Hua Wu Que, upon hearing her words, had a sense of understanding. This seductive madam must have seen his prowess yesterday and, unable to remain by his side, had arranged for this beauty to curry favor with him. He chuckled to himself, finding it rather amusing but also acknowledging her good intentions.
He turned to follow her gaze, and saw a girl, dressed in a jade-green garment, with delicate features and large, watery eyes, looking at him shyly.
Kang Min had helped Qu Fei Yan gather the remains of Qu Yang and the others and buried them, earning the girl's gratitude. But when she heard Kang Min was entrusting her to someone else that morning, she felt unwilling but couldn't refuse directly. She had hoped to find an opportunity to slip away quietly, without overtly defying Kang Min. However, as she entered with Kang Min, she saw the figure she had been yearning for, and hearing Kang Min's words, her heart filled with joy. She wanted to embrace her beloved Kang Jie Jie and shout "Long live!"
Hua Wu Que, somewhat bewildered, noticed the girl staring at him intensely with her big, loving eyes. He had never seen her before. After much thought, he concluded that his handsome and dashing appearance was simply irresistible. He had forgotten Qu Fei Yan's identity, as she had died early in the original story and didn't have much presence.
Seeing his expression, Kang Min knew her plan had worked and her heart leaped with joy. However, the matter at hand couldn't be delayed. She quickly sent him a glance and rushed out.
Hua Wu Que watched her leave and then slowly approached Qu Fei Yan. He gently asked, "Little sister, don't be afraid. My name is Hua Wu Que, I'm a friend of your Kang Jie Jie. What's your name?"
Qu Fei Yan, after composing herself, gazed at her idol with shining eyes, her voice bright and clear. "Big brother, my name is Qu Fei Yan. My grandfather is Qu Yang. Yesterday, you killed those villains from the Mount Song Sect, avenging me. When I grow up, I'll marry you, alright?"
Hua Wu Que suddenly realized. He was surprised by her words. How could this young girl be so precocious? What had that old man, Qu Yang, been teaching her? He helplessly replied, "Avenging you was just a matter of convenience. Don't worry about it. You're still so young, what do you know about marriage? Don't talk nonsense. Have you eaten? I'll have the kitchen prepare some food for you."
He didn't know that while Qu Fei Yan had a limited role in the original story, she was extremely noticeable. At such a young age, she was not only worldly-wise, but had even teased Yi Lin with romantic notions. Her intelligence and quick wit were comparable to a young Huang Rong, but having grown up with Qu Yang and seeing the ways of the Demon Cult, her cunning and mischievousness surpassed even that.
Upon hearing his words, Qu Fei Yan didn't argue. Her large eyes darted around, then she threw her arms around Hua Wu Que's arm. "Big brother, I don't want to eat anything. As long as I'm with you, Fei Fei will be happy."
Hua Wu Que, seeing her charming demeanor, found himself taken with her. He pulled her towards Huang Xue Mei. "Sister, this girl has a sad story. Now she's alone. We've already decided to go back and pay our respects to our parents. We have nothing else to do, so let's take her with us."
Huang Xue Mei, usually quiet and reserved, had met Qu Fei Yan the day before. She felt pity for her, as she had a similar past. Finally finding her brother, she wouldn't be alone anymore, but Qu Fei Yan reminded her of her own younger self, so she nodded in agreement.
Qu Fei Yan, seeing the beautiful elder sister who had stood up for her, was overjoyed. However, watching their affectionate gestures, she felt a tinge of jealousy. She thought to herself, "Humph, this sister may be beautiful, but I'm not bad either. When I grow up, big brother will surely prefer my youthful beauty and leave her behind!" With that thought, she lowered her head and giggled.
Hua Wu Que and the others looked at her, puzzled. At that moment, they sensed someone entering. They turned to see the beautiful and graceful Zhou Zhi Ru walking in, leading a slightly older girl.
Hua Wu Que thought, "Surely this isn't another girl I have to take in? While raising girls from childhood is appealing, having so many at once for my first time is a bit overwhelming."
He saw Zhou Zhi Ru approaching, her eyes filled with a smile. "Brother Hua, yesterday you fought bravely against a crowd of heroes, truly impressive! Our business here is finished, and I must return to my sect. I've come to bid farewell to Brother Hua."
Hua Wu Que, seeing her graceful beauty, felt a surge of affection, but knew this wasn't the time to pursue her. He smiled, "Miss Zhou, you've honored me with this visit. I'm truly flattered. But be careful on your journey back. Miss Zhou is so beautiful, traveling alone is dangerous."
Zhou Zhi Ru, pleased by his compliment, replied, "Brother Hua, don't worry. I've agreed to travel with the Hengshan Sect's nuns on my way back. I won't be in danger. This is Liu Zheng Feng's daughter. Her mother couldn't bear the grief last night and, without our notice, took her own life. I plan to take her back to Emei and care for her. She came with me today, wanting to thank you personally."
The young girl behind her bowed deeply and said, "Liu Qing thanks Master Hua for avenging my father and brother. When Liu Qing grows up, I will follow Master Hua and serve him, even as a beast of burden, to repay your great kindness."