"Fu fu fu...fu fu fu fu..."

Feng Yao's low laugh slowly spread in the air. Everyone froze and slowly turned to look in her direction. Her shoulders were slightly shaking as her evil chuckles filled them all with an ominous sense of foreboding.

Especially for a certain Young Master.

Ignoring their stiff looks, Feng Yao grinned as she brought her fingertips together and began tapping them rhythmically against each other. The scene was strangely similar to how a mob boss would act while slowly turning around in a giant chair. Even the pee-inducing smile was the same.

"There are three types of people in this world that can soften the hearts of anyone."

She held up a finger. "One—the helpless elderly."

A second finger was raised. "Two—young and pitiful orphan children."

Another finger joined them. "But the third?" Her face retained its childish glee as she cheerfully swung her leg over the horse.

"Hehe, you'll have to wait and see~"

Feng Yao's eyes were sparkling as she was helped down by a wary Ru Qiang. As soon as both of her feet touched the ground, she excitedly limped over towards Xi'er with a frightening speed that made Xi'er subconsciously step backwards in surprise.

Wasn't she supposed to be injured? And malnourished? And on the verge of collapsing?

"Little Xi! You're coming with me! Onwards we go!"

Xi'er was forcibly dragged away by the chanting Feng Yao. Xi'er quickly glanced towards her master, but upon seeing Ru Qiang's helpless shrug, she could only sigh and allow herself to be pulled along into an evil scheme.

The both of them soon reached the entrance of the little inn. Around the outside doorway were beautiful plants and flowers that added to the charm of the small but cozy little building. Floating lightly in the air was also the scent of pleasant sweetness.

Feng Yao abruptly stopped in front of the doorway. "Just follow along, kay?" A sweet look played on Feng Yao's face as she smiled at Xi'er. Xi'er couldn't help but study her innocent expression.

Maybe she had misjudged the young girl? Perhaps her plan wasn't actually going to be that evil?

Xi'er felt slightly better. She had probably just misread the Young Miss' intentions. Yes, that was it.

She gave a nod of confirmation, and Feng Yao grinned. Xi'er watched as Feng Yao reached out to open the door that led to the inside of the inn.

Suddenly, Xi'er felt a strong tug on her arm as she was yanked forward by Feng Yao. In the spit second that it took to rebalance herself, a shrill cry sounded out in front of her.

She whipped her head in the direction of the voice only to see Feng Yao tripping and tumbling forward towards the wooden floor with a dramatic, "Aiyaaaa!"

Xi'er was completely taken off guard and had to frantically dive forward to catch her before she hit the ground. "Young Miss!"

"Oh goodness! What happened!"

Xi'er glanced upwards and saw an elderly couple rushing over towards them. Judging by their modest clothing, they were most likely the pair that was running this inn. She looked towards Feng Yao again only to be hit with alarm.

Feng Yao's breathing was uneven and sporadic as if getting up pained her thin and dirty body. And when she finally lifted her face to meet the couple, her eyes were already full of unshed tears.

"My sincerest apologies...It's just that I—" Feng Yao paused as her voice slightly cracked. Her nervous fingers were wringing out the sleeves of her robes as she quickly lowered her face with a look of deep embarrassment. "My husband and I were caught in the middle of an ambush by robbers and lost all of our money. We really need to get back home, but it's getting quite dark and I—"

Feng Yao's rambling abruptly cut off as she doubled over with a look of pain. Xi'er widened her eyes. "Young Miss!"

Feng Yao quickly waved her hands and dismissed Xi'er worries. With one hand clasped over her chest, she unsteadily stood up again to face the elderly couple who was now also staring at her in alarm.

"I'm sorry..." Her hesitant voice came out small as if she was afraid of being scolded by them. "It was just another wave of nausea. It's been happening a lot this month..."

Feng Yao's eyes flickered nervously to outside the window. "I'm just afraid that something will happen..." Her hand automatically went to protectively touch her stomach as her eyes glazed over.

Xi'er was still utterly confused as she watched this entire exchange. Suddenly, she was hit with a wave of understanding. Her eyes opened wider than before as she stuttered. "Y-young Miss! Y-you—"

Hearing Xi'er's shocked voice made Feng Yao inwardly giggle. Even though Xi'er wasn't acting, she was still unknowingly playing along quite nicely.

Feng Yao cast a small glance to the side of her vision only to see that the same look of realization had appeared on the old woman's face after seeing Feng Yao's discreet hand movement. Instantly, the woman's eyes softened as she stepped forward.

"Don't be afraid, you're safe here. This old woman may not have much money, but I'm sure that she can help a young girl like you." Her wrinkled and weathered hands gently clasped Feng Yao's own cold and trembling ones.

"Thank you," Feng Yao breathed out with a shaky breath of air as a look of relief overcame her features. Her eyes began to well up again as she gently sniffled.

The old man also came over to join his wife. His face had a warm smile as he gazed at her. "I'll have my daughter bring some hot water so that you can also get washed up. What about your husband? Is he outside?"

Feng Yao tiredly nodded. "Yes...He was making sure that our horses were all right." She turned towards Xi'er who was still in a dazed state.

"Xi'er..."

"Y-yes, Young Miss!" Xi'er quickly shut her open mouth and hastily bowed. Feng Yao had the sudden urge to laugh, but she expertly kept it hidden underneath her pitiful expression.

"Go and fetch the Young Master. I'm sure he'll be equally as thankful that we ran into such kind innkeepers."

"O-of course..." Xi'er hurried outside leaving Feng Yao alone with the elderly couple. The woman gave another soft pat on her hands as a warm smile settled comfortably on her face.

"Come follow me. I'll show you to the rooms upstairs. My husband will go help put your horses in the stable."

The old man nodded. "I'll be right back. Please, make yourself comfortable."

Feng Yao was led to a small room. Inside was a single bed along with a table and a few chairs. Everything was a simple color of white, yet it still managed to create a calming sense of peacefulness.

She looked down towards herself again before sighing. It'd probably be a while before she could even be able to sit on the bed. Her entire body was still coated in a thick layer of dirt and grime.

The old lady seemed to notice her hesitance and let out a soft sigh. "Are you feeling all right?" Her eyes glanced at Feng Yao's stomach.

Immediately, Feng Yao gave a small girly giggle. "I will be fine in a while. Thank you again." She bowed deeply towards the woman.

"Nonsense! No need to thank me. I know how hard it must be for your body right now. In fact, I still remember those days of my own always feeling nauseous and in pain. But don't worry. It will get better soon. And just remember, the end will be worth it."

Feng Yao smiled gratefully. "Thank you for such warm words. I will hold them dear to my heart."

The woman laughed. "Such a charming young girl. I can't believe that your husband allowed you to become like this. What kind of a man drags his woman into this kind of mess? I'll have to teach him a lesson or two!"

She leaned in close to Feng Yao. "Just for you, I'll bring up some extra food okay?"

Feng Yao's eyes brightened as she lowered her head into another bow. "Thank you. This young girl isn't worthy of such kindness, but I will definitely remember this for the rest of my life."

Seeing such a rare and humble attitude, the old woman smiled. At that moment, the sound of footsteps on the creaking wooden floor outside in the hall was heard.

The old man's voice sounded right outside of the door. "Right in here is the young lady. The room across the hall is also free for your servants to use."

The door unlocked and opened. When Feng Yao turned to look, she saw that the old man and Ru Qiang had entered along with Li Yue and Xi'er following behind them.

"Thank you," Ru Qiang bowed as he replied to the man. Suddenly, Ru Qiang felt a cool chill run down his spine. He looked up only to see the old woman studying him with slight contempt in her chilled eyes.

Ru Qiang was baffled. He had only just gotten here. Why was he already being faced with such scorn?

He glanced over at Feng Yao in search for answers, but she refused to look at him. Instead, she was studying the white walls with an innocent expression.

His eyebrows crinkled together. Were her eyes sparkling again? Or was that his imagination?

But just as he was about to say something, the old woman suddenly marched up to him with her hands placed on her hips. Ru Qiang tilted his head in confusion.

"Young sir, you may be a well respected Young Master, but you must still also treat your wife with respect!"

Ru Qiang froze. "W-wife?"

The old lady ignored his shocked expression as she continued to scold him. "Yes, I can't believe that such a kind young lady could get so dirty while you and your servants are still so clean! Look at her!" The old lady pointed to Feng Yao who had already looked down with teary eyes.

"You should be happy to have such a lovely wife! But look! She's so skinny and in a terrible condition!"

The old man hurriedly stepped forward and placed his hand on his wife's shoulder to try and calm her down. "Although you may be angry, it's still inappropriate for us to lecture a noble man. Let's give them some space."

The old woman glanced over at her husband before finally letting out a reluctant sigh.

"I...was a bit out of line. Please excuse my unruly behavior." She bowed towards Ru Qiang who hastily shook his head.

"Ah—no, I understand... I will take better care of my...w-wife." His eyes wavered as he said that last part. He quickly glanced over at Feng Yao and noticed that she had discreetly given him a satisfied thumbs up.

Hearing his words, the old lady finally softened as she nodded approvingly. "Good, good. That makes this old woman feel better. Then please enjoy your stay. I will have some hot water ready for you all to bathe in."

Both she and her husband left the room. But just before the door closed all the way, the old woman dropped one more bombshell.

"I'll also send up some extra food for the Young Miss. A young lady being so thin worries me. Especially since she's with your child."

The sound of the door clicking shut echoed in the dead-silent room. A whole moment passed as Feng Yao curiously glanced at the other three wondering why they were staring at her with such incredulous expressions.

Suddenly the silence burst as Li Yue shouted in a shocked voice. "Y-young Master! Y-you, y-you! To the Young Miss?!"

Ru Qiang spluttered as he frantically shook his hands in denial. "I-I what?! No!"

But Ru Qiang's words went over Li Yue's head as he fell to his knees in front of his master and covered his weeping face with his hands.

"I can't believe you, Young Master! Even after I warned you last time about what the Old Madam said!" Li Yue began to sob tearfully.

"Old Madam, this righteous and amazingly handsome guard has failed to teach the Young Master the ways of right and wrong! Please punish me! I have failed the entire clan of the Jun's ancestors! Accept my soul as my sincerest offering--!"

Xi'er suddenly smacked him on his head. "You idiot! The Young Miss is faking!"

"...Eh?"

Seeing their expressions, Feng Yao let out a laugh. "Hahaha, no worries. There's only room in my stomach for food. Nothing else~" She further demonstrated by lightly patting her belly.

Ru Qiang winced before sighing. He should've known better that her plan would be like this.

"But did you have to pretend to be pregnant?"

Feng Yao suddenly grinned as she stepped closer towards him and patted his shoulder. "If I didn't, she wouldn't have given us extra food."

Ru Qiang paused as her words slowly sunk in. Finally, he slowly nodded. "Ah. I see...Understood."

He looked down at her face only to see her smug eyes glittering and sparkling at him enthusiastically. Even without her saying anything, he could practically see what her proud face was saying.

Praise me! Praise me! Do it now!

He sighed before reaching out his hand and patting her twice on the head no different than what he would've done with a dog.

"Good work."

Feng Yao grinned in satisfaction. "Hee hee, why thank you!"

At that moment, there was a knock on the door accompanied by an unfamiliar female voice. "Good evening. The bath is ready to use."

"Coming!" Feng Yao brightened as she skipped to the door and flung it open to see an older woman with an expression of surprise. The woman looked to be in her mid-thirties with a homely face that mirrored the elderly couple's from earlier.

Quickly, the woman regained her composure and bowed with a smile towards Feng Yao. "I am the daughter of the inn keepers. Please follow me, I'll show you to the bathhouse."

Feng Yao nodded excitedly at the thought of finally being clean again. "Of course! Let's go!"

As soon as Feng Yao disappeared from sight, Ru Qiang leaned in towards Li Yue. "Have you contacted the doctor?"

Li Yue nodded. "Yes, I sent word to him as soon as you asked earlier. He should be here no later than one hour."

"Hm?" Ru Qiang nonchalantly replied. "Not bad."

Hearing his master's words, Li Yue grinned before chuckling. "Of course. He isn't the Young Master's personal doctor for no reason."

When Feng Yao finally returned all squeaky clean and dressed in a plain white robe, she found that she was the only one in the room.

Maybe they're all in the other guest room?

She was about to go in search of them when she suddenly smelled something delightful. The lovely scent wrapped around her gently like a lover's embrace beckoning her to come closer.

"Food! Is that you, my love?"

Feng Yao whipped her head around before noticing the dishes on the table. She gave a small shriek of excitement as she ran and pounced on her prey. Seeing such a beautiful sight, her eyes naturally began to overflow with genuine tears.

"I've missed you so much! Just look at how big you've gotten! Two bowls of soup! Two bowls of meat! A huge bowl of rice—ah! I'm so happy to see you, my friends!"

With one quick and experienced motion, she swiftly picked up her chopsticks in one hand and grabbed an empty bowl with the other before quickly piling groups of food into her bowl. The steam of the hot food rising up seemed as if it was softly caressing her flushed cheeks as she began to endlessly stuff her mouth. She barely even chewed as she worked to fill her starving stomach that she'd been painfully ignoring up until now.

"Young Miss, you'll end up hurting your stomach if you eat that fast."

Xi'er spoke up from where she'd been watching speechless at the entrance of the room. Feng Yao only acknowledged her with a quick wave of her hands before immediately resuming her feast.

Seeing this, Xi'er sighed. "The doctor has arrived and is currently speaking to the Young Master. After you're done, he'll come over and help examine your wounds."

Suddenly, Feng Yao's eyes widened as she bent over to puke. The rancid scent of stomach acid filled the room as all of what she had just eaten came back up and splattered all over the floor.

"Young Miss!" Xi'er hurriedly came over and patted her back as she continued to dry heave. When Feng Yao's body finally calmed down, Feng Yao stared sadly at the traitorous pile of throw-up.

"Sigh...I should've known that it was too good to be true. Alas, we were not meant to be together after all..."

Xi'er shook her head as she helped Feng Yao sit down before cleaning up the mess on the floor. A sudden knock at the door made both of them turn in that direction. Xi'er wiped her hands on a napkin and quickly got up to answer.

"Ah, Doctor Yi. It's a pleasure to see you again."

Feng Yao peeked out from behind Xi'er's back to see an old man with white hair and a white beard giving a slight nod. His clothing was quite plain; he was only dressed in the simple color of blue. But the aura that surrounded him was obviously one of a great medical master.

"Good to see you too. The Young Master has already informed me of the situation. I'll see what I can do to help."

Xi'er bowed to him before leaving the room and shutting the door firmly. As soon as she was gone, the old man turned to greet Feng Yao.

"Greetings to the Young Miss. I am Doctor Yi. The Young Master has asked me to come help check on your health."

Feng Yao sighed as she swung her legs onto the bed. "Go ahead. I guess I won't be able to finish my food no matter how much I try."

At that, he gave a small smile. "No worries, Young Miss. Your body isn't used to eating whole foods yet. As soon as your body gets stronger, you'll be able to switch from drinking medicinal soup back to eating normally again."

He pulled out a chair and sat down next to her side before reaching out to examine the pulse in her wrist. Feng Yao casually laid back to watch him do his work.

Slowly, his eyes darkened as he pulled his hand away. "Your pulse is quite...irregular. Is there something wrong with your body? Besides your wounds?"

Feng Yao raised an eyebrow. "You mean like poison?"

He paused to study her lazy expression, but nothing in her eyes gave away her secrets.

"Yes," he finally replied.

"Haha, my body's been like this since childhood. It's nothing to be concerned about."

She neither denied nor agreed to his conclusion. Doctor Yi had no choice but to drop the matter for now.

"Then let's move on. Where else are you injured?"

Feng Yao glanced down to her leg where her arrow injury was. It had already mostly healed, but it still gave her a lot of pain every once in a while.

"If the Young Miss doesn't mind, this old doctor will have to roll up your robes to take a look."

Feng Yao nodded. "It doesn't matter to me. Please, go ahead."

Doctor Yi swiftly rolled up her robes just high enough to see her entire leg wound. When he finally was able to examine it, his brows crinkled together.

"This looks like a terrible injury that has incorrectly healed. How did you manage to bear the pain?"

He began to poke and prod at the scarred skin that resembled rotten meat. Immediately, Feng Yao's face contorted in pain as she let out a small hiss.

"Miraculously, there's no infection. However, it did not heal all the way. If the Young Miss would like, I can reopen the wound so that the next time it heals, your leg will fully return to normal. At least, as normal as it could be with a scar."

Feng Yao grit her teeth as shoots of pain ran up her body. Before she could talk herself out of it, she quickly agreed. "Please do it."

There was no warning before the doctor abruptly cut into her skin with a very thin medical scalpel.