[Wuxia] Wandering Freely in the Tang Dynasty (Complete) - 29

Chapter 107 Another Battle Against the Seven Illusions.
Yuan Yueze's sharp gaze was more dazzling than the brightest star in the sky.
Affected by the chilling sword energy that Yuan Yueze unleashed like a raging river, Shi Zhixuan's scholar's robes billowed backward, but he seemed completely unaffected, smiling slightly, "Your blood and qi are too agitated, causing your mind to be unstable. You cannot defeat me like this. Your little wife is quite capable; she couldn't last more than a hundred moves against me just now because she was too agitated."
Fu Junzhuo darted back and forth through several tunnels. Apart from the one Shan Meixian had taken, there was only one exit. How could she not be anxious? She glanced at Yuan Yueze with a slightly flushed face, only to see Yuan Yueze smile slightly at her before turning to look at Shi Zhixuan.
Then, with a calm expression, he took a small step forward.
Guided by Shi Zhixuan, he became as still as an old monk, his mind rapidly reaching a state of detachment and tranquility. Even Shi Zhixuan felt that Yuan Yueze's simple step was like a towering mountain that had stood between heaven and earth since the primordial era, suddenly moving due to some mysterious and indescribable miracle.
Shi Zhixuan couldn't help but clap and cheer, saying, "Excellent! Truly a man Qingxuan has taken a liking to. Although there are many experts among the younger generation, none can rival you. Even my two prized disciples are far inferior to you!" After speaking,
he too entered the strange spiritual realm of the "Seven Illusions of Immortality," a realm that moved between existence and non-existence, seemingly there yet not there, uncertain in reality and illusion, where movement and stillness coexisted.
Yuan Yueze's heart skipped a beat.
He asked, "Did you capture Liu Yu and drain him dry?" This was no joke. He had personally witnessed the mystery and strangeness of the "Seven Illusions of Immortality," but the Shi Zhixuan before him was far stronger than before. His illusions not only made it impossible to distinguish between reality and illusion, but also caused Yuan Yueze to lose control. Just now, Yuan Yueze could still grasp his next move, but now he couldn't at all. It was as if he had completely merged into the universe, leaving no gaps to be found and no illusions to be seen.
There was only one possibility: Shi Zhixuan had absorbed demonic energy from Liu Yu again. Otherwise, how could he have killed Yun Shuai, whose cultivation had also improved and whose lightness skill was no less than his own? He probably came to cause trouble tonight just to test his current cultivation.
Shi Zhixuan smiled slightly, which was tantamount to acquiescing.
Wen Caiting's guess was indeed correct. Yuan Yueze originally wanted to cause trouble for Shi Zhixuan, but the situation had suddenly reversed.
Yuan Yueze sheathed his longsword behind his back, stood with his hands behind his back, and looked calm and carefree.
It was this simple action that made Shi Zhixuan clearly perceive Yuan Yueze's entire spirit scatter wildly, instantly soaring to the highest heavens and plunging into the deepest hells. If he had merged into the universe, then Yuan Yueze had become the universe itself.
A struggle between existence and non-existence.
Shi Zhixuan had not yet escaped the Five Elements, so he was at a disadvantage again. Slightly taken aback, he heard him say, "Do you know that the evil people of the Great Ming Venerable Sect sent someone to Chengdu to trick Qingxuan into coming here in order to deal with you?" As soon as he
finished speaking, a sudden change occurred.
The entire world began to twist and fold, which was caused by him withdrawing his aura that had merged with the world.
In a moment of stunned silence, Yuan Yueze suddenly felt a sense of helplessness and being unable to control his own body. He cursed Shi Zhixuan inwardly for being shameless, actually using Shi Qingxuan to force him to lose his composure. Even if the people of the Great Ming Venerable Sect really used such a despicable trick, how could Shi Qingxuan, with her intelligence, possibly fall for it? Moreover, Shi Zhixuan would never sit idly by and watch his daughter be deceived.
Before he could speak again, Shi Zhixuan vanished into thin air. The next instant, he reappeared before Yuan Yueze, his eyes gleaming with a sinister light
, and thrust a finger through the air. He said, "This is my second illusion technique, 'Using a Partial Example to Conceal the Whole.'" This seemingly ordinary finger strike, infused with life and death energy, was actually infinitely varied and masterfully crafted. Even Fu Junzhuo, who had retreated a little further, could clearly feel the terror and eeriness of this move. She even had the terrifying feeling that Yuan Yueze had been pierced through the chest by the force of the finger, let alone Yuan Yueze, who was caught in the middle of the situation!
The illusion had now become real, defying the laws of nature.
Yuan Yueze, whose mind had immediately recovered, flicked his wrist, and his longsword appeared before him, its scabbard spiraling out, constantly changing angles to counter Shi Zhixuan's unpredictable and mysterious techniques. The
shadows of fingers and sword moved like a tidal wave, creating a series of crisp sounds.
At first, Yuan Yueze's swordplay was designed to counter Shi Zhixuan's every move. However, once their swords and fingers clashed, he turned the tables, spitting out, "You irresponsible father, how dare you mention Qingxuan! Bah!"
The myriad finger shadows vanished, Shi Zhixuan's eyes blazing with fury, his long hair standing on end, resembling a demon god, as he simplifies his complex attack with a single palm strike.
This palm strike sliced through space with a thunderous roar, demonstrating the immense killing intent it carried. With a deafening
"Boom!"
, the two separated abruptly, as if they had never exchanged a blow.
A deep crater, about an inch deep, appeared where they had fought, a testament to the superior skill of both combatants.
The swirling snow and mud had not yet reached their highest point.
As the snow began to fall, Yuan Yueze scoffed, "'Using a partial view to generalize' is nothing but nonsense."
Shi Zhixuan exclaimed in surprise, "You actually deduced the partiality of my intention from the partiality of my qi, forcing me to be unable to execute my prepared follow-up moves."
Yuan Yueze thought to himself that today's battle with the Four Great Monks had deepened his understanding of martial arts. In the past, he probably wouldn't have been able to comprehend the principle of partiality. So he said, "'Evil King' is so aware of his own weakness. It's rare indeed. How should I deal with you?"
At this point, he revealed a bitter expression. Of all his fathers-in-law, he hardly liked any of them. Each one was either a peerless master or a regional overlord. Yun Shuai, this pragmatist, was even less pleasing to Yuan Yueze. However, since Yun Shuai's daughter had married him, he could no longer escape the involvement. Thinking of Shi Qingxuan made Yuan Yueze's head spin.
All this talk was just stalling for time. Even after Zhu Yuyan and Wanwan's dual cultivation healing, Yuan Yueze's combat strength had only recovered to about 70%. While this was more than enough to deal with others, the person before him was the peerless evil king, whose martial arts had been greatly enhanced once again. How could he afford to be arrogant! He clearly felt the surging true energy, neither cold nor hot, that Shi Zhixuan had transmitted into his body through the clash of their qi, completely different from before.
Just as he guessed that the vast true energy within Shi Zhixuan came from Liu Yu, who had studied the "War God's Record," a strange footstep sound, heavy then light, approached. Yuan Yueze immediately showed surprise.
Several feet away, Shi Zhixuan's feet were already off the ground, stepping into the void. With each step, his figure rose straight up, like a demon god emerging from hell, about to soar to the heavens. His movements were unusually slow, his expression leisurely, as if there were invisible stairs beneath his feet.
Shi Zhixuan, with one hand behind his back, moved through the air, gradually arriving above Yuan Yueze's head.
Yuan Yueze secretly thought that when he reached the highest point, the life-and-death energy would be at its strongest, and this move would be earth-shattering. Shi
Zhixuan, seemingly slow but actually fast, appeared to have been there for a long time, yet in the blink of an eye, he was already above Yuan Yueze's head. He said, "This is the fourth illusion technique, 'Throwing an Egg Against a Rock,'" before his body crashed down heavily. The two opposing energies of life and death clashed and collided, forming an invisible yet tangible cone-shaped aura, stronger than refined steel, centered on his right foot, possessing the power to overwhelm everything and crush all things!
Yuan Yueze didn't think about why he didn't use the third illusion technique; instead, he turned his head and blew a kiss to Fu Junzhuo, who was watching in stunned silence, looking like a lecherous rogue. At that instant, his longsword was also silently drawn, accompanied by a hissing sound, piercing towards the strongest point of the cone-shaped aura.
"Bang!"
The two separated instantly upon contact, their energy dissipating rapidly.
Shi Zhixuan flipped backward like a giant bird, disappearing abruptly at his highest point of about three zhang (approximately 13 meters). He then reappeared above Yuan Yueze without pause, his left foot striking with lightning speed and thunderous force, delivering a
devastating kick. He proclaimed, "This is the third illusion technique, 'Testing the Law with One's Body'!" This kick, constantly shifting within a short distance, generated a whirlwind of excruciating pain, drawing in and focusing all the surrounding air, making it even more powerful than the previous strike.
Yuan Yueze's wrist flicked slightly, his sword light surging, and his entire arm vanished. In its place came countless showers of light, striking Shi Zhixuan from below.
Amidst the dense, thunderous impact, sword and foot clashed.
The rain of sparks vanished abruptly.
The two remained in this position, one above the other, for a long time before a long, piercing, shrill sound rang out, a truly bizarre scene.
The vast true energy within Shi Zhixuan continuously surged into Yuan Yueze's meridians. Yuan Yueze seemed completely unaffected; not only was his aura calm and inward, but his gaze also became deep and clear, his pupils transforming into an endless starry sea, a stark contrast to Shi Zhixuan's sharp gaze and murderous aura.
Shi Zhixuan inwardly cursed, his figure retreating like a ghost. However, although Yuan Yueze's posture remained unchanged, his innate sword energy suddenly erupted, the sword light following Shi Zhixuan as if it had eyes, shooting several meters. If Shi Zhixuan hadn't possessed the world-renowned unparalleled lightness skill, he would have been crippled even if he survived.
Spitting out a mouthful of blood during his retreat, Shi Zhixuan vanished in the blink of an eye, his voice echoing from afar: "Commander Yun is not dead. At the Holy Gate Conference in April, I, Shi, will be waiting for your arrival in Chengdu!"
"Bang!"
Only then did snowflakes, mixed with dust, swirl and dance in the air.
Fu Junzhuo flew forward and saw Yuan Yueze's face was slightly pale, his eyes closed and motionless like a stone statue. After a long while, he opened his eyes, his complexion returning to normal, and sighed helplessly, "I've fallen for that old fox's trick again!"
Having witnessed the whole process, Fu Junzhuo finally understood what Yuan Yueze meant. At their level of cultivation, they had long since transcended ordinary martial arts combat; the decisive factor was the contest of "mental techniques." This invisible struggle was the true key to their victory or defeat. However, Shi Zhixuan didn't say much, continuously forcing his non-demonic true energy into Yuan Yueze's body. This showed that his true purpose wasn't to duel, but rather that he couldn't withstand the non-demonic true energy absorbed from Liu Yu. Unable to expel it alone, he thought of luring Fu Junzhuo and Yuan Yueze into action, using them as a "furnace" to release his energy. Yuan Yueze's motionless state was precisely because he was forcing out the sudden external force within his meridians.
Yuan Yueze sat down on the ground and said, "I should have realized that the death of the Grand Preceptor's father-in-law was suspicious, but Shi Zhixuan acted too hastily, not giving me time to think."
Fu Junzhuo placed her jade hand on his back to help him catch his breath, saying, "Shi Zhixuan's target at the time was only Liu Yu, how could he possibly care about the Grand Preceptor Yun? Now look, Liu Yu is dead, but Shi Zhixuan is even more terrifying than him."
Yuan Yueze laughed, "What's so terrifying about him? He only has a few helpers, and they're all hidden. As long as we eliminate them all, what he can do alone is ultimately limited." Then
he let out a long sigh . He sighed and said, "Judging from his tone, he's probably going back to Chengdu immediately to cultivate in seclusion, preparing to make a big splash in April. Finally, no one in Chang'an will dare to plot against us anymore. Alright, I'm going to have an affair. Junzhuo, do you want to come with me?"
Fu Junzhuo was slightly taken aback, then rolled her eyes at him, saying, "For an affair, you don't even care about the safety of me and Sister Meixian?"
Yuan Yueze chuckled, pulled her close by the waist, and said in a strange voice, "I know my mistake, please forgive me, Madam."
Fu Junzhuo giggled and couldn't help but pinch him lightly.
※※※※※ It was past midnight.
Following the directions Wen Caiting had given him, Yuan Yueze slipped into the dark boudoir.
Wen Caiting, wearing only a thin undergarment, lay on the bed. In her drowsy state, she suddenly felt a warm current beside her, and then a pair of familiar, strong arms pulled her into their embrace.
After a passionate kiss, the oblivious Yuan Yueze let out a comfortable sigh and said, "Elder sister's skills are truly extraordinary."
Little did he know that his unintentional remark would bring tears to Wen Caiting's eyes, who was desperately trying to please him.
Yuan Yueze immediately realized his mistake and hurriedly coaxed, "I didn't mean anything by it, elder sister. You should know I never hold back when speaking to my own people. I'm sorry."
Wen Caiting sobbed for a long time before saying, "I know I'm not worthy of you, young master. I originally intended to have one night with you and then quietly leave, but after learning your secret, I realized that such a night is not something a mortal woman can afford. A withered flower like me dares not even dream of it. Just sleeping in your arms for one night is enough for me."
Yuan Yueze said wistfully, "Yu Yan has told me a lot about elder sister. She said you two were very close when you were young and learning your skills, but later your fates differed. You couldn't fully absorb the 'Charming Maiden's Heart Technique'." The backlash forced her to rely on absorbing spiritual energy to maintain her cultivation. Once she stopped, aging would be a minor issue compared to the accelerated approach of death. "I said I wouldn't let you go, and I never broke my promise. Even if you hate me, it's too late."
Wen Caiting stared at Yuan Yueze's handsome face for a long time with her dark eyes. Seeing that he had no intention of joking, she smiled bitterly and said, "This servant knows your feelings, young master, but I have no face to face my senior sister... Ah!"
Yuan Yueze's strange hands had already started moving. Wen Caiting, who was already infatuated with him and hadn't been with a man for too long, couldn't withstand the stimulation of this lecherous demon's skillful techniques. She let out soft moans and opened her hazy eyes, only to realize that the moment had come.
The next moment, an unprecedented sense of fullness and stimulation overwhelmed her mind. Wen Caiting could no longer maintain her senses and was completely lost.
(Given that many people dislike this woman, I won't describe her further.)
The storm subsided, and Wen Caiting stared blankly at the drastically changed reflection of herself in the mirror that Yuan Yueze had taken out.
To be honest, in terms of looks alone, she was only slightly inferior to Wanwan and Shang Xiuxun.
After a long while, she slowly leaned against Yuan Yueze's chest, murmuring as if in a dream, "Although I've heard of it, nothing compares to the shock of experiencing it firsthand. I feel like I'm in an unreal dream, and I'll never wake up."
Yuan Yueze's large hand stroked... Stroking her long, glossy black hair that reached her hips, he moved to her full, rounded buttocks, his hand touching her smooth, soft skin. He said, "Will you lose yourself again, elder sister? Oh! I'm sorry!"
Wen Caiting pressed her jade-like finger to his lips, shaking her head. "The past is the past; denying or running away is useless. I will dedicate my days to serving you, young master, as repayment!"
Yuan Yueze frowned. "You say that, but your heart is still unresolved. I don't need anyone to serve me. You just need to be yourself; that's what I want most. " "That's what I hoped to see."
Wen Caiting nodded slightly and didn't speak again.
Noticing her chest getting wet, Yuan Yueze changed the subject and told her about his duel with Shi Zhixuan.
After he finished speaking, Wen Caiting looked up at her pretty face, which was covered with tears of happiness, and said, "Although Liu Yu's 'War God's Record' wasn't fully mastered, it shouldn't be this weak, right?"
After wiping away her tears, Yuan Yueze said, "Shi Zhixuan didn't say how he caught up with Liu Yu, but his strength has indeed improved a lot. It must be the result of absorbing Liu Yu's power. I'm going to the Persian temple after dawn to see..." "Let's see if my Grand Preceptor father-in-law has returned yet; he should know more than I do."
Wen Caiting pondered, "I've heard everything from Qing'er; perhaps I'm worrying unnecessarily!"
Yuan Yueze shook his head, "No, elder sister is right. Liu Yu and that Turkic Red-Clothed Empress are the most terrifying enemies."
Wen Caiting nodded, "I heard from Qing'er that senior sister didn't get any information about the Turkic Empress from Zhao Deyan. This shows that the Red-Clothed Empress has manipulated even the most intelligent members of our Holy Sect; she is no ordinary person."
Yuan Yueze sighed, "Zhao Deyan is too arrogant; that's his weakness. When Yu Yan crippled him, all she found out was that he was cooperating with a mysterious woman in red, and that she passed on some information about demonic arts to him."
Wen Caiting frowned and said, "Could it be that the Shaman Queen really lost to Bi Xuan?"
Yuan Yueze said, "I don't know, but even at her worst, the Shaman Queen is still on the same level as Bi Xuan. However, since their affair involves religion and the military, even if she can remain in the light, she's finished once her religion is destroyed. Bi Xuan came to Chang'an so arrogantly this time, which shows that the Shaman Queen's shamanism has been wiped out. If she wants to make a comeback, it will definitely take a hundred years. The question is whether she can live another hundred years. Come on, sweet dreams, elder sister."
Wen Caiting was still pondering his words when she heard this and said with a slight reproach, "Young master, you still want to call me 'elder sister'?"
Yuan Yueze was taken aback and said, "You haven't changed your address, have you? Right, what should I call you? Should I call you junior sister like Yu Yan did? Or... " "Sui Meixian calls you 'Shishu'?"
He paused, then exclaimed, "It's not Sui Wanjing calling you 'Shizuzu'!"
Wen Caiting blushed at the shameless man's words, but when she looked up, she met his mischievous gaze. She feigned anger and said, "Anyway, I'm of the grandmother generation, you can call me whatever you want!"
Seeing that Yuan Yueze didn't answer, she whispered, "Then from now on, I'll... I'll call you 'Husband,' and you can just call me Caiting."
Yuan Yueze nodded and said, "Okay, okay, please rest well, Madam."
Wen Caiting asked again in a low voice, "Husband... Husband, when you face Shi Zhixuan at the April tournament..."
Yuan Yueze pressed her head against his chest and smiled, "I don't want to participate in this tournament yet, but Shi Zhixuan is improving very quickly, so whether I participate or not will depend on Wan'er's cultivation level. Don't worry, when I face him again, I'm confident I can defeat him."
The boudoir fell silent, with only the soft, long breaths of the two of them remaining.
The next day, after hiding the transformed Wen Caiting in his spatial bracelet and teaching her the Qi cultivation method, Yuan Yueze went to the Persian temple for a stroll. Finding that Commander Yun hadn't returned, he had to return to the palace alone.
He hadn't used the bracelet in so long that he'd completely forgotten about it; his memory was truly terrible.
Back at the palace, he introduced Wen Caiting to the other women. The former courtesan looked as embarrassed as a newlywed, much to the amusement of Yuan Yueze and Zhu Yuyan.
The family played music, sang, danced, and sang, thoroughly enjoying themselves, completely unconcerned about the dead Pei Ji and the escaped Xi Feng. It wasn't
until noon that Song Yuzhi, who had gone to 'Yu Xinglong' to retrieve information, returned with the latest news.
The battle results of Shen Luoyan and the Twin Dragons only arrived now, much later than Fan Qinghui's information, demonstrating the extraordinary intelligence network of the Xuanmen sect.
All of this was expected, and Yuan Yueze wasn't surprised at all.
Zhu Yuyan and Shan Meixian exchanged a glance and nodded slightly. Both women, with their keen perceptions, vaguely guessed that this was likely the main reason for the conflict between the Buddhist and Taoist sects yesterday.
Song Yuzhi also brought back news that Song Shidao had bid farewell to Li Yuan and left this morning for Chengdu to gather information for Yuan Yueze, who was currently unable to leave. Hou Wenqing had also quietly departed, presumably to pursue Song Shidao.
The cave outside the city, dug by Liu Yu, had been surrounded by Li Tang's heavy troops, suggesting they had discovered the treasure was empty. However, given the current situation, Li Tang wouldn't dare to act rashly against Yuan Yueze.
As for Pei Ji's death, it seemed no one knew yet.
After talking for a while, Song Yuzhi finally exclaimed, "By the way, when I came back, I heard from the people on the road that Li Shimin had recently left the city to see off guests. They must be from the Buddhist and Taoist sects, right? Otherwise, who would have such a big name?"
Xiao Bei frowned and pondered, "This is the best opportunity to ambush and assassinate Li Shimin. The Crown Prince's party will not give up. But aren't they going to frame my husband? Why is no one coming to lure him out?"
Wanwan said, "If they want to lure my husband out, it would have to be someone of Shi Zhixuan's level. Since he left last night, who would dare to come and die?"
Everyone nodded in agreement. Shi Zhixuan might have planned this with Yang Xuyan, Li Yuanji, and others beforehand, but he had suddenly absorbed Liu Yu's power. What he needed to do most was to meditate and digest it. His goal was to unify the Demonic Sect. The Holy Sect Conference in April was the most important thing. Small conspiracies like this could be abandoned at any time.
Shang Xiuxun giggled, "This is going to be tough on Yang Xuyan and the Crown Prince's faction!"
Wei Zhenzhen frowned, "Even if they can't frame us, the Crown Prince's faction might still proceed as planned."
Yuan Yueze nodded, "That's possible, but it's none of our business. The more they fight amongst themselves, the happier we'll be."
Wanwan glared at him, scoffing, "Pervert!"
Yuan Yueze chuckled, "Ladies, there's still plenty of time before the banquet. Shall we..."
As he spoke, he leered at the women.
Seeing their lecherous husband about to act up again, the women spat and fled, leaving only the eager Lian Rou.
Yuan Yueze shook his head and smiled, "Rou'er, come with me to the Hu Temple to see if your father-in-law has returned!"
Lian Rou's beautiful eyes lost their longing, replaced by worry and anxiety. She nodded in agreement.
Today is the Spring Festival, and Chang'an City is enveloped in a festive atmosphere. Official residences and private homes along the streets are all decorated with lanterns and colorful decorations, bustling with activity. Fireworks and firecrackers are set off, and everyone is in high spirits, welcoming the arrival of the new year. It's only afternoon now; it will likely be even more lively after dark.
A moment later, the two arrived at the Persian Temple. This temple is located west of Zhuque Avenue, in Chongde Lane east of Qingming Canal. Due to its unique shape, the temple's mushroom-shaped spire can be seen towering above nearby houses.
The two turned into a secluded corner, leaped onto the roof, and sneaked into an inconspicuous little hall.
"Who's there?"
Yun Shuai's wary voice rang out.
"Father, it's Rou'er and my husband who have come to see you!"
With Lian Rou's soft exclamation, Yuan Yueze pushed open the door and entered. Inside the simply decorated hall, Yun Shuai was sitting cross-legged. Judging from his complexion, he had only suffered some internal injuries and was otherwise unharmed.
They nodded and greeted each other, recounting their experiences. Upon hearing that Shi Zhixuan had been struck by Yuan Yueze's sword, Yun Shuai slapped his thigh and exclaimed with delight, "My dear son-in-law, you've avenged me! I encountered Shi Zhixuan and Liu Yu locked in fierce combat in the wilderness. They were evenly matched, so I tried to take advantage of the situation. However, Shi Zhixuan's Undying Seal Technique was indeed formidable. He constantly used my strength to attack Liu Yu, causing Liu Yu to gradually lose ground and flee. Shi Zhixuan left me behind and gave chase. Hmph! My lightness skill is certainly no less than his Illusionary Demonic Movement Technique. Fighting and chasing, I eventually found Liu Yu being chased and forced to change direction. After we parted ways, I never caught up with Shi Zhixuan again." His true energy was indeed higher than mine. I chased him for a hundred miles before I saw him return. He was filled with murderous intent, as if possessed by a demon. According to your description, this was a sign that his body couldn't handle the power he had absorbed from Liu Yu. I struck him with a palm and fled desperately. He must have been suppressing the true energy he had just absorbed, not daring to act rashly. Otherwise, my injuries might have been more severe, and I wouldn't have recovered so much after just one night's rest.”
After listening, Yuan Yueze murmured, “For some reason, I have a premonition that Liu Yu is still alive.”

Chapter 108 Tingyan Fengyun
channeled vast true energy into Yun Shuai to heal his injuries. After he recovered ninety percent of his strength, Yuan Yueze and Lian Rou returned to the palace.
It was already late. Passing through the streets where firecrackers were going off everywhere and the lights illuminated the entire city of Chang'an as bright as day, the two entered the Vermilion Bird Gate.
Lian Rou's lovely eyebrows furrowed slightly. She said, “Did you notice anything strange about the atmosphere on the street just now, my husband?”
Yuan Yueze nodded and said, “It seemed to have a faint sense of solemnity and tension.”
Lian Rou suddenly widened her beautiful eyes and exclaimed, "Could it be that Li Shimin has been killed?"
Yuan Yueze shrugged, and before he could reply, he saw a group of eunuchs, led by Wei Lianxiang, waiting on the main road between the Zhongshu and Menxia provinces at Chengtian Gate.
Yuan Yueze quickly stepped forward and asked Wei Lianxiang, who looked like a dead man, "Why are you here, Eunuch?"
Wei Lianxiang bowed and said, "His Majesty has sent me to invite your family, young master. The ladies have already gone to the Taiji Hall."
Yuan Yueze politely replied and followed them.
After walking a few steps, Yuan Yueze gathered his demonic aura and said to Wei Lianxiang, "Has something happened in the palace? I noticed the atmosphere in the city was rather strange on my way back."
Wei Lianxiang, whose cultivation was also considerable, realized that no one could hear their conversation, so she replied, "On his way back from seeing off guests, Prince Qin was ambushed by Yang Xuyan, Pichen, and Zuo Youxian, but he was rescued and only suffered minor injuries. His Majesty doesn't want to spoil the atmosphere today, so he ordered that this matter not be leaked for the time being. Perhaps Prince Qin secretly sent some people out to search in secret!"
Li Yuan is truly senile. Not only did he side with the Crown Prince's faction in the infighting among his sons, but he also didn't care about Li Shimin's life or death. What kind of father is that! After a sigh, Yuan Yueze pondered, "Did Li Yuan know that it was the Crown Prince's faction that attacked Li Shimin? And who was capable of rescuing Li Shimin from those three experts?"
Wei Lianxiang replied, "I was ordered to accompany Li Shimin at the time. It was Song Shidao disguised as Yue Shan, along with Ouyang Xiyi, who was escorting Wang Tong to Chang'an. In the end, a Western Region man named Ga Duo and the other two rescued him. Song Shidao left on the way, and Li Shimin has already invited Ga Duo to a banquet at the palace."
Having said this, her dim eyes suddenly flashed with lightning as she turned and carefully examined Yuan Yueze before turning and walking away.
Yuan Yueze thought to himself, "So it's true!" The Crown Prince's faction still targeted Li Shimin. Song Shidao saved Li Shimin because he was too soft-hearted. Wang Tong looked down on women and had previously refused to cooperate with Shen Luoyan. He must have come at the invitation of his former friend Li Yuan. Ga Duo's arrival in Chang'an at this time was a mystery. Just as he was thinking this, he was suddenly swept by Wei Lianxiang's sharp gaze, and goosebumps immediately appeared on his skin. He exclaimed, "I don't like men, please don't look at me like that, Father-in-law."
But in his heart, he added: You're not a man anymore either.
As Wei Lianxiang walked, she said, "I just wanted to see what made the person who could be entrusted with the lives of my two junior sisters, Wan'er, and Qing'er, so different. Who knew he was nothing special?"
Thinking that he must have already met Wen Caiting, Yuan Yueze laughed loudly and said, "Don't be jealous!"
A helpless bitter smile appeared on Wei Lianxiang's wrinkled old face. She said, "No one knows about Pei Ji's matter yet. Mei Xian's move was indeed quite clever."
Yuan Yueze nodded and said, "Only a few of us know about this matter. It will probably remain an unsolved case in the future. That's fine too; at least it's fair to his family and descendants who don't know his true identity."
The group didn't say anything more, and in no time, they arrived at the horizontal square separating the palace and the royal city.
The New Year's Eve banquet hadn't started yet, but everything was ready. The first thing that catches the eye is a towering lantern, fifteen zhang high, erected in the center of the square. Wrapped in colorful silk brocade and adorned with countless lanterns, it illuminates the vast space like a seven-colored tree of light, outshining the lanterns lining the sides.
On either side of the Chengtian Gate, the entrance to the palace, stand two firecracker towers, each twenty zhang high; one can imagine the dazzling, exploding firework display when lit.
Yuan Yueze, experiencing the New Year's atmosphere for the first time, and Lian Rou, who had never been to the Central Plains before, were immediately stunned.
Wei Lianxiang and her entourage bowed and departed.
Yuan Yueze and Lian Rou walked and admired the sights, constantly exclaiming in amazement.
The square was now filled with thousands of guests, mainly Tang officials and their families, as well as local merchants, envoys, and foreign traders—a far larger spectacle than the welcome given to Yuan Yueze that day. In the spacious square, people chatted in small groups, talking with acquaintances. Whether palace maids and officials' wives or dancers, everyone was dressed in their finest attire, adorned in silk and brocade, shimmering with pearls and jade, and fragrant with perfume, adding a touch of gentle elegance to the New Year's Eve banquet. Two bands, positioned at the intersection of the main street and the square, were already playing their hearts out, repeating famous festive tunes such as Taiping Yue and New Year's Eve Yue. The sounds of flutes and drums filled the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere of bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new.
"Brother Yuan and the Princess are late!"
Li Shimin's booming voice drew their attention. There, dressed in magnificent robes, emerged from a group of people on the left rear, followed by the long-absent Ouyang Xiyi and Ga Duo. After many days apart, Ga Duo appeared even more energetic than before, and his cultivation seemed to have improved as well.
Yuan Yueze cupped his hands to Li Shimin and said, "Brother Shimin, you're too kind!"
He then stepped forward, extending both hands. Ouyang Xiyi and Ga Duo tacitly grasped his large hands, and the three exchanged smiles without speaking.
A cold glint flashed in Li Shimin's eyes. He greatly admired Ga Duo's skills and carefree nature, and was trying to win him over. Little did he know that Ga Duo and Yuan Yueze were not only old acquaintances, but their relationship was likely more complex.
In this chaotic and treacherous era, Yuan Yueze had very few friends. Besides Song Shidao, Shuanglong, Hou Xibai, and Bafeng Han, he only admired Ga Duo and Liu Heita. Although he hadn't met them often, and even though he and Ga Duo had initially been rivals in love and had fought to the death, it didn't diminish Yuan Yueze's admiration for him.
Li Shimin laughed heartily and said, "So Brother Yuan and Brother Gaduo are old acquaintances. That's wonderful."
Yuan Yueze pretended to be serious and asked, "Yes, how did you two end up together?"
Li Shimin's face darkened at the memory of the fratricidal conflict, but he quickly recovered and recounted his experience, lamenting, "If it weren't for Elder Yue, Elder Yi, and Brother Gaduo, I'm afraid I wouldn't be alive to enjoy this Spring Festival banquet."
Ouyang Xiyi and Gaduo quickly offered polite words, and Li Shimin sighed, "Last night, when I was observing the stars, I saw the Pleiades shining brightly, and I already felt something was amiss. Who knew it would indeed be such an ominous sign?"
Yuan Yueze chuckled inwardly: Wasn't this exactly what Wen Caiting had said? Suddenly remembering how he had been tricked by Shi Zhixuan after seeing the Pleiades rooster last night, Yuan Yueze thought to himself that superstition was truly harmful; even he himself had started to believe in it.
Ignoring the strange looks from outsiders, Lianrou, whose arm was still tightly wrapped around Yuan Yueze's arm, stared at Gado curiously for a long time, then said with a coquettish smile, "We're from the same hometown! Your Chinese is even better than theirs."
At this moment, another group of officials and nobles walked over. Li Shimin smiled apologetically at them and went to greet them, accepting their congratulations. Judging from this situation, it was clear that Li Shimin was very popular and that he was not deliberately alienated from Jiancheng and Yuanji because of their exclusion.
Ouyang Xiyi approached Yuan Yueze and whispered, "Brother Yuan, please don't embarrass Brother Wang too much at the banquet."
Yuan Yueze asked curiously, "Could you elaborate, Elder Yi?"
Ouyang Xiyi sighed, "Brother Wang accepted Li Yuan's invitation to come and promote the Li Tang dynasty, and... moreover, we encountered Master Fan and his entourage on our way here. Master Fan spoke with Brother Wang alone for over half an hour before taking his leave. I suspect Brother Wang might cause trouble at the banquet. I know the Yuan family's learning well, so please show him some face."
Yuan Yueze's brows furrowed but then relaxed, and he smiled in agreement. Ouyang Xiyi patted his shoulder a few times and turned to walk towards the distant crowd.
Ga Duo said, "Congratulations, Brother Yuan, on your marriage."
Seeing that he showed no jealousy and offered his sincere blessings, Yuan Yueze laughed and said, "Brother Ga Duo, aren't you angry that I'm being promiscuous? I've stolen the heart of yours."
Ga Duo chuckled and said, "Brother Yuan, there's no need to test me. I've already met Miss Wan, and I know she only has eyes for you. Since you two are in love, why care about what others think? Besides, I also... heh!"
Yuan Yueze admired his easygoing and carefree nature even more, saying, "Judging from Brother Gado's appearance, you must have found your other half?"
Gado smiled and nodded. Yuan Yueze then asked him why he was there. Gado said wistfully, "The Ga clan was originally a large clan in the Western Regions, but it was wiped out by war. I was away learning martial arts at the time, and when I returned home, only my late uncle was still alive. Afterwards, I followed his dying wish to go to the Central Plains to find a cousin I had lost for many years, but I had no news of her. I thought she must have died long ago. Who knew that on my way back to the Western Regions, I would save Brother Shimin."
Yuan Yueze patted him on the shoulder. Neither of them were good with words; friendship was about sincerity, not empty words. Gado could already sense Yuan Yueze's worry, so he smiled back.
"Dong! Dong! Dong!"
The bells of the banquet rang out at an inopportune moment.
Accompanied by his close ministers, concubines, and his three sons, Jiancheng, Shimin, and Yuanji, amidst the deafening sound of drums and music, Li Yuan, wearing a dragon crown and imperial robes, ascended the Chengtian Gate Tower to receive congratulations from his ministers and guests, and delivered a speech befitting the occasion. The atmosphere immediately became lively. As Li Yuan retreated from the gate tower to the Taiji Palace, various performances began. Those who were qualified then filed into the Taiji Hall for the banquet.
The seating arrangement for the evening banquet was largely the same as last time, except that four additional seats for VIPs had been added to the area flanking the head of the table. Yuan Yueze and Ga Duo were the last to enter the hall. They saw Bi Xuan, Gai Suwen, Wang Tong, and Shang Xiufang sitting at the three seats, whispering amongst themselves. Even Bi Xuan had a smile on his face, demonstrating Shang Xiufang's great charm.
Ga Duo was invited to sit with Changsun Wuji, presumably arranged by Li Shimin.
Apart from Ouyang Xiyi, Yuan Yueze didn't recognize almost anyone else at the table. Although Ouyang Xiyi accompanied Wang Tong, this gesture revealed his admiration for Yuan Yueze.
Yuan Yueze glanced at the ladies seated in the distance and nodded to them. The dozen or so women sitting around one table overshadowed the entire hall, eliciting only envious glances from the women. No man dared to look more than once, for Zhu Yuyan, seated at the head of the table, was like a cold statue radiating an invisible killing intent; anyone who dared to look at her with lewd eyes would likely suffer immediate consequences.
The bell rang again, and Li Yuan, leading Consort Yin, Consort Zhang, his three sons, and other imperial relatives, entered the hall. The large entourage of nearly a hundred people entered according to rank: Li Jiancheng followed by Li Shimin, then Li Yuanji, and finally Li Nantian and other members of the Li clan. Even Consort Lian, perhaps due to her pregnancy, was unable to attend such an occasion.
After three toasts, Li Yuan reiterated his invitation for everyone to relax and enjoy the festive occasion. Then, led by Ji Qian, over a hundred dancers emerged like butterflies from the rear doors flanking the main hall. To the strains of melodious drums, they sang and danced. Ji Qian, at the very center, was exceptionally captivating; her graceful figure was particularly striking against the backdrop of the other dancers. As the other women sang along, she moved with a sweet voice, her beauty, though not quite matching Shang Xiufang's unique style, possessing its own captivating charm. No wonder she was Chang'an's most popular courtesan.
When the music ended and the lights in the hall were relit, the dancers had already exited through the entrance, and cheers resounded throughout the hall.
Li Jiancheng, clapping, said to Shang Xiufang, "Xiufang, the dance you choreographed was truly exquisite. The music was ethereal and elegant, grand and majestic, yet it evoked a feeling perfectly suited to the festive atmosphere. It's truly admirable."
Everyone echoed her sentiments, and Shang Xiufang quickly declined the honor.
At this moment, palace maids brought out delicacies in a continuous stream, and everyone began to toast each other, making the atmosphere even more lively.
After several rounds of drinks, Li Jiancheng once again "challenged" the Tian Ce Mansion. Yuan Yueze was still wondering why Li Jiancheng was so arrogant when Ga Duo, as Li Shimin's guest advisor, came to the arena and faced off against Ke Dazhi, who had been diligently studying swordsmanship since his battle with Kou Zhong.
Yuan Yueze cursed Li Shimin inwardly, thinking he must be using the simple-minded Ga Duo. Then he understood why Li Jiancheng dared to be so presumptuous now after his failed ambush of Li Shimin. He was doing this to show Li Yuan that he was not involved in the matter. If he appeared uneasy and guilty, it would arouse suspicion. On the contrary, his usual arrogance would not arouse suspicion and would show his innocence.
While he was thinking, the fight had already begun. The battle between the two martial arts fanatics ended in an instant, with neither side winning. But careful observers could see that Ga Duo had not used his full strength, and the Crown Prince's faction had actually been defeated.
Before Yuan Yueze could even chuckle, he glanced at Li Jiancheng, who was forcing a smile and had ushered back Keda Zhi with a somber expression. Li Yuanji then said, "I heard some time ago that Brother Yuan had a brilliant debate with Miss Jingzhai at Tianjin Bridge. Even Miss Jingzhai admired your 'Five Questions,' which were thought-provoking and truly admirable. I toast Brother Yuan, wishing you all the best in the new year."
Heh! So, the offensive has begun?
Yuan Yueze chuckled inwardly, stood up, and his handsome figure immediately attracted everyone's attention. If Wanwan's charm was irresistible to both men and women, Yuan Yueze was no less so. He raised his cup and said, "Thank you. I heard that Brother Yuanji is going to marry Miss Jiqian on New Year's Eve. Is that true?"
Li Yuanji's smile was veiled, his words a veiled insult, and he spoke sarcastically. This plan could not only strike at Li Shimin, who was supported by Jingzhai, but also provoke Wang Tong's dissatisfaction. Wang Tong had once commented that although Yuan Yueze's views were good, if things continued that way, "the ruler would not be a ruler, and the people would not be people." This was clearly contrary to the long-standing Confucian ideas of "loyalty to the ruler," "sage king," "unity," and "three cardinal guides and five constant virtues." This was also one of the reasons why Wang Tong was unwilling to assist Yuan Yueze.
But Yuan Yueze was no simpleton either. A single sentence nearly choked Li Yuanji to death, and even Li Yuan, who had been letting Li Yuanji provoke Yuan Yueze from the main seat, began to look grim. Their previous talk of forced marriage was merely a scheme. They deduced from the relationship between Yuan Yueze and Xiao He'er, and Xiao He'er and Ji Qian, that Yuan Yueze wouldn't ignore Ji Qian. Ji Qian was known for her stubbornness; if Yuan Yueze wanted to persuade her, he would inevitably reveal some secrets about him. This way, Li Tang, who had planted eavesdroppers in Shanglin Garden, could find some useful information. However, that day in Ji Qian's boudoir, Xiao He'er said she had something important to say, and then whispered in Ji Qian's ear for a long time. This puzzled the eavesdropper: Why be so careful talking in one's own room? That little girl named Xiao He'er is no ordinary person!
This plan also served to divert Yuan Yueze's attention, preventing him from grasping the true reason why Li Tang was targeting him. Because it was a scheme, Li Yuan had initially ignored Li Yuanji's actions. However, recent events had rendered the earlier plan useless, and the Li family abandoned their scheme against Yuan Yueze, preparing to focus on their campaign to leave the pass and seek redress another day. Unexpectedly, Yuan Yueze brought it up in court today, exaggerating it excessively, causing the Li family to lose face.
Almost everyone of power and influence in Chang'an was present in the hall, and a hush fell over the atmosphere. Everyone vaguely sensed a tense atmosphere.
"This humble official, Yan Shigu of the Secretariat, heard from the great scholar Wang anecdote about an interesting incident in the young master's study. I wonder if I should ask?"
As the atmosphere grew increasingly awkward, a gentle and pleasant voice rang out. Everyone looked towards the source of the voice and saw Yan Shigu, a Secretariat official seated to Li Yuan's right, who was highly favored by Li Yuan and responsible for handling imperial edicts.
Yan Shigu was no ordinary man. His grandfather was Yan Zhitui, a great Confucian scholar of the previous dynasty, who authored "Yan Family Instructions," a work that had a significant impact on the development of feudal family education. His father, Yan Silu, was also widely read and erudite. Yan Shigu, a prodigy, inherited the family tradition from a young age, following ancestral teachings and mastering Confucianism, classics, philosophy, and history. He excelled in textual exegesis, phonetics, and collation, and the renowned "Annotations on the Book of Han" was his work. The three men known as the "Three Ministers of the Yan Family"—Yan Zhenqing, Yan Gaoqing, and Yan Chunqing—were also descendants of Yan Zhitui.
Yuan Yueze glanced deeply at the handsome, scholarly-looking Yan Shigu, dressed in official robes and exuding an air of refinement, secretly praising the Yan family for producing so many talented individuals. He was completely unaware that the "spear demon" who had attacked him that day also bore the surname Yan.
He casually glanced around, taking in everyone's expressions: Li Yuan and the other members of the Li Tang people remained unchanged; Bi Xuan, Gai Suwen, Yin Zuwen, and others wore gloating expressions; Feng Deyi, the chief of the group to Li Yuan's right, stared intently at Yuan Yueze; Wang Tong lowered his head, seemingly lost in thought; most of the guests wore expectant expressions, clearly interested in the matter; and the women all gave Yuan Yueze a smile.
Yuan Yueze laughed and said, "Please speak, Lord Yan."
Yan Shigu's expression remained unchanged as he said, "I heard that there are two large murals hanging in your study, young master. One of them reads, 'Only when things are investigated can knowledge be extended; only when knowledge is extended can the will be sincere; only when the will is sincere can the heart be rectified; only when the heart is rectified can the person be cultivated; only when the person is cultivated can the family be regulated; only when the family is regulated can the state be governed; only when the state is governed can the world be at peace.' You have deliberately marked a large X on it. The other mural reads, 'When the world is in great chaos, the wise and virtuous are not enlightened, and morality is inconsistent. Many people try to see things for themselves. It is like the ears, eyes, nose, and mouth, which all have their own senses but cannot communicate with each other. It is like the various schools of thought and skills, each with its own strengths and uses.' I was very curious about this, so I asked about it. Please forgive me, young master."
Yuan Yueze thought to himself, "So that's what they were waiting for!" These two sentences, one from the *Great Learning* and the other from the *Zhuangzi*, combined with Yuan Yueze's usual criticism of Confucianism, prompted Yan Shigu's attack. Li Yuan's tacit approval indicated that he knew about this beforehand and wanted to see Yuan Yueze humiliated. Since force failed, he naturally opted for a literary contest. Yan Shigu had just said that Wang Tong had told him about this, and Wang Tong had also spoken with Fan Qinghui. In his youth, he had a secret crush on Bi Xiu, but it was unrequited. Upon seeing Fan Qinghui again, he naturally couldn't help himself, and it was hard to guarantee he wouldn't be used. Even though
Fan Qinghui was gone, her offensive hadn't diminished. This old nun was quite formidable!
All these thoughts flashed through his mind in an instant. Yuan Yueze smiled and said, "Is there anything strange about this?"
Yan Shigu said, "This humble official is simply thinking about your way of doing things, and I don't understand why you so dislike Confucianism." There
was a hidden meaning in his words. Few in the hall were fools; they could vaguely sense the problem: the phrase from the *Great Learning*, later simplified to "cultivating oneself, regulating one's family, governing the state, and bringing peace to the world," represents the goal of all gentlemen and even ambitious individuals; the meaning of the phrase from *Zhuangzi* refers to the fact that there are many schools of thought in the world, each only possessing a part of the orthodox tradition, and therefore inevitably has its own strengths and weaknesses. Yuan Yueze clearly disdained and belittled the former ideology, while the latter, though giving the impression of being magnanimous and objective, contradicted his approach to the former, making him seem overly hypocritical.
Yuan Yueze calmly replied, "Lord Yan, you seem to have misunderstood. I also have doubts about that statement, which is why I acted as I did. I simply wonder who the subject of that statement truly is? For example, if you are of high moral character and erudite, would the Emperor entrust power to you? Otherwise, how can you 'pacify the world'?"
Hearing his treasonous words, many in the hall felt admiration, but dared not express it. Yuan Yueze had done what they wanted to do but dared not.
Yan Shigu's expression changed immediately. Wang Tong coughed and interjected, "So that's how it is. I suppose Lord Yan thought that the young master disliked Confucianism... The young master misunderstood. The correct interpretation of this statement in the Great Learning is not what the young master thinks..."
He immediately categorized Yuan Yueze as an illiterate pretending to know what he was talking about. On the other hand, he also tried to change the subject. He knew that if Li Yuan misunderstood that Yan Shigu had "ulterior motives," it would be like shooting himself in the foot.
Yuan Yueze laughed loudly, "Words are meant to be read, and interpretation varies from person to person. As long as it's not sophistry, it has its own rationality. For example, the *Doctrine of the Mean* says, 'Therefore, those of great virtue will surely attain their position and their reward.' I think this is mere wishful thinking. Does the great scholar Wang agree?"
Wang Tong scoffed, "Young master's eloquence is indeed extraordinary. Then let me ask you, what qualifications does a treacherous person from a heretical and crooked background have to talk about the profound thoughts of Confucianism? And what reason do you have to make outsiders believe him?"
As he finished speaking, cold sweat broke out on his forehead, and his body trembled slightly.
Yuan Yueze thought to himself, "It seems that if Fan Qinghui gives you a wink, you'd be willing to die for her!" He gave Zhu Yuyan, whose beautiful eyes were filled with murderous intent, a wink, and only then did she withdraw her mental magic. Wang Tong immediately felt relieved.
Yuan Yueze smiled and said, "It is said that the great Confucian scholar Wang once presented Emperor Wen of Sui's 'Twelve Strategies for Peace,' advocating 'honoring the kingly way, promoting hegemonic strategies, studying the past and verifying the present, and controlling the world with ease.' He was deeply appreciated by Emperor Wen, but when he was asked to discuss matters with the ministers, he was neglected and ostracized
. He began to lose faith in the court and resigned to return to his hometown to teach. Does your doing so uphold the profound and extensive thoughts of Confucianism and conform to the Confucian norms of a 'gentleman'?" Wang Tong's old face turned red with anger, and his body began to tremble again, but he could not answer.
The gentleman described by Confucianism is one who does not flatter those in power, does not attach himself to those who are strong, does not fawn over those who are beautiful, does not hide from those who are ugly, does not fear the strong, does not bully the weak, befriends those who follow the good, abandons those who like or dislike, respects the elderly, and protects the young. The common people live in peace, the officials perform their duties, do not lose righteousness in poverty, and do not deviate from the Way in prosperity. Wang Tong did not give his all for the country because of personal gain or loss, which indeed violated the way of the gentleman.
Yuan Yueze grasped a key principle of debate: seize upon an opponent's weakness, amplify it infinitely, and confuse the public.
He succeeded.
In fact, Wang Tong was by no means as incompetent as some portrayed. He advocated "benevolent governance" and the "unity of the three teachings" (Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism). His essays focused on reasoning, his poetry on the application of politics and education, and his essays on conciseness, clarity, classicism, and rules, advocating for reform in writing style. This aligned with the trends of the times, and later generations regarded him as a representative of the Confucian school. His disciples respectfully called him "Master Wenzhong." However, no one is perfect, and Wang Tong was no exception. He was eager for fame. After returning to his hometown, he imitated Confucius and wrote "The Continued Six Classics." When lecturing in the Hefen region, he called himself "Master Wang." No one can deny his talent, but they also cannot ignore his superficiality.
Yuan Yueze continued relentlessly, “Su Qin of the Eastern Zhou, Guan Zhong of the Qi State, and Kuang Heng of the Western Han Dynasty—which of them had a good background? Although my experiences differ from theirs, my nature is no different. I am a member of the Demonic Sect, and for several years my wife, Zhu Yuyan, has painstakingly revised the regulations, deleting the selfish and self-serving rules. Even if we do this, will outsiders still still condemn us?”
The hall fell silent; you could hear a pin drop.

Chapter 109: The Sword Breaks the Wolf
Fang. Wanwan's face was full of joy
as she gazed tenderly at Yuan Yueze. Although Yuan Yueze had a self-created title of “Evil Emperor,” he had never fought for any benefit for the Demonic Sect. Zhu Yuyan and her disciple didn't blame him; after all, he was just a lazy person. Today, his simple words had given the two of them quite a surprise. You must know that Yuan Yueze was no ordinary person. His every move and word was being watched by the world. Whether his words were intentional or casual, he was now closely connected with the Demonic Sect.
Suddenly, a man stood up from Li Jiancheng's seat and said, "Young Master, you just mentioned that Confucianism is mere fantasy. Wei Zheng, may I ask, isn't your theory also fantasy?"
The speaker was none other than the well-preserved Wei Zheng. This remark was both a diversion and a counterattack, not only saving Wang Tong's face but also directly targeting Yuan Yueze's "five questions." Everyone knew that Yuan Yueze's theory, though good, was impractical.
Yuan Yueze was taken aback and said, "I have never denied that my theory is fantasy. But I never said that Confucianism is fantasy; I was merely commenting on that one sentence." Wei Zheng
nodded awkwardly and sat down. Wang Tong was clearly unwilling to give up and said, "Even the Buddhist monks in Luoyang have to work in the fields. How then does the Young Master treat the Confucian scholars of Luoyang?"
This was an extremely tricky question, and Yuan Yueze had to answer it carefully.
The current era is rife with war, the darkest hour before dawn, and also the best time to prompt ideological reform. Many in later generations are extreme, criticizing Confucianism and Confucius, but Yuan Yueze would never do such a thing. His view is that every ideology has its progressive and backward aspects; he wants to use the ideas of a thousand years later to guide people on how to select the essence from the dross and distinguish truth from falsehood. If he answers well, he is likely to gain the support of Confucian scholars with a very broad base of support, and then influence their way of thinking, greatly contributing to the ideological revolution after a unified empire.
Taking a sip of tea, Yuan Yueze turned his head, nodded to Hu Xiaoxian, who was sitting some distance away and watching him, cleared his throat, and prepared to speak.
The people in the hall, seeing that Yuan Yueze was even more shameless than rumored, openly seducing a woman, had a variety of expressions—disdain, jealousy, envy, and so on. Hu Xiaoxian, under the gaze of nearly a thousand people, was utterly embarrassed, even with her usual boldness, and hurriedly lowered her head to hide her inner turmoil.
Yuan Yueze's voice rang out, and he said, "One day after a heavy rain, four brothers in a family were preparing to go out. The eldest brother wore a pair of thick boots most suitable for late summer and early autumn, the second brother chose a pair of noble boots that would highlight his extraordinary status, and the third and fourth brothers went barefoot."
The others looked at each other, completely puzzled as to why he had suddenly started telling a story.
Yuan Yueze continued, "The reason the third brother went barefoot was that the body is just a shell, and if the heart is unpolluted, what does it matter if his feet get a little muddy? The reason the fourth brother went barefoot was the simplest: he didn't like wearing shoes."
He then asked Wang Tong, "Wang Daru, which of these four people do you think is the most commendable?"
Wang Tong's mind raced, and in a moment he guessed that the eldest brother represented the Daoists who pursued the way of nature; the second brother represented the Confucians who advocated a hierarchical system; the third brother represented the Buddhists who transcended worldly affairs; and the fourth brother represented the heretical and freedom-seeking demonic sect.
Instead of answering, Wang Tong sneered, "Confucianism has endured a century of silence. How can you, sir, apply the views of your ancestors to those of the present? If you do, how are you any different from Emperor Wen of Wei, Cao Pi?"
Clearly, he was extremely dissatisfied with Yuan Yueze's persistent criticism of Confucianism. After the fall of the Eastern Han Dynasty, Confucianism almost completely disappeared during the Wei, Jin, and Northern and Southern Dynasties. In the late Eastern Han Dynasty, to salvage the declining imperial power, Confucian politicians often allied with the imperial relatives to deal with the tyrannical eunuch group. Thus, the aristocratic class and the eunuch group formed a historically irreconcilable conflict. When Cao Cao rose to power, although he had an aristocratic background, his family were eunuchs, making him an enemy of Confucian politicians. Furthermore, having effectively replaced the Eastern Han Dynasty, his political actions were morally incompatible with the prevailing principles, leading him to adopt the method of "promoting a rogue's style and suppressing morale." The proclamation issued by Emperor Xian in the fifteenth year of Jian'an, relinquishing his fiefdom and refusing to relinquish military power, best illustrates this point; by the time of his son Cao Pi, the old moral standards were completely negated, causing a complete change in the customs since the Qin and Han dynasties.
Wang Tong's meaning is very simple: Yuan Yueze was criticizing the Confucianism of the Han dynasty, not the Confucianism of this era.
Yuan Yueze snorted heavily and said, "The Confucian sage Confucius first proposed ethical and moral concepts such as the relationship between ruler and subject, father and son, and benevolence, righteousness, propriety, and wisdom; Mencius further proposed the moral norms of 'affection between father and son, righteousness between ruler and subject, distinction between husband and wife, order between elder and younger, and trustworthiness between friends'; and then Dong Zhongshu of the Western Han dynasty proposed the principle of 'valuing yang and despising yin,' suppressing all other schools of thought. Although it was silent for a hundred years, it was passed down to the present day, and after being reorganized by the great Confucian scholar Wang, new meanings were proposed. But your essence is no different from Dong Zhongshu's; it's just that you advocate 'the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties'..." The politics of the Three Dynasties are too distant to be verified, but the saying that "the Han Dynasty should be taken as a model" reveals something. If you weren't looking down on my background and belittling women, why don't you cooperate with Luoyan to reform the outdated Confucian views? If I were truly an anti-Confucian, I would have mentioned Qin Shi Huang, who unified the Central Plains but was not Confucianized; I would have mentioned that the Han Dynasty originally adhered to Huang-Lao philosophy, and the suppression of other schools of thought led to hundreds of years of great turmoil; I would have mentioned Confucius killing Shaozheng Mao!
Yuan Yueze's words were startling, each word resounding and undeniable.
The hall fell silent again; Yuan Yueze's words had a profound impact on their thinking. However, people of this era were deeply influenced by feudal ethics, and their ideas were already deeply ingrained. Yuan Yueze had not expected to change them now. But he had to clarify his views and stance here.
Li Shimin, seated next to Du Ruhui, rose and asked, "Then may I ask what your views are on Confucianism and other schools of thought?"
Yuan Yueze smiled slightly and replied, "Every school of thought has its progressive and its backward aspects. Take Confucianism for example. Ideas such as 'inner sage and outer king,' 'extending one's own feelings to others,' 'establishing oneself and helping others to establish themselves, achieving one's own success and helping others to achieve theirs,' 'the gentleman takes righteousness as his essence, practices it with propriety, expresses it with humility, and completes it with trustworthiness,' and 'the people are the most important, the state is next, and the ruler is the least important' should be passed down. As for schools of thought, I advocate the separation of religion and politics. Under reasonable state control, harmless ideas should be allowed to coexist, allowing the people to freely believe, while retaining the essence and discarding the dross." Developing a more complete ideology. Imagine if an ideology could combine the freedom of Taoism, the benevolence and righteousness of Confucianism, the truth and goodness of Buddhism, the philosophical thinking of the School of Names, the martial spirit of the Military Strategists, the craftsmanship of the Mohists, and the institutional system of the Legalists, integrating "people-oriented" and "investigating things to acquire knowledge"—how wonderful that would be! The world could then approach the state of "each appreciating its own beauty, appreciating the beauty of others, sharing beauty together, and achieving universal harmony."
His words were demonstrating that he was not anti-Confucian. The Confucian scholars in the hall were under control and could not refute his last quote from Fei Xiaotong, "drawing the firewood from under the cauldron," otherwise they would be refuting the Confucian saying they believed in: "A gentleman is harmonious but not the same; a petty person is the same but not harmonious." Everyone began to think deeply about Yuan Yueze's novel viewpoint. A
look of surprise flashed in Li Yuan's eyes. They were also calculating in their minds that such a system would indeed be beneficial to the future and the country. As long as the world was unified and the pace was controlled, it could be gradually implemented.
Li Shimin felt the same way. He understood better than anyone the motives behind the support from Buddhism and Taoism; otherwise, he wouldn't have promoted Confucianism after ascending the throne. Ultimately, it was to suppress the excessive expansion of Buddhism and Taoism.
The new concept of the separation of church and state greatly inspired him.
Bi Xuan said with a half-smile, "Brother Yuan, your verbal skills are indeed extraordinary. It's a pity that you defeated the four highly skilled Buddhist monks yesterday, and your injuries haven't fully healed. Otherwise, I would have liked to experience your unparalleled swordsmanship before leaving!"
Gai Suwen immediately chimed in, "The Sage is right. I, Suwen, would also like to have a duel with Brother Yuan."
"Haha!"
The two exchanged words in unison. Shang Xiufang frowned slightly, but before she could speak, Yuan Yueze let out a long laugh and suddenly disappeared. The next moment, he appeared in the center of the hall as if walking out of thin air, standing with his hands behind his back. He said, "I, Yuan, would also like to stretch my muscles. Shall we both come at me together? Or one at a time?"
Although his words were utterly impolite, his tone was gentle and pleasant, refined and calm, completely at odds with his words.
Everyone looked at each other again, never expecting that the man who had seemed so calm and composed just a moment ago, like a Taoist master, would be so fierce and ready to attack immediately. They were all greatly surprised. However, there were countless martial arts enthusiasts in this era. For example, Ke Dazhi and others from the Crown Prince's faction, and Yuchi Jingde from the Tian Ce Mansion, all began to cheer loudly, eliciting waves of applause from the crowd.
Not many people had heard of the Four Great Monks, but since Bi Xuan had said that Yuan Yueze would be injured after fighting them, it was clear that the Four Great Monks were no ordinary figures. People had various reactions: some were gloating, some were worried, some were filled with anticipation, and oh, I forgot to mention, there were also those who were just there for the spectacle. (Parody) Only a very few people knew about Yuan Yueze's battle with the Four Great Monks, and the Li Tang dynasty had also kept the news under wraps. Bi Xuan's sudden mention of it had infuriated Li Yuan, who inwardly cursed him for his shamelessness. This move was simply intended to further escalate the conflict between Yuan Yueze and the Li Tang. Seeing Yuan Yueze enter with such an arrogant attitude, the Li Tang people couldn't help but feel overjoyed: Bi Xuan had no way to escape now, and he couldn't join forces with Gai Suwen, otherwise, how could they face each other in their respective countries in the future? Although Yuan Yueze was strong, he had fought several masters in one day, and it was uncertain how much strength he could recover. If either side lost, or even died on the spot, it would only benefit the Li Tang dynasty, so Li Yuan would never obstruct the process.
Gai Suwen stood up, and the entire room fell silent. He approached Yuan Yueze without fear, standing about two zhang away, and smiled, saying, "Suwen is not a man of violence and bravado. It's just that, like the now-immortal Master Fu, I regard swordsmanship as an art, the ultimate in beauty. For me, Gai Suwen, the pursuit of swordsmanship transcends not only personal grudges and honors, but also the question of strength or weakness in the struggle between nations. It's like some people's pursuit of rare treasures and paintings; because they are returning home tomorrow, they don't want to leave empty-handed. But Suwen doesn't want to harm Brother Yuan, so I don't intend to use my sword."
As the host, Li Yuan naturally had to be polite, sighing, "Any injury to either side is the last thing I, Li Yuan, want to see."
Gai Suwen replied nonchalantly, "Suwen is indeed eager to learn your extraordinary skills and has absolutely no intention of fighting to the death."
The two seemed certain that Yuan Yueze would lose, engaging in a back-and-forth exchange. Yuan Yueze knew that he was using a feigned retreat to force him to agree to let him use a knife, so he went along with him and said in a way that was both defensive and offensive: "Is a general who doesn't use a knife still a general? Don't joke with your life. Anyone with eyes can see that there is no such thing as 'stopping when you've made a point'. Life and death, victory and defeat are decided in just a few moves."
Gai Suwen's gaze suddenly sharpened, and he said, "Brother Yuan, since you are so eager for my little trinkets, wouldn't it be a waste of your kindness to refuse?"
Yuan Yueze met his gaze, smiled slightly, but remained silent.
Since, according to custom, no one except the guards and officers on duty was allowed to bring weapons, Gai Suwen had to wait for the guards to bring them. Yuan Yueze's evil sword could be drawn at will, so the Li Tang people couldn't do anything about it.
Inside the hall, whispers and buzzes filled the air, the topic naturally revolving around guessing who would win.
Gai Suwen glanced at the calm-faced Shang Xiufang and sighed, "Lady Xiufang will be accompanying the Sage on a visit to the grasslands tomorrow. Six months later, I will be waiting for you in Goryeo."
Upon hearing this, the men in the hall murmured in surprise. The women were all focused on Yuan Yueze, while the men's attention shifted to Shang Xiufang.
Tunyu Gu, standing to one side, rose at the opportune moment and said, "Please rest assured, everyone, I guarantee Miss Xiufang's safety."
Yuan Yueze chuckled inwardly, realizing these two were still trying to use "psychological warfare" to dampen his spirits. He merely glanced at Shang Xiufang, who was staring intently at him, before looking away.
Gai Suwen and the others were secretly delighted, assuming Yuan Yueze was merely feigning composure due to his emotional state. Many people already knew that Yuan Yueze had repeatedly visited Shanglin Garden and had been received by Shang Xiufang. They assumed Yuan Yueze had taken a liking to Shang Xiufang, unaware that Shang Xiufang reciprocated his feelings.
Perhaps thinking of giving him her virginity tonight, Shang Xiufang's beautiful face flushed slightly, and a fleeting, alluring light flashed in her dark, clear eyes, nearly causing the eyes of many men to pop out.
A shout of "Weapons at the gate!"
brought everyone's attention back, and the hall fell silent once more.
A Goryeo warrior, carrying a precious sword, entered the hall and stood diagonally behind Gaesomun.
Gaesomun's right hand trembled slightly, a flash of black light, and the sheathed sword was in his hand.
With the sword in hand, Gaesomun slowly drew it from its sheath, his entire demeanor instantly changing. Not only was he radiant, but he also exuded a magnificent and awe-inspiring aura, showing that he had entered a state of focused combat, where man and sword became one. Although his expression remained calm and composed, displaying the demeanor of a master, his eyes immediately shot out an eerie and inexplicable light. The moment the sword was drawn, an incomparably sharp sword aura completely locked onto and enveloped Yuan Yueze.
The sword was simple and unadorned, with a heavy blade, its body jet black and gleaming.
Seeing that Yuan Yueze was unaffected by his chilling aura and was examining his twin swords with childlike curiosity, Gai Suwen said sarcastically, "As Sun Tzu said, 'Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will never be defeated.' This is a forty-nine-refinement steel sword made at the request of Jin Xiying, a renowned swordsmith in our country. I named it the Shield-Strike Sword. The scabbard is for backing up, and the sword is for striking. The combined weight of the scabbard and sword is one hundred and twenty jin. Brother Yuan, please be careful."
He spoke with great bravado, assuming that Yuan Yueze was looking for the sword's weakness. However, Yuan Yueze shook his head and said, "Since the General is known as the 'Five-Sword Overlord,' why do I only see one sword today?"
Gai Suwen He glanced at Fu Junzhuo, who stood serenely in the distance like Guanyin, a cold glint flashing in his eyes. He said, "Brother Yuan is already injured. How can Su Wen take advantage of you? A single move is enough to decide the outcome; there's no need for a life-or-death struggle. Although the woman from Goryeo who married out has betrayed her country, Su Wen doesn't want to see his own flesh and blood widowed!"
This was clearly a veiled insult against Fu Junzhuo. He had previously sought her out to discuss the "Yang Gong Treasure Trove" belonging to Goryeo, but she had driven him out, a fact he found utterly despicable. Today, in front of so many people, he had finally humiliated the traitorous Fu Junzhuo.
Fu Junzhuo looked at him calmly, neither happy nor sad, for she knew her actions were without guilt. Just as Yuan Yueze had once comforted her: "Nothing can be perfect. But I strive to have a clear conscience."
His beloved wife being misunderstood was not a big deal, but being humiliated in public was far more serious. Yuan Yueze roared, "Alright! Just one move, strike!"
Almost simultaneously, a terrifying feeling arose among the thousands of people in the hall. Yuan Yueze's words seemed to create an endless, ever-rising echo that filled the heavens and earth, making one want to burst their eardrums to stop the piercing echo—a feeling utterly bizarre and eerie.
Immediately afterward, a series of whistling sounds brought everyone's attention back to reality. Gai Suwen's right hand held a heavy steel blade, already aimed at Yuan Yueze's head.
This perfect strike, imbued with all his energy and spirit, without any trace of artifice, possessed earth-shattering power.
Yuan Yueze pointed a finger.
A finger strike without any embellishment, condensing his highest level of skill, as if containing the secrets of the universe.
Palm and sword clashed without a sound.
Gai Suwen's unique senses, honed through countless battles, alerted him. In his retreat, his left hand, holding a scabbard, flicked a black disc, barely dodging Yuan Yueze's terrifying innate sword light. With
a "crack!"
the scabbard fell to the ground, and Gai Suwen's face turned ashen, his body swaying back and forth.
He knew his left hand was useless, for Yuan Yueze's powerful innate sword energy had destroyed all the flesh and meridians in his seemingly intact left arm. But he was also lucky; if it weren't for his cooperation with Bi Xuan last night, and Bi Xuan lending him a stream of "Blazing Sun True Qi," he would be completely paralyzed by now.
This was precisely why Yuan Yueze stood frozen in the center of the hall.
He finally understood why Gai Suwen dared to lead the charge—it was all because of Bi Xuan's true qi. And he, Yuan Yueze, had underestimated Gai Suwen. But having defeated him and crippled his arm, Gai Suwen was practically a cripple.
The people in the hall finally came to their senses and began to cheer loudly. If they were told the truth about the battle, they would probably be even more frenzied. Although the Li Tang people regretted that Yuan Yueze hadn't killed Gai Suwen, they felt somewhat relieved that the feud was now settled.
Yuan Yueze stretched out his right hand, as if he hadn't just survived a death battle, and said calmly to Bi Xuan, "Martial Venerable, please!"
The hall instantly returned to silence, and everyone's gaze turned to Bi Xuan.
Bi Xuan didn't even glance at Gai Suwen, who was being helped away. His feet barely touched the ground as he lightly landed in the arena. His high-collared, long-sleeved, and wide golden-patterned robe accentuated his majestic, mountain-like figure and imposing, dignified bearing. He sighed, "Brother Yuan's recovery ability is truly astonishing. Bi Xuan can finally fight with all his might."
Anyone could see that Yuan Yueze's victory had been too easy, so he didn't need to rest at all.
Yuan Yueze flipped his right hand, and the "Evil Sword" finally appeared in his grasp.
Bi Xuan's face was calm, chilling to behold, yet his eyes blazed with murderous intent. He said indifferently, "Brother Yuan, since you respect me so much, I will not disappoint you!"
Yuan Yueze seemed to be talking to himself, "In the past, when Yang Jian unified the Central Plains, he invaded the grasslands. Yang Guang's tyranny plunged the Central Plains into chaos, leading to Bi Xuan's southern invasion. Now, the Central Plains are severely affected by war, and various foreign tribes are restless. The conflicts between ethnic groups can only be ended through war, with one side completely subjugating. No one can resolve them. Does Martial Venerable think what I say is correct?"
Bi Xuan was slightly taken aback, then pondered, "With just a few words, you have explained the ethnic conflicts so thoroughly. I admire you."
Yuan Yueze glanced at him indifferently and continued, "I am not an extreme nationalist, nor do I like war, but I cannot stand by and watch my people be harassed by foreign tribes. Since Martial Venerable dares to challenge me, I hope you can accept any outcome."
The hall fell silent.
No one dared to accuse Yuan Yueze of arrogance.
The people of the Li Tang dynasty were filled with mixed emotions. They had always considered themselves citizens of the Central Plains, yet they had cooperated with the Turks, claiming it was for the sake of the people. In the quiet of the night, they asked themselves, "Whom are we really working for?" Even a figure like Li Yuan showed shame, indicating that his conscience was troubled.
In contrast, many felt a sense of awe towards this capricious and ruthless "tyrant" who acted solely on his own conscience.
Bi Xuan laughed heartily and said, "We are a wolf people, living for a long time on the magnificent grasslands. We grew strong and powerful through continuous wars, and today we dominate the land, forming an unchanging national character. The glory of our warriors is won with blood and lives. Once we have identified our goal, we will never back down or change course."
Of course, he couldn't openly discuss aggression in front of the Central Plains people, but he subtly expressed the characteristics of the Turkic people and his personal determination through his words, completely unaffected by Yuan Yueze's momentum.
Yuan Yueze narrowed his eyes and said leisurely, "Therefore, I absolutely disagree with Confucius's saying, 'If distant people do not submit, then cultivate virtue and culture to attract them; once they have come, then make them feel at ease.' Let's make our move, and not miss any opportunity!"
Confucius meant that if distant people do not submit, then promote culture and education to attract them. Once they come, they must be made at ease. Yuan Yueze disagreed, arguing that Confucius's views clearly deviated from the principle of specific analysis of specific problems. For a people like the Turks, whose culture was characterized by a prevalent wolf-like nature, only ruthless and decisive methods could resolve inter-ethnic conflicts. While Confucianism might work, it would likely take many times longer.
Bi Xuan let out a hearty laugh, and a suffocating heat filled the entire hall, giving one the terrifying feeling of being in a dry, desolate desert. Then, the heat vanished abruptly, replaced by an unbearable, stagnant emptiness, devoid of any air. Bi Xuan, like an immovable mountain, suddenly appeared in mid-air, his eyes blazing with murderous intent. His clothes and long hair danced wildly in two directions, creating an eerie and unsettling scene.
Simultaneously, his hands conjured countless intricate and profound palm techniques, but no matter the variations, his palms always faced each other, as if the entire universe's mysteries were contained within them; and all the variations were ultimately aimed at Yuan Yueze.
Yuan Yueze's expression grew increasingly solemn. That day, he had thought Bi Xuan's cultivation was far inferior to Zhu Yuyan and Ning Daoqi, but now he realized that Bi Xuan had deliberately concealed his strength. His first move already displayed his Grandmaster-level cultivation; the astonishingly powerful "Blazing Sun Technique," emanating from him, could simulate various air currents that influenced battlefield changes. For example, right now, the aura was strongly pulling at Yuan Yueze, as if inviting him to fall into its trap.
Yuan Yueze remained calm, his clothes showing no sign of movement; instead, his long hair began to fly in the opposite direction, demonstrating that his own aura was completely unaffected by his opponent. Then, his longsword silently drew from its sheath, raised high, and with a flick of his wrist, continuously drew one beautiful ring of energy after another, more than a dozen rings forming a graceful circle.
The spectators were all dumbfounded.
Even Yin Defei, whose cultivation was only average, could clearly see his every move. Yet, just after he completed the entire massive "project," Bi Xuan's seemingly slow but actually swift and thunderous attack hadn't even landed on him.
"Boom!"
The figures suddenly merged and then separated.
Everyone was once again trapped in the arid, hot, desert-like aura of the "Blazing Sun Technique," demonstrating Bi Xuan's complete control over his aura. When they could see clearly again, Bi Xuan, like a towering mountain that would never fall in a storm, was already five feet in front of where Yuan Yueze had just stood, his fists pounding forward.
Yuan Yueze seemed to have vanished; nothing else remained in the world except a pair of iron fists carrying heat waves capable of boiling iron and burning gold.
Suddenly, a sword pierced through the void.
This sword strike didn't create any wind, but even the spectators felt that no one could block it.
Yuan Yueze's true energy was entirely contained within the sword, including his entire power, the essence, spirit, and energy of heaven, earth, and man combined.
"Bang!"
The clashing energies produced a thunderous explosion that sent chills down one's spine.
Looking towards the center of the battle, most people wore expressions of disbelief.

Chapter 110 The Night of Talented Women
The Tai Chi Banquet had ended.
It was nearly the end of the Xu hour (7-9 PM).
In the Imperial Study,
Emperor Li Yuan of Tang sat upright, with his three sons and one daughter sitting opposite him.
The atmosphere in the room was somewhat somber. After an unknown amount of time, Li Yuan finally let out a long sigh, as if speaking to his children, or perhaps muttering to himself, "Just who is Yuan Yueze? The Great Ming Emperor, the Four Great Monks, and Bi Xuan are no match for him. My confidant, Brother Yan, and the mysterious master who has protected me for decades are no match for him either. I really doubt whether he can withstand a thousand troops."
Li Yuanji, who had been completely speechless, exclaimed in surprise, "Father's mysterious master is no match for him either..."
Xi Feng had secretly pledged allegiance to Li Yuan a long time ago. Apart from Li Yuan, no one had ever seen his true face in the palace. Even Li Yuanji, who was cooperating with him, was kept in the dark and completely unaware.
Recalling the terrifying scene of Bi Xuan lying on the ground, pale and unable to get up after being beaten by Yuan Yueze, Li Jiancheng shuddered, but said, "Father is too worried. Human strength has its limits. No one with flesh and blood can withstand a large army."
Li Shimin smiled bitterly and sighed, "Who could have imagined Yuan Yueze's eloquence? Wang Daru, Shigu Shu, and others were rendered speechless after just a few words."
After the civil and military competition, the Li Tang army was utterly defeated. Not only that, but Yuan Yueze also seized the opportunity to express his personal political views in the Taiji Hall. Later, he decisively defeated the Goryeo chieftain Gaesomun and the grassland's spiritual symbol, the "Martial Venerable," Bi Xuan, thus giving the Central Plains a boost and his influence soared to its peak.
All of this was completely contrary to the original intentions of Li Yuan, the instigator. He could only lament that man proposes, God disposes. Was Yuan Yueze sent by Heaven to oppose the Tang Dynasty?
Li Yuanji said bitterly, "Are we just going to watch him leave? Such a dangerous person is a menace if he stays even a day longer!"
His words resonated with Li Yuan and his sons. With Yuan Yueze's abilities, assassinating high-ranking officials of the Tang Dynasty, or even Li Yuan himself, would be a piece of cake. How could Li Yuan feel at ease?
Li Jiancheng's face was cold as he said, "Now that Yang Gong's treasury is empty, I suspect it's hidden in that strange bracelet on his wrist. If we don't bring him to Chang'an, I'll definitely find out about the treasury."
He then turned his attention to Li Shimin, who could only smile helplessly and dare not answer. Li Yuan said decisively, "Don't mention the treasury again. Our spies say that Yuan Yueze has already invested millions of taels of gold in Luoyang, enough to fill several treasuries. Our Great Tang has the support of the wealthy Bashu region; we don't even care about a small treasury. How can we conquer the world with just money? Yes, regarding Pei Qing's matter, Yuanji has..." "What news?"
Li Yuanji shook his head and said, "After the banquet, I went to Uncle Ji's residence again. His family said he went out alone last night, and no one dared to ask too many questions. They assumed he was on official business, and then there was no news of him."
He paused, then exclaimed, "Could he have been secretly killed by Yuan Yueze?"
Seeing that his father and brothers were increasingly wary of Yuan Yueze, to the point of being terrified at the mere mention of his name, Li Xiuning, who had not left her room for days and had not even attended the New Year's Eve banquet, lowered her head slightly, remained silent, and showed a withered smile on her pale face.
Li Yuan pondered, "This is indeed possible, but the possibility is extremely low. Pei Qing has no grudge against Yuan Yueze. Although Yuan Yueze is arrogant, his style is not despicable. Alright, Xiuning, stay. You all go out. Be sure to prepare carefully for battle and don't pay any more attention to Yuan Yueze."
He was truly afraid that his son would make another foolish mistake and indirectly support Yuan Yueze.
The three Li brothers rose, bowed, and took their leave. Li Yuanji and Li Yuan exchanged a knowing glance before turning away.
Once only the father and daughter remained in the room, Li Yuan casually asked, "Does Xiu Ning's heart already belong to Yuan Yueze?"
Li Xiu Ning gently shook her head and whispered, "Xiu Ning has never done anything to betray the family. Every action she takes is based on the family's interests."
Her words were true, yet there was an underlying sense of ulterior motive.
Li Yuan, a man of experience and knowing his daughter well, smiled bitterly and said, "How could I not know Xiu Ning's thoughts? I know Xiu Ning is conflicted, but you should also understand that only one side can survive—our side or Yuan Yueze. The one who lives will gain the world, while the other will only end in ruin and death. A short, sharp pain is better than a long, drawn-out one. Xiu Ning, make a choice. Whichever side you choose, I will understand and support you as your father."
The Tang princess trembled violently, and two strings of tears, reflecting the light under the lamplight, slid down her pale hands.
With her extraordinary wisdom, how could she not understand Li Yuan's meaning? It was true that she loved Yuan Yueze, but she had never done anything to betray her family. It was clear that she chose family over love. Li Yuan and his sons could see this, so why did he force Li Xiu Ning to make a decision?
Li Xiuning felt a nameless fear grip her heart. She vaguely sensed that Li Yuan wanted her to deal with Yuan Yueze personally, and the method would certainly not be direct, because in the entire world, there were probably no more than three people who dared to confront Yuan Yueze head-on. This meant that Li Yuan planned to use a scheme to plot against Yuan Yueze one last time before he left, and Li Xiuning was the executor.
The princess, caught in a dilemma, felt a pang of bitterness. Although she had rejected Yuan Yueze, how could she so easily discard her feelings? If Yuan Yueze were the kind of treacherous, self-serving politician, it would be fine, but Yuan Yueze was the one who understood her best.
Li Yuan was also caught in a dilemma. To be honest, he was forced into this tactic. Even if the plan succeeded, Li Xiuning's chances of survival were extremely slim, because the impression of Yuan Yueze as someone with feelings mixed with ruthlessness was already deeply ingrained. If Li Xiuning crossed his bottom line, he could ruthlessly destroy her without batting an eye.
This was trading his own daughter's life for the future of the Tang Dynasty!
Life is full of such helplessness; he or she had no other choice.
After a long silence, Li Xiuning slowly raised her head and looked at Li Yuan. Her expression was heartbreakingly calm, and the unwavering determination in her eyes told Li Yuan of her choice.
Li Yuan wept uncontrollably.
The eagle's wings were broken, and the wolf's teeth were severed.
The invincible myth of the grasslands was shattered in the Central Plains.
In just two moves, Yuan Yueze crippled most of Bi Xuan's power in court. Before, people had only heard rumors, but tonight they had witnessed his terrifying strength firsthand, and no one dared to doubt him anymore.
This battle established Yuan Yueze's image in Chang'an as someone who brought glory to the Han Dynasty, was skilled in both literature and martial arts, and was invincible.
After a series of fierce battles with Liu Yu, the Four Great Monks, and Shi Zhixuan, his already unfathomable cultivation had increased further. Bi Xuan was indeed extraordinary, but compared to the combined power of the Four Great Monks, he was far inferior.
On the sleepless New Year's Eve, many people returning from the Taiji Hall were spreading his deeds, yet this hero of the Han Dynasty was plotting a despicable act.
He went to Shanglin Garden to have an affair with Shang Xiufang, the most talented and beautiful courtesan
in the land. Ignoring the bustling crowds, the festive decorations, and the joyous atmosphere, Yuan Yueze slipped like a ghost into Shang Xiufang's courtyard.
He tiptoed into her still-lit boudoir, peering quietly at the elegant bed draped in white gauze curtains. Through the curtains, he could vaguely see Shang Xiufang's beautiful figure, undulating like a mountain range, as she slept.
Yuan Yueze was stunned. The sleeping beauty was unaware of how alluring her fair, snow-white legs, exposed beneath the brocade quilt and thin gauze curtains, were.
After a moment of stunned silence, Yuan Yueze thought to himself, "Didn't you say you'd wait for me? Why are you asleep already?" He then quietly slipped under the curtains.
Upon seeing her, he almost drooled. She had kicked off most of the quilt, exposing her slender waist and upper body entirely to the air. Her exquisite and alluring curves were tempting, even Yuan Yueze felt an urge to pull back the covers and feast his eyes on her entire body.
She wore only a thin gauze nightgown, the delicate fabric barely concealing her exquisite, captivating figure. Her full breasts rose and fell with her breath, and she exuded a faint, natural fragrance. Her long, black, silky hair was loosely draped, making her long, jade-like neck appear unusually white. Her delicate, beautiful face, with its rosy glow, was incomparably radiant.
After a moment of stunned silence, Yuan Yueze covered her with the quilt and gently lay down beside her.
His repeated battles against several top masters left him with little time to calmly summarize his experiences. Such a peak was something most martial artists could only dream of. Although Yuan Yueze didn't consider himself a martial artist, he firmly believed Liu Yu was still alive. If this cunning fox were to master the mysterious and unpredictable "War God's Manual," he would be even more difficult to deal with. Therefore, he had to improve his strength; the reason was simple: the "War God's Manual" was extraordinary.
Images of the battles flashed through his mind, and his focus sharpened, carefully savoring every detail.
Gradually, he felt as if he could grasp the movements of everything in the world through his infinitely extended senses, experiencing an unparalleled sense of comfort and bliss.
Shang Xiufang's slightly rapid breathing naturally didn't escape his notice.
Yuan Yueze opened his eyes, reached out his arm, and placed Shang Xiufang's delicate hand, who was still pretending to be asleep with a flushed face, on his arm. He chuckled softly, "Xiufang, I'm here!"
Shang Xiufang suddenly opened her sleepy eyes, her face beaming with joy, but her rosy lips pouted slightly as she said reproachfully, "I was asleep, what are you doing here, young master?"
Seeing her charming appearance when she was being petulant, Yuan Yueze couldn't help but laugh, "Brother Gaduo is returning to the Western Regions tomorrow, so I accompanied him for a drink."
Shang Xiufang nodded slightly, said nothing more, and simply rested her head against his arm. Under their intimate contact, Yuan Yueze could clearly feel her hot and vibrant body, her soft yet elastic breasts. Overwhelmed by desire, he turned and embraced her, biting her delicate, blushing earlobe, saying, "We'll be parting tomorrow, Xiufang, don't blame me for my haste."
Shang Xiufang, her body trembling, pressed her hands tightly against his chest, not daring to lift her head, only nodding slightly.
Yuan Yueze's large mouth seemed to possess a bewitching charm, tracing its way along her neck to her cheeks, which were as red as if they could bleed. Shang Xiufang couldn't resist the tingling, itchy sensation coursing through her body. Her body twisted slightly, and she unconsciously tilted her blushing face upwards, her eyes half-closed, letting out a soft, almost imperceptible moan, a clear harbinger of burgeoning passion.
Yuan Yueze smiled and said, "Xiufang's singing voice is the best in the world. That last note was so captivating that it made my bones go weak."
Shang Xiufang, her virginity stirred by his words, regained some clarity upon hearing this. Before she could even glare at him or utter a few coquettish words, her mind went blank, as if her soul had left her body, and she could no longer distinguish between reality and illusion.
It turned out that Yuan Yueze's large mouth had found her soft, smooth, red lips, and before she could react, his tongue had already probed inside. His devilish hands began to conquer her rear. Shang Xiufang could not withstand his methods. Her already shy and rosy face turned even redder, and coupled with her violently writhing body and increasingly rapid breathing, it was clear that she was unable to control herself, and her desire had been fully ignited.
In a daze, all her coverings were removed, revealing a flawless, perfect body before him. Yuan Yueze stared, mesmerized, at her smooth, fair, and rounded legs and the faintly visible, mysterious sanctuary, when Shang Xiufang let out another soft cry, startling him awake. He saw that she was perhaps uncomfortable from the emptiness within her body; a few beads of sweat glistened on her forehead, her delicate brows were tightly furrowed, and her complexion was somewhat off. Yuan
Yueze leaned down and asked, "Xiufang, are you feeling unwell?" Shang
Xiufang, her face flushed and her body weak, nodded slightly, but dared not open her eyes. Instead, she whispered something in Yuan Yueze's ear.
Yuan Yueze shrugged and chuckled dryly, saying, "Let this humble servant serve Xiufang so everyone can have some peace." Shang
Xiufang was greatly embarrassed, her face turning even redder with shame, and she pinched him hard with her jade-like hand.
Holding the naked Shang Cainu in his arms, Yuan Yueze vanished behind the screen in a flash.
Apart from Shang Xiufang's heavy breathing, there was no other sound in the room.
A trembling voice, seemingly both reproachful and resentful, came from inside: "Young Master, your hand... your hand... Xiufang..."
Yuan Yueze's voice, however, was completely serious. He said, "Oh, so this is what Bai Letian meant by 'a cacophony of sounds'? Alright, Xiufang, please come in!"
Shang Xiufang gave a soft, annoyed groan, and a moment later, a melodious sound like raindrops on withered lotus leaves rang out.
Yuan Yueze's strange voice sounded again, and he said with great seriousness, "Ha! This must be 'large and small pearls falling onto a jade plate'! Ouch, Xiufang pinched the 'Little Evil Emperor'!"
When the two returned to the couch, Shang Xiufang, her body flushed, was nestled in Yuan Yueze's arms like an ostrich. The shameless "Evil Emperor," who had been running naked all the way, swayed his head and recited: "The warbling of orioles glides beneath the flowers, the murmuring of springs is difficult beneath the ice. The icy spring is cold and astringent, the strings are frozen and broken, the sound is temporarily silenced. A different kind of sorrow and resentment arises, at this moment silence speaks louder than words. Bai Letian is truly a talent, doesn't Xiufang say so?"
The beautiful woman, panting and shy, was incredibly intelligent. How could she not understand the hidden meaning in his words? She could only helplessly pinch him again. Yuan Yueze made an exaggerated expression, his large hand moving again on her exquisite and soft body, saying, "The spring night is too short. After refining your body, I'll have a good chat with Xiufang!"
Shang Xiufang let out a soft moan, not objecting. As Yuan Yueze's movements deepened, Shang Xiufang's burning passion began to ignite. She was completely immersed in the love between a man and a woman, looking forward to the most intense moment.
Ji Qian and Xiao He'er lay in bed together.
They faced each other with their backs to each other, but their beautiful eyes were actually wide open.
The two women had originally come to accompany Shang Xiufang, who was going to travel to the grasslands the next day. After the Taiji banquet, they chatted and laughed for a long time. After bathing, the three women went to their rooms to sleep. Ji Qian and the other two women were too lazy to go back to their own rooms, so they stayed here for the night. Before they were fully asleep, the two women were awakened by a painful scream coming from Shang Xiufang's boudoir not far away. Ji Qian, needless to say, although still a virgin, knew exactly what that sound meant. Xiao He'er had heard too many erotic plays, and even in terms of theoretical experience, she was a notch above Ji Qian, so she naturally knew what that sound meant
as well. In fact, both women guessed that Yuan Yueze had just taken the virginity of Shang Xiufang, who was admired by men all over the world. Xiao He'er was not so cunning. She knew that Yuan Yueze was interested in her and had personally said that she was still young. Although she insisted that she was already a grown woman, Yuan Yueze, that old-fashioned man, just wouldn't make a move. She could only wait. On the other hand, Ji Qian's feelings were much more complicated. After listening to the erotic opera for half an hour, she felt a little dizzy. She cursed Yuan Yueze in her heart for being hypocritical, shameless, and irresponsible, completely unaware that she was acting this way because she was jealous of Shang Xiufang.
After a long commotion, things finally quieted down. The two women breathed a sigh of relief at the same time. As if by telepathy, they turned around and glanced at each other unconsciously. Although the room was pitch black and their martial arts skills weren't particularly advanced, they clearly sensed each other's erratic breathing. Xiao He'er spoke first, "Brother Yuan is so naughty! Coming here to steal my love and keep me from sleeping peacefully."
Ji Qian, gradually getting used to her roguish tone, asked, "Their family is leaving soon. Will Xiao Ji stay with me?"
Xiao He'er replied, "They're going back to Luoyang. Brother Yuan has already sent people to look for him. They should be able to find him in a few months!" Ji Qian
sighed softly and said, "Don't blame me for being nosy, but you can't make any more mistakes. Find someone to marry and live a good life. I really don't want to see my good sister become someone's concubine."
Xiao He'er exclaimed: “I know Xiaoqian has a prejudice against Brother Yuan, but thank you for your advice anyway.”
Ji Qian said with a wry smile, “How can I not feel that I have a prejudice? Even if what you said is true, that he can live as long as heaven and earth, wouldn’t he not even be able to feel the taste of life? Xiao Ji, don’t sink any further.”
Xiao He’er said, “Sister Bei loves reading the most. People have heard her tell the story of ‘You are not a fish, how can you know the joy of a fish’? Xiaoqian is not Brother Yuan, how could she know whether his life is enjoyable or not? Besides, she likes Brother Yuan, but she doesn’t have any ulterior motives. Even if he really treats me like a sister, I’m happy. If you experience such a warm and comfortable family life, I guarantee you will have no interest in fame and fortune anymore.”
Realizing that her good friend had not only become more knowledgeable, but was also already obsessed with Yuan Yueze, Ji Qian felt a sense of helplessness and stopped talking. But she would never heed Xiao He'er's advice to leave Chang'an. As the Taiji Banquet drew to a close, Li Yuanji had publicly clarified that he hadn't forced her into marriage. Although Ji Qian was furious, she relaxed, as this meant Li Yuanji wouldn't force her anymore.
But if she didn't leave Chang'an, what could she do? Her arch-enemy, the Xiang family, was almost destroyed. She'd heard from Qingjie that only Xiang Gui's eldest son was still at large; the other two sons had long since disappeared, and it seemed they would never rise again. Dealing with Yang Wengan of the Jingzhao Alliance? Absolutely impossible. Chang'an had three gangs of villains, known as the "Two Parties and One Alliance." The Alliance was the Jingzhao Alliance, and the two parties were the Crown Prince's Party and the Consort's Party. Besides, Qingjie had said Yang Wengan would be dealt with; why should she invite trouble upon herself?
Sigh!
Seeing that Xiao He'er's breathing had calmed down, Ji Qian, whose mind was starting to wander, sighed helplessly. Looking out the window towards Shang Xiufang's boudoir, she recalled the alluring, seductive sound from just moments before. Unconsciously, Ji Qian squeezed her legs together, noticing that her private parts seemed much smoother. Her cheeks flushed instantly, and she muttered a mixture of shame and anger, cursing Yuan Yueze softly as lewd and shameless, before quickly pulling the covers over herself and falling asleep.
"Achoo!"
Yuan Yueze sneezed as his grotesque hands kneaded the increasingly perfect, snow-white, full, and alluring breasts of the woman in his arms.
Shang Xiufang, beautiful, pure, noble, and elegant like a snow lotus, wrapped her flawless arms tightly around Yuan Yueze's neck. Her hazy, wine-like eyes revealed deep love as she calmly gazed at the man before her, the man she had fallen for and entrusted her life to. Yuan Yueze's grotesque hands made her feel incredibly comfortable; a heat rose again in her lower abdomen, and two delicate blushes burned on her cheeks.
But a sneeze completely ruined the atmosphere.
Shang Xiufang chuckled, watching Yuan Yueze rubbing his nose like a child, muttering incessantly as if cursing someone. A happy smile bloomed on her beautiful face, and she pressed her head against Yuan Yueze's chest, listening to his strong heartbeat and feeling his broad chest.
Noticing that his chest was damp, Yuan Yueze gently stroked Shang Xiufang's soft hair and whispered, "Xiufang, are you reluctant to leave, yet also longing to travel beyond the Great Wall, so you're conflicted?"
Shang Xiufang nodded slightly.
Yuan Yueze sighed, "You might blame me for not giving you advice, but Xiufang is actually very decisive. I believe you'll understand my meaning soon. Besides, we won't be separated forever. Once you've traveled enough, and the Central Plains are unified when you return, we can go to the mountains and live a carefree life. Isn't that the perfect ending?"
He paused, then continued, "Moreover, Jieli is gathering troops to invade our Central Plains. I'll be going to the grasslands soon. As the saying goes, 'Absence makes the heart grow fonder,' and then Xiufang and I will try some more things together."
Shang Xiufang laughed through her tears, scolding, "You're so frivolous!"
Then, her dark eyes, even more captivating than before, darted around, and she chuckled, "Xiufang might be able to help my lord." "A handful!"
Yuan Yueze immediately understood her meaning and laughed out loud, "Xiufang shouldn't concern herself with such mundane matters, and she's absolutely forbidden from selling her looks, understand?"
Shang Xiufang's jade-like face revealed a naive and playful smile, and she said, "Xiufang would like to sell her looks, but no one dares to accept it!"
Yuan Yueze was both amused and annoyed, and he gave her round, fragrant buttocks a light slap, saying, "Anyway, do whatever you want, no need to do anything deliberate. By the way, your appearance has changed quite a bit now, what if someone notices something amiss when you go out! I was really careless!"
Shang Xiufang giggled and said, "Aunt Meixian already got me a human skin mask from Master Lu, and after wearing it, even Xiufang herself can't tell which one is the real me!"
Yuan Yueze secretly praised Shan Meixian for her quick wit and meticulousness. Shang Xiufang then said, "I heard from Aunt Meixian that you initially only wanted to grow old with her. How did things change so much?"
Yuan Yueze smiled bitterly, "My fate is not actually in my own hands. I vaguely feel that a bespectacled man and a woman are controlling my destiny invisibly. It feels strange, yet very real."
(Spoof) Shang Xiufang nodded as if she understood, lightly biting her lip, and lowered her head shyly, saying, "After tomorrow's parting, it will be several months at the shortest, and a year at the longest, before we can meet again. Won't you love Xiufang one more time, my husband?"
Yuan Yueze tightened his arms and lowered his head to find her lips. The moon, which
was originally hanging in the sky, reflecting a golden light on the earth, seemed to dare not watch the erotic scene inside the room and quietly hid behind the clouds.
Yin Mansion.
Yin Zuwen, Xu Liuzong, Yang Xuyan, and Yang Wengan sat around the top floor of the forbidden pavilion, their faces gloomy.
There was not a trace of the joyous atmosphere of New Year's Eve on them.
Xu Liuzong spoke first: "Wen Gan, have you found any news about Sheng Chun and Yu Shan?"
Yang Wen Gan's eyes flashed with a sharp light, and he shook his head.
Yin Zuwen said: "That little bitch surnamed Hou won't let them go. Wen Gan, prepare for the worst! It's good that she didn't find out your secret, otherwise the Xiang family..."
Yang Xuyan pondered: "What are your plans for dealing with Yuan Yueze next, Uncle Yin?"
Yin Zuwen smiled bitterly: "What plans can we have? Brother Shi suddenly disappeared, leaving a whole bunch of us behind. It's already a miracle that Yuan Yueze hasn't come looking for trouble. Originally, I doubted his strength, but after seeing him defeat Bi Xuan in two moves, I have no more doubts."
Yang Xuyan also sighed: "Although we can't frame Yuan Yueze for Master Shi's sudden disappearance, we still..." They were confident they could kill Li Shimin, but suddenly three experts appeared. They'd never heard of the blond Western Region man before, yet his cultivation was exceptionally high. Now, Mr. Zuo and Mr. Pi dared not even enter the city gate, lest they be detected by Li Shimin's spies.
Xu Liuzong said, "Since it's already happened, there's nothing anyone can do. Xu Yan should think about how to avoid Li Yuan's 'blood test,' because this hurdle is extremely important to you and to all of us."
Yang Xu Yan smiled mysteriously and said, "Not only do I have a way to avoid this predicament, but Li Yuan might even grant me an official position!"
His words were brimming with undisguised confidence.

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