otherwise, she was unworthy of being Chi Nie’s woman.

Though she would not accept Chi Nie now, if she truly could not return to the modern era, she would not resign herself to a lifetime without a man. Pursuing all these ambitions required capital. Yun Zui must rise completely, refusing to sit idly by and await death.