Sword light flashed as Zhuo Lingzhao was about to cut off Ning Bufan’s hands when suddenly someone laughed heartily and descended like a flying general, blocking Ning Bufan’s path.
The old man walked forward slowly, glanced sideways at Jiang Chong, and said, “Lord Jiang, it’s been quite a while!”
Jiang Chong was startled and said in a trembling voice, “It’s… it’s you… you’ve also left the capital?”
Zhuo Lingzhao saw the newcomer smiling kindly, about seventy years old. His heart jumped, knowing this elderly man must have something extraordinary about him. He immediately held his sword steady and stepped back. The guests in the hall saw this old man was unremarkable in appearance with shabby clothing, not knowing who this person was, and all became secretly suspicious.
The old man, seeing everyone staring at him intently, just smiled and clapped his hands, calling, “Come down, all of you!”
Everyone looked puzzled, thinking, “Are there more people up there?” Looking up, they saw figures moving and a man and woman descended. The man had a stern, square face with a rather tall and strong build—it was the former famous constable of Xiliang, known as “Constable Wu,” Wu Dingyuan. The young woman was slender and graceful like a lotus emerging from water—it was Jiuhua Mountain’s female disciple, Yan Ting.
As these three entered the scene, the guests in the hall immediately became chaotic. Lu Yun, Yang Suguan and others rushed forward to greet Wu Dingyuan, surrounding him with questions, keeping him extremely busy. Yan Ting knelt before her master to pay respects, while Juan’er was so excited she pulled her senior sister, crying and calling out. The three sect members’ reunion naturally brought both sorrow and joy.
While Wu Dingyuan and Yan Ting were busy greeting acquaintances, the old man wasn’t idle either. He walked to the third seat and sat down directly, then smiled and nodded at Qiong Wuchuan, “Minister Qiong, it’s been quite a while!”
Qiong Wuchuan laughed heartily, “How did you also come up the mountain? Did His Majesty permit you to leave the capital?”
The old man smiled, “Naturally so. Without His Majesty’s permission, could this servant have snuck out?” He turned to look at Jiang Chong and smiled, “But our Lord Jiang—instead of properly serving beside His Majesty, he ran to Mount Hua shouting orders, constantly wanting to cut off people’s hands. If His Majesty knew, wouldn’t he find it extremely strange?”
Hearing this mockery, Jiang Chong didn’t dare respond, his expression quite ugly. Zhuo Lingzhao frowned as he looked at the old man, “Who exactly are you, sir?”
The old man smiled slightly, “This servant’s surname is Liu, given name Jing.”
As soon as the two words “Liu Jing” were spoken, those standing nearby immediately shuddered. Others, seeing these people stunned like wooden chickens, quickly inquired. In an instant, one told ten, ten told a hundred, and the originally chattering hall immediately fell silent as death.
The old man, seeing all the guests looking horrified, immediately laughed heartily, “What’s wrong? This servant is just an old eunuch—why are you all so shocked? As if I were some kind of monster? How embarrassing.”
Everyone looked at each other, all speechless. The person before them was none other than the famous Liu Jing, Grand Eunuch of the Eastern Depot, who could stand as an equal with Jiang Chong and Liu Angtian!
Yang Suguan and others were all court officials. Seeing this Imperial Secretary Eunuch who attended the current emperor among the twelve palace supervisors, they couldn’t help but be secretly amazed.
Qin Zhonghai coughed and said in a low voice, “Strange—this old eunuch rarely leaves the palace. Why did he suddenly come here today?”
Yang Suguan also felt puzzled and nodded, “Whatever the case, this person leaving the palace must have some scheme. We must be careful.”
Lu Yun, seeing Wu Dingyuan with his head lowered and silent, quickly asked, “Brother Wu, how did you end up hiding behind the plaque with this person? Did you arrange to come up the mountain together?”
Wu Dingyuan, seeing the three looking at him, quickly waved his hands, “Don’t misunderstand, everyone. When I came up the mountain, I accidentally met this person on the road, but didn’t know he was Director Liu.” Everyone made sounds of understanding, half-believing.
Yang Suguan, seeing doubts mounting, was about to pursue the matter when suddenly Liu Jing said, “Friends, I came up Mount Hua today just to see the heroic bearing of heroes from all sides and see who is the current Martial Arts Alliance Leader. Has one been elected now?”
Hearing about this matter, Yang Suguan felt his head spinning. Earlier, Zhuo Lingzhao had defeated Ling Ding, and Ning Bufan was unwilling to compete with him. By all accounts, this “Sword God” was already the current Martial Arts Alliance Leader. Thinking that Shaolin’s reputation would definitely be ruined in his hands, his face had turned pale.
Jiang Chong stepped forward with a smile, “Director Liu asks well. The currently recognized Martial Arts Alliance Leader is our Kunlun Sect Leader Zhuo Lingzhao, Master Zhuo. Friends should follow his commands from now on!”
Liu Jing smiled, “Oh! So the Martial Arts Alliance Leader is already Leader Zhuo—I didn’t know this. But how did our Ning Bufan, Hero Ning, who’s recognized as number one in the world, get defeated? Did he lose in fists and feet, or was his swordwork insufficient?” He looked at Zhuo Lingzhao with inquiring eyes.
This question from Liu Jing was more effective than any violent intimidation or sinister plotting. Indeed, Zhuo Lingzhao’s expression changed as he shook his head, “Zhuo has never competed with Sect Leader Ning, so I don’t know who’s stronger.”
Liu Jing smiled, “So you two haven’t competed yet—then how can Master Zhuo call himself Martial Arts Alliance Leader? Could it be that Master Zhuo is naturally prophetic or can predict the future?”
Hearing this mockery, Zhuo Lingzhao’s face immediately turned various shades of blue and red. The same words—when Minister Qiong said them, they came out violent and angry, but this Liu Jing could say them mockingly and cleverly, making them impossible to refute.
Jiang Chong sneered, “This matter has nothing to do with Master Zhuo. Our Hero Ning is very self-aware and simply doesn’t dare compete. You can’t blame Leader Zhuo.” He then turned to look at Ning Bufan with a cruel smile, “How about it? Is there anything wrong with what I said?”
Ning Bufan coughed lightly, “What Lord Jiang says is correct. I’m no match for Master Zhuo—better not to compete.”
Qiong Wuchuan, seeing his cowardly appearance, was immediately anxious and angry, shouting loudly, “Here you go again! What exactly are you afraid of?”
Liu Jing reached out and patted Qiong Wuchuan’s shoulder, laughing, “The Minister doesn’t know—he’s afraid of our Lord Jiang, not Master Zhuo.”
Qiong Wuchuan knew Liu Jing was eloquent and must have intentions in speaking this way, so he pretended to respond with surprise, “Director, this is very strange. Our Hero Ning is clearly supposed to compete with Leader Zhuo—how could he fear Lord Jiang? Could it be that Lord Jiang has also practiced powerful martial arts?”
Liu Jing laughed heartily, “Exactly! Minister Qiong speaks correctly. Our Lord Jiang has indeed practiced two divine skills—one called ‘Iron Mouth Follow Heart Skill’ and another called ‘Imperial Ear-Whispering Skill.’ When these two divine skills are used, even Hero Ning with his martial arts must admit defeat.”
Qiong Wuchuan, knowing Liu Jing was intentionally mocking, pretended to ask, “What is ‘Iron Mouth Follow Heart Skill’? What kind of miraculous martial art is that?”
Liu Jing smiled, “This ‘Iron Mouth Follow Heart Skill,’ as the name suggests, means one mouth has vast supernatural powers and infinite might. As long as the iron mouth sits in the Ministry of Justice court and these two lips shout a few times, heh heh, no matter how capable you are, with thousands of wanted posters and tens of thousands of officers sent out, even if you flee to the ends of the earth, they’ll still take your life.”
Qiong Wuchuan exclaimed, “So powerful! Even more amazing than the skill of striking cattle across mountains!” The two were singing in harmony, both mocking Jiang Chong’s usual behavior, and all the guests found it amusing.
Liu Jing sighed, “That’s nothing—compared to ‘Imperial Ear-Whispering Skill,’ this ‘Iron Mouth Follow Heart Skill’ can only be considered crude martial arts!”
Qiong Wuchuan asked curiously, “Imperial Ear-Whispering Skill—what kind of powerful martial art is this?”
Liu Jing said, “Iron Mouth Follow Heart Skill only deals with one person, but Imperial Ear-Whispering Skill is truly extraordinary. As long as he whispers a few words before the Golden Luang Hall, any sect with hundreds or thousands of people can become the enemy of all people under heaven overnight. If he says you’re female, you can’t be male; if he says you’re male, you can’t be female. Black and white, right and wrong—whatever he says. Red, yellow, green, white—whatever he bites. After a few bites, whether you’re loyally serving the country or have a heart of pure dedication, you’ll still be sent to the execution ground. You see, our Lord Jiang has boundless magical power—how can common people resist?”
Qiong Wuchuan showed an expression of admiration and nodded, “I see! No wonder Ning Bufan fears him to death. This title of number one in the world should be given to our Lord Jiang.”
Jiang Chong’s face turned completely red as he smiled awkwardly in response, “You two talk too much. As they say, the jianghu has its own rules—we court people should speak less.”
Liu Jing smiled, “I was just chatting casually with Minister Qiong to pass the time. Why is Lord Jiang unhappy? Fine! If you want this servant to shut up, I’ll be quiet. Everyone, please speak freely and… release whatever you need to.”
At this time, everyone knew they were intentionally targeting Jiang Chong. If they spoke up, they’d inevitably get involved in the competition between two powerful ministers, so they all remained silent.
Qiong Wuchuan waved his hand and smiled, “If everyone has something to say, please speak up. Why so quiet?”
That Qian Lingyi usually loved showing off most. Seeing no one dared respond, he immediately sneered, “You rotten old man, stop farting—no one will think you’re mute.”
Everyone heard Qian Lingyi speak so boldly and were shocked. Indeed, Liu Jing made a sound of surprise, “Who are you? How can you speak so rudely to Minister Qiong?”
Qian Lingyi said coldly, “I’m Qian Lingyi from Kunlun Mountain, nicknamed ‘Sword Shadow.'”
Liu Jing sighed, “So it’s Hero Qian… Alas, I thought Kunlun Mountain masters had extraordinary insight, but who knew they could be so ignorant. What a pity.”
Qian Lingyi, relying on Jiang Chong’s support, wasn’t afraid and angrily shouted, “What did you say!”
Liu Jing smiled, “Hero Qian, do you really think this old gentleman is just a rotten old man?”
Qian Lingyi’s heart jumped—only then remembering Qiong Wuchuan’s extraordinary status. He looked at Jin Lingshuang and others, seeing everyone hanging their heads low, not daring to move, and realized he’d caused great trouble. He coughed and mumbled, “I… I was…”
Liu Jing sighed, “Who do you think he is? Someone you can casually abuse?”
Qian Lingyi smiled apologetically, “No… how could I have such intentions…”
Liu Jing’s expression suddenly turned cold as he shouted, “Audacious commoner! Do you know he has the iron scroll and crimson book bestowed by the founding emperor in his home? Even in the Golden Luang Hall, His Majesty doesn’t dare scold him! Is such a person someone a small commoner like you can curse? Aren’t you afraid of losing your head!”
Qian Lingyi was scared out of his wits and said in a trembling voice, “I… I didn’t mean to…”
Liu Jing said sternly, “His twenty-four-section dragon-headed golden whip can even strike the emperor, yet you call him a rotten old man who farts randomly. Do you think you’re better than His Majesty? Do you want to rebel?”
Qian Lingyi was so frightened he fell to his knees and kowtowed, “Please spare my life, Director! I spoke wrongly with this dog mouth! I deserve to be beaten! I deserve to be beaten!” He began slapping himself, the sounds echoing loudly.
Everyone saw Liu Jing force Qian Lingyi to kowtow and kneel with just a few words, and all secretly admired him. Wu Dingyuan thought, “These two treacherous ministers Jiang Chong and Liu Jing are truly formidable, each with tremendous abilities. Compared to their wit and eloquence, I’m a hundred and eight thousand li behind.” Yang Suguan and Qin Zhonghai were also extremely impressed, each secretly pondering and learning this old eunuch’s methods.
Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing his disciple treated so miserably, coughed and said, “My poor supervision led to my disciple’s rude speech. Please forgive us, both lords.”
Zhuo Lingzhao’s words showed sufficient respect to Liu Jing, but Liu Jing showed no sign of relaxing, only smiling, “Leader Zhuo, don’t worry. Our Minister Qiong is magnanimous and won’t hold grudges against Hero Qian. However, his precious daughter is His Majesty’s sister-in-law. I wonder if His Majesty has such broad tolerance to forgive a small commoner cursing his in-law. Alas, that’s a crime punishable by execution of nine generations!”
Hearing this, Qian Lingyi was even more frightened and kowtowed like pounding garlic. Jiang Chong knew Liu Jing’s sharp tongue—if he spoke up to plead, he’d inevitably be randomly slandered, so he remained silent.
Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing Liu Jing give no face at all, suddenly shouted and pressed his hand on his sword hilt, saying in a deep voice, “What exactly do Director Liu and Minister Qiong want with this coordinated performance? If you want to blindly protect Ning Bufan, we’ll just go down the mountain—no need to watch his hypocritical retirement. Consider it all bullshit!”
Zhuo Lingzhao radiated killing intent. For the peerless martial arts in Tianshan, this “Sword God” had been willing to turn against Jiang Chong. If Liu Jing really pressed too hard, he was capable of anything.
Liu Jing smiled slightly, “Leader Zhuo has such a big temper!” He then beckoned slightly to Qian Lingyi, “Alright! Seeing this Hero Qian has kowtowed until his head is broken, he seems genuinely repentant. Get up!”
Qian Lingyi sobbed as if receiving imperial pardon, “This commoner is spared by the Director and will never forget your great kindness.”
Liu Jing smiled, “You won’t forget my great kindness? Then what about Lord Jiang? Are you planning to switch sides to me?”
Qian Lingyi stole a glance and indeed saw Jiang Chong’s unfriendly expression. His heart jumped in alarm as he quickly shrank behind Zhuo Lingzhao.
Zhuo Lingzhao gave a sharp laugh, no longer paying attention to Liu Jing, and stared angrily at Ning Bufan, shouting, “Are you retiring or what? Quickly give us a straight answer! We don’t have time to waste with you!”
Earlier, Jiang Chong had dominated the entire scene with Ning Bufan constantly on the defensive. Now that Liu Jing had appeared to provide balance, logically Ning Bufan should be overjoyed. But strangely, seeing Liu Jing, Ning Bufan’s expression showed no relief—instead, he seemed even more troubled. The guests in the arena, watching this, were all secretly puzzled.
Ning Bufan sighed, “I retire today precisely to stay away from disputes. In the future, whether it’s court evil fighting or jianghu killing, none of it will concern me, Ning Bufan. Please, honored lords, be magnanimous and stop making things difficult for me.” His words truly indicated intention to retire, having nothing to do with Jiang Chong. He reached into the third bronze plate and took out a piece of white silk, handing it to Liu Jing, “Please, my lord, pass this white silk to Consort Qiong. Tell her that until my retirement from jianghu, Ning Bufan has always been worthy of her.”
Everyone saw the white silk was tattered and old, yet it was connected to the current consort, and all felt curious. Jiang Chong’s face changed dramatically, and even Qiong Wuchuan sighed.
Liu Jing, seeing everyone’s faces showing speculation, unfolded the white silk. Everyone saw it was covered with bloodstains and had someone’s inscription. Qiong Wuchuan read aloud, “Merit for the nation, signed Zhu Yan.”
Wu Dingyuan frowned and asked, “Who is Zhu Yan?”
Yang Suguan whispered, “This person’s name cannot be spoken carelessly—he was the previous Emperor Wu Ying’s name.”
Wu Dingyuan exclaimed, “So… so Ning Bufan knew the previous emperor…” Instantly his mind became confused, feeling this matter was very suspicious, but he couldn’t figure it out for the moment and could only frown in deep thought.
Nearby, Jiang Chong’s face was even more iron-blue, his whole body trembling slightly as if extremely nervous. His lips trembled as he murmured, “Dear heaven… could it be that things aren’t over… no… absolutely not…”
At this time, Zhuo Lingzhao had Jiang Chong’s support while Ning Bufan also had Liu Jing’s assistance. Both sides could be said to fear no one. Even if Ning Bufan changed his mind and decided to fight, even competing for the Martial Arts Alliance Leader position, it would be fine. Liu Jing, seeing him silent with lowered head, couldn’t help but persuade, “Will you really leave like this? We still have so many great matters waiting to be done—can you face your martial arts abilities?”
Hearing the words “so many great matters waiting to be done,” Ning Bufan’s body trembled as he quickly lowered his head and cupped his hands, “Please spare me, Director. For twenty years, Bufan has consistently served the court loyally and devoted himself completely. Please, Director, bear more responsibility for future matters.”
The guests in the hall, hearing their conversation, all understood. It seemed the relationship between Ning Bufan and Liu Jing was certainly extraordinary—no wonder Jiang Chong, despite his ministerial status, had traveled so far to cause trouble. But Ning Bufan had always had a chivalrous reputation—how could he be involved with Liu Jing? This was truly puzzling.
Seeing Ning Bufan insist on retiring, Liu Jing couldn’t conveniently obstruct him further. He stared at Ning Bufan for a long time and finally sighed deeply, “Fine. Considering our years of friendship, go retire in peace! This servant wishes you safety and longevity in the future. I’ll also watch over these disciples and grand-disciples of yours, absolutely not letting them be bullied.”
Hearing these words, Ning Bufan was immediately overjoyed and bowed, “Thank you for your magnanimity, Eunuch.” He turned and bowed to all the guests, “Thank you all for coming to observe the ceremony.” He turned again and cupped his hands to Zhuo Lingzhao with an apologetic smile, “Alliance Leader, please guide Mount Hua’s lineage in the future—Bufan is infinitely grateful.”
Zhuo Lingzhao, hearing his flattery, couldn’t help but smile. Nearby, Yang Suguan, Qin Zhonghai, Lu Yun and others all wore bitter expressions, knowing that after Ning Bufan’s retirement, the martial arts world’s fortune was exhausted. Thinking of Shaolin being bullied from now on, Yang Suguan felt even more deeply responsible. Despite his long experience, he still felt bewildered and at a loss.
Ning Bufan, seeing no one would stop him anymore, happily took the long sword and picked up the fire lacquer to seal it. With Jiang Chong and Liu Jing mutually restraining each other and Zhuo Lingzhao having successfully seized the alliance leader position, neither righteous nor evil sides had anyone interfering. It seemed this sword sealing was definitely settled.
Just as the fire lacquer was about to fall, suddenly a voice sighed, “Fame, profit, and romantic love bind people tightly. To be called the world’s number one master yet fall to this state—it’s truly unbearable to watch.”
Everyone turned to look—the speaker sat on a wooden stool with a melancholy expression. It was “Nine Provinces Sword King” Fang Zijing. His voice was calm, neither reproaching nor stopping, just floating and ethereal as if powerless. They heard him say, “Young Ning Bufan, if today you were to use these martial arts to act chivalrously in jianghu and do great deeds for all living beings, as the current Sword King, I would compete with you to determine victory or defeat no matter what…”
Ning Bufan had been excitedly waiting to seal his sword, but hearing these words was like being struck by a club. He stopped and smiled bitterly, “Master Fang has such a good memory—after over ten years, you still remember what I said before we fought…”
Qin Zhonghai, hearing his master speak this way, knew something was unusual and thought, “Hearing master speak like this, it seems he once fought with Ning Bufan, but I don’t know who won or lost…” As he pondered, suddenly his heart jumped in alarm, “Everyone says master is one of the world’s great swordsmen, yet why did he abandon sword for saber? It seems he… he also lost to Ning Bufan’s sword…” For a moment his emotions surged and he couldn’t speak for a long time.
Fang Zijing slowly stood up and walked before Ning Bufan, sighing, “Back then I respected you as a swordsman, which is why I fought with you. Who would have thought that fame’s reins and profit’s chains would bind you so tightly? You’re called a generation’s grandmaster, yet even at the moment of retirement you cannot be at ease. Ning Bufan, what exactly did you practice martial arts for? For worldly fame? Or for trivial gains?”
Hearing these words, Ning Bufan’s throat suddenly choked and he found it difficult to answer.
Fang Zijing stared at him and reached for “Brave Stone,” drawing half the blade with a ringing sound, “Come look—do you still recognize him?”
The blade was white as a mirror, immediately reflecting a face. Ning Bufan looked down and saw the face in the blade was weathered and worn, as if having suffered all the world’s torments, with layers of wrinkles at the eyes’ corners, suggesting endless scheming.
Lust, ambition, jealousy, hatred… That middle-aged man with a face full of flattery was none other than yourself—Bufan, Ning Bufan…
Ning Bufan stared blankly at his own reflection, his heart full of sorrow, when the old face in the blade gradually faded and slowly revealed a pure, innocent small face with a runny nose—a simple child smiling foolishly at him.
Past events flew into his heart, and suddenly Ning Bufan could no longer contain himself as tears immediately slid down his cheeks.
Fang Zijing said quietly, “You were originally a martial arts prodigy rare in a hundred years, your swordwork supremely elegant. Who knew that after more than ten years of not seeing you, you’d fallen to this state. Today’s mountain guests who don’t recognize you might think you’re Mount Hua’s hired laborer. What has worn down your spirit? A woman’s affection? Wealth? Or power? When treacherous ministers come and say a few words, you obediently extend your hands to be slaughtered. You… you… you waste your genius—how can you face your natural talents?”
Hearing these words, Ning Bufan covered his face with his hands, tears falling like rain. Everyone seeing his expression was astonished.
Fang Zijing sheathed the sword and placed the hilt in Ning Bufan’s hands, “Ning Bufan! As a swordsman, you should pick up your sword and fight magnificently! Whether you die or live, it’s all one life! You must know that after sealing your sword today, no matter how high your martial arts become, there will be no opponents in the world to compete with!”
Fang Zijing held extremely high seniority in the martial arts world. When he spoke, everyone in the arena became solemn, and several young people felt their blood boiling. Before this generation’s sword sect master, how could treacherous ministers like Jiang Chong interrupt? They all remained speechless.
Ning Bufan slowly raised his head and looked at the two banners on the beams: “Eight Hundred Victories, Martial Arts Honored Under Heaven.” Ning Bufan sighed softly, thinking, “Yes… I am originally a swordsman, knowing only how to use a sword… When did I become so timid, useless, so shameless and ridiculous… I don’t live for fame and profit… nor do I live for Mount Hua… I live in this world only for my sword…”
Suddenly he roared toward the sky, “Dance! Let’s dance together!” He grasped the sword hilt and raised it high above his head, spinning in a circle like dancing, then walked three steps forward, two steps sideways, jumping in place continuously, as if performing the ritual dance from temple fairs.
That dance of years past had produced a peerless master famous throughout the world; today’s dance might be the world’s final performance. Mount Hua disciples immediately burst into tears, while Zhao Laowu, Feicheng Guai and others, remembering the past, wept even more bitterly. The guests, not understanding, all opened their mouths wide, not knowing what had happened.
Fang Zijing said indifferently, “Qin Baxian’s successor has already emerged from the mountains. Don’t you want to compete with him? Isn’t this the opportunity you’ve been waiting for all your life of martial arts practice?”
Ning Bufan suddenly leaped up and laughed heartily, “Yes! Qin Baxian! What a pity you died early, otherwise I, Ning Bufan, would definitely compete with you!”
Wu Dingyuan’s heart jumped in alarm, thinking, “Again this surnamed Qin—who exactly is he? How does he seem like quite an important figure?”
Hearing this name, Jiang Chong couldn’t help but change color, then stared viciously at Wu Dingyuan with great hatred, thinking, “Again these hateful rebels—even in death their souls won’t rest!”
Liu Jing had been silently observing. Seeing Ning Bufan’s face full of joy and excitement, he also smiled faintly, “Sect Leader Ning, it’s been long since I’ve seen you so happy.”
Ning Bufan laughed heartily, “Don’t call me sect leader—at this moment I’m just an ordinary swordsman, a swordsman seeking my own path!” He flew into mid-air and shouted, “What fame and profit, what power and wealth—all of you get lost!” Where his internal power reached, “Brave Stone” was already unsheathed. With a resounding clang, the sound shook the roof tiles, and dust from the beams actually fell down in streams.
Everyone’s faces showed alarm, finally knowing Ning Bufan’s true power. It seemed only now had he finally achieved liberation and recovered the bearing of the world’s number one master.
Fang Zijing laughed heartily, “What a Ning Bufan! This is truly number one in the world!”
Ning Bufan held his long sword, his eyes actually becoming bright and clear. He said, “Thanks to Senior Fang’s guidance and instruction, Bufan has finally thought clearly. If Mount Hua suffers treacherous harm in the future, heaven’s mandate will protect it—no need for this mortal to say more.” He turned to look at everyone and declared loudly, “From today onward, Ning Bufan shall retire and never draw sword again in this lifetime. If you wish to instruct me or compete with me, please come down to the arena.”
Everyone seeing his gaze couldn’t help but shudder. Originally this person had only looked like a wretched shopkeeper, but now with sword in hand, he seemed like a giant, impossible to look at directly. Jiang Chong had wanted to intimidate, but when their gazes met, he was shocked and didn’t dare breathe.
Ning Bufan held his sword and descended to the arena, looking up proudly with the truly domineering bearing of the world’s number one. Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing his hunting spirit aroused, thought that as long as he defeated this Ning Bufan, his position as “Martial Arts Alliance Leader” would be substantively deserved with no one left to mock. With this thought, he stepped forward and said coldly, “Brother Ning, Zhuo would like to receive your instruction today.”
Ning Bufan looked at Zhuo Lingzhao and actually laughed toward the sky, “Leader Zhuo is originally a generation’s hero. Actually, if not for someone interfering, I would have wanted to fight you long ago!” This Ning Bufan had been so cowardly before, but now with sword in hand, even his speaking tone had become confident. The watching crowd had originally looked down on him, but now none dared speak mockingly.
Zhuo Lingzhao smiled slightly, “To be regarded so highly by you is Zhuo’s good fortune for three lifetimes.” With his reputation from defeating three Shaolin masters, he was already a figure of supreme prestige in Central Plains martial arts, fully qualified to compete with Ning Bufan.
The two looked at each other, each raising their long swords as they walked to the arena center.
The twin heroes stared at each other, each sizing up their opponent. Ning Bufan saw Zhuo Lingzhao’s gaze like blazing torches, his body radiating killing intent, and smiled slightly, asking, “Sword God Lingzhao, tell me—what is your sword!”
Zhuo Lingzhao’s eyes shot out brilliant light as he smiled coldly and grimly, “Divine sword like me—I am the Sword God! All justice and righteousness lie within my long sword!” As he spoke, he raised his sword sheath horizontally before his chest, further displaying the Sword God’s domineering presence.
Ning Bufan nodded, “Such arrogance!”
Zhuo Lingzhao’s mouth curved up proudly, “But what is your sword?”
Ning Bufan shrugged and smiled slightly, “I’ve been terribly stupid since childhood—I can’t read or write, can’t do crafts or carving. Growing up, I don’t understand power schemes, immortals, Buddhas, ghosts, or monsters. I only know how to practice swordwork and only like practicing swordwork.” He gently stroked his sword hilt, “I am the sword, and the sword is me.”
The two most famous masters of the current era stood in the arena staring at each other, and the great hall immediately generated a surging killing intent. One was the self-proclaimed “Sword God,” a Western Region sect leader, the most brilliant genius swordsman since Kunlun Mountain’s founding; the other was the recognized “number one in the world,” the current strongest master, Mount Hua’s sect leader about to seal his sword and retire. This battle could be called earth-shaking and unprecedented in history. The watching guests, pressed by the killing intent between the two men, all retreated to the walls, immediately clearing a large space in the arena.
Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing the peerless master before him with magnificent presence, truly having the bearing of Central Plains’ number one, thought, “This person has dominated Central Plains for over ten years with no one ever defeating him by even half a move. I wonder to what realm his swordwork has reached? Could he really have comprehended the Heavenly Way as rumors claim?” He couldn’t help but feel slightly afraid, but then thought again, his heroic spirit rising, “How many masters have I, Zhuo Lingzhao, encountered in my life? Even someone as formidable as Ling Ding was defeated by my sword! This Ning Bufan is only forty-some years old—how high can his skill be? Let me tear down his false reputation as ‘number one in the world’!”
With this thought, confident of victory, he cupped his hands and said, “Forgive my presumption!”
With a ringing sound, his long sword flashed and “Sword Leopard” was immediately deployed. Sword rain fell like waterfalls and flying springs, instantly attacking with sixty-four strikes, each faster than the last. Though ordinary martial arts had so-called “triple combos” and “seven-hit techniques,” never had anyone heard of attacking with dozens of strikes at once. Sword light blazed like violent storms, striking directly toward Ning Bufan.
Yang Suguan, seeing such fast swordwork, was also horrified, thinking, “My ‘Nirvana Rebirth’ is already a rare marvel in the martial arts world, yet this person’s swordwork is even higher and faster. When we fought in the capital that day, fortunately he was empty-handed, otherwise how would I have my life today?” Everyone was forced by the sword light until they could barely look directly, only squinting to watch this rare spectacle.
With a clang, Zhuo Lingzhao had already sheathed his sword.
Everyone looked bewildered, not knowing who had won or lost this exchange.
The great masters in the arena could see clearly—just before the earth-shaking sword flowers arrived, Ning Bufan had already raised his sword horizontally and lightly pierced Zhuo Lingzhao’s chest. This sword was marvelously subtle—though its movement wasn’t fast, it attacked through a gap in the massive sword net. Fortunately Zhuo Lingzhao’s lightness skill was excellent, and at the moment the long sword broke through his clothes, he had already leaped backward urgently, otherwise he would have already perished.
Zhuo Lingzhao raised his eyebrows but said nothing more, directly raising his sword and walking toward Ning Bufan. In an instant, sword light flashed as the long sword swept from left to right toward Ning Bufan’s waist. This sword carried thunderous sound like raging waves, and those on both sides felt the fierce wind cutting their faces with burning pain. From the sword wind, the true power attached to this sword was extraordinary. This sword’s momentum was magnificent—it was “Sword Wave” from Kunlun’s thirteen swords.
Ning Bufan’s feet didn’t move, only slightly bending his knees, his arm extended straight with the long sword slowly pointing toward the right front. Ning Bufan’s sword waited for the enemy with ease—if Zhuo Lingzhao didn’t withdraw, though his long sword’s force was fierce, before the blade could touch Ning Bufan, his wrist would be cut off first. Everyone admired this in their hearts and couldn’t help calling out approval loudly. Lower-ranked disciples who couldn’t appreciate Ning Bufan’s swordwork thought the crowd was cheering for Zhuo Lingzhao’s supremely domineering sword technique.
Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing his sword move broken, didn’t wait for the technique to finish but shook his wrist, immediately thrusting the sword tip upward toward Ning Bufan’s throat. This sword was as fast as lightning but its path was winding and curved, making it impossible to determine where that sword point was going. The sword tip trembled, and all vital points on Ning Bufan’s upper body were already controlled—this was “Sword Python,” one of Kunlun’s thirteen swords.
Yang Suguan admired this in his heart, thinking, “Zhuo Lingzhao truly deserves to be one of the four contemporary grandmasters. With his swordwork like this, how many people in the world could take even one of his moves?”
Just then, Ning Bufan raised his right hand to his waist, his blade pointing limply to the left side. Everyone saw this sword had no momentum at all and frowned, not knowing what use this sword served. But Fang Zijing nodded secretly, clearly quite impressed.
Indeed, seeing this seemingly useless sword style, Zhuo Lingzhao had to immediately change moves, as Ning Bufan’s sword point had again targeted a vital flaw in Zhuo Lingzhao’s swordwork.
Zhuo Lingzhao gave a clear whistle and attacked again with his sword. For a time, “Sword Leopard,” “Sword Wave,” “Sword Python,” and “Sword Flight” were all deployed—more than ten completely different sword techniques used together without any artificial traces, like flowing clouds and water, accomplished in one breath. Everyone’s eyes were dazzled and they stared in amazement, but Ning Bufan didn’t move his feet or raise his hands, relying only on wrist trembling to point his sword tip, yet forcing Zhuo Lingzhao to immediately change moves.
Lu Yun, standing to one side comparing notes, thought, “When I made that three-punch agreement with that Lord Lu, he also didn’t raise hands or move feet to break my boxing techniques. It seems this Ning Bufan is the same, except his skill is even more superior than Lord Lu’s. Military strategy says: ‘The skilled warrior attacks what the enemy must defend, thus controlling others without being controlled, reaching the formless—how divine!’ According to this principle, Ning Bufan has already seen through Zhuo Lingzhao’s sword paths and movements, which is why he can control first and attack what the enemy must defend.”
After over a hundred moves, the great hall was full of the Sword God’s footprints, but Ning Bufan hadn’t moved half a step. Zhuo Lingzhao’s face was iron-blue as he slowed his hands and quietly contemplated his next attack method.
Ning Bufan smiled slightly, “Don’t rush to attack. The Sword God’s swordwork shouldn’t be just this.” Though his tone was modest, his words were like an elder instructing a junior.
Zhuo Lingzhao was furious beyond measure, thinking, “If I can’t force him to move one step today, how can I walk in the jianghu in the future? What face will Kunlun Mountain have before the world’s heroes?” Thinking that he was already the Martial Arts Alliance Leader, if he suffered an inexplicable crushing defeat today, all his efforts would be wasted. With this thought, he took a deep breath and mobilized his abundant internal power. Instantly, a wisp of white smoke drifted past, and frost actually condensed on Zhuo Lingzhao’s sword.
Jin Lingshuang was shocked and said in a trembling voice, “This is ‘Sword Cold’…” Everyone in the hall felt increasingly cold, as if even the air would freeze. Zhuo Lingzhao’s sword seemed able to absorb heat—frost flourished on the sword, emitting wisps of cold air. As Zhuo Lingzhao slowly danced his long sword, white misty ice dust floated over and the sword body gradually disappeared without form. Jin Lingshuang said tremblingly, “This is ‘Sword Cold’ and ‘Sword Shadow’ combined into one! Heavens! Our sect leader’s power has reached such depths…”
Zhuo Lingzhao’s body was wrapped in white mist as he slowly approached Ning Bufan, his cold sword gleaming. The sword’s internal power seemed highly poisonous—if it scratched skin and flesh, it wouldn’t just be a matter of bleeding a few drops, but would also cause injury from that cold poison. In the misty haze, Zhuo Lingzhao’s blade had transformed into a vague mass of white light. The hall was filled with cold air and an eerie atmosphere everywhere.
Lu Yun thought, “Earlier, Ning Bufan could win by anticipating the enemy’s moves, but Zhuo Lingzhao’s technique is too incredible—he can actually hide his sword path. Looking at this, Ning Bufan can’t see his opponent’s sword route and definitely can’t wait for the enemy with ease anymore.”
Originally, Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing his opponent continuously breaking his sword moves, knew this world’s number one master’s sword way attainment had definitely reached the realm of divine clarity, actually able to instantly identify flaws in his swordwork. Therefore, he hid his sword path to see how this Ning Bufan would break his ultimate technique when unable to see.
Zhuo Lingzhao shouted, “Go!” Suddenly sword light flashed and white mist scattered as this ultimate technique combining two great sword arts was unleashed.
This sword’s wind sound was desolate, accompanied by fierce white mist and thin smoke, cold air rushing forward with truly imposing momentum. It was unknown how Ning Bufan would resist.
Suddenly there were two sounds—”hey” and “hmph”—and everyone craned their necks to look urgently, seeing the two great masters without a word each retreat one step, both having sheathed their swords. But their movements were too fast, and with Zhuo Lingzhao using formless swordwork, it was truly difficult to see who had won or lost between them.
A mountain wind blew into the hall, and amid everyone’s shocked voices, a piece of Zhuo Lingzhao’s sleeve fell down. This sword had already determined victory and defeat—Zhuo Lingzhao had lost.
Ning Bufan’s eyes showed pity as he said softly, “You’ve lost.”
Zhuo Lingzhao said tremblingly, “I already used ‘Sword Shadow’—logically you definitely couldn’t see my sword path. You… how did you break my swordwork!”
Zhuo Lingzhao had always been known for his deep scheming. Years ago he had defeated two great masters, Ling Yin and Li Tieshan, with one move, relying entirely on sinister plots. Yet now, despite exhausting his schemes and ultimate techniques, he was easily broken by Ning Bufan, who seemed to have strength to spare.
Ning Bufan said, “Your sword shadow relies on internal power manipulation. Though my eyes can’t see your sword path, I can sense the killing intent on your sword, which is why I could break your technique.”
Zhuo Lingzhao gave a bitter laugh, “Killing intent on the sword?”
Ning Bufan nodded, “I can discern the movements and actions of any martial artist from their killing intent—this is the essence of our sect’s martial arts. Though I can’t know everything in your mind, guessing techniques from your footsteps and breathing isn’t difficult.”
Zhuo Lingzhao laughed bitterly, “So… so no matter what techniques I use, you can predict them all?”
Ning Bufan nodded, “Correct. However, Leader Zhuo need not blame yourself. Though I’ve defeated you now, my internal power is inferior to yours, and my swordwork is also inferior to yours. What I excel in is merely the four words ‘controlling the enemy first’—it’s not that my martial arts are truly higher than yours.”
Everyone understood clearly that Ning Bufan’s words were merely consolation. This Sword God was indeed a large step behind the world’s number one master.
The martial arts sought in the world were nothing more than two things: “force” and “wisdom.” In terms of “force,” what was sought were divine techniques beyond opponents’ abilities—if your techniques could be one step faster, I must be two steps faster than you; if you could lift a hundred pounds, I must be able to carry a thousand pounds. Victory depended purely on greater strength. Whether it was Ling Zhen’s hard external practice or Zhuo Lingzhao’s mastery of mysterious sword techniques, the path to victory was the same: “My strength is greater than yours.”
But discussing martial arts “wisdom” was about the skill of deceiving opponents. If you want to go left, I can deceive you into going right; if you want to go right, I can bluff you into going left. Once your techniques are completely predicted by me, no matter how fast or fierce your moves, how strong or powerful your force, I can “anticipate the enemy’s moves” and “control others without being controlled,” thus easily achieving victory. Practicing swordwork this way, even a three-year-old child with a thin needle could defeat a strongman’s thousand-pound iron hammer. For this “wisdom,” every sect practiced deceptive techniques hoping to fool opponents. But none could practice to Ning Bufan’s level.
Lu Yun, being naturally intelligent, watched the two exchange moves and had his own insights. He thought, “As long as one can anticipate enemy moves, any ordinary technique can become the world’s most powerful ultimate move. Ning Bufan is truly a genius—otherwise how could he use the most common techniques to break others’ most complex swordwork?”
Ning Bufan’s sword contained no true qi or internal power—just an ordinary sharp blade. But Zhuo Lingzhao’s sword was full of negative energy and cold qi, using speed to win when attacking. Zhuo Lingzhao’s sword moves were magnificent and powerful, like delicious delicacies with wonderful and varied flavors. But Ning Bufan’s sword moves were like plain vegetables and tofu—bland and unremarkable with nothing special about them. They required no internal power or lightness skill, just slowly raising the sword and casually thrusting out. Even a three-year-old child could perform such swordwork. Yet when the two sword arts compared, Ning Bufan actually defeated Zhuo Lingzhao. The difference lay in the two words “genius.”
Such marvelous swordwork had entered the “Heavenly Way” and was naturally the work of genius. Zhuo Lingzhao’s painstaking efforts to compensate for swordwork deficiencies with human strength could at most reach the supreme realm, which could only be called “human way” or “man conquers heaven.”
Lu Yun, seeing Zhuo Lingzhao silent with lowered head and Kunlun disciples with tears in their eyes, felt a trace of sympathy. He thought, “Actually, this Sword God really isn’t easy. To use a single blade to such supernatural craftsmanship—probably few people in the world could manage it. Poor thing—practicing to this level yet unable to withstand Ning Bufan’s casual thrust. How can he bear this?”
Ning Bufan, seeing Zhuo Lingzhao’s face full of pain and hanging head in silence, smiled, “Leader Zhuo, we need not compete further, right?” He turned to look at everyone in the hall and asked, “Is there anyone else who wishes to instruct me?”
Suddenly someone said grimly, “Turn around—we haven’t finished competing.” This voice was cold and proud—it was Zhuo Lingzhao. His eyes showed infinite fierce light, as if wanting to devour his enemy.
Everyone thought, “He’s exhausted all his treasured techniques while the other hasn’t even moved a step—what more does he want to compete?” Earlier, Ning Bufan hadn’t moved a single step yet had crushed the Sword God. Who was higher and who lower was obvious—they didn’t know what Zhuo Lingzhao still wanted to struggle for. But the guests, intimidated by Kunlun Mountain’s large numbers, didn’t dare speak mockingly.
Ning Bufan frowned, “Do you still want to fight?”
Zhuo Lingzhao said nothing but suddenly took a deep breath. Blue radiance immediately appeared on his sword, continuously rising one foot, two feet, three feet, slowly becoming like a giant torch with dazzling brilliance. The sun had already set and night filled the great hall, making that blue radiance brilliant and blinding, forcing everyone to close their eyes.
Ning Bufan nodded, “What powerful sword radiance! Ning has rarely seen such in his lifetime.”
Zhuo Lingzhao looked up proudly and declared, “This is why I call myself Sword God. Please instruct me, Sect Leader Ning!” Though he spoke, the sword radiance didn’t weaken but became even more brilliant and dazzling.
What is sword radiance? This sword radiance has been the highest realm pursued by swordsmen since ancient times. It is when a swordsman uses profound internal power to force out the phosphorus powder on the sword, making it burn in the air, appearing like a torch, hence called “radiance.” The light formed by this invisible sword qi can not only cut iron and split gold without resistance, but also has countless ingenious variations. If someone uses this to roam the world, even if you carry famous swords and precious blades, you cannot withstand a direct strike.
Everyone seeing such magnificent sword radiance praised it profusely. Older generation swordsmen had heard of sword radiance’s great reputation but had never witnessed it personally, because using sword radiance extremely depleted internal power. Very few in the jianghu had mastered it. Ordinary masters who could generate half a foot of sword radiance and sustain it for one breath would be enough to stand proud in the jianghu. Seeing Zhuo Lingzhao’s internal power seemed endless—his sword radiance not only reached three feet but also blazed brilliantly without weakening—this was truly unprecedented. Witnessing this heavenly wonder, many swordsmen actually shed tears, feeling their lives were worthwhile. Yang Suguan and others, remembering that Ling Ding had been defeated by “sword radiance,” felt even more solemn.
Though Fang Zijing looked down on Zhuo Lingzhao’s character, seeing such exceptional skill, he secretly admired it, thinking, “This sword radiance is so difficult to use—Zhuo Lingzhao must have practiced some miraculous method, otherwise he definitely couldn’t sustain it this long.”
Fang Zijing didn’t know this “sword radiance” was precisely the ultimate skill Zhuo Lingzhao had excavated from the ancient tomb. Without accumulated wisdom from predecessors, no matter how strong Zhuo Lingzhao’s internal power, he couldn’t use it so earth-shakingly.
Zhuo Lingzhao lightly shook his wrist, and the sword radiance flashed, sweeping directly toward Ning Bufan’s neck. Even holy monk Ling Ding’s indestructible vajra body couldn’t withstand one strike from this sword radiance. If this sword radiance swept across Ning Bufan’s throat, it would be the disaster of decapitation. Ning Bufan’s heart jumped in alarm, and he immediately lowered his head. The sword radiance swept behind him, instantly severing a wooden pillar. Everyone in the hall cried out and dodged.
Three feet of sword radiance plus five feet of sword body—nothing in heaven or earth could block its power. At this time, Zhuo Lingzhao relied on the invisible blue radiance on his sword to attack Ning Bufan from far away. With the two separated by great distance, Zhuo Lingzhao could kill with invisible sword qi, but Ning Bufan couldn’t raise his sword to counterattack, already at great disadvantage.
Amid flying wood chips, the sword radiance flashed again, slashing toward Ning Bufan’s back. Zhuo Lingzhao said sternly, “Fighting with me, the Sword God, you cannot remain standing still!”
Ning Bufan gave a sharp laugh and could only step aside. With a thunderous crash, the ground was actually split by Zhuo Lingzhao’s sword radiance into a deep groove. This floor was paved with blue stone, hard as iron, yet Zhuo Lingzhao had split it open—truly heart-stopping.
The sword radiance blazed and sword qi soared skyward. In moments, the two had exchanged over ten moves. With the great distance between them, Ning Bufan could hardly fight back and could only dodge around, unable to strike even once. After the time of one incense stick, the sword radiance became increasingly vigorous, showing no signs of weakening.
Sword qi crisscrossed the great hall, and everyone had long retreated to the sides. Even martial arts masters were the same—seeing this sword radiance so sharp, who dared face one direct strike? Everyone could only press against the walls, keeping their backs as close to the walls as possible to avoid being swept by Zhuo Lingzhao’s sword qi.
Zhuo Lingzhao shouted, “Ning Bufan! You can break all techniques in the human world, but this sword radiance is transmitted from the heavenly realm—let me see how you break it!” Instantly, the magnificent sword radiance scattered and transformed into thousands of faint blue lights, striking fiercely toward all around Ning Bufan.
Fang Zijing was startled, thinking, “A thousand rays of divine light! Such martial arts truly exist in the world!”
Ning Bufan, seeing this technique too powerful to resist directly, immediately leaped to the right side, jumping far away. The thousand sword radiances passed by his side, and with continuous soft hissing sounds, thousands of small holes were instantly punched in the spirit wall. Everyone seeing such sword qi was horrified, thinking, “This swordwork is too terrifying! Zhuo Lingzhao truly is a god among swords!”
Zhuo Lingzhao sneered and used another technique “A Thousand Rays of Divine Light.” Ning Bufan’s face turned pale as he urgently dodged, looking extremely disheveled.
After over a hundred moves, Ning Bufan was still dodging left and right, completely unable to parry. Some watching guests frowned and thought, “How can this world’s number one master not dare to fight back directly? Isn’t this just empty reputation?” Some troublemakers began shouting loudly, “Fight to the death quickly! Don’t just run away!” Mount Hua disciples immediately retorted, “What’s your hurry? If you want to compete, there’ll be plenty of opportunities later!” The great hall became chaotic with arguments and shouting.
Even before coming up the mountain, Zhuo Lingzhao had calculated clearly that relying on his sword radiance ultimate skill would definitely shock and win high praise from martial arts people. If Ning Bufan still didn’t dare fight back in a while, he need only stop fighting, and Ning Bufan couldn’t come forward to challenge again. Then the title of Martial Arts Alliance Leader would be his for the taking. Thinking that today he had first defeated Shaolin and then broken Mount Hua—such great achievements were unprecedented since Kunlun’s founding—he couldn’t help but show a pleased smile.
Zhuo Lingzhao held overwhelming advantage and was now striking at leisure, with considerable showing-off intent. He saw Ning Bufan stepping in the Seven Star pattern, moving quickly around him as if ready to pounce at any moment. Zhuo Lingzhao smiled slightly, thinking, “No matter how high your swordwork, you cannot resist my invisible sword radiance. If you insist on forcing your way in, isn’t that seeking death?”
Just as he was about to use “A Thousand Rays of Divine Light” to kill the enemy in one stroke, he suddenly noticed something unusual about the footprints on the ground. Most of the scattered footprints were his own, but there was a circle of peculiar footprints with him as the center, already forming a circle as if to surround him—these were made by Ning Bufan.
Zhuo Lingzhao looked at Ning Bufan and saw his expression was grave, as if calculating something. Zhuo Lingzhao’s heart jumped slightly as he thought, “Looking at his manner, he definitely has some scheme. I must be careful.”
Zhuo Lingzhao calculated their distance and saw Ning Bufan slowly approaching him, already about ten feet away. Zhuo Lingzhao was confident in his long sword’s power—with five feet of sword body plus three feet of sword radiance, it should be enough to destroy everything within eight feet. Now that Ning Bufan was slowly approaching, if he didn’t strike to kill him, when would he wait?
Zhuo Lingzhao shouted, “Come!” He suddenly inhaled true qi, and with a thunderous crash, “A Thousand Rays of Divine Light” shot out. The blue radiance on his sword surged forward like overturning seas and toppling mountains. No matter how strong Ning Bufan’s martial arts or how high his lightness skill, he would surely become a mass of bloody flesh.
Smoke dispersed and the great hall was full of flying ash. The guests stood up, all exclaiming in amazement. Mount Hua disciples, seeing their sect leader in mortal danger, beat their chests and stamped their feet, crying continuously. Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing victory decided, immediately smiled and was about to sheath his sword.
Just at this moment of joy and decided victory, suddenly a brilliant light flashed before his eyes. An object suddenly appeared before Zhuo Lingzhao—a long sword striking directly at his face. It was Ning Bufan’s sword “Brave Stone”!
This shock was extraordinary. Seeing “Brave Stone” already at his chest, Zhuo Lingzhao urgently retreated, trying to escape Ning Bufan’s attack in one move. Ning Bufan stepped forward, giving no ground. One advanced, one retreated—in moments they had moved over a zhang apart. All the guests in the hall, seeing this sudden change, were stunned.
Fang Zijing observed coldly, thinking, “What a Ning Bufan, actually grasping this ten-foot path to victory.”
Zhuo Lingzhao’s sword radiance could be called unparalleled in the current world. No matter how strong your palm power or how deep your internal skill, you couldn’t resist one thrust of his sword radiance. All flesh and blood bodies couldn’t compete with it. However, though this sword radiance was domineering, it had one small flaw—when using “A Thousand Rays of Divine Light,” there needed to be a moment to change breath. Earlier, Ning Bufan’s constant delays and dodging weren’t intended to exhaust Zhuo Lingzhao’s internal power, but to observe clearly the length of this breathing interval.
However, Zhuo Lingzhao’s skill was too profound—this breath change required only an instant. Ning Bufan calculated with his own lightness skill that he needed to get within ten feet of Zhuo Lingzhao to have a chance for a desperate strike. He waited long and finally made his desperate attempt, successfully attacking the inner circle one step before “A Thousand Rays of Divine Light” was unleashed, thus breaking Zhuo Lingzhao’s world-shocking sword radiance ultimate skill.
At this time, Zhuo Lingzhao also understood the dangerous situation. If Ning Bufan forced his way within ten feet, he could use lightning-fast techniques to attack the inner circle. If the two fought at close quarters, Zhuo Lingzhao’s proud sword radiance would become a burden. With Ning Bufan’s supreme swordwork, in close combat he was unmatched in the world—Zhuo Lingzhao would certainly be defeated miserably.
With this thought, Zhuo Lingzhao continuously retreated while Ning Bufan followed step by step with light, slow footsteps. Some ignorant guests laughed, “Are they dancing? How can one advance and one retreat so perfectly synchronized!”
These ignorant fools didn’t know how dangerous this situation was. If Ning Bufan was thrown beyond ten feet, Zhuo Lingzhao would use “A Thousand Rays of Divine Light” to kill him in one strike. But if Zhuo Lingzhao was forced within ten feet by Ning Bufan, his vital points would be controlled instantly. One retreating, one advancing—both were fighting beside the gates of hell.
Zhuo Lingzhao kept retreating and was about to reach the spirit wall. How could he have any way out then? He couldn’t break through the wall and flee down the mountain, could he? Cold sweat poured down Zhuo Lingzhao’s forehead. In his forty-plus years of sword practice, he had encountered countless masters but never such a strange opponent. In terms of internal power, Ling Ding earlier was probably above Ning Bufan. In terms of technique subtlety, he himself surpassed him by thousands of times. Yet no matter what, he just couldn’t break this person’s casual thrust.
Zhuo Lingzhao’s face was iron-blue as he thought, “If I lose so disgracefully in this battle, how can I walk in the jianghu in the future? I’ve been brilliant since childhood—every teacher who knew me praised me. Three years ago, heaven favored me and granted me the ancient Sword God’s techniques. With such natural talent and heavenly gifts, can I still not defeat him? I… I absolutely cannot lose…”
Instantly, thoughts of “mutual destruction” and “jade and stone perishing together” surfaced. Zhuo Lingzhao roared toward the sky, and the internal power in his chest and abdomen immediately surged wildly. Thousands of rays of light appeared at his sword tip, and the blue stone slabs on the ground shattered under this light’s stimulation. The watching crowd, seeing his momentum, all felt their hearts jump and were glad that facing him was the “world’s number one” Ning Bufan, not their own flesh and blood selves.
The room was filled with circling sword light, but those hundreds of sword radiances didn’t shoot forward but surrounded Zhuo Lingzhao’s body. Everyone seeing the sword radiance could actually curve were even more shocked and cried out. Ning Bufan, seeing Zhuo Lingzhao tightly wrapped by sword radiance with no openings left, also slowed his pace and no longer pursued. It seemed this battle wouldn’t end without death—one of the two great masters would certainly die tragically on the spot.
None of the guests in the arena knew that at this moment Zhuo Lingzhao had already shattered his long sword into fragments, relying on his incomparably magnificent internal power to make them circle and dance around him. But using internal power like this had already injured his organs. Blood flowed from the corner of his mouth, but under the dazzling light, no one saw his tragic state.
Zhuo Lingzhao’s heart was stubborn as he thought, “If I lose this battle, I don’t need to live. Today I’ll exhaust my internal breath and risk complete loss of power, but I must kill Ning Bufan!” He roared wildly, and countless fragments carrying sharp sword radiance rushed to Ning Bufan’s front with truly earth-shaking, ghost-weeping momentum.
Ning Bufan, seeing blood at the corner of Zhuo Lingzhao’s mouth, knew he was willing to risk complete power loss for victory and would probably become a cripple after this technique. Ning Bufan sighed lightly and shook his head, “Sword God, oh Sword God, since you call yourself a god, why can’t you see through worldly fame?” His face showed compassion as he stood with feet motionless, sword hilt against his forehead, muttering words.
Mount Hua disciples, seeing their master’s expression, immediately exclaimed, “Benevolent Sword Shakes the Universe!” The disciples showed joyful admiration and actually knelt on the ground. The watching guests, not knowing why they acted this way, all discussed among themselves.
Fang Zijing, watching this, sighed lightly, thinking, “With the Benevolent Sword unleashed, victory and defeat will be decided.”
Holding the sword like holding incense, Ning Bufan’s face showed compassion. His palms faced outward, using sticky force to grasp the sword hilt. Internal power moved the blade to spin like a disk, appearing like a moon wheel. This sword spun rapidly and urgently yet made no sound of cutting air, showing the sword’s internal power was so soft and flexible it reached the transformative realm. From afar, it looked like a golden wheel above his head with rising vapors, like a Buddha’s halo, inspiring even more awe.
Zhuo Lingzhao, seeing Ning Bufan still had ultimate techniques unused, was immediately shocked and remembered Fang Zijing’s words, “Could it be… could it really be as Fang Zijing said—only Tianshan successors could possibly defeat Ning Bufan? I don’t believe it! I don’t believe it!”
Thinking of how he had killed and committed arson for sheepskin, earning an extremely ugly reputation, yet today was still forced to this point, his heart was filled with unbearable grief and shame. If he lost this battle, all his actions would become the most ridiculous farce. Thinking of this heartbreak, he couldn’t help but roar loudly, his whole body’s internal power surging even more urgently, reaching the point of a life-or-death strike.
Just then, the halo expanded outward, immediately enclosing Zhuo Lingzhao’s sword radiance within the circle. Continuous clanging sounds filled the air as countless broken swords fell to the ground.
Everyone looked puzzled and asked each other, “What happened? Who won?”
Before the words finished, suddenly a tragic wail was heard, followed by someone spitting blood and kneeling on the ground. That person’s face was full of grief and anger—it was Kunlun’s sect leader, “Sword God” Zhuo Lingzhao!
Fang Zijing sighed, thinking, “Poor Zhuo Lingzhao, despite all his schemes, still couldn’t pass ‘Benevolent Sword Shakes the Universe.'”
Mount Hua’s transmitted “Three Reaching Swords” consisted of three ultimate techniques called “Wisdom Sword Pacifies Eight Directions,” “Benevolent Sword Shakes the Universe,” and “Brave Sword Cuts the Celestial.” As the saying goes, the wisdom sword subdues enemies, the benevolent sword protects oneself, and the brave sword kills. The “Wisdom Sword” sought enemy weaknesses—in the initial fight between the two masters, Zhuo Lingzhao’s swordwork was repeatedly broken, all defeated by techniques from “Wisdom Sword Pacifies Eight Directions.” The final life-or-death technique was the kingly “Benevolent Sword Shakes the Universe.” Years ago, Fang Zijing fought Ning Bufan and was also defeated by this “Benevolent Sword” technique. Seeing it again now naturally brought sadness.
The Azure Robe scholar and other masters exchanged glances, finally knowing that this Ning Bufan not only had swordwork that dominated the jianghu but also internal power far beyond ordinary people, which allowed him to use the “Benevolent Sword” to suppress strong enemies. From this perspective, when Zhuo Lingzhao held overwhelming advantage earlier, Ning Bufan could have already won with internal power but simply didn’t want to.
Among the masters, Fang Zijing understood this person best. He knew Ning Bufan always decided victory with techniques alone and never liked using force to overcome others. If not for his pity seeing Zhuo Lingzhao self-destructing his power, he wouldn’t have used the ultimate technique “Benevolent Sword Shakes the Universe” to subdue him in one stroke.
Ning Bufan, seeing victory decided, slowly walked over and looked down at Zhuo Lingzhao. Zhuo Lingzhao, unwilling to submit like this, circulated his whole body’s internal power and struggled to stand up. But his whole body was like collapse—his usually domineering internal power was completely gone. He exhausted his strength and supported himself several times before finally standing up.
The two stood facing each other. Zhuo Lingzhao, knowing his skills were inferior, his face was ashen as he gritted his teeth and said, “Kill me!”
Ning Bufan shook his head and supported Zhuo Lingzhao’s shoulder, saying gently, “Leader Zhuo, please don’t blame yourself. Your swordwork is indeed supremely high. Without extreme love for the sword way, you definitely couldn’t have mastered such sword qi. Though the outside world says you’re a murderous demon, in terms of sword soul, you truly deserve to be called honorable and upright—a real hero who stands tall between heaven and earth.” He then sent a stream of internal power into his body to treat Zhuo Lingzhao’s internal injuries.
Seeing a strong enemy expend power for himself, ordinary people would be grateful to tears, but Zhuo Lingzhao was naturally proud. Having Ning Bufan heal his injuries was more painful than being beaten or killed. Zhuo Lingzhao shouted and gathered all his remaining strength, flicking his sleeves to push Ning Bufan back one step. But having internal injuries, using internal power slightly made him want to vomit blood. However, Zhuo Lingzhao had always cared extremely about face, so he forcibly swallowed the fresh blood, then used his sword sheath to support himself on the ground to steady his form.
Ning Bufan’s face showed reluctance as he advised, “Life has ups and downs—why take victory and defeat so seriously?”
Zhuo Lingzhao laughed bitterly, “The strong are kings, the defeated are bandits. Zhuo’s swordwork is inferior to yours—what more can be said?”
His face showed stubborn color as he looked up at the two banners on the beams—”Eight Hundred Victories, Martial Arts Honored Under Heaven.” Staring intently and thinking of how he had become a defeated subordinate, his heart suddenly ached, tears rolling down as he cried sorrowfully, “If Yu exists, why must Liang exist?” Blood gushed wildly from his mouth as he actually collapsed to the ground.
Ning Bufan shook his head and was about to lift Zhuo Lingzhao when Jin Lingshuang, as Kunlun’s second-in-command, couldn’t avoid coming forward with their sect leader so miserably defeated. He sighed and rushed forward, personally holding Zhuo Lingzhao in his arms and bowing, “Mount Hua’s sect leader is truly the world’s number one. Our Kunlun Mountain admits complete defeat.”
Ning Bufan showed no joy, only shook his head and sighed, “Please tell your sect leader that Ning Bufan felt greatly honored to compete with him before retirement. Please tell him not to worry about victory and defeat anymore.”
Jin Lingshuang thought, “This person truly deserves to be the world’s number one master—his bearing and manner are deeply admirable.” He bowed again, “Thank you, Hero Ning. I will certainly convey these words to our sect leader.”
Seeing Zhuo Lingzhao end in miserable defeat, Fang Zijing was not surprised at all. He shook his head, thinking, “Actually, the gap between these two was apparent even before they fought.”
Earlier, before the two fought, each had spoken. Zhuo Lingzhao claimed “sword like god”—this was supremely domineering talk but lacked artistic conception. Ning Bufan claimed “sword like me”—this was the highest realm of unity between person and sword. Fang Zijing himself was a swordwork master—hearing their dialogue, he knew Zhuo Lingzhao had mental obstacles, single-mindedly seeking fame and profit, practicing martial arts only to win. But Ning Bufan had transcended life, death, honor, and disgrace, finding his true self only in swordwork. With such great differences in their understanding of the sword way, the paths they took were naturally different. Both sought to defeat enemies—Ning Bufan sought naturalness while Zhuo Lingzhao sought dominance. When these two sword arts met, victory was obvious.
Everyone seeing the Sword God end this way all felt desolate. Dozens of guests had originally come to support Zhuo Lingzhao. Seeing him defeated so miserably, they left disappointed, still constantly shouting, “Damn, what bullshit Sword God—basically a paper tiger, completely no match for the other guy!” Their disdain and mockery overflowed in their words.
Fang Zijing, watching these callous people, couldn’t help but shake his head and sigh, “It’s precisely this worldly praise and blame that makes a generation’s master commit so many evil deeds. If Zhuo Lingzhao heard these people’s mockery, he would surely be depressed for life.”