"Master, look, this is the herb I just picked."

A child who looked to be only three or four years old, holding a few herbs in his hand, ran up to an elderly man with white hair and said with a beaming smile.

"Well done, Xin'er, went out gathering herbs again, so obedient. Come, show Master what kind of herbs you gathered."

The old man gently stroked the child's head, taking the medicinal herbs from his hand.

"Yes, Master. These are the Veronica and Echinacea you taught me about a few days ago. Xin'er hasn't gotten them mixed up, has she?"

"Haha, no, Xin'er is really smart. Take them out and let them air dry."

"Yes, that's great."

The child took the herbs and ran out happily. Looking at the child's departing figure, a hint of helplessness appeared on the elder's face, as if he was very reluctant to part with the child.

“Oh, Xin'er, Master’s time is drawing near. I fear I won't be able to stay with you for long. In my life, there isn't much that I regret. The only thing that troubles me is you. You are still too young. It's a pity that Heaven won't give me more time. All I wish is to live a few more years and watch you grow up slowly.”

The old man let out a sigh, his voice heavy with resignation and unwillingness, yet he was helpless.

Speaking of this old man, he was quite famous in the Ming Dynasty and even surrounding countries. He wasn't famous for his wealth or high status, but for his medical skills. The old man's name was Xiaoyaozi, but no one knew his real name. He also had a resounding title, "The Divine Healer of Defying Death." His medical skills were extraordinary, like those of a fairy. Legend has it that he could bring people back to life even from the dead and bones, making him the number one divine physician in the world. No one knew his origins, but his name had been around for over a hundred years, so he was given the title of "Immortal."

The enigmatic Xiaoyaozi lived a life shrouded in mystery. His medical skills were unmatched, surpassing all others. However, he had strict rules when it came to practicing medicine. He would not save those who were destined to die and would not treat those who were fated for death. To seek Xiaoyaozi's help, one had to prepare certain necessities: celestial herbs or martial arts manuals, serving as bargaining chips, or fulfilling a condition set by Xiaoyaozi. Those who could owe favors to Xiaoyaozi were undoubtedly extraordinary individuals. Naturally, some people were unwilling to abide by Xiaoyaozi's rules. In the past, someone had attempted to force Xiaoyaozi to save someone, but they met a swift and merciless end at his hands. This incident made it clear that Xiaoyaozi was not only a medical genius but also a martial arts master of unparalleled skill. To defy him was akin to courting death. From then on, no one dared to disrespect Xiaoyaozi again.

Jiuhua Mountain, known as Huatianbao, is a land of outstanding people and spiritual energy. It's called "the Immortal Mountain" because it is perpetually shrouded in clouds and mist, resembling a fairyland. People believe that immortals reside within the mountain, though they are rarely seen. Nevertheless, this place has become a sought-after destination for those seeking immortality and enlightenment, a blessed land for spiritual seekers. Deep within Jiuhua Mountain lies a secluded valley called Qingling Valley. It is perpetually shrouded in clouds and mist, making it difficult for ordinary people to enter. This valley is considered a sacred place on Jiuhua Mountain because the immortal Xiaoyaozi resided there. He used the natural clouds and mist as a veil, making it inaccessible to outsiders and providing him with tranquility amidst the noise of the world.

This Qingling Valley was also where Xiaoyaozi, when he was young, accidentally discovered it. After entering the valley, he obtained great opportunities and became a renowned immortal doctor from then on. There were no other people in this Qingling Valley except for Xiaoyaozi and his disciple Lingxin who lived there together. The master and apprentice depended on each other for survival. Speaking of Lingxin, he was fated to meet Xiaoyaozi. A few years ago, Xiaoyaozi went into the mountains to collect herbs and accidentally heard a baby crying. He went to investigate and found an infant abandoned in the forest. When Xiaoyaozi picked up the infant, the crying stopped, and the baby smiled at him instead. Xiaoyaozi felt that he had a connection with this child. In his heart, he thought it was heaven's way of seeing that his lifespan was nearing its end and sending him an apprentice, so he brought the child back to the valley to raise him. Since the infant needed milk, Xiaoyaozi searched the mountains for tiger, leopard, and wild animal milk to feed him. Gradually, the infant grew up and became exceptionally intelligent. Xiaoyaozi named him Lingxin and taught him medicine, martial arts, and reading and writing. Although Lingxin was young, he was very obedient and learned everything seriously, which greatly pleased Xiaoyaozi.

"Oh!"

Xiao Yaozi sighed again, this sigh spoke volumes of helplessness.

"What's wrong with Master?"

Xiaolingxin is not yet four years old this year. She is carefree and has no idea why Xiaoyaozi sighs. In her eyes, as long as she listens to her master, her master will be happy, so Xiaolingxin has always been obedient and never makes Xiaoyaozi angry.

(Editor in charge：the handmaid's tale a novel)