At noon, sunlight shone down as an eagle circled and soared, then suddenly identified its direction and dove down into the crowd.
“Aiyal” A sharp cry from above the training ground startled the people on the viewing stands and frightened A’Xiu into jumping up.
“What is that thing?” Men, women, old and young on the viewing stands were greatly alarmed. A’Xiu was also dumbfounded, gaping with his small mouth as he stared foolishly at that strange bird, which had landed precisely on the hand of the beautiful woman beside Hua Mei – the woman she called mother.
“Flying pigeon carrying a message! Flying pigeon carrying a message!” Hua Mei clapped her hands joyfully and smiled.
A’Xiu hastily asked Hua Mei: “This… this is a pigeon?” Hua Mei smiled and said: “Isn’t it? Everyone says ‘flying pigeons carry messages.’ If it’s not a pigeon, how could it carry messages?”
Pigeon soup was fresh and the meat delicious – A’Xiu had eaten it since childhood. Hearing that the strange bird was table fare, A’Xiu naturally stole glances at it. But as soon as he turned his head, he saw the bird glaring at him fiercely, as if it would peck at any moment. A’Xiu was startled and didn’t know pigeons originally looked so fierce and violent. He couldn’t help swallowing and muttering: “Bird King, I… I haven’t eaten too many of your companions. Don’t be so fierce…”
The two children’s silly conversation made Aunt Wu laugh. She untied the note from the flying eagle’s feet, handed the fierce bird to a nearby officer, and said with a smile: “Silly child, this is a great eagle, not a little white pigeon.”
A’Xiu made an “oh” sound – so what Aunt had in her hands was a flying eagle, no wonder its eyes were so fierce. But he was still very curious – everyone said eagles were fierce and pigeons gentle, but what did real pigeons actually look like?
He shifted his gaze toward below the platform and suddenly saw a white bird perched on his uncle’s hand. A’Xiu pulled at the steward and whispered: “Is this a pigeon?” The steward laughed: “Does young master want to eat pigeon meat? I’ll tell the mistress in a moment.”
A’Xiu didn’t reply, just stared blankly at his uncle. He saw him smiling broadly, stroking the white bird’s head, then with a gesture of his hand, that shadow shot up to the sky again. A’Xiu said in bewilderment: “Everyone has birds – what’s this all about?”
He watched the white shadow soaring at the horizon, seeing it disappear into the vast clear sky… Perhaps… at the other end of that distant horizon, someone was also thinking of him and would send him a little bird at any time to let him show off proudly…
Birds came and went, naturally causing continuous commotion below the platform, but the young man on the arena remained as if he heard nothing, completely unmoved. This young man was named “Su Ying,” the current sect leader of Mount Hua and the main general of the final battle of “Five Trials of the Martial Star.”
Legend had it that sixteen years ago, Ning Bufan saw himself in this child’s eyes at first glance. Overjoyed, he passed the Three Reach Sword to him and from then on regarded him as his foremost disciple.
“Seeing oneself in another’s eyes” – many people thought this phrase was a metaphor, assuming this young man was very charming and thus earned praise. However, those who had seen Su Ying understood this wasn’t a metaphor – Ning Bufan really had seen himself.
Speaking of mystery, Ning Bufan was ugly in appearance while Su Ying was graceful as jade – master and disciple were completely different in looks. Except for having round heads and square feet, there was absolutely no resemblance. Why then did Ning Bufan see himself? Could it be he saw an illegitimate son – otherwise how could he say such things?
Without exaggeration, anyone speaking face-to-face with Su Ying within three feet would see themselves. Not only Ning Bufan, but even Qiong Fang when she first saw this young man years ago was stunned, then came to her senses.
It turned out this young man had very large, very bright eyes. So large they were like two mirror lakes, which is why everyone speaking face-to-face with Su Ying first saw not Su Ying’s appearance, but their own reflection. Perhaps because this feeling was so rare, the next time they heard these three characters, everyone would be like the young girl Qiong Fang of years past – first nodding, then with flushed cheeks, answering grandfather’s question with a soft voice.
“Ying? I remember this person. Mm, he… is quite different.”
Mongolia’s foremost expert Zhe’er Dan was now experiencing this unprecedented wonderful sensation. He was observing himself through his enemy’s eyes.
What did he look like in his opponent’s eyes? Was he still like before, still that fierce hero of the northern desert? Zhe’er Dan squinted and looked intently. In an instant, he saw a great tiger standing fiercely in the young man’s pupils.
Years hadn’t diminished his masculine vigor – he was still a majestic heavenly general. Zhe’er Dan’s eyes blazed with might, and he couldn’t help feeling somewhat proud.
Suddenly, as if responding to Zhe’er Dan’s pride, the young man’s eyelids blinked, like a sly smile or perhaps mocking something. Those bright eyes shifted slightly to look at his head. Zhe’er Dan could see clearly – in the young man’s eyes, the hero had sparse silver-white hair, and the Mongolian topknot style looked especially ridiculous.
In an instant, he changed from a northern desert grandmaster to a barbarian old man.
Zhe’er Dan was angry. His smile disappeared, changing from pride to rage, and his eyes also revealed some killing intent.
Just then, a gentle voice came from across.
“Senior, the fight has already begun.” Zhe’er Dan’s heart jumped as he awakened in that instant. A childish smiling face appeared before him – unknowingly, his opponent had approached within three feet without him noticing.
With a “hey” sound, the final battle of “Five Trials of the Martial Star” began, and Su Ying thrust out his first sword.
“Three Reach Sword” versus “Great Black Heaven” – before the two had even exchanged moves, Zhe’er Dan had already retreated backward. Not only that, he also avoided his opponent’s gaze. “To observe the enemy, one must observe their eyes” – though the northern desert grandmaster taught his disciples this way, now he had to avoid it.
Already gained the initiative… Su Ying smiled as he thrust his sword, sheath and all, diagonally upward, three inches and seven from Zhe’er Dan’s heart.
Just as legend said, the first move of “Intelligent Sword” was definitely a feint. This sword used no force, the sword tip floating uncertainly. One could see Su Ying intended to test – Intelligent Sword Pacifies Eight Directions specialized in attacking the flaws in enemies’ techniques. He would turn his sword tip at any time to attack his weakest spot.
Having retreated already, if he responded carelessly again, he would fall into disadvantage. Zhe’er Dan took a deep breath, raised his right palm to guard his chest, then placed his left fist at his waist, gave a low growl in his throat, and instantly channeled internal energy.
Experienced veterans in the martial world all understood that to deal with “treasure hidden in the pot,” one must “defend while attacking.” This move was called “Dadaqi Weila,” translated as “Secret Blade” or “Hidden Blade.” He would use his right palm to restrain his opponent, and as soon as the sword blade was deflected by his palm wind, the hidden left fist would charge straight into the middle palace. His iron fist like a cannon would severely injure his opponent and immediately decide victory.
“Secret blade, secret method, absolutely no flaws.” Zhe’er Dan was full of confidence. He was definitely not a reckless brute – on the contrary, he combined offense and defense. At this moment, he waited at ease, breathing deeply, ready to counter his enemy at any time.
Floating and drifting, the sword tip indeed turned – it was seeking gaps in his stance…
“Very sorry, young friend!” Zhe’er Dan’s mouth corners smiled coldly. “My technique has no gaps and no flaws! Where do you want to attack?” Taking a fierce breath, his left fist was about to strike out wildly.
Swish – the long sword turned to stab at his left fist.
“What is this?” Zhe’er Dan was puzzled. His steel-like fist wasn’t his weakness – why did he stab there? This fist feared no sharp edge at all. Didn’t he know?
“There must be a conspiracy…” If it were an ordinary person using such childish swordplay, Zhe’er Dan would mostly counter with a punch, destroying his opponent’s long sword in one move and humiliating him in the process. However, before coming to the Central Plains, Zhe’er Dan had already heard rumors of the Intelligent Sword – he absolutely couldn’t underestimate it.
Zhe’er Dan became highly vigilant, withdrew his left fist, and stepped back.
Before his footing was stable, swish – his opponent quickened the offensive, flying forward with sword and sheath, but the sword tip pointed at his throat.
“Damn… fell for it…!” Zhe’er Dan was furious, cursing himself for being an old fool.
The flaw wasn’t in his technique – the flaw existed in his own heart… “Intelligent Sword Pacifies Eight Directions,” which used brains not hands, wouldn’t wait for opponents to show flaws – it would induce opponents’ flaws…
“Sarga!” Suddenly hearing a violent roar, Zhe’er Dan called out his technique’s name. This was “Mongolian Fierce Wind.” In an instant, he had rushed forward regardless of everything to counter-attack. Even if his opponent thrust out a long sword, he would bite the enemy blade with his fierce teeth – brave men always enjoyed taking risks, and he wanted to gamble.
Fists, legs, head, knees, elbows, shoulders, feet, teeth – all eight weapons attacked together. As the northern desert’s grandmaster, the power of this leap was naturally extraordinary. His left hand like a claw, right hand formed a hammer, his footwork containing hidden wrestling circular steps that could turn at any time. What seemed like reckless charging actually utilized a lifetime of martial arts essence.
Zhe’er Dan was too strong – perhaps that steel-like forehead and thick chest also concealed superior martial arts. Su Ying seemed to forget he was in fierce battle, only sweeping his long sword aside with an amazed expression, unconsciously taking another step forward. This completely unguarded foolish appearance was simply like… like…
“Seeking death, boy!” Zongze Siba and others sitting below the platform couldn’t help cursing loudly.
Seeing his opponent acting like an idiot, actually swaying toward him, Zhe’er Dan was even more furious. He had made complete preparations before attacking. If the enemy went left, crab claws would pinch the waist; if right, iron hammer would smash the head; if he crouched to avoid, slanted shoulder would crash with heavy force. In summary, whether Su Ying drew his sword, dodged, or jumped, nothing would be beyond his expectations. After preparing for so long, the fool actually walked over dumbly – all his carefully arranged follow-up moves were useless.
What was this? Did he want to commit suicide? Or was there another conspiracy?
“If you want to die, go die!” Having been fooled once before, this time Zhe’er Dan roared in foreign language, his whole body’s strength ready to tear and kill the strong enemy. Which hand should he use to slaughter this clown? Left hand? Right hand? Left foot? Right foot? Or ram out with forehead and shoulders together? Whatever – all together, beat him to pulp! With thunderous noise, Zhe’er Dan deployed all his body’s fierce weapons, all ultimate techniques moving together – left and right claws striking down together, tail stinger thrusting with all might, forehead pressing down with another head butt – looking invincible.
“Catching lobsters, you can’t be impatient…” Ning Bufan’s smiling face appeared before his eyes. “This creature is so fierce, its whole body is weaponized – it pinches, stings, and bites – very hard to catch…” Su Ying muttered, repeating his master’s words.
“So we can’t let it pinch or sting… we must patiently tease it…” Swish – the long sword swept out again. “Wait for it to angrily pinch… and sting… and bite… then it will… tie itself in knots… After tying in knots… even babies can catch it…”
Techniques weren’t about quantity but usefulness. Zhe’er Dan, whose brain was hot with anger, now struck with fists and feet together, truly like a lobster tied in knots. He was fooled again, only able to watch helplessly as the long sword pierced through his fist network straight toward his face.
Zhe’er Dan, angry and flustered, hastily steadied his mind to think. The current situation was perilous – he could only step diagonally backward in large strides. He crossed his arms like a cross, hastily dodging leftward. After this dodge, he would immediately attack preemptively. Su Ying had already anticipated this – his left hand on his waist, the long sword moved first, already guarding the path the enemy must take, waiting for him to crash into it himself. Zhe’er Dan roared strangely, both feet heavily stamping the ground, his body turning to leap backward. Using too much force momentarily, he nearly fell off the arena – a very embarrassing sight.
“Excellent!”
The eastern pavilion erupted in thunderous cheers, everyone on the viewing stands applauding. Even Minister He, who didn’t understand martial arts, was now stroking his beard and smiling.
The young sect leader of Mount Hua didn’t use his mouth to deceive people – he always used his brain. Facing a supreme expert who combined attack and defense, it was hard to find his opponent’s flaws, so Su Ying chose “confusion.” When authorities are confused, only by first confusing oneself could one confuse others.
The first sword confusedly stabbed at the enemy’s strongest iron fist; the second sword muddledly walked forward casually. These two moves were inexplicably like seeking humiliation – even Su Ying himself didn’t know the result of his techniques, let alone others.
Poor Zhe’er Dan, with his deep schemes and calculations, mistook confusion for viciousness. The result of disrupting his own formation was already falling into desperate straits.
The situation in the arena was one-sided – Zhe’er Dan nearly rolled off the platform, looking extremely ugly, while Su Ying remained composed. Though on the arena, he still winked at Qiong Fang with a slight smile. When the young sect leader casually glanced around, amazed exclamations arose from all sides – sisters admired, sisters-in-law were infatuated, all showing colors of love. Juan’er covered her mouth and laughed softly: “Young Master Qiong, fox spirits are coming in groups – do you have any clever methods to deal with them?” All around sparkled with the admiring gazes of young girls. Qiong Fang saw this and only smiled lightly, not considering it important – it seemed if grandmothers and mothers wanted to snatch her sweetheart, she would offer him with both hands without being stingy.
A’Xiu saw all the women swaying east and west, and Hua Mei also had an intoxicated expression, as if all had been poisoned by some strange toxin. He felt nauseous and wanted to vomit. Just as he was feeling sick, he suddenly had a bright idea: “Big brother is imposing while little brother slips away – whoever wins or loses, if I don’t leave now, when will I?” Having been confined strictly these past days, seeing the steward concentrating on watching the fight and aunt and uncle also having no other thoughts, he whooshed and slipped through under the viewing stand chairs. Being small and short, he rolled along the seats and got out without anyone noticing.
Pitiful… Zhe’er Dan panted heavily as he climbed up.
The dignified northern desert grandmaster was bold and combined the strengths of several schools – anyone stepping within three feet of him was like coming to a cliff’s edge, needing to be careful with every step. Who knew the cliff would collapse on its own – no fighting was even necessary. Zhe’er Dan’s face was completely red, extremely vexed. Thinking of his important mission and the Khan’s trust, how could he lose to a young man? Immediately channeling power into both knees, he sprang up and followed with a heavy punch counter-attacking – regardless of how his opponent used techniques, he just wanted to hit him, having unleashed his savage nature.
His right fist struck out heavily, containing supreme internal energy – its power was naturally intimidating. Su Ying lightly turned his long sword, leaning to avoid the killing move, the sword tip turning to slash at Zhe’er Dan’s wrist, ready to remove one of his hands at any time.
His opponent’s technique changes were too fast. Zhe’er Dan’s punch was too fierce – he could no longer dodge. Immediately leaning back his upper body and sweeping down with both hands in an extremely dangerous body technique to avoid the sword edge.
Su Ying smiled: “What a flexible body. Try taking another sword from me.” The sword blade turned to stab straight at Zhe’er Dan’s throat. The way of the sword was like the way of chess – the higher one’s comprehension, the broader one’s moves and more precise one’s calculations. As long as the first sword gained advantage, the second sword could pressure the opponent. By the third and fourth swords, one could devour like silkworms and whales, attacking cities and seizing territory. At this moment, Zhe’er Dan had just escaped from the previous sword’s danger – his former strength was exhausted, new strength not yet born, his body’s center of gravity already unbalanced. It was already a situation where his opponent could take whatever he pleased.
The long sword was about to reach his throat – victory seemed decided. Zhe’er Dan was both shocked and angry. In panic, he looked down and saw the wooden arena was covered with wood chips left from the previous match. Knowing victory or defeat depended on this moment, he disregarded face and with a “waya” cry, simply let his body fall with the momentum. In mid-air, he swept out fist wind, and large amounts of wood chips flew up in the air, shooting out like flying arrows straight at Su Ying’s face.
The flying wood chips were like hidden weapons, but these chips and blocks were left from several fierce battles on the arena, not hidden weapons brought by Zhe’er Dan. Though everyone at the sidelines knew Zhe’er Dan was being clever, they couldn’t accuse him of cheating. Everyone was greatly alarmed, but Su Ying showed no fear, knowing his opponent’s tricks were exhausted – he wanted to use wood chips to block himself and escape the “Intelligent Sword’s” wonderful techniques.
Wood chips filled the sky, flying like throwing knives straight at Su Ying’s face. Zhe’er Dan was excited, already viewing the wood chips as his only lifeline. He flipped in mid-air, both feet heavily landing on the arena with a stomp, relying on the wood chips’ cover to charge forward again.
Su Ying felt pity and shook his head: “It’s useless – Intelligent Sword is more than this.”
Large amounts of wood chips flew over, and Zhe’er Dan had already charged to within five feet. Su Ying tilted his head to avoid the first wood chip, then took large strides with both feet, crouching low to dodge in the form of a crouched bow shooting arrows – countless sharp chips flew over his head. He raised his long sword and slashed diagonally – this sword used the flat of the blade to knock down a wooden block.
Zhe’er Dan was slightly stunned, shocked to see that wooden block’s sharp corner flying toward his right eye, stabbing directly. Before he could dodge, his opponent’s sword sheath swung again, diagonally hooking toward his lower abdomen. Zhe’er Dan was greatly shaken – his carefully calculated arrangement had let his opponent secretly cross over. Now the long sword coordinated with wood chips had once again forced him into desperate straits.
The Intelligent Sword was invincible – timing, terrain, and all advantages were calculated and controlled. With Zhe’er Dan’s defeat imminent, he sought survival in danger. Roaring loudly, he neither avoided nor yielded to the wooden block and long sword, instead lifting his right foot and stomping fiercely on the arena, shouting: “Ka!”
Tremendous force transmitted through, making the arena shake violently. Su Ying’s footing wavered, and the long sword in his hand actually deflected by an inch, failing to strike his opponent’s vital point. Zhe’er Dan risked his life and finally dodged one sword. However, while the arena’s shaking could interfere with his opponent’s sword thrust, the wood chips flying in mid-air were completely unaffected – the wooden block still shot toward his eye like before. With the disaster of blindness right before him, Mongolia’s foremost expert showed no panic! He took a deep breath, instantly channeling his true power. With a “pu” sound, energy shot from his mouth, actually blowing that wooden block backward to fly toward Su Ying’s eyes instead.
Su Ying was only in his twenties – his combat experience was ultimately limited. How could he expect his opponent to have such a strange technique? Unable to dodge in time, he could only tumble down embarrassingly, finally avoiding this move. At last he retaliated! Zhe’er Dan smiled grimly, both feet splitting apart as he sat down on the ground, his heavy fist thundering straight toward the young hero.
Su Ying frowned, his left hand supporting the ground as he floated back five feet – his first retreat since entering the arena. Zhe’er Dan laughed heartily, both legs sweeping continuously. Wood chips flew across the arena as his fist wind howled, step by step pressing forward, putting Su Ying in extreme danger.
Finally evening the odds, Zhe’er Dan relied not on any brilliant ultimate techniques but purely on the ruthlessness of actual combat.
Sa Mau, Shajin, Zhe’er Dan – all were battle-tested northern desert tigers and wolves. First using various unthinkable vicious moves for cover, then striking with killing ultimate techniques – only such fighting methods could reverse a disadvantageous situation in desperate straits. No matter how high Su Ying’s comprehension, as long as his experience was slightly insufficient and he fell for their tricks, he would suffer miserable defeat on the spot.
With both sides fighting intensely, Zhe’er Dan had finally managed to even the odds when he suddenly stopped attacking and ceased pursuing. Seeing his strange behavior, Su Ying also withdrew his sword and cupped his hands asking: “What instruction does senior have?”
Zhe’er Dan extended his index finger and pointed at the long sword in Su Ying’s hands, as if wanting his opponent to remove the sword sheath.
The ceremonial sword was noble in form, about four feet long, personally bestowed by Imperial Father-in-law Qiong – naturally a rare treasure. Su Ying smiled and said: “You want this junior to draw the sword? That might hurt our harmony.” Previously, Su Ying had made Zhe’er Dan struggle desperately with just his restrained technique – if the cold edge appeared in the world, who knew how he would resist it. The Chinese experts below the platform, seeing the barbarian overestimating himself, all laughed and pointed mockingly. Juan’er and Qiong Fang exchanged glances, both with smiles in their eyes.
Zhe’er Dan was resolute by nature – his eyes saw only his enemy’s figure, ignoring others’ boring expressions. Since he had actively requested his opponent draw the sword, he naturally had ways to defend. Seeing Su Ying hesitating and seemingly quite contemptuous, he immediately roared and stepped forward heavily. With a thunderous crash, his right fist struck out directly.
A spiraling force came through the air! Bringing with it a patch of black shadow.
Internal energy transmitted, the fierce wind passed two feet – Su Ying’s long sword, affected by the spiraling force, had its sheath automatically spring open, revealing the sharp edge.
“Great Black Heaven” – energy like a black curtain covering the fist’s reach of two feet. This was an unprecedented fist technique.
Su Ying’s heart jumped – he knew he had encountered trouble. This person had never brought out his ultimate technique – so this was his trump card.
Northern desert people were brave and martial by nature, their kung fu mostly following the path of fierce strength. That Zhe’er Dan was naturally brave and powerful, known as “the best fighter among northern border Xiongnu,” the most rigid among the rigid, the bravest among the brave. Ordinary martial artists who competed with him in brute force all ended up like eggs hitting stones. Relying on his fierce strength, Zhe’er Dan was invincible, dominating the northern desert until his miserable defeat at the hands of that demon at age fifty-seven.
Rigid strength easily breaks – before “Mongolian Fierce God” Sa Mau, Zhe’er Dan became a sacrificial lamb, also proving the Chinese maxim: “Rigidity cannot last long.” After experiencing his first miserable defeat in life, Zhe’er Dan was forced to begin pursuing higher martial arts realms. He abandoned his pride, sought out juniors, and became a student again. He wanted to find a martial art to compensate for his shortcomings.
First practicing Taiji Quan, then studying Eight Trigrams Palm, Zhe’er Dan desperately practiced “softness,” hoping to transcend his limits in his twilight years. However, once experts in the world reach their peak, they often develop sectarian prejudices. Zhe’er Dan’s original martial arts were too strong, creating especially stubborn martial obstacles. Practicing other schools’ martial arts was like having an upset stomach – not only were the techniques incompatible, but he was often absent-minded, learning even more slowly.
After grinding away for three years, he barely learned soft energy, but his original martial arts declined instead of improving. When competing with others, he often hesitated, unable even to defeat his own disciples.
What should he do? Neither rigid nor soft, Zhe’er Dan didn’t know what to do. He had abandoned rigidity but couldn’t find softness. Confused, he no longer sought other school masters for instruction. He left the palace, abandoned wife and children, and from then on, day and night, only pondered bitterly.
After half a year, he returned to his original thought – he lost to Sa Mau only because he wasn’t rigid enough.
Rigidity was everything to Zhe’er Dan. When rigidity was defeated, it meant the rigidity wasn’t rigid enough, the strength wasn’t strong enough. When steel contained impurities and the heart had distracting thoughts, it was time for re-tempering. From then on, Zhe’er Dan no longer begged others for guidance – he only sought to return to his faith, seeking progress in the creed of being more rigid, more fierce, harder, and stronger. He endured the strain on his energy, bore the pain, punching again and again. Sometimes the wind howled, sometimes there was complete silence. One thousand punches in an hour, ten thousand punches in a day, 3.6 million punches in a year. His fist power continuously developed and strengthened through this.
Three years – when his straight punch reached exactly ten million times, things changed. Zhe’er Dan’s straight punch underwent a mutation.
Completely different from the 9,999,999th punch, the ten millionth punch hatched a monster no one could have expected – just like how no one could expect that small tadpoles, those round, smooth, mudfish-like elongated bodies, would eventually become four-legged, long-tongued monsters.
Fist with black shadows, power spreading widely, invisible energy splitting enemies through the air – called “Great Black Heaven”!
Zhe’er Dan laughed toward the sky. This ultimate technique hidden for seven years was originally practiced to deal with Sa Mau. Who knew that demon would disappear without a trace? Using it now against the “Three Reach Sword” was just right.
With the strong enemy bringing out his specialty, Su Ying was also quite excited. He stared at Zhe’er Dan and cupped his hands: “Old hero, since you think so highly of me, I won’t be polite either.” Though the two couldn’t communicate verbally, Su Ying’s words remained respectful. He showed courtesy before force – instantly his wrist gently extended, another sword thrust out. This sword’s path was gentle and slow, seemingly also respectful, but actually the sword technique already pointed toward Zhe’er Dan’s weakest lower body.
The two were ten feet apart. The sword tip slowly passed the midline and floated toward the lower body. Zhe’er Dan knew that with this young man’s extraordinary comprehension, he absolutely couldn’t let him maintain the offensive. He took a deep breath, clenched both fists, secretly channeling “Great Black Heaven’s” invisible fist energy, always ready to counter-attack with airborne energy.
The cold edge finally reached six feet before him. Zhe’er Dan’s height and arm length, plus two feet of invisible fist edge, could already strike his opponent. Instantly taking a deep breath, he shouted: “Ka!” Before the roar ended, his heavy foot had already kicked out first. Zhe’er Dan had become enlightened – the fist was fake; he was also using deceptive feints.
The northern desert grandmaster was tall with long legs – this kick was like a long spear thrusting, instantly piercing through the sword net. Su Ying didn’t mind, immediately turning to guard his vital points. If Zhe’er Dan didn’t withdraw his leg, his foot would be severed and he’d be immediately disabled.
The long sword shot out – victory or defeat in an instant. But Zhe’er Dan was full of confidence. Just as the sword light was about to cut off his foot, suddenly a black shadow flashed – “Great Black Heaven” energy shot out straight toward the sword blade.
With a “buzz” sound, fierce spinning force rolled over. “Great Black Heaven” – formless, substanceless, supreme rigid energy shook the sword edge. Su Ying’s tiger’s mouth was stimulated by the strange force, becoming faintly painful. The long sword was actually deflected.
With this divine technique, the northern desert grandmaster could attack and defend, already grasping victory. Zhe’er Dan laughed heartily. In the blink of an eye, his bloodthirsty nature was aroused, his expression turning fierce. Hearing his howl, he pressed forward again. His huge figure charged over, already breaking into the sword net.
The situation became extremely critical. Su Ying’s entire martial arts lay in his sword – if forced into close combat, the Mount Hua sect leader couldn’t deploy his swordsmanship, and his life would be in his opponent’s hands. Su Ying knew he was at a disadvantage – the only plan now was to increase distance and reform his formation. As soon as the thought moved, his feet were about to retreat when suddenly he heard Zhe’er Dan’s hissing cold laugh. He lifted his foot and stomped on the arena – a tremendous crash passed through, the ground shaking continuously. Su Ying actually couldn’t jump up. Zhe’er Dan laughed loudly, instantly throwing sixteen punches, enveloping Su Ying in fist winds.
The two great experts were inches apart, wrestling like bulls, using fists, feet, head, and elbows – already in full close-range combat. Su Ying couldn’t counterattack, only desperately dodging. From beginning to end, his sword tip pointed downward. Chinese subjects were terrified – from Hu Zhilian above to Hua Mei below, all were covered in cold sweat. However, the Mount Hua disciples remained completely silent, and even Qiong Fang was calm and composed. It seemed everyone had complete faith in Su Ying’s swordsmanship and believed he would never be defeated like this.
After another ten moves, Su Ying still couldn’t increase the distance. Zhe’er Dan deliberately forced his opponent to abandon sword for fists. His knee lifts were lightning-fast. Suddenly hearing a “buzz” sound, “Great Black Heaven Fist” struck again. Fierce force transmitted through, the sword blade bent, his wrist ached, Su Ying’s face turned deathly pale, and the long sword fell from his hands to the ground.
Zhe’er Dan had been waiting for this moment since entering the arena. Immediately showing his white teeth in a grin, he pounced again, his left fist striking toward his opponent’s chest – his technique showed no mercy whatsoever.
With the great enemy approaching, suddenly Su Ying raised both palms toward heaven, lifted one foot, in the form of a golden rooster standing alone, and shouted loudly: “Crane Dance Seven Star Fist!” Seeing this swordsman reveal a fist and foot stance, everyone in the venue was amazed. Mount Hua disciples jumped up one by one, saying in shock: “This… this is…”
Su Ying had learned some fist techniques in his youth – Central Plains experts had mostly heard of this. However, the Three Reach Sword’s reputation was too great, and they hadn’t heard of this “Crane Dance Seven Star Fist.” Seeing Mount Hua disciples so shocked, it must be an extremely powerful divine technique. For a moment, they cheered loudly to encourage Su Ying.
Zhe’er Dan knew this young man was cunning and scheming – this fist technique was probably suspicious. Since he couldn’t figure it out, he didn’t need to – he’d attack fast with fast. Immediately his large hand reached out straight toward his opponent’s chest.
Su Ying saw the enemy’s palm force coming and immediately lowered his left foot, meeting it with his palm. Everyone saw his body technique was good – his palm power must also be exquisite and could certainly deadlock with Zhe’er Dan.
With a light “pa” sound, Su Ying’s hands were shaken apart, and Zhe’er Dan’s iron palm had already struck toward his qi sea.
With sudden change, all observers were greatly astonished. Seeing Su Ying’s fist technique stance wasn’t weak, he must have defensive methods. Who would have expected that when their arms connected, his strength would be completely inadequate? Everyone was shocked and hastily stood up. Juan’er was so frightened her pretty face turned deathly pale. Seeing Su Ying’s life in danger, she immediately drew her long sword to throw toward the arena. Just as her fingers moved, someone stopped her.
Juan’er quickly turned her gaze – the one stopping her was Qiong Fang. She said frantically: “Quick, let go! Ying might not make it.” Qiong Fang waved her hand: “Don’t be afraid. You must trust him – he has his own intentions.” Juan’er was puzzled and uncertain. Hearing amazed exclamations from the arena, she quickly glanced toward the platform. The two great experts were like old monks in meditation, staring at each other face to face, completely motionless.
Juan’er was greatly surprised. At this moment, Zhe’er Dan’s iron palm was extended, grasping the qi sea, while Su Ying stood on one foot like a crane with no room for resistance. Zhe’er Dan had already achieved complete victory. However, seeing these two like stone statues, while Zhao Laowu, Fu Yuanying and others nearby were calm and relaxed, all smiling – there must be some mystery. She was completely confused. Looking intently, she suddenly exclaimed “ah” – she understood.
Su Ying stood like a golden rooster, his left foot raised in the air, but his right foot pressed on the sword hilt. The sword blade, under pressure, rose straight up, silently pointing toward Zhe’er Dan’s lower abdomen.
Intelligent Sword Pacifies Eight Directions – indeed everything was a feint. This “Crane Dance Seven Star Fist” was all enemy-deceiving trickery. Su Ying used both palms to lure his opponent, then took the opportunity to lower his foot tip and step on the sword hilt, actually managing to quietly use the long sword under his foot to restrain his opponent without anyone knowing. At this time, if Zhe’er Dan tried to use his palm force, Su Ying could also kick up the long sword to stab deeply into his opponent’s lower abdomen. Then both sides would die.
The divide between peace and war lay in a single thought. If Zhe’er Dan acted on impulse, both sides would perish together, but if heroes appreciated heroes, they could also shake hands and make peace. The two held their positions motionless, staring at each other. Zhe’er Dan’s mouth corners carried a cold smile – his intentions were unclear. Su Ying was more open-hearted, only shrugging his shoulders and blinking his eyes, not at all like facing a life-or-death moment.
What’s done cannot be undone, but the future can still be pursued. A thousand people below the platform were covered in cold sweat, all waiting for both sides’ decision.
Suddenly loud laughter came from the arena. One old, one young, hearts in harmony – both sides simultaneously put down their weapons, grasped each other’s hands, and laughed heartily face to face.
Juan’er pressed her right hand down and returned her long sword to its sheath, spitting: “What Crane Dance Seven Star Fist – it really fooled me.” Qiong Fang’s face flushed red as she smiled: “That’s just his personality – every day he tricks people east and west. Who knows what he’s thinking in that head of his.” Though these words seemed noncommittal, actually Qiong Fang’s heart was already bursting with joy, her heart pounding.
With victory and defeat revealed, Yang Shaoqi and others deliberated briefly and immediately announced the battle results: “In the Five Trials of the Martial Star between China and Mongolia, the final battle between main generals ends in a draw!” With a clang, the bronze gong sounded loudly. The people on the viewing stands were jubilant, all applauding and cheering.
Zhe’er Dan’s blade remained sharp and his divine courage extraordinary; Su Ying first showed his brilliance with wonderful comprehension. No matter what fist techniques they used or what sword methods they employed, both had magnificently entered the highest hall of martial learning, worthy to be called first-class heroes.
Hu Zhilian stroked his sparse goat beard, feeling like spring breeze. This battle had sent young heroes to fight but achieved a draw with Mongolian grandmasters – not only showing the nation’s abundant talent but also avoiding much unnecessary dispute and anger. When reporting the battle situation later, the emperor would surely be greatly pleased.
All around was peaceful as both main generals smiled and left the platform hand in hand. Heroes from both countries all came to pay respects, expressing mutual admiration with great warmth. At this time, Zhu Kang was still crying incessantly – bound by the iron spear coiled around his body, he couldn’t move at all. Juan’er pulled Zhe’er Dan and pointed at Young Master Zhu, clicking her tongue: “This thing is so tight, no one can pull it open. Can you help?” He who ties the bell must untie it. Zhe’er Dan smiled slightly, channeled his divine strength, and slowly bent the iron spear back to its original shape. The Chinese experts in the eastern pavilion, seeing his divine strength, were all shocked in their hearts. Poor Zhu Kang, though released, looked embarrassed and couldn’t help crying again in his confusion.
Su Ying, having fought the grandmaster to a draw, was now busy accepting congratulations from all sides. Qiong Fang watched with a smile from the side. Finally when he was free, she came forward. Though she was the last to approach, she offered the first handkerchief. Hearing her spit: “What Crane Dance Seven Star Fist – you really thought that up.” Su Ying wiped away dirt and said: “Our Mount Hua fist techniques have no reputation – even mentioning them wouldn’t intimidate anyone. If I shouted ‘Buddha’s Great Divine Power’ or ‘Amitabha Great Method,’ people would probably be completely confused. I had to make up this new thing.” He folded the handkerchief and put it in his bosom, smiling: “After exerting tremendous effort but only achieving a draw, I have no way to explain to grandfather.”
Qiong Fang smiled charmingly, leaning close to her lover and whispering in his ear: “Don’t be too modest… If you had kicked out that sword earlier, where would that barbarian’s life be now? You held back and concealed it – you can fool others but not this sect leader.”
Though Qiong Fang was his sweetheart, her words weren’t exaggerated. The Crane Dance Seven Star Fist was a deception – once his opponent fell for the trick and attacked, Su Ying only needed to kick out the long sword one step ahead to take his opponent’s life. However, Qiong Fang had always known Su Ying’s temperament – he must have cherished Zhe’er Dan’s martial courage and shown mercy, allowing his opponent to achieve a draw.
Su Ying had fought over thirty battles in his life without a single defeat – this battle could be considered his first draw. Hearing his sweetheart expose this matter, he couldn’t help feeling greatly delighted and said quietly: “I don’t care about others’ words. Having your words makes all my hard work on the platform worthwhile!” Qiong Fang felt very sweet inside and smiled: “Of course I know you’re really number one.”
Su Ying was moved by love and reached out to embrace her, pulling her into his arms. Qiong Fang laughed quietly: “Hey! I’m wearing men’s clothing – what propriety is there in two big men hugging in public?” Su Ying always loved when he wanted to love – why would he care about her objections? He just brought his mouth close and whispered in her ear with a laugh: “Do you still remember our agreement?” Hearing his tone was up to no good, as if he wanted to do something bad, Qiong Fang couldn’t help being slightly curious: “What agreement?”
Su Ying gently kissed her hot earlobe and blew into her ear, saying in a deep voice: “Undergarment!”
Qiong Fang’s face flushed with great embarrassment, that beautiful white earlobe burning like fire. Earlier the two had agreed that if Su Ying could defeat Zhe’er Dan, Qiong Fang would change into women’s clothing to accompany him. At the time it was playful banter, and Qiong Fang had made this intimate agreement. Su Ying saw her big eyes turning as if pondering whether to fulfill the promise. Fearing she would renege, he quickly said: “A gentleman’s word…”
Before “a swift whip” could fall, Qiong Fang had already smiled and continued: “Is fragrant as orchids.”
Su Ying, being a swordsman, was definitely not skilled at showing off literary knowledge and was completely baffled. With her lover completely confused, Qiong Fang lightly bit her lower lip. Showing her crystalline white teeth and sending glances with her eyes, she said sweetly: “If you can’t understand, that’s your own fault – don’t blame me for breaking my promise.” Her long eyelashes trembled lightly as if containing a trace of mockery.
Su Ying stared at her, imagining Qiong Fang wearing an undergarment – that snow-white skin must be crystalline and tender. Eager to explore and investigate, in his panic he grabbed Fat Scale Monster and whispered: “Grand-uncle, what does ‘fragrant as orchids’ mean?” Fat Scale Monster laughed heartily: “You don’t even know this? How can you be a sect leader? It means orchid farting!”
“Words from the heart are fragrant as orchids.” Watching the beautiful woman cover her mouth and laugh lightly before gracefully walking away, poor Su Ying’s throat was dry and he couldn’t even make a sound.