As Zhao Li sat quietly, she observed Lady Susu training the girls in the yard. The faint scent of sweat lingered in the air, mingling with the rhythmic clinks of practice swords and the shouts of exertion.

Four days has passed since Zhao Li been watching the training sessions conducted by Lady Susu. Zhao Li longed to join them, to feel the weight of a wooden sword in her hand. But again, she hesitated, fearing that her desire might be seen as presumptuous. Instead, she remained on the platform, fiddling with her thumbs, her gaze occasionally drifting to Lady Susu, who seemed to ignore her.

“You can’t lift your foot that high just yet,” Susu instructed, gently lowering one of the girls who kept losing her balance. “You need to start lower, like this,” she demonstrated, “and with practice, you’ll raise it higher.”

The girl nodded and tried again, managing to hold her balance for ten seconds this time. “See the difference?”

“Yes, Master Ban,” the girl replied, her voice filled with determination.

“Good. Keep at it,” Susu encouraged, moving on to the next student.

A creak at the gate pulled Zhao Li’s attention. She turned left and her lips curled into a smile.

Zhao Xing, her father, walked through, his presence commanding the attention of everyone. The sounds of clinking swords ceased, and the girls bowed reverently.

“Continue on,” Zhao Xing said firmly, “Master Ban is conducting the lesson.”

“Yes, Master Zhao,” they chorused in unison, returning to their drills.

Zhao Xing’s stern expression softened as he turned to Zhao Li. He broke into a run, arms open wide. Startled, Zhao Li quickly slid off the platform and curtsied, glancing nervously at Lady Susu, hoping she wouldn’t be scolded.

Before she could say anything, her father scooped her up in his arms, hugging her tightly. Zhao Li squealed with delight, momentarily forgetting herself, but before she could think, Zhao Xing kicked off the ground, leaping onto the courtyard wall. “Su’er, I’m taking Li’er for a walk!” he called out, his smile beaming.

“Make sure she’s back before lunch. The sun’s getting hotter by the day,” Susu called after them, her tone serious but without protest.

“With pleasure!” Zhao Xing replied, turning toward the forest that stretched out before them. He looked at Zhao Li and kissed her forehead. “It’s been a while since we did this. Hold on tight!”

As Zhao Xing placed her on his back, he grabbed her hands and wrapped them around his neck. “Remember what I told you?” he asked.

Zhao Li nodded, inhaling her father’s familiar scent, feeling safe for the first time in days. Her last memory of him was in the infirmary, his scent masked by the pungent herbs and medicines. She hated it. Now, here he was, vibrant and strong, just as she remembered, and it filled her with joy.

She tightened her grip, hugging him as tightly as she could, just as he’d always instructed. Zhao Xing launched himself off the courtyard wall. They soared through the air, landing gracefully on a tree branch. He kicked off again, leaping from tree to tree as they made their way down the mountain.

Zhao Li’s heart raced with excitement as they Zhao Xing fell into a rhythm. She clung to her father’s robes, her senses alive, feeling the wind in her hair, rustling leaves fluttering in her ear. The sun bathed them in warm light as they hopped from branch to branch like squirrels, playful and agile.

The forest around them blended into greens and rich browns. The sounds of birds chirping made the forest seem so alive. Zhao Li smiled, savouring every moment. Every step felt smooth and flawless, the vibration of his movements warming her more than the sunlight. Her father’s movements were precise, but he lacked the grace she felt when Susu was in control.

Despite that, resignation hit Zhao Li in the chest, it had been too long since she felt this sensation. She knew why, but the lonely she felt, still consumed her, as did her father’s duties as Sect Master.

As Zhao Xing continued, he leapt off a branch, skidding down the side of a hill. A large boulder loomed ahead, but with a powerful kick, he sailed over it, clearing the tree stump that followed.

As they soared through the air, Zhao Li marvelled at the view of the valley below. The Purple Mist Village lay straight ahead, while the Hollow Stone Village sat to the left, its chimneys releasing gentle plumes of smoke that drifted like incense against the morning sky.

Zhao Xing landed softly in the centre of a garden, startling a few birds that took flight. The gentle sound of water trickled from a nearby cliff, the mist catching the sunlight, creating a shimmering veil beneath the trees.

He knelt, allowing Zhao Li to climb off his back. She used his hands for balance, grabbing onto his leg as she steadied herself. Her father patted her head, his expression soft and kind. “Li’er,” he said calmly, “do you remember when we first came here?”

“Yes, Dada!” she replied eagerly. “It was four years ago.”

Her mind wandered back to those days, filled with innocence and curiosity. The forest had been her favourite place, an endless mystery waiting to be explored. And her father, her greatest companion.

“Those were simpler times,” he said, more to himself than to her. “But remember, Li’er, no matter how complicated life becomes, you can always find peace, anywhere in the world.”

“Dada?” she asked, looking up at him, puzzled.

His eyes gleamed with a wisdom as clear as the sky above them. The wind rustled through the trees, carrying the promise of more to come. Zhao Li recognized this look. Her father was about to speak in riddles, and she braced herself for one of his mysterious lessons.

They sat in silence, listening to the gentle flow of the river. As calming as the water felt, Zhao Li still felt uneasy. Her eyes darted to the water, and though she tried to conceal it, the fear that gripped her heart was unmistakable. She didn’t want her father to know how terrified she was of the water.

“Li’er,” he said, breaking the silence between them. “I have something to tell you. Zhao Li turned to him, curious but also wary.

“I’ve failed you... I haven’t been the father you deserved.”

Zhao Li blinked in confusion. Failed me? The words hung in the air, heavy and incomprehensible to her. “I’m sorry, Dada… I don’t understand what you mean.”

A bitter smile flashed across his face, then Zhao Xing sighed. He looked down at her and it that moment Zhao Li saw the sadness in his eyes, she wanted to cry. Fear pulsed within her veins instantly.

“Li’er... I haven’t been there when you needed me the most. I didn’t protect you when the villagers mistreated you. I wasn’t there when Jiang Li struck you. I’m sorry, Li’er... I really am.” He said, hugging her tightly.

Zhao Li went silent, and the fear she felt began to roil around her entire body. Her father’s words didn’t make sense. She hugged him back, trying her best…but in her mind she just didn’t understand. Why would Dada ask for forgiveness?

She’d grown used to the treatment of the villagers and her stepmother. She believed if she stayed silent, it would go away. She didn’t know that being silent hurt her father the most. He didn’t know, she rasped to herself.

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It bothered her, but she only did as instructed by Jiang Li, the woman who treated her the vilest.

Axumite Demoness. The Demon Emperor’s spawn.

Those were the labels she’d heard in whispers, the words she tried in vain ignore. As hard as she tried to push those words down, they would still be there, at the back of her mind.

After they hugged for a short while, they both relented. Zhao Xing’s expression was stern and soft, as he eyed her. “Li’er... you won’t be staying in the village anymore. From now on, Lady Susu will be taking care of you.”

Zhao Li froze and her breath hitched. Tears began to well up in her eyes as the meaning of his words sank in.

Zhao Xing was sending her away, to live with Lady Susu. Her mind raced, replaying memories of her bullies, the cruel villagers, and Jiang Li’s torment. She felt a lump forming in her throat, suffocating her. The thought of being separated from her father, her guiding light, was unbearable.

“No, Daddy!” she pleaded, clutching him tightly. “I’ll be good, I promise! I won’t complain, I won’t say a word, I’ll do whatever you ask. Please don’t send me away!”

A single tear rolled down Zhao Xing’s cheek as he knelt in front of her, his arms wrapping around her again. “Sweetheart,” he whispered, “You shouldn’t have to live like that. You shouldn’t have to stay silent or accept mistreatment. You’ve done nothing wrong.”

“Then why are you giving me away?” Zhao Li cried, her voice breaking.

“I’m not giving you away,” Zhao Xing said gently. “I’m giving you a chance at a better life.”

“I don’t understand!” she sobbed, tears spilling down her face.

“Su’er will take care of you. She’s stricter than Jiang Li, but she’s also kinder,” he said, wiping her cheeks with his thumb. “…and that woman...Jiang Li…she is not your mother. Stop calling her that. I know she’s been making you, but you don’t have to.”

Zhao Li went silent, her tears flowing like a waterfall. The mere thought of being apart from her father, was unimaginable to her.

Yes, they have spent little time together in the past two years, but whenever he saw her, he’d spoiled her in ways no one else could. The love he gave her, made her feel special, and now it felt like he was taking that away.

Zhao Xing kissed her on the forehead, resting her on his knee, trying to sooth her tears away. She buried her face in his chest, seeking comfort, but nothing he said seemed to soothe her. The tears continued, no matter how much he tried to calm her.

He let her wallow for awhile, but eventually he whispered something into her ear, hoping it would make her feel whole, or so he hoped. “Su’er loves you more than you know. She has given you more than you realise. You just need to get to know her. Alright?”

Susu

The days went by quickly, but Susu found herself disheartened by the lack of interest the girls showed in their training. She hadn’t expected them to take to her immediately, but their indifference stung nonetheless.

She was no stranger to this kind of reaction. Her master had warned her that in the eyes of strangers, she would be seen as exotic, both by the women and men.

She never cared for such labels. Her skin was darker than most, but she knew it would always cause trouble for her, especially as a Parsonian.

Parsonian women were considered barbaric, with a wild beauty to match their fiery tempers. The only part of that reputation Susu found remotely accurate was her temper, a temper she tried her best to control.

As for her beauty... it had earned her a reputation within the Martial Arts Alliance, but not one that brought her peace.

A week had passed since her arrival, and Susu had noticed how the girls would glance at her and whisper among themselves when they thought she wasn’t listening. They showed her the proper respect, of course—Brother Xing and Brother Ying made sure of that—but it was clear their reverence was more out of obligation than admiration. The hushed whispers and sidelong glances grated on her nerves.

Master Ban’s a savage from the North, they would whisper to each other, whispers she had heard long before they were even born.

Master Ban can fight, but she doesn’t look like us.

These whispers echoed in Susu’s mind as she watched them. Their progress was minimal, but the most important thing was, they didn’t have the desire to be better.

Talent means nothing, her master always told her. He was as talented as chicken in the water, yet he was a capable fighter.

Those words stuck with her.

Zhao Li’s life will be harder than mine, she mused bitterly. She allowed her eyes to drift toward Zhao Li on occasion, noticing how uncomfortable the girl seemed around the others.

It was clear how they cut their eyes at her, whispering behind her back. That... infuriated Susu. It also revealed the influence these women had on the young girls.

It’s too late, Susu thought, they’re already too old for me to mould into something better than gossipers.

Susu continued to watch them, feeling the sun’s rays hit down on her face. The longer she watched, the more disappointed she felt.

She didn’t want to be harsh, but Brother Xing and Brother Ying’s assessments were correct, they weren’t interested in martial arts. She did note, what they were interested. …boys, she thought, glancing at the section where the boys continued their practice.

“Su’er, would you join me for tea?” Bo Ying’s voice snapped her from her thoughts. She turned to him and then back at the class.

“We’ll finish early today,” she announced, watching as relief wash over the girls’ faces. Their collective sigh of release frustrated her, and she let out a grunt. “Sure, Brother Ying, I’ll take a cup. But not in your infirmary. The medicinal plants there give me a headache.”

“I assure you,” Brother Ying laughed, “That’s not a headache you’re feeling. But don’t worry, I’ve chosen a place more to your liking.”

Susu followed Bo Ying out of the training yard, she noticed the girls stretching, picking up wooden swords and spears from the ground and placing them back in the racks.

The chatter of the girls faded, leaving her in silence with Bo Ying as they walked through the sect. He led her through the familiar grounds, giving a mini-tour as if she hadn’t already learned the layout.

The sect was nothing compared to the grandeur of Emerald Star Palace, Susu thought. There, the beams were made of quartz or granite, highlight the wealth of a centuries old Sect, such as that.

It projected power that could intimidate even seasoned warriors. Yet, their principal disciple, Shi Qiu, had once claimed to love her. But he couldn’t marry me, she reminded herself, quickly pushing those thoughts aside.

They finally reached their destination and Bo Ying offer her a seat on the veranda, it was perched on a hill and offered a breathtaking view of the valley below.

A table with two chairs sat in the middle of the veranda, with a pot of tea, filling the air with its delicate fragrance.

Bo Ying pulled back a chair for Susu, and she slid into it, appreciating the gesture. As he poured tea for them both, Susu couldn’t help but recognize her martial brother’s intent. If only that were enough to calm my worries, she thought.

Bo Ying had picked up the habit of tea ceremonies from their late master, Master Chaoxiang. She admired that about her martial brothers—each of them carried a piece of their master with them.

Zhao Xing inherited their master’s rare impatience, whilst Bo Ying had taken up the scholarly and reflective side. He could over think even the smallest misstep, debating whether it was clumsiness or heaven’s will. Yet, today, he seemed different—more thoughtful and reserved.

“I thought you wanted to talk, Brother Ying,” Susu finally grunted after half an hour of silence.

“I do,” he replied softly. “But this view... it leaves me breathless. I thought you might appreciate it.”

Susu turned her gaze to the dense forest stretching across the valley. The sea of green was punctuated by smoke curling upward from two small villages down the mountain. She inhaled deeply, the serenity of the scene attempting to soothe her. “I do appreciate it,” she admitted. “But it’s not enough to make me stay.”

Bo Ying sighed, taking another sip of tea before leaning back in his chair. “I know you too well, Su’er. When your mind is set, nothing can change it—not even the master.”

She gave him a sidelong glance. “So, if you’re not trying to convince me to stay, why bring me here?”

Bo Ying set his cup down gently, his eyes focused on hers. “Where have you been these past six years, Su’er? After the master’s death, no one knew where you were nor what had happened to you. We feared the worst.”

Susu let out a small laugh, shaking her head as she took another sip. “I left Huaxia, Brother Ying. I travelled to Axsum.”

“Axsum?” Bo Ying’s eyes widened in surprise.

“Yes. If I am to take care of Zhao Li, I need to understand where she comes from. I won’t lie to her about who she is.”

“But if she knows the history... the invasion attempts by Axsum... won’t that make her fearful of those who might still wish her harm?”

Susu’s eyes hardened. “She’s already fearful, Brother Ying. Haven’t you seen how the other girls look at her?”

“They do—”

“Brother Ying!” Susu snapped, cutting him off. “You forget how I was treated. I know better than anyone!”

Bo Ying paused, his expression softening. “Yes, Su’er, you know better than I ever will. But surely, there’s still a chance.”

“There is no chance. The girls’ mothers have too much influence on their thinking. Li’er knows she’s different, just like how I know I am.”

Susu rose from the table, straightening her robe as she cast one last glance over the serene landscape.

“Where are you going, Su’er?” Bo Ying asked, recognizing the determined look on her face.

“Where else?” she replied, her gaze resolute. “I’m going to meet Jiang Li.”

Bo Ying’s tone became firm. “Su’er, I urge you... don’t harm her. Patriarch Yu has been a great ally to the sect.”

Susu’s eyebrows raised slightly, a hint of amusement on her face. “I don’t care.”

“She’s the mother of Brother Xing’s other daughter.” Bo Ying pressed, hoping to calm her fiery spirit.

“The daughter he’s never met?”

“SU’ER!” Bo Ying exclaimed, exasperated.

“What? I have no concern for Jiang Li’s matters with Brother Xing.” She turned away, her voice dismissive.

“Then what is your concern?” Bo Ying asked, confused.

Susu paused at the edge of the veranda, her silhouette framed against the morning sun. She glanced over her shoulder, her eyes burning with determination. “The scar on Zhao Li’s left cheek.”