If one asks who is the nation’s guardian deity, protecting ten thousand people for a thousand years without changing their resolve—though the world is vast, only Shaolin is that.
Saving oneself and others, creating all things—Shaolin monks learn martial arts not merely for physical strength, nor merely to serve the emperor loyally and serve the country. They learn these skills only to fulfill the compassionate thoughts in their hearts, using their own flesh and blood to resist worldly tyranny. What great merit is this?
Since Dharma Patriarch founded the sect in the Liang Dynasty, Shaolin has established its temple for a thousand years. Besides the basic skills left by Dharma, the temple monks have reviewed the old and learned the new, opening alternative paths and creating set after set of ultimate techniques. These martial arts are profound and extensive—in a word, they are the famous Seventy-Two Ultimate Skills known far and wide. Besides this, there are countless rare techniques and secret methods passed down in the world. The most famous among them are Shaolin’s Five Great Forbidden Ultimate Techniques, which under Tianjue’s guidance have finally all appeared in the world.
Both Shaolin and Angry Cang are contemporary overlords. Now they finally face each other head-on. Though martial world figures haven’t all come here, they’re currently using every method to learn the results as soon as possible. It seems today’s great battle results will surely thunder across the world once decided.
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It’s said that the Angry Cang heroes followed behind Lingyin, slowly ascending the mountain. Just entering the mountain’s base, they saw before them a magnificent stairway stretching up the mountain, leading straight to heaven as if endless. The sunlight reflected on the mountain path, making it appear even more majestic and magnificent. Everyone, just entering Shaolin and seeing such a spectacle, couldn’t help but exclaim in wonder.
This was Qin Zhonghai’s first time coming to Mount Song. Seeing the mountain path’s imposing manner, he nodded: “I’ve often heard Imperial Physician Yang boast about how impressive his Shaolin is. Seeing it today is indeed amazing. It seems Shaolin monks are not only skilled in martial arts but also quite capable at road construction.”
Azure Robe Scholar smiled slightly: “General Qin misunderstands. This mountain path wasn’t built by Shaolin monks but by Tang Emperor Li Shimin for them. It has over five hundred years of history.” Everyone exclaimed in surprise and looked down at the stone steps under their feet. They saw the stone stairs covered with dense moss, very ancient-looking, truly appearing to be several hundred years old.
Azure Robe Scholar continued: “In those years when Li Shimin competed for control of Central Plains, Shaolin sent thirteen masters down the mountain to assist, known as the Thirteen Staff Monks. Later, when Li Shimin ascended the throne as emperor, he personally visited Mount Song to worship Buddha, showing respect for Shaolin. This mountain path is so magnificent precisely because it was built for imperial ceremonies. From then on, for a thousand years, Shaolin’s connection with the court deepened. Whenever emperors performed ceremonies on Mount Song, they never forgot to bestow titles and rewards on Shaolin. Shaolin’s temple buildings also became increasingly magnificent, making other Buddhist temples unable to match them.”
Everyone nodded after hearing this. No wonder every time chaos arose in the world, Monk Tianjue would intervene—it turned out these monks had a long-standing relationship with the court dating back hundreds of years. This was truly unexpected.
As everyone walked, Jie Tao suddenly remembered something and asked: “In the Xuanwu Gate Incident years ago, when Li Shimin killed his own brothers, did these Thirteen Staff Monks also participate?” The Shaolin monks had been listening to Azure Robe Scholar tell the story of the Thirteen Staff Monks with pride in their hearts. Who would have known that Jie Tao would suddenly bring up this shameful old matter? The monks felt quite displeased hearing this.
Chang Xuehen, not well-read, couldn’t help exclaiming: “Wasn’t Li Shimin a good emperor? Why did he kill his own brothers?”
Lu Guzhan said: “In those years, the sons competed for the throne. Crown Prince Li Jiancheng joined forces with Prince Qi Li Yuanji to constrain Li Shimin. Li Shimin, deeply fearing they would strike first, launched the Xuanwu Gate Incident and killed both brothers in one stroke. Then he led troops to the imperial city and forced his old father to issue the decree ‘All armies shall follow the Qin Prince’s orders,’ thus successfully ascending the throne.”
Chang Xuehen shook his head: “Damn! Even killing his own brothers—being emperor has no flavor either. I thought this Li fellow was a good person. He’s damn worthless!”
Suddenly they heard Qin Zhonghai say flatly: “Brother Chang is wrong. It’s precisely because he wanted to be emperor that he had to kill people. To preserve one’s own power and position, sometimes even brothers’ lives can’t be spared.”
Hearing his tone so calm, as if this matter were perfectly natural, Chang Xuehen couldn’t help exclaiming: “Boss, you… you don’t want to be emperor, do you?” As soon as these words were spoken, everyone on the field was shocked. Not only did the Shaolin monks look terrified and steal glances backward, but even Azure Robe Scholar, Shi Gang, Lu Guzhan, Han Yi, Li Tieshan and other veteran generals paid attention.
Chang Xuehen’s question was too rash, but it was also perceptive. Having risen in rebellion, as long as they could successfully defeat the court’s forces, becoming emperor was only one step away. Everyone held their breath and concentrated, wanting to hear what Qin Zhonghai would say.
Everyone held their breath without daring to speak more. In the silence, Qin Zhonghai looked up at the distant mountain temple, his face extremely grave. Everyone saw this and felt worried, with no one speaking for a time.
Yan Er’niang saw Qin Zhonghai’s depressed expression, remaining silent as if his thoughts were extremely heavy. Her heart stirred, wanting to go comfort him. But as soon as she moved, she immediately remembered her husband was beside her and forcibly restrained herself. Tao Qing saw his elder sister’s appearance and couldn’t help coughing. Fearing Little Lu Bu would notice something unusual, he positioned himself between the two to avoid awkwardness.
Everyone had their own thoughts, not knowing what was happening. After a long while, they heard Qin Zhonghai laugh: “Emperor, emperor—pearl curtains above the head, holding heaven and earth in hand, living in jade towers. All men under heaven are yours to castrate, turning birds into no-birds. Millions of beautiful women—one word and each goes to bed for kissing… Hehe, this kind of person… this kind of person…”
Chang Xuehen quickly said: “What about this kind of person?”
Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily: “This kind of person is worse than dog shit! Even Jiang Chong isn’t that bad! How could your old man do such a thing?” He immediately coughed up thick phlegm and spat it toward the mountain path, his eyes full of murderous intent.
What clearing treacherous ministers from the emperor’s side, what eliminating petty people—those were all deceptive pretenses. Protecting the emperor while opposing imperial rule? Go die! Whether you claim to act for heaven’s way or kill and burn—all get lost!
Today’s farewell to brothers on the battlefield, past life-and-death love—as long as they could gather together, that would be a happy life.
※※※
The Shaolin monks all breathed sighs of relief hearing this answer. The Angry Cang generals each had their own thoughts. Seeing the atmosphere extremely tense, Jie Tao quickly coughed and asked: “Master Lu, this Qianlong Military Advisor we’re about to meet—what’s his background? This subordinate has traveled the martial world but has never heard tales of this person.”
Jie Tao diverted the topic, naturally shifting everyone’s attention. Indeed, everyone was greatly interested. Chang Xuehen was the first to prick up his ears and laugh: “Yes, whether this old fellow is fat or thin, male or female—nobody’s mentioned it. Master Lu, please tell us.”
Lu Guzhan glanced at Azure Robe Scholar: “Brother Tang and Military Advisor Zhu are called Dragon and Phoenix together—you should speak.”
Azure Robe Scholar’s face showed neither joy nor anger as he said flatly: “General Shi followed Lord Baxian for many years and knows Military Advisor Zhu’s identity and deeds best—let him speak.”
Everyone passed it from one to another until it was Shi Gang’s turn to speak, but he remained silent as if having some difficulty. Now not only were Jie Tao and Chang Xuehen curious, but even Qin Zhonghai was somewhat puzzled. He stared at Shi Gang and said quietly: “General Shi, do you have something difficult to say?”
Shi Gang smiled: “We’re all brothers—what’s difficult to say? Qianlong Military Advisor has a self-proclaimed noble title called ‘Prince Jingjiang Yang.’ This is his background origin.”
Chang Xuehen said strangely: “Prince Jingjiang Yang? What kind of thing is this? Isn’t his surname Zhu? How did he change to surname Wang?”
Shi Gang looked at him and smiled: “Silly boy, our Military Advisor Zhu rebelled and went up the mountain precisely because of this self-proclaimed noble title. Shaolin Temple has only dared to confine him these years, not daring to harm him, also precisely because of this ‘Prince Jingjiang Yang.'”
Everyone was puzzled hearing this and wanted to ask more. Azure Robe Scholar coughed and glanced at the Shaolin monks ahead, saying quietly: “This isn’t the place for such talk. Wait until we bring the person out, then we can speak slowly.”
Chang Xuehen was about to pursue the question, but having his interest interrupted, he felt displeased. He immediately ran behind the Shaolin monks and roared loudly: “You damn bald thieves ahead! We grandfathers are talking happily—what are you eavesdropping on? Monks specializing in rabbit ears—what kind of behavior is this?”
The monks, hearing his rude words, all turned to glare angrily. Chang Xuehen sneered twice and hooked his little finger: “What are you staring at? Think I spoke incorrectly? Quickly come kill me!”
His words were full of provocation, all meant to incite the Shaolin monks to act. The monks couldn’t act and couldn’t not act, only covering their ears and walking quickly to avoid being angered to death.
Chang Xuehen bounced and made noise on the mountain path, picking up stones to throw randomly like a mad dog. Suddenly someone said: “Amitabha Buddha. Benefactor, having the fortune to come to Shaolin, instead of worshipping Buddha respectfully, you harbor arrogant intentions. Very sinful, very sinful.”
They saw dozens of monks lined up before a pavilion on the path, seemingly guarding the mountain gate. A monk on the right had a gloomy face with a hidden bluish tint, about forty years old—apparently he was the one who had just spoken.
Lingyin stopped and gestured toward two monks beside the mountain gate, introducing: “These two are our temple’s Eighteen Arhats. On my right is Junior Brother Lingnan, on my left is Junior Brother Lingkong. They’ve been mountain gate hosts for decades.”
Besides the Four Great Vajras, Shaolin Temple had dozens of strong Ling-generation high monks. Lingnan and Lingkong were among them. Everyone saw Lingnan’s temples protruding high like hiding two walnuts, knowing this person’s external martial arts were extremely deep, truly extraordinary. Looking at Lingkong, his face was paper-white, like the White Impermanence from hell paintings, appearing even more eerie. However, none of the Angry Cang people weren’t contemporary heroes. Even if these two looked strange, they couldn’t frighten them. Everyone walked past the pavilion without paying attention.
Lingnan and Lingkong put their palms together toward the heroes one by one, but their eyes were like torches staring at each person as if examining something.
When reaching Yan Er’niang, suddenly Lingnan jumped out and extended his hand to block her.
Yan Er’niang was startled and shouted: “What are you doing?”
Lingnan looked her up and down and said deeply: “Is the benefactor a woman?”
Yan Er’niang was quite puzzled, not knowing what this monk wanted to do. Chang Xuehen had already turned back and pointed angrily: “Bastard! Are you blind? She’s so fragrant—could she be a damn man?”
Though Yan Er’niang was somewhat aged, she was still a flower-like beauty with lovely appearance. Unless one were blind, who wouldn’t recognize her identity? Looking at this monk’s manner, he was purely looking for trouble with her.
Yan Er’niang calmed herself and put her palms together: “What instruction does Master have?”
Lingnan looked at her with cold, slanting eyes and said proudly: “Female benefactor, listen well—women may not enter Shaolin and must wait in this pavilion.”
Yan Er’niang exclaimed: “Aren’t women people? Why can’t they enter the temple?”
Lingkong walked over and said shrilly: “Women are born with polluted bodies and would defile the temple’s purity. Shaolin’s thousand-year tradition never receives female guests. Please, female benefactor, understand.”
Hearing the two speak insultingly, Yan Er’niang’s anger surged: “What ‘women have polluted bodies’? Weren’t you born from a woman? How weren’t you polluted?”
Lingnan said coldly: “Female benefactor needn’t argue further. Our temple’s rules have always been thus—please comply.”
Seeing Yan Er’niang both shocked and angry, the Angry Cang heroes felt displeased. Chang Xuehen was the first to make trouble for them. He casually picked a wild flower from the roadside and stuck it on his head, roaring angrily: “Damn old bald thief! Your old man is now a damn woman—do you want to examine me?” He leaped onto the pavilion’s stone table and pretended to untie his belt, approaching Lingnan.
Lingyin was startled and quickly helped Chang Xuehen down, tying his belt while smoothing things over: “Benefactors, don’t be angry. Ten thousand apologies—since Old Ancestor Dharma, our temple’s tradition cannot receive female guests. Please, benefactors, comply somewhat.” He kept bowing, looking at Yan Er’niang only to beg her to go down the mountain.
Lingyin didn’t hesitate to lower his dignity and humble himself, only to plead earnestly. Azure Robe Scholar didn’t want to cause trouble and walked to Qin Zhonghai’s side, saying quietly: “It seems Shaolin Temple’s gate rules are thus and truly cannot be changed. We’re guests on this mountain—let’s give the hosts some face.” He glanced at Han Yi.
Seeing everyone looking at him, Han Yi nodded and walked to Yan Er’niang, saying quietly: “Er’niang, we’re short-handed down the mountain. Only Hall Master Xiang and Master Zhi Guan are watching the army. Could you trouble yourself to go down and help?”
Yan Er’niang lowered her head: “Even you want me to go down?”
Seeing her melancholy expression, Han Yi quickly reached out to embrace her for comfort: “Just rest assured and go down. Our trip will be victorious—we’ll come down shortly too.”
Yan Er’niang leaned in his embrace noncommittally, her gaze slanting back toward Qin Zhonghai. She saw him with his back to her, only gazing into the distance, seemingly not seeing her intimate behavior with Little Lu Bu. Yan Er’niang’s heart ached, knowing Qin Zhonghai had become distant from her. Her heart was pained, and tears nearly fell. Little Lu Bu saw her about to weep and was startled, quickly taking out a handkerchief to wipe for her while comforting her quietly.
Receiving her husband’s gentle treatment made Yan Er’niang’s heart even more uncomfortable. She gently pushed away her husband and leaped into the field herself, hands on hips, shouting loudly: “All of you listen! This old lady isn’t going down!”
Seeing his beloved wife suddenly throwing a tantrum, Han Yi was naturally dumbfounded, not knowing what to do. Just as he was thinking of persuading her again, he heard Lingkong say coldly: “Pitiful! They say Angry Cang heroes are well-traveled and knowledgeable. We thought they were reasonable people—who knew they were such rude madmen. If you don’t want to rescue Qianlong, then go down the mountain early. Don’t waste time here.”
Yan Er’niang intended to make a big scene. She took throwing darts from her bosom and sneered: “Let this girl speak plainly—we want both to save people and go up the mountain. What do you think of that?”
Lingkong took out a crescent shovel grimly: “If the female benefactor wants to cause trouble at Shaolin, I’m afraid she’s still lacking somewhat.”
Li Tieshan had a straightforward, bold character. Hearing Lingkong speak rudely, he immediately exploded into action. With a thunderous sound, his nine-foot great iron sword swept horizontally, striking directly at Lingkong. Bearing the brunt, Lingkong knew he couldn’t resist and quickly dodged aside. The iron sword, carrying tremendous sound, swept toward the group of monks behind. Looking at the pavilion, only a few low-level disciples remained. Li Tieshan’s sword momentum was incredibly fast—he would certainly kill one or two people before stopping.
In this critical moment, with a clang, someone raised a demon-subduing staff with both hands to block Li Tieshan’s iron sword. This person had a sorrowful expression—precisely the Disciplinary Hall head known as “Compassionate Vajra,” Lingyin.
Lingyin thrust his demon-subduing staff and knocked away Li Tieshan’s iron sword, shaking his head: “Master Li, you and I once shared hardships and fought strong enemies together. Must we really meet in battle today?”
In years past, when Zhuo Lingzhao’s demon claws reached out, Lingyin and Li Tieshan supported each other. Both were imprisoned in Kunlun’s dungeon for half a year, neither willing to escape alone. At this moment, their four eyes met, both feeling reluctant. Li Tieshan sighed lightly and simply put down his iron sword, retreating a step.
The scene was at a standstill. Yan Er’niang stood with hands on hips, proudly refusing to leave. Suddenly she saw Qin Zhonghai slowly approach and stand facing her. Yan Er’niang’s heart filled with joy, only gazing at Qin Zhonghai. For a moment, her eyes reddened. Since Little Lu Bu’s return, this was their first face-to-face conversation. In her excitement, Yan Er’niang didn’t know how many things she wanted to say to him.
Qin Zhonghai, opening his tiger eyes, also gazed at the beauty. After looking several times, he suddenly turned around and said deeply: “Brother Tao, accompany Er’niang down the mountain.”
Hearing this, Tao Qing immediately agreed. Seeing Qin Zhonghai with his back to her yet issuing such an order, Yan Er’niang screamed: “Qin Zhonghai!”
Hearing the call, Qin Zhonghai simply didn’t respond or answer. Tears burst from Yan Er’niang’s eyes as she choked: “Want me to come, I come; want me to go, I go. Even if I were a horse, I’d have some feelings. You heroes…” Immediately, her steel dart shot out with a clear ring, striking precisely on the pavilion roof. She screamed: “None of you are human!” Then she covered her face crying and walked away without looking back.
Azure Robe Scholar coughed: “Tao Qing, why don’t you follow?”
Knowing he had another bitter task, Tao Qing quickly chased after her, calling: “Elder Sister! Wait for me!”
Seeing an additional throwing dart on the pavilion, Lingkong immediately angrily said: “What bold madmen! Actually daring to damage our temple’s property…” Just as he was about to chatter more, Qin Zhonghai had already kicked out, kicking the stone table over on the spot, then glanced sideways at Lingkong.
Seeing his provocation, Lingkong was naturally furious beyond measure. However, Lingyin knew there were other reasons and quickly held back his junior brother, indicating he shouldn’t speak more to avoid bringing disaster.
Seeing Qin Zhonghai stride away with big steps, everyone passed over the incident and followed Lingyin up the mountain. Chang Xuehen caught up to Qin Zhonghai’s side and stole glances at his expression, seeing his eyes full of bloodshot veins and his manner quite terrifying, immediately startling Chang Xuehen.
As Lingyin led the group away, Han Yi didn’t step forward but remained standing in place. His brow was deeply furrowed as he watched his beloved wife’s figure descending the mountain, seemingly contemplating something.
Li Tieshan hurriedly came over: “Brother Han, General Qin and your wife have… have a grudge. They don’t get along and have fought several times before—don’t take it to heart.”
Hearing these words, Han Yi patted Li Tieshan’s shoulder in return and walked away.
※※※
Thereafter, traveling all the way, they encountered no more mechanism obstructions, nor did anyone come to cause trouble. The two groups also had no more conflicts. The monks simply lowered their heads and walked quickly, no longer asking about the Angry Cang people. The heroes also traveled wordlessly, just following behind.
Everyone walked several more li. The yellow-roofed Buddhist temple was not far away, with only a long stairway remaining ahead. It seemed after passing this place, they would reach Mount Song’s main hall. The Angry Cang people knew great enemies lay ahead and concentrated their minds, transforming their true power.
Qin Zhonghai waved his hand and said deeply: “Raise the flag!”
Jie Tao quickly agreed and took out a cloth banner from his pack, hanging it on his phoenix-mouth long blade. Chang Xuehen raised the long blade high, the great banner fluttering in the wind—precisely a blood-red “ANGER” character.
Lingyin waited beside them. Seeing everyone raise their military banner but not stopping them, he put his palms together and said: “Our hospitality on the road was inadequate—honored guests, please forgive us. Our temple is nearby—please enter the hall for tea. The Abbot is already waiting.”
Li Tieshan knew formidable enemies lay ahead and gathered his true energy, asking Azure Robe Scholar quietly: “Military Advisor Tang, did the person you sent to Lanzhou some days ago find the Sword King?”
Azure Robe Scholar shook his head: “Mister Fang’s whereabouts are elusive—we couldn’t find him quickly. I don’t know if he’ll come to assist.”
Seeing Li Tieshan’s worry, Lu Guzhan immediately walked over smiling: “Brother Li, don’t worry. The Sword King has deep master-disciple affection with General Qin. With his brilliant insight, how would he sit by and watch his disciple uncared for?”
Li Tieshan said quietly: “We’ve reached this point without seeing his shadow—I can’t help worrying.”
Lu Guzhan laughed heartily, looking back at a dark, quiet forest: “Dragons aren’t always visible from head to tail. I think when the time comes, that old brother will naturally emerge.”
Li Tieshan suddenly understood—looking at this situation, perhaps Fang Zijing had already arrived here, which was also unknowable.
Everyone said no more and each followed Lingyin into the temple.
※※※
In no time, the Angry Cang heroes, with Qin Zhonghai leading and Azure Robe Scholar second, entered the temple’s front plaza in order. Everyone looked around and were immediately startled—the plaza was densely packed with monks, countless numbers present.
Azure Robe Scholar smiled slightly: “Shaolin’s 2,300 monks seem all to be here.”
The heroes surveyed their surroundings, seeing a canopy erected beside the Great Buddha Hall. In the distance, Song Gongmai, Gao Tianwei, Zuo Congyi, Wu Dingyuan, Lu Yun, An’dao Jing and others were already seated, apparently having waited long.
Chang Xuehen shouldered the great banner and glanced around several times, sneering: “Damn, your old man has lived this long and never seen so many monks and nuns—now I’ve really gotten my money’s worth.”
“Amitabha Buddha!”
Suddenly a Buddhist chant rang out, truly deafening—over a thousand monks chanting Buddha’s name in unison. Shaolin monks had deep internal energy. Thousands simultaneously gathering their energy sounded like thunder, even more intimidating than tens of thousands roaring on battlefields. The heroes were experienced, but hearing such a heart-stirring Buddhist chant still shook them. Chang Xuehen was even more terrified, opening his mouth to curse: “Damn your ancestors! Where did such a loud Amitabha Buddha come from? Aren’t you afraid of deafening Buddha?”
After the Buddhist chant, temple bells drifted melodiously. The monks slowly dispersed, and a group of monks walked forward. Leading was an old monk with a stern expression—precisely one of Shaolin’s Four Great Vajras, the Holy Monk Lingding who presided over Arhat Hall. Looking at his left and right sides, each accompanied by nine monks—the Eighteen Arhats of Shaolin had arrived. These were all Arhat Hall guardians, always under Lingding’s jurisdiction. They walked behind their leader and stood according to rank.
After the Eighteen Arhats passed, three more monks slowly emerged. Tower Forest Guardian Lingzhen attended on the left, Disciplinary Hall Head Lingyin accompanied on the right, and in the center was a monk with dignified dharma appearance and compassionate manner—precisely the leader of today’s martial world’s greatest sect, Shaolin Abbot Master Lingzhi.
In today’s martial world, though Mount Hua’s Ning Bufan is called the world’s number one, in terms of power, among all orthodox sects, Shaolin Temple remains the strongest. There’s a common saying in the martial world: “Three treasure saints in Dharma Hall, Four Vajras before Arhat Hall.” These five monks each have their unique skills. In pure martial arts competition, ordinary sect leaders and gang masters would fall far behind. Besides this, the temple has dozens of high-ranking Ling-generation monks, all famous figures in the martial world. Even with the formation of “Kunlun’s Thirteen Swords” challenging Shaoshi Mountain back then, both sides’ strength gap was still extremely wide. In the world, besides the Angry Cang heroes, no single sect could match them. It seems this dragon-tiger battle will certainly be spectacular.
※※※
Lingzhi remained unmoved, only smiling slightly and respectfully putting his palms together toward the heroes: “Gentlemen, not fearing the hardships of distant travel to come to Mount Song and share in Shaolin’s joy—our entire temple is deeply grateful for this grand gesture.” He gestured to welcome guests: “Since you’ve rarely entered our temple, please come to the Great Buddha Hall to offer incense.”
The blazing sun beat down oppressively hot. The Buddha statue in the great hall faintly glowed, appearing golden and brilliant. The monks separated on both sides and bowed: “Light the lamp before Buddha, extinguish the fire in your heart. Amitabha Buddha—honored benefactors, please enter.” The monks put their palms together and chanted Buddha’s name, waiting only for the Angry Cang heroes to enter the hall.
The heroes speculated in their hearts that this Buddha worship was temple etiquette. Since ancient times, guests followed hosts’ customs. Everyone should naturally enter the temple to offer incense and donate a hundred taels for incense money—that would be appropriate. However, at this moment of military danger and warfare, one must guard against others. The heroes were about a hundred feet from the great hall. If they had to pass through the crowd and the other side suddenly struck, it would be extremely dangerous. For a moment, no one moved.
Lingzhi frowned and was about to speak when someone from the Angry Cang side already stepped forward and said clearly: “Master, please stay your jade feet. I have something to ask.” This person was tall with handsome features. As he spoke, natural dignity arose—clearly a scholarly general. This was precisely “Jiangdong Sail Shadow” Lu Guzhan.
The Shaolin monks, seeing this person’s dignified appearance, couldn’t help but feel admiration. Martial world masters, whether solemn or playful, had widely different appearances. There were those base like Ning Bufan, those slovenly like Fang Zijing. Looking again at Tianjue’s emaciation and Lingzhi’s scholarly weakness—for a martial world master to grow up as mighty and upright as Lu Guzhan could truly be said to be one in a hundred. The monks, seeing the enemy general’s appearance, secretly praised: “They say these Angry Cang Mountain rebels are so capable. Looking at this person’s outstanding bearing and imposing manner, bandit lairs indeed also have some talent.”
Seeing Lu Guzhan, Lingzhi’s face flashed with shadow. He immediately put his palms together in greeting: “Benefactor Lu has something to say—why not first offer incense and worship Buddha before speaking?”
Lu Guzhan shook his head: “Worshipping Buddha can be done anytime, but warnings aren’t heard daily. Master Lingzhi, let me speak plainly. Angry Cang and Shaolin had many disputes in past years. However, gentlemen harmonize while maintaining differences. Though both sides had casualties, it didn’t lose the character of an upright gentleman’s dispute. But seeing Great Master Tianjue’s actions today—with the dignity of a worldly master, holding Jishan aspirations yet practicing the strategy of ‘borrowing passage to destroy Guo’—such intentions, wouldn’t they invite worldly criticism? Lu has doubts in his heart and respectfully asks the Abbot for guidance.”
Lu Guzhan could write and fight—truly a great hero of both literary and martial accomplishments. In years past when Qin Baxian was alive, he handled much of the stronghold’s diplomacy. With this person’s high literary learning and elegant rhetoric, pointing out Monk Tianjue’s sinister intentions before everyone, his words were truly like verbal swords and tongue spears, making others unable to parry.
Lingzhi coughed: “Mister Lu speaks too seriously. My uncle master, unable to bear seeing all living beings fall into suffering’s sea, conceived the idea of invitation, wanting to use compassionate Buddhist teachings to resolve the violent qi of you heroes. This is truly a Bodhi Buddha heart—what crime is there?”
Lu Guzhan sneered: “Abbot, oh Abbot! You several high monks have Bodhi hearts—are all my mountain brothers then wolf-hearted and dog-lunged? Today our Angry Cang heroes hold the sword by its blade, giving others the handle, yielding everywhere—not because we fear Shaolin Temple. We don’t shirk hardship coming to this dragon pool and tiger den, seeking nothing more than righteous reunion and brothers gathering!” He cupped his hands toward heaven and declared: “Buddha above, Tathagata witness! Ancients didn’t harm others with righteousness or trap them in crime with profit. Yet Great Master Tianjue uses friendship and brotherhood to constrain our mountain. Such boundless Buddhist teachings aren’t as good as ‘turning back to shore.'”
Hearing these words, even with Lingzhi’s excellent cultivation, his expression slightly changed. Over there, Azure Robe Scholar, Han Yi and others secretly cheered and felt great satisfaction.
Listening to Lu Guzhan and Lingzhi’s back-and-forth conversation mixing classical and vernacular Chinese, though not reaching incomprehensible complexity, the meaning was quite difficult. Most people in the field came from military backgrounds, usually only knowing physical training—how could they understand half a sentence? Qin Zhonghai, Chang Xuehen and other illiterates, seeing them argue so fiercely while they couldn’t understand a single sentence, could only pretend to be very focused, desperately nodding in agreement, though their hearts were completely blank.
Wu Dingyuan also half-understood and quickly asked Lu Yun: “What exactly are they saying? Brother Lu, could you explain?”
Lu Yun, being a learned scholar, naturally knew the allusions in their conversation: “Master Lu’s words just now were meant only to criticize Great Master Tianjue’s wrongs. He believes Great Master Tianjue has sinister intentions, using brotherhood to lure heroes up the mountain, then attacking with drums. Such perverse actions inevitably lose the compassionate heart of a monk.”
Wu Dingyuan exclaimed and nodded: “I see—now I understand.”
As the two spoke, they saw An’dao Jing poking his head over with a sneer: “Wu Dingyuan, oh Wu Dingyuan! You hold a court position yet are so ignorant?” He sighed with a pitying expression: “Alas… ignorant people, even when shameless enough to ask, still can’t escape their stupid and shameful status!”
Gao Tianwei most loved verbal sparring with An’dao Jing. Hearing An’dao Jing’s smugness while Wu Dingyuan blushed, he decided to give him the same treatment: “Lord An’s learning is extensive and truly admirable! May I ask what ‘holding the sword by its blade’ means? Could you explain?”
An’dao Jing’s face reddened: “Tai’e is Tai’e. ‘Holding Tai’e by its blade’ means holding Tai’e reversed—don’t you even understand this?”
Gao Tianwei looked blank: “I don’t understand.” He asked Zhao Renyong: “Lord Zhao, did you understand?”
Zhao Renyong shook his head: “Forgive my dullness—please, Lord An, explain more.”
At this moment, everyone stared intently at him. Even Zuo Congyi, Shi Ping and others turned their heads. An’dao Jing’s face burned hot as if struck by a Cinnabar Palm—red enough to drip blood. Lu Yun, seeing him stammer unable to speak, immediately coughed to rescue him: “Tai’e is a precious sword. The Han History Biography of Mei Fu says: ‘Holding Tai’e by its blade, giving Chu the handle.’ The so-called ‘holding Tai’e by its blade’ means a person gives the advantageous situation to the opponent and becomes constrained himself.”
An’dao Jing breathed a sigh of relief but spat and sneered: “Surnamed Lu! I hadn’t opened my mouth yet—how did you steal my words! What a rude boy!”
Gao Tianwei laughed heartily: “Lord An needn’t rush. That surnamed Lu also said an idiom called ‘borrowing passage to destroy Guo’—these four characters are simply baffling. What do they mean?”
Seeing he would lose face again, An’dao Jing conceived a plan. He hurriedly untied his money pouch and secretly used internal energy to throw it behind the canopy. He felt around his body with both hands, pretending surprise: “Terrible! My money pouch is missing. Wait for me—I’ll be right back.” Just as he was about to get up to look, suddenly a hand emerged from the crowd holding An’dao Jing’s pouch. Song Gongmai asked: “Whose money pouch is this? How did it get randomly thrown back here?”
※※※
Lu Guzhan’s eloquence was like a blooming lotus tongue, making it difficult for Lingzhi to parry. After thinking long, just as he was about to reply, suddenly a miserable cry came from the guest seats. Song Gongmai and others exclaimed: “Has Lord An suffered heatstroke? Why is he foaming at the mouth?”
Hearing their terrible cries, Lingzhi didn’t know what had happened. He coughed and ignored it, saying: “Benefactor Lu speaks too seriously. My uncle master, hearing that your mountain had risen again with heroes flocking together, sent a single invitation. The paper was short but feelings long—only fearing you heroes wouldn’t condescend to come. How could there be coercion?” Knowing the opponent’s eloquence was formidable, he didn’t engage in more verbal sparring and gestured to welcome guests: “Several benefactors entering the temple without worshipping Buddha is like entering a treasure mountain and returning empty-handed. Please, benefactors, enter the hall to offer incense—first to absorb compassionate qi, second to pray for all living beings, third to resolve past grievances between Shaolin and Angry Cang. What do you think?”
As he spoke, ten more monks emerged from behind, these ten lining up to welcome guests, each holding jade plates with incense, candles and other Buddha-worshipping items. Ten incense tables each bore carved names of the heroes in order: “Fire Greedy Single Blade” Qin Zhonghai, “Azure Robe Scholar” Tang Shiqian, “Spirit Rushing North of Passes” Shi Gang and others, all arranged by rank without the slightest disorder. However, though sincerity and care were shown, it inevitably made people suspicious, wondering if there were other arrangements in the Buddha hall.
Lu Guzhan and Azure Robe Scholar exchanged glances, both smiling slightly—apparently having more to say.
Lu Guzhan’s eloquence was overwhelming and aggressive. Once he spoke, no Shaolin monk could parry, and they would probably be led along by him. Lingding knew the Abbot couldn’t out-talk him, so he stepped forward: “Friends, Shaolin is host and you are guests. Since ancient times, guests follow hosts’ customs. Since you’ve come up the mountain, you must follow our temple’s rules for worshipping Buddha—absolutely no declining allowed.”
Whether to worship Buddha was secondary. Even if there were mechanisms in the Buddha hall, the Angry Cang heroes weren’t necessarily helpless—no need for great conflict over this. However, both sides competed here with the intention of suppressing the opponent’s momentum to gain upper hand—making future competition rules easier to handle.
Hearing Lingding’s harsh words, Lu Guzhan didn’t want to make isolated decisions and turned to look at the heroes. Seeing Qin Zhonghai gesture horizontally with his hand, Lu Guzhan immediately laughed heartily. He turned back with a smile: “Master Lingding, sorry about that. We originally wanted to enter the temple to worship Buddha, but hearing your words—for the sake of these ‘rules’—we don’t want to go in anymore.”
Lingding’s eyes widened and his face darkened: “Our temple’s Abbot has always treated you with courtesy—how can you not follow local customs?”
Lu Guzhan knew he absolutely couldn’t retreat at this moment, or he’d be led along by others and would have no room to retreat. He smiled and shook his head mockingly: “Monks don’t harbor angry thoughts. We’ve never heard of temple monks forcibly compelling pilgrims to worship Buddha. Is Master opening a precedent?”
Lingding said grimly: “Will you worship or not?”
Lu Guzhan smiled: “That depends on Master’s sincerity.”
Both sides had reached deadlock. Lingding was stubborn. Hearing Lu Guzhan’s teasing tone immediately inflamed his anger. He turned to a monk and said coldly: “Lingxuan, act.”
That person stepped forward, hands lightly raised. Suddenly countless prayer beads shot out, flying straight at Chang Xuehen.
The Angry Cang people were greatly shocked and were about to pull Chang Xuehen away when Han Yi, standing close and seeing the hidden weapons’ trajectory clearly, immediately shouted: “Don’t move!” Just as his words fell, the prayer beads indeed shot wildly but only grazed Chang Xuehen’s side without harming his skin.
Chang Xuehen was terrified but his mouth remained tough: “Damn, sneak attacking your old man!”
Lingzhen sneered: “Instead of running your mouth, why don’t you look up carefully!” Everyone was startled and quickly looked up to see a character appearing on the military flag Chang Xuehen carried. Everyone could see clearly—the flag surface was prominently embedded with a large “HEAVEN” character!
The field was full of countless masters. Everyone was well-traveled and knowledgeable, recognizing quality. This “HEAVEN” character was formed by twenty prayer beads, densely embedded in the cloth. This hidden weapon technique wasn’t rare, but the remarkable thing was that though the prayer beads carried considerable force, they could meet cloth without breaking through, embedded just right in the cloth. This soft power was truly excellent, comparable to Taiji mental methods.
Everyone quickly looked at the person who had acted, seeing he was only about forty years old. From Lingding’s earlier address, he seemed called Lingxuan. Who would have known this person, though not famous, had martial arts that could combine hardness and softness? It seemed Shaolin’s orthodox reputation was well-deserved.
Lingding put his palms together: “Twenty years ago, our temple’s Great Master Tianjue commanded righteous heroes from three mountains and five peaks in mortal combat with your stronghold master Qin Baxian. You must know how victory and defeat went then. Today you act so domineeringly—aren’t you afraid of history repeating?”
The Angry Cang heroes were furious hearing this. If past amnesty matters were mentioned, everyone had a chest full of resentment. Little Lu Bu, Li Tieshan and others were extremely angry, their eyes seeming to spout fire. Suddenly hearing a wild roar, a long spear flew from the Angry Cang camp straight at Lingxuan. The spear was full of true qi, its air-breaking sound extremely sharp. Lingxuan was startled and was about to raise his hands to block when Lingyin, with quick eyes and hands, hurriedly knocked him down, shouting: “Don’t take it head-on!”
With a whooshing sound, the spear carried wind and thunder momentum, scraping over the monks’ heads. With thunder-like crashing, the monks turned to see the iron spear had flown onto the Buddha hall and lodged in the Great Buddha Hall’s plaque, the iron spear penetrating nearly half the plaque—truly terrifying.
Everyone was still shocked when they heard someone say coldly: “Tell Tianjue to get out here. Buddha worship or not—we don’t have time to waste idly.” As he spoke, an eagle flew down from the sky and perched on that person’s arm. Everyone looked closely—it was “Spirit Rushing North of Passes” Shi Gang.
Lingding was both shocked and angry, pointing at the mountain full of monks: “There are thousands of Buddhist learners here—how dare you be so rude?”
Shi Gang stroked the eagle’s wings and said flatly: “I don’t care if there are tens of thousands of monks. I’ll send a message down and thirty thousand troops will charge up the mountain. Your Shaolin will become rubble in an instant.”
Since entering the temple, Shi Gang had remained silent. Now with great enemies before them, he was the first to create difficulties. His manner was arrogant, his gaze sweeping around, displaying his fierce nature to the fullest. The monks felt fear and couldn’t help stepping back.
Using wisdom to defeat others showed a scholar’s style, but Evil Gold’s behavior was so forceful that it made Lingzhi sigh. He knew his moral cultivation was insufficient, unable to transform stubborn stones. Putting his palms together: “Amitabha Buddha. Since you gentlemen don’t wish to worship Buddha, we won’t force anyone. If you want to see Qianlong Military Advisor, please follow me.” He waved his hand and a thousand monks stepped aside. Lingzhi chanted Buddha’s name and was first to leave through the crowd. Lingding looked murderous, Lingzhen was full of rage—the three monks followed closely behind the Abbot and left successively.
At this time, Yang Suguan and Tianjue, this master-disciple pair, hadn’t yet appeared, but the scene was already very tense. Not knowing what would happen next, Lu Yun, Wu Dingyuan and others worried in their hearts and also rose from the canopy to follow.
Thinking of facing Tianjue in combat, the Angry Cang people remembered the great power of Shaolin’s forbidden divine skills and felt apprehensive. However, since they had come, they should accept it. Panic and fear were useless. Everyone exchanged glances and followed behind Qin Zhonghai’s leadership.
※※※
The heroes, each with their own thoughts, followed Lingzhi toward the back mountain. They had expected Dharma Hall to be murderously dangerous, but walking all the way, it was quite peaceful and harmonious. They saw the back mountain shrouded in deep clouds and mist, distant Buddha chanting sounds, hazy mountain qi drifting around with waves of camellia fragrance—like a worldly paradise. Everyone’s killing intent greatly decreased, slowly developing joyful hearts as they gazed at mountain scenery.
Lu Guzhan felt quite refreshed and nodded: “This place has clear mountains and beautiful waters, spiritual land with outstanding people. Cultivating the Way here, not achieving enlightenment would be difficult.”
Lingzhi walked ahead. Hearing Lu Guzhan’s words, he smiled: “If Mister Lu loves the back mountain, why not stay here long-term seeking the Way? Shaolin monks will spare no effort in hospitality.”
Lu Guzhan laughed heartily: “Abbot, those words won’t do. ‘Without achieving Redpine Master’s status, how can one return to mountain forests?’ Lu has worldly affairs unfinished—how can I rashly retire?”
Redpine Master was Zhang Liang’s Taoist name after becoming a monk. Lu Guzhan’s self-comparison made his meaning very clear—if he couldn’t conquer territory and achieve successful career, he would never possibly retire and stop.
Hearing these words, Lingzhi could only sigh lightly and say no more.
※※※
Everyone continued toward the mountainside, seeing a building appear among the trees—looking ancient and decayed, far from the rich magnificence of Mount Song’s main temple. This retreat should be the famous Dharma Hall.
Since the fourteenth year of Jingtai, Monk Tianjue had imprisoned himself in the temple, never leaving Shaolin a single step for nearly twenty years now. The martial world generated many legends about this—some said Monk Tianjue felt his killing was too heavy and didn’t want to create more killing karma, only facing walls in contemplation. Others said Tianjue knew his skills couldn’t match Ning Bufan, so he hid in Dharma Hall creating martial studies, waiting for achievement day to come down the mountain and compete for the world’s number one title. Various theories abounded without consensus. Until the Zhu Family Manor battle, martial world heroes learned through Lingzhi’s account that this divine monk remained secluded only to guard Angry Cang’s second-in-command “Qianlong”—this finally solved everyone’s doubts. This battle before them was Monk Tianjue’s first action in twenty years.
Walking closer, Chang Xuehen suddenly cried out: “Damn! There are words on the door!” Everyone hurriedly looked and indeed saw four lines of verse written on Dharma Hall’s door:
Qianlong doesn’t claim to be dragon
Rebels aren’t truly defiant
Good and evil naturally generate each other
Heaven’s boundless reaches
※※※
Seeing the verse, whether court forces or Angry Cang bandits, all recited quietly to themselves. Lu Guzhan chanted: “Qianlong doesn’t claim dragon… rebels aren’t truly defiant…” In his heart, he vaguely had some notion but couldn’t grasp it firmly. He walked to Azure Robe Scholar’s side and asked quietly: “These lines are somewhat strange—Military Advisor, do you have ideas?”
Azure Robe Scholar took a deep breath. His mouth didn’t reply, but his gaze turned toward Qin Zhonghai with apparent deep meaning.
Everyone, seeing the verse, truly felt uncertain about its level. Suddenly hearing a sharp clang, a blade chain entered the field horizontally—the person hadn’t arrived but the blade came first. The newcomer was precisely the most arrogant “Spirit Rushing North of Passes.” He said coldly: “Divine Monk Tianjue needn’t play mysterious tricks. Our mountain brothers have arrived as you instructed. Whether you want single combat or group fights, quickly give word—we’ll accompany you to the end.”
After Shi Gang spoke these words, there was no sound from inside the door, no one responding. Unable to contain himself, he immediately gathered qi in his dantian and roared toward heaven. Sound waves moved with Shi Gang as center, shocking in all directions. Where the roar reached, door panels were shaken until they creaked—showing how amazing the power was.
At this moment, Shi Gang used howling sounds to challenge Tianjue with power no less than Wu Dingyuan and Qin Zhonghai’s earlier contest. The howling was deafening. Lingzhi, Song Gongmai, Gao Tianwei and others each used qi to protect themselves without strain. Lingyin knew Zuo Congyi, Shi Ping and other generals had no internal energy foundation, deeply fearing they couldn’t withstand it. He reached out to grasp their palms, using internal energy to protect their heart meridians from giant sound shock injury.
The howling just ceased when Shi Gang roared loudly: “Monk Tianjue! Come out and receive moves!” His blade chain struck out rapidly toward the door panels. Instantly the blade broke wood, wood chips flew and exploded. Shi Gang knew Monk Tianjue would counterattack at any time and quickly pulled back his blade chain. With a loud clang, mechanisms locked tight, forming a twelve-foot great cavalry saber held horizontally across his chest, waiting to begin killing.
Shi Gang acted to break the door—behavior greatly rude. Divine Monk Tianjue’s skills covered the world and could counterattack with peerless internal energy at any time. Who would have known that after a long while, not only was no figure seen inside the door, there wasn’t the slightest sound? Shi Gang made a sound and was about to speak when suddenly the field rang with exclamations. Everyone could clearly see a screen wall standing inside the door with a painting clearly drawn on the wall—the image was perfectly round with a strange creature having human head and snake body in the center, with blood characters surrounding it:
At year Wuchen’s end
Dragon Emperor moves the world
Heaven’s mystery remains true
Ghosts and spirits roam free
※※※
Seeing the blood characters, Shi Gang, Lu Guzhan, Azure Robe Scholar and others cried out in unison and all stepped back. Song Gongmai, Gao Tianwei and others secretly became suspicious. Liu faction people whispered among themselves. Heroes in the field, regardless of origin, all speculated about Monk Tianjue’s intentions.
Though it was afternoon, the atmosphere in the field was quite eerie. Wind passing through forest branches seemed to carry ghostly low laughter. Everyone in the field, looking at Dharma Hall’s great door, felt as if the gates of hell had opened, their hearts filled with greater caution.
Lu Yun had also seen these four lines of verse before. At that time, it was he who had solved the riddle, letting everyone know the eight-character truth “Our Emperor still resides in Shenji Cave.” Just as he was about to speak, suddenly a trembling voice came from behind: “Wu… Wu Dingyuan… damn, that emblem… seems to be… Shenji Cave’s thing…” Lu Yun heard this accent seemed to be An’dao Jing’s and quickly turned to look. Indeed, he saw this military supervisor hiding behind “Blade God Song,” his facial flesh trembling as he spoke, as if extremely terrified and shocked.
An’dao Jing’s background was significant—he was Jiang Chong’s favored flatterer. Who would have known he was now terrified out of his wits, as if some monster lurked in Dharma Hall? Lu Yun was puzzled. Seeing An’dao Jing staring blankly at Wu Dingyuan, he also turned to look. With one glance, even he was startled.
Wu Dingyuan’s face was covered with purple qi, his expression agitated as if he had seen a ghost.
※※※
These four lines “At year Wuchen’s end, Dragon Emperor moves the world” had stirred the world. First, they brought out peerless martial arts from Tianshan via sheepskin, then caused Liu Jing to fall into a trap and die miserably at Kunlun with his entire family destroyed—truly very ominous. Everyone hadn’t expected to see these ancestrally transmitted verses here. For a moment, all were shocked and suspicious. Even with the experience of martial world veterans like Gao Tianwei and Song Gongmai, they now felt puzzled and confused.
In the complete silence, Lingyin and Lingding lowered their heads chanting sutras, only ferrying departed souls, making the scene even more gloomy. In this eerie and unpredictable moment, suddenly laughter rang out in the field. A big man strode forward laughing: “Does Great Master Tianjue want us to solve riddles? We’re busy and don’t have time to waste. Where exactly is this Qianlong Military Advisor? Please speak up quickly.” This person had a bold manner with somewhat joking speech—precisely Qin Zhonghai.
Lingzhi entered the field center and put his palms together in reply: “General Qin, Qianlong is in Dharma Hall, waiting to see you at any time.”
Hearing him speak so openly, Qin Zhonghai couldn’t help laughing: “Abbot, don’t play mysterious anymore. We’re all sensible people. Just tell us—how many fights must we have to see Left Military Advisor?”
Hearing his mocking speech, Lingzhi’s face showed neither joy nor anger. He gazed at the screen wall and said quietly: “General Qin, don’t rush to fight. First answer me one thing, alright?” Qin Zhonghai laughed: “As long as it doesn’t involve military affairs or life and death, Abbot may ask freely.”
Lingzhi lowered his head, took a deep breath, and said word by word: “Do you know who killed your mother and brother?”
The Angry Cang people, hearing Lingzhi suddenly bring up past events, felt a chill and each paid attention. Qin Zhonghai was also surprised and uncertain. His eyebrows rose as he said grimly: “Master, the dead cannot return to life. These relatives of mine died so unjustly—please don’t casually mention their names.”
Lingzhi ignored this and said flatly: “General Qin, please answer me—who killed your mother and brother?”
Hearing his repeated inquiry, Qin Zhonghai immediately gritted his silver teeth and said fiercely: “Treacherous minister Jiang Chong! I’ll never forgive him unto death!” As he spoke, his angry eyes looked toward the court officials. Seeing his fierce gaze, An’dao Jing felt afraid and quickly hid behind Wu Dingyuan.
Everyone in the field, hearing Qin Zhonghai’s angry roar, was secretly shocked. But Lingzhi wasn’t afraid, only saying gently: “Wrong, wrong. General Qin, it wasn’t Jiang Chong who killed your mother and brother.”
Qin Zhonghai said grimly: “Then according to Master, who did it?”
Lingzhi said softly: “Your father.”
As soon as these words were spoken, everyone in the field exclaimed in shock. Qin Zhonghai’s angry eyes widened as he gritted his teeth: “Abbot Master, food can be eaten carelessly, but some words…” He drew his steel blade and struck out fiercely, roaring: “Cannot be spoken!”
With a thunderous crash, blade wind rushed straight out toward Lingzhi. Lingzhi lightly brushed his robe sleeves and dissolved the incoming force. He sighed for a long time and put his palms together: “General Qin, I have no intention of damaging your father’s reputation. But today I want to advise you—if not for your father’s obsession, never able to free himself from that word ‘loyalty’ in officialdom, how would it have harmed him? How would it have affected his family? Your mother was gentle and beautiful, your brother childlike and innocent, but your father only had state affairs in his eyes, finally abandoning them…”
Qin Zhonghai was full of indignation with no leisure for deep thought, saying fiercely: “Lingzhi, old bald thief! If you slander my father one more time, don’t blame me for trampling Shaolin flat!”
Hearing Qin Zhonghai’s angry roar, Lingzhi instead stepped forward. His face was compassionate as he lowered his head and eyes: “General Qin, imperial plans and hegemonic enterprises turn to emptiness in an instant. You father and son were originally righteous people—why sink deeper and deeper? The sea of suffering has no bounds—please put down your butcher’s blade.”
Qin Zhonghai came from the court and followed Liu Angtian for ten years. Qin Baxian was noble as Grand Commander of Western Pacification, a great general the state relied upon. Father and son through two generations were initially both loyal ministers to the court, but finally both rebelled and caused chaos in the world. It seemed Lingzhi’s questioning at this final moment before action was intended to enlighten this court official.
Lu Yun, Wu Dingyuan and others, hearing these words, were all moved and turned to gaze at Qin Zhonghai. The Angry Cang heroes, hearing Lingzhi’s public persuasion, concerned about Qin Zhonghai’s sincerity in rebellion, also remained silent to hear his response.
Since rebelling, today was Qin Zhonghai’s first meeting with Liu faction people. He looked at his good friends, then at his stronghold brothers. Both groups flanked him, but his expression showed no difficulty. In an instant, he smiled slightly and reached out to grasp Lingzhi’s hand.
Seeing his enlightenment, Lingzhi couldn’t help feeling great joy and gripped back tightly: “General Qin, if you’re willing to put down your butcher’s blade, please enter Dharma Hall. My uncle master has words for you.”
Lu Yun and others, hearing these words, were all delighted. As long as Qin Zhonghai agreed verbally, everything would be easily handled.
Qin Zhonghai smiled and suddenly said: “Master, do you know why I rebelled?” Lingzhi’s face flashed with shadow as he slowly released his hand and said quietly: “General seeks to avenge his father—who in the world doesn’t know?”
Hearing these words, Qin Zhonghai shook his head slightly and said sadly: “Speaking honestly, I never saw my father. I was raised by the Sword King.”
Lingzhi was stunned and said blankly: “If General isn’t obsessed with family revenge, could it be… could it be…” He glanced at Qin Zhonghai’s iron leg and sighed: “For revenge against being expelled from court?”
Qin Zhonghai shook his head with a smile: “Abbot, you want to enlighten me but don’t even know what Qin thinks. How can you act as persuader?” Seeing Lingzhi’s complete bewilderment, Qin Zhonghai walked into the field center and declared loudly: “Everyone, let me ask you one thing—why would Qin, a perfectly good court official with blessings to enjoy, instead suffer endless hardships to rebel? Look at my foot, look at my face—what suffering is this!”
Lu Yun’s face was full of tears as he murmured and nodded: “Yes, Zhonghai… you… what suffering is this…” Wu Dingyuan, seeing his distress, immediately reached out to grasp Lu Yun’s palm for comfort.
Qin Zhonghai laughed to himself: “Everyone, I’ll speak frankly! No matter how much suffering Old Qin has endured, as long as I think of one thing at night, I still secretly laugh. Even if I lose another leg or get ten more tattoos, I still think it’s worth it!” Seeing everyone dumbstruck, he immediately spread his hands and declared word by word: “That is—Qin Zhonghai need never kneel to anyone in this life!”
Everyone, hearing these words, was shocked in their hearts. Qin Zhonghai stood in the field and continued: “Think carefully! You people, no matter how much you’ve read or how high your martial arts, you still must kneel to others in this lifetime! Just to beg for a mouthful of food, you must bow your heads so low—are you willing? We’re all equally human. Those thieves just had good reincarnation luck and can sit high giving orders. You have full knowledge and martial arts but must fear day and night, swallowing anger—this kind of life is like rolling in pig pens. Even with wealth filling your gates, what flavor is there? Come! Learn from me! Have some backbone and let that anger burn up. Fighting and killing can also sustain life—who can do anything to you?”
As he spoke, he actually burst into hearty laughter. The Angry Cang heroes cheered loudly.
Lingzhi shook his head: “General’s words are greatly mistaken. ‘Better to be a peaceful dog than a person in chaotic times.’ General, for your own pleasure, you’ve mistakenly opened the ghost gate. When that war fire burns up, how many common people will die unnaturally—how can you bear this in your heart?”
Qin Zhonghai angrily said: “Wrong! All wrong! What ‘peaceful dog better than chaotic person’—in your old man’s view, even a dog dead in battle is stronger than lingering on! ‘Better to be a soul of warring states than a slave of peaceful times.’ The world has so many treacherous people precisely because you sanctimonious hypocrites pampered them! Bowing humbly and scraping by, cursing the powerful while hoping for benefits, bearing daughters as rich men’s concubines, raising sons as nobles’ slaves—dog claws and eagle talons helping to do evil. Such degraded depravity isn’t as clean as dying in war flames!”
Lingzhi sighed: “General’s stubbornness will probably cause pain to relatives and joy to enemies. When the time comes, regret will be too late.”
Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily: “Rebellion is rebellion—what relatives or enemies are there? Master speaks of ‘pain to relatives, joy to enemies’—only two characters matter to me.” He raised his middle and index fingers and said fiercely: “Pleasure!”
※※※
Everyone in the field remained silent while the Angry Cang heroes were greatly excited. Lingzhi sighed deeply, knowing he was powerless to persuade: “General insists on starting war flames—this monk has said all he can. If you want to take Qianlong from the mountain, it must be decided by martial force.”
Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily: “Good! I’ve waited for these words a long time. Draw your terms—we brothers are ready to accompany you anytime.”
Lingzhi nodded: “Since General is straightforward, this monk won’t be polite either.” He pointed toward Dharma Hall: “Our two families compete—my stake is Qianlong. If you win, Qianlong is yours to take. All temple monks will have no complaints.”
Qin Zhonghai nodded with a smile: “Abbot is quite straightforward too.”
Lingzhi smiled slightly and asked back: “General Qin, I stake Qianlong, but I wonder what your stake is?”
Azure Robe Scholar, hearing this, couldn’t help exclaiming and was about to speak to stop him, but was a step too late. He heard Qin Zhonghai laugh loudly: “Abbot, oh Abbot, you needn’t provoke me! Since Old Qin rebelled, I’ve never treated life as important! This great battle was started by my father. If you win, Qin Zhonghai is yours to dispose of!”
As soon as both sides’ agreement was spoken, everyone in the field immediately cried out. Azure Robe Scholar knew he was a step too late and immediately beat his breast in long sighs. Lingzhi was overjoyed beyond expectation, never having imagined Qin Zhonghai so generous, and nodded: “General’s such righteousness—this monk admires it immensely.”
Azure Robe Scholar stepped forward to block in front of Qin Zhonghai and said grimly: “Master Lingzhi needn’t admire anyone. Your ‘wisdom’ character is formidable and remarkable—that’s what everyone should admire repeatedly.”
Lingzhi heard his mockery and immediately smiled and nodded in return: “Why does Mister Tang speak so? General Qin puts righteousness first—that’s remarkable. Doesn’t Military Advisor admire it?”
The two mocked each other. Everyone listening suddenly understood, and the Angry Cang people’s faces turned pale. Looking at Qin Zhonghai—not only was he the Angry Cang leader, he was also the Qin family’s only bloodline. If this battle failed, not only would the leader be captured, but the stronghold would probably be destroyed with everything lost. It seemed Qin Zhonghai’s agreement to be hostage had already fallen into Lingzhi’s calculations.
Actually, Qin Zhonghai could see through Lingzhi’s intentions. By status, Qianlong was Angry Cang Mountain’s second-in-command. For both sides to wager, unless Qin Zhonghai staked his life, there was no other way to convince the Shaolin monks. Even substituting Right Phoenix for Left Dragon, they might not appreciate it—this was how Lingzhi succeeded in one stroke.
※※※
Since the situation was thus, denial was useless. Shi Gang and Lu Guzhan, two veteran generals, exchanged glances and secretly resolved that even if they lost their lives in this battle, they absolutely couldn’t let Qin Zhonghai be captured. Otherwise, not only would they have no face to meet Qin Baxian underground, but the stronghold, losing its leader, would be utterly defeated.
Azure Robe Scholar felt secretly guilty. Anxious to reverse the disadvantage, he cupped his hands: “Abbot Master, things have reached this point—no need to say more. How shall we proceed now? Please instruct.”
Lingzhi smiled slightly and turned to look at Lingding. Lingding stepped forward and declared loudly: “Military Advisor Tang, don’t be hasty! Shaolin disciples never use numbers to overcome few in competition!” He counted with his fingers: “Six against six—our mountain sends six, your mountain counters with six enemies. How about this proposal?”
Azure Robe Scholar mentally calculated. Among the Angry Cang heroes on this mountain trip, the strongest in martial arts should be himself, Qin Zhonghai, Evil Gold Shi Gang, and Lu Guzhan. Adding Li Tieshan and Hao Zhenxiang to make six, they might not necessarily lose. Just as he was about to agree, he suddenly saw Lingzhi and Lingding exchange meaningful glances, both moving their lips quietly as if communicating through voice transmission. Azure Robe Scholar’s heart chilled, knowing Shaolin must have some formidable technique. He immediately changed the subject and waved his hand: “Six against six—how cumbersome? Six matches would merely result in three wins and three losses, laborious and exhausting yet difficult to determine victory. This absolutely won’t do.”
Lingzhi put his palms together: “Mister Tang speaks incorrectly. Even with six people fighting, one battle can determine victory with absolutely no draw.”
Azure Robe Scholar was slightly curious and paid attention: “Master’s words are strange. If one battle determines victory regardless of numbers, why not send three or five people but specifically six?”
Lingding took over the conversation and said coldly: “Speaking honestly, it doesn’t matter how many from your mountain appear—we’ll still respond with six people.”
Hearing Lingding say this, Azure Robe Scholar already saw through the intention, knowing Shaolin must have a six-person formation waiting for the Angry Cang heroes to jump into the fire pit. He sneered: “Hearing Master speak so crisply, let’s all have a group brawl. Why falsely distinguish numbers and matches? We’ll charge up for a battle—nine people from Angry Cang Mountain are here waiting for thousands from Shaolin Temple to come over. Everyone fight chaotically for life and death pleasure. Wouldn’t corpses strewn throughout the temple be beautiful?”
Shi Gang laughed heartily and shouted: “Military Advisor, why be polite with them? If their six people want to defeat all our brothers, I’ll send orders down here—thirty thousand troops can freely slaughter while they still respond with six people. Now that would be good to watch!”
Hearing both sides’ verbal sparring back and forth, each focusing on numbers and matches, Lingzhi sighed at Shi Gang’s shouting: “Very well. Since our temple’s six-person proposal doesn’t suit Military Advisor’s taste, we won’t force anyone. But I wonder what brilliant method you have that could satisfy both our families?”
Azure Robe Scholar calculated mentally. If one battle decided victory, the opponent would certainly send out Divine Monk Tianjue. On their side, Fang Zijing had the highest martial arts but was nowhere to be seen. If six people decided the battle, the opponent had formidable formations. Thinking back and forth, he conceived a plan and smiled: “In Shaolin battle, many people won’t work, few people won’t do. Why don’t both sides have three matches with two victories to determine the winner?”
Hearing these words, Lingzhi was delighted and generously promised: “Good! As you said—three battles, two victories!”
Azure Robe Scholar smiled: “Your mountain is host—could you first announce your participants?”
How could Lingzhi, so intelligent, not hear the enemy’s probing? However, their mountain’s masters were so capable, all appearing were contemporary elites. He wasn’t afraid of the opponent’s superior-inferior strategies and nodded: “Shaolin disciples are upright and open—nothing cannot be said to others. In this competition, our side will first have Arhat Hall Master Lingding take the field. This old monk, humbly serving as Shaolin Abbot, should appear second. As for the final battle…” He gestured toward Dharma Hall: “Uncle Master Tianjue is Dharma Hall’s master and invited your mountain to the temple. How could we disciples dare compete for precedence? This third match should naturally be his.” He put his palms together: “Lingding, Lingzhi, Tianjue respectfully request instruction.”
Lingding, Lingzhi, and Tianjue were the three strongest fighters in current Shaolin Temple. Years ago in a fierce battle at Mount Hua’s Jade Purity Temple, Lingding had faced “Sword God” Zhuo Lingzhao. This monk’s martial strength and courage were witnessed by all in the martial world. As for Abbot Lingzhi, not only was he among the Four Great Vajras, his martial arts were even above the Arhat Hall Master. Adding old monk Tianjue, with this lineup Shaolin could walk the world almost infallibly. Even if the Angry Cang heroes won the first match, they probably couldn’t pass Lingzhi’s test, let alone challenge Monk Tianjue. No matter how many Angry Cang masters there were, defeat seemed more likely than victory.
Azure Robe Scholar was also unafraid and nodded: “Good—Lingding, Lingzhi, Tianjue are your mountain’s three participants.” He walked back into formation. Li Tieshan, worried, quickly came to inquire: “How is it? Can we win?”
Azure Robe Scholar said quietly: “Master Fang hasn’t arrived yet. We’ll go all out in the first two battles to avoid old monk Tianjue.”
Everyone, hearing these words, finally understood Azure Robe Scholar’s intention. His request for Lingzhi to reveal participants was to pin them down. Given Tianjue’s seniority, he couldn’t possibly serve as vanguard in three battles. Lingzhi also couldn’t position himself as the main general. Naturally, Tianjue would be assigned to the final match. As long as Angry Cang masters could avoid this divine monk, this battle still had hope of victory.
Both sides agreed on the matches, waiting only for the first vanguard battle to begin. At this time, not only were the Angry Cang heroes rubbing their fists and palms, but even the Shaolin monks were excitedly stirring. Looking at the four great families watching tigers fight, everyone was completely focused. Only Lu Yun and Wu Dingyuan wore worried expressions, exchanging glances and sighing.
These two had friendships with both sides, making their position extremely awkward. Seeing colleague Yang Suguan come from Shaolin with Lingding and Lingyin as old acquaintances, they didn’t want to see Shaolin disciples casualties. But over there, the Angry Cang heroes’ friendships were equally deep. Wu Dingyuan owed Li Tieshan life-saving grace, Lu Yun received martial arts instruction from Lu Guzhan—both were unforgettable deep favors. How could they bear to see the Angry Cang heroes suffer great defeat? To watch Qin Zhonghai with their own eyes being captured and imprisoned?
The situation was so difficult that both Lu and Wu lowered their heads speechlessly, only hoping this battle could end peacefully. Even if victory and defeat were decided, they hoped not to see life and death.