“Ying, when fighting…” In the thirtieth year of Jingtai, the world’s number one asked his disciple with a smile: “What should you think about in your mind?”
“Kill!” The fourteen-year-old youth, with his blood running hot, gripped his sword hilt. His cat-like eyes contracted, radiating killing intent: “When fighting, naturally you should think about killing your opponent!”
“Aiya, aiya…” Ning Bufan frantically waved his hands: “No, no, that’s not right. You mustn’t think about that when fighting.”
“Not kill him?” The killing intent faded, his cat-like pupils dilated into peaceful mirror-like lakes as he asked in puzzlement: “Could it be that I should help him instead?”
“That’s right, that’s right.” Ning Bufan smiled gleefully: “You truly haven’t wasted your good aptitude. We should indeed help him…” Help him think about what he lacks, what he’s missing… There’s no perfect person in this world. We must sincerely and wholeheartedly put ourselves in his shoes, think about what he lacks and what he’s missing, then earnestly help him correct it. Only this way… will his martial arts improve, and when we clash again in the future, his life will be preserved. Sigh…
Whoosh! The opponent’s long sword flew toward him, forcing Su Ying to dodge hastily, nearly tumbling to the ground. Slash! The rotating blade swept in a circle, almost chopping off his head.
Su Ying kept dodging continuously, yet his heart remained lively, focused solely on contemplating the black-clothed man’s swordsmanship.
The person before him stood nine feet tall, a full head taller than himself. Not only was he tall and sturdy, but also extremely agile. The sword in his hand was connected by steel wire and formed into three segments. With his right hand wielding the sword and left hand controlling the wire, his killing moves had a range of nearly ten feet. Such a sword wasn’t particularly fast, but it was very strange – its power was heavy yet flexible, constantly soaring up and diving down, spinning like a disk, making one dizzy and disoriented.
What was he lacking? Ordinarily, when someone used their right hand for the sword, their left hand would have an opening. When a long sword slashed diagonally, there would be a gap under the armpit. But when this person attacked, he moved fluidly and changed unpredictably. His blade didn’t advance straight through the air but endlessly switched positions, relying on his left hand to control the three-segment blade that moved like a nimble snake, covering all his vulnerabilities.
What to do? The enemy’s left and right hands complemented each other with virtually no weaknesses…
Master… I’m sorry, I might be defeated…
The black-clothed man showed no mercy. Suddenly he released his left hand, the steel wire instantly went slack, and the three sword segments spun uncertainly as they flew toward Su Ying’s long sword, the steel wire ready to entangle his blade at any moment. The Wisdom Sword emphasized nimbleness and most feared crossing blades with the enemy’s weapon – when that happened, whoever was stronger would win, and victory or defeat would be decided instantly.
Clang! The long sword was already caught. This black-clothed man possessed enormous strength; even Song Tongming’s brute force would be hard-pressed to match him. Su Ying, with an ordinary person’s build, naturally couldn’t resist. Sure enough, pulled by that great force, his steps became unsteady and stumbling, appearing even more faltering.
With a roaring sound, the black-clothed man’s left hand yanked the steel wire sharply. His brute force pulled Su Ying, sword and all, tumbling forward. The black-clothed man’s right hand spun the three-segment blade, instantly turning to strike at Su Ying’s body. He didn’t just want to seize the long sword – he wanted the man’s life too.
His eight hundred consecutive victories were about to end at this moment. Su Ying opened his mouth in bewilderment, staring blankly at the enemy’s wrist. Suddenly, lightning flashed through his mind, and he actually let out an “Ah!”
He understood. The opponent still had a weakness. The left and right hands complemented each other – the weakness lay in precisely this phrase.
His master’s smiling face appeared before his eyes, as if he could hear his earnest instructions. Su Ying couldn’t help but burst into hearty laughter.
At this life-or-death moment, Su Ying suddenly laughed loudly. The black-clothed man snorted heavily, not knowing what trick he was playing, and tightened his grip even more, trying to use the steel wire’s entanglement to seize his long sword in one move. Su Ying’s strength couldn’t match his opponent’s, so he simply released his grip and said with a smile: “You want my rice bowl? Come, I’ll give it to you.” With a swoosh, he threw his long sword out.
The flying blade spun directly toward vital points. By all logic, Su Ying should have desperately guarded his long sword to save himself. Who would have thought he’d abandon his sword at the crucial moment? The black-clothed man was also skilled in such tactics. He immediately snorted coldly, seeing with sharp eyes that Su Ying’s sword was flying toward him. His left hand’s two fingers reached out to catch the blade.
Without his long sword, Su Ying was just an ordinary person. He was doomed.
Just as he was about to catch the sword edge, suddenly the three sword segments that had been dancing in mid-air all turned around, stabbing back toward his own body.
The black-clothed man was greatly alarmed. His left hand hastily pulled the steel wire. With a snap, the flying sword reassembled into an ordinary blade. But his body nearly got pierced by the long sword Su Ying had thrown. For a moment, he was in a frantic mess, utterly embarrassed.
The black-clothed man, covered in cold sweat, hastily retreated. Looking at Su Ying, he saw him smiling as he picked up his long sword, his demeanor calm and unhurried.
“Left and right hands complementing each other” – only by relying on the left hand to control the wire could the flying sword soar up and dive down like a shadow. Earlier, Su Ying had fought desperately against the enemy’s right hand, battling in such dire straits with danger at every turn. Yet he had completely ignored that left hand sneakily positioned at the waist, letting it go unattacked – wasn’t this the greatest joke?
Why waste energy fighting against the right hand’s techniques? That left hand was the real mastermind behind everything. This hand controlled the steel wire and drove all the deadly moves – why should he compete in speed and ferocity when the weakness was right before his eyes?
Slash! Su Ying struck directly at the black-clothed man’s left side, intending to cut off his wrist. The black-clothed man hastily executed his techniques, the flying sword spinning in mid-air and turning toward Su Ying. But the Huashan Sect Leader paid no attention whatsoever, only fiercely attacking his left wrist.
This move of Su Ying’s was mutual destruction – trading one life for the opponent’s wrist seemed quite disadvantageous. But strangely, as the blade sliced toward the left wrist, the black-clothed man’s left hand was forced to dodge, the steel wire shifted position, and the wire-connected sword edge immediately became chaotic. The flying sword formation instantly collapsed.
Flying sword connected to wire, wire connected to hand – the left and right hands appeared to complement each other, but in reality had become mutually constraining. The weakness was far greater than that of an ordinary long sword. Victory and defeat were already decided.
Su Ying smiled slightly, continuously slicing toward the opponent’s left wrist, completely ignoring the black-clothed man’s killing moves directed at himself. Now the “Wisdom Sword” specialized in attack without defense, like a fierce tiger breaking free from its cage, utterly unpredictable. The black-clothed man roared repeatedly, simply reassembling the steel wire and attacking frantically with what looked like an ordinary long sword. But without all those incredibly strange killing moves, how could he be a match for “Wisdom Sword Pacifies the Eight Directions”? Su Ying sent out several moves with seeming ease, forcing the black-clothed man to scramble up and down in great distress.
Su Ying remained perfectly at ease, saying with a faint smile: “Friend, you’re quite young, aren’t you?” The black-clothed man, barely managing to parry, couldn’t answer. Su Ying sheathed his sword and continued: “An assassin bent on killing would never fight his way in through the front door. Only a hot-blooded youth would test his martial arts this way. Am I not correct?”
Hearing these words, the black-clothed man only looked down at the ground, remaining silent, seemingly acknowledging this.
Su Ying smiled: “To be honest, the reckless thing you did today – I wanted to do the same when I was eighteen, but I didn’t have your courage.”
He lowered his long sword and said with a smile: “You’re arrogant and very interesting. Not only do I not want to kill you, I quite like you. Leave quickly before you cause real trouble.”
The black-clothed man gazed at his opponent. After a long while, he finally spoke: “I drew my sword and fought with all my might, yet still could not overcome you.” He looked down and bowed: “Your Excellency’s swordsmanship is exquisite and amazing. In terms of sword techniques, you are indeed far superior to me.” His voice was extremely steady, revealing neither his age and identity nor his emotions. It was as if he too wore a mask.
Su Ying smiled: “You’re too kind. Your Excellency’s sword is also very skillful. ‘Is it not a pleasure to have friends come from afar?’ Let us shake hands and make peace.” The black-clothed man shook his head and suddenly tore the clothing from his right shoulder. Su Ying was slightly startled, not understanding his meaning. Just as he was puzzling over this, his eyes saw a mark – it was a flying bird pattern branded on the black-clothed man’s arm, just like livestock branding.
Su Ying was greatly amazed. Among the countless martial world sects and societies that used tattooing and facial markings for identification, he had never seen such a strange symbol. Moreover, branding with hot iron was so excruciatingly painful – which sect’s members could endure such suffering? Su Ying was full of doubt, gazing intently at the black-clothed man, waiting for him to explain.
“You have already defeated this brand, but don’t rush to celebrate. For four characters, we must continue fighting.”
Su Ying was quite surprised. He had always lived peacefully, never making enemies with anyone, and truly didn’t know why this person wanted to trouble him. He blinked and shrugged: “Which four characters? Extremely bored?” As he spoke, he couldn’t help bursting into laughter.
“Number One Under Heaven.”
The black-clothed man ignored his mockery, speaking word by word in an ice-cold tone.
“Because you are the disciple of ‘Number One Under Heaven,’ I must defeat you.”
Su Ying blinked and smiled: “Why? My master being Number One Under Heaven – how does that concern you?”
“It does concern me. Because my master is also Number One Under Heaven.”
Su Ying laughed heartily, his laughter somewhat cunning. “Does your esteemed master also have the surname Ning? But I don’t remember having a junior brother like you?”
The black-clothed man didn’t reply, only threw his long sword on the ground and said in a deep voice: “Su Jun, I will verify each of my words. Just wait and see.” He looked down at the ground, straightened his arms, and suddenly there came two crisp ringing sounds. His sleeves tore open, cold light shot directly from the sleeve openings – hidden within were two sleeve swords, looking extremely sharp.
Su Ying had fought many battles against dual-blade techniques. Earlier this year, he had consecutively defeated seven dual-blade masters from the Meng Family Village, so he was most familiar with such fighting methods. Looking at the black-clothed man’s stance, he nodded: “Impressive! Among all the dual-sword masters I’ve encountered in my life, your footwork is the most graceful!”
The black-clothed man rotated both hands, assuming a boxing stance. The dual blades’ cold edges were each two feet long. For a moment, his left palm supported heaven, his right palm touched earth, his feet were in cat stance, sleeves concealing short blades. In an instant, purple light filled his entire body, returning to his dantian.
Heaven above, earth below – spirit complete, qi sufficient. With essence, qi, and spirit all three perfected, the black-clothed man’s stance was…
Flawless!
A flying shadow rose instantly like startling waves on the sea. The black-clothed man kicked out with one foot, his right toe flying straight toward Su Ying.
This person’s leap was extraordinary – one bound and he launched a leg technique. His moves were incredibly fast. Su Ying’s sword-drawing technique wasn’t as fast as Dian Cang masters – how could he compete with the black-clothed man for the initiative? He immediately retreated half a step diagonally to gain time, then raised his long sword horizontally to guard his chest and abdomen vital points.
The Wisdom Sword was the most plain sword technique in the world, but also the most exquisite. Though the positions shifted only by inches, when the sword tip swept over, it defended while attacking. At this moment, with the black-clothed man launching forward in a kicking posture, his right foot flying straight forward, he was actually using his toe to strike Su Ying’s blade. With the sword edge’s sharpness, one move could sever foot bones. It seemed the black-clothed man was already at a disadvantage.
If the formidable enemy wanted to save himself, at this moment he had no other choice but to fall and dodge, or sacrifice one foot. Su Ying only needed to press his advantage, and from then on he could take whatever he wanted. He smiled slightly, about to strike and wound his enemy, when suddenly the black-clothed man’s body twisted, displaying incredible footwork.
His right leg lifted high in a kick. In that split second, the black-clothed man avoided the sword edge, then with no leverage point, his body suddenly spun in mid-air using waist strength. His left foot, invisible and formless yet swift as lightning, kicked diagonally toward Su Ying’s chest.
This person changed legs in mid-air – his waist and leg strength was truly unprecedented. Though Jiuhua Mountain’s lightness skills were high and emphasized graceful body movement, to change leg techniques in mid-air and still produce such powerful force was probably beyond their capability. Seeing the formidable enemy suspended in air for so long, Su Ying was greatly alarmed and hastily raised his sword to counter-stab, slicing toward the black-clothed man’s left sole.
The black-clothed man’s left foot heel lifted up, first avoiding the blade, second seeking an opportunity to strike. That heel silently and soundlessly came to half a foot above Su Ying’s head. Suddenly wind roared as the heel crashed down heavily. If it struck the Baihui acupoint directly, even with “Indestructible Diamond Body” protection, the master would surely die. This move was completely unexpected. Su Ying could only hastily withdraw his sword and dodge backward. Just at this moment, that black-clothed man finally landed, but as soon as one foot touched the ground, his body suddenly shot forward like a cannonball, both hands thrusting forward with sleeve swords, just like a wild bull’s two horns, stabbing straight forward.
Though Su Ying was startled, he remained calm. His long sword casually flicked out toward the weakness. But at this moment, the black-clothed man suddenly lunged forward, then immediately fell prone. This move was extremely dangerous – his forehead was less than half an inch from the sword tip, yet in that impossible instant, he dodged the incoming sword.
The black-clothed man was fast and strong, fierce and wild. This dodge seemed risky but had already penetrated Su Ying’s sword net. With the formidable enemy having broken through, the long sword was behind him – this was an unprecedented great shock.
Su Ying knew this was a life-or-death moment. He touched both feet to the ground, about to retreat hastily, when he heard a tiger’s roar. The black-clothed man struck first. His body rolled and fell, his legs shot out like iron spears. With a thud against the ground, his body stood inverted, his feet kicking out to strike the Huashan Sect Leader’s chest directly.
Su Ying saw stars, his ribs nearly breaking. Seeing the formidable enemy still inverted, he sought victory from defeat, his sword moves immediately changing direction to sweep toward the black-clothed man’s lower abdomen. Just at this moment, the black-clothed man suddenly changed his move, drawing up both legs. From the ground came a spinning motion like a round ball charging toward him. Su Ying’s changing moves were also fast – he immediately planted his sword in the ground to let that person crash into it himself.
Whoosh! The black-clothed round ball suddenly froze. The black shadow instantly flipped up, transforming into human form, already standing face-to-face with Su Ying. And the Huashan Sect Leader’s protective sword was now under his feet.
Ha! The black-clothed man lifted his head to ram forward, his forehead striking the “Wisdom Sword” directly. His nose bridge immediately felt severe pain, blood gushing forth.
Su Ying’s upper body leaned back. In his gaze was no fear, only complete bewilderment. Huashan martial arts, which emphasized mental cultivation, practiced the heart not the body, sought intention not force. Understanding martial arts’ true meaning through casual conversation was like splashed-ink landscape paintings, always knowing only elegant freedom. When had he ever been rammed by a barbarian’s head?
Strike! A knee like an iron awl drove into his lower abdomen. Fierce force poured into his stomach, sour and bitter yellow water surging up his throat. The beliefs he had held since childhood were shattered by this person. That feeling of complete defeat, yet utterly unbelievable, was like seeing a white sheep devour a fierce tiger…
Inconceivable!
The final strike came swiftly. The opponent’s iron elbow struck the Huashan Sect Leader’s right armpit directly. Ribs fractured, and young hero Su Ying flew like a kite with broken strings, his body rolling and crashing into tables and chairs, instantly collapsing to the ground. His long sword flew from his grip, landing exactly five feet in front of him on the bluestone floor.
“Must get the sword back… must…” The Huashan young hero who had never known defeat in battle, who had never failed in attack – this was his first time unable to rise after falling, and his first time encountering such adversity. Su Ying spat blood, struggling forward, slowly crawling on the ground. Suddenly the black-clothed man grabbed a wooden chair and smashed it heavily on his head. With a loud crash and splintering sounds, wood fragments scattered everywhere on the ground.
This wasn’t a martial arts contest… A master could kill, but wouldn’t hit someone with a chair…
This smashing was just a form of humiliation – completely humiliating Su Ying and humiliating Huashan’s 140 years of martial arts.
The black-clothed man’s intention was very clear: he wanted to shatter the glorious reputation of “800 consecutive victories.”
Su Ying’s head was covered in blood, but he finally grasped the sword hilt. He wiped the blood from his forehead, brushed away the dirt from his face, and despite his dizziness, still struggled to stand up. With “Wisdom Sword Pacifies the Eight Directions” completely broken, Su Ying thought for the first time of that other move he possessed… that move was not only sufficient for self-protection but could also reverse the situation and subdue formidable enemies…
“Benevolent Sword’s Resonating Song”! That was the world’s strongest defensive move, and also a move of kingly way that conquered people through virtue, utterly undefeatable.
Holding the sword like holding incense, the blade pressed against his forehead. When the sword light formed a circle like a Buddha’s halo spinning, the gentle yet resilient qi energy would make formidable enemies kneel in submission. Before the “Benevolent Sword,” there was no enemy of equal standing in the world.
The black-clothed man’s eyes brightened, as if he had been waiting for this moment all along. He breathed deeply, suddenly tearing his outer garment. Though this person’s clothing appeared thin, his jacket was covered with buckles and bindings from top to bottom. Snapping sounds rang out as twelve bindings all broke open. The black shadow fell like a roc, the entire black robe falling to the ground with clanging sounds.
In the late afternoon, the warm setting sun shone, making Huimin Pharmacy gleam like a dreamscape.
Weapons covering the ground glowed brilliantly. That black robe wasn’t just iron armor! Around the waist, instead of a sash, an iron whip was coiled; across the chest, instead of a vest, only heavy yellow-brown lead plates. Cold light from the sleeves were sleeve swords, sharp edges on the back were wing blades. The small knives in the clothing’s inner layers, stacked upon layers – weren’t those called plum blossom darts? Add to this the iron plates bound tightly under his arms and the iron shoes on his feet – the black-clothed man carried seven types of weapons in total. Including that strange sword from before, his entire body bore at least 120 pounds of weight.
Now he had discarded all the weapons, leaving his hands empty. This wasn’t self-destruction of martial arts, but going all out.
Without the burden of heavy weapons, how fast could the black-clothed man’s skills become? No one knew.
Su Ying certainly didn’t know either.
Hey! The black-clothed man stepped forward heavily, crushing the bluestone floor with his foot. He gathered his strength, muscles knotting together, and from his throat came a roar like that of an angry lion.
Ha! Su Ying, who had always remained calm and composed in actual combat, had never before felt even a trace of anger. But now he couldn’t help but let out a sharp battle cry. His opponent’s humiliation of his school inevitably filled him with burning rage. Abandoning his elegant and carefree manner, the furious Huashan Sect Leader was ready to unleash wholesale slaughter.
Victory or defeat meant life or death – kill or be killed, one of the two. Su Ying’s cat-like pupils gradually contracted, his mirror-like eyes reflecting his opponent’s ferocity. He would use the “Benevolent Sword” to defeat this formidable enemy and preserve Huashan’s undefeated reputation.
“Stop!”
A beautiful woman leaped into the courtyard, spreading her hands to shield Su Ying behind her. This woman protecting her beloved with love – who else could it be but Qiong Fang? The black-clothed man sneered coldly, about to strike a killing blow, when suddenly sword light flashed brilliantly. Another woman had already rushed forward, her body movement graceful, using speed to counter speed as she attacked the black-clothed man with full force. It was Juan’er from Jiuhua Mountain who had arrived.
Su Ying wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and hastily pushed Qiong Fang away. With the black-clothed man’s terrifying martial arts, Juan’er definitely couldn’t block even one sword stroke. Just as he was about to enter the fray to help, he suddenly froze. He saw the black-clothed man constantly dodging Juan’er’s offensive, not only unable to return even half a move, but actually turning his back, completely unwilling to face Juan’er directly. He seemed to know he was no match. His feet pushed off powerfully with a “hey” sound, and the black shadow shot skyward, reaching over ten feet high without needing any running start, already flying onto the wall.
Su Ying gazed intently, unable to guess the reason for a moment. Just then, the black-clothed man crouched on the wall like a great bird perching. He stared back at Su Ying, slowly extending his finger to point at his face, his gaze igniting with provocative fire.
Juan’er leaped up, screaming: “Audacious demon! Where are you going!” Her lightness skill was graceful as she floated upward lightly. Her jumping height was even higher than the black-clothed man’s, but her momentum and speed were far inferior, and her strength clearly fell far short. The black-clothed man turned his head away, no longer willing to fight. He immediately pushed forward with force and disappeared without a trace in an instant.
Watching the formidable enemy’s retreating figure, Su Ying couldn’t help but be filled with amazement. Even when this person retreated, he had to retreat in earth-shaking fashion, as if saying he had other difficulties that prevented him from fighting to the death. But what exactly had driven him away? Was it the righteous qi of the “Benevolent Sword”? Or was it because he had additional helpers arriving?
Su Ying’s expression was grave, his face covered in blood, but he couldn’t figure it out. Qiong Fang, alarmed and frightened, hastily rushed forward asking: “Are you alright?” Su Ying caressed his beloved’s cheek, saying softly: “I’m fine.” Qiong Fang grasped his hand, saying gently: “I knew no one could overcome you…” That gaze full of trust and admiration made Su Ying force a smile. His left hand reached out to embrace his beloved’s shoulder – this was both a tender embrace and unspoken support…
“Come quickly to save people!”
Yu Chuanzi’s scream came from outside the courtyard. The Imperial Medical Academy truly became busy. Imperial Physician Yuan from the pharmacy was the first to rush out, followed by other officials who came upon hearing the news. Everyone was frantically busy treating and bandaging numerous injured masters. For a time, voices filled the air like a bustling marketplace.
“The Imperial Medical Academy has suffered catastrophe.” A clerk loudly recited: “The villains damaged one plaque, costing 320 taels.”
The onlookers looked down to see the plaque broken on the ground. The “Medical” character in the middle had disappeared. Its condition was pitiful – it couldn’t even be glued back together, making this statement all the more tragic.
“Boy, look clearly!” Suddenly, an opportunistic voice rang out: “This is a plaque personally inscribed by Emperor Yongle. How dare you say it’s only worth 320 taels?” Hearing this, the Ministry of Works clerk was terrified and hastily bowed: “Thanks to Your Lordship’s guidance – the villains kicked through a priceless treasure. The monetary loss is incalculable.” The old man looked dignified as he stroked his beard and sneered: “Now that sounds more human.” This aged fellow was kicking a man when he was down. The officials around heard these words and felt terror in their hearts, bowing their heads even lower.
The Imperial Medical Academy gathered countless people. Inside and outside the gates were flag-bearing guards, officials, and constables who came to investigate clues, naturally creating extraordinary bustle. The Minister of Justice sat in command, the Vice Minister of Works inspected the damages, and at the main gate, two white-haired old men led their disciples and students in discussion.
A disciple rushed forward, bowing respectfully to the short old man: “Huashan’s Chen Defu pays respects to the mighty Lord Gao.”
The two elders, one tall and one short – the tall one was naturally Song Gongmai, while the short one with an arrogant expression was the renowned Gao Tianjiang.
The short old man asked Chen Defu with smug satisfaction, raising his pockmarked old face sternly: “You say that person didn’t break the plaque with weapons but kicked it with his foot? Is that right or not?” With the Huaixi Sect Master personally asking questions, Chen Defu hastily smiled apologetically: “Exactly! That person flew forward with a kick and smashed through the plaque in one blow. He jumped so high…”
Gao Tianwei made an “oh” sound: “Jumped very high, did he?” He looked up at the gate over twenty feet high, suddenly stepped back about ten feet, and rushed forward with quick steps. With a wild cry of “Hey ya,” his short body leaped up. In the evening lamplight, his black shadow arced like a bow as his leg swept over the gate’s lintel before landing. This flying kick truly combined essence, qi, and spirit, like a martial arts master instructing disciples.
The onlookers saw that despite Gao Tianwei’s advanced age, his skills were not diminished from his prime. Everyone applauded and praised him. Gao Tianwei deliberately showed off, naturally laughing heartily: “Was that black-clothed man’s high kick as authentic as this old man’s?”
Chen Defu repeatedly bowed and spoke diplomatically: “Your Lordship’s technique is beautiful, but that person’s kicking method… cough… was somewhat different.”
Gao Tianwei raised his long eyebrows and sneered: “What’s different? He didn’t jump as high as us, was that it?” Chen Defu coughed dryly twice: “In response to Your Lordship – whether high or not, this humble person doesn’t know. But he didn’t use a running start. He just jumped from where he stood, pushed off with both feet, and his body bounced up.”
Hearing this, the onlookers exclaimed in amazement, finding it hard to believe. Gao Tianwei spat and shouted: “Your eyes were playing tricks!” He said no more and was the first to cross the threshold into the gate. The others followed in succession, all entering to inspect the inner courtyard plaza. Song Gongmai was the last to enter. Just as he stepped over the threshold into the courtyard, he saw his precious son Tongming.
Song Tongming’s wrist was dislocated, his right hand already bandaged, waiting by the gate. With injury to his son’s body, pain in the father’s heart, Song Gongmai sighed: “Tongming, does your hand still hurt?” Song Tongming looked ashamed and could only nod, saying quietly: “We three surrounded one opponent yet still couldn’t win. This child has lost face for the Divine Blade School. Please punish me severely, father.”
Gao Tianwei smiled gleefully. As soon as his laughter rang out, dozens of angry gazes shot toward him. Yu Chuanzi, Chi Chuanzi, Zong Zesi Ba, Jin Chaqin and others either showed anger on their faces or emanated killing intent. Everyone gritted their teeth and glared fiercely, as if they wanted to butcher Gao Tianwei.
An atmosphere of indignation filled the scene. Chi Chuanzi and the others were veteran martial artists who could all turn against him. No matter how insensitive Gao Tianwei was, he didn’t dare mock them at this moment to avoid being beaten by a crowd. He turned his laughter into sighs, accompanying them with a few wails to show his solidarity against the common enemy.
Song Gongmai lowered his head in thought. His son Tongming possessed superhuman strength and relied on his natural courage. His “Divine Blade Energy” was practiced to extreme precision and ruthlessness, arguably not inferior to himself in his prime years. But strangely, why was this dignified Young Master of the Divine Blade defeated so miserably? If we say there were prior injuries and the enemy took advantage, but with their superior numbers – “Lone Stinger Giant Scorpion King” Jin Chaqin was completely unharmed, plus “Kaiping Twin Blade Association’s” Zong Zesi Ba’s assistance – they shouldn’t have ended up with broken arms and hands. Such heavy defeat had only one reason: the opponent was too strong.
Song Gongmai sighed deeply and patted his son’s shoulder, not blaming him much. He was a reasonable man who knew life’s setbacks were inevitable. That his son could keep both knees from touching the ground still made him, in his father’s eyes, an iron-hard hero who didn’t disgrace the “Divine Blade Song Family’s” reputation.
After examining the main gate and courtyard, the group continued forward to the long corridor. Looking out, they could see the corridor wasn’t narrow but long, with beginning and end nearly two hundred feet apart. Song Gongmai and others examined the footprint traces on the ground. On the opposite side were eight foot impressions running along the path, each step about ten feet apart – these were the traces left by Mongolia’s greatest master Zhe’er Dan. Everyone looked carefully and saw the boot prints stopped abruptly around eighty feet into the long corridor. Looking at the nearby damaged painted railings and sword marks covering the corridor pillars, they deduced the two great masters had encountered each other here and fallen into fierce battle.
Zhe’er Dan had run out eighty feet – how far had the black-clothed man leaped? Everyone examined the black-clothed man’s footprints and counted only six steps total, with the final step reaching the corridor’s center. This person’s strides were extremely long – just six steps covered over a hundred feet, calculating to about sixteen feet per step.
A constable said in shock: “This fellow’s steps are so large – his height must be quite frightening!” Chen Defu, attending nearby, heard this and answered: “About nine feet tall.”
Hearing everyone’s varied discussions, Gao Tianwei laughed twice disdainfully. He turned to Song Gongmai and smiled: “What’s nine feet? Song Lao, you’re even shorter than that. Why don’t you demonstrate a couple moves to open these youngsters’ eyes?”
Though Song Gongmai was over eighty, in his prime he was a famous bandit-suppressing general, nine feet six inches tall, called the Ten-Foot Door God. In terms of physique, no one in the court could surpass him for decades. Hearing Gao Tianwei ask him to demonstrate, he didn’t hide his abilities. Gathering his true qi, he waved his hand: “Everyone step back.”
“Divine Blade Song’s” reputation was illustrious. At this moment, wanting to test his skills, the others showed respectful expressions and held their breath in anticipation.
Suddenly with a “hey” sound, the old general leaped out. His first step landed on the black-clothed man’s footprint, then he took a second step in mid-air, immediately stepping on the black-clothed man’s second footprint. Though Song Gongmai was advanced in years, his leg strength remained powerful. Two steps covered thirty-two feet consecutively, and the crowd’s applause thundered as they shouted praise.
Just as he was about to take the third step, there came a sharp “crack.” Song Gongmai’s foot was already trapped. Everyone craned their necks to look urgently – the corridor floorboard, under excessive force, had actually been broken through by Song Gongmai’s internal energy. The wooden planks split and were damaged, trapping “Divine Blade Song’s” tiger-head official boots.
Hearing the Vice Minister of Works announce: “Damage to corridor wooden planks in one place – twenty taels of silver.” Song Gongmai lifted his heel and threw over a hundred-tael banknote, saying indifferently: “No need for change.” He glanced at Gao Tianwei: “Gao Lao, that person’s body technique was somewhat… somewhat strange.” Gao Tianwei looked at the damaged pit in the ground, his face iron-blue, but also nodded.
The observing masters understood clearly. If running on a pebble path, “Divine Blade Song,” relying on his deep internal power and large frame, might be able to match the black-clothed man’s pace. But coming to this wooden corridor, he could only trail far behind. Undoubtedly, that person’s feet were light as floating dust, yet when lifting and placing his feet, the force was enormous, showing this person’s lower body stability was like mountains, while his lightness skill was as high as flying birds – combining both gentle and powerful strengths. Though there were many masters in the martial world, the strong were always strong and the gentle always gentle. Such experts who combined hardness and softness, internal and external cultivation, could be counted on one hand.
Just as everyone was speculating about the black-clothed man’s identity, Gao Tianwei squinted and asked Chi Chuanzi: “How old was that person? Could you tell?”
Chi Chuanzi looked embarrassed and mumbled: “This person… this person was an old man with quite sophisticated martial arts. Without sixty years of skill, how could he manage?” Song Tongming heard Chi Chuanzi speaking nonsense – clearly without any evidence, yet treating the black-clothed man as an elder. He disapproved in his heart, his eyebrows raised, about to speak, but “Old Divine Blade” gave him a look, signaling his son not to say more.
Song Gongmai was an old hand in the martial world and naturally understood perfectly. Since the black-clothed man had beaten numerous masters into retreat, he could only be an old man, absolutely not a youth. Otherwise, if just a young lad had demonstrated his power and shocked the Imperial Medical Academy, where would these martial arts veterans put their faces when the news spread? Gao Tianwei’s question was merely rhetorical.
The two generals Song and Gao remained silent, leading their large force to pay respects to Zhe’er Dan. The three great masters performed proper courtesies. Though Gao Tianwei was naturally arrogant, he knew his martial arts were quite inferior to this person, so he dared not be presumptuous when meeting him. Song Gongmai called for an interpreter and consoled: “The enemy practices mysterious martial arts and has deep cunning, so your unexpected attack, sir, was not a fault of war. Victory and defeat need not concern you.”
Though Song Gongmai spoke words of comfort after the Mobei Grandmaster’s crushing defeat, his disciples still shouted painful accusations, showing extreme grief and indignation. Zhe’er Dan himself remained silent. Hearing Divine Blade Song’s comfort, he only bowed slightly, acknowledging the thanks.
Zhe’er Dan seemed noncommittal, but the fierce flames in his eyes had already spoken a thousand words for him. Since his defeat by Sa Mau, he had long been searching for his enemy’s whereabouts but found no trace. Now old grudges remained unresolved while new hatred was added – someone had actually come looking for trouble. Zhe’er Dan decided to go all out, simply placing all ten years of vengeful fury on the black-clothed man. Once his internal injuries healed, he would search everywhere to kill and take revenge. When that time came, the Central Plains martial world would surely face wave after wave of bloody massacres.
Zhe’er Dan’s background was significant, backed by the Mongol Khan – no one could dissuade him. Song and Gao didn’t dare say more. They bid farewell to Zhe’er Dan and headed to the third building – the final battleground, Huimin Pharmacy.
Huimin Pharmacy was a red brick building with cellars below specifically for storing precious medicinal materials. It was already night, so constables carried lanterns to guide everyone into the inner courtyard.
The night should have been quiet, but Huimin Pharmacy was bustling with voices. Looking around, over ten Huashan disciples surrounded the courtyard, each discussing among themselves. Among them, two elders were boldly shouting loudly. Looking at their appearance – one fat, one thin – without examining their faces closely, they were undoubtedly the Huashan Twin Freaks.
Song Gongmai borrowed a constable’s lantern and examined carefully. He saw the ground covered with footprints – traces of Su Ying and the black-clothed man’s battle. Besides this, he saw numerous weapons scattered throughout the courtyard, each with strange designs never seen before. Gao Tianwei looked for a long while and couldn’t help frowning: “Doesn’t your mountain’s Sect Leader Su only practice swordsmanship? Why would he use these strange weapons?”
Suddenly someone shouted: “Bullshit! Why would our disciple grandson sect leader want this scrap metal? Look clearly – these are the tools that damn bastard brought!” Hearing such harsh retorts, Gao Tianwei was naturally stunned. He glanced over and saw the speaker was Feicheng Guai, immediately saying coldly: “What should I be careful of? You should be careful of your own mouth – don’t bring fatal disaster upon yourself.”
Before Feicheng Guai could respond, Suanpan Guai was already furious, shouting: “Three-inch nail, tree bark! Watch your own farts – don’t fumigate the ants underground to death!” This nonsensical statement was truly bizarre. Gao Tianwei was stunned, his eyes rolling. Suddenly realizing the other party was mocking his stature, he became furious. Seeing a sleeve sword lying on the ground, he grabbed it to strike at Suanpan Guai. Knowing his opponent’s martial arts were superior, Suanpan Guai shouted: “Senior brother, let’s team up!” Feicheng Guai drew his weapon, ready to compete with His Lordship.
The onlookers saw both sides bore no grudges yet were about to fight over the word “fart” – truly absurd. Just as they were about to step forward to stop them, Gao Tianwei suddenly exclaimed and slowed his attack, his expression quite surprised. Suanpan Guai angrily said: “Short Gao! Do you know fear too?”
Gao Tianwei was narrow-minded and hot-tempered – there was no reason for him to show goodwill first. Song Gongmai, who had known this person for many years and understood his nature, came forward and asked quietly: “Is there something strange?”
Gao Tianwei frowned silently, turning the sleeve sword around and handing it to Song Gongmai. Song Gongmai took the sword with one hand. As the hilt entered his palm, suddenly his palm sank downward – the sleeve sword was extraordinarily heavy. Song Gongmai looked at the various long and short weapons scattered on the ground. He pondered for a long while, then saw a long sword stuck upside down in the ground. By the lamplight, he could see the blade was transparent, thin as a cicada’s wing, though he didn’t know what material it was made from.
Song Gongmai reached out to grasp it and was about to lift it when suddenly he shouted loudly, his body leaning backward urgently. Everyone was greatly alarmed, not knowing what had happened, and looked frantically. They saw the blade had already exploded into three segments shooting toward them. If he hadn’t dodged quickly, his face would probably have been pierced.
Divine Blade Song wiped away cold sweat and laughed dryly: “Good fellow, nearly ruined my trick.” These weapons had strange forms. Even someone with Song Gongmai’s experience nearly got injured. The onlookers all hurriedly backed away, fearing they might accidentally trigger strange mechanisms and cause trouble.
Gao Tianwei came close and whispered: “How is it? Can you tell who did this?” Song Gongmai picked up the long sword and triggered the mechanism again, frowning: “Though these steel wire-controlled weapons have complex forms, there are only two origins in the world.” Gao Tianwei whispered: “You mean blade cables…” Song Gongmai’s expression grew grave as he whispered in his ear: “And Flying Heaven Silver Shuttles.”
Gao Tianwei was startled and dared not speak further. Song Gongmai called Chen Defu over and asked: “Where is your mountain’s Sect Leader Su? This old man has a few questions to ask. Please have him spare some time for a meeting.”
The Huashan Sect Leader was a first-class figure in the Central Plains martial world, and this Su Ying was also the future son-in-law of the Qiong family – his status was extremely noble. Song Gongmai called himself “this old man,” not daring to be impolite in the slightest. Chen Defu hurried forward: “Our sect leader suffered some light injuries and is currently being bandaged at the Imperial Medical Academy. Please come this way, Your Lordship.” He bowed and led Song Gongmai inside.
Seeing Song Gongmai’s hesitation to speak, this matter must involve great mysteries. Gao Tianwei and others were far less experienced and knowledgeable than “Divine Blade Song,” so naturally they dared not speak much. Except for the Huashan Twin Freaks who continued cursing, not a sound could be heard in the field.
Everyone entered the pharmacy to see a young man sitting upright in the hall, his head wrapped in bandages with faint bloodstains visible. Looking at his face, it was indeed the Three-Reach Sword successor, Huashan’s young Sect Leader Su Ying. Beside him were two young women companions – one dressed as a man was Ziyun Pavilion’s Qiong Fang, while the other was also from a martial arts family, Jiuhua’s Juan’er.
Song Gongmai approached and Su Ying rose to bow: “Sect Master, your arduous journey in cold weather – how can Su Xiaozi bear it? This small one is deeply ashamed.”
Though he called himself “small one,” his hands showed great significance. His hands formed fists held horizontally at chest level – not an inch higher, not an inch lower. This was “Royal Peer Salute,” different from the “Heaven Salute” with hands raised above chest, and also different from “Scholar Salute” and “Side Three Salutes.” It meant neither humble nor arrogant, truly showing great learning.
This wasn’t Su Ying putting on airs. When traveling the martial world, every move of a sect leader represented the sect’s dignity. Though Su Ying was young, he was still the Huashan leader. Except for relatives and elders, he generally couldn’t position himself as a junior, otherwise wouldn’t Huashan’s entire sect be pointlessly diminished when walking the martial world? Seeing this young sect leader’s proper etiquette, Song Gongmai secretly praised his extraordinary insight and immediately treated him as an equal, not daring to rely on his seniority. Juan’er, newly appointed as sect leader and unfamiliar with martial world rules, also secretly observed and learned carefully.
After everyone finished their courtesies, Huashan disciples rushed forward to serve. Soon around the round table sat one person each from Dian Cang, Jiuhua, Divine Blade School, Tianjiang Manor, Huashan, and Yuqing Temple – five people total. Others, no matter how noble like Qiong Fang or aged like the Huashan Twin Freaks, had no seats and could only stand in the hall behind their sect leaders.
Everyone sat comfortably drinking tea and exchanging pleasantries. Gao Tianwei’s eyes wandered as he broke the ice first: “Sect Leader Su, when you encountered the formidable enemy, how was the fighting situation? Seeing your head wrapped in bandages, could you have…” He smiled and applauded gently, saying lightly: “Lost?”
After the black-clothed man broke into the Imperial Medical Academy and battled various masters, except for Zhe’er Dan who fought him for several rounds, others like Song Tongming, Yu Chuanzi, and Zong Zesi Ba all collapsed after one battle. It seemed Su Ying also couldn’t fare well. Everyone heard Gao Tianwei’s gloating, and emotions immediately stirred.
Su Ying sighed quietly and poured tea for Gao Tianwei: “Brother Gao, why do you say this? Win is win, lose is lose. Following my master’s teachings, Su naturally understands the way of humility…” Just as he was about to continue, Fu Yuanying suddenly coughed and interrupted: “Sect Leader martial nephew, just now I heard Miss Juan mention that when the formidable enemy retreated, you were about to use ‘Benevolent Sword’s Resonating Song’ – is this true?”
When Fu Yuanying mentioned the Benevolent Sword, he clasped his hands to show respect. Su Ying’s large eyes flashed with gloom, about to answer, but Qiong Fang pressed his hand, signaling him not to speak. Juan’er nearby said loudly: “How could that be false? Before the move was even executed, the assassin was so frightened he fled in panic.”
Gao Tianwei smiled gleefully and wanted to say more, but heard Qiong Fang cough heavily: “Lord Gao, are you comfortable staying at our humble residence?”
Gao Tianwei made an “ah” sound, remembering Su Ying was Qiong Fang’s beloved. He hastily laughed dryly several times and bowed: “Sect Leader Su’s divine martial arts defeated the formidable enemy – admirable, admirable.”
Qiong Fang only wanted to force him to shut up to spare her beloved further harassment. Hearing him quiet down, she immediately took out a letter and handed it to Song Gongmai: “Please examine this, Lord Song.” Song Gongmai asked curiously: “This letter is…”
Qiong Fang explained: “Several days ago, Vice Minister Hu’s family received this strange letter. At the time they didn’t take it seriously, but afterward the Imperial Medical Academy indeed had an incident. Perhaps this letter was the source of trouble.”
Song Gongmai made an “oh” sound – he hadn’t learned of this matter during his visit. He opened the letter and read aloud: “Your son mistakenly crossed forbidden boundaries and trespassed into ghost gates. Disaster approaches. Flee the capital to escape death.” Song Gongmai put down the letter paper and frowned: “Trespassed into ghost gates? Isn’t the Hu family’s child just a mischievous boy? What forbidden land could he enter? Haven’t you asked him?”
Juan’er, listening nearby, answered: “We asked, but he can’t speak anymore.” Gao Tianwei also knew Hu Zhengtang and couldn’t help asking strangely: “Can’t speak? This child is quite clever – when did he become unable to speak?” Qiong Fang continued: “It’s said this child was visiting someone’s home and inexplicably fell and injured his head. Since then he’s been dull and foolish, unable to speak.”
Song Gongmai raised his eyebrows urgently: “Wait – whose home was this child visiting?”
Qiong Fang and Juan’er looked at each other and said in unison: “The Five Assistants’ residence.”
Hearing this, Song Gongmai actually exclaimed “Ah!” and his face turned deathly pale. Hai Chuanzi, full of curiosity, also took the letter and read it through, laughing: “You’re stretching things too far. I think this letter is a decoy. I figure nine times out of ten, either Vice Minister Hu made enemies with someone, or Sect Leader Su had a feud with someone, which brought the enemy to cause trouble.”
Qiong Fang shook her head: “Daoist’s words are wrong. Just think – if you had a feud with someone, when and where would you choose to act?” Hai Chuanzi coughed and hadn’t spoken yet when Fu Yuanying already continued: “If I had a feud with someone from the Imperial Medical Academy, I would definitely choose a deserted place for assassination. At worst, I’d visit their residence at night. In any case, the place to act would definitely not be chosen at…” Qiong Fang continued: “A gathering place of sixty masters.”
The two asked and answered, each word logical and reasonable, making everyone agree. Hai Chuanzi pondered for a long while: “Your words are right but also not right. If that black-clothed man truly intended to kill Zhengtang as the letter states, the logic is the same – why wouldn’t he choose a deserted place to act? Why come here to invite trouble?” Hai Chuanzi’s words hit the crucial point. Qiong Fang could only nod in agreement. Everyone couldn’t figure out the black-clothed man’s intentions and was puzzled for a time.
Everyone was about to continue speaking when Song Gongmai suddenly raised his hand and said quietly: “This matter is of grave importance. Please bring paper and ink. This old man needs to confirm something.” Everyone in the hall felt curious, not knowing what Song Gongmai wanted to write at this moment. Su Ying didn’t ask much and had his disciples borrow from the Imperial Physician. Before long, the four treasures of the study were presented one by one. Chen Defu bowed: “In haste, we couldn’t find leather paper anywhere, so we’re using prescription paper instead. Please forgive us.”
Song Gongmai took the brush and inkstone, nodding: “Having paper is enough. No matter.” He took up the brush, dipped it in ink, and gently sketched on the paper. Hai Chuanzi saw he seemed to be drawing and couldn’t help exclaiming: “Your Lordship recognizes that thief’s appearance?”
Song Gongmai didn’t reply, only concentrated on his careful sketching. After a long while, a pattern slowly appeared on the paper. With trembling hands, he handed the prescription paper to Su Ying, saying hoarsely: “Sect Leader Su, did you… did you see this pattern when fighting the black-clothed man?”
The black-clothed man had broken through numerous barriers with courage. Among all those who fought him, only Su Ying had battled longest. If they wanted to uncover this person’s identity, only the Huashan Sect Leader could say for certain. Su Ying nodded slightly, took the prescription paper, and examined it together with Qiong Fang and Juan’er. The three whispered in discussion. Feicheng Guai laughed continuously: “Sect Leader grandson, could that black-clothed man be Gao Tianwei? Quickly identify him so we can all beat him up together.” Gao Tianwei angrily said: “Shut up!” He immediately snatched the prescription paper to look.
Feicheng Guai pretended great alarm: “Everyone stop him quickly! He’s going to destroy the evidence!” The others couldn’t restrain themselves and came over to observe. Dozens of eyes looked together, with exclamations of “eh” from the east and “oh” from the west, everyone discussing endlessly.
What everyone could see clearly was that the prescription paper depicted a great bird. The fierce bird was proud and majestic, its beak raised, both wings fully spread, shaped like a great roc spreading its wings. Everyone stared speechless, not understanding its meaning.
Song Gongmai coughed quietly and asked: “Sect Leader Su, ignore the others. Please tell this old man – have you seen this pattern?”
Su Ying nodded: “Your Lordship’s speculation is correct. This humble one has seen this brand.” As soon as these words were spoken, Song Gongmai’s expression was as if struck by lightning. His face immediately became deathly pale as he collapsed weakly to one side. Gao Tianwei also shook violently all over, his face inexplicably trembling.
Su Ying said: “At that time I was locked in fierce battle with this person, both sides evenly matched. In the heat of combat, this person claimed his master’s martial arts were number one under heaven, then removed his upper garment. At that time, this mark was burned into his arm. I saw it very clearly.”
The combined ages of the two elders Song and Gao probably reached 160-170 years, yet at this moment they were like three-year-old children, staring at each other, their four eyelids trembling endlessly, completely unable to speak. After a long while, Hai Chuanzi made a sound and said frantically: “This… what exactly does that black-clothed man want to do? You… you explain clearly…”
Everyone pressed urgently, but Song Gongmai remained silent for a long time. Su Ying said: “Lord Song, we’re all our own people here. Please speak freely.” Song Gongmai looked at the assembled guests and said quietly: “Everyone, you’ve all guessed wrong. The black-clothed man doesn’t want to kill Zhengtang.” Juan’er frowned: “If not Zhengtang, then who? Grandfather Song, could you speak more clearly?”
Song Gongmai sighed, first pointing at Su Ying, then at himself, then at Hai Chuanzi. Several pointing gestures encompassed all the important figures in the hall. Emotions stirred, and Hai Chuanzi, covered in cold sweat, said in alarm: “You… you’re saying the black-clothed man wants to kill me…”
Song Gongmai said quietly: “Not just you, not just me. Their intention is to intimidate all the world’s figures in one stroke, making righteous heroes everywhere afraid to move.” Chi Chuanzi’s face alternated between blue and red: “If that’s really so… that’s far too arrogant.”
Song Gongmai said mournfully: “The fastest way to intimidate heroes is to kill one to warn a hundred. You only need to select top masters, defeat them utterly, and who among the rest won’t be terrified upon hearing the news?” He sighed and continued: “Speaking of places where the world’s top masters gather, is there any place that surpasses the ‘Champion Star Battles Five Passes’?”
The entire hall fell silent. Hearing Song Gongmai’s implications, the black-clothed man chose this crucial moment to cause trouble precisely to defeat both Mongol and Han masters in one stroke, forcing heroes worldwide to submit on their knees. If this were true, this person’s fierce arrogance was truly unprecedented.
Fu Yuanying carefully considered Song Gongmai’s words and suddenly frowned: “Wait a moment – Your Lordship said ‘they’?”
Song Gongmai sighed quietly and nodded: “That’s right, I said ‘they’.” Hai Chuanzi asked bewildered: “What exactly do they want to do?” Song Gongmai smiled bitterly and said gloomily: “They do everything…” This sentence was spoken as faintly as a mosquito’s buzz, with almost no one hearing it. He stood up himself, bowed to everyone apologetically: “Heroes, Song is old and frail, unable to bear heavy responsibilities. Please forgive my early departure.”
Both “Divine Blade School” and “Tianjiang Manor” were among the Four Families of Fuyuan, recently rising like wind and water, deeply favored by the court. How could they retreat without reason like this? The onlookers naturally felt greatly surprised. Seeing both Song and Gao about to leave, Hai Chuanzi stood up with a “hey” sound to block them, shouting: “What’s this? What’s this? They injured your son, we all suffered disaster together. We should unite as one, make a blood oath. How can you two lords just leave as you please?”
Everyone clamored and shouted, not letting Song Gongmai leave. Among the Four Families of Fuyuan, in terms of martial arts and reputation, all were called first-class in the martial world. Compared to the power of Shaolin and Wudang, they were not far behind. If even Song Gongmai was unwilling to intervene, how could this situation continue?
Song Gongmai paid no attention and still insisted on leaving. Just as his right foot left the threshold, a quiet sigh came from the hall. Someone said: “Someone please invite Vice Minister Hu and his wife into the hall to sit comfortably. Please have the couple come to see His Lordship off.” The speaker was Qiong Fang. As soon as these words were spoken, Fu Yuanying and others silently applauded. At this crucial moment, there was no need for outsiders to persuade. If they wanted to move him emotionally, only the victims themselves would suffice. Indeed, as soon as Chen Defu and others turned around, Song Gongmai’s face muscles trembled as he stood frozen in place.
Before long, footsteps came from behind the hall. Hearing those relaxed, meandering steps, the people coming naturally had no martial arts – it was Vice Minister Hu Zhilian and his wife.
The family of three entered the hall. Hu Zhengtang was already dazed, only able to babble and drool. Hu’s wife, with a formerly blessed round face, was now completely bloodless, showing none of a third-rank wife’s bearing. The masters saw the Hu family’s three members so helpless and naturally sighed secretly, not knowing how to comfort them.
Hu Zhilian took out a handkerchief to wipe the cold sweat from his head, saying tremblingly: “What’s wrong? Has the black-clothed man returned?”
Qiong Fang smiled slightly and said gently: “Vice Minister, don’t worry. There are many constables here, plus several martial world seniors. Even if that black-clothed man returned, no one could harm you.”
Hu Zhilian recalled that black-clothed man’s skills and couldn’t help trembling again. Though he wasn’t from the martial world, these few years of organizing “Champion Star Battles Five Passes” had given him some experience with martial world combat. He knew that black-clothed man had broken through mysterious barriers with skills so brave and strong that they absolutely couldn’t be stopped by just a few martial world figures. He said tremblingly: “It’s no use… that black-clothed man’s martial arts are so strong. Even Sect Leader Su with such skills couldn’t keep him. You… what use can you people be? If he comes back, you should flee quickly…”
As soon as these words were spoken, a chorus of coughing arose in Huimin Pharmacy. Hai Chuanzi coughed first. The others, from Song Gongmai and Gao Tianwei down to Huashan disciples and flag-bearing guards – dozens of people’s faces turned iron-blue, their lips tightly pressed. Clearly these words were indeed unpleasant to hear.
Qiong Fang didn’t mind. She lightly waved her folding fan and smiled: “Vice Minister doesn’t know. As for others’ martial arts, our eyesight is limited and we naturally can’t judge. But with peerless masters present, you have eyes but fail to recognize Mount Tai – not recognizing them is truly a great mistake.”
Hu Zhilian made an “oh” sound, forcing open his small eye slits bewilderedly: “Peerless masters?” His gaze swept over everyone, seemingly with an itchy nose, he just stretched out his finger to rub it. After a long while, he turned to ask Qiong Fang: “You mean Sect Leader Su? He didn’t catch the black-clothed man!”
Seeing Hu Zhilian’s bear-like appearance, Gao Tianwei immediately became furious and shouted: “Hu family’s second son! Don’t you recognize your grandfather anymore!”
Hu Zhilian had an elder brother Hu Zhixiao, so elders often called him second son. Hu Zhilian said in alarm: “Sorry! Sorry! Lord Gao, you’re short – I just didn’t see you…” Gao Tianwei was so angry his beard flew up, both fists clenched with cracking sounds, his eyes seeming to shoot fire. Qiong Fang and Vice Minister Hu sang in harmony, successfully provoking this person. Knowing she had succeeded, she smiled at Hu Zhilian: “Look at Lord Gao’s heroic gallantry and divine martial arts. Now he’s going to take on this challenge for you. What does Vice Minister say?”
Hu Zhilian nodded repeatedly, about to give thanks, when he heard Hu’s wife crying behind him: “It won’t work! This old man is just like a three-inch nail – how can he fight with people?”
With a thunderous sound, Gao Tianwei raised his palm in anger, his hand-blade rising and falling, instantly splitting the round table in the hall. The wooden table split in half and immediately collapsed to the ground, truly living up to the fierce reputation of “Huaixi General Gao Tianjiang,” the premier sect master. Gao Tianwei shouted sternly: “When the Sword God roamed the world, Gao didn’t necessarily fear him! Why fear one black-clothed boy! Tell him to come over!”
Qiong Fang was the first to cheer, and the whole hall of Huashan disciples also applauded. Gao Tianwei snorted twice, when suddenly the Ministry of Works clerk loudly announced: “Damage to one purple sandalwood carved and lacquered vermillion large round wooden table – 120 dragon silver taels!” Gao Tianwei roared angrily, but Hu Zhilian had already pulled out a banknote and handed it over with an apologetic smile: “Sorry, Lord Gao’s righteous indignation is all for my family’s sake. This money should come from me.”
Gao Tianwei’s mouth corner had originally turned up, but hearing these words, it suddenly turned down. He touched his own beard, like a mischievous monkey having caused great trouble, somewhat at a loss. Everyone was just teasing Gao Tianwei when suddenly they heard a long sigh. Footsteps echoed in the hall as a tall elderly man slowly stood up – it was Song Gongmai. This old man’s expression was dignified as he walked to Hu Zhilian and said lightly: “Vice Minister, what is your honored age this year?” Hu Zhilian was startled, not expecting this sudden question, and laughed dryly: “In response to Your Lordship, this junior is just past forty.” Song Gongmai nodded slightly, noncommittal, turned to look at Hu’s wife and said: “How old is the worthy lady?”
Hu Zhilian was even more puzzled, mumbling: “My humble wife is just past thirty. Your Lordship… why do you ask this?”
Song Gongmai sighed, his gaze fixing on Hu Zhengtang, saying mournfully: “Very good. You two are young and can still have children. Consider this Zhengtang as never having come to this world.” Everyone in the hall heard these words with great surprise. Hu Zhilian was also dumbstruck, while Hu’s wife was both shocked and angry. Regardless of Song Gongmai’s high status, she screamed loudly: “You old undead thing, what nonsense are you talking?”
Hu’s wife cursed loudly, but Song Gongmai didn’t get angry. He pointed at the collapsed wooden table and said lightly: “Children, if you want to interfere in this matter, Song cannot dissuade you. I can only remind you of one thing…” He paused, glancing sideways at everyone, saying quietly: “When your families are confiscated and clans exterminated in the future, don’t blame me for not warning you beforehand.”
Like a cold wind blowing through, everyone in the hall shivered. If these words had come from Gao Tianwei’s mouth, no one would take them seriously. But the speaker was Song Gongmai, a respected elder known for his insight and cultivation. For a moment, the four seats were quiet and silent, with no one daring to answer a word.
Snap! A folding fan opened brightly, the three characters “Purple Cloud Pavilion” blooming like flowers. Everyone turned to look and saw the protagonist – three parts charming, seven parts noble, magnificent and elegant, with a purple net scarf on her head, lightly waving her folding fan. They heard her say lightly: “Thank you for Lord Song’s reminder. However, those in the world capable of confiscating my Qiong family…” She fanned the cool breeze and smiled: “I’m afraid they haven’t been born yet.”
This was an extremely arrogant statement, but she had her foundation. Purple Cloud Pavilion was the world’s number one library; Qiong Wuchuan was a current meritorious minister and imperial father-in-law. The Qiong family were imperial relatives by marriage, with countless court officials originating from Purple Cloud Pavilion. How could such a great noble house be the same as ordinary families living from day to day?
Hearing this, everyone knew Qiong Fang had decided to see this matter through to the end. Thinking of Qiong Wuchuan’s power, their spirits couldn’t help but lift.
Song Gongmai, hearing these words, only nodded and raised his tea bowl to drink. Suddenly tea water spilled from the corner of his mouth as he burst into wild laughter. With his deep internal power, this one sound made everyone’s hearts pound, their faces changing color. Song Gongmai put down his tea bowl, glancing sideways at Qiong Fang, saying quietly: “Young Pavilion Master, ah Young Pavilion Master. In the past few decades, speaking of figures with overwhelming power holding life and death authority, has this old man seen too few?” Suddenly his sleeves fluttered as he said sternly: “Have you heard of ‘Jiang Chong’?”
As soon as the two words “Jiang Chong” were spoken, everyone in the hall over thirty years old couldn’t help but cry out in alarm. Everyone retreated urgently backward, with continuous thumping sounds as all tables and chairs in the hall overturned. Everyone was as frightened as mice, but Qiong Fang remained composed. She looked around at the heroes, waved her hand lightly and scolded: “Stop! He’s merely a former dynasty’s old minister – what do you gentlemen have to fear?” This daughter of a military family spoke while staring directly at Song Gongmai, fearless and unwavering, truly a heroine who didn’t yield to men.
Song Gongmai, being stared at by her, didn’t mind at all. He pointed at Hu Zhilian: “Young Pavilion Master is young and naive, not understanding government affairs. You are a Jingtai champion, a minister of two dynasties. You tell her – who was Jiang Chong?” Hu Zhilian, being pointed at like this, felt truly half his heart turn cold. He shrank his head, swallowed, and said in a cold voice: “This person was once Chief Inspector of eighteen provinces, with unmatched scheming and methods in the contemporary world. He dominated the court for a full thirty years, eliminated the Eastern Factory, exterminated bandits… ranked among the Three Tutors and Three Junior Tutors, held the position of Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince…” He explained for a long while, finally pausing to summarize: “This person was truly the greatest powerful minister since the founding of the dynasty.”
Song Gongmai nodded slightly: “Indeed… what a greatest powerful minister. But Vice Minister, you said the Grand Tutor, he…”
“Where is he now?”
Hearing these words, all the veterans in the field fell completely silent. Whether comical like Feicheng Guai, steady like Fu Yuanying, or arrogant like Gao Tianwei, all lowered their heads. Even Su Ying, not yet thirty, also stood in stunned melancholy.
The vicissitudes of human life, its constant changes – how could three words and two phrases encompass it all? The former dynasty’s greatest powerful minister had now disappeared without trace or sound. This showed that wealth doesn’t last long, power isn’t reliable. Everyone remained silent, but Qiong Fang only turned her head away and fanned herself coolly, her thoughts unknown.
Song Gongmai ignored Qiong Fang and only said quietly: “Past events, if not forgotten, are teachers for future events. Involvement in royal power and political struggles is like entering ghost gates. Don’t speak of five-colored fire phoenixes or iron scrolls with red writing – when truly facing great political struggles, they’re all useless burdens that instead bring disaster. Song sincerely advises – whether you listen is up to you.”
Though Song Gongmai didn’t name names, his implication was clearly mocking the Qiong clan. With noble families competing against each other, other rural common people naturally dared not invite trouble and no one dared support Qiong Fang. Qiong Fang, after all, had excellent upbringing and would never argue rashly without complete certainty. She immediately put her hands together in a gesture of receiving instruction: “Thanks for the good words. Fang’er will definitely convey them truthfully without the slightest concealment.”
Everyone in the hall heard her words and knew she would relay Divine Blade Song’s rude words back home. When the Empress complained and the Imperial Father-in-law blamed him, who knew how Old Song would handle it. But Song Gongmai showed no fear. He glanced at Qiong Fang and smiled lightly: “Young Pavilion Master, feel free to relay this old man’s words exactly. The Imperial Father-in-law not only won’t blame me, but will be grateful for this old man’s painstaking care in disciplining you.”
These words were truly too rude. Even if one looked down on someone, one shouldn’t speak like this. Qiong Fang had never suffered such humiliation in her life. If she didn’t show her authority now, how could she conduct herself in the future? Her beautiful eyes darkened as she raised her teacup, about to smash it out fiercely. Suddenly snowflakes danced before her eyes as the cold wind of the twelfth month blew into the great hall – Song Gongmai had actually turned his back and pushed open the main door himself. Stimulated by the cold wind, Qiong Fang’s mind also cleared considerably. Su Ying beside her reached out to grasp her hand.
The cold wind brushed his face, lifting the official robes and jade belt of the Marquis of Fenglai. Song Gongmai’s face was covered in white snow, making the white even more silver-bright. With his back to everyone, he said quietly: “Young Pavilion Master, don’t hate this old man. Though my words are harsh, they contain no malice whatsoever. I hope you understand.” Qiong Fang bit her lower lip, broke free from Su Ying’s hand, then also turned her back to face the great hall, no longer paying attention to Song Gongmai.
Song Gongmai smiled bitterly and sighed again: “Song Gongmai was born in the Yongle years, has experienced five dynasties and four emperors, fought hundreds of battles. After decades, he has witnessed countless storms and pitied countless heroes. Whether heroes or sages, those who once dominated their times – none can remain today to accompany Song in enjoying his declining years.”
He looked back at the people in the hall and said softly: “Children, when Song dies in the future and none of you come to mourn and see me off, this old man will die with eyes unclosed in the nine springs below.”
He looked at everyone without speaking further. As his sleeves fluttered, he stepped directly through the door. This time no one blocked him again. Everyone remained silently speechless, only watching Divine Blade Song depart.