The Eternal Fragrance

Orphaned Xiao Bangchui follows her half-baked master, posing as disciples of an immortal sect. While on their way to "exorcise demons" for a wealthy family, they accidentally expose Lei Xiuyuan, a young man on the run from pursuers. That very night, Xiao Bangchui's master vanishes without a word, leaving behind only a letter instructing her to seek out her senior brother at Chufeng Academy.

Hearing that the owner of Yange Tavern is renowned for obtaining past academy exam topics, Xiao Bangchui rushes over to inquire about them, only to learn that the price is exorbitant. Just as she's worrying over the cost, Lei Xiuyuan shows up again. After Master Yan praises him as a man of exceptional beauty, Xiao Bangchui promptly sells Lei Xiuyuan off for a hefty price.

Lei Xiuyuan appears to be helping Xiao Bangchui, but he has motives of his own. Unaware of his true intentions, the two repeatedly stumble into misunderstandings, only to earn a reputation among the academy examiners for their compassion and kindness.

As the disciples are assigned their rooms, Lifei discovers the mask Lei Xiuyuan wore when he attacked her. Left with no choice, Lei Xiuyuan finally reveals the tragic story behind the relentless pursuit that has haunted him.

Jiang Lifei takes Lei Xiuyuan to seek treatment for his injuries. As Elder Zhu recounts the Seafall Catastrophe 500 years ago, strange and unfamiliar visions begin to flash through Lei Xiuyuan's mind.

Ji Tongzhou, who is also in the Futu Tower, suddenly appears and urges the two to leave at once. The Spirit-Releasing Manual slips from Lifei's arms and falls to the ground, unleashing several fiery serpent-shaped word spirits that charge toward her. At the critical moment, Hu Jiaping emerges from the shadows and comes to their aid, allowing the three of them to make a hasty escape.

The black aura surrounding Lei Xiuyuan is cleansed away, and he regains consciousness. To his astonishment, he finds Lifei enveloped in a faint white glow, as though she is shedding her old self and emerging anew. At the same time, a strange fragrance begins to emanate from her.

Ri Yan finally reveals himself. Already wounded, Zong Quan is no match for him and is forced to flee in defeat. Lei Xiuyuan's meridians are shattered, and his spiritual root is completely destroyed. Ri Yan tells Lifei that something in Ganhua Realm of Qingqiu can save Lei Xiuyuan.