Chapter 187: Dragon-Phoenix Assembly

In any culture, the ruling class forms its own small society.

The purpose of this small society is quite simple; expressed in the style of Qing's homeland, it was precisely this:

Kicking down the ladder.

It’s an alliance designed for them to hoard the power they tightly grasp amongst themselves for a thousand, ten thousand years.

The Dragon-Phoenix Assembly couldn't be free from this aspect either.

Wasn't it the ultimate networking incubator, where the well-born youth strengthened their bonds, creating an 'us' – you and I together?

So, naturally, not just anyone could attend the Dragon-Phoenix Assembly.

There was a reason they went out of their way to invite and treat the disciples of the Ten Great Clans and Nine Great Sects with utmost care; it wasn't free. A significant portion of the Dragon-Phoenix Assembly's participation fee was included in that treatment.

And a day like today, when a grand banquet was held, was precisely the day to repay that debt.

Even though they had rented the entire seven-story tower, quite a crowd had gathered.

Of course, in Central Plains banquet culture, people didn't stand around chatting, so this was mainly to provide ample seating.

Since the Central Plains has a chair-based culture, people shouldn't sit on the floor but pull up chairs to tables.

"Wow, there are so many people," Qing observed as they entered.

"Hmph. Just a bunch of riff-raff," Tang Nanah sniffed. "The first floor is full of nobodies anyway."

"Nanah-ah," Qing admonished gently. "Can't you try to speak a little more prettily?"

Tang Nanah was not only the Poisonous Speaking Flower, a renowned beauty, but also the daughter of the Tang Clan, the rulers of Sichuan.

Naturally, her remark, made as soon as they entered the tower, immediately drew everyone's attention.

"Whatever. Come on, Qing-ah, let's go up."

Tang Nanah linked arms with Qing and pulled her along.

Qing, pretending to be unable to resist, gracefully ascended the stairs with light steps.

As they reached the second floor, people began to appear, greeting Tang Nanah, albeit awkwardly.

Although no one had explicitly designated it, the young people on the second and third floors were youths from martial sects known at least locally.

And from the fourth floor upwards, youths from famous, widely known sects had taken their seats.

It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that the real Dragon-Phoenix Assembly started here.

Ascending another floor, they finally saw some familiar faces.

"Oh, Sword Brother! Isn't it Sword Brother!" Namgung Shinjae called out.

"Young Master Namgung," Qing replied, adopting a demure tone. "It's been a while, hasn't it? Although we saw each other yesterday, we only exchanged brief greetings, so today must be the day we properly catch up."

"Hm? Sword Brother?" Namgung Shinjae looked perplexed.

"I have these ladylike talents too," Qing explained lightly, "and I figured I’d forget them if I didn't use them, so I bring them out occasionally. Does it make you uncomfortable?"

"Honestly," Namgung Shinjae said, scrutinizing her. "With your face covered, I'd believe you if you said you were someone else entirely. I didn't know you could actually pretend to be a proper lady. Hmm, wait? Knowing Sword Brother, you're exactly the type to send someone else to imitate you."

"Young Master Namgung," Qing retorted coolly, "do you really think every word that tumbles off your tongue makes sense? Even dogs have tongues, you know?"

"I believe you," Namgung Shinjae conceded with a grin. "You are Sword Brother."

At that, Qing shrugged and presented her sword.

Namgung Shinjae bumped his scabbard against hers, unable to hide a broad, pleased smile.

"Right, okay," he said. "Is Changbin upstairs too?"

"Ah," Qing replied. "Brother Changbin is on the fifth floor. Looks like he went up to avoid the women."

Typically, the fifth floor was for the Azure Dragon Association, and the top floor for the Phoenix Association.

Of course, it wasn't strictly defined, so members of the Heavenly Martial Team could join either group regardless of gender.

However, it looked rather bad for a woman to be alone among men, and vice versa, so unless they were particularly close or lovers, it wasn't easy to just join in.

Of course, for Qing, it was easy.

Linking arms with a somehow displeased-looking Tang Nanah, Qing ascended the stairs, her veiled head peeking out to survey the fifth floor.

Qing raised her index finger to her lips towards the men who looked her way, and they all obediently pretended not to see her.

And then, a loud voice boomed among the crowd.

"Ha! That's why you don't have a woman! Women, yes, a woman's heart, you see, is like an eel! If you try to hold it gently, it slips right out. You have to grip it tight! Really tight! Then it'll be caught right in your hand, understand?"

"Ooooh, as expected of Brother Changbin!" a young martial artist asked eagerly. "So, you mean I should push harder with Miss Yang?"

"Of course!" Changbin declared. "When a man pushes, a woman's heart somehow opens up. Grab her wrist firmly, and say, 'Let's go!' Take her somewhere quiet with a beautiful atmosphere, like the lakeside or a garden!"

Qing raised her index finger to her lips and tiptoed gracefully towards Changbin.

The others merely watched with mischievous smiles, pretending not to notice.

Unaware of the woman approaching from behind, Changbin continued, intoxicated by his own words.

"Grab her shoulders firmly and speak manfully. 'Miss, please be my—'"

"Oh my, isn't it Master Changbin?" Qing interjected sweetly. "Heavens, aren't you the legendary Daoist, the living legend they say makes women faint just by looking at them?"

"Uh," Changbin stammered.

"Now, now," Qing cooed. "Don't be like that. Since we've met like this, allow this little maiden to pour you a drink."

"W-well, yes, thank you..." Changbin managed.

"Here," Qing said, filling his cup. "Drink it all up. Wow, how gallant! Hey, Nanah-ah, what are you doing? Our man among men, the handsome man of Mount Hua, the slayer of women’s hearts, Master Changbin's right side and glass are empty. Fill them both."

"Huh? Me?" Tang Nanah looked startled.

"Quickly," Qing prompted.

"Uh, okay..." Tang Nanah scurried to Changbin's right and awkwardly poured the drink.

How often could the great Tang Nanah have possibly poured drinks for someone?

With Qing on his left and Nanah on his right, a flower in each arm, the poor Daoist Changbin, whose palms were now pierced[^A pun/idiom. "손바닥을 뚫린" (palms pierced) sounds like someone is utterly exposed or caught red-handed, fitting Changbin's awkward situation.], stared straight ahead like a man with a crick in his neck on both sides.

"So," Qing continued sweetly, "what was the rest of that speech? Could you perhaps let this little maiden hear that Daoist magic-like confession that melts a woman's heart? 'Please be my—' I'm so curious what comes next."

"Well... that is... child, child, no, I mean... Mother, Mother is..." Changbin stuttered.

"Your mother?" Qing feigned surprise. "Your esteemed mother? Your mother wants to see me? That certainly is a frightening confession that could melt a woman's heart."

"That's not it..." Changbin mumbled.

"But Master," Qing pouted, "don't you recognize this little maiden? Oh dear. How disappointing. Was I merely a woman who brushed past you once, unworthy of memory for the great slayer of women's hearts, Master Changbin?"

As Qing spoke in a sulky voice, Changbin began to sweat profusely.

Chuckles spread through the crowd.

"Um, Miss, I apologize... My memory..." Changbin trailed off.

"You promised we would always watch the plum blossoms of Mount Hua together, how could you forget so heartlessly?" Qing lamented dramatically. "Have you truly forgotten the time we spent together?"

"No... Even if you say that..." Changbin was flustered. "Uh, your esteemed name, please..."

"This little maiden is called Ximen Qing," she announced clearly. "Does Master Changbin remember now?"

"Huh?! Miss Ximen?" Changbin gaped. "Ah, I thought your voice sounded familiar... H-how, how have you b-been?"

"I've been well," Qing replied smoothly. "Oh, for reference, the young lady on your right is the Poisonous Speaking Flower of the Sichuan Tang Clan, Miss Tang Nanah. Nanah-ah, this is the Central Plains' number one expert on women's hearts, Master Changbin."

"This guy? Women's hearts?" Tang Nanah scoffed, then added curtly, "Uh, I'm Tang Nanah."

As Tang Nanah stated her name, Qing counted inwardly.

One, two, "Poisonous Speaking Flower!" "Poisonous Speaking Flower!" "Poisonous Speaking Flower!"

That's right! Now they understand how things work.

In truth, this seemingly meaningless chanting of titles held a nuance of respect for the other party.

"Uh, I'm Changbin..." Changbin spoke with a volume barely audible unless one strained their ears, stiffly bowing his head like a wooden doll.

Across from them, a Daoist who had been forcing back laughter finally burst out and asked Qing.

"Well now, Brother Changbin. You really had a lady friend? How come you never introduced us? Miss, I am Hwan Yuk of Wudang. Since Brother Changbin is too shy to speak, may I be so bold as to ask for an introduction?"

"Ah," Qing replied, her tone shifting slightly. "I am Ximen Qing, an Outer Disciple of the Divine Maiden Sect. And my master is the esteemed Ximen Surin. Hmm, yes. What is your seniority?"

Instantly, a clamor of chairs scraping echoed loudly as people stood.

"Hwan Yuk of Wudang pays respects to the Elder!"

"Jeonseung of Qingcheng pays respects to the Elder!"

"Pilmu of Zhongnan pays respects to the Elder!"

"Pilryeong of Zhongnan pays respects to the Elder!"

"Myeonak of Kongtong pays respects to the Elder!"

.........

......

...

It seemed the Daoist disciples awkward around women had gathered on the fifth floor.

Qing replied in a gentle, friendly voice.

"Aigo, although there might be some difference in our rank, this little maiden only came of age this year. There's no need to be so formal. Excessive politeness is said to be impolite, and it actually makes me feel undeservedly uncomfortable."

"Y-yes, Elder," Hwan Yuk replied hesitantly.

"Do I look that old?" Qing asked playfully. "Calling me Elder?"

"Yes, Senior," Hwan Yuk corrected himself.

Ah, so this is why people enjoy acting like seniors.

No wonder those marines fresh off the boat couldn't help but flaunt their status.

"Miss Ximen? You... came of age this year?" Changbin asked timidly.

"Sword Brother? Came of age?" Namgung Shinjae interjected, startled.

However, Qing ignored him, not having acknowledged his interruption, and continued teasing Changbin.

"I thought you were getting better, but you're still confused about honorifics? Aish, relax. We're friends beyond rank, friends?"

"How can I relax in a situation like this..." Changbin muttered.

"Aish, really. Changbin-ah, are you going to keep acting like this?" Qing chided gently.

"Mm. Understood— no, I mean, yes. I will," Changbin complied stiffly.

"Good," Qing smiled. "Have you been well? Judging by your conversation earlier, it seems you're still the same. So, what was it? That great confession that melts a woman's heart in one shot."

"...Please be the mother of my child..." Changbin mumbled, face flushed.

"Hmm," Qing turned to Tang Nanah. "Nanah-ah, what do you think of this confession? If you heard it?"

Tang Nanah's evaluation was scathing.

"It's completely stupid. It sounds like a man who already has children looking for a second wife."

Huh, I thought it sounded kind of decent, but it seems the local reaction is completely negative.

"Changbin-ah, you heard her," Qing said lightly.

"Then... 'Please bear my child'..." Changbin ventured, perhaps gaining a sliver of courage from their past travels together, albeit still in a small voice.

It was such a surprising sight that even the Daoist disciples, uncomfortable in the presence of an elder, stared wide-eyed at Changbin.

"Hmm," Qing mused. "The 'child' part is a bit ambiguous. It's still unclear whether you mean main wife or second wife."

"Why are you so particularly concerned about that?" Tang Nanah asked curiously.

"Well," Qing stated matter-of-factly, "if I were to get married, he'd enter my family as an adopted son-in-law. If, hypothetically, I were to go live with his family, then I absolutely must be the main wife."

At that, Namgung Shinjae chimed in again.

"Miss Tang, since this is an opportunity to hear a woman's opinion, I too have something I've cherished in my heart. How about this confession? 'I wish to cross swords with you until death.' — Kugh — a masterpiece of a line!"

Tang Nanah replied with a look of utter disbelief.

"Wait, if you cross swords until death, isn't that just a duel to the death? Are you looking for an enemy?"

"See?" Namgung Shinjae exclaimed. "This is why it's impossible to communicate with non-swordmasters."

"What?!" Tang Nanah retorted. "Then why did you ask?"

"Right. My mistake. I apologize," Namgung Shinjae said seriously. "I should have asked a female swordmaster. Sword Brother, what do you think— Ah, right, more importantly, Sword Brother came of age this year?"

Was this guy weirdly sensitive about age? Qing thought.

She smiled brightly and replied in a gentle tone, "Perhaps you should choose your words more carefully? Especially if you were about to imply I look old."

"No, I'm not that rude," Namgung Shinjae assured her. "Hmm. True, age doesn't matter when it comes to sword mastery. Sword Brother, how does this confession sound? 'Until death, cross swords—'"

"At first, I thought it sounded okay," Qing admitted, "but after hearing Nanah's words, now I can only think of it as a duel to the death. If you fight until one of you dies, it is a duel to the death, right?"

"Certainly, hearing it now, I realize my mistake," Namgung Shinjae conceded thoughtfully. "Then, hmm, right, forever. 'I want to cross swords with you forever.' Oh. This too is a masterpiece. Miss Tang, how about this time? My ultimate confession."

"Well, it's better than a duel to the death," Tang Nanah allowed. "But do you really have to cross swords? Is a sword some kind of token? That you have to cross it?"

A token was something once fashionable, where an ornament was broken into pieces, and each person kept a part.

It was used between lovers, and also frequently used by men who secretly kept two households as a gift for their illegitimate children.

"Oh," Qing mused aloud. "That's a good idea too. Splitting a sword to make it a token of promise..., hmm, that won't work. If you split a sword, it becomes a Half-Sword."

"Indeed," Namgung Shinjae agreed gravely. "A Half-Sword is a serious matter. Besides, you can never win if you break your sword."

Qing nodded in agreement.

Fifth floor done. The sixth floor was said to be a resting place.

The seventh floor was supposedly where the women tired of men's advances gathered – the members of the Phoenix Association.

Since she was here anyway, she figured she might as well take a look around.

And honestly, she was curious about what the Blooming White Lily was wearing.

When she caught a glimpse yesterday, that outfit had been so commendable, truly pleasing to the eye.

Yesterday, she had business with Gongson Yoye, so she couldn't look closely.

Hmm, she's probably wearing another revealing outfit today, right?

With a heart pounding in anticipation, Qing briskly climbed the stairs.