Jingtai thirty-third year, ninth month, tenth day evening, nine days before the coup d’état, Chang’an, Shaanxi

At the junction of autumn and winter, plaques hung high in Chang’an city. On the bustling street hung three large golden characters – an old established shop.

“Great Hong Hall!” The shop assistant shouted like this at the entrance. “Superior medicinal wine, great bargain sale! Great Hong Hall!”

Hoarse shouts came from beneath the plaque. The old established shop in Chang’an city was doing booming business – tiger penis, deer antler medicinal wine tonics. Great Hong Hall was exactly a commercial house specializing in medicinal wines. “Come! Come! This big brother is truly brave, buying ten jars in one breath – quickly wrap them up for him!”

Crowds on the street slowly gathered. The shop assistant spoke boastfully, spittle flying everywhere. Men and women came and went, peddlers and common folk creating a commotion all around. Evening sunset shone over, making the “Great Hong Hall” plaque gleam with golden light, further accentuating the old establishment’s extraordinary status.

The plaque hanging for a hundred years bore full traces of time’s passage. Chang’an residents had been familiar with this plaque since childhood, like the daily visible sun – unless the celestial dog stole and ate it, no one would give it a second glance.

Precisely because of this, here was an excellent hiding place – a first-rate excellent place.

Evening glow illuminated when suddenly a ray of light flashed behind the plaque.

That wasn’t the plaque’s reflected golden light but cold, chilling light. That radiance lurked in the upper left corner of the plaque, thin and weak, hidden behind spider webs, appearing dim and obscure, but it was definitely cold light without doubt.

Though thousands of eyes walked the street, no one noticed the strangeness in the plaque.

Of course, even fewer would pay attention to the large bow behind that cold light.

Iron-cast, stone-made arms gripped the large bow, motionless and unwavering. Following the arms, two thick eyebrows appeared along with a pair of unblinking handsome eyes.

This was an assassin. Not only an assassin, but a handsome-looking assassin.

Left hand holding the bow, right palm drawing the string to full draw – the figure still as a stone statue had been crouching in this position, enduring behind the plaque for a full hour.

Though the world was vast, among mortals who could draw a full bowstring in crouched position and still shoot arrows without missing the bull’s eye, none could match Jie Tao. Only Jiangdong’s “Spring Algae Arrow” would train disciples in this manner.

Jiangdong Twin Dragons young general “Fire-Eyed Lion” Jie Tao – this man’s archery was divinely skilled, his qinggong superb. In terms of swift footwork alone, throughout the mountain stronghold except for the military advisor himself, he probably had the most expertise. Also for this reason, Jie Tao was ordered to act this time, traveling directly from Henan’s Mount Song, following a man all the way to finally reach Chang’an in Shaanxi to rendezvous with many companions nearby. This moment now was when victory or defeat would be decided – the powerful enemy was about to appear.

Though the enemy was strong, their own formation was also extraordinary. Jie Tao took a deep breath. He drew the large bow, staring with handsome eyes fixed on the noisy street.

Across was a noodle shop. On the roof built up to the third floor, a corner of clothing lay on the red tiles – another ally was hidden there. If Jie Tao hadn’t already known his companion’s hiding place, even with eyesight ten times sharper, he definitely couldn’t have detected any trace.

The expert across excelled at flying stones – one shot with profound internal power infused into the stone could truly pierce chest and break body, killing invisibly. In terms of power alone, it might be even more intimidating than his own “Spring Algae Arrow.” With this “Heavenly Authority Hall Master” coming to help, what was there to worry about? The corners of Jie Tao’s mouth curved in a smile. Thinking of the third ambush point farther away, he almost wanted to hum a little tune.

The third assassin held a Western crossbow, hidden in the Northern Cloth Shop, concealed among silks and satins. Though not as powerful as Xiang Tianshou’s flying stones, the person in ambush was renowned for meticulous planning, his methods even superior to Xiang Tianshou’s. That person was no ordinary individual but the stronghold’s intelligence chief, Monk Zhi Guan, formerly one of Duke Baxian’s trusted lieutenants, the “Secret Eleven” leader Mr. Mu.

First time accompanying stronghold experts on campaign, everything was naturally handled by senior experts. Even if this little junior brother failed, there were still the two big brothers Xiang Tianshou and Zhi Guan above him. But the enemy was too formidable – before departure, the military advisor repeatedly instructed everyone to be extremely careful, otherwise once defeated like a landslide, even the military advisor’s own life would be lost here.

Thinking of this, Jie Tao adjusted the snow spider silk clothing on his body. That was what the Green-Robed Scholar had instructed him to wear. Reportedly, Nu Cang assassins on campaign must wear this life-saving garment. Jie Tao was full of gratitude, his gaze drifting to glance at a distant wine tower.

In the wine tower, amid fragrant sleeves and hair ornaments, cups clinking together, on the bustling second floor by the window sat a solitary green-robed figure. That person held wine with one hand, drinking slowly. Though his brows were lowered, divine light between his phoenix eyes remained extremely intimidating. Jie Tao stole a glance at the military advisor when suddenly the green-robed figure raised his head, his gaze stern and imposing, seeming to sense he was slacking off and daydreaming. Jie Tao was frightened pale, not daring to think wildly anymore, hurriedly focusing his mind and again aiming his bow and arrow at the corner of the busy street.

The arrowhead aimed at a corner of the street – a stall seven zhang and five chi from Great Hong Hall, ten zhang and seven chi from the opposite noodle shop, but less than two zhang from the cloth shop. Three hidden weapons formed a net – whether Jie Tao’s, Zhi Guan’s, or Xiang Tianshou’s weapons all pointed toward one place: that fortune-telling stall.

“Iron-Mouthed Direct Judgment Wu Half-Immortal” – an expert at fortune-telling and divination. But even if this Brother Wu were a true immortal descended from heaven, he probably didn’t know he was already caught in an arrow net like a bug on a spider’s web, with great disaster about to befall him at any moment.

“Master…” The oblivious Wu Anzheng had a beautiful young woman sitting before his stall. He heard her ask softly: “This little woman has passed twenty years of youth, but a good man has yet to appear. My parents constantly urge me, but I don’t know when I can meet my ideal husband?”

Beside Chang’an Guard, wine towers stood in rows. During dinner time, guest houses everywhere were full of friends, the street packed with people. That young woman sat at the fortune-telling stall, her bright wrists and jade arms allowing the vulgar middle-aged man before her to touch them, as if unaware that men and women shouldn’t have physical contact, just waiting to be molested.

“Mm… let me see…” Wu Anzheng appeared dignified and proper, closing his eyes and shaking his head. His fingers touched the beautiful woman’s pulse point – the skin was smooth and tender, quite enjoyable to touch.

This “Wu Half-Immortal” was naturally gifted without learning, nicknamed “Heaven-Penetrating Eye,” specializing in observing the spiritual energy of good men and faithful women. Just by letting him touch once, he would have a spiritual response. Indeed, as fingertips touched skin, he immediately sensed something unusual. Lightning and thunder flashed in his brain, and before his eyes he saw a beautiful mirror-like lake.

Vast misty waves, mountains and waters like a painting. Before his eyes swam a pair of leisurely mandarin ducks with brilliant colorful feathers, nestling together dependently. In the lake scenery, the mandarin duck lovers quietly glided across the water toward the distant horizon, slowly disappearing from sight.

“Excellent!” Wu Anzheng slapped his thigh heavily, unable to help showing joy. Every time he told fortunes, what he saw was either muddy wild boars or dung pile stupid oxen. Rarely encountering such elegant scenery, his heart was truly delighted. Mandarin ducks were originally birds of wealth and honor – two was exactly right. Morning mist and dew, mandarin ducks leisurely swimming, the numbers also matched – naturally a great auspicious omen. Wu Anzheng happily picked up the woman’s birth date and time, carefully consulting his scripture book, immediately finding the perfect match.

He looked at the little beauty before him, opened the scripture book in his hand and smiled: “Congratulations, miss. Your ideal husband is exactly this person.”

The beauty covered her mouth and gasped softly, focusing her gaze to look. She saw the small fortune-telling stall was covered with paper and ink, the table surface packed full. Before her lay an open scripture book turned to Chapter Five, page 347, depicting a male’s physiognomy. The beauty was full of expectation, hurriedly leaning close to look. At one glance, she couldn’t help but be greatly shocked, saying tremblingly: “This… this is my husband?”

On the book page was drawn a man. This person had a pointed mouth and monkey cheeks, vacant ox-like eyes, thick lips and protruding rabbit-like teeth – this was no longer ordinary human appearance. Who knew this person also had a huge round mole at the left corner of his mouth, just like a big sesame seed on a baked cake – extremely ugly indeed. The beauty saw this person’s appearance like a demon ghost. Thinking of having to live with this person for life in the future, she couldn’t help but be filled with horror, her whole body trembling.

“Congratulations, miss.” Wu Anzheng pointed at the name column beside the drawing and laughed heartily. “This gentleman is named Liao Yihua. I just calculated carefully for you – Mr. Liao was born in the Jiazi year, Yichou month, Bingyin day, Dingmao hour, which matches your eight characters perfectly. It’s destined by fate – how can you escape it?”

“Can’t escape…” The beauty’s charming eyes filled with tears, choking: “I don’t want…”

Wu Anzheng, oblivious to death, still laughed: “Of course you can’t escape. Even if you know beforehand and deliberately try to avoid it, you’ll only hit the target more accurately. Who can dodge the red thread tied by the Old Man Under the Moon?”

Hearing her fate was thus, the beauty cried even louder. She had long been urged by her parents to marry, already feeling life was worse than death. With great difficulty finding leisure to come for fortune-telling, she received such an ominous sign to take back. In her fury, not caring what Wu Anzheng said, she overturned the fortune-telling stall in a few moves and turned to run away.

Wu Anzheng cried out in alarm: “Miss, I haven’t finished speaking! Please wait!”

Hearing his call, the beauty only covered both ears and fled like she had wings. While running with her head down, she suddenly collided head-on with a man. Her small feet unsteady, she fell backward. The man was greatly startled and quickly extended his right hand to catch her around the waist, asking in a deep voice: “Miss, are you alright?”

Through tear-blurred eyes, the beauty opened her eyes to see a tall man looking at her sideways. He had an oval face, a straight and elegant nose bridge, bright starry eyes – quite a handsome and good-looking man.

This man’s lips were round, full and angular, appearing ruddy and almost enticingly fresh. The beauty looked and looked, her cheeks suddenly flushing with shame, remembering she was lying in an unknown man’s arms. She quickly stood up and bowed: “Sorry for disturbing you, young master.” The man didn’t mind, only turning his face toward the beauty with a slight smile, saying gently:

“If there’s affinity, we’ll meet across a thousand li; without affinity, we won’t recognize each other face to face. Miss, no need for such courtesy.”

Seeing that person facing her directly, the beauty couldn’t help but cover her mouth in shock. She could see clearly – this person’s left cheek was snow white, but at the corner of his mouth was a romantic mole. That black mole was a small, quite round and elegant dot, like a prunus in the snow, like the divine brush that adds the final touch to a dragon painting. The beauty’s delicate body trembled as she murmured: “Young master, are you… are you surnamed… surnamed…”

When a beauty asks for a name, how could he not answer? The young master cupped his hands in salute and said clearly: “My humble surname is Liao, from Cangzhou in Hebei. My full name is Yihua. Because my ancestor was the great Shu general Liao Hua, I was named to commemorate this.” He merely asked casually, but this young master dragged out his eighteen generations of ancestors’ deeds completely – presumably either his nature was simple and honest or he had great fondness for this beauty before him.

Hearing the three words “Liao Yihua,” the beauty couldn’t help crying aloud, but this time there was laughter in her tears and tears in her laughter, absolutely incomparable to the earlier gloomy despair.

The young master saw the young woman before him crying and laughing alternately – hopefully she wasn’t having a mental breakdown. He was full of bewilderment and was about to ask when he suddenly saw a man running over from the street side, holding a scripture book, not knowing what kind of divine being this was. Just as he was becoming suspicious, that person had already run over with a smile: “Aiya, the right person has come. Look, isn’t this iron-mouthed direct judgment?”

That man forcibly stuffed the scripture book over. The young master didn’t understand the reason and could only lean over to look. In an instant, he couldn’t help but gasp coldly. He saw that on the page was clearly drawn a rabbit-lipped monster – that demon had a pointed mouth and monkey cheeks, with a huge black mole at the corner of its mouth. Such ugly and terrifying appearance, yet beside the picture were inexplicably written three characters:

“Liao Yihua.”

The man’s face twitched in shock and suspicion, but he heard Wu Anzheng laugh: “The red thread tied by the Old Man Under the Moon can’t be avoided no matter what. This young master, I personally painted you so handsomely and matched you with a beautiful wife. Today I’ll give you a discount – altogether one hundred taels of silver. Please quickly pay…”

The word “money” just left his mouth when suddenly a black shadow flashed before his eyes. A fist struck his eye socket directly, and he immediately fell backward.

Watching the mandarin duck pair holding hands and happily walking away together, leaving Wu Anzheng alone behind. He touched his black eye and crawled on the ground freely, cursing continuously: “Really like a dog biting Lü Dongbin – what kind of thing is this?”

Thinking that he, Wu Half-Immortal, was naturally gifted and famous throughout the world – when ordinary princes and great ministers wanted fortune-telling, who wouldn’t travel thousands of li to the foot of Mount Hua? Who knew that a tiger fallen to flat land would be beaten by ignorant men and women in Chang’an’s marketplace – truly infuriating.

A dignified master of numerology actually suffered beating from common folk – if this spread out, it would be hard to save face. Wu Anzheng sighed, thinking: “My great inauspicious fortune is approaching, there must be ten years of hardship. This punch is the first calamity. I should really set up a divination chart and interpret the fortune to seek good and avoid evil.”

Fate principles were treacherous with many manifestations. What seemed like a clear celestial secret in the scripture often had many interpretations that left people bewildered. The book said marrying a beautiful wife, but one might marry an ugly and terrifying “Mei Jiaoniang.” It said one could live a hundred years old, but who knew what kind of living that would be? Wu Anzheng felt uneasy, thinking that if he was careless, he might fall into prison and be tortured by jailers for a hundred years. He was somewhat frightened and immediately urgently calculated with his fingers to see how his fortune was.

Yin-Wu-Xu, Shen-Zi-Chen, Hai-Mao-Wei – when the hexagram came out, Wu Anzheng murmured: “Jingtai thirty-third year, Gengwu, today is the tenth of the ninth month, mm… now is Wushen hour, later will be Jiyou hour…” He calculated carefully and opened his scripture book, couldn’t help but be shocked: “In Wu, look at flowers… flower Shen fist, Ji body hard to protect… You difficulty comes.”

This was exactly Wushen hour – indeed, fragrant flower extended fist, hitting him until he saw stars. Looking at the next hour “You difficulty comes” – naturally it must be an ominous sign without doubt. Wu Anzheng was extremely panicked and immediately hurriedly packed up his stall to escape home.

While busy, he suddenly heard a voice beside the stall – that voice coughed, seeming to be a very elderly person. Wu Anzheng was full of fear and hurriedly looked closely, only to see before him stood an old man about sixty years old. His dignified face wore a clear and gentle smile – the person was an elegant scholar. He wore yellow robes of luxurious material with proper tailoring – this should be official household clothing.

Wu Anzheng was good at reading faces. Seeing this yellow-robed old man with full forehead and clear eyes and features, he already knew this person had brilliant wisdom and profound learning. Poets and scholars had always been frail – he could probably poke out half this old scholar’s life with one little finger. Wu Anzheng relaxed and put on a stern face, sneering: “Come for fortune-telling?”

The yellow-robed elder smiled slightly and shook his head: “Not that. I’ve come to help you with fortune-telling.”

“Tell my fortune?” Wu Anzheng opened his mouth wide and couldn’t help but laugh aloud.

“What nonsense!” Wu Anzheng struck the table heavily with his fist. Though his fist ached faintly, it had some wind pressure.

Wu Half-Immortal had traveled the jianghu for many years and had encountered countless peers coming to challenge him, but this was the first time someone so openly came to kick down his stall. But he was not only proficient in the Dao but had also consumed spiritual elixirs – his magical arts were self-taught and naturally acquired. Even compared to Shaolin’s Abbot Lingzhi, the latter would be far behind. How could he fear some nameless old man? He immediately sat down and coldly said according to professional rules: “Competing magical power with me, you’re asking for suffering. Old man, extend your hand! Let’s compare!”

The yellow-robed elder didn’t speak or answer, sitting beside the stall and raising his hand to the table. Wu Anzheng spat and thought: “Fine, you old thief, watch me calculate through your eighteen generations of ancestors’ ugly deeds. If I don’t expose your old mother’s adultery, I’ll wash your feet as your slave.”

He sneered coldly and extended his hand to clasp with the elder. Whether he was a Maoshan sorcerer or Northern sect immortal magic practitioner, as long as his Heaven-Penetrating Eye examined this person’s background and origins, he would surely fall into his grasp and could never escape again. In a moment, if he didn’t expose all his family’s dirty secrets, he would have truly wasted his time.

The two clasped palms together. Instantly spiritual light flashed in his brain, and again he saw a mirror-like lake.

Wu Anzheng blinked, somewhat puzzled. He saw before him a bright moon hanging high in the sky, the water surface with faint rippling light, but no unusual signs. He couldn’t make out anything and felt confused. He immediately guarded his primordial spirit and looked carefully again. Suddenly his brain felt dizzy, and he saw the lake water rise in waves. Among the rippling water, something seemed to be hidden.

Wu Anzheng was slightly curious and hurriedly lowered his head to look carefully. Just then he saw a pair of eyes emerge from under the water surface – they were yellow dragon-snake eyes!

Wu Anzheng was greatly shocked, his mouth corners couldn’t help but tremble. Just as he was about to release his fingers, the river surface split open and a huge dragon head emerged, looking fierce and evil. Opening its mouth wide, it bit straight toward his throat!

Wu Anzheng cried out in panic and hurriedly withdrew his fingers, actually rolling to the ground.

A dragon hidden under water – this person was… was…

Wu Anzheng was so frightened his whole body went soft. He crouched on the ground looking at the elder before him, saying mournfully: “Hidden… Hidden…”

The yellow-robed elder raised his finger to his lips and gently shushed, his face still wearing a smile. He pulled Wu Anzheng up with one hand and smiled: “Wu Half-Immortal, your magical power is divine and your Dao profound. Have you ever calculated your own death date?” That person’s tone was sinister yet carried some teasing. Wu Anzheng was frightened, about to scream, when hearing the elder mention “death date,” he suddenly became aware and remembered his earlier calculation. “In Wu look at flowers, flower Shen fist” – this was still evening, still Wushen hour. At most the fragrant flower would hit people with “flower Shen fist” – just minor flesh and skin suffering, no need to panic.

Wu Anzheng laughed heartily and immediately stood up. Numerology determines result but not cause – as long as the fated sign was fulfilled, it was considered resolved. He pointed at the left black eye circle that Liao Yihua had hit earlier and laughed: “Left black, right white – inevitably ugly. Let you smash my right eye with a punch to balance it out.” Speaking, he took out a pig fat ball from his bosom and rubbed it on his right eye circle continuously. Seeing that “flower Shen fist” was just a light blow, Wu Anzheng had been hung up and beaten by Mount Hua masters since childhood – how could he take this seriously? Immediately he sneered repeatedly and became arrogant again.

They say pride brings wind – Wu Anzheng was indeed proud, and naturally gentle wind came lightly. Late autumn evening breeze blew gently, accompanied by distant Buddhist temple evening bells ringing softly, sounding even more melodious.

Dong… dong… The pleasant bell sounds entered his ears but made Wu Anzheng’s heart and soul want to shatter, his teeth actually beginning to tremble.

The yellow-robed elder smiled softly: “Master, Wushen hour has passed. Now it’s Jiyou hour. Why don’t you cast another hexagram?”

“In Wu look at flowers, flower Shen fist” – the next line: “Ji body hard to protect, You difficulty comes.” Wu Anzheng had already divined fortune earlier. Recalling those three words “You difficulty comes,” he couldn’t help but tremble all over, panicking and laughing dryly: “Lord, spare my life.” The yellow-robed elder gently stroked Wu Anzheng’s face and sighed: “Those good at reading others’ faces aren’t good at reading their own; those who scheme for others don’t understand scheming for their families. Half-Immortal, ah Half-Immortal, for your own latter half of life’s peace and prosperity, be obedient, alright?” Wu Anzheng’s facial muscles twitched wildly as he babbled incoherently with an ingratiating smile:

“Lord, what… what exactly do you want?”

The yellow-robed elder smiled faintly: “Better to err on the side of excess than omission. Half-Immortal, do you understand?” Seeing Wu Anzheng shocked and uncertain, the elder took out a letter from his bosom and read softly: “Mr. Bufan, esteemed sir, personally opened. In worldly affairs, better to err on the side of excess than omission. This poor monk humbly serving as abbot, ashamed beyond measure. Without your wise insight from afar sending a letter for guidance, could not clarify our sect’s previous enlightened one’s cause of death… Now that warfare is about to arise, Damo Academy matters involve fate and fortune. Lingzhi reflects day and night, deeply worried…”

Wu Anzheng reached into his bosom and felt emptiness in his palm, couldn’t help but cry aloud: “Give it back to me, give it back! That’s the letter the abbot wants to give to Little Gouzi! Give it back to me! Give it back!”

The yellow-robed guest smiled slightly and returned the letter, saying lightly: “Don’t be afraid, no one wants to swallow your things.”

Wu Anzheng’s teeth chattered as he cried out and overturned tables and chairs, running backward.

The old man didn’t get up to chase, only tossing the key in his hand, smiling with confidence.

Wu Anzheng saw he didn’t get up to chase and became even more panicked in flight. Who knew his feet were pulled – suddenly his ankle hurt and he had already fallen to the ground. The fortune-telling stall inexplicably collapsed and overturned, pressing toward his body, leaving him in a sorry state.

Wu Anzheng was shocked and terrified, seeing his ankle connected to an iron chain with the other end tied to the table leg – for a moment he couldn’t break free. He collapsed to the ground, waving both hands and murmuring: “Don’t come over… don’t come over…”

The yellow-robed elder crouched down and smiled: “From Mount Song to Chang’an is quite a distant journey. With great difficulty we’ve met up – please don’t keep people at arm’s length or this old one will be heartbroken.” Wu Anzheng was shocked and afraid, crying:

“What… what exactly do you want?” The yellow-robed guest laughed mockingly and shook his head: “Half-Immortal just needs to guide the way and meet someone. But you keep playing dumb – is it ‘annoying’ or ‘not annoying’?” Wu Anzheng heard his deliberate pause on words and immediately cried: “Not annoying, not annoying! I’d rather die than be annoying.”

The yellow-robed guest smiled: “Good child, please get up then. We two will search heaven and earth to find the one who hasn’t returned.”

“Little Gouzi, I’m sorry.” Recalling events from thirty years ago, Wu Anzheng wiped his tears, feeling inexpressible guilt. It was all because he was obsessed with fortune-telling, daily specializing in drilling into busy streets and crowds, finally attracting demons.

Little Anzi collapsed on the ground with tearful eyes when suddenly a pair of cloth shoes stopped before him – at this life-and-death moment, someone else had come. Wu Anzheng cried miserably, not caring whether that person was a fortune-telling customer or roadside idler. Anyway, he had fallen into demon claws and nine-tenths of his life was gone. Just as he was about to cover his face and cry bitterly, he saw the shoe tip lightly tap on the board table. Mysteriously, a force transmitted over and that board table actually stood up by itself, and Wu Anzheng also involuntarily stood up.

Wu Anzheng stood dazed. His ankle had been locked by iron chains, and the table straightening should have pulled forcefully, logically causing his ankle skin to be abraded. Who knew that force transmitted over only made him stand upright like a zombie, not even needing to bend his knees to exert force, as if an invisible large hand behind him was supporting and pushing him up.

Wu Anzheng was full of amazement, focusing his gaze to see a strange person standing beside the table. This person wore a face mask and blue shirt, even concealing his facial features, looking like the ancestor of zombies. The strange guest’s hands were tucked in sleeves, facing the yellow-robed elder.

The two stood across the table motionless. An inexplicable forest chill arose in the scene. That oppressive atmosphere was extremely mysterious – though only evening time, it was as eerie and frightening as midnight, as if evil ghosts were about to appear and cause mischief. Wu Anzheng, oppressed by the cold air, felt like falling into an ice river, his teeth chattering incessantly.

After a long while, the yellow-robed guest was first to speak. He smiled and bowed politely: “Shiqian, twenty years no see, your style remains unchanged.”

Wu Anzheng heard him address the blue-robed strange person as “Shiqian,” thinking the two must have known each other long ago. But his life was in danger – at this moment he only wanted to slip away quickly. He had no mind to pay much attention, only hoping these two monsters would perish together so he could leisurely escape.

Hearing him address with “Shiqian,” the blue-robed person couldn’t help but sneer slightly, saying sadly: “With Hidden Dragon and Young Phoenix, getting one can pacify the world. Duke Baxian had both but lost even his life.” He sighed deeply, his gaze directed at the yellow-robed guest: “Military Advisor Zhu, what do you say is the reason for this?”

Seeing the blue-robed person’s stern gaze, he chuckled to himself: “Shiqian, Duke Baxian’s agreement to accept amnesty was his personal choice – who could force him?” He shrugged and said lightly: “Since Qin Zhonghai has read the secret memorial, he should know I’m just a minor character. Truly speaking, there are people whose sins are greater than mine. If you insist on making me the scapegoat, I have nothing to say.”

The yellow-robed guest’s slight laughter involuntarily made people frown and feel great disgust. Wu Anzheng felt slightly and knew this person before him had deep scheming and was extremely good at manipulating hearts – he must be a rare strategist in the world. His heart turned cold, his face became iron gray. That blue-robed person’s face was masked, making it hard to see joy, anger, sorrow or happiness. He heard him say: “What Your Excellency has done, you know in your heart – why explain anything to me? If you truly want to defend yourself, why not go find Duke Baxian to explain face to face?”

The yellow-robed elder made a sound of understanding and smiled: “You want to avenge Duke Baxian?”

The blue-robed person smiled faintly and clapped his palms together lightly once. Suddenly cold light flashed repeatedly from the street side. Sharp sounds broke through the air, creating continuous rattling sounds. Several long arrows had already appeared at the yellow-robed guest’s feet. Looking at those white-feathered arrow tails still trembling in the wind – assassins had acted as a warning.

Wu Anzheng was so frightened his whole body went soft, hurriedly shrinking under the table and not daring to move anymore.

The blue-robed person said sadly: “Your Excellency is already surrounded. What do you have to say now?” The yellow-robed guest stretched lazily and yawned: “Old stale tricks – I’m tired of seeing them. If you want to kill me, you need to be more serious. Either shoot the arrowheads toward the heart – don’t keep using these useless false moves.”

The blue-robed person said no more, lightly twisting his knuckles with a clear snap. Instantly three arrows flew from across the street straight toward the yellow-robed guest’s back. The middle path was extremely fast, while the other two arrow heads spun very rapidly – exactly the world’s most difficult to dodge “Spring Algae Arrows.”

With vital points at his back under attack, the yellow-robed old man smiled but showed no panic whatsoever. Suddenly there was a loud bang like firecrackers exploding. Just then several things fell to the ground and rolled to Wu Anzheng’s feet. This Half-Immortal was full of amazement and hurriedly looked down – what met his eyes were actually several flying arrows!

Wu Anzheng stared dumbfounded when suddenly another loud bang came from the distance. Just as the gunshot ended, the plaque of Great Hong Hall across the street shook continuously, then a figure rolled out and fell straight to the ground. That was Jie Tao from Jiangdong – after shooting his arrows, his form was exposed and he immediately took a firearm shot, falling to the ground.

“Fire-Eyed Lion” – Nu Cang Mountain’s first ambush point had been eliminated.

Seeing the formidable enemy had other arrangements, the blue-robed person sighed: “We’re all martial artists. Using Western firearms in combat – isn’t that rather against the rules?” The yellow-robed elder smiled faintly: “In battlefield combat, life and death are the rules. How many times have you and I debated over the years? Must we still show off verbal skills today?”

The blue-robed person sighed: “You’re right. If we don’t show some real skills, we indeed have no qualifications to speak here.” His middle and index fingers twisted and snapped again loudly. Suddenly the wind was fierce and urgent – a stone from across the street shot through the air rapidly. With a light crack, a scream followed as a window of a guest room diagonally opposite broke open. An assassin fell straight out the window, still holding a firearm in his hand, but the gun barrel was already broken.

The situation reversed dramatically. Wu Anzheng was naturally dumbfounded, only crouching on the ground trembling.

Xiang Tianshou’s flying stone was incredibly powerful – even an iron gun couldn’t withstand the impact force of the flying stone. With the yellow-robed man’s subordinate stone falling to the ground, the situation returned to its original state. Seeing the blue-robed strange person had already controlled the entire scene while the yellow-robed guest was surrounded, his expression remained as calm as usual. He was heard saying lightly: “You’ve made some progress. Not in vain to be mentioned alongside me.”

Hearing his arrogant words, the blue-robed person couldn’t help but shake his head: “Brother, Tianjue is dead, Liu Angtian has fallen, Your Excellency is isolated with all allies turned against you – a spent force at the end of its strength. All your arrangements have also collapsed. Why still be so arrogant?”

The yellow-robed guest laughed and shook his head: “Collapsed? You really think so?” Seeing the blue-robed person’s slight contempt, the yellow-robed guest instead sighed and shook his head: “Shiqian, you’re extremely intelligent. Whether martial arts, military strategy, or anything else, you learn ten times faster than ordinary people – always excellent talent. But no matter how brilliant talent is, no matter how desperately one struggles, it still can’t match…” He raised his right hand and lightly beckoned, saying: “Genius.”

As his gesture was made, suddenly loud bangs came from across the street – someone had fired cold shots again. Continuous gunfire made the street pedestrians panic. Wu Anzheng was so frightened he wet himself, shrinking his head to dodge when suddenly a scream came from a distant rooftop – there was actually a bald man still hidden there! Seeing him shatter roof tiles and fall into the house below, relying on quick reflexes to avoid being smashed to pulp.

The yellow-robed guest said sadly: “How long does it take you to train a fierce general? Ten years? Twenty years? Brother Feng, ah Brother Feng, I only need half a year to train a gunner. I have sixteen guns here in total. Do you still want to fight?”

The divine marksmen with firearms had already controlled the entire scene with their bullets. The yellow-robed guest laughed heartily. His manner composed, he immediately reached over and actually pulled down the blue-robed person’s mask. The blue-robed person was forced to reveal his true appearance. Wu Anzheng was proficient in physiognomy – how could he miss such a good face-reading opportunity? He hurriedly looked and saw before him a handsome and refined man, but on his cheek was written a line of gold characters: “Criminal Tang Shiqian, demoted to commoner, exiled to Guizhou.” This golden seal was extremely conspicuous – if not for this disfigurement, with this person’s elegant and refined appearance, he should have been a literary scholar who passed the imperial examinations.

Dragon soars, phoenix dances, dragon and phoenix bring auspicious signs. “Right Phoenix” versus “Left Dragon” – though they came from the same school, after all, the soaring dragon would forever rank ahead, overwhelming the colorful golden phoenix in one move.

The yellow-robed guest smiled slightly and threw the human skin mask back, his expression quite disdainful. The blue-robed scholar revealed his true refined face but showed no panic. He caught the mask and put it back on himself, saying lightly: “Brother’s divine calculations make this junior admire you completely. But this junior has a question in mind…” His eyes carried a smile as he continued: “With Your Excellency being such a genius, do you know who were the ignorant villains behind those clumsy assassination attempts by the Yongding River? They say even poisonous tigers don’t eat their cubs, yet I wonder where that stupid and venomous mad tiger came from? This I’d really like to ask about.”

The words “ask about” were drawn out extremely long, clearly meant as sarcasm. At these words, the yellow-robed guest immediately flew into a rage. His eyes blazed with fire as he took out a copper coin from his bosom and said through gritted teeth: “You underestimate me! Self-destruction and self-mutilation – how could such things be done by a strategist? Let me tell you plainly, those shots…” He threw the copper coin into the air and said coldly:

“Weren’t fired by me.”

The copper coin flew skyward. Just as it was about to fall, suddenly a gunshot rang out. The copper coin, struck by the bullet, seemed to grow wings and immediately soared high into the sky. At that moment, another loud bang – the spinning copper coin flew up another zhang or so. Men and women on the busy street, hearing the loud bangs, all fled in panic. Gunshots continued in succession like firecrackers. About ten shots were fired from the street side, but the yellow-robed guest only held up his palm toward the sky, standing motionless from beginning to end. In no time, the copper coin drew an arc in mid-air and fell back into his palm by itself.

From throwing out the coin until catching it back, the yellow-robed guest hadn’t moved even half a step. That copper coin, like a pigeon released from home, actually returned home by itself – such divine marksmanship was truly rarely seen in the world.

The yellow-robed guest’s demonstration was meant to intimidate the entire scene – his intention wasn’t to show off his subordinates’ marksmanship but to make one point: if the Hidden Dragon wanted to kill someone, there would be absolutely no chance of failure. The assassination by the Yongding River wasn’t ordered by him. He breathed coldly and said in a deep voice: “Remember, I am forever the ultimate winner. No matter who I want to kill, they won’t see tomorrow’s sunrise.” He glared angrily at the blue-robed person and personally unlocked Wu Anzheng’s foot chain. That Wu Half-Immortal was like cattle awaiting slaughter, naturally scared out of his wits, crying and screaming.

The blue-robed scholar quietly observed without interfering, when suddenly he said: “Military Advisor Zhu, may I ask you one thing?” The yellow-robed guest looked at him coldly but didn’t respond. The blue-robed scholar sighed and said softly: “All these years, hiding your name and changing your appearance, living alone in Beijing – your heart must be very bitter, right?”

The yellow-robed guest hadn’t expected him to say this. He was stunned for a long while, then suddenly burst into hearty laughter: “You pity me? I pity you instead! The famous Right Phoenix military advisor – going up mountains and down mountains, becoming a monk then returning to secular life, not one thing according to your own will. I ask myself, at least I understand I’m gambling a game. What about you? A lifetime of swaying east and west, wanting to gamble but not daring to truly gamble. A dignified strategist reduced to this state – truly laughable.”

Hearing the mockery, the blue-robed scholar said nothing, only quietly asking: “Let me ask you one last thing – those years of sharing hardships together, were you happy?” The yellow-robed guest had originally been arrogant, speaking everything in a sarcastic tone. Suddenly hearing these words, his eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze actually quite profound. The blue-robed scholar, seeing his expression, also said no more, only quietly observing. After a long while, the yellow-robed guest sighed: “To tell the truth, those years… I was indeed quite happy.”

The blue-robed scholar said sadly: “Then why did you betray your brothers?”

The yellow-robed guest smiled, his expression actually somewhat bitter. He looked back at the blue-robed scholar and sighed: “Shiqian, ah… playing house may be fun, but it ultimately can’t last long, can it?” Hearing these words, the blue-robed scholar’s shoulders actually shook violently.

The yellow-robed guest pulled Wu Anzheng along and said sadly: “In memory of our past brotherhood, since we rarely meet, I’ll give you a special piece of news.” He glanced sideways at the blue-robed scholar: “On the nineteenth of the ninth month, heaven and earth’s situation will reverse. Do you understand what I mean?”

The blue-robed scholar took a deep breath and said in a deep voice: “Are you talking about a coup?”

The yellow-robed elder neither confirmed nor denied, only saying lightly: “Maybe yes, maybe no. But regardless of how the situation develops, I still have one loyal word of advice: if Qin Zhonghai doesn’t know how to repent and still wants to play Qin Baxian’s house-playing games, Nu Cang Mountain will soon be completely annihilated. When the chips are exhausted, don’t blame enemies for being heartless.” His eyes showed contempt as he pulled Wu Anzheng and stepped forward to leave.

Seeing the yellow-robed elder about to leave, the blue-robed scholar suddenly said: “Don’t go yet – there’s another old brother waiting to see you.” The yellow-robed guest made a sound of understanding and laughed: “Someone else wants to see me? Is it Monk Zhi Guan? Or Mr. Mu?” This time the blue-robed scholar had brought three assassins total – Zhi Guan was the third one. His secular surname before becoming a monk was Mu. The yellow-robed guest speaking this way was clearly showing he had already grasped the entire situation, just not pointing it out.

Hearing the opponent call out their arrangements, the blue-robed scholar didn’t answer, only gently shaking his head. The yellow-robed guest smiled: “Shiqian, I’ve always liked you and really don’t want to kill you. Don’t make it difficult for me, alright?” He was pulling Wu Anzheng to leave when suddenly something fell from mid-air, landing right on the ground before them. The yellow-robed guest made a sound of surprise and looked down – that thing was a cooked taro. His eyes stared straight, his heart turning cold. Just then, jingling sounds came from behind – several firearms had fallen down.

The yellow-robed elder’s face turned iron gray. Gripping Wu Anzheng’s arm, he couldn’t help but start trembling. This wasn’t mystification or empty city strategy – Nu Cang still had one final ambush. Before this cooked taro, all scheming and cunning were useless. He sought neither office, nor loved wealth, nor desired women – without wife or children, without any attachments, he was the most free and unrestrained person in the world.

Idle people don’t look, strangers step aside – “Nine Provinces Sword King” Fang Zijing…

Has arrived!

With a rumbling sound, a sheet of fire cloud surged straight from behind. To be enemies with the “Sword King” was like having ten years cut from one’s lifespan in the book of life and death. The yellow-robed elder knew his life hung by a thread. He dragged Wu Anzheng with his left hand and pushed hard backward, then braced with both feet and leaped diagonally forward and left. As soon as his form fell, he pulled out two short guns from his bosom – bang, rumble, rumble – both fired together.

Wind sounds and gunshots thundered past. Wu Anzheng cried aloud, screaming: “Help! Save me!”

The blue-robed scholar hurriedly leaped out, extending his hand to grab Wu Anzheng, and both fell to the ground together. In an instant, the fortune-telling stall turned to ashes, fires started everywhere on the busy street, accompanied by the panicked flight of old and young – truly like an apocalyptic scene.

Steam rising, the great fire parted to reveal a tall elder with arms crossed, coldly watching the panicked and dodging common people filling the street.

This person’s expression was stubborn – exactly the “Nine Provinces Sword King” arriving in Chang’an. With just one move “Fire Cloud Eight Directions,” he forced the world’s number one strategist to flee in panic. When a peerless master who has always walked alone in the world draws his sword to kill, this is exactly the momentum.

This was Nu Cang’s final ambush – the previous three traps were merely bait.

The blue-robed scholar, fearing Fang Zijing might strike too heavily and actually kill the yellow-robed elder in one move, hurriedly intervened: “Sword King, please show mercy.” Fang Zijing glanced at him sideways: “Slaying a water snake is easier than killing a pig – why can’t I chop him?”

The blue-robed scholar, seeing his eyes hiding violent intent, hurriedly said: “Beijing’s situation changes by the moment. This person holds several trump cards and can still influence the overall situation. We need to rely on him to buy time. If we kill him with one stroke, the situation might become even more chaotic.”

Fang Zijing most hated these ugly affairs of fathers and sons, brothers mutually destroying each other. He waved his hand to stop the blue-robed scholar from speaking, indicating he was too lazy to listen further. At this time, Zhi Guan, Xiang Tianshou and others had all appeared. That Jie Tao had taken a gun shot to his waist – though the precious clothing had saved his life, internal injuries and blood stasis still made walking difficult, so Xiang Tianshou carried and cared for him. Wu Anzheng breathed a sigh of relief: “Thank you all for saving this little person’s life. May I leave now?” The blue-robed scholar smiled and crouched down: “Of course you can leave. Come… everyone together, let’s go see Hero Ning. Please lead the way.”

Disaster! Those who come are not kind, and the kind don’t come. Just escaping the wolf’s mouth to enter the tiger’s den – this Jiyou hour was truly extremely inauspicious. Wu Anzheng’s heart turned cold and he hurriedly said: “Lead big shrimp? Lead what shrimp? Grass shrimp or large bright…” Before the word “shrimp” was out, suddenly his feet left the ground – his body was actually lifted up by Fang Zijing. This slovenly man held Wu Anzheng in his left hand and picked up Great Hong Hall’s medicinal wine with his right, drinking glug, glug. He was heard saying lazily: “If your brain is broken, drink more medicinal wine to improve your memory – just bought it from Great Hong Hall.” Speaking, he stuffed the wine gourd over and poured it into Wu Anzheng’s mouth.

That gourd mouth, having been drunk from by Fang Zijing, was incredibly foul-smelling. Wu Anzheng’s feet dangled in mid-air as medicinal wine was randomly poured into his mouth, immediately crying pitifully. Fang Zijing shouted: “You’re not a baby – no crying allowed!” Speaking, he took out another taro from his bosom and stuffed it in Wu Anzheng’s mouth. Wu Anzheng desperately tried to vomit, hurriedly pulling at Fang Zijing’s large hand. Just then, when their wrists touched, the Sword King’s soul energy rushed straight to his heart. Wu Anzheng was greatly affected, his whole body immediately breaking out in cold sweat. His teeth chattering, he indeed stopped crying.

Fang Zijing patted his cheek coldly: “Boy, is my taro delicious?” Wu Anzheng put on a smiling face, holding the taro with both hands joyfully: “Delicious! Your Majesty, this little person is surnamed Wu, named Anzheng. It’s rare to eat Your Majesty’s taro – such fortune in three lifetimes.” Fang Zijing was completely puzzled and said strangely: “What Majesty? What are you talking about?”

Wu Anzheng laughed dryly: “It’s rare that the Jade Emperor gave you leave to walk more in the mortal world. When I go down to report later, please show mercy and don’t pull out my tongue.” Fang Zijing made a sound of surprise, completely bewildered, and simply set Wu Anzheng down, leading him like a small dog as the group followed him away.

With the blue-robed scholar’s divine calculations plus Fang Zijing’s assistance from the side, Wu Anzheng naturally obediently let himself be escorted. This fortune-telling master led the way while Zhi Guan, Fang Zijing, the blue-robed scholar and others followed behind. The group passed through busy streets and alleys, going farther until buildings became increasingly dilapidated. After walking less than half a li, they came to a dead-end alley where they saw a large residential compound. Xiang Tianshou said in a low voice: “The person is here?” The blue-robed scholar and others didn’t answer, only staring intently into the alley, each with grave expressions.

The world’s fortune was about to change, the nation’s situation like a precarious egg – all this originated from that night at Damo Academy. At that time Tianjue died suddenly, the situation took a sharp turn, then the jade seal appeared in the world, the court erupted in great chaos. Countless mysteries were all in Shaolin’s third battle. This time the blue-robed scholar, Fang Zijing and other martial world heroes came to Chang’an precisely to pay respects to the peerless master who had been hidden in Damo Academy at that time. That person not only witnessed Shaolin’s third battle but also intervened to save the situation – he was the already-retired world’s number one master, Ning Bufan.

Everyone came to the alley entrance and stopped to observe. They saw the houses inside the alley were black and dirty – no green bamboo, no willows, only bamboo husks scattered on the ground. Looking at the large compound, the door paint was mottled, mud walls had several bamboo poles with old clothes and torn shirts hanging to dry in the wind, still fluttering and swaying. Wu Anzheng smiled apologetically: “The place where Little Gouzi lives isn’t very presentable. If everyone is afraid of dirt, then don’t go in.”

Fang Zijing was covered in filth himself – when had he ever feared dirt? He immediately yawned and was the first to walk in. The blue-robed scholar smiled: “Dirt doesn’t matter – we’ll help you clean up.” He followed as the second to enter. Seeing Jie Tao was injured, he asked him to stay outside the alley while Xiang Tianshou, Zhi Guan and others also entered together.

Everyone stood in the alley. Before them was not only a shabby alley but also a large mixed courtyard where over ten households lived together. At dinner time, cooking smoke curled up, the sounds of lifting pots and turning spatulas never ceased, mixed with babies crying and parents quarreling – all kinds of noise rushed to their ears, clamorous and disturbing.

They say “great hermits hide in the market,” but that refers to Yan Hui’s aspiration of “one basket of food, one ladle of drink, living in a shabby alley without changing his joy.” Who knew this world’s number one master had such a strange temperament – not only hiding in the marketplace but also living together with poor people, daily listening to stories of Zhang San’s wealth and Sister Li’s adultery, truly treating himself as a common person. Zhi Guan and the blue-robed scholar exchanged glances and both shook their heads.

Xiang Tianshou had been imprisoned in a broken temple for years and naturally didn’t recognize this Master Ning. He couldn’t help but frown and shake his head: “This is also the world’s number one master? Truly, after a few years away from jianghu, even old cats can pretend to be fierce tigers.” Wu Anzheng laughed dryly twice and explained:

“Bald grandpa, our Little Gouzi may be clever, but he’s someone who fears loneliness. Don’t underestimate him.”

Seeing Xiang Tianshou about to say more, the blue-robed scholar pulled him back and smiled: “Half-Immortal speaks too highly. The Master’s dao name is Bufan, his actions exceed people’s expectations – who would dare underestimate him?” Seeing Wu Anzheng nodding desperately with great satisfaction, he changed the subject with a smile: “What truly amazes us is that Consort Qiong, with such noble status, can actually endure marketplace living – this I deeply admire.”

Hearing the three words “Consort Qiong,” Wu Anzheng’s face suddenly changed dramatically. The blue-robed scholar smiled: “Half-Immortal, please ask the Master to come out quickly. We have several matters to consult him about.”

Wu Anzheng said blankly: “Come out? He came out long ago – what are you talking about?” Xiang Tianshou, hearing him play dumb, couldn’t help but frown and was about to question him when suddenly he saw Wu Anzheng facing a certain direction, opening his mouth to call out. Just then, Fang Zijing’s face changed dramatically. His steps slightly lifted, his tall body flew straight backward, instantly retreating to outside the alley. The others were greatly surprised and all asked: “What’s wrong?”

Wu Anzheng didn’t know why they were surprised, much less why Fang Zijing had leaped backward. He only scratched his head, lifted his heels facing a water ditch and waved: “Little Gouzi, your friends are here – stop washing pots.”

Hearing him call out loudly, everyone was greatly surprised. The blue-robed scholar’s heart turned cold – he was the second to realize. He sighed deeply and nodded: “Admirable, admirable.” Zhi Guan and Xiang Tianshou were still in a dream. The two exchanged glances, slightly turning to look behind them, and couldn’t help but be stunned.

Behind them, about five chi away in a dirty ditch, they saw a man crouching on the ground, washing pots and cleaning spatulas. Wu Anzheng walked to that person’s side, whispering and pointing. Everyone could see clearly – though this person had his back to them, that hunched, small figure was undoubtedly Ning Bufan! Xiang Tianshou grunted: “When did he appear?”

Nu Cang’s expedition included many masters, each with their strengths, among which Xiang Tianshou was most proficient in hearing. After twenty years of bitter squatting in the broken temple, he had long practiced the divine skill of identifying positions by sound. To say Ning Bufan could deceive him and silently come to three chi behind him was hard for him to believe. Moreover, there was also a blue-robed scholar in the alley whose qinggong was unrivaled in the world – how could he deceive everyone at once?

Before the blue-robed scholar could answer, Fang Zijing’s sigh came from the alley entrance. He slowly walked back saying: “He didn’t appear. Ever since we entered the alley, he’s been crouching there all along. He hasn’t moved a step.” Xiang Tianshou and Zhi Guan looked at each other, both dumbfounded. The two said in unison: “Impossible! We didn’t see him when we entered the alley.”

The blue-robed scholar smiled bitterly: “This must be Mount Hua’s qi-concealing skill. Mr. Ning shows no sharpness, displays no killing intent – truly the world’s number one.”

Only now did everyone know the truth. Before they entered this alley, Ning Bufan had already been crouching by the roadside washing spatulas and scrubbing pots. But incredibly, though each master’s eyesight was sharp as eagles, no one noticed this person’s figure right by the road?

This matter seemed mysterious but was actually not strange at all. Jianghu figures had all kinds of hiding techniques – from tree groves and rooftops to underground and underwater, everywhere could be an enemy lair. Also for this reason, the more master-level figures relied on metaphysical qi energy to probe their surroundings. Even while sleeping with closed eyes, if qi energy was slightly unusual, they would sense it. But Ning Bufan’s martial arts were ordinary and simple, his movements and behavior completely like a common person. Casually squatting on the ground, he naturally became a roadside stone, completely inconspicuous.

Though martial world masters had eagle-like eyesight, even if these people’s vision were ten times stronger, they still followed killing intent sources to stare, glaring at suspicious places – who would give a roadside stubborn stone a second glance? Precisely because of this, only Wu Anzheng, who had no martial arts, noticed the human figure.

Nu Cang’s four great masters entering the alley – there was the meticulous Zhi Guan, Xiang Tianshou with unrivaled hidden weapons, the strategically omniscient Imperial Phoenix Feather, and the supremely domineering Nine Provinces Sword King. Who knew Ning Bufan hadn’t used even half a move but had already gained the upper hand.

Though everyone hadn’t fought, if both sides actually battled in the alley, Xiang Tianshou and Zhi Guan would already be dead, the blue-robed scholar would also be severely injured, with only Fang Zijing able to escape alone. From this perspective, Ning Bufan’s ability to steadily hold the “world’s number one” position truly had its extraordinary aspects.

Ning Bufan faced away from everyone, still vigorously scrubbing the iron pot without turning around. Wu Anzheng shook his former schoolmate’s arm anxiously: “Little Gouzi! Your friends are here – talk to them.” The blue-robed scholar, hearing Wu Anzheng’s anxious calls, presumably mistook the Nu Cang group for enemies. He smiled: “Don’t be afraid. We came to thank him. Definitely not to cause trouble.”

Though Fang Zijing, the blue-robed scholar and others personally came to visit, Ning Bufan showed no intention of turning around, only flipping the iron pot over to wash the pot’s back. The blue-robed scholar had formerly been the master of Jiuhua Mountain – the two were of equal seniority. Fang Zijing was even a martial world senior. By emotion and reason, Ning Bufan shouldn’t be impolite. The blue-robed scholar understood clearly that Ning Bufan didn’t want to see outsiders. He immediately coughed and gave Xiang Tianshou a meaningful look. This Heavenly Authority Hall Master immediately understood and gripped a flying stone, aiming at Ning Bufan’s back.

Asking is not as good as provoking, provoking not as good as forcing. Indeed, as soon as the threat was made, Ning Bufan sighed deeply. He fanned the iron pot and shook off the dirty water on top. The swinging iron pot happened to block his vital points, as if he had eyes in the back of his head. Everyone, seeing he could both conceal qi and detect qi, worthy of the name “Wisdom Sword Pacifies Eight Directions,” naturally admired him secretly.

Just then, Ning Bufan finally slowly stood up and turned to look at everyone. The blue-robed scholar, seeing his troubled expression, immediately cupped his hands and smiled to show friendliness: “Mr. Ning, don’t worry. I have no malicious intent, only came on orders from our General Qin Zhonghai to thank Your Excellency for your kindness.” Ning Bufan sighed: “I’ve retired from jianghu, just a useless person. Why would your mountain’s General Qin need to thank me for anything?”

The blue-robed scholar shook his head: “Master is too modest. How can matters of life and death be ordinary? Without Your Excellency blocking that ultimate move in Damo Academy, our mountain’s General Qin would probably have died unnaturally.” Speaking, he bowed in salute: “Great kindness needs no thanks. In the future, if Master has any difficulties, please come to Nu Cang Mountain – our mountain’s heroes will listen to your commands at any time.” Wu Anzheng listened blankly. Suddenly hearing the three words “General Qin,” remembering the demonic fire soaring image he saw that day, he began trembling again.

Ning Bufan smiled bitterly and shook his head: “Just shared hardships together – isn’t talking about saving lives also too serious?” While speaking, he looked back at the group of heroes. When everyone met his gaze, they all felt a chill – they saw Ning Bufan’s radiance was restrained, no different from ordinary people, but there were several bloodshots in the whites of his eyes. Fang Zijing, sensing something unusual, immediately shot out his hand like lightning and firmly gripped Ning Bufan’s pulse point. Wu Anzheng, seeing the King of Hell grabbing someone, was naturally full of terror and couldn’t help screaming loudly: “Murder! Murder!”

The large compound had neighboring households. As soon as Wu Anzheng broke into shouting, he had already alarmed the neighbors. Indeed, several households in the compound poked their heads out to check the situation in the alley. Xiang Tianshou cupped his hands in salute: “Fellow villagers, please go back – nothing here, nothing.”

Xiang Tianshou was bald with a shaved head, looking like a high monk. The villagers heard this monk speak and naturally no one paid attention. Several young men shouted repeatedly, all wanting to come out and look. Suddenly Fang Zijing coughed, two gazes drifted over, casually looking at everyone. Inexplicably, countless common people suddenly felt strange in their hearts and immediately retreated into their houses with no one saying another word. The alley naturally returned to quiet again.

Ning Bufan concealed qi, while Fang Zijing was exactly the opposite – his domineering aura was so strong that babies within a li could sense it. When a big tiger passed by the door, all the young children would be frightened into wetting their beds. Looking at tomorrow, the large compound would surely be full of cotton quilts hanging to dry, presumably reeking to high heaven.

All around were silent as cicadas. In the complete silence, Fang Zijing only gripped Ning Bufan’s pulse point. After a long while, suddenly he beckoned, indicating for the blue-robed scholar to come look. The blue-robed scholar was proficient in medical arts and immediately reached out to check the pulse with his fingers. As his fingers touched for diagnosis, suddenly his long eyebrows raised and his smile actually froze.

The blue-robed scholar took a deep breath: “Naraka?” Ning Bufan wore a bitter smile, lowered his head and nodded. The blue-robed scholar said in a low voice: “May I see the wound?”

Ning Bufan slowly put down the iron pot, undid his clothing and exposed a black bruise mark on his chest.

Naraka, also called Eighteen Hells Sutra – looking at that yin energy penetrating the meridians, it actually left a mark on the world’s number one master’s chest. Ning Bufan said in a low voice: “To tell you all the truth, ‘Benevolent Sword Shaking Sound Rising’ against ‘Six Paths Reincarnation’ – this was the result.”

The blue-robed scholar, Zhi Guan and others were extremely shocked. Even Fang Zijing’s gaze was heavy. Everyone looked at each other, all silent.

Ning Bufan had been defeated?

Mount Hua’s Three Ultimate Swords were said to be invincible, among which the move “Benevolent Sword Shaking Sound Rising” had conquered countless heroes across the world with its kingly demeanor of winning through virtue. Not only did the “Nine Provinces Sword King” abandon sword for blade because of this, even Zhuo Lingzhao’s divine sword domination suffered a crushing defeat under the Benevolent Sword and had to bow his head in submission. Speaking of it, that “Benevolent Sword” was like an ultimate boundary of worldly martial arts – for thirty years, no master had been able to cross it.

Ning Bufan was called “Number One Under Heaven.” Mount Hua’s two pennants still hung high as before: “Victorious in Eight Hundred Battles, Martial Arts Revered Under Heaven.” Once this most famous legendary swordsman of the current age was defeated by someone, it wouldn’t just be the shattering of an undefeated legend – the world’s martial arts would probably enter a brand new realm. Fang Zijing and the blue-robed scholar exchanged glances, both seeing the shock in each other’s eyes.

A single thought occupied Fang Zijing’s mind as he pondered deeply on the mysteries of “Six Paths Reincarnation.” Speaking of it, the “Benevolent Sword” was the world’s most gentle defensive technique – the defensive sword formed a circle, soft and resilient like a net. Even when Zhuo Lingzhao’s sword radiance collided with it, it could do nothing. But how did the enemy break through this technique? Lost in thought for a while, he asked: “What were the details of the fight?”

Ning Bufan said lightly: “The opponent possessed heavenly mandate – we mortal flesh found it truly difficult to resist.” These words were too mystical for anyone to understand. Everyone was completely confused. The blue-robed scholar frowned: “Please forgive our ignorance – could you explain more clearly?”

Ning Bufan said: “The Six Paths is originally a formation technique emphasizing unity of mind and intent, transforming six intentions into one thought. But this formation has an inherent flaw – the forbidden divine skill itself is too isolated and specialized, the moves too treacherous. When six monks each use sinister martial arts with evil thoughts in their hearts, they definitely cannot achieve mental communion. Therefore, for a thousand years, though this formation enjoyed great fame, it could never actually form the array. It could only be considered a martial legend, not truly usable in real combat.” Xiang Tianshou hurriedly asked: “Then… then why did you lose?”

Ning Bufan sighed: “Divine Sword Seizing Dragon.”

Everyone was greatly shocked upon hearing this. They heard Ning Bufan continue: “With the divine sword in hand, using one to control six, a single person was sufficient to form an array. The formation follows the heart’s movement, perfectly compensating for the flaw of inability to unite minds. One person driving the formation, righteous and evil mutually generating, yin and yang complementing each other – the strictness of attack and defense was something I had rarely seen in my life. My Benevolent Sword could defend but not attack. No matter how long I delayed, defeat was inevitable.” He sighed and continued: “This ‘Six Paths Reincarnation’ originally shouldn’t exist in the human world. Now that it has actually formed an array, presumably heaven intends for that person to dominate the world alone.”

Seeing this “Six Paths Reincarnation” paired with “Divine Sword Seizing Dragon” – invincible throughout heaven and earth with no master able to resist. Even if Zhuo Lingzhao were alive or Fang Zijing took action, they would probably face more losses than wins and be of no help.

Fang Zijing pondered for a long while. Thinking of that strange sword’s unknown origins, he asked: “Did you give the Dragon Seizing Sword to Tianjue?”

Ning Bufan nodded: “I am already retired and should never again draw blade or discuss swords in my lifetime. Even if I held onto the divine sword, it would just be carrying another heavy iron burden. Better to give it to heroic knights so it wouldn’t be buried.” He paused and continued:

“However, when I gave the Dragon Seizing Sword to Tianjue, I never thought of these forbidden martial arts, much less that the divine sword could be applied to the Six Paths formation.”

Everyone sighed upon hearing this. Thinking that the divine monk Tianjue had taken in this hot potato, Ning Bufan gave the divine sword as repayment. Comparing with later events, it inevitably made people beat their chests with regret.

Fang Zijing wanted to understand clearly and asked again: “Could my disciple’s ‘Fierce Fire Burns City’ really be completely useless?”

Ning Bufan sighed slightly and picked up an embroidered iron implement from his feet, handing it over – it was the iron brush he had used to wash pots earlier.

Everyone found it strange – they were talking about “Fierce Fire Burns City,” so why did he produce this thing? But Fang Zijing had always known Ning Bufan’s abilities and knew there must be deep meaning. He immediately took the rotten iron and examined it carefully. In less than half a moment, Fang Zijing couldn’t help but gasp, followed by a bitter laugh.

Zhi Guan and others hurriedly crowded around to look and couldn’t help but be shocked. Where was this any embroidered iron? It was actually a blade! The handle was completely charred black with faint traces of fire burning. The blade body was even more broken and damaged, as if a blacksmith had over-forged it, actually melting and deforming a good blade through quenching.

Zhi Guan asked anxiously: “This… this is the saber General Qin used at that time?”

Ning Bufan nodded: “When the two heroes dueled, your mountain’s General Qin used ‘Fierce Fire Burns City’ to block ‘Six Paths Reincarnation.’ Just as he was about to make his move, the blade was destroyed by his own domineering internal power.” He looked at Fang Zijing: “Senior Fang, ‘Fierce Fire Burns City’ is too domineering, committing the taboo of man and blade not being able to unite. This Fire-Greedy Blade was created by you – don’t you know this flaw yourself?”

Hearing these words, Fang Zijing dejectedly shook his head and said in a low voice: “Sorry, I’ve never used this move myself.” All the observers found these words incredible.

Everyone was quite surprised, while Fang Zijing himself was speechlessly sighing. With great difficulty his beloved disciple had overcome obstacles to master this dreamlike ultimate technique, only to find it couldn’t be used in actual combat. Thinking of how the enemy held a divine sword, if he were to face strong enemies in the future, he would need to find a supreme treasure blade to match it. But where could such a divine weapon be found in such short time? Seeing the Sword King standing in stunned silence, Zhi Guan asked: “That ‘Divine Sword Seizing Dragon’ has such a grand name – what exactly is this strange and peculiar thing?”

Ning Bufan said: “I’ve personally seen the Dragon Seizing Sword. This strange sword is forged from countless thin strips of soft steel, round in shape like a ball of thread. The steel is soft and entirely driven by internal power – absolutely unique in the martial world.”

Zhi Guan sighed endlessly: “If not for that strange and peculiar person Zhuo Lingzhao, who else could create such an inexplicable thing?”

Ning Bufan said: “Speaking of it, I quite admire this Sword Sect master Zhuo Lingzhao. Though the man is dead, in the netherworld he still pushed worldly martial arts forward a great step. When he was alive, though he was defeated by me, after death he equally defeated me – truly worthy of the name ‘Sword God.'” He smiled self-mockingly: “Speaking of it, the one who truly saved both our lives at that time was actually your mountain’s General Qin’s scheming. Without him launching a sneak attack from the side, taking advantage of when the enemy and I were fighting with full force to strike a killing blow, both of us would have had difficulty escaping disaster.”

Hearing this, everyone finally knew the truth of Shaolin’s third battle. Originally, Nu Cang’s commander and Mount Hua’s master had joined forces, but when two peerless masters combined to resist the powerful enemy, one was defeated before fighting with his steel blade destroyed, while the other had his ultimate technique broken and was secretly injured by the treacherous skill of “Naraka.” In the end, they still relied on Qin Zhonghai’s sneak attack to escape with their lives.

Though the enemy was rarely formidable, everyone still revered Ning Bufan. Recalling that the wound on his chest was not from the Dragon Seizing Sword blade but from yin energy invasion, it seemed this person was worthy of the beautiful name “Number One Under Heaven.” Even though the opponent wielded a divine sword plus forbidden mystical skills, he still couldn’t directly wound his flesh, only able to injure the enemy with yin energy through objects.

The blue-robed scholar pondered for a long while and asked: “When the divine monk Tianjue died, what were your whereabouts, sir?”

Ning Bufan said: “Three days before the first of the seventh month, before your mountain’s heroes arrived in Henan, I had already reached Mount Song and met with monk Tianjue.” He patted Wu Anzheng’s shoulder and continued: “Before your mountain’s heroes went up the mountain, I had already taken the consort away from Damo Academy, sent her to Danyang town to be cared for by this old classmate of mine, then stayed in Damo Academy’s inner hall waiting for your arrival. Monk Tianjue had instructed beforehand to have his disciple fight the third battle, thinking that with your mountain’s magnanimity, you would surely let Qin Zhonghai come out to duel. After he fell into the trap, everything would flow naturally…”

Fang Zijing made a sound of understanding: “No wonder that boy Yang Suguan came out to challenge me – so this was the intention.” Everyone felt a chill upon hearing this, only now knowing that the divine monk Tianjue had made arrangements long ago – it wasn’t a rash act. Even Abbot Lingzhi was probably kept in the dark. But even the most meticulous schemes have moments of oversight. Everyone thinking of Tianjue’s cause of death couldn’t help but sigh.

Zhi Guan calculated silently and asked: “Mr. Ning, this monk has a doubt – when Master Tianjue was ambushed, why didn’t you save him? With your peerless martial arts, if you had watched from the side, you surely could have turned the situation around. Why did you let it pass without rescue?”

Ning Bufan smiled bitterly: “Sorry, the one who struck had schemes far beyond you and my imagination. On the morning of the great Shaolin battle, he had already struck first. At that time I was in Danyang town – how could I rescue anyone?”

Everyone was shocked upon hearing this, never expecting the incident had occurred before Shaolin’s third battle. Ning Bufan sighed again:

“This matter was greatly unexpected. Originally things were going according to script, everything as estimated beforehand. At that time I was guarding in Damo Academy, commenting on the duels between your mountain’s masters and Shaolin monks throughout. Until the third battle began, I didn’t know the divine monk Tianjue had already been secretly harmed. Later when General Qin fell into the cave, I hurried down to meet up and saw a large pool of blood in the tunnel, only then knowing… sigh… I was a step too late…” Speaking to this point, his voice suddenly choked up, tears rolling in his eye sockets, not knowing how to continue.

Nu Cang’s heroes mostly had grudges with monk Tianjue. Hearing him speak sadly, they also couldn’t be too cold and heartless, only making a few dry sounds as a response. Zhi Guan, thinking of Ning Bufan’s great battle with that person, immediately chanted Buddha’s name: “After you were injured, did you leave Damo Academy?”

Ning Bufan recalled the situation that day and couldn’t help but sigh again: “When that person injured me with yin energy, he was entangled by my Benevolent Sword’s internal power and couldn’t escape. Qin Zhonghai acted decisively, instantly drawing his dagger to slash at his back first. That person, secretly harmed by the Fire-Greedy Blade’s fierce force, had his internal power greatly damaged and couldn’t continue fighting, so he had to leave first. I saw the situation was too bad – the court and Nu Cang were about to fight, and seeing the previous emperor’s whereabouts were unknown, I feared the consort might also have accidents, so I also hurried to Danyang town to rendezvous. Afterward I informed the abbot by letter, letting him know the inside story. I truly feel sorry about this.”

The blue-robed scholar, hearing him mention the previous emperor, felt a chill in his heart. After pondering for a long while, he asked: “That year when Liu Jing staged his coup, before his death he bitterly begged me to have our general bring someone away from Beijing. Later General Qin was implicated by this, his leg broken and body crippled, yet we never saw any trace. Master Ning, you intervened in this matter, didn’t you?”

Ning Bufan nodded: “Correct. Once Liu Jing died, your mountain’s General Qin’s whereabouts were immediately exposed with great disaster constantly threatening. I saw the situation was too dire and could only act first to take the person away.” The blue-robed scholar frowned: “You thought the divine monk Tianjue was familiar with the Empress Dowager, so you sent the person to Shaolin hoping to turn the situation around and reestablish the court?”

Ning Bufan shook his head: “That wasn’t it. The later strategy was set by the divine monk Tianjue. The reason I sent the person to Shaolin was really because the court’s search was extremely strict. No matter how high my martial arts, I couldn’t attend day and night. At that time Nu Cang hadn’t yet rebuilt its stronghold – throughout the world, besides the divine monk Tianjue, I couldn’t think of anyone else with the guts to shelter him.”

Fang Zijing, who had been listening quietly, suddenly said: “Boy, you look down on me. If you had brought the person to me, I definitely would have sheltered him.”

Ning Bufan smiled bitterly: “Who doesn’t know your temperament? You’d only feed him sweet potatoes and taros while beating him daily. If I gave him to you, it would be better to push him into the Yongding River for a clean end.” Hearing these words, Fang Zijing immediately burst into loud laughter. Everyone in the alley felt a chill, thinking: “The Nine Provinces Sword King truly lives up to his reputation – looking at his spirit, he could even beat the Jade Emperor.”

The blue-robed scholar carefully considered the causes and effects, already knowing the divine monk Tianjue’s invitation to Nu Cang heroes must have deep meaning. He immediately asked: “Brother Ning, what exactly did Master Tianjue plan by inviting our mountain’s brothers to Shaolin this time? Can you speak for him?”

Ning Bufan nodded: “Though Master Tianjue was formerly an enemy of your stronghold, his intentions in meeting with General Qin this time were extremely benevolent. He looked forward to a great Buddha kingdom.” Everyone felt a chill in their hearts and said in unison: “Buddha kingdom?”

Ning Bufan nodded: “For many years, the political situation has been distorted due to a psychological knot of the current sage. That knot is tied very tightly, not only harming the emperor but also causing suffering to people throughout the world. Having experienced countless upheavals, you all naturally know what that is.” Seeing everyone silently nodding, he continued: “Master Tianjue, with his compassionate heart, wanted to remove this disaster in one stroke and untie the deadly knot. His grand aspiration was to have two sages rule together, subdue Nu Cang, restore the Qin family’s noble title, and return Qin Baxian’s innocence. What he hoped for was to let people throughout the world share in compassionate Buddhist teachings.”

Everyone was shocked upon hearing this. The blue-robed scholar also showed solemn respect, nodding slightly: “Remarkable – the divine monk was truly compassionate. But since ancient times, how petty have emperors been? How could they tolerate others snoring beside their beds? As a mere commoner, how could he arrange such matters?”

Ning Bufan smiled bitterly: “This was where he took risks. He wanted to meet the Empress Dowager, use the Hidden Dragon to restrain Jiang Chong, have his beloved disciple contact Marquis Liu, and finally, with your mountain’s assistance, having two of the world’s three military forces would put the situation in his grasp.” He touched his face and sighed: “Originally thinking his disciple was the ‘Acting Northern Expedition Commander,’ father and son both had real power, plus the Empress Dowager, Uncle Qiong and others speaking on their behalf, it would surely bring peace to the world again. Who could have predicted… who could have predicted…” The blue-robed scholar put his palms together and took over: “Who could have predicted the old monk Tianjue would invite a wolf into his house and actually die under ‘Divine Sword Seizing Dragon.'” Hearing this, everyone in the scene looked at each other, thinking of how the divine monk Tianjue actually died at the hands of his closest beloved, and all sighed together. Ning Bufan’s tears flowed even more, showing extreme grief.

Zhi Guan chanted Buddha’s name and asked: “Mr. Ning, the divine monk Tianjue fought with Nu Cang for many years and should have known the Hidden Dragon’s methods were formidable – definitely not a good man or believer. As the saying goes, ‘outsiders shouldn’t interfere between relatives’ – didn’t he know to guard against their father-son relationship?”

Ning Bufan choked up and shook his head: “I also advised him about this matter. If father and son both entered Damo Academy and joined forces to restrain others, the power would be extremely formidable. But for some reason, though I repeatedly advised, he trusted his disciple extremely and no matter how I persuaded, I couldn’t make him change his mind.” Speaking of this, he couldn’t help but sigh softly: “Human hearts are treacherous. For the divine monk to die so miserably, he must have died with eyes unclosed.”

The blue-robed scholar shook his head and smiled: “You needn’t think this way. I believe Tianjue died as he should have.”

Everyone was shocked upon hearing this and all looked at him. Ning Bufan asked in surprise: “Military Advisor, why do you say this?” The blue-robed scholar said lightly: “Everyone, Master Tianjue could see through human hearts’ joys and sorrows but couldn’t fathom the advantages and disadvantages of power schemes. He died by that secret memorial.”

Everyone felt a chill upon hearing this. Ning Bufan didn’t know the memorial’s contents and frowned deeply in confusion.

The blue-robed scholar sighed: “According to what the memorial recorded, whether the Empress Dowager, Zhu Yang, or even that Liu Angtian, none would be happy to see two sages ruling together. Just look at the Hidden Dragon – Wu Ying has no sons, Zhu Yang is titled Prince Jingjiang. What do you all think his intentions are? Would he truly be willing to be an idle prince?” He gently shook his head and continued: “These people scheme against each other with none being good. Poor divine monk Tianjue only knew the first part but not the second. As long as he took one wrong step, he was bound to suffer crushing defeat. Instead, the one who struck, already knowing the scheme would fail, could act decisively and resolutely abandon familial affections to seize the initiative. Now his position is established – even Zhu Yang with all his strategies is caught off guard. This person’s decisive actions are worthy of being called a hero among men without shame. Admirable, admirable.”

Speaking thus, he showed longing emotions and praised endlessly. Ning Bufan and Xiang Tianshou, hearing him praise the powerful enemy so much, couldn’t help but feel alarmed.

After everyone talked for a while, they mostly understood the ins and outs of the matter. The blue-robed scholar, seeing Ning Bufan was injured and always lacked energy when speaking, immediately took out a jar of wound medicine from his bosom: “This is our sect’s ‘Nine Flowers Jade Dragon Powder’ – quite effective for nourishing yin and dispelling injuries. Please make do with it…” But taking favors makes one soft. Ning Bufan, seeing the wound medicine, didn’t reach out to take it. He looked at the ground and after a long while said: “Blue-robed Master, you all came so far to Chang’an – you’re not here specifically to deliver medicine and express thanks, are you?”

Fang Zijing was forthright, Xiang Tianshou was simple and honest, but the blue-robed scholar and Zhi Guan were both deeply calculating strategists. The stronghold had many important matters waiting for their decisions – they definitely wouldn’t come unnecessarily to see a useless person like himself. Ning Bufan simply spoke directly to avoid further complications.

Indeed, the blue-robed scholar smiled slightly: “Mr. Ning speaks directly, so I won’t be polite either. Currently court demons are about to emerge, the situation changes daily – we want to ask for your help.”

Upon hearing the two words “help,” Ning Bufan didn’t even listen to the details but turned to pick up the iron pot, then glared at Wu Anzheng with great blame in his eyes. The blue-robed scholar said lightly: “Don’t blame him. This little brother had just delivered a letter to Abbot Lingzhi when he was followed all the way. Even if we hadn’t taken him first, Beijing’s important figures would have followed anyway.”

Wu Anzheng, hearing he had become a target for everyone, was frightened and trembling all over: “Important figures… you… you mean that yellow-robed old man from earlier?”

The blue-robed scholar nodded: “He’s just one of them. When you gave the letter to Abbot Lingzhi, several groups simultaneously targeted you. If we hadn’t secretly protected you all the way, you probably couldn’t have left Henan province.”

Nu Cang’s heroes always planned before acting. Following Wu Anzheng all the way to Chang’an, they naturally came prepared. Ning Bufan was quite helpless and immediately said lightly: “What do you want me to help you with?”

The blue-robed scholar gave a meaningful look. Zhi Guan immediately went to the broken house and pushed the main door open a crack. Everyone looked through the door gap and saw in the dilapidated courtyard a middle-aged beautiful woman crouching on the ground, surrounded by children. Seeing they had eaten their evening meal and come to play and sing happily, everyone holding hands with joy on their faces. The warmth and happiness inside the courtyard, contrasted with the solemnity outside, made it even more appealing.

Ning Bufan’s whole body shook as he said tremblingly: “You… you want her…”

The blue-robed scholar smiled: “Sir, caring for the consort alone inevitably has shortcomings. Why not let Nu Cang brothers share your worries and burdens?”

Ning Bufan’s whole body trembled. Hearing this Right Military Advisor’s meaning was actually to take the consort back to the stronghold as a hostage to control the situation. His gaze was downcast, already sorrowful and speechless. Wu Anzheng, having no strength to even bind a chicken, was naturally full of fear and said anxiously:

“Little Gouzi, everyone wants to capture her. Are you… are you still going to be stubborn?”

Ning Bufan smiled bitterly and shook his head. This person seemed foolish but his insight was far more astute than the former Zhuo Lingzhao. Precisely because of this, he chose to retire leisurely before the world erupted in great disaster, hoping to preserve all of Mount Hua. But things went against his wishes – the court was like a tiger, Nu Cang like a wolf, and political warfare was imminent. Now for Consort Qiong’s sake, he was about to be dragged back into the fray.

Zhi Guan put his palms together and advised: “Mr. Ning, a coup is imminent. That person has become demonic and will soon break free from his cocoon. Please hand the person over to us. Though Nu Cang also has some selfish motives, we dare guarantee with our lives that we absolutely won’t harm the consort. It’s good for you and for all of Mount Hua.”

Ning Bufan said nothing, only gazing at the children and women in the courtyard. His appearance was mediocre and his stature small, but when looking at that beautiful woman, his ordinary face actually generated a radiance that involuntarily moved people. He was silently speechless when suddenly he picked up the large iron pot from the ground and said lightly: “Gentlemen need say no more. If you want to take her away, you must step over my corpse.”

Zhi Guan shook his head: “Benefactor misunderstands. Our mountain’s heroes have no malicious intent. Why must you…”

Ning Bufan raised his right hand to stop Zhi Guan from speaking. His nature was gentle and weak, always wisely protecting himself, but at this moment his expression was extremely resolute. He said quietly: “Gentlemen, I, Ning, am called Number One Under Heaven. I advise you all to come together – you’ll have better chances of winning.”

Ning Bufan’s martial arts were superb, his swordsmanship especially exquisite. Even though injured, he wasn’t easy to deal with. The blue-robed scholar and others knew their martial arts were inferior to his – even joining forces, they probably couldn’t win. Everyone was hesitating when suddenly they saw a tall figure walking over – a man past sixty but still with a full head of black hair. It was Fang Zijing.

The Sword King stepped into the alley with killing intent soaring. Several children in the courtyard, affected by this aura, immediately began crying loudly.

Ning Bufan was struck as if by thunder and immediately became dejected as if dead.

Currently, among the world’s four great masters, only these two remained as the sole survivors. The Nine Provinces Sword King’s skills were superb, and his ruthlessness and viciousness in actual combat made people respect him even more. Ning Bufan fighting one-on-one with him had no guarantee of victory, much less being surrounded by others. Ning Bufan knew in his heart that once Fang Zijing entered the fray, just adding any one person like Xiang Tianshou or the blue-robed scholar, not only would he be unable to protect the consort, but even leaving this place alive would be extremely difficult.

Seeing Fang Zijing standing before him, ready to kill at any moment, Ning Bufan bit his teeth, his eye sockets red, and said tremblingly:

“Why? Ning has been lonely his whole life – it’s rare to have these few days of gentle time. Can’t you… can’t you spare me?”

Suddenly his head felt warm – someone was stroking him. Ning Bufan looked up to see Fang Zijing’s gaze was gentle with no intention of fighting. He touched Ning Bufan’s cheek, then turned his hand to gently close the courtyard gate.

As the door panel closed, the children’s crying gradually faded and could no longer be heard. Ning Bufan murmured: “Senior Fang, you… you…”

The Sword King was tall and standing before Ning Bufan was truly like an adult facing a child. He was heard laughing: “What ancestor are you crying about? A man in his forties – aren’t you ashamed?”

With the Sword King’s status, once he spoke, the blue-robed scholar, Zhi Guan and others had no room for regret. Ning Bufan was full of gratitude and couldn’t control himself. His eyes moist with some bewilderment, he suddenly scratched his head and said softly: “Senior Fang hasn’t eaten dinner, has he? How about… how about I treat you to wontons?”

Without waiting for Fang Zijing’s reply, he immediately took out copper coins from his body and instructed: “Little Anzi, go buy a few bowls of wontons and bring them back.”

Wu Anzheng, seeing the King of Hell had no intention to kill, had long breathed a sigh of relief. Seeing Ning Bufan’s copper coins, he immediately spat: “Still want you to treat? I have plenty of money. Watch me feed you all well.” Speaking, he took out a thick stack of banknotes and left from the alley entrance.

Near mid-month, the jade disk was nearly full and the night was bright. Though everyone was in a shabby alley, their bodies were also silvery white. With Fang Zijing stepping forward to mediate, everyone’s killing intent greatly diminished. The blue-robed scholar and Zhi Guan, already knowing the Sword King’s intentions, naturally couldn’t say much. Fang Zijing took out the medicinal wine bought from Great Hong Hall, took a gulp himself, then handed it to Ning Bufan: “Little brother, now all sides want you. What are your future plans?”

Ning Bufan took the gourd and said in a low voice: “My whereabouts are exposed – I can’t stay in Chang’an. I found a hiding place in Guizhou. I’ll probably go hide there in the next few days…” He was about to reveal his future hiding place when he saw the blue-robed scholar looking at him and closed his mouth, taking the wine gourd to drink without saying more.

The blue-robed scholar smiled: “Mr. Ning, I’m a military advisor, not a demon. Strategic planning is my duty – don’t be so afraid of me.” Suddenly Ning Bufan spat and shouted: “So stinky!” Everyone was astonished to see Ning Bufan turn toward Fang Zijing, fanning his nose: “Senior Fang, what did you eat? Why does this wine gourd stink so much?” Fang Zijing made a sound of surprise and handed the gourd to Xiang Tianshou: “Stinky? I don’t feel it.” Before the wine arrived, the smell preceded it, making the bald elder cover his nose and flee. Everyone seeing this all laughed, and the blue-robed scholar also smiled.

Just then, someone carrying a bamboo basket hurried back – it was Wu Anzheng. He brought out a bowl of wontons and handed it to Ning Bufan, whispering: “What’s wrong? Why is everyone covering their noses?” Ning Bufan smiled bitterly twice and handed the wontons to Fang Zijing: “Come, it’s rare for everyone to visit Chang’an as guests. Let’s eat wontons together – my treat.”

Wu Anzheng spat and cursed: “Nonsense! I spent this money, you poor wretch – where would you get money…” He distributed the wontons, giving everyone a bowl, even Jie Tao guarding at the alley entrance got one. Only Zhi Guan, being vegetarian, couldn’t conveniently accept.

Zhi Guan, seeing everyone smiling while eating wontons and soup with only himself idle, immediately coughed and said: “Since Mr. Ning is unwilling to assist and Nu Cang’s situation is thus, we naturally can’t persuade further. But this monk has one question – with a coup imminent and that person holding a divine sword in his left hand and controlling the previous emperor with his right, who else in the world can withstand one strike?”

At these words, everyone gasped, either spilling soup or burning their mouths. Each person sighed and looked toward Zhi Guan’s bald head, feeling unable to swallow.

The world’s territory was about to change hands. If the situation took a sharp turn for the worse, with the court unified under one ruler, the martial world would surely also be unified. Thinking of the dangerous situation, even someone as open-minded as Fang Zijing frowned tightly. Ning Bufan felt somewhat guilty. After pondering for a long while, he said: “I’m powerless regarding court matters. But to say that person has become the martial world’s supreme leader – that’s not necessarily true.”

The blue-robed scholar smiled slightly: “Are you speaking of the Courage Sword?”

Ning Bufan nodded: “I dare not claim so. It’s just that our sect’s Three Ultimate Swords have been passed down for a long time. Besides the Wisdom Sword and Benevolent Sword, there remains one final style called ‘Courage Sword Slays Tiangang.’ Though I’ve retired, if someone comprehends its principles in the future, they might be able to match ‘Six Paths Reincarnation.'”

Everyone hearing this couldn’t help but curse quietly. Mount Hua had waited 140 years before producing one Ning Bufan who comprehended the Three Ultimate Swords’ mysteries. Presumably, comprehending the Courage Sword would require an extraordinary genius. Looking at the current Mount Hua master Su Ying – a sixteen-year-old youth – waiting for this person to grasp the divine sword’s mysteries was unknown how many years away.

Ning Bufan, seeing everyone’s displeased expressions, hurriedly looked toward Fang Zijing and coughed: “If the Courage Sword doesn’t work, we still have Master Fang here. Your esteemed disciple’s failure in this battle wasn’t due to poor strategy. ‘Fierce Fire Burns City’ is too domineering – ordinary steel blades can’t withstand one strike. If there were a world-shocking treasure blade to match it, perhaps it could defeat the enemy…”

Everyone hearing this cursed silently again. The divine sword’s origins were extraordinary – not only did it exhaust Zhuo Lingzhao’s heart and blood, but it also gathered the spiritual essence of iron, divine hammers, precious furnaces, plus the skillful hands of the world’s number one ironsmith to forge the world-shaking Divine Sword Seizing Dragon, making “Six Paths Reincarnation” a dream come true. In this urgent moment, how could they find a treasure blade to match the divine sword?

Thinking of that divine sword’s master with his deep schemes and sinister actions, now about to control the entire court situation, everyone’s hearts turned to thoughts of this, their faces like earth.

Fang Zijing sighed and poured Great Hong Hall’s medicinal wine into his wonton soup bowl, drinking it all mixed together.

In the quiet moonlight, everyone held a bowl of wontons but no one picked up a spoon to eat.

Darkness descended, Asuras appeared in the world – the Southern Jambudvipa continent was about to erupt in chaos. The Jingtai Dynasty, which had stood for over thirty years, was also about to fall.

In this turbid mortal world, Jingtai and Wu Ying were like two ropes connecting everyone’s fate together. Like an unavoidable checkpoint – whether cunning like Jiang Chong, clever like Liu Jing, loyal like Marquis Wude, or martially brave like Liu Angtian, whether in the temple halls or fleeing in the martial world, as long as they still lived in this world, everyone would encounter once an inescapable choice between life and death.

When the god of fate descended, every character would face the hall of judgment and surrender their life’s work. Then with tears and blood, they would write what belonged to them…

The Hero’s Chronicle.