All Heavens and Worlds Starting from the Night Watchman

Chapter 11: A Heart-to-Heart with Huaiqing, The Yin-Yang Elixir

Gradually, Lin Qiye felt the surging River Sword Qi within his body stirring restlessly. If not for his deliberate suppression, it would have erupted uncontrollably, making it impossible to conceal his identity as a genius.

Lin Qiye was not foolish; he knew he had no backing. Therefore, despite his talent, he understood the importance of restraint. Exposing his abilities prematurely could lead to disaster before he fully matured. It was always better to remain low-key—excessive display of talent often incited envy.

As Lin Qiye became a guest retainer to the Eldest Princess, Zhang Yi and others approached.

“Greetings to the Eldest Princess.”

“Your Highness, this man is a mere beggar who has never studied. The eloquent words he just spoke must have been borrowed.”

“Indeed! How could a beggar possibly be literate?”

“Your Highness, do not be deceived by this petty trickster.”

Lin Qiye listened to their disdainful remarks, a bitterness growing within him. Finally, he responded, “I once made a pact with Xu Qinan—to never forget each other if we were to rise to fortune.”

Zhang Yi burst into laughter. “You? A beggar speaking of wealth and honour?”

Lin Qiye sighed deeply and replied, “Ah, how can sparrows comprehend the ambitions of swans? Is there truly a noble lineage reserved for lords and chancellors?”

At these words, the expressions of Zhang Yi and his companions darkened. Lin Qiye’s implication was clear—he viewed them with disdain.

“You wretch! Courting death, are you?” Zhang Yi stepped forward, preparing to strike Lin Qiye.

However, the Eldest Princess sharply rebuked, “Enough! Whether he has talent or not is none of your concern. Whom I choose as a guest retainer is my prerogative.

“It is no wonder you fail to find talent—if this is how you assess people. Why would anyone follow you with such an attitude?”

Princess Huaiqing had to speak up; Lin Qiye was now under her patronage. Criticising him was akin to disrespecting her.

Lin Qiye’s earlier declaration—’Is there truly a noble lineage reserved for lords and chancellors?’—had genuinely surprised Huaiqing. Were those born into power truly superior by birthright?

Those in power had earned their status through perseverance. If fate could be challenged, why should one not dare to struggle against it?

Huaiqing recognised Lin Qiye’s genuine talent. Compared to these pampered nobles, he clearly stood out. Noble birth was not a guarantee of ability; true strength was forged through hardship—a concept these entitled aristocrats could never grasp.

“I sincerely hope your so-called ‘seeking talents’ is not just a guise for debauchery and misconduct, disgracing this hall and provoking public disdain.”

“Yes, Your Highness,” the nobles muttered, disheartened, and quickly dispersed. Before long, only Huaiqing and Lin Qiye remained.

“That poem earlier—does it have a title?” Huaiqing asked.

Lin Qiye shook his head. “It was merely the lamentations of a lowly man, unworthy of a name.”

Hearing this, a spark of inspiration flashed in Huaiqing’s eyes. After a moment of contemplation, she declared, “Then let me name it for you. How about ‘Song of Ascending the Golden Terrace’?”

“Many thanks for the name, Your Highness,” Lin Qiye responded respectfully.

It was indeed a fitting title for the context. Evidently, Huaiqing had insight beyond ordinary nobility.

“Very well, then. Come, board the carriage,” she instructed.

“Ah…” Lin Qiye was momentarily stunned. In this era, strict boundaries were observed between men and women. To share a carriage with the princess would inevitably incite scandal and possibly tarnish her reputation.

“Your Highness, I am grateful for your kindness. However, to avoid undue rumours and the malicious exploitation of gossip, it is better for me to maintain a respectful distance. I dare not bring trouble upon Your Highness.”

Huaiqing, initially unbothered by formalities, had overlooked these societal norms. She simply wished to converse with Lin Qiye freely. Yet, his cautiousness impressed her further. Not only was he talented in literature, but he also understood the complexities of propriety.

Ultimately, the two chose a more secluded spot to sit and began their first genuine conversation.

Huaiqing inquired about the silver tax case, and Lin Qiye’s candid insights further increased her admiration. His analysis extended beyond the apparent, discerning that such extensive sodium metal extraction could not be the work of a mere rogue but a highly skilled alchemist.

Lin Qiye subtly mentioned Xu Qinan, hoping Huaiqing might recommend him as well.

At that moment, a voice resonated in Lin Qiye’s mind:

“Ding! A new mission has been issued. Join the Night Watchers. Reward: Yin-Yang Elixirs ×2!”

The Yin-Yang Elixir was a divine medicine—a miracle drug that allowed one to be reborn from the brink of death. When a person reached the verge of death, the elixir’s potency would be activated. If they endured the trial, they would not only recover but also experience a breakthrough in cultivation.

In essence, it was a second life—provided one had the will to survive.

Lin Qiye’s heart swelled with joy. Regardless of whether he was the protagonist of some tale, he had obtained a treasure to preserve his life.

Observing his delight, Huaiqing teased, “What brings such a smile to your face?”

Lin Qiye responded smoothly, “Your Highness is the spring of the mortal realm; how could I not smile upon beholding such grace?”

Though Huaiqing typically despised flattery, Lin Qiye’s words left her inexplicably pleased.

“Enough. Speak your mind,” she replied, suppressing a faint smile.

Lin Qiye then respectfully expressed his desire for both himself and Xu Qinan to join the Night Watchers, explaining the significance of the organisation.

After a thoughtful pause, Huaiqing replied, “There is no need to rush. When the time comes, we shall see.”

“Understood,” Lin Qiye acknowledged.

Meanwhile, atop the Star-Gazing Tower—the tallest structure in Da Feng—members of the Department of Celestial Observation struggled to synthesise sodium metal, repeatedly failing…