“Shh, shh, come over here! There’s something good for you!”
“Hey! Don’t make noise! Let him choose for himself!”
The hall buzzed with voices, everyone speaking at once, all wearing joyful expressions as if celebrating some happy event. Heads bobbed as dozens of people crowded around a round table, staring at a small infant on the table.
The baby didn’t have three heads and six arms—just a round face, plump and rosy, lying among the various objects on the table with a rather dazed expression. On the left side of the table were brush, inkstone, paper, ink, and the Four Books and Five Classics; on the right were helmet, armor, wooden sword, military manuals, and command tokens—both scholarly and martial items were present. In the center lay a yellow scale beam and red abacus—tools used by merchants.
Scholar, farmer, artisan, merchant—about a hundred different items from all walks of life filled the round table completely. The infant lay among them, gazing bewildered at the laughing crowd surrounding him, seeming not to understand why they had gathered around him.
The baby made babbling sounds and crawled forward, suddenly touching a brush handle and grasping it.
“He picked it up! He picked it up!” Hearing everyone’s shouting, the baby was startled and quickly threw away the brush, continuing to crawl forward restlessly. A young woman at the table’s edge flew into a rage and shouted loudly, “Don’t make noise! My son was going to take the brush—you scared him away!”
Everyone quickly closed their mouths but still wore smiles. They say mother and child are connected at heart—having just been blessed with a precious son, at this crucial “zhuazhou” moment, no wonder she was nervous for her child.
Ancient custom dictated that when an infant reached one year old, parents and elders would use the “zhuazhou” ritual to see what objects the baby preferred, thus understanding the child’s future inclinations and achievements. At this time, Chinese culture valued literature and especially prized fame and status, so parents mostly hoped their children would pick scholarly implements during zhuazhou for good fortune.
All eyes focused intently on the baby. The child looked foolish as he crawled toward the table’s center, passing through brush, inkstone, paper, and ink without a glance. Suddenly the infant saw a woman’s undergarment and seemed curious, stopping to look down. The young woman was on high alert, fearing her son would reach for it, frantically waving and shouting, “Don’t touch that! Get away quickly!” Hearing his mother’s shouts, the baby instead laughed joyfully and picked up the undergarment as if to put it on.
Seeing her son’s behavior, the young woman immediately screamed in horror, “No! Don’t take that!”
Seeing the young woman with tears in her eyes and pale face, the onlookers burst into laughter, “Sister Shu, congratulations! You’ve given birth to a romantic rogue!”
Sister Shu covered her ears and cried out, “It doesn’t count! It doesn’t count! Who put this cursed thing in there? How could anyone be so wicked?”
Someone chuckled and stepped forward from the crowd, saying apologetically, “Sorry, I put that undergarment there.”
Sister Shu turned to look—this person was about twenty years old, with red lips and white teeth, quite handsome. It was her cousin Yang Shaoqi. She became angrier and burst into tears, “Shaoqi, what grudge do I have against you? Why torment your nephew like this? Wah wah… wah wah… What kind of uncle are you?”
Yang Shaoqi looked embarrassed and quickly coughed, “I just saw the table full of books and got curious, so I put some other things in. I didn’t think… didn’t think…”
Someone nearby continued, “Didn’t think this little infant would be so remarkable—already a lecherous rogue!” Everyone laughed again.
Sister Shu threw herself at a nearby woman, crying in her embrace, “Second Aunt, cousin is bullying my son—you must judge this for me!” She stamped her feet indignantly, absolutely refusing to let it go.
The middle-aged beauty frowned at Yang Shaoqi, shaking her head and sighing, “Look at you, no sense at all. Why don’t you learn from your brother… Twenty years old, already passed the imperial examinations, and still so mischievous?”
Hearing his mother’s scolding, Yang Shaoqi knew better than to argue. He stuck out his tongue and said to the young woman, “Sister Shu, it’s my fault. I’ll give this undergarment to your son as an apology—how about that?”
Everyone looked at the infant, who had actually put on the undergarment. Sister Shu saw her son’s ridiculous appearance and cried even louder.
The middle-aged beauty exclaimed, somewhat angry, and scolded, “Still talking nonsense! So ill-behaved! Wait until your father returns—see how he punishes you!” She spoke softly to comfort them, hoping her niece would stop crying.
Seeing his cousin crying endlessly, Yang Shaoqi knew he’d caused serious trouble. He coughed and stepped forward to persuade, “Sister Shu, stop crying. This zhuazhou can’t be taken seriously—don’t believe it.”
Sister Shu said resentfully, “You’re an imperial scholar and official, of course you don’t care, but you’ve made my son into… into…” She didn’t know what to say. Looking at her son, who was happily playing with women’s undergarments, she couldn’t help crying again.
Madam Yang quickly comforted her, “Stop crying. Shaoqi’s words aren’t unreasonable. Zhuazhou really can’t be taken seriously. Do you know what Shaoqi grabbed when he was little?”
Sister Shu, with tearful eyes, said irritably, “He’s so good at studying—what else could he grab? Either a brush or books. What other ridiculous things could there be?”
Madam Yang smiled slightly and instructed the steward, “Old Cai, bring that wooden box.” Soon the steward Old Cai hurriedly brought over a wooden box, presenting it carefully to Madam Yang. Everyone was curious, waiting to see.
Madam Yang smiled and took out an item from the box, “Shu Yuan, open your eyes and see what this is.”
Sister Shu cried out in surprise and quickly reached for it—it was a wooden painted face, a Peking opera mask for children to play with.
Madam Yang laughed, “That year, Shaoqi didn’t pick anything good—he chose a painted face mask. His father was furious and wanted to beat him on the spot.”
The steward came over with a smile, “Indeed! That year the master was beside himself with rage, saying the family had produced an actor and wanted to beat the young master to death. Fortunately, Madam had sharp eyes and saw a bagua symbol on the painted face, recognizing it as the mask of Jiang Wei, Zhuge Liang’s disciple. She quickly told the master, and our young master escaped a beating.”
Sister Shu made a sound of understanding, picked up the mask to examine it, and suddenly broke into laughter, glancing at Yang Shaoqi, “I wouldn’t have guessed you were Zhuge Liang’s disciple!”
Yang Shaoqi shook his head and laughed, “Don’t tease me. His master was the Crouching Dragon; my master is an old pedant—how can they compare?” He paused and smiled again, “It’s just strange that as I get older, I find myself enjoying opera more. Would you like to hear me perform ‘Empty Fort Strategy’?”
Hearing everyone cheer loudly, Yang Shaoqi extended two fingers, tucked his body, and struck a pose. His face was handsome and very attractive, but Madam Yang quickly stopped him, frowning, “No more singing. Your father just spoke about this—how have you forgotten already?”
Everyone understood that Yang Yuan’s household discipline was strict and he disliked his younger son’s obsession with side pursuits. Yang Shaoqi sighed and nodded, “Fine, if I can’t sing, then I won’t. It’s nothing.” His originally clear and bright face showed a trace of loneliness, as if somewhat melancholy.
Madam Yang smiled gently, “Now that’s mother’s precious treasure.” She held his hand, indicating he shouldn’t feel bad.
Just then, the main gate opened—someone had returned home. With heavy rain falling, servants quickly came out with umbrellas to greet them. Footsteps echoed as a man in official robes slowly entered the courtyard. The guests in the hall looked back to see a man with distinguished brows and starry eyes, holding an oil-paper umbrella in his right hand. It was the Yang family’s eldest son returning.
Sister Shu was twenty-three this year. Though already married with children, seeing her cousin enter the courtyard, she couldn’t help blushing with a racing heart, feeling a sense of longing. She looked at Madam Yang and asked quietly, “Second Aunt, cousin Suguan is such a high official—people call him the ‘Romantic Physician.’ What… what did he grab during his zhuazhou?”
Madam Yang frowned, “What ‘Romantic Physician’? Don’t call him by that nickname—I don’t like it at all.”
Sister Shu’s face reddened, but her heart filled with hope. Earlier her son had grabbed an undergarment—probably destined to be a romantic figure too. If he grew up with even half of Yang Suguan’s distinction and excellence, she as his mother would be overjoyed. She tugged at her aunt’s hand persistently, “Aunt, please tell me—what did cousin Suguan grab as a child?”
Unable to resist her pestering, Madam Yang opened the wooden box again. Inside lay a book—Confucius’s Analects—and nothing else. Sister Shu exclaimed and took out the book, “He… he grabbed a book?”
Sister Shu casually flipped through it, wanting to comment, when suddenly something small slipped from between the pages. Just as it was about to fall, the sharp-eyed steward quickly caught it. Madam Yang looked displeased and quickly took back the book, then carefully retrieved the object from the steward and tucked it back into the book.
Sister Shu watched from the side and saw the small item was round, about the size of a fingernail, resembling a cloth button. Her curiosity was piqued, but observing carefully, Second Aunt seemed uncomfortable. Sister Shu sensed something amiss and quickly swallowed her questions.
Someone once said that for women in troubled times, the most important thing was to find a suitable husband for a good match; if that couldn’t be achieved, then settle for second best and find a noble place to display virtue and become a virtuous woman.
Words like “chaste” and “virtuous” perfectly described Madam Yang’s life.
Marrying Grand Secretary Yang Yuan, decades had passed in a flash. In the past, their family was destitute, and Madam Yang worked hard making and selling sheepskin to survive, eventually meeting the romantic and talented Yang Yuan of those days. Later they married, their two sons succeeded, and finally their hardships turned to happiness. Especially their eldest son, who became the renowned “Romantic Department Physician,” was the envy of virtuous wives and loving mothers everywhere.
What more could one ask for in life? Madam Yang thought this as she smiled, arranging her son’s topknot. Mother and son sat together by the window table. Sunlight streamed in, illuminating their equally snow-white skin and straight, elegant noses, making it clear they were mother and son—and the most beautiful mother and son in the world.
Looking at her beloved son in the mirror, Madam Yang noticed that compared to his brother Yang Shaoqi, Yang Suguan appeared much more mature. When deep in thought, his handsomeness radiated intelligence. How could such a man not make girls fall in love?
Madam Yang’s face was full of tenderness as she gently kissed her beloved son’s cheek and sat close beside him. She asked, “Shu Yuan was asking earlier—weren’t you close with the Gu family’s young lady recently? How is it that she suddenly got engaged to another man?”
Yang Suguan coughed, “Mother, don’t worry too much. Miss Gu is my superior’s beloved daughter. My daily care and concern for her is only proper—I absolutely have no other intentions.”
Madam Yang smiled and shook her head, “Don’t give me that selfless official rhetoric. Your father isn’t here—don’t tell mother such things.” She poured a cup of hot tea, brought it to her beloved son’s lips, fed him a sip, and asked, “Guan Guan, tell mother the truth—do you have someone you care about?”
Born in Jiangnan, Madam Yang spoke in soft, gentle tones. No matter how high an official her son became or how old he grew, when no one else was around, she still used his childhood nickname. Those two characters “Guan Guan” with the first tone high and second tone short, were especially intimate.
Yang Suguan didn’t mind, took the teacup, and shook his head, “Mother, don’t worry. I’m in my twenties—what can’t I handle? Why should you worry about marriage matters?”
Madam Yang glanced at him sideways with a gentle smile, “Since childhood, your father has managed your studies, examinations, martial arts training, and official career. Mother has nothing else to think about, so naturally I worry about your marriage.” She arranged her beloved son’s hair, “What about what your third uncle proposed last time? What do you think?”
Yang Suguan put down his teacup and nodded, “Very well. I’ll follow uncle’s suggestion and invite cousin Shuning to stay at our house for a while.”
Madam Yang was overjoyed, hugging her beloved son’s neck and laughing, “Shuning is so sweet and obedient. Mother has had this matchmaking idea for a long time. Your third uncle mentioned it to mother several times, but I was afraid you wouldn’t be happy, so I never agreed…”
As they were talking, the room door suddenly opened and an elderly man stepped in with an extremely serious expression. Madam Yang quickly released her son and stood far apart from him by the table. Yang Suguan straightened his official robes, stood up, and slightly bowed to the elder, calling, “Father.”
The newcomer was about fifty years old. Though past middle age, he still looked quite distinguished—this was Five-Assistant Grand Secretary Yang Yuan, father of the “Romantic Department Physician.”
Yang Yuan picked up a chair and sat down, lifted his teacup, glanced at his wife to indicate she should leave. Madam Yang knew her husband had matters to discuss with their beloved son, so she dared not linger and turned to leave the room.
Yang Yuan calmly lifted his teacup and took a sip, seeming to enjoy the fragrant tea. Yang Suguan stood beside him motionless, his eyes fixed straight ahead, completely unlike his usual composed and graceful manner—Yang Yuan’s household rules were evidently extremely strict.
After a long while, Yang Yuan finally put down his teacup and looked at his beloved son, “In life, studying literature and practicing martial arts—what do we seek?”
Yang Suguan lowered his head and answered, “We seek nothing else but to strive for advancement.”
Yang Yuan’s expression showed approval as he continued, “In managing household, treating people, and handling official matters—what is most important?”
Yang Suguan sighed softly and answered, “Serve father as lord, honor mother with filial piety. When seeking wealth and official position, one must not lose clarity in the situation.”
Yang Yuan clapped his hands and smiled, “Very good. Worthy of father’s years of careful instruction.”
Yang Suguan bowed, “Suguan dares not forget father’s teachings.”
Yang Yuan narrowed his eyes, sipped his tea, and said, “Father has been strict with you since childhood—all for your future prospects. You must endure more.” He stood up and grasped Yang Suguan’s hand firmly.
Both father and son were tall and slender, of similar height. Under his father’s intense gaze, Yang Suguan felt somewhat uncomfortable and turned his head away, unwilling to meet his eyes. His handsome face wore a smile, but his expression was somewhat stiff, as if even his breathing had stopped.
Seeing his expression, Yang Yuan suddenly smiled and slowly released his hand, “You lived as a monk at Shaolin Temple from childhood and only returned to the capital at eighteen. No wonder we’re more distant than ordinary fathers and sons.”
Yang Suguan bowed slightly, “Your son is now twenty-five or twenty-six, already a grown man, no longer an ignorant child. Father need not worry.”
Yang Yuan nodded slightly and stepped forward to close the window shutters. Suddenly he slammed his palm heavily on the table and shouted, “You say you’re sensible? What exactly are you hiding from me!” The teacup couldn’t withstand the shock and immediately rolled off the table, shattering on the floor!
The scene suddenly turned dramatic. Though Yang Suguan was steady and experienced, surprise still flashed across his face. He quickly raised both palms and floated back three feet, his sect’s mental techniques already flowing through his body. Suddenly remembering the person before him was his father and such vigilance was unnecessary, he quickly lowered his hands, regulated his breathing, and replied, “Your son dares not hide anything from father. Please calm your anger.”
Yang Yuan said coldly, “Suguan, ah Suguan, your father has experienced countless great scenes to earn this position of Five-Assistant Grand Secretary. You have matters hidden in your heart and still think you can deceive me?”
Hearing these words, Yang Suguan’s body trembled involuntarily. He bowed with clasped hands but remained silent.
Yang Yuan controlled his temper, stepped forward to face his beloved son, and said coldly, “Since you began working for Marquis Liu, father has stayed out of your affairs out of respect for the Marquis. Tell me, why is father so angry today?”
Yang Suguan sighed, “Because ‘he’ is very important.”
Yang Yuan nodded, “Good, you know ‘he’ is important. Then father must ask you…” He paused, his tone and manner extremely cold. “Tell father—where is ‘he’?”
Yang Suguan closed his eyes and shook his head, “Your son said before—I didn’t find ‘him’ that day.”
Yang Yuan flew into a rage and shouted, “Didn’t find ‘him’? You clearly arrived at the Qin mansion first that day—why couldn’t you find him? Suguan, ah Suguan, you’ve been lying since childhood. Know that you can deceive Liu Angtian but not me, Yang Yuan!” In his fury, he raised his palm high, about to strike his beloved son’s face.
Yang Suguan neither blocked nor dodged, only looked up to heaven with eyes tightly closed. Just as the palm was about to fall, Yang Yuan suddenly came to his senses. He stopped his hand and placed both hands on his son’s shoulders, sighing, “I’m sorry—father was anxious and my old habits surfaced. For your mother’s sake, don’t blame father.”
A shadow passed over Yang Suguan’s face, “Father, your son has always obeyed you completely, absolutely without deception. Though I hurried there that day, I couldn’t find any trace of that person.” He sighed and shook his head, “Father, no matter how capable your son is, I don’t know where ‘he’ went. If you don’t believe me, there’s nothing I can do.”
Hearing these words, Yang Yuan’s face became cold and rigid—if not for his slightly moving eyeballs, he would have seemed like a stone statue.
After a long, long time, Yang Yuan took a deep breath, “Fine. Since you say this, father believes you. This matter ends here.” He grasped his beloved son’s hands with a loving expression.
Yang Suguan bowed, “Thank you, father.” He avoided his father’s handclasp, stepped aside, and stood with hands hanging respectfully.
Seeing his son’s unhappy expression, Yang Yuan patted his shoulder comfortingly. He returned to the table, lifted his cup, and sipped tea, “Let’s not talk about that. Last night Monk Lingyin came to the mansion looking for you—what urgent matter was it?”
Yang Suguan turned his gaze aside and said softly, “Master Tianjue asked senior brother to relay a message for me to return to Shaolin to discuss the court situation.”
Yang Yuan showed admiration and nodded, “Master Tianjue, being beyond worldly concerns, can still worry before the world worries—truly remarkable.” He smiled slightly and looked sideways at his beloved son, “In a few days your mother will celebrate her birthday. There are household matters to handle—go early and return early to help father with arrangements.”
Yang Suguan nodded, “Your son understands. Please don’t worry, father.”
Yang Yuan smiled slightly. After a long while, he finally slowly stood up, ready to leave.
Yang Suguan was usually calm and at ease, but in his father’s presence, he remained respectful and constrained. He rushed ahead of his father to open the door and waited with a bow. Suddenly Yang Yuan stopped and smiled sideways, “Son, yesterday father saw a confidential memorial in the palace. Would you like to know the details?”
Yang Suguan’s heart trembled as he bowed, “Father cares for Suguan. If you think your son should know, you will surely inform him.” This response was very skillful—neither asking nor refusing, just deflecting the question back.
Hearing this response, Yang Yuan immediately smiled and nodded, “This memorial concerns you—you should naturally know about it.”
Though Yang Suguan was clever, he couldn’t help being slightly puzzled. He was only a fifth-rank official, neither a Ministry Secretary nor Cabinet Scholar—he didn’t know why this memorial would mention him. He looked at his father with questioning eyes.
Yang Suguan leaned close and whispered, “Son, you’ve finally made it. Liu Angtian petitioned the court saying his health was severely declining and he couldn’t serve. He strongly recommended the emperor promote you twelve grades to act as Northern Expedition Grand Commander.”
Yang Suguan looked completely astonished, as if struck by five thunderbolts, unable to speak.
Yang Yuan looked at his beloved son and smiled, “The national center is a place of life and death—not the slightest negligence is permitted. Be more careful in the future. Father will assist you from the side. Understand?”
Yang Suguan didn’t answer directly, turned his head away, and bowed, “Father, please go slowly.”
The distinguished Grand Secretary turned and left, closing the door behind him. Only the fifth-rank physician remained in the room.
Very quiet—no other sounds could be heard, and naturally no one was spying nearby. Yang Suguan poured a cup of water and was about to drink when suddenly his face showed indignation. He angrily threw the teacup—crash! The cup hit the wall, porcelain shards flew accompanied by countless water drops, all spilling on the floor.
Yang Suguan slumped in his chair and covered his face with his hands, looking very weary.
A very lonely feeling—no one believed him…
Sunlight slanted in, illuminating his straight nose. In the shadow, the corner of his mouth trembled slightly—perhaps from sadness, perhaps from pity, perhaps… perhaps there were other emotions there, colors even he couldn’t see…
That night, with torrential rain, Qin Zhonghai lit signal fires to summon his former brothers back to the mountain. Yan Er’niang feared the fires would die out and stood guard nearby, but Qin Zhonghai took advantage of their alone time to propose to her by the beacon fire. Yan Er’niang was both shy and happy—after confused questioning, she confusedly agreed.
Qin Zhonghai was a straightforward man. Since confessing his feelings, he treated Yan Er’niang as his lover without further restraint. But Yan Er’niang wasn’t as direct as him. Usually she remained composed when the brothers were around, but whenever they were alone, she felt awkward. Every time she remembered Qin Zhonghai would become her husband, she inexplicably developed many feminine shy behaviors. If he wanted her to come closer, she’d step back instead. If he tried to kiss her, she’d slap him. If he reached to embrace her, flying darts would come his way. It was truly laughable and exasperating.
Since lighting the signal fires, the situation had become extremely dangerous. Court troops could attack the mountain at any time, but perhaps old brothers would remember their bonds and come in time to help. To show sincerity, Qin Zhonghai and his men took turns guarding the mountain base, waiting for passing brothers.
This day was pleasant with gentle winds. Except for Xiang Tianshou remaining on the mountain, everyone else went to the mountain base to wait for brothers. Ha Bu’er and Tao Qing had even prepared fine wine and delicacies, but after waiting all morning, not a single person appeared.
Seeing noon approaching, Yan Er’niang’s delicate brows furrowed slightly, “How strange. We’ve waited several days but no one has come. Could it be the beacon fires aren’t bright enough?”
Qin Zhonghai looked up at the beacon tower and saw flames soaring skyward with tremendous force, clearly visible even from a li away. He laughed heartily and shook his head, “The fires are bright enough—I’m afraid loyalty has been forgotten.”
Hearing him say this, Yan Er’niang couldn’t help sighing slightly. If the brothers were truly heartless and disloyal, this undertaking would surely fail. When court troops arrived, they probably couldn’t even defend this main stronghold.
While thinking, suddenly horse hooves sounded. Ha Bu’er was delighted and called out, “Who says the brothers are heartless? Look, someone’s coming now!” His face was full of joy as he prepared to go forward in welcome.
Tao Qing grabbed him and said frantically, “Don’t rush forward—it might be court troops.”
Ha Bu’er was startled and quickly stopped. Standing on tiptoe to look into the distance, he saw dust clouds in the distance as if troops were approaching. Looking more carefully, he saw the lead figure wearing military uniform with a straight sword at his waist. As Tao Qing had predicted, court forces had indeed arrived!
Ha Bu’er was both shocked and frightened, saying urgently, “What do we do? The army is coming—should we flee?” Yan Er’niang snorted and drew her willow-leaf blade, immediately ready to charge forward and kill. Seeing their panicked behavior, Qin Zhonghai coughed and said, “Everyone, stay calm. According to court military procedure, these people should be scouts just coming to assess the situation. Let them approach—I have questions to ask.”
Coming from the Liu faction, Qin Zhonghai knew how the court deployed troops. Yan Er’niang and the others, called back by him, had no choice but to stand motionless, each guarding their position by the roadside.
Soon the lead officer rode forward and was startled to see a large man lounging lazily on a big rock, with a beautiful woman and several odd characters standing nearby. First surprised, they then shouted, “You people, where do you come from? Did you light those beacon fires?”
Ha Bu’er, eager to show off, immediately jumped forward and, imitating Qin Zhonghai’s manner, pointed accusingly and cursed, “You dogs, listen well! I am Ha Bu’er of Nucang Mountain—tuck your tails and scram quickly, and grandpa might spare your lives!”
Hearing Ha Bu’er’s fierce words, the soldiers looked at each other and couldn’t help bursting into laughter, “You rabbit dare call yourself a Nucang bandit? That’s enough to make us die laughing!” The lead officer sighed, “How absurd—we mobilize our forces only to encounter madmen… what a joke.”
Amid the mocking laughter, Ha Bu’er was naturally both shocked and furious, cursing loudly.
The officers had originally wanted to assess the situation to earn some merit, but seeing only three or five nameless nobodies gathered at the mountain base, they couldn’t help feeling disappointed. It seemed these ignorant fools had heard the name Nucang Mountain and were imitating others by occupying mountains and declaring rebellion.
The lead officer, having wasted his effort, was cursing continuously when he noticed Yan Er’niang was quite beautiful. Remembering his superior’s lustful nature, he said, “Alright, everyone capture this female bandit to take back—at least we’ll have something to show.”
Everyone agreed and spurred their horses to surround her. A tall man called out, “Little beauty! What’s your name?”
Hearing their frivolous words, Yan Er’niang was furious and wanted to attack, but heard Qin Zhonghai say sternly, “Er’niang, step back.”
Hearing the killing intent in his voice, Yan Er’niang’s heart trembled. Knowing Qin Zhonghai would handle this himself, she retreated to wait on the side.
Though Qin Zhonghai had now rebelled, he had fought for the court for many years and was well-acquainted with military people. When acting, he would show some consideration for old relationships—he wasn’t a madman who killed everyone on sight. However, these officers molesting women had crossed a line. Seeing this, Qin Zhonghai already had thoughts of killing them. He blocked the road and said sternly, “Which garrison are you from? Who is your commanding officer?”
One officer, hearing his steady tone as if he too were a court official, couldn’t help being startled, “Who are you?”
Qin Zhonghai’s face showed intense killing intent as he narrowed his eyes and said coldly, “Didn’t your commanding officer teach you? When speaking with others, you must dismount to avoid being rude! Shut up, dismount, then report your names.”
Hearing his tone exactly like a superior instructing subordinates, the officer couldn’t help being angry, “Bastard! What are you? How dare you speak to me like this!”
Qin Zhonghai chuckled coldly, “Want to know who I am? Then follow the old rules. Shut up, dismount, then give your names. Otherwise, for molesting women, according to military law, you’ll be executed without mercy.”
The officers numbered about thirty. Hearing Qin Zhonghai’s arrogance and seeing only five opponents including a woman—truly pitifully outnumbered—they all burst into laughter, cursing, “Where did this fool come from? How ridiculous!”
Yan Er’niang could no longer restrain herself and angrily said, “How dare you! This is the former court fourth-rank sword-bearing commander, current master of Nucang Mountain, Qin Zhonghai—watch your words!”
The lead officer’s position was too low to know that the person before him was the fierce general Qin Zhonghai who had served under Liu Angtian. He yawned and laughed, “What master of Nucang Mountain? These three or five worthless ghosts dare call themselves kings?”
Everyone laughed again. Yan Er’niang was both angry and resentful, drawing out steel darts, ready to attack immediately.
Just then, a low voice came from the distance, saying hauntingly, “Who is the master of Nucang Mountain… who is the master of Nucang Mountain…”
This voice was long and desolate. Initially it came from far away, but within a few sentences, it grew louder and louder. Everyone present—whether court officers or Nucang heroes—felt their hearts tremble. They turned their heads to see, with the sun directly overhead, a soft sedan chair slowly approaching, carried by four bearers in front and back. Seated in the center was a white-haired man wearing a cloak, sitting cross-legged with a large iron sword laid flat across his knees. Though silent, he emanated such dignity that people unconsciously felt alarmed and intimidated.
Seeing this white-haired elder, Yan Er’niang, Ha Bu’er, and others immediately cheered with joy. In her delight, Yan Er’niang was about to go forward to greet him, but after only a few steps, someone grabbed her. She turned to see a person smiling at her—wearing monk’s robes, bald-headed, and rather small in stature. It was Monk Zhi Guan, who had traveled to Tibet with them some time ago.
Yan Er’niang said joyfully, “Master, you came too?” Zhi Guan nodded slightly but pulled her aside. Not knowing what he intended, Yan Er’niang was about to ask when Zhi Guan raised his finger to his lips, signaling silence. Knowing something was unusual, Yan Er’niang quietly stood aside to observe the situation.
The officers, seeing the elder’s sudden arrival, were first startled, but seeing he had only a few sedan bearers with him, they became arrogant again. One officer rode forward cursing, “Old man, where are you from? At your age, instead of waiting to die at home, you come here to cause trouble…”
The elder ignored him completely, his eyes lowered, saying, “Who is the master of Nucang Mountain?”
This question had been asked before. The officer spat and said, “Old man! I am the master of Nucang Mountain—what do you intend to do?”
The elder roared like a tiger, suddenly raising his head with fierce flames shooting from his eyes. The officer was first startled, but thinking of his numerical advantage, his spirits revived and he laughed, “What? I am the master of Nucang Mountain—are you dissatisfied?”
As the officer was mocking, he suddenly heard urgent wind above his head. Looking up quickly, he saw an iron sword slashing down wildly like dark clouds covering the sky. The officer turned pale with fright. Carrying twin spears, seeing the black shadow devouring him from above, he hastily raised his spears to block.
With a thunderous crash, the twin spears met the iron sword and immediately broke into four pieces. The officer didn’t even have time to cry out before he and his horse were cleaved into a mass of bloody pulp, blood spattering in a horrifying sight.
The elder took a deep breath and turned to look at everyone, saying grimly, “Who is the master of Nucang Mountain?”
When Yan Er’niang, Ha Bu’er, and others met his gaze, they all felt shocked and stepped back.
Seeing their comrade’s gruesome death, the soldiers were both shocked and furious. The lead officer shouted, “Bandits and rebels dare kill court officials? Everyone prepare your bows and arrows—shoot this man dead!” Everyone hastily agreed, drawing their bows and nocking arrows. With a series of swishing sounds, countless arrows flew toward the elder.
The arrow rain was dense, but the elder seemed oblivious. He roared toward heaven, “Who dares claim to be master of Nucang Mountain! Step forward!” He raised his iron sword and spun it in a slash. Accompanied by thunder-like roaring, dust filled the air as a wall of sand rose from the ground, reaching over ten feet high. Having never seen such a phenomenon, everyone screamed in terror. Amid neighing horses and shouting people, countless arrows struck the sand wall and fell to the ground. The elder continued howling wildly like a demon.
After a long while, the howling ceased. The pattering sounds were dense as raindrops as the sand wall finally fell back to earth like a torrential downpour. Everyone watched with pounding hearts and saw the iron sword had carved a deep furrow in the sandy ground, extending over ten feet in all directions. Seeing such power, both sides turned pale and trembled secretly.
Seeing the elder was like a monster, who dared move a fraction or say half a word? The elder looked at the lead officer with killing intent and said coldly, “Are you the one claiming to be master of Nucang Mountain?” As he spoke, he got down from the sedan and walked toward the lead officer.
This elder was tall and imposing with pressure piercing eyes. Watching him approach step by step as if about to devour someone, the lead officer was terrified, knowing he faced certain death. He quickly rolled off his horse, fell to his knees, and begged for mercy, “Your Majesty, it’s not this humble person’s fault!” The other soldiers, seeing this, were also frightened out of their wits and all rolled off their horses, kneeling motionlessly. Soon, sobbing sounds could be heard.
The elder strode forward proudly and looked coldly at Yan Er’niang and others, “Who claims to be master of Nucang Mountain? Step forward.”
Though Tao Qing, Ha Bu’er, and others wanted to answer, when the elder glared at them, they felt cold all over and swallowed back the words they were about to speak. Yan Er’niang had always been bold and brave and was about to step forward when someone rushed ahead of her, saying sternly, “Friend, if you have something to say, say it to me. Don’t trouble others.” This person was composed and fearless—it was Qin Zhonghai!
The elder said grimly, “Are you the master of Nucang Mountain?” Qin Zhonghai smiled slightly, “I never acknowledged that—others gave me the title. It can’t be taken seriously.”
Anger flashed across the elder’s face as he roared, “Arrogant!”
Suddenly a black shadow flashed as something chopped down from above. Everyone screamed loudly, “Watch out!”
Sparks flew as a tremendous crash rang out, causing severe pain in everyone’s ears—they didn’t know what had happened. Looking carefully, they saw Qin Zhonghai holding his blade with one hand, having blocked that black shadow. Onlookers could see clearly that the black shadow was a large iron sword, nine feet long—if stood upright, it would be taller than an ordinary person. The heavy sword’s inner force striking down with full power was truly terrifying. If Qin Zhonghai hadn’t achieved divine skill, he absolutely couldn’t have blocked such fierce swordwork.
The elder took a deep breath and said sternly, “Good blade work—is this the ‘Fire Greed Single Blade’?” Hearing him call out his technique’s name, Qin Zhonghai immediately sheathed his blade and cupped his hands, “Precisely. May I ask your distinguished name…”
Before he could say “name,” the elder raised his iron sword. Amid howling sword wind, he slashed horizontally toward Qin Zhonghai. Seeing the incoming sword’s momentum was too strong, Qin Zhonghai immediately channeled power into his left arm and blocked this sword with one hand.
Blade met sword with another tremendous crash. A fierce, strange force struck his arm. Qin Zhonghai’s face flashed red as he channeled power down through both feet and shouted, finally managing to hold his ground.
The elder withdrew his iron sword and said coldly, “Do you know who I am now?”
Having clashed repeatedly with his heavy sword, how could Qin Zhonghai not know this person’s identity? He immediately expelled a breath of turbid air and said, “Truly worthy of the name ‘Iron Sword Shaking the Heavens and Earth’—senior’s swordwork is indeed remarkable.”
The newcomer was indeed “Iron Sword Shaking the Heavens and Earth” Li Tieshan. After leaving Tianshan and seeing treacherous ministers in power with no light in the Central Plains, Li Tieshan became disheartened and led his disciples to settle in the Western Regions. He had intended to end his remaining years in a foreign land, but some days ago, Zhi Guan sent word that Nucang Mountain intended to revive their great enterprise. Hearing this news, he led his disciples back to the Central Plains to assess the situation. This was his first meeting with Qin Zhonghai.
Li Tieshan spread his feet apart, using his sword as a staff with both hands on the hilt, gazing up at the sacred fire of Nucang. The sun hung high in the sky, illuminating his aged, deeply lined face with the mighty general’s bearing of one who had once dominated Nucang. He spoke slowly, word by word, “Friend, though you and I have never met, since you have lit the sacred fire, as one of the former Five Tigers, I cannot ignore this matter.”
Hearing his straightforward words, Qin Zhonghai was overjoyed and quickly cupped his hands, “I am overwhelmed with joy at such noble righteousness.” Li Tieshan looked sideways at Qin Zhonghai and said coldly, “Don’t thank me yet. If you want me to join, you must first answer one question.”
Qin Zhonghai coughed, “Senior, please ask—I will answer truthfully.”
Li Tieshan’s white eyebrows rose as he gazed at the sky. His serious expression showed he was recalling past events. Everyone present dared not disturb him and waited quietly. Apart from howling winds, only the officers’ whimpering cries reached their ears, adding to the fear.
After a long while, Li Tieshan exhaled deeply and said grimly, “To dominate the world requires three things: first, Heaven; second, circumstances; third, virtue. Former mountain master Qin Baxian possessed all three—Heaven, circumstances, and virtue—ultimately achieving great success and dominating the Central Plains for fourteen years. Today you wish to raise troops in rebellion—you must tell me which of these three treasures you possess.”
Qin Zhonghai was stunned by this question. With his disabled and severed limbs and contrary fate, Heaven’s mandate was far from him. Looking at circumstances, his side had only three or five small cats opposing the court’s hundreds of thousands of troops—that was completely empty too. As for himself being a debauchee and gambler, talking about virtue and reputation was like seeking fish by climbing a tree.
Qin Zhonghai smiled awkwardly and shook his head, “I’m terribly sorry—I have none of these three things.” Li Tieshan was stunned, staring at the young man before him, not knowing what to say.
Seeing his unhappy expression, Qin Zhonghai spread both hands, shrugged, and smiled, “Don’t be angry. We’re raising troops on the mountain just seeking a good fight. As for heavenly beings and ghosts, I really don’t have any of that.”
Seeing his frivolous and carefree attitude, caring nothing for anything, Li Tieshan was already uncomfortable. Hearing his casual tone, anger flared in his eyes as he pointed accusingly and cursed, “Bold maniac! Since you have nothing, how dare you occupy the mountain and rebel? These brothers following you—wouldn’t they be like lonely souls following wild ghosts? You say you want to revive the mountain stronghold—what do you rely on?”
Li Tieshan’s angry roar made everyone’s ears ring. Though this question was harsh, it concerned the stronghold’s future strategies. Seeing Li Tieshan’s expression, Yan Er’niang, Ha Bu’er, and others all felt alarmed. Tao Qing and Zhi Guan paid close attention, wanting to hear how Qin Zhonghai would respond.
Seeing his severe anger and fearing he might have a stroke, Qin Zhonghai quickly raised the steel blade in his hand and grinned, “Brother, don’t be angry. I have this.”
Li Tieshan was so angry he laughed, shouting, “What an arrogant youngster! Let’s exchange a few moves!”
Without further words, he removed his clothes, revealing a large tattoo on his back—a fierce tiger with the inscription “Like a fierce tiger lying on barren hills, hiding claws and fangs, enduring patiently.” The tiger’s forehead was tattooed with the character “South.”
Li Tieshan raised his iron sword with killing intent blazing in his eyes. Without another word, Qin Zhonghai also removed his outer clothes, revealing the flying tiger tattoo on his back: “If one day I achieve soaring ambitions, I dare laugh that Huang Chao was no true man.”
Qin Zhonghai held his blade across his chest, staring at Li Tieshan. The two were about ten feet apart, each channeling their inner power.
The officers knew the masters were about to fight and, deeply fearing being affected by their blade winds and sword energy, knelt trembling on the ground in terror, not daring to breathe. Xiang Tianshou, hearing the news, had also rushed to the mountain base to watch the two great masters’ duel. Everyone held their breath, waiting for them to determine the victor.
Yan Er’niang had no mind to care who was stronger or weaker. Seeing them inexplicably start fighting, she couldn’t help crying out, “What is this? Why are they fighting?” In her alarm, she was about to rush forward to stop them when Zhi Guan quickly held her back and whispered, “Er’niang, don’t panic. Master Li just wants to test General Qin and make friends with him—don’t interfere.”
Hearing this, Yan Er’niang still felt alarmed. Xiang Tianshou walked over and smiled, “Er’niang, this isn’t like your usual self.”
Yan Er’niang’s mind cleared, knowing she had been too concerned about Qin Zhonghai’s safety and forgotten the stronghold’s rules. In past years when stronghold brothers met, they naturally had to establish rankings through martial contests—this “making friends through martial arts” was a matter of utmost importance. Regardless of whether the newcomer joined the stronghold, if Qin Zhonghai didn’t show his skills, how could he command respect in the future?
Yan Er’niang sighed and said no more, just quietly watching.
The two heroes remained motionless, each channeling their energy and concentrating their power, waiting for the moment to strike.
Li Tieshan’s muscles tensed throughout his body, white mist rising from his head. He slowly raised his iron sword—already extremely heavy, Li Tieshan’s method of wielding it made it seem like Mount Tai pressing down, containing the force of a thousand pounds. Onlookers were secretly amazed by such inner power.
At this moment, besides Qin Zhonghai and Li Tieshan, Xiang Tianshou had the highest martial arts in the field. Seeing Li Tieshan’s greatly improved power, he smiled and nodded, “Haven’t seen him for years—General Tieshan’s power has deepened further. Looking at this thousand-pound iron sword, who could block even one strike from him?”
Li Tieshan raised his sword over his shoulder, looked at Qin Zhonghai, and said grimly, “Before we fight, I must warn you—this sword has cleaved giant rocks and is famous among high officials. If it falls, I fear you cannot withstand it. Young man, if you’re afraid, you might quickly surrender.”
Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily, “I won’t hide from you, senior—this blade has also subdued lions and slaughtered tigers, establishing pressure countless times on the frontier. How could there be any reason to retreat?”
Li Tieshan had originally feared striking too heavily and accidentally injuring him. Seeing Qin Zhonghai’s full confidence, he nodded, “If that’s the case, I won’t say more.”
Qin Zhonghai smiled, “Well said. Please attack first, Master.”
A roar thundered in the field as the iron sword chopped down with wind like thunder. “Clang!” Qin Zhonghai raised his blade overhead and blocked Li Tieshan’s earth-shaking slash with one arm. The sound was so tremendous it nearly shattered everyone’s eardrums.
Li Tieshan was startled. His swordwork was fierce and powerful—even when Zhuo Lingzhao had faced him in the past, he needed clever tricks and dared not directly block his sword. Yet this man before him, only about thirty years old, could receive this mighty slash as if nothing had happened. It seemed this person indeed had some skill.
Li Tieshan put aside his contempt, stepped back, and said sternly, “Well done! Try blocking another sword!” He roared and swept his sword horizontally from left to right with both hands, his momentum extremely magnificent. Qin Zhonghai nodded, “What magnificent pressure!” He bent his knees, lowered his shoulders, and placed his blade beside him. Another tremendous “clang!” rang out.
Sparks flew as powerful inner forces collided. Li Tieshan felt his tiger’s mouth grow hot, and his iron sword nearly slipped from his grasp. He wondered secretly, “This man has such superior martial arts—what school is he from?” Seeing his opponent’s martial arts were not inferior to his own, Li Tieshan no longer worried about accidentally injuring him. He roared and immediately began howling continuously, swinging his sword in fierce attacks, engaging Qin Zhonghai in intense combat.
Though Li Tieshan was old, his movements were agile, not inferior to a young man’s. The extremely heavy iron sword became surprisingly light in his hands, attacking with incredible speed. Sword light danced with continuous moves, yet its power far exceeded ordinary swords.
Qin Zhonghai secretly admired him, thinking, “This man’s martial arts are so remarkable—he’s no less than Shaolin’s Four Great Vajras. Nucang Mountain is indeed filled with talent.” Wanting to see more of Li Tieshan’s swordwork, he focused on defense without attacking.
One wielded a blade, the other a sword—both were extremely powerful. When they struck, sand flew everywhere, showing their techniques followed the most rigid and fierce paths. When these two heavy weapons met, each collision produced thunderous sounds. Everyone saw their martial arts were too domineering—each move could cleave iron and shatter gold. With the slightest carelessness, one would die horribly on the spot. Yan Er’niang’s heart hung on Qin Zhonghai’s safety. Ha Bu’er, Tao Qing, and others had limited martial arts. Seeing the dangerous scene, they all broke out in cold sweat.
Zhi Guan and Xiang Tianshou on the side felt no anxiety. Rarely encountering such a high-level duel, they seized this opportunity to watch closely, using their own martial arts to analyze their techniques.
Fighting fiercely, the two had exchanged over a hundred moves. Though Li Tieshan’s inner power was deep, the intense battle made his iron sword attacks seamless, but also gradually depleted his true strength. Li Tieshan knew prolonged battle was unfavorable to him. To win this fight, he must decide quickly. He channeled his power, and the iron sword thrust out like a spear, his face glowing with true energy, howling sounds coming from his mouth.
Xiang Tianshou exclaimed in admiration, “Venomous Dragon Pool! He’s using the Three Fatal Moves!” Most people didn’t know Li Tieshan’s martial arts background. Hearing “Venomous Dragon Pool,” they looked confused, not understanding its significance.
Iron sword techniques involved either horizontal slashing or vertical chopping—where did this thrust come from? Seeing this “Venomous Dragon Pool” move, Qin Zhonghai couldn’t help being startled and quickly dodged sideways. The iron sword grazed past his body, missing by only inches.
The nine-foot sword body had penetrated halfway, reaching about five feet. Li Tieshan roared, “Tiger Crossing River!” With a sharp swishing sound, the iron sword swept across at waist level, instantly changing from thrust to slash—showing how fierce the sword’s true power was.
This “Tiger Crossing River” move came extremely fast. Qin Zhonghai was right next to the iron sword, less than three inches away. If he retreated to dodge, his footwork definitely couldn’t match the sword’s speed. If he leaped up, he’d expose openings. Qin Zhonghai gritted his teeth, held his blade at his side, and as blade met sword with a tremendous crash, he used his deep inner power to receive this “Tiger Crossing River” move. However, the great force made Qin Zhonghai see stars, his internal organs churning together—extremely uncomfortable.
Li Tieshan didn’t relax at all. He shouted fiercely, “Dingjun Mountain!” Instantly summoning his life’s power, the iron sword rose overhead and chopped down like Mount Tai pressing from above. Fierce wind swept in, scattering yellow sand everywhere—truly terrifying.
“Venomous Dragon Pool,” “Tiger Crossing River,” and “Dingjun Mountain” were collectively called the Three Fatal Moves—first using thrust to close distance, then horizontal waist-slashing with the iron sword, finally striking from above. The three moves flowed together with urgent speed that none could block. Especially the final “Dingjun Mountain” showed magnificent momentum like a heavenly general descending, inspiring fear.
Yan Er’niang turned pale with fright and was about to cry out when she heard Qin Zhonghai roar wildly like a fierce tiger howling. With a resounding clang, the iron sword was knocked aside. Having “Dingjun Mountain” struck back by an enemy blade was unprecedented. Li Tieshan was greatly shocked and was about to deliver a second sword when he heard Qin Zhonghai’s continuous tiger roars. Without waiting for Li Tieshan’s move, he had already begun full-force attack. His techniques were wide and sweeping—one slash producing countless tremendous sounds. This was precisely the divine technique “Fire Greed Nine Consecutive Slashes.”
This blade-sword exchange was entirely hard-against-hard true skill with no room for trickery. As blade met sword, the scorching inner power forced Li Tieshan’s tiger’s mouth to feel numb and sore. Li Tieshan was secretly alarmed, knowing his opponent’s martial arts far exceeded his imagination. He immediately struggled to defend with all his might. Continuous clanging sounds rang out as Qin Zhonghai’s slashes came faster and faster. Heavy blade strikes fell directly onto the ten-foot iron sword with thunder-like sounds like striking temple bells. In the blink of an eye, the iron sword had received six heavy strikes.
Though Li Tieshan exerted full power, he could now only barely defend. Wave after wave of tremendous force struck his wrists, making the iron sword increasingly heavy. In moments, Li Tieshan’s face turned pale—if not for stubborn will supporting him, he would have collapsed long ago.
At the seventh strike, Qin Zhonghai roared wildly as great force struck. Li Tieshan simply couldn’t hold the iron sword—his hand loosened, and the fifty-pound great sword immediately flew far away. Qin Zhonghai showed no mercy, his steel blade swiftly delivering the eighth strike as he roared, “Hit!” Seeing Li Tieshan’s life hanging by a thread, onlookers all cried out, “Spare his life!”
Li Tieshan saw the blade coming extremely fast and feared it couldn’t be stopped. Turning pale with fright, he closed his eyes awaiting death.
The blade edge reached his chest and suddenly stopped. Li Tieshan opened his eyes to see Qin Zhonghai smiling at him, cupping his hands, “Master’s martial arts are exceptional—truly living up to your reputation. If I hadn’t learned this ‘Fire Greed Nine Consecutive Slashes,’ I probably wouldn’t be your match either.”
Li Tieshan saw his blade technique could be freely controlled—this heavy slash stopping when told to stop—his martial arts were truly above his own. He couldn’t help saying in amazement, “Good for you, lad—you’ve truly received Fang Zijing’s complete transmission.”
Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily, picked up the iron sword, and returned it to Li Tieshan, smiling, “Alright, we’ve fought our fight. Old Li, let’s cut the chatter. If you think well of this Qin fellow, then quickly come up the mountain.”
Hearing him call him “Old Li,” Li Tieshan couldn’t help being stunned. After a long moment, he burst into hearty laughter.
Qin Zhonghai said, “Well then, Old Li, will you honor us or not?” Li Tieshan slapped his shoulder and declared loudly, “Just for that one sentence—whatever business the mountain stronghold has in the future, count me in!”
Qin Zhonghai was overjoyed and shouted, “Many thanks!” He turned to look at Zhi Guan, wanting to pursue this victory, and immediately asked with a smile, “Master, though you’re a free cloud and wild crane, for my master’s sake, would you be willing to go up the mountain together and lend me your assistance?”
Zhi Guan smiled slightly, clapped his hands, and called out, “Everyone come out!” Immediately several large carts approached from the distance. Curtains lifted, revealing a group of men and women—some dressed as farmhands, others in novice monk robes. Seeing Qin Zhonghai, they all cupped their hands in salute.
Qin Zhonghai was delighted and surprised, asking, “What are these friends’ backgrounds? Could Master introduce them?”
Zhi Guan smiled, “These are disciples of this poor monk and Master Li. General Qin, we’ve brought even our families and disciples—do you think this old monk won’t go up the mountain?”
Qin Zhonghai was ecstatic, laughing wildly, “Excellent! We’ve gathered another group of experts!” Now the mountain stronghold had not only him and Yan Er’niang and others, but also experts like Zhi Guan, Xiang Tianshou, and Li Tieshan. It had quite impressive momentum and no reason to fear confronting ordinary martial world sects.
Xiang Tianshou, Yan Er’niang, and others hadn’t seen Li Tieshan for years. They each came forward to greet him. Li Tieshan cast aside his serious demeanor and smiled at everyone. Yan Er’niang saw him staring at Qin Zhonghai with a somewhat strange expression and quickly asked, “General Li, what are you doing staring at him for no reason?”
Li Tieshan smiled, “I say General Qin’s appearance is truly rare.”
Qin Zhonghai looked rather roguish, yet someone praised his appearance—everyone was naturally very puzzled. Yan Er’niang was quite surprised and quickly said, “Rare in what way?”
Li Tieshan laughed, “In the past, our Lord Baxian was good in everything except his appearance was too refined and handsome, lacking bandit flavor, which always made me worry. How wonderful that his son has grown up with a green face and fierce fangs—now our Nucang Mountain will surely prosper day by day!”
Hearing this, everyone covered their mouths and smiled. Qin Zhonghai didn’t know whether to cry or laugh, so he just spat as his answer.
While talking, suddenly an officer knelt and cried, “Since you heroes have gathered, could you please let us go home? We were blind and offended you gentlemen, but we have elderly parents above and wives and children below—we really can’t die! Please let us go!”
These men had been forced to dismount by Li Tieshan earlier and were now all trembling. Ha Bu’er jumped over and kicked each one on the forehead, cursing, “What ‘elderly mothers above and turtle grandsons below’—even when begging for mercy, you don’t use new phrases!”
One officer, after being kicked randomly, quickly said, “Yes, yes, yes! Here comes a new phrase. This humble person has a lovely wife on the left and a beautiful concubine on the right—really can’t bear to die. Please spare me!”
Ha Bu’er spat and was about to curse more when Qin Zhonghai, coming from the court and unwilling to see these military men suffer needless humiliation, stopped him and asked, “Which garrison are you from?”
An officer cried mournfully, “Your Majesty, we’re from the Shaanxi-Gansu Governor-General’s command, Pingliang Regional Military Commissioner’s forward scout unit…”
Qin Zhonghai interrupted, “Pingliang Regional Military Commissioner? Is your chief Zhang Fangmeng?” Hearing him mention their superior’s name, the officer couldn’t help swallowing and nodding, “Exactly, Commander Zhang. Your Majesty is truly knowledgeable.”
Qin Zhonghai smiled, “You came to investigate—you must have brought official documents. Could you show them?”
The officer grimaced and reluctantly took out the official dispatch, trembling as he presented it. Qin Zhonghai read it and chuckled coldly. Seeing Qin Zhonghai’s displeased expression, Yan Er’niang quickly asked, “What’s wrong?”
Qin Zhonghai handed over the document. Yan Er’niang, Tao Qing, and others crowded around to read: “Investigation shows beacon fires rising again on Nucang Mountain. Fearing ignorant riffraff might flee to the mountain, order Pingliang Regional Military Commissioner Zhang Fangmeng to lead two thousand troops to exterminate these petty bandits and report back within days.” The official seal showed five seal characters: “Shaanxi Governor-General Jiang.” This Governor-General Jiang was none other than Jiang Chong’s younger brother, Jiang Yi.
Ha Bu’er was furious, “Detestable! They actually called us riffraff! Really looking down on people!” Seeing the document, Yan Er’niang was also filled with rage. It seemed the court didn’t know Nucang’s former troops had gathered, actually showing such contempt—truly humiliating.
Hearing the document written thus, Li Tieshan immediately strode forward and looked coldly at the officer, “Dog official. Extend your hand.”
The officer feared Li Tieshan most and didn’t dare extend his hand, only smiling obsequiously while trembling. Li Tieshan suddenly reached out and grabbed the man’s left hand, then his dagger flashed down, cutting off a piece of flesh from the officer’s finger. Blood flowed immediately.
The officer screamed in agony, “Help! Don’t kill me!” Li Tieshan snorted, held the officer’s hand, and wrote directly on the document with blood: “Nucang Mountain leader Qin Zhonghai commands all civil and military officials of Shaanxi-Gansu provinces: The mountain stronghold is newly established and lacks silver and provisions. Order Governor-General Jiang Yi to immediately deliver one hundred thousand taels of silver and five thousand horses to show submission. By imperial decree.” Then he kicked the officer down and shouted, “Take this document back for your Governor-General to read himself.”
The officer was in pain, fear, shock, and joy—shocked by Li Tieshan’s fierce brutality, treating the court as nothing; joyful that he wanted him to deliver the document, meaning he’d retrieved his life. He immediately led his subordinates in hasty flight.
Li Tieshan sneered, “Brothers, keep their weapons and horses—our mountain stronghold will need them later.” Ha Bu’er and others had long wanted to attack and immediately rallied their spirits to pursue and beat them. Distant screams of soldiers could be heard—they’d apparently received another beating. Though Qin Zhonghai was usually fierce, seeing Li Tieshan’s methods, he felt inferior and finally understood how the former Nucang heroes conducted themselves.
Everyone went up the mountain. Li Tieshan and Zhi Guan each brought servants and disciples—totaling seventy or eighty people. Fortunately, Nucang Mountain had extremely spacious buildings, so Tao Qing arranged lodging to accommodate everyone.
That night they held a feast with everyone drinking together. Xiang Tianshou asked about this journey’s origins. Li Tieshan said, “That day Master Zhi Guan found me and showed me Master Fang’s letter. The letter said Nucang Mountain had been restored and wanted me to return and observe. After receiving the letter, I rushed here without stopping!”
Hearing his master had written personal letters inviting former brothers to appear one by one, Qin Zhonghai felt warmth in his heart, thinking, “Though master didn’t come up the mountain with us, he’s actually been working hard behind the scenes, fearing his disciple would suffer.”
Seeing these heroes gathered together with Li Tieshan even ranked among the Five Tigers, Qin Zhonghai remembered the Nucang roster he’d seen years ago and asked, “When I served at court, I was once ordered to guard the Wenyuan Pavilion and saw the great names of you heroes, but I don’t know what heroic deeds you accomplished. Could you tell me?”
Li Tieshan chuckled, “Nucang Mountain gathered heroes and dominated the world. Speaking of our glorious history, I’m afraid three days and nights wouldn’t be enough!”
Zhi Guan nodded slightly, “When our mountain was first established, we had thirty thousand troops. By the later period, we reached fifty thousand. Before the Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness, the Left Dragon and Right Phoenix controlled military and political affairs; the Five Tigers under our seats could match ten thousand troops; the Three Halls before the palace each had their duties; the Five Passes’ brave generals protected our safety. Besides these heroes, countless hall leaders specialized in construction, ironwork, weapons, provisions, and horse breeding—each with their duties. It was well-organized.”
Having always been responsible for military intelligence, he was familiar with all the mountain’s stories and spoke as if enumerating family treasures.
Qin Zhonghai nodded, also deeply admiring Nucang Mountain’s abundance of talent, “Unfortunately, I was too young then to follow you seniors. Now I must undertake such difficult enterprises.”
Zhi Guan smiled, “Relying on fathers’ and brothers’ achievements isn’t what heroes do. The General endures what others cannot endure and does what others cannot do—in time you’ll surely be sung by later generations.”
Hearing this praise, Qin Zhonghai couldn’t help feeling elated, thinking, “Monk Zhi Guan truly deserves to be a military intelligence chief—his flattery skills are excellent.”
Xiang Tianshou had never met Zhi Guan. Seeing this monk’s extraordinary bearing, he must be a famous figure in the martial world, yet he couldn’t recognize him. He asked, “What is this Master’s background? At which precious temple did you become a monk?”
Yan Er’niang had heard Zhi Guan mention his background and answered for him with a smile, “Master Xiang, have you heard of ‘Secret Eleven’?”
Xiang Tianshou suddenly understood and quickly stood up, cupping his hands, “Forgive my disrespect! So it’s the military intelligence chief himself. Pardon my poor recognition.”
Xiang Tianshou had formerly been a Hall Master of the Inner Three Halls, managing criminal law. Zhi Guan was the leader of “Secret Eleven.” This “Secret Eleven” was neither a gang nor a sect, but Nucang Mountain’s outer circle agents who, under Qin Baxian’s orders, gathered intelligence and contacted martial world heroes. Except for Qin Baxian and a few core figures, other brothers didn’t know the Secret Eleven chief’s true identity. Xiang Tianshou’s position was insufficient to be informed.
Seeing Xiang Tianshou’s joyful surprise, Zhi Guan smiled, “Easy to say—this old monk is a waste. After Nucang Mountain’s defeat, I’ve been chanting Buddhist sutras at White Dragon Mountain. No wonder everyone doesn’t recognize this monk.”
After talking for a while, everyone learned Zhi Guan had later become a monk and no longer involved himself in martial world affairs. Li Tieshan had hidden in Xiliang’s outskirts and had indeed fought with Kunlun Mountain several times.
Li Tieshan had formerly been a cavalry general alongside Han Yi. Having seen Yan Er’niang earlier, he’d wanted to ask her about Xiao Lubu. He raised his wine cup and asked, “Er’niang, have you still been searching for Brother Han’s whereabouts these years?”
Hearing this, Yan Er’niang couldn’t help sighing. Before she could speak, Zhi Guan answered for her, pressing his palms together, “Brother Han’s whereabouts are unknown. Er’niang has suffered for twenty years but still can’t find any trace.”
Li Tieshan was slightly puzzled hearing Zhi Guan answer for her. He looked sideways and saw Qin Zhonghai and Yan Er’niang’s intimate behavior, immediately understanding. He nodded, “I see. You’ve really suffered.” He also didn’t mention Xiao Lubu further.