Chapter 1: Sharing This Moment at the Ends of the Earth

Opening the clothing chest, a stale, musty odor assaulted his nostrils. Looking closely, what caught his eye was a bright red robe. Embroidered with golden threads and radiating festive joy, it was the garment from last autumn’s flower banquet. In the entire realm, aside from the top-ranked Scholar, no one else was permitted to wear it.

Lu Yun shook out the Scholar’s robe, patting off the dust that had settled on it, then held it open with both hands. He reached into the chest again, this time pulling out an official robe. Looking at the bird embroidered on the chest, this was a court ceremonial robe.

Civil and military officials placed utmost importance on rank insignia and dress codes, which absolutely could not be reversed. The so-called “civil birds, military beasts” meant that civil officials were distinguished by birds according to rank, while military officials used beasts to denote their status. First rank wore cranes, second rank golden pheasants, third rank peacocks—all precious birds of great size, meant to be admired and revered. Looking further, fourth rank wore wild geese, fifth rank silver pheasants, sixth rank egrets—all beneficial birds that could help eat locusts and boring insects. Finally, at the bottom were the colorful mandarin ducks, orioles, and quails… these small birds chirped melodiously, their pleasant songs meant to delight the Emperor’s ears.

Looking at this robe embroidered with a colorful mandarin duck, it was indeed his own court ceremonial attire as a seventh-rank prefect, untouched since returning to the capital last year for his performance review. Lu Yun held the official robe in his hands, a bitter smile creeping across his lips. The top three ranks were for display, the middle three ranks were for getting things done, but this mandarin duck… Lu Yun sighed. He had studied the classics for ten years, not to chirp and dance gracefully before the Emperor. He could never bring himself to entertain the sage in colorful attire. With a sigh, he casually tossed the bird-emblazoned robe onto the bed.

Reaching into the chest again, his eyes suddenly brightened—he had finally found what he was looking for.

Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating the garment until it seemed to glow ethereally, like something from a dream.

“With one eastern wind commanding a million troops, this place once decided the three kingdoms.” What he held in his hands was a suit of armor. For a moment, he could hear the sounds of men and horses in his ears, his heart surging with martial fervor, as if he had returned to the western frontier battlefield, astride a fine steed, long spear in hand, fighting freely among ten thousand troops.

Lu Yun gazed at the armor in his hands, slowly coming back to his senses. After several years of comfortable living, he hadn’t expected this armor to have deteriorated to such a state. Looking at the corroded breastplate and the green-tarnished copper shoulder guards, it was truly unsightly. He shook his head, took out some tallow, soaked it with cotton, and began carefully polishing. Since returning from the western frontier, he hadn’t been in battle again, so it was time to clean up his military gear.

As he carefully polished and turned the armor over, he saw an arrow hole in the back.

That arrow scar had penetrated the armor, still showing the sharpness of the ancient bow and arrow. Lu Yun gently caressed the breach, and a beautiful, noble face appeared in his mind.

Princess Yinchuan…

Past events came flooding back. Recalling those days of life-and-death companionship—the fierce battles at Tianshan, the clash of great armies, their parting in the forest—it all seemed like yesterday.

“May Heaven have eyes, and may you and Miss Gu become lovers who find their destined union. When you marry, please send word to the Khan’s kingdom, and I too will rejoice for you.”

When the two had parted that year, the Princess had sincerely prayed for him. Her words still echoed in his ears. Now life had truly turned from misfortune to fortune—not only had he become the top-ranked Scholar, but he had also become engaged to his beloved. Everything was exactly as the Princess had foretold, not differing by half a word.

Lu Yun polished the armor while silently thinking of the beauty far away in a foreign land. Unknowingly, tears had already filled his eyes.

Past events drifted before his eyes one by one, and the armor in his hands began to gleam once more. Lu Yun let out a long breath, slowly set down the cotton in his hand, and prepared to don his military gear.

Remove my black gauze cap, loosen this blue bird robe, take off my scholar’s headband, shed this weak scholarly attire—only then do I reveal my true heroic bearing.

Lu Yun stood bare-chested, looking at himself in the mirror. He took a deep breath, lowered his head, and took out an official document from the drawer, reading it in a low voice: “Investigation shows that the Nucang bandits have gathered in the mountains to cause rebellion. The bandit Qin Zhonghai leads his followers in criminal acts, causing widespread harm. They will soon invade our prefecture and violate our borders. The Changzhou Prefect Lu Yun is hereby ordered to immediately proceed north to Henan to await deployment. There must be no delays.”

Lu Yun closed his eyes and set down the document.

The crippled child from Huaiqing’s shop, the solitary figure departing alone in the snow—now he had finally found his place in life again, once more leading ten thousand troops to stand as tall as the heavens. His old friend’s rise from defeat should truly be cause for celebration…

Yet the path his old friend had chosen this time had become an urgent official document rushing to his yamen…

Lu Yun opened his eyes and suddenly let out a soft whistle. In his surging excitement, he threw a perfect punch and stamped his foot, the impact so powerful it shook the armor and made it jump. This move was precisely “Fists and Legs Both Supreme,” the life-saving ultimate technique from the great western frontier war.

The “Absolute Heart Method” was still serviceable, and “Peerless Continuous Fists” had form and substance—his martial skills weren’t rusty. It seemed that though these years had been spent in official life, he hadn’t forgotten his former aspirations.

Lu Yun nodded to himself in the mirror, as if the person before him was omnipotent, able to turn the tide with his loyal heart and righteous courage, bringing great peace to all generations.

Since the Tang dynasty, scholars throughout the realm had been divided into two major schools: one called the Shandong Classical Scholars, the other called the Jiangnan Literary Gentlemen. These two groups, one north and one south, one specializing in classics and history, the other excelling in poetry and literature, each had their strengths. Looking at Lu Yun’s northern origins and his upright, direct nature, he undoubtedly belonged to the Shandong Classical Scholars.

In recent years, southern figures had dominated the scholarly world, with those achieving success in the imperial examinations far outnumbering those from the north. Lu Yun’s group of classical scholars found advancement doubly difficult, normally only able to farm for their livelihood while awaiting their day of success. Years of poverty and hardship had forged strong muscles but also created a stubborn, world-weary temperament.

In terms of natural talent, Shandong Classical Scholars couldn’t match the refined cleverness of Jiangnan scholars, and in literary brilliance, they fell short of the dazzling essays from Suzhou and Yangzhou. What they could barely claim was their unyielding stubbornness and the iron backbone forged through farming and enduring hardship.

Sure enough, watching this Scholar Lu Yun—tall and powerfully built—as he fastened his belt, donned his heavy helmet and thick armor, the bookworm scholar picked up his saber and thrust it fiercely into its sheath, instantly transforming into a imposing man with the bearing of a tiger and the gaze of an eagle.

Having donned his military attire, he strode into the inner hall where Gu Qianxi and Xiao Hong were already waiting. Gu Qianxi walked over, gazing at her beloved as sunlight illuminated the golden armor on his chest, the heart-protecting mirror gleaming and making his heroic bearing even more pronounced. Since the two had known each other, this was the first time she had seen Lu Yun in military dress. She hadn’t expected that changing clothes could transform the bookish scholar into someone with such masculine presence, causing her to unconsciously look a few more times.

Seeing the master and servant staring fixedly at him, Lu Yun couldn’t help asking curiously, “What’s wrong? Is something amiss?”

Gu Qianxi felt something strange in her heart, her face flushing red as she turned away and said softly, “It’s nothing.”

Lu Yun didn’t notice anything unusual and simply made an acknowledging sound before asking Xiao Hong, “Have Constable Hong and the others arrived?”

Xiao Hong usually saw Lu Yun as a moaning scholar and had long considered him just another bookworm. Who knew that now, meeting eyes with her future master, she would suddenly blush and her heart race, her face full of shy embarrassment as she simply lowered her head without answering Lu Yun’s question.

Lu Yun made a surprised sound, somewhat puzzled. He didn’t realize that at this moment his appearance had been completely transformed. With a steel saber hanging at his left side and a quiver at his right, covered in steel helmet and iron armor, he needed only to stand in the hall to emanate an imposing presence. How could little Xiao Hong, a mere maid, dare meet his gaze? Once caught by his phoenix eyes, her heart was already beating wildly, and her whole body felt weak and powerless.

Completely bewildered, Lu Yun treated Xiao Hong as if she were deaf, coughed forcefully several times, and asked again, “Where is Constable Hong?”

Xiao Hong twisted and fidgeted, saying in a tiny voice, “Constable… Constable Hong… that head is outside… outside…”

Hearing her speak a single sentence so crookedly, as if she were stuttering, Lu Yun found it even stranger. Full of confusion, he looked toward Gu Qianxi. Seeing this, Gu Qianxi couldn’t help but laugh. She walked to Xiao Hong’s side and teased her, saying, “How embarrassing, you can’t even speak clearly.” When she had been in Yangzhou, what majesty Xiao Hong had possessed! Now her body was hot and both cheeks were flushed as she said in a low voice, “This servant sees that Master Lu looks so mighty… I feel somewhat… somewhat frightened…”

Gu Qianxi smiled and gently scraped Xiao Hong’s cheek with her finger as a small punishment.

Gu Qianxi was naturally generous and never petty, nor was she a jealous person. When her beloved could inspire admiration and longing in women, she only felt happy and proud, never experiencing jealousy or worry. This was why whenever she teased her beloved about the Princess’s past, it was always with more pride than jealousy—everything came down to confidence.

Though the household atmosphere was warm, the situation in the realm was extremely grave. Military disaster was about to erupt, and to block the Nucang armies, the court had already summoned the realm’s elite to gather in Henan to assist the Shaolin monks. Lu Yun was one of the Liu faction’s great generals and had naturally received the court’s imperial edict, so he would now depart from Changzhou.

Gu Qianxi walked forward slowly and personally helped Lu Yun adjust his armor. She bent down to help her beloved fasten the sword sheath buckle—this was her first time touching weapons, so she inevitably appeared somewhat flustered. Seeing his fiancée doing these trivial tasks for him, Lu Yun felt some tenderness and grasped her jade hands, saying, “Don’t rush, I’ll be leaving soon.”

Gu Qianxi held his hand in return and said gently, “You must take care of yourself on this journey. Though friendship is important, your own life and future are even more important. You must return safely. All right?”

Gu Qianxi was the daughter of the Minister of War and had already inquired about the details these past few days. This expedition involved the court raising one hundred thousand troops to campaign against Nucang. It seemed they had great advantage in numbers, and it would be extremely difficult for the rebels to defeat many with few. The military situation didn’t seem urgent, so Gu Qianxi wasn’t worried.

In fact, even if the court suffered defeat, Gu Qianxi wouldn’t be afraid. Given her beloved’s personal relationship with the enemy leader, even if they were defeated and captured, his life wouldn’t be in danger. What truly worried her was Lu Yun’s temperament. On this expedition, with dragons and snakes mixed together, if he clashed with those treacherous ministers and petty men, he might stir up trouble—that would be the real cause for worry.

Seeing Gu Qianxi gazing at him with worry hidden in her eyes, Lu Yun gently stroked her beautiful hair and said warmly, “Don’t worry. On this journey, Yang Langzhong will be our commander. He always handles affairs efficiently and won’t let anything go wrong.”

Thinking of Yang Suguan’s handsome face, Gu Qianxi immediately felt relieved. She had spent over a year with Yang Suguan and knew this person to be steady in temperament and wise in intelligence. With him leading the army, her beloved would surely be safe. Feeling somewhat more at ease, Gu Qianxi nodded and said, “Careful sailing lasts ten thousand years. No matter what, being cautious is never wrong. You know… we’re supposed to… supposed to… at Mid-Autumn…”

Lu Yun embraced her and smiled, “We’re to be married at Mid-Autumn—how could I forget? Don’t worry, someone about to start a family and career won’t rashly take risks.”

After they had spoken, Lu Yun went with Gu Qianxi to the outer hall. When the prefect emerged with his family, two people in the hall immediately rose to greet them. One had a fierce countenance and wore the clothing of a government constable—this was Constable Hong from the yamen. The other was a military officer with a horse-like face—it was Vice Officer Li, who had once escorted the marriage alliance to the western frontier.

When everyone returned from the western frontier that year, each had their own fate. Looking at how Lu Yun achieved the top scholar’s rank half a year later, Qin Zhonghai was also promoted to Imperial Guard Commander, and this Vice Officer Li finally received his reward, being appointed as a ninth-rank captain and stationed in Jiangxia these past years. But who would have thought their reunion would be thanks to Qin Zhonghai’s rebellion—truly cause for endless sighs.

Before Lu Yun could sit down, Constable Hong immediately reported, “Reporting to Prefect Lu, Secretary Gong instructed this subordinate to say that he has something to present to the prefect in a moment. Please wait and don’t rush to leave.” Lu Yun made an acknowledging sound. Gong Zhi was his secretary, and two days ago he had entrusted all prefectural affairs to him. Everything was well-organized, but with departure imminent, what matter required his waiting?

Lu Yun now held the position of prefect and acted with considerable dignity. He simply nodded slightly in acknowledgment and then walked toward Vice Officer Li. Seeing this colleague’s melancholy expression and guessing that Vice Officer Li was troubled by the military situation, he immediately patted his shoulder in comfort, saying, “Brother Li, don’t worry. We’re going to be peacemakers on this trip. No fighting will occur.”

Ever since receiving his orders, Vice Officer Li had been dejected at the thought of fighting his former superior. Hearing that this mission had other implications, he immediately cheered up and quickly asked, “How does the prefect mean this?”

Lu Yun said solemnly, “Yang Langzhong sent a secret letter saying his master intends to negotiate peace with Nucang Mountain. As long as mediation is handled properly and both sides make concessions, this battle may not need to be fought.”

Vice Officer Li made a surprised sound and asked quietly, “From the prefect’s meaning, could it be that the court intends amnesty?”

Lu Yun slowly shook his head, “I’m not clear on the details either. However, Yang Langzhong’s letter instructed us only to keep a close eye on Jiang Chong’s forces to prevent them from starting hostilities without cause. Other matters will be handled by Shaolin Temple through diplomatic means.” He paused and continued, “Regardless of the treacherous ministers’ intentions at court, with Yang Langzhong in charge of arrangements, plus the Marquis and various ministers’ influence, this battle will surely see a turning point.”

Following his words, Gu Qianxi added, “Exactly so. Even if those ministers can’t exert influence, my father is still at court to help. As long as General Qin truly intends to serve the court loyally, with all the ministers jointly vouching for him, the situation will surely turn around.”

Gu Siyuan was the Minister of War, so his words carried weight. Everyone in the hall felt relieved. Not only did Xiao Hong, Constable Hong and others feel greatly reassured, but even Vice Officer Li, despite his long battlefield experience, now patted his chest repeatedly, apparently having lifted the burden from his heart.

Vice Officer Li was about to laugh heartily and respond when Constable Hong coughed and whispered, “Master Li, you haven’t paid respects to Miss Gu yet, have you?” Seeing Vice Officer Li’s blank expression, Constable Hong leaned over and whispered, “Miss Gu is the future mistress, the prefect is also the Minister of War’s daughter. You must serve her carefully, sir.”

Vice Officer Li glanced at Gu Qianxi and immediately exclaimed, “How careless of me! Damn! Damn!” Gu Qianxi was from a prestigious family, and Vice Officer Li’s commission still bore Gu Siyuan’s seal. Even without considering Lu Yun’s feelings, he should pay his respects. He quickly bowed deeply to Gu Qianxi, saying, “This humble officer pays respects to Miss Gu. The prefect and young miss are a match made in heaven, a perfect pair. I offer my congratulations!”

Gu Qianxi returned the courtesy and smiled charmingly, “Thank you for your golden words, Master Li. This humble woman often hears the prefect speak of military campaigns, always saying Master Li is extraordinarily brave. Seeing you today, you truly have the bearing of a loyal and righteous general.”

Vice Officer Li came from humble origins and hadn’t read many books. Hearing a beautiful woman’s praise, he immediately became elated and laughed, “The prefect is too kind! During the princess escort mission that year, Prefect Lu was the truly divine one! Watching him fight wildly among ten thousand troops against foreign monks, holding our Princess in his arms, traveling over mountains day and night without rest—that was truly admirable! This humble person just hid in formation shooting arrows, how could I compare to even one percent of Prefect Lu!”

Watching Vice Officer Li gesticulate and speak with flying spittle, Gu Qianxi kept agreeing, but this flattery made Lu Yun’s handsome face swell with embarrassment. His face alternated between green and red as he coughed several times and said, “It’s about time, shouldn’t we depart?” Vice Officer Li laughed heartily, “The troops have been waiting outside the city. Whenever the prefect is ready, we can leave immediately.”

Just as everyone was about to leave, they suddenly heard someone call, “Prefect, please wait!” Before Lu Yun could respond, they saw a person rush hurriedly through the hall door, wiping sweat and saying, “Fortunate! Fortunate! Finally didn’t miss the matter.” Looking at this person’s hurried appearance, carrying a precious sword, it was Gong Zhi. Seeing him enter the residence with a sword, everyone was startled, not knowing his intention.

While they were speculating, Gong Zhi held the sword with both hands, bowed deeply, and said solemnly, “This sword is named ‘Yunmeng Lake.’ My master, hearing that the prefect is about to embark on a distant campaign, specially presents this sword as a gift. Please accept it, Prefect.” Gong Zhi’s master was Ouyang Nan, whose sword-forging techniques were renowned throughout the realm for their exquisite craftsmanship. No one had expected Master Ouyang to be so courteous, and all were secretly amazed.

With Ouyang Nan showing such sincerity, Lu Yun naturally felt flattered and honored. However, he excelled in “Peerless Continuous Fists” and wasn’t skilled with swords. Moreover, since taking office as prefect, he had little involvement in martial world affairs. Thinking of his crude swordsmanship, how could he waste such a precious gift? He shook his head and said, “Precious swords are given to heroes. My swordsmanship is mediocre—it might suffice for cutting vegetables, but how can I use such a divine weapon?”

Gong Zhi had expected Lu Yun would decline and wasn’t surprised. He looked toward Gu Qianxi and said, “Miss, this sword cuts gold and severs jade. It’s truly a protective treasure. If the prefect carries it with him, it will bring good fortune and avoid evil, bringing benefit without harm.”

Hearing that the precious sword could protect life, Gu Qianxi immediately paid attention. Having been separated from Lu Yun for years across great distances and finally reunited, she naturally treasured her beloved’s life like her own. As long as something benefited Lu Yun, even if it meant bankrupting herself to maintain it, she would be happy to do so, let alone accept someone’s sincere gift. She immediately walked over and whispered, “Master Ouyang specially sent this gift—how can you refuse? Quickly accept it.”

Hearing these words, Gong Zhi quickly added his support: “The prefect is highly respected in the community. Should anything happen on the battlefield, we would be deeply pained and blame ourselves. This is my master’s sincere intention—please accept it.”

With Gu Qianxi speaking thus, Lu Yun couldn’t very well refuse. Looking at Gong Zhi’s expression, it seemed that if he declined, Gong Zhi wouldn’t be able to return and face his master. Lu Yun had learned much about human relations these years and had shed much of his rigid scholarly demeanor. He coughed several times and said, “Then I’ll respectfully accept rather than decline. Please convey to your master that this humble official gratefully accepts his generous sentiment. I will use this sword for self-defense and protection, never disappointing the old master’s sincere affection.”

Gong Zhi was delighted and said, “I respectfully present this precious sword. May the prefect achieve victory from the start and return safely soon.” With that, he presented the sword across his shoulder, handing both sword and sheath to Lu Yun. Lu Yun took it with one hand, felt his palm sink slightly, and immediately thought with alarm, “This sword is quite heavy.”

Everyone gathered around to examine and admire it closely. They saw the sword sheath was made of ebony wood, entirely black-brown, with no decorative patterns or sword tassels. Even its shape was plain, looking like a dark piece of large wood with no apparent sophistication. Seeing everyone’s puzzlement, Gong Zhi quickly explained, “This sword is four feet two inches long. Because the blade is sharp and its gleam flows like water, resembling the beauty of a great lake, my master searched through ancient texts and finally named it ‘Yunmeng Lake.’ Such a precious sword is rare—please test it, Prefect.”

Without further words, Lu Yun immediately drew the sword from its sheath. With a humming sound, brilliant light flashed through the hall. Indeed, the blade was like water, reflecting flowing light that danced throughout the great hall. Everyone exclaimed in amazement, “What a fine sword!” Lu Yun was also secretly amazed at the sight. He lifted the sword for a practice cut, and suddenly heard a whooshing sound, light as flowing wind, demonstrating that the blade’s flexibility and resilience had reached the ultimate realm.

This sword had extraordinary origins—it was one of five weapons left by the “Sword God” Zhuo Lingzhao at the Iron Casting Manor. When the Hongwu Heavenly Furnace was relit with divine fire and iron essence as bone, over ten blades were ultimately forged by the dynasty’s premier ironsmith, with one kingly weapon being the unprecedented “Divine Sword Dragon Catcher.” Later, when Zhuo Lingzhao tested his swords, though he destroyed many weapons, the iron essence had produced numerous blades, and five remained intact, which Ouyang Nan completed and brought into the world. This sword was one of them.

This “Yunmeng Lake Sword” had once been mistaken for “Dragon Catcher.” Once unsheathed, it was like a lotus emerging from water, extremely brilliant and dazzling. If this sword were ranked among the world’s weapons, it would definitely be in the top ten. Whether compared to Dian Cang’s sect-protecting treasure “Red Dragon” or the Divine Blade Sect’s “Heavenly Hero,” none could match it. However, Gong Zhi knew Lu Yun’s upright nature and would definitely dislike this sword’s connection to Zhuo Lingzhao, so he concealed this now to prevent him from abandoning it.

Just as Lu Yun was about to return the sword to its sheath, he suddenly saw Gong Zhi reach into his robes, take out an envelope, and stuff it into Lu Yun’s hand, saying quietly, “Please deliver this letter, Prefect.” Lu Yun saw his furtive manner and was quite puzzled. He casually took the envelope and saw written on the seal, “Please forward to Iron Bull Ouyang Yong.” He couldn’t help making a surprised sound, not knowing Gong Zhi’s intention.

Gong Zhi’s face was full of earnest hope as he leaned close and whispered, “This Ouyang Yong is my master’s son. He was once harmed by treacherous people, causing him to go astray and join a mountain stronghold. It’s been over thirty years since he left home. My master is advanced in years and worries day and night about his beloved son’s situation, but can’t find a way to send letters or make inquiries. I beg the prefect to pity the old man’s devoted paternal heart and fulfill this request.”

Hearing this explanation, Lu Yun understood. That year’s great court disaster had broken up countless families. Lu Yun had also heard from the Azure-Robed Scholar that the Ouyang family’s eldest son was implicated in the “Hongwu Heavenly Furnace” case, forcibly poisoned into muteness and exiled to military service. Unable to endure the court’s persecution, he had joined Nucang Mountain. Though Lu Yun was a court official, his upright nature made him deeply hate treacherous ministers’ evil deeds. With a compassionate expression, he nodded and tucked the envelope into his robes.

Seeing his generous assistance without any thought of disloyalty, Gong Zhi was filled with admiration and bowed, saying, “This humble person has witnessed the prefect’s reputation for righteousness.” Lu Yun patted his shoulder and said quietly, “Secretary, why do you say this? Lu is a scholar, not a corrupt clerk.”

Fearing others might become suspicious, he said no more and turned around, declaring loudly, “Thanks to Master Ouyang’s gift of this precious sword, with this divine weapon’s protection, Lu Yun will surely return safely from this journey!”

Amid the cheers from Vice Officer Li and Constable Hong, Gu Qianxi had already gracefully approached. The two held hands and gazed at each other for a long time. Though they spoke no words, all their love and tender attachment was conveyed without speaking.

Constable Hong, Xiao Hong, and others watched the couple’s demeanor with smiles on their lips. Only Secretary Gong knitted his brows deeply, turning his gaze away to look out the window, where dark clouds covered the sun and a storm threatened.

The weather is unpredictable—this journey to Shaolin will likely be extremely difficult. Prefect, you must take great care…

Rain clouds stretched across north and south, shrouding ten thousand li of rivers and mountains in dark shadows. The capital was sunless and moonless—though it was afternoon, it was as dark as deep night. The Grand Commander’s residence lit candles, making the gloomy weather even more apparent.

“Hey, by that look, it’s sure to rain.” This voice carried a Hubei accent with a slow, drawn-out tone. The speaker had a round, chubby face—it was Liu Angtian’s top bodyguard, the Wudang-trained Wei Zizhuang.

Sitting nearby was a tall man with an iron sleeve on his right hand—Wu Dingyuan. Looking at the overcast sky, he frowned and said, “This is troublesome. I need to leave the capital in the next couple of days—I hope the roads don’t flood.”

Before he finished speaking, a tremendous crash of thunder rang out, with brilliant lightning flashing outside the window. Amid everyone’s exclamations, lightning streaked across the sky like an exploring dragon, exploding directly above the capital and instantly whitening heaven and earth.

The thunder god roared with tremendous sound, and heavy rain fell from the sky’s edge, pattering densely on the eaves.

“Ah!”

In the rumbling thunder, a childish cry of alarm rang through the hall. A small child dove into Wu Dingyuan’s arms, trembling. Wu Dingyuan patted his back comfortingly, saying, “Don’t be frightened—it’s just thunder.” Wei Zizhuang saw the child was quite timid and couldn’t help teasing, “Really, nearly ten years old and still afraid of thunder? Come let Uncle Wei have a look.”

Wu Dingyuan gently pulled the child away and said warmly, “Go greet Uncle Wei quickly.”

Outside the window, violent rain fell like a waterfall, with lightning flashing and thunder crashing in the sky. The child was still frightened, wrinkling his dark little face as he quietly called, “Uncle Wei.”

Wei Zizhuang looked at the thin, dry child before him and couldn’t help smiling. When Wu Dingyuan returned to the capital from Changzhou, he hadn’t brought back a beautiful wife, but had an extra scrawny little imp by his side. Seeing how much he doted on this son, he had even found a fortune teller to give the boy a proper, dignified name—”Chongqing.” Clearly Wu Dingyuan hoped his son would succeed, wanting his adopted son to study well and perhaps follow Lu Yun’s path in taking examinations for an official position someday.

Wei Zizhuang was about to tease the child when he suddenly heard footsteps. Heavy rain splashed into the hall, and several servants hurried to close the windows and doors. Wei Zizhuang suddenly roared, “Don’t close them! It’ll get stuffy! Leave a few windows in the hall open.”

His thunderous roar reached the servants, who quickly complied, placing dry cloth by the windows on the floor. Wei Zizhuang grunted with satisfaction, then suddenly noticed the child beside him trembling constantly, his large eyes staring at the ground as if about to burst into tears. Wei Zizhuang realized he had frightened the child. He took out a small ingot from his robes, placed it in the child’s palm, and said gently, “Don’t be afraid. Uncle Wei was disciplining them, not being fierce with you. Understand?”

The child mumbled and muttered, holding the ingot in his hands, unsure whether to keep it, and looked toward Wu Dingyuan.

Wu Dingyuan, coming from a constable background, understood social etiquette and smiled, saying, “Uncle gave you a reward—why don’t you thank him quickly?” The child was both surprised and delighted, hurriedly raised the ingot above his head, and in his panic, knelt on the ground, kowtowing, “Thank you, Uncle.”

Wei Zizhuang pulled him up with one hand and laughed, “Such a country child—one ingot and you’d kowtow until your head broke. Don’t let people see and laugh at you.” He pointed to a maid in the corner of the hall and said gently, “Go play with that sister. Uncle and your father have business to discuss.”

The child made an acknowledging sound and turned to look. He saw the maid with a smiling face, looking very kind. This child was always shy, and though he saw the sister was beautiful, he still didn’t dare say a word to her, just shrank back and lowered his head, letting the maid take his hand and lead him away.

Heavy rain fell in sheets, water everywhere creating a misty scene. After the child left with the maid, the vast flower hall had no human voices. Water splashed everywhere in the courtyard, and the rainy scene made the great hall doubly quiet. Over ten tables and chairs sat empty. Now only Wu Dingyuan and Wei Zizhuang sat facing each other, making the space seem even more profound.

Wu Dingyuan clasped his hands to his chest, staring at the spacious hall, his heart full of loneliness as he gazed blankly…

A year ago, a dignified elder sat in the great seat opposite, with a handsome young gentleman beside him on the left, and a fierce tiger-like man in the chair on the right. Then there were the upright scholar and the straightforward constable accompanying them below—everyone laughing and chattering, how joyful it had been…

The sound of rain rushing and splashing echoed as the scene in his mind gradually faded. Now the hall was cold and desolate. Apart from Wei Zizhuang’s chubby face, he could see no one else. Wu Dingyuan covered his face with his hand and sighed.

Seeing his vacant stare, Wei Zizhuang couldn’t help but cough. He picked up the teapot and asked, “When are you going to Shaolin?”

Wu Dingyuan looked toward the center of the hall and said flatly, “Tomorrow, I suppose.” Wei Zizhuang took a sip of tea and nodded, “Best to go early and help. Nucang’s resurgence is no joke.”

Wu Dingyuan looked desolate as he gazed at the violent rain in the courtyard. Rain flowers scattered everywhere, water droplets bouncing back up from the courtyard. From here, it looked like thousands upon thousands of tiny soldiers standing in formation, engaged in fierce battle in the courtyard.

Hack away, kill away… Heroes from across the realm would gather at Shaolin. What would be the outcome of this battle? With treacherous ministers in power, heroes and brave men would have to slaughter each other. Even he himself would descend into this bitter sea—who else in the world could remain outside this chaotic situation?

“The country is broken, but mountains and rivers remain.” Though the flames of war had not yet blazed, countless homes had already been destroyed. Thinking of that beautiful woman, Wu Dingyuan couldn’t help feeling sorrowful. These days he had tossed and turned sleeplessly, his heart filled with worry and longing. Whenever he thought of her unknown whereabouts, he felt as if sitting on pins and needles.

Yan Ting’s snow-white face with its delicate nose and cherry mouth appeared before his eyes. Wu Dingyuan covered his face with his hand, his large mouth beneath his palm trembling slightly.

“Yan Ting… where are you?”

Jiuhua Mountain had suffered a devastating siege by orthodox martial artists. The Azure-Robed Scholar had abandoned the mountain and fled far away. The whereabouts of the two young women, Yan Ting and Juan’er, were unknown. When the news arrived, it shocked him into sleepless anxiety. For half a month he had rushed about everywhere making inquiries, but still couldn’t find any trace of the beauty…

“Dingyuan, you’ve come?”

A stern voice rang out, abruptly interrupting Wu Dingyuan’s contemplation. Looking up, he saw an elderly man in loose robes walking out from the inner hall—Liu Angtian had arrived. Wu Dingyuan quickly rose and bowed with clasped hands, “Lord Marquis.”

Liu Angtian nodded slightly, indicating Wu Dingyuan should sit. Looking at Marquis Liu’s good fortune—though claiming illness and not going out, he was still attended by beautiful women. On the left was a woman around forty, the Fourth Concubine. On the right was a woman of clear beauty in her early thirties, the Seventh Lady concubine. Wu Dingyuan looked closely and saw her belly was prominently rounded—she was already six months pregnant, perhaps seven or eight months along.

In these chaotic times, there was actually happy news? Wu Dingyuan was both surprised and delighted, quickly asking Wei Zizhuang, “Seventh Lady is with child?”

Before Wei Zizhuang could answer, Liu Angtian was already laughing heartily, “Of course she’s with child—could she just be fat?” Seeing Seventh Lady’s face red to her ears, quite bashful. Wu Dingyuan immediately rose and bowed with clasped hands, “This humble officer congratulates the Lord Marquis!”

Liu Angtian laughed heartily, quite proud. “Wealth and honor not returned to one’s hometown is like wearing brocade at night.” Liu Angtian was over sixty, and this time showing his vigorous old age, fierce as a tiger in the bedchamber, naturally wanted to publicize it greatly. Wu Dingyuan was both surprised and admiring, making his congratulations even more sincere.

Liu Angtian laughed heartily and boldly, his voice echoing countless times through the great hall. Hearing this, Wu Dingyuan couldn’t help sighing again. At this moment of happy news, if it were like old times, the Liu faction would surely be extremely lively. Seeing the top boss’s late-in-life blessing, wouldn’t that rascal Qin Zhonghai be the first to make a commotion? He wouldn’t be satisfied without embellishing the tale of entering the flower garden in old age. Liu Angtian, after being teased, would naturally pretend to hit people. Then Yang Suguan would thoughtfully present precious medicinal materials, while poor Lu Yun could only take out classics to lecture on medicine and pregnancy care… Everyone would tease and joke, talk and chat—how joyful it would be…

But today was different from the past. Looking at the current desolate state with few visitors and lonely carriages, not only were “Literary Yang and Martial Qin” completely absent, but even of the two newcomers Lu and Wu, only he remained by their side. In the hall’s silence, only Liu Angtian could be heard laughing alone. That laughter grew sparser and lower, drier and drier, until finally it fell into complete silence…

Splash splash… Apart from the endless rain in the courtyard, there were no other sounds.

Liu Angtian wiped the corners of his eyes—whether from laughing too hard or from hidden sadness in his heart, he had actually shed tears. He slowly sat down, patted the tea table beside him, and said loudly, “Dingyuan, come sit with this old man and talk to relieve boredom.” That seat was right next to Liu Angtian’s left side—it had always been the first great position in the Liu faction. In the past, it was undoubtedly Yang Suguan who sat there. Now that the “romantic division chief” had gone to Shaolin, the seat was naturally empty. Wu Dingyuan didn’t have time to think deeply and immediately bowed with clasped hands before taking the seat.

The two sat near each other across a small table. Liu Angtian leaned over and picked up Wu Dingyuan’s iron hand, examining it carefully and praising with clicks of his tongue, “I never looked closely before—I didn’t know this glove was forged from pure steel. It must be quite heavy, right?” Wu Dingyuan shook his head, “Only about ten catties—not heavy at all.” A prosthetic hand weighing over ten catties certainly couldn’t be called light. Wu Dingyuan’s response was merely modest.

Seeing the two seated, Wei Zizhuang picked up the teapot and poured tea for both Liu and Wu. Liu Angtian smiled, “Dingyuan, I heard Guard Wei say that your martial arts keep improving, and now few in the Central Plains martial world can defeat you. Is this true?”

Wu Dingyuan was always modest. Hearing such praise, he quickly rose and bowed with clasped hands, “Guard Wei is too kind. The orthodox sect leaders each have heaven-reaching abilities—their martial arts are so formidable. How can this subordinate’s crude martial learning compare with others?” Wu Dingyuan’s martial arts were truly heaven-gifted. Like Qin Baxian, he was a Tianshan successor. With such abilities, if he called himself crude, who in the world would dare claim to be a master? Wei Zizhuang was pouring tea at the time and couldn’t help coughing forcefully twice upon hearing this, apparently disagreeing.

Liu Angtian laughed heartily and patted Wu Dingyuan’s shoulder, “Dingyuan, where’s your domineering spirit? To mix in the court, you need some domineering spirit. It’s just us few here talking—if you’re strong, we’re sincerely praising your strength. Why be modest?”

Wu Dingyuan heard his criticism and hastily rose, “Thanks to the Lord Marquis’s guidance, this subordinate knows his error.”

Liu Angtian smiled slightly, indicating he should sit down, but kept his eyes fixed on Wu Dingyuan.

Liu Angtian had long been in court and had led countless subordinates—upright ones, treacherous ones, dull ones, brave ones… as numerous as fish crossing a river. This Wu Dingyuan before him, though somewhat worldly-wise, was not a flattering sycophant. Looking at his several years of court training, he hadn’t made much progress and still had the simple appearance of a country constable, honest as ever. But to put it another way, the great dyeing vat of officialdom hadn’t corrupted him either. This was a rare thing.

Thinking this, Liu Angtian’s lips curved in a slight smile. He glanced at Wu Dingyuan and suddenly said, “Dingyuan, answer me honestly—if you and Guard Wei sparred, who would win and who would lose?”

Wu Dingyuan made a surprised sound and hadn’t yet answered when Wei Zizhuang already said, “This subordinate is no match for Dingyuan.”

Liu Angtian smiled slightly, “Good. Then let me ask about another person—if you competed with Zhuo Lingzhao of old, would you be confident of victory?” Wu Dingyuan shook his head and sighed, saying quietly, “If the Sword God wielded his divine sword, this humble officer would be no match.”

Liu Angtian smiled slightly, “Being able to defeat an unarmed Zhuo Lingzhao is no easy feat either.” He narrowed his eyes, sipped his tea, and said quietly, “Then let me ask about one more person, shall I?” Wu Dingyuan quickly said, “Please speak, Lord Marquis.”

Liu Angtian raised his head and glanced at him sideways, saying in a low voice, “If you competed with Zhonghai, who would lose and who would win?”

As soon as these words were spoken, Wei Zizhuang couldn’t help being startled, and Wu Dingyuan also made a surprised sound. Just as the two were about to inquire for details, they suddenly heard a loud crash—a teacup had fallen to the floor beside the hall and shattered into pieces. Everyone turned to look and saw it was Seventh Lady. She was covering her mouth in alarm, her beautiful eyes wide with extreme surprise.

Wei Zizhuang hurriedly rose and went to the two ladies, bowing and saying, “Two mistresses, the outer hall is slippery in this heavy rain. Please be careful not to slip and fall, lest it disturb the pregnancy. Please rest in the inner hall.”

Fourth Concubine knew the master had important business to discuss, and as a woman, she naturally didn’t dare listen too much. She quickly stood up and went to the back hall. Seventh Lady looked hesitant—though her feet moved forward, her eyes remained on Liu Angtian, seeming reluctant to leave. Seeing this, Wei Zizhuang escorted her all the way to the back hall.

After a while, Wei Zizhuang returned. Seeing no one else in the hall, Wu Dingyuan immediately stood up in alarm and said quietly, “Sir, you… you want me to compete with General Qin—are you thinking of capturing him?” Liu Angtian shook his head, “Don’t think wildly. If I wanted to capture him, why would I need you to act? He learned military strategy from me—if we two really competed in strategy, he couldn’t defeat me.”

Wu Dingyuan quickly said, “Lord Marquis, then you… why do you want me to…”

Liu Angtian sighed, tears welling in his eyes, “You may not believe this, but I miss him somewhat.”

Hearing everyone’s exclamations, Liu Angtian lowered his head and sighed, “Zhonghai and I have an affinity. Of all the subordinates I’ve led, none pleased me as much as he did. That year when he was crippled and imprisoned, when I heard he might die, my heart ached terribly. But now that he’s alive, he’s taken his father’s old path—hearing this troubles my heart even more…” Wu Dingyuan felt sympathetic and boldly reached out to grasp Liu Angtian’s hand in comfort.

Liu Angtian seemed unaware, gazing at the violent rain in the courtyard and saying quietly, “I’m getting old. I don’t know if I’ll be able to see him again in this lifetime. Dingyuan… if you encounter Zhonghai, please convey a message from me—tell him… tell him I’m tired and want to retire together with him…” Tears suddenly burst forth, streaming down the old man’s face.

Liu Angtian had always doted on Qin Zhonghai. The two were compatible in speech and close as father and son—everyone in the Liu faction knew this well. Wu Dingyuan understood this clearly. It seemed Liu Angtian had passed military authority to Yang Suguan precisely to avoid direct conflict with his beloved former general. Wu Dingyuan said quietly, “Lord Marquis, Yang Langzhong is very capable. Perhaps there’s still hope for a turning point—please don’t worry.”

Liu Angtian stared blankly at the courtyard, suddenly reaching out to press Wu Dingyuan’s hand, saying quietly, “Dingyuan, I have no one left by my side. Now there’s only you—only you are most reliable… You’re born an honest man, with more chivalrous spirit than anyone. Regardless of how this battle turns out, when you return, I will promote you greatly…” Reaching this point, he gripped Wu Dingyuan’s arm tightly and said through gritted teeth, “Juyong Pass! When you return to the capital, I’ll issue orders—from then on, you’ll take command of the Juyong Pass forces…”

How important was Juyong Pass? Not only was it close to the capital with numerous troops, but it was also one of the Liu faction’s most important positions. Wu Dingyuan made a surprised sound and said in a trembling voice, “This… how can this be appropriate?” Liu Angtian panted, “Of course it’s appropriate. I don’t misjudge people.”

Since arriving in the capital, Wu Dingyuan had always been occupied with miscellaneous tasks like transporting grain and rice, never holding any military authority. He never expected that once valued by someone, his first position would be so crucial. In his confusion, he could only gape speechlessly, even forgetting to say thanks.

After everyone had talked for a while, it was already evening. Seeing Liu Angtian enter the hall, Wu Dingyuan also took his adopted son and bid farewell.

Wei Zizhuang escorted them with an umbrella all the way to the main gate. As soon as the servants opened the door, heavy rain immediately splashed in. Wu Dingyuan, fearing Wei Zizhuang would get wet, bowed and said, “Guard Wei, please stop here—we can manage on our own.”

The rain was quite heavy. Wu Dingyuan’s adopted son had barely stepped out before half his body was soaked. Wei Zizhuang felt pity and gently stroked the small head, saying, “Taking a child to war this time will surely be inconvenient. Why not leave him in Beijing? I’ll help you watch him.”

Hearing this, Wu Dingyuan was immediately delighted. This was exactly what he had hoped for, but he hadn’t dared to ask. He crouched down and asked his adopted son, “Qing’er, father is going to Henan. Will you be good and stay with Uncle Wei these few days?”

The child glanced at Wei Zizhuang, feeling somewhat afraid, and said quietly, “Father… when will you come back?” Wu Dingyuan said gently, “Father will be back in just a couple of days. If you’re good and obedient these few days, father will bring you something fun when he returns to the capital, hmm?” Though the child wasn’t very willing, having come from the countryside, he was always obedient and gentle. With furrowed brows, he still nodded.

Wu Dingyuan stood up and smiled, “Thank you very much, Brother Wei.” Wei Zizhuang grasped his iron hand and instructed, “Tell Yang Langzhong to be extra careful in everything. We can’t afford to lose this battle.”

Servants on both sides rushed forward to close the main gate. Wu Dingyuan stood outside the door, looking back inside. He saw rain constantly falling like a water curtain. Inside the gate, his adopted son stared with large eyes, his face full of reluctance. Wu Dingyuan smiled and waved at him. The little face opened its mouth as if to call out, but just then the large gate slowly closed, and the small face gradually disappeared until it could no longer be seen.

With lightning flashing and heavy rain pouring, Wu Dingyuan took a deep breath and strode out the door. At this moment, in the violent wind and rain, pedestrians on the street had long since fled and were nowhere to be seen. Wu Dingyuan, no longer needing to care for the child, simply didn’t even bother with an umbrella and walked boldly through the center of the street. Now without worries, he seemed to have regained the carefree feeling of when he had first come to the capital alone.

The raindrops were truly dense and urgent, as if pouring down from overhead. Wu Dingyuan hadn’t practiced “Fire Greedy Single Blade” and couldn’t use heat to steam away rainwater, but as a “True Dragon of a Generation,” he naturally had ways to repel water. He slightly raised his internal breath—with his true qi surging, his clothes filled with internal power like steel armor. The rainwater couldn’t penetrate his garments and flowed down his sleeves to the ground, as if completely waterproof.

In the past he had suffered hardship coming to the capital; now his divine skills covered the world. Though the journey had been full of wind and rain, these years hadn’t been lived in vain.

Walking along Chang’an Avenue, his body quite dry, he lowered his head thinking about his own concerns. Without realizing it, he had arrived at Daming Gate and saw not far away a grand mansion standing—it was the residence of Grand Secretary Yang Yuan.

Wu Dingyuan stared at the misty mansion and couldn’t help stopping. The last time he had entered the Yang residence was just last autumn. At that time, the Liu faction generals had gone together to drink. Lu Yun had coincidentally met Gu Qianxi at the Yang residence and had been quite flustered, causing quite a commotion. Finally, with Qin Zhonghai’s indirect help, the lovers had finally found their destined union, achieving a happy ending.

Wu Dingyuan recalled these past events with a smile on his lips.

Just then, he suddenly heard knocking at the Yang residence gate and a voice saying, “This big brother, may I ask… may I ask if Yang Langzhong has returned home?” The voice belonged to a young woman who spoke with a nasal tone, as if she had a cold. Wu Dingyuan sighed and shook his head, thinking that Yang Suguan was so beloved that even on this rainy evening, young women came to his door seeking to see him.

A servant’s voice came from the gate, saying coldly, “Miss, you’ve asked several times already. Didn’t I tell you? Our young master isn’t at home.” The young woman made a surprised sound and said, “Sorry, then… then I’ll come again another day…”

With a creak, the main gate closed. In the pattering rain, Wu Dingyuan stood in the street center and looked sideways to see the young woman’s slender figure walking slowly on the street. She wasn’t carrying an umbrella either and was soaked like a drowned rat.

Wu Dingyuan watched the young woman’s retreating figure and sighed inwardly. With Yang Suguan’s family background and martial arts, how could an ordinary commoner’s daughter be worthy of him? Seeing her such foolish infatuation, she would probably suffer for it.

The young woman walked on when a sedan chair came down the street. The girl quickly stepped aside to the roadside to watch. She stood motionless, staring fixedly at the Yang family gate, probably thinking the person in the sedan was Yang Suguan. Before long, the official sedan stopped at the Yang residence gate, and an elderly man emerged—Grand Secretary Yang had returned home.

With the master returning home, many servants hurried out with umbrellas to greet him. The young woman, not seeing the person she sought, looked dejected and couldn’t help sighing. That sigh was full of resentment yet carried endless longing. Wu Dingyuan felt pity and turned back to look at this lovestruck girl.

In the heavy rain, he saw the young woman’s beautiful hair plastered wetly to her forehead. Looking at her long eyelashes and gorgeous features—it was none other than Yan Ting!

Wu Dingyuan’s whole body shook violently, his knees going weak. “After wearing out iron shoes in fruitless search, the beauty was here where the lights were dim.”

Ever since receiving news of the great disaster at Jiuhua, Wu Dingyuan had been searching everywhere for Yan Ting. On this return trip to the capital, he had asked everyone he met, even spending large sums of silver to have people investigate the whereabouts of the two young women from Jiuhua Mountain. Who would have thought he would encounter her here? Wu Dingyuan’s heart was so excited, with countless things he wanted to say, that he was about to rush over immediately.

Just as he took a step, he saw Yan Ting reach into her robes and take out a token, then lower her head and begin to weep.

Wu Dingyuan’s eyesight far exceeded ordinary people’s. His every gesture carried earth-shattering power. At this moment, with slight concentration, countless raindrops seemed to freeze in mid-air. His gaze shot out, piercing through the misty heavy rain, and he could clearly see the characters on the token—five seal script characters reading “Ministry of War Bureau of Operations.”

Wu Dingyuan had intended to go over and reveal himself, but when this token appeared, his legs immediately went weak, as if he couldn’t move. He smiled bitterly twice and withdrew his steps, his heart becoming as gloomy as the sky’s rain.

Lightning flashed on all sides with rumbling thunder. Yang Yuan had already entered his residence, and the main gate was tightly closed. Seeing this, Yan Ting showed no intention of moving, just standing foolishly by the gate. She clutched the token tightly in her hand, apparently still waiting for Yang Suguan to return home.

“Silly child, Yang Langzhong has gone to Shaolin—how can you still expect to see him?”

Wu Dingyuan watched Yan Ting from about ten feet away, shouting this in his heart. The rain continued unabated. The two stood under separate eaves, with water cascading like curtains separating them. Wu Dingyuan turned his head to look—though the beauty was only a short distance away, in the misty vapor, Yan Ting’s slender figure gradually became blurred, as if separated by the ends of the earth.

Wu Dingyuan was lost in his own thoughts when he suddenly heard a cough. Yan Ting lowered her head and pressed her chest, looking quite uncomfortable. Wu Dingyuan recalled her earlier conversation with the servant—her nasal tone had been quite heavy then, and she had probably caught a cold.

Wu Dingyuan shook his head and extended his left hand to touch the rainwater falling from the eaves, involuntarily sighing.

This rainwater was ice-cold and bone-chilling, so penetrating that even the “True Dragon of a Generation” felt cold. How pitiful that Yan Ting, a small girl completely soaked through, had to endure this.

As evening approached and dinner time arrived, Yan Ting continued her low murmuring and pacing, unwilling to leave. Gradually, as lights began to illuminate and windows lit up one by one along the street, the Yang residence gate finally opened. Yan Ting looked excited and was about to rush forward when she saw a servant emerge to light the candle in the gate lantern. The lamplight cast a golden glow on the ground below.

It was already dark—clearly Yang Suguan would not return today. Yan Ting, drenched in rain and dejected, finally lowered her head and walked away. Wu Dingyuan was worried and followed at a distance behind her. Neither spoke, each harboring their own concerns as they departed one after the other.

After leaving the city gate, they had reached the wilderness. Wu Dingyuan looked around and saw the area was completely deserted, appearing pitch black with no other sounds except the splashing of rain. He didn’t know why Yan Ting had come to such a place to spend the night and felt puzzled.

Watching Yan Ting pass through a desolate small path, Wu Dingyuan didn’t dare follow too closely, maintaining a distance of about ten zhang. Before long, they came to a grass shelter where Yan Ting crouched in a corner, found a bundle among the weeds, and took out a steamed bun to gnaw on with lowered head.

The grass shelter was extremely crude. Wu Dingyuan looked closely and saw it was an abandoned horse trough that had been discarded for many years. Wu Dingyuan felt sad, realizing that Yan Ting had fallen into destitution and had been spending nights in this broken-down place for several days.

Raindrops pattered continuously on the grass shelter, sounding like pearls falling on a pipa. In the darkness, Yan Ting sat alone in the grass shelter, her figure appearing doubly lonely. Wu Dingyuan watched this scene with heartache, his eyes naturally reddening.

Soaked through with rainwater, Yan Ting coughed incessantly. She gathered materials for a fire pile to warm herself in the shelter, but after several days of heavy rain, the firewood was completely waterlogged. After striking the flint several times, she still couldn’t start a fire. Yan Ting sat alone on the ground, feeling utterly helpless. Unable to contain herself any longer, she covered her face with both hands and finally burst into tears.

Suddenly, a low voice rang in her ear, followed by a pair of large hands supporting her as the voice said gently, “Good child, don’t cry.”

Yan Ting turned around to see a man with tears in his eyes looking at her with deep concern—who else could it be but Wu Dingyuan?

Suddenly seeing an old friend, Yan Ting burst into loud sobs, immediately throwing herself into his arms and crying, “Brother Wu!”

How many years had it been? Her “Lord Wu” had finally become “Brother Wu.” Wu Dingyuan felt great anguish in his heart and embraced Yan Ting, choking with emotion, “Poor child, you’ve suffered.”

Yan Ting lay in his arms crying, “Master was besieged, and I really had no choice but to leave on my own… On the road I couldn’t find my junior sister, and many bad people came to capture me. I hid and dodged all the way, fighting several battles with them. Brother Wu… what should I do?”

Wu Dingyuan’s gaze was gentle as he grasped her small hands and said softly, “Don’t talk about these things first. How long have you been in the capital?”

Yan Ting sobbed, “I’ve been in the capital for several days. There are government offices everywhere here. I’m afraid the court people will cause me trouble, so I don’t dare stay in inns, and I can’t find anyone I know…” She looked around at her wretched situation, feeling deeply ashamed, and cried in anguish, “Brother Wu, I… I’m truly useless…”

Wu Dingyuan extended his left hand to gently caress her cheek, saying tenderly, “Good girl, don’t cry. Let big brother settle you first, all right?”

Yan Ting looked at the man before her, seeing his eyes full of care—it was an extremely sincere expression. Grateful in her heart, with tears streaming down her face, she could only nod repeatedly.

Seeing she was still clutching that token in her hand, Wu Dingyuan couldn’t help thinking of Yang Suguan and said, “Once you’re settled and your days are stable, big brother will take you to find Yang Langzhong, all right?”

Hearing these words, Yan Ting was both surprised and delighted, immediately letting out a low exclamation. How could Yan Ting not know that Wu Dingyuan had long harbored feelings for her? Yet at this moment, when she was suffering and covered in dust, Wu Dingyuan showed no intention of taking advantage of her distress. Yan Ting felt both grateful and happy, unable to help crying again.

Wu Dingyuan reached out and firmly grasped Yan Ting’s hand, saying quietly, “Don’t worry about anything. As long as Wu has breath remaining, no one in the world can harm you. Come, follow Brother Wu.”

Back in Shenji Cave, it had been one life for another. At that time Wu Dingyuan was just a constable with inferior martial arts, yet despite facing life-and-death danger, he had always kept his promise and never failed her. Now, as a Tianshan successor, his words carried even more weight, and his expression revealed unwavering determination. He took Yan Ting’s small hand, preparing to lead her away.

But Yan Ting didn’t move. She raised her head to look at the sturdy, honest man before her, her lips trembling slightly.

Wu Dingyuan looked puzzled and asked, “What’s wrong? Are you cold?”

With tears streaming down her face, Yan Ting reached out to gently caress Wu Dingyuan’s cheek.

Life is always like this—only in that moment of suffering and being covered in dust do we recognize true affection in the world.

Seeing Yan Ting choking and sobbing yet still not moving, Wu Dingyuan felt completely bewildered, unable to guess her thoughts. He coughed and said, “You should tidy up first and see if you’re missing anything.” With that, he stood in a corner of the grass shelter, letting Yan Ting cry.

Yan Ting lowered her head and turned around, taking out the brocade pouch her master had given her. She gently opened it—her master’s final instructions. First she saw the treasure map in the pouch and that note she had read countless times.

It was a message of careful protection and far-sighted instruction, with only three characters written on it: “Wu Dingyuan.”

Tears slid down her cheeks. Yan Ting still said nothing, slowly putting the note back. She turned to look at the token in her palm, and in this moment of tears streaming down her face, her lips actually curved in a bitter smile.

Those five seal script characters were so complex that even now she still couldn’t understand the writing on them. She stared at them foolishly as teardrops mixed with rainwater fell onto the token. Those five seal script characters became a beautiful, misty picture that could no longer be distinguished.

Yan Ting suddenly covered her face and with a wave of her hand, threw the token far away.

Wu Dingyuan was startled and exclaimed, “You… what are you doing?”

Yan Ting’s beautiful eyes turned to gaze at the big man before her. With a sudden soft cry, she tightly embraced Wu Dingyuan. Seeing her sudden embrace, Wu Dingyuan’s heart became flustered with panic as he said hurriedly, “Yan Ting, you… what’s wrong…”

Before he could finish speaking, the young woman in his arms rose on her tiptoes, wrapped her arms around his neck, and brought her cherry lips close to kiss him.

The young woman’s breath was like orchids, her red lips soft and fragrant, pressing against his mouth as if burning into his soul. Wu Dingyuan was startled and flustered. Seeing Yan Ting’s face full of tender affection, her eyes tightly closed as she concentrated on kissing him, he felt even more at a loss.

How many times in life can one be intoxicated? When this beautiful dream came true, Wu Dingyuan seemed extremely alarmed. Though he was a man of thirty-five or thirty-six, this kind of sincere and heartfelt embrace and kiss with a woman was the first time in his life. He neither dared push Yan Ting away nor dared reach out to embrace her slender waist. Not knowing where to put his hands, he could only press them tightly against his trouser seams as if standing at attention for inspection.

In the heavy rain, something flew through the air and landed with a soft thud in the grass. A pair of slender hands reached out and slowly picked it up. Looking down, they saw several characters carved on the token—five seal script characters reading “Ministry of War Bureau of Operations.”

Tucking the token into his robes, a figure turned around. The person held an umbrella in his left hand and wore a yellow shirt. Looking at his composed demeanor and handsome, upright face, it was the token’s owner who had arrived.

In the lonely rainy night, the “romantic division chief” carried anti-rebel duties yet came to the wilderness in the deep night—could he have some plot?

Yang Suguan smiled faintly and looked back toward the grass shelter. In the dark night, a campfire had risen. Looking from afar, the firelight was warm and appeared quite cozy.

No plot—coming here on this night was only for the sake of two old friends. “Small impatience ruins great plans.” In this vast sea of humanity, people who shouldn’t recognize each other must not lose their composure. Even if cursed by ten thousand people, there was no need to care.

“May all the world’s sins fall upon me.” Since Yang Suguan could say such words, he had long been prepared for whatever fate awaited him. He nodded slightly toward the two people in the grass shelter, then with a flutter of his sleeves, gracefully departed.

Yang Suguan, his heart heavy with concerns, slowly walked toward the capital.

With great battle approaching and the world in turmoil, the outcome of the Shaolin battle was uncertain. Whether Jiang Chong, Nucang, or even his master’s strategy—none gave him peace of mind. This battle was so dangerous that to avoid detection, Yang Suguan had pretended to leave the capital and had been moving secretly within the city these past days. He had privately sent people to watch Yan Ting’s movements, and only when Wu Dingyuan appeared to take over did he set down one burden from his heart.

Everything that should be done had been done. With his concerns resolved and no other distractions, it was time to arrange his posthumous affairs.

Posthumous affairs meant leaving final instructions. Ever since seeing that person in Damo Temple, he had been prepared to die. With Liu Jing’s former power and methods, once he triggered the court’s trap, wouldn’t he be attacked by all and end up completely defeated? Yang Suguan knew he had one foot in the gates of hell. If the Shaolin battle was lost, as a scapegoat he would surely die. Even if they won by luck, because of that person in Damo Temple, he would probably find it hard to escape disaster. For this reason, when leaving home he had already instructed his younger brother Shaoqi to meet him at midnight at the Guangnan Inn by Donghua Gate. For the sake of their mother and brother, he had several important matters to personally entrust.

It was deep night with slippery rain-soaked roads, and not half a pedestrian could be seen on the main street. Yang Suguan held an oil umbrella, floating through the street center like a clear lotus. He appeared composed, but his eyes constantly surveyed his surroundings, and his steps gradually quickened. Suddenly he leaped up, vaulting over rooftops and hiding in the back alleys.

As soon as Yang Suguan concealed himself, whistling calls rang out on the main street. Shadows flashed as many spies leaped from surrounding houses. These people looked panicked as they all emerged to search for his trail.

Ever since taking the position of “Acting Northern Pacification Commander,” Jiang Chong’s spies had surrounded him constantly, always investigating his activities. One careless moment and military secrets could leak at any time. Yang Suguan was naturally doubly cautious.

After a long while, the footsteps gradually faded. Only then did Yang Suguan emerge from the alley. He looked at the pitch-black street with quite a lonely expression.

In chaotic times, one’s body is not one’s own. Sometimes even oneself cannot be trusted—how much more so others?

Arriving at the inn, Yang Suguan didn’t enter through the front door. He climbed over the wall from the back courtyard and slipped in through the kitchen door.

As soon as he stepped inside, he saw an old woman crouching and washing bowls. Seeing a noble young gentleman enter for no reason, she was immediately startled and about to scream. Yang Suguan raised his finger to his lips to signal silence, then took several taels of broken silver from his waist pouch and stuffed them into the old woman’s hand. The woman saw his noble appearance and was already respectful, but seeing the silver made her even more delighted. She immediately bowed repeatedly to Yang Suguan and asked not a single word.

Room C-3 was upstairs where his younger brother Shaoqi was already waiting. Yang Suguan didn’t want to alarm the innkeeper, so he slowed his steps until his footfalls were silent, hurrying through the stairwell toward the guest room.

Reaching the door, Yang Suguan looked around and saw no one spying nearby before slipping inside.

Just entering the room and closing the door, about to call out to his brother, he suddenly saw the room was pitch black without a single person.

Yang Suguan felt slightly puzzled. According to their agreement, his younger brother Shaoqi should be waiting in the room—how could there be no one? Could something have delayed him? Yang Suguan was quite perplexed and was about to light a candle.

Suddenly, a chill arose behind him.

So cold… cold to the heart… this chill was so oppressive, as if ghosts were breathing on his neck from behind, immediately making the “romantic division chief” break out in cold sweat…

From childhood to adulthood, he constantly felt this chill from behind, even in sleep without a moment’s peace. Over ten years of bitter endurance, those countless frightening cold nights and soul-freezing demons could never be dispelled.

Facing endless, boundless fear, a person could flee in panic, could cry and beg for mercy, but could also…

Whoosh! The umbrella tip swept straight behind him, his entire body’s power concentrated, orthodox Heavenly Absolute internal energy exploding forth.

“Destroy it!”

Clang! A shattering sound—the sound of a vase falling behind him. There was no enemy behind.

Yang Suguan’s heart shook greatly. He pressed his hand to his sword hilt, about to draw his long sword, when suddenly blinding light flashed before his eyes. A Kongming lantern blazed bright, and the originally dark, gloomy room suddenly burst with dazzling light, forcing Yang Suguan to squint. Unable to see clearly, he immediately covered his chest’s vital points with both hands and leaped backward.

Suddenly his back felt cold as it touched an iron rod—something long, round, and bone-chillingly cold. Yang Suguan’s mouth trembled and his body felt cold, knowing his back had hit a gun barrel. Behind him, just one cold shot and he would surely die.

At this moment the fire extinguished again, and the room returned to gray dimness. A sigh came from beside the tea table, the voice very low, saying gently, “Don’t think of fighting me. You’re too green—you can’t possibly match me.”

An unfamiliar aged accent, like someone from Huguang, but the tone seemed very familiar. Yang Suguan trembled all over. The newcomer was truly formidable, completely controlling the martially superior Yang Suguan without using a single move. Knowing he had no chance of victory, he lowered his head and dropped his hands, releasing his sword hilt with his right hand and throwing away his oil umbrella with his left—he had surrendered.

The voice sighed, “Want to send word and report? You—can you escape?”

Yang Suguan didn’t reply and didn’t want to reply. Just then, a childish voice called from outside the door, “Brother, I’ve come as agreed. Are you inside?” This voice spoke standard official language, each word clear and crisp—it was Yang Shaoqi.

Hearing Shaoqi about to push open the door and enter, bound by brotherly affection, Yang Suguan couldn’t help breaking into a cold sweat. But he heard that voice sigh quietly, “For the sake of mother and younger brother, the elder brother should be a bit more obedient, shouldn’t he?”

Yang Suguan’s eyes flashed with fury. No longer caring whether the gun behind him would kill him, he suddenly lunged forward toward the source of the voice. Crashing and banging sounds erupted as the room fell into chaos. Yang Shaoqi outside was shocked and quickly pushed open the door, screaming, “Brother, what’s wrong?”

Yang Shaoqi held an oil lamp and saw two people fallen in the room. One was his own brother, looking fierce and grim, tightly gripping an old man and not letting go, as if wanting to strangle him. Yang Shaoqi looked closely and saw the old man with a terrified face, tongue protruding, hands frantically waving as if about to die. Yang Shaoqi cried out, “Brother, this is the innkeeper from downstairs—don’t kill him!”

Hearing these words, Yang Suguan immediately sobered. He glared at the old man and released his hands, leaping up by himself.

Yang Shaoqi rushed forward to examine the old man. This person’s face was full of wrinkles—indeed the innkeeper he had seen when booking the room two days ago. Yang Shaoqi exclaimed, “Innkeeper, what are you doing? Who told you to enter my room?”

The innkeeper rubbed his throat, his face uncomfortable, and said hoarsely, “Sorry, someone gave me fifty taels of silver to wait in the room, saying when someone came in, I should… I should…” Yang Suguan didn’t want his brother to hear more about martial world affairs and immediately snatched the note from the innkeeper’s hand, saying coldly, “You were to read these few sentences from this note according to what’s written, weren’t you?”

The innkeeper looked terrified and nodded repeatedly, “Yes… yes…”

Yang Suguan took a deep breath. He pulled the innkeeper up and pointed toward the door, saying grimly, “Get out.”

The innkeeper’s face was full of apologetic smiles as he hurriedly left. Yang Suguan didn’t want to pay him further attention. He lowered his head to examine the note and indeed saw several sentences written on it—from opening the room door, to the vase breaking, all the way to lighting the Kongming lantern. All events were written in sequence. The master of this note was truly worthy of respect and fear—a rare strategist in the world. Yang Suguan took a deep breath and turned to look into the room, seeing a cabinet half a person’s height standing by the wall. On the cabinet lay an object—an iron rod for stirring charcoal fires.

What had controlled him earlier wasn’t any gun—it was actually such an inconspicuous thing.

The visitor’s divine calculations used neither a single move nor any weapons or treasures, relying solely on predicting the enemy’s actions to achieve complete victory. Yang Suguan suffered total defeat. Grinding his teeth in resentment, killing intent blazed in his eyes as he became furious to the point of madness.

Yang Shaoqi hurried forward and said quietly, “Brother, what exactly happened?”

Hearing his younger brother’s question, Yang Suguan immediately restrained his angry expression and shook his head, “Nothing, I just wanted to see you.”

Yang Shaoqi looked completely puzzled. His brother had solemnly instructed him the night before last to sneak out secretly at midnight to meet here, but after going through such trouble in the middle of the night to come here, it seemed like nothing had happened?

The oil lamp flickered unsteadily. Yang Shaoqi gazed at the big brother he had admired since childhood, seeing his eyes also flow with the lamplight. That gaze was quite strange—seeming somewhat fearful yet somewhat excited, making him even more puzzled…