Before long, they arrived at a small courtyard at the town’s edge. Yan Zhengya could sense the unusual supernatural aura from a distance. This demon seemed to have been here for some years, otherwise it wouldn’t be so intense.
Wang Congshan pointed at the courtyard and said to Yan Zhengya, "Daoist, this is the place. Let’s go in first, and I’ll explain everything in detail."
Yan Zhengya nodded and followed him inside. The little piglet sleeping soundly in Yan Zhengya’s arms had already woken up and was curiously looking around.
After knocking on the door a few times, a maid opened it. Her face was pale, with dark circles under her eyes, and the overpowering aura emanating from her invigorated Yan Zhengya.
"Xiao Hong, where’s your mistress?" Wang Congshan asked.
"Waiting for you inside," Xiao Hong replied woodenly and then turned away.
Wang Congshan, wearing a companionable smile, led Yan Zhengya to the inner room at the back.
Pulling back the curtain, a young woman of striking beauty was resting her head and taking an afternoon nap on a chaise near the window. Her appearance was indeed attractive, perfectly fitting the vision men have of beauty: almond face, arched brows, long legs, slender waist, curves in all the right places. Even while reclining there in repose, she exuded a unique charm.
Yan Zhengya glanced at Wang Congshan and, sure enough, saw admiration in his eyes. Ah, men and their weakness for beauty; so many fall for it without even noticing the malevolent aura surrounding this woman, her face marked with omens of disaster. If they continue to associate long-term, bloodshed is inevitable.
Wang Congshan walked softly over and sat beside her, gently nudging the woman and speaking tenderly, "Fu’er, wake up, the Daoist I invited the other day has come to help us."
The woman opened her eyes at his words, grasping Wang Congshan’s hand and smiling at him, "So soon? That’s wonderful."
She rose and curtsied to Yan Zhengya, "I am Luo Fu. Greetings, Daoist."
Yan Zhengya hurriedly returned the salute, "I am Yan Zhengya, here upon receiving an exorcism request to dispel evil. Let us get straight to the point."
Seeing Yan Zhengya had no intention for further pleasantries, Luo Fu asked a maid to serve tea and withdraw. The three of them sat down, and Luo Fu began, "Today, I implore you, Daoist, to get rid of the Wolf Demon that’s been haunting me. He has been pestering me for three years, claiming he wants to marry me. I’m terrified to death of him; how could I possibly marry a demon? The Wolf Demon persists in his pursuit, but fortunately, I met Mr. Wang, and we’ve fallen for each other. Mr. Wang wants to betroth me, but I’m afraid the Wolf Demon might harm him." Speaking thus far, Luo Fu’s eyes reddened, and silent tears fell.
Yan Zhengya watched, somewhat dumbfounded. Her crying technique was impressive; her makeup remained intact, yet she still appeared pitiful and delicate. This woman seemed rather extraordinary. Yan Zhengya suddenly recalled something his master said: Never underestimate a woman, especially one who cries sorrowfully but maintains her composure and makeup. Such women are the most terrifying.
Wang Congshan quickly held Luo Fu’s hand and comforted her, "Don’t worry, Fu’er, I will always protect you and ensure you aren’t troubled by this anymore."
"Daoist, previously Mr. Wang brought people to try to drive away the Wolf Demon, but unexpectedly, the Wolf Demon reacted viciously, severely injuring two servants immediately. We realized we’re no match for him, which is why we resorted to seeking an exorcism. Daoist, you must help us." Luo Fu began to sob again, crying like raindrops on a pear blossom, which nearly broke Wang Congshan’s heart. He hurriedly patted Luo Fu’s hand gently, whispering reassurances.