“Make way! Make way! The Imperial Guard acts on imperial orders to capture the assassin! All idle personnel must clear the path!” A squad of soldiers emerged from the snow and mist, their footsteps thundering in perfect unison. Leading them was a general in golden armor, handsome of face, bearing a banner with the words “Imperial Guard.”

The Imperial Guard commander had arrived. This man was imposing and distinguished, his official bearing stern and proper – none other than the “Jade-Faced Wandering Dragon” You Tianding. He led his troops charging straight to the Great Buddha Hall, shouting: “Where is the assassin?” Below the hall were soldiers, monks, and several eunuchs. Hearing his question, they all immediately raised their hands, pointing toward the top of the hall and shouting: “He ran up there!”

You Tianding snorted and tilted his head up, shocked to see the Buddhist hall’s ridge was extremely high, at least ten zhang above the ground. He couldn’t help but shudder slightly: “How… how did this assassin get up there?” Everyone chorused: “He bounced up in a single leap!” Hearing this, the precious hall seemed even taller, as if it reached straight to the Pure Land. You Tianding said in a trembling voice: “Who… who else is up there?” The monks pressed their palms together: “Amitabha! The Shaolin Abbot pursued him up!”

You Tianding breathed a great sigh of relief, knowing he would live to see tomorrow’s sun. He immediately twisted his mouth and roared: “Men! Surround the Great Buddha Hall! Anyone who dares retreat in cowardice will be executed without mercy by this general!”

Below the eaves was noisy chaos, packed so tightly not even water could leak through, yet on the yellow tiles of the precious hall there was only silence. Ling Ding took a deep breath, his feet slowly retreating as he sized up this uninvited guest. Lu Yun was also secretly wary. He raised his sleeve to cover his face, tearing off a piece of clothing with his left hand to mask his features, lest Ling Ding recognize him.

The two great masters faced each other in confrontation, neither making a move. Ling Ding secretly speculated about Lu Yun’s identity, saying thoughtfully: “Might Your Excellency be from Angry Cang Mountain?” Before his words finished, they suddenly heard shouting from below the hall: “His Majesty has decreed! No one is permitted to speak with the assassin!”

Lu Yun heard this shrill voice and turned to look down at the hall. It was indeed Xiao Fuzi who had arrived, shouting: “Master Abbot! You must quickly capture him alive and bring him down! His Majesty will personally interrogate this man shortly!”

Hearing these words, Lu Yun couldn’t help but feel greatly alarmed: “Could it be that the letter has already been seen by the Emperor?”

Just as his hair was standing on end with fear, he suddenly heard a sharp “Ha!” Ling Ding spun in mid-air, his left foot kicking diagonally, changing position – this was one of Shaolin’s seventy-two ultimate techniques: “Buddha’s Peacock Seat.” Lu Yun leaped backward in response, using the “Whirlwind Kick” personally taught by Lu Guzhan. But Ling Ding had already changed his technique – his foot was no longer using “Buddha’s Peacock Seat” but “Lotus Bodhi Seat.” With a bang, Lu Yun took a kick to the chest, stumbling and retreating more than ten steps.

Watching others carry burdens looks effortless. Last night Lu Yun had observed the tigers fighting from the mountain, watching Zhe’er Dan being beaten to complete defeat by Ling Ding, thinking this “Northern Desert Master” was nothing special. Only now, when he came down to exchange moves, did he realize this old monk’s knowledge was as vast as the sea, truly possessing alarming martial skills.

Lu Yun took a deep breath and sighed inwardly: “This is bad. Ling Ding’s skill is so profound, how… how should I escape?” Still pondering, suddenly a gentle golden breeze brushed his face as Ling Ding pushed forward with another palm. Lu Yun said nothing and raised his hand to block.

When their palm forces met, Lu Yun swayed on his feet and felt great numbness in his arms. Only then did he realize Ling Ding’s palm force was unusual – the strength flowed in alternating rhythms of slow and fast, actually able to blend several different internal forces into one, making it extremely difficult to dissolve. Just as he was about to retreat, Ling Ding pushed forward with a second palm. Lu Yun also gave a sharp cry and thrust out both palms, meeting this move head-on.

When their palms clashed, this time was different from before – both had used their full strength. Suddenly there was a humming golden sound like gongs and cymbals striking. Lu Yun’s eardrums ached and his knees went soft, nearly collapsing. From below the hall eaves came immediate cheers: “Excellent!”

Lu Yun barely managed to keep from falling, but his mouth was gasping heavily. In an instant, both palms released their energy – this was the “Kunlun Sword Gu.”

At this moment, not only was Lu Yun secretly alarmed, but actually Ling Ding’s shock far exceeded Lu Yun’s. Earlier when he exchanged moves with Lu Yun, he had been thrown in a great somersault with the very first technique – this was unprecedented since he mastered his arts. Therefore, when he executed his second palm, it was no longer the compassionate “Great Vajra Palm” but Shaolin’s foremost powerful dominating palm technique: “Meditation Dragon-Subduing Palm.” Yet who would have expected that in this direct confrontation, this masked man merely swayed and received it as if nothing had happened. This level of internal strength was probably no less than that of the legendary Tianjue Divine Monk of years past.

Both sides were wary yet confident. Lu Yun took a deep breath and circulated his “Kunlun Sword Gu,” preparing to force his way through, when suddenly he saw the roof tiles light up with fantastical, colorful radiance, changing in an ethereal, non-earthly manner. The great hall actually had one more person – it was the white-browed old man he had seen earlier!

Lu Yun cried out in despair, while Ling Ding felt great joy in his heart, hastily saying: “Amitabha! Elder Bai Yuntian of Mount Emei graces us with his presence – this humble monk is filled with joy.” While speaking, Yan Song had also leaped up, holding a long sword with a crane-like bearing. Though somewhat weaker than the two senior masters, he was not to be underestimated.

Masters arrived wave after wave. Yan Song whispered in his ear: “Master Uncle, is this the scoundrel you sensed earlier?” The white-browed old man said: “Yes.” Hearing Ling Ding speak, Lu Yun finally learned this old man was called “Bai Yuntian.” This old man’s scheming was as formidable as his martial arts. Earlier in the forest, he had used advance-and-retreat tactics and nearly caught Lu Yun. Now he had arrived and surrounded him completely.

The situation before him was extremely serious. Cold sweat poured down Lu Yun’s entire body as the three great masters slowly tightened their encirclement. Knowing he could gain no advantage, he slowly moved backward. After retreating several more feet, he suddenly felt an air current swirl rapidly behind him – some large creature like a bear or tiger had leaped up.

“Lord Wu!” The little eunuchs all cried out together as if seeing their savior. Lu Yun knew he could delay no longer. He aimed for the weakest, Yan Song, and channeled power into his legs, thundering forward with roof tiles flying everywhere. Yan Song was greatly alarmed and hastily drew his sword in defense, thrusting with a move called “Golden Summit Sees the Sun.” Bai Yuntian and Ling Ding, fearing he couldn’t withstand it, each sent out a palm to help. Just as they were about to charge forward, suddenly an air current approached with strange speed, arriving from behind though starting later, already within three feet of his back. The palm force had not yet reached him, but Lu Yun’s back already felt great pain. He couldn’t help but feel shocked: “After not seeing him for several years, has Dingyuan reached this level?”

You are strong, but I am stronger; you are high, but I am higher. Lu Yun spun in mid-air and employed his “True Seventeen” mental technique, using circular motion to deflect cuts, hoping to dissolve the palm forces of the assembled masters.

With a thunderous boom, the four great masters’ powers met – one was the Shaolin Abbot, one was an Emei elder, and another was the martially renowned “True Dragon of a Generation.” Lu Yun faced three opponents alone while also having to dodge Yan Song’s sword techniques – what would be the outcome? In the humming and ringing in their ears, everyone swayed slightly, while Lu Yun’s vision went black, his limbs and bones felt scattered and loose, his body seeming to ride clouds and mist as he flew higher and higher, soaring over the Great Buddha Hall before plummeting down.

With a tremendous crash, Lu Yun smashed through a rooftop and fell into the West Courtyard’s meditation rooms. The eunuchs cried out in shock: “The assassin has escaped again! Chase him!” Amid the panicked shouting, You Tianding could be heard roaring: “Stand aside! This man was caught by our Imperial Guard! No one else may compete for him!” He immediately led his subordinates charging toward the West Courtyard.

The square was in uproar, but the precious hall was silent. Ling Ding could be seen gasping with lowered head, the white-browed old man with raised eyebrows, and Wu Dingyuan in silent contemplation. After a very long time, Yan Song was the first to speak, saying in a low voice: “What martial arts was that man using just now? Did any of you make it out?” With this question asked, no one could answer. The great masters looked at each other, none able to explain the reasoning.

All present were first-rate figures of the age – Emei’s Cave Heaven, Shaolin’s Buddhist sect, even Yan Song himself – who among them wasn’t thoroughly versed in ancient and modern knowledge? Yet combining the insights of all four, they still couldn’t determine the origin of that assassin’s martial arts. After quite some time, Ling Ding was heard musing: “This person’s martial arts are very mysterious, seeming to belong to the Wudang school, yet also resembling the Kunlun sect.” Yan Song frowned: “Kunlun? Isn’t that the Sword God’s original sect?”

Hearing the words “Sword God,” the white-browed old man said in a deep voice: “Who calls himself the Sword God?” Yan Song said quietly: “A madman surnamed Zhuo, named Lingzhao.” The white-browed old man said coldly: “Where is this person now?” Yan Song hastily said: “I’m afraid I must disappoint Master Uncle – this person died long ago.”

Bai Yuntian snorted and pressed: “How did he die? Was he defeated by someone?” Seeing this old man was advanced in years yet still competitive, Yan Song feared causing trouble and mumbled vaguely, pretending not to hear. He asked Ling Ding: “The Abbot arrived earliest – did you clearly see that person’s appearance?” Ling Ding shook his head: “I did not.” He pressed his palms together and turned to ask Wu Dingyuan: “What about Benefactor Wu? Did you see that person’s face?” After asking several times, Wu Dingyuan acted as if he hadn’t heard. Yan Song said: “My Lord, the Abbot is asking you a question.”

Seeing Wu Dingyuan still lowering his head without speaking, Ling Ding gently patted his shoulder: “Benefactor Wu.” With this palm tap, Wu Dingyuan seemed to wake from a great dream and sighed.

Ling Ding frowned: “Benefactor Wu, what’s wrong with you?” Wu Dingyuan said nothing, cupped his hands, gathered his energy and leaped down from the precious hall like a divine eagle, striding away with great steps.

This light-footwork technique made Yan Song cough quietly with great admiration. The white-browed old man acted as if he saw nothing, saying: “Very well, since the assassin has left, everyone should disperse.” Looking toward outside the hall, he stepped into the air and floated down lightly, as if there were an invisible staircase in mid-air for him to descend. Seeing this, everyone below was moved to cheer excitedly. Cold sweat poured down Yan Song, knowing he had witnessed his sect’s supreme light-footwork technique: “Ethereal Wind Riding.”

Wu Dingyuan swept down like an eagle, while Bai Yuntian departed with the wind. Only Ling Ding and Yan Song remained on the hall. The two exchanged glances. Yan Song coughed and was about to jump down from the great hall when Ling Ding moved first. He leaped up, his body spinning like a top, spiraling higher and higher until he vanished from sight. Thunderous cheers arose from below, all calling out praise for the holy monk. Yan Song looked down with a bitter smile, no longer wanting to show off. He simply crawled to the roof edge and roared: “Hey you, little monk! Quickly bring a ladder! This Daoist wants to come down!”

The three great masters had made their entrance, yet the assassin remained uncaptured. Now it was the turn of the imperial guard troops to take the stage. The “Feathered Forest Guard” arrived, the “Prefecture Army Guard” arrived, and in a flash a great general led his forces and arrived, shouting: “Everyone stand aside! Stand aside! This is our territory!”

The newcomer had a crooked mouth and slanted eyes, throwing himself forward recklessly – it was indeed You Tianding. He led his troops and in an instant had surrounded the West Courtyard.

Hongluo Temple had extremely many buildings. These past few days, due to the rain-praying ceremony, most were occupied by residents – some were first-rank officials, others were Ministry of War ministers, each capable of reaching the heavens. You Tianding came to the entrance and was about to kick down the main gate when suddenly his thoughts moved, remembering Gong Zhengyi’s story. He quickly lowered his foot and knocked on the door, saying softly: “Is anyone there?”

After shouting several times with no one answering from the courtyard, You Tianding knocked on the door and said quietly again: “The Imperial Guard acts on imperial orders to apprehend criminals. We ask that officials’ family members and unrelated persons step aside briefly – we mean no offense.” After shouting several times with the door remaining unopened, just as he was feeling distressed, a soldier came forward to report: “Sir, the Zhengtong Army has arrived.”

You Tianding had been waiting for these words. He immediately became energetic, with spear in hand and sword at his waist, hiding beside the door in ambush. With a bang, the Zhengtong Army officers stepped forward and kicked the door panel to pieces. Before they could roar in anger, You Tianding had already rushed to the front, throwing himself forward recklessly and roaring: “Audacious assassin! Come out and meet your death!”

When the door opened, they saw the room was full of foreigners wearing white clothes, prostrated on the ground, holding scriptures in their hands and bowing toward the west, not knowing what they were doing. Seeing there were no court officials here, You Tianding breathed a great sigh of relief and said: “Pass down the order – this is Imperial Guard territory. No one else is permitted to enter.” Several eunuchs hastily said: “Wait, we are from the Eastern Depot—”

“Get lost!” The soldiers shouted and yelled, driving out both the Zhengtong Army and Eastern Depot entirely. You Tianding straightened his appearance, knowing he was about to be promoted, and walked toward the foreign dogs with pride: “You barbarians, where are you from? Why are you kneeling and bowing here?” After speaking several times with no one paying attention to him, You Tianding became unhappy and grabbed one person angrily: “I’m asking you a question!”

“Jialila waila wai’er!” That foreign dog suddenly burst into violent roaring, extremely fierce. You Tianding was startled and was about to slap him when several white-robed foreigners surrounded them, each gripping their sword hilts. Seeing the situation was bad, a large group of soldiers hastily ran toward the door: “Zhengtong Army! Come quickly!” Both sides gathered reinforcements and were about to engage in group combat when a calm voice came from inside the room: “All of you, stand down.”

The foreign dogs retreated to the sides, revealing a tall, burly man sitting upright with arms crossed over his chest. His full head of black hair cascaded like mercury to his shoulders, extremely imposing and impressive. Seeing the leader had appeared, You Tianding snorted, straightened his crooked mouth to restore his appearance as a Celestial Dynasty divine general, and said in a deep voice: “Who are you, sir? State your name!” That person said indifferently: “I am an envoy of the Khan state, Temür Mieli.”

Hearing the newcomer was an envoy from the Khan state, You Tianding gave another “oh” and put on official airs: “Listen well! This general is the Celestial Dynasty’s Imperial Guard Commander, Heavenly General You Tianding, acting on imperial orders to pursue and capture an assassin. I request the envoy to withdraw outside the courtyard to avoid inconvenience.”

Mieli nodded and spoke in Khan language: “Everyone go out and give them some convenience.” The white-robed warriors all responded and each withdrew to outside the side rooms. You Tianding was not polite either, declaring loudly: “Men! Divide into three groups! Search thoroughly for the assassin’s whereabouts!”

The soldiers were all palace people who were accustomed to eating imperial grain, so naturally their tempers were considerable. In an instant they rushed into the rooms, overturning boxes and cabinets, kicking beds and doors. You Tianding sat to one side drinking tea and enjoying the cool air. Just as he was yawning, the three groups of soldiers all came to report: “Report to the General, we haven’t seen the assassin.”

You Tianding said coldly: “Haven’t seen him?” The soldiers said: “We searched every room and truly haven’t seen him.” You Tianding pondered for quite some time, then suddenly realized and shouted: “Men! Detain that group of Khan state warriors! Don’t let a single one escape!”

With this shout, cursing voices came from outside the courtyard. Relying on the Zhengtong Army’s bravery, they had already surrounded the Khan state warriors in a circle. Both sides pushed against each other and cursed, when Temür Mieli was heard saying: “Everyone stand properly and give the Celestial Dynasty general some face.” The warriors obediently lowered their heads, while You Tianding strode out boldly, coming before Mieli with a cold smile: “Your Excellency! Do you know what crime it is to harbor an imperial criminal?”

Mieli said calmly: “Harbor an imperial criminal? May I ask who is the imperial criminal?” You Tianding sneered: “Still playing dumb? Just now an assassin escaped into the West Courtyard – did you see him?” Mieli shook his head: “I didn’t see him.” You Tianding grabbed his collar and said coldly: “Boy, I advise you to be smart about this. This villain attempted to assassinate His Majesty with treacherous intent. Don’t make me think you sent him, or it could mean war between our two countries.”

Mieli said: “Commander, please understand – I am an envoy of the Khan state. To seek friendly relations between our nations, I did not hesitate to travel thousands of li, seeking only to pay respects to the Celestial Dynasty’s Emperor. How could I harbor any criminal? Moreover, you have already sent soldiers to search the side rooms – I don’t know what else dissatisfies the Commander?”

You Tianding snorted: “Words are useless. Whether Your Excellency has harbored criminals or not, this official will know after searching you.” He waved his hand and roared: “Bring all these foreign envoys over! This official will question them one by one!” The white-robed warriors were agitated, and that Jialila waiwai’er at the entrance… Mieli gave a look, and everyone could only reluctantly endure, allowing the soldiers to escort them one by one to the front.

You Tianding had suffered countless grievances in his life, but now he was finally awe-inspiring internationally. For a time he cursed angrily and interrogated dozens of warriors. However, the foreigners didn’t understand Chinese – no matter what he asked, they only replied with “Jialila waiwai’er.” Looking at their big beards and big bellies, with no characters for “assassin” tattooed on their heads, who could tell what was strange about them? Also unclear about the situation, he could only summon Mieli and say coldly: “Where is the envoy roster? This official needs to verify names.”

Mieli took out a booklet from his chest and presented it with both hands: “The roster is here, presented for the General’s inspection.”

You Tianding snorted and snatched the roster, examining it carefully. He saw it listed sixty-five people. Counting the white-robed warriors’ heads, there were also exactly sixty-five – not one more, not half less. When he wanted to call out names one by one, he saw the foreign script was curved and twisted – who knew what was written? Mieli crossed his hands over his chest and bowed: “Does the General have any other instructions? I humbly await your orders so I may comply.”

You Tianding was both annoyed and resentful, seeing this foreigner was actually putting on official airs with him. Just as he was getting angry, suddenly someone tugged at his sleeve. He heard a soldier say: “General, there’s another one over there.” You Tianding turned to look and saw a white-robed big man with his back to him, head lowered, walking quickly away – if not the assassin, then who? He immediately flew forward roaring: “Seize him!”

Supporting the family depends on oneself, promotion and wealth depend on heaven’s will. The soldiers saw heaven had bestowed a great gift and immediately flew forward with shouts, knocking the assassin to the ground. You Tianding was even more at the forefront, raising his foot to step on the villain, then grabbing him up.

“Roar!” Before him appeared a big-bearded man, fire blazing from his seven orifices, mouth open in strange cries, exactly like a pig-butcher’s living Zhang Fei. You Tianding was startled and said in a trembling voice: “Good heavens, how can he look so fierce?” He pinched that person’s mouth and roared: “Speak quickly! What is your name?” Just as he was pressing for answers, he suddenly heard someone behind him say in a trembling voice: “Your Highness the Crown Prince!”

You Tianding sneered: “Your Highness the Crown Prince? The Crown Prince hasn’t been established yet!”

“Your Highness the Crown Prince of the Khan state, Prince Karachi is above!” Looking back, he saw a large group of civil officials had arrived at some unknown time. The leader was none other than the Prime Minister He, and another younger man was Vice Minister of Rites Hu Zhilian. Both were prostrating themselves before the foreign dog, their expressions panicked.

You Tianding swallowed his saliva. Seeing he was still grabbing the foreign dog’s beard, he secretly let go and helped clean the man’s clothing, trying to quietly slip away. But two white-robed warriors with swords appeared before him, smiling coldly. When he tried to turn and flee, the foreign dog prince was still glaring at him, while his own subordinates had all fled without a trace. Just as he was afraid, Minister He had already sternly shouted: “Men! Arrest this mad dog! Transfer him to the Court of Judicial Review for trial!”

“Help! Don’t arrest me!” You Tianding wailed with his crooked mouth as he was dragged away.

Supporting the family depends on oneself, promotion and wealth depend on heaven’s will. The Imperial Guard was in trouble again. After the former commander Gong Zhengyi was assigned to street cleaning, You Tianding was also arrested. His crime was offending a friendly nation and being rude to an envoy. It seemed his life would not be long. Seeing the scene had quieted, Minister He hastily summoned musicians and dancers to apologize to the Prince. Mieli then walked to a corner and said to a white-robed warrior: “Staff Officer Lu, it’s safe now.”

The white-robed warrior breathed a sigh of relief and removed his disguised big beard, instantly becoming a handsome young man – it was Lu Yun. He raised his sleeve to wipe his face sweat and bowed: “Many thanks for the General’s assistance – I am deeply grateful.”

Now, how was Lu Yun able to escape this disaster? It turned out that Mieli had lent him a helping hand. Earlier, when Lu Yun exchanged palm strikes with the assembled masters, that force was like mountains toppling and seas overturning – even with the cleverness of “True Seventeen” energy circulation, he couldn’t completely dissolve it all, and thus fell into the West Courtyard. It happened that Prince Karachi’s retinue was staying here, so Mieli had Lu Yun change into a white robe and disguised him, successfully deceiving the pursuing troops.

Mieli said: “Staff Officer Lu, how did you come to Hongluo Temple?” Thinking of that memorial just now, Lu Yun couldn’t help but smile bitterly and shake his head: “It’s hard to say and cannot be said.” Mieli understood he had some difficulties to speak of and didn’t press further, saying directly: “You weren’t injured, were you?” Lu Yun sighed and moved his muscles and bones. Just as he was about to speak, he suddenly heard stammering voices from the courtyard: “Lord… Lord Wu.”

Lu Yun felt a chill in his heart and immediately turned his back. Mieli looked back and saw large numbers of soldiers entering the West Courtyard. In the center was a man tall as a pagoda, not yet fifty years old, with sparse forehead hair, a red belt around his waist, and a mottled iron gauntlet on his right hand – it was the “Dragon Hand Grand Commander” making his grand arrival.

The “Mighty Marquis” personally came to the West Courtyard with three staff officers accompanying him – one was “Banner Officer” Yan Feng, one was “Supply Officer” Cen Yan, and one was “Order Officer” Gao Jiong. Only the “Seal Officer” Gong Zhi was not seen. Hu Zhilian hastily stepped forward to make introductions: “Your Highness, this is our dynasty’s foremost military man, Grand Commander Wu Dingyuan. You two should become better acquainted.”

Present were all noble officials – one was a Prime Minister assisting the court, of the highest rank; one was the Crown Prince of the Khan state, Prince Karachi. Each had large retinues, filling the entire courtyard. That Prince had probably also heard of Wu Dingyuan. After translation, he gave an “ah” and hastily followed Central Plains etiquette, cupping his hands and saying a few sentences. Though Wu Dingyuan couldn’t understand, he knew it was courtesy like “long admired your towering reputation” and “reputation is not as good as meeting in person.” He immediately didn’t seek a translator and lifted his official robe, bowing according to junior’s etiquette.

The Khan Crown Prince was greatly alarmed and hastily returned the bow with strange sounds. Minister He, Hu Zhilian and others naturally fell into a row, bowing to each other endlessly. At this time, large numbers of attendants entered the courtyard – the Ministers of “Imperial Stables” and “Imperial Ceremonies” had arrived. Seeing there were heads to kowtow to here, how could they not hurry to kneel? For a time the courtyard was packed full, with people kneeling all the way to outside the entrance. Looking back at Wu Dingyuan, he had already risen and walked away.

Wu Dingyuan had no interest in socializing. In any case, bow early and finish early – bang your head on the ground once and save all the endless chatter. Minister He saw him walk away and hastily chased after him: “Lord Wu, wait for this old man!”

Wu Dingyuan looked around as if searching for someone. Minister He grabbed him and panted: “Dingyuan, Dingyuan, has His Majesty summoned you?” Wu Dingyuan acted as if he hadn’t heard. After He asked twice, he suddenly said: “Minister He, was the assassin from the earlier disturbance captured?”

“Assassin? What assassin?” Minister He was stunned for quite some time. He was a first-rank minister with a crane embroidered on his chest patch, a good Prime Minister. As they say, “those in great office do not wish to examine trifles.” Hearing the question, he still looked completely blank and could only shout: “Men!”

An official hastily came to greet him: “Elder Minister, your subordinate is here.” Minister He said proudly: “Has that villain from earlier been caught?”

This person wore a fourth-rank cloud-goose robe – also one who flies in the sky – and turned to shout loudly: “Men!” With these words finished, an eighth-rank yellow oriole clerk came running in panic: “Sir, what do you summon me for?” That official said sternly: “Where is the villain now? Speak!” The tiny yellow oriole was frightened and hastily flew out of the West Courtyard. One chased asking another, asking until finally a voice came from afar: “In answer to the great sir, the villain surnamed You has already been transferred to the Court of Judicial Review.”

Minister He smiled with satisfaction: “Dingyuan, you see? How efficiently our Six Ministries handle affairs! It’s not as incompetent as outsiders say, is it?”

Dragons follow dragons, winds follow tigers. Wu Dingyuan was a military general with a lion embroidered on his chest, naturally belonging to the fierce beast category, unable to bite these creatures flying in the sky. Hearing the assassin was captured, he nodded and no longer pursued the matter, only his eyes still searched around the courtyard as if still looking for someone.

They say courtesy should be reciprocal. Earlier Wu Dingyuan had asked, so now it should be Minister He’s turn to ask. He hastily pulled Wu Dingyuan aside and said quietly: “Dingyuan, did His Majesty actually see you or not?”

Wu Dingyuan looked utterly exhausted and had no words in response. Minister He was shocked: “What? You… you still haven’t seen His Majesty? Does he know about the Western Suburb incident?” Gao Jiong, attending nearby, hastily said: “In response to Elder He, regarding the Western Suburb matter, Minister Ma of the Ministry of War submitted a memorial early this morning, but the imperial approval has never come down. We also don’t know His Majesty’s intentions.”

Minister He breathed a sigh of relief: “No fear, no fear – at least the memorial went in.” He took out a handkerchief to wipe his sweat and said quietly again: “Dingyuan, it’s not that this old man is criticizing you, but what were you making a fuss about earlier in the hall? You even smashed the Luohan statues? You’ve forced this old man to apologize everywhere for you. Go quickly and beg forgiveness from Second Minister Chen and Minister Mou – don’t offend all the ministers.”

Wu Dingyuan mumbled agreement a few times noncommittally. Minister He said quietly: “Good, good, we’ve finished discussing state affairs, now we should discuss our two families’ personal matters.” He grabbed the iron hand again and said: “Dingyuan, have you met my daughter Ningxiang?”

Wu Dingyuan was still looking around the courtyard and just grunted once. He heard Minister He sigh: “It’s embarrassing to say – my daughter Ningxiang is seventeen this year, right at the age when emotions first bloom. These past few days she’s somehow contracted a strange illness, becoming unable to think of tea or desire food. She hasn’t eaten for two days and nights now. This old man truly has no solution. At this time of national crisis, I can only shamelessly ask for your help…”

Wu Dingyuan had been in a daze, but now finally came to his senses and hastily said: “What does the Elder want me to do?” Minister He smiled: “I hear your son Chongqing is a heroic youth, very much in his father’s style. Shouldn’t we fathers make plans for our children?”

Everyone was startled, not expecting Minister He to arrange his daughter’s marriage by wanting to recruit Wu Chongqing as a son-in-law! Wu Dingyuan coughed repeatedly: “Elder He, my son’s temperament is somewhat… somewhat fierce, I’m afraid…” Minister He laughed: “Fierce temperament? That’s good! Isn’t that exactly like this old man’s character? Come, come, let this old man tell you about it…”

Just as he was about to whisper in his ear, Wu Dingyuan slipped away quickly, hastily walking into the courtyard. Looking around, he suddenly coughed and said: “Who might this general be?” Hearing this, everyone turned their heads and immediately saw a tall man with hair reaching his shoulders – it was none other than “Temür Mieli.”

Since ancient times, heroes have appreciated heroes. This Temür Mieli was tall and imposing, with the bearing of a good fellow, and indeed attracted his own kind. Understanding that Wu Dingyuan was twelve or thirteen years older than himself, he followed Central Plains customs and bowed according to age, declaring loudly: “Your humble servant Temür, a military general of the Khan state’s Golden Horde, Temür Mieli, pays respects to the Celestial Dynasty’s Grand Commander.”

Wu Dingyuan nodded and was about to extend his hand to help him up when Minister He nearby whispered in his ear again: “My Lord, I hear this man is the famous ‘Demon-Slaying Khan.'” Gao Jiong, Cen Yan, and Yan Feng were all greatly surprised and crowded forward. Only his extremely high nose bridge and deep-set eye sockets suggested some kinship with Western Region peoples. After both sides had exchanged courtesies, Wu Dingyuan was heard saying: “Is this the General’s first visit to court?”

Mieli said: “Your servant’s mission accompanying the Prince to China serves two purposes: first, to pay respects to the great Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty, and second, to conduct mutual trade with the Celestial Dynasty’s subjects, incidentally purchasing some silk to transport back to the Western Regions.” Wu Dingyuan nodded and looked back, indeed seeing that the Khan Crown Prince was inseparable from others – the “Imperial Stables Ministry” wanted to buy horses, the “Weaving Bureau” wanted to buy silk, and Hu Zhilian was leading musicians, dancers, and interpreters, inevitably so busy his tongue was tied in knots.

The Western Regions had been a place where cultures flourished since ancient times – Central Plains silk, Arabian spices, and Persian textiles were mutually exchanged. However, since Angry Cang had occupied the northwest, traveling merchants were all harmed. To protect themselves, merchants often detoured through Jiayuguan and Yanmen Pass, never daring to enter the northwest unauthorized. This official consultation between the two countries was the first of its kind in the Zhengtong Dynasty.

After everyone talked for a while, Temür Mieli was also sizing up this “True Dragon of a Generation,” seeing his impressively large build and thick chest, even several inches taller than himself. Looking again at Gao Jiong, Cen Yan, Yan Feng and others, they too were tall and imposing. Poor Minister He was squeezed in the middle like a chick among cranes, unable to see daylight, and could only shout: “Move back some! This old man wants to speak!”

The cranes moved backward, revealing a chicken. Minister He coughed and stroked his beard with a smile: “General Mieli, I hear you are the Western Regions’ greatest warrior, while our Lord Wu is also undefeated throughout the Central Plains. If you two compare martial skills, who would be superior?”

Mieli cupped his hands: “The Mighty Marquis has a broad mind and conquers through virtue – this humble general admits inferiority.” Minister He laughed: “Good phrase, ‘conquers through virtue!’ If your virtue is inferior to Lord Wu’s, is your martial skill superior to his?” Wu Dingyuan smiled slightly, thinking that with his high position, he naturally wouldn’t compete with juniors for supremacy. He patted Mieli’s arm and was about to offer a few words of praise when he suddenly paused slightly, looking toward the courtyard: “General, is that man your subordinate?”

Mieli said: “This person is my groom. He doesn’t understand Chinese and hasn’t seen the world. He was rude to you gentlemen, so I didn’t dare let him come forward to pay respects.” He spoke a few words in the foreign language, apparently telling that person to withdraw. The warrior lowered his head and was about to leave when Wu Dingyuan said: “Wait a moment.” Mieli hastily said: “What instructions does My Lord have?” Wu Dingyuan said: “Is this subordinate of yours Chinese?”

Wu Dingyuan was originally a constable with extremely sharp eyes. Though he hadn’t seen that person’s face, judging by the back alone, he could see the man was straight-backed with dark coloring and a thin, tall silhouette, completely unlike the sallow, curly-haired appearance of Central Asian peoples. This aroused his suspicions. Mieli, fearing he might let something slip, could only cough a few times: “My Lord’s eye is indeed extraordinary. This subordinate of mine is indeed not a Central Asian person, but he’s not Chinese either. He’s actually Khitan.”

Hearing this, everyone was greatly surprised. You must know the Khitan had long been destroyed – they had perished as a nation and people hundreds of years ago. Who would have thought there was still one left in the world? Minister He laughed: “So he’s Khitan – that’s truly rare.” Just as he was looking, he suddenly noticed Mieli’s appearance again and couldn’t help but be stunned: “General, where… where are you from yourself? Your appearance is also quite different.”

Mieli said: “My father was Tatar, my mother was Kangly – this humble general is of mixed blood from both tribes.” Minister He was shocked: “So you’re mixed… that is, many kinds! My apologies, my apologies.” Mieli heard him acknowledge his apologies but didn’t know what to be “apologetic” about, and couldn’t help but snort. He shouted at his subordinate: “Why don’t you withdraw quickly!”

The warrior responded and was about to leave when Wu Dingyuan said: “General, I’ve never met a Khitan hero in my life. I wonder if I might have the honor of an introduction?” Wu Dingyuan’s status was such that he actually used the words “introduction” – this was truly giving face. Indeed, Mieli found it difficult to refuse and could only cough: “You… you wait, I’ll go over and ask.”

Minister He was shocked: “What? Still need to go request permission? Who’s the groom here – you or him?”

That white-robed warrior was naturally Lu Yun. When Wu Dingyuan arrived earlier, he had already intended to slip away, but Gao Jiong and others came too quickly for him to escape in time, so he could only reluctantly stay. Who would have expected Wu Dingyuan to spot the flaw with a single glance? Mieli walked over and said quietly: “Staff Officer Lu, do you want to see him?” Lu Yun lowered his head silently and said softly: “Better not.”

The Zhengtong Dynasty had already been restored – everything was settled. If the two men reluctantly met, what should they say? Should he ask whether Liu Angtian’s funeral was glorious? Whether Yang and Gu’s wedding banquet was grand? Or should he join hands with “Grand Commander Wu” to leave the city and slaughter all the disaster victims, then together shout “Long live!” three times to Emperor Zhengtong?

In life, not meeting is like the stars Shen and Shang. Lu Yun sighed and was about to step away when he suddenly heard Wu Dingyuan shout: “Wait!” Just as he was about to pursue, Mieli blocked his way: “My Lord, this subordinate of mine is naturally shy – just let him withdraw.” Minister He was also angry: “Naturally shy? Then why send him on a mission to a foreign land to have audience with the Son of Heaven? Call him over to kowtow! How does your Khan state select envoys?”

Mieli couldn’t justify himself, so he simply said nothing more and just crossed his arms over his chest, blocking the path. Wu Dingyuan gave a dark sound and tried to go around Mieli to block Lu Yun’s way, but Mieli extended his right hand to bar the road. Wu Dingyuan said in a deep voice: “General, Wu has no ill intent.” Mieli said: “I know.” Wu Dingyuan became somewhat urgent: “Then why won’t you step aside?”

Mieli said indifferently: “As I said, this subordinate of mine is shy and can’t meet outsiders.” Wu Dingyuan no longer bothered with him and pushed forward with his left hand, wanting to move Mieli aside. Who knew this foreigner’s martial arts were truly not weak – a single push couldn’t budge him?

Wu Dingyuan’s face darkened: “General, please step aside.” While speaking, he added another measure of force to his hand.

Wu Dingyuan was an heir to the Tianshan tradition with a true dragon’s body – this additional measure of force was worth several hundred jin. Indeed, Mieli couldn’t bear it, his upper body leaning sideways, his feet stumbling as he was about to give way. Suddenly they heard Mieli say: “Your Lordship, forgive the offense.”

Mieli’s left arm rose and he actually struck back in counterattack. Wu Dingyuan snorted, leaned his upper body back, and easily dodged aside. Just as he was about to push this person away decisively, he suddenly felt a fist scrape past with a fierce wind, his face burning with pain. Unable to help himself, his feet stumbled and he retreated half a step backward.

Everyone was startled, not expecting Mieli to actually force back the “True Dragon of a Generation”! Wu Dingyuan took a deep breath: “Very well, let’s have a match.” He raised his right arm and slowly revealed that “Iron Hand.”

When Wu Dingyuan was about to fight for real, Cen Yan and Gao Jiong were stunned. Seeing both sides fighting without reason, what were they trying to accomplish? They all stepped forward to advise: “Grand Commander, we have military duties and should be leaving, shouldn’t we?” Minister He, however, took pleasure in their misfortune and recited: “Cicadas cry in the empty mulberry forest, on the Xiao Pass road in August. Don’t learn from the knight-errants who boast of their purple steeds.” This was advising Mieli not to rely on his strength lest he become a corpse.

Both sides maintained their standoff as that silhouette walked farther and farther away, slowly leaving the West Courtyard. Wu Dingyuan gritted his teeth and swung his iron hand, pushing hard toward Mieli. Mieli’s left fist suddenly clenched tight – wherever his rigid force passed, blood vessels swelled and muscles bulged. Before anyone could even blink, a fierce wind had already swept over.

Gao Jiong, Cen Yan and others were all greatly alarmed: “How… how can this foreigner’s fist be so fast?”

Wu Dingyuan was always known for his quick movements – his strikes were always faster than his enemies’ and his attacks heavier than others’. But Mieli’s fist seemed blessed by gods and Buddhas, naturally gifted. Wu Dingyuan knew this man’s fist force was unusual, so he simply didn’t dodge. With a grunt, his figure became a gray, hazy mass as he pressed toward Mieli. At this moment, someone was heard saying: “Your Lordship.” Footsteps sounded as a hand reached toward Wu Dingyuan’s back.

Everyone was completely focused – no one noticed another civil official had entered the courtyard. Seeing him wearing a bright red court robe and looking hurried, it was Dali Temple Minister Hu Zhixiao. Gao Jiong’s heart was greatly alarmed and he opened his mouth to call out. Yan Feng also extended his hand to pull, but in this lightning-flash moment, who could rescue anyone in time?

Wu Dingyuan’s figure was gray and hazy. Civil officials like Hu Zhixiao and Minister He, seeing this with their eyes, thought they were suffering from presbyopia. In reality, Wu Dingyuan appeared motionless but actually every part of his body was in motion. Because his body technique was faster than eyesight could follow, his body seemed shrouded in a layer of mist. At this moment, when Hu Zhixiao reached out to pat him, it was like putting his hand into raging whirlpools – if lucky, his whole person would tumble and fly out; if unlucky, his arm would be immediately twisted and broken, depending on what part he touched.

At this moment, the only way to save Hu Zhixiao was for Wu Dingyuan to stop moving.

Mieli’s fist was very heavy, like an eighty-jin iron axe breaking stones and piercing mountains; Mieli’s fist was also fast, like a four-liang flying dart – gone in a flash, capable of slicing skin and cracking bone. Now striking toward his body, if Wu Dingyuan remained motionless to take this punch, even with his “True Dragon Body” protection, he would probably suffer serious internal injuries. Looking at all the military and state affairs waiting for him, if he suffered internal injuries, who would resist Angry Cang for the people?

Gao Jiong and Yan Feng opened their mouths wide, unable even to make a sound. Though Mieli wanted to withdraw his punch, his arm strength was already committed. In this thunder-and-lightning moment, who could still save anyone? In the midst of this tragic scene, suddenly there was an “Ah ya!” sound as Hu Zhixiao fell to the ground with his feet pointing skyward. Looking back at Wu Dingyuan, he had already shifted position and was standing behind Mieli.

Minister He gave a sound of surprise, first rubbing his eyes, feeling that Wu Dingyuan had jumped. Just as he was blinking, he suddenly saw Hu Zhixiao again and couldn’t help but laugh: “Old Hu! When did you arrive? Why are you lying on the ground?” Hu Zhixiao sat up and lifted his foot to look, unable to help but give a sound of surprise – the sole of his boot was gone, revealing a smelly sock.

Wu Dingyuan felt a chill in his heart, already knowing someone had helped him. Looking around, he saw a copper coin nailed in a corner of the courtyard, with wisps of hot smoke still rising from the coin’s edge. It turned out this copper coin had shaved off Hu Zhixiao’s shoe sole, making him fall backward in a great tumble. Though his whole body ached everywhere, he could only consider himself unlucky and sigh: “Alas, I won’t die but won’t live long either.”

The Beijing Hu family had suffered bad luck in recent years – Hu Zhengtang, Hu Zhilian, and Hu Zhixiao each had their misfortunes, truly a family of three outstanding men. Seeing Hu Zhixiao sighing repeatedly, Minister He picked up the broken shoe sole and laughed mockingly: “Look at you, Minister Hu – always so frugal in daily life that even your shoes are falling apart?” He pushed his back: “Go, go, go – your younger brother is outside accompanying the Prince in conversation. Go greet him quickly.”

Hu Zhixiao sighed: “Forget it. This humble official doesn’t understand the foreign language – going there would just be like a mute statue, standing there for decoration. Better not to interfere with their discussions.” He stepped forward and patted Wu Dingyuan: “Your Lordship, might I have a word in private?”

Wu Dingyuan seemed lost in thought. Only after Hu Zhixiao spoke twice did he wake up and hastily say: “Minister, Minister, do you have business with me?” Hu Zhixiao said quietly: “This humble person comes for Prince Hui.” With these words, all the staff officers felt a chill in their hearts, and Wu Dingyuan also took a deep breath. Thinking of Prince Hui’s death, never mind his current distracted state – even if his father came back to life or his mother was reborn, it would have to wait. He said: “Cen Yan, Yan Feng, go ask the abbot to borrow a side room. I’ll have tea with Minister Hu.”

The two generals immediately agreed and were about to leave when Minister He laughed: “Borrow what side room? This old man is staying in Chrysanthemum Courtyard – there’s a ready-made one there. Come, it’s rare to have both Hus here. This old man has some newly picked tea leaves there – perfect for brewing and drinking!”

Hu Zhixiao hastily said: “Elder He, don’t trouble yourself. What the Marquis and I need to discuss are last year’s expenditures – we’ll probably need patience for accounting for a while. Let’s talk with you after we’re finished.”

Minister He sneered: “What, has Brother Dingyuan also learned to use an abacus? For annual expenditure accounting, naturally Cen Yan handles such matters – why should he trouble himself?” He pushed Hu Zhixiao aside and laughed: “My in-law, wasn’t I just mentioning Ningxiang’s matter to you? Come, let me tell you…” Saying this, he grabbed the iron hand and whispered endlessly in his ear, apparently talking about his daughter’s good points. Hu Zhixiao on the side could only smile bitterly, not knowing how to extricate himself.

With great difficulty, everyone had left, and Mieli finally had nothing more to do. He walked out of the courtyard gate and was about to call out when voices from the forest were already heard: “General, I’m here.” Looking back, he indeed saw Lu Yun and hastily said: “Staff Officer Lu, thank you so much for earlier.”

Lu Yun grunted but seemed lost in thought. Mieli recalled the earlier scene and asked quietly: “Staff Officer Lu, why were you unwilling to see Grand Commander Wu? Weren’t you two good friends before?”

Lu Yun sighed. Of course Mieli couldn’t understand – he wasn’t from the Liu sect, so naturally didn’t know the past events between “Watching Sea and Distant Clouds.” The two fell silent. Lu Yun was unwilling to say more, so he just cupped his hands and said: “This time I’m deeply grateful for Your Excellency’s protection. Let’s part here.” Just as he was about to leave, Mieli grabbed him and said: “Staff Officer Lu, where are you going now?”

Hearing this question, Lu Yun’s heart felt utterly lost. Looking at this journey, he had originally come for Gu Qianxi, but just now seeing Qiong Fang shedding tears had nearly caused disaster. For a moment, he actually didn’t know where he should go. He gazed at the snow filling the sky and said softly: “I should return to the mountain gate.” Mieli said: “Are you waiting for someone?” Lu Yun didn’t reply, turning his head away. Just as he was about to step away, he suddenly heard Mieli say: “Staff Officer Lu, if you have nowhere to go these few days, why not travel with me?”

Lu Yun said: “No, these few days I need to figure out some things – I’m more at ease alone.” Mieli said: “That’s fine too. Then let me escort you to the mountain gate. I have the Khan state’s protection, which can at least keep you safe along the way and save you from being chased by those heavenly soldiers and generals.”

The snow was really heavy – the two had only talked for a while but their bodies were already covered with white snow, like snowmen. Mieli shook off the snow from his body and, putting his arm around Lu Yun’s shoulder, they departed.

The two walked side by side, avoiding the Great Buddha Hall along the way and taking only small paths. Suddenly Mieli said: “Staff Officer Lu, you’ve met Mr. Lin, haven’t you?” Lu Yun said: “I met him. He was disguised as a tea master – quite startled me.” Mieli smiled slightly: “Mr. Lin thinks very highly of you. Last night he spoke of many of your deeds, making me quite admiring.”

Lu Yun sighed: “What did he say about Lu?” Mieli said: “He said among ‘Watching Sea and Distant Clouds,’ only Mr. Lu is a benevolent gentleman, combining wisdom and courage, always thinking of the world’s common people.” Lu Yun sighed slightly: “He was too generous in his praise. Lu’s benevolence is truly a woman’s kindness, Lu’s courage is a common man’s bravery – really not the material for great deeds.”

Mieli smiled: “Sir, why are you suddenly so dispirited? Have you encountered some trouble?” Lu Yun sighed, thinking of that earlier memorial. That “Yu Yushan” appeared to be a loyal minister but harbored treacherous thoughts – he himself had nearly become his killing knife. For a moment, he felt everything in life was utterly tasteless. It would be better to return to Great Waterfall to fish and sleep, at least gaining some leisure.

Looking around, he saw only withered branches and white snow all over the mountain, not a trace of spring. Seeing Lu Yun’s heart full of melancholy, Mieli said again: “Staff Officer Lu, I’ve never asked – when matters here are concluded, what are your plans?” Lu Yun said indifferently: “Matters here? What does the General mean—” Mieli said: “I mean the court’s war against Angry Cang. When this battle is finished, where do you want to go?”

Lu Yun shook his head: “Where there’s a court, there’s Angry Cang – I’m afraid they’ll never finish fighting.” Mieli laughed: “Sir is too disheartened. Come, look over there.” The two stood on high ground. Lu Yun looked in the direction of his pointing and saw the Great Buddha Hall again. He heard Mieli say: “Look in front of the hall – what do you see? That large tree canopy?”

Lu Yun looked intently and saw several large trees growing in front of the precious hall. Though it was deep winter, the branches and leaves still appeared lush, like a great canopy sheltering the plaza in front of the hall. Under that tree canopy was the site of the Crown Prince Selection Assembly. Mieli said: “Staff Officer Lu, do you know the origin of this large tree canopy?” Lu Yun nodded: “That’s called ‘Purple Wisteria Hosted by Pine.’ It’s one of the three scenic spots of Hongluo Temple.”

Mieli nodded: “Exactly – ‘Purple Wisteria Hosted by Pine.’ When I came to the temple, I heard the monks say that in this world, pine trees invariably die when entangled by vines, without exception. But look at this large tree – even though parasitic vines grow on it, it still has flourishing branches and leaves, living more and more vigorously. What do you think is the reason?” Lu Yun mused: “Is the General saying the court and Angry Cang might coexist?”

Mieli smiled: “I dare not say that, but if such a day truly came, both your and my hearts and bodies could regain freedom. Don’t you think so?” Lu Yun sighed quietly: “General, just now you asked Lu where he wanted to go – what about yourself? What are your future plans?” Mieli said: “I want to go home.”

Lu Yun nodded: “Yes, when matters here are concluded, you should return to the Khan state.” Mieli shook his head: “Sir misunderstands. My coming east this time serves two purposes: first, to escort the Princess, and second, to find my own homeland.”

“Homeland?” Lu Yun said blankly: “Your… your homeland isn’t in the Western Regions?” Mieli said: “I won’t hide it from you – my background is somewhat different. From the day I was born, I’ve had no country. The only wish I’ve had in this lifetime is to find my own homeland. When I speak of going home, this is what I mean.”

Lu Yun was slightly surprised: “You… what do you mean by this—” Mieli said: “I am Khitan, so I was born without a country. But I’ve never been able to find my own companions, so I also have no home.”

These words moved Lu Yun. He looked up at the gray, hazy snowflakes, savoring the deep meaning in Mieli’s words, and couldn’t help but stare in a daze.

Since leaving for the provincial capital examinations, he had been away from home for more than twenty years, drifting across the four seas with heaven and earth as his home. During this time, he had more than once thought of returning home, yet repeatedly dismissed the idea. After all, there were no relatives left at home – even if he returned, what would be the point?

In this vast human world, with nothing to pin his feelings on, who could still be his concern? Seeing Lu Yun’s eyes slightly reddening, Mieli suddenly said: “Staff Officer Lu, would you like to meet Princess Yinchuan?” Lu Yun snapped to attention and said in shock: “You… you’ve found the Princess?” Mieli smiled: “You needn’t ask about that. First tell me – do you want to meet her?” This question made Lu Yun hesitate instead. Mieli smiled: “Don’t be afraid. I’ve long heard about the matter between Your Excellency and the Princess.”

Lu Yun was startled and hastily said: “General, between the Princess and me, heaven and earth can bear witness – we are pure as the driven snow, just like this white snow before us—” Just as he was about to provide poetic evidence, he heard Mieli smile slightly: “Sir, actually this is precisely what I admire about you. If you and I were to change places, I’m afraid I would have already—” Hearing Mieli’s meaningful words, Lu Yun couldn’t help but make a sound of surprise, turning to study him and musing: “General, what do you mean by saying this—” Mieli was unwilling to discuss further and said directly: “Enough talk. If you want to see the Princess, follow me.”

The two stepped through snow searching for a path, turning toward the west of the temple. Coming to a mountain road and gazing into the distance, before them was a stretch of white snow and mountains. In the distance, several pavilions could be vaguely seen, hazily hidden in the snow and mist, appearing like a fairy realm painting.

Mieli suddenly stopped and pointed to a large stone by the roadside: “Sir Lu, I think the scenery here is quite nice – let’s sit for a while.” Lu Yun said: “Fine, let’s rest our feet.” A little novice monk stood on the mountain path holding a broom, sweeping snow there. Seeing the two sit down, he just pressed his palms together and bowed, exactly like a little high monk. Mieli smiled at him and gazed toward the distant mountains again: “Sir Lu, in your heart, what kind of woman is most beautiful?” Lu Yun answered without thinking: “Other people’s wives are most beautiful.”

The little novice was stunned and turned to study Lu Yun as if seeing Ximen Qing. Mieli also laughed and shook his head: “Jianghu rumors say Shandong’s Lu Yun is naturally sincere and doesn’t joke around – apparently the rumors are wrong.” Lu Yun said indifferently: “This isn’t a joke – in my heart, other people’s wives truly are most beautiful.” Mieli suddenly understood and nodded: “Yes, for you this is indeed the truth.”

Gu Qianxi was someone else’s wife, living in someone else’s home, sleeping in someone else’s bed, caring for her husband and teaching children, washing hands to make soup. Looking at this, Lu Yun naturally found it bitter and difficult to express. But since things had reached this point, what more was there to say? He sighed and was unwilling to discuss this matter further, so he said: “What about the General himself? What should the most beautiful woman in your mind look like?”

Hearing these two men’s boring conversation, the little novice became suspicious again, secretly observing whether these were flower-picking bandits gathering here. He saw Mieli smile and point west: “Staff Officer, please look.”

Lu Yun stood up and gazed at the myriad mountains and valleys. Suddenly he saw a pair of magnificent pagodas nestled in the distance, hazily looming in the snow – it was the famous “Hongluo Pagoda.” He couldn’t help but wonder: “This… this is—”

Mieli smiled: “Do you know now? Who lives in the pagoda?” Seeing Lu Yun still pondering, the little novice couldn’t help but roll his eyes at him and say: “The Hongluo Heavenly Maiden.” Lu Yun gasped and cried out: “The Princess… the Princess is in the pagoda?” Mieli patted the little novice’s shoulder in approval and smiled: “Come, let’s go have a look.”

Going down the slope, before them was already a pine forest. Looking far ahead, they could already see the pagoda’s peak. Lu Yun was about to go over when he saw Mieli smiling but not moving, and couldn’t help but wonder: “Why aren’t we going?” Mieli smiled: “Staff Officer, please go first – you’ll understand in a moment.”

Lu Yun pondered for quite some time, not knowing what trick he had. In any case, he was already a plague god – whoever saw him would have bad luck, so there was nothing to fear. He lifted his foot and walked straight into the pine forest.

After walking only a few steps, Lu Yun suddenly stopped and pondered without moving forward. Mieli smiled: “Why aren’t you walking?” Lu Yun said: “Something’s not right here.” Mieli said: “What’s not right?” Lu Yun couldn’t answer properly and could only walk forward a few more steps. This time, as soon as his foot stepped into the pine forest, his heart immediately gave a thump, as if there was a great net ahead just waiting to capture him.

Martial practitioners cultivate their primordial spirit, making their five senses far more sensitive than ordinary people. Lu Yun withdrew his foot and slowly closed his eyes. After hesitating for a while, he opened his eyes and looked toward a large tree in the northwest, already seeing a corner of black clothing. He immediately nodded: “Yes, there’s an ambush here.”

Mieli smiled: “Remarkable! Staff Officer Lu truly deserves to be called a martial arts master with such keen perception.” He pulled Lu Yun over and pointed to tree trunks and roots in the forest: “Look here.”

Lu Yun looked down and immediately saw a small eagle with fully spread wings painted in red lacquer – it was the symbol of the “Nation-Stabilizing Iron Guard.”

Lu Yun nodded. Since Hongluo Temple was where the Emperor was staying, with troops all over the mountains – both “Imperial Forest Army” and “Zhengtong Army” – it wasn’t surprising that experts were stationed below the Hongluo Pagoda. He walked to the forest edge and listened carefully, feeling that the person in the tree was breathing heavily and turbidly. Soon there was one inhalation and one exhalation with very short intervals. Judging by this level of skill, not only could he not compare with masters like Ling Ding and Yan Song, but even compared to Jin Teng, his martial arts were greatly inferior.

Seeing the guard’s abilities were nothing special, Lu Yun felt at ease again: “General, let’s go over. We can handle this kind of arrangement.” Mieli smiled: “Same old rule – Staff Officer, you go first.”

Lu Yun laughed, not knowing whether this was courtesy or a game. He flicked his sleeves and walked deeper into the forest.

Seeing the forest guard hiding in the east, Lu Yun avoided him from afar and circled around to the west. After walking only a few steps, he heard breathing sounds again, about ten feet away from him. However, this person’s breathing was still rough and heavy, clearly not a master and not worth concern, so he didn’t pay attention and just continued forward.

After walking about ten more feet, suddenly Lu Yun made another sound of surprise and stopped again.

There were breathing sounds ahead again, also about ten feet away from him. This time it was in the northeast corner. Lu Yun felt something was wrong in his heart and took another step back. Immediately he heard the earlier person’s breathing again. Strangely, though this person’s breathing was also rough, urgent, and turbid, it synchronized perfectly with the person in the northeast corner – one contraction and one release with almost no difference in timing. If one didn’t listen carefully, one might think there was only one person here.

“In the empty mountains, no one is seen, but human voices are heard.” Seeing Mieli still staying in the original place, Lu Yun hastily retreated. Mieli smiled: “Did you notice? What’s in the forest?” Lu Yun said: “There’s an array formation.” As the words reached his lips, he suddenly realized and hastily said: “Is it the Six Paths Array?” Mieli smiled: “Bigger than that.” Lu Yun frowned: “What do you mean?”

Mieli smiled and, seeing a towering ancient tree not far away reaching dozens of zhang high, said: “Come, let’s go up.”

The two climbed up and reached the treetop. Looking down from above, they first saw a black-clothed person hidden behind a pine tree. About ten feet to the right was another person, and continuing along were more people – arranged in one honeycomb pattern after another. Looking around, there were over a hundred array formations.

Lu Yun’s scalp tingled: “This… this is—” Mieli said: “This is Minister Yang’s arrangement. To see the Princess, you must break through this barrier.” The two stood on the treetop as Lu Yun slowly crouched down, counting heads one by one: “This… this must be over a hundred people?” Mieli said: “From inside to outside, a total of one hundred and eight people.” Lu Yun said quietly: “What’s so mysterious about this array?”

Mieli said: “According to Mr. Lin, this is the method for governing all things, called the Heavenly Secret.” Lu Yun was slightly shocked: “Heavenly Secret? This is from the Divine Monk Tianjue’s—” Mieli said: “Correct. This array was passed down by Minister Yang’s master. Mr. Lin said this array follows heavenly numbers and cannot be broken, so I didn’t dare force my way through.”

Lu Yun said: “Why can’t it be broken?” Mieli said: “Mr. Lin said six is the greatest number in the world, because it conforms to the Way of Heaven and can be infinitely added. The larger the array, the stronger its power. With over a hundred people, it can achieve the military strategy of ‘surrounding one with one,’ enough to tie the hands of all masters under heaven.”

This morning Lu Yun had gone to the Yang residence and encountered six experts in the ruined courtyard. At that time, the six formed an array with coordinated moves that were unexpectedly intricate and complementary. If not for his deep internal strength, he would have suffered a great defeat. Now in this forest there was not just one array but endless, continuous honeycombs – exactly like a “Great Six Paths Array.”

Lu Yun understood somewhat. Looking at Hongluo Temple full of masters, it turned out the most heavily guarded place was not Emperor Zhengtong’s ancestral meditation room but these two pagodas before him. With this great array, no matter how many people came or how strong their martial arts, they couldn’t penetrate the layers of formations. Even if Temür Mieli assembled a hundred masters, he probably couldn’t rescue the Princess.

The two sat high on the branches, gazing at the Buddhist pagodas. Lu Yun was silent for a long time, then suddenly said: “General, you specifically brought me here – you must have something to say, right?” Mieli smiled slightly: “Staff Officer is correct. Some words can’t be said too early or too late. They can only be said here to persuade you.”

Lu Yun heard him speaking in riddles and smiled: “General, you also want to persuade me to quickly assassinate Minister Yang, don’t you?” Mieli shook his head: “Staff Officer misunderstands. The Yang assassination was Miss Qi and Mr. Lin’s idea. I brought you here hoping you would promise me something.” Lu Yun made a sound: “What thing?”

Mieli said: “Don’t be hasty. Let me ask you first – do you know why the Princess returned to the country this time?” Lu Yun gazed at the pagoda, remembering what the righteous people had said last night: “The Princess wants to find her father the Emperor and help him reclaim the throne, right?”

Mieli said: “Sir Lu, you’ve been deceived.” Lu Yun was greatly shocked: “What… what?” Mieli said: “This morning I found an old palace maid surnamed Fan and learned some things from her.” Lu Yun said blankly: “Old palace maid? Who is she—”

Mieli said: “She was the palace attendant who served beside Emperor Jingtai at his deathbed.” Lu Yun’s mouth fell open and his breathing quickened as he heard Mieli continue: “According to this old palace maid, after the restoration, Emperor Jingtai was immediately confined and then fell ill, dying not long after. They say he died very miserably – neither the Empress, Princess, nor trusted followers were by his side. Only this old palace maid surnamed Fan served him alone, watching him draw his last breath.”

Lu Yun was stunned. Last night the righteous people’s “Miss Qi” had personally said that Emperor Jingtai was hidden in the well in the Yang family’s back courtyard. Yang Suguan, Princess Yinchuan, and even Miss Qi herself all staked everything on this, which led to the “Yang assassination” request. Yet now hearing Mieli say this, Emperor Jingtai had long since departed this world?

Lu Yun sat in a daze. Suddenly all distracting thoughts faded from his mind, leaving only one thing: Emperor Jingtai was dead.

The prosperous and lively Jingtai Dynasty, the three great factions of Jiang, Liu, and Liu who competed and supported each other – all would never return with Jingtai’s death. Thinking of Emperor Jingtai’s kindness to him, Lu Yun covered his face with his hands, tears involuntarily streaming from his eyes.

Mieli said nothing, just letting Lu Yun bow his head and weep quietly. After a long time, he finally said: “When the righteous people met with you last night, I felt something was strange. Thinking that heaven has no two suns, when two emperors compete, whether Emperor Jingtai was dead or alive was the most important matter for the Zhengtong court. To say Yang Suguan had the courage to hide Jingtai in his home was truly inconceivable. Later when I heard the old palace maid speak, I learned that when Jingtai died, Emperor Zhengtong personally attended the burial, watching him enter the mausoleum with his own eyes before feeling at ease.”

Lu Yun sighed deeply and said quietly: “This matter is so important – why didn’t you say so last night?”

Mieli said: “First, I only half-understand the Celestial Dynasty’s affairs. Second, out of consideration for Mr. Lin’s face, I held back. Only this morning after seeing this old palace maid did I feel certain.” Lu Yun was silent for a long time, then raised his head and said softly: “Since Emperor Jingtai is gone, according to Your Excellency, who is hidden in that well?”

Mieli said: “I don’t know the identity of the person in the well, but I dare assert this person is definitely not Emperor Jingtai, but someone ‘Miss Qi’ wants to rescue.” Lu Yun took a deep breath: “So this Miss Qi intended to deceive us from the beginning?”

Mieli said: “Correct. I guess the person in the well is extremely important to her, but with her strength alone she can’t rescue him, so she spread the news that Emperor Jingtai was still alive to attract outside help.”

Lu Yun mused: “This outside help would be Her Highness the Princess?” Mieli said: “Not only Her Highness the Princess, but also His Majesty the Emperor. I guess Miss Qi kept spreading rumors hoping to attract Emperor Zhengtong to use imperial power to open this well, but unfortunately the current Son of Heaven already witnessed Jingtai’s burial and naturally wouldn’t fall for this trick.”

From beginning to end, Lu Yun had never trusted this Miss Qi, only feeling she was calculating and scheming in everything, definitely not a heroic type. If not for Abbot Lingzhi mediating and Wei Zizhuang vouching for her, Lu Yun wouldn’t have wanted to associate with her at all. Now hearing Mieli speak, he feared he had truly been manipulated. He sighed and said: “What about Mr. Lin? Was he also deceived?”

Mieli said: “Not really. I guess this Mr. Lin, like the Princess, knew long ago that Emperor Jingtai was gone.” Lu Yun said in shock: “What? The Princess… the Princess knew long ago that her father the Emperor was gone? Then… then why did she return?” Mieli smiled: “Sir Lu, in your eyes, what kind of woman is the Princess?” Lu Yun said quietly: “Steadfast and resolute, far-sighted.”

Mieli said: “Well put. Because of her steadfastness and resolution, she buried many things in her heart and didn’t tell me, not even Mr. Lin. From the beginning she hid her cards, revealing nothing to anyone.”

Lu Yun fell silent, just listening to Mieli continue: “This time the Princess returned to the country, everyone had their own calculations. Mr. Lin had his own plans, so he secretly contacted Miss Qi. The Princess was the same – she also had her own arrangements. To be honest, I still hold a secret order that even Mr. Lin didn’t know about beforehand.” Lu Yun raised his eyebrows: “What secret order?”

Mieli said: “The Princess wanted me to find a Prince Tang and ask him to reopen the secret passage of Renzhi Hall, to investigate where this passage actually leads.” Lu Yun said quietly: “The secret passage of Renzhi Hall? Could it be the coup secret passage that Liu Jing dug out back then?”

Mieli said: “You’re half right. This secret passage was indeed where Liu Jing staged his uprising, but this passage wasn’t dug by him.” Lu Yun said blankly: “Not Liu Jing? Then… then who was it—” Mieli said: “Emperor Longqing.”

Lu Yun was startled hearing this. This Emperor Longqing was the father of Wu Ying and Jingtai. Who would have thought that after his death, he not only left behind two sons but also a secret passage – what was he trying to accomplish?

Lu Yun lowered his head in thought for a while, then said: “What happened next? Did you… did you enter the secret passage?” Mieli said: “We did. The Prince Tang chosen by the Princess was truly a formidable character. He enlisted Eunuch Fang from the Eastern Depot to help, and they secretly entered the Forbidden Palace and found the secret passage in Renzhi Hall. I followed secretly and arrived at a place called ‘Yang Family Village.'”

Lu Yun was shocked: “What? Yang Family Village?” Mieli said: “All the local residents were surnamed Yang, hence the name.”

One wave had not settled when another arose. Lu Yun’s breathing involuntarily quickened: “Is this village related to Yang Suguan’s family?”

Mieli said: “That’s unclear. When Prince Tang entered the village and heard he had arrived at Yang Family Village, he was also greatly surprised. He questioned many local elders but couldn’t get any answers. Finally he could only visit the ancestral temple, but unexpectedly encountered a large group of masters who blocked him, resulting in tremendous upheaval.” Lu Yun nodded: “The Nation-Stabilizing Iron Guard took action.”

Mieli said: “Correct. Seeing the situation was bad, I could only reveal myself to fight, allowing Prince Tang’s group to escape safely. After returning to the capital, I reported everything about the ancestral temple to the Princess.” Lu Yun said quietly: “What… what did you discover in the ancestral temple?” Mieli said: “Heaven knows, earth knows, you know, I know.”

Lu Yun frowned in confusion: “Heaven knows, earth knows? What does that mean?” Mieli said: “The trail ended there. However, I used carrier pigeon to report these eight characters to the Princess.” He took out a telescope from his waist and handed it to Lu Yun.

This large tree was about a li away from the Hongluo Pagoda. Lu Yun raised the telescope and looked intently, seeing the two pagodas dark and gloomy, still emanating red light through the snow and mist. He slowly moved the telescope and suddenly saw a light in the window at the top of the right pagoda, with someone sitting there indistinctly.

Lu Yun gasped, knowing Princess Yinchuan was sitting by the window and he had spotted her. He watched intently for a long time but never saw the window open, nor could he see the Princess’s figure clearly. He could only put down the telescope and say quietly: “General, why do you think Yang Suguan is imprisoning the Princess? Is he trying to coerce something?”

Mieli shook his head: “I guess Minister Yang, like us, wants to understand the Princess’s intentions for this trip.”

Lu Yun felt a chill: “You… you’re saying even Yang Suguan doesn’t understand what she wants to do?”

Mieli said: “Correct. I guess the Princess definitely knows something that even Minister Yang and Mr. Lin don’t know, which is why she hid it from me while secretly meeting with Minister Yang privately, and gave me a secret order to find Prince Tang.”

Lu Yun pondered for a long time, then said: “General, you escorted the Princess eastward and returned, spending several months together on the road. Did she ever reveal anything to you?” Mieli said: “The Princess was very tight-lipped and revealed nothing. On the contrary, Mr. Lin told me he said the Princess’s return this time was to break a curse.”

“A… a curse?” Lu Yun was hearing this for the first time and couldn’t help looking completely surprised. Mieli continued: “Staff Officer should know I am originally Khitan, not Muslim, and have always been half-believing and half-doubting about supernatural matters. However, after hearing Mr. Lin speak, I learned this curse truly exists and probably involves another secret of the Celestial Dynasty, enough to shock the Dragon Court.”

Lu Yun’s palms sweated as he said quietly: “What secret?” Mieli said: “Qian Long.” Hearing this, Lu Yun was terrified. Despite his profound martial arts, his body still swayed and he nearly fell from the tree. Mieli, quick-eyed and fast-handed, grabbed him firmly.

The name Qian Long was indeed like a curse – every time Lu Yun heard it, great disaster would befall the realm. His mind felt slightly dizzy as he said quietly: “Besides… besides this curse, what other instructions did the Princess give?” Mieli said: “She ordered me to seek out that person and deliver a painting to him.” Lu Yun nodded and took out a painting from his chest: “This is the painting you gave me, right?”

Mieli said: “Yes.” Lu Yun took a deep breath and said quietly: “General, this painting is somewhat… somewhat mysterious.” Mieli said: “I know. This painting is over a hundred years old, yet the person in the painting is Yang Suguan. Because of this, my Khan warriors were greatly alarmed and called Yang Suguan ‘Iblis,’ treating him as a demon from the Quran.”

Snowflakes fell one by one, and the two unconsciously grew quiet. Lu Yun gazed at the pagoda, constantly pondering Princess Yinchuan’s intentions.

The current court was treacherous and unpredictable – internally there was the struggle of eight princes for succession, externally the Angry Cang rebellion, and Emperor Zhengtong was at odds with Yang Suguan. At this time, the capital was like a barrel of gunpowder that could explode at any moment. At this moment, all parties high and low were in desperate straits, all living from day to day, yet only Princess Yinchuan had not yet made her move. Now seeing her strike directly at the heart, could she really still hold some trump card?

A woman’s heart is like a needle at the bottom of the sea. Back when Yinchuan was just a princess waiting to marry, her girlish feelings already showed she could pick up and put down with all kinds of perseverance and excellence. Now after years of experience, her scheming and strategy were probably not to be underestimated.

Lu Yun looked at the mountain forest pagoda and couldn’t help thinking of Gu Qianxi again. He sighed softly: “General, let’s not talk about these things for now. Now that the Khan Crown Prince has arrived but the Princess is detained, how do you plan to handle this?”

Mieli said: “I don’t plan to handle it. I never intended to return from this eastward journey to the Middle Kingdom.” Lu Yun was shocked: “You… you don’t want to return to the Khan state?” Mieli said: “I am Khitan, coming from the White Mountains and Black Waters. The Western Regions are not my homeland. Titles like ‘Demon-Slaying Khan’ and ‘Khan State’s Greatest Warrior’ are just empty names to me that I can discard at any time.”

Lu Yun said quietly: “If that’s the case, why… why did you stay in the Khan state?” Mieli said softly: “You should know the reason.” Hearing this, Lu Yun felt even more wrong and said quietly: “General, what are you really trying to tell me with all this—”

Mieli said: “Staff Officer, do you remember? I just asked you to promise me something – what was that?” Lu Yun said quietly: “You… you want me to make a commitment—” Mieli’s face showed a gratified expression: “Very good, you still remember. Lu Yun, for the Princess’s future happiness, I hope when matters here are concluded, you can take her away.”

Lu Yun was greatly shocked and said in a trembling voice: “You… what are you saying?” Mieli said: “Don’t panic, let me finish speaking first.” He grabbed Lu Yun’s hand to comfort him and continued: “The Princess used me and also used you, treating us both as chess pieces, but I don’t care at all. In my heart, I only remember one thing.” Lu Yun said quietly: “What… what thing?”

Mieli said gently: “I hope she can be happy.” Lu Yun gasped, and in an instant it was as if he had awakened from a great dream, thinking: “He… he loves Princess Yinchuan!”

Actually, he should have seen it long ago. This Temür Mieli was only in his thirties, right in the prime of life for great achievements, yet his face rarely showed joy and his words were often melancholy. Getting to the root of it, he too had fallen in love with someone else’s wife.

Mieli was very bitter, because Yinchuan was not only someone else’s wife but also a member of the imperial family – this romance was doomed from the start.

Mieli said quietly: “Sir Lu, the Princess is a great person. Her greatness comes not from her noble status but from her great aspirations. Everything in her life, all her thoughts and concerns, prioritize the greater situation of the realm. Thus she can steel her heart and endure what others cannot endure. But I must ask you – when she abandoned her life’s happiness to marry into the Khan state, what did she say to you in that final moment?”

Back then when Yinchuan married westward and left the country, the last person to bid her farewell was Lu Yun – how could he not know her parting words? For a moment he lowered his head, unwilling to reply. Mieli said gently: “She cried in front of you, didn’t she?”

Lu Yun sighed and finally nodded. Mieli said softly: “Sir Lu, tell me – since the Princess had already given up her entire life, why did she still cry that day?” Seeing Lu Yun remaining silent and playing deaf and dumb, Mieli said: “Because she is a woman. She loves you, yet she had to leave you, so she cried. Am I right?” Lu Yun’s throat was dry and he hung his head even lower.

Mieli continued: “Staff Officer, no matter how shrewd and capable she is, no matter how high and mighty, she’s really just a woman. Life comes only once, chastity only once, yet she had to dedicate it all to a pig and spend her life with him. When life reaches this point, only one phrase can compare. Do you know which phrase?”

Seeing Lu Yun mute again, Mieli said directly: “Numb and unfeeling.”

Seeing Lu Yun’s face show agonizing pain as if stabbed by a knife, Mieli still didn’t let him off and continued: “Lu Yun, I often wonder – what kind of man would watch helplessly as a woman steps into a fire pit and do nothing?” Lu Yun said quietly: “Someone like me.” Mieli said: “Good that you know.”

The two sat cross-legged looking up, each gazing at the Hongluo Pagoda in the mist, neither speaking. Mieli said: “Sir Lu, honestly speaking, how Beijing’s political situation evolves, whether the court defeats Angry Cang or not, none of it concerns me. In my heart I only care about the Princess.” Lu Yun interrupted: “General, if that’s the case, why don’t you take her away yourself?”

Mieli said quietly: “Some things cannot be forced.” Lu Yun said: “What do you mean?” Mieli suddenly raised his head and said angrily: “Don’t you understand? She won’t leave with me! The only person in this world who can take her away is you, Sir Lu!”

Lu Yun’s mind went “bang” as if someone had punched him. Mieli said: “Lu Yun, I’ll tell you honestly – if I don’t come forward to ask you today, the Princess’s fate for this life is sealed. Having married into the Khan state, she won’t betray it. No matter how much she hates or resents, she’ll obediently return to guard that pig. When that moment comes, when she’s imprisoned again, my heart… my heart will never gain freedom either.” He cupped his hands: “I’ve said all I can. The rest is for you to figure out.” With these words, he leaped down from the tree and strode away.

Once again alone in the surrounding emptiness, Lu Yun held the telescope, seemingly dazed.

Take Yinchuan away? Lu Yun stared blankly up at those two Hongluo Pagodas, his heart utterly lost, unable to say what he was feeling.

What Mieli blamed him for was indeed his heart of stone, actually watching a woman bury her entire life. However, his failure to take the Princess away back then wasn’t from heartlessness but from lack of ability – he knew in his heart he definitely couldn’t escape the court’s pursuit. But now times had changed. Lu Yun’s martial arts rivaled the “Sword God’s” – with Zhuo Lingzhao-like skills, he could take Yinchuan away.

Lu Yun hadn’t seen Yinchuan for a long time. He vaguely remembered she was beautiful and petite, quite light on his back, and loved to cry. As for whether she was now fat or thin, whether she’d had children, whether her days were peaceful – he knew nothing. Yet Mieli insisted he take her away – what was the reasoning? Could this truly be the Princess’s own desire?

Recalling the Princess’s character and conduct, Lu Yun couldn’t help but sigh. The Yinchuan he knew was truly dignified and wise, worthy of being empress of the realm. Could such a solemn person really abandon her people’s trust and follow a wanderer like him to the ends of the earth? Look how Yu Yushan’s letter, though just hearsay, was enough to bring complete disaster to the Qiong family. If the Princess rashly left with a man, wouldn’t the Khan state mobilize a million troops swearing vengeance? When war ravaged the land and everyone cursed and blamed, how could the Princess remain unmoved given her nature?

Thinking this, Lu Yun shook his head vigorously: “Yes, these words from Mieli definitely don’t represent the Princess’s wishes. If she really wanted to leave, she should have left back then – why drag it out until today? Besides, she’s of noble birth – to abandon the palace’s fine clothes and jade food in her old age and follow a poor man like me to eat porridge and borrow grain – what suffering would that be?”

Absurd nonsense, incomprehensible! Lu Yun couldn’t help but sigh toward heaven: “No wonder the Khitan had to perish. I think this is purely Mieli’s wishful thinking. He wants to take the Princess away but fears she won’t agree, so he pushes it onto me. True, the Princess did kiss me once back then, but a kiss isn’t the Nation-Stabilizing Iron Guard’s brand – just one kiss to the forehead doesn’t mean a lifetime commitment! It’s been ten years – if she’s neither crazy nor stupid, why must she insist on me?”

With this thought came his conclusion: “Right, all this is Mieli’s own doing. Unable to win the Princess’s love, he’s now jealous of me and forcing me to declare my position. If I mistakenly believe this ghost story and really try to forcibly abduct the Princess, wouldn’t I scare her to death?”

Thinking of the Khan state’s million troops, Lu Yun was covered in cold sweat and hastily steadied himself: “Enough! What time is it? Great war is imminent, people are about to be displaced, Qianxi is coming to the temple – how can I indulge in such wild thoughts here?” Thinking this, his mood had calmed. Just as he was about to leap down from the tree, his eye suddenly caught sight of those two Hongluo Pagodas again.

The hazy, indistinct Hongluo Pagodas looked dark and mysterious from afar. Lu Yun couldn’t help but stop again, staring in thought.

Unconsciously thinking of Yinchuan’s tears at parting, Lu Yun sighed again. Seeing he still held the telescope Mieli had given him, he raised it again in a daze and gazed silently.

Snow drifted from the sky, the snow clouds thick, and with the great distance between them, everything was indistinct – gray and misty, unclear. Lu Yun felt depressed and was about to lower the telescope when suddenly the wind picked up, snow flew and mist scattered. He saw a woman sitting at the top of the pagoda, leaning against the window with a telescope in hand, lost in thought – who else could it be but Princess Yinchuan?

“Your Highness!” Lu Yun cried out in shock. The woman’s body trembled violently, her telescope slipped from her hands and fell straight down from the window. Lu Yun’s mouth fell open, his heart seeming to stop. In an instant, he channeled force through his feet, his body flew from the great tree toward the forest.

Lu Yun was impulsive again. Earlier he wouldn’t move a step even if it meant death, but now seeing the Princess’s face, he threw all thoughts of the Khan’s million troops and the jealous man to the nine heavens. At this moment, the Princess became that pitiful girl of years past, and he was that resolute and decisive “Staff Officer Lu,” ready once again to rescue her from suffering.

Lu Yun rushed into the forest straight toward the Hongluo Pagoda. Just as he was getting excited, he suddenly heard a “bang” and felt pain in his back – he’d been struck. He quickly turned to defend when suddenly another “bang” rang out, the same spot on his back struck again.

Lu Yun saw stars from the pain. He spread both palms and quickly formed a perfect circle – the “True Seventeen.” With several “humming” sounds, black cords attacked but were deflected by his perfect circle. Seeing the opportunity, he was about to rush toward the pagoda when his foot hurt – he’d been entangled by black cords. Lu Yun quickly lunged forward, falling to the ground and shaking off the trip wire, but at this moment three black cords sprang from the ground like venomous snakes, writhing toward him.

Lu Yun was terrified and quickly leaped up. This was disastrous – he heard continuous banging sounds dense as a rainstorm. Lu Yun felt pain to his bones – his back, calves, and sides were all hit as he fell back to the ground.

Only now did Lu Yun understand what Mieli feared. This “Six Paths” was indeed indefensible. Two people made a line, three made a surface, but when six people joined hands, it became “up and down,” “left and right,” “front and back” – six directions attacking simultaneously. Even if Wu Dingyuan or Qin Zhonghai were trapped in the formation, with their speed and fierce techniques, they probably couldn’t escape either.

With several snapping sounds, the enemy’s offensive was like a violent storm. Lu Yun took beating after beating. Despite his deep internal strength, after dozens of lashes he gradually couldn’t hold on. He thought: “No good – continuing like this I’ll really die here. Lu Yun, think of something fast!”

Everything in the world should have weaknesses. Even if “Six Paths” truly was the “Way of Heaven” or “Way of Buddha,” it must follow some pattern. Seeing a black cord rushing toward his face, Lu Yun gasped and suddenly reached out to grab it firmly, roaring: “Come out!”

With an agonized cry, the forest swayed as someone stumbled out, dragged by Lu Yun’s force.

The person’s eyes rolled back, face rigid, exactly like a blind man. Lu Yun had no time to think and just desperately pulled. Though he heard continuous snapping and his whole body was beaten everywhere, he refused to let go of this black cord. One thought filled his mind – even if he couldn’t break the formation, at least he’d catch one person. He summoned his life’s strength – this internal power cultivated through ten years of hard training at the waterfall – how could the blind man bear it? Stumbling step by step closer, Lu Yun took a deep breath and was about to capture him when suddenly the forest swayed violently. Everywhere he looked, black-clothed figures filled the forest – all the black-clothed people were forced to reveal themselves.

The formation began to move. Lu Yun’s mind awakened – at this moment he finally saw the pattern and knew how to break this “Great Six Paths Formation.”

This Six Paths Formation was like a nation’s ability to support each other and unite as one – it actually relied on each person’s position. Everyone in the formation had to perform their duty and do their part. The defense of any person up, down, left, or right couldn’t move – once moved, it affected the whole body and everyone had to move accordingly.

The more precise something is, the less it can withstand dismantling. Lu Yun understood – precisely because this “Six Paths” was subtle and ingenious, existing in unified hearts, to make this massive thing collapse required making it chaos itself. Only by making those in the formation each harbor different thoughts and make separate plans would this “Great Six Paths Formation” crash down and never reunite.

One foot, two feet, three feet – the blind man drew closer. His companions desperately came to rescue with fierce attacks, but the formation became increasingly chaotic. Lu Yun breathed through his dantian, circulating internal power, preparing to capture the man in one effort when suddenly all the black-clothed people returned to their positions and stopped attacking him. Lu Yun was slightly puzzled: “Are they… are they surrendering?”

With a thunderous sound, the blind man in front suddenly jerked his hand, and Lu Yun couldn’t help crying out as he was forcibly dragged back by his opponent.

Lu Yun was shocked – where did his opponent get such tremendous strength? Looking around, he saw the black-clothed people in the forest sit down again. With black cords connecting them, they formed honeycomb after honeycomb, channeling hundreds of people’s strength into that one blind man. Lu Yun gasped: “Right, this is the Heavenly Secret!”

The mind that unites the world is the “Heavenly Secret.” The black-clothed people in the forest no longer hesitated or shouted. Each kept their duty, uniting into abundant, magnificent divine power like a god or Buddha’s great hand grasping tiny Lu Yun in its palm.

The Six Paths Formation moved again. At this moment, “six” was the heavenly number, “six” was the Way of Heaven. When Emperor Qin Shi Huang ascended the throne, he used “six” as his standard – ceremonial caps six inches, carriages six feet, taking six chi as a pace, riding six horses. So “six” was the way of kings, the unshakeable leader of the realm. Before this great force, Wu Dingyuan’s True Dragon Body and Lu Yun’s True Seventeen were both insignificantly useless. After all, how could one tiny being contend with the entire world?

Lu Yun was afraid and panicked, as if he’d come to Xianyang City and met Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Suddenly two black cords wrapped around his throat, making his tongue stick out. In moments Lu Yun couldn’t breathe or speak, his chest seeming about to burst, his feet gradually weakening as he was about to kneel.

The situation seemed like returning to the Great White Water Waterfall – the torrent overwhelming, destroying my crown, severing my soul. He wanted to cry out to the people for help but couldn’t see a single person. Lu Yun’s vision went black and he was about to bow and kneel when he suddenly thought of his life’s aspirations. Instantly he reached out to grasp the black cords, his chest swelling as he roared hoarsely.

“I refuse to submit!” Lu Yun cried out to heaven, his voice like a loyal minister’s wail heard for miles. Not only Wu Dingyuan, Mieli, and Princess Yinchuan might have heard it – even Emperor Zhengtong might have heard the crying. He was seen with hair and beard spread, both hands gripping black cords. Where his mighty force passed, the entire forest swayed like ocean waves, the “Great Six Paths Formation” shaking violently near collapse.

Tempered through thousands of hammers from deep mountains, Lu Yun began his counterattack. In his unclear consciousness, he seemed to return to the Great White Water Waterfall. The internal power in his hands came wave after wave like toppling mountains, determined to defend this tiny island above the waterfall, keeping his integrity pure in the human world.

As if truly contending with the world and nation, Lu Yun kept crying and shouting – he just wouldn’t submit, wouldn’t yield to the Six Paths’ power. That struggling was so mournful, appearing weak and insignificant bit by bit, yet so indignant and tenacious!

Lu Yun’s martial strength lay in two things: first, “True Seventeen” could deflect all external forces approaching his body; second, the internal power forged at the waterfall. He had once used this to resist the Great White Water Waterfall, snatching back his life from gods and Buddhas. Now facing mortal danger, abandoning everything, Lu Yun met Yang Suguan’s personally arranged Six Paths Formation with his lifetime’s cultivation.

As Lu Yun’s hand strength increased, the Six Paths Formation was forced to contract. Only the black-clothed people weren’t afraid – even if a demon entered the formation, they still gritted their teeth, unafraid of death or hardship. In moments, the force transmitted through the cords was more than ten times greater.

Lu Yun was wrong – the “Six Paths Formation” wouldn’t fall and couldn’t fall. This formation controlled each other and aided mutually. Once someone tried to topple it from outside, imposing individual will upon it, they violated its great taboo. External humiliation only made it more resolute and united, never yielding.

The more amazing the strength on both sides, the more the black-clothed people present united as one against foreign aggression, putting their life’s honor and disgrace into the formation. Lu Yun also howled madly, committing life and death. Suddenly with a “snap,” the black cord broke.

This black cord was made of unknown material, always tough and firm, never breaking. Now it was torn apart by both sides. With another crisp “bang,” the black cord snapped in two. Lu Yun also cried out loudly, his body flying up and out of the forest.

With a bang, Lu Yun fell from height, this time landing flat on his back. Large numbers of black cords were about to surround him when Lu Yun’s robe opened, revealing a gold medallion from his chest inscribed: “Nation-Stabilizing Iron Guard Command.” With a whoosh, all six black cords immediately retracted into the forest. Lu Yun also collapsed on the ground, exhausted and unable to move.

Lu Yun’s internal power was depleted as he lay gasping. He heard ancient qin music from somewhere unknown, but no one came to pressure him anymore. He wanted to get up but his hands and feet had no strength. After trying several times and falling back, his eyelids gradually grew heavy with drowsiness. Just as he was about to fall unconscious, he heard a woman say: “Madam, please wait – I can go out by myself.”

This woman’s pronunciation carried Yangkun tone – a southern accent. Lu Yun heard it and opened his eyes wide, thinking: “Is… is it Qianxi?” Though nearly unconscious, with his beloved so close, how could he lie still? Instantly he channeled power through his legs and stood up resolutely. Just as he was about to investigate, his foot suddenly slipped as if stepping on some slope, and he rolled all the way down.

At this moment all sorrows came together – not only was he exhausted, but his head stuck into a snow pile. Just as he was lamenting, sighing came from the forest again. Someone said: “Actually, you needn’t blame yourself. When I entrusted A’Xiu to you back then, how could I blame you for anything now? I think he’ll obediently come home before long. Sigh, I’ve caused you husband and wife to quarrel – I truly feel terrible about it.” This voice carried a touch of charm, with perfect diction, indescribably pleasant. Lu Yun heard this and felt shocked: “This… this is Seventh Madam?”

A’Xiu’s birth mother was speaking in the forest right now? Thinking this, Lu Yun felt his blood boiling with countless things he wanted to ask her. He tried several times to prop himself up but couldn’t get up. When he wanted to shout, his mouth was full of snow and he couldn’t make a sound. He heard Seventh Madam sigh: “Minister Yang is in the pagoda right now – won’t you really go see him?”

Gu Qianxi’s voice was flat and indifferent: “If he really wants to see me, he’ll come find me himself. Won’t he?” Seventh Madam said: “You two are husband and wife – don’t you want to ask what he’s doing in the pagoda?” Gu Qianxi said: “He’s talking with a princess, isn’t he?”

Hearing this, Lu Yun’s eyes widened, finally knowing Yinchuan was truly nearby. Seeing all the world’s beauties had gathered, he summoned his life’s remaining courage, circulated his energy and stood up proudly. Indeed he saw two women standing in the forest – one wearing Daoist robes without makeup, the other beautiful and clear but with hidden weariness in her expression. Who else but Gu Qianxi could it be?

All along Lu Yun hadn’t planned to show himself, but now he ran straight toward her, wanting to embrace her forcefully. Suddenly his foot stepped into emptiness again and he rumbled down the earthen slope, then splashed into a pond.

Water splashed everywhere with a tremendous crash. Gu Qianxi was slightly startled: “What… what was that sound?” Her footsteps moved slightly as she was about to approach and investigate, but Seventh Madam pulled her back and said quietly: “Don’t go over – there was shouting in the forest earlier about an assassin.”

The footsteps paused and Gu Qianxi said nothing more. Poor Lu Yun soaked in the pond, his consciousness fading and his body probably freezing. He heard Seventh Madam sigh: “Don’t think I’m meddling, but actually you can’t blame Minister Yang entirely for some things. He’s also involuntarily constrained. Take that princess, for example – she insisted on seeing Minister Yang, saying she wanted to tell him a story. How could he refuse?”

Gu Qianxi said indifferently: “There’s such a thing? What story does she want to tell?” Seventh Madam said: “It’s called ‘Little Mudfish.'”

“Little Mudfish” – Lu Yun was utterly exhausted. The words were at his lips but his body had not an ounce of strength left. He slowly closed his eyes, seeming to become a frozen mudfish drifting downstream, not knowing where he would float to.