What heavy rain—the ground was flooded with water over a foot deep.

Counting from yesterday, this downpour had been falling for a day and night, continuing even into the deep hours without stopping. It seemed to be a once-in-a-century deluge.

With rain pouring down torrentially, the lights in a second-floor guest room facing the street remained lit deep into the night. Water vapor drifted outside the window in a misty haze, but inside the room the lamplight was warm and cozy. A beautiful woman reclined against the edge of the kang, having loosened her hair bun and tucked a pair of perfectly round, tender white jade feet beneath her. Her face was full of bashful charm, her water-tender cheeks showing white tinged with red as she combed through her cloud-like black hair, apparently waiting for someone to arrive.

With a creak, the room door suddenly burst open, and a ball of flame whirled in as a tiger-like big man, completely soaked, strode boldly inside. The big man’s eyes were like torches. Stepping through the doorway, he closed the door behind him with his backhand. He set down the things in his hands on the table, then suddenly saw the beautiful woman had removed her shoes and socks, revealing a pair of delicate jade feet. His eyes immediately went straight, and he made a surprised sound.

A blush flashed across the beautiful woman’s face as she slowly extended her jade feet. The snow-white insteps dotted with green onion-like toes appeared even more enchanting. Her charming eyes cast a sidelong glance at the big man as she said coquettishly, “Look at those thieving eyes of yours, rolling around so wickedly.” The big man threw back his head and laughed, “What thieving rolling eyes? I smelled something stinky in the room and got curious, so I came to sniff out whose stinking feet are so sour and awful?”

These words were spiteful, boring, and indescribably vulgar. The jade toes were fragrant, her toe tips rose-pink, and her nails trimmed neat and proper. Looking at those perfectly round ankles and slender legs, how many outsiders would want to see such bare feet but couldn’t? If not for mutual love and attachment, why would she show them to you? Such tender affection and beautiful intent were met with heartless mockery. The beauty on the kang spat once, and in her light anger and mild fury, threw a flying dart. The big man was still laughing heartily, caught off guard, and was hit squarely, immediately falling down.

The beautiful woman was both shocked and panicked. Putting away her fierce demeanor, she called out, “Hey! I was just playing with you—why didn’t you dodge?”

Suddenly the big man let out a miserable howl, as if poisoned and about to die. The beauty panicked and quickly got off the kang to look, but before she could take half a step, the big man grinned and suddenly flipped up, grabbing the beauty’s legs and lifting with such force that he swept the beauty into his arms. Looking at the flying dart, it was perfectly fine, held between his fingers—apparently it was all just an act.

The big man laughed, “Don’t randomly shoot flying darts when there’s nothing wrong—you really deserve a spanking.” The beauty lightly extended her jade arms to hook around the big man’s neck, laughing and scolding, “Not poisoning you to death, you scoundrel, was really letting you off easy!” The big man glanced at her bare feet and smiled with ill intent, “Just smelling them is stinky enough to kill—what’s the point of poison?” The beauty flew into a rage and immediately clawed and bit wildly, creating complete chaos.

The inn was warm and full of intoxicating romance. Looking at the big man’s heroic and refreshing bearing, with a roguish quality mixed into his rough appearance, it was naturally Qin Zhonghai. Needless to say, the beauty was undoubtedly Yan Er’niang.

Qin Zhonghai set the beauty down and laughed, “Didn’t you say you were hungry? Look what I bought for you.” He took bowls and plates from the bamboo basket and arranged them on the table—some marinated delicacies, a bottle of bamboo leaf green wine, and several hot stir-fried dishes. Yan Er’niang was already hungry, and seeing there was a late-night snack to eat, she happily lit two red candles. In the dancing candlelight, the two sat facing each other to dine, adding even more romantic interest.

After eating a few bites of the marinated food, Yan Er’niang thought of Ha Bu’er and asked, “This inn is so stuffy and boring—why don’t we return to the mountain stronghold instead of staying here day after day?” Qin Zhonghai laughed, “The rain is falling so heavily—how can we travel back to the mountain? Besides, it’s rare that we can be alone together. What’s wrong with staying a few more days?”

Yan Er’niang smiled slightly. Having spent a long time with Qin Zhonghai, she knew well that though this man appeared rough on the outside, he was actually good at planning. Dealing with such a man, she naturally didn’t need to worry about anything. She stretched lazily and said sweetly, “As you wish! I want to drink—pour for me.”

Hearing her act coquettishly toward him, Qin Zhonghai immediately laughed heartily. He picked up the wine pot and poured two cups of wine, then took a small bottle and mixed in some rose extract, saying, “Come, let’s drink a toast.”

Yan Er’niang reached out to take the wine and casually drank it. The rose marinade tasted sweet in her mouth and naturally sweetened her heart.

In the deep night, full of joy, the two drank wine facing each other. Qin Zhonghai showed no tenderness toward the fairer sex—seeing his amazing alcohol tolerance, he desperately urged more wine, specifically using large cups to pour for the beauty, apparently having some scheme. Yan Er’niang’s cheeks were flushed red as fire as she said with a low laugh, “Why are you desperately forcing me to drink? Want to take advantage tonight?” Qin Zhonghai laughed, “If I wanted to take advantage, I’d just speak directly—why would I need to get you drunk?” These words were quite despicable. Normally Yan Er’niang would have rewarded him with three big slaps, but now the two were alone together, and even before drinking wine they were already intoxicated. For a moment she felt no anger at all. Looking at her flowing eyes, she picked up chopsticks to take a bite of chive and bacon and fed it directly to Qin Zhonghai’s mouth.

Watching Qin Zhonghai chew with relish, Yan Er’niang immediately recalled the past events at the Huaiqing inn. At that time Qin Zhonghai lay on a sickbed unable to move, and she had also personally fed him porridge. Seeing his current cheerful expression, his body long since recovered, his career even more glorious and grand, Yan Er’niang felt sudden tender affection and fell into Qin Zhonghai’s arms to kiss his lips.

Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily, “Slowly, slowly—let’s bow first.” He moved aside the tables and chairs and pointed to the two big red candles. Yan Er’niang asked curiously, “Bow to what? Who performs earth god ceremonies at night?” Qin Zhonghai gently kissed her powdered face and smiled, “Er’niang, we’re bowing to heaven and earth.”

Hearing these words, Yan Er’niang immediately understood that Qin Zhonghai wanted to hold a wedding ceremony right there in the room. Her fragrant heart beat wildly as she said in a trembling voice, “So suddenly?” Qin Zhonghai smiled, “Kowtowing a few times—heaven knows, earth knows, you know, I know—then it’s done.”

When Yan Er’niang had previously married Xiao Lubu at the mountain stronghold, the rare wedding feast had naturally been extremely lively. Even the aloof Fang Zijing had drunk a cup of celebratory wine, showing the unprecedented grand occasion. However, the more lively it was then, the less appropriate it was to be ostentatious now. After all, she was remarrying, and the man she was marrying was two years younger than herself. To avoid causing gossip, the fewer people who knew, the better. She sighed gently, caressing Qin Zhonghai’s face and whispered, “You’re the stronghold leader and this is your first marriage, yet you have to be so humble—I’m truly sorry to you…”

Qin Zhonghai laughed, “We’re not emperor and princess, and our grandparents can’t get together. Everyone stop talking nonsense and just kowtow.” With that, he pulled Yan Er’niang to kneel on the ground together. Without another word, Qin Zhonghai bowed his head and kowtowed, and Yan Er’niang also gracefully followed suit. They first bowed three times toward the heavens outside the window, then faced each other and bowed several times before slowly standing up.

Yan Er’niang’s face was completely flushed as she asked shyly, “Is that it?” Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily and took out a brocade box from his robes, presenting it to Yan Er’niang, “Otherwise what? Do we have to take off our pants for it to count?”

Yan Er’niang blushed to her ears, spat once, and viciously pinched Qin Zhonghai.

Amid Qin Zhonghai’s laughter, Yan Er’niang took the brocade box. Looking at the goose-yellow lacquered gold wooden box, heavy in her hands, she felt its nobility. She knew there must be precious jewels inside, and her heart filled with joy as she prepared to open it to look. Seeing she was somewhat drunk, Qin Zhonghai immediately laughed, “Don’t rush—look tomorrow morning.” He took the wooden box and tucked it under the pillow himself.

With three parts liquid courage, Yan Er’niang’s boldness increased greatly. She lay down on the bed, removing her silk skirt under the cotton quilt, then threw the skirt outside the brocade curtains, baring her pair of pink, tender, slender beautiful legs. She said sweetly, “Zhonghai, come here.”

Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily and sat on the bed’s edge as requested. Yan Er’niang removed her outer garments, revealing the undergarments and dudou inside, and laughed, “We two are a heaven-made pair that no one can separate. Right?” Qin Zhonghai grasped Yan Er’niang’s hand and gazed at the beauty before him. Though wordless, he nodded.

Yan Er’niang was utterly enchanted. She reached out to embrace Qin Zhonghai and pull him onto the bed. Partly due to intoxication and partly from emotional stirring, she used too much force and actually tore Qin Zhonghai’s upper garments. The tiger-like man revealed his body covered in tattoos, with two red marks on his shoulder blades still prominent and frightening to behold.

Yan Er’niang gently touched Qin Zhonghai’s scars and sighed, “Do these wounds still hurt?” Qin Zhonghai shook his head, “They ache a bit when it rains, but otherwise they’re fine.”

Yan Er’niang smiled shallowly, kissing the scars on his shoulders, then reached behind her neck to untie her dudou fastenings.

At this enchanting moment that stirred the heart and spirit, knocking sounded at the guest room door—someone was knocking. Qin Zhonghai flipped up and was about to open the door when Yan Er’niang felt annoyed and cursed loudly, “Who’s the annoying ghost in the middle of the night?”

Tao Qing’s voice came from the door, apologetically saying, “Sorry, it’s me.” Yan Er’niang scolded, “It’s the middle of the night with torrential rain—why are you knocking on doors? Is someone’s house being haunted by water ghosts?”

Hearing the scolding, Tao Qing didn’t respond, just coughed once and said, “General Qin, the Azure-Robed Scholar and his group have arrived.”

Suddenly hearing that the Azure-Robed Scholar had arrived, Yan Er’niang finally understood. It seemed these days of staying at the inn were definitely to wait for this military advisor. She made a surprised sound and quickly said, “Master Tang has come? Should I go pay my respects?” Qin Zhonghai shook his head, “It’s late—don’t rush to see him. Let’s first meet him and nod a greeting, then I’ll come back to accompany you shortly.”

With the slippery rainy roads, Yan Er’niang hadn’t wanted to go out anyway. Hearing this, she immediately laughed, “If there’s nothing else, go quickly and return quickly. I’ll wait here for you.” Qin Zhonghai returned to the bedside and pulled the quilt up for her, saying gently, “Good sister, sleep well—when you wake up, you’ll see your husband.”

Hearing his teasing, Yan Er’niang immediately giggled and made a face. Qin Zhonghai kissed her cheek for a while, then went to open the door. Yan Er’niang, afraid of exposing herself, quickly pulled the cotton quilt over her white, tender, smooth thighs.

Red candles flickered on the table, and the room was filled with peace and joy. Yan Er’niang felt completely happy. Being tired from the day and listening to the pattering rain sounds, she closed her eyes and fell into deep sleep.

In the deep night rain, accompanied by mixed footsteps, a large group of people advanced. Looking at this group, each person had an extraordinary appearance with physiques far exceeding ordinary people. Some had dignified appearances bearing heavy swords, others looked fierce and menacing carrying knives with tiger-like gazes—but it was unclear which sect or school this group belonged to, gathering here on this night.

The crowd slowly parted as a refined elderly man in blue walked forward with hands tucked in sleeves. The short, stout man by the building saw this elder approaching and quickly bowed with clasped hands, “Reporting to the Military Advisor, the person has been found and is inside the broken house. These past days we’ve carefully watched over him without any incidents.” Looking at this person’s appearance, though he spoke quite properly, it was “Golden Turtle” Tao Qing.

The elder followed Tao Qing’s gaze and saw an old mansion standing in the ruins. This building was damaged and dilapidated, as if it had been burned by fire. He stared at the broken house for a long time without speaking, apparently having some concerns.

An aged voice from the crowd urged, “Military Advisor Tang, Zhu Family Village is not far from here. If the enemy’s masters receive news, they’ll surely come to surround and kill us. Time is of the essence—let’s quickly wake Xiao Lubu and take him back to the mountain.”

The elder looked back to see a person of mighty physique bearing an iron sword—it was “Iron Sword Shaking the Southern Sky.” Beside him stood several others: Xiang Tianshou, Chang Xuehen, Jie Tao, and others. Two more had deep-set features unlike Central Plains people—they were Sha Jin’s adopted sons, brothers Guli Han and A’mo Han.

Ten days ago, Tao Qing had sent word saying he’d found Xiao Lubu near Zhu Family Village. Hearing such momentous news, the stronghold immediately dispatched many masters. Right Phoenix Military Advisor personally led the expedition, with Li Tieshan commanding Sha Jin’s subordinate foreign generals leading a thousand troops to come welcome the tiger general’s return to the mountain. Tonight would be the brothers’ reunion with Xiao Lubu.

At this time everyone awaited orders. Outside the city, Ming’er Han and other foreign women led troops in ambush—they truly couldn’t delay. The Azure-Robed Scholar nodded and turned to ask Tao Qing, “Where is General Qin?” Tao Qing bowed, “Reporting to the Military Advisor, these past days the General has been waiting at the inn for everyone’s arrival.” The Azure-Robed Scholar took a deep breath and asked, “Er’niang still doesn’t know about this, does she?”

Tao Qing nodded and said quietly, “Yes.”

Hearing this, the Azure-Robed Scholar’s eyebrows slightly raised as he said, “When do you plan to tell her?” Tao Qing’s expression was hesitant, not knowing how to respond, when a low voice said, “Don’t trouble the Military Advisor—Qin will tell her personally.”

Everyone turned in unison to look toward a man by the street. The newcomer naturally commanded respect without anger—Qin Zhonghai had arrived.

Torrential rain poured down, watering all things in the world. Accompanied by low voices, lightning flashed across the sky and heavy rain cascaded down. This rain cloud stretched across the Central Plains—not only was Beijing drenched in torrential rain, but even the northwestern regions experienced wind and rain.

Qin Zhonghai stood with arms crossed, his bearing stern. In the mournful rain sounds, Tao Qing lowered his head silently, Chang Xuehen sighed, and no one else dared say a word. After a long while, the Azure-Robed Scholar said solemnly, “General Qin, a word in private.”

Qin Zhonghai nodded slightly and stepped forward, following the Azure-Robed Scholar to the street side. The two stood shoulder to shoulder, both gazing at the night sky’s rain threads. The Azure-Robed Scholar held an oil umbrella and looked up, saying, “General Qin, your late father and I were acquainted—nominally master and subordinate, but actually close friends. For the lifelong happiness of an old friend’s son, I must ask you something tonight.” Qin Zhonghai sighed, “Military Advisor, speak directly—Zhonghai is listening.”

The Azure-Robed Scholar took a deep breath and said word by word, “General Qin, do you really want to wake Xiao Lubu?”

The Azure-Robed Scholar’s voice was clear and slow, yet each word pierced the heart. Qin Zhonghai was completely soaked by the heavy rain, water rolling down his cheeks like tears. Though wordless, he nodded.

The Azure-Robed Scholar said quietly, “Xiao Lubu is Er’niang’s husband. Once you wake him up, he’ll surely ask about his wife’s whereabouts. Are you willing to let Er’niang follow him?” Seeing Qin Zhonghai remain silent without answering, he continued, “Before coming here, I discussed this with everyone. In chaotic times, living in confusion is sometimes a blessing. What does it matter if he’s Xiao Lubu? What does it matter if he’s A’Sha? Even if he regains his former heroic status, he won’t necessarily be happy…”

Just as the Azure-Robed Scholar was about to continue, Qin Zhonghai interrupted him. He lowered his head and said quietly, “I appreciate the Military Advisor’s kind intentions. But I must ask you—if my father encountered this situation, do you think… would he let Xiao Lubu continue sleeping?” Hearing these words, the Azure-Robed Scholar understood Qin Zhonghai’s intention. He smiled slightly and said, “Very well, we’ll do as you wish.”

Life is like a dream, but those moments of waking and sleeping are one’s entire life—how can others decide? Qin Baxian was known as a righteous army and would never do such dishonorable deeds. The Azure-Robed Scholar had no intention of further persuasion and returned to the group, saying, “Everyone, let’s go.”

Hearing these words, Li Tieshan, Xiang Tianshou and others were immediately overjoyed. If Xiao Lubu were to awaken, Qin Zhonghai would inevitably suffer, but this person truly lived up to his reputation as a contemporary hero. Seeing he could both take up and let go, he was truly a heaven-supporting, earth-standing good man. The mountain stronghold brothers had worried too much about this.

Since Qin Zhonghai had no objections, Li Tieshan let out a great shout, “Good! Since there are no problems, everyone let’s go!” Li Tieshan’s single thought was to let Han Yi return to his heroic status. As long as the Five Tigers returned to the mountain and heroes united, the stronghold’s great affairs would surely succeed. As for other miscellaneous matters, he hadn’t thought that much. He immediately took the first step to leave.

In the deep night with rain falling everywhere, Li Tieshan focused single-mindedly and led the way toward the broken house. Xiang Tianshou glanced at Qin Zhonghai and saw him still standing in the street corner. Looking from afar, his back seemed somewhat hunched. Though Xiang Tianshou didn’t know Qin Zhonghai deeply, he greatly liked this person’s character. Now seeing him dejected, he didn’t know what to say either. He shook his head and followed Li Tieshan away.

Jie Tao was always careful. Seeing Qin Zhonghai remaining in place with an expression of extreme distress, he felt worried and slowly walked over to tug at him.

Though pulled, Qin Zhonghai showed no intention of moving. Jie Tao feared making him angry and quickly said, “General Qin, come along—you’re the former mountain lord’s son. If Xiao Lubu becomes lucid, the first person he should pay respects to is you…” Before he could continue, Chang Xuehen kicked hard at the accumulated water on the ground and pushed forcefully at Jie Tao, roaring, “The man has already played the hero—you all should be satisfied! Why are you still nagging? Let’s go!” Chang Xuehen looked completely indignant as he pushed Jie Tao away. Passing Qin Zhonghai, he threw a vicious punch at his shoulder and cursed, “Damn bastard, I told you to listen to me earlier…”

After Jie and Chang left one after another, Qin Zhonghai, though punched, remained standing in place like a stone statue, as if stunned.

After a long while, another person approached and stopped before him—it was Tao Qing. Seeing him looking at himself, Qin Zhonghai said quietly, “Go quickly, don’t delay…” Tao Qing looked at Qin Zhonghai, wanting to offer some comfort but searching his mind, found himself speechless.

From Huaiqing to Lanzhou, then from Lanzhou rushing to Zhumulangma—how many stories along the way. Big Sister, Little Rabbit, Iron Bull, Big Tiger… everyone traveling together, experiencing countless life-and-death dangers, finally rebuilding Nucang. Who knew that this moment of reunion would be separation? After today, though the scenery remained the same, everything else would be completely different. Reflecting on past events, Tao Qing’s tears burst forth. He turned his head away and choked out, “General Qin, I thank you on behalf of Big Sister and Xiao Lubu—you’ll always be our leader.”

Qin Zhonghai closed his eyes and slowly nodded, saying quietly, “Brother Tao, since we’ve known each other, I’ve received your care and support throughout the journey. Qin will always remember this kindness.” Hearing these words, Tao Qing was already crying like rain. Not wanting to further sadden Qin Zhonghai, he immediately bowed and turned to run away.

In the deep night with endless rain sounds, Qin Zhonghai raised his head toward heaven, letting the rain from all over the sky fall on his face. In this lonely moment, a voice suddenly rang in his ears.

“Congratulations, General Qin.”

At this moment, someone was actually congratulating him? Qin Zhonghai was stunned and turned to look at the Azure-Robed Scholar before him.

“You are now Qin Baxian.”

Hearing these words, Qin Zhonghai looked even more bewildered, not understanding their meaning.

“To become a truly great person, the first thing you must kill is yourself. You have passed the test.”

Hearing this, Qin Zhonghai couldn’t help being shocked and dismayed, his legs going weak as he collapsed to the ground.

“Those who love others will be loved by others; those who kill others can be killed.” Yes, if a person gives up even himself, what in the world can’t be given up or killed?

Qin Zhonghai remained speechless, his broad shoulders trembling slightly.

The Azure-Robed Scholar’s gaze was melancholy as he looked at the tiger-like man before him. Seeing him lower his head with a bitter smile and cover his face with his hand, that long-absent expression of desolation was exactly like his father’s in those days.

This father and son—one raised at Wudang, one adopted by the Sword King—not only looked different but even spoke with completely different accents. Yet in this moment of shared feelings, they seemed remarkably similar. That slow, weary tone, those eyes full of bitter, deep pain, repeatedly reminded one of Qin Baxian of old.

The Azure-Robed Scholar walked away. Before leaving, he looked back at Qin Zhonghai once and said quietly, “Take care, General Qin.”

In this sorrowful moment, Qin Zhonghai clenched his fists and suddenly looked up to laugh wildly at the heavens.

Birds in the sky fly in pairs, deer in the forest cuddle together, but only the fierce tiger on the high hill is forever alone, roaring solitary in the wilderness.

After all the hardships, was this the life he had been pursuing?

Lightning flashed and passed, illuminating the broken house in bright light. Raindrops fell, creating clear sounds on the steps. The heroes spoke no words, each surrounding the broken house, waiting only for the Azure-Robed Scholar’s command.

Heavy rain poured down as waves of laughter came from inside the house. Though the building was quite dilapidated, at this moment it seemed very warm. A foolish voice could be heard saying, “Sister Juan’er, you said Master would take us back to the mountain—why hasn’t he come yet?” A mischievous, childish voice responded with laughter, “Be patient! Didn’t that General Qin say Master would come in the next couple of days? Then we can go home again!” The fool laughed, “Going home is good! At home there are clothes to wear and fruits to eat, and we won’t have to go hungry anymore!”

Hearing this naive conversation, the Azure-Robed Scholar felt hidden emotion in his heart. Having left the mountain stronghold nearly twenty years ago, he had become the orthodox sect leader of Jiuhua Mountain. Who knew that with changing circumstances, a large group of orthodox masters would desperately pursue him, finally forcing him to return to the stronghold to once again strategize for Nucang. What was pitiful was that his first bitter task was to separate the loving couple Qin Zhonghai and Yan Er’niang. Looking at Juan’er’s usual expression toward A’Sha, it would probably be another tragic situation.

Xiang Tianshou asked, “Military Advisor Tang, this Xiao Lubu is severely mad—what good method do you have to make him wake up?”

The Azure-Robed Scholar’s gaze was like ice as he said, “Madness isn’t difficult to cure—what’s difficult to cure is heart disease. Back then Xiao Lubu took a palm strike to his forehead and from then on remained confused and unconscious. Later when I encountered him on the road, he finally awakened. But having just awakened from his great dream, unable to bear the pain of home destruction and family death, he repeatedly attempted suicide…” Hearing this, everyone couldn’t help making surprised sounds, deeply shocked. Li Tieshan sighed, “This isn’t his fault—after the Ghost Pavilion tragedy that year, who didn’t suffer torment?”

This was indeed true. With Fang Zijing’s aloofness, Sha Jin’s courage, Lu Guzhan’s composure—who among them hadn’t repeatedly fallen into despair and wandered in all directions these years? Even he himself had been full of grief, having no recourse but to retire to Xiliang to barely get by. How much more so for the young Han Yi, who had family and a world of his own?

Having suffered much hardship himself, the Azure-Robed Scholar naturally understood such feelings. He smiled bitterly and continued, “Seeing his unbearable pain, I used silver needles to calm his spirit and let him continue sleeping. Over the years, though he’s been foolish and dazed, his days have been much happier. Being A’Sha is better than being Han Yi after all…” Everyone hearing this sighed deeply. It seemed madness wasn’t hard to cure—what was hard to cure was that shattered heart. Fortunately Yan Er’niang was nearby, so when Xiao Lubu awakened and saw his wife, he should be able to recover.

The Azure-Robed Scholar said no more and gave orders: “General Li Tieshan, Hall Master Xiang, at this moment Brother Han’s mind is unclear. I’ll need to needle his Jade Pillow acupoint shortly. To prevent him from violently attacking and injuring people, please ambush outside the house and be ready to subdue him.” The two Li and Xiang agreed. The Azure-Robed Scholar then instructed Chang Xuehen and Jie Tao: “If Han Yi escapes, he’ll surely flee through the alley entrance. You two ambush there and await my command at any time.” The four received orders and went to prepare. The Azure-Robed Scholar turned to Guli Han and said in foreign language, “You two brothers prepare the ‘Heaven-Piercing Halberd.’ If the situation changes, show him the halberd—it will naturally make him remember many past events.”

The two foreign generals nodded and took out a massive weapon from their backs. This weapon was quite mighty—it was the great halberd that Ouyang Yong had forged overnight following the design. In terms of sharpness alone, it was no less than that divine weapon of old.

With everyone prepared, the Azure-Robed Scholar gave Tao Qing a meaningful look, indicating he should go knock on the door.

Tao Qing swallowed his saliva and slowly walked to the broken house door, gently knocking on the door panel and saying quietly, “Miss Juan’er, your master has come.”

The door panel creaked open and a little girl rushed out, calling joyfully, “Master! You finally came!”

The small figure ran straight over and threw herself into her master’s arms. Her face was covered with tears—clearly both joy and sorrow. Juan’er lay in his embrace, calling happily, “Master! Can we go home now?” Hearing these words, the Azure-Robed Scholar’s face showed a trace of shadow. He didn’t answer but turned his head away, his expression gloomy as if he had put on a mask again.

Juan’er made a surprised sound, vaguely sensing something was wrong with her master’s expression. She quickly looked around but didn’t see her senior sister Yan Ting anywhere. She called out loudly, “Master, where’s senior sister? Why can’t I see her?” The Azure-Robed Scholar caressed her beautiful hair and said gently, “Child, your senior sister has already left.”

Juan’er didn’t understand and murmured, “Left? Where did senior sister go?” The Azure-Robed Scholar shook his head slightly but didn’t reply.

Juan’er couldn’t understand the hidden meaning. She looked around blankly and saw several people surrounding her—a white-haired old man with a tall, strong build, a bald elder with profound eyes, and two foreign men who looked fierce and menacing. These people appeared quite like bad men, making her afraid. Juan’er seemed to sense approaching misfortune and couldn’t help trembling all over as she said sadly, “Master… they… who are they? Aren’t we… aren’t we going home?”

Just as Juan’er was feeling frightened, footsteps came from inside the broken house, and a foolish voice rang out, “Sister Juan’er, where are you?” It was A’Sha, unable to find Juan’er and about to come out to look.

Seeing the extremely tall figure about to emerge, the Azure-Robed Scholar’s eyes became cold as ice as he said coldly, “Take action.”

Just as he stepped out the door, Li Tieshan lunged sideways, two palm winds striking directly at him. A’Sha quickly turned to block, and with two muffled sounds, the two giant men clashed with force. Under the collision and pressure, the surrounding house walls and panels immediately shattered. Since becoming foolish, A’Sha had never competed with such a master. He defended with all his strength against Li Tieshan, knowing the enemy’s martial arts were formidable, and shouted, “Sister Juan’er, bad people are coming—run quickly!”

Juan’er was both shocked and frightened, screaming, “What are you doing? Why are you hitting him?”

A’Sha was locked in struggle with Li Tieshan when suddenly wind sounds came sharply from behind—two flying stones shot at him. But at this moment he was completely focused with no spare energy to resist. In an instant he grunted dully, struck repeatedly from behind. In pain, he no longer had strength to fight back and fell backward.

Seeing the opportunity not to be missed, Li Tieshan immediately pounced forward and pinned A’Sha to the ground. The Azure-Robed Scholar took out silver needles from his robes and said solemnly, “Don’t use pressure points—hold down his hands and feet.” For acupuncture healing, blood and qi must flow smoothly, and pressure points cannot be applied to the patient. At this time, they could only rely on brute force to hold A’Sha down—there was no other way. Seeing A’Sha’s hands and feet flailing in extremely intense struggle, Xiang Tianshou feared Li Tieshan couldn’t manage alone and quickly came to help.

Seeing her master holding a long needle and joining with several big men to deal with A’Sha, as if about to do something terrible, Juan’er was shocked and panicked. She rushed over and stood in front of her master, screaming, “Master! What are you doing?”

The Azure-Robed Scholar waved his right hand lightly, “Take her away.” Tao Qing immediately rushed over and carried Juan’er off. The Azure-Robed Scholar held the silver needle and walked step by step toward A’Sha. A’Sha was afraid in his heart, but his hands and feet were restrained. He struggled desperately for his life, shouting, “Let me go! Let me go!”

Though Li Tieshan and Xiang Tianshou were divinely brave, A’Sha’s strange strength was astonishing and truly difficult to control. Xiang Tianshou gritted his teeth and said, “Everyone come quickly and help hold him down together!” Jie Tao and Chang Xuehen agreed and also came to help hold down his limbs.

Juan’er was firmly grasped by Tao Qing. Seeing her master seemed to have become a different person—not only speaking strangely but also acting frighteningly—watching him step by step with the long needle approaching A’Sha, Juan’er felt extremely terrified and screamed, “No! A’Sha, run quickly!” A’Sha lay on the ground—how could he struggle free? For a moment he was also crying with a face full of tears, “Sister Juan’er! Sister Juan’er! Help me!”

The long needle was about to arrive at the critical moment—they absolutely could not relax now. Li Tieshan and the others exerted all their strength to hold down his limbs, fearing A’Sha might suddenly escape.

“Get away!”

Suddenly hearing a thunderous roar, A’Sha somehow found the strength to shake off Li Tieshan, leap up, and run straight toward Juan’er. Tao Qing was shocked and frightened, hurriedly blocking the way and calling, “Brother Han!”

How could A’Sha pay attention to him? His tall body lunged forward, shoulder turned sideways—he could kill Tao Qing on the spot. Jie Tao, quick-eyed and fast-handed, quickly leaped forward and pressed Tao Qing to the ground. With a thunderous crash, A’Sha had already passed by them within half an inch—it was extremely dangerous.

The two children in the chaotic world drew close to each other and immediately embraced, both crying loudly as if doomsday had arrived. Li Tieshan, with a heart of iron and stone, remained unmoved and shouted, “Everyone attack! Don’t let him get away!” With one command, everyone surrounded them, ready to capture him at any moment.

Seeing this formation, Juan’er became frightened. Crying and sobbing, she quickly hid in A’Sha’s arms. Seeing Li Tieshan’s fierce appearance, how could A’Sha not be alarmed? The two were panicked and fearful, shrinking together in embrace, looking extremely pitiful.

Tao Qing had nearly been killed. He got up and steadied himself, watching Juan’er and A’Sha crying incessantly. The two kept backing away until their backs touched the house wall—they could retreat no further. He tried to persuade, “Miss Juan’er, don’t misunderstand. Your master isn’t trying to harm this foolish brother—he’s trying to help heal his injuries. Do you understand?” Juan’er was frightened and could only sob continuously. Her usual cute, sprite-like appearance was completely gone. No matter how long Tao Qing spoke, it was like playing a lute to a cow.

Seeing her vacant stare, Xiang Tianshou came to persuade personally. He walked forward and said quietly, “Little sister, don’t be afraid. We’re not bad people—we came specifically to heal this foolish brother’s injuries. Don’t cling to him, all right?” As he reached out to separate the two, as soon as his finger touched Juan’er, she let out a sharp, piercing scream. A’Sha roared wildly and struck out with one palm, shouting, “Get away!”

Xiang Tianshou stepped back and sighed, “Little sister, stop making trouble. Where do you want to drag this foolish brother? Do you know that Jiuhua Mountain has already disbanded?” Hearing this suddenly, Juan’er was struck as if by lightning, and even the Azure-Robed Scholar shuddered. For these past days, Juan’er had only thought about going home. Hearing someone curse them, she was both shocked and angry, immediately coming to her senses and shouting delicately, “Nonsense! You’re talking nonsense! Your family is the one that disbanded!”

Xiang Tianshou looked reluctant but said, “Jiuhua Mountain really has disbanded. If you don’t believe it, ask your master.”

Juan’er spat and turned to look at her master, calling loudly, “Master, this person is talking nonsense! He says Jiuhua Mountain disbanded—that’s a lie, right?” She called several times but saw the Azure-Robed Scholar remain silent. Juan’er didn’t lose heart and continued screaming, “Master, say something!” But no matter how she called, the Azure-Robed Scholar continued looking down silently, his gaze growing even more dim.

Seeing this expression, Juan’er knew something was wrong. Her shouting gradually calmed down. She covered her face and said sadly, “Master, please tell me he’s lying… right…?” By the end she was crying loudly.

No master, no senior sister, no home—only empty houses remained.

Heavy rain splashed down, and water vapor filled the area before the broken house. At this moment, everyone was silent. Juan’er lay collapsed on the ground, sobbing. Though she was young, in this moment of homelessness with relatives scattered in all directions, she knew true suffering had arrived. Seeing her cry so sadly, A’Sha quickly bent down and held her tightly in his arms, calling loudly, “Sister Juan’er, don’t cry! Sister Juan’er, don’t cry!” Juan’er tightly embraced her only relative and said sadly, “A’Sha, Master doesn’t want us anymore. Let’s leave by ourselves—let’s go home by ourselves!”

A’Sha loudly agreed, picked up her small body, and darted toward the back alley. This A’Sha’s martial arts were superb. This expedition had sent many masters to surround and capture him precisely to take him back alive—they absolutely couldn’t let him leave. Li Tieshan roared angrily, “Damn! A good master made into an idiot—I refuse to believe this evil!” He snatched the painted halberd from A’mo Han’s hands and threw it with all his strength.

A strange roar passed through the crowd as a heavy weapon flew out, passing directly over A’Sha’s head. The weapon was truly heavy—after flying less than two zhang, it ran out of force and fell to the ground.

A’Sha had already picked up Juan’er to leave when he suddenly heard a dull sound on the ground. Before his eyes, a heavy weapon was stuck upside down in the earth, blocking his path. A’Sha was about to detour when lightning suddenly flashed, and the blade reflected a beam of light that made him squint and stop.

A’Sha took a deep breath and stared at the heavy weapon before him. He saw the double-bladed crescent moon glowing faintly, the halberd shaft extremely long. Though stuck diagonally in the ground, it was still a head taller than an ordinary person. The Azure-Robed Scholar said flatly, “Do you recognize it?”

A’Sha’s voice was hoarse as he nodded desperately and called loudly, “I recognize it! I recognize it!”

Li Tieshan laughed heartily and shouted, “Of course you recognize it—it’s your hands and feet!”

This divine weapon was so mighty in form—it was precisely the “Heaven-Piercing Painted Halberd” that the Silver Halberd Marquis of Wen had relied upon to show his martial prowess, famous for eternity in the “Three Heroes Battle Lu Bu.” In the flashing lightning, seeing his long-unseen personal weapon appear, A’Sha seemed to see a close relative. His heart was deeply shaken, and he immediately began calling out loudly.

The Azure-Robed Scholar stepped forward and said gently, “Brother Han, it’s been decades—it’s always been waiting for you. Go touch it.”

There’s a common saying: “When the sword exists, the person exists; when the sword perishes, the person perishes”—speaking of the affection between warrior and weapon. In the dangerous storms of the martial world, what truly accompanies one through hardship isn’t those brothers who can slip away and run, but that speechless weapon. Whether sword or blade, sharpness is secondary—through countless life-and-death battles, warrior and weapon together write stories of shared honor and disgrace. The weapon is one’s entire history, telling the story of its master’s lifetime of vicissitudes.

The great halberd stood inverted in the ground, rainwater striking and flowing down the shaft, as if weeping for a lifetime of unfulfilled ambitions. A’Sha felt the connection, tears streaming down his face as he was about to walk over. Juan’er behind him hugged him and cried, “A’Sha, didn’t you want to take sister away? Let’s run quickly!”

A’Sha was stunned, looking blankly at Juan’er behind him, then at the Heaven-Piercing Painted Halberd on the ground, his expression somewhat hesitant. Li Tieshan stepped forward and drew his great iron sword from his back. With a thunderous crash, he shattered the house wall—this sword’s momentum was full, precisely his famous ultimate technique “Tiger Crossing the River.” Li Tieshan pointed with his halberd and roared, “Look! Everyone has their own weapon! Where’s your weapon? Look—isn’t it crying? It’s waiting for its master to use it!”

Tears flashed in A’Sha’s eyes as he stared blankly at the Heaven-Piercing Painted Halberd. Juan’er urgently patted him, but he seemed not to hear. The Azure-Robed Scholar said softly, “A’mo Han, Guli Han, attack! Beat him awake.”

Wind rose powerfully as two heavy weapons swung out with full force—on the left was a “Standing Melon Bone Club,” on the right a “Pure Steel Rake.” One was a forty-jin bone club golden melon hammer, the other a rake fork bristling with sharp teeth. With both heavy weapons striking together in a overhead heavy blow, how could Xiao Lubu resist?

Accompanied by a thunderous roar, A’Sha had already pushed Juan’er away. Looking at his face full of excitement, he instantly drew out the peerless divine weapon. With two ringing clashes, the forces collided. The bone club was already shaken from the wielder’s hands and flew over ten zhang away, crashing through an old house wall and rolling straight inside. Seeing the great power of the Heaven-Piercing Painted Halberd, everyone was speechless with shock.

This “Standing Melon Bone Club” had a top like garlic cloves and weighed about forty jin. At this moment it was shaken and flew over ten zhang, showing how profound A’Sha’s internal power was. The iron rake, shaken by the great force, split outward by more than a foot, then exhausted its force and fell to the ground, smashing a pit. The two Western Region tiger generals felt severe pain in their tiger mouths, their faces showing suffering as they gasped on the side.

The halberd is called the “King of Ceremonial Weapons”—it was the most fierce weapon of ancient chariot warfare. In the fourth year of Kaibao, Song Taizu lined up halberds in Kaifeng and bestowed fourteen great halberds upon his imperial brother to dignify the Yin Gate. At this time, the famous general’s elegance paired with the great power of the “King of Ceremonial Weapons” showed even more extraordinary momentum.

A’Sha seemed to have gone mad with fighting. Seeing A’mo Han and Guli Han couldn’t withstand a single blow, he immediately attacked Chang and Jie. In the violent roar, Chang Xuehen wielded his “Phoenix-Beak Long Blade” and entered the battle. Beside him was another person protecting him—this person carried a hemp-backed bow in his left hand and held a throwing arrow in his right hand, precisely Jie Tao.

Chang Xuehen put force into his long blade and immediately came to resist. This “Phoenix-Beak Blade” was mighty in shape—it was Chang Xuehen’s family heirloom weapon. Here the “Phoenix-Beak Blade” fought against the “King of Ceremonial Weapons”—who would win and who would lose?

With a light clang, the “Phoenix-Beak Blade” was already caught by the painted halberd’s crescent blade. This move was precisely the halberd’s unique locking technique—with just one turn, Chang Xuehen’s weapon could be removed. Jie Tao was startled and raised his “Throwing Arrow” to stab at the chest. Suddenly thunder crossed the sky, brilliant light dazzling. The halberd surface reflected the lightning, actually blinding Jie Tao so he couldn’t open his eyes. Just then, the great halberd twisted the phoenix-beak blade and chopped down toward his face together. Jie Tao was greatly shocked and quickly used his weapon to block. With a thunderous crash, Jie Tao felt severe pain in his tiger mouth, and both the great bow and long arrow flew skyward.

With the divine weapon striking, the national scholar was unparalleled. Xiao Lubu let out a long howl—the tiger general’s grace finally reappeared in the martial world! Li Tieshan laughed heartily and shouted, “Good Xiao Lubu! This is the might of the Five Tiger Generals!”

A’Sha shouted loudly. He lifted the painted halberd with one arm, his right hand naturally returning to his chest, stepping forward with his feet. With a hey sound, the great halberd danced like a plate, winding around his head like one intoxicated—this was the long-lost “Marquis Wen’s Halberd Dance.” There’s a weapon saying: “Swords don’t wind around the head, halberds don’t dance flowers.” The double crescent moons were difficult to balance. If this great halberd were to dance flowers, the center of gravity would be immediately lost. Yet A’Sha could make the heavy weapon fly through heaven and earth—such halberd technique, if not performed personally by Xiao Lubu, who in the world could accomplish it?

A’Sha was quite happy and carefree, intoxicated with his weapon. But Juan’er was covered in rainwater, sitting alone on the ground looking quite bewildered. Xiang Tianshou felt pity and crouched beside Juan’er, saying quietly, “Little sister, don’t cry. Look how magnificent he is!”

Juan’er looked up to see A’Sha holding the great halberd in a standing horse stance, left foot raised, face turned right. With a sharp shout, though his clothes were ragged, with that ancient, simple divine weapon in hand, where was any trace of a fool? He was truly a spirited great general. Cheers continued from the sidelines as the heroes clapped and called out approval.

Juan’er stared blankly at her companion. That weapon was so huge, yet A’Sha could swing it swiftly, spinning it into a disc. Having spent years with him, except during gambling, she had never seen him so joyful. Xiang Tianshou pointed at A’Sha and said gently, “Your foolish brother isn’t an ordinary person. His surname is Han, given name Yi, and he was once the court’s Yingzhou Regional Commander, later becoming one of Nucang Mountain’s Five Tiger Generals. When going to battle, he was always our vanguard. Do you think he looks like a great general?”

Though Juan’er was crying with tears like rain, she still nodded. Xiang Tianshou smiled, “Little sister, do you want him to wake up and become a great general again?” Juan’er shook her head and cried, “I don’t know… I don’t know…”

When this madman first came to Jiuhua Mountain, Yan Ting saw his filthy appearance and childish behavior and stayed far away, disdaining to associate with him. But this little orphan Juan’er had spiritual connection—seeing this person’s face, she immediately knew that this dignified-looking man was definitely no ordinary person. Initially she approached him out of curiosity about his superior martial arts and amusing appearance. Who knew that after half a year together, every time she gathered with A’Sha, she felt an indescribable affinity, gradually developing a feeling of unhappiness when not seeing him. Though young and not understanding romantic feelings between men and women, she knew that separating from this person would cause her heart pain and suffering. Unknowingly, emotional roots had grown deep.

Last autumn at the City God Temple in Changzhou, A’Sha had awakened once. That time really frightened her—that A’Sha was terrifyingly fierce, not only not recognizing her but speaking harshly. Even now she still remembered that frightening scene. If A’Sha awakened again now, she truly didn’t know if he would still recognize her as his sister. Thinking of this, Juan’er’s small hands gripped tightly, her face already pale white.

Suddenly hearing a sharp sound from the field, everyone looked quickly to see A’Sha looking up and roaring wildly. His clothes were completely torn, revealing the tattoo on his back—a fierce tiger descending the mountain hill, its expression menacing, immediately frightening Juan’er. Fear in her heart, she trembled and was about to lean toward Xiang Tianshou when she heard his mouth let out thunderous cheers. Hearing the great roar, Juan’er was frightened again and shrank back, not daring to move. She stole a glance at the field and saw people all around in high spirits, all shouting approval loudly. Xiang Tianshou’s face was full of joy as he touched Juan’er’s cheek and smiled, “The heroic warrior, iron-forged Xiao Lubu—our fierce tiger has finally come home.”

Hearing these words, Juan’er couldn’t help opening her mouth wide. She looked at Xiang Tianshou, then at the other people, and immediately understood.

Whether Master, A’Sha, or this whole group of strangers—they were all the same. They were all tigers. They weren’t ordinary people.

Keeping tigers caged at home makes tigers cry. Now A’Sha’s companions had come. As long as he left with these people, he would no longer be a dirty, laughed-at, cursed wild dog. Let him return majestically to the mountain forest, eating meat and hunting sheep with everyone—only then would the tiger be happy!

Juan’er stared blankly at the sky and actually began to smile bitterly.

In one night, everything was gone. Master had changed, senior sister had left, and even A’Sha would become a great general and abandon her to go. Only the sixteen-year-old little sprite could now sit alone on the ground, blankly watching the night sky’s rain threads.

Xiang Tianshou extended his sleeve to wipe Juan’er’s tears, saying, “Little girl, don’t cry. Come home with us. There are many fun things at the mountain stronghold, many brothers and sisters who will all take care of you… making you happy every day…”

As he spoke, Juan’er suddenly stood up and walked forward by herself. Xiang Tianshou was startled and chased after her, asking, “Little girl, where are you going?”

Juan’er lowered her head and said softly, “I want to go home.”

Xiang Tianshou said urgently, “Your master is here—his home is your home! Come with us quickly.”

Juan’er looked back at the Azure-Robed Scholar once and said quietly, “He’s not my master.”

Hearing these words, the Azure-Robed Scholar’s body immediately shuddered. Xiang Tianshou made a sound and reproached, “Once a teacher, always a father—how can you say such things?”

Juan’er ignored him. She stared blankly ahead and said softly, “Uncle Master, Uncle Master, do you know? Jiuhua Mountain has already disbanded, and Master doesn’t want us anymore… But Juan’er isn’t afraid. Juan’er will go home by herself. As long as Juan’er exists, Jiuhua Mountain hasn’t disbanded…”

When Zhang Zhiyue was alive, though enemies insulted him in every way, even unto death he never dishonored his sect. If he were here, would he allow Jiuhua Mountain to disband? Most people in the field knew this “Swift Sword’s” resolute character. Hearing Juan’er speak her uncle master’s name, all felt solemn in their hearts.

Seeing his disciple’s infatuated state, even though the Azure-Robed Scholar was deeply calculating with complete schemes and strategies, at this moment his heart felt as if cut by knives. Not wanting his brothers to see him lose composure, he immediately turned around and covered his mouth and nose, tears and mucus flowing freely.

Dream or illusion? In this moment of déjà vu, it seemed like reincarnation had arrived. Last autumn when A’Sha awakened and knelt crying, the Azure-Robed Scholar had touched the madman’s head and enlightened him. Who knew that a year later, Nucang’s divine fire would burn again, and the aftershocks would burn Jiuhua Mountain to ashes.

Life in this world is like a spring dream. The Azure-Robed Scholar recalled his vow when entering Jiuhua years ago. Now with the situation so dire, he was forced to return to the mountain and betray his promise. How could he face the founding master? In his tearful haze, he truly hoped someone would take a silver needle and let him sleep forever, never again having to face this endless sea of suffering…

Juan’er walked to the alley entrance. Before leaving, she looked back once, wanting to bid farewell to A’Sha, but A’Sha had already forgotten her presence beside him, only caring about brandishing his weapon, completely oblivious to his surroundings. Juan’er knew that after today’s separation, she didn’t know when they might meet again. With tears in her eyes, she reached out and said softly, “A’Sha, sister is leaving. You must take care of yourself, understand?”

Tiger roars continued from the field—how could A’Sha hear? He was only desperately playing with his lifelong companion. The weapon swept over and nearly struck Juan’er’s palm. Juan’er pulled her hand back. She gazed at A’Sha and spoke quietly, but seeing A’Sha remained unaware, Juan’er’s tears fell in two streams. Suddenly she bit her teeth, hardened her heart, and fled on the spot.

Xiao Lubu’s return to the mountain stronghold and reunion with Yan Er’niang should have been tremendously joyful news, but everyone in the field, seeing Juan’er’s infatuated state and thinking of Qin Zhonghai’s heartbreak, felt uncomfortable. Xiang Tianshou looked reluctant, Jie Tao was silent, and even Tao Qing turned his head away, unwilling to look at Juan’er’s expression. But Chang Xuehen was straightforward by nature. He deeply hated the Azure-Robed Scholar’s heartlessness and immediately jumped over, pointing and cursing, “Damn thief military advisor! Your disciple ran away—aren’t you going to chase her, you old bastard?”

The Azure-Robed Scholar was bound by sect rules and couldn’t advise his disciple to go up the mountain to become a bandit. Hearing these words, he was dejectedly speechless. Li Tieshan turned and instructed Jie Tao, “Brother Jie, this child is our military advisor’s disciple—we absolutely can’t let her fall into enemy hands. Please follow her and clearly observe where she settles. Report back shortly.”

Jie Tao agreed and immediately pursued on foot. Though Juan’er’s qinggong was good, it couldn’t compare to Jie Tao’s movement technique—he could definitely keep watch over her.

After an unknown amount of time, A’Sha finally completed his full halberd dance. He wiped the sweat from his head—seeming to have had enough fun—then turned around. Not knowing Juan’er had long since gone far, he still laughed heartily, “Sister Juan’er, wasn’t that fun? Look how amazing I am!”

He asked several times but heard no response from Juan’er. Looking around intently, he saw only silence and desolation everywhere. Apart from the sparse rain sounds, where was any trace of his sister?

A’Sha cried out in alarm, “Sister Juan’er, where are you?” In his panic, he shouted loudly. Seeing him clutch the Heaven-Piercing Painted Halberd and prepare to leap away to find Juan’er, wanting to have both big and small.

How could Li Tieshan let him escape again? Seeing him bewildered and off-guard, he immediately struck quick as lightning, grabbing A’Sha’s pulse point. A’Sha’s heart was agitated—he roared violently, his internal power surging, actually shaking off Li Tieshan’s five fingers, then turned and struck at his face with his right fist.

Seeing this punch’s fierce power, Li Tieshan dared not underestimate it. He quickly raised his palm to block. With a loud crash, the two had similar power levels and were each pushed back a step by the other’s force.

A’Sha looked at the pitch-black road and immediately screamed, “Where’s sister? Who hid sister away? Who?” While shouting, he raised his weapon and swung wildly. The “Heaven-Piercing Painted Halberd” carried raindrops as it killed out with nearly a thousand jin of force, forcing everyone to flee in panic. Seeing his mad state, Li Tieshan, as one of the Five Tigers, naturally had to step forward to resist. He raised his iron sword and roared, “Brother Han! Stop!”

With a thunderous sound, the iron sword slashed horizontally. A’Sha roared loudly as the painted halberd also chopped down heavily. In the tremendous crash, both men’s internal strength was contained in their heavy weapons, colliding head-on like two elephants charging at each other. Both felt severe pain in their tiger mouths and stuffiness in their chests, each stepping back with quite pale faces.

A’Sha roared once more and advanced with ultimate techniques, showing no mercy. Li Tieshan’s eyes also turned red with killing intent. With a wild howl, he used his “Three Killing Moves,” no longer showing any consideration.

At this time, the two great masters each fought with masculine force, heavy weapons clashing—victory and defeat entirely dependent on greater strength. This was most dangerous. A month ago, Qin Zhonghai had fought Li Tieshan once—one relying on the Fire Greedy Blade, one wielding the heavy iron sword. Only because Qin Zhonghai’s power was perfectly refined, slightly surpassing Li Tieshan, with proper attack and defense, he hadn’t let Li Tieshan suffer internal injuries. But now Xiao Lubu and Li Tieshan had similar power levels—one mad, one fierce. The two were evenly matched, chopping and smashing everything around them. The broken house, squeezed and crashed by their tall bodies, had long since shattered in bricks and panels. If this continued long, both great masters would collapse exhausted.

The scene was extremely dangerous. Tao Qing feared they might have accidents and quickly said, “Military Advisor Tang, please enter the field.” The Azure-Robed Scholar nodded slightly, “Hall Master Xiang, please use flying stones to strike his Shoulder Spirit and Phoenix Pool acupoints.”

Shoulder Spirit and Phoenix Pool—one at the shoulder blade, one at the back—were both vital points on the human body. Hearing this, Xiang Tianshou shouted decisively and shot flying stones directly at A’Sha. The Azure-Robed Scholar said solemnly again, “General Li, use the ‘Iron Bull Plowing Field’ move.” At this time the great halberd chopped down from above, but Li Tieshan, knowing the Right Phoenix’s ability well, didn’t dodge or evade. His iron sword instead fell to sweep the ground—amid flying sand and stones left and right, he was already sweeping toward A’Sha’s legs.

A’Sha made a hey sound. Seeing the stone flying toward Shoulder Spirit, he immediately swung his iron halberd diagonally, using the crescent blade to deflect one flying stone. The great halberd borrowed momentum to hang down and blocked Li Tieshan’s iron sword. Just then, the flying stone shot toward Phoenix Pool arrived before him. A’Sha exhaled and called out, planted the painted halberd on the ground, and his body shot straight up like pulling a green onion from dry earth, reaching over a zhang in height, immediately avoiding the flying stone.

Having barely escaped the killing move, who knew that behind the mantis stalking the cicada came the oriole? With a loud crash, his head actually struck a hard object. A’Sha only felt the world spinning and immediately fell down. Everyone in the field saw clearly—just now the Azure-Robed Scholar had anticipated the enemy’s moves, arriving first though starting later. He had already leaped above A’Sha, holding his long sword without removing its sheath, merely waiting like a stump for a rabbit in mid-air. A’Sha gathered his qi and leaped up, actually striking the sword body with his forehead. Under the great collision, he immediately crashed to the ground.

Li Tieshan and Xiang Tianshou were battlefield veterans. Seeing the Azure-Robed Scholar easily subdue the highly skilled Han Yi, everyone naturally admired him completely. Just now the Azure-Robed Scholar had Xiang Tianshou use flying stones and Li Tieshan sweep with his iron sword, intending only to force “Xiao Lubu” to leap and dodge. With the martial arts of the three great masters in the field completely under his control, he truly lived up to his reputation as a divinely calculating military advisor.

Taking advantage of A’Sha’s unconscious fall, the Azure-Robed Scholar immediately took out silver needles and inserted them several times at the back of his head and neck. Tao Qing and others were worried and came over to inquire. The Azure-Robed Scholar raised his finger to his lips, indicating they shouldn’t speak much, and said, “Let him sleep first. I’ll wake him shortly.” Not knowing the depth of the situation, everyone didn’t dare say much and patiently waited nearby.

After about half an hour, the Azure-Robed Scholar saw dawn approaching. Back then, Xiao Lubu had been struck on the forehead at precisely this hour. He crouched beside A’Sha, reached out to pat him gently, and said quietly, “Brother Han, the strong enemy has retreated—wake up quickly.” A’Sha heard the words and suddenly growled a few times. He opened his eyes and leaped up, looking up at the approaching dawn sky with an extremely vacant expression.

Seeing A’Sha rise, everyone surrounded him again. The Azure-Robed Scholar waved his hand to drive them away and instructed, “Guli Han, bring his weapon.” Guli Han agreed and dragged the Heaven-Piercing Painted Halberd with both hands to A’Sha.

A’Sha was breathing heavily and had been quite panicked. Having the Heaven-Piercing Painted Halberd in his hands, his expression became slightly more at ease. He touched his head and looked around, suddenly making a surprised sound. His very first words were, “Where’s the Grand Commander?”

Hearing these words, everyone was immediately overjoyed, “He’s awake!”

Han Yi opened his eyes in confusion and looked left and right. Li Tieshan was the first to rush over and call loudly, “Brother Han, do you still recognize me?” Hearing Li Tieshan’s voice, Han Yi quickly turned his head. Suddenly his whole body trembled as he embraced him and cried loudly, “Tieshan! You’ve come!” Li Tieshan was both joyful and sad. Stepping back a pace, he supported his longtime good brother with both hands and said tearfully, “You’re awake—you’ve finally awakened. It wasn’t in vain that I rushed all the way from the mountain stronghold to finally wake you up.”

The two looked at each other with four eyes. A’Sha suddenly was startled. He reached out to stroke Li Tieshan’s head continuously, his expression both panicked and confused. Li Tieshan didn’t understand and feared he might go mad again, quickly saying, “What’s wrong? Is there anything strange?”

Han Yi was both shocked and urgent, asking repeatedly, “Tieshan, what happened? Why is your hair completely white?” Li Tieshan made a surprised sound and was speechless with shock for a moment. Seeing he didn’t answer, Han Yi immediately turned his head and suddenly saw Xiang Tianshou, couldn’t help exclaiming, “Hall Master Xiang, you… where’s your hair? Weren’t you staying to guard the mountain stronghold? How did you become like this after just a few days?”

Hearing these words, everyone already understood. At this time, Han Yi had completely forgotten where he was—he was still living in that fierce battle beside Ghost Pavilion twenty years ago. Li Tieshan embraced him and choked out, “Brother, it’s been twenty years—wake up.” Han Yi looked uncomprehending and said bewilderedly, “Twenty years? What twenty years? Aren’t we at Ghost Pavilion?”

Li Tieshan shook his head and removed his armor, taking off the chest protecting mirror and saying quietly, “Good brother, see for yourself.”

Han Yi took the protecting mirror and looked at his own face. With dawn approaching, the mirror surface was like snow. The man in the mirror had frost-white temples and was already past his prime years. He was struck as if by lightning and finally understood Li Tieshan’s meaning. For a moment he stood speechless and said sadly, “Twenty… twenty years?”

Seeing Li Tieshan nod, everyone wept silently. Han Yi burst into loud tears and fell backward.

The heavy rain gradually eased, and the morning sunlight was brilliant. The candle tears in the inn had finally dried up and filled the candlestick.

Sunlight streamed through the window crack into the room, shining on Yan Er’niang’s snow-white powdered face. She rubbed her eyes and slowly rose. Seeing it was already morning time with leftover wine and bowls still on the table, but Qin Zhonghai hadn’t returned all night.

She was somewhat puzzled. Seeing herself still bare-legged, her face slightly red, she quickly dressed and immediately opened the door to go out.

Just as she opened the door, she saw someone sitting by the door waiting. Looking at his haggard face, he seemed not to have slept all night—it was “Golden Turtle” Tao Qing. Yan Er’niang was stunned and said, “What are you doing, crouching at the door all night?”

Tao Qing smiled bitterly. He stood up and said quietly, “Big Sister, I’ll take you to see someone.”

Seeing his mysterious manner with a hesitant appearance, Yan Er’niang immediately laughed, “Look at you being so mysterious—isn’t it just that Military Advisor Tang has come? Last night Zhonghai mentioned it to me early…” Yan Er’niang chattered on, but Tao Qing didn’t say much. He simply entered the guest room, pushed open the window shutters, and said quietly, “Big Sister, see for yourself.”

Seeing tears rolling in his eyes as if he had some suffering, Yan Er’niang felt puzzled and curious. She leaned over to look out the window.

The gentle morning light slanted onto the banyan tree in the courtyard. With cicadas chirping and green shadows clustered, a handsome man leaned against the tree. Looking at his sword-like eyebrows and thin lips, his profile gazing into the distance, his starry eyes turning sideways—he seemed deep in thought.

Yan Er’niang gasped cold air. In this shocking moment, her fragrant heart seemed to stop beating, and her eyes went completely blank. With a thud, her mind became dizzy and faint as she collapsed to the ground.

Seeing her mouth agape and eyes hazy as if she’d gone foolish, Tao Qing quickly came forward to help. Before his finger touched Yan Er’niang, he suddenly heard her scream piercingly and immediately leap out the window. Tao Qing was shocked and urgent but couldn’t catch her in time. In his haste, he looked out the window anxiously and saw Big Sister walking tremblingly toward the tree, her face confused as if wanting to see and touch this person to confirm whether he was truly alive.

The man heard footsteps behind him and the faint sound of sobbing. He turned around to see the beauty before him—her youth had faded, but the spirit in her brows that yielded to no man was no different from the red-faced girl of years past.

The two gazed at each other, both speechless. The lovers who had fallen in love at first sight, each having experienced great hardships, could now only silently observe each other.

Yan Er’niang’s tears were about to fall as she reached out to gently caress the man’s cheek, crying, “Is it you? Is it you?” The man nodded gently, grasped Yan Er’niang’s hand, and sighed, “Don’t ask about the past—white clouds have no end. Er’niang… these years have been hard on you.” He stepped forward and embraced Yan Er’niang.

In this life full of surprises, wonder hides everywhere, yet helplessness also permeates everywhere. After searching and seeking, persisting for a full twenty years, now that dreams had come true, this was the final answer.

Life is like duckweed, floating uncertainly. Sometimes even one doesn’t know where to go—how can one look ahead? At this moment, Yan Er’niang’s fragrant heart was desolate, not knowing what to do. She looked up at her husband who had long become strange, smelling the seemingly familiar scent. Past events like fleeting shadows were all hazy. Covering her face with both hands, she finally began to sob quietly.

The man held her waist, tightening his embrace, and said quietly, “Er’niang, you’ve suffered. When we return to the mountain stronghold, I’ll make it up to you properly.” Hearing the words “mountain stronghold,” Yan Er’niang suddenly awakened. She screamed and stepped back several paces. Seeing her expression like this, Xiao Lubu was greatly puzzled. Before he could speak, his wife had already fled running.

Tao Qing had been waiting in the inn all along. Suddenly seeing Yan Er’niang running back with her face covered, he quickly stepped forward and said quietly, “Big Sister, calm yourself first…” Yan Er’niang was both angry and sad, immediately slapping him and screaming, “Get out!”

Tao Qing knew her mind was agitated and she inevitably had some mad behavior. Also knowing he had kept her in the dark these days, which was quite inexcusable, he immediately dodged and avoided. He no longer tried to persuade her, simply walked out of the guest room and closed the door behind him.

Outside the window was peaceful and tranquil—last night’s wind and rain had long since stopped. But Yan Er’niang’s heart had been torn to pieces. She bit her lower lip and through tearful haze took out a wooden box from under the pillow. It was what Qin Zhonghai had personally given her last night.

Her hands trembled as she gently opened the box lid and took out the contents.

In an instant, Yan Er’niang collapsed on the bed and burst into loud tears.

In the wooden box was a painting of a woman carrying a big cat on her back, slowly climbing toward the mountain top. Looking at the big cat covered in wounds with a broken left leg, the meaning was self-evident. Beside the painting were two lines of words: “Sibling affection deep, never to be forgotten.”

The painting style was bold and the calligraphy crude, but the brushwork was quite vigorous—clearly Qin Zhonghai’s work.

Last night’s ceremony with incense and candles hadn’t been a marriage between husband and wife, but sworn brotherhood. After leaving the Huaiqing inn for him, through life and death at Zhumulangma, after half a year of mutual understanding and cherishing—in the end she received these eight characters.

Yan Er’niang held the painting in her arms and cried, “Zhonghai, answer me—is this… is this my life?”

“I return your bright pearl with tears falling—I regret not meeting you before marriage.” In this life full of surprises, let’s accept whatever comes…