Long, long ago there was a rooster who liked to eat rice.

A broken grain of rice husk here, a bit of leftover rice there—the rooster clucked happily and pecked desperately. Its eyesight was especially good; rice that other chickens couldn’t see, it could always spot. When others went hungry, it could always eat until its beak was full and wings plump.

One day the chickens got angry from hunger and suddenly became enlightened. They all ran madly after the rooster, and whenever they saw it lower its head to look for food, the chickens would swarm forward and snatch away the rice husks on the ground first.

The rooster couldn’t get anything to eat and became hungrier and thinner. Later it understood too—it no longer bothered to look for food. Let the ground be covered with broken rice husks; it would just follow the flock and wait. Everything became easier.

Hey, look over there! There’s an idiot lowering its head to peck rice—everyone hurry up!

※※※

A smile appeared at the corners of Jiang Chong’s mouth, with a grain of rice stuck there.

The black-clothed man across from him coughed and pointed at the corner of Jiang Chong’s mouth, his eyes gleaming beneath the mask. Jiang Chong made an “oh” sound, wiped his mouth with his hand, put the white rice in his mouth, and still savored the taste of the rice as he licked his lips and smacked his tongue.

“Who knows that food on the plate, every grain requires toil”—though many people thought Jiang Chong was extravagant and corrupt, he was actually someone who had suffered hardship, and only such a person knew the pain of going hungry.

The black-clothed man coughed again: “Minister Jiang, summoning me urgently in the deep of night—what instructions do you have?”

Jiang Chong’s mouth curved in a sinister smile: “Liu Zhengbei’s memorial—heh, His Majesty approved it. Do you know about this matter?” Hearing of this major event, the black-clothed man remained unmoved and only said calmly: “Liu Angtian has long intended to test my father and son. This was inevitable—nothing surprising.”

Jiang Chong chuckled: “Exactly. With Liu Jing falling so quickly, even if Liu Angtian were ten times stupider, he’d suspect there were other enemies nearby watching and waiting. You must be careful these days.”

Hearing about Liu Jing’s downfall, the black-clothed man only closed his eyes to rest, not paying much attention, as if the matter had nothing to do with him.

Seeing his calm composure, Jiang Chong immediately smiled coldly. People spoke of the three great ministers Jiang, Liu, and Liu in court—how remarkable they were. But actually, this person’s ruthlessness and viciousness probably exceeded all three leaders. Jiang Chong coughed and looked at the black-clothed man before him: “Let’s not discuss these idle matters. I’ll ask you something—this time Liu Angtian is recommending your son. How do you plan to respond?”

The black-clothed man tucked his hands in his sleeves and said calmly: “No need for panic. In all matters, respond to change with constancy—there are naturally ways to compromise.”

Jiang Chong had gained the upper hand and immediately mocked: “The son is yours, not mine. Currently the rebel momentum has formed and is not easily dealt with. When the time comes, if by any chance the Emperor personally issues an edict demanding to chop off the little friend’s head, won’t you feel heartache?”

The black-clothed man glanced sideways at Jiang Chong: “Minister Jiang, nothing in the world is more detestable than those who gloat over others’ misfortunes.”

Jiang Chong burst into laughter. The saying goes “even tigers don’t eat their cubs”—if a person would even peck at his own son’s rice, could he still be considered human? Though Jiang Chong was vicious, he couldn’t yet do such a thing. After laughing for a while, he said: “Fine, fine. Having reached this point and still not begging me—you as a father are truly stubborn. That’s also good. I’ll just wait and see Shaolin Temple’s methods. Perhaps heroes come from youth and he can really carve out a bloody path for the little friend—who knows?”

Jiang Chong laughed most happily, full of high spirits. But no matter how wildly he laughed and mocked, the black-clothed man remained silently speechless.

Beneath the mask in the shadows, the black-clothed man’s eyes flashed with piercing light. Barking dogs always show their teeth and claws—how can they bite people? Those quiet, silent stones are often the deadly weapons that crush people to death. Just wait and see—who is truly the most terrifying political strategist of the current dynasty will soon be revealed…

※※※

The heroes welcomed back the Azure-Robed Scholar—with both great military advisors present, four of the Five Tiger Generals obtained, plus “Secret Eleven” leader Zhi Guan, Twin Dragon Stronghold instructor Hao Zhenxiang, “Fire-Eyed Lion” Jie Tao, “Nine Lives Madman” Chang Xuehen, and Demon Gold’s thirty thousand troops, the stronghold could truly be said to have greatly enhanced its prestige, only one step away from its former glory.

With Yang Suguan vouching for them with Shaolin Temple, the three could calmly leave the manor. Since Shaolin Temple had stepped forward with an invitation and set a meeting next month at Songshan, though the Four Great Families secretly harbored resentment, they couldn’t very well turn hostile and attack in front of Abbot Lingzhi, so they could only swallow their anger and watch the three leave.

As they walked, a big-bearded man ran over, laughing: “Damn! My fire burned them into chaos—really fucking satisfying.” This man’s mouth was full of foul language—naturally it was Chang Xuehen. Seeing the Azure-Robed Scholar, he immediately asked curiously: “Is this the Right Phoenix Great Military Advisor? Why doesn’t he have feathers on him?”

Qin Zhonghai laughed and cursed: “What feathers or ass feathers—let’s quickly go meet up with Er’niang.” Chang Xuehen laughed: “Right, your wife is worried you got slaughtered by others. Don’t cry with tears streaming down at this moment—that would be ugly.”

The two laughed heartily and walked away arm in arm. Behind them, the Azure-Robed Scholar heard the two words “Er’niang” and his whole body shook. He took a deep breath and asked: “Er’niang has returned to the stronghold?” Xiang Tianshou nodded: “Yes. When General Qin was severely injured and near death, it was Er’niang who took him to find Master Fang. She treats General Qin with deep affection and loyalty—truly enviable.”

Hearing the four words “deep affection and loyalty,” the Azure-Robed Scholar’s whole body shook even more, his face turning iron-blue. Xiang Tianshou, seeing him hesitate to speak, couldn’t help but cough: “Military Advisor Tang, is there something strange?”

The Azure-Robed Scholar sighed and said quietly: “Heaven’s tricks—the Sword King’s proclamation to the world didn’t mention this matter… Forget it, life and death, reputation and integrity—Heaven has its own arrangements…” Everyone couldn’t understand what he was saying and were all confused.

※※※

As they spoke, low sounds came from around the forest. Everyone listened carefully and heard breathing sounds hidden in the woods—about ten or so people, each with long, steady breaths, suggesting considerable internal energy. Xiang Tianshou frowned: “These bastards are looking for death again—let’s kill a few first.”

Qin Zhonghai secretly sneered. These people were resentful that the Azure-Robed Scholar had joined the stronghold and probably couldn’t be satisfied without killing them. He beckoned Xiang Tianshou and whispered: “For Shaolin Temple’s sake, there’s no need to kill. Everyone split into two groups—you escort the Sect Leader back to the stronghold first, and Brother Chang and I will go meet up with Er’niang.” Xiang Tianshou had fought with Qin Zhonghai and knew his martial arts were no less than Fang Zijing’s—no matter how difficult the situation, he could come and go freely. He nodded: “Then I’ll trouble the General.”

Before they finished discussing, killing sounds erupted from the treetops as over ten skilled fighters burst from the forest, each attacking the group. They saw Zhu Kang, Song Deguang and others among them—probably they couldn’t stand their old lady being humiliated and, taking advantage of the enemies not having gone far, led people to seek revenge.

Qin Zhonghai shouted: “Everyone split up! Go!” Xiang Tianshou held flying stones and led the way, while the Azure-Robed Scholar, knowing he was the target, didn’t engage head-on but let Xiang Tianshou protect him as they rushed out of the forest. Several people tried to pursue but were blocked by Qin and Chang.

Evening wind blew through the forest with insects chirping and birds calling, quite cool against the body. Qin Zhonghai pulled up his sleeves, revealing his robust arms, and smiled: “Do you want to fight one-on-one or all come together?” Everyone surrounded them in a circle, exchanged glances, and shouted in unison to attack.

Chang Xuehen drew his blade, about to defend against enemies, when Qin Zhonghai pulled him aside, laughed heartily, and slashed forward with his steel blade, roaring: “Fall down!”

The steel blade’s wind was indescribably fierce—everyone had witnessed the power of the Fire Greed Blade before. Seeing this blade chopping down at him, Zhu Kang feared being roasted into a suckling pig. Terrified out of his wits, he hurriedly rolled to the ground. But with his dodge, the encirclement formation was already broken. Everyone was both shocked and discouraged, shouting once as they stepped back.

Zhu Kang gritted his teeth and shouted: “Brothers, everyone attack again!” Song Deguang gathered courage and charged forward. Qin Zhonghai remained composed, and when he approached within three feet, raised his blade threateningly again. Song Deguang was startled—seeing his companions behind him shouting loudly with great effort but no one following him forward to kill enemies—in his panic, the “Void Slash” ultimate technique was already before his eyes. Song Deguang’s face turned pale and he could only roll on the ground to dodge, coincidentally bumping into Zhu Kang behind him, both rolling to the ground.

Seeing them so useless, Qin Zhonghai immediately squinted and smiled: “Good! Since you’re so determined to take me home, I won’t be polite—I’ll go find Old Madam Zhu to crack sunflower seeds!” He raised his blade and roared, leading Chang Xuehen toward Zhu Family Manor.

Zhu Kang was so frightened his face turned pale as he cried: “Everyone retreat! Retreat!”

※※※

Seeing everyone run without a trace, Qin Zhonghai and Chang Xuehen immediately burst into laughter. Chang Xuehen laughed: “We’ve driven off the thieves—should we catch up with Hall Master Xiang and the others?” Qin Zhonghai pondered for a while and shook his head: “Song Divine Blade and Gao Tianwei are still nearby—let’s avoid them first and wait until it’s completely dark before leaving.” Song Gongmai’s martial arts were high, and Gao Tianwei was also not easy to deal with. Since he had escaped, there was no need to fight them head-on. He found a place in the forest to sleep soundly, then wait until completely dark to meet up with Yan Er’niang and Tao Qing.

Midsummer days were long and nights short—by the time night fell, it was already the You hour. Qin Zhonghai had slept enough and woke up Chang Xuehen, then the two lazily left.

Earlier, Yan Er’niang had been ordered to seize horses and was waiting at the southern foothills outside the city. Qin Zhonghai, fearing recognition, found black mud to smear on his face and stole two farmers’ bamboo hats for disguise. With the dim light now, unless face-to-face, probably no one could detect their identities.

※※※

Qin and Chang entered the city along the road, heading straight south. But their strange appearance—neither like monks nor beggars—inevitably drew sideways glances along the way. Fortunately, they encountered no martial world figures, otherwise there would surely be another good fight.

Walking to a steamed bun shop, they smelled the permeating fragrance. Chang Xuehen said: “Damn, I’m very hungry—let’s eat something!” Qin Zhonghai nodded, thinking: “Er’niang is from the north and likes wheat foods—let’s buy some for her to eat.” He took out money and called: “Shopkeeper, bring some white meat buns! And pick some flower rolls too!”

These past days with martial world figures gathering at Zhu Family Manor, the shopkeeper had long grown accustomed to it. Though seeing two bamboo-hat strangers shouting at the door, he didn’t feel afraid. He quickly agreed and brought two oil paper bags, letting them pick from the steamer themselves.

After Qin Zhonghai settled the bill with the shopkeeper, suddenly a little beggar rushed over, snatched from Chang Xuehen’s hand, grabbed the bag and ran wildly away. Chang Xuehen was a river pirate—who knew someone would dare move earth on the Grand Duke’s head? He couldn’t help but be startled: “Damn! Isn’t this asking for death?”

Seeing the shopkeeper about to shout, Qin Zhonghai patted his shoulder: “It’s nothing, just a few buns. Don’t panic.”

The shopkeeper shook his head and sighed: “The world is declining—nowadays beggars are really getting more and more outrageous, actually daring to rob in broad daylight. Sigh… I really don’t know where the law has gone?” Chang Xuehen sneered: “No matter—when the law doesn’t work, we use bandit methods. When bandits meet the grandfather thief, this little beggar is in trouble.” The shopkeeper was so frightened his face turned pale, trembling: “You… you just said… what…”

Chang Xuehen ignored him and gathered his energy to chase out. Qin Zhonghai also followed close behind. The two followed the little beggar, waiting to reach a deserted place before giving a good lesson.

※※※

The two followed along and saw the little beggar dodging and hiding, ducking into a deserted alley. Chang Xuehen sneered and waved his fist, about to go beat the person. Qin Zhonghai knew he didn’t know restraint and might accidentally kill someone, so he smiled slightly: “No hurry—let me handle it.” His iron foot touched down and he shot straight up, instantly blocking the escape route.

The little beggar was greatly shocked, not expecting someone to chase after. Stepping back, immediately turning to run.

Chang Xuehen laughed heartily: “Little brat, you stole grandfather’s buns and still want to run? Where?” He stepped forward to block the little beggar’s front. The beggar hadn’t expected two people blocking the way and in panic touched the wall with the right foot, actually flying up to the wall top.

Qin Zhonghai was secretly shocked: “This child’s movement is quite good—who is this?” How could Chang Xuehen let him escape? His right arm shot out, grabbing the little beggar’s back clothing. With a tearing sound, the clothing ripped, and the little beggar screamed and was forcibly pulled to the ground.

The little beggar struggled desperately, cursing loudly: “Shameless thing! Despicable and vile! Let go of me quickly!”

Qin Zhonghai heard the voice was quite delicate, and seeing her back skin white, tender, and smooth as a mirror—really not like a beggar. His heart stirred slightly as he looked quickly, seeing that though the little beggar’s face was dirty, she had an oval face with sweet dimples. Where was this a beggar? It was Juan’er from Nine Flower Mountain!

※※※

Qin Zhonghai was startled—this Juan’er was the Azure-Robed Scholar’s senior disciple. Chang Xuehen mustn’t be too heavy-handed and accidentally injure her. He quickly called: “Brother Chang, let her go!” Chang Xuehen made an “eh” sound and loosened his grip. Juan’er, breaking free from restraint, quickly fled from the alley. Fearing the strange men would chase her, she frantically hid in the crowd, crouching and running for a while, afraid of being caught again.

After crossing two streets, Juan’er’s shock had just settled as she gasped and looked back. Seeing the pursuers had been shaken off, she patted her chest and panted: “So dangerous! Almost ran into the plague god.” Suddenly someone ahead said: “Sigh… clearly the Five Gods of Wealth, yet you treat them as plague gods—I’m truly sad!”

Juan’er looked up quickly—someone was grinning at her fiercely. Who else could it be but that bamboo-hat stranger? She screamed “Ah!” and ran backward again.

She used her master’s lightness skills with all her might to flee backward. Pedestrians on the road, seeing a little beggar running wildly through the streets, all stared. After running for a while, Juan’er looked back urgently, fearing Qin Zhonghai would chase her. Fortunately, she didn’t see his shadow—it seemed he had let her go.

Just as she was looking back, she carelessly bumped into someone. She quickly steadied herself, then bowed: “Sorry for bumping into you, sir.” The person smiled: “No problem, it doesn’t hurt.” Juan’er heard his voice was familiar—looking up, it was the strange man again!

Juan’er screamed loudly: “Help! Kidnapping!” This girl was calling “thief” while being the thief herself. Qin Zhonghai, hearing this, couldn’t help but be both angry and amused. He firmly grabbed her and covered her cherry lips. Though Juan’er was young, her figure was gradually developing and could be considered quite attractive. Being held like this, she probably feared assault. Both shocked and afraid, she bit down hard on Qin Zhonghai’s hand. Qin Zhonghai’s muscles tightened, and his arm was naturally hard as steel. Juan’er’s vicious bite only made her teeth ache and tears well up, and she couldn’t help but cry loudly.

Qin Zhonghai looked embarrassed, thinking: “Damn crazy woman, she’s trying every trick.” He removed his bamboo hat and leaned close to whisper: “Stop crying! I’m Qin Zhonghai, not a bad person.”

Juan’er was crying and making a fuss when she heard Qin Zhonghai’s words. She quickly looked up and indeed saw before her a big man with heroic and refreshing bearing, very familiar—it was General Qin Zhonghai who had returned from the western frontier together years ago.

Suddenly seeing an old friend, Juan’er stared blankly at Qin Zhonghai. Her eyes reddened and she immediately threw herself into his arms, crying loudly: “Uncle Qin!”

Juan’er was sixteen while Qin Zhonghai was in his thirties—they were more than ten years apart, so calling him uncle was appropriate. But Qin Zhonghai, being called this, couldn’t help feeling he really was old. He laughed dryly twice, and seeing Juan’er’s face covered with mud and her clothes torn and tattered, he quickly comforted: “Don’t cry first—tell… big brother how you ended up like this?”

Juan’er sobbed uncontrollably: “Uncle Qin, my master was captured by bad people! A’Sha and I had nowhere to go and could only hide in the city. We have no money and nothing to eat, so we could only steal things… woo woo… woo woo…”

At this time Chang Xuehen had also caught up and asked quietly: “Who is this little girl?” Qin Zhonghai sighed: “She’s the Azure-Robed Sect Leader’s little disciple, named Juan’er.”

Hearing her explain what had happened, Qin Zhonghai immediately understood. Earlier when the Azure-Robed Scholar was surrounded at Zhu Family Manor, he only saw Yan Ting accompanying him but didn’t see Juan’er’s trace—turns out this child had already escaped down the mountain. Poor girl, without master and senior sister caring for her, though usually a little sprite, at this critical moment she was at a loss and finally became a little beggar, stealing daily to survive. Unexpectedly she provoked Chang Xuehen, this demon, which led to him seeing her.

Juan’er sniffled: “Master told me to take A’Sha to a place called Nu Cang Mountain, but I don’t know where that is. I asked several passersby but no one had heard of it. Can… can you tell me how to get there…” Chang Xuehen laughed heartily: “Little girl, you asked the right people—we’re from Nu Cang Mountain!”

Qin Zhonghai smiled slightly, thinking: “What a wise Azure-Robed Sect Leader—he had already anticipated today’s events and instructed his disciple. Poor little girl, unfamiliar with people and places, circling around and still wandering in Shaanxi Province.”

Juan’er pulled Qin Zhonghai’s hand and asked confusedly: “You’re from Nu Cang Mountain? General Qin, don’t you live in Beijing?” Chang Xuehen was about to explain when Qin Zhonghai interrupted him, pulling Juan’er’s hand with a smile: “Don’t think about it too much. First let’s fill your stomach, then find clothes to change into and dress cleanly—we’ll take you to find your master.”

Hearing he would take her to find her master, Juan’er couldn’t help but be both shocked and delighted: “You… you know where Master is?” Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily: “Naturally. We’re good friends—we met at Huashan before. Would I lie to you, little girl?”

Juan’er broke into a smile and rubbed her eyes: “Uncle, thank you.”

Qin Zhonghai had always seen this little girl innocent and carefree in the past. Now hearing her thank him so pitifully was unprecedented—it seemed this period of torment had made her grow up much overnight.

Hearing her thanks, Qin Zhonghai felt even more protective. He extended his sleeve to wipe the dirt from her face and said gently: “Don’t talk about this now—we have a friend waiting in the south of the city. Come with big brother quickly to meet up.” He stepped forward to leave when Juan’er pulled his hand: “Uncle, wait—A’Sha is still in the broken house. I need to go back and find him.”

Hearing the name “A’Sha,” Qin Zhonghai couldn’t help but make an “oh” sound, remembering the crazy man he’d seen on Huashan. He immediately smiled: “A’Sha? That would be the crazy old fellow, right?” Juan’er puffed her cheeks with displeasure: “Uncle, you’re not allowed to laugh at him.”

Seeing her angry, Qin Zhonghai immediately smiled slightly: “Old… Old Qin said the wrong thing. Don’t blame me.”

Juan’er nodded vigorously: “A’Sha is a very good person—you can’t bully him.” Taking Qin Zhonghai’s hand, she went through the main street to find A’Sha.

The three used lightness skills to walk quickly. After just a few steps, Chang Xuehen had already leaned over to tease: “You strange creature who loves whoring and gambling—when did you start caring about little girls? Could it be you want an old ox to eat tender grass?” Qin Zhonghai kicked out with his iron foot angrily: “Go to hell! Your mind is full of evil thoughts—die early!” Chang Xuehen dodged away but still wore a lecherous grin on his face.

※※※

Along the way they twisted and turned, entering a narrow, shabby alley. They saw broken houses and tiles all around, dark and quite frightening. Just as they looked, Juan’er had already run into a broken house—a place with crumbling walls and no door panels for cover, truly extremely crude. Qin Zhonghai secretly shook his head: “This poor little girl, carrying a madman around everywhere—what suffering she’s endured.”

Qin Zhonghai stepped through the doorway. Seeing Chang Xuehen about to follow, he quickly blocked him and shook his head: “You have a violent temper—wait outside for me.” Chang Xuehen laughed heartily: “Tender grass is very fragrant—take your time eating it, old brother.”

Qin Zhonghai spat and glared at him sideways before walking inside. He heard a gentle voice from within the house calling softly: “A’Sha, A’Sha, Sister Juan’er has found food. Come out quickly!”

Her tone was tender as if treating A’Sha like a child. But after calling twice with no response, Juan’er frowned: “Oh no, A’Sha couldn’t have run out to play again, could he?” That A’Sha loved gambling—whenever he found an opportunity, he’d definitely cause trouble. Qin Zhonghai shook his head. The room was dim, and just as he was about to use his Fire Greed energy to illuminate the interior, he suddenly heard a groan from the corner, as if some wild beast was hiding there.

Qin Zhonghai was startled and pulled Juan’er behind him, saying sternly: “Who’s there?” But Juan’er wasn’t afraid. She took out a steamed bun from the oil paper bag and stepped forward: “A’Sha, look what sister brought you back? White steamed buns!”

Before she finished speaking, a huge figure stood up in the darkness—a mighty and imposing man, tall and robust, easily matching Demon Gold and Lu Guzhan as equals. Qin Zhonghai secretly admired: “This man is so robust and huge—he must be one in ten thousand excellent vanguard material.”

Seeing the tall dark shadow, Juan’er instead approached and smiled: “Were you sleeping? I called for so long without any response.”

The man yawned listlessly: “Sister Juan’er has returned. A’Sha slept and slept—headache, stomachache, everything hurts.” Juan’er giggled and picked up the white steamed bun to give to A’Sha. Seeing his hands were dirty, she tore open the bun, stood on tiptoes, and stuffed it into A’Sha’s mouth.

A’Sha was truly tall—even when Juan’er stood on tiptoes, she still couldn’t reach A’Sha’s mouth. She signaled A’Sha to bend down before she could feed half the bun into his mouth. A’Sha squinted and smiled, chewing away.

After Juan’er fed him several bites, Qin Zhonghai felt the room was stuffy and pushed aside debris by the window to let the cool evening breeze in. Starlight streamed into the room. Qin Zhonghai looked A’Sha up and down—that day on Huashan they met hurriedly without careful observation. Now looking closely, though this man’s clothes were ragged and his face covered with mud, his features were deep and distinct. No matter how much dirt covered his face, it couldn’t completely hide his heroic spirit. Under the starlight, his eyes shone brightly—though he had some years on him, he was still a rarely seen handsome man.

Qin Zhonghai knew Juan’er was hungry, but she looked tenderly only at feeding A’Sha, not touching the buns in her own hands. Qin Zhonghai smiled slightly, thinking: “Looking at this little girl’s manner, she’s definitely fallen for A’Sha. This old fellow is quite something—clearly a madman, yet he can still stir a maiden’s heart. He could compete with our Medical Officer Yang.”

Seeing A’Sha eating happily, Juan’er kissed his big face: “You were very good today—you didn’t run around everywhere.”

Qin Zhonghai watched this and felt wildly envious, thinking: “Damn! What good fortune—next time I’ll pretend to be an idiot too.” Feeling envious, his face also showed an idiotic expression, opening his mouth wide as if waiting for Juan’er to come kiss him.

People from Liu Sect had all encountered A’Sha and each gained different feelings. When Wu Dingyuan met this person in Datong Prefecture years ago, seeing A’Sha’s blessed state, he sighed long and short. When Lu Yun saw him in Changzhou, his face was full of amazement. Now Qin Zhonghai, encountering him in this northern Shaanxi town, became slack-faced and imitated him.

Seeing Qin Zhonghai’s strange appearance, A’Sha suddenly said: “Sister Juan’er, he looks silly—who is he?” Hearing this, Qin Zhonghai’s heart flared with anger, thinking: “I’m silly, you’re silly too—could you be my offspring?” Thinking this way, his face showed a fierce expression. A’Sha was startled: “Bad man!”

Qin Zhonghai scratched his head, thinking: “Call you silly but you’re sharp—you even recognize I’m a bad guy.”

Just then, Chang Xuehen outside couldn’t stand the boredom and poked his head in, cursing sheepishly: “Is the tender grass eaten well yet? Damn, I need to piss!” Seeing Chang Xuehen, A’Sha immediately exclaimed: “Such an ugly bad man!” Chang Xuehen was confused: “Who is this damn turtle actually calling me ugly?” Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily and waved his hand, signaling him not to make noise.

Juan’er nodded slightly and pulled A’Sha: “A’Sha, let’s go.” Seeing Qin Zhonghai’s fierce expression inside and Chang Xuehen’s bearded face outside, A’Sha couldn’t help but feel afraid and said tremblingly: “Where to?”

Juan’er pointed toward Qin Zhonghai and smiled: “He’s sister’s friend and wants to take us to find Master.”

A’Sha stepped back and waved his hands: “He’s a bad man—I don’t want to go with him.” Qin Zhonghai frowned and was about to reach out when Juan’er exclaimed: “Uncle, you can’t touch him!”

Qin Zhonghai made an “eh” sound and turned his head to ask. Just then, a powerful palm wind swept over, catching him off guard and hitting his right shoulder. Qin Zhonghai felt sharp pain as his body flew backward. Just as he was about to hit the wall, he quickly channeled his divine skill—internal energy from his six yin-yang meridians surged out, strength flowed to both feet, and he finally steadied himself.

Juan’er ran over in alarm: “How are you? Are you hurt?” Qin Zhonghai made a “hey” sound—this palm was quite fierce, making him see stars. If he hadn’t opened all his body’s meridians so his internal energy could protect his body without thought, this palm would probably have seriously injured him. Hearing the sound, Chang Xuehen quickly rushed in. Seeing Qin Zhonghai had taken a palm strike, though the two usually joked around, their brotherly affection was deep. He was shocked: “Boss Qin, what happened? Are you injured?”

Qin Zhonghai raised his right arm and moved it up and down—though his skin and flesh ached, no muscles or bones were damaged. He smiled slightly: “This silly brother’s martial arts aren’t weak—that palm was quite something.” Fearing he was angry, Juan’er quickly persuaded: “Uncle, A’Sha’s mind isn’t clear. When you suddenly tried to grab him, he was afraid and struck out. Please don’t blame him.”

That A’Sha held his steamed bun, chewing away, completely unaware he had caused trouble. Chang Xuehen pointed and roared: “Damn bastard! Stop pretending to be crazy there—grandpa gets a headache just looking at you. Quickly come with me!”

Seeing Juan’er wholeheartedly protecting A’Sha, if Yan Er’niang were here, she’d definitely turn against her. Qin Zhonghai had a magnanimous nature and wouldn’t really mind. He pulled Chang Xuehen aside and instructed Juan’er: “It’s getting late—bring him and let’s go quickly.”

Juan’er agreed and slowly walked toward A’Sha. Seeing her approach, A’Sha said nothing and immediately darted into the pile of debris, his huge body hiding inside with an appearance of refusing to come out even if beaten to death.

Seeing A’Sha cowering inside, knowing it would take effort to pull him out, Qin Zhonghai said: “We don’t have time to waste—quickly bring him out.” Hearing his somewhat impatient tone, Juan’er quickly called: “A’Sha, come out quickly! This uncle isn’t a bad man—the steamed buns you ate were given by him. Come with us!”

Before she finished speaking, something suddenly flew out toward Qin Zhonghai’s head—two steamed buns. A’Sha called out: “What’s so special about that! A’Sha won’t eat bad men’s things!”

Chang Xuehen was greatly enraged. In his fury, he slashed out with his steel blade, cutting the two buns into four pieces. He stuffed half a bun in his mouth and said unclearly: “Old madman, if you dare provoke Boss Qin again, watch me beat you to death…”

Before he finished speaking, a broken chair was thrown over. Chang Xuehen cursed: “Go die!” He raised his blade to chop again. Just as blade met object and was about to cut it in two, suddenly the chair floated up—hidden energy transmitted and actually smashed Chang Xuehen’s head, immediately causing blood to flow.

Juan’er was startled and quickly tried to mediate. Chang Xuehen, both angry and resentful, wouldn’t let others say more. He wiped away the blood, pushed Juan’er aside, and kicked out with his big foot. With a thunderous crash, debris was swept clean. He sneered: “Silly boy, you hit our boss with one palm and now you’re showing off again. Get up quickly or don’t blame me if you go out horizontally.”

With debris flying out, they saw A’Sha crouching alone on the ground like a wild dog. Seeing someone holding a blade toward him, his gaze was quite sharp when he looked back. Chang Xuehen raised his little finger and hooked it arrogantly: “Get up—let’s exchange a few moves.”

A’Sha roared toward heaven and suddenly pounced over, fast as lightning. Seeing A’Sha pouncing directly at him, Chang Xuehen thought: “I’m using a blade against an unarmed madman—if this spreads, it would disgrace Lord Lu.” He threw his steel blade to the ground and immediately threw a punch toward his chest.

A’Sha shouted: “Kill!” Neither blocking nor avoiding, he also threw a punch. Being tall and a full foot taller than Chang Xuehen, his straight punch to the chest was aimed at Chang Xuehen’s face with extremely urgent wind sounds. When their fists met in mid-air, Chang Xuehen felt the opponent’s fist strength was extraordinarily great—if their fists collided, his hand bones would definitely break. In panic, he changed his fist to palms, both palms striking out with full force. A’Sha laughed heartily and swung his single fist—with a thunderous sound, he had already pushed Chang Xuehen back several steps.

Qin Zhonghai crossed his arms and guarded to the side. He wanted to clearly see A’Sha’s martial arts background, so he didn’t stop them. But Chang Xuehen kept retreating and was somewhat overwhelmed, still cursing: “Damn! This madman is really fierce!”

A’Sha pressed his advantage, seeing himself gaining the upper hand. His hands and feet became ten times faster, forcing Chang Xuehen into complete disarray. Seeing he could hardly hold on, he kicked out to force A’Sha back, then pulled his steel blade from the ground. Blade light flashed as he slashed diagonally upward—his family’s Mad Blade technique was unleashed with full force seeking victory.

A’Sha made a “hey” sound, lightly waving his left palm and slightly raising his right foot in a Golden Rooster stance, instantly dodging the ultimate move. This display of skill—where was there any madman? He was like a martial arts grandmaster. Seeing A’Sha not only didn’t fall but gained more and more advantage, Chang Xuehen gritted his teeth: “I was too arrogant this time—if I’d known, I would have brought Brother Jie along. The two of us together would never lose to this madman.” Seeing his ultimate moves exhausted yet unable to overcome a madman, he couldn’t help feeling somewhat discouraged.

As the two fought intensely, Juan’er suddenly sighed: “Uncle Qin, A’Sha’s martial arts are very powerful. If your friend gets into trouble, you must step in to save him.” Hearing this, Qin Zhonghai immediately coughed. Chang Xuehen felt even worse—he was one of the Twin Heroes of Taihu Lake, his martial arts far from ordinary. Hearing Juan’er’s words, he attacked even more frantically, cold light flashing as he showed no mercy, only wanting to preserve some dignity.

※※※

The two figures rolled and tumbled, both fighting fast with fast. In the blink of an eye, they exchanged another ten moves. Fighting to the intense part, A’Sha showed a flaw. Chang Xuehen was delighted, thinking: “After all, he’s a madman—his brain still isn’t clear!” He shot out his right fist toward A’Sha’s abdomen. Just as the fist was about to arrive, he saw A’Sha take a deep breath, then contract his lower abdomen, actually avoiding his punch.

Chang Xuehen was greatly shocked, knowing he’d fallen into a trap. Too late to defend, he suddenly saw A’Sha’s palm strike out straight toward his chest. Chang Xuehen’s face turned pale, thinking: “Today I die at the hands of a mad dog.”

A’Sha’s palm force—if this palm struck true, it would probably shatter Chang Xuehen’s internal organs. Juan’er was both shocked and anxious: “A’Sha, don’t kill anyone!”

Just then, someone flew over from mid-air, five claws forming hooks striking down at A’Sha’s back. A’Sha quickly turned to block, but this person’s movement was so fast he was a step slow and was grabbed by his back clothing. With force applied, A’Sha was pulled away three feet.

With this delay, Chang Xuehen had rolled away on the ground, saving his life. He looked up quickly at the rescuer who landed steadily—it was “Fire Greed One Blade” Qin Zhonghai.

Qin Zhonghai increased finger pressure, about to seal A’Sha’s acupoints, when suddenly he heard him roar wildly. His body lunged forward with a great tearing sound—his back clothing had already torn but he’d also escaped his opponent’s grasp. Juan’er helped Chang Xuehen up: “Are you alright?” Chang Xuehen, both hateful and angry, cursed: “Damn his mother! Who wants your false kindness, little slut? I must kill him!”

Juan’er quickly said: “Don’t be angry—A’Sha’s nature is originally strange. Don’t argue with him.” Chang Xuehen spat and called to Qin Zhonghai: “Boss Qin, what now? This kid’s crazy to this extent—do we still take him with us?”

※※※

Chang Xuehen shouted loudly, but saw Qin Zhonghai’s face was dazed, staring blankly ahead with a somewhat sorrowful expression. Chang Xuehen was stunned and exchanged glances with Juan’er—neither knew what had happened. Following Qin Zhonghai’s gaze, they suddenly saw a tattoo.

Under starlight, they saw A’Sha’s back tattooed with a descending fierce tiger bearing the words “Like a fierce tiger lying on barren hills, hiding claws and fangs in endurance.” On the tiger’s forehead was tattooed a character “West.” Chang Xuehen’s heart jumped, thinking: “Our boss is the Eastern Sail Shadow Tiger with an ‘East’ character on the tiger’s head. This mad dog has a ‘West’ character on his back—could he… could he be…” Thinking of this, he couldn’t help but open his mouth wide and step back.

Seeing Qin Zhonghai lost in thought, Juan’er was immediately delighted: “General Qin, do you recognize this tattoo?”

Qin Zhonghai smiled bitterly and nodded. Just as he was about to reply, Chang Xuehen rushed over shouting: “Wait!” Then he grabbed Qin Zhonghai and pulled him to a corner, staring at him with wide eyes.

Qin Zhonghai felt uncomfortable being stared at and turned his head away, sighing: “What? Is there something wrong?”

Chang Xuehen hugged him tightly and whispered: “Damn, Qin Zhonghai, though I’ve known you briefly, I’ve always liked your straightforward efficiency. Do you know that?” Qin Zhonghai smiled bitterly: “Brother Chang, have you fallen for me? Why say this now?”

Chang Xuehen put his arm around his shoulder and whispered in his ear: “Every man for himself—heaven and earth will destroy him otherwise. Let’s leave immediately and pretend none of this happened.” Qin Zhonghai was shocked: “What… what are you saying!”

Chang Xuehen sneered: “Damn what Little Lubu, Big Lubu—damn his mother, I only recognize you, Qin Zhonghai! Whether this madman lives or dies is none of my business. Let’s pretend we never met him and leave quickly.”

Qin Zhonghai smiled bitterly and only shook his head without speaking. Chang Xuehen slapped his shoulder hard and gritted his teeth: “Boss! Think clearly—Er’niang is still waiting for you!”

Qin Zhonghai’s whole body shook. Thinking of these days of deep affection and sweet intimacy, his heart ached and his legs suddenly went weak, collapsing to the ground. With his current martial arts, even taking a direct palm from the Tianjue Monk or a sword from Ning Bufan wouldn’t make him lose composure like this. If his heart weren’t extremely bitter, how could he fall to the ground? Chang Xuehen looked pitying as he helped him up, whispering: “General Qin, listen to me—nothing’s wrong. Let’s leave quickly.”

Qin Zhonghai sighed, lowering his head to look at the ground, not knowing how to answer.

※※※

Now it was Juan’er’s turn to be shocked. She heard their conversation seemed to involve doing something harmful to A’Sha and couldn’t help saying tremblingly: “General Qin, you… weren’t you going to take us to find Master? You… you’re not going anymore?”

Qin Zhonghai looked up at Juan’er—her face covered with mud like a little beggar, her eyes full of pity and sorrow, single-mindedly wanting to find her relatives. Beside her, A’Sha was dirty all over, crouching beside Juan’er with fearful eyes like a homeless dog.

These two people’s fates rested entirely on his single thought. Qin Zhonghai’s gaze dimmed as he stood up and walked to A’Sha’s front, looking up at this man.

A’Sha originally feared neither heaven nor earth, but when Qin Zhonghai approached, he felt inexplicable terror and was about to dodge. Qin Zhonghai, knowing he feared him, stepped back and said quietly: “Don’t be afraid—I won’t harm you.”

Juan’er didn’t know what he intended to do and quickly protected A’Sha, saying tremblingly: “General Qin, what… what are you going to do?”

Qin Zhonghai saw A’Sha’s blank expression and said softly again: “The stronghold rises again. General, you served under my father’s command in the past—are you willing to return to our mountain to gather life’s great righteousness?” These words should have been spoken with passion and vigor, but his throat choked and his voice trembled slightly. A’Sha had no idea what he was saying and only hid beside Juan’er, his body shivering.

Seeing Qin Zhonghai’s eyes full of sorrow—she had always seen this man bold and happy in past interactions, never so distressed—Juan’er wondered secretly and couldn’t help asking: “General Qin, what exactly are you grieving about?”

Qin Zhonghai could no longer endure—his eyes reddened. He smiled bitterly and waved at Juan’er, saying quietly: “Miss Juan’er, please wait a moment—I’ll go and come back.” He turned and stepped out of the broken house.

Chang Xuehen clicked his tongue and quickly followed, grabbing Qin Zhonghai: “General Qin, what exactly do you plan to do?” Qin Zhonghai sighed: “Brother Chang, do you want to persuade me to be disloyal and unrighteous?”

Chang Xuehen made a “hey” sound and said urgently: “What bullshit loyalty and righteousness—don’t give me that. If you force this bastard back to the stronghold and he wakes up asking you for his wife, what about Er’niang?”

Qin Zhonghai looked calm as he gazed up at the starry sky and said softly: “I don’t know either.”

Chang Xuehen gripped him tightly and urged: “Don’t say Old Chang is a petty man—I understand many principles too. Er’niang really likes you—I can see it, and I know you two can’t be separated. If you bring this mad dog back now, it’s bad for both you and Er’niang… Let’s pretend we don’t know about this. I’ll cover for you with the Azure-Robed Scholar—how about it?”

Qin Zhonghai nodded and patted his shoulder: “Good.” Chang Xuehen was both shocked and delighted: “Really good?”

But Qin Zhonghai didn’t answer—he lightly touched the ground with his foot and was already far away.

※※※

Deep into the night, the main street was quiet without human voices. Shops had already closed for rest. In the empty street center, only Qin Zhonghai walked alone. The distant sound of night watchmen came continuously—it was already the second watch.

What date is today? Qin Zhonghai squinted at the starry sky, suddenly thinking this.

How long has it been since rebuilding the stronghold? One month, two months, three months? Forgotten… truly forgotten…

The only thing still remembered is Er’niang… they’ve been together for half a year now… This half year isn’t like others’ half years—it’s six months etched in heart and bone, one hundred eighty days of life-and-death understanding…

Should he let Xiao Lubu return? Or follow Chang Xuehen’s words and abandon him and Juan’er, letting them continue wandering the streets through those lightless days?

Qin Zhonghai smiled bitterly—this wasn’t his way of doing things. He couldn’t possibly do this.

But what about Er’niang? Xiao Lubu is her husband—bringing him back to the stronghold now, how should Er’niang handle herself?

Qin Zhonghai lowered his head, his mouth showing a bitter smile. Perhaps he shouldn’t ask how Er’niang should handle herself—he should ask himself… Qin Zhonghai, ah Qin Zhonghai, what you should ask is how you’ll handle yourself in the future without her!

Encountering such a situation, perhaps the Qin Zhonghai of a year ago would have laughed heartily. But having experienced life’s turbulent waves, Qin Zhonghai now only wanted to cry.

This life of freedom and ease, never truly loving any woman—until the moment when he wandered the martial world in destitution and went alone to death, he finally met this life’s true love. That figure before him wasn’t particularly beautiful, but was so resolute and deeply affectionate.

The scene of them riding together, galloping across the grassland, would remain unforgettable for life.

Leave Xiao Lubu behind—he has his own fortune. What’s it to you? But Qin Zhonghai, what did you shout on the mountain? Didn’t you say you’d raise your blade in rebellion, roar war throughout the realm, say your shoulders could bear great burdens?

Qin Zhonghai’s tiger eyes filled with tears. Unable to endure any longer, he finally ran wildly through the empty street.

“Zhonghai!”

When this call rang out, Qin Zhonghai knew the gates of hell had opened. His heart filled with sorrow as he turned to look at Yan Er’niang before him. Her eyes were full of relief as she ran over and grasped Qin Zhonghai’s hand.

According to their agreement, Yan Er’niang and Tao Qing had been waiting for a long time. In the distance, horses neighed—the two had indeed lived up to their trust, working hard through wind and dust to complete their tasks.

Yan Er’niang smiled: “Why were you delayed so long? We were quite worried.” Hearing this, Qin Zhonghai only lowered his head without answer. Yan Er’niang found this strange and was about to ask when she suddenly saw the sorrow in Qin Zhonghai’s eyes. She couldn’t help but be shocked: “What’s wrong? What happened?”

Qin Zhonghai wanted to speak, to tell her what had just happened, but he just couldn’t squeeze out the strength.

End it himself? How could he manage that?

Qin Zhonghai looked at Yan Er’niang’s beautiful face, those red lips ready to drip—suddenly he opened his arms, tightly embraced Yan Er’niang, and then kissed her.

Yan Er’niang didn’t know what had happened and let Qin Zhonghai kiss her. After a long time, they finally slowly separated. Yan Er’niang said softly: “Zhonghai, no matter what happens, I won’t leave you.”

Hearing this, Qin Zhonghai said nothing, but tears streamed down his face.

Though Yan Er’niang had known Qin Zhonghai briefly, they had weathered countless storms together—their mutual understanding and love made their relationship far from ordinary between men and women. When Qin Zhonghai was disabled with broken legs, he only shed a few tears. Now seeing him crying in public, Yan Er’niang was naturally shocked beyond words: “What’s wrong? Whatever’s troubling you, just tell me…” She embraced Qin Zhonghai and gently stroked his back, letting him lean on her shoulder while continuously comforting him.

Suddenly Master’s words from that day rang in his ears: “It’s lonely at the top. If you rebel now, you’ll probably be melancholy for life. Your father… is a living example…”

Understood. Just in this instant.

When your shoulders bear the lives of a group of people, you’re no longer yourself. You’re just a sad empty shell…

If he could choose, shouldn’t he return to the Huaiqing inn to be a happy cripple? If he could, shouldn’t he listen to Master’s words and obediently descend from Mount Everest to be an ordinary person raising chickens and ducks…

Qin Zhonghai’s tears fell like rain. He understood in his heart that there was no path ahead because time doesn’t flow backward—he had already chosen the road he would walk…

The road of iron and blood…