This journey to Tibet inevitably involved the hardships of travel by boat and carriage. Not only was Ha Bu’er exhausted beyond measure, but even Ouyang Yong and Tao Qing had pale, sickly complexions by the end. Among the group, only Yan Er’niang remained spirited and energetic. Though she was a woman, she had been born into a military family and was skilled at fighting on horseback, not taking such hardships to heart at all. Daily, she rose early and slept late, constantly urging everyone to hurry along. When they camped in the wilderness, she took responsibility for night watch and patrol duties. Qin Zhonghai observed this and felt admiration in his heart, finally understanding why Tao Qing, despite being older than Yan Er’niang, still respectfully called her “elder sister.”

Along the way, when everyone inquired about Zhi Guan’s background, they learned he was an abbot from White Dragon Mountain who had extensive dealings with Fang Zijing. But when pressed for details about other matters, Zhi Guan spoke little, only offering brief, indifferent responses without warmth. He treated Yan Er’niang and the others quite coldly, but showed extreme respect toward Qin Zhonghai, never daring the slightest negligence in his daily speech and conduct. Ha Bu’er and the others observed this with amazement, thinking that Fang Zijing’s influence must be considerable to earn such deference from Zhi Guan.

The group traveled from Lanzhou to Xining, crossed the Bayan Har Mountains into Duogan Wei, then traversed Qinghai along the postal roads and border routes into Tibet. They had departed in February, and by the time they reached Front Tibet, it was already April, during the warm spring season.

Front Tibet was located on the high plateau. Though it was late spring in April, the climate remained extremely cold. This region was known as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes.” Looking out, one could see vast grasslands and a panorama of lake light and snow shadows, similar to the frontier regions. However, the mountain peaks stretching endlessly along the horizon, towering and majestic like giants overlooking the earth, were vastly different from the boundless northern wilderness. Additionally, the wild animals walking along the roadside were unlike anything they had seen before, truly a marvel to behold.

Along the way, Zhi Guan explained the scenery, saying: “Tibet is situated at an extraordinarily high altitude, between the Gangdise Mountains and the Tanggula Mountains. In Tibetan, it’s called ‘Jangtang,’ meaning the northern highlands. The Chinese court has established the Tibet Regional Military Commission here to oversee military and political affairs.” Knowing that Qin Zhonghai had been a fierce general in the imperial court and was familiar with military and political matters, he looked up expectantly, waiting for his commentary.

Qin Zhonghai nodded: “Tibet indeed has a Regional Military Commissioner, though I don’t know who holds this position. In the past, we military officers, whenever we made serious mistakes or offended someone, were often sent to garrison Tibet. Ostensibly it was a promotion, but in reality, it was helping you meet your end.” Ha Bu’er asked in shock: “Meet your end? How could that be?” Qin Zhonghai laughed: “This place is full of monks and lamas, with daily chants of ‘Amitabha Buddha’ and ‘excellent, excellent.’ After a while, wouldn’t you, brother, also ‘alas and alack’ and depart this life?” Everyone burst into laughter at his words.

For the next ten-odd days, as the group ventured deeper into Tibetan territory, they felt the terrain becoming increasingly elevated. Not only did the local customs and culture seem mysterious, but even the landscape was remarkably different. The first thing they noticed was the difference in the sky – the blue heavens above were completely free of cloud cover, appearing deep and azure, stretching endlessly for thousands of miles. The sunlight was blindingly bright, and the temperature difference between day and night was extreme. The second thing was that the air was both dry and cold, unusually thin. If one rashly took deep breaths, it would inevitably lead to fits of dry coughing.

Yan Er’niang and the others possessed martial arts skills, and even Little Rabbit had internal energy to protect herself, so despite the unusual climate, they paid it no mind. But Qin Zhonghai suffered terribly. With his disabled body and weakened constitution, he could still joke and laugh when first entering Tibet, but as time went on, he found it increasingly difficult to endure. Under the torment of the high-altitude climate, he suffered daily from dizziness and fever, vomiting whatever he ate, with many strange symptoms, and at night he could not sleep at all.

The high-altitude climate was peculiar, and Tibetan food was even stranger, leaving everyone with poor appetites for their daily meals. Fortunately, Ha Bu’er was a genuine cook – as long as he had rice and fire, he could prepare excellent dishes to satisfy everyone’s cravings, preventing them from falling ill.

With great difficulty, they finally reached Lhasa, where the group stayed at an inn to rest and recover. Zhi Guan could speak Tibetan, so he handled all affairs, saving Yan Er’niang and the others considerable effort. Once settled, Ha Bu’er and the others heard about the Jokhang Temple and Ramoche Temple in the city and were excited, clamoring to go sightseeing. Ramoche Temple housed eight Buddha statues brought by the Nepalese princess, while the Jokhang Temple had even deeper connections with China, enshrining the life-sized gilded Buddha of Shakyamuni brought by Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty, which was extremely precious.

Since they had rarely entered Tibet, everyone naturally went to visit and worship at the temples. Only Qin Zhonghai was unable to move. Hearing that the Jokhang Temple was efficacious, Yan Er’niang also went to pray, seeking peace for Qin Zhonghai. Afterward, she never left the inn, staying inside to keep him company. Zhi Guan, knowing that Qin Zhonghai was feeling unwell, helped him gather herbs and prescribe medicine. Though Qin Zhonghai’s life was not in danger, he suffered daily from fever and colds. Apart from taking medicine and eating, he spent most of his time sleeping.

After leaving Lhasa, the group traveled by yak cart toward Shigatse. They had originally brought more than ten fine horses from Qinghai, but after entering Tibet, the horses could not adapt to the high, cold climate and were simply unable to travel. So they switched to yaks – these strange cattle were not seen on level ground, had bodies covered with long hair and were massive in size. Presumably only such creatures could endure the harsh climate of the high plateau.

As they approached Shigatse, the scenery became even more strangely magnificent. Towering mountains appeared before their eyes, and the ground was covered with glaciers that could be seen everywhere. At night, when camping in the wilderness, those high mountains gazed down upon the earth like gods, inspiring even greater awe.

On this day, the weather suddenly changed, turning bitterly cold. Ouyang Yong, driving the cart in front, suddenly cried out loudly. Everyone grew curious and got down to look. Under the sunlight’s illumination, they saw before them a winding glacier, blue as a ribbon, stretching for miles without end. Zhi Guan smiled slightly: “This is the famous Rongbuk Glacier. If we continue downward, we’ll be able to see the ice tower forest. That’s a wonder rarely seen in a lifetime – everyone should enjoy it well, so as not to waste this marvelous sight bestowed by heaven.” Ha Bu’er, already exhausted beyond measure, immediately scoffed at the word “enjoy” and cursed under his breath: “What ice towers or fire towers – I just want to go home as soon as possible.”

That night they camped beside the glacier. The group had been traveling from Lanzhou for over two months now, and everyone was mentally and physically exhausted, collapsing to the ground. Though Tao Qing was usually steady, he could no longer contain himself and asked Zhi Guan: “Master, we should be able to see Teacher Fang in a couple of days, right?”

Zhi Guan replied: “A few days ago I sent someone to inquire. Teacher Fang has left Zabulun Temple and should now be in the mountains. We still need to travel for several more days.” Ha Bu’er and the others, hearing they still had to travel, all secretly groaned in distress. But they couldn’t openly contradict him, so they could only wear sour expressions while sighing and lamenting.

“Didn’t Teacher Fang say he would take us to find the ‘sacred mountain and holy water’? He must have gone to handle this matter, right?”

Zhi Guan chanted a Buddhist invocation and pressed his palms together: “A monk does not speak falsehoods. This matter I only heard Teacher Fang mention. Whether it truly exists, I dare not make rash judgments.” Yan Er’niang cried out “Ah!” and shrieked: “You… what are you saying? There’s no sacred mountain and holy lake?”

Seeing her angry expression, Zhi Guan hastily coughed and corrected himself: “The legend of the holy lake – I have indeed heard others mention it. This matter should be without doubt.” Yan Er’niang had a straightforward nature and, hearing him say one thing then another, became confused and turned to look at Tao Qing, completely at a loss. Tao Qing was quick-witted and, seeing Yan Er’niang looking at him, realized she had doubts but didn’t know how to inquire. He therefore took the initiative to probe: “May I ask, Master – I’ve heard some miraculous legends about Tibetan high monks while in the Central Plains. They say Tibetan saints possess boundless magical powers and can bring the dead back to life. Is this truly the case?”

Zhi Guan calmed his mind and nodded: “This is natural. Tibet is a Buddhist country, so it naturally possesses divine powers. There’s no need to doubt.” Speaking thus, he pointed to the distance: “From here onward, you’ll see countless miraculous peaks – Lhotse Peak, Cho Oyu Peak, Makalu Peak, Namnani Peak – all steep and mystical, absolutely beyond human reach. The mountains are filled with countless masters who can naturally help cure illnesses.”

Tao Qing grew suspicious and asked: “Master, aren’t we going to the sacred mountain and holy lake anymore?”

Zhi Guan coughed: “If the heart is sincere, even earth and stone become a sacred mountain; if the heart is not sincere, even a sacred mountain is nothing but earth and stone.”

Everyone, hearing him speak in riddles, felt annoyed. Earlier, Zhi Guan had spoken so appealingly, as if following him would immediately cure Qin Zhonghai, but now that they had reached Tibet, when asked about the sacred mountain and holy lake, there was no trace of it.

Yan Er’niang grew increasingly angry and glared at Zhi Guan, seeing him lower his head in prayer with a sanctimonious appearance. She grabbed a stone and threw it at the fire. The stone struck the burning charcoal with a “pop,” and a piece of charcoal suddenly bounced up, flying straight toward Zhi Guan’s face – precisely the masterful technique “Twin Joy Swallows.” Zhi Guan was startled and hastily dodged aside.

Tao Qing, hearing his explanations constantly changing – first the sacred water of Namnani Peak, now following his lead about monks and high masters coming to treat illness – gave a cold laugh, stood up, and said: “Master, do you really know Teacher Fang?”

With these words, relations were nearly broken. Yan Er’niang knew Tao Qing had a steady temperament, and if he spoke this way now, he truly harbored suspicions. Ha Bu’er and the others had long been frustrated by the journey and immediately grabbed their weapons, surrounding Zhi Guan.

Seeing this situation, Zhi Guan knew he was dealing with former rebels who were accustomed to killing and arson – harming him would be as trivial as chicken feathers and garlic skins. Assessing the situation, he knew that one wrong move would mean dying on the spot. He pressed his palms together in salute: “Second Lady, please hear me out.”

Yan Er’niang, already harboring resentment, heard him call her name and took out a flying dart from her bosom, saying coldly: “What instructions does the Master have? As long as it’s not deception, everything can be discussed.” As she spoke, she held the dart between her fingers, playing with it. In the firelight, the blue-gleaming dart was clearly poisoned, truly heart-stopping.

In the tense atmosphere, Zhi Guan said softly: “Just go without asking further – white clouds have no end.”

Hearing these words, Yan Er’niang’s entire body shook violently. Tao Qing, Ha Bu’er, and the others were also greatly shocked, looking at each other with uncertain expressions. Yan Er’niang gasped for a long while before saying in a trembling voice: “You… how could you have heard these two lines?”

Zhi Guan sighed: “Have you heard of the ‘Secret Eleven’?” Yan Er’niang drew in a sharp breath and exchanged glances with Tao Qing, both seeing the surprise in each other’s eyes.

When Yan Er’niang joined Wrathful Blue Mountain, she was still young, only about fourteen years old. Though she hadn’t participated in military secrets, she had heard her brother Yan Zhenwu mention that Wrathful Blue Mountain had established a secret organization in the martial world called “Secret Eleven,” specializing in gathering intelligence from all quarters and trading information. Because their duties involved crucial secrets, the identities of “Secret Eleven” members were extremely confidential – aside from Qin Baxian himself and a few key leaders, no one was privileged to know them. The two lines Zhi Guan had just spoken – “Just go without asking further – white clouds have no end” – were the parting words between Xiao Lubu and Yan Er’niang on the day Wrathful Blue Mountain was destroyed. It was inconceivable that Zhi Guan knew them. Unless he was one of the stronghold’s top figures, he couldn’t possibly know this. By revealing his identity this way, Zhi Guan immediately gained their trust.

Zhi Guan smiled faintly: “In the past, I worked for the Chief, and few people in the mountain recognized me. After the stronghold was destroyed, the court never came to trouble me. Seeing through the red dust, I simply became a monk. Heh… meeting by fate today is not in vain.”

Yan Er’niang’s eyes filled with tears as she said sorrowfully: “Master… do you… do you know my husband’s whereabouts?”

Zhi Guan sighed lightly. Seeing Yan Er’niang’s devoted heart, his eyes immediately showed compassion. His lips moved slightly as he extended his hand, pointing to a spot on the ground: “After wearing out iron shoes in fruitless search, finding it requires no effort at all.” Yan Er’niang’s heart shook as she followed his pointing finger. Suddenly she saw a man lying on the ground, covered with a blanket, sleeping soundly – who else could it be but Qin Zhonghai?

Yan Er’niang said in a trembling voice: “Master, what… what do you mean by this?”

Zhi Guan, with solemn Buddhist countenance, chanted: “All love and hate meetings are due to karmic causes – you have already found the person you were seeking.”

Yan Er’niang’s heart filled with great sorrow, and she burst into loud weeping. Tao Qing, listening nearby, understood the meaning of Zhi Guan’s enlightenment. Seeing how he had resolved Yan Er’niang’s years of inner turmoil with just a few words, he secretly admired him and bowed: “Since Master is one of us, we can trust you.” He then gestured to Ha Bu’er and the others to put away their weapons.

Having followed Yan Er’niang for many years, how could Tao Qing not know her outwardly strong but inwardly gentle nature? Yan Er’niang had searched for her husband unsuccessfully for many years, facing the prospect of remaining a widow for life and being buried with her chastity memorial. But heaven took pity – a battle years ago had allowed this steadfast woman to meet Qin Zhonghai face to face.

Yan Er’niang was a passionate beauty who, after years of loneliness, actually yearned to find someone to depend on. When she saw Qin Zhonghai’s heroic and forthright manner – seemingly rough but actually gentle and caring toward her – her heart was moved. Her subsequent decision to open an inn and retire from the martial world was largely influenced by this encounter. Tao Qing observed this and secretly sighed, hoping she could find happiness soon and be spared further suffering.

It was also fortunate coincidence that after the group settled in Huaiqing, they encountered Qin Zhonghai again. The good news was that Qin Zhonghai had already left the court and become a fugitive – one a rebel widow, the other a fallen general, their statuses were quite compatible. Unfortunately, Qin Zhonghai had lost all his martial arts and was permanently disabled, which cast a shadow over what should have been joyous news. It was for this reason that Tao Qing was willing to risk his life to follow Zhi Guan on this journey, determined to cure Qin Zhonghai’s injuries so that his elder sister could live happily and peacefully in her later years.

From this incident, everyone knew Zhi Guan meant no harm, so they simply followed him westward without further words. After traveling several more days, the terrain gradually became higher and more rugged. Not knowing Zhi Guan’s intentions, everyone couldn’t help but feel suspicious, but since he had deep connections with the mountain stronghold, they couldn’t directly press him, and could only let him lead them.

On this day, the mountain path was steep and the ox cart had difficulty traveling. When they reached a certain place, it could no longer move. Zhi Guan then said: “Teacher Fang is not far from here. Please everyone dismount and walk.” Following his instructions, everyone got off in succession. Ouyang Yong, being tall and large, carried Qin Zhonghai.

Tao Qing saw before them desolate mountains and cold snow, a scene of complete desolation, and immediately frowned: “What place is this? Could this be the sacred mountain and holy water the Master mentioned?” Zhi Guan shook his head: “That it is not. Where we now stand is rarely touched by human feet, even more worthy of reverence than the sacred mountain and holy water of Namnani Mountain.” Ha Bu’er felt vaguely afraid and quickly asked: “What place is this?”

Zhi Guan pointed upward with stern reverence: “Chomolungma is the destination of this journey.” So saying, he pressed his palms together and bowed to heaven in worship.

Everyone followed his gaze and suddenly cried out in amazement. It happened to be afternoon, with the mountain peak under azure skies unclouded by mist. Everyone could see clearly that this mountain was cone-shaped, with a magnificent base and steep, precipitous slopes. The peak reached straight to the heavens, like a giant ice pillar piercing through the sky and pressing against the firmament.

This mountain was so perilous – how could the word “high” suffice to describe it? Everyone stared with mouths agape, feeling only shock in their hearts.

As everyone was looking, a fierce, cold mountain wind suddenly blew, carrying ice and snow that cut like knives. Seeing the white haze at the peak, they imagined fierce winds and blizzards raging there, and felt even more secretly afraid.

Zhi Guan explained: “Chomo means goddess, and langma means third. The place we’re going to is known as Goddess Third Peak, which masters like Teacher Fang and the monk Tianjue call the ‘Heaven-Reaching’ perilous place.”

Ha Bu’er covered his face and cried out loudly: “Heaven-reaching what! Every day it’s mountains and peaks – I can’t take it anymore! Where exactly is Teacher Fang! Tell him to come out and see his disciple!” Zhi Guan pointed to the continuous mountain peaks with a smile: “Master Fang is in the mountains. We’ll climb up shortly and be able to see him.”

Hearing they still had to climb, Ha Bu’er immediately let out a wail and collapsed into Ouyang Yong’s arms, moaning: “Not going, not going! Who can climb a mountain this high? If you like it, go climb it yourselves!” Tao Qing looked at the peak reaching to the heavens and felt secretly horrified. Knowing his lightness skills were limited and he could never climb up, he shook his head: “Master Zhi Guan, General Qin is ill and cannot endure such hardship. Could you ask Teacher Fang to come down the mountain for a meeting?”

Zhi Guan shook his head: “I’m sorry, but Teacher Fang repeatedly instructed that General Qin must climb into the mountains himself to see him. If you’re unwilling to go, feel free to return along the glacier to rest at Rongbuk Monastery. When we come down from the mountain, we’ll naturally find you to meet up.”

Ha Bu’er said peevishly: “Fine words, but I’m going back right now.” So saying, he grabbed his blanket and jumped back into the ox cart.

Yan Er’niang quickly stopped him, frowning: “After spending months to get here, Brother Ha, please don’t make trouble.” She looked at Zhi Guan and said: “My brother can’t make the climb, Master, please don’t mind him. Let’s go now.” Zhi Guan nodded slightly, shouldered his pack, and was about to head toward the mountain path.

Just as Yan Er’niang was about to follow, she suddenly heard Ha Bu’er shout loudly: “Elder Sister! If you want to go, go by yourself, but don’t drag the rest of us into it!” Yan Er’niang was both shocked and angry, turning back furiously: “What did you say?”

Ha Bu’er shouted: “Ever since we encountered this cripple in Huaiqing, you’ve been showing favoritism! You only have eyes for him and don’t consider your brothers at all! Elder Sister, I’ll say it plainly – you’re not fit to be our leader!”

Yan Er’niang was so angry she nearly fainted, raging: “How dare you speak to me this way!”

Ha Bu’er, full of resentment and seemingly throwing caution to the wind, said angrily: “We finally opened an inn in Huaiqing and settled down, but for this man named Qin, you first burned down the shop, then ran around everywhere – it’s absolutely senseless!” In his anger, he threw his blanket to the ground, completely turning against her.

Yan Er’niang, after this tirade, trembled with rage, tears already filling her eyes. Zhi Guan, seeing their internal strife, knew it wasn’t proper to interfere, so he walked far away to wait for them to discuss before speaking again, to avoid adding to the quarrel.

Tao Qing saw Yan Er’niang’s red-rimmed eyes as if she might cry. As the second-in-command of this group, he naturally had to step in to mediate: “Brother Ha, General Qin once saved everyone’s lives. Our hardships are to repay that debt. How is Elder Sister wrong in this?”

Ha Bu’er’s eyes reddened as he shouted: “What debt of gratitude? Elder Sister has completely forgotten Xiao Lubu and clearly just wants to marry this cripple! Once she’s married and raising children, how will she remember us brothers’ lives or deaths!” Tao Qing angrily said: “What nonsense are you spouting! Stop this at once!” He gestured to Ouyang Yong, and both men reached out to restrain him.

Ha Bu’er dodged away and shouted: “Golden Turtle, can’t you see through it? Elder Sister will be someone else’s wife from now on and will have nothing to do with us! Women are just women – they have no brothers in their hearts, only their beloved men! Let’s all speak plainly today and part ways!” In his excitement, tears fell as he began wailing.

Hearing these words, everyone looked embarrassed, and Yan Er’niang felt as if her heart were being cut with knives, tears streaming like rain. Among the four, Ha Bu’er was the youngest and most dependent on Yan Er’niang. Earlier in Huaiqing, seeing her attitude toward Qin Zhonghai, he had felt jealous. Later, seeing the two become increasingly intimate with the brothers’ encouragement, he became even more resentful, finally seizing this opportunity to explode.

Tao Qing glared at Ha Bu’er and shouted: “You have no sense in your words! Get away!” He walked over to console Yan Er’niang: “Elder Sister, don’t mind him. We’ll discuss future matters later. Right now, climbing the mountain is urgent…”

Yan Er’niang sighed, wiped away her tears, and shook her head: “Brother Tao, I’ve wronged everyone and caused you to suffer.”

Tao Qing frowned and was about to console her when he suddenly heard Yan Er’niang raise her head toward the high mountain and sigh: “Disciple Yan Er’niang today swears to heaven – if I marry selfishly and betray my brothers…”

Hearing her suddenly speak this way, Tao Qing realized she was about to make a poisonous oath. Greatly alarmed, he quickly tried to stop her. Yan Er’niang swept him aside with her sleeve and shouted: “If I, Yan Er’niang, marry selfishly and wrong my brothers, let me in this lifetime…”

She was shouting hoarsely, about to utter the poisonous oath, when a resonant voice slowly responded from the cart canopy: “Let you in this lifetime be forever peaceful and joyful, never again troubled by half a worry.” A large man slowly climbed out of the cart – it was Qin Zhonghai.

Seeing him arrive, Ha Bu’er immediately changed from his crying little brother demeanor to his little tyrant attitude, snorting with a cold laugh: “The good-for-nothing finally woke up!”

Qin Zhonghai ignored him and walked to Yan Er’niang’s side, saying quietly: “Er’niang, you stay at the foot of the mountain with all the brothers. I’ll go up by myself.”

Before Yan Er’niang could respond, Ha Bu’er was already laughing loudly. He pointed at the precipice soaring into the clouds and laughed: “You? Without us carrying you all the way, you couldn’t even reach the foot of the mountain. How are you going to climb up?”

Hearing the mockery, Qin Zhonghai didn’t get angry, just glanced sideways at Ha Bu’er. Ha Bu’er had been mocking him when he suddenly saw Qin Zhonghai’s gaze – stern and imposing. Seeing this expression, Ha Bu’er couldn’t help but draw in a sharp breath. Though he knew Qin Zhonghai was a cripple who definitely couldn’t beat him, he was still startled. In his fear, he quickly shrank behind Ouyang Yong and dared not speak further.

Hearing Qin Zhonghai’s words, Yan Er’niang was both shocked and anxious, quickly grabbing him: “How is that possible? This peak is so high, you can’t go up. Let Iron Bull carry you!”

Qin Zhonghai smiled slightly, signaling Yan Er’niang to step back. He walked to the mountainside and touched the rock face with his hands, feeling it slippery with the terrain vertical and steep. This mountain was covered with ice and snow – the famous Chomolungma. Even if Qin Zhonghai were in perfect condition, climbing this mountain would not be easy, let alone now when he had lost all his martial arts and had no strength.

Qin Zhonghai pondered for a long while, then suddenly removed his outer garment, crouched down to take off his boots, then placed both hands against the rock face and stood up barefoot.

Ha Bu’er, cowering behind Ouyang Yong, whispered with a laugh: “Look, he’s going to fly up.”

Hearing the mockery, Qin Zhonghai suddenly roared wildly, grasping a sharp stone in each hand. With a harsh grating sound, both shoulders exerted force, trying to lift his body. Ha Bu’er was giggling and about to mock again when suddenly there was a “crack” – Qin Zhonghai’s shoulder wound burst open. The wound had been gradually healing, but now it split again and bled, instantly staining the tattoo on his back red. Amid everyone’s cries of alarm, relying on this strange strength, Qin Zhonghai’s body actually slowly lifted up.

Everyone stared dumbfounded, and Yan Er’niang was especially shocked, about to step forward to stop him. But Zhi Guan walked over and blocked her, shaking his head: “Let him climb. Don’t hurt his self-respect.” Hearing this, Yan Er’niang stopped, her lips pressed tight, hands repeatedly wringing together – more tormented than if she herself were climbing.

Under everyone’s gaze, Qin Zhonghai slowly climbed upward. His shoulder blades were pierced and logically he shouldn’t be able to exert such force, but relying on sheer determination, he actually climbed up inch by inch. Whenever his body slipped down, he would open his mouth wide and bite desperately onto sharp angles of the rock face, his right foot toes bracing against the rock to support his massive body. Watching this, Ha Bu’er, despite his deep enmity, no longer dared to mock, murmuring only: “Monster… this guy is really a monster…”

In the complete silence, only mountain winds howled – no other sound. By now Qin Zhonghai had climbed more than ten zhang when suddenly a fierce wind blew. He could no longer support himself and his body began to fall. Everyone was greatly alarmed, and Yan Er’niang hurried forward to catch him.

Just then, a rope flew down from the mountain top, looping around Qin Zhonghai’s waist and immediately stopping his fall. Everyone was shocked, not knowing what was happening, but Zhi Guan smiled slightly: “Teacher Fang is waiting for us at the North Col. Fearing everyone would find climbing difficult, he lowered this rope. Let’s go up now.”

He pursed his lips and whistled, and immediately another rope descended, landing right in front of everyone. Ha Bu’er cursed under his breath: “Annoying bastard – he had rope all along but didn’t lower it early or late, choosing just this moment.” Now everyone began climbing up. Ouyang Yong glanced at Ha Bu’er and grunted twice, as if asking whether he wanted to go up. Ha Bu’er spat, pouted his rabbit mouth, jumped forward, and began climbing up too.

With the rope for support, climbing the mountain naturally became much easier. The rope had knots tied at intervals that protruded like steps, making it easy to get footing and thus much easier to climb.

They climbed for an unknown time, feeling the wind getting stronger and stronger. Several times it blew the rope horizontal. Fortunately, everyone possessed martial arts skills and held tightly to the rope, avoiding being blown off. Qin Zhonghai had it relatively easy – his body was suspended by the rope, so he didn’t need to exert effort and could slowly ascend. Ha Bu’er felt envious and wanted to jump over to grab the rope and ride it up the peak, but being so high up with limited lightness skills, he didn’t dare try.

After climbing for a long time, they were already several hundred feet above the mountain base. Everyone had been climbing for so long they could barely support themselves. Seeing a platform ahead, they quickly climbed up to rest. Everyone was exhausted and lay on the ground gasping for breath. Even Zhi Guan, despite his considerable skills, sat in meditation to regulate his breathing.

After a while, Zhi Guan regulated his breathing and helped Qin Zhonghai up, pointing ahead and saying quietly: “General Qin, your master is just ahead. Go find him.” Everyone heard that Fang Zijing was nearby and quickly looked up. They saw not far ahead another precipice with a small platform on top – apparently the “Nine Provinces Sword King” was there.

Ha Bu’er cried out: “Good heavens! Do we have to climb again?” Zhi Guan shook his head: “Master Fang will only see General Qin alone. Please hurry over.”

Qin Zhonghai looked up to the sky and roared, then leaped on one foot, running straight toward the precipice. In an instant, his body crashed against the cliff face, and like a mad dog, he began biting and clawing his way up.

Earlier, Qin Zhonghai had been able to climb more than ten zhang up the cliff face purely through raw determination. Because Yan Er’niang had been blamed by her brothers and Qin Zhonghai couldn’t bear to see her humiliated, he was determined to stand up for her even if it killed him. It was for this reason that despite his frail, sickly body and broken limbs, he could still gradually climb up through sheer bloody-mindedness. But now was different from before – not only were both shoulders bleeding continuously, but his entire body’s strength was completely exhausted. How could he possibly advance even an inch?

Yan Er’niang saw Qin Zhonghai roaring wildly but his body remaining completely motionless. Her heart filled with panic, and disregarding Zhi Guan’s earlier instructions, she immediately bounded forward in a swift movement. Coming to Qin Zhonghai’s side, she placed him on her back and began climbing up the cliff face.

Zhi Guan observed this but didn’t come to stop her. He only shook his head and sighed: “Illness arises from the heart… Physical disability is one thing, but if even the heart becomes disabled, then not even immortals can save him…”

Tao Qing and the others couldn’t understand these profound Buddhist sayings and only blinked, not knowing how to respond. Yan Er’niang, carrying Qin Zhonghai on her back and relying on both hands to climb, expended tremendous effort before finally reaching the platform gasping for breath.

Yan Er’niang held Qin Zhonghai as they found themselves at a high altitude where wind and snow converged, with mist all around and no sign of Fang Zijing anywhere. Seeing Qin Zhonghai’s bare upper body covered in blood and trembling uncontrollably, she didn’t know what to do. She raised her voice and called: “Teacher Fang! Where are you!”

She called for a long time, but with the fierce wind, she couldn’t see a single person, nor did anyone answer. Yan Er’niang shook her head in panic and urgency. Seeing a cave in the inner wall of the mountain that could shelter them from the wind and snow, she moved Qin Zhonghai inside to take refuge for a while.

Once inside the cave, they found it dark and deep. Though it was daytime, one still couldn’t see one’s hand before one’s face. Yan Er’niang lit a fire fold and bent down, wanting to find some dry branches and kindling to make a fire for warmth.

As Yan Er’niang was exploring, she suddenly saw a pair of feet standing directly in front of her – apparently someone was hidden in the cave. Yan Er’niang was overjoyed and, without looking carefully, raised her head and called: “Teacher Fang, is that you?”

The fire fold illuminated the person’s face, and Yan Er’niang was immediately stunned. The person before her was not Fang Zijing, but a small child. She saw him looking down at her with dim eyes and an extremely sorrowful expression on his face.

Yan Er’niang was greatly shocked, thinking: “How could a child appear in these deep mountains and steep ridges?” Puzzled, her fire fold was about to fall when a hand slowly reached out and caught it. Yan Er’niang steadied herself and glanced sideways to see Qin Zhonghai leaning on her shoulder, staring blankly at the child as if in extreme anguish.

Yan Er’niang asked in alarm: “What’s wrong? Do you know him?”

Qin Zhonghai said sorrowfully: “He is my elder brother!” Suddenly tears poured from his eyes.

Seeing him suddenly weep and call a young child his brother, Yan Er’niang couldn’t help but be shocked, not knowing what was strange about this child. She turned to look, and in the firelight she saw the child’s face was deathly pale, covered with thin ice, and there was a wound at his waist that appeared to be from a gunshot. Though the cave was dimly lit, the wound that penetrated deep into his organs was still clearly visible. Yan Er’niang immediately understood – this child had long been dead, and only because he was in the cold, snowy mountains had his corpse been preserved.

Suddenly seeing an ice corpse, even though Yan Er’niang was battle-hardened, she still felt horrified in her heart. Her whole body trembling, she said: “What… what is this about? Who exactly is this child?”

Suddenly a sigh came from outside the cave: “Qin Wenchang and Qin Wenyuan – one older, one younger, both sons of Qin Baxian. This child is Qin Wenchang, who died when he was only twelve years old.” Hearing the voice, Yan Er’niang quickly turned back to see a refined, tall, thin old man entering the cave with a torch in hand – it was the “Nine Provinces Sword King” Fang Zijing!

Yan Er’niang had also stayed at the mountain stronghold in the past and naturally recognized this supreme master. Suddenly seeing him, she was both shocked and delighted, blurting out: “Master Fang!”

The bright firelight lit the cave in blood red. Fang Zijing inserted the torch into a rock crevice and walked to the child’s side, saying: “In those days, I rushed to the Qin residence wanting to escort your entire family out, but I was still a step too late. Among all the old and young, only one orphan survived – Wenyuan, and that is you, Zhonghai.” Yan Er’niang’s heart shook: “Indeed, General Qin is the old chief’s son, and his original name was Wenyuan.” She looked sideways at Qin Zhonghai and saw him pressing his lips tightly together, head down and motionless, his expression extremely painful.

Fang Zijing pointed at the child: “Zhonghai, standing here is your own elder brother. For thirty years I haven’t let him be buried, waiting for you to learn of your background and come here to recognize him.” He took out three fire folds, lit them one by one, and placed them on the ground, saying: “This child was only twelve when he died. If he were still alive, he would be about forty years old now. You have never paid respects to him – do so now!”

Yan Er’niang looked closely at the child’s face and saw his eyes were dim and his face full of pain. She imagined that when he died, he must have had some reluctance in his heart. Originally very afraid of this child’s corpse, she now felt a hidden sense of pity and was no longer afraid.

Qin Zhonghai slowly knelt down and looked up at the child. Suddenly, a muddy, astringent smell appeared at his nose – this scent was very familiar, the smell of moss that he had smelled in the Qin family mansion. Qin Zhonghai’s mind became dizzy, and in extreme torment, he actually vomited.

Yan Er’niang was startled and quickly stepped forward to support Qin Zhonghai, wiping the filth from his mouth. Thinking of the family’s grievances with not one enemy repaid, her face was suddenly filled with vengeful fury as she shouted: “Master! My elder brother died so miserably – even if I lose my life, I must kill all our enemies and leave none of their household alive!”

Fang Zijing shook his head and sighed: “Before you speak such harsh words, first raise your head and look at your brother.”

Qin Zhonghai’s heart trembled as he looked up at the small child. Though ice and frost had frozen the child’s facial muscles until they were stiff, the compassion and reluctance in his expression could still be clearly seen.

Fang Zijing said: “Do you see it? What was he thinking before he died?”

Qin Zhonghai’s body shook as he said in a daze: “I don’t know…”

Fang Zijing sighed: “This child was young and weak, merely a small child when he died. Pitying his such young age, when his life came to its final stretch, his heart still hung onto one person. That person was even smaller and more pitiful than him, still in swaddling clothes… Zhonghai, oh Zhonghai, tell me – who was this child thinking of?”

Qin Zhonghai’s heart was extremely shaken, and immediately tears fell like rain as he cried loudly: “Elder Brother! Zhonghai has grown into a man and come back to see you!”

Qin Zhonghai’s face was covered with tears as he shouted loudly, tightly embracing the child’s corpse. His body was large, and the child in his arms truly seemed like an infant. Yan Er’niang was deeply moved and couldn’t help but cry out as well.

Qin Zhonghai was sobbing uncontrollably. His right hand trembled as he tried to close his brother’s eyelids, but his hand shook so badly he couldn’t do it. Fang Zijing slowly reached out and pressed Qin Zhonghai’s shoulder, sending a gentle internal force that stopped his trembling. With the heat from the fire fold, the child’s stiff eyelids slowly softened and were finally closed by Qin Zhonghai.

Everyone felt sorrowful and prayed quietly in low voices. Suddenly, they saw clear water seeping from the child’s eyes, looking as if he were shedding tears. The infant he had risked his life to save thirty years ago had now grown into a tall, strong man like a fierce tiger, returning to this place to pay respects to him. If this child had awareness in the afterlife, he should be able to rest in peace.

Though everyone knew this was ice and snow being forced out by the heat, in this scene, these two lines of clear tears suddenly sliding down truly seemed like a divine manifestation. Everyone watching felt their noses tingle, and Qin Zhonghai cried even louder. Yan Er’niang’s heart was desolate, and she also came over to pay her respects.

After burying the corpse, everyone walked out of the cave. It was now evening, with sharp mountain winds and the sun setting in the west. In the distance, the Five Treasure Snow Mountains were colorful and magnificent, truly like precious jade. Below the cliff, the sea of clouds stretched for thousands of miles, ever-changing. In such beautiful scenery, Yan Er’niang had no heart to appreciate it. She supported Qin Zhonghai, seeing his face filled with murderous intent and fierce expression, and felt secretly afraid, not daring to say a word.

Fang Zijing sat upright on a large rock facing the sea of clouds. Suddenly he spread both arms wide and called out loudly: “The world!”

Qin Zhonghai gazed intently into the distance. The setting sun cast evening glow that painted everything blood red, and the mountains seemed dyed with blood, like hell itself. Qin Zhonghai felt something in his heart and suddenly let out a wild howl, blurting out: “The world!” Hearing his sudden thunderous roar, Yan Er’niang was startled, but in her fear she didn’t dare let go of his hand, only lowering her head and enduring.

After a long silence, Fang Zijing said solemnly: “What’s destined by fate cannot be escaped. Zhonghai, you insisted on serving the imperial court back then – do you regret it now?” Qin Zhonghai closed his eyes and reflected on the past ten years, seeing the faces of many good friends. He opened his eyes, shook his head, and said: “A great man has no regrets in life or death. Moreover, for ten years I lived happily – even if I’m disabled for life today, I have no regrets.”

Fang Zijing reached into his robe and took out a piece of torn cloth, throwing it toward Qin Zhonghai. Though the mountain wind was fierce and cut like knives, the object still flew forward slowly, showing Fang Zijing’s profound martial arts skill.

Qin Zhonghai reached out and caught it, unfolding the torn cloth. Yan Er’niang quickly leaned over to look and saw a blood-red character “Rage” written on the flag face. She was greatly shocked and cried: “This is the Wrathful Blue Army flag!”

Fang Zijing slowly nodded: “This flag is a relic left by Qin Baxian. From today forward, you shall keep it.”

Qin Zhonghai looked at the cloth flag with great excitement but didn’t know where to keep it, just gripping it tightly. Yan Er’niang looked at him with pity and sighed: “Give me the flag.” She gently pried open Qin Zhonghai’s palm and put the flag in her bosom.

Fang Zijing gazed at his beloved disciple: “Your original name was Wenyuan. The name Zhonghai was given to you by your master. Do you know its meaning?” Seeing Qin Zhonghai shake his head, he extended his index finger and wrote on the ground: “Bo, Zhong, Shu, Ji – the character ‘Zhong’ indicates you have an elder brother above you. The character ‘Hai’ contains the character for mother, to remind you of your deceased mother.” He stared at Qin Zhonghai and asked: “Now that you know your background, do you want to change back to your original name?”

Qin Zhonghai had lived over thirty years before learning his name had such profound meaning and was connected to his family’s blood feud. Emotionally moved, he gritted his teeth: “The blood debt to my relatives will be forever engraved in my heart. I will never change the name Zhonghai in my lifetime.”

Fang Zijing showed no joy or anger and continued: “In the fourteen years since Wrathful Blue Mountain was established, your father came to see you three times. The year he personally brought this army flag, you were only fourteen – that was also the last time father and son met.” Qin Zhonghai’s heart trembled: “My father came to see me?”

Fang Zijing nodded: “Every year around the Mid-Autumn Festival, your master would give you some copper coins to go play at the town market – do you remember?”

Qin Zhonghai reflected on his childhood and couldn’t help but sigh, saying quietly: “I remember.”

Fang Zijing smiled slightly: “What did you always buy with those copper coins each time?” Qin Zhonghai seemed to taste a sweet and sour flavor in his mouth and nodded: “Rose sweet cakes. I’ve loved eating them since I was small.”

Fang Zijing stared at him and said word by word: “That man who sold sweet cakes – he was your father.”

Qin Zhonghai’s mind buzzed as he said in a trembling voice: “Uncle Sweet Cake… that… was… was him?” Fang Zijing nodded: “Every time your father came to see you, he would first disguise himself at the foot of the mountain, then carry a load of sweet cakes up. While you were buying and eating cakes, he would take the opportunity to talk with you.”

Qin Zhonghai listened in a daze, picturing a little old man smiling as he handed him a sweet cake. Qin Zhonghai suddenly laughed uncontrollably: “Damn… no wonder that old man was so talkative… Ha ha! Ha ha! So he was my old man!” He laughed, but tears fell from his cheeks.

Yan Er’niang listened beside him with curiosity. She asked Fang Zijing in a low voice: “Why was the old chief so strange? Why didn’t he reveal his identity so father and son could recognize each other? Why did he hide his background?”

Fang Zijing said: “Qin Baxian had his reasons for doing this. He feared his son would also take the path of rebellion and never be able to escape, so he deliberately concealed it. In all of Wrathful Blue Mountain, besides me, only Military Advisor Qian Long knew this secret.”

Qin Zhonghai stopped his tears and recalled his father’s life deeds. He had gone up the mountain to rebel, shocking all the officials, and had once held the position of Grand General of the Western Expedition – truly a remarkable great man. Qin Zhonghai was filled with pride, clenched his fists, and said loudly: “Master! Father loved me very much, didn’t he?”

Hearing this question, Fang Zijing didn’t answer. He looked up at the peak with a very heavy expression. Qin Zhonghai’s earlier question was asked on impulse, but he hadn’t expected his master’s expression to become like this. Yan Er’niang observed this and was secretly puzzled – a father’s love for his son was natural, so she wondered why Fang Zijing remained silent, finding it strange.

Qin Zhonghai took a deep breath and asked again: “Master, my father loved me very much, didn’t he?”

Fang Zijing suddenly smiled and looked up at the world’s highest peak: “Qin Baxian was aloof and outstanding, just like this Chomolungma – high, deep, and cold, making people unable to breathe. He always kept some things in his heart that no one could fathom… Zhonghai, whether your father loved you or not – your master cannot answer for him…” He sighed, his gaze becoming even deeper.

Qin Zhonghai knelt on the ground as if stunned. Following Fang Zijing’s gaze, Chomolungma in the twilight was like a giant looking down upon his insignificant self. Before the world’s highest peak, what else could he feel besides his own insignificance?

Qin Zhonghai smiled bitterly – perhaps this was his father… a person he could never meet…

Seeing his gloomy expression, Yan Er’niang quickly grasped his hand and consoled him in a low voice: “General Qin, I knew the old chief. He was a kind man who always cared for his juniors… You are the old chief’s biological son – he must have loved you very much…”

Evening glow shone down, and all around was dim. Both Qin Zhonghai and Fang Zijing were preoccupied with their own thoughts, both silent. Only Yan Er’niang consoled him in low voices. Fang Zijing didn’t come to disturb them. After a long while, he walked to Qin Zhonghai and said in a heavy voice: “Come here and let your master examine your injuries.”

Qin Zhonghai took a deep breath and slowly stood up. This journey of countless hardships was all to come here and heal his injuries. Now that the crucial moment had finally arrived, thinking of recovery being imminent, he couldn’t help but feel both joy and fear! Yan Er’niang supported Qin Zhonghai and had him kneel at his master’s feet.

Fang Zijing lowered his head to examine the injuries on his shoulders. After looking for a long time, he only lowered his head in contemplation without speaking.

Yan Er’niang was worried in her heart, and Qin Zhonghai was also both shocked and afraid, deeply fearing his master would say the words “beyond saving” – then his life would be finished.

Qin Zhonghai waited for a long time without hearing his master speak. Finally gathering courage, he said: “Master, if you have something to say, please speak plainly. Zhonghai can withstand the blow.” His throat was dry, and these few words came out extremely hoarse.

Fang Zijing sighed: “Since that’s the case, your master won’t hide it from you. Your shoulder blades were pierced, your internal energy cannot circulate, and all the major acupoints in your back and shoulders are damaged. The left and right Jinglan, Yangxin, Fengchi, Jianling, and Qiaolei acupoints cannot be restored.” Hearing these words, Qin Zhonghai was speechless for a moment, sitting down heavily with a face like death.

Fang Zijing showed no mercy and continued after a pause: “This injury not only broke bones but also damaged the twelve main meridians. No medicine in the world can cure it. You are crippled for life – forget about wielding swords, even exerting force with both shoulders cannot exceed five jin. In cold weather, the rheumatic pain will be especially unbearable.”

Yan Er’niang felt dissatisfied – even if Qin Zhonghai was beyond cure, there was no need to say it so bluntly. Wasn’t this forcing him to death? She covered her ears and screamed: “Stop talking!”

Fang Zijing ignored her and said directly to Qin Zhonghai: “Though you are disabled, your life remains, so at least some of the Qin family bloodline is preserved. Your master will point out a path for you – in a moment I’ll have Zhi Guan escort you down the mountain to find a rural place to settle. From now on, change your name, carry on the family line, and never again involve yourself in martial affairs – this would fulfill your duty as a descendant. What do you say?”

Hearing this path was so helpless, Yan Er’niang immediately began sobbing. Qin Zhonghai listened to his master’s advice but only raised his head to the sky, eyes wide open, not knowing what he was thinking.

Seeing his beloved disciple’s face colorless, Fang Zijing said: “What is your intention?”

Qin Zhonghai suddenly burst into loud laughter. He looked sideways at Fang Zijing and said sternly: “Master, did you bring me all the way to Tibet just to say this nonsense?” Fang Zijing said “Oh” and asked: “What do you intend by speaking this way?”

Qin Zhonghai looked up to the sky and howled fiercely: “Kill!”

Hearing this, Yan Er’niang was greatly alarmed. Though Qin Zhonghai was clearly severely disabled, when he suddenly uttered the word “kill,” it was like ghosts crying and gods wailing, as if the martial world would be filled with bloody winds and rain. For a moment, it made her break out in cold sweat. She wanted to speak and dissuade him but didn’t dare. Fang Zijing said coldly: “Boy, you’re severely injured and disabled – who do you still want to kill? Jiang Chong?”

Qin Zhonghai spat on the ground disdainfully: “That dog-like bastard – is he worth a single stroke of Qin’s blade?” Yan Er’niang was stunned and murmured: “Then… then who do you want to kill?”

The setting sun filled the sky, painting the peak completely red. Qin Zhonghai clenched both fists tightly and roared: “Heaven!”

Yan Er’niang screamed and retreated several steps, her whole body trembling. But Fang Zijeng was an extreme person – hearing his disciple’s mad-like furious roar, he remained unalarmed and unafraid, smiling: “You have such great audacity to dare defy the heavenly emperor above? Aren’t you afraid of divine punishment?”

Qin Zhonghai raised his thick eyebrows and looked back at his master, suddenly pulling back his disheveled hair to reveal the blood-red character “Crime” on his forehead. Though Qin Zhonghai said nothing, his meaning was very clear – if there truly was divine punishment, he had already experienced it.

Qin Zhonghai looked up at the heavens without making a sound. Suddenly, his tiger eyes turned red and tears rolled down as he roared: “Heaven! I’m not convinced! I’m not convinced!” His heart was extremely agitated as he shouted loudly, the echoes in the valley continuous and filled with sorrowful, angry cries. Yan Er’niang quickly rushed forward and embraced him, also bursting into tears.

Fang Zijing quietly listened to the two crying without saying a word. When Qin Zhonghai’s voice became hoarse and exhausted, he laughed: “Boy, stop crying. Did your master teach you martial arts so you could cry all day long?” Hearing his master’s mockery, Qin Zhonghai’s anger immediately flared. He wiped away his tears and glared at his master, shouting: “I’m the one who’s disabled, not you – of course you’re gloating!”

Yan Er’niang had originally been weeping, but hearing this master and disciple’s exchange, she couldn’t help but stare in amazement. These two not only spoke without propriety but were also extremely rude – no wonder Qin Zhonghai was always unrestrained and disrespectful to everyone. It turned out he was the same way even with his own master.

As the saying goes, “no one knows a son better than his father.” Fang Zijing, with his deep master-disciple affection, naturally understood Qin Zhonghai’s nature well. His earlier cold mockery was purely to provoke his disciple and prevent him from continuing to blame heaven and others. Seeing his disciple regain his vigorous spirit, he immediately smiled: “When I tell you to cry, you laugh – you’ve been a bastard since childhood. Very well, since you’re unwilling to go down the mountain to raise chickens and ducks, your master will show you another path, but I wonder if you little devil have the courage?”

Yan Er’niang didn’t know what strange idea Fang Zijing had and felt vaguely afraid. But Qin Zhonghai had long wanted to commit suicide and didn’t care about any dead-end or living path – as long as he didn’t have to raise chickens and ducks, anything would do. He glanced sideways at Fang Zijing and nodded.

Fang Zijing smiled slightly and pointed at Chomolungma: “If you don’t want to come down, then go up. Chomolungma is as high as heaven – if you have something to say to Heaven, then climb to the peak and shout. God will hear your grievances.”

Hearing this, Qin Zhonghai was shaken. Following his master’s pointing finger upward, he saw the peak shrouded in drifting mist with no human traces – truly a desperate place as high as heaven. Qin Zhonghai knew his body was severely injured and he could never climb the mountain peak. In his shock, he looked down the mountain and saw valley streams gurgling with lush greenery – a scene of warmth and peace.

Seeing his hesitation, Fang Zijing immediately pointed to heaven with his left hand and to earth with his right, smiling: “Up or down – choose for yourself.”

Their eyes met. Qin Zhonghai saw a hint of contempt in his master’s eyes. He gave a “heh” sound, knowing his master was provoking him, and immediately sneered: “Damn, Master, if you want me to climb this ghost mountain, just say so plainly – why all this long-winded nonsense!”

Master and disciple stared at each other for a moment, then burst into wild laughter together. Yan Er’niang didn’t know what trick these master and disciple were playing and only felt worried.

By the campfire, Qin Zhonghai sat bare-chested, kneeling on the ground with everyone watching around him. They saw Fang Zijing take out fine, long needles and insert them one by one into the major acupoints on Qin Zhonghai’s back. Needle after needle went straight into the meridians, but no one knew what he was doing.

Ha Bu’er was completely puzzled and asked Tao Qing in a low voice: “What exactly are they doing? Is this treating injuries?” Tao Qing shushed him and lowered his voice: “General Qin wants to climb the mountain.”

Ha Bu’er swallowed and asked in shock: “Climb the mountain? Isn’t it high enough already?” Tao Qing shook his head and sighed in a low voice: “According to Elder Sister, General Qin wants to climb the world’s highest peak.”

Ha Bu’er was startled and looked up at the mountain peak. Seeing the summit towering into the clouds – they were already at a height of thousands of zhang, and the peak was a hundred times higher than this place – Ha Bu’er was speechless and shook his head: “What’s the point? This mountain peak is so high – what’s the fun in climbing up there? Or are there some immortals or ghosts up there who can cure this guy?”

Tao Qing looked confused and sighed: “According to Teacher Fang, if General Qin climbs up, he can talk to Heaven.”

Ha Bu’er chuckled: “Nonsense! I’ve never heard of anything so stupid in all my years.”

Before he finished speaking, four pairs of eyes glared at him – Zhi Guan and Yan Er’niang looking angrily. Ha Bu’er was frightened and kept waving his hands, not daring to speak further.

As they spoke, Fang Zijing finished inserting the needles and said: “Your shoulder blades were pierced and your acupoints destroyed, so your internal energy cannot circulate through your body. Your master is now performing acupuncture on your eight major transport points, opening the Neiguan, Gongsun, Houxi, Shenmai, Waiguan, Zuqilin, Lieque, and Zhaohai points to connect the twelve regular meridians with the eight extraordinary meridians, allowing your internal energy to temporarily flow freely without being restricted by physiology.”

Hearing this, Yan Er’niang was overjoyed: “Can he use internal energy? Then isn’t his illness cured?” Fang Zijing shook his head: “Once the silver needles are removed, the internal energy will be cut off.” Then he said to his disciple: “Try circulating your energy.”

Qin Zhonghai regulated his breathing and took a steel knife from Zhi Guan’s hands. Grasping the knife handle with both hands, he followed instructions to breathe and circulate energy. In an instant, he let out a miserable howl and fell to the ground, blood flowing from where the needles were inserted, his expression extremely painful.

Yan Er’niang was greatly alarmed. She screamed and was about to rush forward to help when Zhi Guan already held her back and said in a low voice: “Don’t worry – Teacher Fang has his purpose.”

Fang Zijing ordered Qin Zhonghai to get up: “The twelve regular meridians and eight extraordinary meridians don’t belong to the same system – internal energy can hardly pass through. We’re using silver needles to connect the meridians, which naturally goes against heaven’s way. As soon as you circulate energy and exert force, your body will suffer extreme pain.” He then instructed again: “If you truly have the determination to reach the summit, then exert force again. Your master wants to see your spirit.”

Qin Zhonghai followed instructions and got up. Looking at the mountain peak, his fighting spirit suddenly arose, and he immediately exerted force again. The miserable screams tore through the night sky as if he were being tortured. Yan Er’niang couldn’t bear to watch and covered her face, crying: “What are you master and disciple thinking? Why climb that dangerous peak…”

As she was crying, she suddenly heard everyone cry out in alarm. Yan Er’niang quickly looked and immediately gasped – she saw the steel knife in Qin Zhonghai’s hand had ignited with blazing fire. After more than a month, Fire Greedy Blade had reappeared in the world!

Seeing her crying continuously, Qin Zhonghai endured the pain and walked to Yan Er’niang’s side, smiling: “Stop crying – look, isn’t your old man perfectly fine?” Yan Er’niang was shocked, suspicious, joyful, and sorrowful, saying in a trembling voice: “What… what’s happening? One moment good, one moment bad…”

Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily and reached out to caress her cheek, his expression very gentle.

Fang Zijing walked over and patted Qin Zhonghai’s shoulder: “If you want to reach the summit, you must give everything. Tomorrow at this time, the silver needles in your body will fall out by themselves. When you become a cripple again, your master will be unable to help you.”

Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily: “Thank you, Master. Though I’ve been severely disabled for a long time, being a tiger for one day is better than being a cripple for thirty years – I have no regrets in this life.” He turned to look at Yan Er’niang and said gently: “Er’niang, please trouble you to have the brothers prepare a pot of water and some rice balls for me – I’m going over now.”

Yan Er’niang said in a trembling voice: “You really want to reach the summit?” Qin Zhonghai grinned and nodded.

Yan Er’niang panicked and shouted: “Since you’re going, let me go up the peak with you!”

Fang Zijing stopped her and shook his head: “This peak is too dangerous – going there rashly means certain death. You needn’t throw away your life in vain.”

Yan Er’niang shrieked angrily: “You also know it’s dangerous up there, so why are you making him go? What exactly are your intentions? What’s up there? Gods or ghosts?”

Fang Zijing narrowed his eyes and said indifferently: “Up there is Heaven.”

Yan Er’niang was both angry and hateful, thinking she had encountered a madman. She stamped her foot heavily and immediately covered her face and ran away.

The wind whistled and night fell. Moonlight shone on Chomolungma Peak, making it appear even more desolate and aloof. With departure imminent, Qin Zhonghai suddenly felt sighs arising. He turned to look at everyone, gazing at each person.

These people before him had been fleeing for many years – whether martial arts masters like Fang Zijing or lowly cooks like Ha Bu’er, for thirty years they had all lived like homeless dogs in darkness. Qin Zhonghai reflected on his own downfall – in less than half a year, he had transformed from a renowned imperial general to his current state as a disabled fugitive wandering the world. His heart was filled with emotion, countless doubts and endless helplessness awaiting answers.

Qin Zhonghai bowed to Tao Qing, Zhi Guan, and the others one by one, saying: “I’m deeply grateful for everyone’s noble assistance in allowing me to see my master. If Qin cannot return, please burn a stick of incense on this day next year and you’ll know my heart’s intention.”

“Iron Bull” Ouyang Yong walked forward and handed over a steel knife, then made several gestures. Tao Qing explained: “Brother Ouyang says this knife is very sharp and might be helpful when climbing the peak. Please take it, General.”

Qin Zhonghai nodded in thanks and was about to fasten it to his waist when suddenly Fang Zijing walked over and personally helped him tie it around his waist. He didn’t want outsiders to see his expression, so he only turned his back to everyone and didn’t look at Qin Zhonghai, just lowering his head to concentrate on fastening the knife.

Qin Zhonghai looked at his master’s face and thought: “Actually, Master can’t bear to part with me, but he’s afraid others will see and laugh at him.”

Both master and disciple had stubborn, proud natures. Though called master and disciple, in reality neither would yield to the other. As a child, when Qin Zhonghai quarreled with his master, he would often refuse to eat for three to five days, forcing Fang Zijing to hang him up and beat him severely. But no matter how severely he was beaten, it was useless – when Qin Zhonghai said he wouldn’t eat, he wouldn’t eat. Each time, Fang Zijing had to resort to provocation to succeed, otherwise Qin Zhonghai would have starved to death long ago.

Reflecting on past events, Qin Zhonghai thought of his master’s advanced age – if he died on the way, his master’s later years would surely be lonely and difficult. Qin Zhonghai felt a surge of emotion and suddenly embraced Fang Zijing, saying in a low voice: “This disciple cannot fulfill his filial duties – Master, please take care of yourself.” Fang Zijing shook his head and instructed: “Don’t think about such worldly matters – just concentrate on climbing the mountain. Remember, Chomolungma is the world’s foremost sacred place. Before reaching the summit, you must never give up halfway.”

Hearing his solemn instructions, Qin Zhonghai immediately smiled slightly: “What exactly is at the summit? Are there really gods there?”

Fang Zijing shook his head: “You’ll know when you go – no need to think too much.”

This journey required not only climbing Goddess Third Peak with bare hands, but also reaching the summit within one day – otherwise, if the silver needles fell out along the way and he became a cripple again, all efforts would be in vain.

It was late spring in April, when weather changes were unpredictable. Under the moonlight, they could see snowflakes swirling at the mountain top, seemingly with fierce winds and blizzards raging. Everyone watching felt worried for Qin Zhonghai.

Though his life was in grave danger, Qin Zhonghai only smiled cheerfully as if unconcerned, as though it wasn’t him going to his death. He looked around, wanting to say a few words to Yan Er’niang, but that woman had disappeared somewhere. Qin Zhonghai shook his head and said no more. In an instant, holding a staff in his left hand and a steel knife at his waist, he turned and departed.