rule two

Chapter 24 – Purple Snow

Zixuan stared anxiously at Han Rui, who grinned from ear to ear. Heavens! Does he really want me to date him? His face contorted as he took a cautious step back. Wait… could he be in cahoots with the Jade-Faced Midnight-Smiling Rapist? A shiver ran down his spine as another, more horrifying thought crossed his mind. What if… what if he is the Jade-Faced Midnight-Smiling Rapist? Oh, heavens above, what kind of misfortune is this?

While Zixuan's thoughts spiraled into paranoia, Han Rui watched him closely, his grin faltering as confusion set in. Why is he looking at me like that?Han Rui wondered, noting the tension in the man's posture. Zixuan had his hands behind him, shielding his rear while glaring suspiciously. Wait… wait… what the hell is this guy doing? Then the realization struck, and Han Rui's jaw dropped.

"Master Zixuan," Han Rui said, raising his hands defensively, "I think there's a big misunderstanding here. I didn't come here to ask you out on a date." His words were as clear as he could make them, but Zixuan only retreated further, his expression growing darker.

"I know who you are," Zixuan snapped, fury sparking in his eyes. "You think I haven't figured it out?" He edged toward a nearby table, never breaking eye contact. There's no way I'm giving this maniac a chance to pounce, he thought, shielding his rear with one hand and reaching for a bottle with the other.

"What are you talking about?" Han Rui asked, exasperated.

Zixuan straightened up, his voice rising. "Don't play dumb! Isn't it obvious? You're the Jade-Faced Midnight-Smiling Rapist! It may not be midnight, but clearly, you've rebranded yourself as the Jade-Faced All-Day-Smiling Rapist! Over my dead body will I be one of your victims!"

Han Rui's mouth fell open in disbelief. He tried to respond, but his words caught in his throat.

At that moment, a familiar system notification popped up, bouncing gleefully in front of Han Rui's eyes.

[I love this guy… Hahahaha!]

The text wobbled and spun, and Han Rui could practically hear its smug, mechanical laughter.

System, now's not the time, Han Rui thought, his fingers itching to swipe the window away. Instead, he took a deep breath, forcing himself to remain calm.

"Master Zixuan," Han Rui said firmly, his hands still raised in a show of peace. "I have no idea what you're talking about, but I can guarantee you I'm not the Jade-Faced Midnight-Smiling Rapist."

"Exactly what the Jade-Faced Midnight-Smiling Rapist would say," Zixuan shot back, gripping the bottle like a weapon.

"Actually, no," Han Rui countered, his voice sharpening. "I may be an outsider, but from what I've heard, that bastard doesn't bother hiding his intentions. He announces his targets in advance, remember?"

Zixuan hesitated, his grip on the bottle loosening slightly. Han Rui pressed on.

"Master Zixuan," Han Rui said carefully, "are you young master Han Rui by any chance?"

"What?!" Zixuan's eyebrows shot up. "Don't be ridiculous!"

"Well, according to rumors, the rapist announced young master Han Rui as his next target. So, unless you're secretly him in disguise…"

"Of course not!" Zixuan snapped. "I have nothing to do with the Han Clan!"

"Then tell me," Han Rui said, his voice dripping with irritation, "what exactly have I done to make you think I'm that lunatic? All I said was that I had an offer you couldn't refuse, and suddenly I'm being accused of being a rapist!"

Zixuan blinked, the weight of Han Rui's words slowly sinking in. Now that I think about it… he hasn't said anything incriminating. Maybe I let my paranoia get the better of me.

The painter lowered the bottle cautiously, his tense shoulders relaxing. "You're… really not the Jade-Faced Midnight-Smiling Rapist?"

Han Rui exhaled, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I'm sorry to disappoint you, but no. I have no interest in ravaging men or women, for that matter." He paused, his tone dry as he added, "Although, given your reputation, the rapist might find you worth his time someday. I wish you good luck."

Zixuan's blood ran cold, and he shook his head furiously. "I'd rather he didn't," he muttered, setting the bottle back on the table. He took a deep breath and bowed deeply, cupping his fists.

"I sincerely apologize for the misunderstanding," Zixuan said, his voice humble. "I promise you, such a thing will never happen again."

Han Rui smiled, though the corners of his eyelids twitched incessantly. Something tells me I shouldn't trust this guy's words… he might even be worse than Meixue when it comes to misunderstandings.

He exhaled slowly, swallowing his thoughts as he said, "No problem, Master Zixuan. I understand your worries. After all, you are quite the lady's man."

Zixuan froze, his eyes narrowing as his mind raced. What did he mean by that? Could it be that…

A dry cough from Han Rui broke his train of thought.

"Master Zixuan, I swear, that was just a compliment. Please don't read too much into it," Han Rui said hastily, noticing the suspicious glint in Zixuan's gaze.

Han Rui sighed internally. Should I just leave? This guy might actually be more troublesome than Great-Grandfather. Yet, he forced himself to smile, brushing aside the thought. I've come all this way; I can't leave empty-handed.

"So, Master Zixuan," he said with forced cheer, "about what I mentioned earlier. Would you care to listen?"

Zixuan leaned back against the table, crossing his arms. "I suppose I owe you that much. Uh… sorry, what's your name again?"

"I'm no one of great importance," Han Rui replied with a smile. "You can call me Guo Laozi."

"Laozi…" Zixuan muttered, nodding as if committing the name to memory. "Fine. What offer do you intend to make?"

"Master Zixuan," Han Rui began, his tone suddenly earnest, "you're confident in your painting abilities, correct?"

Zixuan tilted his head back, his gaze drifting toward the room filled with his artwork. What's he planning? Unable to discern the motive behind the question, he replied cautiously, "I am. Why?"

"Fantastic!" Han Rui clapped his hands, beaming. "How about a wager?"

Zixuan's brows furrowed. "Go on. I'm listening. What are the terms?"

"It's simple, really. While I acknowledge Master Zixuan's immense talent, I believe I can surpass you with little to no effort."

Han Rui reached into his robe and retrieved a large brown sack, placing it on the table. The sound of coins clinking echoed in the room, and Zixuan's eyes darted toward the bag. It was enormous—easily twice the size of a bull's head.

How many coins are in there? Is he some kind of young master? Or did he just fill it with rocks? Could this be a scam? Zixuan's mind raced with questions, but Han Rui's voice pulled him back.

"Of course, I can't expect someone of your stature to waste their time. If I lose, all the gold coins in this sack are yours."

Zixuan's gaze flicked back to Han Rui, narrowing slightly. "And what do you get out of this?"

"Nothing much," Han Rui said with a disarming smile. "I'd only ask that you consider buying some of my products. That's all."

Zixuan stared at him, unconvinced. "What kind of products?"

Scratching the back of his head, Han Rui maintained his grin. "I'm a wandering peddler, and I specialize in… recreational supplements. Let's just say I've never had a dissatisfied customer."

Zixuan's frown deepened. This feels too one-sided. If I win, I get his money. If I lose, I still don't have to buy his products. Why does this feel like a scam?

His gaze drifted to Han Rui's hands. "Do you honestly think you can beat me? Your hands are smooth and callus-free, with no paint stains under your nails. You've clearly never held a brush in your life."

"Oh, so you're confident then?" Han Rui said, grinning brighter. "Shall we begin?"

Zixuan's frown turned into a scowl. Does he even hear what I'm saying? Forget it. People like this need to be humbled with actions, not words. I'll give him his money back when he realizes his mistake.

Consolidating his thoughts, Zixuan gave a curt nod.

Han Rui beamed and posed a question with an almost mischievous glint in his eye. "It would only be fair if we painted the same subject. How about we capture this section of the wall and all the paintings hanging on it?"

"Are you sure?" Zixuan asked, his gaze drifting skeptically toward the proposed subject.

Han Rui nodded confidently. "Absolutely. You?"

"I'd rather let my work speak for itself," Zixuan replied with a sigh, standing upright. "Give me a second; I'll get some materials ready for you—"

"Oh no, that won't be necessary," Han Rui interrupted, waving his hand dismissively. "I have my own methods for capturing this masterpiece."

Zixuan sighed again, shaking his head in resignation. "Alright, have it your way. So, what's the time limit? And are there any rules I should know about?"

"None at all," Han Rui declared, his smile widening. "Take all the time you need. For me, it'll be over in a second, to be honest."

This time, Zixuan rolled his eyes. What a braggart.He glanced at Han Rui, sizing him up. I was going to let him off with a small lesson, but now? I'll show him that arrogance won't get him far.

Saying nothing further, Zixuan rolled up his sleeves and approached his canvas. He carefully replaced it with a blank one, ensuring his tools were in place. His focus shifted entirely to the subject as he immersed himself in the meticulous art of painting.

Han Rui, meanwhile, plopped into a nearby chair, his gaze lazily following Zixuan's efforts. Look at him, all fired up. A wicked grin spread across his face, and his eyes gleamed with self-assuredness. I can't wait to see his reaction when he realizes this contest was decided before it even began.

In his mind, the system chimed in, [You sure love these elaborate schemes, don't you?]

"I don't want to hear that from you," Han Rui fired back mentally. "This is the best way to gain his trust. Once he's thoroughly defeated—especially in what he prides himself on—he'll believe every word I say. No matter what, I'm making him a customer today."

Hours melted away. The inn's windows framed the moonlight as it bathed the room in a serene glow. Zixuan remained an image of concentration, his hand gliding deftly over the canvas. Colors bloomed into a vivid and familiar likeness of the wall before him.

Four hours in, Zixuan paused to glance at Han Rui—and his jaw clenched.

There he was, snoring contentedly, slumped in his chair with a thin trail of drool trickling from his mouth. Every so often, Han Rui would chuckle in his sleep, an infuriatingly smug sound.

Does he really think he can win in an instant?Zixuan's brow furrowed as his irritation deepened. I was going to give him back his money, but now? Forget it. This guy needs to learn a lesson—and pay for wasting my time. Though, knowing my luck, that bag is probably full of rocks instead of coins.

With a resigned shake of his head, Zixuan returned to his work. "One thing at a time," he muttered to himself. "Finish the painting first. Deal with everything else later."

Another hour slipped by, and Zixuan finally lowered his brush. He studied his creation, a smile spreading across his face. Not to brag, but… this is exceptional.

Stretching his sore muscles with a groan, Zixuan turned toward Han Rui. Time to wake him up.

As he approached, Han Rui stirred, jolting awake as if sensing the movement. Lazily, he yawned and stretched, his demeanor utterly unbothered.

"Oh? Master Zixuan, you're finally done?" Han Rui asked, his voice dripping with nonchalance.

Zixuan's lips trembled as he fought to keep his composure. "Yes, I'm done. What about you—" He stopped mid-sentence, his gaze caught by the strange jade object Han Rui pulled from his robes.

What in the world is that?

Before he could voice the question, a brilliant flash erupted from the jade. Han Rui turned to him, smiling like a cat who'd just cornered a mouse.

"I'm done as well. Shall we compare?" Han Rui asked, his tone brimming with confidence.

Zixuan blinked, processing the words. Just like that? His mind raced. Wait, so… he's a cultivator?He quickly shook his head, dismissing the notion. No, there was no trace of qi usage, no subtle movements to suggest martial training either. If anything, Han Rui looked utterly unremarkable. But then, what was that item? Zixuan's gaze settled on the strange, sleek object in Han Rui's hand.

"Hello?" Han Rui waved, snapping Zixuan out of his spiraling thoughts.

"Yes, yes. Let's compare," Zixuan said, masking his curiosity. He had to know the source of Han Rui's strange confidence.

Han Rui grinned as he stood, casting a casual glance at Zixuan's painting. His lips twitched into a wry smile. Oof. This guy's really, really good. The vibrant colors and painstaking details were undeniable proof of Zixuan's talent. Too bad it's nowhere near photo-realistic—let alone an actual picture. Han Rui suppressed a chuckle, eager to see Zixuan's reaction.

"Where's your painting? I want to see—" Zixuan began, only to be cut off as Han Rui handed him the strange object.

"You're telling me this is your painting?" Zixuan frowned, inspecting the unfamiliar device. Its sleek, smooth surface looked like it belonged in a treasure vault, not a painter's hand.

Han Rui nodded confidently. "Take a look, Master Zixuan. After all, actions speak louder than words."

Zixuan hesitated, his fingers hovering over the device. It was cold to the touch, yet somehow felt… right, as if it had been designed to fit perfectly in his hand. "I can't see anything," he grumbled, casting a wary glance at Han Rui.

"Slide your finger across the surface," Han Rui said with a knowing smile, demonstrating the motion.

Before Zixuan could even process the instruction, his finger moved instinctively. In an instant, the device lit up, revealing a stunningly lifelike image of their subject.

"Impossible!" Zixuan exclaimed, his eyes bulging. His gaze darted between the wall and the image on the device, his mouth agape. Then his attention fell on his own painting—the product of over five hours of painstaking labor—and it suddenly felt… lacking.

Zixuan's grip on the device tightened as his mind struggled to reconcile what he was seeing. "How is this possible?" he finally managed; his voice shaky with disbelief.

Han Rui chuckled, his hand slipping into his robes. "We can discuss that later, Master Zixuan. First, let me introduce you to my latest product. I guarantee it'll leave you speechless," he said, pulling out a small transparent bag containing a colorful fine powder.

He held it up with a flourish. "Master Zixuan, allow me to present co…I mean, Purple Snow."

Chapter 25 – Ambush

Zixuan stared skeptically at the transparent bag containing the lilac powder. Purple Snow? His brows knitted. What in heaven is that even supposed to mean? His gaze darted between the bag, the QiPhone, and Han Rui's ever-present smile. A whirlwind of questions swirled in his mind, and he needed answers—immediately.

"We can discuss this 'Purple Snow' later," Zixuan said, gesturing toward the QiPhone. "What I want to know is this—what sort of treasure is this? No, wait, that's not important. Aren't you afraid of flaunting something so precious? But seriously, how does it perfectly replicate a painting as if it were real? Not even my former master could do such a thing. Is that all it can do, or are there other abilities?"

His voice grew more animated with each question as he closed the distance between them, his eyes gleaming with a mix of curiosity and excitement.

Han Rui maintained his smile, but internally, he groaned. Damn it. You're supposed to be more interested in my cocaine knockoff, not the QiPhone.Adopting an even warmer expression, he responded, "Master Zixuan, first of all, your reputation precedes you. You're the type I'd trust with a treasure. Second," he raised the bag of powder higher, "this will be far more useful to you in the long run. Trust me on this."

Disappointment briefly flickered across Zixuan's face, but his attention soon returned to the bag. "So," he said with a resigned sigh, "this Purple Snow—what exactly is it supposed to be?"

Han Rui's grin widened. "Now you're asking the right questions, Master Zixuan," he said, his tone smooth as silk. He paused, subconsciously smacking his lips before continuing, "I don't mean to brag, but this is the finest, purest recreational supplement in all of the Celestial Ridge."

"Hold on a moment," Zixuan interjected, narrowing his eyes. "You keep saying recreational supplement. Are you telling me this is… a prohibited drug?"

Han Rui blinked, momentarily taken aback. The corners of his lips trembled before he forced a laugh. "Of course not! Have you ever heard of Purple Snow being outlawed?"

I've never even heard of it in the first place, let alone whether it's banned or not, Zixuan thought, his skepticism growing. Still, he shook his head. From Han Rui's desperate attempts to sell the powder, it was obvious he was scheming something. Zixuan's mind, however, had already drifted back to the QiPhone. With its capabilities, he believed he could take his art to unimaginable heights.

With this treasure, my painting could leap to a whole new level. No— Zixuan's pulse quickened at the thought. It might even be possible to create art indistinguishable from reality.

Pushing aside the lilac distraction, he asked, "And what exactly does this Purple Snow do?"

Han Rui smiled sheepishly. "I can't tell you that."

"Huh?" Zixuan's voice flattened. "You're trying to sell it to me, and you won't explain what it does?"

Han Rui nodded, maintaining that same sheepish smile.

Zixuan's confusion gave way to exasperation. Is this some kind of elaborate joke? Yet, Han Rui's unwavering sincerity made it clear he was completely serious.

Taking a deep breath, Zixuan asked, "Be honest. This Purple Snow—is it one of those addictive drugs?"

Han Rui's sheepish smile morphed into something more mischievous. "Master Zixuan, you're not wrong—but not in the way you think. Trust me, buying this will change your life forever. Who knows? You might even erect a shrine in my honor."

Zixuan clenched his fists, taking several calming breaths to resist the urge to throw the man out of the room. This shameless bastard wants to turn me into an addict—and expects me to thank him for it.

After another deep breath, he decided to change tactics. "Fine. Let's assume I'm interested. How do you even use this Purple Snow?"

Han Rui's face lit up. Without a word, he retrieved a clean sheet of foil and a sleek, metallic card from his robes. Approaching a nearby table, he laid the foil flat before opening the transparent bag.

The moment the bag opened, a mesmerizing aroma—reminiscent of lavender—filled the room. Zixuan's nose twitched as the scent teased his senses. With practiced precision, Han Rui poured a small amount of powder onto the foil and used the metallic card to form two perfectly straight lines.

Finished, Han Rui turned to Zixuan with a triumphant grin.

Zixuan stared at the display, utterly baffled.

"Master Zixuan, you simply need to snort the Purple Snow after preparing it like this. That's the best way to guarantee its effects," Han Rui explained patiently. "Alternatively, you could dip your fingers into the bag and rub the powder across your teeth as if you were brushing. But that would be wasteful. I recommend the first method for maximum effectiveness and satisfaction."

There's no way this substance isn't an illicit drug. No way I'm putting that crap into my body—absolutely not! Zixuan vowed solemnly to himself, though he nodded approvingly at Han Rui's explanation to keep up appearances.

"So, how much are you selling it for?" Zixuan asked, feigning casual interest. While he was willing to buy the product for the sake of learning more about the QiPhone, he had no intention of spending a fortune if Han Rui placed an exorbitant price on it.

Han Rui coughed dryly, locking eyes with Zixuan. "How much can you afford?"

"What?" Zixuan blurted, his composure slipping for a moment.

"I said, how much can you afford?" Han Rui repeated, his tone unbothered.

"I heard you, but what do you mean by that? Don't you have a set price?" Zixuan asked, narrowing his eyes.

"I'm a wandering peddler, remember?" Han Rui replied with an easy smile. "I simply want to give people a chance to enjoy the finest products." He returned the sample powder to its bag with a practiced flourish, then retrieved a fresh batch of Purple Snow from his robe. "Make me an offer, Master Zixuan. I'll even throw in the card for free."

Suspicion clouded Zixuan's expression as he stared silently at Han Rui, his mind racing with questions. Han Rui didn't press, maintaining his grin as he waited for Zixuan to speak. The seconds stretched before Zixuan finally opened his mouth.

"I'll give you one gold coin—"

"Deal!" Han Rui cut him off, barely able to contain his excitement.

"I wasn't done," Zixuan said, startled by the quick acceptance. Was that too much? Did I just get scammed? He shook his head, pushing the thought aside. It doesn't matter if I'm getting scammed. It's not my money, after all. A sly smile tugged at his lips. Working with the shop owners in the Lazy Crane District does have its perks.

Gathering himself, Zixuan continued, "As I was saying, I'll pay one gold coin for the Purple Snow, but I also want information about this item." He held up the QiPhone.

Han Rui chuckled softly. "That's no problem at all," he said smoothly, then paused as an idea seemed to strike him. His eyes lit up. "In fact, I don't mind gifting you the treasure. It's called a QiPhone, by the way."

"Wait, wait, wait," Zixuan hurriedly interjected, raising a hand. "You're gifting me this?"

Han Rui nodded, his smile unwavering. "Of course. I believe an excellent painter like you will need it more than I do." His tone grew sly as he rubbed his hands together mischievously, a shady grin crossing his face. "So, Master Zixuan, about that gold coin?"

Zixuan's sense of unease deepened. I'm definitely being scammed, he thought. But at this point, he didn't care anymore. Whatever his plan is, getting an item like this for one gold coin must be a gift from the heavens. He reached into his inner robe, retrieving a coin sack with practiced ease.

Wasting no time, Zixuan plucked out a single gold coin and tossed it toward Han Rui. "Here's the money as promised."

Han Rui caught the coin gleefully, biting down on it theatrically to confirm its authenticity before grinning wider. "It's a pleasure doing business with you, Master Zixuan," he said, placing the bag of Purple Snow on the table. "Now, as promised, let me explain how to use the QiPhone…"

One hour later, Zixuan sat alone in the inn, stupefied, his face frozen in disbelief as he stared at the QiPhone lying on the table before him. Han Rui had patiently explained its myriad functions, especially the photo and video apps, knowing full well those would pique Zixuan's interest. Each word from Han Rui's mouth was a bombshell, shattering the very fabric of Zixuan's understanding of what was possible.

He had been speechless throughout the explanation—and even afterward. Han Rui, sensing Zixuan's mental implosion, had quietly excused himself, leaving the painter alone to grapple with the ramifications of the miraculous device.

"He gave away such a treasure for free?" Zixuan finally murmured, his gaze drifting toward the inn's exit. Han Rui had long since departed, yet his face remained vivid in Zixuan's mind.

If a treasure like this gets out, the major sects will fight tooth and nail for it, Zixuan thought. And he just handed it to me? His eyes shifted to the bag and card Han Rui had left behind along with the QiPhone. A faint, mesmerizing fragrance lingered from when Han Rui had opened the bag. Could this be another treasure?

The thought tempted him for a moment before he dismissed it with a shudder. Am I out of my mind? He clenched his fists. What if this is a trap? First, he sells me an addictive drug dirt-cheap and gifts me a treasure. Then, once I'm hooked, I'll go broke chasing my next fix, and he'll take the QiPhone back. I'm not falling for such an obvious scheme.

Despite his convictions, Zixuan couldn't peel his eyes away from the translucent bag.

He suddenly leapt to his feet and smacked himself in the face. I won't let myself become an addict. Even though Master abandoned me after I lost my cultivation, he taught me one thing: never rely on pills or drugs—especially the addictive kind.

His resolve firmed, Zixuan grabbed the bag and marched to the window. Without hesitation, he hurled it into the street below. Turning back to the QiPhone, he sat down with renewed determination, ready to explore the treasure's mysteries. But a stray thought jolted through his mind.

Wait. I didn't dispose of that properly. What if some stray animal—or worse, a person—picks it up and gets addicted? Wouldn't that be my fault?

Unable to shake his growing anxiety, Zixuan bolted back to the window. He peered outside, his mind conjuring worst-case scenarios. Sure enough, the bag of Purple Snow lay innocently in the street below.

And then he heard it: the familiar clucking of chickens.

His heart sank. "Those damn chickens! They always come scavenging at night!"

Just as he was about to dash outside, a faint cluck reached his ears. He froze, staring in horror as a rooster strutted up to the bag. It pecked curiously at the thin plastic.

"No, no, no!" Zixuan whispered frantically. "You don't want to eat—"

Rip!

The rooster's beak tore through the bag, releasing a puff of lilac powder into the air. The bird, now shimmering with a fine coat of Purple Snow, let out a triumphant crow.

For a moment, nothing happened. Zixuan exhaled in relief.

Then the ground trembled.

A shockwave of Qi erupted around the rooster, sending debris flying. Zixuan's hair whipped back as the invisible force hurled him into the room.

Scrambling to the window, he arrived just in time to witness the rooster's transformation. Its legs stretched and thickened, muscles bulging with supernatural precision. Its wings elongated into powerful, muscular arms. The once-modest chicken frame expanded into a towering figure, complete with perfectly sculpted pecs and glistening abs. Feathers cascaded to the ground, revealing smooth, toned skin beneath—but its head remained unmistakably chicken.

The rooster flexed, striking a pose that seemed to command the moonlight itself. Qi swirled around it like a divine aura, and the heavens appeared to applaud its metamorphosis.

Zixuan's jaw dropped. "W-What the hell?"

The rooster turned, its eyes locking onto Zixuan with an unsettling intensity. "Benefactor!" it spoke, its voice deep, smooth, and filled with authority. "Provider of crumbs. Savior of scraps. You have nourished me for years."

Zixuan blinked rapidly, struggling to form a coherent thought.

The rooster lifted a mighty arm, flexing its biceps. "Thanks to your generosity, I have attained enlightenment… and a sexy body."

Zixuan's brain short-circuited. He rubbed his eyes repeatedly, convinced the sight before him was some bizarre hallucination.

But no amount of rubbing could erase the vision of the rooster flexing its sculpted biceps and speaking in a voice that oozed authority.

"I'm eternally grateful," the rooster said, its tone earnest and heroic. "I wish I could serve you, but this form is not meant to linger in one place. I must explore the world… and find my destiny. A world full of—" It paused dramatically, its eyes gleaming with purpose. "—chicks."

Zixuan's jaw hung slack. Before he could process the absurdity of it all, the rooster spun on its heel and sprinted into the night. Each powerful stride kicked up clouds of dust, its perfectly toned figure vanishing into the shadows within seconds.

Silence fell.

A beat passed. Then two.

"…What in the actual fuck?" Zixuan whispered, his voice barely audible over his racing thoughts.

The moment of stunned disbelief was shattered by an all-too-familiar sound: more clucking. Zixuan's head snapped toward the noise, and his eyes widened in horror. A flock of chickens—and a few pigs—ambled toward the scattered remnants of the Purple Snow bag, their curiosity unmistakable.

Panic surged through him. "Oh no, you don't!" he bellowed, leaping through the window without a second thought. He hit the ground with all the grace of a drunk goose, tumbling into a clumsy roll before springing to his feet.

"Get away from it! It's mine!" he roared, his voice cracking with desperation.

The animals froze for a brief moment, startled by his sudden appearance. But the lure of Purple Snow was too strong, and they surged forward with renewed determination.

Zixuan dove headfirst into the fray, scooping the bag into his arms and clutching it to his chest like a priceless relic. His wild eyes darted from one would-be challenger to the next as he fended off an especially ambitious pig with a frantic kick.

"How dare you!" he shouted, swatting a persistent chicken away with his free hand. "Go find your own enlightenment!"

He spun in circles, battling off his feathered and porcine foes with all the fervor of a man defending his last scrap of sanity.

***

A fair distance from Rebirth Lodge, Han Rui strolled casually under the moonlight, whistling a cheerful tune. His head bobbed side to side, and occasional chuckles escaped his lips as his smile widened with each passing moment.

A familiar ding echoed in his mind, and a translucent system notification appeared.

[Aren't you putting him in danger by giving him the QiPhone?]

Han Rui halted, directing his gaze toward the notification. "Not really," he said nonchalantly, shrugging. "As long as he uses the Purple Snow, he'll be perfectly safe."

[What if he tosses it away? Unlike you, not everyone's eager to buy random supplements from random strangers. It was obvious he cared more about the QiPhone than your product.]

Han Rui sighed, his smile fading slightly. "I know that already. Why do you think I brought it out first?" he muttered. But a flicker of doubt crossed his mind. That guy wouldn't do something as stupid as throwing the bag away... right? He didn't know why, but he felt Zixaun was the sort of person to do that. This might become a problem, but this is the system's fault to begin with. How am I supposed to sell them without lying or telling potential customers about their benefits? He pondered in silence.

The system didn't give him time to ruminate.

[It's called being creative!] it retorted with smug satisfaction.

Han Rui rolled his eyes, readying a sarcastic comeback, when a soft chime interrupted him. Retrieving his QiPhone, he saw a new message notification from his grandfather. Curiosity piqued, he opened it immediately.

Best Grandfather Ever!:

Rui'er, did you secretly start a second family somewhere? You've been going out a lot lately. 🤔 Be careful of those women, Rui'er. They'll break your heart and rob you blind. Anyway, the first phase of QiPhone distribution is complete. The second and third phases will start tomorrow.

Han Rui chuckled, shaking his head as he typed a quick response.

Han Rui: Keep me updated, Grandfather.

Best Grandfather Ever! is typing…

Best Grandfather Ever!: Have fun! 👍

Han Rui's grin widened, but before he could respond, another message appeared.

Best Grandfather Ever!: Oh, that reminds me! We got an update on the Eternal Spring Sect. 😰 Our ancestor's putting them through hell—forcing them to train seven times during the day and six at night. I'm worried they'll turn into a gang of thugs by the time he's done with them.

Han Rui let out a wry laugh, shaking his head. That old man never changes, he thought as he quickly typed back.

Han Rui: Triple their compensation, Grandfather. They'll need it.

Best Grandfather Ever!: . I'll make the arrangements! 👍 Oh, one more thing. We had some rude guests earlier. Do you know anyone named Gao Yuan?

Han Rui's expression shifted. A flicker of recognition lit his eyes. There's no way I'd forget my first customer.

Han Rui: Is it about Fang Mu's death?

Best Grandfather Ever!: No, that had nothing to do with us. They came to deliver a warning—said you're being targeted by some rapist, then left just like that.

Han Rui chuckled softly, shaking his head. Gao Yuan didn't go to the clan himself. Could he have joined a sect? He dismissed the thought as he typed his reply.

Han Rui: Thanks for the update, Grandfather. I'll be home soon. We'll talk more then.

Sliding the QiPhone back into his robes, Han Rui sighed. "I guess it's time to head home."

No sooner had the words left his mouth than the sound of approaching footsteps reached his ears. He turned, his eyes narrowing.

"Well, well, well," a voice drawled. "What do we have here? You sure kept us waiting. Are you ready to compensate me for my Jimmy Chu Chus?"

Han Rui's gaze fell on the five-man party stepping out of the shadows; and a slow, devious smile spread across his lips.