A Thousand Years of Elegance Discussed in Laughter (Complete) - 17

Volume Twenty-Five: Imperial Palace Gifts, Chapter Two: The Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra

. Ye Zhi Qiu was the first to be affected, immediately sensing it. He felt the entire area within ten feet of Yelü Changsheng enveloped by his aura. True energy pressed and tightened around him from all directions, and the biting wind stung his back, making it difficult to breathe and affecting his vision and hearing.
Ye Zhi Qiu had no choice. He knew that his plan to provoke Yelü Changsheng had not only failed but had been used by Yelü Changsheng, causing him to lose the initiative instantly. If he hesitated even for a moment, he would be doomed once Yelü Changsheng launched his attack. With a long roar, he raised the Mo Lian Feng sword and swept it towards Yelü Changsheng like a tornado.
Yelü Changsheng was still within movement, while Ye Zhi Qiu was movement within stillness, creating a stark and intense contrast.
Ye Zhi Qiu unleashed his ultimate technique—the Tianya Aoxue Sword. This swordplay was created by him after mastering the nameless sword manual left by Zhao Guangyi and combining it with his own bitter experiences of wandering the world. Although it only had six moves, its power was comparable to the Seven Absolute Swords of Hengshan and the Three Forms of Heavenly Annihilation.
Sure enough, the first move, "Falling Leaves Rustle, Nowhere Does the Lonely City Begin," saw Mo Lianfeng suddenly transform into a rapidly swirling blue light around him, which then evolved into a whirlwind-like halo of light, swirling out countless beautiful sword beams, instantly enveloping Yelü Changsheng.
Yelü Changsheng stood still, his longsword pointing downwards, showing no sign of attacking. The crowd assumed he was too intimidated by Ye Zhi Qiu's swift attack to make a move and cheered loudly. However, those with superior skills, such as Huyan Zan and Cao Bin, saw that he was secretly consolidating his strength, ready to retaliate at any moment.
Ye Zhi Qiu, completely focused, wielded Mo Lian Feng with unparalleled concentration, creating a rhythmic and powerful whistling sound that wove together a sharp, lightning-fast, and both offensive and defensive net. A strange energy, centered on Ye Zhi Qiu, surged like a raging sandstorm in the desert, crashing towards Yelü Chang Sheng with overwhelming force as the two drew closer.
This was the second move of the Tianya Aoxue Sword, "Wind, Smoke, Fish, and Snow Sword Qi Across the Land," an attack as swift as a sudden downpour. The silver light on Mo Lian Feng shifted and changed in countless ways, truly like a divine dragon spewing clouds and rain, swirling and turning like a whirlwind, sometimes flashing like thunder, sometimes howling like a gale, its power vast and mighty, dazzling and terrifying.
Even the civil officials like Lü Duan and Wang Ruoqin felt Ye Zhi Qiu transformed into a terrifying storm's core, possessing an invincible and unstoppable power.
Yelü Chang Sheng, far from being moved, slowly closed his eyes.
Everyone present, including Ye Zhi Qiu, was stunned. Only Zhao Guangyi saw that Yelü Changsheng was deliberately blinded by Ye Zhi Qiu's unpredictable swordplay. Although he couldn't see, his mind was as clear as the moon in a well, his spirit empty and clear. He could discern the angle and direction of Ye Zhi Qiu's attacks simply by observing the subtle changes in the surrounding true energy caused by Ye Zhi Qiu's swordplay.
Ye Zhi Qiu, unaware of this, fixed his gaze on Yelü Changsheng's ribs and thrust his sword forward.
Yelü Changsheng suddenly shouted, and without any apparent effort, he leaped three feet away to dodge.
Ye Zhi Qiu's expression changed slightly. He lightly touched the ground and leaped into the air, gaining a superior position. He unleashed a series of swift sword strikes, each aimed at Yelü Changsheng's vital points.
Yelü Changsheng remained calm and composed, demonstrating that his mental cultivation had reached a level of unwavering strength. He easily dodged again, leaving not a trace of his clothing.
Ye Zhi Qiu's lightness skill was second only to Ren Xiaoyao among the Four Heroes of the Martial World, but still inferior to Yelü Changsheng. Furthermore, his moves had already been anticipated by his opponent, and several rounds of attacks were futile.
Ye Zhi Qiu angrily retorted, "What kind of hero avoids everything? If you're so capable, take a few of my moves!"
Yelü Changsheng sneered, "Fine, I'll take it!" His longsword traced an arc and shot forward like lightning.
Before the two swords even clashed, Mo Lianfeng's momentum vanished without a trace. Ye Zhiqiu was startled and shouted, "What kind of evil sword technique are you using? If you have the guts, state its name!"
Yelü Changsheng focused his eyes and said calmly, "My sword technique is nameless. Even if you don't recognize it, it doesn't matter."
Ye Zhiqiu was furious. He raised his hand and used the move "Tears of Love," his sword light transforming and endlessly flashing, like lightning, directly attacking his opponent. There was no discernible gap between the moves.
A cold smile appeared on Yelü Changsheng's lips. He suddenly took a half step back and swayed sideways. Just when everyone thought he was going to dodge, he flashed forward again, his longsword swiftly thrusting.
"Clang!" The longsword shot into Ye Zhiqiu's dense and boundless sword net like lightning. At a speed too fast for the naked eye to see clearly, the two swords touched and froze in mid-air.
Yelü Changsheng suddenly clenched his palm into a blade, slashing fiercely at the spine of Mo Lianfeng's sword.
Ye Zhiqiu staggered back half a step, briefly adjusted his breathing, and immediately regained his composure. He lunged forward, Mo Lianfeng's sword tip trembling, seemingly both round and square, its momentum unmatched, meeting Yelü Changsheng's sword light with sheer speed.
Yelü Changsheng's swordsmanship also changed abruptly, conjuring up sword energy like rolling quicksand, heavily attacking Ye Zhiqiu. The onlookers were all breathless, unable to catch their breath.
In an instant, the booming sounds of energy rang out in succession, dense like pearls falling on a jade plate, without ceasing. Both sides were giving their all, not only quickly determining victory or defeat, but also life or death.
At this moment, Ye Zhiqiu finally understood Yelü Changsheng's astonishing power, feeling as if he were in the midst of a raging storm, with endless, turbulent waves of energy rolling in, threatening to engulf him.
The situation was critical, and Ye Zhi Qiu immediately switched to a defensive stance, protecting his vital points flawlessly. No matter how fiercely his opponent unleashed his swordplay, it couldn't shake him in the slightest.
Yelü Changsheng was also secretly shocked. Ye Zhi Qiu's swordsmanship appeared light and graceful on the surface, but in reality, each strike carried the weight of a thousand pounds, unpredictable and ever-changing, seemingly deceptive yet actually powerful. His moves were unpredictable and ingenious, like a gazelle hanging its horns, leaving no trace.
The crowd was so engrossed in watching that they forgot to cheer. "Boom!" The two spun away simultaneously, and when the distance between them was about two zhang (approximately 6.6 meters), they stopped spinning abruptly and stood facing each other, as if by prior agreement.
Only then did the entire training ground erupt in thunderous cheers.
Their eyes met, seemingly oblivious to what had happened.
Yelü Changsheng smiled confidently, "Master Ye, take a few more moves from me!" With that, he casually swept out a sword, devoid of any fancy moves. To onlookers, it seemed utterly simple and unremarkable. But Ye Zhiqiu, caught in the middle of the battle, felt as if his opponent had preordained his angle and timing for dodging, rendering him powerless to evade. Ye Zhiqiu
let out a long laugh, suddenly leaping forward, man and sword becoming an inseparable whole, a perfect harmony, engaging Yelü Changsheng in a fierce exchange of blows. The timing, angle, and speed were all exquisite. But
the moment Mo Lianfeng was struck by the sword, Ye Zhiqiu's internal energy vanished without a trace, like a stone sinking into the sea. Just as he was about to retreat, the opponent's sword transformed into a storm of sword shadows, raining down on him like a tempestuous storm. Ye Zhiqiu, suspended
in mid-air, had nowhere to gain leverage, only able to parry with his sword.
"Boom!" The unfathomable innate true energy pierced through Mo Lianfeng, striking Ye Zhiqiu squarely in the chest. Ye Zhiqiu let out a miserable groan, staggering backward. When he managed to stand, his face was as pale as a corpse.
Zhao Guangyi's expression changed drastically, and he exclaimed, "The Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra!" Yelü Changsheng sneered, "Hahaha, His

Majesty

truly knows his stuff!" Even as he spoke, his attack didn't falter. Ye Zhiqiu was a fraction too late; the sword light was already upon him. Fortunately, he reacted with lightning speed, performing a somersault to dodge the attack, but his chest was still struck by the sword's force, tearing a large gap in his clothes.
At this moment, anyone could see that the situation was extremely unfavorable for Ye Zhi Qiu. If his opponent Cheng Sheng pursued him, he probably wouldn't be able to withstand many moves. However, Ye Lü Chang Sheng had no intention of continuing to attack. He smiled and took two steps back, as if to give Ye Zhi Qiu a chance to recover his strength and then fight again.
Zhao Guangyi cried out in alarm. Ye Zhiqiu's agility and swordsmanship were nearly equal to Yelü Changsheng's, and his combat experience was even slightly superior. However, the vast difference in their internal strength was not something that could be explained in a few words. Yelü Changsheng's Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra was undoubtedly taught by Empress Dowager Xiao herself. Judging from his previous move, he had clearly mastered its essence. Unless a miracle occurred, Ye Zhiqiu would have little chance of winning.
Yelü Changsheng arrogantly said, "President Ye, you can't even withstand half of my power. You'd better admit defeat." With that, his eyes shone brightly, he sheathed his sword, and his robes billowed, his aura reaching its peak of ferocity.
Most strangely, the surrounding air instantly became scorching hot, as if it had stopped flowing, becoming as desolate as a vast desert with yellow sand, scorching sun, and not a breath of wind.
Ye Zhiqiu's expression turned solemn, and he became fully alert, simultaneously experiencing a terrifying feeling of drought and scorching heat. He had learned of the power of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra from Long Feiyun, knowing that this extremely strange internal energy cultivation method could "weave" true energy into a dense, spiderweb-like wall of energy, trapping opponents within it. Unless one's internal energy far surpassed that of the user, they would become prey caught in the net, left only to be devoured.
In desperation, Ye Zhi Qiu unleashed his fourth move, "Hidden Fragrance Fills the Sleeves, Dreams of Splendor Arise." He braced his left foot on the ground, his right foot drawing a half-arc, spinning rapidly like a top, slowly rising. Yelü Chang Sheng, unable to allow his opponent to gather his true energy, attacked with his sword before Ye Zhi Qiu could strike, but unexpectedly, he couldn't break through the energy wall surrounding Ye Zhi Qiu. The blade slid outwards, passing him by. Taking advantage of this
, Ye Zhi Qiu changed direction, his sword flashing, splitting into two paths, silently embodying the opposing forces of the Floating Pagoda and the Floating Emerald Green, relentlessly pursuing Yelü Chang Sheng.
Yelü Changsheng displayed a nonchalant expression, swaying left and right, each sway causing Ye Zhiqiu's sword strike to deviate to the side of the sway, completely losing its accuracy.
Yelü Changsheng considered his opportunity had arrived, his left hand wielding his longsword in a fluid circle, aiming to trap Mo Lianfeng, while his right hand delivered a powerful, unrestrained punch. His plan was to both neutralize Ye Zhiqiu's attack and strike him in the chest, or at the very least, force him to retreat. Just
as the swords were about to clash, Ye Zhiqiu moved with lightning speed, suddenly appearing to Yelü Changsheng's left. Mo Lianfeng abruptly flipped, pressing down on Ye Zhiqiu's sword. If the blow landed, Yelü Changsheng's hand would surely explode, and he would lose his grip on his weapon.
Zhao Guangyi, watching from the stands, cheered loudly at Ye Zhiqiu's unexpected turn of events. Yelü Changsheng realized that Ye Zhiqiu's agility was in no way inferior to his own, and that he could even create illusions through his internal energy. Fortunately, he had held back some strength in his attack, and in this critical moment, he quickly changed his move, retreating while altering his sword stance, aiming instead at Ye Zhiqiu's palm.
Ye Zhiqiu sneered, and Mo Lianfeng drew a circle in the air, deliberately missing the mark. His left index and middle fingers met, and his long-accumulated, highly concentrated internal energy suddenly erupted, striking Yelü Changsheng's palm with a "whoosh."
Although Yelü Changsheng had underestimated his opponent and been hit, he was completely unconcerned. He was certain that the profound internal energy of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra would be enough to withstand Ye Zhiqiu's full-force attack. But this was not the case. Ye Zhiqiu's energy seemed tangible but lacked substance, instantly breaking through his protective true energy and directly invading his internal organs.
Yelü Changsheng was horrified and retreated rapidly backward as if electrocuted.
It turned out that Ye Zhi Qiu's internal energy was extremely cold and yin, accumulated in a single point and shot out from his fingertip, condensed as fine as a hair, piercing and striking sharply. Even his protective energy, constructed with the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra, was extremely strong and hard, and he could hardly withstand it. It was like how, although an elephant has immense strength, a woman or child can pierce its skin with a tiny needle.
The yin energy disappeared immediately after entering the body, but this piercing was truly painful to the bone.
Hu Yanzan, Cao Bin, and the others breathed a sigh of relief, glad that Ye Zhi Qiu had finally found a way to break the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra. Zhao Guangyi, however, did not think so. He had suffered at Xiao Nao's hands more than once or twice. If Yelü Changsheng learned even 30% of her skills, it would be enough to make Ye Zhi Qiu suffer.
Sure enough, Yelü Changsheng stood still with his sword, his feet neither too far forward nor too far back, his eyes shining brightly, showing signs of an impending all-out attack.
Ye Zhi Qiu's footwork was agile, moving back and forth around his opponent, trying to find Yelü Changsheng's weakness and the best opportunity to attack.
The two figures, one still and the other moving, created an eerie scene.
Drawn by the energy of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra, Ye Zhi Qiu moved slowly and steadily towards Yelü Changsheng, while Mo Lianfeng unleashed a series of powerful and unrestrained moves, each more spectacular than the last.
Yelü Changsheng sensed this, his aura contracting continuously, his feet planted firmly in the center of the training ground, leaving three-inch-deep imprints in the earth.
Ye Zhi Qiu roared to the sky, unleashing another powerful attack, this time the "Dreamy Flower of Hidden Fragrance" technique, to fiercely challenge the mountain-like Yelü Changsheng. Yelü Changsheng stood firm, using only exquisite and profound techniques to dismantle and block the attacks, like a giant reef in the deep sea that withstands the onslaught of raging waves, forever unyielding, showing no sign of weakness.
In the midst of their fierce battle, Yelü Changsheng suddenly pursed his lips and let out a deafeningly sharp cry.
Whether it was Ye Zhi Qiu in the midst of the fierce battle, or Zhao Guangyi, Huyan Zan, and others watching from the sidelines, their eardrums were filled with his earth-shattering roar. It was like a fierce sandstorm suddenly rising up on a long journey through the desert, roaring and howling in all directions. At first, it was short and powerful, stimulating the eardrums, then it became all-pervasive, seemingly tangible sand and gravel, relentlessly and overwhelmingly attacking.
Ye Zhi Qiu felt that under the pressure of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra, not only could he not continue to advance, but even his vision became blurred, the world seemed to spin, and the energy was like a raging storm that almost overwhelmed him. Even more terrifying was that the entire aura suddenly contracted around Yelü Changsheng, narrowing to a point, and then expanding and exploding with power.
Ye Zhi Qiu retreated rapidly, attempting to forcefully break through the confinement of the aura. Yelü Chang Sheng, however, was not about to let him go. He pursued with lightning speed, his longsword transforming into a sky full of silver light, enveloping Ye Zhi Qiu completely. Under Yelü Chang Sheng's exquisite and profound footwork, Ye Zhi Qiu became an intangible phantom, indistinguishable from reality, making him impossible to grasp.
Ye Zhi Qiu remained calm in the face of danger, his mind entering a state of serene tranquility. He held his sword horizontally to his chest, blocking his opponent's attack. His true energy was contained, and he and his sword became one, forming an impenetrable whole.
Even with Yelü Chang Sheng's abilities, he was forced to temporarily halt his offensive under Ye Zhi Qiu's impeccable all-out defense.
Ye Zhi Qiu faced an equally perilous situation. Yelü Chang Sheng's moves seemed to have foresight; he knew the strength, weakness, and angles of Ye Zhi Qiu's swordsmanship perfectly. His all-out attack earlier was not intended to break through Ye Zhi Qiu's defense, but rather to use his Heavenly Demon True Energy to ascertain Ye Zhi Qiu's weaknesses before devising the best offensive strategy.
Ye Zhi Qiu understood the principle of striking first to gain the upper hand, while striking later meant being at a disadvantage. Mo Lian Feng transformed into a lightning-fast rainbow, slicing through the air for two zhang (approximately 6.6 meters). Under the deliberate exertion of all his skills, he targeted every opening in
Ye Lü Chang Sheng's defenses, launching a relentless, mercury-like, and relentless close-quarters attack. Although Ye Lü Chang Sheng wielded an ordinary iron sword, every part of it became a tool for defeating his enemy. He used the hilt, the blade, the spine—anything unexpected—to directly confront Ye Zhi Qiu. The two exchanged speed for speed, unleashing a series of unexpected moves without the slightest hesitation. Both attackers and defenders moved with complete freedom, their movements intense and fierce, hinting at a brutal life-or-death struggle—a spectacle beyond the power of words to describe.
Just as everyone was holding their breath, dazzled, and unable to keep track of how many times the two had exchanged internal energy, a sudden "boom!" resounded. A surge of energy swept across the battlefield, and Ye Zhi Qiu stumbled and fell from the fray, his face drained of color, nearly collapsing. (

Volume 25: Imperial Palace Gifts, Chapter 4: The Last Gasp)

It turned out that Yelü Changsheng had used a miraculous technique of remote control. Although the swordsmanship itself posed no threat to Ye Zhi Qiu, and in reality, it couldn't alter his domineering and unstoppable momentum, each move was imbued with the refined and divine power of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra, striking the enemy's blade from afar. This rendered Ye Zhi Qiu's single-point attack strategy completely ineffective. Simultaneously, an invisible yet tangible net of energy was woven, like a silkworm spinning silk. This cocoon of true energy accumulated to its peak at the moment of direct confrontation with the enemy's blade, neutralizing the opponent's swift and fierce attack.
Ye Zhi Qiu's Mo Lian Feng seemed to be crushed by an entire mountain, unable to escape the influence of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra no matter how he used it. Most critically, whenever their weapons clashed, Yelü Changsheng not only easily dispersed what Ye Zhi Qiu thought was a fatal blow, but the scorching true energy also invaded along the blade, attacking his meridians.
Ye Zhi Qiu, a veteran of countless battles since his arrival, had never seen anyone suppress Mo Lian Feng, whom he considered an extension of himself, so subdued. He was so distressed that he almost abandoned his sword to save his life, but he knew that such a foolish act would only hasten his defeat. In desperation, he disregarded his dignity and, like a madman, twirled Mo Lian Feng into a ball, retreating rapidly and barely dodging Yelü Changsheng's fatal blow.
Everyone's hearts were in their throats. The gap between Ye Zhi Qiu and Yelü Changsheng was simply too great; not only was victory unlikely, but even a draw would be extremely difficult.
After Ye Zhi Qiu was thrown back nearly ten zhang, knowing that he would surely perish if he did not fight to the death, he urged his inner energy, rapidly circulating it three times to dissipate the remaining power of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra. Without hesitation, he soared into the air and pounced on Yelü Changsheng again. Mo Lianfeng seemed to come alive, tearing through the void, striking his opponent's back in a beautiful, natural arc. His body was entirely driven by the sword, both natural and fluid, like an eagle soaring in the sky or a fish swimming in shallow water—a masterpiece of genius, absolutely brilliant. It was none other than the fifth move, "Shifting Stars and Changing the Universe."
Apart from Zhao Guangyi, no one had expected Ye Zhi Qiu to be so tenacious, able to ralli and fight to the death even after suffering repeated blows from Yelü Changsheng.
Even with Yelü Changsheng's skill and insight, he still misjudged the situation. He hadn't expected Ye Zhiqiu to recover so quickly after taking the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra head-on, nor had he anticipated that Ye Zhiqiu could turn the tide of his retreat. What was particularly troubling was that Ye Zhiqiu's seemingly simple sword strike had created a vast wall of energy, pressing in on him. For the first time, Yelü Changsheng doubted his own ability to withstand his opponent's attack.
A dazzling light flashed, and the life force and death energy of heaven and earth concentrated at Mo Lianfeng's blade. Even the bright sunlight in the sky instantly dimmed! This feeling was extremely strange and eerie, inexplicable and indescribable.
Thinking of his father's tragic death beneath Xunfeng City, his lifelong reputation ruined, Yelü Changsheng felt a surge of rage.
Since he couldn't find Ren Xiaoyao, he would start with Ye Zhiqiu!
Yelü Changsheng raised his longsword and roared, "You're courting death!" Suddenly, he spun rapidly, transforming into a man-made tornado, rushing towards Mo Lianfeng. Ye Zhiqiu's torrent-like sword energy clashed head-on with Yelü Changsheng's Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra, creating a raging storm that filled the entire training ground.
Ye Zhiqiu suddenly felt his body lighten; all the pressure from his body vanished. Just as he was wondering what was happening, the sword energy he had been using to attack his opponent also instantly dissipated, leaving him feeling weak and powerless.
At that moment, Yelü Changsheng's eyes shot out a deep, unfathomable light. His right hand, holding his longsword to Mo Lianfeng, cleaved his left hand into a knife shape with his fingers and slashed forward. What seemed like a simple move was, in the eyes of experts like Zhao Guangyi, a hidden, sharp, and sinister power. It was elusive and left no opening. Even if Ye Zhi Qiu were in his normal state, he would find it difficult to avoid, let alone be restrained by it. If it struck his body, it would be like being struck solidly by the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra; no amount of protective energy could save his life.
Ye Zhi Qiu never expected his opponent to have such a move, not only neutralizing his swift and fierce swordplay but also instantly placing him in a precarious situation surrounded by enemies.
Princess Hua Yu cried out in shock, and the civil and military officials involuntarily stood up, all drenched in sweat.
At the critical moment, Ye Zhi Qiu suddenly released his grip, spinning like a windmill and rolling away.
Yelü Changsheng was overjoyed, thinking, "You were forced to disarm yourself to protect yourself; how can you fight me now?" Before the excitement had even subsided, Mo Lianfeng, suspended in mid-air, was drawn back into Ye Zhi Qiu's palm by a certain aura, tracing an ethereal and graceful arc.
What kind of skill was this? Ye Lü Changsheng's heart skipped a beat.
Ye Zhi Qiu seemed to see through his thoughts and coldly said, "The fifth move of the Tianya Aoxue Sword—'Shifting Stars and Changing the Universe'—its wonder lies in the four characters 'Shifting Stars and Changing the Universe.' No matter how powerful the opponent's internal energy is, it can still be used by oneself. Although I cannot grasp the characteristics of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra and cannot use it to injure the enemy, it is still easy to get Mo Lianfeng back into my hand... No matter how profound King Ye Lü's internal energy is, it still needs to be transmitted into the opponent's body through a weapon to injure the enemy. If I discard my sword after each move, let's see what you can do to me." After speaking, he let out a long roar, and Mo Lianfeng emitted a buzzing sound as it thrust out diagonally. At the same time, it moved to the right with lightning speed, its feet leaping off the ground by an inch, as if it were floating, its posture so graceful that it was flawless.
Yelü Changsheng staggered slightly, momentarily stunned. Ye Zhiqiu, with unpredictable speed, traversed more than three zhang (approximately 10 meters) and swept towards Yelü Changsheng's left. Mo Lianfeng flashed several times, slashing across his neck with fluid, natural movements.
Yelü Changsheng let out a cold smile, his spinning motion abruptly ceasing as if it had never happened. Without dodging, yielding, or avoiding, he met Mo Lianfeng's attack head-on, the blade flashing with azure light.
The two clashed again.
The energy exploded, producing a deafening roar like muffled thunder.
Ye Zhiqiu indeed abandoned his sword, the strange energy of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra completely missing its mark.
Yelü Changsheng laughed heartily, his longsword conjuring up unparalleled and profound techniques, attacking Ye Zhiqiu like a storm.
Just as Ye Zhiqiu had secured Mo Lianfeng, Yelü Changsheng immediately attacked. With seemingly illusory yet incredibly skillful techniques, he pierced through Ye Zhiqiu's hastily constructed sword net, aiming for his vital point near the nose. The once invincible Mo Lianfeng had become nothing more than a useless, defensive decoy.
Ye Zhiqiu remained calm under pressure. In the instant that all the officials and ministers were unwilling to witness the outcome, Mo Lianfeng's sword hilt swung back, forcefully blocking Yelü Changsheng's seemingly divine strike at the last moment.
Zhao Guangyi exclaimed, "Oh no! Yelü Changsheng is launching a full-scale attack! If Zhiqiu abandons his sword, Mo Lianfeng might not even be back in his grasp before he's taken advantage of. But if he doesn't abandon his sword, how can he defend against the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra?" Yelü
Changsheng laughed loudly, "General Ye is already at his limit. It's better to abandon your sword and admit defeat." With that, his sleeves billowed out, and he pushed out, causing the surrounding energy to rapidly converge!
Ye Zhi Qiu felt as if struck by lightning, his vision blurred, his blood surged, and his internal organs felt as if they were being turned inside out. His body felt as if it were about to crumble into dust, and he was thrown involuntarily towards Yelü Changsheng. He
was horrified. "Yan... Demon Extinguishing! This... how is this possible!" Zhao Guangyi, who had already stood up, stared in disbelief, then slumped back onto his dragon throne, exclaiming incredulously.

Volume Twenty-Five: Imperial Palace Bestows Treasures, Chapter Five: Everlasting Victory is

Unbeatable. The Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra is divided into thirteen levels. The first seven levels are unremarkable, but from the eighth level onwards, it reveals extraordinary power. Reaching the tenth level is enough to dominate the martial world, and with each subsequent level, its power doubles. Twenty years ago, Hentian had only reached the eleventh level of Dark Fiend Blood Flame, yet he already struck fear into the hearts of heroes in the Central Plains. This twelfth level, Yama's Exhaustion, could simultaneously seal an opponent's senses of touch, smell, taste, sight, and hearing when their power was pushed to its limit. Yelü Deguang's great victory over a monk, two companions, and three swordsmen was precisely due to this technique. Ye Zhiqiu's current cultivation was still inferior to Dugu Yu's back then; how could he possibly contend with Yama's Exhaustion on his own? Let alone defeating Yelü Changsheng, simply surviving would be a stroke of luck.
Zhao Guangyi was filled with regret; he hated himself for underestimating Yelü Changsheng and for gambling with his daughter's life!
Ye Zhiqiu, in the arena, was well aware that if Yelü Changsheng were to unleash his full demonic power, he would surely perish. Gritting his teeth, he pushed his power to its limit, employing ever-changing movements, seemingly advancing and retreating, rising and falling, attempting to break free from the shackles of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra. However, Yelü Changsheng's irresistible force swept in like a long wind, leaving Ye Zhi Qiu with no way to dodge. He could only use his protective inner energy to block the attack head-on. "Boom!" Ye Zhi Qiu was like a leaf blown by a gale, tumbling and rolling in the air, thrown far away. Although he was sore and numb from the impact, Ye Zhi Qiu was relieved that he wasn't trapped in a spider web as Long Feiyun had described, and planned to seize the opportunity to regulate his breathing before fighting again later.
Little did he know that Yelü Changsheng's energy was like a leech, clinging to his bones. No matter how he shifted his stance, dodged, or leaped, it remained a constant threat to his back. The feeling of helplessness and frustration was indescribable. If this continued, he would surely exhaust his true energy and die.
Ye Zhi Qiu roared and unleashed all his power, launching a flawless, unrestrained sword strike. The accumulated true energy erupted from his dantian like a torrent, instantly flowing through his eight extraordinary meridians, and with highly concentrated force, it shot through the air from the tip of Mo Lianfeng's sword.
Yelü Changsheng sneered, forming a dense, storm-like energy shield that made it difficult for his opponent to breathe.
Ye Zhi Qiu took a deep breath, his mind clear and serene, as if nothing in the world could escape his senses. With a series of swift, powerful strikes, he unleashed over a dozen sword strikes, each more ferocious than the last. A sudden burst of azure light erupted, like a torrential downpour of wind and rain, a lightning bolt. The chilling sword energy swirled left and right, its angles and arcs completely unexpected, crashing against the enemy like a raging torrent. Every move was a desperate gamble, utterly disregarding his own safety, displaying an unwavering and resolute determination.
Everyone thought Ye Zhi Qiu would turn the tide and snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, except for Zhao Guangyi, who slowly shook his head.
Sure enough, Ye Zhi Qiu unleashed a series of brilliant moves, regaining a slight advantage. Just as he was about to launch a full-scale counterattack, he suddenly saw stars, felt excruciating pain all over his body, and a sweet taste rose in his throat. He coughed up a mouthful of blood, followed by a dizzying spin in his head, and he swayed precariously.
Ye Zhi Qiu gritted his teeth and forced himself to stand, only to suddenly realize he was blind. The shock in his heart was indescribable.
Yelü Changsheng seized the opportunity and slashed his sword, leaving a short gash in Ye Zhi Qiu's ribs with a "whoosh." Fortunately, Ye Zhi Qiu still had eight-tenths of his protective inner energy remaining, and Yelü Changsheng was wielding an ordinary iron sword; otherwise, this single move would have been enough to kill him instantly.
Ye Zhi Qiu, a veteran of countless battles, even without sight, still tried to discern Yelü Changsheng's movements through hearing. However, when he focused his energy in his eardrums, he felt a buzzing sound and could hear nothing at all.
Yelü Changsheng struck again, and blood gushed from Ye Zhi Qiu's chest and abdomen. His whole body trembled violently, and he staggered backward. Blood seeped from his wounds, staining his clothes. His remaining inner energy rapidly depleted. No matter how resolute his fighting spirit or how high his morale, he could not overcome the limitations of his physical strength and was gradually declining.
A gasp of shock rippled through the crowd!
Anyone could see that Ye Zhi Qiu was already in the greatest crisis since the start of the decisive battle.
Zhao Guangyi, with his sharp eyes, noticed from afar that Ye Zhi Qiu's lips twitched slightly and his chest heaved rapidly, as if he sensed something amiss, but couldn't quite articulate it.
Ye Zhi Qiu roared to the sky, his sword aura expanding into a sky full of sword shadows, each point sharp, his energy surging like boiling water, protecting his entire body with a majestic and imposing aura, waiting only for his sight and hearing to return so he could immediately launch a counterattack.
At this moment, he had no thoughts of victory or defeat, only knowing to go all out and perish with his enemy.
Yelü Changsheng sneered, "It's useless. Unless I withdraw my power, you'll never escape in your lifetime." With that, he thrust his sword forward three steps, his condensed sword energy surging forth.
Princess Huayu, her face pale, cried out in anguish, "Brother Ye, please stop! Please... please stop!"
Yelü Changsheng laughed triumphantly, "Hahaha, Ye Zhiqiu has been struck by my Yama's Exhaustion Technique! Even if the princess screams her lungs out, he won't hear her!" With that, the tip of his longsword transformed into a point of sharp light, slowly piercing towards Ye Zhiqiu in a strange arc.
His moves were unremarkable, and even unnaturally slow, but the onlookers, Huyan Zan and Cao Bin, clearly understood that Yelü Changsheng's sword technique contained speed within slowness, a masterful feat of seemingly clumsy skill. Though there were no visible changes, a thousand variations were contained within, as boundless as the universe, without limit. The resulting powerful wind was concentrated and unyielding, increasing rather than decreasing, locking down his opponent. Even if Ye Zhiqiu were blind, or recovered, he would be utterly unable to withstand it.
In a flash, the blade pierced through his body, a cold flash accompanied by a red glint, and Ye Zhiqiu's shoulder was instantly torn apart by blood and flesh! He felt countless sharp, sinister energies piercing him, a searing pain shooting through his heart, as if countless tiny blades were about to shatter his collarbone in an instant.
Was the battle already decided? No!
Ye Zhi Qiu suddenly roared fiercely, his eyes bloodshot, turning to glare fiercely at his opponent. At the same time, his spine straightened and shoulders tensed, Mo Lian Feng moved to his left hand and slashed out
with a whooshing sound. The energy that had gathered at its peak surged and swirled at the blade, forming wave after wave of chilling energy that surged towards his opponent like a raging torrent crashing down on a chasm. Yelü Chang Sheng's robes billowed wildly without wind, as if he were trapped in a storm circle, surrounded by whistling sword shadows and flashes of light. The wind howled in his ears, and his whole body ached as if being pricked by needles.
Zhao Guangyi finally realized what was happening and exclaimed, "Zhi Qiu still has his sense of touch! He deliberately let Yelü Changsheng hit him to find out his opponent's location, and then..."
"The chaos of the mortal world is severed!" Before he could finish speaking, Ye Zhi Qiu roared to the sky, and Mo Lianfeng swiftly slashed down, striking Yelü Changsheng squarely in the chest. The sword's power erupted like a thunderbolt, unstoppable.
"Ah—" Yelü Changsheng, struck by the final, incomparably powerful move of the Tianya Aoxue Sword, had almost all his strength depleted. He stumbled and collapsed, trying to get up, but his strength was insufficient. A surge of qi rose from his dantian, and he coughed up several mouthfuls of blood. Yelü Lishe and Yelü Ji rushed forward to support him.
Ye Zhi Qiu, using his sword to support himself, remained standing, his body riddled with wounds, his appearance gruesome, his robe already stained crimson with blood.
In terms of injuries, Ye Zhi Qiu's were indeed much more serious than Yelü Chang Sheng's, but in the end, he still won.

Volume Twenty-Five: Imperial Palace Bestows Treasures, Chapter Six:

A Perfect Match. After a brief silence, thunderous cheers erupted throughout the arena.
Zhao Guangyi personally rose from his seat, walked to the center of the training ground, helped his beloved disciple, patted him on the shoulder in encouragement, and then turned to Yelü Chang Sheng, saying in a deep voice, "Your Majesty Yelü, do you know why you lost?"
Yelü Chang Sheng abruptly pushed aside Yelü Li She and Yelü Ji, his tiger eyes widening as he stared intently at Ye Zhi Qiu. His pale face gradually regained its color, and he slowly uttered two words: "Underestimating the enemy!"
Zhao Guangyi's expression was solemn as he nodded, saying, "That's right. Your cultivation is far superior to Zhi Qiu's, yet you relied on your bravery, repeatedly abandoning your attacks when the situation was favorable, giving him a chance to breathe, so that you could humiliate him in public; Zhi Qiu's inner..." "Your skill is far inferior to the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra. Dark Fiend Blood Flame alone would have been enough to win, yet you insisted on using Yama's Exhaustion Technique, hoping to instantly destroy his five senses and force him to admit defeat. Yama's Exhaustion Technique is the highest level of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra; even with your profound knowledge, it's difficult to achieve mastery at such a young age. Furthermore, Zhi Qiu's intelligence is not weak either, so you could only suppress his sight and hearing, but not his touch, leading to your failure."
Yelü Changsheng's eyes flashed with a fierce light as he coldly said, "Your Majesty is right. One day I will settle this score with General Ye, doubly against him!" With that, he turned and left. Huyan Zan
scolded in a low voice, "How dare you..."
Zhao Guangyi waved his hand to interrupt, loudly announcing, "Lü Yijian, escort King Yelü out."
Lü Yijian accepted the order and left.
As the Liao delegation departed one after another, Zhao Guangyi murmured, watching Yelü Changsheng's receding figure, "After this battle, Yelü Changsheng will surely shed his former arrogance, diligently study, and work hard. I believe this man will become a great threat to our dynasty sooner or later. Zhi Qiu, you are my carefully cultivated disciple, you must never lose to him in the future."
Ye Zhi Qiu was seriously injured and in great pain, and before he could reply, Zhao Guangyi had already pulled him up to the high platform of the training ground and announced loudly, "In front of all the civil and military officials and the imperial guards, I have to announce some great news. I have chosen Ye Zhi Qiu as the consort for my most beloved daughter, Princess Hua Yu!"
As soon as these words were spoken, the training ground erupted in cheers. Regardless of Ye Zhi Qiu's special status, his valiant performance in the competition was enough to match Princess Hua Yu, making them a perfect couple, a match made in heaven.
Princess Huayu blushed, her face flushed with shyness, and Empress Zhaoxian was also overjoyed. She and Zhao Guangyi had solemnly summoned Ye Zhiqiu to the palace to announce this matter, and with the assembled officials as witnesses, it was naturally the best course of action.
Ye Zhiqiu had long worried about this matter, but now he had seen through everything.
In the life-or-death struggle with Yelü Changsheng just now, Ye Zhiqiu finally understood who he loved.
In that life-or-death moment, the person who flashed into his mind was none other than—Shishi.
Princess Huayu's breathtaking beauty could never compare to the feelings that had lingered in Ye Zhiqiu's heart for ten years.
Ye Zhi Qiu knelt down, his face solemn, and said, "Your Majesty, I..."
Zhao Guangyi quickly helped him up, saying with concern, "Zhi Qiu, you are injured; there's no need for such formalities."
Empress Zhaoxian smiled happily, "Yes, you and the Emperor are not only teacher and student, but will also be father-in-law and son-in-law in the future..."
Ye Zhi Qiu revealed a rare solemn expression, cupped his hands, and said, "Your Majesty, please rescind your decree. This humble subject already has someone he loves, and I am ashamed to marry the princess."
Zhao Guangyi was taken aback at first, then flew into a rage, and shouted sharply, "What?!" "You already have someone you love? Who is she? Who is she really? Can she compare to my Hua Yu?"
Ye Zhi Qiu thought to himself, "I also love your daughter, but if I were to say it in public, it would inevitably affect the reputations of both Shi Shi and Princess Hua Yu." So he said, "This matter is far-reaching and cannot be explained in a few words. Could you allow me to report this to His Majesty in private?"
Before Zhao Guangyi could speak, Princess Hua Yu's eyes suddenly reddened and swelled, then two crystal tears welled up in the corners of her eyes. She stood up abruptly and ran crying towards the inner palace.
The ministers looked at each other in astonishment. Zhao Guangyi waved his sleeve and said, "You...you have disappointed me greatly!" With that, he turned and left. Now it was Ye Zhi Qiu's turn to be stunned, at a loss for words.
Empress Zhaoxian walked to his side, sighed softly, and said gently, "Zhiqiu... go to the Imperial Hospital to have your wound bandaged first, then go back to the inn to rest for the night. Come to the palace to explain tomorrow morning after His Majesty has calmed down."
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
During dinner time, Princess Huayu stayed alone in Chuxiu Palace, facing the lonely lamp, secretly weeping.
The palace maids and eunuchs discreetly avoided her, afraid of angering the princess and suffering the consequences.
Zhao Guangyi sent people to invite her several times, but she turned them away from the palace. Even when Empress Zhaoxian came in person, she ignored her, sitting by the bedside, silently weeping.
For ten years, she had always remembered every detail of the three months she spent with Ye Zhiqiu in her childhood. Even in the deep palace, she had never forgotten this resilient and strong-willed young man.
Every two weeks, secret reports about the Four Heroes of the Martial World would arrive. Zhao Guangyi would read them all carefully, but she would only look at the reports about Ye Zhiqiu, even more concerned about his every move in the martial world than Zhao Guangyi, who was his teacher. From Ye Zhi Qiu's initial feat of defeating the three tyrants of Lulong in Hebei to becoming the leader of the Green Forest Alliance across thirteen provinces by defeating numerous heroes at Jinji Ridge, from forming a sworn brotherhood with Xiong Xiaotian, Xiao Xingchen, and Ye Zhi Qiu at the Shaolin Temple Conference to helping the Tianji Army defeat the Liao army at the Battle of Xunfeng, every success of Ye Zhi Qiu brought her endless joy.
Out of a woman's reserve, she didn't recount this past event when she first met Ye Zhi Qiu at the Wende Hall. Later, as they grew closer, she still didn't bring it up, waiting for her beloved to bring it up first. However, Ye Zhi Qiu, besides treating her better and better, showed no sign of forgetting the past. Although their relationship grew increasingly intimate, it always lingered outside the realm of lovers. Therefore, she took the initiative to propose to Empress Zhaoxian that Ye Zhi Qiu be her husband, and Empress Zhaoxian then presented the proposal to Zhao Guangyi. Zhao Guangyi, believing that they had already explained everything, readily agreed, thus leading to the scene of the arranged marriage at the military training ground.
For any young girl experiencing her first stirrings of love, the heartless rejection of her beloved is a profound humiliation and blow, especially since her feelings for Ye Zhi Qiu were not a fleeting infatuation, but a decade-long, bittersweet longing.
Ye Zhi Qiu openly declared to the court officials that he loved another, implying that Princess Hua Yu was inferior to another woman.
Leaving aside her noble status, Princess Hua Yu possessed every quality a woman should have—a beauty that could topple kingdoms, a gentle and compliant nature, and mastery of poetry, lyrics, and prose. Why then did Ye Zhi Qiu love someone else? Was it simply because she was a princess raised in the deep palace, a pampered and spoiled young woman showered with love and care?
Fine, then I will leave Bianjing and venture into the martial world to prove myself, no less than any other woman.
With this thought, Princess Hua Yu rose gracefully and walked dejectedly towards the door.
Her last words echoed within Chuxiu Palace: "One day I will make you regret not choosing me, Zhao Yushi."

Volume Twenty-Five: The Imperial Palace Bestows Treasures, Chapter Seven: The Princess's Humiliation .

The events at the training ground were known to everyone inside and outside the palace. Princess Huayu, claiming she was going to an inn to find Ye Zhiqiu, passed through the city without hindrance. When she passed Lizheng Gate, Wu Haoming offered to send someone to escort her, but Princess Huayu frowned, her pretty face contorted with rage, and for the first time in her life uttered the word "get lost," frightening him so much that he trembled, bowed, and gave up his mount, obediently stepping aside. Princess Huayu
had made up her mind to leave the palace, but fearing her father's discovery, she kept urging her horse on, her heart pounding with anxiety, silently praying. Finally, she successfully rode out of the city gate.
Seeing no pursuers behind her, Princess Huayu felt somewhat relieved, slowing her horse to conserve energy, and headed south towards Chenliu. As dusk approached, the sky gradually darkened, and Princess Huayu suddenly realized that the surrounding area was deserted, with no sign of towns or cities, leaving her somewhat bewildered.
After traveling another ten miles or so, she came to a dense forest, which, under the moonlight, seemed veiled in a light mist. Looking further, she could see a few thatched huts. Princess Huayu was delighted, thinking to herself, "I haven't had dinner tonight. I might as well find a farmer's house to stay in, so I can at least have something to eat every day." She immediately spurred her horse forward. She had left the capital with Zhao Guangyi when she was six years old, and had experienced the lives of ordinary people, unlike other princesses who were spoiled and knew nothing of the customs and traditions outside the capital.
Leaving the dense forest, a village came into view, with about twenty households. In front of the village was a round open space, where many adults were playing with children under the moonlight.
Princess Huayu smiled at this leisurely scene, feeling relieved. She immediately dismounted and led her horse slowly towards the houses. Upon reaching the nearest thatched hut, they saw a peasant girl resting against the door, holding a bamboo broom. A hen and her chicks pecked at grains of rice in the open space in front of the hut.
Hearing the sound of hooves, the peasant girl turned to look at Zhao Wanyan, seemingly surprised.
Princess Huayu slowly stepped forward, gave the peasant girl a deep bow, and said softly, "Elder sister, I missed my lodging on the road. Could...could I stay here for the night? I'll leave early tomorrow morning and won't trouble you any further."
Seeing her luxurious clothes and elegant demeanor, the peasant girl knew she was a wealthy young lady and was greatly surprised. She asked in astonishment, "Miss, where are you from? Are you going to the capital?"
Princess Huayu quickly waved her hand, saying, "No, I...I just left the capital. I'm going to Chenliu."
The peasant girl looked grave and said with difficulty, "My home is small, but it's not difficult to make room for you to stay the night. However, the village has been rather unsettled these past few days, and I'm afraid it might frighten you." "Mother."
Princess Huayu paused slightly, then said softly, "Not peaceful? How could that be?"
The peasant girl smiled bitterly, "A few nights ago, several Khitans came near the village. I heard they were spies sent by the Liao Kingdom, but they failed to complete their mission and dared not return. They came for two nights in a row. They stole a lot of grain and killed several people. The leader was particularly ruthless. A dozen or so men from the village worked together and barely managed to drive him away, but they couldn't catch him." She pointed to the chaotic mountains behind the village and said, "They come out to plunder at night and flee into the mountains during the day to avoid capture. I'm afraid they'll come again tonight. If you really want to stay here for the night, please stay in your room and don't come out no matter what happens."
Upon hearing the word "Liao people," Princess Huayu recalled how Yelü Changsheng
, seemingly refined and cultured, had revealed a vicious and ruthless nature during the martial arts competition. Fear gripped her heart, and she hesitated, wondering whether she should stay the night. Seeing her furrowed brows and apparent indecision, the peasant girl thought to herself, "This delicate girl is too fragile to travel through the night; it would only make things more dangerous." She then said, "Miss, you don't need to worry too much. Those Liao people are only robbing; the village men will hold them off for a while and then retreat. Rest assured, as long as you stay inside, you should be safe."
Princess Huayu, realizing there was no other way, replied, "Thank you for your kindness, elder sister. I will repay you handsomely in the future." With that, she tied her horse to the fence and followed the peasant girl into the house.
The peasant girl led Princess Huayu into a side room and said softly, "Miss, this is my third sister's room. She works as a maid in a wealthy family in the city and only comes back once every six months. I hope you'll have to sleep here tonight and that you'll be comfortable."
Princess Huayu was pleased to see that the room, though not spacious, was quite clean and said softly, "Sister,
you're too kind. The room is very nice." The peasant girl smiled and asked, "Miss, what is your surname?"
Princess Huayu answered truthfully, "My surname is Zhao."
The peasant girl said casually, "Miss Zhao, my surname is Sun. The younger people in the village call me Second Sister Sun. You can call me that too.
" Princess Huayu smiled sweetly and said, "Okay, Second Sister Sun."
Second Sister Sun smiled and asked meaningfully, "Miss Zhao, judging from your clothes and appearance, your family must be wealthy. Why are you traveling alone at night?"
Princess Huayu blushed slightly, her expression shy and hesitant. "This...this..." she stammered, thinking of Ye Zhi Qiu. Her heart pounded. How could she possibly express such tender feelings to anyone else? Admitting that her trip was to spite the woman she loved was too difficult; she could only blush deeply. Seeing Princess Huayu's reaction, Sun Erjie seemed to guess her thoughts. She smiled without speaking, quickly tidied the room, and went out to prepare dinner. That evening, Zhao
Wanyan
ate with Sun Erjie and returned to her room. Lying on the kang (heated brick bed), her mind was in turmoil, making it difficult to sleep. She thought to herself, "If Father Emperor knew I had secretly left the palace and traveled south alone, he would be furious. He's probably already sent people to look for me. I must set off immediately tomorrow morning; I absolutely cannot be caught. Hmph, this time I'll make Brother Ye worry!"
Just then, she saw a firelight outside the window, and vaguely heard someone shouting something. Princess Huayu was startled, thinking, "The thieves that Sister Sun mentioned, have they really come?" But
then she heard a cry of surprise, and Sister Sun hurriedly pushed open the door, holding a jujube wood stick in her hand. Her expression was grave as she said, "Miss Zhao, the bandits are here! Hide here and don't make a sound!" Princess Huayu nodded vigorously and retreated to the corner.
The firelight outside flickered, indicating that villagers were running around with torches. The sounds of fighting grew closer, mixed with the crowing of roosters and barking of dogs, creating a noisy commotion. Amidst the clamor, there were also piercing screams.
Sister Sun's face changed slightly, and she said in a trembling voice, "These bandits are really ruthless today."
Before she finished speaking, someone shouted, "Mali Zhaoji, look at this horse!"
Another person exclaimed excitedly, "Hey, what a magnificent steed! Let's rob this house first!"
Princess Huayu was terrified, thinking, "Oh no! General Wu's horse is a fine Ferghana steed; it's bound to attract the thieves' covetous eyes." Just
then, she heard several people shouting, their voices reaching the hall.
Princess Huayu panicked, her voice trembling, "Second Sister Sun, the thieves are coming in..."
Second Sister Sun was also taken aback. She composed herself and said in a low voice, "Climb out the window, quickly!" "
Before the words left her mouth, a burly man in black burst through the door. Sister Yang immediately rushed forward, sweeping a wooden stick across the floor. The room was dimly lit, unlit by candlelight, and the man, caught off guard, was knocked forward by the blow, his forehead hitting the corner of the bed. He groaned and immediately fainted.
In the blink of an eye, two more men rushed in, each carrying a thick-backed machete. One of them held a torch. Seeing his companion sprawled on the floor, he ignored him and began hacking at him with his machete.
Sister Yang, who only had a basic understanding of martial arts, had managed to knock down one of the men unexpectedly, but now faced with two burly men, she panicked and retreated. Seeing Princess Huayu leaning against the wall, seemingly frozen in fear, she panicked and cried out, 'Miss Zhao, quick...run!'
Princess Huayu trembled and said, 'If I leave, what...what will you do?'"
Before Sister Sun could say anything more, her wooden stick was chopped in half with a knife. Her face turned pale instantly. She threw aside the broken stick and stumbled back several steps to Princess Huayu's side. The
two Liao men shone their torches and saw that there were no servants in the room besides the two women. A wicked thought crossed their minds. One of them laughed, "Wonderful! I never thought this remote place would have such beauties." He was about to rush forward.
The other man, seeing Princess Huayu's stunning beauty, was overjoyed but then realized something was amiss. He said, "Brother, wait! I think I've seen this girl before."
The bandit laughed, "If you'd really seen her, you would have already had your fun. Why would she be here?"
Just then, a large, fat figure entered the room and called out, "Mali Zhaoji, Xiao Houde, what are you doing?"
The two bandits turned around immediately. Mali Zhaoji said with a fawning smile, "Commander Yelü, we've caught two young ladies. Do you want to take them back?" He secretly grumbled to himself, "What a pity that the beauty I was about to get has fallen into the hands of my boss again."
Commander Yelü looked at the two women, then suddenly looked surprised and exclaimed, "Eh?"
Princess Huayu said urgently, "I...I am your king's friend, you mustn't act wildly."
Commander Yelü suddenly remembered and said in a trembling voice, "You are the one that King Yelü has taken a liking to...Ah, Princess Huayu!"
Upon hearing this, Mali Zhaoji and Xiao Houde looked at each other with suspicion and asked in astonishment, "You...how are you here? Ye...Ye Zhi Qiu is here too?" "
These men had originally served under Yelü Changsheng, but were forced to flee after their mission failed. They knew perfectly well the relationship between Princess Huayu and Ye Zhiqiu. Upon seeing Princess Huayu, they couldn't help but be paranoid, thinking that Ye Zhiqiu, who was always by her side, was nearby. They were quite frightened, but they were also captivated by Princess Huayu's stunning beauty and were unwilling to leave easily.
Princess Huayu's mind raced. Knowing that he was wary of Ye Zhiqiu, she thought to herself, 'If Brother Ye were here, he wouldn't be afraid of you. How can I scare him and trick these Liao people away?' She was not good at responding to situations, let alone lying. Now, in her panic, she couldn't think of any words to say and stammered, 'Brother Ye... Brother Ye will be here soon...'
Seeing her flustered expression, Commander Yelü thought, 'If Ye Zhiqiu were really here, we would all be dead on the spot. It seems that she is probably just making things up. '" A sinister grin spread across his face. He chuckled and said, "If you've got the guts, call Ye Zhi Qiu out!" He lunged forward to grab Princess Hua Yu.
Seeing him pounce, Sun Erjie grabbed a bamboo broom from the wall and slapped him across the face. Commander Yelü, a martial artist by training, was blinded by lust and carelessly struck by Sun Erjie's broom, his face covered in dust and sand, momentarily blinding him. Taking advantage of the moment, Sun Erjie grabbed Zhao Wanyan's arm and rushed towards the door.
Commander Yelü hastily wiped his face, angrily shouting, "You little bitch, so shameless!" He turned and chased after them. Ma Li Zhaoji and Xiao Houde hurriedly followed.
Sun Erjie and Princess Hua Yu emerged from the house to find several strong peasants fighting a chaotic battle with the thieves, and they were thrown into a panic.
Commander Yelü laughed heartily, "My precious princess, where are you going?" Princess Huayu
was in a panic when she suddenly noticed that her horse had been untied. She realized that Commander Yelü was trying to steal the horse and had come into the house. Seeing that Commander Yelü was getting closer and closer, she had no time to think. She quickly mounted the horse, spurred it on, and galloped wildly out of the village.
Seeing his prize slip away, Commander Yelü was unwilling to give up. He led his men, scattering the men, and pursued them relentlessly, forgetting all thoughts of burning, killing, and looting. However, the bandits had no mounts, and could not match the speed of Princess Huayu on her fine steed. After a chase, they were quickly left far behind.
Princess Huayu, seeing that she was far from the village, still felt her heart pounding like a drum. She breathed a sigh of relief, thinking, "Thank goodness we escaped in time, otherwise I would never have seen Brother Ye again. The able-bodied men in the village must have gathered by now. Sister Sun should be alright, right?"
Just as Princess Huayu was happy to be out of danger, she suddenly heard a horse's neigh, and her mount slowly collapsed. She exclaimed in surprise, "What happened?" Looking closely, she saw blood gushing from the horse's leg, indicating that it had been slashed by the Liao people in the chaos and was seriously injured. The horse had run desperately to escape the danger, but now it could no longer hold on and collapsed.
Princess Huayu tore off a piece of cloth from the hem of her skirt and bandaged the horse's leg wound. She said softly, "My horse, thank you for saving me from this predicament, but I must leave quickly and cannot take care of you. I can only bandage your wound; I am truly sorry. Once you are healed, you can return to the wilderness on your own and will no longer need to be driven."
Princess Huayu stood up, looked back at the path she had come from, and was stunned. She cried out in alarm, "Oh no!" The blood splattered along the way had become a tracking marker, completely exposing her whereabouts. In her panic, she had only wanted to break free, and only now realized that the surrounding trees were dense and the forest deep; she had reached a mountain path. In the deep of night, the faint cawing of crows could be heard.
The horse was injured and had to walk. Princess Huayu had no choice but to hurry forward, fearing the Liao people would pursue her. However, she was physically weak and had been exhausted for a long time. After running for a while, she was already panting heavily, and the trees on both sides were growing increasingly dense.
Princess Huayu's legs were weak from running, and she could no longer support herself. She sat down under an ancient pine tree, leaning against the trunk to rest, wanting only to close her eyes and fall asleep, but she still struggled to keep going. In her drowsy state, she suddenly heard a rustling sound, the sound of footsteps crunching on fallen leaves. Princess Huayu was startled and hurriedly got up, about to run forward again, when suddenly she saw flames rising everywhere. Commander Yelü, with several mountain bandits, surrounded her from all sides, chuckling and saying, "Princess Huayu, you're quite the runner! Coming to this desolate wilderness is perfect, hahaha!"
Princess Huayu cried out and retreated to the tree, her voice trembling, "You...you...what are you going to do?"
Commander Yelü leered, "What am I going to do? Of course, I'm going to do you!" With a wave of his hand, two henchmen rushed forward, grabbing Princess Huayu's arms on either side. Princess Huayu was powerless to resist. She struggled a few times, but to no avail. Tears welled in her eyes as she cried out, "No...no! Brother Ye...he knows...he won't let you off..."
Commander Yelü licked his lips and chuckled, "Having slept with the Emperor's most beloved daughter, even death would be worth it! Besides, Ye Zhi Qiu has to know about this first. I'll take you back and play with you every day until you're exhausted, unable to walk or speak. Then how will you face that boy again? How will you tell him?"
Princess Huayu closed her eyes, tears streaming down her face, and cried out in a sorrowful voice, "Brother Ye..."
At this moment, dark clouds obscured the moon, as if the bright moon couldn't bear to witness this helpless girl being so cruelly violated.
Commander Yelü stepped forward, his eyes filled with greed, and reached out to undress Princess Huayu.

Volume Twenty-Five: Imperial Palace Gifts, Chapter Eight: Lewd Laughter.

"Boom—" A flash of lightning appeared in the sky, and the surrounding silver light flickered slightly before dimming instantly.
“Commander, it’s about to rain, shouldn’t we…” Ma Li Zhaoji said respectfully.
Commander Yelü was just imagining how beautiful and alluring Princess Huayu’s body must be when he was interrupted by his subordinate. He was very impatient and was about to scold him, but then he realized that what the subordinate said was true. He said in a deep voice, “Alright, we’ll talk about it when we get back!”
The bandits obeyed and went with Ma Li Zhaoji and Xiao Houde, who were supporting Princess Huayu as they walked into the mountains. It
was pitch black along the way, and they could faintly hear the cawing of crows. Princess Huayu felt an indescribable fear in her heart, fear of being humiliated, and even more so, an indescribable regret, regretting that she shouldn’t have acted so impulsively and gone out alone.
After traveling for about fifteen minutes, a naturally formed cave appeared before them. Commander Yelü laughed heartily, "Good, we've finally arrived! Brothers, let's go in. We won't have to suffer from the wind and rain anymore." Turning to look at Princess Huayu, he saw fear filling her clear, bright eyes, her body trembling slightly, looking incredibly delicate. A wicked thought arose in his heart again, and he shouted, "Take this girl to the very back, and then slowly ravage her. Hehe, she's the most beautiful girl in the entire Bianjing City. After I've had my fill, all of you brothers can have a share, enjoy yourselves to the fullest, and taste what it's like to be a prince consort!" The bandits shouted loudly, each one extremely excited. Mali Zhaoji and Xiao Houde couldn't wait any longer, and dragged Princess Huayu towards the cave.
In the firelight, the cave appeared to be about three zhang high and seven or eight zhang deep. Turning right, it led to a stone chamber about sixteen zhang in diameter. Commander Yelü stroked Zhao Wanyan's chin, lewdly saying, "Only today do I realize how good the place is. This little girl's moans will be twice as wild!"
Princess Huayu knew her struggles were futile, but she still resisted desperately, pleading in a low voice, "Yelü... Commander Yelü... please let me go back. I'll have my father give you silver and appoint you to a high position."
Commander Yelü wouldn't listen, chuckling sinisterly, "If the emperor knew I'd touched his daughter, he'd..." "If you don't tear me to pieces... hehe, I'm not that fool Ye Zhi Qiu, who has such a beautiful princess by his side but doesn't even touch her, all he does is wait for the title of consort."
Princess Hua Yu blushed and scolded, "You're not allowed to insult Brother Ye!"
Commander Yelü laughed and said, "Fine, then I'll insult you, Princess." With that, he ripped off Princess Hua Yu's soft sable fur coat, revealing a pink brocade silk dress underneath. Her shoulders and forearms were smooth as water against her skin, and her high breasts made the white dress see through. She was slightly damp with fragrant sweat, and in the firelight, her tender skin shone with an alluring sensuality. The bandits' mouths watered, and the sound of them swallowing their saliva was incessant.
Commander Yelü's face hardened, and he said coldly, "I'm going to get something. I don't want to see you when I come back." With that, he swaggered out of the stone chamber, glancing at Princess Huayu as he left, as if to say, "Little beauty, just wait and see what I'm going to do with you.
" Mali Zhaoji asked in astonishment, "Commander, what are you getting for no reason?"
Xiao Houde chuckled, "Is that even a question? Aphrodisiac pills, of course. It's rare to have such a beautiful princess delivered to our door. With the boss's personality, he won't stop until he's done it seven or eight times."
Mali Zhaoji smiled maliciously, "Judging from Princess Huayu's limp appearance, she's definitely still a virgin. If the commander does this to her, she'll faint on the spot. What will we do then?"
Xiao Houde's mind raced, and he lewdly said, "Since we can't have her before the commander, it'll be good to have a few gropes to satisfy our cravings." With that, he reached out and slipped his hand between Princess Huayu's legs.
Princess Huayu cried out and stepped back, but Mali Zhaoji seized the opportunity to grab her, reaching for her breasts. Two others grabbed her hands and feet, pinning her to the ground and vying to assault her body.
Princess Huayu cried out, "No...no..." Tears streamed down her face, but she couldn't stop the lewd acts of the men. Their lewd laughter filled the cave.
Suddenly, a sharp, eerie whistle came from outside the cave, chilling and terrifying.
Strangely, a cold wind swept in as well, and everyone felt a bone-chilling cold, their hearts trembling. It seemed as if their very souls were being drawn away by this ghostly wind. Startled, they were all terrified.
Mali Zhaoji stammered, "Wh...what happened?" Xiao
Houde barely managed to compose himself and whispered, "How would I know? Could it be...could it be..."
Before he could finish speaking, Commander Yelü stumbled into the stone chamber, nearly falling over. His teeth chattered as he gasped, "Ye...Ye Zhiqiu, Ye Zhiqiu has found this place! He...he's right outside the cave!"
The Liao people were horrified, feeling a chill run down their spines, as if their blood had frozen.
Xiao Houde, utterly dejected, said, "Commander, let's run, or we'll all die."
Commander Yelü roared, "Run? Where to? Is there a second door to the cave?"
Mali Zhaoji stammered, "Are we... just going to stay here and wait to die?"
Commander Yelü's mind raced, and he said in a deep voice, "Never mind anything else, let's go outside. You two are holding Princess Huayu hostage; with her as a hostage, Ye Zhi Qiu won't dare to make a move."
The Liao people, trembling with fear, stepped out of the cave. The first thing they saw was Ye Zhi Qiu's cold, icy eyes, filled with endless killing intent. They were terrified and almost lost their footing.
Ye Zhi Qiu focused his gaze and said sharply, "What have you done to Huayu?" His tone was filled with hatred, as if he were ready to rush forward and start a massacre at any moment.
Princess Huayu cried out urgently, "Brother Ye, help! They're trying to assault me! "
Ye Zhi Qiu gave her a reassuring look, then his face immediately hardened, his eyes flashing with murderous intent. He said in a deep voice, "No matter where you come from, release Hua Yu immediately, or else..." He drew his sword with a "whoosh," and said coldly, "or don't blame me for being merciless!" Commander Yelü
tried to remain calm and said loudly, "Commander Ye, as the leader of the Green Forest heroes, surely you know the rules of kidnapping and extortion?"
Ye Zhi Qiu said angrily, "What do you want?"
Commander Yelü sneered, "It's simple. You kneel down and kowtow three times to me, swear to the heavens that you will never pursue us, and then hand over the Heavenly Token. Only then will I release her." "
Princess Huayu cried out, "Brother Ye, no..." Suddenly realizing that if Ye Zhi Qiu didn't agree, she would be brutally violated, she swallowed her words.
Ye Zhi Qiu looked up, seemingly not taking his opponent seriously at all, and said indifferently, "I can only guarantee that I won't cause you any trouble within three months, the rest... don't even think about it!"
Commander Yelü never expected Ye Zhi Qiu to refuse, and couldn't help but show his surprise, threatening, "You... aren't you afraid that I'll..."
Ye Zhi Qiu coldly interrupted, "Do you dare?"
Commander Yelü was intimidated by his aura and trembled, "I... why wouldn't I dare!"
Ye Zhi Qiu smiled slightly and said coldly, "The Green Forest Alliance of thirteen provinces has more than seven hundred large and small strongholds, each with its own unique torture methods. If you want to go through them all, feel free to try and harm Huayu. "
Commander Yelü's lips twitched uncontrollably, clearly terrified. He cried out in alarm, "Ye Zhiqiu, don't push your luck! Be careful, or I'll slash this little wench's face twice and then immediately commit suicide... Hahaha, Princess Huayu's disfigurement is worse than killing her, isn't it?" With that, he shakily drew his broadsword, waving it near Princess Huayu's beautiful face, attempting to threaten her. Ye
Zhiqiu's eyes flashed with a sharp light. He slowly stepped forward, stopping abruptly two zhang away from the Liao people, staring at Commander Yelü and saying, "Do you think your blade is faster, or my sword?" "As he spoke, Mo Lianfeng trembled, producing a sound that seemed capable of shaking valleys and awe-inspiring the heart.
Commander Yelü, being a secret agent, knew Ye Zhiqiu's abilities, yet he sensed something unusual about Ye Zhiqiu's sword-drawing, but couldn't quite put his finger on it. He tentatively asked, "If we return Princess Huayu to you, you...you really will let us go?"
Ye Zhiqiu's tiger-like eyes widened, and he rebuked, "Hmph, have you ever heard of me going back on my word?"
Xiao Houde trembled, "Three months is too short, how about six months...is six months alright?"
Ye Zhiqiu resolutely replied, "No! You have ulterior motives towards Huayu, and should be torn to pieces. If it weren't for saving her, you wouldn't live a single day! In three months, I will issue an order to mobilize the Green Forest Alliance of thirteen provinces to search for you. Once I catch you, you will be torn apart by five horses!" The Liao
people looked at each other, unsure whether to fight back or stay in Song territory. They were all doomed, unable to withstand Ye Zhi Qiu's divine power. Releasing the prisoners meant certain death if they fled back to Liao, and also if they stayed. They hesitated.
Ye Zhi Qiu coldly said, "I will count to ten. If you don't release them after ten, I will unleash a massacre! One…two…three…"
By four, the Liao people were drenched in sweat; by six, Ma Li Zhao Ji and Xiao Hou De were completely out of control; by eight, Commander Yelü finally yielded, trembling, "Release…release them!" He collapsed to the ground, his clothes soaked with sweat.
"Brother Ye!" Princess Hua Yu, finally free from Ye Zhi Qiu's clutches, cried out and threw herself into his arms, tears streaming down her face. She choked out, "They were going to bully me, I…I was so scared." Ye
Zhi Qiu hugged Princess Hua Yu tightly, stroking her cloud-like hair, and comforted her, "Hua Yu, don't cry. Your brother Ye has come to save you."
Princess Hua Yu wiped away her tears with her sleeve, clung tightly to her lover, and nodded, "Yes, Hua Yu won't cry. With your brother Ye here, Hua Yu won't cry."
Ye Zhi Qiu said softly, "The Emperor was extremely worried when he heard you suddenly disappeared. Let's hurry back so he won't worry." He patted Princess Hua Yu's back, signaling her to set off quickly.
Princess Hua Yu's pretty face flushed, and she hurriedly let go of his arms. Just as she was about to pull Ye Zhi Qiu to get the horses, she suddenly noticed a large bloodstain on his shoulder and exclaimed in surprise, "Brother Ye, your...your injury hasn't healed yet?" "
Ye Zhi Qiu cried out in alarm, quickly signaling her to shut up. Princess Hua Yu, overwhelmed with shock, didn't immediately understand his meaning and continued, "After returning to the palace, I'll speak to my father and have him send the best imperial physician to set your broken bones."
Upon hearing this, the Liao people immediately surrounded her.

(Volume 25: Imperial Palace Treasures, Chapter 9: Crescent Moon Birthmark)

A fleeting look of shock crossed Ye Zhi Qiu's face, but he calmly sneered, "What, are you tired of living? We let you go, but you won't leave. Do you all want to die?"
Commander Yelü laughed loudly, saying, "I found it strange earlier, but now, after hearing Princess Hua Yu's words, I finally remember. You, Ye Zhi Qiu, use a sword in your right hand, but Mo Lianfeng is in your left. Hahaha… You must have been injured by King Yelü and are unable to wield it." "He was extremely arrogant, even addressing Ye Zhi Qiu by his given name.
Before Ye Zhi Qiu could speak, Princess Hua Yu interjected, "Hmph, even though Brother Ye has broken his right shoulder and collarbone, dealing with you is still a piece of cake."
The Liao people, who had been hesitant, immediately abandoned their last bit of fear upon hearing her words and stepped forward with smirks.
Ma Li Zhao Ji said smugly, "Before we fled, we heard King Yelü mention that when he led his envoy to pay homage to the Song Emperor, he would have a martial arts contest with Ye Zhi Qiu to win Princess Hua Yu. It seems you not only lost but were also severely injured by the King. Princess Hua Yu refused to marry him, so she ran away from the palace, giving us brothers a free ride."
Ye Zhi Qiu remained calm and said indifferently, "If I hadn't defeated Yelü Chang Sheng, would I have needed to come all this way to save Hua Yu? What are Dark Fiend Blood Flame, Yama's Exhaustion Technique, and Heavenly Dao Divine Skill compared to them? Since you're tired of living, I have no choice but to take action." "Two hours ago, he received news that Princess Huayu had suddenly left the palace, exiting the city through the south gate and disappearing without a trace. He rushed out in a panic, following the hoofprints to the village where Princess Huayu had previously stayed. After asking Sun Erjie, he learned that Princess Huayu had led the Liao people away alone, and only then did he reach the cave. Unfortunately, he was severely injured by Yelü Changsheng, with multiple broken collarbones and ribs, and serious internal injuries. The long journey of several hours had caused his wounds to reopen, making it difficult for him to even stand.
Xiao Houde remained unmoved, coldly saying, 'If you still have the skill and are confident you can snatch her from the commander, is it necessary to let us go in exchange for Princess Huayu's safety?'
... Mari Zhaoji echoed, 'That's right, Commander, I think Ye Zhiqiu is at his last gasp. Why don't we all attack together and tear him to pieces!'" Even though Ye
Zhi Qiu was extremely intelligent, he didn't know how to dissuade the other party from taking action. He hurriedly gestured to Princess Hua Yu to let her mount her horse and run away first, but Princess Hua Yu was already so frightened that her pretty face turned pale and she was flustered and had no strength to move.
Commander Yelü drew his thick-backed ghost-head saber with a "whoosh" and roared, "Ye Zhiqiu, your illustrious reputation has been wasted, and today you will die in this desolate valley!"
Ye Zhiqiu raised his eyebrows and drew his sword to block Xiao Houde's attack! "Dream on!"
Commander Yelü roared, unleashing the Qilian saber technique popular in Liao, attacking Ye Zhiqiu with heavy and fierce force. Xiao Houde took out a steel whip from his robes and rushed forward from the left rear, lashing Ye Zhiqiu's back. Mali Zhaoji let out a low growl and struck with both palms against the chest, employing a dangerous close-quarters combat tactic.
If Ye Zhiqiu still possessed his skills, he would not fear these mere Liao dogs. However, his current skill was below the normal level. A slight mistake would not only bring him harm but also implicate Princess Huayu. He immediately exhaled deeply, focused his mind on defense, and waited for the enemy's attack. Find an opening in the enemy's momentum and then counterattack.
Xiao Houde, unaware of his own limitations, launched a preemptive attack, leaving his chest wide open. Ye Zhiqiu used the "Wind and Smoke Fish and Snow" sword technique to deflect the long whips and broadswords attacking from the left and right, then seized the opportunity to strike Xiao Houde's Tanzhong acupoint. The Tanzhong acupoint is the sea of qi in the human body, extremely vital. Xiao Houde cried out in pain, his obese body flying backward and crashing to the ground, tumbling several times before becoming unable to move.
Commander Yelü and Mali Zhaoji, realizing that even a centipede with a hundred legs doesn't die easily, dared not underestimate their enemy any longer. They coordinated their attacks, their moves precise and disciplined. Not a single leak.
Ye Zhiqiu's limbs were numb and his blood was churning. Even with countless exquisite moves, he could
n't unleash them. He secretly groaned, knowing he wouldn't last much longer, and could only hope that Wu Haoming's Imperial Guards would arrive quickly. Princess Huayu watched her lover fight two enemies alone, her palms sweating profusely, her heart pounding anxiously. She couldn't help but regret not learning some martial arts from her father so she could help now.
While she was worrying, Princess Huayu suddenly felt a gust of wind behind her. Startled, she cried out and turned to see several Liao people surrounding her. They coveted Princess Huayu's extraordinary skills. Seeing the chieftain locked in a fierce battle with Ye Zhi Qiu, the man seized the opportunity to assault her, pinning her against a boulder and groping her haphazardly, ignoring her terrified expression.
Ye Zhi Qiu caught a glimpse of this and flew into a rage. Forgetting his own safety, he charged through the encirclement of Commander Yelü and Mali Zhaoji, sword in hand, and charged forward. The Liao soldiers, preoccupied with taking advantage of Princess Hua Yu, were caught off guard by his sudden attack and were instantly struck by his sword; several died on the spot in the blink of an eye.
Ye Zhi Qiu arrived swiftly, grabbed Princess Hua Yu, and held her tightly in his arms, softly asking, "Hua Yu, are you alright?" Princess Huayu
, her initial shock subsiding, suddenly cried out, "Brother Ye, your...your right leg..."
Ye Zhiqiu then felt a sharp pain in the back of his right knee. In his haste to save her, he had exposed his weakness and been viciously struck by Commander Yelü's blade. Fortunately, the blade hadn't penetrated deeply enough to damage the bones.
Commander Yelü roared and charged forward, giving Ye Zhiqiu no chance to catch his breath. Mali Zhaoji followed closely behind, whipping his weapon, while the other Liao soldiers surrounded them to assist.
The situation was perilous. Ye Zhiqiu had no time to think, ignoring his injury, and forcefully channeled his inner energy. Mo Lianfeng's azure light blazed brightly, transforming into a rain of swords that seemed to unleash a fierce, overwhelming force, like a thousand horses charging towards him.
As swords clashed, Commander Yelü suddenly felt his blood surge and was thrown back by the impact.
Seeing Ye Zhi Qiu's sudden increase in power, Ma Li Zhaoji, in shock, slowed the momentum of his whip, which was then struck squarely by Mo Lianfeng and snapped in two. The remaining approaching bandits were all sent flying, crashing into trees or falling to the ground, each seriously injured. It was a pity Ye Zhi Qiu had little power left; otherwise, none of them would have survived.
Ye Zhi Qiu forcefully used his "Hidden Fragrance Fills the Sleeves, Dream of Splendor," but felt an unbearable tightness in his chest, his blood surging, and several wounds on his body burst open, bleeding profusely. He almost lost his footing and groaned in pain.
Princess Hua Yu said in a trembling voice, "Brother Ye! You..."
Ye Zhi Qiu turned and smiled, enduring the pain, "Don't worry, it's just a minor injury, no problem!" He then rallied his spirits, sealed his acupoints with his fingers, raised his head, and coldly said, "Anyone who wants to die, come and get it." "
The bandits, intimidated by the remaining force, dared not advance, and most even retreated a few steps.
Commander Yelü was secretly puzzled. If Ye Zhi Qiu was already at his limit, there was no way he could have shaken him off. If he wasn't, why didn't he press his advantage and instead appeared to be struggling?
Was this the truth? Or was it a trap?
As he pondered, Commander Yelü suddenly remembered that he still had dozens of hidden weapons in his pocket. Overjoyed, he pulled them out without hesitation and launched them at Princess Hua Yu from a distance.
Ye Zhi Qiu, seeing the countless cold stars flying towards him, some flashing with blue light, recognized them as bone-piercing nails coated with deadly poison. Without hesitation, he brandished his sword and shielded Princess Hua Yu.
A clang rang out..." The clanging sounds were incessant. A dense barrage of hidden weapons vanished without a trace under Mo Lianfeng's chilling sword aura. In his desperation, Ye Zhiqiu completely forgot to conserve his dwindling internal energy, panting heavily.
The Liao people immediately realized that Ye Zhiqiu's burst of power was fleeting, and they roared as they charged forward again.
Just as Ye Zhiqiu parried Yelü Commander's ghost-head saber, Mali Zhaoji threw down his broken whip, retrieved an iron rod from somewhere, and brought it crashing down on his head. Unable to block, Ye Zhiqiu could only feign a parry. Mo Lianfeng feinted, and as Mali Zhaoji charged in, he suddenly shifted half a step, dodging at the crucial moment. Mo Lianfeng then unleashed a lightning-fast strike, striking from Mali... Zhao Ji's nose brushed past, nearly splitting his body open.
Princess Hua Yu was filled with regret, lamenting that her lover was injured and powerless; otherwise, Ma Li Zhao Ji would not have survived.
Suddenly, a lewd-looking Liao man with shifty eyes appeared beside her, reaching out to grab Princess Hua Yu, trying to pull her away from Ye Zhi Qiu.
Princess Hua Yu cried out in surprise, dodging backward, but he grabbed her brocade dress, tearing off a large piece with a "rip."
Ye Zhi Qiu feigned a move, forcing back Commander Yelü and Ma Li Zhao Ji, then turned and shouted, "Hua Yu, you..." Before he could finish speaking, a crescent-shaped, bright red birthmark on Princess Hua Yu's neck came into view. (

Volume 25, Chapter 10: Imperial Palace Gifts) Was it

her? Was it really her?
Yes, it was her, it really was her!
Was it her? It was actually her?
Yes, who else could have that crescent-shaped birthmark!
The poetess he had longed for, yearned for day and night, the one who had lingered in his heart for ten years, was now so close!
Time seemed to stand still. Ye Zhi Qiu completely forgot his perilous situation, utterly immersed in boundless joy. He
had searched high and low without finding her, only to have her come to him effortlessly.
All his efforts, inquiring with eunuchs and palace maids, had been in vain; all his careful planning and scheming, trying to subtly explain to Zhao Guangyi, had been in vain; all his risk of deceiving the emperor, refusing the marriage in front of the entire court and tens of thousands of imperial guards, had been in vain…
"Swish—" Commander Yelü seized the opportunity, raising his sword and slashing fiercely. Ye Zhiqiu couldn't dodge in time and was stabbed in the back, spitting out blood as he staggered back.
Commander Yelü took the opportunity to shout, "Brothers, charge! As long as we hack Ye Zhiqiu to pieces, Princess Huayu will be ours!"
The Liao people rushed in from all directions, shouting and surging towards Ye Zhiqiu.
"You are not allowed to harm Huayu!" Recalling their ten-year bitter love affair, and remembering how cruelly he had hurt Princess Huayu, Ye Zhiqiu was overwhelmed with tenderness and remorse. His blood surged, his meridians dilated, and his previously suppressed inner energy erupted from his dantian like a raging torrent, shooting straight to the sword tip!
Mo Lianfeng transformed into a blue light, emitting a hissing sword cry. The chilling aura emanating from the blade was like a torrent breaking through countless obstacles, creating a breach. All things trembled, overwhelmed and unstoppable, its power vast and unparalleled! The
chaos of the mortal world was severed!
The moment the sword strike was unleashed, the overwhelming force instantly engulfed all the surrounding Liao people!
One move, just one move, and the adversity would be over in one move.
After a deafening roar, the Liao people died one after another. Commander Yelü gurgled in his throat, blood slowly spreading across his chest. His once towering body lay sprawled like a mangy dog, motionless.
Ye Zhi Qiu, forcing himself to walk, reached Princess Hua Yu's side. As he was about to remove his outer robe to wrap her delicate body, he was suddenly shocked to find blood gushing from over a dozen wounds all over his body, already staining his entire garment red.
Princess Hua Yu's pretty face turned pale, and she cried out, "Brother Ye… your, your wounds…" Before she could finish speaking, tears welled up in her eyes, and she sobbed uncontrollably.
Ye Zhi Qiu abandoned Mo Lian Feng, coughed violently a few times, blood staining his teeth, and said in a hoarse voice, "Hua Yu, you...you really are Shi Shi?"
Princess Hua Yu hurriedly replied, "Yes, yes, Princess Hua Yu is Zhao Yu Shi, and Zhao Yu Shi is Princess Hua Yu. What, you didn't know?"
Ye Zhi Qiu gasped for breath, blood dripping down his face, and said intermittently, "If I...if I knew, would I refuse...would I refuse the Emperor's bestowed marriage?"
Princess Hua Yu's delicate body trembled violently. She looked at him with an expression of disbelief. Her fragrant lips trembled several times before she could barely speak, her voice trembling, "So...so the one you love is...is..."
Ye Zhi Qiu's breathing immediately became heavy. He suddenly grasped Princess Hua Yu's soft hand and, with his last bit of strength, slowly said, word by word, "It's you! Shi Shi, I've been looking for you for ten years, I never thought..." Before he could finish speaking, his true energy was blocked at the "Da Zhui" acupoint, his blood and qi surged, and his vision went black. He immediately lost consciousness. After leaving Yangzhou, Ren Xiaoyao continued south with the five women.
Now that his identity had been exposed, Ren Xiaoyao no longer concealed his whereabouts, paying respects to the heroes of the East Sea who had once helped Tingyuxuan search for the Jade Blood Pearl. What was his status now? In the martial world, he was the powerful leader of the Tianji Sect; in the imperial court, he was the Marquis of Champion, personally bestowed by the Emperor; and to the nation and its people, he was a great hero who drove out foreign invaders and protected his homeland. Wherever they passed through towns and cities, not only martial arts practitioners and officials who had received the news, but even ordinary people spontaneously organized to line the streets to welcome him. Even with Ren Xiaoyao's abilities, he was kept extremely busy. Fortunately, Nangong Fengyi managed the household affairs, and Long Feiyun handled external matters, sharing much of the burden. Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, and Lin Yuxiu, on the other hand, indulged in leisure, fully enjoying the diverse and unique local customs and traditions along the way. The group rented a large boat and set sail from Wenzhou to Yanxia Island. Compared to their previous eagerness, this trip was surprisingly leisurely. Nangong Fengzi and Lin Yuxiu even insisted on going to Shuixiu Island to see where Ren Xiaoyao and Shui Furong's love story began. Ren Xiaoyao, fearing the ferocity of sharks, refused. So they pestered Shui Furong, who was already too shy to agree. In their haste, Nangong Fengzi and Lin Yuxiu started acting childish. Ren Xiaoyao tried everything, coaxing and cajoling, but they refused to eat or drink. Finally, Long Feiyun intervened, promising to go after Yi Tianhan was invited out of seclusion. Only then did Nangong Fengzi and Lin Yuxiu finally eat. With Yanxia Island looming in the distance, Shui Furong, thinking of the more than a year she had been separated from her mentor, felt both longing and anxiety. Having wandered the martial world for so long, she was no longer the naive little girl she once was. Memories of Yi Tianhan's painstaking cultivation and patient guidance flooded her mind. Shui Furong wished she could sprout wings and fly back to the little wooden house, to throw herself into her mentor's arms and fawn over him, repeating the actions she had done every day since childhood. "Third Sister, look!" Lin Yuxiu's exclamation snapped Shui Furong out of her reverie. "Fire! The island... the island is on fire!" Shui Furong looked in the direction of the sound and saw thick smoke billowing from Yanxia Island in the distance, obscuring the sky. She couldn't help but cry out in alarm. "It looks like it's not just one or two places burning... Xiaoyao, how could this happen?" Nangong Fengyi stared for a moment, then asked in astonishment. "Perhaps... perhaps lightning struck the trees, causing..." Nangong Fengyi guessed. "Impossible!" Long Feiyun interrupted abruptly. "I asked the fishermen when we went out to sea, and for the past half month, the sea has been calm and sunny, without a single drop of rain, let alone thunder. Xiaoyao, what do you think... Xiaoyao!" She called him several times, but Ren Xiaoyao didn't answer, only staring blankly at the fire. "Furong, if I remember correctly, the woods to the west are where Senior Yi usually practices, right?" After a while, Ren Xiaoyao suddenly said, "And the east side, the place on fire to the east is where the wooden house is." "Um... Master... Master, he won't be alright, will he?" Shui Furong was so anxious that she almost cried. "Don't worry, Senior Yi's martial arts are superb, even a big fire can't hurt him." Nangong Fengzi comforted her gently. "The fire is strange, could it be arson?" Nangong Fengyi guessed. "Of course it is, there's no need to think about it, otherwise why would half the island be on fire?" Lin Yuxiu said innocently and without restraint. “Xiuxiu…” Ren Xiaoyao tried to stop her, but it was too late. “Big brother, Master…” Shui Furong looked at Ren Xiaoyao with tears welling up in her beautiful eyes, her jade-like face capable of breaking his heart, and said sorrowfully, “Will… will someone…” She broke down in sobs. “Don’t worry, there are few people in the world who can do anything to Senior Yi, besides…” Before she could finish speaking, Long Feiyun was suddenly shocked, her pretty face drained of color, and she said in a trembling voice, “Could it be that the Asura Sect and Juesha learned that we went south to sea to invite some seniors to come out of the mountains to help, so… so they decided to strike first.” “Quick, quick, set sail and go to the island to save Master!” Shui Furong cried anxiously, tears streaming down her face. “Furong, don’t cry, don’t cry.” Ren Xiaoyao couldn’t bear to see a woman cry, and he immediately panicked. "In the Battle of Xunfeng, the Absolute Assassins suffered heavy losses. Hentian and the five assassins are all seriously injured and will not recover for a long time. The Asura Sect is far away in the northern desert; it's impossible for them to travel thousands of miles to cause trouble on Yanxia Island," Long Feiyun calmly analyzed. "Besides them, who dares to provoke Master?" Shui Furong's question left Long Feiyun speechless. "Fengyi, you stay here to take care of Xiuxiu and Fengzi. Feiyun, Furong, as soon as the ship docks, we'll attack immediately!" Ren Xiaoyao said slowly, his expression solemn, each word deliberate. (Volume 25: Imperial Palace Bestows Treasures, Chapter 11: Strange Behavior) Yanxia Island was within reach. Without even setting up the deck, Ren Xiaoyao gripped the Ice Soul Frost Sword and swiftly leaped ashore. Long Feiyun and Shui Furong followed closely behind, rushing forward side by side. The surrounding flames turned the sky crimson, crackling and sputtering from tree trunk to tree trunk. Thick smoke billowed from the treetops, birds and beasts fluttered and leaped in panic, and trees crashed down with deafening roars. Ren Xiaoyao and Long Feiyun flanked them, their divine weapons, the Ice Soul Frost Sword and the Nine Heavens Profound Sky Sword, clearing a path for them, knocking down all the burning branches flying towards them. They rushed through the gaps between trees where the flames had not yet completely engulfed the area, finally crossing the last hill and arriving at the wooden house where Yi Tianhan lived. The once quiet and elegant residence had been reduced to ruins by the fire. Through the thick smoke, a figure could be vaguely seen holding a torch, standing beside the wooden house, laughing heartily. Ren Xiaoyao and Shui Furong were both taken aback, but Long Feiyun let out a sharp whistle, drew her sword, and attacked. Her energy suddenly split into three, two flanking from the left and right, while the remaining blade flashed with a cold light, instantly drawing a crescent-shaped arc before thrusting towards his chest. The intense sword light instantly enveloped his opponent. The man turned sharply, his expression calm and composed. His right palm, brimming with hidden power, unleashed a thunderous burst of energy. His moves seemed casual, yet possessed an unfathomable and boundless aura. Long Feiyun's lightning-fast sword energy clashed with his, and suddenly, as if merging with the moon's reflection in water, vanished without a trace. Long Feiyun withdrew her sword and retreated hastily, exclaiming in astonishment, "Heaven-Defying Divine Palm! You…you are Senior Yi!"

Before the words were even finished, Shui Furong had already leaped forward and thrown herself into Yi Tianhan's arms.
Yi Tianhan dropped the torch, hugged his beloved disciple tightly, and laughed heartily, "Furong, you've finally returned! Your master has been waiting for you so long your hair has turned white!"
Shui Furong sobbed, "Master... Master, your disciple has missed you so much." The
master and disciple had endless things to say to each other upon reunion. Although Ren Xiaoyao and Long Feiyun were filled with doubt about Yi Tianhan's strange act of setting the house on fire, they refrained from asking any questions.
After a short while, Shui Furong wiped away her tears, which she couldn't hold back due to excitement, and pointed to Long Feiyun, introducing her: "Master, this is..."
Yi Tianhan smiled happily: "Long Yinxiao's direct descendant, wasn't I right? Just now, your move 'Moonlit West Tower' fully captured the essence of the Nebula Sword Technique; no outsider could possibly use it... How about it? Twenty years have passed, and the Dragon Sect Leader's Heavenly Dao Divine Skill must have reached its peak. When I have time, I'll personally visit him and ask him for a few moves."
Long Feiyun's eyes were slightly red, and she choked out, "Father... Father was assassinated and has passed away."
Yi Tianhan's body trembled violently, his expression changed drastically, and then his eyes were filled with sorrow as he looked up to the sky and sighed: "Alas, an old friend has passed away, and the Central Plains martial arts world has lost an arm! By the way, who will succeed him as sect leader?" "Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, or you?"
Shui Furong interjected, "Is that even a question? Sister Long is a woman, so it's naturally the idiot's turn."
Yi Tianhan was taken aback at first, then patted Ren Xiaoyao on the shoulder and laughed heartily, "Hahaha, I knew your future was limitless. I didn't expect even Long Yinxiao would choose you. Good, well done! Talented people emerge in every generation, and new people replace the old. It's time for Dugu Yu, Xiaochen, and the other old guys to step down and make way for the new. The future of the Central Plains martial arts world depends on the support of you four martial arts heroes!"
The four left the ruins, talking as they walked towards the beach. Along the way, Yi Tianhan didn't mention the arson incident at all, but kept asking Ren Xiaoyao and Shui Furong about their experiences after leaving the island and the various changes that had occurred in the martial arts world in recent years. Hearing that the Asura Sect and the Absolute Killer Sect had risen again and were wantonly harming their fellow martial artists, he was filled with righteous indignation; hearing that heroes from all walks of life were competing for the title of martial arts leader at the Shaolin Gathering, he felt a longing in his heart; hearing that Ren Xiaoyao had personally led the Heavenly Extreme Army to a great victory over the Liao invaders and forced Yelü Xiezhen to his death, he couldn't help but applaud.
Upon arriving at the shore, Nangong Fengyi, Nangong Fengzi, and Lin Yuxiu were already eagerly waiting. Seeing the three of them safe and sound, accompanied by a sprightly old man in white, whom they recognized as Yi Tianhan, the mentor Shui Furong had described many times, they all cheered and rushed forward to greet them, prompting Yi Tianhan to praise Ren Xiaoyao for his good fortune with women.
Back on the ship, everyone sat around the table. Shui Furong immediately asked, "Master, why did you set fire to the island for no reason? You worried me to death!"
Yi Tianhan's deep eyes gleamed, and he said solemnly, "Master was going to Chiwei Island for an appointment. I'm afraid I'll never have the chance to return to Yanxia Island in this lifetime. Master has lived here for twenty years, and I couldn't bear to leave. But I couldn't miss Chiwei Island either. After much deliberation, I decided to burn down the wooden house and the forest where I practiced martial arts, to completely sever all ties. I didn't expect you to come back at this time, which caused this misunderstanding."
Shui Furong gently touched her chest, as if to ease her fear, and pressed, "It was just an appointment. How could you not have the chance to return to Yanxia Island?"
Yi Tianhan looked up at the boundless sea, not answering, as if he had been stirred by memories of the past.
Shui Furong's expression changed slightly, and she asked in surprise, "Master, you're not going to keep a life-or-death promise, and you're not sure you're sure you'll win..."
Yi Tianhan slowly shook his head and muttered to himself, "Master is indeed going to have a martial arts competition, but it's just a friendly exchange, not a life-or-death struggle. As for not returning to Yanxia Island, that's because... because... sigh!"
Shui Furong said anxiously, "Master, please finish what you're saying! Your disciple is dying of anxiety!"
Yi Tianhan fell silent again, and after a long while, he finally uttered the word "abandoned": "Do you really want to know?"
Everyone nodded in unison.
Yi Tianhan's eyes flashed with intense emotion, but his tone remained calm and even as he sighed softly, "Alright, I'll tell you the truth. Chiwei Island is the residence of Fu... oh, I mean, my younger brother Fu Longyuan, who lives in seclusion overseas."
Ren Xiaoyao eagerly asked, "The one who will be competing with you is... is Senior Fu Longyuan?"
Yi Tianhan said solemnly, "That's right. When we went into seclusion, we made a promise to have a martial arts competition twenty years later..."
Before he could finish speaking, everyone cheered in unison.
Yi Tianhan was completely baffled and asked, "Strange, why are you all so happy that I'm going to see Fu?"
Shui Furong, with her delicate, pretty lips, giggled charmingly, "Because we also have important business to discuss with Uncle Fu... Originally, we all thought it would take a lot of time to find out where he lives, but now it's great, we can see him just by going with Master."
Yi Tianhan asked, puzzled, "Fu is no relative to you, why are you looking for him?"
Ren Xiaoyao then explained that Dugu Yu had asked him to go south by sea to invite Yi Tianhan, Fu Longyuan, and Meng Fei to return to the martial world.
Yi Tianhan leaned forward slightly, his expression solemn, and said, "Leaving aside the fact that the Asura Sect and the Absolute Killer have gone too far, Senior Dugu alone has given us brothers a second chance at life. We cannot disobey his orders. However… alas, Chiwei Island, you don't need to come along. Go directly to Coconut Island to find Meng Fei."
Shui Furong asked in astonishment, "Master, you… you won't allow it?"
Yi Tianhan's gaze suddenly sharpened, and he slowly said, "It's not that I won't, it's that I don't have time to consider this for the time being. How about this, you convey my message to Senior Dugu, saying that Yi Tianhan… " "Han and Fu Longyuan still have a matter they haven't resolved thirty years ago. It will take at least three years, at most five, for the surviving one of us to return to the Central Plains and await his command!" (

Volume 25, Chapter 12: The True Meaning of Love)

Upon hearing this, Shui Furong's pretty face turned pale, and she cried out like a helpless child, "What thirty years ago? What 'surviving one'? Master, what...what are you talking about?"
Yi Tianhan's eyes were filled with sorrow as he slowly lowered his head, as if he didn't want to mention the past.
Shui Furong grew increasingly anxious, stamping her foot and scolding, "Master! Master! Please say something! Your disciple is dying of impatience!"
No matter how much she urged him, Yi Tianhan remained silent.
Shui Furong turned her gaze to Long Feiyun and said sweetly, "Sister Long, you're familiar with the stories of the martial world, you must know what Master is thinking. Tell Furong, please tell Furong."
Long Feiyun's beautiful eyes sparkled, and after a moment of eye contact, she smiled mischievously, "This matter concerns the reputation of Seniors Fu and Yi, as well as the Fist and Sword Unparalleled Sect. I can neither speak of it nor dare to."
Lin Yuxiu said softly, "Then tell us what you can say. Xiuxiu wants to know too."
Nangong Fengzi chimed in, "Yes, yes, at least tell us what the Fist and Sword Unparalleled Sect is."
Long Feiyun smiled slightly and said softly, "The Fist and Sword Unparalleled Sect was a very famous sect in the martial world sixty years ago... " At that time, the Tianji Sect had not yet been established, and the Fist and Sword Unparalleled Sect held a status comparable to Shaolin and the Beggars' Sect, far surpassing the Four Great Families and the Five Great Sword Sects. Its leader, Xue Yilong, was known as "Unparalleled in Fist and Sword," and was considered one of the Three Swords of the Central Plains along with Senior Dugu and his sister, Dugu Yiqiu. At that time, the Liao emperor Yelü Deguang led a large army south, conquering the entire territory of Later Jin within months. The Central Plains martial arts alliance dispatched all its masters to attack Daliang, the capital of Later Jin, intending to fight Yelü Deguang to the death. Facing hundreds of thousands of ferocious Liao soldiers, the heroes suffered heavy casualties. Ultimately, only six people managed to break into the palace: the abbot of the Arhat Hall of Shaolin Temple, the mentally challenged Zen Master; the two heroes of Tianshan, Murong Shaozong and his wife, Situ Ning; Senior Dugu; Dugu Yiqiu; and Leader Xue.
Long Feiyun took a deep breath and continued, "The specific details of that battle are shrouded in secrecy by all participants. I only know that Murong Shaozong and Dugu Yiqiu died on the spot, and Master Zhizhang, Sect Leader Xue, Situ Ning, and Senior Dugu were all seriously injured. As for Yelü Deguang, he returned to Liao territory and never set foot in the Central Plains again. In the Battle of Daliang, thousands of disciples of the Fist and Sword Unparalleled Sect were killed or wounded. Sect Leader Xue was disheartened and went into seclusion. The once glorious Fist and Sword Unparalleled Sect disappeared from the martial world."
Shui Furong pressed, "What is the relationship between the Fist and Sword Unparalleled Sect and Master and Uncle?" Long Feiyun's jade-like face returned to its usual calm and serene expression. She solemnly said, "Although Sect Leader Xue saw through the ways of the world and no longer cared about the affairs of the martial world, he could not bear to see the martial arts of the Fist and Sword Unparalleled Sect lost forever. So he took in three more disciples." "He will impart all his knowledge to his disciple."
Shui Furong seemed to understand somewhat, and tentatively asked, "Could it be that Master and Uncle are among them?"
Long Feiyun rested her delicate cheek on her hand and said softly, "That's right. Sect Leader Xue is known as 'Peerless Swordsman of the City,' and is proficient in the Heaven-Defying Divine Palm and the Nine Dragon Control Techniques. The Heaven-Defying Divine Palm was naturally passed on to your master, while the Nine Dragon Control Techniques were studied by Senior Fu."
Nangong Fengyi exclaimed in surprise, "Just learning one of them is enough to become one of the top eight masters of the Central Plains Martial Arts Alliance. If he learns both, then... that would be incredible!"
Lin Yuxiu said with a smile, "Didn't Sect Leader Xue take in three disciples? Perhaps..."
Shui Furong interrupted, "Yes, what's the last one's name? Has he mastered them all?"
Long Feiyun's beautiful eyes flickered as she looked at Yi Tianhan, whose face was shifting between light and shadow, and remained silent.
At this moment, everyone knew that the key to the problem lay with this third disciple, but Long Feiyun dared not speak, and Yi Tianhan was unwilling to speak. Even if they racked their brains, they would have no way of finding out.
Ren Xiaoyao suddenly asked, "Senior Yi, do you know the true meaning of love?"
Yi Tianhan's eyes flashed with an unyielding sadness, and he said with a hoarse voice, "Of course... of course it's the belief of holding hands and growing old together."
Ren Xiaoyao said decisively, "No, tolerance and sacrifice are the true meaning of love!"
Yi Tianhan's body trembled violently, and it took him a long time to recover his composure. He murmured to himself as if in a dream, "Tolerance and sacrifice... tolerance and sacrifice... "
Ren Xiaoyao's expression turned solemn, and he said sternly, "To love someone is to let her be completely herself, not to make her your ideal person. Otherwise, you are only loving the shadow of yourself that you find in her..."
Yi Tianhan abruptly waved his hand, interrupting him with a hoarse voice, "Shut up! Ask whatever you want to know, there's no need to say anything else!" His words were filled with endless sorrow and grief.
The five women looked at each other, not daring to utter a sound for a long time.
Ren Xiaoyao leaned forward slightly and said softly, "Senior Yi, we don't want to bring up your painful past. We just want to help you share your pain and resolve the knots in your heart that are so hard to let go of."
Yi Tianhan looked at Ren Xiaoyao gratefully, exhaled with difficulty, and said as if trapped in a memory that made her heart ache, "Alright, then I'll continue from what Miss Long said. Master's third disciple is named Hua Shijun. Not only is she proficient in the Heaven-Defying Palm and the Nine Dragon Control Techniques, but her martial arts are far superior to mine and Fu Xiaozi's. Moreover, she was once considered a peerless beauty, on par with Lady Huarui and the two Zhou ladies."
Shui Furong smiled faintly and said, "So, Master and Uncle must be vying to pursue Aunt."
Yi Tianhan smiled bitterly and said, "It's not just me and Fu Xiaozi. Every person in the martial arts world under the age of forty would consider it an honor to have Shijun's glance. Unfortunately... alas..." Yi Tianhan sighed deeply as she spoke, her eyes filled with sorrow.
Shui Furong asked cautiously, "Master Aunt...Master Aunt wouldn't have gone with Uncle Fu, would she?"
Yi Tianhan's face hardened, and he coldly replied, "Hmph, what right does that brat Fu have to have what I can't have?"
Lin Yuxiu asked in astonishment, "Where is Senior Hua now? Could it be that she never married in her entire life?"
A fierce killing intent flashed across Yi Tianhan's eyes, and a look of resentment appeared on his vigorous face. He gritted his teeth and said in a sorrowful voice, "Shijun...Shijun has been kidnapped! Kidnapped right in front of me and that brat Fu!"
Everyone exclaimed in shock. With Yi Tianhan and Fu Longyuan's martial arts skills, how could they possibly kidnap Hua Shijun, who had mastered both the Heaven-Defying Divine Palm and the Nine Dragon Control Techniques, right in front of them? Was that even possible?
Nangong Fengzi sat up straight, her beautiful eyes revealing disbelief, and pressed, "Was it the Asura Sect or the Absolute Kill? I really can't think of anyone else with such abilities besides them?"
Yi Tianhan's eyes flashed with resentment and humiliation, and he said fiercely, "No, neither of them. The one who kidnapped Shijun was the head of the Fusang Hokushin Ittō-ryū, Shinguji Ryūgen!"

Volume 25 Imperial Palace Treasures Chapter 13 Unbearable Past

Yi Tianhan turned his head to look at the gently flowing sea, recalling, "Countless men pursued Shijun, but she didn't like any of them. Shijun's parents were anxious because their daughter was twenty-four years old and still unmarried, so they set up a martial arts contest to find a husband." "By then, Fu and I had already built a solid foundation in martial arts, and naturally, we defeated those so-called young talents who were nothing but ignorant brats. Due to various reasons, our final duel was rescheduled for ten days later. When we accompanied Shijun to the agreed-upon location—Yunxi Valley—we were surprised to find a Japanese ronin dressed in samurai attire waiting there. He introduced himself as Shinguji Ryugen, the head of the Hokushin Ittō-ryū school of Japanese martial arts. He said he had come to the Central Plains to find masters to spar with, and having heard of Fu and I's formidable skills, having defeated dozens of people on the day of the martial arts contest for marriage, he wished to test his skills against us."
Shui Furong lightly... He shouted, "Absurd! Master and Uncle are fighting for their lifelong happiness, and he inexplicably interferes, calling it a 'competition'?"
Yi Tianhan frowned and said, "I tried to persuade him, but Zhen Gongji Longxian wouldn't leave. Fu, unable to bear it any longer, started a fight, but he was defeated in less than fifty moves. Then it was my turn… Alas, I'm ashamed to say that although I joined the sect the earliest and my martial arts are higher than Fu's, I could only hold out for a short while longer under Zhen Gongji Longxian's fierce attacks. Losing in a duel wouldn't be a big deal, but the decisive battle at Yunqi Valley has shaken the martial world. Countless martial artists outside the valley are waiting for the final result. If they knew our master…" "My brother was defeated by Shinguji Ryugen, and he left alone. Wouldn't Shijun become a crippled, abandoned woman...?" Shijun was forced to take matters into her own hands, declaring that if she won, she would never marry.
Yi Tianhan sighed and continued, "The two fought fiercely for nearly half an hour. Shijun knew she was no match, but Shinguji Ryugen suddenly became interested and said he would take her back to Japan to be the headmaster's wife. Shijun was proud and pure by nature, how could she marry the uncivilized barbarians of Japan? In shame and indignation, she committed suicide by sword!"
Shui Furong and Nangong Fengzi were shocked and cried out in alarm. Lin Yuxiu was even more moved by Shijun's tragic fate and shed tears.
Yi Tianhan, looking bewildered like a helpless child, said, "Shinguji Ryūgen was quick-witted and agile. He snatched the weapon from Shiki and kidnapped her right in front of me and Fu Xiaozhi! At that time, our master had already passed away. Fu Xiaozhi and I knew that Shinguji Ryūgen was taking Shiki back to Japan, but we were powerless to rescue her halfway."
Shui Furong frowned and said, "Master, are you and your uncle just giving up like this?"
Yi Tianhan said in a deep voice, "Of course not. We returned to our master's former residence and diligently practiced martial arts, planning to one day cross the sea to Japan, defeat Shinguji Ryūgen, and even destroy the entire Hokushin Ittō-ryū. And I, being competitive..." My temperament was also 'cultivated' during that period. Three years later, the Asura Sect, in conjunction with Juesha, invaded the Central Plains. Fu and I, having just mastered our martial arts, wanted to test our skills, so we went to participate in the Junshan Martial Arts Conference. You probably know what happened next; Fu and I ranked fifth and sixth among the eight masters, finally living up to our master's expectations. After the Battle of Wuyun Mountain, we planned to travel north together, sailing from Chuzhou. Before leaving, Fu inadvertently let slip to Senior Dugu, which resulted in our twenty years of seclusion.”
Shui Furong asked in surprise, “Your and your martial uncle's seclusion overseas is actually related to Senior Dugu?”
Yi Tianhan took a deep breath and slowly said, "Well, Senior Dugu and Zhen Gongji Longxian are old friends. They have sparred many times. According to Senior Dugu, with the skill level of Fu and me at that time, even if we joined forces, we wouldn't be able to defeat him unless I mastered the highest level of the Heaven-Defying Palm, 'Heavenly Thunder Without Delusion,' and combined it with the final move of Fu's Nine Dragon Control Techniques, 'Sacred Dragon Severing the Nine Heavens.' We both knew that we couldn't reach that level in a short time, so we each went into seclusion to cultivate our skills, and will go to Japan only after we have both mastered our martial arts."
Shui Furong pressed, "Then what about the martial arts competition twenty years later..."
Yi Tianhan interrupted, "Naturally, it's to complete the competition that was left unfinished back then." "Let's try, whoever wins will marry you."
Shui Furong asked anxiously, "What do you mean by 'the one among us who is still alive'? Are you and your master preparing for a life-or-death battle?"
Yi Tianhan pondered and said, "No, we are afraid that the Beichen Itto-ryu's influence in Fusang is too great. Even if we defeat Shinguji Ryugen, it will be difficult to bring you safely back to the Central Plains. So Fu boy and I agreed long ago that whoever loses will have to pay the price of their life to stop the Beichen Itto-ryu's pursuers!"
Hearing this, everyone was shocked. Even the cold and aloof Nangong Fengyi and the calm and collected Long Feiyun were moved to tears by such earth-shattering infatuation and such a moving love.
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes gleamed brightly as he met Yi Tianhan's gaze, and he resolutely said, "Senior Yi, please be sure to take us to Chiwei Island. Perhaps we can do our part in rescuing Senior Hua."
Shui Furong clapped her hands and said, "That's right! As long as that fool mobilizes the Tianji Army, the mere Beichen Yidaoliu is nothing to worry about."
Yi Tianhan smiled bitterly, "This is a private matter between me and Fu boy. How can we trouble your esteemed sect's forces?"
Ren Xiaoyao said solemnly, "Senior Yi, you are mistaken. Fusang is a small, isolated country. No matter how powerful the Beichen Yidaoliu is, it is no match for the Shura Sect and Juesha. Our sect is sending our navy to help the two seniors fulfill their wishes. It is just a small matter. In the end, we will still have to rely on Senior Yi and Fu's strength to cooperate with the Tianji Army to resist foreign enemies and jointly maintain the martial arts world of the Central Plains. We are the ones who should benefit."
Yi Tianhan hesitated and said, "Borrowing your sect's troops is not impossible, but I'm afraid... " He was ridiculed by Shinguji Ryugen. "
Long Feiyun interjected, "Senior, please rest assured. As long as Shinguji Ryugen reasonably restrains his disciples, we will not act rashly. If he insists on bullying the weak and using the sect's power... Hmph, then the Tianji Army will not be allowed to crush the Beichen Yidaoliu!"
Ren Xiaoyao added, "As for the final battle that Senior Yi has been looking forward to for decades, Feiyun and I will only be there to watch from the sidelines. We will not interfere with your enjoyment."
Yi Tianhan's eyes showed a fanatical and joyful expression. He stared at Ren Xiaoyao without blinking and asked urgently, "Is this true?"
Ren Xiaoyao smiled slightly, pointed to himself with his thumb, and said with great pride, "A man's word is his bond!"

Volume 25 Imperial Palace Bestows Treasures Chapter 14 Unrestrained Love

In the pitch black, Ye Zhiqiu was dazed and confused, as if drifting in the void, unable to control himself. In a daze, he suddenly saw seven or eight Liao men surrounding Princess Huayu and abusing her. The leader was none other than Yelü Changsheng! They pinned Princess Huayu against a tree, tearing at her clothes and lewdly laughing. Yelü Changsheng even took off his outer robe and grabbed her hands tightly, ignoring her pleas and cries. It looked like he was about to...
"No! Don't hurt Huayu!" Ye Zhiqiu cried out, suddenly waking up. His eyes lit up, and he found himself lying on a bed in Lanxun Palace. A soft, melodious voice, like a nightingale's song, called out beside him, "Brother Ye, don't worry, it's...it's alright!" It was Princess Huayu's voice.
Ye Zhi Qiu, panting heavily, finally recovered and realized he was covered in cold sweat. He thought to himself, "That was a dream...that was close...that was close!" He glanced at Princess Hua Yu beside the bed and asked urgently, "We...we weren't outside the cave, how...how did we end up here..."
Princess Hua Yu said softly, "Shortly after you fainted, Father Emperor led a large contingent of imperial guards to the palace and brought us back by carriage...Your injuries were severe; several imperial physicians worked tirelessly for a day and a night..."
Before she could finish, Ye Zhi Qiu suddenly grasped Princess Hua Yu's soft hands, speaking slowly and deliberately... He slowly said, "Tell me, you...you really are Shishi, I...I'm not dreaming?"
Princess Huayu glanced at him affectionately, then lowered her pretty face, which was flushed with embarrassment, and said in a barely audible voice, "You...you saw everything, and...you still have the nerve to ask, you're such a fool, a complete fool, an absolute fool."
Ye Zhiqiu breathed a sigh of relief, his tiger eyes flashing with ecstatic joy. Luckily, his right shoulder was broken and his left arm had seven or eight knife wounds, otherwise he would have already pulled Princess Huayu into his arms and loved her tenderly.
Princess Huayu smiled sweetly and said gently, "You've been lying in bed for three days, and I was so worried! Luckily, Physician Wu said that although your internal and external injuries are quite severe, you're still in your prime, and the palace has plenty of precious medicinal herbs, so as long as you rest for half a month, you're guaranteed to be fully recovered."
Ye Zhiqiu then noticed that his body was wrapped in bandages, and his right shoulder was immobilized with a splint, but compared to the day he was injured, the pain had indeed lessened considerably. He said gratefully, "Huayu... Shishi... Ah, what should I call you?"
Princess Huayu's youthful and beautiful face suddenly became all smiles, her beautiful eyes sparkling under her long, curled eyelashes, and she said with a breath as sweet as orchids, "Whatever you want, call me whatever you like... Ah, no, I'll still call you Shishi." "Poetry, please."
Ye Zhi Qiu paused for a moment, then asked with a smile, "Why?"
Princess Hua Yu's cheeks immediately flushed
, and she lowered her head gently, saying, "Many people call me Hua Yu, how can you... how can you be like them?" Ye Zhi Qiu, for the first time in his life, started to tease her, asking with a smile, "Why do I have to be different?"
Princess Hua Yu's two crystal-clear, jade-like cheeks each rose a delicate, luscious red cloud, and she said loudly, "Because you are my lover... you are my most important... Oh dear, I can't say anymore, it's so embarrassing..."
Ye Zhi Qiu's heart was greatly moved, and he carefully touched Princess Hua Yu's fragrant shoulder, saying softly, "Poetry, in this life and the next, I will never leave you again, never... absolutely never!" Princess Huayu
's beautiful eyes sparkled as she leaned into Ye Zhiqiu's arms. Bathed in sunlight streaming through the window, her face was even more breathtakingly beautiful. Her ears flushed red as she murmured, "Brother Ye, you...you're so good to me. It's no wonder I've thought of you for ten years..."
Ye Zhiqiu gently stroked Princess Huayu's cloud-like hair, inhaling her delicate, healthy fragrance. He gazed at the graceful contours of her profile, her fair, rosy skin, and her bright, unfathomable eyes, and was instantly captivated.
Time seemed to stand still. The two sat quietly in the Lanxun Palace, their minds filled with nothing but each other, as if this moment had become eternal.
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
"Bang—" The door was suddenly pushed open, and Princess Huayu's personal maid, Xiaotong, stumbled in, her voice trembling, "Princess, something terrible has happened!" "The Emperor suddenly fainted while reviewing memorials in the Imperial Study, and... and vomited... vomited a lot of blood!"
Princess Huayu and Ye Zhiqiu were startled. Forgetting their tender moments, despite their injuries, they leaped from the bedside and rushed out of Lanxun Palace hand in hand.
When they arrived at the Imperial Study, not only were Empress Zhaoxian and the Crown Prince anxiously waiting at the door, but concubines, ministers, princes, and princesses who had heard the news had also crowded the spacious passageway. It was obvious that Zhao Guangyi was very ill; otherwise, the palace would not have been disturbed.
"Mother, Father Emperor..." Princess Huayu pushed through the crowd and went to Empress Zhaoxian, asking urgently.
"Alas, the Eighth Prince sent someone with a memorial saying that the corruption case in Yangzhou has been verified. Prefect Qian Yi received bribes totaling 400,000 taels of silver and seven large boxes of gold and silver jewelry." Empress Zhaoxian's eyes welled with tears, and she choked out, "Your father was so enraged that he vomited a bushel of blood and almost... almost fainted on the spot."
"Then...and now?" Princess Huayu asked, her face pale.
"The imperial physicians are treating him..." Before she could finish speaking, the door creaked open, and the physicians filed out.
Everyone immediately surrounded them, bombarding them with questions.
The head physician, Wu, quickly gestured for silence and said softly, "His Majesty is alright, but he needs rest. Your Majesty, Empress, Crown Prince, princes, princesses, and officials, please return. Don't disturb His Majesty's rest."
"But...if Father falls ill, wouldn't it be against filial piety for us children to leave without visiting him?" Crown Prince Zhao Heng pondered. "Physician Wu, please let Huayu and me go in..."
"Heng'er, I'm fine." Zhao Guangyi's clear and vigorous voice came from inside the imperial study.
"Father—" Princess Huayu cried tears of joy. Although Zhao Guangyi's voice was slightly weak, it was strong, indicating that he was alright.
"Is Zhi Qiu outside?" Zhao Guangyi asked loudly.
"This humble subject is here," Ye Zhi Qiu replied respectfully.
"Come in, I have something to discuss with you. Everyone else, please go back," Zhao Guangyi gestured.
No one dared disobey and was about to leave when Hua Yu said coquettishly, "Father, Zhi Qiu's injuries are severe. Can't you postpone the negotiations another day?"
"Alright, then let's put aside the matter of resuming the imperial decree to make Zhi Qiu the consort for now. We'll discuss it again next year on this day," Zhao Guangyi said with a meaningful smile.
"Ah! No! Zhi Qiu, you…you go in quickly!" Princess Hua Yu's attitude immediately changed, pushing and shoving Ye Zhi Qiu towards the door.
Everyone burst into laughter, the previous tense and heavy atmosphere instantly dissipating.
Ye Zhi Qiu, enduring the pain, obeyed and stepped into the imperial study. As soon as he entered, the attendant immediately closed the door.
Upon entering the inner chamber and bypassing the screen blocking the view, even Ye Zhi Qiu, who had spent many years in the martial world and whose composure had long been honed to the point of being unflappable, was still stunned and stood frozen in shock at the scene before him. (

Volume 25, Chapter 15: Heavenly Dao Divine Skill)

On his sickbed, Zhao Guangyi appeared listless and pale, his eyes deeply sunken, his cheeks slightly drooping. His once fierce eyes, which had struck fear into the hearts of enemies on the battlefield, commanded the subjugation of officials in the court, and inspired affection in his children within the harem, were now dull and lifeless.
Zhao Guangyi laboriously raised his weary eyes and said faintly, "Are you surprised? Imperial Physician Wu announced in front of everyone that I was fine, and I didn't show the slightest fatigue when speaking to you through the gate. Yet now you see me in this state, nearing my end and terminally ill."
Ye Zhiqiu barely managed to compose himself and said in a trembling voice, "Your Majesty, you... how... how could this be..."
Zhao Guangyi revealed a bitter expression and said softly, "Ever since three months ago, when I was discussing with my ministers at court about launching an attack on Liao, Fei Yun rushed into the palace to report that the Prince of Zhongyong had been murdered and Xunfeng City was besieged. This enraged me so much that I vomited blood on the spot, which aggravated my old injuries, causing me to faint for three days and three nights. Since then, my health has never been good, and I have even been on the verge of collapse. This forced me to abandon the plan to recover the Sixteen Prefectures of Yanyun, even though the Marquis of Champion had defeated the Liao army and the barbarians around him were terrified. Three days ago, Hua Yu left the palace, and in desperation, I personally led..." The Imperial Guards went out of the city to search, but one of them caught a cold on the way. Normally, this minor illness wouldn't be a problem, but today, he was further angered by that scoundrel Qian Yi… cough cough, resulting in a combination of internal and external attacks, which he could no longer withstand, nearly causing his heart to rupture.” His words were not filled with resentment at being misled by a treacherous minister or anger at the Liao people's misfortunes, but rather with the desolation of a hero in his twilight
years and the sorrow of unfulfilled ambitions. Ye Zhi Qiu respectfully said, “Although His Majesty is nearly sixty, his energy is still that of a thirty-something. He only needs to calm down…” "Take good care of yourself, and given time you will surely recover completely."
Zhao Guangyi let out a long sigh and said softly, "I am fifty-eight this year, no longer the dashing young man who followed Emperor Taizu in his campaigns. It is time for me to know my destiny and end my remaining years."
Ye Zhiqiu felt a pang in his chest and said in a hoarse voice, "Your Majesty..."
Zhao Guangyi's pale face suddenly regained some color, and he said in a deep voice, "Do you know why I have given up my rest time and endured..." "Even in my illness, I summon you to the Imperial Study for a detailed discussion."
Ye Zhi Qiu's face flushed slightly, and he said softly, "It's not...it's about discussing me and Hua Yu...and Hua Yu's..."
Zhao Guangyi laughed and said, "Hahaha, since you and Hua Yu have already recognized each other, you only need to go to the Imperial Observatory to choose an auspicious day before you can be married by imperial decree. Why rush things?"
Ye Zhi Qiu looked completely puzzled and stammered, "Zhi Qiu is foolish and truly cannot fathom His Majesty's good intentions."
Zhao Guangyi's eyes... Zhao Guangyi scrutinized Ye Zhiqiu intently, stroking his
beard as he said, "I summoned you here to impart the Heavenly Dao Divine Skill to you." Although Ye Zhiqiu knew this day would come sooner or later, he hadn't expected it to arrive so suddenly. After a moment's hesitation, he said, "Your Majesty, you should focus on your recovery. There's no need to rush the transmission of the skill."
Zhao Guangyi shook his head, then said with a startling statement, "If I don't teach you now, the Heavenly Dao Divine Skill may be lost forever."
Zhao Guangyi looked up at the window, his eyes filled with an indescribable sorrow. He sighed deeply, "To tell you the truth, I have only six months left to live. Even if I wanted to teach you after six months, it would be too late..."
Upon hearing this, Ye Zhi Qiu felt as if struck by lightning. His body trembled violently, and his eyes flashed with disbelief and trembling. He stammered, "No...no...no! Your Majesty, you...you must be joking."
Zhao Guangyi slowly said, "Do I look like I'm joking?"
Ye Zhi Qiu slumped down, trembling, "But, Your Majesty, with your martial arts skills, how could you possibly be defeated by a mere illness..."
A bitter and desolate smile appeared on Zhao Guangyi's lips as he murmured, "It's useless. No matter how high one's martial arts skills are, one cannot escape the shackles of fate. Back then, the founding emperor was a man of profound learning, whose cultivation was so deep that even the senior Dugu was ashamed of his inferiority. But who could have imagined that the founding emperor...the founding emperor passed away at the age of forty-nine, his great undertaking cut short before it was even halfway done!" His brows were deeply furrowed, and his tired and pale face revealed endless sorrow.
Ye Zhi Qiu opened his mouth, seemingly wanting to speak, but the intense shock he felt prevented him from uttering a single word.
Zhao Guangyi beckoned Ye Zhi Qiu forward, earnestly persuading him, "Life and death are determined by Heaven. What is meant to happen will happen, and it is beyond human control. What you need to do is not to grieve for my impending death, but to learn the Heavenly Dao Divine Skill as soon as possible... Unless a miracle occurs, Ren Xiaoyao's chance of mastering the Innate Supreme Qi is almost zero. Moreover, Senior Dugu is already old, and even if Xiong Xiaotian and Xiao Xingchen achieve great things, they are no match for Yelü Changsheng, so..." At this point, his expression suddenly became extremely solemn, his gaze intensely scrutinizing Ye Zhi Qiu, and he solemnly said, "Therefore, the stability of the Central Plains martial arts world and even the future of the Song Dynasty depend on your support!"
Zhao Guangyi patted Ye Zhi Qiu's shoulder and continued, "As my successor, your swordsmanship and lightness skills are already quite complete. The only thing you lack is internal strength, and the Heavenly Dao Divine Skill can just make up for this deficiency. In the future..." "Once you master this divine skill, combined with the 'Ruling the World' technique created by the founding emperor, even if Yelü Changsheng reaches the highest level of the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra, 'The Earthly Demon's Secret,' he
won't be able to harm you in the slightest." Ye Zhiqiu respectfully replied, "The Heavenly Dao Divine Skill is profound and extensive. I fear I'll fail Your Majesty's trust after only half a year of practice."
Zhao Guangyi smiled and said, "Hehe, the Heavenly Dao Divine Skill is divided into seven levels: Mind and Intent Hunyuan, Cloud Breathing, Nine Luminaries Star Transformation, Spiritual Imperishable, Dragon Dance of the Heavens, Universal Divine Power, and Holy Path Overlord. To this day, I have only reached Dragon Dance of the Heavens. Although the Loyal and Brave Prince broke through to Universal Divine Power ten years ago, he hasn't even touched the threshold of Holy Path Overlord. As for Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, and Liu Ningtao, they encountered a bottleneck after reaching the Nine Luminaries Star Transformation and can no longer break through."
Ye Zhiqiu asked in surprise, "So... in that case, even if I had ten or eight years, I still wouldn't have any hope of mastering the Heavenly Dao Divine Skill?"
Zhao Guangyi smiled slightly and explained in detail, "No, I will point you to a shortcut. I believe that with your aptitude, you will be able to master the Dragon Dance of Heaven in half a year. As for the Universal Divine Power and the Holy Path Overlord, I only know the incantations and have no understanding of the mysteries within. Whether you can achieve great success in the future depends entirely on your own gradual comprehension... So, are you willing to learn?" His voice was low and hoarse, yet it made people willingly obey.
Ye Zhiqiu's blood surged, and without hesitation, he blurted out, "I am willing!" After saying that, he bent his knees, about to kneel down.
Zhao Guangyi supported him with one hand, smiling meaningfully, "Wait a minute, there's something I forgot to mention. Listen to this before you...make a decision."
Ye Zhiqiu sensed something was amiss and respectfully said, "Please explain, Your Majesty."
Zhao Guangyi leaned closer, lowering his voice to its lowest possible level, and whispered, "There's a major taboo in cultivating the Innate Dao Divine Art—before breaking through to the Universal Divine Power, you must remain a virgin and cannot touch any woman."
Ye Zhiqiu was shocked, exclaiming, "A virgin!?"
Zhao Guangyi said solemnly, "Yes, can you refrain from having physical relations with Hua Yu until then?"
Ye Zhiqiu avoided answering, instead asking, "What if I can't resist?"
Zhao Guangyi smiled wryly. "Then you'll have to be like me, stuck at the Dragon Dance in the Sky stage, and no matter how hard you study, you'll hardly make any progress!"

Volume Twenty-Five, Chapter Sixteen: Twin Lovers, Ye Zhi

Qiu exclaimed, "Your Majesty, you... even you..."
Zhao Guangyi sighed, "Alas, if I hadn't been so impetuous back then, I wouldn't have even hesitated to attempt the Universal Divine Power. After all, I contributed to the creation of the Heavenly Dao Divine Power by the founding emperor, so I should be slightly better than the Loyal and Brave Prince, right?"
Ye Zhi Qiu stammered, "Could it be... could it be that before the founding emperor mastered the Universal Divine Power, he was... I'm asking about the founding emperor at that time..."
Zhao Guangyi casually replied, "Twenty-three years old!"
Ye Zhi Qiu Upon hearing this, Qiu was filled with awe and exclaimed in astonishment, "Heavens! This... how is this possible! According to my fourth brother, the Dragon Cult Leader's martial arts are no less than Hentian's. The... the Great Ancestor Emperor had already reached such a level at the age of twenty-three!"
Zhao Guangyi sighed, "The Great Ancestor's talent and strategy were unprecedented and unparalleled. How could we mere mortals imagine such a thing? At that time, there were only three or four people in the Central Plains martial arts world who could rival the Great Ancestor Emperor. Ten years later... oh, that is, half a month before I, together with the elders of the Heavenly Extreme Sect, launched the Chenqiao Mutiny and supported the Great Ancestor Emperor's ascension to the throne, the Great Ancestor Emperor finally comprehended the Holy Path of Power and became the undisputed number one in the Central Plains!"
Ye Zhi Qiu stammered, "So the power of the Heavenly Path Divine Skill..." "Power..."
Zhao Guangyi said solemnly, "Unfathomable, divine and unpredictable, comparable to the Blood Curse of Innocent Delusion, the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra... no, it should be said that it surpasses it!"
Ye Zhiqiu said softly, "At the same time, the price to pay will be far greater, right?"
Zhao Guangyi laughed, "It seems you are still very concerned about the issue of your virginity, hahaha... No wonder, a man who is not romantic in his youth is not a true man, in front of the stunningly beautiful Hua Yu, it would be difficult for anyone to restrain their feelings."
Ye Zhiqiu's face turned red, and he said awkwardly, "No, Your Majesty, you misunderstand... I didn't mean to..."
Zhao Guangyi stroked his beard and laughed, "I've been through this, how could I not know what you're thinking?"
Ye Zhiqiu scratched his head embarrassedly.
Zhao Guangyi pondered for a while, and said, "Three years, just three years. According to my estimation, you will definitely break through to the Universal Divine Power in three years. At that time, you and Hua Yu... even if I wanted to interfere, I wouldn't be able to."
Ye Zhiqiu felt bitter, but he was still hesitant. Love between men and women is a natural thing; talk of staying together forever and growing old together is just empty talk. Only the union of body and soul is the highest sublimation of emotion. Besides, Hua Yu has been waiting in the deep palace for ten years; must she continue to wait?
Zhao Guangyi's unfathomable tiger eyes flashed with a majestic and imposing light as he fixed his gaze on Ye Zhi Qiu, and slowly said, "Even if it's to fulfill my last wish, even if it's for the future of the Green Forest Alliance of the Thirteen Provinces, even if it's for the stability of the Central Plains martial arts world, even if it's for..."
Ye Zhi Qiu felt greatly troubled and tentatively asked, "Your Majesty, can I go back and think about it?"
Zhao Guangyi said decisively, "No, you must make a decision now!"
Ye Zhi Qiu's lips twitched slightly, hesitating to speak, but ultimately did not voice his thoughts.
Zhao Guangyi glanced at Ye Zhiqiu and slowly said, "Heroes are often short-sighted, and even the most devoted to their families are easily swayed by emotions. I can understand your hesitation for now. But think about it: the rise and fall of the martial world and the survival of the nation are entirely in your hands. If you give up halfway and stop at the Dragon Dance, who will resist Yelü Changsheng in the future? Who will guarantee the peace of the Song Dynasty? If one day the Song Dynasty falls into the hands of the Liao people, not only will your happiness and Hua Yu's happiness be in jeopardy, but countless people will also be plunged into misery!"
Ye Zhi Qiu's blood boiled, his eyes burning with fiery passion. He declared passionately, "With the nation's cause at stake, if Zhi Qiu were to cling to romantic feelings, wouldn't he be betraying His Majesty's earnest teachings?"
Zhao Guangyi smiled with a sense of satisfaction, "Very well, tomorrow I will reissue the imperial decree re-appointing you as my son-in-law, and at the same time announce to the public that you are my direct disciple, and must undergo three years of training before marriage… Of course, this is just a perfunctory statement. Whether you are willing to tell Hua Yu the truth is up to you."
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
On the vast, misty East China Sea, a two-masted wooden ship billowed its sails, cutting through the waves.
Ren Xiaoyao and Long Feiyun stood at the bow, facing the fresh sea breeze, gazing into the distance.
Ren Xiaoyao looked up at the stars and moon, his deep eyes gleaming brightly. He sighed, "Since leaving Coconut Island to train in the martial world, more than two years have passed without me realizing it. I thought my martial arts had greatly improved, far surpassing what I used to be, but I never expected... never expected... Alas, even when we sparred with Senior Yi, we couldn't even last a hundred moves."
Long Feiyun glanced at him and said casually, "Senior Yi is a reclusive master, far beyond the reach of two inexperienced beginners like you and me. Besides..."
Ren Xiaoyao quickly waved his hand, "Feiyun, you misunderstand. That's not what I meant. I was wondering if there is an ultimate limit to martial arts cultivation, such as... " "If so, how can one achieve it? Is it through relentless, day-and-night practice, or by engaging in martial arts competitions like Senior Yi, gradually accumulating rich practical experience? Or perhaps by emulating Senior Dugu, retreating from the world, abandoning swordsmanship to cultivate oneself, and pursuing a state of tranquility and non-action?"
Long Feiyun gave him a deep look, then said softly, "I remember Father saying that the path of martial arts is endless; different personal goals lead to different levels of attainment. Emperor Taizu was single-mindedly focused on establishing unparalleled achievements and benefiting the people, thus he was able to follow the mandate of heaven and create the Heavenly Dao Divine Skill; Senior Ren comprehended the Dao through emotion and wielded the sword with love, which is why you have learned..." "The Lingxiao Sword Technique; Ghost Netherworld God Lord and Hentian are ruthless, cruel, and tyrannical. Even if they temporarily gain power by relying on the Blood Curse of No Return and the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra, they will ultimately burn themselves."
Ren Xiaoyao murmured with deep feeling, "Then what should I pursue?"
Long Feiyun's beautiful eyes lit up with a strange light, and she said softly, "Originally, you could have been a carefree playboy, indulging in romance and love, but since the day you took over as sect leader, the shackles of fate have firmly bound you. From now on, everything you do is not only for your own future, but also for the happiness of Fengyi, Fengzi, Furong, and Xiuxiu, and even more so for..." "The rise and fall of the Heavenly Pole Sect, its glory and disgrace... even the vast lands that the founding emperor and the current emperor painstakingly conquered!"
Ren Xiaoyao smiled calmly, "It seems the burden on my shoulders is quite heavy."
Long Feiyun's beautiful eyes brightened, and she said softly, "If not, why would Father have left a will for you to study the Innate Supreme Qi? The founding emperor once said that the Innate Supreme Qi is incredibly powerful, possessing unfathomable power, but the process of cultivation is fraught with danger, and it is forbidden to study it without the sect facing a life-or-death crisis... Well, several months have passed since you obtained the manual. Is it really as the founding emperor said?"
Ren Xiaoyao smiled bitterly, "Not only that, it's even worse. Let alone the second level of the cultivation method that Master Long considers a bottleneck, even... even the most basic Qi exchange... I can't even grasp it." He sighed deeply, shaking his head repeatedly, looking utterly helpless and distressed.
Long Feiyun said mysteriously, "Don't underestimate this simple Qi exchange. Even the founding emperor spent three years trying, only managing to grasp the form but not the spirit, ultimately giving up halfway and having to create his own Heavenly Dao Divine Art. You've only studied it for less than a hundred days, yet you think you've achieved anything? Aren't you being far too arrogant?"
Ren Xiaoyao was shocked, exclaiming, "You... how do you know about the founding emperor?"
Long Feiyun chuckled sweetly, saying, "Hey, don't forget, the position of sect leader was originally mine. Aside from the incantation for the supreme innate Qi cultivation method, I know everything else you need to know."
Ren Xiaoyao suddenly understood, chuckling, "Ah, then is there some secret or quick way?" "A shortcut?"
Long Feiyun shrugged her fragrant shoulders, her charming demeanor inadvertently becoming more and more apparent. She wrinkled her nose and said, "Hmph, no way! You, you better practice properly. You're not allowed to touch me until you've mastered it!"
Ren Xiaoyao's tiger eyes lit up, and he said with a grin, "Are you serious? If I master the Innate Supreme Qi, you'll let me..."
Long Feiyun's jade cheeks suddenly flushed, and she stammered, "No... I... I just... oh dear..." As she spoke, she gave him a slightly embarrassed and annoyed look, her resentful eyes seeming to say, "You big bad guy, you know perfectly well why you're asking this." Then she lowered her head, her charming and shy demeanor capable of melting and moving even the hardest heart. Ren Xiaoyao's heart trembled. The intelligent Long Feiyun had long seen that his confidence had been greatly damaged by his several crushing defeats to Yi Tianhan in sparring and his encounter with a bottleneck in his cultivation of the Innate Supreme Qi. Therefore, she was using this special "method" to motivate him, and he was deeply moved.
Putting aside the mission bestowed upon him by Heaven, what could be more blissful than living happily ever after with such an understanding and beautiful woman, enjoying true marital bliss? Therefore, no matter what setbacks he encounters, there is no reason to lose heart or give up halfway. No matter what awaits him next, whether it be the baptism of wind and frost or the test of raging waves, he must persevere until the day he achieves success!
Ren Xiaoyao reached out and put his arm around Long Feiyun's fragrant shoulder, feeling her intimate tenderness. At the same time, he leaned close to her crystal-clear earlobe, smelling the healthy and youthful fragrance emanating from her hair, and said with deep emotion, "Feiyun, don't worry, I will never let you down!"

Volume Twenty-Six: The Shocking Change at Chiwei Island, Chapter One: An Ominous Premonition

. Chiwei Island was in sight.
Yi Tianhan, Ren Xiaoyao, Long Feiyun, and others gathered at the bow of the ship, gazing into the distance.
In the morning light, the surrounding peaks were faintly visible. The precipitous peaks, as if carved by an axe, are covered with dense, lush trees that block out the sun. Near the sea, the impact of the mighty river has sculpted sheer cliffs riddled with caves, giving them a sense of soaring through the air. Countless seagulls gracefully fly across the water, barely touching the surface before taking flight, creating a scene of untamed natural beauty.
Shui Furong clapped her hands and exclaimed, "Master, the scenery of Chiwei Island is no less beautiful than our Yanxia Island…tsk tsk tsk, Uncle-Master has excellent taste; he knows how to choose a place!"
Yi Tianhan sighed, "Indeed, when it comes to indulging in nature, Fu boy is far superior to your master."
Nangong Fengzi exclaimed sweetly, "Brother Xiaoyao, look! Uncle-Master Fu has come out to greet us!"
Following his pointing finger, everyone looked and saw a dozen or so people gathering on the beach, standing neatly in two rows. The man in the lead was around fifty years old, wearing a thick brocade robe, carrying a long sword, with distinct features and a majestic, upright physique, like a towering tree that could stand forever, unafraid of any wind or rain. Yi
Tianhan looked closely for a moment, then exclaimed in surprise, "Huh, where's Fu?"
Shui Furong asked in surprise, "What? Isn't that Uncle Yi?"
Yi Tianhan stroked his beard and smiled, "Well, in terms of aura, he's only at the level of your Uncle Yi twenty years ago, but to be able to do this is still quite remarkable... Well done, Fu. In twenty years, he's managed to recruit quite a few experts. It seems he's determined to succeed in his trip to Japan."
Shui Furong said sweetly, "Hehe, no matter how many subordinates Uncle Yi has, in the end they're all just helping Master." Yi Tianhan laughed heartily, full of confidence, and said, "
Well said! That boy Fu is hiding away, trying to use ease to overcome his weaknesses, but I, his master, am full of fighting spirit and absolutely confident of victory!"
A short while later, the two-masted ship docked.
The leading fifty-year-old man, Li, immediately came forward, cupping his hands and saying, "We are deeply honored by the arrival of Hero Yi at Chiwei Island. Please—" With that, everyone immediately parted to the sides, assuming a welcoming posture.
Yi Tianhan returned the greeting, and asked directly, "Where is my junior brother, Fu…?"
The old man said with a gentle smile, "Hero Yi, once you enter Stone City, you will naturally know."
Yi Tianhan was taken aback by the question, "Stone City?"
The old man nodded, "Yes, please follow me. " Having said that, he turned around and led the way.
After leaving the beach, they soon entered a rolling hilly area. Twin peaks rose abruptly on either side, surrounded by clouds and mist, their summits shrouded in a hazy, ethereal atmosphere—a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. The area was surrounded by dense forests of fir, pine, poplar, and camphor trees, with wildflowers blooming all around, exuding a natural, wild charm and vitality. It possessed a beauty that, "though there is no painting, it is still a painting; though there is no poetry, it is still poetry," a place so enchanting that one could forget all the hardships and sorrows of the world. While
both Fu Longyuan and Yi Tianhan sought seclusion, Fu Longyuan's approach was completely different. Instead, he first traveled alone to the seventy-two islands of the East China Sea, wiping out bandits from the surrounding thousands of miles of water in just three years. Then he settled on Chiwei Island, recruiting many skilled fighters and cultivating his power. Countless extraordinary individuals came to serve him. The fifty-year-old man just now was named Lei Zhen, originally the lord of Kanli Island in the East China Sea. He was skilled in using the Mandarin Duck Swords and possessed extremely high martial arts skills. Sixteen years ago, he moved here and has now become Fu Longyuan's right-hand man, responsible for managing all affairs of Chiwei Island.
Stone City is the most magnificent building on the island, located beside a cliff on the southeast coast. It was built from the mountainside, following the contours of the mountain, and surrounded by water on three sides. The main building... The structure winds its way up the mountain, perched majestically on a large flat area carved out of the mountains. Surrounded by towering peaks and a precipitous terrain, it exudes an awe-inspiring grandeur, as if a single man could hold off ten thousand.
To reach the Stone City, one must traverse a winding plank road stretching for miles. This treacherous, meandering path is primarily constructed by carving holes into the cliff face, embedding wooden beams within them, laying planks on top, and connecting them with iron chains.
Walking on it, one is on one side a jagged cliff face, and on the other a sheer drop. The mountain wind howls and roars, making the entire plank road sway precariously, making it difficult to maintain one's footing. Yi Tianhan, Ren Xiaoyao, Long Feiyun, and the others also felt a sense of dread at every step. Lin Yuxiu, the most timid of them all, was even more frightened. Without Nangong Fengyi's protection, she would likely have burst into tears and been unable to move an inch.
Ren Xiaoyao, leading Long Feiyun, walked ahead, admiring the deep mountains and high ridges covered with wild trees and grasses, the strange peaks and rocks. The scenery along the way was extremely pleasing to the eye. Spruce, fir, redwood, hemlock, and other types of fir trees, interspersed with ginkgo, sycamore, and red maple, formed a constantly changing natural ecosystem. Birds gathered everywhere, and wild animals roosted among them; golden monkeys, macaques, takins, and tufted deer roamed freely, full of life. He immediately felt cheerful, and the fatigue of the past few days' journey vanished.
After rounding a bend, the scenery changed abruptly.
First, the roar of the waterfall resounds. As the walkway expands, waves of water vapor rush towards you. In the distance, pools of various sizes are connected by rushing torrents along the mountainside. The terrain of the ravines resembles a series of steps, and waterfalls of varying heights cascade down from the cliffs like dragons emerging from caves. The water roars and splashes, sometimes plunging down, sometimes cascading in stages, creating countless swirling and splashing water scenes. The water then rushes down the mountainside, reaching the bottom of the cliff, which is breathtaking. What is even more wonderful is that whenever you think there is no way out, a new world appears, which is like finding a hidden paradise and discovering hidden wonders. As they walked, Long Feiyun deliberately pulled Ren Xiaoyao back, signaling him to fall behind. Ren Xiaoyao was puzzled and about to ask why when Long Feiyun quickly stopped him with a look. After they had walked a distance, she said, "Xiaoyao, do you know that among the dozen or so people who greeted us just now, not only was Lei Zhen, the island lord of Kanli Island, but everyone else was a master."
Ren Xiaoyao said calmly, "Hmm, they were all agile and their divine light was restrained... What, is that strange?"
Long Feiyun's expression turned serious, and she slowly nodded.
Ren Xiaoyao asked in surprise, "I remember you once said that the Hokushin Ittō-ryū is the head of the seven major schools of Japan, with many disciples. Even if they defeat Shinguji Ryūgen, it will be difficult for them to leave Japan smoothly. Therefore, it is understandable that Senior Fu is recruiting experts on a large scale to prevent future troubles."
Long Feiyun frowned and pondered, "No, what I find strange is not their martial arts, but..." At this point, she suddenly emphasized her tone and slowly said, "It is their identities!"
Ren Xiaoyao was completely confused and asked urgently, "Identities, what identities?"
Long Feiyun's beautiful eyes flashed with a deep and unfathomable light, and she said naturally, "Among this group of people, apart from Lei Zhen and two swordsmen from the Laoshan Sect, the other eleven are not good people. Some are former bandits who once roamed the mountains, while others are being hunted by enemies." Many of the underworld figures who escaped the Central Plains were former pirate leaders who had wreaked havoc in their regions. Any one of them could easily match your or my martial arts skills. If…”
Ren Xiaoyao interrupted, “Are you afraid they have ulterior motives? No way! Since they've come to Chiwei Island, it means they've reformed. Senior Fu not only took them in but also sent them to the beach to welcome them, which shows absolute trust. I think… In short, you don't need to worry. Even if something happens, Senior Fu and I will take the blame.”
Long Feiyun's jade-like face remained calm, a faint smile playing on her lips. She said arrogantly, “These eleven people think they can scare me, Long Feiyun… Hmph, they're underestimating me too much.”
Ren Xiaoyao asked in surprise, “If that's the case, then why did you bring me here?” "
Long Feiyun stamped her foot and scolded, "Of course it's something very important."
Ren Xiaoyao was slightly taken aback, and asked in response, "What is it?"
Long Feiyun turned her delicate body away, gazing at Ren Xiaoyao, her beautiful and refined face showing a troubled expression. She murmured with her delicate brows slightly furrowed, "This... oh dear, I can't explain it clearly in a short time. Anyway, just now... um, it was probably when I saw the waterfall that I suddenly had a bad feeling, as if something unexpected was about to happen on this trip to Chiwei Island, and... and the consequences would be very serious."

Volume 26 Chiwei Shocking Changes and Tragic Defilement Chapter 2 One Sword to the End

Ren Xiaoyao stroked Long Feiyun's fragrant shoulder and said softly, "Although I have never doubted what you said, this time you are really wrong... really." "I guarantee it!"
Long Feiyun's beautiful eyes gleamed with a strange light of wisdom as she firmly stated, "No, I trust my intuition."
Ren Xiaoyao pointed to the distant, towering peaks and rugged mountains, sighing, "But... Feiyun, don't you think that under this natural wonder sculpted by nature's artistry, all the struggles and feuds become insignificant?"
Long Feiyun's deep, unfathomable gaze met his, her usual calm and indifferent demeanor returning. Her tone was as still as calm water as she murmured, "I think what we see is only the surface; the real danger lies hidden in..." Before
she could finish, Shui Furong, walking at the back of the group, turned back and called out, "Silly boy, Sister Long, hurry up and catch up!"
Ren Xiaoyao agreed and, without further ado, pulled Long Feiyun forward.
The exterior and interior of Stone City evoke completely different feelings; if the former inspires awe at its grandeur and magnificence, the latter only conjures images of tranquility and peace. Within the city are hundreds of houses built with durable materials such as blue bricks, gray tiles, and white stones. Doorways, long corridors, winding corridors, and courtyards serve as transitions between them. Trees and flowers are planted along both sides of the road, and mountain springs are introduced to form streams that meander through the gardens and residences, creating endless beautiful scenery such as small bridges, flowing water, ponds, and pavilions. Various types of buildings, such as halls, rooms, studies, pavilions, towers, terraces, verandas, galleries, and pavilions, present a variety of changes. The entire space is spacious and comfortable, rising layer by layer according to the mountain's terrain. Each level is connected by stone steps and slopes, facilitating movement between them. The main buildings are clustered on a large open platform about two miles in circumference around the ninth floor. The pavilions are imposing and the architecture elegant. Compared to other courtyards, the foundations, furnishings, railings, doors, windows, and walls are far more elaborate, exhibiting the scenery of a Jiangnan garden. From the eaves to the latticed windows, the meticulous craftsmanship creates a grand and imposing atmosphere, blending northern and southern styles and brimming with cultural charm. Being there feels like being in a large garden on a mountain.
The group followed Lei Zhen and his companions through the pavilions, towers, and groves of flowers and trees, arriving at the Nine Dragons Pavilion, located at the far end of the mountain town.
Lei Zhen stopped and said, "Please come inside. Everything is up to you." He then stood respectfully with his hands at his sides, without leading the way.
Yi Tianhan said in a deep voice, "What, Brother Lei, aren't you going in?"
Lei Zhen replied respectfully, "The island master only instructed us to escort you this far; there are other arrangements inside."
After entering, there was a winding corridor built along the buildings. The group walked along the corridor, turning left and right, looking around. They saw water and rocks as a backdrop, with greenery everywhere, and artificial hills connecting and separating the garden. The interplay of reality and illusion, the ups and downs, and the changing scenery with each step created a unique atmosphere.
After passing through the winding corridor, they arrived at the second courtyard gate. The space suddenly opened up before them. At the end was a magnificent five-bay wooden building, two stories high with upturned eaves, resembling an eagle about to take flight. It was very distinctive. The main buildings, including the halls, used both mortise and tenon and beam-and-post frame structures, complemented by exquisitely carved beams and eaves components and ornate and varied hanging ornaments in front of the corridor, enhancing the sense of depth. Against the backdrop of the garden, it gave people a bright, transparent, and secluded feeling.
A towering pine tree, several dozen feet tall, stood majestically in the center of the courtyard, its canopy like a parasol, shading the buildings and the courtyard. Bathed in sunlight, its verdant shade blended seamlessly with the main building, creating a harmonious and poetic scene.
Yi Tianhan was full of praise, circling the tree to admire it thoroughly before slowly ascending the white stone steps of the building bearing the plaque "Jiulongzhai" (Nine Dragons Studio).
In the vast space of Jiulongzhai, a man stood with his back to the main entrance in the center of the hall. He wore a scholar's robe with a brocade overlay, his figure tall and straight, imposing and majestic like a mountain. His jet-black hair was tied in a red bun on top of his head, and although his temples were streaked with gray, he showed no signs of aging. His hands were behind his back, and no weapons were visible on his person. Even without seeing his facial features, he exuded an air of unparalleled arrogance and domineering presence.
Even someone as worldly as Ren Xiaoyao, suddenly faced with Yi Tianhan, the extraordinary figure hailed as the "Sword Immortal of Xiaoxiang," felt somewhat apprehensive and unsure of what to say.
Yi Tianhan scrutinized him for a long while, then suddenly focused his gaze and coldly said, "Speak! Who are you? Why are you impersonating Fu Xiaozi?"
Shui Furong exclaimed in surprise, "What? He… he's not…"
Yi Tianhan decisively replied, "Hmph, your martial uncle loves his sword more than life itself; the 'Dragon's Reverse Scale' is never separated from him. Besides, there's not a trace of sword energy within a radius of several dozen feet. Not to mention this hall, even the entire Nine Dragons Pavilion has no sign of Fu Xiaozi."
The man laughed heartily, whirling around and proclaiming loudly, "Before leaving, the Island Master told me that no matter how I disguised myself, I could never fool you, Master Yi. At first, I didn't believe it, but today's test proves it true."
Yi Tianhan said in a deep voice, "And you are…"
The man cupped his hands in a salute and said, "Qiu Feng greets Master Yi."
A fleeting look of shock crossed Yi Tianhan's face as he said in a deep voice, "Qiu Feng? 'One sword to the death, the prodigal Qiu Feng'?"
Qiu Feng stroked his beard and said, "I dare not accept such praise, it is indeed me."
Shui Furong pulled Long Feiyun aside and whispered, "Sister Long, who exactly is Qiu Feng?"
Long Feiyun whispered in his ear, "About twenty-three...twenty-four years ago, he was a renowned king of assassins in the martial arts world. It is said that no one who was targeted by him could escape, and no matter how high the opponent's martial arts were, he only needed one move to finish them off, hence the title 'One sword to the death.' Later, when the Absolute Killing technique became popular, Hentian personally sought out Qiu Feng to recruit him into his ranks. Qiu Feng naturally refused, so a fight broke out. Although his martial arts were high, how could they compare to the Heavenly Demon Heart Sutra? As a result, he was beaten by Hentian..." He fell off a cliff, his fate unknown.
"What happened next?" Shui Furong pressed.
Long Feiyun replied solemnly, "What happened next? There was no next! Everyone thought Qiu Feng was dead. If I hadn't seen it with my own eyes today, I really wouldn't believe he could have escaped death."
Qiu Feng smiled and said, "Hehe, don't even mention you, young lady, I can't believe I could leave the Central Plains alive. I finally ended up at Chiwei Island, where the island lord took me in, and I've been barely surviving ever since."
Long Feiyun's heart skipped a beat. She deliberately lowered her voice, and even with Yi Tianhan, Ren Xiaoyao, and others between them, Qiu Feng could still hear her clearly. It seemed that his skills had not only not declined, but had even improved compared to before. Putting aside everything else, his keen hearing alone was far beyond her reach.
After they were seated, Yi Tianhan cut to the chase, asking, "Where is Fu boy? Why has he been hiding until now, afraid to come out and see me?"
Qiu Feng replied truthfully, "The island lord anticipated that Master Yi would arrive early, and originally intended to personally lead us twenty miles out to sea to welcome him. However, he has urgent business to attend to and cannot leave in time to return to Chiwei Island, so... But Master Yi, rest assured, the island lord will return in five days at the latest, and three days at the earliest."
Yi Tianhan frowned and said, "Urgent business? What business is more important than our twenty-year agreement?"
Qiu Feng replied rather awkwardly, "This... the island lord... the island lord is accompanying Miss to gather herbs..."
"Bang!" Before he could finish speaking, Yi Tianhan slammed his hand on the table and stood up abruptly, roaring, "What! Accompanying Miss out!"

Volume Twenty-Six: The Shocking Change of the Crimson Tail, Chapter Three: The Value of Life

"Master Yi, please don't be angry, let me explain slowly." Qiu Feng said with a smile, "Miss has been refining a certain spiritual medicine recorded in the 'Qing Nang Medical Classic,' and she was about to succeed, but she was missing the last ingredient. Fortunately, half a month ago, Fire Cloud Island..."
"Enough!" Yi Tianhan roared, "I can ignore that brat Fu didn't come to greet me, but... he... he actually... with my daughter...!" He was furious and enraged, smashing the tea table beside him to pieces with a single blow.
"Master! What... what's wrong with you?" Shui Furong had never seen Yi Tianhan so angry before, and she was so frightened that she was flustered and at a loss for what to do.
"Fu and I swore an oath to love only you, my lord, for all eternity. Now he... he even has a daughter, and he still has the nerve to send someone to tell me... to make me fulfill my twenty-year vow!" Yi Tianhan was furious and swung his hand at another tea table.
"Misunderstanding, misunderstanding, a huge misunderstanding!" Qiu Feng blocked Yi Tianhan's attack and explained with a smile, "The island lord has not yet married. The young lady I mentioned is just his adopted daughter, not what you think, Master Yi. However, the island lord has always treated her like a precious jewel, even more so than his own daughter."
"Oh, I see." Yi Tianhan felt relieved and apologized, "I was a little agitated just now and damaged some things in the restaurant. I hope Brother Qiu will not take offense."
"Master Yi, what are you saying? The island lord is like a brother to you. Let alone a mere tea table, even if you demolished the Nine Dragons Restaurant, I, Qiu, would not dare to stop you." Qiu Feng smiled slightly and joked, "But your palm strike was too powerful; my arm still aches."
Everyone exchanged knowing smiles, except for Long Feiyun, who frowned secretly.
"Uncle Qiu... tea... tea... tea's here." A young servant, about fifteen or sixteen years old, stammered as he carried a tray in from outside, skillfully serving everyone fragrant tea.
"Come, Douzi, greet Master Yi." Qiu Feng patted the servant's shoulder and said softly.
"Master Yi... Master Yi... it's been a long time... long time since I've heard of you." Douzi stepped forward and bowed respectfully to Yi Tianhan. He was a handsome young man, but his face was covered with freckles, and his voice was weak and listless, making him rather unpleasant to look at. Yi Tianhan didn't say anything, but he was very puzzled. Stone City shouldn't lack servants, so why did Qiu Feng send such a useless servant to serve him, as if he intended to promote him?
After Douzi left, Qiu Feng smiled and said, "Master Yi must be wondering why I treat Douzi differently."
Yi Tianhan nodded and said, "This man has poor physique and is definitely not suited for martial arts. In addition, his eyes are dull and his expression is rigid... Brother Qiu, I really can't understand it."
Qiu Feng's eyes shone with a resolute look as he recalled the past, and he sighed, "If it weren't for him, I would still be a cold-blooded killer today... no, perhaps I wouldn't even be alive today." "
Qiu Feng sighed deeply, muttering to himself, "Back then, I was knocked off a cliff by Hentian, but I survived by sheer luck. Knowing I could no longer stand in the Central Plains, I changed my name and went south alone, drifting at sea. At first, I didn't give up my desire for revenge, constantly thinking about defeating Hentian one day and becoming the leader of the underworld again. But I knew I was no match for him, despite my reputation as the 'Sword of Death.' The only way to turn things around was to reach a higher level in martial arts. Fifteen years later, I thought my cultivation had greatly improved, so I single-handedly challenged various sects in the East China Sea and more than eighty islands. At first, I was invincible, killing without hesitation, fully expecting the 'Sword of Death' that struck fear into the hearts of the martial world to return. But when I challenged the island lord of Chiwei Island, I was utterly defeated by his 'Nine Dragon Techniques.' Heartbroken and disillusioned, I could no longer hold on and fell from the cliff where we fought, instantly swallowed by the sea." "His vivid description, accompanied by appropriate gestures, involuntarily created a sense of awe and immersion in the experience for everyone present.
Qiu Feng, with a look of reminiscence, continued, "Thanks to Douzi for saving me. He was just a seven or eight-year-old boy at the time, yet he managed to drag me back to the ship from the vast waves with his tender arms, while he himself was unconscious for three days and three nights due to overexertion. From that moment on, I finally realized the value of life, and from then on, I let go of hatred, gave up the life of licking blood from the blade, and spent the rest of my life peacefully on Chiwei Island. Douzi was kind to me, and I should repay him wholeheartedly. Although he was not very talented, diligence can make up for lack of talent. If he had started learning from then on, he could at least have reached two-tenths of my strength. However, I did not teach him any martial arts, but simply kept him by my side, taught him the principles of being a good person, and let him live a peaceful life in Stone City." "
Ren Xiaoyao sighed, "Senior Qiu did the right thing. Chiwei Island is like a paradise in the vast sea, free from the grudges and sorrows of the martial world, free from the fighting and killings of the martial arts world. Everyone who stays here should abandon the past and enjoy life in their own unique way. If I'm not mistaken, Senior Qiu, the happiness you gained in the years you spent on the island far exceeded the sum of the previous half of your life."
Qiu Feng looked at the floating clouds and said with emotion, "Yes, I am very fortunate that the island lord was willing to take in me, this notorious and heinous cold-blooded killer, and together with Douzi, guided me onto the right path. I dare say that as long as it is the island lord's order, I, Qiu Feng, will not hesitate to go through fire and water."
Yi Tianhan stroked his beard and smiled, "It seems that Old Fu has accumulated quite a lot of merit over the past twenty years. I wonder if his martial arts have improved significantly compared to before."
Qiu Feng said mysteriously, "Hehe, Master Yi will naturally know on the day of the agreement." "
Under Qiu Feng's arrangement, everyone checked into the most luxurious Xiangqiu Pavilion in Stone City.
Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, and Lin Yuxiu couldn't wait to run to the beach to play. Before leaving, they even dragged Nangong Fengyi along, and the huge hall was instantly empty.
Yi Tianhan dismissed the servants who were bringing tea and water, and said in a deep voice, "Red Tail Island is truly a place where hidden talents abound. From the moment I landed on the beach until now, apart from that 'Bean' just now, everyone I've seen is a master. Not to mention Lei Zhen and Qiu Feng, even the two servants who are attending to us are quite formidable."
Ren Xiaoyao asked curiously, "You once said that Lei Zhen's aura has reached the level of Senior Fu twenty years ago, so what about Qiu Feng's cultivation...?"
Yi Tianhan slowly replied, "Unfathomable! Qiu Feng is famous for his fast sword, and his strength... is probably not much worse than Lin Feifan's, but his internal energy cultivation is quite ordinary, otherwise he wouldn't have lost to Hentian so badly." A complete defeat. Earlier, I was in a rage at the Nine Dragons Pavilion, and my second palm strike on the tea table used at least seventy percent of my strength, yet Qiu Feng caught it easily without any sign of discomfort.
Long Feiyun added, "Clearly, Qiu Feng's martial arts are far superior to mine and Xiaoyao's, and not much worse than Senior Yi's." Yi
Tianhan looked up at the roof beam and said with delight, "Young Fu is truly farsighted. Lei Zhen and Qiu Feng are both top-tier martial arts masters. With their help, the hope of saving the Lord of the Underworld increases even further."
Long Feiyun's beautiful eyes gleamed with a strange light of wisdom as she softly said, "Senior Yi, don't you think there's a trick involved?"

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