The elders of the martial world spread legends about so-called “martial prodigies” – those born with a natural talent far superior to ordinary people for practicing martial arts. No matter what methods common folk employed or how much effort they invested, they could never reach the level of these prodigies.

The world was filled with masters as numerous as fish crossing a river, but the one universally recognized as a “martial prodigy” was Su Ying. This reputation existed because no one had ever seen him practice swordsmanship. Every time Su Ying appeared before others, he would always gaze up at the floating white clouds as if in a daze, yet when he made a move, it was invariably superior swordplay. Therefore, the world regarded him as a martial prodigy, believing he was born intelligent and could always achieve without effort.

What people most envied about these “martial prodigies” was precisely this “achieving without effort.” While others broke their heads with arduous practice, he could become an immortal just by passing gas. Waking from a dream to find oneself possessed of great strength made others both hate and envy him. However, whether this claim was true or false, it was all a misunderstanding as far as Su Ying was concerned.

Three hundred sixty-five days a year, twelve hours each day, Su Ying was constantly calculating. From dawn to dusk, he appeared to be dozing, sleeping, or doing nothing, but in reality, his mind was filled with flashing blades and sparks, continuously calculating enemy moves and enemy swords. Without such mental exertion, how could he find his opponent’s weaknesses? Therefore, Su Ying achieved nothing without effort, nor was he a martial prodigy. Anyone who calculated twelve hours a day, three hundred sixty-five days a year, continuously for ten years, could also become such a “martial prodigy” like him.

If Su Ying wasn’t a true martial prodigy, what about “Yu Danfeng”? Legend had it that this person was a rising star of Wudang who had mastered the “Pure Yang Technique” that had been lost for a hundred years. Such self-taught achievement that shook ancient and modern times surely qualified as a martial prodigy?

Yu Danfeng himself understood that his mastery of the “Pure Yang Technique” relied not on exceptional natural talent, but on the secret manual left behind by Qin Baxian. Therefore, he was definitely not a “martial prodigy.” Anyone could follow the book, copy the methods, and achieve his supreme internal power – what was so extraordinary about that?

In fact, not only did Yu Danfeng not qualify as a “martial prodigy,” even Qin Baxian didn’t. His ability to crack the “Pure Yang” mystery relied on his reading of countless books and his comprehensive knowledge of all Daoist canons, which enabled him to discover the secret method for practicing “Pure Yang.” Therefore, anyone who read ten hours a day for ten consecutive years without rest, day and night, could become the next “Qin Baxian.”

So was there no such thing as martial prodigies in the world? No, there were certainly martial prodigies in the world – just ask Wu Chongqing and you’d know.

When Wu Chongqing was young, he was very short and thin, constantly bullied by his classmates in school. So he secretly practiced the “Great Strength Vajra Finger,” planning to take revenge someday. Who would have thought that the result of his secret practice was that his fingers swelled up like grapes, earning him a severe scolding from his parents. Later, when his father came to counsel him personally, Chongqing finally understood something – the “Great Strength Vajra Finger” wasn’t something everyone could practice. Unless one was a “martial prodigy,” it was best not to touch it.

As the world’s greatest sect, Shaolin Temple had always possessed secret methods for selecting disciples. Regarding the “Great Strength Vajra Finger,” the initial practice was quite easy – one simply placed white rice in a trough, inserted fingers into the rice grains ten times daily, then applied medicinal ointment afterward. However, every midnight, the master would carefully examine the disciples’ fingers. At the first sign of redness or swelling, that student would be immediately expelled to prevent lifelong disability.

From Mount Song to Putian, Shaolin admitted thirty thousand new students annually, but those with the aptitude to pass the first test numbered only three hundred. By the second test, these three hundred no longer inserted fingers into rice grains but into yellow sand. The force required was far greater than with white rice, and finger damage was more severe. Of those three hundred disciples, only three could pass this stage.

From thirty thousand to three hundred, then from three hundred to select just “three” – though this was already one in ten thousand, it still couldn’t guarantee successful mastery of the “Great Strength Vajra Finger.” In the years that followed, they had to day after day, year after year, desperately thrust their fingers into iron sand. After ten years, if they still weren’t disabled, they could then compress gold into seals and perform handstands on their fingers, becoming one of the Vajra Dharma monks of Luohan Hall.

There was once a period when the “Great Strength Vajra Finger” was declared lost for ten consecutive years because all disciples were injured and none could endure. However, looking back five hundred years, who in Shaolin dared claim they had fully mastered the “Vajra Finger”? According to the secret methods of Dharma Academy, once the “Vajra Finger” reached its highest level, the fingers would become slender as jade scallions, capable of striking through air with energy that could split stone, called “Tathagata’s Flower Pinching.” It could contend with any divine technique in the world. Yet looking around Shaolin, whose fingers weren’t crooked and bent? They had long since become deformed.

“Little Red Face, let daddy see if you’re that one-in-ten-thousand ‘martial prodigy’?” Chongqing’s childhood nickname was “Little Red Face.” After hearing his father’s explanation, he inevitably turned into a pale little face, immediately fled, and never dared practice martial arts again.

What was meant to come couldn’t be avoided. After wasting four years, Little Red Face finally began practicing martial arts again. However, this time he knew he wasn’t a “martial prodigy” and could be injured at any time, so he thought of a method beforehand. He sought out experts from the Ministry of Justice to learn how they tortured prisoners’ fingers in daily practice without leaving permanent injuries. After obtaining the secret method, Little Red Face was overjoyed and immediately tried it on himself to see what would happen.

The first level of hell was finger crushing. Three months later, Little Red Face found that his fingers hadn’t broken but had grown strange calluses. Greatly encouraged, he continued tormenting himself with even more terrible methods.

Needle piercing, insect bites, fire roasting, ice freezing, soaking in poisonous wine – after trying every torture from hell one by one, in Wu Chongqing’s twentieth year, he crawled out from the eighteenth level of hell. With one punch he could shatter large round stones, and with two fingers he could easily crush hard walnut shells. This made him believe one thing – there truly was a “martial prodigy” in the world, and that was himself.

The Yangtze River’s later waves push the earlier ones forward. In the millennia to come, even someone as clever as Ning Bufan or as learned as Qin Baxian would someday be replaced by later generations. Only Wu Chongqing could not be replaced, because his talent was inimitable – it was a vow of blood and tears that made him grit his teeth and endure tears, thereby breaking through all the limits heaven had set for him and completing his “True Dragon Body.”

Wu Chongqing firmly believed his talent was unprecedented and would never be equaled. In the next thousand years, no second person in the world could practice martial arts like him. Now he was about to verify his aptitude once again, and the opportunity was right before his eyes.

As the third watch drums ended, most guests in Wanfu Tower had already departed. The fifth floor was even more deserted – apart from Lu Yun in the private room, only two wine guests remained by the window. On the west side sat a young gentleman whose eyes were as large as a cat’s. With his eyes wide open, they looked even more like a large mirror reflecting the scene of the eastern seat.

“Haha! Haha! Hahahaha!” Sitting opposite was a young man in black robes, holding up three fingers while laughing wildly. His manner was truly the height of arrogance.

“You… you…” Su Ying stared blankly at his opposite companion, saying in shock: “You… you want to practice the ‘Three Virtues Sword Manual’?”

“Hahahaha! Hahahaha!” Wu Chongqing laughed even more joyfully, revealing his gleaming white teeth: “What Wisdom Sword, Benevolence Sword – I don’t want any of that…” At this point his laughter ceased. He raised his head, his gaze like lightning, sweeping across the face of the “Three Virtues inheritor” before saying coldly: “I only want the ‘Courage Sword Slaying Tiangang’!”

Hearing that Wu Chongqing’s intention was the “Courage Sword,” Su Ying was naturally stunned. He opened his mouth wide, unable to speak.

Wisdom Sword subdues enemies, Benevolence Sword protects oneself, Courage Sword slays – this was the ultimate technique Ning Bufan relied on to defeat the “Sword God.” Among them, the “Courage Sword” technique was the legendary trump card. Though the martial world was vast, no one had yet witnessed it. Who would have known this person was such a madman, such a lunatic, that he actually wanted to covet the legendary ultimate technique?

In this moment of shock, Su Ying stared blankly at his opposite companion when suddenly he burst out laughing with a “puff” sound. “Hahahaha! Hahahaha!” On this deep night of the Lantern Festival, laughter once again rang out in Wanfu Tower. This time it was Su Ying’s turn to laugh. The more he laughed, the harder it became to suppress, as if he had witnessed the most absurd thing in the world. He laughed until tears seeped from his eyes, his voice became hoarse and strained, and he nearly collapsed to the ground.

Wu Chongqing said coldly: “What are you laughing at?” Su Ying wiped the tears from the corners of his eyes, gasping with laughter: “Nothing, I… I just think you’re quite adorable and couldn’t help but laugh.”

Wu Chongqing could be fearsome, terrifying, detestable, and hateful, but could not tolerate the word “adorable.” Hearing the mockery in the other’s words, his face darkened as he said coldly: “Master Su… Wu came here tonight having already risked life and death… I hope you won’t play around with jokes…” As he spoke, he glanced aside, his gaze falling on the stick of incense on the table.

It was now past midnight. By the window, fragrant smoke curled upward. That stick of incense had already burned more than half, leaving only a short stub. Lu Yun observed from afar and suddenly realized, thinking: “He’s calculating time.”

When Wu Chongqing first came up to Wanfu Tower, the first thing he did was slap this stick of incense onto the table, then ignite it with his sleeve sword. At the time, it seemed he was showing off his martial skills, but looking at it now, this incense was probably truly meant for measuring time. Recalling Wu Chongqing’s claim of “risking life and death,” both Lu Yun and Su Ying secretly felt alarm. From this perspective, when the incense finished burning in a while, something major might happen at Wanfu Tower.

“Master Su…” Silently, Wu Chongqing’s face darkened as he slightly clenched his fists: “Since this younger brother has already stated his purpose, I cannot return empty-handed tonight. I hope you will fulfill this desire.”

Wu Chongqing was about to commit robbery. Others might say “robbing is worse than stealing, stealing worse than cheating, cheating worse than swindling” – in short, “a gentleman uses his mouth, not his fists.” Wu Chongqing was exactly the opposite. This person never swindled or cheated, only robbed and killed. He was the type who believed “sitting and talking is inferior to rising and acting.” Naturally, after the other party refused, his fists would swing heavily until the person happily agreed.

In these times, tongues were inferior to fists. After having teeth knocked out and swallowing blood, even the reasonable couldn’t speak clearly. Su Ying knew he couldn’t defeat the other party, but he didn’t turn and flee either. He stared at Wu Chongqing and slowly picked up a bundle from beside his feet, threw it onto the table, then opened it.

On the table, two bowls of strong liquor burned with blue flames. In the bundle lay a scripture book, appearing thick, worn, and quite ancient. Both Wu Chongqing across from him and Lu Yun in the private room couldn’t help but tense up. Su Ying raised the scripture book, showing it to his opposite companion, and said quietly: “Three Virtues Sword.”

The book cover had three lines of small text: “Wisdom Sword Pacifies Eight Directions,” “Benevolence Sword Shakes with Resonant Sound,” “Courage Sword Slays Tiangang.” This unremarkable worn book was actually the world-famous “Three Virtues Sword Manual.” In those days, Ning Bufan claimed the title “World’s Greatest Master,” consecutively defeating the “Sword King” and “Sword God,” remaining undefeated until his retirement. All these brilliant legends came as gifts from this worn scripture book.

Seeing Ning Bufan’s lifetime of magnificent achievements right before their eyes, not only was Wu Chongqing’s mind swaying and spirit stirring, even Lu Yun’s breathing quickened slightly. The tavern workers stretched their necks even longer, all wanting to see what mysteries this tattered old book contained.

In the complete silence, Su Ying gently stroked the yellowed book cover: “Young Master Wu, this book came from the hand of Tianyin Daoist. Later, it exhausted the world’s wisdom, passed through ten generations of enlightenment before being transmitted to my master’s hands and finally achieving great completion. I imagine you know these past events.” Wu Chongqing nodded: “Yes, I know you obtained this book thirteen years ago and are the tenth-generation inheritor of ‘Three Virtues.'”

In the thirty-third year of Jingtai, Ning Bufan sealed his sword and retired, transmitting this book to a young man barely twenty years old. This event spread throughout the world and was known across all four seas. Lu Yun naturally knew this as well. Recalling the details of that mountain visit years ago and comparing them to tonight’s changed circumstances, Lu Yun gazed at Su Ying’s back and suddenly felt pity in his heart.

Time urged people to age. The genius youth of those days was now thirty years old. Su Ying silently flipped through the sword manual, saying softly: “Young Master Wu, Su is currently the sect leader of Mount Hua. This ‘Three Virtues Sword Manual’ has always been under my custody. If you want to borrow this sword manual tonight, shouldn’t you first ask whether I agree or not?”

Wu Chongqing said indifferently: “Hearing Master Su’s words, must we fight again?” Su Ying shook his head: “That’s not necessary. Your martial skills surpass mine. Su cannot find a method to restrain you.” Wu Chongqing laughed heartily: “How rare, how rare! Those who understand practical matters are heroes! Since Master Su is so reasonable, this younger brother thanks you in advance!” As he spoke, he leaned forward, staring at the sword manual on the table. With just a quick extension of his right hand, he could immediately snatch it.

Wu Chongqing’s speed was known to all, yet Su Ying didn’t increase his vigilance. He shook his head: “Young Master Wu, don’t be hasty. You want to borrow and study the ‘Three Virtues Sword Manual’ – Su won’t dissuade you with words nor will I intervene with force. However, as the leader of Mount Hua, before lending you this item, I must first ask you to agree to two conditions.”

Lu Yun in the private room was slightly startled, and Wu Chongqing outside also uttered an “Oh,” both not expecting the other party to be so magnanimous and generous, seemingly truly willing to lend the sword manual. Wu Chongqing smiled: “Very well. This younger brother has never kept his word in life, but seeing how generous you’re being, as long as Master Su’s conditions aren’t difficult to fulfill, Wu will certainly do his utmost.” Su Ying said: “What if the conditions are extremely difficult to fulfill?”

Wu Chongqing snorted and looked askance: “Then why should I bother with you?”

Wu Chongqing was a true scoundrel. These words sounded exactly like a bandit’s tone, extremely grating. Su Ying didn’t retort but simply nodded and said: “These two requests are actually not difficult. First, this sword manual can only be lent to you for three days. After three days, you must return it intact without any stains, damage, missing pages, or bent corners. Young Master Wu, I wonder if you can do this?”

Hearing this request was so easy, Wu Chongqing couldn’t help but be slightly surprised: “Aren’t you afraid I’ll make another copy?” Su Ying shrugged: “It doesn’t matter. If you can copy it, that’s your skill. Su won’t interfere.”

The more generous Su Ying’s words became, the more puzzled everyone felt. You must know that in the martial world, how many sects treasured their possessions like brooms, unwilling to show their martial secrets to others? Seeing Su Ying so generous, wasn’t he afraid that Mount Hua’s secret techniques would be leaked? Lu Yun secretly wondered, while Wu Chongqing chuckled: “So generous! But what’s Master Su’s second request? Do you want me to immediately commit suicide after reading the scripture?”

While mocking, he heard Su Ying say: “Young Master Wu, you needn’t judge a gentleman’s heart with a petty person’s mind. My Mount Hua’s ‘Three Virtues Sword’ has always been open and honest, never forbidding sect members and disciples from reading it. It’s just that in several hundred years, we’ve never heard of anyone wanting to copy it.”

Wu Chongqing smiled: “There’s a first time for everything. When the secret techniques leak out, don’t blame me.” Hearing the other party’s repeated provocations, Su Ying remained calm and peaceful. He shook his head: “What kind of ultimate technique could be stolen by outsiders? However, I must remind you – according to my Mount Hua’s sect rules, anyone wanting to borrow the sword manual must first show the elders one thing.”

Wu Chongqing placed both hands behind his head and smiled: “What thing?”

“Aptitude.” Su Ying said with an indifferent expression: “To practice the Three Virtues Sword, one must possess these two characters. Therefore, tonight I boldly wish to evaluate the level of your aptitude.” Wu Chongqing laughed: “Master Su, is this your second request?”

Su Ying said calmly: “Precisely.” With a swishing sound, Wu Chongqing’s two sleeve swords extended. He revealed his fierce tiger claws and smiled: “Come then! Do you want to test Wu’s left hand aptitude or right hand talent? Surname Wu will accompany you to the end.”

Wu Chongqing’s mouth spoke only of fighting and killing, and when he acted, it was only death or injury. Naturally, any talk of aptitude or talent was just a pool of blood in his eyes. Su Ying sighed and shook his head: “Young Master Wu misunderstands. What I want to examine is your natural talent, not to fight with you.”

Wu Chongqing knew Su Ying feared him and couldn’t help laughing heartily: “Then how do you plan to examine it? If we’re not going to fight, are we going to draw circles?”

“Correct.” After being tormented all night, Su Ying finally showed a smile and nodded: “I just want to draw circles.” He looked down at the two bowls of flaming wine on the table and smiled gently. Suddenly, his long sword left its sheath, the sword tip plunging into the hellish sea of fire and freely sweeping through the air. Boom! Dots of blue flame spun through the air, forming a large fire circle in mid-air that appeared perfectly round, like the moon.

Wu Chongqing said in amazement: “A circle?”

Su Ying returned his sword to its sheath and smiled: “That’s right, a circle. Young Master Wu, the Supreme Ultimate is circular, the sun and moon are circular, even rice bowls and wheels on the ground are all circular. Come! You need only draw a truly perfect circle, and I’ll immediately present this Three Virtues Sword Manual with both hands.”

Wu Chongqing raised both eyebrows: “Just like that?” Su Ying nodded calmly: “Just like that!”

With a great buzzing sound, Wu Chongqing’s sleeve sword flew out with momentum like rushing thunder. In an instant, wine sprayed through the air, forming a large circle in mid-air shaped like a full moon, resembling scattered heavenly flowers. All the workers witnessing this celestial spectacle couldn’t help but cry out in amazement, feeling this circle was full and perfectly round – even drawing with rulers and compasses might not achieve better results.

Everyone praised it greatly, but looking at Su Ying, he only lowered his head in silence, not even glancing at it once. Wu Chongqing looked askance at his opposite companion and said calmly: “Master Su, is this round enough?” Su Ying shook his head: “Far from it.” Wu Chongqing’s face darkened: “How can you tell?”

Su Ying supported his forehead with his hand and said quietly: “I’m afraid you wouldn’t understand if I told you, so I’d better not say.”

Wu Chongqing slammed the table and shouted sternly: “Speak!” The palm force sent candlesticks, dishes, wine bowls, and chopsticks all jumping up. The workers watching couldn’t help but jump in fright as well.

Su Ying sighed and said in a low voice: “Young Master Wu, no need to get angry. The circle you just drew isn’t actually a true circle. In my view, you can’t even reach seven divided by twenty-two, let alone one hundred thirteen divided by three hundred fifty-five…”

Wu Chongqing said coldly: “Speak clearly – what do you mean by one hundred thirteen?” Su Ying seemed somewhat weary as he gazed out the window and said softly: “One hundred thirteen divided by three hundred fifty-five yields the surplus number three zhang, one chi, four cun, one fen, five li, nine hao, two miao, seven hu… nine hao, two miao, six hu are the correct numbers between the surplus and deficit limits…” Wu Chongqing’s anger rose as if he had encountered a madman. The workers nearby were also completely confused, but only Lu Yun was startled, thinking: “This is the precise ratio.”

Lu Yun was learned in ancient and modern knowledge and knew that the world’s earliest precise ratio was recorded in the “Zhou Bi Suan Jing,” using seven divided by twenty-two for circles. No one surpassed this through three dynasties until a thousand years later when someone took a great step forward and found the circle diameter one hundred thirteen and circumference three hundred fifty-five. This was the “Zhui Shu” created by Zu Chongzhi of the Southern Dynasty, which was the source of Su Ying’s “one hundred thirteen divided by three hundred fifty-five.”

Wu Chongqing grew impatient. He turned to look at the incense stick and saw that the incense head had already burned away most of it, leaving only a short stub. He said coldly: “Master Su, stop playing with words. If you want to convince this younger brother, I advise you to bring out real skill.”

Su Ying nodded slightly: “Very well. Words without proof – let’s see the truth with swords. Let’s see whether your circle is rounder or mine is rounder?” As he spoke, he grasped his sword and held it horizontally before his chest. Wu Chongqing also smiled coldly and instantly revealed his sleeve swords. The two sword tips touched, each remaining motionless.

With a sharp cry, Wu Chongqing let out a clear whistle, then raised his arm in a horizontal sweep. His sleeve sword trembled and once again traced out a large circular arc. At the same time, Su Ying also swung his sword, the sword tip also tracing out a circle.

Both sides drew their circles. With a light “clang,” the blades collided and the two circles intersected, sparks immediately flying. Wu Chongqing’s sleeve sword shook under the force and was actually deflected, while Su Ying’s sword calmly completed its large circle, spiritually complete and energetically sufficient.

Wu Chongqing was shocked, never expecting the other party to have hidden such skill, actually able to deflect his own blade. His heart filled with disbelief, he said coldly: “Defeat… Elder brother, please be careful.” Drawing a deep breath, purple light flowed around his entire body and blue veins bulged on his wrists. The wine servers watching from afar were naturally secretly alarmed, knowing this person had gathered his full strength and this sword strike would be irresistibly sharp. In a direct collision, the young master’s long sword would surely break in mid-air.

Wu Chongqing channeled his energy with tremendous force, while Su Ying remained calm and composed, simply sitting motionless. Then with a “wuwa” strange roar, purple light burst from Wu Chongqing’s sword, transforming into a large circle that rushed forward.

Enveloped in purple light, Su Ying raised his long sword from the ground and sent out a circular arc. With a humming clear sound, the two swords met. This time, Wu Chongqing’s sleeve sword was not only deflected far away, but his body also swayed unsteadily, nearly falling from his chair. Greatly shocked, he quickly straightened his posture and said in amazement: “You… where did you get such great strength?”

“I didn’t use any force.” Su Ying returned his sword to its sheath and shook his head. Wu Chongqing muttered to himself, then suddenly exclaimed “Ah!” as realization dawned: “You… you borrowed my force?”

“Correct.” Su Ying raised his head and smiled: “Because I am rounder than you.”

Suddenly everyone understood. Even the wine servers who had never practiced martial arts grasped some of the principle. Wu Chongqing lost not because his strength was insufficient, but because his circle wasn’t round enough, so his entire body’s force was deflected and dissolved.

Wu Chongqing took a deep breath: “You’ve been absent-minded this past month because you were working on this thing?”

Su Ying sighed and slowly returned his sword to its sheath, nodding his head.

In recent months, Su Ying had buried himself in books day and night, but no one understood what he was doing. Everyone thought the “Three Virtues inheritor” had lost his mind. Even Qiong Fang was no exception. Yet no one knew he was seeking a brand new martial realm: “Supreme Perfect Circle.”

The reason four taels could move a thousand pounds was because of the “circle.” The reason wheels could bear heavy loads was also because of circles. The sun was circular, the Supreme Ultimate was circular – the rounder something was, the less force it received; the rounder something was, the better it could borrow force. If one could find a perfect circle unmatched in the world, not only would craftsmen’s skills advance greatly, but martial masters could also use this to develop mental techniques, thereby borrowing force to strike force and succeeding in everything.

Wu Chongqing said coldly: “From this it seems Master Su set this test with the intention of having Wu join you in drawing circles?”

Su Ying sighed: “You’re right. These past days, Su has thought day and night, hoping to draw a perfect circle unmatched in the world. If so, I might be able to find its square root.” Wu Chongqing frowned: “Square root? What do you mean by square root?”

Su Ying explained: “Square root means finding the square root – like a square of four gives twenty-five, the square root gives five…” Wu Chongqing grew impatient and waved his hand: “Enough! What does this have to do with drawing circles?” Su Ying smiled bitterly and touched his face: “Young Master Wu, still don’t understand? I want to square the circle.”

“Square the circle?” Wu Chongqing was slightly bewildered. The wine servers were also completely confused, but Lu Yun was greatly shocked: “He wants to square the circle? This… how can this be done?”

So-called “squaring the circle” meant taking a round plate and making a square cup of exactly the same size. The first difficulty was finding the square root of the “precise ratio.” For example, if the round plate was nine inches square, taking the square root would give three, and one could accordingly make a square cup of the same size. However, this was impossible because the “precise ratio” itself was an endless number that couldn’t even be divided completely, let alone taking its square root.

Since the publication of “Nine Chapters on the Mathematical Art,” “squaring the circle” had been recognized as the world’s greatest mathematical problem. Even Lu Yun was horrified by this, so how could Wu Chongqing understand? His heart full of impatience, he only looked at the incense stick on the table and said in a deep voice: “Master Su, all this talk about squares and circles – I’m too lazy to listen. Speak plainly! Why exactly do you want to draw circles? What does this have to do with the ‘Three Virtues Sword’?”

Su Ying smiled bitterly: “Young Master Wu, this is the ‘Benevolence Sword Shakes with Resonant Sound.'”

As the name of the “World’s Greatest Defensive Technique” was spoken, Wu Chongqing couldn’t help but exclaim, and Lu Yun also stood up. His thoughts flashed like lightning as he took several deep breaths, his heart suddenly becoming completely clear: “Yes! Squaring the circle, circling the square! This is Ning Bufan’s Benevolence Sword technique!”

Tonight wasn’t Lu Yun’s first time witnessing the “Benevolence Sword.” Ten years ago, when Ning Bufan fought his life-and-death battle with Zhuo Lingzhao, he had witnessed this technique “Benevolence Sword Shakes with Resonant Sound.” However, Lu Yun’s martial understanding was insufficient at that time. Though he saw the victory and defeat with his eyes, he couldn’t grasp the mysteries of the “Benevolence Sword.” Now, after ten years of solitary dwelling by the waterfall with the Dao pervading heaven and earth, hearing Su Ying’s words again, his heart was crystal clear.

Among Mount Hua’s “Three Virtues Sword,” the most calculating was the “Wisdom Sword Pacifies Eight Directions.” In those days, Ning Bufan had lightly and effortlessly broken all of the “Sword God’s” strange techniques, relying on the “Wisdom Sword’s” ability to anticipate enemy moves. This sword technique sought enemy weaknesses and specialized in attack without defense. Every move directly targeted the enemy’s vital points, so each of its techniques had to be “straight” – that thunderous, perfectly precise straight line from one’s sword tip to the enemy’s vital point was the “Wisdom Sword Pacifies Eight Directions.”

The “Wisdom Sword” attacked what the enemy must defend, so when striking, it also avoided crossing blades with the enemy to prevent being controlled. But the “Benevolence Sword” was different. “Benevolence” was a matter between two people – the character “ren” spoke of affairs between two people. When two people traveled together, they could distinguish high and low, could distinguish enemy from ally, but naturally could also make friends and unite hearts. Therefore, the “benevolent heart” was not an enemy’s heart but rather “extending oneself to others” and “uniting hearts with them.” Precisely because one must unite hearts with them, when the “Benevolence Sword” struck, it absolutely didn’t fear crossing blades with the enemy. On the contrary, each of its moves and forms had to tightly entangle with the enemy’s weapon. Therefore, the “Benevolence Sword’s” techniques absolutely couldn’t be straight lines – they had to be “circular.”

The circle was the world’s largest shape, covering extensively and encompassing everything. The circle was also heaven and earth’s weakest form, receiving deep force yet lifting heavy things as if they were light. Only this “most extensive and gentle” shape could embrace all things, unite with the enemy’s body, then unite with the enemy’s heart, ultimately dissolving all the enemy’s killing intent and reaching the state of transforming enemies into friends, hoping for “the benevolent having no enemies.”

The benevolent having no enemies didn’t mean killing all enemies, but rather having no enemies in one’s heart from the beginning. No wonder this sword technique was named with the character “benevolence” – its mental technique was indeed completely opposite to the attack-specialized “Wisdom Sword.” It fundamentally didn’t want to defeat strong enemies; from the heart it made no distinction between enemy and ally, only hoping to share joy and tears with the enemy. Only such a mindset was worthy of being called the “World’s Greatest Defensive Technique” without shame.

Thinking of the “Sword of the Benevolent,” Lu Yun was entranced, contemplating Ning Bufan’s martial mysteries while confirming his own insights gained by the waterfall. His heart was truly joyful and excited beyond measure. However, Wu Chongqing had no interest in such learning. He said coldly: “Hearing Master Su speak with flying spittle, dare I ask if you’ve already mastered the Benevolence Sword?”

Su Ying’s expression was dejected as he sighed: “If I had mastered the Benevolence Sword, would I still allow you to be so arrogant here?” Wu Chongqing laughed heartily, then suddenly his eyes widened in fury as he shouted: “Well said!” As his words ended, his left hand reached forward to seize the “Three Virtues Sword Manual” while his right sleeve sword flashed like thunder and lightning in the technique “Alone Splitting Mount Hua,” striking toward Su Ying’s head.

Wu Chongqing was no longer drawing circles. Having learned from his previous loss, this sword strike was a direct downward chop – precisely the “Fist-within-Sword” personally taught by Wu Dingyuan. Su Ying knew the other party had torn off the mask and was about to openly rob the sword manual. He immediately drew his sword, the sword light spinning like a disk, protecting his head and face – precisely Ning Bufan’s ultimate technique: “Benevolence Sword Shakes with Resonant Sound.”

Wu Dingyuan versus Ning Bufan – the inheritors of two generations of “World’s Greatest” had directly engaged. Wu Chongqing had trained his sinews and bones through bitter practice, inheriting his father’s teachings. When he fought, he only cared about three things: “fast enough,” “ruthless enough,” and “heavy enough.” With such domineering skills, he shouldn’t have learned to draw circles and take roundabout routes. This technique “Alone Splitting Mount Hua” was magnificent in momentum, displaying masculine energy to the fullest. But could the Three Virtues inheritor’s “Benevolence Sword” dissolve how much of it?

With a tremendous crash, the two swords met. Wu Chongqing’s body swayed and his sleeve sword was deflected by the force. Looking at Su Ying, his long sword had become a large circular disk, spinning uncertainly in mid-air, flying up to the roof beams before falling down and stabbing into the table. As for the right hand holding the sword, it trembled slightly, now empty.

Defeated. After more than a month, having drawn countless circles, the Three Virtues inheritor’s “Benevolence Sword” was still all show with no substance, making no progress whatsoever.

“Defeated, elder brother!” Wu Chongqing looked up and laughed wildly: “Go home and draw a few more circles! Let this younger brother keep this ‘Three Virtues Sword Manual’ safe for you.” He reached out to take the sword manual into his hands when suddenly there was a “slap” – a large black-haired hand patted his shoulder as someone said coldly: “Sit down.”

The fourth guest in the tavern had arrived. Lu Yun focused his gaze and saw a burly man like a black bear had appeared in the shop. He chuckled coldly with his hand on Wu Chongqing’s shoulder. Looking at that face with horizontal brows and vertical eyes, with a large saber bound at his waist – who else could it be but the precious son of “Shandong’s Old Divine Saber,” Song Tongming?

This Song Tongming was Lu Yun’s fellow countryman. Though they hadn’t often associated in the past, they had considerable fellowship due to both being from Shandong, so he recognized him at first glance. Seeing his face full of sinister smiles, keeping his hand on Wu Chongqing’s shoulder while speaking coldly: “We’ve worn out iron shoes searching everywhere, yet found you without effort… Black Dog King, we’ve been looking for you all night, never thinking you were hiding here biting people!”

Wu Chongqing sat silently, letting the other rest his hand on his shoulder without speaking. This Song Tongming was very bad – while whispering threats in Wu Chongqing’s ear, he picked up someone’s wine bowl planning to drink for free, not forgetting to grin at Su Ying: “Brother Su, don’t be afraid! This Black Dog King’s true face has already been exposed… I tell you, he’s the black one who broke into the Imperial Medical Academy…” The word “black” had just emerged when the bowl reached his lips. His lips barely touched the wine when he cried “Aya!” in pain and knocked over the wine bowl.

The Black Dog King’s wine wasn’t meant for people to drink. Blue flames danced on top, looking like hellish fire. Song Tongming rashly tried to taste it and inevitably suffered greatly. Just as the wine bowl was about to hit the ground, suddenly there was a “chi” sound as a palm appeared in front, intercepting the bowl in mid-air.

The fifth guest in the tavern had arrived – a Mongolian giant.

The fearless are invincible. The Mongolian barbarian picked up the wine bowl and gulped it down with great mouthfuls.

This bowl of wine wasn’t ordinary strong liquor but demon flame liquor. Anyone who could drink it down must be a demon or ghost. However, this person did have some ability – with raging fire pouring down his throat, he still seemed to enjoy drinking it, licking his lips as if the sea of flames was refreshingly cool.

“Mm.” After the Mongolian finished drinking, both his mouth and nostrils spouted fire, looking like a dragon king breathing fire, ferociously terrifying. He looked askance at Wu Chongqing and grinned, slowly picking up another bowl of wine and pouring it over Wu Chongqing’s head.

Splash… Raging fire poured down from above, but Wu Chongqing only crossed his arms over his chest, letting the flames pour over his entire body. Clearly he wasn’t unable to dodge but didn’t want to dodge – he wanted to compete with Zhe’er Dan in “courage.”

The martial world was just like this – heroes not only compared martial skills but also compared courage and prestige. Seeing Wu Chongqing squint and remain unfazed, Zhe’er Dan suddenly roared and struck down with a fist toward Wu Chongqing’s back. This fist carried black shadows, causing the candle flames in the shop to shake violently – precisely his famous ultimate technique: “Great Black Heaven Fist.”

With a whoosh, Wu Chongqing leaned back and flipped through the air, his body spinning in mid-air like a top. The fire on his entire body was actually extinguished by the wind force. Zhe’er Dan showed no mercy and immediately struck another fist. This time Wu Chongqing didn’t sit and wait for death – he changed position in mid-air, head down and feet up, not only avoiding Zhe’er Dan’s heavy fist but also returning a kick, reversing from defense to offense within one move.

Seeing Chongqing’s skills, Lu Yun’s heart immediately tensed as he thought: “True Dragon Body.”

Both Qin Baxian and Wu Dingyuan possessed True Dragon Bodies. In the world, only the “Tianshan inheritors'” unique martial art could lock the meridians and burst out divine force in advance when old strength was nearly exhausted and new strength not yet born. Who knew by what method Wu Chongqing had trained so bitterly to obtain his father’s divine transmission.

Wu Chongqing’s instantaneous mid-air flip and technique change was incredibly fast and completely unexpected. Poor Zhe’er Dan’s guard was open and he was about to have his nose bridge kicked and broken. Just as victory and defeat were about to be decided, Zhe’er Dan roared and his body flipped in mid-air, his left palm pressing against the ground as he also faced the enemy in an inverted stance.

Zhe’er Dan had come prepared and learned accordingly. After his trip to Guizhou, he had also figured out a method to resist his opponent.

With a great bang, both men delivered heavy kicks, sole striking sole in a clash of tremendous force, causing both large men to flip backward simultaneously. As soon as their feet touched the ground, fearing the other would launch a sneak attack, they stepped out in horse stances and threw another punch in unison.

Another tremendous sound erupted as the two great masters’ fist strength canceled each other out, both simultaneously retreating three steps. As soon as their footsteps stabilized, there were two sharp “crack” sounds – one shook his garments with fist force, the other lifted his foot and stamped, both resuming fighting stances.

In the blink of an eye, the two were evenly matched – fist met fist, leg fought leg, fighting with perfect coordination. Though they had clearly not rehearsed beforehand, their movements were extraordinarily beautiful.

“Excellent!” Applause rang out in the shop. Lu Yun quickly looked toward the stairs and saw two more people running up – one was “Hebei’s Zhu Iron Spear” Zhu Kang, the other was an old name in the martial world, formally Chi Chuanzi of the “Dian Cang Seven Heroes.” Seeing that the original crew from the Guizhou expedition was nearly assembled, Lu Yun couldn’t help but smile slightly, thinking: “This is good – little sister Qiong Fang has found help for her fiancé.”

All these people were familiar faces. Zhe’er Dan, Zhu Kang, Song Tongming and others had all followed Qiong Fang south to Guizhou and had also been to White Water Great Falls. As for Chi Chuanzi, he was also an old name. When Lu Yun served as prefect of Changzhou, he had met this person at Ouyang Nan’s residence. Though they couldn’t be called close friends, they at least had the friendship of nodding acquaintance and sharing drinks.

With all the masters assembled, seeing Wu Chongqing’s youthful arrogance had offended so many martial colleagues, he was now surrounded by danger. Not only would seizing the “Three Virtues Sword Manual” be difficult, even leaving this place unharmed would be extremely challenging.

Chi Chuanzi, relying on his age and seniority, seeing the situation was very favorable, swaggered over with a cold smile: “Young Master Wu, the one who secretly kicked this old Daoist in the Imperial Medical Academy was you, wasn’t it! As for ambushing Zhe’er Dan, injuring Young Hero Su, and forcing Song Tongming to kneel and beg for mercy, that was probably also you…” Hearing these words, Lu Yun couldn’t help but cry out softly, finally understanding what Song Tongming’s earlier “black” character referred to – it pointed to the “black-clothed person” who broke into the Imperial Medical Academy.

Lu Yun had also heard Qiong Fang mention the Imperial Medical Academy incident. She said that in the twelfth month, a black-clothed master broke into the Imperial Medical Academy, consecutively defeating Zhe’er Dan and Su Ying, knocking down fifty-eight masters in one breath. Could this black-clothed strange guest be Chongqing?

Lu Yun was shocked and uncertain. Su Ying remained completely silent as if he had long known about this matter. Song Tongming was rubbing his fists together, thinking about how to cook the Black Dog, when he suddenly heard the seven words “Song Tongming knelt and begged for mercy” and couldn’t help but cry out in shock: “Chi Chuan old Daoist, who knelt and begged for mercy? Don’t add fuel to the fire and spew blood here!”

Chi Chuanzi’s face reddened, not expecting his smooth talk to offend someone. He quickly said: “Right, Young Master Wu, though that day you made yourself hateful and to this day can’t even find a wife, don’t you feel your conscience troubled by bullying a poor person like this?”

“Bullshit! Bullshit!” Zhu Kang laughed so hard he nearly fell over, while Song Tongming grew angrier the more he listened. He roughly pushed Chi Chuanzi aside and stepped forward shouting: “Wu Chongqing! A man takes responsibility for his actions. Since you dared cause havoc at the Imperial Medical Academy that day, don’t blame us for coming after you tonight. Speak! How do you plan to account for this…” His words were still in his mouth when suddenly a whistling sound came from afar: “What master is here! Why not show yourself for a meeting?”

This person’s internal power was very pure. Though his voice came from afar, it shook the window curtains and roof tiles with faint sounds. Everyone in Wanfu Tower, from Lu Yun and Su Ying above to Chi Chuanzi and Zhu Kang below, all exclaimed “Eh!” not knowing who was making this long whistle.

Song Tongming said blankly: “Who is it? Making ghostly howls in the middle of the night…” He stuck his head out the window and saw the street was quiet and peaceful, with no pedestrians in sight and even the vendors had packed up. After looking for a long while without understanding, he could only turn back and continue cursing: “Black Dog King! How do you plan to account for this scene?”

Wu Chongqing didn’t speak, only lowered his head to look at the ground as if deep in thought. Zhu Kang also stepped forward to persuade: “Young Master Wu, worldly matters can’t overcome reason. Don’t think that having a father protecting you means you can act recklessly. Consider your honorable father’s official position – at most he’s only the Faithful and Loyal Mighty Marquis Who Follows Heaven’s Fortune and Promotes Honesty and Martial Virtue, additionally holding the Great Military Supervisor of the Five Armies, commanding seven hundred thousand Zhengtong troops…”

Zhu Kang chattered on, remembering Wu Dingyuan’s official titles by heart. Thinking of Wu Dingyuan’s power, everyone’s faces grew increasingly ugly. Song Tongming was flustered and could only quickly cover Zhu Kang’s mouth, cursing: “Bastard, say less!”

To beat a dog, one must consider its master. Wu Dingyuan was the Grand Commander’s dog, naturally like Erlang Shen’s Howling Celestial Dog – seeing anyone, biting anyone, invulnerable to weapons. If everyone killed or injured Wu Chongqing, once the Black Dog King’s father was provoked, the matter would definitely not end well.

Everyone was disheartened, not knowing what to do, when suddenly Zhe’er Dan stepped forward. He picked up a wine jar from the table and spilled wine on the ground, then picked up a candlestick and threw it down.

With a boom, a great ring of fire ignited on the ground, looking like a door frame. Zhe’er Dan entered the flames, pointed at Chongqing with his finger, slowly rotated his fingertip, then made a slashing gesture across his own throat.

The reason Zhe’er Dan could expose Chongqing’s identity was actually because of this gesture. That day in the “Kui Star Battles Five Beauties” competition, what should have been fair competition between Mongols and Han was disrupted by a black-clothed youth who secretly intervened, repeatedly helping Juan’er cheat. Seeing this, Zhe’er Dan was furious and used this gesture to provoke. Later, in the fierce battle at the Imperial Medical Academy, the black-clothed person actually returned this same gesture. Therefore, Zhe’er Dan had long suspected Chongqing, but suspicious of this person’s prominent family background and lacking evidence, he had Qiong Fang intervene. Who knew the Guizhou expedition yielded nothing, forcing him to come out himself.

Zhe’er Dan entered the fire circle with his hands on his hips, back to Chongqing. His meaning was very clear – what Grand Commander, what Zhengtong Army, he didn’t care. Tonight’s matter would be decided by martial force. If anyone was killed or injured, no compensation would be paid. Even if Wu Dingyuan came looking, he would just flee beyond the frontier and disappear into the northern desert. No matter how powerful Wu Dingyuan was, what could he do?

With Zhe’er Dan’s bold provocation, everyone was naturally greatly encouraged and surrounded them again. Wu Chongqing was caught between enemies – the “Northern Desert Grandmaster” in front, the “Divine Saber Young Master” behind. As for Chi Chuanzi and Zhu Kang, though they lacked the ability to accomplish great things, they still had the skill to add a few kicks. Looking at Su Ying, he remained sitting motionless. If he were to join hands with Zhe’er Dan, no matter how high Wu Chongqing’s martial arts, he would find it difficult to escape.

Surrounded on all sides, Wu Chongqing showed no intention of fleeing. He quietly looked at the incense stick on the table and suddenly said: “Extinguished.”

Hearing these inexplicable two words, Song Tongming couldn’t help but be startled: “Extinguished? What’s extinguished? Did your butt go out?” This nonsensical statement even he couldn’t understand. Just as he was about to say more, Zhu Kang had already grabbed his sleeve and whispered: “He said that incense stick went out.”

Song Tongming turned to look and indeed saw a stick of incense inserted on the table had long since burned to ash. So the “extinguished” referred to this thing going out. Song Tongming spat and shouted: “Stinking brat, the incense went out but the fighting spirit in my heart hasn’t dimmed one bit! I tell you, if you think you can play crazy and waste time, it’s not that easy…”

“I advise you all…” Wu Chongqing said quietly: “Flee quickly. If you’re late, it’ll be too late.”

At these words, Song Tongming first froze, then opened his mouth wide and burst into wild laughter. The others also looked at each other in amazement – Wu Chongqing was isolated and helpless, trapped in such heavy encirclement, yet he was still telling others to flee? Amid the great laughter, Lu Yun suddenly opened his eyes wide and quickly raised his head to look up at the roof beams.

Song Tongming was laughing heartily and about to spout more nonsense when suddenly there was a “thud” from the roof tiles above, as if a small bird had landed. Now even Zhe’er Dan heard it. In a moment, Su Ying, Zhu Kang, Chi Chuanzi, and even Song Tongming himself all exclaimed “Eh!” and looked up blankly at the roof.

Everyone inside was a master – even Zhu Kang came from a famous family with considerable internal power. They all heard the strange sound from the roof. Chi Chuanzi frowned: “What’s going on? Is it snowing?” As if answering his question, suddenly the roof tiles began thudding repeatedly, as if a large group of rats were running overhead. The sound was ambiguous and unclear.

Amid the shock and suspicion, suddenly Chongqing sighed: “They’ve come.”

“Come?” Chi Chuanzi exclaimed and asked: “What’s come?” Just as he was puzzled, suddenly a shrill scream rang out: “Help! Monsters are coming!”

Everyone was completely bewildered and all stood up. Suddenly there was a tremendous “bang” from outside the window. Below Wanfu Tower there were screams and cries, followed by the sound of tables and chairs overturning as a large group of workers fled in panic. Everyone looked at each other, not knowing what to do, when the crying and shouting from downstairs grew closer. A flurry of rapid footsteps brought a group of wine servers up the stairs, crying: “Monsters are coming! Monsters are coming! Everyone hide quickly!”

Chi Chuanzi looked shocked: “What monsters?” He pushed open the window to look outside when suddenly there was a terrible “Ah!” scream. He fell backward and tumbled head over heels. An arrow feather had embedded in the wall, its tail still trembling.

Seeing there was actually an ambush outside Wanfu Tower, the masters inside were in an uproar. Song Tongming rushed to the window in fury: “Who is it?” His words were still in his ears when whooshing sounds came continuously – countless arrows shot from the darkness. Su Ying, quick-eyed and nimble-handed, quickly pulled him down. After several light “thud” sounds, a neat row of arrow feathers had embedded in the windowsill.

Bang… bang… Sounds came from downstairs again. Something unknown had arrived, seeming like a great elephant bursting into Wanfu Tower, each step thundering. Outside the window, a large group of archers lay in ambush, not letting anyone leave. Seeing Wanfu Tower completely surrounded, the masters were variously shocked, panicked, prostrate on the ground, or shielding themselves with raised palms. Finally, Wu Chongqing reacted fastest – his palm wind swept out to extinguish the candle flames first, then he pulled down the bamboo curtains by the window to conceal the interior and prevent another sneak arrow attack.

Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang, bang… The elephant’s footsteps suddenly quickened, shaking everyone’s hearts with terror. In an instant, the sound had reached the second floor. With a tremendous “bang,” then silence.

The dead silence all around made people even more afraid. Zhu Kang swallowed and saw more than ten wine servers huddled together with miserable faces. He quickly pulled one over and whispered: “Shopkeeper, do you know who came from outside?”

“Monsters, monsters…” All the wine servers trembled, repeating just these two words over and over. The masters inside looked at each other with very ugly expressions. Seeing Wu Chongqing still sitting motionless, Song Tongming quickly grabbed his collar and whispered: “Stinking brat, who are the people outside? Are they your helpers?” Wu Chongqing said slowly: “Don’t worry. I’ve always been a loner and never had helpers.”

Song Tongming cursed: “Bullshit! Then why would someone ambush us?” Wu Chongqing said silently: “This is the last time I’ll advise you to flee quickly. While ‘they’ haven’t come yet, you still have a chance to escape.” Zhu Kang exclaimed: “They? Who are ‘they’?”

Wu Chongqing didn’t answer. He silently rolled up his sleeves to reveal his two sleeve swords, opened the clasps and removed them. Then he reached into his robes and pulled out several plum blossom darts, additionally drawing two daggers from his boots. Finally, he removed an iron chain from his waist. This person was actually covered in deadly weapons. Even stranger, at this moment he was removing them one by one, not knowing what he planned to do.

Song Tongming exclaimed: “What are you doing? Are you surrendering to me?” Just as he was about to ask more, Zhu Kang grabbed his sleeve and whispered: “Brother Tongming, I think the situation really isn’t right. We should avoid it for now.”

“Avoid my ass!” Song Tongming flew into a rage and roared: “We have so many masters here – what should we avoid?”

This wasn’t wrong at all. Though the current scene was somewhat strange, Wanfu Tower was full of masters – Zhe’er Dan from the northern desert, Song Tongming from Shandong, plus Su Ying with his superb skills. The assembled heavenly soldiers and generals could calmly counterattack even if great enemies appeared – what was there to avoid? With this thought, everyone’s spirits lifted. Zhu Kang also raised his red-tasseled spear and shouted approval, though his feet kept moving closer to Zhe’er Dan, apparently seeking a patron.

In the complete silence, everyone was speculating about the situation outside. Wu Chongqing himself remained wordless, but they saw him remove his black outer robe, revealing his muscular upper body. Everyone who saw his physique couldn’t help but gasp again – this person was truly imposing, with iron shoulders and bronze waist, his arms covered with blue veins like coiling dragons around temple pillars. Clearly this person had really put in vicious effort to achieve such trained sinews and bones.

Just as they were watching, suddenly Chongqing pulled out a cloth pouch from his clothing pocket and poured out a large handful of silver needles. Lu Yun focused his gaze and couldn’t help but feel alarmed – the needles in the pouch were about an inch long with a faint blue glow. Weren’t these the very needles used by the “White Flower Fairy” in the past? Everyone secretly wondered and speculated whether he had some other trick, when they saw Chongqing take up the needles and thrust them hard into his own arms.

Lu Yun was shocked and nearly cried out. Hu Mei’er’s silver needles were extremely venomous – in the past, martial masters who were struck by even one would desperately seek an antidote to avoid death. But Chongqing treated it as a joke. He thrust needle after needle, discarding each after use. After finishing his left arm, he switched to his right arm. As if not satisfied, he thrust both hands full of needle holes. In an instant, the poison circulated upward and had already reached his elbows.

Everyone’s scalps tingled as they watched, yet Wu Chongqing’s face remained completely normal. They saw him turn around and address Su Ying: “Master Su, do you consider me a friend?”

Wu Chongqing had always been strange, and this question was equally inexplicable, causing Su Ying to be slightly startled: “You… do you have something to ask of me?”

Wu Chongqing said gently: “I want Master Su to watch over me.”

Su Ying was bewildered and asked: “Watch over you?”

Wu Chongqing nodded. Under everyone’s gaze, he bent down and prostrated himself on the ground, then pushed up with both hands and actually stood inverted. Everyone was puzzled and still guessing his intention when they saw Chongqing take a deep breath and raise two thumbs, actually supporting his body several inches higher.

Seeing Wu Chongqing close his eyes as if practicing Shaolin Temple’s “One Finger Meditation,” everyone was dumbfounded. Zhu Kang said in amazement: “What’s he doing? Is he circulating energy to expel poison?”

Song Tongming laughed dryly: “How would I know?” Just as he was speaking, suddenly Zhe’er Dan muttered a few words in his native language, seemingly examining Chongqing’s arms. Everyone felt curious and followed to look.

Suddenly there were exclamations of “Eh!” from here and “Ai!” from there. On Wu Chongqing’s arm was a brand mark – an eagle with spread wings burned right into Chongqing’s dark shoulder, like a livestock brand.

Zhu Kang swallowed and wondered: “What kind of mark is this?”

Song Tongming shook his head blankly, completely confused, and looked toward Chi Chuanzi. How could the old Daoist explain this? In his bewilderment, he looked toward Zhe’er Dan.

Everyone was shocked and puzzled, no one knowing the origin of this brand. Only Lu Yun opened his mouth wide, unable to make a sound.

This wasn’t Lu Yun’s first encounter with this brand. In Yangzhou, in Beijing, even on Hu Mei’er’s right arm, Lu Yun had seen identical marks. For a moment, Lu Yun clenched his fists with sweating palms. Slowly, that brand before his eyes transformed into a jade imperial seal, taking him across thousands of mountains and rivers. Ten years of exile and hardship all leaped back before his eyes.

The night before leaving the capital ten years ago, the last person to see him off was little Chongqing before him. He had given Uncle Lu a jade seal, thereby banishing Uncle Lu to the ends of the earth. In those turbulent years, Liu Angtian fell, the Jingtai Dynasty collapsed, the Zhengtong Dynasty was established, even Nu Cang was besieged and he himself fell into the waterfall – everything familiar was destroyed. The source of that earthshaking chaos lay in that jade seal. That night, ten-year-old little Chongqing had been death’s messenger.

After many years, Lu Yun still didn’t understand how that jade seal had come into Chongqing’s hands. He said the seal was given to him by Yan Ting, but over ten years ago, Yan Ting herself was just an innocent little girl. Where had she found this imperial jade seal? Why did she have Chongqing deliver it? Didn’t she know this seal could kill people?

In the complete silence, suddenly there was a tremendous “bang” that interrupted Lu Yun’s thoughts. The wine servers jumped in fright and cried: “They’re coming! The monsters are coming again! Hide quickly, hide quickly!”

The wine servers cried and fled, searching everywhere for hiding places. Seeing a private room in the corner, they all crowded in. After closing the door, they were shocked to see a man already sitting in the private room, wearing a large felt hat and looking sinister and strange. The wine servers cried out in alarm and wanted to flee the private room again. Lu Yun, fearing they would make noise, quickly removed his hat, took out theater tickets, and pointed to the wine and food on the table to show he was a theater-goer.

Seeing this person drinking and eating, presumably not eating human flesh, the wine servers felt slightly reassured. Just as they were about to speak, they heard “bang, bang” sounds again. The footsteps in the stairway grew even louder. The wine servers were scared out of their wits and immediately dove under tables, holding their heads and trembling.

Seeing their extreme fear, Lu Yun also became suspicious. He pressed his ear to the wall and heard multiple footsteps in the stairway – apparently not just one person coming, but many masters arriving. Lu Yun pondered slightly, guessing the identities of the arrivals, when suddenly he noticed two lines of text on his theater ticket: “Noodle Seller Encounters Old Friend’s Son, Grand Tutor Yang’s Plan Surrounds Wanfu Tower.”

Lu Yun’s heart shook. He finally understood the meaning of these two lines – someone had prophetically predicted tonight’s events. It seemed someone urgently wanted to tell him things… As long as he watched the entire play, the various changes of the past ten years would have answers tonight.

Lu Yun in the private room took a deep breath and calmed down to await the enemies’ appearance. Outside the private room, everyone was discussing when suddenly there was another tremendous “boom.” The floorboards shook faintly. In the shock, the heavy sounds gradually faded, but light footsteps came from the stairway, as if a cat was quietly coming up.

Chi Chuanzi said in amazement: “What the hell is coming? Who among you go take a look?”

Zhu Kang shook his hands in alarm, and Song Tongming also pointed toward the stairway entrance, apparently wanting the Daoist priest to investigate personally.

Chi Chuanzi spat and cursed: “Useless things! You two claim to be from the Fuyuan Four Families yet have no courage at all! Let this old Daoist go see.” Hearing this, everyone was both shocked and admiring. Even Zhe’er Dan showed solemn respect.

Chi Chuanzi snorted – he had been a minor character all his life, and now having a rare chance to play the hero, he swaggered to the stairway entrance, gathered his lifetime’s courage, and carefully called out: “Who’s there?”

The stairway was completely quiet with no response. Chi Chuanzi said blankly: “No sound again.” He cleared his throat and called softly: “Is anyone down there? If you don’t speak up, don’t blame this old Daoist for cursing!” Without waiting for a response, he began cursing with foul language, looking very fierce.

After cursing for a long while with no response from the stairway, Chi Chuanzi couldn’t help but breathe a sigh of relief and slowly turned back with a smile: “What’s this about? There’s no one there at all.” Just as he was smiling, suddenly there was a “thud” behind him as a low, strange sound came again. Chi Chuanzi exclaimed “Eh!” and immediately stole a glance backward, seeing a black shadow slowly rising in the stairway, approaching his back.

“Mama!” Chi Chuanzi leaped into the air, not looking back as he rushed into the crowd, his teeth chattering.

A black shadow appeared at the stairway entrance – hunched and bent over, holding something in his hands, looking extremely sinister and strange. All the masters were greatly shocked, not knowing who had come. Lu Yun was also secretly surprised and immediately moved his eye to the door crack to look outside, waiting for the person to reveal himself.

In breathless silence, the masters prepared for battle – some clenching fists, others gripping weapons, all staring intently at the stairway entrance. They heard light footsteps as the person ascended step by step. Suddenly a figure flashed, and a hunchbacked old man emerged from the stairway. He wore servant’s clothing and carried a bundle in his hands. Walking to a wooden table, he sat down.

The strange old man was dressed as a household servant and held an oiled cloth bundle, as if delivering food to a young master.

Seeing much ado about nothing, everyone couldn’t help but laugh. Song Tongming laughed heartily, Zhu Kang covered his mouth in surprise, and Chi Chuanzi laughed so hard he fell backward, beating his chest and stamping his feet: “Haha! Haha! What demons and monsters! So it was all a false alarm! Is this old fellow what they meant by monsters? I’m dying of laughter!”

There were monsters everywhere in the world – Buddhist scriptures mentioned asuras, rakshasas, great and small yakshas, and hell had black-faced ghosts and white impermanence – but no one had heard of ghosts wearing servant’s clothing. Chi Chuanzi laughed until tears came out, then ran to the wooden table and struck it hard with his fist, shouting: “Little old man! What’s your surname and name? Why are you here playing tricks? Confess truthfully!”

The old man lowered his head silently without answering. They saw him raise his hand to pick up the teapot and pour himself tea. Everyone could see clearly that the old man’s index finger wore a golden ring.

Lu Yun was startled. A month ago in Yangzhou, when he boarded a ship north one night, he had seen a black-clothed old man who led a hundred ghosts in nocturnal procession and wore an identical golden ring. Seeing this object again naturally alarmed Lu Yun, knowing this old man’s identity was extraordinary. But Chi Chuanzi was a reckless fool who continued cursing wildly: “Old man! Speak up! If you don’t answer, watch out for this Daoist’s slap!”

Just as he was about to deliver the slap, suddenly a low, hoarse voice came from behind: “Dragon Shadow.”

Chi Chuanzi’s spine went cold. He quietly glanced back and was shocked to see a person standing silently behind him. He wore black clothes and a black hood, revealing a pair of cold eyes staring at him.

“Hand over the item.”

The person who came was a black-clothed man. His voice was low and mournful, sounding like ghostly weeping in the night. Chi Chuanzi’s hair stood on end as he immediately fled madly, diving back into his companions’ embrace with bitter laughter: “He’s here! He’s here again! The black-clothed man is here again!”

A black-clothed man! A black-clothed man had really appeared again. Everyone inside was stunned, looking at this strange guest completely covered in black clothing with his face hidden – wasn’t this outfit identical to the black-clothed evil ghost who broke into the Imperial Medical Academy? Everyone stared blankly at the black-clothed stranger, then glanced at Wu Chongqing standing inverted on the ground. Suddenly there was complete silence.

Everyone had gone to great lengths, searching heaven and earth, finally determining the black-clothed man’s identity and knowing that the black-clothed stranger who caused havoc at the Imperial Medical Academy was Chongqing. But strangely, just after exposing this black dog’s identity, another black cat had come to Wanfu Tower? What was this about?

Black cats, black dogs, black tigers, black sheep – black-clothed people came one after another, like twins or chain stores opening. In any case, there were more and more. Everyone was utterly bewildered, but Lu Yun wasn’t surprised. Though he hadn’t been to the Imperial Medical Academy, he had been to Yangzhou’s ferry dock and seen even more black-clothed people – at least a hundred, all following the commands of that “golden ring.” Lu Yun wanted to investigate the truth and immediately held his breath, bent down, and peered out through the door crack.

The black-clothed man drew closer, his killing aura extremely intense. Just walking to the private room door caused the wine servers great alarm, making them cry and wail. Hearing the crying, the black-clothed man’s footsteps paused slightly. Lu Yun could see clearly that the person wore an iron token at his waist with an eagle carved in relief, wings fully spread, engraved with four characters – “Nation-Stabilizing Iron Guards.”

Lu Yun gasped softly and couldn’t help exclaiming “Ah!” Suddenly there was a tremendous “bang” as the private room door burst open. The aftershock affected all the window shutters, which all flew open. The black-clothed man glanced over with cold eyes sweeping across everyone in the private room.

The scene was deadly. The wine servers had nowhere to hide and could only crouch under tables without daring to move, tearless in their desire to cry. Lu Yun also lowered his face and suppressed all his aura.

The black-clothed man’s hearing was extremely acute. He ignored the wine servers’ crying and wailing, but Lu Yun’s surprised gasp made him sense something amiss. He turned his eyes toward Lu Yun. One standing, one crouching – Lu Yun knew that with one careless move, both sides would erupt into action. He simply didn’t get up, remaining motionless and letting those lightning-like eyes sweep over his body.

Tonight, at this moment, Lu Yun absolutely wouldn’t act rashly. He must watch the entire play. Before everything was revealed, he would not act carelessly.

Neither side spoke. The black-clothed stranger slowly approached, placing his palm toward the “Baihui acupoint” on Lu Yun’s head. Lu Yun was greatly alarmed – the “Baihui acupoint” was a vital point on the human body. The opponent need only lightly release palm force to take his life. Lu Yun was unwilling to sit and await death and could only secretly circulate internal energy, preparing to counter-grip the opponent’s pulse point and shock the attacker to death.

Suddenly the opponent’s palm moved past his face. Lu Yun could see clearly that the person’s hand was covered with scars – knife wounds, burns – looking as miserable as the former killing king “Sa Mau.” At this moment, Lu Yun felt strange emotions and took a deep breath, hesitation growing within him.

To kill or not to kill, to block or not to block – all lay in a single thought.

In the deadly atmosphere, Lu Yun silently lowered his head, actually restraining his aura and letting his hands hang, allowing the opponent to touch his forehead.

The black-clothed man’s hand touched his head. Though bone-chillingly cold, it actually carried no internal force. He moved from Lu Yun’s head downward, touching his face and throat. Lu Yun never resisted, just quietly crouched on the ground with closed eyes and sealed lips, calmly accepting it.

The head was the place of human dignity – how could others touch it at will? If this had been Lu Yun from ten years ago, suffering such great humiliation, he would have erupted in fury and fought to the death. But now he remained silent. This didn’t mean Lu Yun was afraid, but that his ability had grown. Today’s Lu Yun had profound cultivation – any action would mean life or death. Precisely because of this, he had lost his anger and could even forgive extreme humiliation.

After an unknown time, light sounds came from the ground as the black-clothed man finally left, but looking at his direction, he was heading toward Song Tongming, Zhu Kang and the others.

Lu Yun was fine, but Song Tongming and the others had terrible luck. Everyone looked at each other, not knowing this black-clothed killer’s origins or understanding what he wanted to do. They only saw that this fellow was also a black-clothed man and probably knew Wu Chongqing. Zhu Kang panicked and quickly crouched beside Chongqing, whispering: “Young Master Wu, your friend has come looking for you. Get up and greet him.”

Wu Chongqing’s eyes remained tightly closed as he continued his two-finger handstand, completely oblivious to external affairs. Zhu Kang boldly patted his face, but heard him cry “Ah!” as if touching red-hot iron, his palm turning red with pain.

The black-clothed man drew closer while Wu Chongqing still slept soundly, ignoring everything. Zhu Kang said tremblingly: “What do we do? Do we have to fight this fellow?”

Chi Chuanzi said tremblingly: “Do as you please. This old Daoist must go home first.” As he spoke, he ran toward the window, actually planning to jump and escape.

“Thud, thud” – light sounds rang out. Chi Chuanzi had just lifted the bamboo curtain when several arrows shot in from outside, frightening him into rolling on the ground and scrambling to Zhe’er Dan’s feet with bitter laughter: “It’s over! No way out!”

Earlier, Wu Chongqing had repeatedly warned and indicated for everyone to leave, but they hadn’t taken his words seriously. Now they truly couldn’t escape. Seeing the black-clothed man approaching closer, Zhu Kang understood someone had to step forward to fight. He gritted his teeth, put his hands together, and pushed hard, shoving Song Tongming out.

With a cry of “Aya!” Song Tongming stumbled forward onto the path. Before he could turn back to curse, he heard a cold voice: “Dragon Shadow…”

“Hand over the item…”

In the cold night, the black-clothed man silently stepped forward like a hell demon descending, fearsome and terrifying. Song Tongming cursed Zhu Kang ten thousand times in his heart, but with the enemy before him and no escape possible, he steeled his heart, turned around, and roared: “Who goes there! State your name!”

The Divine Saber Young Master showed his mettle. With both hands clenched into fists blocking the path, he truly embodied “one man guarding the pass against ten thousand.” But the black-clothed man paid no attention, only keeping his head down as he moved forward, saying in a low voice: “Dragon Shadow…” “Hand over the item…”

The black-clothed man continuously stated his purpose, but everyone was completely confused – they didn’t know what item this person sought, nor who the “Dragon Shadow” he mentioned was. In the general alarm, the black shadow slowly approached, gradually drawing near. The two sides were ten feet apart, drawing closer as they were about to meet face to face.

Song Tongming threw open his fur coat, revealing the Soaring Eagle treasure saber at his waist, and shouted: “Friend! I don’t care what you want! Stop right there!”

The black-clothed man kept a stern face and lowered head, not only failing to stop but slowly raising his right hand to hover at his waist, as if about to draw a sword. Song Tongming was slightly alarmed and quickly looked at the person’s palm, but saw nothing there.

Strangely, the enemy had made a great show of sword-drawing posture, but his palm was empty and no sword hung at his waist. What did this person intend? Seeing the black-clothed man approaching closer, Song Tongming couldn’t help feeling timid, but then remembered his father’s illustrious reputation and his own trained skills – what was there to fear? He immediately took a deep breath, gripped his saber hilt, and said coldly: “You bastards! I hate you ghost-playing types most! Take off your mask!”

The black-clothed man neither stopped nor removed his mask. He dropped his shoulders, bent his waist, breathed deeply, and placed five fingers at his waist, gradually gripping as if truly grasping a sword hilt. Not to be outdone, Song Tongming immediately drew his “Soaring Eagle Treasure Saber” with a “swish.”

The Soaring Eagle Treasure Saber was originally called “Tianxiong.” This saber was heavy yet retained sharpness – the inherited treasure of Shandong’s Divine Saber Sect. Now with the saber in hand, Song Tongming’s confidence greatly increased. Just as he was about to speak again, suddenly he heard a tremendous “weng” sound as the black-clothed man raised his right arm toward the sky, as if also drawing a real sword.

Song Tongming was greatly shocked. Not knowing what trick the opponent had, he could only look toward Zhe’er Dan, seeing the Northern Desert Grandmaster with arms crossed, already closely watching the black-clothed man’s every move. Remembering he had companions backing him up, Song Tongming felt more at ease and gripped his saber hilt again with a cold smile: “Old brother, try taking another step if you dare.”

The figure moved quickly. The black-clothed man took not just one step but seven consecutive steps, already approaching within three feet. Song Tongming was both shocked and angry, roaring strangely: “Divine Saber Force!”

Song Tongming struck first. This secret technique of the Divine Saber Sect was the “Divine Saber Force” – once true energy was channeled into the weapon, even an ordinary steel saber could cut iron like mud, let alone the inherited treasure saber “Soaring Eagle” in his hand. Whether the black-clothed man held a real sword or no sword, if he tried to block, he would be cut in two along with his weapon.

The “Divine Saber Force” struck with magnificent momentum. The black-clothed man showed no intention of retreating. He stared with lightning-like eyes, and when the blade edge was about to reach him, suddenly his right hand jerked quickly. The scene was filled with violent wind and thunder, as if an extremely sharp object was coming straight at him.

Strangely, the opponent had no weapon in hand – why was there the sound of a weapon cutting through air? Song Tongming exclaimed “Eh!” with a bewildered expression, not knowing whether to block or dodge, when suddenly there was a “bang” as a wooden table in the shop separated the black-clothed man from the “Divine Saber Young Master.”

Silently, the wooden table flew through mid-air. With a light “chi” sound, the table surface split open, then separated into two pieces and crashed to the ground with a thunderous sound.

The table surface had split open. No one knew what happened, only that it was cut into two perfectly neat halves. Seeing this scene, Zhu Kang trembled all over, and Chi Chuanzi’s teeth chattered as he said coldly: “This… this is the Air-Splitting Palm…”

With these words, everyone understood. Seeing the opponent had no sword or saber in hand yet could split a wooden table in two from a distance, this person must have practiced some mysterious palm technique to strike objects through air.

The Air-Splitting Palm, also called “Yin Hand,” could strike from any distance with perfect control, capable of injuring people from afar – hence called “striking the ox beyond the mountain.” In the past, Abbot Lingzhi of Shaolin Temple was an expert in this art.

Lu Yun in the private room heard the words but secretly shook his head: “No, this isn’t palm force.”

The Air-Splitting Palm was profound and deep, but no matter how well practiced, at most it could shatter and crack this wooden table, but couldn’t cut it so cleanly. Undoubtedly, the opponent had some hidden exotic weapon that was invisible to the eye.

Everyone was alarmed, each with their own calculations, but the black-clothed killer continued to advance slowly, saying coldly: “Dragon Shadow…” As he spoke, his right hand again gripped something, his teeth grinding with fury: “Hand over the item!”

The black-clothed man’s tone was more vicious, but no one could understand what he wanted. Looking at his fierce appearance, he was probably here to take lives. Everyone was shocked and afraid, with Song Tongming bearing the brunt. He didn’t want to wade into this muddy water and could only try to stop him tremblingly: “Wait… let’s talk nicely… don’t come closer… don’t come closer… please…”

The dignified Divine Saber Young Master now seemed like a delicate young lady. Seeing the evil wolf approaching, he could only wave his hands and plead pitifully. But the black-clothed man seemed deaf and mute, only pressing forward step by step. Song Tongming was tearless in his desire to cry, retreating step by step: “Please don’t come closer… let’s talk nicely… please… please…”

“Damn bastard!” Song Tongming exploded. With a strange sound, he shouted: “Divine Saber Force!”

Seeing Song Tongming raise his great saber and charge forward like a madman, the blade infused with internal energy causing great winds all around, everyone was shocked and cried in unison: “Song Tongming! Don’t act rashly!”

Though Song Tongming was crude, he actually had his simple-minded insights. In his shouting and yelling, he wielded the treasure saber so tightly that not even water could penetrate, and the saber carried the fierce force of “Divine Saber Force.” No matter whether the opponent used air-splitting divine palms or some exotic weapon, as long as it came toward him, it would ultimately collide with “Soaring Eagle.” When that time came, the treasure saber was heavy and strong – victory would go to the stronger. Relying on his advantage of size over speed, he would surely make the opponent reveal his true form.

With a light “chi” sound, the black-clothed man’s right hand moved lightly, seemingly striking again. But after the sound, everything was quiet – this time there wasn’t even a sound of cutting air, let alone seeing the path of the technique or whether the opponent had even moved.

Everything before him was dark and invisible. Song Tongming’s expression was rather miserable. He could only close his eyes tightly and wield “Soaring Eagle” so that wind couldn’t enter and water couldn’t splash in, charging toward the opponent. Just as he was about to squeeze in front of the black-clothed man, suddenly he heard a “weng” sound – a sharp sound cutting through air by his left ear, as if something was stabbing toward him.

Song Tongming was startled and finally realized the situation was dire. He shifted his body to dodge and quickly spun his saber for defense, but after turning the treasure saber for a long time, his hand felt light and empty – he hadn’t struck anything. Just as he was afraid, tremendous wind came from overhead with a thunderous sound. Only now did the opponent truly strike, with something chopping straight down toward his head.

“Mama!” Song Tongming couldn’t see anything but knew his head was about to become a watermelon. Scared out of his wits, he shouted: “Brothers, don’t just stand there!”

Song Tongming screamed miserably, but no one knew how to save him. After all, the enemy’s techniques were too strange – whether he used saber, sword, palm force, or hidden weapons was completely invisible. How could they help him block?

Seeing the dire situation, Lu Yun quickly took a copper coin from his bosom and was about to flick it when suddenly a sword light shot toward the black-clothed man’s throat – both fast and accurate. Lu Yun was delighted, thinking: “Excellent strategy of besieging Wei to save Zhao!”

With a great clashing sound, the black-clothed man turned to defend himself, and Song Tongming also escaped disaster. He fell to the ground and rolled to a young gentleman’s feet, where he was helped up.

Amid the cheering, Su Ying entered the scene awaiting instruction. In the “Three Virtues inheritor’s” eyes, he didn’t care at all what weapon the enemy used, because the enemy’s weakness was always the same – as long as he struck the throat, the enemy would surely try to save himself.

Since the black-clothed man’s appearance, this was his first setback. He slowed his pace and stared at Su Ying, saying hoarsely: “Mount Hua Sect?”

“Correct.” Su Ying was very dignified. Hearing the opponent ask about his sect’s origins, he immediately pointed his sword tip downward and showed proper martial world etiquette, clasping his fists: “Disciple of Master Bufan, tenth-generation leader of Mount Hua, Su Ying, fortunately meets the Kunlun predecessor – what honor is this?”

As the word “Kunlun” was spoken, everyone was shocked and puzzled, asking: “This… this person is from Kunlun?”

Su Ying nodded: “Yes, the weapon in his hand is the ‘Invisible Sword Shadow.'”

The entire hall exclaimed “Ah!” finally understanding why the opponent’s techniques were so strange – it was Kunlun’s demon sword reappearing in the world.

In ancient times, Kunlun Mountain had a famous sword. Because the blade was colorless and transparent, when the sword emerged it left no trace, and when it fell it cast no shadow. It was called “Sword Shadow” and was passed to the fourth disciple Qian Lingyi. After Kunlun’s sect merger and destruction, its whereabouts became unknown. Seeing this black-clothed man wielding this object, he must have deep connections to Kunlun.

This person was from Kunlun. Lu Yun’s heart stirred slightly, and inexplicably, a wonderful feeling of shared heritage arose within him.

All of Lu Yun’s divine skills came from Zhuo Lingzhao’s teachings, but this “Sword God” was actually not a good person. During his lifetime, he was stubborn and self-willed, first destroying the entire Yanling Escort Agency, then rampaging through the martial world causing endless harm. Eventually he provoked the treacherous minister Jiang Chong and was eliminated by design, causing his entire sect’s disciples to suffer heavy casualties. If the black-clothed man before them was truly a Kunlun disciple, he was probably the last surviving orphan.

Lu Yun was a sentimental person. Seeing Kunlun’s last orphan arrive, how could his heart remain unmoved? He took a deep breath and began guessing the person’s identity, wondering if this was Mo Lingshan or Liu Lingchuan. Over there, Song Tongming, Chi Chuanzi and the others faced mortal danger and naturally didn’t think so much, holding their breath and waiting to hear how the black-clothed man would respond.

Su Ying had revealed the sword shadow’s origins and spoken the great name of the “Kunlun” sect. The black-clothed man’s body trembled slightly. Under everyone’s gaze, his footsteps stopped, whimpering sounds came from his throat, and his mask was moistened by water droplets.

Zhu Kang said in amazement: “What’s this? Is he… crying?”

The black-clothed man was truly crying. He lowered his face as tears rolled down, as if filled with grievances and infinite sorrow. All who heard it felt pity for him.

Su Ying frowned: “Friend, why such sorrow? I wonder which disciple of Kunlun you are, and how you address the ‘Sword God’ Zhuo Lingzhao?”

“Sect Leader!” The black-clothed man clenched his fists and wailed to heaven: “I want to avenge you!” Even as he spoke, he charged forward. Su Ying chuckled and was about to draw his sword to defend when an aged voice came from the hall: “Third Brother, don’t create complications.”

Hearing this, everyone’s hearts tensed. They quickly turned to see a person sitting in the corner of the hall – the old man who had come upstairs first, wearing a golden ring on his hand.

Hearing this, the black-clothed man actually closed his eyes and breathed deeply, as if struggling to endure something. After a long while, he stepped forward again, but his feet avoided Su Ying and headed toward Wu Chongqing. Suddenly there was a “swish” as Su Ying’s sword barred the path, saying quietly: “Friend, you may not pass.”

The black-clothed man’s face darkened, his eyes full of malevolent fire. Su Ying showed no fear, pointing at Wu Chongqing: “Su doesn’t ask who you are or what grievances you two have. In short, I inform you – until Young Master Wu awakens, no one may disturb him.”

At this time, Wu Chongqing was still practicing in his handstand, completely oblivious to external affairs. Su Ying, adhering to martial world principles, wouldn’t allow anyone to take advantage of others’ vulnerability. The black-clothed man seemed extremely afraid of the “Three Virtues Sword.” Hearing these words, he stepped aside again. Just as he was about to approach Wu Chongqing, there was another “swish” – Su Ying, without raising his eyes or moving his feet, lightly pointed his sword and again blocked the black-clothed man’s path.

Seeing the black-clothed man still hesitating to strike back, Su Ying said calmly: “Friend, I’ve already said – no one may disturb him, or they become enemies of my Mount Hua lineage.”

Hearing the words “Mount Hua,” the old man behind stopped trying to dissuade and simply poured himself tea to drink alone. The black-clothed man lowered his face sadly: “Ning Bufan… I hate Ning Bufan most…”

Su Ying exclaimed: “Oh? You also know my master?”

“Of course I know him… of course I know him…” The black-clothed man lowered his face, grinding his teeth until they clattered. Suddenly he raised his head in grief and fury: “Ning Bufan! I want to hack you to pieces!” With a “swish,” the black-clothed man’s eyes blazed with fury as he drew his invisible sword and slashed at Su Ying.

It was deep night, the tavern was pitch black, the enemy wore black clothes and wielded an invisible sword. Suddenly erupting in attack, Su Ying naturally couldn’t see anything. The only thing still visible was the enemy’s wrist gripping the sword hilt.

The enemy’s wrist was raised high above his shoulder with exaggerated posture. No matter what technique this sword used, its final position would be aimed at his own head. Su Ying felt no fear. He stared at the opponent’s figure and in an instant had already seen all the enemy’s weaknesses.

Both armpits, between the eyebrows, lower abdomen, throat, heart… Like bright stars in the night sky, eighteen complete weaknesses flashed brilliantly, all guiding his sword tip. Without another word, Su Ying immediately raised his hand in a direct thrust. His sword tip pierced through endless darkness, arriving first to stab toward the black-clothed stranger’s right armpit.

“Wisdom Sword Pacifies Eight Directions” – before this, there was no technique in the world that couldn’t be broken. Even with the invisible sword, the black-clothed stranger couldn’t escape this fate. If he returned his sword to parry, fresh blood would spurt from his throat. If he retreated to avoid, his wrist would be struck and his exotic weapon would be taken.

In whimpering struggle, the black-clothed stranger seemed extremely afraid of the Three Virtues Sword and was forced to retreat. Su Ying didn’t let him go – tonight’s scene was too chaotic, and he needed to capture this person quickly to avoid complications. Instantly his long sword pointed out again toward the enemy’s right wrist. This move was magnanimous, intending to take the enemy’s weapon rather than kill.

“Wisdom Sword Pacifies Eight Directions.” The black-clothed man made sad sounds, seemingly full of fear. Seeing Su Ying’s long sword thrust toward his right hand, he still didn’t dodge or avoid, but his left hand had quietly lifted up. He burst into wild laughter: “Utterly worthless!”

In the violent wind, caught completely off guard, an invisible sword edge swept from left to right, already slashing across Su Ying’s throat.

He had fallen into a trap! Su Ying was greatly alarmed, finally realizing the invisible sword wasn’t in the right palm at all, but gripped in that drooping, motionless left hand. All the exaggerated posturing of the right hand was merely deceptive bait.

The moment of life and death arrived. Su Ying’s head could fall to the ground at any moment. All the heroes present were stunned, never expecting victory and defeat to come so quickly, and the result to be so tragic. Zhe’er Dan roared and shot out his right hand, Song Tongming leaped forward to rescue – both wanting to pull Su Ying away. But the opponent’s sword technique was shadowless and his blade formless. With such distance between them, even if Wu Chongqing’s lightning-fast body technique came to the rescue, it would probably be a step too slow.

Too late! The throat-sealing disaster was mere inches away. Su Ying surprisingly wasn’t very afraid. Thinking of Qiong Fang, a strange thought arose in his heart instead – what would her expression be when she learned of his death tomorrow morning?

Su Ying stared blankly at the sword tip, his heart full of self-pity and self-injury, surprisingly having no thought of struggle, just closing his eyes to await death. Suddenly a gentle force pushed horizontally, as if someone lightly pushed him, causing his body to sway backward rapidly.

With a “whoosh,” the black-clothed man’s sword struck empty air. Su Ying didn’t die – he had dodged the “Invisible Sword Shadow” that swept across his throat.

“Sister Fang?” Su Ying quickly opened his eyes. There was no sign of Qiong Fang’s graceful figure around, only a copper coin at his feet still spinning. He stared blankly, not yet understanding the situation, when wind sounded again. The black-clothed man’s technique change was extremely fast – one strike missing, he turned the invisible sword and thrust toward Su Ying’s chest.

Zhe’er Dan was extremely anxious, not knowing why Su Ying had lost focus during fierce battle. He quickly grabbed him and pulled him behind, shouting loudly: “Sassing!”

“Sassing” meant to begin battle. Zhe’er Dan picked up a chair and hurled it at the black-clothed killer. Song Tongming also roared: “Brothers! Everyone charge together!” He raised his treasure saber and rushed forward first.

With a tremendous “bang,” the killer’s figure flew about the room. The wooden chair smashed empty and shattered on the ground.

“Kill!” Everyone united, their strength could break metal. Chi Chuanzi held his long sword, Song Tongming raised his treasure saber, plus Zhu Kang’s red-tasseled spear – all surrounded the killer with attacks. No matter where the invisible sword thrust, they would just stab and poke wildly, forcing the monster to defend himself.

At this life-and-death moment, everyone wanted to escape. As for whether they were bullying with numbers, there was no time to think deeply. Swords and spears came in succession in coordinated assault. But this black-clothed man was a fierce warrior. He bent down and the invisible sword traced an arc in mid-air. “Clang, clang” sounds rang out as it struck each person’s weapon.

“Clang!” Zhu Kang’s body swayed, his iron spear was deflected first, then his shoulder spurted blood as his weapon flew from his hands.

“Clang!” Chi Chuanzi staggered, using his sword to support himself on the ground, swaying unsteadily.

Only Song Tongming remained, struggling to support himself. He clutched the Soaring Eagle treasure saber with a pained expression. His palms felt excruciating pain as if some sinister energy was drilling through meridians and stabbing vessels, like a small rat heading toward his heart meridian. He gritted his teeth and shouted: “Divine Saber Force!”

Powerful internal energy pressed out, forcing the little rat in his meridians to retreat. Not daring to relax, he roared again: “Divine Saber Force!”

Just as his ancestral technique was about to expel the little rat, suddenly his buttocks hurt – the black-clothed killer had kicked him. Young Master Song also became a human ball, rolling straight under the table.

The terrifying killer wielded the “Invisible Sword Shadow” with sinister internal energy. Though besieged by three skilled fighters, he could calmly counterattack, not only parrying all the heroes’ weapons but also injuring their meridians. Such swordsmanship and martial arts – there was only one person in the martial world.

The butcher of slaughter, the lingering of torture – Kunlun’s third brother, “Sword Gu” Tu Lingxin had arrived in person.

Lu Yun took a deep breath, finally understanding the visitor’s identity. Chi Chuanzi was an old name in the martial world and naturally recognized him, crying out in despair: “It’s over! It’s over! The killing king has revived!” He immediately cried for help and dove under a table.

Among the world’s hundred sects and thousand schools, to seek heart-piercing poison swords, only Kunlun’s “Sword Gu” technique would suffice. To find invisible treasure swords in the world, only that long-lost “Sword Shadow” could kill invisibly. Naturally, the person before them was Kunlun’s first ruthless general, Sword Gu Tu Lingxin.

“Sword Cold,” “Sword Gu,” “Sword Shadow,” “Sword Leopard” – divine swords like me, I am the Sword God. Though Lu Yun wasn’t a direct Kunlun disciple, through various circumstances he had become the sole inheritor of the current “Sword God Ancient Manual.” All sword techniques and moves were thoroughly familiar from his time by the waterfall, so when “Sword Gu” struck, Lu Yun immediately recognized the opponent’s identity.

After ten years of separation, Tu Lingxin’s power had greatly advanced, incomparably stronger than before. Wielding “Sword Shadow” while concealing “Sword Gu,” his sword techniques were ethereal and elusive, difficult to fathom. Anyone fighting him had to clash blade against blade with his sword. However, this person’s internal energy was sinister and dangerous – once swords collided, it could immediately drill into the body and cause instant injury. Such methods were truly fearsome and terrifying. Anyone encountering them would cry out in bad luck.

Seeing Tu Lingxin return to the martial world, the entire hall was shocked. Everyone was both amazed and afraid, not knowing how this “Tu Lingxin” could stand before them full of life when the Kunlun sect had been destroyed over ten years ago.

With great enemies at hand, no one had time to think about these external matters. Su Ying had already been defeated, and Chi Chuanzi, Song Tongming, and Zhu Kang were injured. But that Wu Chongqing was truly detestable, still practicing his handstand with closed eyes, oblivious to life and death. Seeing Tu Lingxin pressing forward step by step, ready to begin a massacre, Song Tongming smiled bitterly and was about to step forward to resist when a hand fell on his shoulder, pushing him behind.

The fearless are invincible. One person entered the scene first – Zhe’er Dan stepping forward to battle. He roared “Heya!” stepped forward with one foot, used his left foot as center, and immediately kicked outward in a spin, sweeping out a circle over ten feet wide on the ground.

“Bala Duer!” Zhe’er Dan stood in the fighting circle, pointing at the enemy and saying coldly: “Sassing.”

This was Mongolian. Though everyone couldn’t understand, they could guess the general meaning. The first master of the northern desert was about to single-handedly fight Tu Lingxin.

Zhe’er Dan had rampaged across thousands of miles of desert, invincible in all directions. His journey to the Central Plains for martial competition actually had only three wishes: first was to stand on the “Kui Star Battles Five Beauties” arena and fight Ning Bufan’s inheritor; second was to have a good contest with the “Generation True Dragon”; as for the last wish, it might as well be left for Kunlun disciples.

“Kunlun swords emerge, blood fills the ocean.” Zhe’er Dan had naturally heard of the “Sword God’s” reputation and wanted to witness Kunlun’s skills and methods. He displayed the bearing of a grandmaster, hands on his hips, indicating for the opponent to come forward.

Tu Lingxin laughed strangely with excited eyes, about to step into the fighting circle when suddenly there were two “clap” sounds. The old man behind said calmly: “Third Brother, stand down. Let the fresh troops come up.”

Hearing the words “fresh troops,” everyone was slightly startled, not knowing what other masters the opponent had. Just as they were puzzled, suddenly there was a tremendous “boom” that shook all tables and chairs into the air.

Bang! Bang! Like a great elephant squeezed into the stairwell, causing roof tiles, doors and windows to shake violently. Everyone looked toward the stairway entrance and saw firelight reflected on the fourth floor, with a huge black shadow cast on the wall like a demon’s shadow.

Another master had arrived. This “fresh troop” had extremely heavy footsteps – each step shook the floorboards. Everyone looked at each other in alarm, hearing the stairway creak and groan as if the wooden boards couldn’t bear the visitor’s weight and were moaning in pain. The wine servers heard this sound and immediately huddled together crying: “It’s here! This monster broke into the building just now!”

Hearing the word “monster,” the masters felt their hair stand on end, not knowing what exactly had come. Just as they were shocked, suddenly a palm reached out from the stairway and slammed heavily onto the floor, shaking the surrounding doors and windows.

Everyone’s mouths fell open and their hearts stopped. The hand on the ground was extraordinarily large – probably bigger than a palm-leaf fan. The fingers were also terrifyingly thick, looking at first glance like five yam roots. Just lightly slapping the ground had already captured everyone’s attention.

Zhu Kang hid behind Song Tongming, trembling: “Is… is this a human hand?”

Song Tongming smiled bitterly in shock: “How the hell would I know?”

If there were demons in the world, they should have hands this large. At this moment, not only were the wine servers panicking and weeping, even Lu Yun, Zhe’er Dan, Su Ying and others all changed color, not knowing whether this person was human, ghost, demon or monster. Just as they felt fearful, suddenly there was a “boom” as the monster’s great hand pressed on the floorboard. With one press and extension, another foot stepped out from the stairway – a large bare foot.

Boom! The floorboards shook like an earthquake. Looking at that large bare foot, Zhu Kang and Chi Chuanzi were completely terrified, quickly retreating to the walls. Even Su Ying was now afraid, but only Zhe’er Dan stood firm, gritting his teeth and waiting for the monster to appear.

Crack, crack, crack, crack, crack! The stairway wooden boards broke open. Breathing sounds came from the darkness as a pair of copper-bell eyes opened, followed by air snorting from the nose. Five facial features slowly appeared, and finally with a thunderous roar that shook the entire hall, a giant finally crawled out from the stairway.

“Monster! Monster!” The wine servers cried in panic. Lu Yun was also stunned. He pressed against the window crack, desperately rubbing his eyes, but no matter how he looked, this thing didn’t much resemble a human. His body was too large and his limbs extraordinarily muscular, so much so that he couldn’t walk up the stairs and could only crawl up.

“Wohou!” The monster snorted and slowly crawled into the scene. Suddenly he raised his body and roared thunderously at Zhe’er Dan: “Wuoooooo!” Mud and sand fell from the beams, doors and windows clattered, and all the wine servers covered their ears and screamed.

“Supreme Lord Lao!” Chi Chuanzi was terrified and quickly hid behind Zhu Kang. Zhu Kang, pushed by him, quickly escaped under Song Tongming’s armpit. This time even Song Tongming was afraid and slipped behind Chi Chuanzi. The three of them yielded to each other in circular formation, playing a game of musical chairs.

Though Lu Yun didn’t believe in supernatural forces, at this moment he had to believe. The person before them was truly a man-eating yaksha from Buddhist scriptures. His height was far over ten feet – if not for the tavern’s deep courtyard and high beams, even the building might have been squeezed apart. Zhe’er Dan and Song Tongming were both nine feet tall, but standing beside that monster, they each looked like children, probably not even reaching his shoulders.

In this terrifying moment, Zhe’er Dan’s body trembled slightly, showing some timidity. But the demon wasn’t in a hurry to fight, only snorting through his nose and turning his copper-bell eyes toward Wu Chongqing.

“Dragon Shadow.” Tu Lingxin snorted and laughed coldly: “Hand over the item.”

The situation was now clear – the opponent only wanted the “item” and didn’t want the lives of everyone in the room. If Zhe’er Dan was sensible, he need only retreat and obediently submit to keep his old life. The scene was too frightening – everyone was afraid. Su Ying had already been defeated, Wu Chongqing was still practicing his handstand, and everyone in the room had thoughts of surrender. Chi Chuanzi said tremblingly: “Master Zhe’er Dan, this isn’t our business. You… you absolutely mustn’t conflict with them.”

In the complete silence, everyone waited for Zhe’er Dan to speak. After all, Tu Lingxin alone had already swept the entire scene, and now a monster had arrived. If Zhe’er Dan stubbornly resisted, wouldn’t he be seeking death?

The opponent was twelve feet tall with thousand-pound strength in every gesture. What ordinary mortal could grow to such a terrifying form? Lu Yun hid in the private room, watching with shock, when suddenly he thought of two words: “Asura.”

The most mysterious and strange forbidden martial art in the martial world was ancient India’s “Rahu Eclipse Moon Asura Heart Method.” Practitioners became mad with massive strength. Lu Yun had witnessed “Asura Divine Power” twice ten years ago while traveling the martial world – once fighting the “Sword God” Zhuo Lingzhao, once competing with “Snake and Crane Twin Travel” Hao Zhenxiang. The practitioner was the same high monk both times. He had manifested the Asura form – precisely this terrifying shape before them. Even with the “Sword God’s” deep composure, his face couldn’t help but change color.

With this thought, Lu Yun’s breathing quickened as he thought: “Could it be… could it be that even Shaolin Temple has also…” His thought was incomplete when suddenly there was a “boom” as the floor shook up and down – someone was challenging the Asura giant.

The fearless are invincible. Zhe’er Dan raised his head in fury, glaring at the giant, making a choice for everyone in the room – he was going to war.

“Haha! No hope!” As the Northern Desert Grandmaster postured for challenge, Chi Chuanzi and Zhu Kang laughed heartily, dancing and chasing each other, hoping to hide behind the other. Song Tongming could only smile bitterly, clutching his “Soaring Eagle Treasure Saber” as he retreated to the window. If things went badly, he’d rather leap out and be shot by random arrows outside than be crushed to death by the monster.

Seeing Zhe’er Dan so bold as to actually dare challenge him, the monster was somewhat surprised. He looked down at Zhe’er Dan, shaking his finger lightly like a teacher warning a child not to be naughty and mischievous. Naturally Zhe’er Dan wouldn’t listen. In front of the monster, he brought his fists together until they nearly touched, faintly emanating black energy.

“Avalokitesvara Heaven” – the supreme heart method, commonly called “Great Black Heaven.” This style of boxing was purely practiced through external hard training, supposedly generating ultimate softness from ultimate hardness, taking subjugation as compassion. Only when hardness reached its extreme could it generate an energy capable of injuring from a distance. From this, it seemed Zhe’er Dan was also warning his opponent not to provoke him.

The monster, oblivious to the danger before him, continued stepping forward, treating the “Northern Desert Grandmaster” as nothing. Zhe’er Dan offered no more persuasion. Retracting his left fist, he struck out powerfully with his right, shouting: “Duo!”

“Great Black Heaven Fist” was Zhe’er Dan’s pride. If the creature standing before him was a demon, then Zhe’er Dan had to strike to exorcise it. Without beating the monster into complete submission, he wouldn’t sleep well tonight.

With a tremendous roar, the right fist carried an invisible black shadow and struck the lower abdomen. This punch was incomparably fierce and powerful, directly causing the monster to show a pained expression. His upper body gradually bent down as he moaned pitifully in his mouth: “Ouu.”

Since Zhe’er Dan came to the Central Plains for competition, whether fighting Su Ying or dueling Wu Chongqing, no one had dared to directly receive his punch technique. Seeing this demon seemingly eaten bear’s heart and leopard’s gall, actually daring to use his physical body to directly receive his punch – though overestimating himself, his courage was extraordinary. Seeing the monster bend over with retching sounds, Zhe’er Dan pressed his advantage and struck another punch, roaring: “Sa!”

The Northern Desert Grandmaster roared in Mongolian with the bearing of a war god. However, this punch made no explosive sound, only silently striking the liver. Precisely because all the force was channeled into the opponent’s body did it seem so quiet.

This punch was truly too heavy. The strike location was the liver, with force penetrating the organs. No matter how large this demon’s build, he would probably vomit blood on the spot and be critically injured.

“Ouu!” Sure enough, the monster couldn’t withstand this punch and was painfully beating his chest, ready to kneel to the ground at any moment. Zhu Kang and others cheered thunderously, and Zhe’er Dan couldn’t help but secretly feel proud. Just as he was about to check whether his opponent was dead, he heard several “hehe” sounds as the demon mischievously raised his eyelids and smiled somewhat playfully: “Ouu ah hehe.”

Zhe’er Dan was greatly shocked and involuntarily staggered backward, nearly slipping to the ground.

“Hehe.” The monster squinted and smiled, but he wasn’t in a hurry to counterattack. Instead, he reached out his palm toward Zhe’er Dan’s head to stroke it, like rewarding a young child.

Eastern esoteric tradition held that “Great Black Heaven” was what Buddhism called “Sovereign Heaven,” meaning the battle god who subjugates three worlds. Zhe’er Dan had long revered Buddhist teachings and took “Great Black Heaven” as his guardian deity, vowing to subdue demons and protect all beings. But the thing before him was too horrifying. Even if the former “Sa Mau” came before this monster, he would be like a small witch meeting a great sorcerer. What should he do?

Seeing the giant spirit palm about to touch his forehead, Zhe’er Dan couldn’t help but wake up. How could he, a dignified grandmaster, suffer such humiliation? Instantly gritting his teeth and shouting sharply, his left fist suddenly rose, heavily striking the opponent’s cheek. The demon’s saliva sprayed out and his head tilted over. Zhe’er Dan raised his right arm with a “boom” and delivered another punch.

Hum, ha! Crack, slap! Zhe’er Dan was furious – his eyes were completely bloodshot like an angry yaksha, like a subjugating battle god. Every punch used ten-tenths of his internal energy. Swinging left and right, striking up and down, he was like practicing boxing in a training ground, getting excited all by himself. The monster in front also crouched down, supporting his forehead with one hand and scratching with the other, not forgetting to blink as if asking whether he was finished.

A chill rose from his spine to his knees. Though the “Northern Desert Grandmaster” desperately howled to boost morale and struck with fierce force, the faster he punched, the more chaotic his technique became. Gradually his knees began to shake – after one moment of lost strength, he would kneel down at any time.

Tonight was like a nightmare descending – everyone encountered something they feared. Su Ying had relied on the Wisdom Sword all his life, but tonight he seemed blind, not only unable to see the opponent’s weaknesses but having his own completely exposed. Looking at Zhe’er Dan with his bronze sinews and iron bones and nine-foot frame, he unfortunately encountered a twelve-foot monster, forcing him into a helpless, pitiful weak child.

This was the power of the “Nation-Stabilizing Iron Guards” – unstoppably mighty. Poor Zhe’er Dan was gasping like an ox. After delivering over a hundred punches, his internal energy was nearly exhausted. The monster grinned and suddenly reached out his palm-leaf fan-sized hand, pressing it on the “Northern Desert Grandmaster’s” head and slowly turning it to face him.

The scene before them was too terrifying. Song Tongming and others watching trembled all over. The dignified Northern Desert Grandmaster now seemed like an abused child, desperately resisting the monster’s giant palm. But with such disparity in strength between the two sides, what could he do besides painful moaning?

The fearless are invincible. Zhe’er Dan was finally afraid. With his topknot grabbed and tears falling from his cheeks, he desperately pulled at the giant’s large hand but was like an ant trying to shake a great tree, unable to break free. The giant spirit palm slowly lifted, comparing against his cheek as if about to slap a bad child to teach him a lesson. Zhu Kang and others all cried in fear: “Spare him! Spare him! We surrender! We surrender!”

This slap was no ordinary matter. If Zhe’er Dan took it squarely, it wouldn’t just be spitting out a few teeth but broken neck bones and death. Hearing everyone’s tragic pleas, the monster showed no mercy, grinning coldly as he raised his palm high and brought it down heavily.

Lu Yun chuckled and was about to fly to the rescue when he saw a purple light strike first. With a tremendous “boom,” Zhe’er Dan stood perfectly fine in his original place, but beside him was a bare-chested youth who had raised one arm, actually using single-handed strength to block this earth-shaking strike.

Wu Chongqing had arrived. Awakening from his sleep, he burned with fury. Facing something stronger than himself, he first roared “Ooo, ooo, ooo” to heaven to boost his courage, then stepped forward with his left foot, drew back his right foot, and delivered eight consecutive empty palm strikes with both hands.

Slap! Slap! Slap! Slap! Chongqing was like Nezha riding a dragon. His palm force struck out, filling the night sky with bright sounds. That arm was actually covered in purple lightning, extremely dazzling to behold.

“Trash!” Wu Chongqing spat on the ground: “Tonight I’ll teach you to witness who is the true…”

“Demon and monster!” As his words ended, both palms struck out together. Chongqing’s index finger pointed to heaven with four fingers slightly bent, moving like the universal energy, taking the meaning of “nine.” His right palm was fully open, protecting his chest like a vajra warrior’s palm, numbered as “five.”

The Book of Changes’ line divination said: “Nine-five, flying dragon in heaven.” Nine and five – the supreme numbers of dragon divinity. A great martial world battle was about to begin.