Chapter 16

Translator: Abo Dammen

---

The old butler walked quickly to the door of the West Wing, his mind uneasy. Unlike the young masters and mistresses in the main house who were unaware of the truth, the old butler clearly knew what kind of sinister entity resided inside the West Wing. 

However, when the young masters and mistresses sent him to find the eldest young master, he couldn’t refuse.

The old butler stopped a few steps away from the West Wing door.

He saw the door wasn’t completely closed but was slightly ajar, leaving a narrow crack. From the crack came Bai Qing’s voice, carrying a hint of lightness and pride, “Here, look at this…” These words hooked the old butler’s curiosity like a fishhook.

He involuntarily took a few steps forward, pressing close to the door crack to clearly catch Bai Qing’s next words. Bai Qing’s voice was languid and affectionate, “I specifically asked the shop owner. As soon as he heard I was buying candles for my husband, he specially recommended these. Not only are they fragrant, but they’re also low-temperature, and won’t harm the skin. After using them, once they cool down, you can easily peel them off…” 

The old butler was stunned upon hearing this: That… that sounds like sensual candles! Huh? Huh? Huh?

No wonder he was never satisfied with all the ceremonial candles we offered before, forcing us to provide not only traditional incense candles but also Western scented candles, Japanese handmade incense sticks… and he still wouldn’t accept them!

So…

He wants low-temperature sensual candles? 

This… who would think of burning sensual candles for a tomb-sweeping offering?

Great-Grandfather… Great-Grandfather… To think you were such a Great-Grandfather!

The old butler was deeply shocked.

This old bones who had served three generations of the Jing family, who hadn’t seen any major storms, was now so shocked he nearly had a stroke on the spot. The old butler almost couldn’t stand steady. Sinister! Truly sinister! 

“Who’s outside?” Jing Liansheng’s voice was as cold as a bitter wind.

The old butler quickly adjusted his expression, returning to his usual steadiness, lowering his eyes and speaking meekly: “Eldest Young Master, it’s me, Jing Ren.”

“It’s you.” Jing Liansheng said, his tone ambiguous.

The door swung open automatically without wind, slowly opening. Just as the door was about to open fully, revealing the space inside, it was as if something forcefully pushed against it, and with a “bang,” it closed shut again. 

Bai Qing’s flustered voice came from behind the door. “No, no! My current appearance… I don’t want others to see.”

Jing Liansheng scoffed lightly, “So you know you look indecent.”

“Indecent? What indecency?” Old butler Jing Ren was greatly shocked. His mind had already conjured up quite an incredible scene, one he couldn’t shake off, impacting his old bones until they creaked.

Jing Ren: …This… this… this eldest young mistress is extraordinarily bold! 

Please, eldest young mistress, don’t open the door! This old servant doesn’t want to see any indecent scenes either!

Behind the door, Bai Qing was standing in a sorry state, his head smeared with a layer of low-temperature candle wax, sticky and messy, as if doused with raw egg liquid, both comical and pathetic.

Earlier, Bai Qing, eager to show Jing Liansheng the unique qualities of these candles, had boldly dripped a little onto himself. However, he clearly underestimated the fluidity of this candle. It slipped from his fingers onto his forehead and instantly solidified, leaving him in this awkward state.

He was now frantically trying to pick the wax off his forehead, but only making it worse. The sticky feeling was driving him crazy. 

Jing Liansheng watched leisurely from the side, showing no intention of helping. It was like watching a silly cat struggling to free itself from a ball of yarn. However, as those low-temperature candles burned, carrying the intention of an offering, their smoke condensed into a food-like fragrance that reached Jing Liansheng’s spirit form.

Jing Liansheng had always disliked these smoky scents. Before, when the Jing family presumptuously made offerings to him, he would let the incense and candles extinguish on their own to show his refusal.

But this time, the candle smoke, carrying the scent of Bai Qing’s skin, suddenly stirred that strange, appetite-like craving in Jing Liansheng again.

Jing Liansheng couldn’t help but take a deep breath. His raven-feather-like eyelashes fluttered, his Adam’s apple moved beneath his pale skin. Unprepared, a wisp of smoke, tinged with Bai Qing’s warmth, wrapped around his cold lips and teeth, igniting a burning desire deep within his spirit. 

Jing Liansheng fell into a strange mood.

His spirit was naturally deeply attracted by Bai Qing’s delicious scent, yet he instinctively resisted this craving. Although he didn’t know exactly what it was, his upbringing and knowledge told him that things that could easily stir his desires were often corrupting influences.

And Bai Qing…

Really did look like trouble at first glance. 

Bai Qing, completely unaware, continued to pick at the wax stuck to his skin, not knowing that the candle smoke mixed with the scent steaming from his skin was brewing into an even thicker, fragrant mist.

Jing Liansheng took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing the surging craving inside him. He slowly raised his hand, his fingertips twitching slightly. An invisible force surged out, instantly stopping the low-temperature candles from burning and spreading.

If he didn’t do this, he feared he might sink into an undignified kind of pleasure.

Bai Qing’s distress also ended then. The low-temperature wax all over his forehead was removed. He realized this was Jing Liansheng’s power. Bai Qing, thinking Jing Liansheng was helping him, said happily, “The Eldest Young Master does care for me after all.” 

Jing Liansheng curled his lip, “You’re quite good at making yourself feel better.”

Bai Qing pouted. Unrequited love is bitter enough. Can’t I at least scrape some sugar from the glass shards?

Outside the door, the old butler Jing Ren heard things like “Eldest Young Master cares for me” and “making yourself feel better.” It made his teeth ache. He just thought: This is really seeing a ghost alive!

Bai Qing is too awesome, even willing to make a move on a ghost! 

Indeed, no ghost is more terrifying than a poor ghost. For money, he can acknowledge a ghost as his husband, offering sensual candles!

However, Jing Ren didn’t want to be an audience member for this ghost-human romance. He could only clear his throat, using a cough to announce his presence.

After coughing a couple of times, he said in a low voice, “Eldest Young Master, I originally shouldn’t disturb your peace. However, a major event has occurred in the residence. Last night, the family head suddenly fell seriously ill. Rescue efforts were ineffective, and she passed away. The main house is in chaos right now. The young masters and mistresses all feel you should be invited to discuss the important matters.”

Hearing that Jing Shuizhi had died, Bai Qing wasn’t too surprised. 

Jing Liansheng’s attitude was indifferent. “Let them handle it themselves. No need to call for me.”

Jing Ren wasn’t surprised by Jing Liansheng’s aloofness, but he still had to dutifully convey the young masters’ and mistresses’ intentions, “Eldest Young Master, I know you prefer tranquility, but the young masters and mistresses all feel that at this time, you should take charge and handle the family head’s funeral arrangements.”

Bai Qing was quite surprised. “They haven’t even met the Eldest Young Master once, yet they rely on him so much?”

Jing Ren was silent for a moment before slowly revealing the truth, “The two of you may not know this, but the three young masters and mistresses were taught from childhood to be respectful and humble, especially towards their elder brother. The family head made them understand and accept through various means that everything in the family would ultimately be inherited by the family head’s own biological young master.” 

Bai Qing couldn’t help but recall the scene when he had eaten with Jing Er, Jing San, and Jing Si before. They had spoken with yearning, saying things like “I hope the Eldest Young Master can return quickly, so our family can be reunited,” and “Only the Eldest Young Master can make up for Mother’s regret.”

It was evident that Jing Shuizhi had truly raised these three to completely revere the unseen Eldest Young Master.

At the time, Bai Qing thought the “Eldest Young Master” they were to respect was Jing Liansheng. Now, thinking back, Jing Shuizhi had always been referring to her own child who died long ago.

She had always held onto the notion of reviving this child, so she had been paving the way for this child’s future all along. 

Bai Qing, however, couldn’t help but feel puzzled. Since Jing Shuizhi herself had a child who was the “Eldest Young Master,” why did she refer to Jing Liansheng externally as the “Eldest Young Master”?

Wasn’t that very strange?

It completely messed up the generational hierarchy.

Bai Qing believed Jing Ren surely knew some inside information, so he deliberately tested the waters, “But, the ‘Eldest Young Master’ Ms. Jing referred to probably isn’t the one beside me, right?” 

Jing Ren understood Bai Qing’s probing but was willing to solve this puzzle for him. “Indeed, it is not. However, after the ‘Eldest Young Master’ beside you returned, he would not meet the other members of the Jing family. So, it wouldn’t cause any confusion for the young masters’ and mistresses’ understanding.”

“That’s true.” Bai Qing nodded, then posed a new question, “But why must we call the one beside me ‘Eldest Young Master’? Couldn’t we just call him Great-Grandfather directly?”

After saying this, Bai Qing himself felt a bit belatedly foolish. My question is a bit too silly.

Jing Ren obviously thought so too, but still replied calmly, “If we said it was the Great-Grandfather returning, wouldn’t that be a bit too sensational?” 

“Indeed.” Bai Qing awkwardly rubbed his nose, then quickly changed the subject, “However, since the young masters and mistresses all know the ‘Eldest Young Master’ cannot meet them before the marriage, why are they still asking him to come out and take charge?”

Jing Ren then said, “They believe that in emergencies, one must act flexibly. They want to discuss having the two of you go get the marriage certificate today. Once the marriage certificate is obtained, that can be considered completing the marriage. Then the ‘Eldest Young Master’ can rightfully step forward to handle family affairs.”

Hearing this, Bai Qing was delighted. “That’s a wonderful idea!”

Jing Liansheng glanced sideways at Bai Qing, then turned to Jing Ren and said, “You know that’s impossible.” 

Jing Ren bowed his head and said, “I am just a butler, only following the orders of the young masters and mistresses. They told me to ask for your opinions, so I can only come and ask.”

“Why is it impossible?” Bai Qing was overjoyed at the thought of getting a marriage certificate with Jing Liansheng. “I think it’s a great idea.”

As he spoke, Bai Qing turned to Jing Liansheng, “You’ve been back for almost a month now and haven’t completed the marriage with me. It’s also not beneficial for your stay in the human world. Only by formally establishing a marriage contract with me can you remain in the mortal realm more stably.”

Jing Liansheng said coldlly, “Concluding a ghost marriage does not include obtaining a certificate.” 

Bai Qing, of course, knew that. Moreover, given that both Bai Qing and Jing Liansheng were “unregistered persons,” they definitely wouldn’t pass the civil affairs bureau’s checks.

However, Bai Qing still said with a smile, “I’m just saying, they reminded me that we should hold the wedding ceremony as soon as possible. Only after paying respects to heaven and earth will it be considered formally recognized.”

Jing Liansheng did not commit either way.

Bai Qing, however, raised his voice and said to Jing Ren, “Alright, you can tell them that the Eldest Young Master and I will complete the marriage soon. But regarding the family head’s funeral affairs, we entrust them to handle it. The Eldest Young Master will not take responsibility for this.” 

Jing Ren had long expected that Jing Liansheng would not come out to take charge. Getting such a response was not surprising. He just acknowledged and was about to leave. However, before Jing Ren had taken two steps, Jing Liansheng stopped him.

“Where is Ying Zhili?” Jing Liansheng asked. “Tell him to come see me.”

Jing Ren stopped and replied, “Teacher Ying has already left.”

“Already left?” Bai Qing’s eyes widened, his face full of astonishment. “I was just chatting with him last night!” 

“It’s like this,” Jing Ren explained slowly. “This morning, when the servants went to clean Teacher Ying’s room, they found all of Mr. Ying’s personal belongings had been cleared out. The room was tidied spotlessly, as if no one had ever stayed there. He only left a note saying he was going on a long trip to purchase wedding gifts for the Eldest Young Master.”

Bai Qing frowned, looking even more surprised. “Purchasing wedding gifts? The Eldest Young Master’s marriage was decided long ago. Why is he only thinking of this now? Did he say specifically where he was going?”

“I’m not sure about that either.” Jing Ren was silent for a moment, then added, “After all, regarding Teacher Ying’s matters, I dare not inquire too much.”

Jing Liansheng didn’t say more and let Jing Ren leave. 

After Jing Ren had gone far away, Bai Qing turned his head and asked curiously, “Why did Ying Zhili leave suddenly?” Was it really to buy wedding gifts?

Jing Liansheng sneered, “He probably anticipated I would settle accounts with him. He ran quite fast.”

“Settle accounts?” Bai Qing looked at Jing Liansheng, not understanding.

Jing Liansheng’s gaze fell on the peachwood sword hanging in the main position of the room, not saying a word. Bai Qing followed his gaze, and his heart also sank slightly. 

His mood was complicated. It’s like preparing for marriage, but the main position of the bridal chamber still has the husband’s ex’s underwear hanging prominently facing south.

Bai Qing coughed dryly twice and probed, “What exactly is the origin of this peachwood sword?”

Jing Liansheng said coldly, “You have already promised to curb your useless curiosity.”

Bai Qing pursed his lips. You really never have a good expression for me. If it were Ci Ying in front of you, you’d probably be as happy as a Disney princess taking photos with children! 

However, Bai Qing didn’t voice his thoughts.

Right now, he was pushing himself, determined to win over a dead ghost whose heart belonged to someone else. It sounded quite masochistic, but he couldn’t control his heart.

Bai Qing thought again: I’m not trying to seduce a married man. Pursuing a widower isn’t immoral, right?

Besides, looking at Jing Liansheng’s proper, aloof demeanor, he’s like a freshly unearthed old virgin. It’s still debatable whether he even qualifies as a ‘widower’! 

Bai Qing suddenly became very curious and wanted to inquire.

He coughed and said, “By the way, I have another question to ask you…”

Jing Liansheng’s eyes were cold, about to give Bai Qing another sharp glance. Bai Qing quickly defended himself: “This isn’t useless curiosity, it’s related to important matters.”

Hearing this, Jing Liansheng said detachedly, “Speak.” 

Bai Qing breathed a slight sigh of relief and used the tone and expression reserved for serious matters to ask about gossip. “Since we are to be married, I should confirm with you. You haven’t previously entered into a marriage contract, have you? If you have, the effectiveness of our netherworld marriage contract could be affected.”

After saying this, Bai Qing also thought he was truly brilliant. Perfectly packaging the probing of personal privacy as selfless concern for the greater good. Worthy of me, the clever little living corpse!

Jing Liansheng also took it as a serious question and answered simply, “None.”

Bai Qing’s heart leapt with joy. He made a great effort to control the corners of his mouth that almost wanted to stretch to his ears. Pretending to be calm, he asked, “None at all, both in life and after death?” 

“None.” Jing Liansheng confirmed.

Bai Qing pressed further, “Not even any passionate vows? Swearing things like ‘I’ll only love you in this lifetime’?” Sensing the doubt in Jing Liansheng’s eyes, Bai Qing quickly explained, “You know, oaths and vows like that can also attract the attention of the Heavenly Way.”

Jing Liansheng then also replied, “None.”

“What about any unresolved romantic ties from your time in the human world?” Bai Qing probed further. 

This was a bit invasive, but Jing Liansheng seemed unexpectedly open and frank in this aspect, showing none of the shyness or awkwardness ordinary people would have when facing such topics.

He still answered decisively, “None.”

“None at all…” Bai Qing’s heart relaxed considerably. So his progress with Ci Ying is only at the kindergarten stage.

Bai Qing stole a glance at Jing Liansheng. Well, this ice block looks like he’s unenlightened. 

And that Ci Ying, based on Ying Zhili’s description, is a fairy-like being in the human world. Probably not the type to take the initiative to get close to Jing Liansheng either. That being the case, it’s someone like me, a shameless, wildly lustful, love-struck fool, who matches Jing Liansheng.

However, looking at that peachwood sword, Bai Qing couldn’t help but think masochistically: But… precisely because nothing happened, because he probably never even touched Ci Ying’s fingertip, that’s why Ci Ying is the softest and most important in his heart.

Especially since Ci Ying is dead, making him the purest and most unattainable yearning in Jing Liansheng’s heart!

Even a wooden sword he used must be enshrined like a divine statue. 

Bai Qing’s long-dead heart inexplicably tightened, causing him a pang of pain.

However, he took a breath and cheered himself up. No, can’t be discouraged!

Be optimistic, be brave, charge forward fearlessly!

Like an electric bike with broken brakes rushing down a slope, willing to spontaneously combust while throwing myself at him! 

A raging fire ignited in Bai Qing’s heart, vowing to burn himself.

As a dead person, believe in science. If the temperature is high enough, nothing in the world cannot be burned. If it can’t, then it means I’m not burning passionately enough, not scorching enough!

Setting aside his messy thoughts, Bai Qing turned to Jing Liansheng and said, “Ying Zhili said he was going to prepare wedding gifts, which means he will definitely rush back by our wedding day.”

Jing Liansheng looked at Bai Qing. 

Bai Qing was momentarily choked by the coldness emanating from the fierce ghost’s red eyes, but he responded with his burning, scorching temperature, “So, I think we should get married as soon as possible. Firstly, to make Ying Zhili return quickly, secondly, to further stabilize your spirit form.”

Jing Liansheng didn’t pick up on Bai Qing’s suggestion but instead asked, “More than that, I’m concerned about something else.”

“What?” Bai Qing asked.

Jing Liansheng’s eyes darkened. “Ying Zhili’s wedding gift.” 

Bai Qing frowned, a trace of doubt also rising in his heart. “Yes, it’s really strange. Why would he suddenly think of giving a gift?”

Jing Liansheng said gravely, “I believe Ying Zhili’s wedding gift will not be something worth anticipating.”

Bai Qing seemed to have an epiphany, also feeling a vague sense of foreboding. Yeah, would you dare eat chocolate given by a shit-stirrer?

Bai Qing scratched his head, a helpless look on his face. “There’s really no way to know where Ying Zhili has gone now. However, you have been lingering in the human world for nearly 49 days. Time waits for no one. It’s better for us to hold the wedding soon.” 

Jing Liansheng didn’t agree immediately. After pondering for a while, he said, “I think I still need to pay another visit to your Shifu.”

Bai Qing was delighted but pretended to be shy. “This… I already said, the marriage proposal has been done…”

“I do not mean that.” Jing Liansheng’s tone was flat. “I’m just still somewhat uneasy about what Ying Zhili said. Since your Shifu is an old acquaintance of Ying Zhili, he might have some clues.”

Bai Qing drove Jing Liansheng out, heading straight for the haunted house where his Shifu was temporarily staying. 

The house wasn’t cool enough, so the evil ghost had to manually fan Shifu to cool him down.

Shifu even scolded, “You, a dignified fierce ghost, and you struggle so much to make someone’s spine feel cold! What use are you!”

The evil ghost’s eyes were glazed over. “I’m useless…”

Seeing Bai Qing and Jing Liansheng arrive, Shifu was disappointed that iron didn’t turn into steel. Pointing at Jing Liansheng, he said to the evil spirit, “Look, look! This one is also a fierce ghost, and you’re also a fierce ghost. How come the difference is so big?” 

The evil ghost saw Jing Liansheng and felt a natural hierarchical pressure. It lost even more strength and could only curl up into a ball, trembling, “Me… Can I compare to him?”

“Don’t compare with the good ones, only the bad ones? I’m saying this for your own good! Why do I only scold you and not other ghosts? Isn’t it because I have expectations for you? You really know how to let down my good intentions!” Shifu lectured in an impassioned manner.

The evil ghost fell to its knees, completely devoid of the arrogant, menacing aura it had when they first met. “Master, I was wrong! I’m worthless! When I was human, I was scum. As a ghost, I’m useless! My existence in this world is non-recyclable trash! Please destroy me! Pulverize me! Make my soul vanish! I beg you!”

“Tsk, you kid, you can’t even take a criticism! Young people these days have such poor psychological resilience! Say a couple of words and they want to die or live,” Shifu clicked his tongue twice and shook his head. “If you can’t handle this little bit of grievance, what will you do when you go out into society later?” 

Evil ghost: …..If I get out there, I’ll find that society is still full of good people!

Shifu then picked up the evil ghost, put it in the bathtub in the bathroom, poured in some Mulberry-Locust Bitter Spring Water, and recharged it with some yin-cold energy.

Afterwards, he closed the bathroom door, poured tea for Jing Liansheng, and said with a smile, “My little ghost has no manners. Young Master Jing, please don’t laugh at the sight!”

Jing Liansheng shook his head calmly and said, “You, sir, are truly a profound mystic master. Your way of taming ghosts is admirable.” 

“Ah, you flatter me! You flatter me!” Shifu smiled modestly, then looked at Bai Qing and noticed the peachwood sword hanging from his waist. His eyes lit up. “This treasure, where did you get it?”

Bai Qing was somewhat surprised and placed the peachwood sword on the table. Shifu was about to reach out and touch it when he heard Bai Qing say, “It seems Ying-shibo got it from somewhere.”

Hearing the words “Ying-shibo,” Shifu withdrew his hand as if burned, not touching it at all. “Ah, him… His things are naturally all good.”

Seeing the topic had shifted to Ying Zhili, Jing Liansheng seized the opportunity to ask, “Ying Zhili left without saying goodbye, and his whereabouts are now unknown. Since you and he are old acquaintances, do you have any ideas about where he might have gone?” 

Shifu was slightly taken aback and said, surprised, “He left?”

“Yes.” Bai Qing nodded. “Shifu, think about it. Where might he have gone?”

“How would I know?” Shifu waved his hand, then seemed to remember something. “But this morning, I did receive a package. The sender’s name was his, but there was no return address. I was just figuring out how to return this package.”

“What’s inside?” Bai Qing asked. 

Shifu shook his head. “Don’t know. Didn’t open it.”

“You don’t even know what’s inside and you plan to return it?” Bai Qing looked puzzled.

Shifu showed an expression that said “you don’t understand”. “No need to look. It’s definitely nothing good.”

“Now that Ying Zhili has left the Jing residence, if you want to return this package, I’m afraid you won’t find a suitable place,” Jing Liansheng said coldly. “If you don’t mind, could you let me open it and take a look?” 

Shifu was actually not without curiosity about the package’s contents; he was just afraid that opening it would bring trouble. Now that someone (or ghost) was willing to take this hot potato, he was more than happy. “No problem.”

Shifu turned and walked to a corner of the room where an inconspicuous small package lay, tied roughly with thick string, looking quite casual. He picked up the package, weighed it in his hand, then walked back to the table, placed the package on it, and pushed it towards Jing Liansheng.

“Here, this is it,” Shifu said.

Jing Liansheng nodded, reached out to untie the thick string on the package. His movements were slow, his expression cautious, probably also guarding against any dangerous items inside. 

However, once they opened it, they could almost immediately confirm that the contents were not dangerous.

Inside the package lay a Nine-Lock Interlinked Bronze Waist Chain, gleaming with a cold metallic luster.

“It’s… this…” Shifu’s expression became complicated upon seeing it.

Jing Liansheng recognized it at a glance. “The Nine-Lock Interlinked Life-Protecting Bronze Waist Chain.” 

Bai Qing also remembered. Previously, he had seen Shifu sit on Ying Zhili’s lap and was startled. Looking carefully, Shifu had been trying hard to unlock Ying Zhili’s Nine-Lock Interlinked waist chain. Shifu tried for a long time without success. Ying Zhili had said, “If Xiao Ze is interested in this structure, I can give it to you. But for now, I still need to escort my worthy nephew back to the Jing residence.”

They thought Ying Zhili was just saying it casually, but he actually remembered and sent Shifu an identical waist chain before leaving.

Shifu, confirming the package’s contents were safe and harmless, picked it up and weighed it in his hand. “Did Shi-ge really get me a good thing?”

“Is it strange?” Bai Qing put on a look of naive ignorance, essentially subtly fishing for information. “I thought your relationship with Shibo should be quite good.” 

“Where did you see that?” Shifu squinted and smiled, countering.

“It’s just… he gave you such an expensive waist chain, and he calls you ‘Xiao Ze’—how affectionate!” Bai Qing maintained his innocent expression. “By the way, Shifu, I think I heard him call you Xiao Ze? Speaking of which, I’ve been learning from you for ten years and still don’t know your real name.”

“My real name is Shifu.” Shifu slapped his ID card on the table. The name field indeed printed the two characters “师父”.

Bai Qing didn’t mind. “Then my real name is Bai Qing.” 

Shifu laughed: “Isn’t it? If anyone calls you Bai Qing, wouldn’t you respond?”

Bai Qing had no retort.

Jing Liansheng slightly lowered his gaze, carefully examining the waist chain in his hand but found no clues. He couldn’t help but sigh softly. Turning to Shifu, he said sincerely, “Mr. Shi, I need to find Ying Zhili to ask him important questions. I wonder if you could trouble yourself to think again—where might he have gone?”

Shifu smiled and shook his head, his tone carrying a hint of helplessness, “Actually, those who have dealt with Shi-ge probably have a bellyful of questions for him. But in my experience, those who never ask him anything tend to live the most peaceful and long lives.” 

Jing Liansheng said, “Peace and longevity are the most useless things to me.”

Shifu was greatly impressed. Truly the saying goes, ‘A dead pig isn’t afraid of boiling water, a corpse fears no exploding feces.’

Shifu smiled and waved his hand, his tone carrying certainty, “Anyway, he’s sure to return soon. Asking then will be the same, right?”

Bai Qing widened his eyes, looking at Shifu full of confusion, wondering inwardly, ‘We didn’t tell Shifu that Ying Zhili would return to give a gift. How can Shifu be sure Ying Zhili will definitely return?’ 

Shifu also saw Bai Qing’s confusion and said, “He loves finding amusement. He hasn’t finished watching the excitement here yet. How could he bear to go far?”

Bai Qing fell silent upon hearing this, convinced. So reasonable. Truly worthy of being Shifu.

Jing Liansheng was also convinced. Thinking further, he asked Shifu, “Originally, this ghost marriage matter should be handled by Jing Shuizhi and Ying Zhili. However, now both are absent. Since you are Bai Qing’s Shifu, could you preside over it for us?”

Shifu was taken aback upon hearing this and didn’t speak. 

An awkward silence fell over the scene.

Bai Qing didn’t need Shifu to answer to guess that Shifu definitely wouldn’t agree, because Shifu felt the Jing family’s waters were too deep and had always refused to wade into this muddy water.

Bai Qing made a helpless sigh towards Jing Liansheng, broke the awkwardness, and spoke, “The old master prefers tranquility over activity and doesn’t like to meddle in these matters. Is that right?”

Shifu took the offered way out, “Yes, yes. I’m also old and lack the strength.” 

Jing Liansheng’s expression darkened slightly. After a long moment, he said, “If you, sir, are unwilling, I will not force you. It’s just that without a presiding officiant, it ultimately feels lacking. The current situation in the Jing family is somewhat complex. Jing Er, Jing San, and Jing Si are all inexperienced young people. I truly cannot bear to involve them in such matters…”

Bai Qing looked at Jing Liansheng and suddenly understood why Jing Liansheng always avoided the Jing family. It turned out Jing Liansheng knew that what he was doing could damage the feng shui, so he wanted to minimize the impact on the younger generation. Understanding this, Bai Qing’s gaze towards Jing Liansheng grew even more burning. You are truly the kindest, most beautiful fierce ghost I’ve ever met! Love it, love it! ❤

Hearing Jing Liansheng’s words, Shifu was also greatly surprised. Is this fierce ghost using his dead face to morally blackmail me?

You’re afraid that having the Jing juniors handle the ghost marriage will affect the feng shui, but aren’t you afraid that me presiding over it will damage my cultivation? Nuts! I’d be an idiot to pay you any mind! 

However, Shifu couldn’t quite figure out Jing Liansheng’s temperament and feared that refusing too bluntly would offend this great fierce ghost.

This great fierce ghost, although cold-faced, seemed quite reasonable so far… but who knew?

Shifu had been exorcising demons and ghosts for many years and knew best that the more powerful the ghost, the more ruthless and fierce they were.

The one before him was a great fierce ghost. Don’t be fooled by his current human-like appearance. If he turns fierce—when you flip a pig’s belly, it’s all shit; if I don’t do something stupid, I won’t die. 

Shifu then coughed, held his waist, and said, “I really want to help you. Especially Xiao Qing—he’s a good child I watched grow up. How could I want to miss his wedding? It’s just that recently I’ve been feeling somewhat weak, lacking strength, dizzy… The doctor said I need quiet rest and shouldn’t move around arbitrarily…”

Shifu acted his part convincingly, even using a Heart-Calming Technique to lower his body temperature and heart rate, making his breathing as faint as a thread.

If not for the evil ghost still howling in the bathroom, Jing Liansheng would have truly believed he was facing a weak and helpless invalid.

However, Jing Liansheng meant what he said. The line “If you, sir, are unwilling, I will not force you” might sound like a polite platitude used as a tactical retreat, but it was actually Jing Liansheng’s true feeling. 

Seeing that Shifu was unwilling, Jing Liansheng didn’t say more, only stating, “In that case, we won’t disturb your quiet cultivation further.”

Hearing Jing Liansheng be so accommodating, Shifu secretly breathed a sigh of relief, a flash of relaxation in his eyes. He then looked at Bai Qing, his brows slightly furrowed, a trace of worry apparent in his eyes. After a moment’s thought, Shifu spoke to Bai Qing, “I heard that an orthodox Taoist from the Profound Gate has come to the Jing family. Is that true?”

“Yes.” Bai Qing nodded. “What about it?”

“That’s not good, and you ask ‘what about it’! You’re quite accepting!” Shifu waved his hand. “Is your existence something that can be easily known by orthodox Profound Gate practitioners?” 

Bai Qing was stunned, frowning tightly, clearly somewhat at a loss. “But… that young Taoist already knows the Jing family’s murder case has nothing to do with us. He probably won’t cause us trouble.”

Shifu, however, shook his head, his expression growing more serious. “That young Taoist is young, understands reason, and doesn’t stir up trouble. That’s good. But he will definitely report back to his sect when he returns. Although nowadays the new school of Profound Arts is more academic, focusing on love and peace, the traditionalist faction still exists. If the old fossils in the sect hear that the Jing family has a great fierce ghost and a living corpse, and that someone died, would they let you conclude a ghost marriage peacefully? Don’t even think about it! Your lives from now on will probably be anything but peaceful!”

Bai Qing, realizing this belatedly, felt a surge of fear and quickly asked Shifu, “Then, what should we do now? Is there any way to deal with this?”

Shifu pondered for a moment and said to Bai Qing, “When dealing with these Profound Gate Taoists, I do have a sure-fire move.” 

Bai Qing’s eyes lit up, full of expectation. “Shifu, are you going to teach it to me?”

Shifu sighed slightly and said, “I am also a disciple of the Profound Gate. I shouldn’t teach a yin creature like you to restrain fellow disciples. But we are master and disciple, fate brought us together. I’ll make an exception and pass on this one move to you, as a skill for self-protection. I hope you never have to use it!”

This was the first time Bai Qing heard Shifu speak so seriously. He knew this move was of the highest value and quickly straightened his posture, saying, “I will use it with caution. Please bestow your teaching, Shifu.”

Shifu glanced slightly at Jing Liansheng. 

Jing Liansheng understood that this was a secret not to be passed outside the sect and very tactfully left the room in advance.

After Jing Liansheng left, Shifu lowered his voice and taught Bai Qing the bottom-of-the-trunk sure-fire move, word by word.

After teaching, Shifu added: “How much you master it, the discernment you hold, is all up to you. But remember one thing: if it really comes to the point where you must use it, absolutely do not reveal that I passed it on to you.”

“Understood.” Bai Qing said gratefully. 

After learning it, Bai Qing walked out of the room and saw Jing Liansheng’s ghostly figure hidden in the shadows of the corridor. A living person would be scared to death seeing it, but Bai Qing would love to death seeing it.

Bai Qing just thought: Truly worthy of being the ghost of my heart. Even in the shadows, he looks so pale and handsome. Love it, love it! ❤

Bai Qing quickly walked over, smiled and said, “I’ve learned my sure-fire move.”

Jing Liansheng was indifferent, not curious about what this move was. 

Perhaps he simply didn’t feel he needed to learn any sure-fire moves to deal with Taoists, or perhaps he highly respected the rule of sect secrets not being passed on. Jing Liansheng just nodded slightly but said, “Since your Shifu is unwilling to get involved, then the wedding can only be arranged by the two of us.”

Bai Qing nodded repeatedly, “No problem. Good idea.” Mainly because he heard the words “wedding” and “the two of us arrange,” he felt it was a particularly good idea.

Bai Qing calmed his mind to think, then spoke, “Although we shouldn’t trouble the Jing young masters and mistresses, the old butler should still be available to run errands, right? I feel… he seems to know some things about you?”

Jing Liansheng nodded. “Let him help then.” 

Bai Qing nodded slightly. I tested the waters, and the dead ghost didn’t give me a cold glare this time. Proof he has some favorable impression of me.

Happiness! ❤

They didn’t plan a grand wedding, only choosing a dark and windy night, getting some paper offerings, incense, candles, and spirit money, and conducting the ghost marriage quietly without fanfare. They returned to the Jing family, found the old butler again, and said they needed him to run some errands.

The old butler respectfully agreed. 

The old butler’s efficiency was truly super strong. Tasks assigned during the day were reported on in the evening. “Regarding the master needed to select an auspicious date, I have shortlisted a few. They are all proficient in feng shui and numerology, have excellent reputations, and are tight-lipped. Absolutely trustworthy.”

As he spoke, the old butler also printed out the resumes of several masters into a booklet and handed it to Bai Qing and Jing Liansheng.

Bai Qing took the resume booklet. He didn’t pay attention to much else. His poor ghost genes made him reflexively look directly at the market price. “Three hundred thousand? Five hundred thousand? This one… one million? You’d better tell me if the unit is Yen or Won.”

The old butler thought: Poor people are so stingy. 

But there was no helping it.

The old butler, as a hundred-year employee, was already well-versed in handling superiors’ doubts. “These masters are all top-tier in the industry. Their fees are naturally substantial. However, you can rest assured, their skills are absolutely worth the price. If you feel the price is somewhat high, we can look for other suitable candidates.” As he spoke, the old butler also handed over the catalog of various supplies and the budget to Bai Qing.

Looking at this list of budget items, Bai Qing was so frightened he felt like dying all over again. “This house costs two hundred thousand? This is a paper house, right?”

The old butler replied, “The house you see is indeed made of paper, but it uses intangible cultural heritage craftsmanship. The workmanship is extremely refined, almost indistinguishable from the real thing. Moreover, according to the customs here, the quality of funerary objects cannot be careless. Although the price of two hundred thousand sounds a bit high, I believe you can also understand its value and significance.” 

Bai Qing: No… I can’t understand.

Jing Liansheng paused slightly but said, “I don’t find it very expensive either.”

“You… what did you say?” Bai Qing couldn’t believe his ears. Then, realizing something, he said with grave emphasis, “Brother, I know the inflation in the netherworld is severe. Let me first explain the exchange rate difference between RMB and spirit money…”

Jing Liansheng: …I obviously know the face value of spirit money is exaggerated. 

I’m ancient, not incompetent.

However, Jing Liansheng also saw that Bai Qing seemed to value money greatly, so he didn’t insist and let Bai Qing decide. Bai Qing then made the decision. “Speaking of which, I’ve been a Taoist master’s apprentice for ten years. I’m quite adept at things like selecting dates and making funerary objects. Give me that one million. Give it to me.”

The old butler heard this and first looked at Jing Liansheng.

Seeing Jing Liansheng nod slightly, the old butler then turned to look at Bai Qing, a trace of pity in his eyes: Poor people are terrifying.  

One million in the Jing family isn’t enough to even throw a party, let alone hold a wedding.

Thinking this, the old butler said with compassionate pity, “Since you are working so hard, I will apply to the family for two million for you.”

Jing Er, although he didn’t know Jing Liansheng and Bai Qing were having a ghost marriage, heard from the old butler that the two wanted a low-key wedding.

The old butler mentioned the two million budget to him. 

Jing Er heard it and lamented, “The Eldest Young Master is suffering grievances!”

Upon hearing this, Jing San and Jing Si were also very shocked and said, “We originally thought Bai Qing was greedy for money. Now it seems he is frugal to the point of being heartbreaking.”

Thus, Jing Er immediately approved the two million budget. Additionally, Jing Er, Jing San, and Jing Si each contributed one million as a gift, sent via the old butler. Bai Qing, having received these five million, was overjoyed and full of motivation.

Bai Qing first spent five yuan to buy an old almanac. Relying on the knowledge of divination he had accumulated over ten years, he quickly calculated a date. “This day is perfect! It’s highly inauspicious for weddings and funerals, prone to bloodshed. This one! This one!” 

Jing Liansheng calculated on his fingers and also deeply agreed. “It is indeed a rare, greatly inauspicious day.”

Afterwards, Bai Qing started making the paper funerary objects himself. His skill was good, with a variety of styles, each piece quite realistic.

After cutting the last large red double-happiness character, he put down the scissors and looked affectionately at Jing Liansheng, a hint of expectation in his eyes. He said in a low voice, “There’s one thing I’m afraid I’ll still have to trouble you to arrange.”

Jing Liansheng raised an eyebrow and asked, puzzled. “What thing?” 

Bai Qing rarely showed a slightly embarrassed expression, scratching his head. “Modern people getting married all need rings. I think, although our ghost marriage is special, could we also buy a real ring, as a keepsake?”

Jing Liansheng quietly looked at Bai Qing’s lingering, affectionate gaze and sighed softly. After a long moment, he slowly spoke, “Perhaps I didn’t emphasize it to you, or perhaps you forgot. The premise of our marriage is that you must know your place and not overstep even slightly.”

Bai Qing paused slightly upon hearing this.

He remembered. Of course, he remembered. 

He also remembered the scene back then, how Jing Liansheng almost crushed him, threatening fiercely, “If you are sincere about cooperating with me, then drop your pointless curiosity and maintain an appropriate distance from me. As you can see, if I’m displeased, I can shatter you instantly.” Back then, he wasn’t as easy-going as he is now.

That Jing Liansheng was so fierce and cold, almost crushing Bai Qing.

But back then, Bai Qing could still laugh and joke about unscrewing his own head.

Now, Jing Liansheng’s attitude towards him was much more amiable than at the beginning. Not only would he not threaten or harm him, but at critical moments, he would also protect him. They could even banter and joke with each other a few times. 

And Bai Qing, obviously, felt discomfort.

Bai Qing pursed his lips. “I… wanting a big diamond ring, does that count as overstepping?”

He deliberately used his usual casual and slightly frivolous tone. “No way, right? Eldest Young Master! I remember you originally promised the bride half your wealth. Now I just want a big diamond ring, and you say I have no manners? That’s really heartbreaking!”

Jing Liansheng’s abyss-like black pupils stared at Bai Qing, as if they could pierce through this layer of a frivolous smiling face and see the long-rotten heart that was beating again because of love. 

His gaze was complex, both scrutiny and a trace of softness that was hard to detect.

Jing Liansheng indeed wasn’t as annoyed with him as initially, but this current expression was also one Bai Qing disliked even more.

Jing Liansheng just said slowly, “Although I am ancient, I have been diligently catching up on modern culture. I know the meaning behind giving a diamond ring. Such meaning, I cannot bestow upon you. I hope you understand.”

Bai Qing’s passionate confessions to Jing Liansheng before were not few in number. Each time was more direct and more explicit than this request for a diamond ring. 

Jing Liansheng’s responses were always cold, with a hint of impatience. But Bai Qing never felt discouraged. Instead, he could still laugh and find words to retort, as if he never knew fatigue. This direct yet gentle refusal from Jing Liansheng was the first time.

His tone lacked the sarcasm of the past and even carried a trace of rare softness.

Yet, this was the first time Bai Qing genuinely and sincerely felt that he was being seriously rejected.

The taste was like punching cotton—force applied but no impact, leaving the heart feeling empty. 

Jing Liansheng noticed the disappointment on Bai Qing’s face and said, “If you feel disappointed, we can stop this cooperation. You’ve worked hard this period. The payment already given to you, you may keep. If there are any other requests, you can state them together.”

He spoke amiably, but it still carried a tone of indifference.

Bai Qing suddenly looked up, meeting Jing Liansheng’s eyes.

Jing Liansheng’s eyes shimmered with a faint blood-red light under the candlelight, enough to make anyone who saw them fearful. Yet, Bai Qing wasn’t human. Looking at these eyes, he saw them as rare red jewels. 

Those who like red jewels can, of course, accept the reality: it’s a beautiful but cold, hard lump.

Bai Qing’s silent heart faintly echoed.

He thought: Not long ago, I vowed to be a self-immolating electric bike charging ahead regardless!

His dead heart only produced the illusion of beating again under Jing Liansheng’s influence. Even if it was an illusion, he deeply considered it a miracle. Just for this miracle alone, Bai Qing felt his fervor was worth the price. 

Bai Qing raised his eyes again. The disappointment in his expression was gone, replaced with concern, “Is my love putting pressure on you?”

Jing Liansheng didn’t expect Bai Qing to respond like this.

He looked into Bai Qing’s eyes and found a clarity in the little living corpse’s gaze that bordered on foolishness.

Bai Qing said, “Ah, is it because I took the sword for you, making you feel guilty? If that’s the case, it’s completely unnecessary. I was willing myself.” 

“That’s good. I don’t feel guilty either.” Jing Liansheng replied in that familiar, emotionless tone.

Bai Qing choked slightly. “Then… that’s good…”

“If you hadn’t suddenly thrown yourself forward, I probably wouldn’t have had to grab the blade empty-handed, thereby injuring my ghost body.” Jing Liansheng continued.

Bai Qing’s face turned green. “Is… is that so…” 

“But you needn’t feel guilty either. It was my own choice.” Jing Liansheng’s tone held no emotion, including blame or anger.

Now Bai Qing felt somewhat embarrassed. He rubbed his head. “I thought, because I’m sometimes too passionate, it made you uncomfortable, so you…”

“I wouldn’t feel uncomfortable over such a small matter. You can rest assured.” Jing Liansheng responded flatly. “I just feel a transaction should be fair—clear payment for goods. If I cannot provide what you want, yet take what I want, it lacks fairness and is not the principle by which I conduct matters.”

Bai Qing’s clear, bright eyes stared fixedly at Jing Liansheng’s face. 

Jing Liansheng still appeared almost heartless. That calmness also conveyed a sense of indifference.

Bai Qing, on the contrary, laughed lightheartedly. “That’s good. I sometimes feel I’m too passionate and worry it troubles you. Since it doesn’t, I think our cooperation can continue.”

“Even if I cannot give you the affection you desire?” Jing Liansheng asked, as if confirming.

Bai Qing found it somewhat amusing. “People can demand money from others, ghosts can demand lives from people. But I’ve never heard of anyone being able to demand love. So-called love is generated within one’s own heart, not taken from others. I am someone who has been buried for a long time. Now, being able to make my heart come alive again is already something I dream of.” 

Jing Liansheng looked at Bai Qing in silence.

Bai Qing curled a smile. “Rest assured, we each take what we need. It’s a fair transaction, my dear Eldest Young Master.”