The deep autumn sun shone down on the capital’s stone-paved roads as crisp horse hooves sounded. Ahead, bronze gongs rang out as officials loudly chanted, “Idle people step aside—be quiet and make way—” A gray-clothed man sat on horseback following behind a group of officials. Hearing everyone’s loud recitations, he yawned lightly, seemingly somewhat tired.

This gray-clothed man had a slightly plump build with a moon-like face and worldly, understanding expression. At first glance, he seemed completely inattentive while traveling, but if one carefully observed his expression, one would be startled to discover his small eyes were sharp as a hawk’s, constantly watching every corner of the street—extremely keen indeed.

Suddenly he heard someone cough softly behind him. The gray-clothed man’s eyes brightened as he quickly turned to look, seeing an elderly man in military dress with an upright face coughing with his head lowered. The gray-clothed man quickly said, “My lord, why are you coughing? Did you catch cold last night?” The old man raised his head and waved his hand, indicating he needn’t worry.

Before the words were finished, suddenly horse hooves sounded as a rider turned his horse around in the formation. The horseman wasn’t a military officer but a young gentleman. He rode over and asked, “What’s wrong? Does my lord have some matter?” In the sunlight, this young gentleman straddled a fine horse with a long sword at his waist. His handsome oval face was white as jade—truly as beautiful as Pan An. The gray-clothed man waved his hand and smiled, “Just a throat itch, nothing serious.” The young gentleman nodded and said no more, spurring his horse forward again.

The gray-clothed man watched his retreating figure, thinking, “Yang Langzhong is still the same—always careful about everything. Even clearing his throat won’t do. Hehe, with him watching here, I can relax much more!” At this thought, a smile appeared at the corner of his mouth. He had known this gentleman for seven or eight years now. Usually seeing him gentle and refined like a scholar, actually once this gentleman got angry and raised those two eyebrows high and slanted—hehe, at those times he was no kind man or faithful woman at all.

Just as he was pondering, he suddenly heard a military officer whisper, “Guard Wei, what is that little girl doing? How is she blocking our path? Could she be filing a complaint against someone?” The gray-clothed man looked carefully and saw a young girl running out from the roadside, her face blushing red, not knowing what she wanted to do. The officer clicked his tongue and was about to step forward to stop her when the gray-clothed man waved his hand and smiled, “No problem, don’t go disturb her.” The officer, being stopped like this, just stood there dumbfounded, frowning, “Hey, really no problem?” The gray-clothed man giggled and waved his hand, telling him to watch quietly.

The officials didn’t know what the girl intended and all stopped their horses. Seeing the large convoy blocked on the road, the officer felt they really couldn’t delay anymore and was about to step forward to question her when he saw the girl’s blushing pink face moving with lotus steps toward that young gentleman.

The officer was about to step forward when he saw the young girl take out a letter from her chest and hand it over. The officer said “Eh?” and wondered, “A letter? What’s this for? To report someone’s evil deeds?” Before the gray-clothed man could answer, the young gentleman had already bent down to receive the girl’s letter and smiled faintly at her. Seeing his handsome face, the young girl’s face immediately flushed red as she quickly turned and ran away.

Even if the officer were ten times more stupid, seeing the girl’s expression and behavior, he could guess seven or eight parts. He spat and cursed, “So it’s this kind of thing! I thought someone was blocking the road to file complaints!” The gray-clothed man raised his whip and laughed loudly, saying to the gentleman, “Yang Langzhong, you should marry quickly to save the girls in the capital from being lovesick all day, worrying about you.” The gentleman turned his head and smiled slightly, “There’s no such thing—Guard Wei is joking.” With that, he spurred his horse forward.

Watching many young girls, though kneeling on the ground, still gazing at the gentleman’s retreating figure with the corners of their eyes, treating him as an object of admiration and longing. The gray-clothed man laughed heartily, thinking, “What a romantic doctor! Just going out on the street attracts countless hearts. What a sin!” But who was this gentleman? He was none other than Yang Suguan, current Military Board Geographic Department Vice Minister and son of one of the Five Assistant Grand Secretaries.

It was because his appearance was too handsome and elegant that every time he went out, he would encounter several incidents of romantic pursuit. Some arrogant troublemakers in the martial world, seeing his handsome appearance, thought he was a weak scholar who only wielded a writing brush and had no strength to tie up a chicken. Actually, any expert who carefully examined the long sword at his waist and saw the characters inlaid on the sword hilt would definitely give a thumbs up and shout, “Excellent!” Those six characters were simple and clear—just “Shaolin Tianjue Personal Transmission.” But anyone knowledgeable about martial world affairs would know this person was not to be trifled with, and these words carried enormous significance.

As the large convoy was proceeding, they suddenly heard sounds of fighting from a street corner. A man covered in blood and filth was shouting loudly there, not knowing what he was doing.

Everyone was quite surprised and stopped. They saw the man holding a large fellow in his arms, rushing toward the convoy. The young gentleman frowned, not knowing what the man intended. He gave a meaningful look, and a subordinate nearby understood and was about to step forward to question him when they saw the man throw the large fellow he was carrying with great force.

The gentleman was slightly puzzled, not knowing the purpose of this action. At this moment, a military officer flew out from the crowd at the street corner. His figure flashed as he leaped into the air, then used Eagle Claw technique to grab at the large fellow.

The young gentleman raised his eyebrows slightly and said softly, “So it’s Imperial Guard people—why are they coming to Prince’s Alley to interfere?” This military officer was no ordinary fellow but Commander An’dao Jing himself. At this moment, he leaped up to snatch Wu Dingyuan—this famous Xiliang constable’s life hung by a thread. Zhuo Lingzhao and others nearby, seeing him seize the first credit, were anxious but couldn’t stop him in time.

Just as An’dao Jing was about to succeed, suddenly a long sword came slanting in with pure technique and magnificent momentum. An’dao Jing, caught in mid-air by this unexpected sword move, couldn’t dodge and had to draw his blade to parry, using “Heaven-Reversing Earth-Cutting” to block this sword that came from nowhere.

An’dao Jing landed and quickly looked at who had attacked, seeing it was a young gentleman. In this instant, the young gentleman’s ape-like arms stretched out lightly and gracefully caught Wu Dingyuan. Nearby soldiers quickly took the person and supported him to one side.

An’dao Jing angrily shouted, pointing his finger, “You there! Release the imperial criminal or you’ll all be prosecuted together!” He held his blade horizontally with angry eyes, blocking the path.

The young gentleman gave a clear whistle and stepped forward boldly, saying sternly, “Commander An, my master Liu is the current Northern Pacification Grand Commander, granted the title Gentle Marquis, and appointed Grand Guardian of the Crown Prince. Lord Liu holds such high office and noble rank, riding in his jade carriage—how can he be disturbed? We guards have the responsibility to protect him. I don’t know why Lord An finds fault?” An’dao Jing saw this person was handsome with an official air about his beautiful face and immediately recognized him—this was Yang Suguan, son of the current Five Assistant Grand Secretaries and appointed Vice Minister of the Military Board’s Geographic Department. It was said this person had once taken his father’s place as a monk at Shaolin in his youth, with considerable martial arts skills, yet had also achieved scholarly success at a young age, passing the metropolitan examination before thirty—a talented person skilled in both civil and military arts. An’dao Jing couldn’t help but show respect to such a person and immediately bowed with cupped hands, “Lord Yang, the person you just intercepted is no good man but an extremely vicious imperial fugitive of great importance. Please hand him over to this official for urgent arrest.” Yang Suguan shook his head repeatedly, “Commander An, this is Prince’s Alley. Interrogation and pursuit matters have always been handled jointly by the Capital Prefecture and the Imperial Guard. Why trouble the Imperial Guard Commander’s grand presence? Let us question the criminal first before discussing further.” An’dao Jing, hearing his refusal, couldn’t help snorting heavily. Though angry, he was helpless, thinking, “This Yang Suguan fellow is after all a significant court figure, and his father is also a Grand Secretary of the dynasty—even our Lord Jiang Chong must give him face. It seems we can’t use force.” Seeing the unfavorable situation, An’dao Jing knew that not only could he not offend the Northern Pacification Grand Commander, but even this Yang Suguan before him required careful handling. With this thought, his spirit was already defeated. He hesitated for a moment and could only sheath his blade, turning to look at Zhuo Lingzhao.

Zhuo Lingzhao smiled slightly, his mind crystal clear. He knew this Gentle Marquis Liu Angtian was no ordinary person. Though An’dao Jing was Imperial Guard Commander, he couldn’t openly fight with court officials. But he himself could rely on his high martial arts without official constraints to forcibly take the person. However, this An’dao Jing had been so arrogant earlier, putting on great official airs, but now encountering big trouble, he wanted help from an outsider like himself—truly shameless and fickle. But with the overall situation being important, this wasn’t the time to argue with such a petty person.

Zhuo Lingzhao slowly walked to the center and bowed in greeting. Before he could speak, he had already alarmed Liu Angtian’s people. Among the guards, several knowledgeable about martial world affairs had recognized him as the Kunlun Sect Master. Everyone hurriedly came over and whispered reports in Yang Suguan’s ear.

Yang Suguan, hearing of this person’s background, was secretly amazed. Seeing this person casually step forward with feet positioned neither here nor there but with extraordinary momentum, clearly having exceptional qualities, he also became alert.

Zhuo Lingzhao smiled warmly and cupped his hands, “Lord Yang, the man you captured just now is this humble one’s disciple. This fellow is stubborn and has repeatedly caused trouble in the capital. I didn’t expect to disturb you gentlemen. Please return my unworthy student, and this humble one will severely punish him to appease you lords.” Everyone saw this person looked like a village schoolmaster and spoke humbly. If not for prior warning, who would know he was the famous Kunlun Sect Master who shook the western frontier? But they wondered why he wasn’t staying on his good Kunlun Mountain but had come to Prince’s Alley to fight—there must be some hidden story.

Yang Suguan, hearing these words, remained unmoved and said indifferently, “So this person is your disciple, sir. But Commander An just said he was a fugitive. What’s the real situation requires my detailed investigation before deciding.” Zhuo Lingzhao, hearing he wouldn’t hand over the person, laughed heartily, “Just now seeing Lord Yang’s exquisite swordsmanship and extraordinary skill, truly worthy of many years of true transmission from Shaolin’s Master Tianjue. If you don’t mind, this humble one would like Lord Yang to give some guidance.” Having traveled the martial world for many years, Zhuo Lingzhao naturally knew Yang Suguan’s background and now intended to use force to snatch the person.

Yang Suguan said “Oh!” He heard the meaning in Zhuo Lingzhao’s words—he actually wanted to use force. He quickly leaned over to consult with several people nearby, “What exactly is the background of the person we captured? How did he attract so many fierce spirits and evil demons?” The gray-clothed man approached and said, “This Zhuo Lingzhao’s footprints have never reached the Central Plains. If he comes today, something big must have happened. Let’s not rush to hand over the person—first ask about the situation clearly.” This gray-clothed man was surnamed Wei, given name Zizhuang, from martial world background with extensive knowledge, always valued by Liu Angtian. Moreover, with his high martial arts, Yang Suguan and others mostly respected him. With him speaking thus, everyone nodded.

Yang Suguan nodded slightly, “Master Wei’s words are extremely right. The Imperial Guard has always framed loyal people and never handled affairs fairly. This person must have been framed by them to suffer such an unwarranted disaster.” A military officer, seeing Zhuo Lingzhao and others’ grim faces as they waited to step forward and seize the person, couldn’t help frowning, “That’s what we say, but looking at these fellows’ formation, they might snatch him in broad daylight. What should we do?” Wei Zizhuang sneered, “Even if the Imperial Guard were ten times more domineering, they couldn’t touch our Lord Liu’s forces. If they really want to use force, with our hundred or so soldiers here—numerous and strong, with solid martial arts foundations—what can they do to us? I only fear that fighting will disturb Lord Liu.” Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing these people chattering endlessly, just smiled, “Lord Yang, you are a court official with a precious body—naturally you needn’t take this humble one seriously. If you don’t want to fight, just give an order to return our sect’s disciple for punishment. Zhuo will definitely visit Mount Shaoshi personally to express gratitude in the future. How about it?” Zhuo Lingzhao’s meaning was quite clear—as long as Yang Suguan followed martial world rules and gave him face by handing over Wu Dingyuan, he naturally wouldn’t make things difficult for him anymore.

Just as Yang Suguan was about to reply, Wei Zizhuang had already entered the scene, sneering, “Sect Master Zhuo, our Lord Yang is a dignified court minister who achieved success through imperial examinations. Though he practiced martial arts for several years, he’s not a martial world person. You needn’t use such words to provoke him. If you don’t retreat, don’t blame our official army’s spears for being blind. When you’re injured, you Kunlun disciples might regret it!” Zhuo Lingzhao laughed, “I was wondering who it was—so it’s Hero Wei from Mount Wudang. Hero Wei, haven’t seen you for a long time. You’re certainly not the same Ah Meng of Wu anymore. These official words are spoken so properly—even your Hubei dialect has changed. Tsk tsk, you’ve really suffered.” Qian Lingyi nearby, seeing the master’s mocking tone, quickly added, “Master, you want to call him Hero Wei, but he might not be pleased. Look at his chubby, fat appearance—should call him Lord Wei, or Guard Wei wouldn’t be too much either?” Both men’s words were mocking the gray-clothed man for not following martial world rules, with sharp and sarcastic language. How could Wei Zizhuang not hear it? It made him furious, blowing his beard and glaring, full of embarrassment and anger.

Originally, martial world people who learned martial arts often served the court afterward, so many military officials in the court came from martial world sects. But when encountering martial world people, they often treated each other according to martial world customs to show they hadn’t forgotten their origins. Wei Zizhuang came from a famous great sect, having learned Wudang Mountain’s Mysterious Martial Sword transmission from childhood and could use the dense skill of Eight Trigrams Swimming Body Palm. For more than ten years, he had guarded the Gentle Marquis inseparably, deeply trusted and valued. He was quite proud of the mutual understanding between guest and host. Who knew that now, just for speaking a few official phrases, he would be mocked by Kunlun disciples like this, treating him as a shameless eagle-dog who forgot his ancestry? How could this not make him indignant? Wei Zizhuang spat and turned to the guards, “Let’s go, no need to pay attention to these arrogant fools.” Everyone agreed and mounted their horses, about to rein forward when they saw Zhuo Lingzhao standing motionless in the road with a leisurely attitude. Wei Zizhuang, seeing his appearance, immediately shouted, “All officers, nock arrows! If you still don’t know when to advance or retreat, kill without mercy!” The soldiers answered loudly and each drew their bows and nocked arrows, standing ready in strict formation.

Here, the Kunlun Mountain disciples, seeing both sides had fallen out and fearing their master would suffer, wanted to rush into the scene. But Zhuo Lingzhao smiled slightly, indicating they should withdraw, showing a completely unconcerned attitude toward the extremely dangerous situation before him. Wei Zizhuang sat on his horse and called loudly, “Sect Master Zhuo, you give way and don’t obstruct Lord Liu’s carriage. If you persist in your delusion, don’t blame me for disregarding martial world righteousness!” These words were spoken with stern authority, leaving no room for sentiment.

Suddenly an aged voice said, “What’s happening? Is there some trouble?” Everyone looked and saw an elderly man in white riding slowly forward—it was the Gentle Marquis Liu Angtian, unable to wait patiently and coming forward to investigate.

Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing the opportunity couldn’t be lost, flew up just as Liu Angtian spoke, actually approaching his presence with incredibly fast movement that shocked everyone. The guards, greatly alarmed, all shot arrows at Zhuo Lingzhao. Bowstrings snapped as ten thousand arrows shot toward Zhuo Lingzhao’s body.

Zhuo Lingzhao, though in mid-air, wasn’t panicked. His body spun like a top, his two sleeves bringing tremendous wind that actually deflected hundreds and thousands of arrows and crossbow bolts back toward the soldiers. Everyone, not expecting such a turn of events, were instantly hit by arrows and wounded. Several guards who risked their lives to block in front of Liu Angtian were hit by multiple arrows and bled profusely.

Wei Zizhuang, not expecting Zhuo Lingzhao capable of such a move, was both shocked and angry. He had already left his saddle and leaped up, using ten-tenths of his palm power to strike Zhuo Lingzhao dead on the spot. Wei Zizhuang usually showed mercy and rarely used such killing moves, but at this moment with his master’s life in the balance, he couldn’t show mercy.

Zhuo Lingzhao, still in the air, already heard heavy breathing behind him and knew Wei Zizhuang was using all his power to strike him. Not wanting to compete in palm force, he sank his qi to his dantian and dropped rapidly like a startled swan. Wei Zizhuang’s palm force had already been released and his form couldn’t change—this palm struck empty air.

As soon as Zhuo Lingzhao’s feet touched solid ground, he slipped through the soldiers like a mudfish. The soldiers shouted loudly but couldn’t hurt him. Because Zhuo Lingzhao squeezed among the crowd at close range, everyone feared accidentally injuring comrades, and their weapons couldn’t be deployed properly. In the blink of an eye, Zhuo Lingzhao found gaps and charged left and right, suddenly appearing before Liu Angtian’s seat. The guards, shocked beyond measure, hurriedly surrounded Liu Angtian protectively, all fearing Zhuo Lingzhao’s lightning-fast methods.

Liu Angtian, suddenly seeing such a situation, though he was a veteran general who had fought thousands of battles, was also shocked and said loudly, “This warrior has excellent skills, but why do you block this general’s carriage?” Zhuo Lingzhao smiled, “General, please don’t be alarmed. This common person has no other intention—just wants to ask the general to step aside for a word.” His meaning was actually to kidnap Liu Angtian. Liu Angtian, hearing such arrogance, just chuckled and couldn’t speak.

Suddenly someone shouted loudly, then sword light flashed with cold stars like scattered heavenly flowers attacking Zhuo Lingzhao. Zhuo Lingzhao looked up to see Yang Suguan making his move—this technique covered seven major acupoints on Zhuo Lingzhao’s body, called “Bodhi Thirty-Three Heavens Sword.” One move with seven forms, one form hiding seven swords, one sword falling in seven directions—altogether three hundred forty-three variations, extremely dangerous.

Zhuo Lingzhao, recognizing the danger of this move, didn’t want to meet its edge directly and stepped slightly aside to avoid Yang Suguan’s incredibly sharp sword qi. Knowing Zhuo Lingzhao’s proud nature, his stepping aside showed the great power of authentic Shaolin swordsmanship. Yang Suguan, seeing Zhuo Lingzhao dodge, immediately intensified his attack. His sword missing once, his wrist immediately trembled and the sword tip scattered into seven sword flowers, tightly wrapping around Zhuo Lingzhao within three feet. In the flashing sword light, seven large and small sword flowers rapidly attacked Zhuo Lingzhao.

Zhuo Lingzhao looked carefully and saw sword tips attacking seven vital points around his body. But he had no weapon and really couldn’t block. Seeing no way to avoid, Zhuo Lingzhao suddenly spun around and rose several feet higher, actually dodging Yang Suguan’s incredibly dense offensive.

Yang Suguan, seeing his dodging movement technique was exquisite beyond compare, praised, “What a Kunlun Sect Master! You’ve got it!” Yang Suguan’s second attack also missing, he immediately aimed at where Zhuo Lingzhao was leaping, formed sword incantations, and instantly the sword tip created forty-nine star points, with swishing sounds stabbing at Zhuo Lingzhao’s feet. This was the supreme ultimate move of the Bodhi Thirty-Three Heavens Sword—one sword missing, turn to attack seven directions; seven directions missing, advance to seven times seven forty-nine covering gates, continuous and endless like the overlapping peaks of Mount Shaoshi, truly without limit.

Zhuo Lingzhao, in mid-air with no leverage, saw Yang Suguan’s killing move rise again while his own form was falling with nowhere to hide. Below, sword light flashed and blade gleams wove a net that could instantly mince a person. The Kunlun people, seeing their master in danger, all cried out in alarm. They wanted to help but feared their master wouldn’t like it, and feared it was too late. Everyone looked at each other, not knowing what to do.

Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing the critical situation, quickly untied his waist sash in his haste and swung it vigorously at Yang Suguan. Yang Suguan felt urgent wind before his face, not expecting this sash weighing less than two liang to carry thousand-jin force under Zhuo Lingzhao’s swing, striking like an iron pestle toward his face.

Yang Suguan lowered his shoulder and elbow, drawing back his sword to save himself, avoiding the frontal strike. But when their moves clashed, Yang Suguan’s long sword was only lightly swept by the sash yet was shocked to bend slightly, his tiger’s mouth also faintly numb.

Zhuo Lingzhao landed to see the sash was riddled with holes—in just one move, it had been pierced with dozens of small holes by Yang Suguan’s “Bodhi Thirty-Three Heavens Sword.” Shaolin swordsmanship was truly admirable and fearsome.

Zhuo Lingzhao shouted praise, “Lord Yang’s martial arts are extraordinary, truly worthy of being Master Tianjue’s final disciple.” Yang Suguan said, “Sect Master Zhuo, please consider my master’s face—how about both sides cease fighting?” Zhuo Lingzhao smiled, “How would this humble one dare fight Lord Yang? As long as Lord Yang releases my unworthy student, this seat will personally visit to apologize in the future and definitely won’t dare disturb you.” Yang Suguan shook his head, “Sect Master Zhuo, you just took three of my sword moves and should know my martial arts are more than this. If you still insist on using force, when I use our sect’s ultimate learning, with swords and blades having no eyes, I fear it will harm the harmony between our two sects.”

Zhuo Lingzhao laughed heartily, but his heart was extremely annoyed. Since he entered the martial world, no one had dared speak to him like this. Even when fighting masters like Shaolin’s Lingyin, only he had teased others—when had such a young upstart ever boasted so shamelessly before him? But considering the opponent was a court official who couldn’t be killed, if he couldn’t make him lose face severely today, how could he show his old face when word spread?

Zhuo Lingzhao tied his sash and smiled, “Lord Yang speaks of not wanting to harm the friendship between our two sects—I think that’s overthinking. Thanks to your sect’s Master Lingyin’s kindness, his jade steps still rest leisurely in our sect. With the master’s precious presence gracing us, the friendship between Shaolin and Kunlun naturally deepens daily—how could harmony be harmed? In this seat’s view, since Lord Yang wants to discuss swordsmanship with this seat, why not make a move and give instruction?”

The case of Master Lingyin’s disappearance in Xiliang had already shocked the martial world. Yang Suguan naturally knew the martial world widely spread that Lingyin had been imprisoned by Kunlun disciples. He hadn’t expected Zhuo Lingzhao to directly admit it here. It seemed Zhuo Lingzhao was deeply scheming—first wanting to anger himself, second wanting to take the opportunity to promote Kunlun’s prestige and suppress Shaolin’s reputation. His intentions were truly sinister and vicious.

Yang Suguan didn’t want to engage in verbal disputes. He said grimly, “Sect Master Zhuo jests. The matter of Senior Brother Lingyin naturally has our sect’s abbot handle it—it’s not Yang’s place to speak. But with Sect Master Zhuo’s status, since you intend to instruct this humble one in swordsmanship, how dare Suguan not comply?” He immediately took a deep breath, made a sword flower, and declared loudly, “Sect Master Zhuo, my next move uses the final form of Dharma Swordsmanship called ‘Nirvana Rebirth.’ Once this move is made, it comprises three hundred forty-three swords. My master warned that this move is fierce and cruel, unblockable in the current world, so he commanded me to always warn opponents before using it, allowing them to turn back from their wrong path.”

The Kunlun disciples, hearing Yang Suguan’s arrogant words, all cursed angrily: “Damn little bastard spouting nonsense!” “Tell your master to go home and eat shit!” “Our master is invincible in the world—boy, you’re the one who’s accumulated too many wrongs to reform!”

Amid everyone’s angry curses, Zhuo Lingzhao giggled, “At this seat’s age, if I were to turn back from the wrong path, where would I return to? Lord, please make your move!”

Yang Suguan’s expression became grave as he bowed slightly toward the south. Wei Zizhuang, Jin Lingshuang, An’dao Jing, and other martial world elders all exclaimed in unison, knowing that Shaolin disciples always bowed toward Mount Shaoshi before killing to beg forgiveness. It seemed Yang Suguan’s action showed his determination to succeed.

Zhuo Lingzhao, being a sect master, was naturally a well-informed person—how could he not know the reputation of “Nirvana Rebirth”? Martial world elders passed down the story that whenever Master Tianjue used this “Nirvana Rebirth” move in the past, he would first inform his opponent to let them know to avoid and surrender their sword to prevent excessive killing. Later, as long as Master Tianjue spoke the four words “Nirvana Rebirth,” no one in the martial world dared continue fighting. This could be said to be the most famous move of Shaolin Temple in nearly thirty years. This move was Master Tianjue’s unique ultimate technique—besides him, no one in the entire temple could use it. Unexpectedly, it had been passed to Yang Suguan.

Even so, with Zhuo Lingzhao’s great reputation, even if Master Tianjue himself came, how could he back down? Moreover, the opponent before him was just a young man in his twenties—how could a dignified sect master show fear and weakness? Zhuo Lingzhao laughed heartily, “This old fool has also heard of this ‘Nirvana Rebirth’ and has always wanted to see it. Lord Yang, please make your move quickly—don’t be respectful to elders and yield everywhere!”

Yang Suguan shook his head and sighed, “Even worldly fools know to seek life—why must you persistently seek death?”

As he spoke, Yang Suguan’s feet didn’t move and his body didn’t sway, yet the long sword in his hand became one to two, two to three, instantly transforming into seven swords. Everyone seeing this appearance was greatly amazed, as if the Thousand-Armed Guanyin had descended. In the blink of an eye, Yang Suguan’s seven swords each shook out seven sword flowers, totaling seven times seven—forty-nine. Dozens of unpredictable, ice-cold sword flowers swayed before Yang Suguan.

Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing this momentum, was also shocked in his heart, thinking, “I was too overconfident and didn’t take this boy seriously. Looking at his appearance, his skill is probably no less than Lingyin’s. At this moment, without a weapon, my situation is very disadvantageous.”

Just as he thought this, Yang Suguan’s sword flowers each scattered seven cold stars, totaling three hundred forty-three blue gleaming cold stars that formed a large light cover around him, dancing back and forth continuously.

Zhuo Lingzhao drew in a cold breath. He knew that as soon as Yang Suguan exerted force to attack, these three hundred forty-three cold stars would fly toward him. Even with three heads and six arms, he would probably find it hard to escape death. At this critical moment, he could only take risks!

Zhuo Lingzhao laughed, “Lord Yang’s display of so many light points is quite beautiful—just don’t know if they’re practical?” He looked up to the sky and laughed, lightly leaping while completely ignoring that extremely dangerous killing move, instead charging toward Yang Suguan. Yang Suguan was startled—he hadn’t expected such crazy behavior in the world. Wasn’t Zhuo Lingzhao’s charging like this suicide? Could there be some powerful follow-up move?

Yang Suguan was momentarily frightened and quickly retreated a step. At this instant, a soldier beside Liu Angtian suddenly flew up and crashed toward the light net created by the sword tips—he had been swept up by Zhuo Lingzhao’s sleeve force and thrown toward the sword net. Yang Suguan couldn’t change his move in time and, unwilling to harm the innocent, quickly retreated backward. It was then too late—Zhuo Lingzhao’s figure flashed and in a thunderous moment had already seized the position first. Yang Suguan’s dodge not only exposed his vital back points but also sent him straight into Zhuo Lingzhao’s path.

Zhuo Lingzhao looked up to the sky and laughed, his palm lightly waving to control the vital points behind Yang Suguan. In an instant, victory and defeat were decided.

Yang Suguan’s face turned iron-gray. Not only had he failed to use the three hundred forty-three sword variations, he hadn’t even made a single sword strike before his famous ultimate technique was broken in an instant. Zhuo Lingzhao, using only light movement and nimble fingers, had easily captured Yang Suguan.

The Kunlun people cheered loudly, but An’dao Jing sneered, “Sect Master Zhuo, what an excellent strategy of creating a diversion and besieging Wei to save Zhao! Is this move martial arts or scheming?” Though he needed Zhuo Lingzhao’s help, he had always competed with him for superiority. Seeing Zhuo Lingzhao win ungracefully, he spoke mockingly.

Zhuo Lingzhao’s victory didn’t rely on martial arts but on experience and risk-taking. He knew this “Nirvana Rebirth” move was magnificent with powerful momentum, but given Yang Suguan’s youth, shallow experience, and insufficient power, he definitely couldn’t operate it freely. As long as he used strategy, there would certainly be opportunities. Indeed, he threw a bystander soldier toward the sword net. Yang Suguan’s insufficient power meant that if he didn’t dodge, the power of “Nirvana Rebirth” would kill the innocent. When he retreated to dodge, the move’s force was already dissipated and he had lost the initiative. Zhuo Lingzhao calculated his evasion direction and seized the position while Yang Suguan was disturbed, successfully capturing him in one move.

How could the observing masters not recognize Zhuo Lingzhao’s clever plan? Though they felt he lacked integrity, if they were in his position facing this “Nirvana Rebirth” move, they would probably be helpless. Moreover, Zhuo Lingzhao could calculate Yang Suguan’s evasion path in an instant and use lightness skill to arrive first and control the enemy—this was already rare martial arts in the martial world. To accuse him of cheating and trickery was perhaps too harsh. One could only blame Yang Suguan’s insufficient combat experience for falling into this great trap.

At this critical moment, Wei Zizhuang had already caught up. He formed a circle with one hand, held his breath and concentrated, using Wudang’s authentic “Eight Trigrams Swimming Body Palm” to attack Zhuo Lingzhao’s back fiercely. Zhuo Lingzhao laughed, “Two against one?”

Wei Zizhuang cursed, “Shameless villain! Your victory was dishonorable—do you still have the face to speak? Quickly release Lord Yang!”

Wei Zizhuang’s palm technique was dignified with righteous internal power—truly the bearing of a master from the Seventy-Two Blessed Lands of Taoism. Zhuo Lingzhao laughed heartily. His left hand grasped Yang Suguan while his right palm used internal power to block Wei Zizhuang’s palm. When their palm forces met silently, Zhuo Lingzhao’s body swayed slightly while Wei Zizhuang’s qi and blood churned, forcing him to retreat three steps to dissipate the force.

Zhuo Lingzhao smiled, “Guard Wei, such rudeness—wouldn’t this ruin Wudang Mountain’s reputation for overcoming strength with softness?” Wei Zizhuang, deeply fearing Zhuo Lingzhao’s vicious methods would kill Yang Suguan in an instant, immediately shouted, “Stop your nonsense! Release him first!” He pushed with one palm toward Zhuo Lingzhao’s chest. Zhuo Lingzhao lightly turned to deflect his palm force. The two fought fast against fast, exchanging more than ten moves. Though Zhuo Lingzhao held Yang Suguan with his left hand, his movement technique remained extraordinarily nimble without falling behind at all.

As the two were fiercely fighting, Yang Suguan suddenly gave a light whistle and drew his sword to stab backward—but the blade was aimed at his own abdomen. Seeing the long sword about to pierce through his body, everyone was shocked and cried out, “Absolutely not!”

Zhuo Lingzhao was startled, not expecting Yang Suguan to be so resolute. Though this person had fallen into his hands, being so young, it couldn’t be considered much humiliation—why would he want mutual destruction in less than a moment? He was greatly amazed.

Just as he was shocked, his waist suddenly felt cold—the blade had already pierced his clothes and reached his flesh. Zhuo Lingzhao was greatly alarmed. Seeing no blood from Yang Suguan’s body, he knew there was something strange about the sword. Without time to think carefully, he touched the ground with his foot and floated back three feet, finally dodging Yang Suguan’s sinister and vicious sword.

This move was called “Cutting Flesh to Feed Eagles”—appearing to suicide first then kill the enemy, but actually based on deception. Once this sword technique was used, it often shocked enemies greatly. Just when their minds were slightly distracted, the blade would sweep past the abdomen and stab directly into the enemy’s belly—differing by only a fraction. If the enemy wasn’t careful, they would often be killed in their shock. This move was lightning-fast and unexpected—it was the “Mad Zen Sword Technique” personally transmitted by Master Tianjue. This “Cutting Flesh to Feed Eagles” was specially used in close combat. Yang Suguan’s first use proved incredibly powerful, allowing him to break free in one move.

Though Zhuo Lingzhao was well-informed, this was his first time seeing such a strange move. If not for his high martial arts and quick wit, he would have died on the spot. Seeing Yang Suguan flying far away about to escape his control, Zhuo Lingzhao snorted heavily, thinking, “What a Master Tianjue, teaching such a cunning disciple. If I hadn’t dodged quickly, wouldn’t I be lying dead?” In his great anger, he struck toward Yang Suguan’s back.

The situation was tense. Yang Suguan had just escaped enemy hands but his back’s vital points were still not far from Zhuo Lingzhao. Wei Zizhuang knew the danger and immediately shouted, lunging forward to attack Zhuo Lingzhao fiercely. In an instant, he made seven or eight rapid attacks, each move desperate with a suicidal fighting style. Zhuo Lingzhao, being entangled like this, had no time to pursue others, and the two began fierce combat.

Yang Suguan took the opportunity to jump out of the battle circle as people quickly came to support him. After catching his breath, he thought shamefully, “If not for master’s life-saving dangerous move, I would have been captured.” He steadied himself and turned to look at the field situation. That Zhuo Lingzhao was pressing step by step, gaining the upper hand in just a few moves. It seemed Wei Zizhuang couldn’t hold on.

Yang Suguan arranged guards to surround Liu Angtian in layers for strict protection while drawing his long sword to join the battle, fighting alongside Wei Zizhuang. It immediately became a two-against-one situation. Both knew Zhuo Lingzhao’s martial arts were strange and unpredictable, fearing he would harm General Liu. They attacked with full force to block him, forcing him as far from Liu Angtian as possible.

Zhuo Lingzhao called loudly, “Kunlun disciples, still not acting to seize the person!” The Kunlun disciples immediately shouted. Two masters charged from the left—”Sword Cold” Jin Lingshuang and “Sword Shadow” Qian Lingyi fiercely attacked the guards beside Liu Angtian. On the other side were “Sword Gu” Tu Lingxin, “Sword Gust” Xu Lingfei and others. These people struck viciously, attacking Wu Dingyuan ruthlessly, determined to snatch him from the chaotic army.

Yang Suguan awakened—this Zhuo Lingzhao openly wanted to harm Liu Angtian but secretly wanted to seize the person back. Though Yang Suguan knew the conspiracy, his side’s two masters were already entangled by Zhuo Lingzhao and couldn’t break free momentarily. He really couldn’t spare attention to protect the person and could only cry out helplessly.

An’dao Jing watched like a tiger eyeing its prey. Seeing the chaotic situation with everyone fighting, he was delighted and led the Imperial Guards into the melee, wanting to take advantage of the chaos for some benefit. Best would be if Kunlun Mountain and Liu Angtian’s forces destroyed each other, allowing him to easily take Wu Dingyuan away to report to Lord Jiang for merit.

In an instant, over a hundred people were fighting in the street. The originally peaceful Prince’s Alley had become a slaughterhouse of killing.

Yang Suguan, seeing the situation deteriorating, suddenly sold a false opening and jumped out of the battle circle, taking out a signal rocket and throwing it skyward. The rocket exploded with a great bang, creating a long blue flame.

Zhuo Lingzhao laughed, “Does my lord want to call for reinforcements? I’m afraid it’s a bit late!” His palm technique changed—the moves were ancient but the force was extraordinary. Wei Zizhuang, knowing he was urgent to determine victory, also mobilized his internal power and increased his hand strength, not yielding any advantage. Being of similar age to Zhuo Lingzhao with equal power, Wei Zizhuang bore most of Zhuo Lingzhao’s palm force. Yang Suguan nearby only attacked without defending, relying on his master-transmitted “Bodhi Thirty-Three Heavens Sword” power to constantly disrupt Zhuo Lingzhao’s offensive. Several times he wanted to use the “Nirvana Rebirth” ultimate move but feared he couldn’t control it and would injure Wei Zizhuang, so could only watch helplessly as Zhuo Lingzhao ran rampant.

Suddenly there was a miserable scream. Yang Suguan quickly turned to look and saw Jin Lingshuang, Tu Lingxin and others had gained the upper hand. Several guards were desperately protecting Wu Dingyuan—one had a sword wound on his shoulder and was bleeding profusely, while three or four others had collapsed softly to the ground. Yang Suguan knew that just a few guards really couldn’t resist Kunlun’s first-class masters. Jin Lingshuang used his “Sword Cold” divine technique like a tiger entering a flock of sheep—no one could block even half a move.

Yang Suguan was greatly anxious. Though he didn’t know Wu Dingyuan’s background, he knew this person was of great importance and absolutely couldn’t let Kunlun disciples take him away. He immediately gave a clear whistle and ran toward Wu Dingyuan’s location.

It was then too late—as soon as Yang Suguan left, Wei Zizhuang struggled left and right, encountering danger repeatedly. Yang Suguan gritted his teeth and called loudly, “Master Wei, please bear with it! I’ll go and come back!” As long as Wei Zizhuang could hold on a bit longer, when reinforcements arrived there would be hope for great victory. Protecting Wu Dingyuan was still the priority. Yang Suguan shouted and charged into the crowd with his sword, immediately fighting fiercely with Tu Lingxin.

Zhuo Lingzhao sneered, “Wei Zizhuang, let me see how long you can hold on!” He slowly pushed out his right palm. Wei Zizhuang, seeing this palm’s powerful force, didn’t dare block it directly and quickly dodged to one side. Zhuo Lingzhao laughed heartily, using his left sleeve in a “Heavenly Maiden Scattering Flowers” style to sweep at Wei Zizhuang’s side, forcing him with nowhere to retreat—he had to take this palm.

Wei Zizhuang knew his martial arts were inferior to Zhuo Lingzhao’s, but the current situation forced him to fight desperately. He could only hard-block Zhuo Lingzhao’s palm. He planted his horse stance and used his sect’s transmitted heart method, making a circular palm to wait at ease for the enemy, using extreme softness to overcome extreme hardness.

Before their palm forces met, Wei Zizhuang already felt difficulty breathing and unusual chest stuffiness. His heart trembled as he thought, “I’ve always heard that old Zhuo’s swordsmanship was brilliant—I didn’t expect his internal power to be so remarkable too.” Wei Zizhuang wanted to dodge, but both escape routes were blocked—there was nowhere to hide. He secretly groaned, knowing today would bring more bad luck than good.

Just as their palms were about to meet, suddenly a thick arm stretched across in front of him. Wei Zizhuang was greatly shocked—this arm seemed to come from nowhere with no warning. Not knowing what master had arrived, just as he was puzzled, he felt a strong wind behind him rushing toward Zhuo Lingzhao. This palm force was powerful and fierce with decades of deep skill, immediately dissolving Zhuo Lingzhao’s attacking force. The palm force was effortless—not only dissolving the incoming momentum but also charging forward rapidly, truly combining fierce and hard qualities.

Zhuo Lingzhao waved his palm to dissolve the attacking force, then floated back three zhang and smiled, “It seems this seat is ignorant—I didn’t know Shaolin and Wudang had become one family. Please give instruction, master.”

Wei Zizhuang quickly turned his head and saw a red-faced, fat monk with hands on his hips, glaring angrily at Zhuo Lingzhao. The monk said loudly, “Surnamed Zhuo, don’t talk nonsense! If this monk doesn’t chop you up today, I’ll take your surname!” With that, he formed claws with his five fingers, gave a tiger’s roar, and fiercely attacked Zhuo Lingzhao.

Wei Zizhuang was uncertain and quickly looked toward Yang Suguan, seeing him standing leisurely at the field’s edge with a peaceful appearance. Nearby, “Sword Gu” Tu Lingxin and “Sword Cold” Jin Lingshuang were sweating profusely as they jointly attacked a white-bearded old monk. The old monk smiled pleasantly, his steps light and floating as he barehanded responded to the two great masters’ offensive.

Wei Zizhuang saw the old monk’s peaceful face still carrying a smile. Though under enemy sword attacks, he still had strength to spare. He couldn’t help being shocked, thinking, “Those in the martial world with such ability can be counted on one hand—who are these two people?”

Just as he was puzzled, the red-faced fat monk had already rushed up, striking deadly blows at Zhuo Lingzhao. The monk’s attacks were fierce and rapid, using entirely external hard skills. Wei Zizhuang cried “Ah!” and suddenly remembered two people, couldn’t help feeling great joy. He quickly turned to Yang Suguan and smiled, “Yang Langzhong, since your two senior brothers have come to the capital, why didn’t you notify us first? That way I could fulfill my host duties?”

Yang Suguan smiled slightly, “My two senior brothers came at Ziyun Pavilion’s invitation to lecture on Buddhist studies. I only learned of this this morning.”

Wei Zizhuang was delighted in his heart. Seeing the fat monk’s extraordinary hand skills using “Shaolin Tiger Claw,” this person was most likely Lingzhen monk, called Tiger Claw Vajra among the “Four Great Vajras.” The other monk with flowing white beard had martial arts that were broad but not mixed, pure but not stagnant—reaching the transformation realm. This person should be Lingding, the Luohan Hall master and sage monk with profound Buddhist knowledge. With two great masters helping at this moment, victory was assured. Seeing the two high monks still fighting, it wasn’t convenient to pay respects immediately. He placed one hand on his chest and stood smiling.

Though Lingzhen was large in build, his feet were not careless at all. As Zhuo Lingzhao retreated one step, he advanced one step, forcing the Kunlun Sect Master to retreat repeatedly—quite unsightly for a moment.

Lingzhen sneered, “Dog thief! I don’t know what despicable methods you used to defeat my senior brother Lingyin. Today I want to avenge him and let the world know how despicable and shameless your Kunlun Sect is!” With that, he changed claws to fingers, raising both thumbs to stab hard toward Zhuo Lingzhao’s chest.

Lingzhen had studied Shaolin’s twelve hard skills for many years, especially excelling in fierce finger techniques. The power of one finger could crush gold and crack stone. Though fighting barehanded, it was like dancing sharp knives and blades. Combined with fierce moves, he had great advantage. Though Zhuo Lingzhao’s martial arts were strong, seeing this extremely domineering finger technique but lacking a weapon for protection, he could only cover and parry for the moment.

After the two had fought dozens of moves fiercely, suddenly a figure flashed and an old monk stood in the center, separating the two—it was Luohan Hall Master Lingding. Lingzhen, seeing his senior brother enter the scene, first withdrew his hands. Though Zhuo Lingzhao didn’t understand the old monk’s intention, he maintained his sect master dignity and also stopped, tucking his hands in his sleeves and looking sideways at the two brothers.

Lingding chanted a Buddhist phrase and said, “After the Iron Sword Manor incident, my junior brother Lingyin and his disciples have had no news. The martial world says Sect Master Zhuo was involved in this matter—I wonder if the rumors are true or false?”

Zhuo Lingzhao looked back and saw several of his junior brothers had all retreated to one side, everyone looking shocked. They must have fought this old monk earlier and been completely defeated. This Luohan Hall master was indeed formidable—the rumors were true. This person’s martial arts were probably rarely matched in the world, having entered the transformation realm.

Zhuo Lingzhao assessed the situation and had his calculations. He avoided the important and emphasized the trivial, saying indifferently, “Master, don’t believe in rumors. On the Xiliang roads, everyone says your sect’s Master Lingyin willingly came to our mountain to cultivate and stay as a guest. Kunlun disciples respect Master Lingyin and have done their utmost to entertain him without any disrespect. It’s absolutely not as martial world fools claim—master must investigate this carefully.”

Everyone heard him lie to their faces and was indignant. Lingzhen was furious: “You damn lowly dog thief! Surnamed Zhuo, you have the guts to kill and set fires, murdering the entire Yanling family, but now in front of us brothers you don’t have the guts to admit it—do you count as a martial world hero? Quickly hand over my senior brother and the monk can leave you a whole corpse!”

Though Lingzhen was a monk, his nature was always fiery and his speech completely unrestrained. The guards in the field, not understanding this person’s character, were secretly amazed hearing his foul language.

Zhuo Lingzhao laughed, “Master, your senior brother Lingyin prefers staying at Kunlun—it’s voluntary. Why do you insist it’s not? You keep shouting as if this seat really defeated Master Lingyin and imprisoned him. Don’t speak wildly and ruin Master Lingyin’s decades of martial reputation!”

Zhuo Lingzhao’s words were extremely sharp. If these monks directly admitted Lingyin was defeated and captured, it would definitely damage Shaolin’s thousand-year reputation. But if they didn’t frankly admit Shaolin disciples were inferior in skill, how could they force Zhuo Lingzhao to hand over the person? Indeed, Lingding lowered his brows and eyes while Lingzhen stared wide-eyed and speechless—both were momentarily at a loss for words.

Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing a few words had left them speechless, smiled slightly, “Two masters, I have always respected Shaolin disciples. If someone instigates trouble and speaks wildly, our two sects must root out such scoundrels to avoid harming mutual harmony.”

Though Lingding’s martial arts were high, his responsive wit was only average—he didn’t know how to reply. Lingzhen jumped up and was about to curse loudly when Lingding restrained him, indicating he shouldn’t be impulsive.

Lingding, unwilling to discuss martial world grudges before Liu Angtian, only put his palms together and said, “Sect Master Zhuo, martial world affairs naturally have right and wrong justice. Buddhist law speaks of cause and effect—you had people kill the entire Yanling Escort Agency first and kidnapped Shaolin disciples after. Even if you escape legal sanctions now, in the future you’ll find it hard to escape karmic retribution and conscience’s blame.”

Zhuo Lingzhao, hearing these words, just chuckled without comment.

Yang Suguan, seeing both sides no longer fighting, immediately came forward. He assessed the situation—if they fought Kunlun Mountain to the finish now, first, the opponents were numerous and his side might not surely win; second, with Liu Angtian right beside them, they would inevitably have to consider his life and safety when fighting. He immediately intended to smooth over the situation. He cupped his hands, “Commander An, Sect Master Zhuo—today’s chance meeting on the road, receiving instruction from you two has greatly benefited Yang Suguan. If there’s a good opportunity in the future, I’ll certainly reciprocate to repay your great kindness.”

Yang Suguan’s words weren’t just polite formalities. In terms of martial arts, he was indeed unable to deal with the extremely formidable Sword God Zhuo Lingzhao. But relying on his family background and official position, giving An’dao Jing a good beating wouldn’t be difficult.

Indeed, An’dao Jing’s face changed color. He knew that intercepting court officials and fighting with swords and spears in Prince’s Alley was already a serious crime. If someone reported this, great disaster would befall him. His face was ashen—turning hostile wasn’t right, nor was begging for mercy. He could only quickly recall his many subordinates and leave in disgrace.

Everyone saw Zhuo Lingzhao’s dignified expression as he remained without leaving, his eagle eyes fixed on Wu Dingyuan, not knowing if he still had schemes. Lingding chanted a Buddhist phrase, “Sect Master Zhuo, martial world grudges should be resolved, not created. I hope you can think deeply—early release my junior brother Lingyin back to the mountain and hand over the chief culprit who murdered Yanling Escort Agency. That would be the righteous path.” But Lingzhen had a fiery temper and immediately spat loudly, “Surnamed Zhuo, if our two sects want to settle this, this monk will accompany you on the spot—I’m only afraid you don’t dare take the field!”

Yang Suguan, hearing his challenge, couldn’t help changing expression and was about to speak to stop him when he saw Zhuo Lingzhao wave his sleeve. Where the wind force reached, a guard suddenly fell and his long sword seemed to come alive, flying straight toward Zhuo Lingzhao’s hand.

Zhuo Lingzhao caught the sword and looked up to the sky, laughing, “Master looks down on Zhuo so much—if surnamed Zhuo doesn’t make a fool of himself, wouldn’t the world laugh at me!”

All the masters in the field saw him gripping the long sword and couldn’t help but feel their hearts tremble. In recent years, Zhuo Lingzhao had never used weapons. Even when facing the ultimate move “Nirvana Rebirth” earlier, he had still fought barehanded. He called himself “Sword God”—just how high his swordsmanship had reached had become a mystery in the martial world. The saying “Kunlun sword emerges, blood fills the ocean; a thousand li drives the Yellow River yellow” further displayed his imposing presence. Though Zhuo Lingzhao now stood far away gripping the sword hilt, everyone’s expressions were still cautious and fearful.

Lingzhen snorted and was about to speak mockingly when he saw Zhuo Lingzhao’s face turn grim. Sword light flashed as the long sword flew straight toward Lingzhen.

All the masters were greatly shocked. Everyone saw Zhuo Lingzhao standing three zhang away and never expected he would suddenly attack. The sword’s momentum was incredibly fast, seemingly carrying extraordinary internal power. Lingzhen roared and activated his “Great Strength Vajra Finger.” His external skill had long reached its peak—ordinary weapons couldn’t hurt him. He reached out with bare hands to grab the sword body.

Lingzhen was confident, forming a claw with one hand and about to intercept the long sword. But as soon as his fingers touched the sword, a sudden dark force transmitted through—the internal power was both cold and evil, forcibly shocking him away. Lingzhen was startled when he saw the long sword’s momentum shift, turning a corner and flying toward Wu Dingyuan.

Everyone was shocked, only then realizing Zhuo Lingzhao was using a diversionary tactic. Wei Zizhuang, standing nearby, quickly grabbed a steel blade and smashed it toward the long sword Zhuo Lingzhao had thrown. Yang Suguan’s mind was very sharp—seeing Zhuo Lingzhao’s grim expression, he knew there was trickery involved and quickly called, “Guard Wei, take people and dodge! Don’t block it directly!” Before his words finished, Wei Zizhuang had already made his move, but it was a step too late when the weapons touched the sword body.

With a light “clang,” the long sword suddenly shattered, breaking into thousands of pieces that flew toward everyone in the field like countless hidden weapons. Wei Zizhuang bore the brunt and quickly leaped to dodge in his shock. Nearby guards rolled on the ground one after another, everyone in danger and chaos.

In the confusion, everyone saw Zhuo Lingzhao charge into the crowd with incredible speed, heading toward Wu Dingyuan. No one had expected Zhuo Lingzhao to have this move—everyone panicked and shouted in chaos, but no one could rescue in time. Even Lingding, Lingzhen and others were caught completely off guard, momentarily helpless.

Just as he was about to succeed, a yellow shadow flashed and blocked Zhuo Lingzhao’s path. Everyone heard two light sounds—”hey” and “hmph”—as the yellow shadow wavered in mid-air and landed on the ground. In this brief delay, Wu Dingyuan had been carried away by others, preventing Zhuo Lingzhao from succeeding.

Zhuo Lingzhao leaped backward and sneered, “What an excellent Military Board Yang Langzhong! Remarkable!” Before his words finished, he had already drifted away like a ghost. In everyone’s shock, they quickly looked down and saw a young man covering his shoulder as blood continuously flowed—it was Military Board Vice Minister Yang Suguan. Lingding, seeing blood on his shoulder, quickly rushed up to seal acupoints and stop the bleeding, followed by several guards who came running to urgently bandage Yang Suguan’s wound.

Yang Suguan’s expression was grave as he looked at the empty street center, “This Zhuo Lingzhao is truly fearsome. His martial arts are superb and his scheming meticulous—we’ve taken quite a fall this time.”

It turned out that when Zhuo Lingzhao threw the sword earlier, he had already anticipated Lingzhen would block with “Great Strength Vajra Finger,” so he secretly left sinister energy in the sword as a setup. Using the diversionary strategy, he first borrowed Lingzhen’s finger force to redirect the sword’s momentum, then borrowed Wei Zizhuang’s blade to shatter the sword body. When the sword broke into small hidden weapons and everyone was in great confusion, he could take the opportunity to carry away Wu Dingyuan. Zhuo Lingzhao’s scheming was profound. Though there were Shaolin sage monks and Wudang masters protecting nearby, no one saw through Zhuo Lingzhao’s intention. If not for Yang Suguan’s foresight in intercepting, Wu Dingyuan would probably have been easily snatched away.

Seeing Yang Suguan break Zhuo Lingzhao’s trick, Wei Zizhuang, Lingzhen and others exchanged glances, all secretly ashamed, thinking, “This Yang Langzhong is so young yet more careful than us. If he hadn’t intervened, this battle would have been extremely shameful.”

Earlier, Yang Suguan had been controlled by Zhuo Lingzhao in one move, losing face. But this time identifying his scheme finally allowed him to vent his resentment. That Lingzhen, having been played by Zhuo Lingzhao, felt angry but with the Kunlun Sect people having already left with Zhuo Lingzhao, he had nowhere to vent and could only lower his head and curse continuously.

After this fierce battle, it was hard to say who won between the two sides, but their mutual hatred and resentment had deepened another layer.

Seeing the strong enemy retreat, Yang Suguan ignored his own injury and embraced Wu Dingyuan, pinching his philtrum. With internal power applied, Wu Dingyuan should have awakened, but at this moment he showed no reaction whatsoever.

Lingding, seeing the situation, quickly said, “This person’s injuries are severe—he must be treated immediately.”

Yang Suguan nodded and quickly lifted Wu Dingyuan. At this moment, something fell from his embrace to the ground. Wei Zizhuang nearby was sharp-eyed and quick-handed, immediately picking up the item.

Everyone craned their necks to look and saw the item was a white sheepskin about half a foot long and wide, cut extremely thin. Wei Zizhuang said blankly, “What is this thing?”

Yang Suguan was also greatly puzzled. The two looked at each other, both feeling strange.

Just then, they suddenly heard someone take a deep breath and rush forward. Wei Zizhuang turned to look—the person was their supreme superior, the famous Gentle Marquis Liu Angtian.

Wei Zizhuang, seeing his strange expression, quickly said, “My lord, what’s wrong? Is there something strange about this sheepskin?”

Liu Angtian didn’t answer, only reached out to take the sheepskin. Instantly his face showed grief as tears rolled down, saying tremblingly, “The court is saved… the court is saved…”

Everyone saw his expression change dramatically and were all shocked and amazed. Though Yang Suguan didn’t know the origins of this item, considering it had alarmed countless court officials and martial world masters, it must be extremely significant. Thinking of this, his hand holding Wu Dingyuan actually trembled continuously, unable to calm down for a long time.

Just as everyone was about to leave with Wu Dingyuan, they suddenly heard a guard call, “There’s another person here—how should we handle him?” Wei Zizhuang looked back and saw a man spitting blood and unconscious on the ground, his condition unknown. Wei Zizhuang looked for a while but couldn’t guess this person’s identity, so he pondered and said, “Never mind, let’s bring him back first.”

Before long, everyone had brought Wu Dingyuan and Lu Yun back to Liu Mansion. That Lu Yun had been struck by Zhuo Lingzhao’s palm and collapsed on the ground like mud. But because of his humble origin and carrying no important items, the Kunlun disciples couldn’t be bothered with him and left him in the street without killing him. If not for this, Liu Angtian’s guards couldn’t have taken him away.

Liu Angtian, knowing Wu Dingyuan’s extraordinary background, quickly invited doctors to treat his injuries. The doctor examined the condition and reported that Wu Dingyuan’s chest was wounded by a sword and his lung was damaged, but with good rest and care, his life shouldn’t be in danger. On the contrary, Lu Yun had taken a heavy blow from Zhuo Lingzhao on his back, which might be somewhat difficult to handle.

Liu Angtian and others, hearing Wu Dingyuan’s life wasn’t in danger, were delighted and relaxed, ordering good care and treatment.

Three days later, Wu Dingyuan slowly awakened. Upon waking, he found himself lying on a soft large bed in a room full of unfamiliar people all staring at him intently. Wu Dingyuan, becoming conscious, said in shock, “I… where am I?”

A person with a smile walked forward and held Wu Dingyuan’s hand, saying warmly, “Brother, don’t panic. You’re now safe and sound—no one can touch you anymore.”

Wu Dingyuan didn’t understand and asked strangely, “You… who are you?” The person said, “This humble one is surnamed Yang, styled Suguan. You must be Constable Wu of Xiliang!”

Wu Dingyuan, hearing he recognized him, was quite surprised and quickly said, “I am indeed. Was it you, brother, who saved me?”

Yang Suguan, unwilling to take credit, just smiled, “These matters aren’t urgent to discuss. Now you should rest and recover. This is the residence of the current Northern Pacification Grand Commander, Gentle Marquis Liu Angtian. Though those pursuing you are fierce, they don’t dare act recklessly here.”

Wu Dingyuan, hearing he had escaped danger, felt relieved, but immediately thought of Lu Yun. Remembering that after he lost consciousness in the cave that day, he didn’t know how Lu Yun’s life was. Worried, he quickly asked, “My… my brother Lu Yun—where is he?” His voice carried fear that Lu Yun had already been killed and died without reason.

Yang Suguan pondered, “Lu Yun… is he the person who fled with you?” Wu Dingyuan said urgently, “Exactly—I don’t know where Brother Lu is now?” Yang Suguan inquired of nearby servants, then smiled at Wu Dingyuan, “Constable Wu’s brother is now safe and sound, also recovering at our Lord Liu’s residence. After Brother Wu rests for a few days, we’ll go see him.”

Wu Dingyuan suddenly stood up and called, “That won’t do! I must go see him now!”

Nearby servants urgently advised, but Wu Dingyuan was determined—he had to see Lu Yun safe and sound with his own eyes, or his heart wouldn’t settle. Everyone couldn’t dissuade him and could only help him up to visit Lu Yun together.

Everyone led Wu Dingyuan into a room. Wu Dingyuan saw Lu Yun lying on the bed motionless, his facial muscles deeply sunken. His heart was moved, thinking of how the two had risked danger together through countless life-and-death tribulations, and he couldn’t help but tears flowing down his face.

Yang Suguan said, “Though this brother’s injuries are severe, his life isn’t in danger. Brother Wu needn’t worry too much.”

Wu Dingyuan immediately knelt down and bowed to Yang Suguan, crying, “This Brother Lu is my life-and-death friend. Please, Young Master Yang, you must save him!”

Yang Suguan quickly helped him up and sighed, “Brother Wu, what are you saying? Seeing your deep righteousness truly moves my heart! Not to mention your request—even without a word of instruction, I would do my utmost to have people care for this brother well.”

Wu Dingyuan wiped his tears and stood up, reflecting on past events with unbearable feelings.

As the two walked out of the room talking, they suddenly heard someone laugh heartily, “Good! Good! This Wu Dingyuan has a strong constitution—he can actually get out of bed and walk!” Wu Dingyuan quickly looked at the person and saw an elderly man seven feet tall with a face full of righteous spirit, carrying himself with natural dignity as he approached.

Everyone bowed and said, “Subordinates pay respects to Lord Liu.” Wu Dingyuan guessed the newcomer’s status must be high, not knowing how to greet him. In his panic, he was about to kneel on one knee when Lord Liu rushed forward to support him, laughing, “Don’t kneel randomly! If your wounds open again, the imperial physician will blame this old man to death!” He forcibly lifted Wu Dingyuan up—though old, his hand strength was considerable.

Yang Suguan smiled slightly, “Brother Wu, let me introduce you. This person is none other than the current Gentle Marquis Liu Angtian, Grand Commander Liu.”

Wu Dingyuan was greatly shocked. This elder with momentous power was the Northern Pacification Grand Commander Liu Angtian, who could stand equally with Jiang Chong and Liu Jing in the current court. He couldn’t kneel or stand, just opening his mouth wide.

Liu Angtian laughed, “Don’t say so much nonsense. What did the doctor instruct? Can this Constable Wu drink wine now?”

Before Yang Suguan could answer, Liu Angtian had already pulled Wu Dingyuan’s hand and laughed, “Looking at your strong constitution, drinking a couple cups won’t kill you. Come, come, let’s have a few drinks to calm your nerves!” He laughed continuously, clearly a very forthright person.

Wu Dingyuan, seeing Liu Angtian treat him warmly, felt grateful. Suddenly remembering his blood feuds, his eyes filled with tears as he knelt to the ground and cried, “My lord, you must uphold justice for this humble one and redress grievances!”

Liu Angtian had been laughing, but seeing his grief and indignation, couldn’t help being startled, “What do you mean by this?”

Wu Dingyuan prostrated on the ground and told everything—how Yanling Escort Agency was killed, how Qi Bochuan was stabbed to death in the temple, how the prefect framed him, etc. Everyone listening frowned with grave expressions.

Yang Suguan helped Wu Dingyuan up and whispered, “This isn’t a place for talking. Let’s go to my lord’s study.” Wu Dingyuan, seeing everyone’s concern, felt moved and wiped away his tears to follow everyone into the study.

The study was simply furnished with just a few tables and chairs, two bookshelves, and a large bow hanging on the wall—clearly maintaining a warrior’s bold and rugged character. The three entered the room, and Liu Angtian turned to instruct Wei Zizhuang to guard the surroundings while Yang Suguan closed the door with a grave expression.

Wu Dingyuan had never spoken face-to-face with a first-rank official and couldn’t help feeling nervous.

Liu Angtian, seeing his distraction, patted his shoulder and said warmly, “Don’t worry first—sit down and talk.” He personally pulled over a wooden chair for Wu Dingyuan. Wu Dingyuan was startled and quickly bowed before sitting.

Just as everyone sat down in the study, Yang Suguan whispered, “Constable Wu, actually Lord Liu already understands your situation.” Wu Dingyuan cried “Ah!” in surprise, “So… so my lord already knows my background!”

Yang Suguan nodded and continued, “The day we rescued you and brought you back, Inspector General Jiang Chong immediately sent people to the mansion demanding your person, saying you were an imperial criminal guilty of corruption and so forth, demanding Lord Liu immediately hand you over. The lord has always upheld justice and naturally refused to release you. Jiang Chong was furious and said he would immediately memorialize the emperor to impeach the lord.”

Wu Dingyuan was shocked, “Such a thing happened? This… what should we do?”

Liu Angtian stroked his beard and smiled, “Jiang Chong is fierce in appearance but timid at heart—his mouth is harsh but he’s actually terrified. Constable Wu needn’t worry about this.” He lightly patted Wu Dingyuan’s knee to comfort him.

Yang Suguan, seeing Wu Dingyuan still worried, said, “Exactly so. Though Jiang Chong is arrogant, he now doesn’t dare touch a hair on us. Constable Wu, coming from a constable background, this matter surely can’t escape your perception.”

Wu Dingyuan pondered for a moment, “Jiang Chong doesn’t dare move against us? This… could it be that sheepskin?”

Liu Angtian laughed heartily, “Correct! It’s exactly that sheepskin! Jiang Chong’s treason knows no bounds, but this fellow’s weakness is in this old man’s hands. In the future, we can control him completely, making him unable to move!” He stroked his beard and laughed, very pleased. Yang Suguan nodded, “Exactly. This time Brother Wu traveled thousands of li to deliver the sheepskin to the lord’s hands, precisely controlling the traitor Jiang Chong’s lifeline. From now on, we need never fear this person’s evil again.”

Wu Dingyuan was delighted. His travels were precisely to bring evidence to find Lord Wang Ning, but who knew Wang Ning had been eliminated by others. In his despair, he had encountered another powerful minister, Liu Angtian. This person was a military man in the court and probably had even greater power than Wang Ning. Wu Dingyuan was overjoyed and was about to speak when he saw Liu Angtian’s expression seemed somewhat careless. His heart jumped, remembering Prefect Liang Zhiyi’s assassination. Seeing Liu Angtian so careless, he might follow these court officials’ old path. He immediately stood up in alarm, “My lord doesn’t know—Jiang Chong has countless masters under him. All the Kunlun Mountain masters listen to his commands, rarely matched in the martial world. These people are extremely evil by nature—what won’t they do? My lord must be careful in daily life and never give these people an opportunity!”

Liu Angtian laughed, “I come from military examination background, different from those literary officials from imperial examinations. Not only can I wield iron halberd and great blade myself, but my subordinates are full of fierce generals and brave warriors. Though Jiang Chong has many masters, they can’t do anything to me. Constable Wu is overthinking.”

Wu Dingyuan was about to speak again when Yang Suguan said, “Jiang Chong indeed has countless masters, and assassinations and murders are often heard—I know this too. But though Jiang Chong is formidable, doesn’t the lord have martial world figures around him? He has Guard Wei Zizhuang beside him—this person comes from Wudang with excellent martial arts. With him beside the lord, one can sleep peacefully without worry.”

Liu Angtian chuckled, “Not to mention others! Just speaking of worthy nephew Suguan here—he comes from metropolitan examination background, appointed Military Board Geographic Department Vice Minister, yet still apprenticed to Shaolin high monks and learned excellent martial arts. A talent both civil and martial—you can’t find a second in the current court. With him beside this old man, no petty person need be feared.”

Wu Dingyuan hadn’t expected Yang Suguan to come from metropolitan examination background—that was a high court official. He hurriedly prostrated himself, “Commoner Wu Dingyuan pays respects to Lord Yang. If there was any offense in earlier speech, please punish this humble one!”

Yang Suguan said, “Brother Wu, what are you saying? In the future, we’ll all serve as court officials together—what distinction is there between us?”

Wu Dingyuan was puzzled, “Serve as court officials together? I don’t understand my lord’s meaning?” Yang Suguan smiled, “Brother Wu, Lord Liu has already written to the Military Board recommending you for the same military examination background as Direct-administered Territory Northern Pacification Inspector.”

Wu Dingyuan’s whole body shook, “Direct-administered Territory Inspector… that’s a ninth-rank official!” Wu Dingyuan had previously been a local constable with only salary, not ranked in the court system as “not entered in ranks.” Now becoming an inspector meant jumping seventeen or eighteen levels, equivalent to a county magistrate.

Yang Suguan smiled, “In the future, we’ll overthrow Jiang Chong and revitalize court discipline—all depends on that sheepskin. Brother Wu has such great merit—naturally the lord won’t treat you unfairly.”

Wu Dingyuan was dazed for a long while. Remembering he was wanted, he couldn’t help sighing and shaking his head, “But Liangzhou Prefect Lu Qingzheng has already issued arrest warrants treating me as a bandit. With this humble one’s guilty status, how can my lord recommend me for office?”

Liu Angtian chuckled, “Speaking of this, it’s court politics! Think about it—this old man holds Jiang Chong’s weakness. When I write to the Justice Ministry, how dare Jiang Chong be verbose?”

Seeing this hard journey finally had an outcome, Wu Dingyuan’s heart was immediately excited with tears nearly falling.

Liu Angtian continued, “To eliminate evidence of treason, Jiang Chong didn’t hesitate to murder innocent civilians and frame court ministers—truly both heaven and humans are outraged. But this person is old, crafty and cunning. Though we have this sheepskin, we still need to investigate thoroughly before we can convict him in the future. This matter requires good preparation.” Yang Suguan, hearing the instruction, nodded in agreement.

Wu Dingyuan said tearfully, “My lord, this humble one holds the title of Xiliang constable but was unable to relieve people’s suffering, allowing Jiang Chong to murder the entire Yanling Escort Agency. This matter is truly my life’s hatred. Even now when I reflect at midnight, I cannot rest peacefully. I beg you to uphold justice and bring these criminals to law. If there’s anywhere Dingyuan can be useful in the future, just give your orders.”

Liu Angtian said, “Worthy nephew Dingyuan, don’t worry. Rest well and settle in the capital first. Don’t think about anything. After a few months when Jiang Chong’s guard is down, we’ll act again.”

Wu Dingyuan nodded in agreement. Suddenly remembering Yang Suguan came from Shaolin, he quickly said, “Lord Yang, earlier Lord Liu said you were a Shaolin disciple. I have something to report—please convey it to the Shaolin abbot.”

Yang Suguan, observing his expression, had already guessed what Wu Dingyuan meant to say and sighed, “Brother Wu speaks of Senior Brother Lingyin’s capture, right?”

Wu Dingyuan gripped his fists tightly and said through clenched teeth, “That day, to save me, Master Lingyin didn’t hesitate to duel Zhuo Lingzhao, resulting in injury and capture. I… I have always worried about his safety. Has Shaolin Temple rescued him?”

Yang Suguan sighed, “Currently the entire temple is in constant debate, all troubled by this matter. Some advocate large-scale military action, directly attacking Kunlun Mountain. Others hope to follow martial world justice—as long as Sect Master Zhuo hands over the murderer of the escort agency, both families will cease fighting. Opinions differ and no decision has been reached. The abbot has sent letters to Sect Master Zhuo several times asking him to release Senior Brother Lingyin, but Sect Master Zhuo ignores them with an extremely arrogant attitude.”

Wu Dingyuan was shocked, “These villains are so arrogant—won’t Master Lingyin be in trouble?” Yang Suguan smiled slightly, “This needn’t worry too much. Though Sect Master Zhuo is arrogant, under our temple’s thousand-year martial reputation, he probably doesn’t dare randomly harm our sect members. For now, Senior Brother Lingyin shouldn’t lose his life.” He feared Wu Dingyuan would worry more and didn’t mention Lingding had already confronted Zhuo Lingzhao, giving a vague explanation.

Wu Dingyuan nodded, “Master Lingyin was captured because of me. If there’s anywhere this humble one can be useful in the future, please give one word, Lord Yang, and let me do my small part.”

Yang Suguan smiled slightly, “Eliminating the strong and helping the weak is our duty and the duty of Shaolin disciples. Brother Wu needn’t be polite.”

Wu Dingyuan closed his eyes and said softly, “I only hope Master Lingyin returns to his mountain soon. Otherwise, if something happens, how could I face him?” He shook his head and sighed continuously.

From then on, Wu Dingyuan lived permanently at Liu Angtian’s residence, waiting for court documents to arrive before taking office as Direct-administered Territory Inspector. As for the sheepskin, it was now in Liu Angtian’s hands. With the Northern Pacification Grand Commander’s ability, no one dared come troubleshoot or snatch it.