[Wuxia] Wandering Freely in the Tang Dynasty (Complete) - 25

Chapter 90 Taking the Lead:
Donglai Inn, North Garden.
Shang Xiufang sat gracefully to one side of an elegant tea table. She wore a long, shoulder-length hood that revealed only half her face, emphasizing her stunning beauty and graceful silhouette. Her long skirt was composed of many pleats, each a different color, lightly painted, elegant and noble, possessing an indescribable lightness, grace, and charm. A white fur coat draped over her shoulders further accentuated her delicate, pitiful, and endearing appearance.
The imposter 'Yue Shan', Song Shidao, sat opposite her.
After a long silence, Shang Xiufang gracefully lifted her hood, revealing her breathtakingly beautiful face.
Song Shidao was deeply moved. The mask, as thin as a cicada's wing and fitting seamlessly to his handsome face, meticulously revealed a shocked expression. Trembling, he blurted out, "Mingyue!"
Shang Xiufang was slightly taken aback, then burst into laughter, panting, "Second Young Master, you're so well-disguised! Even Xiufang was almost fooled."
Song Shidao laughed heartily, then said awkwardly, "Miss, you flatter me. Lately, even I can't tell who I am."
He then teased, "I didn't expect Xiaoze to tell you all this. When will Xiufang be marrying into the family?"
Shang Xiufang's cheeks flushed crimson, her incomparably beautiful appearance captivating Song Shidao.
Realizing her lapse in composure, Shang Xiufang chided, "I never expected the Second Young Master to speak like that big rogue."
After a pause, she spoke softly in a gentle yet poignant voice, "If I could see the Second Young Master continue to benefit the people in his capacity, I wonder if Lord Yue would rest in peace."
Overwhelmed by his immersion in the role of 'Yue Shan,' Song Shidao was overwhelmed with a myriad of emotions.
In both love and career, Yue Shan was a complete failure. After his wife and daughter were killed by 'Heavenly Lord' Xi Ying, Yue Shan devoted himself to the way of the sword, mastering a sword technique that astonished the world, earning him the title of the unparalleled Overlord Blade. Yet, he ultimately fell to 'Heavenly Blade' Song Que, his life's glory extinguished. During this period of ruin and devastation, he fell in love with many beautiful women, but none of these relationships ended well. His feud with Li Yuan might very well have stemmed from women. His 'marital' relationship with Zhu Yuyan was an even more complicated and confusing affair.
With a sigh, Song Shidao comforted her, "What's past is past. Senior Yue worked hard for the peaceful and prosperous world Senior Bi envisioned. I'm content that I haven't tarnished his reputation."
Shang Xiufang nodded slightly and said, "He wants Xiufang to tell the Second Young Master that he requests a meeting with him at the polo match the day after tomorrow, and we can discuss the details then."
Song Shidao's mind raced, instantly grasping the crux of the matter. Inviting Shang Xiufang was indeed a good idea; no one would suspect anything. Even Li Yuan, knowing that Yue Shan and Shang Xiufang's deceased mother, Mingyue, were close friends despite their age difference, wouldn't doubt Shang Xiufang's purpose. Yuan Yueze could have asked Shang Xiufang to deliver some detailed information to Song Shidao, but given Shang Xiufang's aloof nature and the lack of urgent news recently, she only acted as a messenger.
After a few more casual words, Shang Xiufang took her leave.
※※※※※ The mansion of Chi Shengchun in Yongfu Ward, northeast of Chang'an City.
Xiang Yushan led the plump, fleshy Rong Fengxiang, who resembled a large ball of meat, and another tall man towards the central main pavilion.
It was just past midnight; most people in the Chi residence had already gone to bed, with only a few buildings still lit. All was quiet and peaceful. The occasional sound of guard dogs scurrying about indicated the tight security; even the most cunning thieves wouldn't escape their senses of smell and hearing, which were a hundred times more acute than those of ordinary people.
The three walked in silence, arriving at the main pavilion in no time.
The building consisted of three sections—front, middle, and rear—connected by long corridors and courtyards, surrounded by gardens of exceptional beauty. The flowers, trees, ponds, artificial hills, and pavilions were completely different from the rest of the courtyard, clearly indicating the residence of the owner.
Before Xiang Yushan could even open the door, Yin Zuwen's voice rang out from inside: "Brother Pi and Brother Zuo have also come to lend their support! Truly, heaven is on our side! Yushan, quickly invite our distinguished guests in."
Xiang Yushan responded, and the three quickly entered the room.
The room was spacious and luxuriously furnished. A large bed stood in the center, and by the candlelight on the tables beside it, Bai Qing'er, with five golden needles in her hair, sat cross-legged, meditating and circulating her internal energy.
Yin Zuwen stood up to greet her, saying, "Welcome to the two great masters of my Holy Sect. Brother Zuo's 'Midnight-Noon Barrier' has reached the eighteenth level; now you have someone to test your skills on."
The 'Midnight-Noon Barrier' is one of the two extraordinary skills passed down from the Daoist Ancestor, ranking alongside the 'Ren-Bing Sword Technique' as a sect-protecting secret technique. However, since the founding of the sect by the First Ancestor, the Long-Eyebrowed Old Daoist, no one has ever truly and perfectly integrated the 'Midnight-Noon Barrier' into swordsmanship. Zuo Youxian, one of the eight great masters of the contemporary heretical sect, has mastered the 'Sword and Barrier Flowing Together,' but whether there are still flaws remains unknown to others.
Under the bright lights of the room, the tall, middle-aged man standing next to Bichen, who was disguised as Rong Fengxiang, was immediately revealed to be Zuo Youxian: his head was almost bald, but two long tufts of hair still hung down like pendants from his temples to his broad shoulders, making him look quite unusual. He was at least over sixty years old, but his skin was as white and tender as a baby's, he had a pair of goat-like eyes, a long, sparse beard, and a sharp, curved nose, exuding a ruthless and vicious aura. He wore a brownish-gray Taoist robe, his hands behind his back, standing as steady as a mountain, the hilt of his sword visible on his left shoulder, giving him an imposing presence.
After exchanging a few polite words, the four men took their seats.
Seeing that Pi Chen hesitated to speak, glancing worriedly at Bai Qing'er not far away, Yin Zuwen let out a loud laugh filled with inner strength, saying, "You two don't need to worry. Qing'er is currently cultivating the complete 'Charming Maiden Heart Method,' which combines the Yin Gui Sect and the Extinction of Emotions, using the 'Golden Needle Acupuncture Technique.' If I don't remove the golden needles, she won't regain any senses or hearing." He
then paused and sighed, "If it weren't for the concern for Zhu Yuyan, who has mastered the 'Demon Seed Technique,' I wouldn't have chosen to administer the acupuncture to Qing'er at Sheng Chun's house."
Although Pi Chen and Zuo Youxian's expressions remained unchanged, their hearts were filled with dread: Yin Zuwen's words sounded nice, but wasn't he just trying to intimidate Pi Chen and Zuo Youxian, who had come to cooperate with him? He didn't even cherish the complete 'Charming Maiden Heart Method,' and instead flaunted his power in front of Pi Chen and Zuo Youxian, putting them at a disadvantage even before discussing cooperation and the division of profits.
Zuo Youxian smiled slyly and stood up, saying, "Brother Yin, please don't take offense at my impolite words. Our cooperation is based on mutual benefit. If you treat me with such an attitude, then I have no choice but to take my leave."
Zuo Youxian was a man who loved money more than anything; he had no interest in power, status, or fame. That's why he dared to contradict him. Pi Chen, who also pursued power and fame, dared not speak out because of his heavy ties with Yin Zuwen.
Yin Zuwen was taken aback and said, "Brother Zuo, your temper is still so fiery. Please forgive my rudeness. Please sit down and talk."
Zuo Youxian was just putting on an act; he would naturally accept any offer of a way out.
After Xiang Yushan respectfully filled the teacups for the three, Yin Zuwen asked first, "Do you two have any latest news?"
Rong Fengxiang said bitterly, "Yuan Yueze and Shen Luoyan, that despicable couple, under the guise of suppressing the power of Buddhism and Taoism and promoting the slogan of 'fairness,' secretly swallowed up my long-established business. The head of the Northern Hundred Trades Society was also handed over to the Sha family of Luoyang. If I don't avenge this, how can I have the face to live in this world!"
Zuo Youxian comforted him for a while and then said, "I stayed with Brother Fu for a while, who knew that Shen Luoyan..." When news arrived that Yan was leading his army south to attack Xiangyang, he was terrified. He had thought that after taking control of Yangzhou following the secret killing of Li Zitong by Kou Zhong and his two nephews, he would achieve great things, but it turned out he was just a hopeless case. He happened to meet the equally disillusioned Brother Bi, who mentioned that he had been invited by Brother Yin, so he came to see if there was anything he could do to help.
Yin Zuwen was astonished and said, "Li Zitong was actually killed a long time ago?"
Zuo Youxian nodded and said, "It's a long story, it happened almost two years ago."
After a moment of stunned silence, Yin Zuwen said, “I won’t waste any more time with you two. Since Yuan Yueze, Zhu Yuyan, and Shi Zhixuan are all currently in Chang’an, we are at a critical juncture of survival. Our relationship with Li Yuanji is the closest. Although Li Jiancheng is in league with Li Yuanji, they are actually at odds. Through Li Jiancheng, we have already made contact with the Turkic forces behind him. Once Li Shimin dies, we can control Li Yuanji, kill Li Yuan and Li Jiancheng, and then we will have nothing to worry about.”
Bai Qing’er overheard everything. Before she came out, Zhu Yuyan used the supreme spiritual technique of the Demon Seed Technique, 'Imprisoning the God,' to fix a part of her primordial spirit, preventing it from being affected by external things. Therefore, the arrogant Yin Zuwen thought that personally administering acupuncture to Bai Qing’er would be foolproof, which was his biggest mistake.
Through the conversation just now, Bai Qing'er clearly realized that the relationships between Li Jiancheng, Li Yuanji, the Great Ming Zunjiao, Yin Zuwen, and even the Turks were extremely complex. What appeared to be cooperation was actually not. Through her careful investigation over the past few days, she knew that the core of Yin Zuwen's group was actually Yin Zuwen and the Xiang family. Although they had contact with other forces, they were all using each other for their own purposes.
Xiang Yushan originally intended to become Zhao Deyan's disciple, but Zhao Deyan had already been crippled by Zhu Yuyan, so he went to become Yin Zuwen's disciple instead. Yin Zuwen then instructed him to seek refuge with the Turks to gather information.
From Yin Zuwen's words, it can be deduced that his greatest fear is of the three people, Yuan Yueze and his companion, whom he just mentioned. Bai Qing'er couldn't understand why he didn't take the Great Ming Venerable Sect seriously. As for the Turks, a nomadic people, they were unable to govern the vast lands of the Central Plains, so they could only invade by controlling the people. Their strategy can be inferred from their years of plundering the Central Plains' wealth and people while simultaneously supporting capable rebel armies. Therefore, Yin Zuwen wasn't afraid that the Turks would turn against him at this crucial moment.
Now, having allied with two other top experts from the Demonic Sect, Yin Zuwen's true strength had greatly increased. In the end, neither of them were good people, and Bi Chen and the other two were more trustworthy than Xi Feng, that Western Regions man.
Pi Chen exclaimed in surprise, "Brother Yin, your plan is truly ingenious! You've come up with such a profound idea. But how can we guarantee that once everything you say comes true, the power of the Li Tang dynasty will fall into our hands?"
Yin Zuwen smiled mysteriously and said, "If Li Yuan's sons are either dead or crippled, and he happens to have a newborn son who isn't his own flesh and blood, do you think he would designate this son as his heir?"
Neither Pi Chen nor Yin Zuwen were fools; they understood immediately and laughed in unison, "Brother Yin, what a clever scheme!"
Bai Qing'er was equally alarmed, secretly thinking that the so-called 'son' must be the child in Consort Lian's womb. Although she didn't know who the biological father was, Yin Zuwen, for the sake of power, had actually sent someone to compete with her daughter for the emperor's favor.
In fact, this was Yin Zuwen's brilliant move. Consort Lian was one of the very few people who knew the child's true parentage. Once Yin Zuwen's plan succeeded, Consort Lian would be the first to be killed. No matter how ruthless he was, he couldn't push his own daughter, Consort Yin, to the edge of the blade.
Pi Chen continued, "Although I hate Yuan Yueze, I also know he's not someone to be trifled with. Brother Yin, do you have any backup plans?"
Yin Zuwen glanced smugly at Bai Qing'er and said, "I don't need to tell you what that scoundrel's biggest weakness is."
The other three suddenly understood and all gave him a thumbs up.
Although Bai Qing'er couldn't open her eyes, her sliver of spirit knew that Yin Zuwen wanted to use her beauty to get close to Yuan Yueze. The purpose of practicing the 'Charming Maiden Heart Technique' was even more obvious: to seduce Yuan Yueze with Bai Qing'er and kill him when he was off guard during their intimate moments.
Zuo Youxian grunted and said, "I heard that Old Yue has also come to Chang'an. It's been more than forty years since we parted ways in Changbai. I didn't expect him to make such a big splash since his return to the martial world. Hmph, I, Zuo, should also settle that old score with him."
Yin Zuwen frowned and said, "Brother Zuo, you mustn't. Old Yue's trip is only to seek revenge on Bi Shouxuan, who has joined the Great Ming Sect and is now hiding. By a twist of fate, he encountered Zhu Yuyan and Yuan Yueze. He has even made a promise to fight with Zhu Yuyan. Shi Zhixuan came to visit me a few days ago and asked me to pledge my allegiance. I have pretended to be loyal. He told me that the White Path will mobilize its forces to deal with Yuan Yueze. Think about it, if we wait until they fight to the death, Shi Zhixuan will definitely make his move. Neither Yuan Yueze nor Zhu Yuyan are the kind of people who will just sit around waiting to be killed. When they are truly exhausted, then we will... Heh!"
As he spoke, he made a 'chop' gesture.
The other three people in the room simultaneously let out sinister, dry laughs, their laughter laced with smugness.
※※※※※ Two days later, the nineteenth day of the twelfth lunar month.
At the beginning of the hour of Si (9-11 AM), the transverse plaza separating the palace and the royal city.
The wide plaza was completely free of snow; in the center was the polo field for today's match.
On either side of the field stood wooden walls, each about ten feet square, supported by wooden frames. Holes about a foot square were cut into the bottom, and nets were installed. The winner was determined by the number of times the ball went through the holes and into the nets.
The field was marked out in red powder in the center of the transverse plaza, rectangular in shape, with a center line and a core, about two thousand paces long and one thousand paces wide. Eighteen red flags stood around the perimeter. The spacious stands on the east and west sides of the field had many seats.
Playing polo in the palace followed these rules: someone was responsible for counting the points; each point gained was worth a point and a flag was added; each point lost was removed from the flag. The eighteen red flags on the outer perimeter served as the scoring system. If Emperor Li Yuan scores, everyone must stop and shout "Long live the Emperor!"; if anyone else scores, cheers are sufficient. Three goals make a set, three sets make a game, and then it depends on Li Yuan's mood—whether he pauses for a moment or goes into the palace for drinks.
Yuan Yueze and Zhu Yuyan stood with their hands behind their backs on the high wall at the far end of the east stands. A gentle breeze blew, causing their robes to flutter, making them look like celestial beings.
The gaze first shifted to the square, where a troop of imperial guards drove nearly thirty tall, sturdy horses into the square. These horses were striking for their ornate decorations and vibrant colors, clearly for polo matches. Following them, a band of dozens of people, carrying drums of various sizes and other musical instruments, emerged from the main gate of the Taiji Palace, Chengtian Gate, and lined up on the north side of the field, ready to begin. One last glance at the imperial road stretching hundreds of steps with a red carpet leading from Chengtian Gate to the stadium, Yuan Yueze said sarcastically, "Li Yuan is truly extravagant, displaying the power and grandeur of the Tang Dynasty to the fullest."
Zhu Yuyan chuckled and said, "There are far more people in the world who love fame, fortune, and face than someone as carefree as you."
Yuan Yueze didn't reply, carefully searching his memory for information about polo.
Polo, historically known as 'jiju' or 'jiqiu,' is a sport played on horseback using a long-handled mallet to strike a wooden ball. The origin of polo remains uncertain. Some say it was introduced from Persia in the early Tang Dynasty, called 'Poloqiu,' and later spread to Mongolia, where it remained popular for over a thousand years. Others believe it was created by the ancient Chinese, and that the ancient Chinese games of jiju, jiqiu, and daqiu were essentially polo.
Historical records indicate that polo became the favorite sport of the royal family and nobility during the Tang Dynasty. Polo fields proliferated throughout the country, and the sport was wildly popular, receiving strong support from members of the royal family – marking the golden age of polo. More than half of the twenty-two emperors of the Tang Dynasty were avid polo players. Among
these avid emperors, Emperor Xuanzong (Li Longji) was a true fanatic. Even as the Prince of Linzi, he was passionate about polo, and his addiction remained undiminished even after he ascended the throne in August of the first year of the Kaiyuan era. The Song Dynasty poet Chao Wujiu lamented in his poem "On Emperor Ming's Polo Playing Picture": "The palace gates open in broad daylight, the Third Prince returns drunk from polo; Jiu Ling is old, Han Xiu is dead, tomorrow there will be no more remonstrances."
His successor, Emperor Muzong (Li Heng), was also a huge polo fan, but later died from an injury sustained while playing the game. After Emperor Jingzong of Tang, Li Zhan, ascended the throne, his obsession with polo only grew stronger. He recruited polo players from all over the country, and they played polo day and night, neglecting state affairs. In the end, he died because of this at the age of eighteen.
Some died playing polo, while others engaged in absurd behavior. Historical records state that Emperor Xizong of Tang, Li Xuan, was so fond of polo that he even played a game called "Betting on the Three Rivers with Polo." The game involved "the first to get the ball and knock it through the goal to win, and the first to win the prize." He lost the position of military governor of the Three Rivers region to his minister Chen Jingxuan, and arrogantly told the court jester Shi Yezhu, "If I were to take the imperial examination for polo, I should be the top scholar."
This was utterly absurd.
Even the last emperor of the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Zhaozong of Tang, Li Ye, when forced to move the capital to Luoyang and with his army scattered, still kept a dozen or so polo players by his side, unwilling to part with them. This demonstrates the fervor with which polo flourished in the Tang Dynasty.
Zhu Yuyan gently grasped his arm and said softly, "Does it remind you of history? There's a reason why polo has always been popular among royalty and nobility throughout history. Once you get involved, the sheer scale of the field, the rapid movement, and the wild excitement are incredibly captivating. Don't overthink it; aren't we creating new history?"
Yuan Yueze nodded, and the two looked down towards the bustling stands.
While Yuan Yueze was still lost in thought, guests had already filed in. The east and west stands were packed, a noisy and bustling scene.
The two stands together held nearly a thousand people. High-ranking officials, wealthy merchants, and gentry from Chang'an, along with their wives and children, had come to watch the game. Li Yuan's relatives and concubines, also there, formed a place for networking and socializing. Those who were well-connected roamed freely, their laughter and chatter filling the air. Most of the noblewomen and ladies were dressed in fashionable Hu clothing, lively and graceful.
The guests at the table were far too few to recognize. Aside from Hu Fu, Hu Xiaoxian, Feng Deyi, Li Jing, Pei Ji, and Xiao Yu, they barely remembered anyone else.
In the eastern VIP section sat Yuan Yueze's several beautiful wives. The charming Shang Xiuxun, her cheeks puffed out, was munching on something delicious, waving incessantly at the two men.
In the western VIP section were important figures from the Li clan. Because Li Yuan and his four sons were going to perform in person, none of them were present in the stands.
Yuan Yueze sighed, "Thanks to learning a few days ago that Ba Feng Han had arrived in Chang'an, along with Hou Xibai, we've formed a Young Marshal's team. I'm spared the trouble of learning to ride horses."
Zhu Yuyan frowned slightly and asked, "The matter of Bi Xuan handling a mysterious religion in the Turkic Khaganate, as mentioned by Ba Feng Han, could it be the Shamanism?"
Yuan Yueze pondered for a moment, then said uncertainly, "Perhaps! If it's true, then Bi Xuan should fight the long-lost Empress to a draw."
Before Zhu Yuyan could speak again, a fragrant breeze blew by, and Lian Rou, like a weightless feather, floated over and leaned against Yuan Yueze's side. Her chestnut-brown curly hair cascaded naturally over her fragrant shoulders, her lips were bright red, her eyes were brown, her eyebrows were delicate, her curves were graceful, and her skin was soft and supple. Combined with the boldness characteristic of women from foreign lands, she was indeed a fiery beauty. She pouted her beautiful, rosy lips, her large eyes fixed on Yuan Yueze, and said reproachfully, "Why haven't you come to see me and Father these past few days?"
Yuan Yueze remembered that since Yun Shuai had regained his strength, he had swaggered into the Persian Temple, located west of Zhuque Street and east of Qingming Canal in Chongde Lane, a temple specifically for foreign guests. He chuckled and said, "You're all safe now, what do I need to see?"
"Safety is not a question. If Rou'er is not in danger, what would I, Yun Shuai, be afraid of?"
Yun Shuai's voice rang out from behind him. One moment he was nowhere to be seen, and the next he appeared in front of Yuan Yueze as if out of thin air.
Swift as a rabbit in motion, still as a mountain in stillness.
He had been approaching at lightning speed from afar, and to stop so effortlessly and gracefully was something no ordinary person could do. In terms of lightness skill alone, only Shi Zhixuan's 'Illusory Demon Body Technique' could rival Yun Shuai's 'Flying Cloud Steps'.
After being cleansed of the poison by a miraculous force and undergoing a marrow cleansing and body tempering, and resting for more than half a month, Yun Shuai looked even younger, and his skills had further improved. Just as he said, if he didn't care about Lian Rou's safety, there were indeed very few people in the world who wanted to kill him.
Yuan Yueze casually put his arm around Lian Rou's slender waist and said, "Then father-in-law should go about his business."
Yun Shuai was already used to his shamelessness and knew that Lian Rou had fallen in love with him. Moreover, Yuan Yueze had not only saved his life but also told him most of the plan. After weighing the pros and cons, Yun Shuai accepted Yuan Yueze's suggestion: if Liu Yu was eliminated, Song Shidao would one day unify the world, and the Western Turks would be a region with ethnic autonomy. This was better than being exterminated. He chuckled and said, "You've already gotten my precious daughter, and now you're sending me away? That doesn't seem right."
Lian Rou bowed to Zhu Yuyan, who had been watching every subtle change in the arena, and smiled radiantly at Yuan Yueze, saying, "Father is a master polo player!"
Zhu Yuyan suddenly interrupted their conversation, calling out softly, "Enter the arena!"
The four of them looked down together and saw the Imperial Guards, in their gleaming armor and wielding spears, lined up in formation on all four sides, leading from Chengtian Gate straight to the arena. They stood guard along both sides of the red carpet, forming a human path, solemn and dignified.
As the drums and music began, Kou Zhong, Xu Ziling, Ba Feng Han, and Hou Xibai, accompanied by an official, rode into the square from the direction of the imperial city. They were all dressed in light polo riding attire, which made the four handsome young men, each with their own distinct personality and extraordinary charm, appear even more dashing and imposing, immediately attracting the attention of everyone present.
Immediately afterward, amidst the welcoming music and applause for the foreign guests, a group of Persian visitors entered the arena.
The Young Marshals' team's seats were in front of the east stand, while the Persian team's seats were in front of the west stand.
This was clearly arranged by Li Tang.
Suddenly, waist drums, bronze drums, and shell drums resounded all at once, followed by the simultaneous playing of pipa, flute, erhu, xiao, and vertical flute, creating a deafening din. Everyone in the east and west stands rose to their feet, welcoming the procession emerging from the main gate of the Tai Palace, Chengtian Gate.
"You're doing quite well, aren't you!"
A thunderous roar filled with resentment and anger erupted, and 'Yue Shan' appeared as if springing from the ground, three feet in front of Yuan Yueze. His eyes flashed with divine light, and an incredibly concentrated energy shot out wildly in all directions from him.
Then, his left hand drew squares and circles of varying sizes, repeatedly generating two opposing forces, one pulling and one pushing. The movements, seemingly slow but actually fast, made unexpected and exquisite changes in the blink of an eye, finally pointing his thumb at Yuan Yueze's brow.
With his right hand embracing Lian Rou, Yuan Yueze's left hand lashed out with a thunderous strike, slashing at the opponent's fingertips.
"Bang!"
A muffled, thunderous sound followed, and the force of the blow was devastating.
The two were thrown back to their feet.
All of this was observed by Li Yuan, dressed in light riding attire and riding a magnificent horse with an exquisitely crafted imperial polo mallet hanging on its side, escorted by sixteen imperial guards on horseback.
The entire arena was glued to the two, so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Chapter 091 Polo Match
Jade bridle, thousand-gold horse, seven-jeweled ball with inlaid patterns. The reins fly like lightning, the horse gallops with the speed of stars. Three victories are achieved in a flash, the first round of celebration is announced. Auspicious clouds follow the galloping steeds, swirling around the east side of the hall.
After escorting his three beloved concubines, dressed in riding attire that added to the splendor of the arena, into the VIP seats on the west platform, amidst cheers and applause, Li Yuan strode into the arena, followed by Li Shimin, Li Yuanji, and Li Nantian, all dressed in polo-style attire and boots. After exchanging a few pleasantries—such as the eternal peace and mutual support between the Tang Dynasty and Persia—the match immediately began. The young commanders' team, consisting of Kou Zhong, Xu Ziling, Ba Feng Han, and Hou Xibai, entered the arena, their names announced one by one.
Under the surging momentum generated by the two, no one dared to look at Yuan Yueze's position atop the wall; they could only sigh that Yue Shan was a tragic figure, tragically tormented by love, entangled in a web of love and hate.
Yuan Yueze gazed at Kou Zhong and his companions, smiling and giving them a thumbs-up. Kou Zhong, mounted on his horse, smiled back, turning his crescent-shaped staff, adorned with vibrant patterns, upside down and making a 'shooting' gesture at Yuan Yueze.
Whether he'd learned this gesture from Fu Junzhuo or Wei Zhenzhen, it made Yuan Yueze chuckle.
Today's match is a six-game, two-set format. The Persian team, who had traveled a long way and were supposed to play first, have been rescheduled for tomorrow's match.
The match is about to begin, and everyone's attention is completely focused on the field.
On the high east wall, Yun Shuai, Yuan Yueze, Lian Rou, Zhu Yuyan, and Song Shidao stand side by side.
Zhu Yuyan, speaking in a clear voice, relays the message secretly sent by Bai Qing'er to Song Shidao, then adds, "After two days of deduction, we believe there are only two possible fathers for the child in Consort Lian's womb: Liu Yu himself, or a puppet he found. The possibility of him being himself is very small, because if he were to transfer his soul, the child would no longer be considered his flesh and blood. Therefore, the possibility of him finding a puppet is greater. As for who this puppet is, we cannot think of yet."
At this moment, a thunderous drumbeat resounds in the field, and the match begins amidst the shouts of the announcer and the focused attention of hundreds of pairs of eyes.
Kou Zhong and Li Yuan simultaneously spur their horses forward, bending low to swat their clubs for the polo ball, while their teammates maneuver their horses to prepare for support, creating a tense and exciting atmosphere. Yuan Yueze clearly felt Lian Rou's delicate body stiffen in his arms, obviously feeling suffocated from concentrating too much.
The two horses brushed past each other, the polo mallet flashed, and before anyone could see clearly, the polo ball flew diagonally towards the Tang family's goal.
Yuan Yueze said in a low, focused voice, "There are at least ten people watching us. Be careful."
Then, he gently stroked Lian Rou's slender waist. Lian Rou, realizing what he meant, immediately cheered wildly.
Song Shidao's face was frosty, but he asked, "Have you found any clues about Pei Ji?"
Zhu Yuyan looked bitter and shook her head.
Ba Feng Han charged along the edge of the field from the side, his 'man and horse as one' technique incredibly skillful, his movements elegant and beautiful. The horse had become his possession, moving at his will. Just as the polo ball was about to go out of bounds, he struck it with his mallet. The ball, instead of bouncing, rolled low across the field towards the north boundary, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd.
This move was clearly unexpected by the Li clan. Li Yuanji desperately tried to intercept, but by a hair's breadth, his mallet missed the ball, instead charging across the midfield and past Li Yuan, who had reined in his horse and turned back.
Hou Xibai charged forward from the outer edge of the field, shouting, and swung his mallet fiercely at the ball. With skillful force, he sent the ball bouncing into the air, curving towards the top of the Li clan's east gate.
Everyone felt a pang of regret; the ball was too high, and it would have gone out of bounds before it even hit the ground. What a waste of their teamwork!
Unexpectedly, in the instant their regret arose, the ball suddenly changed, seemingly out of control, and plummeted diagonally before reaching its intended highest point.
Song Shidao laughed loudly and said, "Li Yuan told me a few days ago that Liu Wenjing, the Minister of Revenue, seems to be acting strangely, as if he harbors rebellious intentions against the Tang Dynasty."
The two men's expressions and conversation were completely inconsistent, and given their deliberately lowered voices, an outsider unaware of the situation might have thought they were arguing about their past relationship.
Yuan Yueze pondered for a moment, immediately realizing something was amiss, and simply said, "Think about Liu Wenjing and Pei Ji in history."
Liu Wenjing was from Pengcheng, and his family had lived in Wugong, Jingzhao for generations. At the end of the Sui Dynasty, he served as the magistrate of Jinyang and befriended Pei Ji, the supervisor of the Jinyang Palace. Li Yuan was then the governor of Taiyuan. Liu Wenjing contacted Pei Ji and Li Shimin, assisting Li Yuan in launching a rebellion against the Sui Dynasty, and was sent as an envoy to the Turks by Li Yuan's orders. When Li Yuan raised an army in Taiyuan, he followed the army south and captured the Sui general Qu Tutong. After the founding of the Tang Dynasty, Liu Wenjing served as a Grand Councilor, assisting in the revision of laws and regulations. He also helped Li Shimin defeat Xue Rengao and was appointed Minister of Civil Affairs and Left Vice Minister of the Shaanxi Eastern Circuit, and was enfeoffed as Duke of Lu.
Liu Wenjing believed that his talent far surpassed Pei Ji's, and he had repeatedly achieved military merits. Pei Ji, however, held a higher position than him simply because he was an old friend of Emperor Gaozu, which made him resentful. Whenever important matters were discussed, he deliberately opposed Pei Ji, thus creating a rift between them. Once, while feasting with his younger brother, Liu Wenqi, a Gentleman Attendant at the Palace Gate, Liu Wenjing, after drinking, uttered complaints, drew his sword, and struck a pillar, saying, "I must kill Pei Ji!" Coincidentally, several strange phenomena appeared in his house, causing Liu Wenqi great concern. He summoned a shaman to his home, who, at night, with disheveled hair and a sword in his mouth, performed a ritual to exorcise the demons. Unfortunately, one of Liu Wenjing's favorite concubines fell out of favor and told her brother about this. The concubine's brother then accused Liu Wenjing of treason.
Although ministers like Li Gang and Xiao Yu believed Liu Wenjing was not plotting a rebellion, and Li Shimin also believed that Liu Wenjing, at the outset of the uprising, devised an extraordinary strategy before informing Pei Ji, and that after the capital was pacified, the disparity in their status and treatment led Li Shimin to believe Liu Wenjing harbored only resentment and not treason, and he tried his best to protect him, Li Yuan, who had always been distant and suspicious of Liu Wenjing, was further swayed by Pei Ji's slanderous words. Li Yuan, believing Pei Ji's words, executed Liu Wenjing and his younger brother, Liu Wenqi, and confiscated their property. Before his execution, Liu Wenjing patted his chest and sighed, "'When the high-flying birds are all gone, the good bow is put away.' This is indeed true!" The possibility that Liu Wenjing was an "imperial envoy" is extremely slim. First, an imperial envoy, capable of remaining hidden for decades, would never easily reveal his intention to rebel; second, this is influenced by Li Yuan's strong personal emotions and is not objective; more importantly, the accusation of rebellion was actually a frame-up by Liu Wenjing's brother-in-law. Of course, Liu Wenjing might be feigning something, and if that's the case, then his cunning is terrifying.
Yun Shuai, who had been watching the match closely, interjected, "Since there's still time, we can split up and follow them, gathering information. Pei Ji, Liu Wenjing, even Liu Wenjing's brother-in-law—don't let any of them escape."
Three rhythmic drumbeats drew everyone's attention to the arena.
As the announcer called out the numbers, the Li clan's side lost a flag, while the young marshal's side gained an additional flag.
Lian Rou clapped her hands and giggled, "Look, the young marshal has scored!"
The four ignored her. Song Shidao said to Yuan Yueze with slight worry, "The White Path and the Black Path will both deal with you. Are you confident?"
Yuan Yueze said wistfully, "I wouldn't dare say I'm confident, but with the advantage of this near-indestructible body, I definitely won't die. If the White Path's Ning Daoqi, Liao Kong, and the Four Holy Monks all deal with me, even disregarding those scheming experts like Yin Zuwen, I definitely can't withstand their combined cultivation of over five hundred years. Not to mention Shi Zhixuan, who has over a hundred years of cultivation and has been eyeing me covetously." "They're watching me from the shadows! And it's inconvenient for you to make a move."
Zhu Yuyan covered her mouth with her jade-like fingers and chuckled, "Is it fun to play dumb to fool others? If you, me, Meixian, Junzhuo, Beier, Zhenzhen, and Fenger join forces, our cultivation will be at least close to a thousand years. What are we afraid of? Besides, we have the Grand Preceptor Yun here."
Yuan Yueze said, "You're oversimplifying things. How could they not understand this? If they were to make a move, they would definitely scatter us beforehand."
Song Shidao laughed, "The initiative is now in our hands, isn't it?"
Yuan Yueze was taken aback when a
shout of "Long live!" suddenly erupted in the arena.
The group looked over and saw that Li Yuan had scored a goal.
Lian Rou pouted and puffed out her cheeks, coquettishly humming, "Xu Ziling deliberately let us win; otherwise, the ball wouldn't have gone in so easily!"
Yun Shuai chuckled, "That's just the courtesy of a guest, letting the host take the lead."
Yuan Yueze, of course, understood what 'initiative' meant. He flashed to Zhu Yuyan's side and gave her a light peck on her delicate face.
Zhu Yuyan, caught off guard, blushed and instinctively kicked him. Fortunately, she pulled back in time; otherwise, Yuan Yueze would have lost face in front of thousands of people. Song
Shidao knew he couldn't linger, so he gave a heavy snort and transmitted his voice, "Do as Grand Preceptor Yun says. Everyone be careful."
Then, he retreated.
Yun Shuai said, "I need to leave for a bit to see if I can lure out some lackeys. It would be even better if I could capture them and interrogate them."
Before he finished speaking, he had vanished.
His public appearance today has naturally made it clear to those who are interested that he is on the same side as Yuan Yueze. It would be ideal if he could kill him alone, so it would be good for Commander Yun to go out and try his luck.
Yuan Yueze and the two women descended from the wall and landed at the VIP seating area where Wei Zhenzhen and the other women were.
Dugu Feng approached them and said, "Big brother, Junzhuo and I will be participating in the Young Marshal's team's competition later. You must cheer them on!"
Yuan Yueze chuckled and said, "Of course, we must show them how good our relationship with the Young Marshal's army is."
In the past half month, Yuan Yueze had tried riding a horse a few times but found it too boring, so he stopped. Instead, he drank with Kou Zhong and the other man every day, and in various public occasions, they would put their arms around each other's shoulders to show their close relationship. At various banquets, the three Li brothers used every means possible. Gold, silver, and beautiful women might be a great temptation for others, but they were like dirt to Yuan Yueze and the other two. Tomorrow, Kou Zhong and the other man would leave Chang'an, and all Li Tang could do was to dampen their arrogance.
However, they probably wouldn't succeed easily. Kou Zhong and Xu Ziling, who had received theoretical training for some time, were testing their skills on the field today. With their talent, they would definitely learn quickly. Ba Feng Han and Hou Xi Bai were both polo experts, needless to say, their perfect teamwork in scoring the first goal was proof enough.
While Yuan Yueze's hands were groping around, he was actually carefully observing the movements of the suspects mentioned earlier. Yin Zuwen, in a central position in the VIP section, was beaming; Pei Ji was excitedly cheering for Li Yuan; Liu Wenjing, dressed like a scholar, remained calm, showing no signs of amiss.
"Ah! What are you doing!"
A familiar scream snapped Yuan Yueze back to reality.
His strange hand was caressing the shapely, straight legs of Ji Qian, who was passing behind him, dressed stunningly beautifully. Ji Qian, startled,
quickly retreated, her face flushed, her expression one of horror, her rapid breathing highlighting her ample bosom; Xiao He'er stood beside her, a malicious smile on her face.
"Ouch!"
Yuan Yueze cried out, attracting disdainful, surprised, and envious glances from those around him. He slapped his right hand hard with his left, muttering dejectedly, "Oh no, this hand is going to rot!"
Ji Qian was so angry she almost cried. Her beautiful face contorted with rage, and she turned to leave.
Xiao He'er quickly grabbed her, pleading with Yuan Yueze, "Stop making a scene! There's no real grudge between you two. Why are you acting like you're at each other's throats?"
The other women in Yuan Yueze's household merely glanced at her indifferently before turning back to their own conversations, as if the matter had nothing to do with them.
Yuan Yueze grunted, glancing at Ji Qian's slightly trembling, beautiful back, and said stiffly, "Please forgive me, Miss Ji!"
Ji Qian didn't reply. She shook off Xiao He'er's arm and walked alone towards the side of the stage. Several fawning young noblemen immediately appeared around her. After she angrily shouted "Get out!"
, the crowd stared blankly as she left the stage.
The first round of the match had ended. Kou Zhong and Xu Ziling had performed poorly, and the Li family won two and lost one, taking the lead.
Yuan Yueze then 'lifted' the still-dazed Xiao He'er from behind her chair to the front and placed her on his lap before asking, "How did you two end up together?"
Xiao He'er buried her face in his chest, crying, "Brother Yuan, I beg you, please stop making a scene. Xiao Qian...she's in trouble."
Xiao He'er would be seventeen after the New Year. In this ancient society where everyone matured early, she was already a young woman old enough to marry. Moreover, she was indeed quite beautiful. It was currently a break in the match, and most people's attention was naturally focused on Yuan Yueze. He and his group of beautiful wives were the most beautiful sight on the field—a feast for the eyes! When people saw Yuan Yueze holding Xiao He'er like that, many began to discuss it, saying all sorts of things.
Ignoring the stares of others, Yuan Yueze wiped away Xiao He'er's tears and asked in astonishment, "She's the most popular courtesan in Chang'an, even the Emperor gives her face. What trouble could she possibly be in?"
The other girls around her also looked at Xiao He'er, whose face was flushed with shyness and who seemed hesitant to speak.
Xiao Bei, who was standing nearby, noticed something and raised her hand, saying, "If it's not urgent, little sister, we can talk about it when we get back." Xiao
He'er immediately nodded.
Shang Xiuxun and Song Yuzhi, who were greedy for food, stuffed some delicious dried fruit into her mouth, making her laugh through her tears before they turned their attention back to the court.
After a short break, the second set began with the Young Marshal's team pressing forward with an all-out attack. Kou Zhong and Xu Ziling were noticeably more skilled, scoring two goals in a row. It wasn't until the third goal that Li Shimin, with a bit of luck and clever technique, snatched the ball from the less skilled Kou Zhong and scored it into the net unexpectedly.
Yuan Yueze glanced at Consort Lian, who sat quietly on the west platform with a noticeably protruding belly, and said to Wei Zhenzhen, who sat gracefully to the side, "Zhenzhen, have you discovered anything from your interactions with Consort Lian these past few days?"
Wei Zhenzhen leaned closer and whispered, "She has been subtly asking me where to gather several herbs rarely used in medicine, saying she wants to prepare for the future imperial offspring. Last night, Sister Meixian and I studied them for a long time and discovered that those herbs are all highly nourishing, and mixing them together is harmless. They are suitable for people who have suffered from excessive energy depletion and rising internal heat."
Zhu Yuyan had been listening attentively. In the past, she wouldn't have doubted it, but the information she received from Bai Qing'er had made Consort Lian's identity increasingly clear. She was no ordinary woman and could very well be an accomplice of Yin Zuwen's group. Therefore, she had to be careful in everything she did, otherwise she would only regret it later.
Little Crane sat comfortably on Yuan Yueze's lap, curiously watching the solemn expressions of the two teams strategizing on the sidelines. She said, "It's just polo, why is everyone acting like it's a war?"
Yuan Yueze pinched her cute nose, then his gaze on the field suddenly deepened. He said, "Someone named Wu once said: 'A real match is a war!'" The women around him felt this deeply. Since arriving in Chang'an, they had been engaged in a battle of wits with both overt and covert forces, a struggle far more dangerous than physical combat. One wrong move could mean total defeat, but if they could truly emerge victorious, it would be like winning a battle—a truly exhilarating experience.
Zhu Yuyan suddenly whispered, "Shi Zhixuan is here."
Yuan Yueze looked up and saw Shi Zhixuan standing in mid-air like a demon god, his upright figure in the void giving off an even more mysterious and unpredictable aura. He was standing very far away; unless Yuan Yueze had focused his eyesight or possessed exceptionally keen senses, he would never have been able to spot him.
The instant Yuan Yueze looked over, Shi Zhixuan also looked at him.
In a flash, the two saw each other.
Their gazes met in the void, stirring up ripples of intangible spiritual energy. Those whose cultivation had not reached a certain level would not be able to feel the pressure generated by such a massive aura.
Yuan Yueze murmured, "I must say, Shi Zhixuan is indeed a genius that appears only once in a century."
Shan Meixian interjected, "What does he have to offer to fight us? Even if we lose in the end, he won't gain anything, will he? Yang Xuyan has already betrayed him."
Zhu Yuyan shook her head and said, "He has made up for his weaknesses and returned to the way he was before he met Bi Xiuxin. In this state, it doesn't matter whether someone helps him or not; he is more arrogant than anyone else."
Yuan Yueze smiled slightly, just about to say, "Unfortunately, he has met me."
At that moment, the drums sounded again, announcing the start of the final round of the first game.
In the third round, Li Tangfang changed their strategy, attacking against attack. Of the four, Li Yuanji was the best in terms of ball skills, while Li Shimin, a veteran of many battles, was the best in terms of horsemanship. Li Yuan could only be considered the third-ranked player in the team. Judging from the fact that he focused his attack on his two sons in this game, it can be seen that he chose face over bravado. The Li Tang dynasty could not afford to lose to the young coach's team.
Everything unfolded as Li Yuan had anticipated. Just as he and his two sons had executed a series of exquisite dribbling maneuvers and were rapidly chasing the ball less than thirty paces from the open goal, Kou Zhong, who had been behind him, suddenly roared, spurred his horse, and propelled it to its limit. The horse lifted off the ground, leaping across nearly two zhang (approximately 6.6 meters) like lightning, landing a step ahead of the ball on its right. Then, Kou Zhong leaned half his body to the left, extending his cane to catch the rolling ball. Li Yuan arrived just half a step too late; success seemed within reach, but it all fell short. Propelled
by inertia, Li Yuan charged straight to the west gate before he could rein in his horse and turn around, while Kou Zhong had already taken control of the ball and galloped towards the east gate.
The cheers of the entire stadium turned into sighs.
Dugu Feng said, "Li Tang's side definitely can't hold on to this point, their morale is also low, and the first game is over."
She was also a skilled player and could see Li Yuan's resounding momentum after regrouping. This heavy blow would surely cause them to crumble. In a four-on-three match, Li Yuan's side would definitely lose more than just one point. Because if Li Yuan's side lost three points in this round, they would undoubtedly lose the entire game, unless they could win one of the next three rounds and gain an advantage in the other two, but given the current strength of both sides, this was impossible.
After Xu Ziling also scored a goal, the drums and music began, and the first half ended. Both sides dismounted, bowed, and left the field.
Surprisingly, Li Yuan did not return to the group of concubines for comfort. Instead, he stood on the sidelines, talking with Li Jiancheng and Li Xiuning, who were already waiting there.
Li Yuanji said resentfully, "How did that Turkic man, Ba Feng Han, end up with Kou Zhong?"
Li Jiancheng said, "Ba Feng Han only arrived in Chang'an recently; they must have known each other before."
Li Shimin said, "In the second half, Dugu Feng and Fu Junzhuo should replace Ba Feng Han and Hou Xibai. Xiuning, have you seen how good their skills are these past few times?"
Li Xiuning was clearly distracted, and upon hearing this, she quickly replied, "Their skills are not bad, but they are definitely not at the level of Ba Feng Han and Hou Xibai."
Li Yuan shouted, "That's good! In the second half, Jiancheng and Xiuning will replace me and Nantian. Since the opponent may have figured out our playing style, at the beginning, Shimin and Yuanji will temporarily cooperate with Jiancheng and Xiuning. Shimin and Yuanji will be responsible for guarding the rear, intercepting the opponent's attacks, and providing the ball for Jiancheng and Xiuning to break through and win. We lost three points in the last game; after the change of ends in the second game, we must be four points ahead to have any hope of winning. Remember, we absolutely cannot lose."
The group agreed in unison.
Although Li Xiuning was a skilled player, her beautiful face still paled, for she was the 'best weapon' against Kou Zhong, which was not what she desired.
Shi Zhixuan disappeared after only a moment, apparently intrigued by Kou Zhong and his companion. Yuan Yueze watched his two wives, one tall and one short, discussing tactics with Kou Zhong and his companion below the stage, while telling Xiao He'er and Lian Rou some old, worn-out stories.
Li Yuan, back in the VIP section, stood up, raised his hand, and the drumbeats stopped instantly. The entire arena fell silent; the start of the next round depended entirely on Li Yuan's will.
Li Yuan gave the order, and the drumbeats for the restart of the match resounded across the square.
This round, the two sides switched sides; the Li clan guarded the west gate, and the young marshal's team guarded the
east gate. The polo ball was placed in a small circle in the center of the field, and both sides set up their formations on the east and west sides.
The drumbeats stopped abruptly.
The announcer read out the names of the new entrants from both sides. A roar of cheers erupted from the crowd. The three women—the spirited Dugu Feng, the aloof and peerless Fu Junzhuo, and the elegant and noble Li Xiuning—undoubtedly added real color to the competition. They were not mere ornaments, but true players. Just looking at their beautifully curvaceous figures, accentuated by their light, tight-fitting outfits, and their graceful, poised figures on horseback, was enough to fuel the anticipation for the second half of the match.
Li Xiuning glanced instinctively towards the east platform, just in time to see Yuan Yueze narrow one eye, smile, and give a thumbs-up. Then, he exaggeratedly shouted, "Go Xiuning!"
Amidst the bewildered gazes of those around him, the women beside him laughed uproariously.
Li Yuan and his son were furious. In their eyes, Yuan Yueze's simple four words had shattered Li Xiuning's fighting spirit.
The surrounding area buzzed with discussion.
"Princess Xiuning is so lucky! Young Master Yuan treats her like this!"
"Young Master Yuan is indeed extraordinary. With just one simple sentence, he shattered the morale of the Tang Dynasty team. This man's scheming is terrifying!"
"Hey! Brother, Young Master Yuan's move was brilliant. The princess must be deeply moved!"
"That's true, but it's too shameless. Even if I met a girl I liked, I wouldn't do something so ungentlemanly in broad daylight and in front of everyone!"
"You don't know anything! This is called daring to love and hate, being true to your feelings. You damned pedant, get out of my way!"
"Ouch! Brother, don't kick my face. I make a living with this face. Confucius said..."
"Go to hell!"
Li Xiuning's pretty face flushed slightly. She could feel Yuan Yueze's blessing, which was devoid of any ulterior motives, just a warm, slightly ambiguous smile. She believed she understood Yuan Yueze quite well. Although Yuan Yueze was ruthless, he only treated his enemies. Even though the Li clan and Yuan Yueze were already irreconcilable enemies, Yuan Yueze still didn't consider Li Xiuning an enemy. From their past interactions, Li Xiuning clearly sensed Yuan Yueze's affection for her, but because of her status, Yuan Yueze couldn't cross the line and marry her.
Then, she did something that surprised everyone: she smiled and gave Yuan Yueze a thumbs-up. Afterward, she calmly looked towards the Young Marshal's team to the side. Kou Zhong's
intuition told him: the Li Xiuning before him was both familiar and unfamiliar, but no longer the 'Princess Pingyang' he had known before.
Li Yuan and his sons showed joy.

Chapter 92 The Mystery of the Catalogue
Yuan Yueze wrapped his arm around Xiao He'er's slender waist and said, "This is the real Xiu Ning. Her status determines that she can't truly enjoy love."
Shang Xiuxun, who had been eating heartily beside him, mumbled, "Doesn't my husband want to marry her?"
Yuan Yueze chuckled, "It would be a lie to say I don't want to, but not now, and only if you don't object. So for now, it's best for Xiu Ning to be herself."
Wei Zhenzhen giggled, "It would be better if my husband married more women, so that the sisters could sleep peacefully every night. Otherwise, you'd torture us to death." The
bold Lian Rou, though still a virgin, looked eager to try, making the other women laugh.
At this moment, three drums sounded in the arena, and the polo ball was thrown into the air from the hands of the polo player. Li Jiancheng and Xu Ziling, who were waiting for the ball, rode forward from both sides to compete for it, while Dugu Feng and Fu Junzhuo, one galloping forward and the other retreating, took turns. Li Xiuning also charged forward, her horsemanship no less than Li Shimin's. Li Shimin and Li Yuanji moved in from the flanks to support Li Jiancheng.
The thunderous sound of hooves filled the air, everyone held their breath, watching the game intently.
Xu Ziling and Li Jiancheng simultaneously lunged forward, their spurs flicking at the ball. The two horses brushed past each other, and Li Jiancheng, as expected, seized the ball and charged forward on horseback.
Cheers erupted, drums thundered.
Although Xu Ziling learned quickly, Li Jiancheng recognized his habitual way of winning the ball, leading to this mishap.
Kou Zhong and the retreating Xu Ziling immediately moved in from the left and right, intercepting Li Jiancheng. Li Xiuning had already rushed to the sideline, waiting for a pass from her teammate. Fu Junzhuo had returned to the goal, galloping back and forth calmly.
Caught between two opponents and unable to advance further, Li Jiancheng reluctantly passed the ball to Li Yuanji, who was making a diagonal run from behind, to the left. Kou Zhong and his companion, who were channeling their inner energy into their horses' hooves, crossed over in front of Li Jiancheng's horse like a fancy equestrian act. Li Jiancheng's horse reared up in fright, and Kou Zhong was able to suddenly increase the speed of his horse to its limit, even exceeding the limit, which drew thunderous applause from the audience. Everyone present was amazed that he could intercept Li Yuanji's attack in time.
Startled, Li Yuanji deftly tapped the ball back to Li Jiancheng, who was still galloping forward and brushing past Xu Ziling. With
a "thud!"
, Dugu Feng, defending, swiftly struck the ball with her staff towards Kou Zhong, whose momentum was still undiminished.
Seeing the ball bounce to about a meter high, with Li Jiancheng and Li Yuanji closing in, and knowing without a doubt that the sound of horses' hooves behind him belonged to Li Xiuning, Kou Zhong immediately swung his arm and struck. The ball, accompanied by a whistling sound, shot like a hidden weapon towards Dugu Feng's back as she galloped forward.
Everyone in the east and west stands held their breath.
Just as the ball was about to pierce Dugu Feng's body, who was now within ten paces of the goal guarded by Li Shimin, she suddenly leaned forward, pressed herself against her horse's back, and without even looking, swung her staff backhand.
Everyone was dumbfounded.
Dugu Feng's strike sent the ball diagonally downwards, towards the onrushing Xu Ziling.
Because Li Shimin had abandoned his goal to intercept Dugu Feng, Xu Ziling easily scored with a single shot.
This was Li Tang's home ground, and apart from Yuan Yueze and his group, naturally no one dared to cheer loudly. They all admired Dugu Feng's ability to pinpoint the location of the ball even with its lightning speed. With
a lightning-fast goal at the start, the young coach's team took the lead, and the Li clan was already four points behind.
After a few cheers, the conservative Zhu Yuyan secretly cursed Wei Zhenzhen's audacity, then whispered to Yuan Yueze, "Do you think it's credible that both Buddhism and Taoism know about the removal of the relic?"
Yuan Yueze answered without hesitation, "That's hard to say. Logically, Shi Feixuan wouldn't lie. Besides our family, no one else knows the relic's location. Oh! Wait!"
A clue suddenly occurred to him, and he whispered, "Perhaps Xi Feng told the White Sect this news. Because he obtained a secret method from Xiang Lao's disciples that allows him to sense the relic from a distance, and I have indeed taken out the relic several times in the past few months. If he sensed the relic by chance..." "Given the general direction and our family's knowledge of the treasure vault, we should be able to guess the true location of the relic."
Shan Meixian nodded and said, "My husband is right. He secretly told Bai Dao, but that was just a ploy to kill someone else, and he wanted to sit back and watch the tigers fight."
Yuan Yueze curled his lip and said, "The Wu brothers have already said that there are spies in Cihang Jingzhai of the Great Ming Zunjiao. What Xuanmen chief is being played around without even knowing it!"
Xiao He'er grabbed Yuan Yueze's chest with her jade hand and shouted, "Start the game!"
Zhu Yuyan closed her eyes and entered a state of no thought. The others hurriedly looked over and saw Li Jiancheng kick off the game in the center of the field, passing to Li Xiuning on the left. The latter bent half of her body on her horse and used her cane to control the ball to roll along the ground.
Kou Zhong forcibly entered the Well in the Moon Mind State and rushed forward to intercept Li Xiuning.
Just when the two were about eight steps apart, Xu Ziling and Dugu Feng had already attacked from a distance, each protecting a certain area.
Just before Kou Zhong's stern-faced cue touched the ball, to everyone's surprise, Li Xiuning didn't pass the ball. Instead, using her left-handedness, she passed the ball between her horse's hooves, aiming it diagonally behind Kou Zhong. She then spurred her horse from one side to the other, tiring Kou Zhong so much that he not only missed his target but also couldn't stop due to inertia.
In the instant Xu Ziling and the other realized something was wrong, Li Xiuning, with her superb horsemanship, swerved to the left, sharply reined in her horse, and then hooked the ball forward.
Shouts rose, drums beat louder, and everyone knew Li Xiuning had seized a golden opportunity to attack.
Fu Junzhuo remained motionless, like a beautiful jade sculpture.
When Li Xiuning was about fifteen paces from the hole, she suddenly flicked the ball to the right front, passing it to the rapidly advancing Li Yuanji.
Fu Junzhuo spurred her horse forward, her cue stick moving with unpredictable yet masterful precision, striking the ball with incredible skill.
Li Yuanji's backhand sidehand strike hit the ball just before Fu Junzhuo's polo mallet could reach it, sending the ball spinning low to the left.
With a single tap, the ball returned to Li Xiuning's charging mallet, who pushed it forward, sending it nestling obediently into the unguarded east gate net less than ten feet away. The drums thundered, and cheers erupted. The three Li brothers rode over to greet their skillful polo sister's triumphant return. Fu Junzhuo pouted,
remaining silent. Xu Ziling quickly comforted her, "Mother, it's your first time playing polo, mistakes are inevitable. There will be many more opportunities." This was true; Fu Junzhuo was only skilled at riding, but polo clearly required more than just riding ability and a calm mindset. Yuan Yueze smiled at Li Xiuning and Fu Junzhuo, who were looking at him, then turned and asked, "Hey! Where's Yuyan?" The girls then noticed that Zhu Yuyan had disappeared sometime earlier. Having eaten her fill, Song Yuzhi leaned lazily against Wei Zhenzhen, patting her belly, and said, "Sister Yuyan didn't also vanish into thin air, did she?" The others burst into laughter at her comment. The game resumed, this time with the Young Marshal's team employing an all-out attack. Kou Zhong single-handedly dribbled the ball across midfield, passing it to Xu Ziling before Li Jiancheng and Li Shimin could intercept. The three of them coordinated their attacks, weaving and passing the ball elusively, sometimes left, sometimes right, sometimes forward, sometimes backward. Before Li Jiancheng and his two companions could react, and with Li Yuanji alone in goal, the ball found its way into the net, securing a comfortable and effortless victory. The first game of the next round ended with a fifteen-minute break. ※※※※※ Zhu Yuyan drifted out of the palace like a ghost, galloping south of the city. She loved quiet, and with her current cultivation level, her location didn't matter. For example, the high-decibel cheers from the girls around her, completely absorbed in the game, and the nearby spectators, were like a dream she would never wake from for Zhu Yuyan, who was in a meditative state. Though she sat there, she became an existence independent of the entire stadium. Just as she subconsciously entered a state of no-thought, activating the 'Searching Heaven and Earth Technique', a surge of joy filled her heart. The aura she had detected in the west of the city had reappeared in the south. So, without disturbing Yuan Yueze and the others who were completely absorbed in the game, she chased after it alone. With her current extraordinary cultivation level, she quickly reached the outskirts of the city along the 'Yong'an Canal' west of Guangde. Although the aura was well concealed, Zhu Yuyan, deliberately pursuing it, had grasped every trace of its scent, even its mental imprint, along the way. Zhu Yuyan suddenly stopped. On the desolate, snow-covered ground, where few people roamed, a tall man stood with his hands behind his back. He wore a strange mask, revealing only his deep eyes fixed intently on Zhu Yuyan. His tight-fitting black clothes accentuated his handsome, albeit not particularly muscular, physique. What drew Zhu Yuyan's attention was a bizarre design embroidered on the mask, predominantly red and yellow. At first glance, it resembled the head of a strange beast, or perhaps a blue-faced, fanged human, exuding an inexplicable air of mystery. "You've finally arrived," the man spoke after a long silence between them. His voice was deep yet subtly resonant, clear yet melodious, a perfectly blended combination of contrasting qualities that created a truly eerie effect. Zhu Yuyan smiled faintly and said, "If I'm not mistaken, you should know that I've been 'watching' you all along." The man nodded and said, "The Demon Seed Technique is indeed extraordinary, and the method of using spirit to overcome matter is even more astonishing." Having spent a long time with Yuan Yueze, Zhu Yuyan had also picked up the habit of being direct. She smiled slightly and said, "Enough with the nonsense. Only one of us can leave alive today." The man shook his head and chuckled.

The two began as if chatting casually, exuding no power whatsoever, yet the intense mental battle between experts steadily escalated.
When their mental clash reached a point where sparks flew, the man uttered a soft shout: "Let me see if you have a heart as hard as iron as your master's!"
Before the words were even finished, he leaped up, swooping down from a height of two zhang (approximately 6.6 meters). The surrounding air seemed to solidify instantly. His palms, imbued with a tangible, mountain-like force, shot towards Zhu Yuyan like lightning.
Facing the overwhelming shadow cast by his palms, Zhu Yuyan nodded slightly, remaining motionless, and said, word by word: "Your right side is weak, your left side strong, a 40/60 split. I can fight you head-on, or I can employ a strategy of using strength against weakness, and weakness against strength. As long as I take the first step to use strength against weakness, your strength will also weaken."
Just as he was about to kill Zhu Yuyan, the man abruptly withdrew his palms and retreated, his momentum vanishing.
The two returned to a stalemate.
Zhu Yuyan said, "Since you mentioned my master, why don't you reveal your true form and name?"
The man laughed loudly and ripped off his turban. He said, "You've probably guessed it; I am the Holy Venerable of the Great Ming Venerable Sect. I've come today to test the Venerable's Demon Seed Technique."
Zhu Yuyan's expression remained unchanged, still calmly gazing at him.
In fact, the middle-aged man who had revealed his true form was not unfamiliar; he was the person Hou Xibai had described to Yuan Yueze as having 'cultivation no less than Shi Zhixuan'. Zhu Yuyan was stunned. She clearly sensed the well-hidden aura within him, identical to that of the 'Demon Seed'. Without much thought, she knew this man had a close relationship with the Great Ming Venerable Sect. That probing move just now probably didn't even use thirty percent of his power. Considering his cunning these past few days, Zhu Yuyan suspected that this man was Liu Yu, who had used the Soul Transfer Technique.
He had just mentioned Zhu Yuyan's master, stirring up memories from decades ago. She recalled hearing her master speak of a man who had fervently pursued her as a child, likely Liu Yu. However, due to her position as the leader of a sect, she had been forced to suppress her personal feelings. Recalling her master's indifferent expression at that time, the weathered Zhu Yuyan understood: her master might have had some feelings for him, but certainly not to the point of life-or-death love. Liu Yu's attempt to disrupt Zhu Yuyan's peace of mind failed.
Seeing Liu Yu's completely unpretentious expression, Zhu Yuyan chuckled inwardly: he was unaware that the Wu brothers had leaked his secret to Yuan Yueze, and the sudden disappearance of Wu Shouyi, whom he had groomed as a 'reserve,' had clearly thrown his plans into disarray. Judging from the situation, he had resorted to a less desirable method in an emergency, finding someone with decent physical strength to perform a soul-transfer technique.
This evil method was indeed insidious, capable of completely banishing a person's sanity and usurping their power.
It seemed Hou Xibai's claim that this person had left Chang'an was inaccurate.
In a flash, Zhu Yuyan understood everything.
Suddenly, Liu Yu's ordinary eyes flashed with a sharp light, brighter than starlight and lightning.
Zhu Yuyan was shocked. Logically, Liu Yu should have had some of his power absorbed by Shi Zhixuan. Even if his soul transfer technique was perfectly executed, he couldn't possibly be this strong. Zhu Yuyan instantly deduced that the Liu Yu before her was definitely capable of forcing her to use her full strength.
Even more surprising was that at the moment Liu Yu's chilling demonic energy erupted, Zhu Yuyan had a very strange feeling. Although her opponent was standing more than ten feet away, she could barely sense his presence. This meant that if she closed her eyes, Zhu Yuyan would have absolutely no way to pinpoint Liu Yu's location. Generally, experts who have reached the Subtle Realm can cultivate a sense of touch close to a sixth sense. Although there are no traces, their minds immediately sense danger as soon as someone approaches. Zhu Yuyan, a master of mental cultivation, was stunned by Liu Yu's simple move.
Even unwillingly, she had to admit his martial arts were truly bizarre.
Liu Yu clearly wanted to continue applying pressure. His gaze became tangible, the mysterious light reflected in his dark pupils like countless heavy hammers striking the depths of Zhu Yuyan's soul.
Not yet fully prepared, Zhu Yuyan began to feel short of breath, her heart pounding with fear. A feeling of weakness and despair spread through her body, and then she gradually softened.
"Hmph!"
With a delicate snort, Zhu Yuyan's beautiful eyes also brightened, a demonic aura, both feminine and masculine, swirling within her, forcing back Liu Yu's ever-increasing, almost pulverizing aura.
"Pfft!"
The energy emanating from the two produced a muffled, loud sound.
At the same time, they withdrew their energy and mental power.
After the standoff resumed, Zhu Yuyan spoke first, saying, "Your cultivation is indeed remarkable, but if you were to fight me with that move you just used, you would surely die within ten moves."
Liu Yu chuckled, "I congratulate you on finding someone to entrust your life to after your rebirth, Venerable One. But think back in the quiet of the night, is this the life you truly want? I know you still harbor resentment towards Yuan Yueze and me. It's been so many years, why is he still holding onto it? Didn't I give him two fingers back?"
He then raised his gloved right hand, revealing a bitter smile, and said, "Venerable One must still have questions..." "My Great Ming Venerable Sect aims to spread its teachings, and in the Central Plains, we have an irreconcilable conflict with your Holy Sect. However, the reality is different. My Great Ming Venerable Sect has already abandoned the Central Plains and is preparing to spread its doctrines in the Eastern and Western Turkic Khaganates and even further west. One of my subordinates, by chance, learned our sect's martial arts and attempted to assassinate you, Venerable One. I imagine you are not pleased. Think about it, at that time, you truly lacked the heart and methods of a member of the Holy Sect. If you still hold a grudge over such a matter, it will only make me despise you."
He was naturally referring to Xi Feng. Hearing his gentle and reasonable voice, Zhu Yuyan was momentarily at a loss for words.
Liu Yu continued softly, "Venerable One is destined for great things. You should know that while the love between men and women can be intoxicating, it is also the most painful. Only by wielding the power of life and death can one find the greatest pleasure."
Zhu Yuyan had already grasped the purpose of his earnest advice: he simply wanted to awaken her from love and eliminate Yuan Yueze. Liu Yu did indeed seem like the man described by Yuan Yueze—not so much a martial artist, but more like a persuader.
Based on his deep understanding of Liu Yu's cunning and his recent infiltration of Chang'an, it was clear he was lying.
Overly selfish, arrogant, and prone to projecting his own self-interest onto others, Liu Yu had clearly miscalculated. He hadn't yet experienced the magic of love; his 150-plus years of life had been wasted.
Zhu Yuyan chuckled lightly, saying without revealing her true feelings, "Your words, though simple, contain profound meaning. I will consider them carefully, provided you can leave alive!"
Before she finished speaking, her lotus foot took a small step forward, covering two zhang (approximately 6.6 meters), then abruptly stopped in mid-air, drawing her left hand from behind her back and slowly pointing a finger. Her movements were incredibly slow, yet Liu Yu knew that the speed of her constantly shifting finger over such a short distance was even faster than lightning.
The contradiction in time was both real and illusory.
Liu Yu's aura shifted abruptly. His right leg unleashed a powerful, swirling gust of wind, delivering a devastating kick.
"Bang!"
The impact of finger and foot collided, the force surging outwards like a tidal wave, shattering the thick snow into chunks of varying sizes, sending mud and debris swirling into the air.
A blush flashed across both their faces as they each took a half-step back.
Zhu Yuyan exclaimed in astonishment, "Shi Zhixuan told me that he absorbed some of your power several months ago. Just now, I used all my strength in one finger strike, and you were able to fight me to a standstill? How is that possible?"
Upon hearing Shi Zhixuan's name, Liu Yu's eyes flashed with intense killing intent. He then replied, "It's true that I had some of my power drained by that opportunistic Shi Zhixuan, but I practice the 'War God's Record,' which is even more advanced than the Venerable One's Demon Seed Technique. The recovery speed is beyond my comprehension, Venerable One."
Zhu Yuyan was astonished. How could Liu Yu possibly have learned the most ethereal of the Four Great Classical Novels, the 'War God's Record'? It was unbelievable.
It should be known that the 'Jingyan Palace,' where the 'War God's Record' is located, is a vast and mysterious complex, seemingly existing since time immemorial. Beneath it lies a massive underground labyrinth built by the Golden Essence Crow Mother, whose strength surpasses even steel, and the 'War God's Record' resides within it. This supreme treasure, the foremost of the 'Four Great Mysterious Books,' is said to connect with the Heavenly Dao and transcend life and death, coveted by countless martial arts practitioners. However, the vast 'Jingyan Palace' seems to possess a life of its own; no one knows where it will appear next, and it only opens once every thirty years, for a mere two hours each time. These strange phenomena have made the 'War God's Record' a true legend.
Having sparred with him personally, Zhu Yuyan was convinced he had no reason to lie. He had been lying low for so long, deliberately luring her out today, even potentially alerting Yuan Yueze, yet he showed no fear, demonstrating his confidence in his current strength.
His revelation of the 'War God's Record' likely had a deeper meaning: to put sufficient pressure on Yuan Yueze and his group.
But how did he obtain the 'War God's Record'?
Although Zhu Yuyan still had questions, she knew that even if she asked, he wouldn't answer truthfully. She had obtained a valuable clue; her current task was to kill him with all her might to eliminate any future trouble.
Sensing the intense killing intent emanating from Zhu Yuyan, Liu Yu glanced behind her and chuckled, "The Venerable One cannot stop me. Farewell!"
The moment he uttered the first word, he shot backward like a feather, his entire body clearly infused with powerful true energy. His control over the interplay of hardness and softness, positive and negative forces, was truly masterful.
He vanished in an instant, demonstrating the extraordinary skill of his movement technique, likely comparable to Shi Zhixuan and Yun Shuai.
Zhu Yuyan did not pursue him, for she sensed someone approaching from behind.
Judging from the aura, it was Wanwan, who had only been cultivating her demonic seed for a little over half a month and had reached a minor level of mastery.
Wanwan landed beside Zhu Yuyan like a little fairy, looking in surprise at the two-zhang space that had been ravaged. She asked in confusion, "Wan'er just entered meditation, and through the spiritual techniques taught by Master, I faintly sensed Master and another killing intent, so I rushed over. Who could possibly escape Master's clutches?"
Zhu Yuyan smiled slightly, took Wanwan's fair hand, and said, "I heard there are hot springs in the east of the city. We'll talk about it when we get there." Wanwan nodded
happily.
In front of Zhu Yuyan, she was a little girl who would never grow up.
Before coming to find Yuan Yueze, she had entrusted the sect's affairs to several elders. For the past half month, due to the depletion of her internal energy, she couldn't show herself and had been practicing every day, which had been quite dull. Zhu Yuyan's thoughtfulness was a rare treat, and she was naturally overjoyed.
After running east for nearly half an hour, the master and disciple finally stopped in front of a large group of buildings.
This was the imperial palace and villa of successive dynasties. Passing the sparse guards, she entered the deserted Feishuang Palace and arrived at a luxurious pool shaped like a stone lotus, steaming with hot water. She removed her robes, revealing two perfect bodies that could make even the gods swoon, and like a mermaid from the celestial realm, she leaped into the pool.
Comfortably soaking in the hot spring, Wanwan hummed a little tune with contentment.
Then Zhu Yuyan recounted the details of what had happened. Wanwan frowned slightly as she listened, splashing water to wash Zhu Yuyan's smooth, silky back. She asked, "If Master and Husband had attacked together, could Liu Yu have escaped?"
Zhu Yuyan closed her eyes slightly and shook her head, saying, "It's hard to say, but today I've confirmed that Shi Zhixuan absorbed his power from him, and he has indeed completed the soul transfer technique. As for how he obtained the War God's Manual, we probably can't even guess."
The clear spring water, flowing with the sun and moon, neither overflowing nor scalding, moistened the two women's already delicate skin, turning it a rosy white. Their wet, jet-black hair clung to their bodies, further highlighting their healthy and alluring pink hue.
Wanwan leaned against the edge of the pool, a little dejected, and said, "If only Wan'er's Demon Seed Technique could be perfected by tomorrow."
Thinking of her own bizarre experience practicing the Demon Seed Technique, Zhu Yuyan's pretty face, already slightly flushed from the steam of the hot spring, turned even redder. She turned around, stroked Wanwan's long hair, and said, "If you wanted Wan'er to master it sooner, I wouldn't mind practicing later. Who knew you two would be fighting all the time back then, and he..."
Wanwan quickly hugged Zhu Yuyan, saying urgently, "Wan'er didn't mean to blame Master."
Then she lowered her head and said, "Originally, I was happy for Master that you had such a good match. I originally planned to never let him touch Wan'er again, but I couldn't resist his provocations. If it weren't for Master's constant encouragement, Wan'er would never have been able to open her arms."
Suddenly, the two women's bodies trembled simultaneously. They looked at each other and both saw a hint of shyness in each other's eyes.
Each of them had a snow rabbit on their chest, covered by a pair of familiar large hands.

Chapter 093 A flurry of arrivals .
Zhu Yuyan blushed and leaned weakly against Yuan Yueze's left shoulder.
Wanwan was also a little shy. She pinched Yuan Yueze's waist with her jade hands in the spring water and pouted, saying, "You scared me to death! You didn't even say you were coming! Huh, when did you take off your clothes, husband?"
Yuan Yueze, who was already naked, let out a strange laugh and kissed Zhu Yuyan's slender pink neck, who dared not raise her head. Then he forcefully kissed Wanwan, who was trying to push him away, and said, "I just arrived and couldn't take in the full view of this beautiful woman bathing. What a pity."
As he spoke, he began to knead the two 'treasures' in his hands with his strange hands, sometimes heavily and sometimes lightly.
Hot springs can stimulate the deepest desires of the human body. With Yuan Yueze's sudden and strange touch, both women felt their mouths dry, their bodies burning hot, and their bodies empty. In addition, the fact that the master and apprentice were facing Yuan Yueze at the same time made them feel shy but also a little excited. As a result, the two women couldn't help but let out soft moans and pressed themselves tightly against Yuan Yueze.
Clearly sensing Wanwan's rapid breathing and furtive glances, Zhu Yuyan knew she couldn't overcome Yuan Yueze's brute strength and was trapped. She forcefully suppressed the tingling sensation from Yuan Yueze's large hand on her buttocks and softly said, "I...I saw Liu Yu." Sure enough
, Yuan Yueze's hand stopped. Just as Zhu Yuyan was about to break free, she found Yuan Yueze's hand firmly around her waist. He asked, "Didn't you take him down?"
Over the past half-month, Yuan Yueze's wives had split into two groups. One was naturally Zhu Yuyan. Although her conservative nature had improved considerably, she wasn't yet open enough to revel with other women. Wanwan, on the other hand, was much more open. The first time Yuan Yueze pulled her among the women, she was shy, but after a few days, she completely enjoyed it. With her beautiful eyes dreamy, she saw her usually aloof and imposing master so weak and shy today. While her curiosity was piqued, the thrill was also greatly amplified. Hearing Yuan Yueze's question, Wanwan quickly explained for Zhu Yuyan.
Yuan Yueze said in a deep voice, "I clearly remember that he used to learn the 'Five Extremes Annihilation Hand,' which integrated the classics of Persian Manichaeism. If he really learned the most mysterious of the 'Four Great Books,' the 'War God's Manual,' how terrifying would that be!"
Zhu Yuyan sensed Yuan Yueze's worry and took the initiative to hug his waist with her snow-white arms, comforting him, "Don't worry, his qi cultivation was broken by you, and his true qi was absorbed by Shi Zhixuan. Even if he really learned the 'War God's Manual,' his strength will definitely not be as formidable as you think."
Wanwan nodded and said, "Besides, we have this extraordinary body and the mental cultivation method that my husband has comprehended on his own, which is completely comparable to the 'Four Great Books.' There is indeed no need to worry."
Yuan Yueze nodded, "His cultivation level is secondary; what I'm mainly wary of is that guy's cunning and scheming. Even someone as skilled as Yu Yan could escape his search, which shows that if he doesn't come out, we're helpless. However, we can lure out his underlings first, then get rid of him."
"Ah!"
The two women beside her nodded in agreement. Unexpectedly, Yuan Yueze suddenly lifted Zhu Yu Yan up, connecting the two of them tightly in a way they knew all too well. A sudden,
throbbing fullness came from her already moist emptiness, and Zhu Yu Yan's delicate brows furrowed. Then, she involuntarily let out a captivating moan.
Realizing that Wan Wan was staring at her in surprise, Zhu Yu Yan's pretty face turned even redder. She bit her lower lip tightly with her pearly teeth, silently resting her head on Yuan Yueze's shoulder, not daring to lift it up again. "Stop! Someone's going to see us..." she stammered.
After a violent thrust, Yuan Yueze laughed, "This place is only for the emperor. Besides the guards outside, there's no one else here."
Zhu Yuyan had no choice but to nod.
After a few thrusts, the pleasure surged, and Zhu Yuyan's mind began to blur. She vaguely heard Yuan Yueze and Wanwan kissing nearby. Peeking over, she saw Yuan Yueze groping Wanwan, using his mouth and tongue. The breathless little devil was already overflowing with lust, trembling and moaning softly. She didn't care about anything else, continuously emitting sweet cries, further stimulating Zhu Yuyan, who was intimately connected with Yuan Yueze in the hot spring.
The initiative was in her hands. She wrapped her slender arms around Yuan Yueze's back, secretly watching the passionate scene that thrilled her, while tightening her rounded legs that were already wrapped around Yuan Yueze's waist, swaying her slender waist and moving at her preferred rhythm.
After a short while, Zhu Yuyan was only instinctively responding to Yuan Yueze, who was in control. Although she had escaped the torment of Yuan Yueze's large mouth, Wanwan, whose chest was still rapidly radiating electricity, stared intently at Zhu Yuyan, whose beautiful eyes were slightly closed, who was moaning softly and panting incessantly, looking wanton.
In coordination with the beauty in front of him, Yuan Yueze's hands did not stop, and he put his ear to Wanwan's ear, whose mouth was trembling and panting, and whose body was twisting and turning, and said, "Isn't it exciting?"
Wanwan nodded, then closed her big, watery eyes that were burning with desire, and leaned weakly against Yuan Yueze's right shoulder.
With Yuan Yueze's gentle yet powerful movements, the bewildered Zhu Yuyan once again felt that familiar, intoxicating pleasure. No longer caring for Wanwan, she completely opened her arms, her alluring voice rising louder from her red lips. In moments, she felt her soul soar to the heavens. Then, her body jerked, trembling as she pressed herself against Yuan Yueze, once more savoring that blissful, pleasurable sensation.
Placing her limp body on the specially designed resting spot on the pool wall, Yuan Yueze withdrew his left hand. Wanwan, who had been waiting impatiently, turned around, her jade hand grasping that thing she both loved and feared, guiding it into the already muddy path, and began moving swiftly.
Watching this pair of master and disciple, one conservative and shy, the other passionate and generous, Yuan Yueze felt an extreme sense of pleasure. He caressed her here and there with irresistible affection, while simultaneously launching a frenzied assault on Wanwan, who moaned softly, swaying her hips and twisting her slender waist.
When that blissful, ethereal feeling, like ascending to the clouds, filled her entire body, Wanwan, with her head thrown back, let out a scream, finally reaching the peak of her spiritual and sexual ecstasy. (Is this a bit too much? Haha!
After several more rounds, exhausting the master and apprentice to the point of exhaustion, Yuan Yueze finally snapped.
He wiped them down, dressed them, and then carried one on his back and the other in his arms back to the palace. A
cold wind blew, and Zhu Yuyan, who was being carried in Yuan Yueze's arms, became a little more awake. She looked up and saw Wanwan, who looked tired and was sleeping on Yuan Yueze's back. Her pretty face flushed slightly as she scolded, "You've ruined my reputation."
Yuan Yueze carried the two women and laughed as he ran, "If people always live for their reputation, what joy is there in life!"
Zhu Yuyan pouted and said helplessly, "Aren't you going to see Qing'er? How did the polo match go?"
Yuan Yueze replied, "I'm going to visit Qing'er tonight. I came out to chase after you before the match was over, so I definitely don't know the result." Zhu Yuyan nodded
, didn't say anything more, and closed her beautiful eyes to rest.)
※※※※※ A main hall of the Xiyuan Noble Hotel.
Shan Meixian and several women, along with Kou Zhong and the four polo players, sat around a table.
After taking a bite of vegetables, Xu Ziling praised, "When it comes to cooking, you have to look to Sister Zhen and Brother Yuan. The food prepared by the imperial chefs these past few days has been simply inedible."
Ba Feng Han nodded in agreement, "The young marshal said the same thing yesterday. I thought he was just boasting, but after tasting it myself today, I know he wasn't exaggerating. Madam, your cooking is truly superb."
Wei Zhenzhen smiled generously and raised her glass to toast Ba Feng Han.
Hou Xibai interjected, "Not only are the ladies perfectly beautiful, but they also give off an indescribable feeling, a feeling that's hard to describe. It's like the way I can chat with the young marshal without any reservations. I've never experienced this feeling with any other woman."
Shan Meixian thought to herself that this was the fundamental difference between being open and reserved. Lian Rou looked at Kou Zhong and interjected, "Why did you lose the last game?" " It's obvious to everyone that Li Tang is no match for you. The match shouldn't have ended in a draw. Could it be influenced by Li Yuan's announcement during the break that Bashu has decided to support Li Tang?"
Kou Zhong nodded and smiled wryly, "Sister-in-law, please forgive me. Explaining this kind of thing clearly would probably take some time."
The match ended perfectly, at least for both sides. The Young Marshal's team was stronger than Li Tang's, which was obvious to everyone, yet they gave Li Tang face in the end. The Young Marshal's strength and Li Tang's momentum left a deep impression. In the end, Kou Zhong was still a little soft-hearted. Li Tang's gains in the match were clearly greater than the Young Marshal's team's. It's because momentum is a strange thing; it can't accumulate like strength in a predictable way. So if Yuan Yueze had been there, he would never have allowed this to happen.
With the situation in the Central Plains becoming increasingly clear, the only ones in the world with enough strength to be Li Tang's opponent are... The two major military groups were led by Yuan Yueze and Dou Jiande. Xiao Xian, who held considerable military power, was originally a formidable force vying for supremacy, but his situation was the most unfavorable. Restrained by Du Fuwei, Xiao Xian was unable to act. He could only make a move before Luoyang was stabilized, because after that, Du Fuwei would surrender to the ruler of Luoyang. However, this was clearly unrealistic. Shen Luoyan had already captured the strategically important city of Xiangyang three days prior, and the Li Tang's expedition beyond the Great Wall was only a matter of time. Even if Xiao Xian possessed extraordinary abilities, he couldn't achieve much under the watchful eyes of Zhu Can, Lin Shihong, and others. As for Kou Zhong, since his power was still developing and outsiders considered him a puppet of Yuan Yueze, he was not discussed further. The Song clan, located in the remote Lingnan region, had maintained a low profile in recent years after losing its key figure, Song Que, and the promising successor, Song Shidao. They were more than capable of carving out their own territory and establishing their own power. However, relying solely on their own strength, and given that southerners were not accustomed to the harsh northern climate, they were powerless to effectively control the situation.
Liu Wuzhou and Liang Shidu, who were allied with the Turks in the north, dared not make any rash moves before the Turks formed an alliance with the various tribes beyond the Great Wall. They could only watch from the sidelines as the decisive battle for supremacy centered on Luoyang
unfolded. Therefore, in this delicate situation, the choice made by Bashu became the most crucial factor in turning the tide. Li Yuan received the envoy sent by Chengdu. This decision immediately drew cheers from the Li Tang faction. Everyone knew that Yuan Yueze was not someone to be trifled with, and if Guanzhong did not have the natural barrier of Hangu Pass, it would probably have been annexed long ago. Now, with the support of Bashu, a treasure trove that could be attacked or defended, Li Tang was even confident of not being defeated by the allied forces of Yuan Yueze and Dou Jiande.
Shan Meixian and the other women clearly remembered their shocked expressions at the time. However, the matter must have been complicated, so although the women had questions, they did not show any surprise. It would be better to discuss it after everyone had left.
Lian Rou addressed Kou Zhong without any formality, but instead gave him a charmingly disdainful look.
After the meal, Ba Feng Han and Hou Xi Bai took their leave one after the other. One was preparing to continue his martial arts training, while the other had accepted Li Yuan's invitation to paint for the court. Kou Zhong and his companion, who were leaving the next day, also went back to sleep.
When only Shan Mei Xian, Xiao Bei, Song Yu Zhi, and Xiao He'er remained sitting in the living room, Xiao Bei spoke up: "Something big must have happened in Chengdu, otherwise why would Jie Hui choose to support Li Tang? You know, the pressure my husband puts on him is no less than that on Li Tang."
Shan Mei Xian frowned and said, "Let's not worry about this for now. Since it has already happened, let's send someone to investigate."
Xiao Bei nodded silently.
Song Yuzhi suddenly asked Xiao He'er, "What did you say about your friend Ji Meizi being in trouble when we were at the basketball court?"
Xiao He'er, who had been radiant after enjoying the delicious food, suddenly paled upon hearing this and said, "Li Yuanji has always harbored ill intentions towards Xiaoqian. A few days ago, he even went to Shanglin Garden to force her to make a decision before the Spring Festival: either become the Princess of Qi or leave Chang'an."
Song Yuzhi exclaimed in surprise, "How could this be? Ji Meizi's situation should be similar to Xiufang's, right? She's a well-known figure in Chang'an. I don't think Li Yuan would allow Li Yuanji to force himself on Ji Meizi, lest it bring trouble to the Li family. Besides, Li Yuanji also needs to consider his own image and..." "Reputation, plus I know that most of Li Yuan's close ministers have good relationships with Ji Meizi, so Li Yuanji can only compete for Ji Meizi's heart like other courtiers. How could he use power and influence to force her?"
Xiao He'er exclaimed in surprise, "I always thought Sister Yuzhi didn't like to get involved in these kinds of things, but I didn't expect you to know so much."
Song Yuzhi smiled and said, "You don't know, among Li Yuan's trusted ministers, there is an inside agent that my father has been planting for many years."
Xiao Bei continued, "Li Yuanji's behavior is indeed a bit abnormal. He should have been secretly communicating with Li Yuan. There are two people in Chang'an that Li Yuan most wants to bring into the palace: one is Ji Meizi, and the other is Hu Xiaoxian. With his..." "How could someone with such a lecherous nature remain indifferent to their son's blatant 'stealing of beauties'?"
Little Crane pouted. "I persuaded Xiaoqian for a long time today, asking her to come and see Brother Yuan calmly so we could talk things out. Only Brother Yuan dares to oppose Li Yuanji. Who knew the outcome would be like this..."
After a pause, she continued, "Xiaoqian has been in a chaotic place for a long time, and being the most popular courtesan in Chang'an, she has gradually developed a temperamental and short-tempered personality. When she's in a good mood, she can be very obedient, but when she's in a bad mood, she throws tantrums at any time and place, even kicking people out of casinos. I heard that now all the men in Chang'an are proud to have been kicked out by her, which at least means they can..." She got angry. Actually, don't let her appearance fool you; she's actually very kind, but she keeps her heart tightly sealed, not letting outsiders get close.
Shan Meixian sighed and said, "I'm afraid only a very few people, like my husband, would be ashamed to have been kicked out by her."
Xiao He'er said seriously, "Sisters, please think of an idea for me. Xiaoqian has been through thick and thin with me; it's not a
good idea for her to stay in the brothel forever." Song Yuzhi said, "Then let's forcibly take her to Luoyang and give her her freedom."
Xiao He'er shook her head and said, "No, she's so stubborn; she'll probably rebel against us without considering the consequences."
The women almost simultaneously sighed helplessly; the messy situation was tormenting them.
"Leave it to me. Marrying me is a little better than marrying Li Yuanji!"
Yuan Yueze's voice rang out from outside the door.
The women's faces lit up with joy, but when they looked towards the door, they couldn't help but secretly curse.
Wherever Yuan Yueze, this energetic and fearless person, appeared, he brought boundless vitality and hope.
Yuan Yueze carried Wanwan, who was fast asleep, and Zhu Yuyan, who was pretending to be asleep out of shyness, to the bedroom. He then sat down in the hall and exchanged information with the women.
After listening to Xiao Bei's detailed account of the events, Yuan Yueze pondered for a moment and smiled, "Whether Bashu supports Li Tang or not, they are no match for us. You don't need to worry about this. Fortunately, before I left last time, I spoke with Fan Zhuo, telling him to prioritize the gang. He should be on our side; he's just pretending to support Li Tang because of the situation."
He then took Xiao He'er's hand and asked, "Little sister, do you think the method I just mentioned is feasible?"
Xiao He'er naturally understood his meaning and hesitated, "But that wouldn't be good for Brother Yuan and Xiaoqian, would it? You don't have the same deep relationship with her as you do with the other sisters."
Yuan Yueze nodded, "Letting someone with her personality into my house would be like letting a rotten apple fall into my pocket ." "You've ruined the whole pot of soup. Sorry, I was being careless with my words, but don't you think it's quite apt?"
The women simultaneously showed expressions of disgust, with Xiao He'er particularly displeased, saying, "Brother Yuan, you're being too harsh! Xiaoqian isn't as willful and capricious as you think."
Yuan Yueze awkwardly said, "Ji Qian's problem is far more troublesome than Liu Yu's, and Li Yuanji's abnormal behavior is also very problematic."
Shan Meixian agreed, "Husband, you can go and investigate Li Yuanji's residence, Wude Hall, tonight. It's located in the West Inner Garden, so it's convenient to go back and forth."
Yuan Yueze said, "I need to see Qing'er tonight, so I'm afraid I can only go to Wude Hall tomorrow night."
Song Yuzhi suggested, "Husband, you can go and visit Qing'er first, then explore Wude Hall."
"Brother, maybe you'll have a 'fortuitous encounter'!"
Dugu Feng's slender figure appeared at the door, stretching as she walked. Her alluring manner almost made Yuan Yueze's eyes pop out. He sat down, sipped his fragrant tea, and said contentedly, "Eating and then sleeping, so comfortable."
Yuan Yueze chuckled, "Then you've really become a little pig. By the way, what 'fortuitous encounter' is Feng'er talking about?"
Ignoring the girls' snickering, Dugu Feng rolled her eyes at Yuan Yueze and said, "Because that Consort Zhang is fond of collecting masterpieces, among the treasures of the four great families of the previous generation..." In Tibet, only one original painting by Zhan Ziqian, "Winter Forest and Clear Distance," is missing. The painting that Father wanted Feng'er to give to Li Yuan happened to become Li Yuan's gift to curry favor with Consort Zhang. Consort Zhang has been constantly inviting him over these past few days. During these gatherings, she spoke of daughters' matters, and in her drunken grumbling, she vaguely mentioned that Li Yuan liked to disguise himself and sneak out of the palace
. "Brother, you should understand what that means!" Yuan Yueze understood after a moment's thought: Li Yuan, accustomed to being emperor, wanted to experience the life of an ordinary person, so he disguised himself and sneaked out of the palace to entertain himself under a different identity. He was naturally fond of women, and naturally couldn't do without entertainment related to them. As a high-ranking person, Li Yuan was tired of using power to obtain women's bodies; he wanted to gain genuine admiration from women in an ordinary way.
And the 'chief steward' arranging this entertainment was none other than Yin Zuwen. Although Yin Zuwen was Li Yuan's father-in-law, it seemed unreasonable for Yin Zuwen to provide women to his son-in-law. However, considering Li Yuan's status as emperor, his fawning over Yin Zuwen seemed unsurprising.
But he said, "Who can guarantee that if I go to check on Qing'er tonight, I'll definitely run into Li Yuan leaving the palace?"
Song Yuzhi interjected, "Today they first gained the allegiance of Bashu, and then saved face on the polo field. Isn't this the perfect excuse to go out and have some fun?"
Yuan Yueze nodded in sudden understanding, saying, "Zhenzhen has a close relationship with Consort Lian, and you're also close to Consort Zhang. Is Consort Yin close to any of you?"
Shan Meixian replied, "Yuzhen is often invited by Consort Yin; they've been scheming against each other these past few days."
Yuan Yueze chuckled inwardly upon hearing this.
※※※※※ It was nearly midnight, the moon and stars were bright.
Yuan Yueze stood like a ghost on a large tree overlooking the small building in the backyard of the Yin residence, looking towards the main building. The main hall was brightly lit, and the faint sounds of string and wind instruments could be heard.
Bai Qing'er had been subjected to Zhu Yuyan's 'Imprisonment Technique,' making it easy for Zhu Yuyan to track her movements within Chang'an. Before Yuan Yueze left, Zhu Yuyan had told him that Bai Qing'er had been staying at Chi Shengchun's residence these past few days; they already knew that Yin Zuwen couldn't possibly have kept Bai Qing'er in his own home.
Yuan Yueze had many tasks to complete tonight: first, to investigate Yin's residence and try his luck at finding Li Yuan, who was indulging in pleasure; second, to find Bai Qing'er, as arranged; and third, to find Li Yuanji.
Yin's residence was his primary target. From the situation just now, Yuan Yueze couldn't tell if Li Yuan was in Yin's residence, but he could see that Yin Zuwen was indeed a man who indulged in nightly revelry and thoroughly enjoyed worldly riches and luxury. "
Most people are never satisfied; their pursuit of power and wealth is endless. People like Yuan Yueze and his friends have no interest in power or fortune, and such people are a minority. "
Before he could finish his thought, light footsteps approached.
Looking closely, he saw four people walking slowly towards the building along the gravel path among the trees in the garden, chatting and laughing.
Yuan Yueze narrowed his eyes, focused his attention, and concentrated on his ears, relying mostly on his senses to perceive their presence. He
recognized two of the four. The one in the middle was Li Yuan, dressed in plain clothes. The man to his left was about the same height as him, with hawk-like eyes, a hooked nose, and graying temples; he had a fierce appearance and appeared to be only forty years old. He looked to be around ten years old. Although I didn't recognize him, seeing that he could walk alongside Li Yuan, I knew his status was not low. The other two were half a step behind, probably feeling that their status was not high enough to walk alongside the two. One of them was Yin Zuwen, and the other was a eunuch.
Normally, Yuan Yueze probably wouldn't even bother to glance at the eunuch, but just now, when the eunuch turned his head to scan the surroundings, Yuan Yueze recognized him from the fleeting, very special yet familiar look in the man's eyes. This man was Xi Feng, with whom he had fought before.
He could actually disguise himself and become a eunuch by Li Yuan's side. No wonder there had been no trace of Xi Feng all this time; it turned out that this guy had been hiding deep in the palace all along.
Li Yuan laughed and said, "Your evening was truly wonderful. Yin Guoyue's arrangements were impeccable. First-class beauties and first-class dancing."
The man beside him smiled and said, "This is true sincerity. Congratulations, my worthy brother, on acquiring another beauty." "
Even though Li Yuan is the emperor, this man still treats him as an equal, addressing him as a brother, which shows that he has a deep friendship with Li Yuan. Moreover, his cultivation is not simple, and his real age must be at least over sixty years old. He and the eunuch disguised as Xi Feng are undoubtedly Li Yuan's bodyguards.
The four of them stopped in front of the steps of the small building. Li Yuan nodded and said, "Brother Yuwen is joking. How about we come here to have fun again the night after tomorrow? Or go somewhere else?"
The man frowned and said, "For now, my good brother should limit his activities to Yin Guoyue's residence. After we get rid of Yuan Yueze and Shi Zhixuan, you can go wherever you like."
Li Yuan smiled bitterly and said, "How can I not follow your advice, brother?"
Yin Zuwen flattered, "The clan leader is thinking of the emperor's safety! And even more so, he is thinking of the people of the world." Yuan
Yueze instantly understood the man's origins.
The four prominent clans of the old Sui Dynasty were the Li, Dugu, Yuwen, and Song clans. The first three were major clans in the north, loyal to successive dynasties for a long time. Therefore, although these three clans constantly fought for power, their relationships remained intricate and unpredictable. In the struggles after the fall of the old Sui Dynasty, the Yuwen clan collapsed, and its remaining members came to rely on their old ties to join Li Yuan. The man before him was Yuwen Shang, the head of the Yuwen clan. In terms of martial arts, with the passing of "Heavenly Blade" Song Que, Yuwen Shang, Yuwen Huaji's uncle, was naturally the most skilled, even surpassing Li Yuan. With such a master protecting him, Li Yuan could safely sneak out to have fun.
But Li Yuan was clearly a fool; Yin Zuwen was not only a member of the Demonic Sect... Furthermore, he had an unusual relationship with Xi Feng of the Great Ming Zun Sect, and Yuwen Shang was a supporter of the Turkic Shamanism in the Central Plains.
Wait a minute! Shamanism and the Great Ming Zun Sect should be irreconcilable enemies, so why would Xi Feng appear with Yuwen Shang?
Yuan Yueze suddenly felt a headache coming on.

Chapter 94 Debating Tao and Zen
Yuan Yueze left the Yin residence and headed straight for Yongfu Ward in the northeast of Chang'an City.
It was the dead of winter, and the weather was bitterly cold. In the dead of night, the streets were deserted, making the place seem even more desolate and lonely.
He hadn't gleaned much useful information from the conversation between Li Yuan, Yuwen Shang, Yin Zuwen, and Xi Feng, so after the four left, he rushed out, carefully pondering why Yuwen Shang was with Xi Feng and Yin Zuwen. He thought and thought... He could only deduce one answer: as a high-ranking member of the Great Ming Zunjiao sect, Xi Feng naturally knew more than the other two, and was probably the one truly in control of the situation. Moreover, Zhu Yuyan had mentioned that Liu Yu was secretly watching, so their plan to seize Li Tang's power must have been meticulous. This was what Yuan Yueze needed to focus on next.
At this moment, he had already reached the north side of Yongxingfang, where a cold wind was howling.
He suddenly changed direction and headed south, towards a small, dark temple not far away.
Before the stone lions at the entrance stood an elderly man with a tall hat and wide belt, a long beard, an ancient and simple face, and a thick brocade robe that made his already tall and imposing figure appear even more prominent. Majestic as a mountain, the old man gazed intently at the starry sky, exuding an air of otherworldly elegance.
Sensing Yuan Yueze's arrival, the old man glanced back briefly, smiled slightly, and continued to look up at the heavens.
His detached gaze left a deep impression on Yuan Yueze. That single, fleeting glance seemed to lead into another world, completely untouched by worldly concerns, as if eternally existing on a mysterious and unfathomable level, containing an immense and unparalleled power. His calm and ethereal gaze revealed frankness and sincerity, even a touch of childlike innocence. Combined with his ancient and slender face, he possessed an otherworldly charm.
Approaching him, Yuan Yueze said, "So you are the Daoist Master Ning. I, Yuan, greet you." "
Having said that, he looked up with him.
It was the mysterious and profound spiritual connection between masters that had led Yuan Yueze here.
This old man was none other than Ning Daoqi, the 'Recluse' hailed as the number one person in the Central Plains.
A cold wind blew by from time to time, and the usually bustling street was now deserted except for two people with leisure to gaze at the stars.
The two stood with their hands behind their backs, and any outsider passing by would surely be stunned. For the two seemed to have become independent individuals beyond heaven and earth, giving people a feeling of being both present and absent, both real and illusory, which fully demonstrated their extraordinary cultivation.
After a long while, Ning Daoqi said softly, "Look! How beautiful the starry sky is. The entire constellation that is impossible in the human world will become possible here." Yuan Yueze agreed, “
Just as we gaze upon the stars, we are intimately connected with nature. The most enlightened can even merge their own vital energy with the spiritual energy of heaven and earth, and may even enter the boundless realm of the ‘Tao’ in the chaos. King Wen studied celestial phenomena and debated the principles of heaven, eventually creating the ‘I Ching’. This shows the profound truth contained within the starry sky. If one can open one’s mind to contemplate, one can explore the true meaning of nature and pursue the pinnacle of wisdom.”
Ning Daoqi, still gazing at the starry sky, said calmly, “Well said. How would you describe tonight’s starry sky, young master?”
Yuan Yueze replied, “Sixteen words: magnificent and radiant, vast and profound, solemn and sacred, free and tranquil.”
He paused, then continued, “Long ago, there were three gods in the world: the Southern Emperor in the south, the Northern Lord in the north, and the central god named Hundun. They treated the Southern Emperor and the Northern Lord extremely well, so the Southern Emperor and the Northern Lord gathered together to discuss how to repay their kindness. They decided that everyone should have seven orifices for seeing, hearing, eating, and breathing. So they had one orifice drilled into Hundun every day. After seven days, Hundun had all seven orifices open and died. Since you are a master of Laozi and Zhuangzi, you should understand what I mean.” Ning
Daoqi showed slight surprise, and his expression became serious.
Yuan Yueze had long suspected that his opponent had come prepared; the talk of observing the stars was merely a pretext. Ning Daoqi was a supreme Taoist master, possessing profound wisdom; every word he uttered was significant. With just a few words, he subtly initiated a battle with Yuan Yueze. His aim was to undermine Yuan Yueze's confidence. It should be understood that at their level of cultivation, physical cultivation was negligible; their focus was entirely on enhancing their spiritual cultivation, and a clear mind was the guarantee of spiritual growth. If Yuan Yueze hadn't answered well, Ning Daoqi would have retaliated, accusing him of outdated thinking and thus affecting his mental state. However, Yuan Yueze, with just a few words, displayed his far-reaching vision, broad-mindedness, and profound wisdom to Ning Daoqi, rendering his attack futile.
The allegory of 'the awakening of chaos' was the beginning of Yuan Yueze's counterattack. His words already revealed the 'natural way' contained within the starry sky, subtly mocking Ning Daoqi and others who studied the 'Tao' but failed to understand the true 'natural' essence of the 'Tao'.
How could Ning Daoqi not understand the meaning behind this? So he stroked his beard and smiled, saying, "Young master is right. We are indeed following the trend, even anticipating the consequences. You should have known long ago that we support the King of Qin, because the Li Tang dynasty at this moment is no different from the powerful Qin dynasty at the end of the Warring States period. Unification is only a matter of time, predetermined by Heaven. That's why I shamelessly
came here, urging you to consider the well-being of the people and stop now." Yuan Yueze thought to himself that they were taking advantage of the fact that Bashu had submitted and the Li Tang dynasty was at its peak of power. If this had happened to someone else, it would indeed have been a moment of great disappointment and susceptibility to persuasion. Unfortunately, this tactic had no effect on Yuan Yueze; he was completely unaffected by the surrender of Bashu.
He could easily wage war against Ning Daoqi, or even kill him, but he preferred to shatter the other's beliefs. So he said leisurely, "There is still a chance for fate to change. It is too early to say who is the most qualified to contend for the Central Plains."
Ning Daoqi smiled and said, "Young master must have heard the story of the 'Way of Walking on Water'!"
Yuan Yueze nodded.
The story of "The Way of Swimming" tells of a man describing to Confucius how he learned to swim. Confucius asked him, "Is there any special method to swimming?"
The man shook his head and replied, "I have no special method. At first, it was my natural inclination; as I grew up, it became my habit; and my achievements came naturally. I went down to the bottom with the eddies and swam to the surface with the upward current, going with the current without resisting it. That is my way of swimming."
Confucius asked for a more detailed explanation, and the man replied, "I was born in the mountains and was content with mountain life; that is called my natural inclination. Growing up, I lived by the water and was content with water life; that is called my habit. I don't know why I live this way, but I live this way; that is called naturalness."
Ning Daoqi's words are even more shrewd than Shi Feixuan's. This story aptly illustrates that Yuan Yueze was arguing illogically, because he acted "according to his own will," not in the way he claimed to have achieved "naturalness."
But the clash of deeply ingrained beliefs is irreconcilable. No matter how extraordinary you are, you still can't change the deepest beliefs in someone else's heart, just as both of them believed their own 'Dao' was the Great Dao.
Yuan Yueze's expression remained unchanged, showing that he was not disturbed by Ning Daoqi's 'offensive'. He calmly said, "I give you eight words, Master: 'Even thieves have their code of honor,' and bid you farewell!"
After saying that, he flew towards the palace.
Ning Daoqi's expression had become complicated.
The situation was beyond his expectations, and all his prior preparations had been ineffective. Yuan Yueze's defense was perfect, and he could seize the opportunity to launch the most fatal blow.
"Even thieves have their code of honor, even thieves have their own" are both parables from Zhuangzi. "Even thieves have their own code of honor" tells the story of how King Lu, to show his love and respect for a seabird, played the most beautiful music in the palace for the bird and treated it to the most sumptuous feast. However, the bird, oblivious to King Lu's hospitality, was terrified and became erratic, refusing to eat a single piece of meat or drink a drop of water. It starved to death in just three days. This story suggests that Ning Daoqi, knowing only this aspect and not that aspect, violated the standard that different objects should be treated differently; all his actions were wishful thinking and a waste of time. The
saying "Even thieves have their code of conduct" refers to the story of Dao Zhi, a notorious thief from the Spring and Autumn period. Dao Zhi's subordinates asked him for his "rules of the great thief." Dao Zhi replied: "To be able to guess how much wealth is stored in a house is sainthood; to be the first to enter is courage; to be the last to leave is righteousness; to judge whether to act is wisdom; to divide the loot equally is benevolence. It is impossible to become a great thief without these five qualities."
This set of teachings is exactly the same as the Confucian "Way of the Sage." If the "Way of the Sage" is used to educate virtuous people, they can be cultivated into sages; if it is used by wicked people, they can become great thieves. However, there are few sages and many great thieves in the world, showing that the "Way of the Sage" brings more harm than good to the world. Yuan Yueze ostensibly criticizes Confucianism, but in reality, he is subtly satirizing the hypocrisy of Ning Daoqi and his group of righteous people.
Of course, the "Way" here generally refers to principles and methods; throughout China's thousand-year history, those great thieves who have used these as "morality" are worthy of praise.
Yuan Yueze's words are inseparable from Laozi and Zhuangzi, forcing Ning Daoqi, this master of Laozi and Zhuangzi, to reveal a crack in his mind. This method of "using one's own spear to attack one's own shield" is extremely profound.
Today is just a small test; the war with the righteous path has only just begun.
To avoid arousing Ning Daoqi's suspicion, Yuan Yueze bypassed the palace and arrived at the back wall of the Chi family mansion in Yongfu Ward. He suppressed all signs of life, including body odor, faint heartbeats, and pulses. Following the message from Bai Qing'er, he arrived at an inconspicuous, dilapidated entrance to the basement in the northeast corner of the mansion.
It was just past midnight, and most people in the Chi mansion had already gone to bed, with only a few buildings still lit. All was quiet and peaceful. Once he was certain there were no vicious dogs or experts nearby, he didn't hesitate and lightly stomped his feet twice.
Suddenly, a crack appeared in the door piled with goods, and Yuan Yueze slipped inside like a ghost.
The basement was luxuriously decorated. Before Yuan Yueze could even take a good look at the room, Bai Qing'er, dressed in light clothing, grabbed him and rushed into the bedroom. She slipped under the covers and pressed her warm
, fragrant lips against his, whispering, "Zuo Youxian is just outside, be careful, young master." Yuan Yueze, his mind reeling from her shapely, fragrant body, bluntly said, "Give me a kiss first." Before Bai Qing'er could protest, he forcefully pressed his lips against her soft cherry blossoms, teasing her clumsy, inexperienced tongue while greedily licking her sweet saliva.
Bai Qing'er hadn't expected him to be so forceful. Her first kiss was instantly stolen, and her mind went blank. She instinctively grabbed Yuan Yueze's head, murmuring and returning the kiss.
When they parted, Bai Qing'er suddenly became more sober. She gently pushed Yuan Yueze away, her jade-like hand firmly pressing down on his mischievous hand that had slipped inside her undergarment. She whispered reproachfully, "You lecherous devil! What if someone finds out?"
Yuan Yueze said softly, "This is a technique that Mei Xian taught me, similar to the Heavenly Demon Field. All sounds can be controlled within the field, and only those with higher cultivation than me can hear our conversation."
Only then did Bai Qing'er raise her head with relief. In the dim light, Yuan Yueze noticed that her pretty face radiated a holy and flawless glow, making it difficult for modern people to discern good from evil, and making her beauty even more extraordinary, indicating that her 'Charming Maiden Heart Technique' had made further progress.
Yuan Yueze's strange hand lightly pinched her breast. Bai Qing'er's long, slender eyebrows furrowed slightly and then relaxed. She smiled and said, "Does Young Master only want Qing'er's body?"
Yuan Yueze stared at her dumbfounded for a long time before releasing her hand and saying, "If that's what you think of me, then we shouldn't have any more contact."
Bai Qing'er pressed closer and continued, "Qing'er isn't like Master and Senior Sister, people you liked before you even came to this era. They're just minor characters, so naturally there's no need to worry about them."
Yuan Yueze slapped her pert buttocks with his large hand and said resentfully, "Don't you know the difference between reality and ideals? How can longing and actual experience be the same? Now, in my heart, you are all equally important. When have you ever seen me show favoritism?"
Bai Qing'er exaggeratedly exclaimed "Ouch!" before scolding, "Young Master, you're so boring. Can't I even joke around?"
Then she said seriously, "Yin Zuwen wants Qing'er to perform for Li Yuan on the first night of the month. Do you think there might be some problems with that?"
Yuan Yueze then stopped what he was doing and exchanged detailed information with Bai Qing'er. While Bai Qing'er greatly admired Yuan Yueze's eloquence, Yuan Yueze said, "There are too many things involved. I'll go back and discuss it with them. You must be extra careful."
Bai Qing'er felt Yuan Yueze's concern and smiled sweetly, saying, "Qing'er's 'Charming Maiden's Heart Technique' is almost complete, but unfortunately, I can't gather much information. I can only take it one step at a time."
Yuan Yueze kissed her again and said, "When will Qing'er surrender? Wan'er surrendered long ago."
Bai Qing'er pinched him shyly and said, "That will have to wait until we leave Guanzhong!"
Yuan Yueze nodded, pressed her head against his chest, and said, "I'll put Qing'er to sleep before I go and find out about Li Yuanji."
Bai Qing'er's slightly flushed face held a satisfied smile. After offering a kiss, she twisted her body, found a comfortable position, and closed her beautiful eyes.
Yuan Yueze, however, frowned, his bright eyes fixed on the roof.
※※※※※ As the first watch of the night began, heavy snow fell again in Chang'an.
Zhu Yuyan, dressed in a close-fitting outfit with a long overcoat, walked through Yankang Ward and turned left onto Yong'an Street. Ahead lay the Yong'an Canal, stretching over ten zhang (approximately 33 meters) across Chang'an from north to south, with the magnificent Yuema Bridge standing majestically above it.
The snow continued to fall, and the surroundings were deserted; the frigid weather even made the city patrols slack off at their posts.
Zhu Yuyan slowly walked to the bridgehead, and as if speaking to herself, softly said, "Now that you two have arrived, why not show yourselves?"
A strange and humorous Buddhist chant came from the frozen river, followed by the soft sound of bells. The chanting seemed to come from a distant, unreachable horizon; if one did not pay attention, it would be indistinct, but if one focused, every word would be clear and distinct—clearly a miraculous skill of Buddhism.
In the cool, hazy night, two monks appeared. One, holding a staff, possessed an elegant and refined air, a robust and imposing figure, and white eyebrows and beard, standing on the bridge. The other sat casually on the railing; at first glance, he seemed over a hundred years old, for his long white eyebrows reached past his ears, and his snow-white beard covered his protruding belly. But upon closer inspection, while his eyes were bright and piercing, his skin was as smooth as a baby's, fair with a rosy glow, radiating youthful vitality, and his bald head reflected the moonlight. Though plump, he was not bloated, exuding a leisurely and contented air, giving off a kind and approachable feeling.
Zhu Yuyan smiled slightly and said, "So it's Venerable Dixin of the Huayan Sect and Master Daoxin of the Chan Sect. I'm honored to meet you both." Venerable Dixin
clasped his hands together and said, "It's been decades since we last met. Your Majesty, you are still as elegant as ever, and your divine skills have greatly improved. Congratulations!"
Zhu Yuyan returned the greeting and thanked him, saying, "You all arrived in Chang'an within nine days and stayed at the Dongda Temple. I was unable to pay you a personal visit, which is truly impolite."
If someone unaware of the situation saw this warm scene, they would surely think that the three were old friends who hadn't seen each other for many years and were exchanging greetings.
In reality, even before they met, a subtle power struggle had already begun among the three.
Zhu Yuyan was naturally not like Yuan Yueze, who had a 'defensive counterattack' personality. She would never let the initiative slip away, so she launched the first offensive.
Daoxin took a swig from his gourd and said, “My heart encompasses the vast emptiness, my capacity extends to the boundless sands. I search for spring all day, yet find no spring; my straw sandals wear out the clouds on the mountain peaks. Returning home, I casually smell the plum blossoms; spring is already fully present on the branches. Throughout history, the Demonic Sect has produced many talented individuals, but none have ever mastered the ‘Great Method of Planting Demons in the Heart of the Dao.’ You, Zhu Yuyan, have profound blessings, having successively mastered the ‘Great Method of Heavenly Demons’ and the ‘Great Method of Planting Demons in the Heart of the Dao,’ transforming from demon to Dao, your temperament has drastically changed, and your cultivation has surpassed the realm of the celestial beings. I deeply feel that the cruel and bloodthirsty aura you possessed decades ago is gone.”
His words, however, did not fully express his thoughts; the brilliance lay in the poem. The poem spoke of how people, in their pursuit of life's truth and wisdom, often put the cart before the horse, seeking externally instead of internally. Daoxin merely wanted to enlighten the transformed Zhu Yuyan, asking her about the will of her ‘true heart’ before choosing her actions. Because ‘a pure heart is Buddha, Buddha is the heart’ is precisely the essence of Zen, as taught by the Fourth Patriarch Daoxin.
Zhu Yuyan stood gracefully, without uttering a word.
The Venerable Emperor Heart continued, “Though the seed of a flower depends on the soil, the flower grows from the soil. If no one sows the seed, the flower will not grow on the soil. When Master Daoxin was still an adult, he paid homage to the Third Patriarch of Zen, Master Sengcan, and asked, ‘I beg the Venerable Master to have compassion and grant me the Dharma of liberation.’ The Third Patriarch countered, ‘Who binds you?’ Master Daoxin replied, ‘No one binds me.’ The Third Patriarch said, ‘Why seek liberation?’ Does Zhu Yuyan understand the meaning behind this?”
Zhu Yuyan was not foolish; how could she not understand? What the Third Patriarch meant was that human bondage is not external, but internal. Bondage entirely stems from the inverted delusions of one's own mind—that is, discrimination, calculation, and attachment. If one sees through these delusions, knowing that they come without coming and go without going, that they are inherently empty, and no longer swayed by them, then liberation can be attained. Without inner liberation, one will not be at ease anywhere. Therefore, liberation resides in the mind, not externally.
In truth, neither Daoxin nor Dixin could fathom Zhu Yuyan's thoughts at this moment. The only thing they could do was to proceed with courtesy before resorting to force, explaining their reasoning before taking any further action.
Zhu Yuyan said, "The mind is pure and inherently perfect. By detaching oneself from delusions, one becomes like a Buddha. Yuyan understands this principle and has always acted accordingly." Daoxin
and Dixin were momentarily at a loss for words.
Zhu Yuyan meant that a person's mind is like a beautiful jade; even when placed in polluted water, it retains its luster. It's just that people haven't consciously discovered it. Once these impurities are removed, one's Buddha-nature can be revealed. This implicitly conveyed the idea of 'great seclusion in the court,' subtly stating her position and attitude.
The Emperor persisted, saying, "Since Empress Zhu, having achieved such great divine power, is so connected to Buddhism, why does she still linger in this mortal world? Know that a hundred years of life is but a fleeting moment, like a white horse galloping
past a crack in the wall; in the blink of an eye, dust to dust, ashes to ashes, all vanish into nothingness. Finding a secluded place in the deep mountains brings personal freedom and brings peace to all living beings—why not?" Zhu Yuyan smiled and replied, "At midday, I sit by the window, engrossed in my book, my mind filled with a virtual world. The birdsong seems to understand my heart, their joyful cries breaking through the shade of the green willows. Your Excellency should understand my heart now!"
This Zen poem suggests that everything in the world is a virtual construct of the mind, not that the world is false and meaningless. As long as those who are immersed in it are not too attached and learn to view the world from a more detached perspective, they can learn much more from it.
Daoxin was slightly taken aback, then sincerely praised, "Your Majesty has truly undergone a transformation, uttering such Zen-like words."
Zhu Yuyan shook her head, saying, "I only often chat with my daughter, Meixian, and I heard all this from her."
Before Daoxin and the other could speak, Zhu Yuyan continued, "I have a question, but I don't know if I should ask it?"
Daoxin said, "Please speak, Your Majesty."
Zhu Yuyan gazed at a pawnshop faintly visible in the snow in the distance and said, "The pawnbroking industry flourished during the Southern Dynasty, supposedly originating from the 'temple treasury' system of Buddhist temples. Is that correct?"
Emperor Xin nodded, "Indeed. Your Majesty, do you wish to ask why Buddhist temples engage in such lucrative activities, which are not related to monks? " Is the concept of "emptiness of the four elements" contradicted? In reality, monks also need to eat. Temples accumulate vast wealth through donations from all levels of society. To support the numerous monks, conduct various religious activities, and maintain and expand the temples, all of this requires financial resources. Thus, they conceived of the method of "making money from money," through lending and profiting. Furthermore, the Buddhist concept of "inexhaustible treasury" states, "With ceaseless growth, its benefit is inexhaustible," and "At that time, the six assemblies should sow seeds, sow seeds that yield returns, either taking or giving, either producing or pledging." Therefore, monks can confidently lend money and profit to support the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.
Zhu Yuyan nodded and said, "Thank you for your guidance, Venerable One. If there is nothing else, I will leave you with four sentences and then take my leave."
Dao Xin and Di Xin were confused by Zhu Yuyan's question. Dao Xin nodded and said, "Please come again, Zhu Yuyan! We'll meet again someday."
Zhu Yuyan nodded slightly, turned around with an elegant and gentle gesture, and walked slowly forward. A clear and melodious voice floated from her lips as she recited, "White clouds escort me out of the mountains, the red dust fills my eyes, impossible to dispel. Do not say there is nothing good in the city, for every speck of dust, every moment, every pavilion is a tower."
Dao Xin and Di Xin's expressions finally turned serious.
The verse that Zhu Yuyan recited was of extremely high artistic merit, meaning that monks enter the deep mountains to escape the mortal world. But true Buddhist practitioners should not think like this. As the saying goes, "Originally there is nothing, where can dust settle?" In this inescapable mortal world, there is one's own place of practice. Whether it is "a speck of dust, a moment," or any other place, it is both the mortal world and the pure land. As long as one can reach the state of "non-duality of purity and defilement," then nothing else matters.
These four sentences, combined with the previous question about the 'pawnshop,' theoretically provided Daoxin and his companion with a favorable counterattack, and also demonstrated Yuan Yueze's attitude that he would never stand idly by while so many monks who were not truly Buddhist disciples 'grew powerful.'
Zhu Yuyan pondered as she walked.
She had sensed the spiritual aura emanating from Daoxin and his companion after entering a meditative state, within the unique and wondrous spiritual realm of the Demon Seed Technique. That was why she had come out to meet them in the middle of the night. The three of them seemed to be chatting casually, but in reality, they were searching for weaknesses and vying for the initiative. In the end, it ended with Zhu Yuyan gaining a slight advantage.
Like Yuan Yueze, Zhu Yuyan could also guess the main reason why Bai Dao had made his move at this moment, and she thought much deeper than Yuan Yueze: the 'Yang Gong Treasure Vault' was planned by Yang Su, a prominent minister and general of the previous dynasty, to be used as a tool for rebellion when Emperor Wen, Yang Jian, was dealing with him. Furthermore, Lu Miaozi, known as the "Number One Master Craftsman Under Heaven," designed a secret location for his treasure. The items hidden there were undoubtedly extraordinary; whoever possessed them would have unpredictable consequences, far exceeding the reach and significance of the "He Shi Bi" (a legendary jade disc). They would not only influence the struggle for supremacy but also affect the balance of power between good and evil in the martial arts world.
Under the long-standing influence of the "Evil Emperor" Yuan Yueze, a sense of fear naturally arose in the hearts of the people. If he succeeded in seizing Luoyang through cunning and claimed the "Yang Gong Treasure Vault," it would ultimately create a two-way struggle with the already powerful Li Tang dynasty, leading to a prolonged period of division and suffering for the people far exceeding that of the present. More importantly, Yuan Yueze was a member of the demonic path who opposed the rise of any single religion. If he won, the demonic sects could very well surpass Buddhism and Taoism, resulting in a decline of Taoism and an increase in demonic power—a precarious situation.
Therefore, both Buddhism and Taoism had to seize this opportune moment to stop Yuan Yueze; today's events were merely the beginning.
Reaching out to catch a beautiful snowflake, Zhu Yuyan drifted into the West Garden like a ghost.

URL 1:http://localhost:909/htmlBlog/10398.html

URL 2:/Blog.aspx?id=10398&aspx=1

Previous Page : [Wuxia] Wandering Freely in the Tang Dynasty (Complete) - 23

Next Page : [Wuxia] Wandering Freely in the Tang Dynasty (Complete) - 15

增加

comment Open a new window to view comments

Contact Information

[Wuxia] Wandering Freely in the Tang Dynasty (Complete) - 25

comment Open a new window to view comments