Deep autumn in Changzhou already carried cold winter intent. Cold wind and raindrops struck the empty, desolate streets, making one feel particularly cold and lonely.

Ouyang Nan slowly raised his head and gazed at the ancient iron hammer on the table, sighing softly.

Today was his seventieth birthday banquet. Countless disciples and followers had hurried back to the residence to congratulate this sword-forging master who had been granted the title “Jiangnan Foundry Master” by the former emperor. Though surrounded by dozens of children and grandchildren with birthday gifts piled mountain-high on the table, at this moment he felt no joy whatsoever. A man approached and bowed, asking: “Master, on this great birthday, why do you sigh?”

Ouyang Nan looked at the iron hammer on the table in a daze: “We’re resuming business this evening, yet we don’t even know who sent this thing – isn’t that too absurd?”

Under the candlelight, the iron hammer was covered in thick bronze-green rust, appearing ancient and worn. But discerning eyes could see that the hammer faintly emanated a blue light from within – it must have some extraordinary origin and was definitely not ordinary.

Seeing his master’s deeply furrowed brow, the man quickly consoled: “Master, don’t worry – this hammer must have been sent by Young Master. Besides him, who else would have such thoughtfulness to help our Iron Foundry Manor regain its glory?”

This speaker was a sturdy man with a refined, fair face. He was none other than Ouyang family’s eldest disciple, Gong Zhi, who had the impressive nickname “Iron Lion.” He was not only a disciple of Iron Foundry Manor but also the secretary of Changzhou’s yamen. With Lu Yun coming to Changzhou as an official, this Gong Zhi would become his subordinate in the future.

Ouyang Nan sighed: “I also hope this hammer was sent by my Iron Ox boy. Ah… but if he sent such an important thing, why didn’t he come back himself?” Gong Zhi said quietly: “Master… since junior brother has become a court rebel, no matter how filial he is, how can he return? Master, please don’t blame him…”

Ouyang Nan sighed deeply and shook his head: “Back then, the Heavenly Furnace affair harmed my Iron Ox boy terribly. Ah… let’s not speak of this. I only hope today’s furnace opening goes smoothly and doesn’t disappoint his intention in finding this Xing Tian Hammer.”

The great hall was lit by weak candlelight. The yellow glow on the hammer’s rust made it appear even more mottled with blue and yellow, showing its ancient history. Ouyang Nan stared in a daze, and in his trance, past events flooded his mind one by one until he seemed lost in thought.

Just as he was absorbed in memories, a young man entered the hall. This child was about seventeen or eighteen years old and quite lively. Seeing Ouyang Nan staring fixedly at the iron hammer, he approached with a smile: “Grandfather is still looking at this iron hammer! This hammer has been at home for three days – haven’t you seen enough?” This boy was named Ouyang Xun, a third-generation disciple of Iron Foundry Manor and Ouyang Nan’s grandson.

Gong Zhi smiled: “Young Master, this divine hammer is a priceless treasure. Even if the old master looked at it for three days or thirty years, he wouldn’t get tired of it.” Ouyang Xun put on his young master’s airs: “The way you praise it – looking at this hammer’s worn appearance, how can it be so good?”

Knowing Gong Zhi couldn’t contradict him, Ouyang Nan left his seat and personally came to teach. He bent down and caressed the divine hammer on the table, saying quietly: “Legend has it that in ancient times, the thunder god was named Lei Ze. This deity had a human body with a dragon’s head and held a hammer to strike lightning and thunder. This is the ‘Lei Ze Xing Tian Hammer.’ It’s said this hammer can withstand the burning of samadhi true fire, and when it strikes, it produces the roar of heavenly thunder – it’s the treasure that we sword-forging masters dream of.” He turned to look at his grandson: “Xun’er, you’ll inherit Iron Foundry Manor in the future – you must know this hammer’s story, lest people laugh at us for having eyes but no pearls, wasting such a treasure.”

Ouyang Xun looked at the rust-covered large iron hammer and smiled: “Grandfather! Now that rational learning flourishes, do you really believe such ghost stories?” Gong Zhi, seeing his flippant expression, couldn’t restrain himself and frowned: “Young Master, even if the legend is somewhat exaggerated, this hammer indeed has some supernatural qualities – please don’t underestimate it.”

Ouyang Xun smiled slightly and blinked but said nothing.

Seeing his grandson still didn’t believe, Ouyang Nan stood up: “Since you don’t believe, pick up this iron hammer and strike the ground once – then you’ll know its virtue.” Though young, Ouyang Xun was very clever. He shook his head and smiled: “Grandfather! One strike of this iron hammer would probably shatter ten bricks! Wouldn’t breaking the floor require much effort to repair?” Ouyang Nan chuckled: “Just strike – you won’t know its virtue without trying.”

Hearing his grandfather’s instruction, Ouyang Xun could only smile bitterly: “Since grandfather commands, Xun’er won’t be polite!”

Ouyang Nan had everyone move the tables and chairs to clear a space for the youth to test the divine hammer. Gong Zhi crossed his arms and opened his eyes wide, also wanting to witness the true power of this Xing Tian Hammer.

Ouyang Xun picked up the iron hammer and struck the ground forcefully. There was a thunderous boom that made everyone’s ears ring, and they all stepped back several paces. Though Gong Zhi knew the divine hammer was remarkable, he couldn’t help being shocked. Ouyang Xun, bearing the brunt, naturally suffered from ringing ears. His face was pale as he gasped: “How can this hammer make such a loud noise? How strange.” After gasping for a while, he bent down to look at the floor to examine the divine hammer’s power.

Seeing his grandson bend to examine, Ouyang Nan smiled and asked: “How is it? Do you know its virtue now?” Ouyang Xun looked for a while but couldn’t help laughing. He pointed at the ground: “What’s this? After such a heavy strike, why is there only such a tiny hole in the ground? How is this hammer so useless?” He burst into laughter. By now many disciples had gathered in the hall. Hearing him say this, they all surrounded the spot and indeed saw only a needle-like damage on the ground. An ordinary hammer would at least break a whole brick, yet this divine hammer was so large but performed so poorly. Everyone felt strange and couldn’t help whispering to each other. Ouyang Xun laughed: “Grandfather! It’s not that I’m saying anything, but this Lei Ze Xing Tian hammer is pure bluff – I think it’s definitely fake!”

Hearing this, Ouyang Nan remained unmoved and said flatly: “Don’t rush to speak – first extend your foot and stomp on the ground once to try.” Ouyang Xun raised his foot and stepped on the blue brick, laughing: “Like this…” Before the word “way” left his mouth, his foot suddenly gave way and he fell face-first. A nearby disciple was startled and quickly helped him up.

Ouyang Nan smiled: “Now do you know its power?”

Ouyang Xun was puzzled and quickly looked down at his feet. He saw the blue brick below had already shattered into a deep hole, while the surrounding bricks remained completely normal without any damage. He looked up at his grandfather and said tremblingly: “Didn’t the brick just have a small hole? How did it become like this?” Ouyang Nan said: “Feel the brick fragments carefully.”

Ouyang Xun picked up the remains and saw the blue brick had turned to powder, fine and loose as if ground by an iron pestle. His expression changed as he exclaimed: “Grandfather, what… what’s going on?”

Ouyang Nan said flatly: “An ordinary hammer striking down with just a fist-sized head can break two or three bricks. Given the Xing Tian Hammer’s size, it should at least shatter ten pieces. Think with your brain – with the divine hammer’s size, how could it only break one brick?” Hearing this, Ouyang Xun immediately saw the crucial point. His eyebrows raised as he squatted down to examine with intense focus.

Ouyang Nan asked: “Well? Do you see the principle?” Ouyang Xun stood up and shook his head: “Still don’t understand.”

Ouyang Nan laughed heartily and personally came over, picking up the divine hammer to show everyone: “The reason the divine hammer can precisely turn the central object to powder without deviation is because of a mystery here.” Everyone saw him pointing to a spot on the hammer face and quickly craned their necks to look. They saw a slight protrusion on the hammer like a needle point, protruding just slightly from the hammer face. Everyone made sounds of surprise, all feeling amazed.

Ouyang Nan pointed at the needle point: “Don’t look at the hammer head being the size of a watermelon – when it strikes down, only this spike touches the object. That’s why it breaks exactly one brick, no more, no less.” Everyone saw that needle point was incredibly small, even tinier than an embroidery needle head, yet it could withstand the impact of tremendous force. They all found it inconceivable, not knowing what material this divine hammer was made from.

Ouyang Xun looked puzzled: “But how did this blue brick turn to powder?”

Ouyang Nan smiled slightly and asked back: “In ironworking, what is most important?” Born into a family tradition, Ouyang Xun naturally had deep family learning and immediately answered without thinking: “In forging iron into steel, sufficient force is important.”

Ouyang Nan nodded approvingly: “Well answered. But tell me, what constitutes sufficient force?”

Ouyang Xun thought for a while: “Great strength means sufficient.”

Ouyang Nan laughed heartily: “Childish view.” He called over a disciple and asked: “In your daily ironworking, do you know how much force is applied to the iron?” Everyone looked puzzled, not knowing what he meant. Gong Zhi stepped forward and answered: “Master, we sword-forging masters apply ninety percent of our force to the iron surface, with only ten percent of our strength penetrating the iron core.”

Ouyang Nan stroked his beard and laughed: “Worthy of being your senior brother – your insight is different indeed.” He picked up the powder-like blue brick: “Ironworking doesn’t emphasize great force but getting the force into the iron core. Only this way can iron be tempered, removing impurities and keeping the essence. Usually when we use hammers, we waste most of our effort – eighty to ninety percent of force hits the iron surface. But this ‘Lei Ze Xing Tian Hammer,’ relying on this one needle point, can channel force into the iron core, allowing ten thousand jin of force to solidly enter the iron material. This is what ‘one strike makes steel’ means.”

Ouyang Xun exclaimed: “One strike makes steel? Is it this method that turned the brick to powder?”

Ouyang Nan nodded: “Correct. This is why the Xing Tian Hammer is called the world’s number one divine hammer.”

By now Ouyang Xun had put away his contempt. He touched the divine hammer face with admiration, saying in a daze: “What a divine hammer! Immense power yet so refined – with this divine hammer, we can surely forge the world’s finest divine weapons!”

Ouyang Nan had been smiling, but hearing the words “world’s finest,” his expression changed and he seemed uncomfortable.

Sunlight shone brightly with gentle winds – this day was October thirteenth afternoon, already near the Ouyang family’s banquet time. The Azure Robe Scholar who had come from Mount Jiuhua to pay birthday respects had already left with his disciples, but Lu Yun still remained at the residence. Thinking of having no birthday gift, he was anxious and didn’t know what to do.

Just as he was panicking, he saw Gu Qianxi slowly walking toward the hall. Lu Yun was overjoyed and immediately ran forward: “Qianxi! Didn’t you say last night you’d prepare a birthday gift for me? How is it almost afternoon yet there’s still no sign of that gift?”

Gu Qianxi exclaimed and covered her mouth: “Oh my! I forgot about this!” Lu Yun rubbed his hands: “Terrible, terrible! Without a gift to present, what can I do? Sigh… I suppose I’ll have to buy some longevity peaches to make do!” Gu Qianxi shook her head: “Today Mr. Ouyang is hosting everyone – no one is open for business.” Lu Yun smiled miserably: “Fine! I’ll just have to claim illness and not go out.”

Seeing she had teased him enough, Gu Qianxi immediately smiled: “Alright, I won’t bully you anymore. Let’s prepare the birthday gift now!” She pulled Lu Yun and they walked toward the study together. Lu Yun said happily: “So the birthday gift is in the study – where did you hide it? How didn’t I see it last night?” Gu Qianxi smiled: “Don’t rush. You didn’t see it last night, but you’ll see it soon.”

They entered the study, which only contained furniture and books with no trace of any birthday gift. Lu Yun looked at his beloved with a worried frown. Gu Qianxi smiled and pointed at the desk. Lu Yun made an “oh” sound: “On the table?” He went over and searched carefully, only seeing miscellaneous items on the desk with nothing valuable. He couldn’t help frowning: “You… you’re teasing me again. Sigh, please don’t joke at a time like this…”

Gu Qianxi pressed him into a chair and extended her delicate white hands with a smile: “Here comes the birthday gift!” She spread a white paper on the desk.

Lu Yun frowned: “A white paper? This… this is the birthday gift?” Gu Qianxi didn’t answer but smilingly handed him a writing brush. Lu Yun’s face was miserable: “You want to give this brush? Isn’t that too shabby?”

Gu Qianxi giggled: “Who said to give the brush? I want you to paint a longevity picture and write some characters!”

Lu Yun suddenly understood – Gu Qianxi wanted him to write calligraphy as a gift. He shook his head repeatedly: “My calligraphy and painting aren’t valuable – how can they be presentable?” Gu Qianxi said solemnly: “You are the jiwei year champion scholar, first class jinshi, and answered His Majesty’s absolute couplet in Chengtian Hall – your literary fame has already spread throughout the realm. Don’t belittle yourself.”

Lu Yun suddenly realized and said happily: “So that’s it – I hadn’t thought of it myself.”

Gu Qianxi placed the brush handle in Lu Yun’s hand and continued: “With your status as newly appointed champion scholar, personally inscribed calligraphy and painting are not ordinary things – first, they bring good fortune; second, they’re precious. People want to request them but can’t get them!”

Lu Yun was overjoyed and immediately took up the brush to paint. Soon he had painted a “Three Friends of Winter” – pine, bamboo, and plum. With his high talent, though using only a few strokes, the brush work showed vigorous integrity. Gu Qianxi praised: “Excellent, Lu Lang! With winter approaching, these pine, bamboo, and plum are most fitting.” She casually commented and appreciated it with endless praise. First, this “Three Friends of Winter” was indeed a fine work; second, since it was painted by her beloved, even dog paw prints would merit generous scoring – she praised Lu Yun to the skies.

Lu Yun’s face reddened as he thought: “Hearing her praise it so highly, could I already be among the current four great masters?” He stamped it with the prefect’s official seal and wrote congratulatory words beside it. He set down the brush and waited for the ink to dry, suddenly thinking that the Ouyang family was wealthy and influential with many guests today. Thinking of social interactions, he couldn’t help worrying and frowning: “I’m now a local magistrate, but I’ve had little social interaction in the past. Sigh… I’m not familiar with social customs – I hope I won’t be rude later.” Knowing her beloved wasn’t good at socializing, Gu Qianxi quickly consoled: “Don’t worry – I’m here for everything.”

Gu Qianxi came from a wealthy family and had seen all kinds of people. She had seen many with broad social skills and elegant demeanor, but she had rarely seen someone as upright and outspoken as Lu Yun – this was why she had won her heart. But what worked in romance wouldn’t work in officialdom. Lu Yun’s rigid personality would inevitably offend local powerful families if he wasn’t careful. Gu Qianxi had long planned for this and had asked Constable Hong yesterday, learning that Ouyang Nan was an easy-going person. She would let Lu Yun handle him, while she would deal with the Ouyang family’s women and children. With Miss Gu’s skills, this intervention would surely make the whole family completely submissive – if Lu Yun had any requests in the future, these people would absolutely comply wholeheartedly.

While they were talking, the ink had dried. Lu Yun rolled up the calligraphy and painting and rode in a sedan chair with Gu Qianxi to the Ouyang residence.

Arriving at the Ouyang residence gate, the servants saw the official sedan arriving and knew the new prefect had come. They immediately hurried inside to report. As soon as Lu Yun stepped down from the sedan, he heard applause from both sides as servants called out: “The newly appointed Changzhou Prefect, imperial champion scholar Lu Yun has arrived!” Lu Yun was naturally modest and had never experienced such pomp. His face reddened slightly as he wanted to cover his face and hurry past. Turning slightly without watching his step, he caught his foot on the sedan beam and fell forward.

Just as he was about to fall flat on his face, Lu Yun was dismayed and thought of using lightness skills to recover, but feared frightening the watching civilians. Not knowing what to do, suddenly a pair of hands reached out and steadied him.

Lu Yun looked up quickly and saw an old man smiling at him – this must be the Ouyang family master, Ouyang Nan.

Lu Yun quickly bowed: “This junior Lu Yun pays respects to Master Ouyang.” Ouyang Nan laughed heartily: “What junior? Prefect Lu is too polite! Your Honor’s arrival in Changzhou – this old man was completely unaware and failed to greet you from afar. I truly deserve ten thousand deaths!”

Lu Yun quickly waved his hands: “Master, please don’t say that – I’m a local magistrate, so how can I disturb the people?”

Ouyang Nan smiled: “The Ouyang family was formerly ‘Jiangnan Foundry Master’ – also an official position. We’re all family, so Prefect Lu needn’t be polite!”

While they were talking, a man had already knelt on the ground: “This official Gong Zhi pays respects to Prefect Lu. I took leave without permission and haven’t been handling yamen business these days – please punish me severely, Your Honor.” Lu Yun knew this Gong Zhi was his secretary. Seeing his robust build, unlike typical secretaries who were sharp-tongued and frail-looking, he already felt more favorable toward him. He quickly helped him up: “Secretary Gong, please don’t do this – of course you must return to help when your school has business.” At this time, Gong Zhi was kneeling on the ground, and when Lu Yun helped him with his hand, his body involuntarily stood up, clearly showing this prefect’s martial power was far above his own. Gong Zhi bowed and smiled: “Prefect Lu is skilled in both civil and martial arts – excellent kung fu!” The two men looked at each other with mutual appreciation.

Everyone walked and talked as they entered the great hall. Gu Qianxi, being a woman in an era when men were superior to women, naturally followed behind Lu Yun into the hall.

The hall had forty to fifty round tables set up with many guests already seated. The hall was crowded with congratulatory guests but didn’t seem cramped, showing the Ouyang family’s wealth was truly astonishing. Lu Yun looked carefully at the guests and saw most had strange appearances, some even carrying weapons – mostly martial world people. He was secretly alert, thinking: “These people are a mixed bunch – I must be careful in dealing with them.”

Just as he was thinking, Ouyang Nan had already arranged the head seat for him. Lu Yun said humbly: “I’m young – Master Ouyang absolutely cannot do this.” Ouyang Nan smiled: “Since ancient times, which court official doesn’t sit in the place of honor? Prefect Lu, please don’t be polite.”

Lu Yun’s face was red. In the distance, Gu Qianxi nodded to him, indicating he should sit. Lu Yun had no choice but to take his seat. Seeing the Azure Robe Scholar already seated beside him, Lu Yun smiled awkwardly: “Master, you arrived early!”

The Azure Robe Scholar’s gaze was piercing as he looked around at the hall’s occupants. Lu Yun was worried and asked: “Looking at these people, they’re not ordinary civilians – are there any lawless villains?” The Azure Robe Scholar shook his head: “Prefect Lu, rest assured – today is Iron Foundry Manor’s joyous day. Most guests are relatives and friends, so there shouldn’t be any major fights.” Seeing his confidence, Lu Yun felt somewhat relieved.

At this time, Gu Qianxi had also taken her seat at the women’s table with Yan Ting and Juan’er beside her. Lu Yun saw Gu Qianxi chatting and laughing with Yan Ting, the two beauties whispering to each other like lovely flowers, with guests all around stealing glances at them. Lu Yun was secretly puzzled: “A few days ago when these two talked, they were at daggers drawn – how are they now like good friends? Truly incomprehensible.” But thinking he no longer had to sit at the same table with them, he felt secretly relieved. He turned to look around and saw many people gambling in a corner of the hall. A’Sha looked excited with silver piled in front of him – apparently his luck was good today.

Just as he was watching, several tall elders approached. The Azure Robe Scholar immediately rose to greet them, and Lu Yun also stood. After exchanging names, they turned out to be the Seven Heroes of Dian Cang. Soon after, first-generation disciples sent by the masters of Mount Emei and Mount Tai also arrived. Though today’s birthday banquet couldn’t compare to Ning Bufan’s sword-sealing retirement, it was still a grand event in the martial world.

Most of these people had attended Ning Bufan’s retirement celebration and could all be considered righteous heroes. With Lu Yun responsible for Changzhou’s security, having these figures to help meant that even if villains came to cause trouble in Changzhou, there would be no need to worry. Everyone exchanged pleasantries. Though Lu Yun’s martial world experience was quite shallow, as a prefect, no one dared slight him, and the atmosphere was quite warm.

Soon the birthday banquet began. As the local magistrate, Lu Yun needed to speak first. He stepped forward and bowed: “Distinguished guests, I am Lu Yun, the newly appointed Changzhou Prefect, who arrived here yesterday to take office. Happening upon Master Ouyang’s seventieth birthday celebration, I’ve come gladly to offer congratulations and express the court’s good wishes to the Ouyang family. The tradition of birthday celebrations has ancient origins…” Lu Yun, usually well-read in classics and rarely having the opportunity to speak publicly, naturally wanted to make good use of it. He spoke at great length, but saw the people below laughing and chatting, drinking and talking on their own, with no one listening attentively. Even Gu Qianxi was constantly responding to inquiries from the Ouyang family women and had no time to spare.

After Lu Yun spoke for a long time, seeing people gambling and playing with no one paying attention to him, he quickly concluded: “Therefore, I, Prefect Lu Yun, hereby congratulate Master Ouyang on longevity of a hundred years and double happiness in fortune and rank!” As soon as he finished, the entire hall of guests seemed to perk up, everyone stopping what they were doing and turning to look at him, as if wanting him to quickly step down.

Lu Yun was furious inside, thinking: “Fine! As soon as I start speaking, you all go eat, drink, and play. Only when I shut up do you perk up. How detestable.” He snorted and recited: “Drinking wine and singing, how much is human life? Seventy years is truly rare, virtue covers heaven and earth, emphasizing benevolence…” As soon as he said this, everyone again talked loudly and played around.

Having no other choice, Lu Yun could only cough three times, pretending his poem was finished, knowing no one would notice anyway. He took out his congratulatory gift and announced: “On this great birthday, I humbly present a calligraphy and painting to Master Ouyang. Prepared hastily, please accept it with a smile.”

Ouyang Nan received the calligraphy and painting and unrolled it. The hall’s guests, seeing there was a gift to look at, all craned their necks forward. They saw this “Three Friends of Winter” had extraordinary brushwork. Though most were martial artists who couldn’t appreciate its precious qualities, since it was presented by the prefect, it surely couldn’t be shabby. They all applauded randomly. Someone in the distance called out: “What beautiful vaginas! Worthy of being painted by Lord Prefect – truly damn beautiful!”

Lu Yun smiled bitterly inwardly, thinking: “These people are truly like illiterates, mistaking plum blossoms for vaginas, yet they can still praise it – how baffling.” In the distance, Gu Qianxi, hearing the nonsensical words of the martial world figures, couldn’t help covering her mouth and laughing softly.

Among the crowd, only Yan Ting showed admiration, her beautiful eyes constantly looking toward Lu Yun. Not knowing why she was looking at him, Lu Yun returned a smile, thinking: “Does Miss Yan Ting understand calligraphy and painting? Mount Jiuhua disciples are truly skilled in both civil and martial arts, extraordinarily learned!”

Ouyang Nan received the calligraphy and painting and praised it earnestly, speaking quite knowledgeably. Seeing his delight in the birthday gift, Lu Yun sat down happily. Soon everyone presented their congratulatory gifts. The Azure Robe Scholar gave a snow mountain ginseng that had grown into human form, quite rare and strange. The Azure Robe Scholar spoke little, saying flatly: “This was cultivated by our mountain – please accept it, Master.” Everyone was amazed, not knowing how wild ginseng could be cultivated, and discussed it among themselves.

Ouyang Nan said humbly: “This old man has merely lived a few extra years – how can I bear Master’s such precious gift?” He had known the Azure Robe Scholar for years with ordinary friendship, yet he was giving such a great gift. After declining for a while, he finally accepted it.

After the Azure Robe Scholar, others also presented gifts. The Seven Heroes of Dian Cang gave a golden lion worth over a thousand taels of silver, quite valuable. The Emei and Tai Mountain sects gave folding fans, brocade robes, and similar items – all meaningful objects. But gifts from others varied greatly – some showed sincere intent while others were merely perfunctory, better than nothing.

After everyone finished presenting gifts and said congratulatory words, they all sat down to eat. Since ancient times, “eating” has been the highlight of all celebrations – births, marriages, promotions, funerals all require this character. Indeed, after exchanging gifts, everyone ate and drank heartily, wishing they could take several taels’ worth home. The intention to get their money’s worth was truly obvious.

After about an hour, Gong Zhi saw everyone had finished eating and drinking and were resting, so he stepped forward: “Today our manor has double happiness – first, our master’s seventieth birthday, and second, a divine object has descended from heaven. The legendary ‘Lei Ze Xing Tian Hammer’ has appeared in the world. On this double celebration, our manor will reopen the ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace’ and resume ironwork.”

When the five words “Lei Ze Xing Tian Hammer” were spoken, everyone made sounds of surprise. Though Lu Yun had heard the Azure Robe Scholar mention this divine hammer, he didn’t know the hammer’s full name was “Lei Ze Xing Tian.”

A Taoist laughed heartily – this man with a ruddy complexion was Chi Chuanzi, ranked third among the Seven Heroes of Dian Cang. He stepped forward laughing: “This is wonderful! I, Chi Chuanzi, have traveled the martial world for years and always heard of this divine hammer’s virtues. Please, Iron Lion, quickly bring it out so this poor Taoist can open his eyes!” His words carried excitement – clearly he greatly admired this “Xing Tian Hammer.”

Gong Zhi smiled: “With the divine hammer appearing in the world, our sect won’t be selfish but will use it to benefit the people. If Taoist Chi Chuan wants to see it, how dare our manor neglect you?” He waved his hand, and immediately five servants working together carried out an iron hammer.

Everyone heard the divine hammer’s name was so impressive and saw it was so heavy that five or six servants had to carry it together. They quickly craned their necks to look. But upon seeing it, they couldn’t help being greatly disappointed – the hammer body was ancient and worn, covered in rust. Though enormously large, they couldn’t see anything remarkable about it. Everyone secretly shook their heads: “What divine hammer – such an impressive name yet it’s just a piece of junk.”

Seeing most people in the hall showing disappointment, Gong Zhi secretly shook his head, thinking: “These people are all bumpkins.” But his intention wasn’t to show off, so he didn’t explain much.

Lu Yun walked forward to examine it closely. Seeing the prefect approach, everyone made way. Lu Yun looked carefully – this divine hammer was covered in rust and appeared ordinary, but upon close examination, the hammer face was faintly wrapped in a layer of blue light. This hammer definitely had mysterious qualities. Seeing him nod repeatedly, Gong Zhi smiled: “What are Your Honor’s insights?”

Lu Yun said flatly: “Legend has it that the Han Dynasty used ‘Lei Ze’ as the thunder god, while ‘Xing Tian’ was the enemy of heavenly gods – deities recorded in the Classic of Mountains and Seas. After the Han Dynasty, these two gods weren’t commonly seen. From this, this hammer should be a Han Dynasty artifact.”

Gong Zhi’s eyebrows raised as he bowed: “Your Honor’s insight is truly accurate. Legend says this divine hammer was passed down by Zhang Heng of the Han Dynasty and is now over a thousand years old.” Seeing everyone in the hall had viewed the divine hammer, he said: “Heaven has sent this auspicious sign. Since ‘Lei Ze Xing Tian’ has appeared in the world, relying on this heavenly power, our manor can definitely reopen and restart the ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace’ fire.” He bowed to Lu Yun and others: “Later, please witness together with Prefect Lu and Master Azure Robe, so court ministers know this ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace’ can indeed manufacture equipment and is definitely not the waste that Minister Jiang Chong calls it.” Most people in the hall didn’t know the grievances between Iron Foundry Manor and the court. Hearing Gong Zhi say this, they all whispered and inquired about details.

Gong Zhi said: “The auspicious time has arrived. Please everyone move and follow our sect members to witness the ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace.'” Most people in the hall were rough martial artists. Hearing there was a good show to watch, they immediately roared: “Let’s go! Quickly!” Many impatient ones rushed out the main gate. Seeing several elders still drinking, Gong Zhi couldn’t urge them, only waiting on the side while several young strong men shouted: “Hurry up! What’s so good about drinking!”

Finally everyone gathered and followed Ouyang Nan toward the south of the city. Lu Yun thought: “I’ve heard this heavenly furnace has an extremely stubborn temperament. What exactly is a stubborn furnace? I must see clearly today.” While walking, he suddenly smelled a delicate fragrance from his right side. Lu Yun was delighted, knowing Gu Qianxi had come, and wanted to hold her small hand. When their palms touched, Lu Yun suddenly felt something wrong. Looking carefully, the girl was actually Yan Ting, which scared him out of his wits. He flashed to the left side but bumped into another soft body. Startled, he was about to leap forward. Onlookers found it strange, thinking: “This prefect is somewhat odd – why does he walk so crookedly? Is he ill?”

Then they heard the girl say: “Lu Lang, what’s wrong with you?” This voice was Gu Qianxi’s. Lu Yun patted his chest and turned to smile at her: “Nothing, I was just thinking about the ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace’ being so remarkable that I became somewhat flustered.”

Gu Qianxi smiled: “The ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace’ hasn’t even started burning, but I see ‘Prefect Lu’ is about to catch fire.” Lu Yun’s face reddened, thinking: “I just mistook someone and she caught it. How are girls’ eyes so sharp?”

Everyone reached the south of the city and saw a furnace over ten zhang high, appearing magnificent and grand – this must be the Hongwu Heavenly Furnace. Just as they were looking, Ouyang Nan had already removed the seals beside the furnace and said: “Our family’s ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace’ has another name – the Ruyi Furnace. This furnace has great spiritual nature and uses sand mold burning, incomparable to ordinary furnaces.” Everyone was puzzled, thinking: “Furnaces aren’t cats or dogs – how can they have spiritual nature?” They were all curious, wanting to see what was meant by a spiritually-natured iron furnace.

Lu Yun thought: “Since ancient times, whether carpenters, blacksmiths, or stonemasons all believe tools have spirits. Though this Master Ouyang is extraordinary, he hasn’t escaped such superstitious talk. No wonder he was charged by Jiang Chong.”

Ouyang Nan personally lit the furnace fire. In an instant, flames shot out and fierce fire reached the sky. Everyone seeing the furnace fire burn so quickly was greatly shocked. Lu Yun looked carefully at the large furnace and saw the air vent faced north toward the wind. At this autumn-winter transition, wind power could naturally flow in – no wonder the furnace fire burned so intensely in moments.

Ouyang Nan had disciples bring out an object – a hundred-tael gold ingot. He said: “Today we’ll test with this gold.” He placed the gold ingot on the ground, took out the “Lei Ze Xing Tian Hammer,” and with a whoosh, struck down powerfully. A tremendous sound like thunder made everyone’s hearts tremble, thinking: “What a ‘Lei Ze Xing Tian Hammer’ – just the sound alone is extraordinary.”

Everyone looked carefully at the gold ingot and saw it had been pressed extremely flat, like a plate, with some fine powder residue on the ground. Ouyang Nan picked up the powder from the ground: “Everyone look – this isn’t gold powder but copper powder mixed into the ingot.”

After everyone looked, they all marveled. This divine hammer’s strike with tremendous force could actually shake out impurities. Ordinary blacksmiths hammering iron surfaces thousands of times merely wanted to remove dross and keep essence, changing the carbon content in iron. But this divine hammer’s single strike equaled others’ thousands of hammers – truly an extraordinary object.

Ouyang Nan used internal force to attach the flattened ingot to the divine hammer, then threw it into the furnace fire for forging. Everyone saw his deep internal power, easily lifting the ingot, and secretly approved. Lu Yun, standing with Gu Qianxi behind the crowd watching, saw his beloved’s face show amazement as if quite impressed. He nodded: “This Master Ouyang has considerable internal strength. This adhesive force is used perfectly. Worthy of being the Ouyang family master.” Hearing him comment as if quite knowledgeable, Gu Qianxi was both surprised and delighted: “What? You can do this too?”

Lu Yun smiled slightly. His “Unparalleled Heart Method” could also generate suction from his palm. In the Western Region cliffs, he had relied on this to save his and the princess’s lives countless times. In terms of power, he might not lose to this iron-forging master. He immediately used internal force, his palm power firmly attaching to Gu Qianxi’s small hand.

Lu Yun smiled slightly: “When I use this adhesive force, you absolutely can’t shake free.”

Gu Qianxi’s eyes sparkled as she spat: “Others practice this to attract gold ingots – what are you using it for?” Thinking her beloved was skilled in both civil and martial arts – not only outstanding in literary talent but also martial arts not inferior to a distinguished iron-forging master – she couldn’t help beaming with joy.

After Ouyang Nan burned and forged for a while, seeing the ingot gradually melting, he lifted the Xing Tian Hammer into the furnace to retrieve the gold, showing it to guests: “Gentlemen, please see – this is the ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace’s’ wonderful method.”

Everyone had long wanted to see the so-called divine furnace’s spiritual nature and quickly looked. They saw the gold ingot had been forged into a golden ball, round and smooth, so bright it could reflect faces. Even using sand molds might not achieve such refinement. Everyone was greatly amazed.

Ouyang Nan placed the golden ball on the ground: “Everyone, this gold ingot became spherical not by my doing, but because the ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace’ considered the gold pure and suitable for sphere form, so it forged it into this shape.”

Seeing everyone discussing with disbelief, Ouyang Nan continued: “Ordinary blacksmiths must pre-make molds when crafting objects, or they won’t take shape. But our heavenly furnace is called an unparalleled mystery – how could it be ordinary? Below this furnace is a sand pit containing mineral veins called ‘Ruyi Eight Treasures Sand’ containing eight treasures: gold, silver, copper, iron, tin, lead, etc. The Ruyi Sand automatically wraps and forms according to the forged object’s nature. Without pre-made sand molds, no one knows what will emerge from the furnace.”

Everyone was even more amazed. According to him, this “Hongwu Heavenly Furnace” could automatically create shapes according to forged objects’ properties. Such absurd claims made everyone find it hard to believe – they didn’t know what mystery he was playing.

Ouyang Nan continued: “Pure gold is too soft – when smelted in the divine furnace, it gains red copper. Iron rusts easily – the divine furnace mixes in silver and chromium. Whenever forged objects have imperfections, the heavenly furnace, through the ‘Ruyi Sand’s’ various wonders, can supplement them.”

A guest smiled coldly: “According to you, no matter what you put in, this heavenly furnace can forge it properly?” Ouyang Nan said: “Exactly so. As long as it’s useful, this heavenly furnace can burn out a proper form.”

The guest laughed heartily: “But if something is already perfect, what would this heavenly furnace do?”

Ouyang Nan shook his head: “All things in the world have flaws – where is there perfection?” The guest sneered: “Don’t speak wildly – look at my blade.” He untied his sword and handed it to Ouyang Nan.

The guest looked proud: “This blade was forged at Dragon Iron Shop below Mount Wudang, costing me three thousand taels of silver. At such a price, what could be lacking?” Hearing his boastful words, Ouyang Nan made an “oh” sound and quickly took it, carefully feeling the blade body but remaining silent for a long time. The guest sneered: “How is it? Dragon Iron Shop is also a famous establishment – how does it compare to your Iron Foundry Manor’s craftsmanship?”

Ouyang Nan sighed and shook his head: “You’ve been cheated – this blade’s iron quality is impure and probably not good goods.”

The guest was angry: “This blade has been with me ten years, fighting across the great rivers and everywhere victorious, yet you dare mock it?”

Ouyang Nan had no intention of causing trouble. He swung the blade up and down: “I absolutely mean no mockery – please don’t take offense. How about this – since the heavenly furnace has reopened, I’ll reforge this blade for you. What do you say?”

The guest had come from afar to offer birthday congratulations with ulterior motives. His earlier talk of three thousand taels was meant to provoke and gain some benefit. Hearing Ouyang Nan say this, he had fallen into the trap. He was secretly delighted but showed reluctance, frowning: “Fine, given your sincerity, I’ll let you try.”

Hearing his arrogance, Ouyang Nan wasn’t offended. He raised the “Xing Tian Hammer” and looked at the man: “Your blade has too many impurities and needs one strike of ‘Xing Tian Thunder’ to remove dross and keep essence. What do you think?”

The man smiled: “My blade is no ordinary thing and not afraid of hammering – just strike.”

Ouyang Nan nodded and roared, the divine hammer striking down. A tremendous explosive sound like heavenly thunder – amid everyone’s cries, the blade shattered into five pieces, crumbling like debris.

Ouyang Nan was startled: “Didn’t you say your blade was worth three thousand taels? How is it so fragile?” Earlier when the divine hammer struck gold, it didn’t shatter because of gold’s purity. But now with one hammer strike, the blade body exploded like bricks – clearly the guest was completely boasting, and this blade was fake goods worth only a few taels.

Seeing his personal weapon destroyed, the guest immediately wailed: “Finished! Finished! I have no eating tools! Ouyang Nan! You must compensate me!” Ouyang Nan sighed and instructed disciples: “Fine, consider it our fault. Take this friend to the weapon vault and let him choose any weapon as compensation.”

The man was overjoyed and followed the disciple with a grin. The Ouyang family’s craftsmanship was exquisite with countless treasured swords and sharp blades in their weapon vault. Ordinary household tools couldn’t catch their eye. Having not sold weapons for nearly twenty years, their collection was extraordinarily rich. That man would surely turn misfortune into fortune.

Seeing the man leave happily, Ouyang Nan bowed to each guest in the venue: “Friends, having finally reopened the furnace and with distinguished guests coming from afar, I, Ouyang Nan, must forge a proper weapon to live up to the name ‘Jiangnan Foundry Master.'” He instructed disciples: “Go get iron sand – master will forge a good sword today.”

As the honored “Jiangnan Foundry Master,” Ouyang Nan’s standards far exceeded ordinary people. His “proper weapon” was probably a divine weapon rarely seen by others. Having witnessed the golden ball’s mystery, everyone wanted to see what kind of miraculous object Ouyang Nan’s “good sword” would be.

Seeing manor disciples bow and prepare to fetch iron sand, suddenly someone said: “Master needn’t trouble himself! How could ordinary iron sand suffice? Look at my precious sword – if used as base material for recasting, it will surely forge a sword famous for ages, forever witnessing your manor.” Everyone turned quickly and saw the speaker was tall and thin, wearing Taoist robes – one of the Seven Heroes of Dian Cang, Chi Chuanzi.

Chi Chuanzi stepped forward and with a “swish” drew his sword. The sword was about half a person’s height, blood-red in color, looking like flames with great mysterious properties. Chi Chuanzi looked proud: “This sword is named ‘Red Dragon,’ one of seven divine weapons secretly passed down in our sect. Today, since you possess divine hammer and heavenly furnace – two treasures – why not add my treasure to forge an earth-shaking good sword!” Speaking, he held the sword horizontally, and it emanated blood-like killing qi. By its aura, it was already an extremely rare sharp blade. Wanting to display its power, Chi Chuanzi casually raised the sword and struck a large tree. The sword cut through like tearing paper – instantly the tree tilted and fell to the ground.

Chi Chuanzi handed over his long sword with a solemn voice: “I respectfully offer the Red Dragon to forge a divine sword!” The onlooking crowd, hearing these words, were all excited and applauded, shouting their approval loudly.

Ordinary sword forging mostly uses refined steel. If a weapon is already a divine blade, unless it has damage or gaps, very few people would be willing to have it reforged. Chi Chuanzi’s willingness to lend out his beloved sword was half due to the tremendous reputation of the Heavenly Furnace and Divine Hammer, and half because the “Red Dragon” sword was too long and didn’t quite match his martial arts style. He intended to have it reforged, not to show off.

Ouyang Nan carefully examined the Red Dragon and nodded: “The texture is delicate and flexible yet firm – it should be crafted by Tang Dynasty artisans. It’s indeed a fine sword.” He removed the sword hilt and laid the blade flat on the ground, then picked up the Divine Hammer and struck down to remove the impurities and preserve the essence.

With a thunderous crash, hammer met sword, sparks flew everywhere. The crowd heard this loud sound and hurriedly craned their necks to look, only to see that the “Red Dragon” had already shattered into fragments, leaving only a palm-sized lump of red iron, while the rest of the debris scattered and flew everywhere.

Chi Chuanzi’s face turned pale as he said: “How did it become so small?” Ouyang Nan replied: “This remaining iron lump is the true essence of the ‘Red Dragon.’ The scattered debris is all impurities – better to discard them.” Though Chi Chuanzi felt heartbroken, he had originally hoped the Red Dragon could be somewhat shorter, so he nodded immediately and said: “If that’s the case, please forge it well for me and create a peerless dagger.”

Ouyang Nan remained silent and directly placed the red iron into the fire. The furnace flames suddenly rose and fell, alternating between blue and red – clearly the great furnace was already smelting. Chi Chuanzi watched with delight in his heart, thinking: “Hehe, if I can forge a world-class dagger this time and combine it with my divine martial arts, the Dian Cang Sect will become famous throughout the world, and the position of sect leader will naturally fall into my hands!”

He was beaming with joy, imagining his future days of glory, when Ouyang Nan had already extended the “Leize Xingtian Hammer” into the fire and then withdrew the Red Dragon, saying: “Daoist, your Red Dragon has been forged!”

Chi Chuanzi was overjoyed and rushed forward eagerly. The onlooking crowd, envious in their hearts, also stepped forward to observe.

A hundred pairs of eyes looked together, but saw nothing attached to the Divine Hammer.

Chi Chuanzi cried out in shock: “My… my sword?” Ouyang Nan frowned and used tweezers to pick up a needle: “Unfortunately, that red iron couldn’t withstand the burning and turned into a needle.” Chi Chuanzi screamed: “My Red Dragon! My Red Dragon!”

Ouyang Nan sighed: “I’m sorry, your Red Dragon has become a red needle.”

Chi Chuanzi, with tears in his eyes, reached out to take the steel needle. Just as he was about to grasp it, Ouyang Nan shouted urgently: “Careful! It’s hot!” Though his warning was quick, it was still a step too late. Chi Chuanzi felt pain in his palm and immediately got a blister from the burn. The steel needle had already fallen to the ground, heading straight toward a large stone.

With a soft “ding” sound, the needle point went down and penetrated more than halfway into the stone. The crowd exclaimed: “So sharp!” Seeing the steel needle’s incredible sharpness, Chi Chuanzi didn’t know whether to cry or laugh. Just as he was about to bend down and pick it up, the needle’s momentum didn’t cease and continued to slowly drill downward, as if sinking into mud and sand. In the blink of an eye, it had sunk into the large stone and then disappeared from sight.

Seeing the steel needle so sharp that it defied belief, the crowd couldn’t help but cry out in amazement. Chi Chuanzi was also startled and shouted: “Red needle! Red needle! Don’t run away!” He moved the large stone aside and saw a thin hole left in the ground – the needle had already drilled into the earth below. Chi Chuanzi screamed: “Quick, bring a shovel! I must find the red needle!” The Ouyang family disciples felt very sorry and quickly brought a shovel for Chi Chuanzi to dig on the spot.

A large man shouted: “What divine weapons? They’re all fake things!” The crowd quickly turned to look and saw that this person was nine feet tall, truly built like iron, holding a broad and mighty treasured saber that was rare and extraordinary, resembling a soaring eagle with spread wings – clearly no ordinary weapon.

The large man shouted: “Stand back!” He drew his saber from its sheath, and with a tiger’s roar, he had already raised the blade and struck down. The blade entered the stone surface silently and instantly split the large stone in half. Seeing the stone’s cut surface so smooth, the crowd was greatly shocked – this treasured saber was truly a rare masterpiece.

The large man forcefully planted his blade in the ground and said coldly: “This saber is called ‘Soaring Eagle,’ completely different from that fake ‘Red Dragon.’ Do whatever you want with it!”

At this time, Chi Chuanzi was crying his heart out. Since he was from Dian Cang Mountain, Yu Chuanzi took charge. His eyesight was keen, and seeing this person’s tiger-like back and bear-like waist, he had already recognized him. He immediately gave a cold laugh and retorted: “I wondered where such an arrogant brat came from, speaking so rudely. So it’s the young sect master of the Divine Blade Sect! How is your father, Old Master Song?”

The large man’s eyes flashed like lightning as he said in a deep voice: “You vulgar people, don’t disturb me. I came to Changzhou only to temper this treasured saber. I don’t want to deal with anything else.”

Seeing his arrogant manner, everyone felt displeased. However, Ouyang Nan showed no joy or anger on his face. He nodded and said: “Soaring Eagle… Soaring Eagle… So this is the famous ‘Soaring Eagle Treasured Saber.’ This blade is ranked tenth in the world. Seeing it today, it’s indeed extraordinary.”

The large man snorted and said: “World rankings are all vanity. Which blade has actually competed with my ‘Soaring Eagle’? Master Ouyang, without personally examining it and only relying on hearsay to judge superiority, you somewhat lose your dignity.”

Hearing these words, Ouyang Nan didn’t get angry but only smiled slightly: “Young Sect Master, don’t be upset. Whether it’s a divine weapon or not, the Xingtian Hammer will naturally reveal the truth.” He raised the Divine Hammer and struck down forcefully. With a thunderous clang, the Soaring Eagle Treasured Saber only bent slightly without any sign of breaking. The crowd was amazed and couldn’t help but shout out.

The large man looked up and laughed wildly, saying proudly: “How about this saber! Can it be called the world’s number one?” Ouyang Nan didn’t answer directly but only nodded: “Rare, rare. This saber is indeed extraordinary. Let me test and temper it.” He took the Divine Hammer and placed it in the Heavenly Furnace. Facing such a treasure, Gong Zhi didn’t dare be negligent and rushed forward to work the bellows personally. In an instant, flames roared up to a foot high.

The large man crossed his arms and watched the Heavenly Furnace with great confidence. The onlooking crowd all thought: “You Divine Blade Sect people have always been arrogant and domineering. If you get another peerless treasured saber forged today, you’ll really be walking sideways.”

This “Divine Blade Sect” had always done many things for the court, and in recent years had sent many disciples to serve in the Brocade Guard, gaining Jiang Chong’s favor. With another peerless treasured saber, they could squeeze into the first-class martial sects and stand shoulder to shoulder with Wudang, Kunlun, Huashan, Shaolin, and other great sects. Most of the onlookers had ordinary relations with the Divine Blade Sect, and seeing their prosperity in sight, all showed envious and jealous expressions.

Before long, Ouyang Nan took out an object from the Heavenly Furnace and shouted loudly: “The Heavenly Furnace’s wondrous method has reforged the Soaring Eagle. Everyone please look!” He used iron tongs to lift the treasured saber and show it to all the guests.

The crowd looked eagerly and immediately cried out in surprise – they saw that the Soaring Eagle Treasured Saber had a shovel-like front and stick-like handle, becoming a strangely shaped weapon. The large man rubbed his eyes and said tremblingly: “This… what is this?”

Ouyang Nan said: “The ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace’s’ wondrous method naturally forms sand molds. Using the ‘Soaring Eagle’s’ iron quality for smelting, it naturally burned into this shape.”

The large man picked up that strange blade and saw that the front was really too flat, like a broom, while the back was thin and long like a stick. He really didn’t know how to use it to injure enemies and frowned in deep thought. The onlooking crowd also discussed amongst themselves, all commenting on this divine blade’s mysteries.

While everyone was speculating, they heard Juan’er giggle and say: “Senior Sister, this strange blade has such a flat front but the back is connected to a rod. It looks like… it looks like…” Yan Ting made an “oh” sound and asked: “Like what?”

Juan’er laughed: “Like a wok spatula.” Yan Ting couldn’t help but cover her mouth and laugh: “It really does look like one. It should be good for stir-frying.” The onlooking crowd, looking closely, also felt this was true and couldn’t help but burst into laughter.

Lu Yun heard this and smiled inwardly, thinking: “It seems this ‘Hongwu Heavenly Furnace’ is truly an incredibly arrogant strange furnace. When people put their divine weapons in, it insists on burning them into wok spatula shapes. How infuriating.”

Hearing two beautiful young ladies mock him, how could the large man stand it? In his rage, he shouted: “You two females! What nonsense are you spouting!” In his fury, he pointed at Ouyang Nan and cursed: “You old dog, turning my ‘Soaring Eagle’ into this appearance – I want your life!” He reached out to grab Ouyang Nan’s pulse point. Ouyang Nan, feeling guilty, didn’t dare dodge, and the large man, being the second-in-command of the Divine Blade Sect with truly superior martial arts, immediately grasped his wrist firmly. The large man raised the strange blade and roared: “What a fine wok spatula! I’ll use your head for stir-frying first!” In his great anger, he struck down toward Ouyang Nan’s forehead.

The Ouyang family disciples saw this and cried out in alarm: “Release our master quickly!” Lu Yun shouted even louder: “How dare you! Don’t hurt anyone!” Before Lu Yun could act, they saw a sky full of flower petals – countless strangely shaped weapons flying through the air. The Ouyang family was an iron-forging household, and countless famous blades came from their hands. The disciples usually crafted many hidden weapons to compensate for their insufficient martial arts.

As the hidden weapons flew, the large man wasn’t afraid at all. With a tiger’s roar, he raised the strange blade to block. With a series of clinking sounds, the divine blade, relying on its flat, shovel-like front, actually caught all the countless hidden weapons. Seeing this large man’s formidable martial arts, everyone cried out in amazement.

The large man threw Ouyang Nan to the ground and roared angrily: “Watch me kill you!” The disciples, seeing their master in danger, rushed into the field. Lu Yun also hurried down, but the blade-spatula was already at his forehead – probably no one could save Ouyang Nan’s life.

At this life-and-death moment, they heard a gentle voice sigh: “Excellent! What a fine treasured blade that can catch hidden weapons!” The onlooking crowd heard this and looked back to see the speaker wearing a human skin mask – it was the Azure Robe scholar.

The large man suddenly heard these words and immediately stopped, glaring angrily at the Azure Robe scholar: “What did you say? Are you also mocking my ‘Soaring Eagle’?” The Azure Robe scholar said: “How could I have such intentions? I just saw that your weapon is extraordinary. When countless hidden weapons came just now, you casually blocked and caught them all. Having such a wonderful weapon in hand, I wonder how many heroes would be envious.”

This hit the nail on the head. Indeed, the large man was stunned. He looked down at the “Soaring Eagle Treasured Saber” in his hand and said tremblingly: “If you hadn’t said so, I wouldn’t have noticed. This Soaring Eagle was originally too crude. Who would have thought that becoming this strange shape would make it much more useful.”

Seeing he no longer intended harm, Ouyang Nan also stood up and frowned: “Friend, the Soaring Eagle Treasured Saber became this strange shape purely due to the Heavenly Furnace’s wondrous method. If you’re not pleased, I can reforge it with ordinary fire to restore its original appearance. What do you think?”

Before the large man could answer, a tall, thin man suddenly jumped out and shouted: “Brother from the Divine Blade Sect, if you don’t want this blade, please sell it to me!” The large man was startled and turned: “Who are you?” The man didn’t answer but took out a huge wok from his back and waved it vigorously.

The large man felt confused and angry: “What are you doing with that strange behavior?” The man shouted loudly: “I had this wok made by the Ouyang family twenty years ago. It never gets a speck of residue, but I could never find a good wok spatula! I came here today specifically seeking a spatula. Please, brother, sell this ‘Soaring Eagle’ to me – any amount of silver will do!”

The onlooking crowd recognized this man and whispered: “This is the imperial chef Zhao Longshan. They say one dish he cooks is worth a thousand taels of silver. So he’s also a customer of the Ouyang iron shop.”

They heard Zhao Longshan shout: “Think clearly, sir! My culinary skills are unmatched in the world. If this ‘Soaring Eagle’ could be mine, people throughout the world would have such fortune! Please quickly sell the ‘Soaring Eagle’ to me!”

The large man, hearing his absurd words, roared and shouted: “Go to hell!” He used his sect’s blade techniques, the blade-spatula cleaving toward Zhao Longshan. This blade was incredibly fast yet utterly silent, leaving everyone stunned. Ordinary weapons, when swung, create great wind sounds, but this blade-spatula’s special shape could break through air silently. Without flexibility and sharpness reaching the extreme, such a realm would be impossible. For a moment, all the heroes in the field were greatly amazed, and even the large man was shocked, stroking his blade in praise: “Divine blade, divine blade! Truly a peerless divine blade!”

Seeing this great power, Zhao Longshan immediately shouted: “What divine blade? That’s a peerless divine spatula! Big brother, sell it to me – I, Zhao, offer three thousand taels of silver!” While speaking, he rushed forward, actually trying to snatch that blade-spatula.

The large man roared continuously: “Not for sale!” He raised his blade to attack with a move called “Whirlwind Sweeps Fallen Leaves.” The flat blade head, when swung, already covered the enemy’s upper, middle, and lower routes, actually more powerful and broader than the original “Soaring Eagle,” forcing Zhao Longshan back a step.

These two fought – one attacking, one dodging. In the blink of an eye, they had exchanged more than ten moves. Zhao Longshan’s body techniques were nimble, his martial arts clearly extraordinary, but before this divine blade, he couldn’t counter even half a move. As they chased and fled, Zhao Longshan’s offered price had risen to fifty thousand taels of silver.

After several more moves, the large man increasingly felt this blade was more handy than before – the length, weight, everything was perfect. He couldn’t help but slow down and stroke the blade in admiration.

Zhao Longshan rolled on the ground and hugged the large man’s leg, crying: “Brother! Please sell the divine spatula to me! I’ve cooked all my life with hardship but never truly used good utensils. People regard food as heaven – please, for the sake of common people, sell this spatula to me!” He began wailing and beating the ground. This Zhao Longshan was also a famous figure in the martial world, yet for buying a wok spatula, he had degraded himself to such an ugly state – everyone found it amusing.

The large man kicked him away and cursed: “With great difficulty, my ‘Soaring Eagle’ has become so magical, and you dare covet it? Get lost!” Zhao Longshan rolled on the ground and shouted loudly: “If you won’t sell, I’ll steal or rob to get it!” He screamed like a pig being slaughtered and lunged at the large man again.

The large man, thoroughly annoyed by his pestering, immediately fled with his blade. Zhao Longshan wouldn’t give up and got up to chase after him. Seeing these two – one running, one chasing – everyone was both shocked and amused.

Ouyang Nan shouted: “Friend, do you want the Soaring Eagle restored to its original state or not?” Before he finished speaking, they heard the large man’s distant cry: “Forget it! From now on, I won’t practice blade techniques but specialize in spatula techniques! The ‘Divine Blade Sect’ is no more – from today, the martial world only has the ‘Divine Spatula Sect’!”

While everyone was laughing, they suddenly heard Chi Chuanzi shout: “My red needle! I finally dug it up!”

The crowd quickly turned to look and saw Chi Chuanzi had already dug a hole more than five zhang deep. They couldn’t believe such a thin, soft needle could penetrate so deep into the earth – everyone was amazed. Chi Chuanzi jumped out from the bottom of the hole, holding the red thin needle in his hand, tears streaming: “I thought my lifelong swordsmanship was the pride of the martial world, but my treasured sword became a needle. Heaven! What am I to do?”

They heard Yu Chuanzi of the Dian Cang Seven Heroes say: “Actually, this needle isn’t necessarily useless. If used with our sect’s ‘Dian Cang Jade Sleeve Technique,’ this sharp needle might not be bad.” This Yu Chuanzi was Chi Chuanzi’s senior brother. His words revealed the mystery, making Chi Chuanzi’s body tremble. He lowered his head to think about the “Jade Sleeve Technique” routines, then was overjoyed: “Senior Brother speaks truly! If I combine the Jade Sleeve Technique’s agility with this divine needle’s sharpness, our sect’s martial arts will greatly advance!” He suddenly thought of something else and laughed: “Hey! My younger sister’s embroidery skills are unmatched in Yunnan and Guizhou. Even without considering martial arts, giving her this world’s finest embroidery needle will surely make her extremely happy!” His joy was so great he seemed impatient and immediately flew away.

The Red Dragon transformed from sword to needle, the Soaring Eagle refined from blade to spatula – both made their owners grateful and joyfully departed. The Azure Robe scholar nodded: “What a divine furnace – it specializes in damaging divine weapons yet grants other wondrous methods. Truly extraordinary.”

Ouyang Nan sighed: “Alas… it was this furnace’s excessive stubbornness that brought great disaster to my Ouyang family. Who knew that even with this ‘Leize Xingtian Hammer,’ we still can’t forge true divine weapons… Alas… what can be done?”

Lu Yun saw him hanging his head and sighing, thinking: “Seeing this strange furnace so peculiar, how could it be used to cast Western firearms? The court’s punishment of this Ouyang Nan wasn’t wrong.” While thinking, he heard someone beside him walk over and whisper in his ear with a laugh: “Lord Lu, this strange furnace is so sour, like a stubborn donkey, quite similar to your donkey-like temper, Scholar Lu.”

This voice was delicate and pleasant yet carried three parts teasing – who else but Gu Qianxi? Lu Yun looked at his beloved’s powdered face and couldn’t help but smile slightly, thinking: “Though Qianxi’s words mock me, they’re quite apt. If someone asked me to evaluate some worthless junk, I definitely wouldn’t say anything good. It seems this furnace is as sharp-tongued and arrogant as I am.”

After the two chatted and laughed, Ouyang Nan looked worried and distressed. He sighed for a long time, then turned to ask the guests: “It’s rare to have both the Heavenly Furnace and Divine Hammer. May I ask which of you wants to smelt weapons?” Seeing that even something as sharp as the “Soaring Eagle” was turned into a wok spatula, everyone feared their own swords wouldn’t even pass the Divine Hammer test and would be smashed to pieces. Everyone was afraid and shook their heads in silence.

Several mischievous people were curious and thought: “What will this damn strange furnace produce if I throw some junk into it?” While Ouyang Nan wasn’t paying attention, they threw things randomly into the furnace – water bottles, copper coins, tobacco pipes all flew in. Ouyang Nan suddenly noticed and urgently said: “Don’t mess around!” Those pieces of junk fell into the furnace opening, and the furnace fire rolled outward, directly burning those waste items to ashes. Everyone was startled and quickly retreated.

While everyone was confused, they suddenly heard someone say: “Though the Divine Hammer and Heavenly Furnace have descended to the world, without true mysterious iron and divine steel to smelt, they’re still heroes with no place to use their skills.”

The crowd quickly turned to look and saw a person in white robes staring intently at the Hongwu Heavenly Furnace, but they didn’t know when he had arrived.

Lu Yun saw this white-robed guest and was greatly shocked. He pulled Gu Qianxi and quickly retreated a step.

Gu Qianxi urgently asked: “What’s wrong? Who is this person?”

Lu Yun whispered: “He is the ‘Sword God’ Zhuo Lingzhao.”