“Good heavens!” Chen Defu smiled bitterly as he looked at the torn paper in his hand. The fingernail-sized scrap was tattered and old, appearing rather inexplicable.

Chen Defu sighed with a bitter expression, dropped the torn paper, and looked toward the table where even more scraps lay. Round ones, square ones, torn ones, foul-smelling ones—Chen Defu had already counted them. This pile wasn’t just one sheet, but one thousand one hundred and fourteen pieces of varying sizes and shapes. Yet he still had to piece all these scraps together and restore them to their original form.

Life is short, so why was he always doing such foolish things? Chen Defu choked up and looked down at a book on the table. Three lines were written on the cover: “Wisdom Sword Pacifies Eight Directions, Benevolence Sword Shakes with Resonant Fame, Courage Sword Cuts Through Celestial Principles.” Through his tearful eyes, a sudden demonic wind struck, blowing the book pages spinning and scattering. This frightened Chen Defu into frantically gathering them from east and west until he finally looked up to the sky and wailed: “Help me!”

Speaking of bad luck, early this morning Master Uncle Fu had personally handed him the secret treasure of their sect, the “Three Accomplishment Sword,” saying that Senior Brother Ying was injured and instructing him to safeguard the sword manual in his brother’s place. The words were still echoing when he first encountered Aunt Lu’s deception and robbery, then later met Lu Deyi and Lu Delian, who threatened him with knives and worked together wickedly to tear the sword manual to pieces. What should he do now?

When something breaks, it must be mended. Chen Defu naturally knew this—every time the martial brothers fought over secret erotic books and tore the pictures, it was usually he who repaired them. Taking “Emperor Jin Hailing’s Death from Debauchery” as an example, if he wanted to piece together the foreign princess lying naked, he would first need to find the four corners of the picture. With the upper, lower, left, and right corners, he could then extend inward to find the pillow, locate the head, and thereafter the thighs, intimate garments, lover, and bed would all fall into place. But there was some trouble now—among this pile of scraps, he couldn’t find four corners?

Among the one thousand one hundred and fourteen torn pieces, some were crooked, some were bent, but not a single one was straight. Chen Defu had searched all morning but couldn’t even find four corner pieces. With no trace to follow, how could he continue piecing them together?

“What to do?” Chen Defu lay sprawled on the wooden table, mouth agape, then reached out to pull at his own hair, taking his head and banging it against the table while crying and cursing: “Lu Deyi! Lu Delian! You’re shameless!” Just as he was feeling indignant, the iron pot began clattering and steaming with fragrant-smelling vapor.

Chen Defu’s heart jumped, and he quickly opened the pot lid. Instantly, hot steam hit his face, and the pot was filled with large meat buns, neatly arranged—ten in total.

These meat buns were bought through an old nanny, with “Shangshu Soy Milk” red stamps on their surfaces—one wen each, quite expensive. If Chen Defu hadn’t felt his end was near, he would never have been willing to buy them to eat.

When life reached this point, being anxious was useless—better to first eat something hot and be a well-fed ghost when he died. With this thought, Chen Defu turned around, first dragged a cotton quilt from his bag, then spread straw on the ground. After preparing this makeshift bed, he pushed open the window and saw a lake—it was “Red Snail Lake.”

“How wonderful!” Chen Defu jumped up, never expecting such scenery outside the window. He quickly grabbed a meat bun, not forgetting to pour himself a cup of hot ginger tea. While warming himself by the cozy fire and gazing at the beautiful view outside the window, his troubles temporarily disappeared.

This place was located on the mountainside. Looking out from this high vantage point, the lake and mountain scenery filled his entire view. He could even faintly see two Red Snail Pagodas, serene and distant, as if he were in a painting. Chen Defu sipped his ginger tea, smiled contentedly, and stretched leisurely, but then cried “Ah!” as he kicked over the charcoal brazier and had to quickly grab an iron broom to sweep up the mess.

But how did Chen Defu end up in a woodshed where he could see Red Snail Lake? Honestly, even he couldn’t figure this out. He had been in Purple Cloud Pavilion pasting together the sword manual when his master uncles caught him red-handed and ordered him to pack immediately, saying all the mountain disciples had to go to Red Snail Temple to stay temporarily. Thus they dragged him away and assigned him to a woodshed in the back mountain.

Red Snail Temple had many rooms, but today they were all occupied by officials’ family members. The Huashan disciples could only stay in the back mountain—those with some standing could sleep in shared quarters like Lu Deyi and Lu Delian, while those with lesser minds could only stay in woodsheds, like Chen Defu.

Others liked mingling with the crowd, but Chen Defu was different. He didn’t want to mix in the bustling marketplace; he only wanted to live in seclusion in the deep mountains. Rarely having lake and mountain scenery as companions, plus meat buns to taste—this was the happiest day in ten years. Chen Defu became increasingly delighted. He paced with his hands behind his back and recited loudly: “Without pills or medicine, the body is naturally light. Departing from love and hate, far from the seven emotions. Knowing nothing, doing nothing, untainted by anything, able to change the foolish world and its feelings.”

This was Master’s favorite “Fool’s Poem.” Before practicing swords, he would always shake his head and recite it. Chen Defu learned by example. He sighed deeply toward the sky, picked up a meat bun, and was about to take a bite when he suddenly cried “Ouch!” and bit his own finger instead.

Chen Defu was horrified and looked down blankly at the meat bun in his palm—it had vanished without a trace!

Chen Defu stared in amazement, not knowing what strange thing had happened. He reached into the iron pot again to grab another one. Just as he was about to bite down hard, he cried “Ouch!” again—this time he bit his tongue.

Since the beginning of the year, strange things had been happening constantly. Little Black Dog had disappeared, the Three Accomplishment Sword had vanished, and now even eating buns resulted in biting his tongue and finger? Chen Defu gaped in bewilderment. He quickly opened the pot to look—it was completely empty. All ten meat buns he had bought were gone. Chen Defu said tremblingly: “Strange! Weren’t they just there? Who stole them?”

They say meat buns thrown at dogs never return, but there were no cats or dogs here—what was going on? Seeing the situation was wrong, Chen Defu quickly gathered the scraps of paper on the table into his bundle, then picked up the iron broom and shouted loudly: “Who’s hiding there? Come out! Don’t try to play ghost!”

The most boring people in the world were Huashan disciples. The woodshed was full of miscellaneous items—who knew where they were hiding? Chen Defu snorted, picked up the broom, and began hitting east and west, turning boxes and cabinets upside down. After a long while of busywork, he found nothing.

“It’s haunted!” Chen Defu’s hair stood on end. He pushed open the woodshed door and was about to go out to investigate when he suddenly saw someone standing in front of him, grinning. Chen Defu was greatly shocked: “A ghost!” Just as he was about to turn and flee, he heard the person laugh: “Little brother, I’m human, not a ghost.”

Chen Defu turned to look and saw a strange man carrying a bamboo basket. His front teeth protruded, his ears stuck out, and his body was thin and short, like a human rat. Chen Defu said tremblingly: “Who… who are you?”

The man smiled: “My name is Zhao Duluo, and I’m your master’s friend.” Chen Defu said bewilderedly: “My master’s friend? I… I’ve never heard of you.” The man smiled: “I wander unpredictably, roaming the world as a free man, so you don’t know my name.”

Chen Defu murmured: “Free man? You mean someone who doesn’t have to work?” The man said: “That’s right—eating well all day with nothing to do, that’s my kind of person.” This person came uninvited, hiding outside the door and spying. Chen Defu couldn’t help being somewhat afraid of him and said quietly: “Do… do you want to find my master? He’s been in retirement for a long time, didn’t you know?”

Zhao Duluo smiled warmly: “Little brother, I came specifically to see you.”

Chen Defu was stunned: “You… you came specifically to see me?” Zhao Duluo laughed: “Everyone in the world says Master Ning only took two disciples in his lifetime—one is Su Ying, Sect Leader Su, whose genius is externally displayed with sharp brilliance; the other is Chen Defu, Young Hero Chen, who appears foolish but is wise, with his brilliance hidden within. Hearing this, I was deeply impressed and came specifically to see you and gain some insight.”

Chen Defu became extremely excited. Thinking that his life had been dim and lackluster, he never expected to be a jade hidden in stone—now he had hope for his whole life! Just as he was about to ask a few questions, he remembered the Three Accomplishment Sword manual had turned to waste paper and couldn’t help trembling: “You… you’ve got the wrong person. My name is Ye Dekai, not Chen Defu.” He picked up his bundle and hurriedly fled the woodshed, only to bump into another person—it was “Zhao Duluo” again.

Seeing this person appearing in front and suddenly behind like a ghost, Chen Defu was startled and quickly raised his broom, saying tremblingly: “What… what are you doing following me?” Zhao Duluo smiled: “Little brother, I heard your stomach rumbling with hunger. You haven’t had lunch yet, have you?” He presented an oil paper package with both hands—fragrant and steaming hot. Looking closely, it was aromatic buns. Chen Defu was furious: “So it was you! Tell me! Why did you steal my buns?”

Zhao Duluo looked confused: “I stole your buns?” Chen Defu spat and was about to curse again when he suddenly saw four characters printed on the oil paper: “Heavenly King Vegetable Buns.” It turned out this bun was not that bun—not his meat buns. Chen Defu knew he had wrongly accused a good person and quickly said: “Sorry, I… I misunderstood you.” Just as he was about to reach out and take it, Zhao Duluo pulled his hand back and smiled: “Little brother, I can’t give this to you for free.”

These “Heavenly King Vegetable Buns” were too greasy—Chen Defu usually disdained eating them, but being hungry now, he wasn’t picky. He rummaged in his pocket, took out two wen, and said quietly: “How about this—I’ll buy it from you.” Zhao Duluo smiled and shook his head: “No good.”

Chen Defu became somewhat anxious and said: “Then wait, let me go find One-Legged Immortal to borrow money.” Just as he was about to turn around, Zhao Duluo said: “Don’t rush. I have something to ask you. If you just answer, I’ll give you these buns.” Chen Defu was getting hungry and said quickly: “Good! Good! What do you want to ask? Speak quickly.”

Zhao Duluo whispered in his ear: “Little brother, what’s your honorable age?”

Chen Defu said quietly: “I was born in the year of the rabbit. After New Year, I’ll be twenty-five.” Zhao Duluo smiled: “Yes, the age is right.” He continued: “Your master took you as a disciple ten years ago, right?” Chen Defu nodded vigorously: “Yes, yes! Master was very good to me.” As he spoke, he sighed deeply: “But shortly after I entered the sect, he retired.”

Zhao Duluo smiled: “Don’t be sad. Come, tell me, have you started practicing ‘Three Accomplishment’?” Chen Defu’s heart turned cold, and he couldn’t help hugging his bundle, saying tremblingly: “No… no.” Zhao Duluo laughed: “No? Then let’s test it.” As soon as he said “test,” his left hand lifted, his right hand protected his chest, and he swept his leg toward Chen Defu’s knee. With a muffled groan, Chen Defu fell to the ground and cried miserably: “He’s hitting people!”

Zhao Duluo was stunned for a long while. This move “Dragon Raises Head” was purely exploratory, actually containing dozens of exquisite follow-up moves, prepared to dodge the famous “Wisdom Sword Pacifies Eight Directions.” Who would have thought that after one move, this young man would fall? He coughed a few times: “Little brother, why didn’t you defend yourself?” Chen Defu was both hurt and breathless: “You… you ambushed me—how was I supposed to defend?”

Zhao Duluo helped him up: “Sorry, sorry. Where did I hurt you?” Chen Defu held back tears: “My knee is scraped.”

Zhao Duluo said apologetically: “Look at me, not knowing my own strength. I’m truly ten thousand times sorry.” The words were still in his mouth when his left elbow suddenly swung out. With a bang, Chen Defu rolled out again and cried: “What exactly are you trying to do?”

Zhao Duluo quickly rushed forward to help him up: “Don’t be angry, don’t be angry. I’m just testing your martial arts.” This time Chen Defu was also prepared. Seeing this person approach, he raised the iron broom and roared: “I’ll beat you to death!” Before he could launch a sneak attack, he cried “Ouch!” as his foot slipped and he tumbled out. It was his natural bad luck—by sheer coincidence, he slipped onto a slope and was about to fall down when Zhao Duluo grabbed him, frowning: “Little brother, haven’t you practiced martial arts?”

Chen Defu was furious: “Who says I haven’t practiced martial arts? I practice day and night! You stand still, let’s spar properly—no one is allowed to sneak attack!” He raised the iron broom and struck down directly. Zhao Duluo extended two fingers and caught it, muttering to himself: “This is strange. It seems it’s not this person.” After pondering for a while, he said: “Little brother, among your martial brothers, who else was born in the year of the rabbit?”

Chen Defu was furious: “Why should I tell you?” Zhao Duluo said: “Don’t be angry. First eat something.” He handed over the buns. Chen Defu snorted and snatched them, about to leave when Zhao Duluo smiled: “Little brother, do you lack money?” Chen Defu snorted: “Of course I do—how could I not lack money?” Zhao Duluo smiled: “Little brother, would you like to be an official?” Chen Defu jumped up in shock: “Yes! Yes! I’ve wanted it to death!” Zhao Duluo covered his mouth and whispered in his ear: “Little brother, would you like to play with women?”

“Yes, yes!” Chen Defu wept with joy, his eyes showing anticipation. Zhao Duluo smiled sinisterly: “Little brother, listen—as long as you obediently obey me, betray friends for profit, leak information, and regard yourself as the most shameless slave in the world, you’ll have everything. Are you willing?” Chen Defu nodded vigorously: “Willing! Willing!”

Zhao Duluo smiled: “A teachable child indeed. Come, tell me—among your martial brothers, who else was born in the year of the rabbit?” Chen Defu counted on his fingers: “Besides me, there are Du Dexian, Ye Dekai, Lu Deli, Hou Dezhang, Shi Dexing.” Suddenly he exclaimed: “How strange! We’re all rabbits.”

Huashan was full of rabbit men, with only Su Ying as a little mouse, thirty-one next year. Seeing Chen Defu still calculating diligently there, Zhao Duluo said: “Stop calculating. Quickly tell me—among your martial brothers, who else has practiced ‘Three Accomplishment’?”

Upon hearing “Three Accomplishment,” Chen Defu felt a headache and sighed quietly: “Senior Brother Ying has practiced it.” Zhao Duluo said: “His age doesn’t match, no need to worry about him. Come, besides Su Ying, who else has practiced Three Accomplishment?” Chen Defu sighed: “Sigh, everyone fights over it—everyone wants to practice it, especially that Little Li, who always says he’s the true heir of the founding master. He’s insufferably arrogant.”

Zhao Duluo’s heart jumped, and he quickly said: “Who is Little Li?” Chen Defu sighed: “That’s Master Uncle Lu’s eldest son, Lu Deli. Same age as me, but his martial arts are incredibly high.” He picked up the bun and was about to take a fierce bite when Zhao Duluo stopped him and said quietly: “Little brother, could you take me to find him?” Chen Defu frowned: “No, I have things to do later.”

“Don’t be busy.” Zhao Duluo smiled and took out a silver ingot, waving it in his hand. Chen Defu was shocked: “This… this is for me?” Zhao Duluo smiled: “Yes, as long as you take me to find Little Li, this silver is yours.” Chen Defu was overjoyed: “Good, good, good! Let me first eat the bun—” Being very hungry, he was about to eat carelessly when he cried “Ouch!” again—he bit his finger again.

Chen Defu was shocked: “Where’s the… the bun?” Zhao Duluo frowned: “I gave it to you.” Chen Defu didn’t believe it and said angrily: “Good! So that’s how all the buns disappeared—it was you!” He raised the broom and said sternly: “Bad person! I’ll never trust you again! Give me back the meat buns! Quickly!” Just as he was about to fight, he heard a voice behind him: “Broom Fu, who are you talking to?”

Chen Defu quickly turned around—it was Ye Dekai coming. He was delighted: “You came just in time! There’s a strange person here who keeps asking questions.” Ye Dekai looked confused: “Strange person? Where’s this strange person?” Chen Defu turned around: “Surnamed Zhao, you be careful—”

The words were still in his mouth when wind rustled before him—where was there any person? Ye Dekai grabbed him and scolded: “Look at you, always acting strange. Come with me quickly!” Chen Defu looked confused: “Come with you? Where are we going?” Ye Dekai said quietly: “Fifth Master Ancestor Zhao is looking for you.”

Chen Defu trembled slightly and said coldly: “Has the cat gotten out of the bag?” Ye Dekai said irritably: “What are you talking about? Hurry up.”

The fiercest elder of Huashan was Zhao Laowu. No matter how you tried to hide things, nothing could escape his notice. If the matter of the destroyed sword manual was discovered, in two or three steps it would be traced back to him. Then when the hall opened and incense was lit, he would face death by a thousand cuts—truly unable to even beg for death.

Chen Defu’s eyes filled with tears, his steps trembling as he was dragged all the way to the Food Preparation Hall. First he saw a large notice, with Fifth Master Ancestor Zhao standing with his back to him, arms crossed, looking up at the announcement. On either side stood guardians—Fat Scale Monster and Abacus Monster. The three were whispering among themselves. Ye Dekai said: “Master Uncle Ancestor, Master Uncle Ancestor, Chen Defu is here.” Zhao Laowu said: “Very good. You may go.”

Wind rustled as Little Ye quickly slipped to one side. Chen Defu stole a glance and was shocked to see all his fellow disciples were there—Du Dexian, Shi Dexing, Feng Degao, Hou Dezhang, and the most damnable Lu Deyi and Lu Delian were also hiding in the crowd, stealing glances.

There was only one copy of the Three Accomplishment Sword manual, but now it had become three copies—what should he do? Seeing Zhao Laowu still silent, Chen Defu immediately knelt down and cried: “Fifth Master Ancestor! I’m sorry! I’ve wronged Founder Tianyin!” Zhao Laowu said calmly: “Don’t say such things. Now a great matter has come—what do you plan to do?” Chen Defu cried: “This disciple is willing to die to repay Founder Tianyin’s grace.”

They say “when a person is about to die, his words are good.” Just as he was planning to expose Lu Deyi and Lu Delian together so they could travel to the underworld as companions, Zhao Laowu turned around and said: “Good child, with these words from you, Master Uncle Ancestor can rest assured.” He waved his hand and gave a look. Suddenly all the disciples stepped forward and shouted in unison: “We pay respects to the Grand Tutor!”

Chen Defu was stunned: “What?” Fat Scale Monster laughed: “Kid, you made the list!” Seeing Chen Defu still looking completely confused, Zhao Laowu smiled slightly and personally helped him up: “Child, His Majesty wants to summon you tonight.” Chen Defu was shocked and gaped: “What? His Majesty wants to summon me?” Zhao Laowu nodded and pointed to the announcement in front: “Come, see for yourself.”

Chen Defu trembled slightly and leaned close to peek, shocked to see his own name on the list.

Prince Chuan’s heir Zai Zhi’s teaching master: Shaanxi Huashan Sect Leader Su Ying, Grand Tutor: Chen Defu

Just as he realized this was serious trouble, the disciples shouted again: “Congratulations Grand Tutor! Felicitations Grand Tutor!” Seeing his fellow disciples still bowing three times, Chen Defu was first shocked, then became somewhat excited: “Master Uncle Ancestor, what does this Grand Tutor… do?” Zhao Laowu said: “This is an official title, equivalent to a ninth-rank tutor sent by the Heir Apparent’s Palace.”

Chen Defu exclaimed in surprise, never expecting he would be appointed to office! His heart became even more excited as he said tremblingly: “Tutor? Who… whose tutor am I?” Abacus Monster pointed to the notice and said shrilly: “Forgotten about Zhu Zai Zhi?” Chen Defu looked confused: “Zhu Zai Zhi… this name sounds familiar.” Thinking about it, he suddenly jumped up in shock: “Persimmon!”

Little Persimmon’s surname was Zhu, given name Zai Zhi. Due to the recommendation of the National Uncle, he had now become one of the crown prince candidates. Chen Defu had become Little Persimmon’s companion under Master Uncle Lu’s arrangement. Chen Defu went weak all over, and just as he was feeling ominous, he heard Zhao Laowu continue: “News from the palace—this time the crown prince selection involves martial combat. His Majesty fears the various sects might join hands to cheat, so he’s ordered each sect to sign death pledges. Each prince has one teaching master and one Grand Tutor each. Look for yourself.” He pointed to the notice, where there were indeed several more lines:

Prince Lu’s heir Zai Hao’s teaching master: Korean Pinghu Abbot Huiyan, Grand Tutor: Cui Kexi

Prince Xu’s heir Zai Jing’s teaching master: Henan Abbot Ling Ding, Grand Tutor: Ciquan

Prince Feng’s heir Zai Huai’s teaching master: Hubei Wudang Head Yuan Yi, Grand Tutor: Yu Danfeng

Chen Defu said tremblingly: “So many people here! Are they all Grand Tutors?” Zhao Laowu said: “That’s right. According to the palace, they’re all considered the princes’ doubles.” Chen Defu looked confused: “Doubles?”

Zhao Laowu coughed and gave a look. Fat Scale Monster then said: “These princes are dragon-born, each a genius. But if they lose in martial combat, think about whose fault it would be?” Seeing Chen Defu’s confused expression, Fat Scale Monster continued: “Clearly they’re martial prodigies, so if their martial arts are poor, naturally it’s the teacher’s problem. But His Majesty still respects teachers and honors the Way—masters can’t be punished. So there’s this Grand Tutor position.”

Chen Defu trembled slightly: “So what?” Abacus Monster said shrilly: “So! If Zhu Zai loses, you’ll have to take his punishment—light punishment is two hundred lashes with the punishment rod, heavy punishment is exile to the frontier and certain death.”

When the prince loses a fight, it’s his classmate who suffers. Chen Defu’s scalp tingled, and he couldn’t help swallowing saliva and saying tremblingly: “Then… then what if Persimmon wins?” Abacus Monster said shrilly: “That’s impossible!” Just as he was about to say more, he was elbowed by Zhao Laowu to stop his nonsense. Then he said gently: “If the prince wins, you’ll have great merit. His Majesty will grant you a brocade robe and an imperial sword, with an annual salary of fifty shi comparable to a State Uncle. In the future, when you meet officials below sixth rank, you won’t need to kneel.”

They say great rewards inspire brave men. Chen Defu was delighted and quickly said: “So good! So as long as Zhu Zai Zhi wins, I can become an official?” Zhao Laowu sighed: “That’s right. Precisely because this position is so good, no one in our sect competed with you for it. I asked each of your martial brothers—everyone from top to bottom was willing to yield, which is why I requested you, Chen Defu, to step forward.”

“Congratulations Grand Tutor!” The disciples bowed desperately and shouted: “Felicitations Grand Tutor!” Zhao Laowu sighed and waved to the disciples: “Stop making noise. You all go down.” The disciples calmly acknowledged and fled without leaving a single one. Zhao Laowu shook his head and gave Fat Scale Monster a look, then they all gathered around Chen Defu as if to hear his final words.

Looking at the Huashan disciples, each had their background—some were sons of wealthy merchants with abundant family property, others were children of high officials with distinguished family status, and many were children of sect elders like the three Lu brothers, each with their own connections and support. Only Chen Defu was alone and helpless, no different from an orphan—thus he became the scapegoat.

Seeing all the idle people had left, Zhao Laowu bent down and patted Broom Fu’s head, saying gently: “Child, are you afraid?” Chen Defu said quietly: “A… a little afraid.” Zhao Laowu sighed: “Actually, Master Uncle Ancestor had no choice either. Unfortunately, your Master Uncle Lu went to the Ministry of War last night and suddenly disappeared without a trace. He hasn’t returned until now, pushing off all responsibility completely. The palace is pressing urgently, so I could only consult with your Master Uncle Fu. Honestly, he was the one who selected your name.”

Abacus Monster quickly said: “Yes, yes! Grievances have their source, debts have their owner—when you die, don’t look for us.” Just as he was speaking, he was elbowed again by Fat Scale Monster to stop his nonsense. Then he whispered to Zhao Laowu: “Stop scaring him. Tell us honestly, what are Zai Zhi’s actual chances of winning?”

Zhao Laowu sighed: “Rome wasn’t built in a day. This kid has been spoiled by you bunch of bastards since childhood. He hasn’t learned a single sword technique properly. If he isn’t beaten to death on the platform tonight, it’ll be thanks to his ancestors’ accumulated virtue.”

Hearing this, Chen Defu was already crying loudly, but then he heard Zhao Laowu cough and say: “However—” Fat Scale Monster smiled bitterly: “Don’t speak in fits and starts—you’re scaring this child to death.” Zhao Laowu coughed: “However, I’ve already inquired. Prince Xu’s heir Zai Jing has had an accident and fallen into serious injury. It’s said he’s unconscious and probably can’t go on stage for martial combat.”

Chen Defu was delighted: “Excellent! Then… then there’s no need for martial combat?” Zhao Laowu said: “That’s hard to say. This Zai Jing is Abbot Ling Ding’s beloved disciple, and his father is Prince Xu. They say since Zai Jing is injured and can’t move, for the sake of fairness, they want to request His Majesty’s grace to allow the Grand Tutor to take the field in armor.” Chen Defu looked confused: “Grand Tutor—who’s that?”

Abacus Monster said shrilly: “Who else? It’s you, of course!” Hearing that he would have to take the field himself, Chen Defu’s ears buzzed, his hair stood on end, and he quickly looked at the notice to see his opponents. He saw names like “Ciquan,” “Cui Kexi,” “Yu Danfeng”—all unknown nobodies who were probably either dustpan carriers or broom wielders, all children accompanying princes for practice whose martial arts must be as weak as his own. He breathed a sigh of relief, thinking there was still hope for survival, and looked at “Prince Hui.” Instantly he saw a line of text:

Prince Hui’s heir Zai Yun’s teaching master: Mount Emei’s Bai Yuntian, Grand Tutor: Yan Song

Chen Defu exclaimed in surprise: “Yan Song? This… this name sounds familiar. Is… is he also a child?” Zhao Laowu said: “I suppose so. This person is quite young—just past his sixtieth birthday.” Chen Defu was shocked: “What? This counts as a child too?”

Abacus Monster laughed: “Compared to us few, of course he counts as a child. Remember how young we were when he took over as sect leader?” Fat Scale Monster also sighed: “Yes, in the blink of an eye we’re all going to be eighty years old.”

Hearing that someone was masquerading as a child, Chen Defu’s legs naturally trembled, and he felt dizzy. Zhao Laowu patted his shoulder: “Don’t worry. Whether you’ll actually take the field is still unknown. The palace hasn’t sent word yet, and the princes each have their own opinions—some say to let the Grand Tutors fight, some say to simply invite the masters to compete, and others say to let the princes fight each other. In short, opinions vary and no one can make a decision.” Abacus Monster said shrilly: “Did you hear? There’s still a glimmer of hope!”

Chen Defu also breathed a sigh of relief. If the masters were to demonstrate tonight, then Senior Brother Ying would take the field, and he would only need to wave flags, cheer, beat gongs and drums to become a high official—what could be better than that?

Zhao Laowu said: “Alright, enough talk. Defu, we’ve prepared lots of food for you. Have a good meal later, sleep well, and build up your strength before talking about tonight.” He handed over a large burlap sack filled with food, including meat buns from Shangshu Soy Milk, and even more mysteriously, a bottle of wine—just like a death row prisoner’s final meal, quite elaborate.

Seeing all the elders had left, Chen Defu carried the burlap sack and oil cloth bundle, his mood somewhat chaotic. But thinking that if Su Ying took the field during the martial contest, he couldn’t help feeling excited and thought secretly: “Look how smart my parents were to send me to Mount Huashan from childhood—this is really going to pay off.”

Su Ying’s swordsmanship was divine, having received the true teachings of the extraordinary Master Bufan. Even if he wasn’t “Number One Under Heaven,” he would at least be “Number Two Under Heaven”—a runner-up or third place. His only real opponent would be Abbot Ling Ding, who was somewhat formidable. When the time came, he would secretly throw meat buns at him, and Senior Brother Ying would suddenly strike with lightning speed to win. Mount Huashan would once again become “Number One Under Heaven.”

“Number One Under Heaven! Number One Under Heaven!” Chen Defu picked up his broom and jumped with joy. Suddenly he thought of something: “Right, where is Senior Brother Ying? Why haven’t I seen him?” As he murmured and pondered, he suddenly realized he was still carrying that bundle. He scratched his head and suddenly awakened—he remembered that Su Ying had already jumped from Wanfu Tower and was seriously injured.

It was over. Chen Defu gaped—with Su Ying unable to move and unable to take the field, and Zhu Zai Zhi being an idiot, it looked like he would definitely be pushed onto the execution ground in the end. He walked and cried: “Father, Mother, why did you send me to Mount Huashan?”

Thinking about having to compete with the Emei Sect Leader, Chen Defu truly wept like rain. When the two drew swords, he would be killed by a finger poke, and his corpse would have to be shipped back to his Zhejiang-Fujian hometown for his parents to bury. Maybe they would even have to pay for the coffin themselves—that would be truly unconscionable.

As he was crying, he saw an open space ahead with several lion cages containing several large lions—tributes the National Uncle had prepared to present to the Emperor, now transported to the open ground of the Food Preparation Hall.

These lions had bad tempers and had attacked people this morning. Chen Defu was somewhat afraid and gave the iron cages a wide berth as he walked toward his woodshed. Arriving at the door and about to push it open, he suddenly felt something soft and sticky under his foot, as if he had stepped on something. He lifted his foot to look and cried in shock: “A bun!” On the ground lay half a bun—it was the “Heavenly King Vegetable Bun” that Zhao Duluo had brought, but only one bite had been taken before it was abandoned by the roadside, apparently too unpalatable even for dogs.

“Strange, who actually ate it?” Chen Defu became suspicious and picked up the bun. The bite mark was quite sharp, and there were some golden hairs beside the bun. Just as he was examining it, he suddenly saw the bushes move slightly, as if something was hiding inside. Chen Defu was shocked: “Little Black Dog, is that you?” The bushes rustled with snorting sounds. Chen Defu broke into anxious sweat and said hastily: “Little Black Dog, you’ve taken the divine pill and are now a martial arts master. Come out quickly! Let’s roam the martial world together!”

This morning Mount Huashan’s secret treasure had appeared—it was the once-in-a-century “Great Golden Pill”—but it was accidentally swallowed by Little Black Dog. Now it had achieved enlightenment alone while chickens and dogs ascended to heaven—wealth and honor depended on this dog. Just as he was pleading, his cheek was suddenly licked. Chen Defu was delighted: “Little Black Dog!” He turned to look and was shocked to see a giant maned head standing before him like a water vat, with green oily eyes and a somewhat cat-like appearance. Wasn’t this—

“A lion is coming!” Chen Defu cried and screamed as he ran straight for the woodshed. Having just rushed inside and closed the door, he suddenly saw two young lions sleeping inside, warming themselves by the fire, and a mother lioness lying in the bedding with her head resting on a pillow.

The entire lion family was out touring and had come to Red Snail Temple to worship Buddha. Chen Defu wanted to cry but had no tears. Just as he was about to retreat, he heard a roar, and two short-haired wild beasts appeared at the door—mouths full of sharp teeth, eyes glowing fiercely. Weren’t these the black mastiffs he had seen at the National Uncle’s mansion?

Seeing a stranger intrude, the mother lioness quickly rose. The two young lions weren’t afraid of the bad person either and simply growled menacingly at Chen Defu. The Tibetan mastiffs were even more unwilling to show weakness and took the lead in cornering the intruder against the wall. Chen Defu cried: “Don’t… spare my life!”

“Woo,” “Roar”—the surroundings were filled with the low growls of wild beasts. Chen Defu wailed loudly and was about to kneel and beg for mercy when he suddenly heard a “Woof!” at the door, and a beautiful white dog appeared, arriving gracefully.

The beautiful white dog appeared with a radiant countenance, occasionally licking its fur shyly to groom itself. The entire lion family seemed to lose their souls, while the two mastiffs tucked their ears and tails, trembling constantly. Chen Defu was bewildered, not knowing what was happening, when a small furry thing appeared at the door, urinating at the doorframe to mark its territory. If it wasn’t the long-yearned-for Little Black Dog, who else could it be?

After three days apart, one should look at someone with new eyes—Little Black Dog had indeed become the martial world’s overlord. Chen Defu cried loudly: “Little Black Dog! I’ve missed you to death!” Just as he was about to go over for a reunion, he heard low growling at his feet. The beautiful white dog showed its menacing white teeth, warning Chen Defu not to approach.

Little Black Dog had ascended the throne as king, but unfortunately Her Majesty the Empress had a bad temper and wouldn’t allow her husband to make bad friends. Chen Defu was startled and didn’t know what to do, but Little Black Dog had already seen Chen Defu and immediately bounded over joyfully, wagging its tail warmly as usual.

Chen Defu cried loudly: “Little Black Dog! I didn’t love you in vain!” They say “a son doesn’t mind his mother’s ugliness, and a dog doesn’t mind its family’s poverty.” Little Black Dog had achieved success and fame but still didn’t forget its old master—truly loyal and filial. Man and dog approached each other, and Chen Defu reached out to pet the dog’s head. Suddenly Little Black Dog’s eyes widened, it bared its teeth and grinned, golden light blazed forth, and its long fur bristled like a hedgehog, transforming into a large golden dog! Little Black Dog’s whiskers stood on end, its size more than doubled, becoming almost as large as the mastiffs.

Chen Defu was shocked and cried: “Little Black Dog, don’t act wildly! I’ve always treated you well—you can’t be ungrateful!” The large golden dog was heartless and merciless, smiling coldly. The pack of beasts also growled menacingly, slowly approaching as if wanting a share of the spoils.

Chen Defu didn’t want to wait for death with hands tied. Seeing he still carried the burlap sack, he quickly reached in and fumbled around, pulling out a can of tea leaves and shouting: “Don’t eat me! Eat this, eat this!”

“Crack!” The mastiff glared angrily and bit the tea can to pieces. Chen Defu said tremblingly: “Not tasty? Then… then eat this!” He reached in again—this time his luck wasn’t bad, and he found a package of Guangnan dried fish, quickly throwing it out. The mother lioness was about to bite and eat it when she heard the beautiful white dog growl deeply, signaling the lion family to make way and not disturb His Majesty’s meal.

With the dried fish before it, the large golden dog lowered its head to sniff disdainfully, refusing to eat. It slapped with its paw, and the dried fish flew out. The pack of beasts anxiously rushed forward to divide and devour it. Chen Defu tiptoed, trying to slip out the door, but saw a white shadow flash—the beautiful white dog appeared to block his path, baring its teeth and growling to indicate he wasn’t allowed to leave.

In the martial world, the strong prey on the weak—Chen Defu had finally seen this firsthand. Watching the pack of beasts eat the dried fish but still howling for more food, he could only smile bitterly: “Wait, let me… let me look again.” After fumbling for a long time, he found an oil paper package with red characters printed “Shangshu Soy Milk”—it was buns.

As soon as the meat buns were in hand, their fragrance filled the air. The giant golden dog immediately became excited, stood on its hind legs, and wagged its tail excitedly. Chen Defu cried out, already knowing who had stolen the buns earlier. In a stroke of inspiration, he picked up a meat bun and threw it forcefully out the window, shouting: “Go fetch it quickly!”

In a flash of golden light, the large golden dog flew out the window. The pack of beasts loyally protected their master and hurriedly followed. Chen Defu then ran madly, rushing out of the woodshed and shouting: “Help! Someone come quickly! A demon dog has descended to earth!”

When a person lacks ability, it’s not just poor swordsmanship and light skills—they’re also dumb, slow at reading, and poor at crafts. Chen Defu ran until he was gasping for breath, barely reaching Pearl Spring when he suddenly saw a short man squatting by the bushes, looking down as he tied his belt. That figure, not even five feet tall—wasn’t this “Zhao Duluo” who had beaten him earlier?

Chen Defu was delighted and immediately pounced forward, hugging him and crying loudly: “Hero Zhao! Save me! Help!”

Bang! The short man kicked out, sending Chen Defu tumbling away, then pressed him to the ground and pummeled him with punches. Chen Defu cried loudly: “Hero Zhao! Save me! Save me!” Just as he was crying, the short man stopped and frowned: “What Hero Zhao this, Hero Zhao that? What nonsense are you spouting?”

Hearing the voice was quite childish, Chen Defu looked carefully—where was any Zhao Duluo? This was a boy! He said tremblingly: “Who… who are you?”

The boy sneered: “Are you worthy of asking my name? Scram!” He tied his belt and wiped his hands with tree leaves, about to leave when Chen Defu suddenly realized: “Wait! I’ve seen you before. Aren’t you the son of the Grand Secretary of Five Assistants, called Yang Shenxiu?”

Hearing this, the boy couldn’t help being startled, fearing his identity would be exposed. He immediately looked away and sneered: “What Yang Shenxiu? I don’t know any Li Shenxiu.” Chen Defu looked confused: “Then… then who are you?” A’Xiu smiled coldly: “Can’t you tell yet? Let me tell you—I’m a—” He pinched Chen Defu’s cheek menacingly: “Bad person!”

“Hahahahaha!” The boy was indeed A’Xiu. Watching him laugh wildly at the sky, his arrogance was truly insufferable. After laughing a few times, he said menacingly: “And who are you? Why are you carrying an iron broom and ambushing me?” Chen Defu choked: “My surname is Chen, called Chen Defu.” A’Xiu was stunned: “Chen Defu? What’s your relationship with Broom Fu?” Chen Defu said timidly: “I… I am Broom Fu.”

A’Xiu was delighted: “It really is you! Your martial arts are truly terrible!” Just as he was laughing, golden light flickered in the bushes as if something was coming. Just as it was about to pounce and bite A’Xiu viciously, he had already waved his hand backward and laughed: “Uncle! I’m here!” As soon as he spoke, the golden light trembled violently and turned to flee. Chen Defu also exclaimed in surprise, and unknowingly his teeth began to chatter slightly as he cried: “Help! Bad person!”

A large man approached—purple robe and red clothes, with a fierce tiger embroidered on his chest badge, dressed as an Imperial Guard. It was “Angry King” Qin Zhonghai arriving. He said: “Taking a shit for so long? Done wiping your ass?” A’Xiu sighed: “Couldn’t find toilet paper, so I had to shit in Pearl Spring—my ass nearly froze.” Just as they were talking, they heard Chen Defu cry: “Help! Little Black Dog is about to bite me to death!”

Qin Zhonghai said strangely: “Who’s this kid? Acting crazy?” When Chen Defu’s eyes met this man’s, his breathing nearly stopped and his mind went completely blank. A’Xiu pushed him from behind and shouted: “Speak up! What are you doing here?” Chen Defu snapped awake and choked: “This humble person is surnamed Chen, called Chen Defu, a disciple of Mount Huashan. Because a demon dog is rampaging here, this commoner… this commoner had to flee crying everywhere.”

Qin Zhonghai frowned: “What demon dog?” As soon as the words “demon dog” were spoken, golden light flashed urgently in the grass. Chen Defu couldn’t help exclaiming and quickly pointed to the bushes, saying frantically: “Over there, over there! Great Hero Grandpa, please help eliminate the demon!”

Of two evils, choose the lesser—if he could use poison to fight poison at this time, it would be the greatest joy. Qin Zhonghai nodded, yawned loudly, and suddenly turned around, reaching into the bushes and actually pulling out a dog!

Chen Defu was both shocked and delighted, never expecting the great man to truly strike like lightning, subduing the demon in an instant. Just as he was about to kowtow in gratitude, he heard A’Xiu laugh: “How is this dog a demon dog? Complete nonsense!” Chen Defu exclaimed in surprise and turned to look urgently, only to see a good dog squatting by A’Xiu’s feet—jumping joyfully, wagging its tail, spinning on its hind legs as if meeting its benefactor, adorable and pitiful.

The big man laughed heartily and patted the dog’s head: “This dog is really well-behaved.” A’Xiu also laughed: “Yes, let’s take it back to raise.” Just as they were playing with it, Chen Defu was already greatly shocked: “Wait! Don’t be fooled by it! This dog is a demon dog that doesn’t recognize its master!” He raised the iron broom, about to strike hard when he heard A’Xiu angrily shout: “What are you doing?” Chen Defu said tremblingly: “This humble person wants to eliminate the demon.”

“Eliminate the demon?” A’Xiu spat and grabbed Chen Defu’s collar, sneering coldly: “What demon? I think you’re the demon! You won’t even spare a dog! Beat you to death!” He raised his foot and kicked Chen Defu viciously, treating him like martial world scum. Chen Defu cried loudly: “Don’t hit me! You’ll beat me to death!”

A’Xiu glared and scolded: “Will you ever dare bully the weak again?” Chen Defu sobbed and cried: “I won’t dare, I won’t dare!”

“Alright, alright!” The violent man pulled back the evil child and yawned: “Let’s go handle real business, stop fooling around.” Watching the big and small figures leave, Little Black Dog still lay obediently on the ground looking pitiful. Chen Defu looked and saw this little dog’s eyes were gentle and kind, constantly wagging its tail. He couldn’t help exclaiming and thinking: “It’s become well-behaved—maybe the medicine’s effects have worn off.” He said: “Little Black Dog, can we make up?”

Little Black Dog turned its head and wagged its tail adorably. Just as he was thinking of petting it, he suddenly heard a roar, and golden light blazed all over its body. Chen Defu cried and screamed, taking to his heels: “Murder! Help! Senior Brother Ying! Master Uncle Fu, come save me!”

Watching Chen Defu run so fast, speeding past them again, A’Xiu scolded: “Useless! Watch where you’re walking!” Just as he was shouting, he saw Iron Foot Uncle crossing his arms, actually observing Chen Defu’s retreating figure. He couldn’t help asking in surprise: “What’s wrong with this person?”

The big man said: “Look at this kid’s footwork—it’s extraordinary.” A’Xiu focused his gaze and saw Chen Defu tumbling and crawling on all fours like a beast. He couldn’t help laughing heartily: “Indeed extraordinary!” Just as he was laughing, Iron Foot Uncle said no more, simply walking to Pearl Spring’s side, placing his hands on his hips and gazing across the water at two precious pagodas—the famous “Red Snail Pagodas.”

Iron Foot Uncle was getting down to serious business. This “Pearl Spring” was located in the West Garden, separated from Red Snail Pagoda by only water, not far apart. Looking again, it had just snowed and dusk was approaching. Lights were being lit in the garden, truly like a fairyland. But A’Xiu was shivering from cold: “Uncle, didn’t you say you wanted to find Aunt Tangyuan? Let’s go quickly.” Qin Zhonghai shook his head: “No good, can’t cross over now.”

A’Xiu looked confused: “Just walk through that grove of trees and we’ll be there—why can’t we cross?” Qin Zhonghai said: “To you it’s a grove of trees, but to me it’s a net of heaven and earth. If I go in, I’m afraid I won’t come out.” A’Xiu frowned: “How can there be such a strange thing?” Just as they were talking, the forest suddenly echoed with shrill, desperate screams. A’Xiu said tremblingly: “What… what is that?”

Qin Zhonghai said: “Someone has intruded into the Six Paths Great Formation.” A’Xiu said tremblingly: “What formation?” Just as he was about to ask more, the entire forest swayed back and forth with the momentum of heaven and earth shaking—quite a spectacle. A’Xiu watched with his whole body trembling, while Qin Zhonghai clicked his tongue in amazement: “Remarkable—to actually hold out to this extent.” Just as he was praising, another “Ah!” of agony was heard, followed by complete silence.

A’Xiu said tremblingly: “Is… is this person dead?” Qin Zhonghai shrugged: “Who knows?” A’Xiu trembled secretly, only now remembering Sister Xiaoqing’s warning that when he went to see Aunt Tangyuan, he must be careful, or Iron Foot Uncle might die there. Now it seemed these words were truly not false. Just as he was worrying, a person suddenly floated in the pool, drifting past them. A’Xiu’s heart jumped, and looking sideways, he couldn’t help shouting loudly: “Uncle, look! Look! It’s him!”

Qin Zhonghai bent down and also exclaimed: “Is that Lu Yun?”

That person was indeed Lu Yun, who had previously charged straight into the Six Paths Formation and now had become a floating corpse, setting an example for posterity.

Watching Three-Eye Uncle floating in the water, A’Xiu felt anxious and was about to wade in to save him when Qin Zhonghai laughed: “Don’t worry, let me handle this.” He held back A’Xiu, and when Lu Yun floated near, he bent down into the pool, hoisted him up in one motion, and placed him on the ground.

Seeing Lu Yun’s lips pale and his body covered in ice and snow, A’Xiu quickly squatted down and said tremblingly: “It’s over—no heartbeat!”

Qin Zhonghai smiled: “Don’t worry. If the great Baishui Waterfall couldn’t drown him back then, would he drown in this little pond?” He bent down and put his face to Lu Yun’s chest, then exclaimed: “Really not beating?”

A’Xiu said frantically: “Uncle! Save him quickly! Quickly!” Qin Zhonghai nodded, pushed A’Xiu away, breathed warm air into his palm, then swung his hand back and slapped hard—slap!—delivering a big slap to Lu Yun’s face.

A’Xiu was shocked: “Uncle, why are you hitting him?” Qin Zhonghai said quickly: “Don’t misunderstand—I’m calling him to wake up!” As he spoke, he didn’t forget to use both hands alternately, slapping viciously. For a moment there were continuous slapping sounds, beating the head left and right, but still couldn’t wake him up. A’Xiu said quickly: “Uncle, let me help too!” He raised his foot and kicked madly at Three-Eye Uncle’s body until he was sweating profusely, shouting with satisfaction.

Just as he was venting his anger, he suddenly heard a “Ugh!” Lu Yun vomited water and then breathed gently. A’Xiu was delighted: “He’s awake! He’s awake!” Just as he was about to make a fire to warm Lu Yun, he saw him breathing deeply—his body generated steam and his clothes gradually dried. A’Xiu was shocked: “Amazing! He can even dry his own clothes! I want to learn this skill too!” Qin Zhonghai smiled: “Kid, save your energy. Do you think anyone can learn this skill?”

A’Xiu looked confused: “What? Is… is this skill very difficult?”

Qin Zhonghai sighed: “Ten years of waterfall training, solitary life-and-death tempering—do you think that’s a joke?”

A’Xiu didn’t understand what he was saying. He focused on Lu Yun and saw his wet hair scattered, once again revealing the wound mark on his forehead. He couldn’t help being shocked again: “Uncle, look at his forehead! Look! Isn’t it exactly the same as mine?”

Qin Zhonghai said: “Yes.” A’Xiu crawled over to look at the scar on Lu Yun’s forehead, gently touching it. Suddenly his eyes reddened and he cried loudly: “Father! Your child has missed you so much! Father! Father! Quickly take Shenxiu back to heaven! This human world isn’t fun at all!” Just as he was getting excited, Qin Zhonghai became angry and embarrassed, scolding: “Stop making trouble! He’s not your father!”

A’Xiu looked stunned: “Really? But he also has this divine eye! If he’s not my father, who is my father?”

Qin Zhonghai took a deep breath, suddenly bent down, hoisted Lu Yun onto his shoulder, and threw him under a tree. A’Xiu gathered a big pile of miscellaneous grass and put it on Lu Yun, giving him a blanket of sorts.

Qin Zhonghai leaned against the tree, silently observing Lu Yun thoughtfully. A’Xiu asked quietly: “Uncle, why… why do you always avoid him? Every time you see him coming you run? Could it be he’s… he’s…” Qin Zhonghai said curtly: “He’s what?” A’Xiu didn’t know who this person was and said casually: “Could it be he’s your father?”

Qin Zhonghai was so angry he laughed: “My father? Then you’d have to call him Grandpa!” A’Xiu frowned: “Alright, if he’s not, he’s not—but who exactly is he?”

Qin Zhonghai sighed: “It’s a long story. Anyway, this person used to be my sworn brother—we had quite a bit of friendship. Unfortunately, I cut him with a blade, and from then on we became bitter enemies.” A’Xiu was shocked: “What? Isn’t… isn’t he your friend? Why did you have to cut him?”

Qin Zhonghai sighed: “Don’t talk about friends. When push comes to shove, sometimes even parents and children must be cut—how can you worry about all that?” A’Xiu was shocked: “What? Even parents must be cut? Why… why do you have to do this?”

Qin Zhonghai shrugged: “No choice—who told me I’m determined to do great things?” A’Xiu was stunned: “What great things?” Qin Zhonghai stretched, looked toward the horizon, and said quietly: “Forgot.”

This forgot, that forgot—Iron Foot Uncle forgot everything except the way back to Yihua Courtyard. A’Xiu snorted: “Uncle, you’re very much like a bad person.” Qin Zhonghai laughed: “Bad people do good deeds, being virtuous daily.” A’Xiu snorted: “Too lazy to talk to you. Now that we can’t enter the forest, what should we do? Should we go home?”

Qin Zhonghai laughed: “Little brother, we’re homeless.” A’Xiu made a sound of understanding, thought for a while, then suddenly became delighted: “How about this! You come back with me to the soy milk shop—my great-aunt will definitely like you.”

Qin Zhonghai laughed: “How do you know?”

A’Xiu said quickly: “My great-aunt is also half-righteous, half-evil. If she were twenty years younger, she might even marry you.” Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily: “Stop joking. If your great-aunt saw me, I’m afraid her three souls and six spirits would be scared away—how could I trouble her?”

A’Xiu said quietly: “Then… then where will you go? Are you going back to being a bad person? Uncle Wu will beat you to death.”

Qin Zhonghai smiled evilly: “Why should only I get beaten? Won’t Wu Dingyuan also get a beating from me?” A’Xiu felt anxious and said worriedly: “Uncle, have you forgotten what you promised me?” Qin Zhonghai looked confused: “What did I promise you?”

A’Xiu’s eyes reddened, and that vague sense of his origins surfaced again. He held Iron Foot Uncle’s hand as if about to cry. Seeing him like this, Qin Zhonghai couldn’t joke anymore and quickly said: “Alright, alright. Since we can’t enter that forest, we’ll have to ask friends for help. Then we’ll have nothing to worry about.” A’Xiu said quietly: “Didn’t… didn’t you cut all your friends with knives? Who else can you find?”

Qin Zhonghai laughed: “Don’t worry. If all friends are cut down, then find their sons.” A’Xiu looked confused: “Who?” Qin Zhonghai smiled: “Wu Chongqing.” Hearing this, A’Xiu suddenly opened his eyes wide and said tremblingly: “Chong… Chongqing brother? You… you want to find him?”

Qin Zhonghai smiled: “What, is this kid very scary?”

A’Xiu said coldly: “Extremely scary! Everyone says he’s the reincarnation of Prince Nezha, naturally rebellious—even Uncle Wu can’t control him.” Just as he was about to explain in detail, they heard coughing from under the tree. Someone sat up—it was Lu Yun awakening.

Just as the two were about to meet face to face, Qin Zhonghai said nothing, grabbed A’Xiu, turned around and left. Lu Yun rubbed his eyes and looked around, seeing himself lying under a tree. He couldn’t help being slightly stunned and thought: “What… what place is this?”

Earlier, Lu Yun had fought against the Six Paths Great Formation until his internal energy was exhausted. He remembered falling into a pond before losing consciousness—how had he drifted to shore? Could someone have saved him? Or had he floated to shore himself? Seeing his strength had recovered considerably, he reached out to support himself against the tree trunk and slowly sat up. Suddenly countless weeds fell from his body, though he didn’t know where they came from.

Lu Yun supported his forehead with his hand and sighed. He had been provoked by Mieli earlier, then saw the princess’s beautiful silhouette and rushed into the Six Paths Formation without regard for anything. Thinking of all the dangers just now, he couldn’t help sighing. Then he suddenly thought: “Right, wasn’t the person talking with Qianxi just Seventh Madam? How… how could she be in that forest?”

With this thought, Lu Yun jumped up again. Seventh Madam was A’Xiu’s birth mother and a survivor of the Liu family massacre years ago. So many matters were tied to her alone—who would have thought she was actually in Red Snail Pagoda? Lu Yun’s heart pounded as he ran toward the forest again, but after a few steps, thinking of the Six Paths Great Formation made him stop once more.

Lu Yun breathed and circulated his energy. After a sleep, his martial power had recovered thirty to forty percent, but this was still far from enough to break the Six Paths Formation. He thought: “No good. I alone cannot break this formation. I need to request Abbot Lingzhi and Mieli to join forces for better chances of success.” With this thought, he wanted to return to the tea shop to find help when suddenly a loud shout came from behind: “Friend ahead, make way! Make way! Quickly!”

Hearing this urgent voice, Lu Yun glanced back to see a military officer striding toward him, shouting: “Brother, I’ve been calling you for ages—why won’t you step aside!” Lu Yun was slightly alarmed and quickly said: “Military Lord, you are—” The military officer said coldly: “I am a military officer under Prince Hui, acting on imperial orders to garrison Red Snail Temple. Please step aside, Your Honor.”

Lu Yun frowned: “Prince Hui?” The military officer said: “Correct. The Shenji Imperial Camp, Heavenly Character Twelfth Division.” Seeing this person claimed to belong to the “Shenji Imperial Camp,” he indeed carried a long-handled firearm slung across his body, dressed quite differently from ordinary soldiers. Lu Yun was even more puzzled and wanted to ask more questions, but the military officer was too lazy to say more. He waved his hand and shouted: “Everyone come over! Guard this road and hang up all the banners.”

Torches lit up in the snow and mist, and a banner was raised high—it read “Serving Heaven.” A large group of soldiers took out firearms and began loading powder and cleaning them. Lu Yun watched in amazement as the military officer approached again: “Your Honor, if you have business, please attend to it quickly. Just don’t linger here.” Lu Yun said quietly: “Military Lord, has something happened?”

The military officer said coldly: “Friend, you talk too much. I’m carrying out imperial orders. If you have any questions, please go to the palace to ask.”

Lu Yun agreed submissively and slowly retreated, but thought: “What’s going on? Wasn’t Red Snail Temple already guarded by the Imperial Guard? Why have they deployed a firearm unit too?” This “Shenji Imperial Camp” was the firearm battalion from the Jingtai era, managing cannons and firearms. After the Zhengtong court, it became Prince Hui Zhu Qi’s direct military force. But now that Prince Hui was dead, who could arbitrarily deploy them?

Thinking of this, Lu Yun felt even more bewildered. As he walked and looked back, he suddenly heard low voices in the forest and shadows seemed to move in the bushes. Focusing his vision, he immediately saw several black-clothed figures and couldn’t help feeling alarmed: “State-Guarding Iron Guards?”

These “State-Guarding Iron Guards” were Yang Suguan’s secret police, specializing in espionage. Their gathering here now—could it be related to this group of soldiers? Lu Yun felt wary and quickly slipped into the forest, intending to investigate. But the black-clothed figures suddenly scattered in all directions.

The situation was strange and complex, as if some incident was brewing. Lu Yun felt anxious and was looking for someone to ask when he saw among the black-clothed ghosts one carrying an iron pipa—this person was familiar to him. It was “Handsome Jinteng.”

Seeing “Twenty-Three” here, Lu Yun was delighted and quickly pursed his lips to whistle softly. “Twenty-Three” heard the sound and immediately clicked his boots together with a sharp sound, about to shout and leap up when Lu Yun had already covered himself and led him far away, saying quietly: “How are you here? Didn’t I tell you to guard the tea hall?”

Handsome Jinteng said quickly: “Head Manager, something big has happened.” Lu Yun’s heart jumped: “What big thing?” Handsome Jinteng said: “From this moment on, all gates of Red Snail Temple only allow entry, not exit. No one is permitted to leave the mountain without authorization.” Lu Yun exclaimed in shock: “What? Who… who gave this order?” Handsome Jinteng said quietly: “His Majesty.”

Lu Yun gaped: “His… His Majesty? He wants to—” Handsome Jinteng said: “Just now news came from the palace that someone gave His Majesty a secret memorial. Afterward, His Majesty somehow became angry and summoned the three great divisions ‘Serving Heaven,’ ‘Supporting Heaven,’ and ‘Responding to Heaven.’ They’ve now surrounded Red Snail Temple so tightly that not even water can leak through.”

Thinking of that slip of paper, Lu Yun jumped up in shock: “Could it be… could it be that secret memorial wasn’t burned?”

In his urgency, seeing a towering tree nearby, he immediately flew up the tree. From the height, looking down, he indeed saw the mountain gate full of torches. Through the mist, he could dimly see banners that were definitely not “Golden Guards” or “Feathered Forest Guards” but “Responding to Heaven” firearm units. It seemed truly as Handsome Jinteng said—the Emperor had indeed deployed troops to completely surround Red Snail Mountain.

Three military forces—Responding to Heaven, Serving Heaven, Supporting Heaven—surrounding the mountain was an ominous sign, indicating the Emperor definitely wanted to arrest someone. But with so many Imperial Guards in the temple unused, why did the Emperor still deploy Prince Hui’s former troops? From this perspective, this wasn’t just a sign but a bad omen. Because what the Emperor was about to do, You Tianding and others probably couldn’t accomplish.

Lu Yun was shocked, suspicious, frightened, and flustered, his mind full of questions. After all, this Empress had been the beloved consort of Emperor Zhengtong in the past, staying faithful for many years without ever betraying him. How could just one slip of paper sent in anger the Emperor enough to deploy armies all over the mountain? Just as he was anxious, he suddenly remembered the various conversations he had heard outside the meditation room earlier and couldn’t help feeling horrified, thinking secretly: “Could that slip of paper not be a joke but actually true?”

“Extermination”—thinking of these two words, even though Lu Yun possessed amazing martial skills, his knees went weak and he fell straight down from the tree. Handsome Jinteng caught him and said in shock: “Head Manager, what… what’s wrong with you?”

Everyone knew that Emperor Zhengtong had left the Central Plains decades ago. During the endless years of the Jingtai era, Consort Qiong had waited alone from her youth until reuniting with the Emperor at forty. How had she spent those decades? Had she truly maintained virtue in a cold cottage, pure as ice and jade? Even if this were true, people’s words were fearsome—with all sorts of rumors spreading, wouldn’t the Emperor become suspicious?

They say serving the Emperor is like serving a tiger. Lu Yun had seen countless instances of family extermination throughout history. If what the slip said was false, the entire Qiong family would probably still be skinned alive. But if that slip was actually true, could Qiong Yuying, Qiong Wuchuan, and even little Qiong Fang still have a way to live? Lu Yun supported his forehead with his hand, gritted his teeth, and thought: “What to do? The Emperor wants to kill people—how should I respond?”

All along, Second Concubine had always called him a “plague god,” saying disasters followed wherever he went. Sure enough, his momentary impulse to deliver that memorial for Yu Yushan had unexpectedly torn a hole in the sky!

Remembering that the Liu family massacre years ago was precisely because of the jade seal he had brought, Lu Yun’s heart felt as if stabbed by a knife. He thought secretly: “No! I absolutely cannot let this happen again! With me here, no one is allowed to kill anyone!”

When Liu Angtian fell from power years ago, Lu Yun’s martial skills were incomplete and he could only flee with Wei Zizhuang, helplessly allowing others to slaughter them. Now with his internal and external skills fully developed, if he wanted to protect the Qiong family members and help them escape, he believed he could still give it a try. Just as he was about to rush away, Handsome Jinteng said quickly: “Yes, Fourth Master couldn’t find you earlier and seeing His Majesty deploy troops up the mountain, immediately became anxious. All State-Guarding Iron Guards split into two routes—one route surrounded the North Garden.”

Lu Yun exclaimed, seeing this North Garden was precisely where Emperor Zhengtong was staying. How dare Jin Lingshuang arbitrarily surround it? He said tremblingly: “You surrounded the North Garden? This means—” Handsome Jinteng said: “Fourth Master wants us to infiltrate the Patriarch’s meditation room and destroy that memorial.”

Lu Yun’s heart jumped: “Wait, could it be… could it be His Majesty hasn’t seen that memorial yet?” Handsome Jinteng said quietly: “This humble one doesn’t know clearly. You’ll have to ask Fourth Master yourself.”

Earlier Lu Yun had been overconfident, knowing nothing. Hearing this, he immediately became somewhat clearer. If the Emperor hadn’t yet seen the slip, there was still a chance for things to turn around. He paced back and forth repeatedly, forcing himself to calm down: “You… you said earlier the troops split into two routes. Where did the other route go?” Handsome Jinteng said: “This route is watching Mount Huashan’s sentries.”

Lu Yun was stunned: “Mount Huashan? You mean Ning Bufan’s disciples?” Handsome Jinteng said: “Exactly them. Zhao Duluo said he received orders from Third Master to have everyone watch every move of Mount Huashan’s people—not allowing a single one to escape.”

Lu Yun was greatly surprised. This Third Master was Qiong Wuchuan. Thinking that he himself was about to be targeted by the Emperor, how could he have spare energy to watch Mount Huashan? Moreover, Mount Huashan was already his people—why add extra precautions? Lu Yun became suspicious and said quietly: “Is… is this route trying to arrest someone? I don’t know. This humble one went to the North Garden route and didn’t ask carefully.”

Seeing the situation was somewhat strange—whether the Emperor had seen the slip was unknown, but troops surrounding the mountain was clear before his eyes—Lu Yun took a deep breath: “Has Lord Yang already learned about His Majesty deploying troops up the mountain?”

Handsome Jinteng frowned: “Lord Yang?” As he pondered to himself, he suddenly realized: “Oh my! You mean your double? He’s already gone to the Dharma Hall to proctor the princes’ examination, acting like nothing’s wrong.”

This time the eight great princes’ succession selection was divided into civil and military examinations. It seemed the civil examination had already begun. Handsome Jinteng said quietly: “Head Manager, where should this humble one go now? To the North Garden or to follow you?” Lu Yun pondered for a long while: “You should do what you’re supposed to do. If I need anything, I’ll come find you.” Handsome Jinteng said quickly: “Alright, then this humble one will go ahead.” After walking a few steps, Lu Yun suddenly said: “Wait.” Handsome Jinteng said quickly: “Head Manager, more orders?”

This Handsome Jinteng was loyal and devoted, always planning for him, but Lu Yun had never told him the truth that he wasn’t that “Head Manager.” If he truly died while stealing the memorial, how could Lu Yun not blame himself? Thinking about this, Lu Yun couldn’t help sitting down again, sighing as he contemplated response strategies.

The current situation was very similar to before the Liu family’s downfall—both sudden incidents, both disasters he had brought upon them. But the current circumstances were different from back then. At that time, Liu Angtian was isolated and helpless, while now the capital faced internal and external troubles—external siege by Angry Cang, internal succession struggles. If the Emperor chose this moment to raid the Qiong family, internal chaos would lead to external troubles, making the capital very difficult to defend.

The sky had turned completely dark with wind and snow. Looking at the dark night sky with fluttering white snowflakes, the scene was desolate and reminded Lu Yun of the night the Liu family perished. He stared blankly for a long while, then suddenly thought of Yang Suguan.

With great disaster approaching, in all of Beijing, probably only he could still stand up to the Emperor.

Lu Yun sighed, feeling overwhelmed, and thought: “Forget it, let me find Qiong Fang first. Seeing her will give me some peace of mind.” In his distraction, he took out the paper slip Lingzhi had sent, thinking that finding the old National Uncle would help him learn Qiong Fang’s whereabouts.

With succession imminent, most officials had already arrived at the palace square. The National Uncle was a special-rank grand minister of the Zhengtong court and would surely be there. Without further thought, he put away the paper slip, identified a small path, and ran toward the palace square.

It was evening but the sky was already completely dark. Arriving near the Great Buddha Hall, he saw large numbers of troops—their banners read “Supporting Heaven Division.” Lu Yun didn’t want to encounter them and went around to the back of the hall. But all around was dark and gloomy with heavy wind and snow, making everything unclear. As he slowly searched for a path, he suddenly saw soft light spreading from the snow and mist with voices carrying from afar: “All princes are the court’s future hopes.”

Lu Yun’s heart jumped and he thought secretly: “Is… is this the Dharma Hall?” Earlier he had heard Handsome Jinteng say that Yang Suguan seemed to be proctoring the princes’ examination—it must be here.

Moving closer a few steps, he saw a building brightly lit all around. Lu Yun crouched and approached, coming to the building’s side. He poked a hole in the window paper with his finger and first saw a high platform with an official speaking eloquently—it was Lord He who had gone to the Western Regions with him years ago. Looking to the side of the platform, seven or eight other officials sat there. Counting from the left, the fifth was exactly Yang Suguan.

Seeing his former colleague here, Lu Yun immediately employed his “breath concealment” technique to hide his presence, and his mind changed plans—he no longer rushed to find the National Uncle.

After ten years, Lu Yun had finally grasped the key point. With troops surrounding the temple and storm clouds gathering, his urgent priority was definitely not fleeing with Qiong Fang, but watching Yang Suguan. Only by understanding how he would respond could Lu Yun find corresponding strategies.

Just as he was thinking, he heard Lord He inside continuing to speak: “As the saying goes, ‘Looking at the world, it exists not for us; obtaining the world’s talented individuals to educate them—this is a gentleman’s pleasure.’ Today this old minister observes the princes’ examination papers—such fine writing shared for appreciation is indeed a gentleman’s pleasure.”

Hearing the princes had already submitted their papers, Lu Yun looked up and saw a yellow notice hanging behind the dharma platform with large characters reading “Heaven’s Mandate Rests Upon You”—apparently this session’s examination topic. Though Lu Yun was troubled and distracted, seeing this examination question, he still nodded secretly and thought: “This topic took considerable effort.”

This civil examination wasn’t for selecting top scholars or raising candidates to office, but for establishing the nation’s heir apparent. This “Heaven’s Mandate Rests Upon You” was exactly the command Yao gave when abdicating to Shun, meaning the inheritance of dynastic destiny all rested on his person. Later Shun also used this to command Yu. This topic was not only appropriate to the occasion but also to the person—it examined whether the future heir apparent could “hold fast to the mean” and let the dynastic succession continue.

Seeing the examination topic was excellent, he wondered what the examinees thought. Looking down at the platform, there were eight children—these must be the current “Eight Princes.” Counting from the right, beside the fourth prince sat a woman—it was “Shu Ning.” Lu Yun thought: “Right, Zai Jing was injured, so the court specially decreed that the princess consort could accompany him to the examination.”

Lord He really talked a lot. After watching for a long while, he still hadn’t finished. Lu Yun heard him say: “All the princes’ examination papers show exceptional selection. This old minister will present them for imperial review. After the imperial comments, I and the four Grand Secretaries will carefully review them and add detailed annotations.” Lord He spoke with flying spittle while the princes below mostly remained silent with heads lowered—whether listening to instruction or sleeping was unclear. Looking at Yang Suguan, he too had his eyes closed in meditation. Lu Yun looked around the room in various directions and suddenly saw a white-clothed woman sitting upright with eyes observing the mind and nose observing the heart—it was “Princess Yinchuan.”

Lu Yun was greatly shocked and thought secretly: “The… the princess is here too?” He quickly looked around the room’s corners and saw a white-clothed warrior sitting in the corner, collar turned up high and long as silver—it was “Timur Mieli.”

Seeing Mieli was also here, Lu Yun couldn’t help taking a deep breath. Looking around, he saw neither crown princes nor kings, nor important ministers like Wu Dingyuan. From this it seemed that like the princess, Mieli had come at Yang Suguan’s invitation—otherwise no one could enter the examination hall without authorization.

After watching for a long time, Lord He still hadn’t finished speaking. Lu Yun had accumulated a thick layer of snow on his body but still no end in sight. Just as he was getting anxious, he finally heard: “The above concludes this civil examination successfully and satisfactorily. We respectfully send off the princes from the examination hall.”

Hearing they were dismissed, some children leaped up, others wiped sweat from their foreheads—everyone left their seats except for one little fatty who remained unconscious, his name unknown. Just as the princes were about to leave, someone said: “Please wait, Your Highnesses. This official has a few words to say.”

Seeing there was more rambling, some princes sighed, others yawned. Some quickly returned to their seats to listen properly, while the little fatty continued snoring in his sleep, apparently never having woken up. With great difficulty, all princes returned to their seats, and the old eunuch said: “Lord Yang, whatever you have to say, please say it now.”

Yang Suguan smiled and cupped his hands: “Thank you, Director Fang.” Hearing “Director,” Lu Yun couldn’t help being slightly surprised and looked toward the old eunuch, thinking: “This person is the current Eastern Depot Director?” In the Jingtai court, this Eastern Depot was a first-class important position—holding the writing brush for annotations, controlling the imperial seal for proclamations—their influence was no less than Jiang Chong’s. But in the Zhengtong court, they seemed to have shrunk considerably compared to the Cabinet?

Seeing the scene had quieted down, Yang Suguan was quite considerate, first looking at his colleagues: “Lord Chen, would you like to speak first?”

Looking at the elder sitting second from the left, he must be the Cabinet’s Second Assistant. Hearing the question, he just laughed heartily: “No need. What Lord He should say, he’s already said. Let you young people speak.” Yang Suguan nodded and said again: “Minister Ma, would you like to speak first?” Lu Yun focused on the officials and saw a civil official around forty years old. Seeing his one leg stretched out stiffly with uncomfortable sitting posture, this must be “Ma Renjie” who had received corporal punishment. He slightly bowed: “Please go first, Lord Yang.”

Yang Suguan smiled and was about to take the platform when Lord He laughed: “Hey, hey, hey! How did you skip over Mou Junyi? You usually talk the most—do you have anything to say?” Lu Yun looked carefully and saw another official, not very old, about forty-five or forty-six, seated next to Yang Suguan—he must be the court’s Fourth Assistant. Hearing Lord He’s words, this person smiled and shook his head: “Won’t say, won’t say. The martial examination is about to begin—with so much talk, aren’t you afraid people will find it annoying?”

Lu Yun had also heard of this “Mou Junyi,” knowing he used to be an official in the Censorate who had been tied up by Jiang Chong and force-fed salt, earning the nickname “Not Afraid of Salt,” meaning as an official he wasn’t afraid of criticism and in using people didn’t avoid the worthy. Seeing he dared confront Jiang Chong, he was indeed now greatly valued and had become an important minister in the current administration.

After Yang Suguan was mocked for a while, he acted as if he heard nothing. Seeing no one competed with him, he brought some items—writing brush, ink, paper, inkstone, and a scroll—and stepped onto the dharma platform. Lord He laughed heartily: “Lord Yang is so thoughtful, even bringing props!”

Yang Suguan smiled slightly: “This official’s speaking ability is quite poor—without bringing some household items, I can’t manage the platform.” Speaking thus, he gazed down at the platform: “Your Highnesses, esteemed officials, this official today boldly wants to borrow this civil examination opportunity to tell everyone some stories. Would this be acceptable?”

Director Fang coughed: “Lord Yang, it’s already late in the afternoon. The martial examination will begin soon—perhaps skip the opening remarks?”

Yang Suguan said: “Very well, then I’ll skip these idle words. Today there is a distinguished guest present—the current Empress of the Timur Khanate. The story this official wishes to tell is related to her.” As soon as he finished speaking, everyone in the hall turned their heads to look at Yinchuan, whispering among themselves—apparently they hadn’t known her true identity before.

Yinchuan possessed the natural bearing of an empress. Hearing Yang Suguan speak, she simply nodded slightly to acknowledge those present. The little fatty yawned and finally woke up. Suddenly seeing Yinchuan, he cried out in surprise: “Fairy Sister!” and ran forward shouting: “Hug! Hug!” Just as he was making a fuss, the old eunuch came out and said shrilly: “Prince Chuan, please return to your seat immediately.”

The little fatty cried and refused to comply, but was still escorted back by the old eunuch, making a continuous fuss. Yang Suguan had also unrolled the scroll in his hands and hung it below the yellow notice—it was a huge geographical map covered with curving and winding script. Mou Junyi laughed: “Lord Yang, this is Arabic script! You’re not going to teach Arabic tonight, are you?” Yang Suguan smiled: “In a way, yes. May I ask if anyone present knows which country this geographical map represents?”

Lord He said: “Mongolia.” Second Assistant Chen said: “Jurchen.” After a cough, Ma Renjie bowed slightly: “This is an ancient map of Khwarazm, the predecessor of the Timur Khanate.” Yang Suguan cupped his hands respectfully: “Minister Ma is truly learned. This official is impressed.”

Lu Yun thought: “This Ma Renjie really is talented. How come he didn’t emerge as an official during the Jingtai court?”

The platform below fell silent. Some princes listened attentively while others played with jade pendants in their hands. Yang Suguan continued: “Which of the princes knows the history of Khwarazm?” After asking several times with no response, Lord He said: “Zai Qi!” Yang Suguan smiled: “If Prince Lu knows, please speak.”

Prince Lu stood up—tall and large with nose hair protruding, looking like he was about to grow a beard. How could he look like a ten-year-old child? He stammered: “This… this Khwarazm has a spicy name… this Zi Mo! Confucius’s students included Zilu, Zixia, Ziyou. Seeing this foreign land has a Zi Mo, it must definitely be a sage’s country!” The entire hall fell silent with no one speaking. Director Fang coldly mocked: “Your Highness is truly learned.”

“Hahahaha!” Lord He clapped and laughed: “Correct! Truly learned! Lord Yang, didn’t Zai Qi speak well?”

Seeing Lord He had definitely received some benefits from Prince Lu, he kept praising this “Zai Qi” everywhere. Yang Suguan smiled: “Indeed well said. This Khwarazm was indeed a sage’s country. This nation was located west of our dynasty and east of Persia. Before the Timur Khanate was established, this country was the greatest power in the Western Regions.” Speaking thus, he asked someone in the corner: “General Mieli, is there anything incorrect in what this official has said?”

Mieli sat in the very back of the room. Hearing the question, he stood and said: “The Western Regions’ national conditions are all in Lord Yang’s grasp. This general greatly admires you.” Seeing Mieli’s respectful words and Yinchuan sitting quietly without any sign of alarm, Yang Suguan’s invitation tonight must have some deep meaning. Lu Yun also calmed his mind and waited to see Yang Suguan make his move.

Seeing Mieli return to his seat, Yang Suguan continued: “Thank you for the general’s kind praise. This Khwarazm is far in the Western Heaven and originally had no connection with our Central Plains, but because of one person, it became intimately related to our Central Plains. Therefore, this official wants to use this topic to discuss military and national decisions, matters of dynastic survival and destruction. Please do not hesitate to offer guidance, Your Highnesses.”

For a long, long time, none of the princes replied. Some yawned loudly, others lay sprawled on their desks, seeming quite impatient. Mou Junyi laughed: “Lord Yang, please get to the point! What exactly is the relationship between this Khwarazm and us? Just speak directly—the princes are about to fall asleep.”

Yang Suguan smiled: “This still requires them to speak. Your Highnesses, what relationship do we have with Khwarazm? Do you know?” Seeing her cousin looking at her, Shu Ning whispered in her son’s ear. Zai Jing, drowsy and confused, heard a few words then stood up in a daze and said loudly: “Khwarazm is a friendly nation to the Central Plains! All the silk produced by our Celestial Dynasty must pass through there.”

Zai Jing fought with helpers, relying on his mother to cheat—thus he answered one question. Yang Suguan said: “Prince Xu answered well. Who else would like to speak?” After asking several times, suddenly someone said: “Zai Yun has something to report.” Everyone focused their gaze on this child—his eyes were bright and piercing, with a small piece of hemp cloth pinned to his arm, quite inconspicuous. Lu Yun’s heart jumped as he thought secretly: “This is Prince Hui’s son?”

Zai Yun had encountered his father’s death, but due to the court’s internal and external troubles, they had suppressed news of Prince Hui’s death. This child naturally couldn’t wear heavy mourning and could only hastily pin a piece of rough hemp to express his grief. He stood in the hall and said clearly: “In response to Lord Yang’s question, although this Khwarazm has little contact with the Central Plains, because of a common deadly enemy, it has formed a relationship of mutual dependence with our dynasty.”

Lord He laughed: “Your Highness, this old minister doesn’t understand. This place thousands of miles away has nothing to do with us—where does this common deadly enemy come from?” Just as he was about to mock a few words, Ma Renjie kindly whispered in his ear: “Lord He, who began the Mongol western expedition?” Lord He exclaimed in surprise: “Was… was it Genghis Khan?”

Everyone understood—both Khwarazm and China had suffered under Mongol iron hooves. Lu Yun took a deep breath, somewhat guessing Yang Suguan’s intention. Sure enough, he saw Yang Suguan smile slightly: “Your Highness understands my heart. Please be seated.”

This Zai Yun was quite learned and well-mannered, bowing to all the ministers before sitting down. Then Yang Suguan continued: “Genghis Khan—everyone present has surely long admired his name. This person was the first founding emperor of Mongolia. His military might was so extensive that our China, Korea, Annam, and the Western Regions all fell to his hands. He destroyed dozens of nations and killed over a million people. The story I want to tell today is about the great war between him and Khwarazm.”

Speaking thus, he pointed to the little fatty: “Prince Chuan, please stand up.” The little fatty didn’t know who was who and kept staring at Yinchuan. Hearing this, he stood up in confusion: “What for?”

Yang Suguan came down from the platform and stood beside the child: “Genghis Khan killed extremely many people. I’ll now give an example. When he captured the Tatar tribe, while proclaiming he would accept their surrender, he secretly issued the ‘cart axle execution order.’ This cart axle is about as high as Zai Zhi here.” He placed his hand on the little fatty’s shoulder as a measuring standard: “Among the Tatar tribe, all males taller than this wheel had to die.” Everyone in the hall changed color upon hearing this, and even Director Fang couldn’t help shrieking: “Is… is there any humanity in this?”

Seeing Zai Zhi’s short stature, everyone present was taller than him. Hearing of such massacre, all the princes felt uneasy. Zai Zhi was also frightened and trembling, raising his hand to point at himself: “Then… then what about me? Must I also be killed?” Yang Suguan said: “You’re the same height as the cart axle, so you could live, but they would make you a slave.” Zai Zhi said confusedly: “Slave? Then… then would I have to do a lot of work?”

Yang Suguan said: “Of course. The power of life and death would be entirely at others’ whim.” Zai Zhi said quietly: “Then… then if all the men died, what about the women?” Yang Suguan said: “Your mother, your sisters, and all the women of your entire clan would have to endure rape by Mongol men and thereafter bear children for them.”

“Outrageous!” Zai Yun slammed his hand heavily on the table and said sternly: “If I had lived then, I would willingly volunteer to fight to the death!” Nearby, Zai Qi and Zai Huai also shouted loudly: “I would fight too!” “Me too!” All the princes shared the same enemy hatred, clamoring loudly. Shu Ning quickly whispered in her son’s ear: “Speak up! Say you want to fight too.” Zai Jing woke up and in his confusion shouted loudly: “Fight! Fight! Fight desperately!” After shouting for a while, he suddenly looked bewildered and quickly asked his mother consort: “Fight whom?”

Amid the clamor, Yang Suguan raised his hand to stop them: “Your Highnesses need not be agitated. You don’t need to provoke Genghis Khan—he would come on his own. The Khwarazm we’re discussing tonight is a living example.”

The entire hall quieted down. Yang Suguan looked around the hall below and continued: “During the Dajin Xuanzong era, it’s said that Genghis Khan sent a merchant caravan to Khwarazm for trade, carrying a state letter wanting to establish good relations between the two houses. Later this group was arrested by Khwarazm, and all the envoys were executed. It’s said that upon hearing this news, Genghis Khan ran to a high mountain and wept for three days and nights, from then deciding to march west and invade the Western Regions.”

Second Assistant Chen said: “Lord Yang, Khwarazm’s killing of the Mongol merchant caravan brought disaster upon themselves. Your use of the word ‘invade’ seems unfair to Genghis Khan?” Yang Suguan said indifferently: “Lord Chen, what kind of person was Genghis Khan? This person had killed his own adoptive father, adoptive brother, and even shot his own younger brother with arrows just to fight over a fish. Do you think someone who treated even his closest relatives with such cold-blooded ruthlessness would truly care about the few lives in a merchant caravan?”

Everyone present understood clearly—this was just an excuse. Genghis Khan didn’t care about any merchant caravan; he just wanted to find a reason for his conquest. Thinking of the Tatar precedent, Zai Zhi couldn’t help crying in fear: “Then… then what would happen to Khwarazm’s people?”

Yang Suguan said: “They still had one hope—a formidable general.” All the children exclaimed with delight: “Who was he?”

Yang Suguan smiled slightly and looked down at Mieli. Understanding his intention, Mieli nodded: “The famous general Lord Yang speaks of should be the later sage ruler of Khwarazm, Jalal ad-Din.”

The children’s breathing quickened, feeling vaguely excited, all thinking Khwarazm’s people were saved.

In the silence, Yang Suguan paced with hands behind his back, saying calmly: “This Jalal ad-Din’s talent was so high that looking across the Western Regions of that time, no one could match his fame—he was a hero who appeared once in a century. But how unfortunate this person was to be born at the same time as Genghis Khan. However, whether fortunate or unfortunate, the life and death, survival and destruction of all Khwarazm rested on his shoulders.”

“In the third year of Dajin Xuanzong’s Xingding era,” Yang Suguan stopped walking and pointed to the geographical map: “Genghis Khan personally led 600,000 iron cavalry, using the excuse that Khwarazm killed his merchant caravan, to march west. It’s said his army covered the sky and earth, stretching a thousand li wide and thirty li long. When the great army reached the banks of the Amu River, Khwarazm’s court and people were shaken. Everyone understood that if this battle was lost, all the nation’s men would become souls under the blade, and all the nation’s women would become playthings for Mongol soldiers to rape and vent their desires. The disaster of national destruction and racial extinction was right before their eyes.”

Clap, clap—he clapped his hands twice and said loudly: “Your Highnesses! Suppose you were Jalal ad-Din! How would you save the nation from destruction?”

What a grand question! The entire hall fell silent, even Zai Zhi was dumbstruck, apparently frightened by this situation. Lu Yun took a deep breath and thought: “It seems Yang Suguan truly wants to select an heir apparent through this civil examination.”

Yang Suguan’s intentions were profound—he had set a difficult problem. Ma Renjie and Mou Junyi also stopped talking. Looking at Princess Yinchuan, she remained motionless, while Mieli had lowered his head in contemplation, apparently also pondering the situation at that time.

In the silence, Director Fang suddenly said: “Lord Yang, was there really only a war faction in Khwarazm then, with no peace advocates?” Hearing a “Bah!” sound, Zai Qi cursed: “With enemies at the door, how dare anyone advocate peace? If I were emperor, I’d immediately boil him into porridge!” Hearing this tyrannical behavior, Director Fang was so frightened his face turned ashen. Lord He laughed: “Fang Wannian, this is your fault—why ask for peace out of nowhere?” Suddenly someone said: “What if we can’t win? Should we seek peace then or not?”

Lu Yun’s heart jumped. He focused his gaze and saw a child sitting among them, sallow-faced and thin, whose court robe was actually patched. Yang Suguan smiled slightly: “What brilliant insights does Prince Shou have?”

Among those present—”Prince Hui, Prince Xu, Prince Feng, Prince Lu” plus the little fatty—weren’t they all crown princes? Yet there was actually a prince? The child lowered his head, stood up, and said quietly: “In response to Lord Yang, if Zhao De had faced such national disaster then, I would certainly have strongly opposed the majority and advocated for peace.”

Yang Suguan said: “Why so?” The child said quietly: “Genghis Khan has always been called the God of War. If Khwarazm doesn’t fight, that’s one thing, but if they fight, they must defeat him, otherwise the people will surely suffer great massacre. In Zhao De’s opinion, since this battle will surely be lost, it’s better to first endure humiliation and seek peace. If we only want momentary satisfaction, I’m afraid there won’t even be a chance for future revival.”

Mou Junyi laughed: “Prince Shou, why does your talk sound like someone’s tune when discussing the western suburbs battle situation?” The child coughed slightly and looked toward Ma Renjie. Lu Yun suddenly understood—this child was Ma Renjie’s disciple. Apparently he wanted to use this child’s words to ostensibly discuss Khwarazm while actually alluding to the western suburbs battle situation.

Yang Suguan continued: “So according to Prince Shou’s meaning, Khwarazm cannot fight this battle?”

Zhao De said: “Military force is an inauspicious instrument; the sage does not use it unless forced to. Although Zhao De enjoys royal rank, I also somewhat understand the people’s suffering. When great war approaches and conscription orders are issued, the people are already displaced. If we still fight and lose badly, where would this place the myriad people? Therefore, if Zhao De were in that position when the God of War attacked, I would absolutely not dare challenge his might. I could only preserve one breath first, wait to accumulate national strength, and only then compete with him later.”

Seeing this Zhao De was indeed intelligent, able to speak eloquently at such a young age like a little sage ruler, even Princess Yinchuan gazed at this child. Apparently Zhao De’s words had deeply moved her.

Just as the crown prince candidate seemed about to emerge, someone suddenly said: “Lord Yang, Zai Yun has something to say.”

Yang Suguan said: “Speak freely in the Dharma Hall, Your Highness need not be polite.” Zai Yun said: “I once heard my late father mention that before Genghis Khan’s western expedition, he had already planned to break through Khwarazm and kill all their people. Think about it—with armies already at the city walls, how could they allow the enemy to wag their tails and beg for mercy? Wanting to sue for peace would be like climbing a tree to catch fish.”

Yang Suguan said: “Then according to Your Highness’s view, what should be done?”

Zai Yun gritted his teeth: “Life! I also desire it! Righteousness! I also desire it! In today’s great situation under heaven, if we want to save the nation from destruction, we must fight with our backs to the water! If you want to destroy my nation and rape my mother and sisters, you must first take the heads of we Han men!” Speaking thus, he punched the table and said sternly: “You want war! Then let’s fight!” These words were spoken with passionate intensity, truly having the ambition of “Emperor Qin and Emperor Wu.” All the ministers couldn’t help being secretly shocked, while Zai Zhi cheered: “Brother Zai Yun is amazing! Baby, let you be emperor!”

Zai Yun advocated war, Zhao De advocated peace. In the silence, no one spoke. Suddenly Yang Suguan said: “General Mieli, what was the outcome after Khwarazm went to war?” Mieli said: “In response to Lord Yang, after the Mongol army crossed the Amu River, they were unstoppable. After breaking through Yulong Jiechi, they massacred a million women and children—the scene was too horrible to witness.” Yang Suguan said: “So they perished as a nation?”

Mieli said: “Not only did they perish as a nation, but they were also exterminated as a race. Genghis Khan captured their consorts and in front of them beheaded their infant children. As soon as the princes’ heads were severed, he raped all their mothers.”

Hearing this, some princes trembled, others sobbed, and Zai Yun looked up and wailed loudly. Yang Suguan said: “In the general’s view, if Khwarazm had opened the city and surrendered, how much death and injury could have been reduced?” Mieli said: “Opening or not opening the city made no difference. Genghis Khan was the world’s most faithless person. During his western expedition, he once tricked a garrison into opening the city, then after entering, killed all the city’s people.”

Listening, Mou Junyi suddenly laughed: “Lord Yang, whether peace or war, both lead to death. If you had been there then, how would you have responded?” Yang Suguan said: “I would be indifferent to either.” The ministers were stunned: “Indifferent?”

Yang Suguan looked down at the platform: “Prince Tang, what do you say?” Everyone followed his gaze and saw a child holding a small abacus, playing with it for amusement, apparently oblivious to the conversation. Director Fang coughed: “Zai Hao, Zai Hao, Lord Yang Suguan is speaking to you.” After calling twice, the prince finally became aware and said quickly: “Yes, yes, are you calling me?”

Yang Suguan smiled: “Yes, this official would like to ask Your Highness about this great war between Khwarazm and Mongolia—do you advocate peace or war?” The prince said quietly: “I don’t know.” Yang Suguan smiled: “Whether peace or war, everyone must choose. You’re no exception.” The prince said quietly: “Then… then alright, I need to use my abacus to calculate.”

Everyone laughed: “Can peace or war be calculated with an abacus?” Zai Hao seemed very timid and said fearfully: “Lord Yang, please tell Zai Hao how many Mongol soldiers there were?” Yang Suguan said: “Claimed to be 600,000, actually 300,000.” Zai Hao worked his abacus and said: “Then how many troops did Khwarazm have?” Yang Suguan said: “At least 400,000, actually 500,000.”

Seeing this Zai Hao holding an abacus like a little “head manager,” he worked the beads and said happily: “That’s one and a half times! Then I advocate fighting!” Zai Yun sneered: “Thousand armies are easy to get, one general is hard to find. When great battles begin, the few often defeat the many—can you calculate this way?”

Hearing the rebuke, Zai Hao immediately lowered his head and said nothing. Yang Suguan said gently: “Don’t be afraid, I also like using an abacus. Tell me, are you skilled at calculation?” Zai Hao was very happy and nodded vigorously: “Yes! I’m best at using the abacus. My father king does a lot of business and has me work the beads every day, but unfortunately, unfortunately—” Yang Suguan smiled: “Unfortunately what?”

Zai Hao sighed: “Unfortunately, someone who wants to be emperor can’t only know how to work an abacus.” Yang Suguan smiled: “Well said! Then what should he know?” Zai Hao said: “He should understand benevolence and righteousness, spread ritual and music, know people’s hearts.” Lu Yun listened with great delight, and Second Assistant Chen and Director Fang also applauded frequently, but Shu Ning snorted and cursed: “Merchant stink!”

Upon hearing “merchant stink,” Lu Yun suddenly realized this “Prince Tang” must be immensely wealthy, apparently doing very large business, probably even extending to several ministers’ households. Yang Suguan didn’t mind and smiled: “Prince Tang speaks correctly. Governing the world lies precisely in understanding benevolence and righteousness, knowing people’s hearts. I just wonder if Prince Tang, being so virtuous, has passed the art of benevolence and righteousness to his crown prince?”

Zai Hao said quietly: “This… this is very hard to learn. Anything that can be calculated with an abacus, I can do, but this benevolent heart is invisible and intangible—Zai Hao has no way.” This remark made everyone smile. Lord He laughed heartily: “Your Highness! I think you should stop thinking about being crown prince and quickly go to the Ministry of Revenue to handle finances. This old minister will be the first to recommend you.”

Zai Hao’s face turned red with embarrassment, not daring to respond. Yang Suguan smiled: “Your Highness, forgive this official’s bluntness—your abacus skills aren’t learned properly.”

Zai Hao looked confused: “Really?” Yang Suguan said: “Yes. In my view, everything in the world can be calculated with an abacus. If you can’t calculate it, you haven’t learned well.” Zai Hao was truly surprised: “Then… then can benevolence, righteousness, and people’s hearts also be calculated with an abacus?”

Yang Suguan smiled: “Of course. I’ve spent my whole life doing this.” Upon hearing this, Lu Yun naturally strongly disagreed, Ma Renjie coughed repeatedly, and Mou Junyi laughed: “Lord Yang, human calculations cannot compare to heaven’s calculations. According to your meaning, whether Khwarazm should seek peace or fight can also be calculated with an abacus?”

Yang Suguan said: “I’ve said before—all great matters under heaven must first be calculated with an abacus to understand the reality.”

Mou Junyi laughed: “How do you calculate? Hit people with the abacus?” Just as he was about to laugh heartily, he heard Yang Suguan say: “Lord Mou, peace and war are originally two sides of one body. What Mongolia desires from us is nothing more than three things: food, beautiful women, and gold and silk. If I kill the beautiful women, burn the gold and silk, and destroy the food, may I ask what purpose would Mongolia have in traveling ten thousand li? With hundreds of thousands of soldiers dead and wounded, gaining an empty city and returning without success, I think Genghis Khan would probably not even be able to keep his own position. May I ask, before starting war, would he calculate this or not?”

Hearing Yang Suguan advocate scorched earth tactics, everyone fell silent. Lord He laughed dryly: “Lord Yang, before Genghis Khan even arrives, you’re already burning houses? This isn’t very good, is it?” Mou Junyi also said: “Exactly so. Don’t beat around the bush, Lord Yang. With enemies at the city walls, peace or war—you can only choose one side.”

Mou Junyi made it clear—given today’s situation, whether Yang Suguan advocated war or peace, he had to choose. For a long time, Lord He coughed: “Fifth Assistant Yang, speak up! The Cabinet is waiting to hear your brilliant insights.”

Lord He was after all the court’s chief minister, no small matter. Upon hearing this, Yang Suguan bowed: “In response to the Chief Minister, this official believes peace and war must be used together. Without the heart to seek war, there’s no possibility of seeking peace. Without the mind for seeking peace, once war begins, ultimate defeat is certain.” Speaking thus, he looked toward “Zhao De”: “Prince Shou, you are Ma Renjie’s outstanding disciple. Do you agree with these words?” Zhao De was quite intelligent and quickly said: “Lord Yang’s teaching is correct. The matter of seeking peace requires both sides to be willing, otherwise if only one side has wishful thinking, it will certainly delay the opportune moment for war.”

Yang Suguan’s words advocated both war and peace, seeming to say nothing while saying everything. But Lu Yun had already heard the subtext—he knew Yang Suguan intended to use war to force peace. But Qin Zhonghai was no good man or believer. If he also held the same intention, when both sides calculated their abacus, they would probably calculate a magnificent great war.

In the silence, a child suddenly said: “Lord Yang! There’s something Zai Huai doesn’t understand! I’d like to ask for your guidance!” Mou Junyi laughed: “Prince Feng has something to say.” A child stood up with bright eyes and steady breathing—this child actually possessed internal energy. Lord He laughed dryly: “Zai Huai, I heard you’ve mastered Wudang’s Pine Crane Heart Sutra. Your martial arts are quite remarkable.”

The child quickly said: “I dare not claim such. All the brothers present are outstanding disciples of various sect masters—Zai Huai is absolutely no match for any of the brothers.” Mou Junyi laughed: “Don’t be too modest either. Come, come, speak your brilliant insights. Uncle Mou will back you up.”

This Zai Huai was indeed “Prince Feng,” who had taken Wudang’s Master Yuan Yi as his teacher. His martial arts seemed truly to crown the entire hall. He said clearly: “Zai Huai is ignorant. Just now I heard Lord Yang say this Khwarazm had 500,000 troops, more than Mongolia, but when the two sides fought, how could they not win? Isn’t this very strange?” The princes all saw the crucial point and clamored: “Yes! With clearly more people, how could they not win? It makes no sense!”

Yang Suguan said: “General Mieli, in your view, why was Khwarazm defeated in this battle?” Mieli said: “First, their battle formation was mistaken. At that time, Khwarazm’s ruler Ala ad-Din Muhammad was cowardly. When Genghis Khan’s troops approached the city, he not only hid behind the Amu River but also scattered his forces among various cities, thus allowing Genghis Khan to cross the river leisurely and defeat them one by one.”

Yang Suguan said: “And second?” Mieli said: “After Muhammad’s great defeat, instead of thinking of encirclement and counterattack, he fled westward until he died of fright by the Caspian Sea. Only after his death did Jalal ad-Din counterattack Mongolia, but unfortunately by then he had only tens of thousands of troops left.”

Everyone felt heartbroken and couldn’t help secretly cursing the incompetent ruler for ruining the country. Yang Suguan continued: “Then if Jalal ad-Din had commanded from the beginning, how would he have faced the Mongol army?” Mieli said: “According to historical records, Jalal ad-Din advocated a decisive battle, vowing to cross the Amu River with all the nation’s forces to fight Genghis Khan to the death.” Zai Yun and Zai Qi cheered loudly: “Exactly right!”

Yang Suguan saw the two children were excited and spirited: “Prince Hui, in your opinion, should this Amu River also be crossed?” Zai Yun said loudly: “In response to Lord Yang! This river should of course be crossed!” Yang Suguan said: “Military strategy says ‘when crossing a river before completion, strike them mid-stream.’ Don’t you want to hide behind the Amu River and wait at ease for the exhausted enemy?”

Zai Yun said sternly: “Lord Yang! Mongol armies are swift as wind and fire, coming and going like spirits—this was my father’s teaching. This Amu River stretches hundreds of li. Mongol armies could be in the east today, west tomorrow, moving like lightning. What ‘waiting at ease for exhausted enemies,’ what ‘intercepting mid-stream’—when facing Mongol troops, these are nothing but scholarly views!” This Zai Yun was Prince Hui’s son and indeed knew military affairs from childhood, speaking with complete logic. Yang Suguan nodded: “Then after crossing the river? If you were in command, what should be done?”

Zai Yun gritted his teeth: “Xiang Yu broke the cauldrons and sank the boats, Han Xin fought with his back to the water—both placed themselves in death’s ground to find life afterward. If this battle begins, Zai Yun will prepare his final letter, with the momentum of fighting with backs to water—king meets king, commander meets commander—with 500,000 against his 300,000, seeking the enemy for mortal combat!” Zai Qi roared: “Well said! Zai Yun! Let’s go together and kill them all! Screw their kind! Destroy their nation!”

Director Fang coughed: “Your Highnesses, in the court hall, those unseemly words must not be spoken.”

The ministers, hearing Zai Yun’s words, though bold, found them not entirely unfeasible. Perhaps if Jalal ad-Din’s views had been followed then, Khwarazm might not have perished. After a long while, Zai Yun said: “Lord Yang, what do you think of Zai Yun’s words?” Yang Suguan smiled: “You speak well, but now others should speak.” He clapped his hands: “Prince Xu, how are your injuries? Can you speak now?”

Zai Jing had long been awake, just yawning there. Hearing this, he quickly said: “My… my head still hurts.” Shu Ning also said quietly: “Cousin, he’s injured so badly, please… please don’t make things difficult for him.” Mou Junyi laughed: “In the court hall, cousin meeting cousin—how warm and intimate!” Shu Ning glared back viciously and cursed: “Petty man!”

The scene was ugly and they might start quarreling. Yang Suguan smiled: “Very well, who else hasn’t spoken tonight?” The little fatty shouted: “Zai Zhi hasn’t spoken yet!” Yang Suguan laughed: “Very good. Prince Chuan was recommended by the National Uncle and must have brilliant insights. Speak—if you were Jalal ad-Din, how would you fight Genghis Khan?” The little fatty exclaimed in confusion: “Who is Jalal ad-Din?”

Everyone laughed. Seeing this Zai Yun was bold and competitive like an Emperor Qin, Zai Qi was violent and crude like a King Zhou, who would have thought there was also a Jin Huidi? Yang Suguan continued: “Come, Prince Kang, Xun Yi, you haven’t said a word all night. Shouldn’t you say something?”

Everyone turned their heads to look at a child—this must be “Prince Kang.” Yang Suguan continued: “Xun Yi, you were strongly recommended by the Imperial Clan Court as a virtuous and capable person. They say you’re well-read in military history and exceptionally intelligent. Could it be you have no brilliant insights?”

The child lowered his head in silence, still not saying a word. But his complexion was fair and delicate, quite different from Zai Yun, Zai Zhi and others, actually bearing three parts resemblance to Yang Suguan—both had some shadow of Wang Mang.

After a long time, Xun Yi said: “In response to Lord Yang, whether to cross this Amu River or not actually makes no difference. In Xun Yi’s opinion, this battle would still surely be lost.” Zai Yun angrily said: “Ignorant child! What evidence do you have? How dare you say such words?”

Xun Yi said: “May I ask Lord Yang, before Mongolia’s rise, which country commanded the world’s strongest cavalry?”

Yang Suguan was originally the examination proctor but unexpectedly found himself being examined. He smiled slightly and answered: “According to the Golden History, the world’s most elite cavalry was the Dajin cavalry.” Xun Yi continued: “Then let me ask Lord Yang again—if we compare Dajin cavalry with Khwarazm infantry, who is stronger and who is weaker?” Yang Suguan said: “Since ancient times, East has been stronger than West. Dajin far surpassed Khwarazm.”

Xun Yi said: “Exactly. May I ask, at the Battle of Yehuling, when the Jurchen flanked Mongolia, how many heavy armored cavalry did they use in total?” Yang Suguan said: “Claimed to be 200,000, actually less than 100,000.” Xun Yi said: “Correct. Let me ask Lord Yang again—when Dajin originally fought Mongolia, both sides cavalry against cavalry, with 400,000 fighting 100,000, may I ask who won after this battle?”

Yang Suguan smiled without answering, but Lu Yun, Mieli and others knew clearly—they all knew the great Battle of Yehuling was actually the key battle for Jurchen national destruction. In this battle, Dajin cavalry with several times the enemy’s strength attempted encirclement but ended up with more than half dead and wounded. From then on, no country in the world could single-handedly resist Mongolia. Everyone was exposed under the blades of Mongol ghost soldiers. From this perspective, even if Jalal ad-Din led troops across the river to fight Mongolia directly, he probably couldn’t escape destruction either.

Yang Suguan said: “Then according to Prince Kang’s view, Muhammad hiding in the city was actually a superior strategy?” Xun Yi said: “Mongol cavalry excels at field battles. Even Jurchen’s 600,000 heavy armored cavalry couldn’t withstand them—what about others? Muhammad’s reluctance to fight in the field was precisely his brilliance, so he entered the city for protection, holding firm without coming out. This strategy wasn’t wrong. The error was only that he didn’t anticipate Mongols had cannons. Pitifully, his city walls weren’t thick enough and could only collapse before Timur.”

The entire hall fell silent upon hearing this, all knowing heaven was merciless and would surely destroy Khwarazm. Whether Jalal ad-Din crossed the river or not, Mongolia’s butcher knife would still fall. Even if Han Xin and Xiang Yu were reborn, they probably couldn’t save all of Khwarazm’s women and children. Mou Junyi and Ma Renjie both sighed, apparently having nothing more to say. Lord He said quietly: “Lord Yang, I think it’s about time, we should also—”

“Everyone sit down.” Yang Suguan picked up his teacup and poured some water into the inkstone: “Gentlemen, Yang wishes to keep the princes here to tell them how to win this battle.” Lord He was startled upon hearing this: “You mean you can save Khwarazm?”

Yang Suguan lowered his head to grind ink, moistened his brush, and said softly: “Not just save Khwarazm? If Yang had lived in the Western Regions then, when Genghis Khan dared to invade, I would destroy his Mongol race, making them never exist again.”

Mou Junyi laughed: “Lord Yang, don’t just talk nonsense. If you have such military talent, why not ask Wu Dingyuan to yield and let you, Yang Suguan, take over?” Yang Suguan smiled: “Lord Mou, you’re making things difficult for me. Yang actually doesn’t understand military strategy and has never led troops.”

Mou Junyi laughed: “Then why does Lord Yang boast so extravagantly? What do you rely on to resist the Mongol God of War?” Yang Suguan picked up white paper, brushed it with paste, stuck it to the wall, then picked up his brush and wrote two characters, saying: “By this.”

Two characters in proper regular script appeared on the wall. Everyone focused and read together: “The Right Way?” Looking at each other in amazement, they saw Yang Suguan put down his brush: “Gentlemen, what is the Right Way? The Right Way means doing the right things.”

Mou Junyi was stunned for a moment, then really couldn’t help bursting into laughter: “Lord Yang, you’re qualified to talk about the Right Way? Then all the whores in the world could erect memorial arches for themselves! Haha! Do you plan to laugh Genghis Khan to death with this?”

Yang Suguan moistened his brush and added a few strokes beside the character “Right,” creating the character “Script,” thus forming the character “Government.”

Everyone stared and said together: “The Political Way!” Yang Suguan put down his brush and nodded: “This Political Way is Yang’s lifelong doctrine. It is also the sure way to destroy Mongolia, strike the God of War, and resist all external forces in the world.” Princess Yinchuan had originally been silent, but now suddenly raised her head and said gently: “Lord Yang, what is the Political Way?”

Yang Suguan looked around the hall: “Politics means correctness. ‘If the ruler leads with correctness, who dares not be correct?’ This Political Way is actually the Right Way, but have you gentlemen ever considered when the ancients created this character ‘Politics’—” he pointed to the character “Politics” on the wall—”why did they add a ‘Script’ radical?”

Mou Junyi sneered: “Making articles with the character for ‘correct.'” Yang Suguan smiled: “Well said. Those who follow the Right Way do only right things. Those who follow the Political Way speak only right things. This character ‘speak’ means making you believe from your heart that everything I do”—he came down from the platform, bent down to look at Mou Junyi, grasped his hand, and said quietly—”are the right things.”

Mou Junyi snorted and turned his head away, but this time didn’t mock again. Lord He beside him laughed dryly: “Lord Yang, can you save Khwarazm with this ‘Political Way’?” Yang Suguan said: “Naturally. From the very beginning, Khwarazm wouldn’t need Jalal ad-Din, and wouldn’t even need Muhammad. No matter how many wise ministers and brave generals, they couldn’t save the crisis then. Speaking of it, only this ‘Political Way’ could save Khwarazm in the world.” Everyone said in amazement: “Why so?”

Yang Suguan extended his hand and pointed to the character “Politics”: “Your Highnesses, to know a nation’s rise and fall, where must you first observe?” Zai Hao said: “Must first observe money and grain.” Zhao De said: “Must first observe the people.” Zai Yun said: “Must first observe military forces.” The little fatty shouted wildly: “Must first see if the fairy sister is pretty!”

Yang Suguan said: “Xun Yi has great talent. You speak—to know a nation’s rise and fall, where must you first observe?” Xun Yi said: “To observe something, must first observe its interior.” Yang Suguan said: “What is a nation’s interior?” Xun Yi said: “The people.” Yang Suguan said: “What is the people’s interior?” Xun Yi said: “Legal system and customs.” Yang Suguan said: “Very good. Then what’s inside the legal system and customs?”

Xun Yi pondered silently. Ma Renjie then said: “The world’s customs must originate from the Son of Heaven.” Yang Suguan said: “Correct. Then what’s inside the Son of Heaven? What else is there?” Mou Junyi sneered: “Selfish desires.” Yang Suguan laughed heartily: “Brother Junyi is brilliant. Inside the Son of Heaven are selfish desires. But Lord Mou, why don’t you say where the Son of Heaven’s selfish desires are hidden?”

Mou Junyi coughed several times and didn’t answer. Yang Suguan laughed: “Rare to have all the princes here. If Lord Mou won’t say, then Yang will. Where this imperial selfish desire lies is in the rear palace. There are his most beloved people, so their weight in his heart equals the entire world.”

These words already alluded to current politics, so naturally no one responded. After a long time, Ma Renjie suddenly said: “What if the emperor has no one he loves?” Yang Suguan said: “Then he doesn’t know how to love anyone. His selfish desires would be the heaviest throughout history.”

Yang Suguan smiled and looked toward Princess Yinchuan, then glanced at the ministers: “So when Yang observes Khwarazm’s politics, the first thing is not to look at its treasury or grain stores, nor its people’s customs, but to look at Muhammad’s rear palace—to see where his selfish desires lie, to see who can share his power.” Mieli exclaimed: “You… you mean the Dowager Empress Turkan Khatun!”

Yang Suguan said: “Exactly her. Jalal ad-Din’s downfall was caused by the Dowager Empress, Muhammad’s incompetence was ordered by the Dowager Empress. Though the Dowager Empress was a weak woman, she might also have had brilliant aspects—why call her a disease? Actually this disease wasn’t in her person but in this matter—she grasped power but refused to bear responsibility. She wouldn’t bear responsibility yet grasped power. So those with responsibility had no power, those with power had no responsibility. Making mistakes without knowing pain, like walking corpses—thus I say Khwarazm was already dead.”

Mou Junyi sneered: “Lord Yang, you want to cure chronic disease, but Mongol armies are already outside the city. Distant water cannot save nearby fire. If you were Jalal ad-Din, how would you respond?” Yang Suguan said: “If I were Jalal ad-Din, I would personally lead 3,000 beautiful women from the country, offer all gold and silk from the palace, crawl prostrate out of the city and kneel in surrender to preserve the nation’s strength.” Mou Junyi said: “What if Genghis Khan kills you?”

Yang Suguan said: “Then I would die. If a prince comes out to sue for peace and is still killed, then who in the entire nation would dare speak of surrender again? Once royal relatives and nobles no longer harbor lucky hopes, they will unite as one to resist. Whether Genghis Khan dies in the Western Regions would be his good fortune. If I see the nation preserved and people intact, though I die, I yet live.”

Ma Renjie said: “What if Genghis Khan spares your life but soon comes again demanding tribute? How would you respond?” Yang Suguan said: “If I could escape death, after entering the city I would stage a coup.” Everyone was shocked: “A coup?” Yang Suguan said: “Yes. I would confine the Dowager Empress, depose the Khan, and eliminate all those in the nation with different hearts. Within three years, I would wash Mongolia in blood, making all the northern desert fear my name like infants hearing a fierce tiger, wailing in grief for ten thousand generations to show the world’s great faith.”

Hearing Yang Suguan openly discuss coups, Lord He, Director Fang, and all the ministers looked at each other, deeply feeling such words were extremely treasonous and rebellious. Mou Junyi said quietly and coldly: “Lord Yang, do you… do you really want to rebel?”

Yang Suguan said indifferently: “Some things I’ve not only said but already done. Please remember firmly that Yang’s Political Way speaks only right things.” Speaking thus, he bowed to the eight princes: “Your Highnesses above, this minister dares to risk the world’s great disapproval to speak directly and memorializ—every sentence sincere words. If you can remember them in your hearts, then—” Speaking thus, he removed the “Political Way” characters, revealing the yellow notice behind with seven large characters: “Heaven’s Mandate Rests Upon You.”

In the silence, Yang Suguan gathered his things, stepped down from the high platform, then pushed open the hall door. Wind and snow rushed into the hall as Yang Suguan looked up slightly and stepped outside.

As soon as Lord Yang left, the princes ran about, played around—some yawned continuously, others slept and snored, and the little fatty secretly looked at beautiful women. Amid the clamor, Yinchuan suddenly stood up and followed him out. Mieli quickly caught up, shouting: “Your Highness! Wait!”

Director Fang smiled bitterly. Seeing Yang Suguan had left, he walked to the hall door and shouted loudly: “The civil examination is finished! Royal attendants enter the hall to escort!” As soon as he shouted, the hall outside was full of calls: “Zai Hao! Did you test well?” “Zai Jing! Your father king is here to fetch you!”

The hall was lively and noisy. Prince Xu and Prince Tang came personally to visit, while Prince Lu and Prince Kang were represented by their consorts. Emei Sect Leader Yan Song was also in the crowd—tall and quite conspicuous, whispering in Zai Yun’s ear.

In the blink of an eye, the princes had all left or dispersed, not one remaining. The ministers still sat there. Second Assistant Chen smiled bitterly: “This Lord Yang insists on shocking words or death? Speaking such words at this moment—does he really want to drag us all down?” Lord He said quietly: “This old minister makes it clear first—nobody tell the Emperor about tonight’s affairs. I don’t want to invite trouble.”

Mou Junyi cursed: “What’s to fear? This fellow calculated that we wouldn’t dare report! I’ll definitely report!” Ma Renjie sighed: “Stop talking, let’s go.” He picked up his walking stick, supported himself, and also limped away.

In the great wind and snow, a figure slowly stood up outside the hall, shaking off snow all over his body—it was Lu Yun. He breathed warm air into his palms, turned to look at the palace square—Yang Suguan’s figure had become a tiny black dot, about to disappear from sight.