Wu Changtian, the Border Town Assassin

He was surprised to find himself feeling tired, something he had never experienced before. As the top assassin in the border town, he had spent his life killing without hesitation, living a life of hardship and danger. In each battle, he found himself and proved his resilience. Now, he had reached the age of fifty. He was weary of his life as an assassin.
On the picturesque shores of Cuiyun Lake, Wu Changtian purchased land and a house. It was a small farmhouse with blue tiles and white walls, the main house facing the breezy Cuiyun Lake. In the fields behind the courtyard, Wu Changtian had acquired twenty acres of thin land, where rice had already been planted. It was the season when the rice flowers were fragrant, and a warm breeze made Wu Changtian feel refreshed. He sat on the veranda of the east building, watching the boats coming and going on the lake, listening to the fishermen's folk songs, a relaxed smile on his face.
A carriage hurriedly drove towards the lake, heading straight for Wu Changtian's small courtyard. At the door, the driver suddenly reined in the horse, which let out a long neigh and reared up. The carriage stopped in front of the thick wooden door.
The neigh startled Wu Changtian. Relying on his years of professional instinct, he sprang to his feet, turned, and rushed into the house, a long, black iron sword already in his hand. A quiver was also hidden in his sleeve.
His alarm was not unfounded. Decades of being an assassin had made Wu Changtian a lonely man. He had no friends; those who came to him were all enemies. And those who came openly in broad daylight were undoubtedly formidable adversaries. No one knew of his retirement, nor that he had told anyone about the land he had purchased by Cuiyun Lake.
This person must be watching him from the shadows, knowing him inside and out; this person must be the most formidable of adversaries.
Wu Changtian felt a sense of panic, something he had never experienced before. He also felt a vague sense of regret, realizing that his dream of a few days of peace and quiet was probably not going to come.
The coachman lifted the curtain, and a woman slowly stepped down from the carriage. She was slightly plump and appeared to be quite old. She wore a purple silk blouse and a black cloak, her face mostly obscured by a bamboo hat. Her eyes were large and bright, shimmering with light, and her fair skin was faintly visible.
Wu Changtian pulled the trigger, his sleeve dart ready to fire.
The woman gently knocked on the old wooden door knocker. The cast-iron knocker made a few dull thuds in the air.
Wu Changtian remained inside, watching the woman without moving.
The door was ajar; the woman pushed it open with a creak. She walked slowly into the courtyard, surveying the simple little house.
"Whoosh!" A sleeve dart shot towards the woman's face. The woman smiled calmly, stepped aside, and casually caught the arrow between her index and middle fingers with her right hand. With a flick of her wrist, the arrow embedded itself in a plum tree a few feet away. She tilted her head back, and her straw hat spun towards the hidden arrow, catching on it.
"Changtian, I knew you'd be here! Come out, it's me, your Yan." The woman's face was like a plum blossom, her voice like silver bells, her steps light and graceful, her smile as beautiful as a flower.
Wu Changtian trembled uncontrollably. Yes, judging from her figure and her voice, the woman was indeed Yan. But sixteen years had passed. Sixteen years—he had erased her from his memory. For sixteen years, he had never loved another woman. He had become the top assassin in the border town, and the most crucial quality of a professional assassin was to remain unmoved by emotions.
Now, he had retired. His body trembled slightly. He wanted to rush out and embrace Yan tightly, but the sensitivity of a professional assassin made him hold his breath. He gripped the sword hilt tightly, his palms now damp with sweat.
"Changtian, if you don't come out soon, I'm coming up! I've searched so hard for you, how could you be so heartless as to abandon me? I've been looking for you for sixteen years!" the woman called softly from inside the courtyard, walking towards the small building where Wu Changtian was.
At the doorway appeared Wu Changtian's thin face, a weathered face covered in thick, stiff stubble from his cheeks to his chin. His cheekbones were high, his complexion pale, and his narrow eyes were filled with melancholy, yet also held a hint of sharpness. On his right cheek, a scarlet scar crawled like an earthworm, adding to his menacing appearance.
"Changtian, is that you?" Yan lunged forward, throwing herself into his arms, but he blocked her with his arms.
Yan was startled, then looked at Wu Changtian's face, reaching out to touch the scar, tears streaming down her face. "What happened to this scar?"
"It's nothing. I was slashed by a notorious bandit five years ago. He was one of the few truly skilled fighters I've ever encountered. I stabbed him twice in the chest, breaking two of his ribs!" Wu Changtian said calmly.
"These past years, I've searched for you so desperately!" Tears streamed down Yan's fair face.
Wu Changtian's facial muscles twitched. He composed himself and pushed Yan away. He said to her, "Liu Ruyan, no, Governor's wife. We haven't seen each other for sixteen years! What do you want from me now? I've retired from the martial world, washed my hands of crime, and will never kill again."
As he spoke, he slowly sheathed his black iron longsword.
"Changtian, I truly love you. I was forced to marry Tang Dingbang back then! Now, haven't I returned to your side? I'm still your Yan!" Yan's eyes were filled with tenderness.
"Enough, Madam Governor, just tell me what you want. If you don't, I won't keep you company any longer." Wu Changtian turned and went into the inner room.
Liu Ruyan hurriedly followed, grabbing Wu Changtian's arm. "Changtian, you still won't forgive me? I'm here to stay with you by the lake, I'm not leaving." She took off her sword and cloak, placing them on the couch.
"Hmph, you're willing to give up your wealth and status? Stop acting!" Wu Changtian lay back on the bamboo couch, his eyes fixed on the roof tiles, no longer looking at her.
Liu Ruyan ignored him, turning and hurrying downstairs. She took two silver ingots from her bundle and whispered a few words to the coachman. The coachman bowed, unloaded several items from the carriage, handed them to Liu Ruyan, turned and went outside, mounted the carriage, cracked the whip, and sped away down the road they had come from.
Liu Ruyan turned and went up to the east wing, returning to her inner room. Wu Changtian was already snoring softly on the couch. Liu Ruyan shook her head, carried the items she had taken from the carriage to the guest room next door, changed out of her fine clothes, put on a few simple garments, and then tiptoed downstairs. She carried a bundle of firewood from the neatly stacked woodpile in the courtyard to the kitchen, and wisps of smoke drifted away in the evening breeze.
Wu Changtian opened his eyes, glanced at the fire, and then fell fast asleep again.
At dusk, a sumptuous meal was laid out on the table. Two people who hadn't seen each other for sixteen years sat at the table. Wu Changtian remained silent, looked at Liu Ruyan before him, and sighed deeply. He said slowly, "Ruyan, why do you do this? You are the wife of the governor, enjoying endless wealth and glory. Why bother coming to see a rustic old man like me? Come, let's drink a cup of wine, and then you can leave!" With that, he tilted his head back and drank the wine in one gulp. In the candlelight, his scar was particularly conspicuous.
"Stop talking, Changtian, this is your favorite Yunhu crucian carp, try some!" Liu Ruyan placed a crucian carp into Wu Changtian's bowl. Wu Changtian glanced at her, his expression much calmer.
Liu Ruyan smiled sweetly. Suddenly, the bamboo chopsticks she had been holding in front of Changtian flipped upwards, her jade-like hand flicking them towards Wu Changtian's eyes. Caught off guard, Wu Changtian, seeing the two chopsticks about to pierce his eyes, felt a chill run down his spine. He leaped backward, chair and all, while his chopsticks flew out like swords, knocking the chopsticks from Liu Ruyan's hands. Wu Changtian and his chair landed safely in the courtyard.
Liu Ruyan's silvery laughter echoed from the kitchen. Turning around, he gracefully stood before Wu Changtian: "Changtian, it's been many years. Your skills have improved day by day. I just tested you; you're not angry, are you?" He then gave him a graceful curtsy.
"Your skills haven't declined either!" Wu Changtian said coldly. "Tell me, who sent you?" His tone turned sharp, his gaze like a sword.
"They just wanted to see if your skills had improved, why are you angry!" Liu Ruyan said casually, a charming smile appearing on her well-preserved face.
"I, Wu, have killed countless people in my life! I won't ask who ordered me. Make your move, I want to experience the 'Six Harmonies and Eight Desolations Xingyi Fist' of 'Deadly Rakshasa'!" As soon as he finished speaking, he swung his palm at Liu Ruyan with a whooshing sound. Liu Ruyan shrank back, her body sliding to the side like a snake. Wu Changtian's palm struck empty air, neatly splitting the stone table in the courtyard in two.
Liu Ruyan was shocked: "What a 'Stone-Breaking and Tablet-Splitting Hand'! I didn't expect that after more than ten years, you not only haven't aged, but have improved a lot." Some cold sweat even appeared on her face. She knew that Wu Changtian still cherished their old friendship, otherwise, with the title of "Number One Assassin of the Border City," he would have been determined to kill her with one blow, and she wouldn't be alive.
Wu Changtian didn't turn around: "Go away, go back and be a good wife to the governor. I've retired from the martial world. I won't kill anymore."
Liu Ruyan moved gracefully to his side, tugging at his blue robe and swaying it from side to side, saying, "No, I've been missing you terribly, why are you sending me away!" Liu Ruyan was already middle-aged, but her delicate appearance made her seem like a beautiful young woman of sixteen.
"Hey!" Wu Changtian stomped his foot hard on the ground. He went upstairs.
Liu Ruyan quickly followed, took a tea set from Wu Changtian's wooden cabinet, and brewed tea. By the dim candlelight, she examined the four white porcelain and blue-and-white Jingdezhen teacups closely, and couldn't help but smile at Wu Changtian, who was lying on his back on the couch, saying, "Isn't this the set I bought when we got married in Qingling? You still use it!"
Wu Changtian ignored her. He turned and lay down on his side.
Liu Ruyan smiled, then went about her business, boiling water and sipping tea. After a while, she gently loosened her veil, revealing herself like a lotus root. The room was filled with an indescribable feminine fragrance, which, combined with the lingering aroma of tea, created a mesmerizing atmosphere.
Wu Changtian was startled and turned around in shock. Liu Ruyan had already laid her voluptuous body on the couch, lying close to him.
Wu Changtian sprang up and yelled at her, "Put your clothes on right now, or I'll throw you out!"
Liu Ruyan quickly wrapped her arms around his neck, pressed her full breasts against his chest, a blush rising to her cheeks, and murmured, "Come on, Yan missed you so much, I want you!" She then brought her rosy lips to his.
Wu Changtian pushed her away, breaking free from her embrace, and rushed into the guest room, bolting the door before finally lying down.
After lying down, Wu Changtian tossed and turned, unable to sleep. He listened to the next room, but there seemed to be no sound; Liu Ruyan appeared to be asleep. After a while, he faintly heard soft sobs coming from inside. Wu Changtian's heart softened. He wanted to get up and comfort her, but didn't know how. So he lay down again, still unable to sleep. Although he was nearly fifty, he was physically strong and had abstained from women for over ten years. After experiencing what had just happened, and recalling the years of affection he had shared with Liu Ruyan, he couldn't help but sigh several times. He wasn't an emotionless person; in the past ten years, he had met women who pleased him, but he knew that an assassin couldn't be sentimental. The reason he became the top assassin, besides his hard work and meticulousness, was his abstinence from women. Unexpectedly, Ruyan had come to his door, almost throwing him into a panic. What was she doing here? Was she still thinking of their past relationship? Or did she have ulterior motives? Or was she trying to assassinate him? "I'm not so bad that she hates me to the point of wanting to kill me, am I?" After tossing and turning for most of the night, he finally drifted off to sleep.
Suddenly
, he seemed to hear a faint sound on the roof, like rain pattering on sand or wind rustling through bamboo groves. Anyone else might have ignored it, but he was an assassin. It was this faint sound that woke him. Years of experience as an assassin had taught him that the louder the sound, the less to worry about; the softer the sound, the more cautious he needed to be.
Wu Changtian sprang to his feet, reached to his side—oh no! The Xuan Tie Sword was still in the inner room, and he hadn't retrieved it. He checked his body again and found his quiver and dart pouch still intact. Overjoyed, he silently opened the door, crouched low, and leaped onto the wall. Looking up, he gasped in horror. A dozen or so men in black were crouching on the roof of the main building. Looking towards the west and north buildings, he saw three or five more men in black on their rooftops. Wu Changtian silently slid down the wall and looked outside. Five or six men in black guarded the peeling vermilion door. It seemed they were trying to trap him! Enraged, Wu Changtian leaped onto the west building and shouted, "Who goes there?" His words were followed by a swift, powerful strike. Two men in black were sent flying backward with a muffled groan. The remaining men in black swiftly drew their weapons from their waists, revealing chain spears of identical design, their shafts and tips black, gleaming darkly in the night. All the men thrust their spears at Wu Changtian. With nowhere to retreat, Wu Changtian pushed forward slightly, his body springing backward to a steady footing in the courtyard. His left hand reached for his quiver, his right for his dart pouch, each hand now holding several hidden darts and gold darts.
"The green hills remain unchanged, the red lotus reflects the sun!" A deep, resonant voice rang out from the air. As soon as the words fell, a slender man in black lightly leaped down from the east tower. His lightness skill was clearly formidable; his robes fluttered as he landed steadily a foot to Wu Changtian's left.
"The dragon roars across the four seas, the tiger howls through the mountains and rivers!" A low, deep voice followed, and a short, stout man in black appeared out of nowhere, standing to Wu Changtian's right.
Wu Changtian was taken aback, then burst into laughter, his scar on his face twitching as he loudly proclaimed, "So both leaders of the 'Azure Dragon Society' have arrived. If I'm not mistaken, this slender leader is none other than 'Floating Duckweed' Shen Qinglian, leader of the 'Azure Lotus Hall,' and the other is 'Thunderbolt Tiger' Ding Yihu, leader of the 'Dragon Tiger Hall.'"
"Truly worthy of being called 'Border City's Number One Assassin,' Brother Wu, you have excellent eyesight!" Shen Qinglian chuckled dryly, brandishing his folding fan. The fan, however, was made of steel, forged from fine steel, and contained a mechanism capable of launching hidden arrows, making it impossible to defend against. This Shen Qinglian claimed to be a great lover of poetry and literature, comparing himself to the great poet Li Bai, known as the "Azure Lotus Hermit," yet he was one of the four top fighters of the Border City's largest gang, the "Azure Dragon Society," a ruthless and murderous organization.
“Wu Changtian, since you know who I am, I don’t need to say anything more! You’d better come with us! Otherwise, I’ll have to take action.” Ding Yihu spoke with a Sichuan accent.
“You think you can take me?” Wu Changtian laughed loudly, his laughter echoing through the dark night, sending chills down everyone’s spine.
“Heh heh! With just the two of us, we have no chance of winning, but if we add these dozens of brothers around us,
I think it won’t be difficult.” Shen Qinglian opened and closed her folding fan, seemingly carefree.
“I, Wu, have retired from the martial world and no longer concern myself with worldly affairs. Don’t force me to take action!” Wu Changtian said solemnly.
“You make it sound so easy. Who do you think we are, coming and going as we please? Even if we can’t take you away today, we’ll still cut off your testicles!” As soon as Ding Yihu finished speaking, he raised the iron rod in his hand and brought it down on Wu Changtian’s head.
Wu Changtian leaped into the air, soaring over ten feet into the sky. Simultaneously, his right hand activated a mechanism, launching several hidden darts at Shen Qinglian and Ding Yihu. At the same time, his left hand reached into his dart pouch, sending over a dozen coin darts hurtling towards the rooftops. Several men in black tumbled down with cries of "Ouch!" At the same time, several darts were struck down by a steel-bone fan and a fine iron rod.
Wu Changtian truly lived up to his title as the top assassin; even facing dozens of members of the "Azure Dragon Society," he managed to launch a sneak attack amidst the chaos.
"Good lad!" Shen Qinglian closed his folding fan and pressed forward. "The world is full of martial arts, can you just come and go as you please? Today I'll make sure you never leave this world." He was tall and had long arms, and with his folding fan closed, he used acupressure from a distance, but against Wu Changtian, he could only fight at close range. Seeing that Wu Changtian had no weapon, he used his folding fan to strike his major acupoints such as "Shanzhong," "Qihai," and "Huiyin." Wu Changtian smiled, focused his energy in his dantian, and spread his palms apart, unleashing a powerful "Stone-Breaking and Tablet-Splitting Hand" that sent a strong force towards Shen Qinglian. Seeing the opponent's powerful internal energy, Shen Qinglian quickly moved to the side, leaping into the air and striking Wu Changtian's "Baihui" acupoint with his folding fan downwards. Wu Changtian lowered his body, squatted down, and became two feet shorter. As the opponent's move slowed, he slashed at Shen Qinglian's folding fan with a single palm. Shen Qinglian couldn't retaliate in time and took the blow head-on, feeling his tiger's mouth go numb and his blood surging. He hastily retreated five feet. Ding Yihu, standing to the side, didn't reply, but swung his iron cudgel to strike Wu Changtian's head. Seeing the fierce attack, Wu Changtian used his bare palms to protect his face, seizing the opportunity to unleash his inner strength and attack Ding Yihu. However, Ding Yihu's iron cudgel was too long and extremely hard, and Wu Changtian couldn't hurt him. Ding Yihu was also unable to win for the time being, and became anxious. He used the move "Splitting Mount Hua" and then "Sweeping a Thousand Armies," sweeping towards Wu Changtian's lower body. Seeing that there was nowhere to retreat, Wu Changtian had no choice but to take a breath and leap up, landing on a plum tree in the courtyard. At the same time, he pressed a mechanism, and three hidden arrows attacked Ding Yihu from the top, middle, and bottom. Seeing that he was about to suffer a loss, Shen Qinglian used "Shifting Position" to leap up, and with a wave of her folding fan, she managed to deflect the top and middle hidden arrows, but Ding Yihu dodged the bottom one. Shen Qinglian was skilled in using concealed weapons and had mastered the art of identifying weapons by sound. Even at night, catching several hidden arrows was not difficult for her.
"What's the point of rules when dealing with this Wu Changtian! Everyone, charge in together!" Ding Yihu roared. In an instant, dozens of figures leaped down from the east, west, and north towers, surrounding Wu Changtian.
"Changtian, catch the sword!" Suddenly, a delicate shout rang out. Without thinking, Wu Changtian leaped from the plum tree, changed his form twice in mid-air, caught the sword, and landed with his Xuan Tie sword already drawn. Everyone was greatly surprised, but then they saw a black shadow shoot down from the east tower, landing as a masked man in black robes. While still in mid-air, the man untied a soft whip from his waist and swept it across the heads of the "Azure Dragon Society" members. Three chain spears rushed forward simultaneously, attacking the masked man. The man shouted, and his whip, like a black dragon entering the sea, entangled all three chain spears. He then forcefully flicked the whip, causing the spear tips to curl back, and the man stood firmly beside Wu Changtian.
"Friend, don't get involved in this mess," said Shen Qinglian, the "Floating Duckweed," bowing.
The masked man in black didn't reply, swinging his whip at Shen Qinglian. Ding Yihu, meanwhile, swung his iron cudgel to meet the attack. Whip and cudgel clashed, one hard, one soft; both men possessed powerful inner strength. The flashing of the whip and cudgel, accompanied by the whistling wind, was terrifying.
Shen Qinglian waved her folding fan and attacked Wu Changtian. The remaining members of the "Azure Dragon Society" surrounded them from all sides.
Wu Changtian leaped backward, bowing to Shen Qinglian and saying, "My sword always strikes, and I have already retired from the martial world! Don't force me."
Shen Qinglian chuckled, offering no reply, and lunged forward. Her folding fan aimed directly at Wu Changtian's face.
Wu Changtian slowly drew his longsword, letting out a long howl, and his figure exploded into motion, a black light flashing past. Shen Qinglian flew away like a kite. At the same time, several muffled shouts rang out, and seven or eight men in black fell to the ground.
Wu Changtian slowly raised his sword to his chest, blew on it, and the Xuan Tie sword emitted a "whooshing" sound. He flicked his wrist, sheathing the sword.
Ding Yihu and the masked man were stunned. They never imagined that Wu Changtian, with just one sword strike, would not only defeat "Piao Ping Ke" but also take down seven or eight members of the "Qinglong Society." "The Number One Assassin of the Border City" truly lived up to his name.
Wu Changtian, his hands clasped behind his back, turned his back to the crowd: "You should all leave!" He looked up at the setting sun in the clear night sky.
He still had a shred of mercy; he had only dislocated Shen Qinglian's arm, and as for the gang members, he had only injured them with a palm strike.
Ding Yihu glared venomously at Wu Changtian, then helped Shen Qinglian away.
In an instant, the courtyard fell silent; one could almost hear a heartbeat.
"Why aren't you leaving?" Wu Changtian still had his back to the masked man behind him.
"Changtian, don't be like this. I want to stay by your side for a few days. Is that alright?"
Wu Changtian remained silent, slowly walking out of the courtyard to the edge of Cuiyun Lake...
A small boat carried the two of them into the depths of the lake. They moored the boat beside a waterside pavilion.
A gentle breeze rippled the water, willows swayed, and a flock of water birds swam on the distant lake.
Liu Ruyan leaned against Wu Changtian, burying her face in his chest. Wu Changtian closed his eyes, trying to feel the intoxicating scent of Yan.
He suddenly opened his eyes, lifted Yan's head, and looked at him earnestly: "Tell me, you really still love me?"
Yan nodded seriously. Wu Changtian sighed. Yes, sixteen years had passed, and he still hadn't forgotten her. Although Liu Ruyan had abandoned him, he didn't hate her. It was forgivable for a mortal woman to be attached to worldly pleasures. After all, he couldn't give her what she wanted! As an assassin, he had long since hardened his heart to the coldness of iron. But Yan was like a raging fire, gradually melting his iron will.
Yan gently removed her fine clothes, her porcelain-white body tightly entwining herself around Wu Changtian. Wu Changtian, with the strength he had accumulated over sixteen years, held Yan tightly. Yan gently removed her fine clothes, her porcelain-white body tightly entwining herself around Wu Changtian.
Wu Changtian, with the strength he had accumulated over sixteen years, tightly embraced Yan. He quickly squatted down behind her, parting her legs to admire her beautiful buttocks from behind.
Black panties were tucked into her buttocks, barely covering her small anus and vulva, but pubic hair peeked out from the sides, exposing her private parts.
Wu Changtian extended a finger and pressed it against Yan's vulva; after a few touches, a small wet patch appeared in the middle of her panties.
He then parted Yan's labia majora, letting them tuck the thin fabric of her panties between them, revealing her vulva. Wu Changtian leaned in and licked Yan's labia majora as if kissing her. Yan felt incredibly good, even wriggling her hips to follow Wu Changtian's mouth, as if they were truly kissing. Soon, Yan's panties were soaked, and Wu Changtian's penis was rock hard.
Wu Changtian stood up, pulled down Yan's panties to her knees, leaving her stockings on, then took off his own pants, pulled his penis out of her panties, moistened it with saliva, and thrust it into Yan's vagina from behind.
Although Wu Changtian's penis wasn't long, it was thick enough to completely spread Yan's labia majora, while her labia minora gripped the base of his penis tightly, like during oral sex.
"Ah...really...every time...um...it's like this...oh...that...that thick penis...can't you be a little gentler?" Yan moaned and protested with her eyes closed.
"Oh... Yan, your pussy is so tight, I can't get enough after a few times." Wu Changtian thrust his penis deep into Yan's vagina, enjoying the warmth of her vagina while reaching into her shirt to push up her bra, pinching her breasts and praising, "Your breasts are quite full."
"Oh... so thick... so swollen... like they're about to burst... good brother, thrust harder into Tang Dingbang."
Yan pleaded lasciviously.
"Okay!"
Wu Changtian said, increasing the speed of his thrusts, thrusting hard each time, causing Yan's heels to rise and fall with each insertion.
The sounds of flesh colliding, Yan's moans, and Wu Changtian's panting echoed in the boat.
Wu Changtian fucked her for more than ten minutes, until Yan's hands could no longer support her, and her legs were weak from two consecutive orgasms. She could only lie on the bow of the boat, with Wu Changtian holding her waist from behind, barely enduring Wu Changtian's rape.
Her vaginal fluids had already flowed down her thighs, soaking a large patch of her socks.
Wu Changtian finally ejaculated after Yan had climaxed twice. The hot semen caused Yan's cervix to contract twice, and Yan, still rolling her eyes, said, "Good...so good..."
After pulling his penis out, Wu Changtian quickly squatted down to look at Yan's vagina. He saw that because it had been stretched so much, it hadn't closed yet. The mixture of vaginal fluids and semen around her open labia made her vagina look like a frothy abalone. The contractions of Yan's buttocks brought out even more vaginal fluids, which pleased Wu Changtian greatly. He then put his mouth... He pressed himself against her, giving her a good licking session. As the smoke from the licking subsided, she felt Wu Changtian was incredibly considerate, so she also gave him a blowjob, making his penis erect again.
Their joyful moans drifted across the lake. Willow branches gently brushed against the small boat, which swayed gently on the lake…
Wu
Changtian took one last look at his newly acquired courtyard, resolutely mounted his black steed, spurred it on, and galloped towards the city.
The words of "Drifting Duckweed" Shen Qinglian still echoed in his ears: "The world is full of martial arts; can you retreat?" "As an assassin, offending gangs is commonplace, but he couldn't recall why he had provoked the 'Azure Dragon Society.'
That day, after defeating the 'Azure Dragon Society' members, he kept Liu Ruyan there out of gratitude for her rescue. He reminisced about their time together sixteen years ago, and the two rekindled their love. However, Liu Ruyan was the wife of Tang Dingbang, the Governor-General of Yunnan and Guizhou, and was accustomed to a life of luxury. Therefore, after lingering for a few days, she wanted to return home. Wu Changtian told her, 'I don't blame you. You've always been unable to endure poverty and loneliness. We are two different kinds of people, yet we still fell in love. There's nothing we can do about it.'" "I only ask that you return my daughter to me. That would be enough for us, father and daughter, to live out the rest of our lives together. I can grant you any request." Liu Ruyan agreed to find the girl she had given away, but then knelt before him, weeping and begging him to perform one last assassination, to kill that slut from "Tianxiang Pavilion," that slut who had stolen her husband Tang Dingbang's heart. Wu Changtian, a lifelong assassin, had never assassinated a weak woman. He sighed deeply, "I should have known you would ask me to kill someone." He lowered his head slowly.
The black steed galloped along the cobblestone road. He remembered Liu Ruyan's words: "Her name is Han Yimei, the top courtesan of Tianxiang Pavilion!" "
The border town at night is dimly lit. It connects to Tibet in the north, Burma and Vietnam in the south, and Sichuan and Chang'an in the east. It's a melting pot of all kinds of people.
Tianxiang Pavilion is the most magnificent brothel in the border town, where wealthy merchants, high-ranking officials, and dignitaries alike would stay overnight. Wu Changtian visited this place twice in his assassination career. The first time was to assassinate a jewelry merchant from the Western Regions. The merchant had a large group of bodyguards; Wu Changtian killed one, donned the merchant's clothes, and effortlessly killed the jewelry merchant during their intimate moments. Then he leaped onto the roof and fled, reaching Yunnan and Guizhou." Du Tang Dingbang investigated for three years without finding a single clue. The second attempt involved assassinating a notorious bandit who had committed numerous robberies in the border town, plundering the treasured possessions of dozens of wealthy families. Among the looted items were a white jade lion from the Han Dynasty, a jade burial suit from the pre-Qin period, and authentic calligraphy by the two Wang brothers from the Eastern Jin Dynasty. The authorities investigated for years without success. Later, a wealthy merchant approached Wu Changtian, who instructed him to spread the word that he possessed a fine jade carving for sale. Then, posing as an antique dealer, Wu Changtian arranged for the merchant to meet at Tianxiang Pavilion with the jade carving, finally catching the bandit in the act. He was captured, and the knife scar on Wu Changtian's face was left by that guy. Recalling these past events, Wu Changtian felt a pang of emotion. Looking at the bright lights and bustling streets, and smelling the pervasive scent of perfume, he couldn't help but frown.
At the end of the corridor on the third floor of Tianxiang Pavilion, there was a spacious room. It looked rather secluded, and one wouldn't even notice it existed without careful observation. Inside, incense smoke curled, and a single lamp cast a dim light, illuminating the scrolls hanging on the walls, all landscape paintings and calligraphy from previous dynasties. Against the wall stood a bookshelf that almost reached the ceiling, filled with scrolls. The furnishings inside were extremely simple. At first glance, the room resembled a tutor's study, but unlike the others, the objects inside were arranged with exceptional neatness and were of high quality.
In the center of the room stood a rosewood tea table, upon which rested a guqin (a seven-stringed zither). A beautiful woman in white sat there, playing the guqin and singing. Five feet directly in front of her, a man with a square face, large ears, and a dignified appearance, dressed in a long, black robe and mandarin jacket, listened to the music while drinking tea. He stroked his thick beard, nodding and smiling occasionally. As
soon as one piece ended, the woman gently touched the strings and continued singing: "Ice-like skin and jade-like bones, naturally cool and sweatless. A gentle
breeze from the water pavilion fills the air with subtle fragrance. The embroidered curtain opens, a single plum blossom peeks in. The person is not yet asleep, leaning on the pillow, hair disheveled. Rising, she takes a fair hand; the courtyard is silent, only the shadow of a sparse figure crossing the Milky Way is seen. I ask, what time is it? It is already past midnight, the golden waves are pale, the Jade Rope (a constellation of stars) turns low. But counting on my fingers, when will the west wind come? And yet, the years have silently slipped away." "This is Su Dongpo's 'Dongxian Ge' (Song of the Immortal Cave). Under the woman's gentle and casual touch, the lingering sound is so beautiful that it makes one feel as if they have traveled to another world.
The middle-aged man listening to the zither was overjoyed and couldn't help but take two steps forward, grasp her slender hand, and whisper: 'Mei, this is truly a masterpiece!'" "
Beneath the woman's window, a man was hanging upside down, peering inside. This man was Wu Changtian. Today, he wore a melon-shaped hat, a pale green silk robe, and his braid was neatly combed. He carried a birdcage and spoke with a thick Beijing accent. The madam, seeing him, immediately assumed he was a wealthy merchant from the capital and let him into the main room, calling a girl named Chunhong to accompany him. As soon as they entered the room, he quickly tied up the delicate Chunhong, placed her on the bed, covered her with a quilt, changed into night clothes, and slipped out. He had already learned that Tang Dingbang was with Han Yimei today, and this was an opportunity. So he quietly climbed over the roof to listen for news.
Wu Changtian, hanging on the window lattice, looked inside and couldn't help but shudder. Han Yimei's face was so much like Liu Ruyan's when she was young—that slightly pointed chin, those large, dark, and radiant eyes..." Her small, straight nose, her angular mouth, and especially her slightly melancholic eyes, were strikingly similar to Liu Ruyan's. But what set her apart was a noble, refined air. This wasn't something an ordinary beauty could possess; it wasn't something deliberately cultivated, but rather an innate gift, a result of her refined taste in poetry, music, and painting—the very essence of "a person's inner beauty shines through." Wu Changtian, observing her closely, almost forgot his assassination plot. When he came to his senses, he saw Tang Dingbang holding her hand, whispering sweet nothings, while Han Yimei stood there, her face flushed, filled with shyness.
Wu Changtian gritted his teeth, pulled back the crossbow, and a short arrow silently shot towards Han Yimei. Unexpectedly, the arrow missed its mark, striking Tang Dingbang squarely in the left arm. Tang Dingbang cried out in pain, then shouted, "Catch the assassin!" "With a leap, he jumped out the door.
Wu Changtian inwardly groaned; his assassinations were usually flawless, what had happened today? He quickly climbed onto the roof, pressed himself against the tiles, and waited for Tang Dingbang to rush past before leaping down again. He rushed into the reserved upper room, hid his night clothes, stripped naked, and crawled into bed. He untied Chunhong's ropes, stuffed a fifty-tael silver note into her hand, and said, 'If anyone comes to investigate later, don't say anything. If necessary, help me, and I won't let you down.'
The girl named Chunhong giggled, 'I know, in this world, whoever has money is the boss!'
Suddenly, flames blazed outside, and a group of men rushed into the courtyard. Tang Dingbang shouted, 'Search every room for me, don't miss a single one. A reward of ten taels of silver will be given to anyone who catches the assassin.'" The sound of footsteps pounding all around, accompanied by shouts from the guards and screams from the prostitutes.
Wu Changtian was pondering his next move when a shout rang out from outside the door: "Open the door! Open the door now!" Before
the words were even finished, a guard had already kicked the door open. The flames were blazing, blinding everyone. A guard approached and yelled, "Get up!" He then yanked off the covers, and Chunhong screamed incessantly. Wu Changtian couldn't help but curse in a Beijing accent: "You son of a bitch! What are you doing? Do you know who I am? I'm a Manchu!" He then pulled up his underwear.
The guard, unable to understand him, lashed out with his whip, leaving a welt on his body.
He cursed, "You old lecher, still so stubborn! I'll skin you alive today!" He raised his whip, ready to strike again. Suddenly, Tang Dingbang appeared in the room. He waved his hand, and the guard bowed and stepped back.
"You say you're a Manchu?" Tang Dingbang stared directly at Wu Changtian.
"You don't believe me? I'm on my way to Burma, passing through here. Who I am will shock you. I'm a Manchu of the Plain Yellow Banner. My grandfather was the former prime minister, Nalan Mingzhu, and my father was Nalan Xingde. Do you understand?" Wu Changtian deliberately widened his eyes.
Tang Dingbang couldn't help but gasp. Such a powerful background! But still somewhat doubtful, he sneered, "Nalan Xingde was a first-class imperial guard, skilled in both literature and martial arts. How could he have fathered such a useless bum like you, only good for womanizing?" "
Who are you? State your name and rank!" Wu Changtian roared.
"Oh, sir, don't be angry. Let me keep you company. Come here!" Chunhong suddenly pounced on Tang Dingbang, naked, and hugged him.
"You slut, get away!" Tang Dingbang shoved Chunhong to the ground. He waved behind him and said, "Go!" He walked out with his head held high, and his guards followed him out in single file with their heads bowed.
Wu Changtian gave Chunhong a thumbs up and took out a silver note from his clothes, tossing it to her.
Chunhong smiled coquettishly and curtsied, "This gentleman is so generous. Those officials beat and scold people at the drop of a hat and don't even give money."
Wu Changtian chuckled and walked out the door...
In the governor's mansion, spring was in the air. The mansion was dimly lit.
There were pavilions and terraces, and winding corridors connected the buildings. The night breeze carried the fragrance of flowers from time to time.
Liu Ruyan sat quietly by the lotus pond, letting the night breeze caress her face. A maid brought over a bowl of lotus seed soup, which Liu Ruyan took and sipped gently with a small spoon.
A girl in red ran quickly over and said to Liu Ruyan by the pond, "Mother, look how much my swordsmanship has improved!" She then began to practice her swordplay on the grass. Wielding a double-edged sword, she moved with practiced grace and precision, her footwork particularly striking—truly bizarre and unpredictable. A hint of
surprise flashed in Liu Ruyan's eyes, but she merely turned and glanced at her indifferently: "Hmph, a mere constable, how much martial arts skill can he possibly have? He uses double hooks, yet he teaches you a double-edged sword; it's laughable. Following a constable with such mediocre skills, even if you practice for ten more years, you'll still be the same." She then turned away again.
"Constable Wang's martial arts are poor, Mother's are superior, so please teach me!" The girl appeared to be about fifteen or sixteen years old, with bright, large eyes.
"Teach you?" Liu Ruyan glared at him. "Don't even think about it!" She stood up.
"You!" The girl was so angry she couldn't speak. "You're bullying me!" Tears welled up in her eyes.
"Hmph, I want to beat you up too!" Liu Ruyan turned and left.
"Xiaomei!" A soft call came, and several guards escorted Tang Dingbang as he slowly entered. "Xiaomei, my dear girl, don't argue with your mother. Go back to your room and sleep." Tang Dingbang clutched his wound.
"She's bullying me!" the girl muttered, and quickly ran into the room.
Liu Ruyan came over and helped Tang Dingbang into the inner room. She found some wound medicine and quickly applied it to Tang Dingbang. Fortunately, the hidden arrow hadn't penetrated deeply and wasn't poisonous. The wound wasn't large either.
"Sigh, why are you and Xiaomei always arguing? She's still young, can't you care about her a little?"
"Where did you bring this bastard child from? I get angry just seeing her!" Liu Ruyan said bitterly.
"You hate me because I like her! You can't have children, but you won't let me adopt a daughter?"
Tang Dingbang suddenly stood up.
"What daughter? She'll probably be your future concubine." Liu Ruyan said hatefully.
"You!" Tang Dingbang pointed at her, too angry to speak. "If it weren't for the fact that you once saved my life, I would have divorced you long ago!"
"You dare!" Liu Ruyan put her hands on her hips. "Tell me, did you go to Tianxiang Pavilion to see that slut again tonight?"
Tang Dingbang looked at her, slumped onto the couch, and gently shook his head. Suddenly, he seemed to remember something and took out a hidden dart from his sleeve. "Take a look. You've been around the world for a long time and are very knowledgeable. Do you recognize a hidden dart?"
Liu Ruyan took it and examined it carefully for a while. She said leisurely, "This hidden dart reminds me of someone."
"Who?"
"Wu Changtian!" Liu Ruyan said calmly. "He is skilled in using hidden darts, but I'm not sure if it's him."
"It's him again! A year ago, when the imperial envoy sent by the court came here to inspect, he forcibly abducted a peasant girl, but unexpectedly, Wu Changtian killed her. Because of this, I almost lost my official hat. I've investigated for several years, but I haven't even found a trace of Wu Changtian. I didn't expect him to want to kill me too. This time, he just happened to run into my line of fire. I can't let him get away." Tang Dingbang shouted: "Guards!
" A man entered in response. "Go and find Constable Wang for me, now!" Tang Dingbang shouted loudly...
Four
mornings. Birds chirped. Thick fog permeated the mountains.
In Lion Mountain, the pines and cypresses were verdant, and the forest was dense. On the clearing at the mountain peak, a tall tombstone stood out. A woman in a black cloak knelt before the tomb. Judging from her back, she must have been a beautiful woman.
"My husband! I've finally found him. I never imagined he was hiding in the border town. He killed you, ruined my life's happiness, and left me to live as a dependent. This time, I will use his blood to atone for your death," the woman said through gritted teeth.
"That day, you rode a tall horse and brought me to your home in a bright red sedan chair. It was a spacious and tranquil mansion, with a clear stream flowing gently past the gate. The courtyard was surrounded by lush bamboo groves. Back then, I often washed clothes in the stream, and you often washed your inkstone there; I practiced swordplay for you, and you played the zither for me. Those were such peaceful times. But one day, I deserved to die, I couldn't bear the loneliness anymore, I thought of the fine clothes and delicacies outside, I wanted a mansion and a lot of money. To make a living, you took up the family heirloom, the dusty long sword, and went down the mountain to escort goods. You never came back, and later I learned that he had killed you. I wanted to avenge you, but I couldn't find him. I wandered the world again, becoming a ruthless female bandit. Now, it's all over."
A wisp of smoke rose from the tombstone...
At dusk, the Bada Restaurant was bustling with activity. Dozens of tables were filled with diners. This restaurant was located in a bustling area of the border town, and with the renowned "Lion Mountain Aged Wine" sold throughout three provinces, business was naturally brisk.
Wu Changtian slowly walked into the restaurant and, guided by the waiter, stood at a table by the window. A man was already seated there. He wore a magnificent silk robe and mandarin jacket, and used a large fan to cover half his face. On the fan was a calligraphy of Tang Bohu's "Falling Flowers Poem." The man gestured with the fan, indicating for Wu Changtian to sit down. He gestured to the waiter and said, "Bring a pot of 'Lion Mountain Aged Wine.'"
Wu Changtian sat down opposite the man and shook his head bitterly.
The man looked at Wu Changtian with a probing gaze, his eyes filled with anxiety. Wu Changtian shook his head again.
The wine arrived; it was an excellent aged wine, unopened yet already exuding a rich aroma. Two delicate porcelain cups held the clear liquid. The dishes arrived, four delicate small plates: one plate of "Cold Dragon Claw Salad," made with freshly caught bracken; another plate of "Kung Pao Chicken Liver," made with the giblets of the locally abundant black-boned chicken; and two other seasonal side dishes, all fresh, fragrant, and crispy.
After a glass of wine, the man suddenly wrote a few words on the table with his finger, then took a bundle from behind him and pushed it in front of Wu Changtian. He then stood up and walked downstairs.
Wu Changtian remained unmoved, ignoring the man's departure and continuing to drink and eat. After about half an incense stick's time, he looked downstairs and saw the man had disappeared around the corner. He then picked up his bundle and stood up.
"You must be the famous Wu Changtian!" A deep voice suddenly came from behind him, as if it had risen from the ground.
Wu Changtian didn't turn around; he knew from the voice that the newcomer was no ordinary person. He calmly asked, "What does my friend want?" while secretly triggering the mechanism of his hidden arrow.
"Nothing much. I'm here on my master's orders to invite Mr. Wu to my residence for a chat!" The man's voice remained extremely cold.
"I don't know who your master is, so forget it!" Wu Changtian said indifferently.
"You'll know when you get there. Many things in this world don't need to be asked, don't you think?" The voice remained cold.
Suddenly, a dozen or so men surrounded him, trapping him in the center.
Wu Changtian chuckled, sat down, and poured himself a drink.
The man behind him had somehow appeared opposite him. The man was slightly overweight, with dry, yellow hair, and a pair of sinister, triangular eyes that shone with a cold light. A few sparse yellow whiskers clung to his chin.
He poured himself a cup of wine, drank it in one gulp, and said, "Good wine," then picked up a piece of food with his chopsticks and said, "Good food." Suddenly, he lifted the delicate porcelain cup on the table with both hands, and slowly moved it towards Wu Changtian without spilling the wine. The man said, "Brother Wu, please." Wu Changtian smiled slightly, took a deep breath, and the wine in the cup shot into his mouth like an arrow, while the cup remained suspended in mid-air. The man, still smiling, increased the force of his hand, and the cup swiftly struck Wu Changtian's face. Wu Changtian ducked, and with a cry of pain, blood streamed down the forehead of the man behind him. Enraged, the man lunged at Wu Changtian. Wu Changtian slammed his hand on the table, sending cups and dishes flying. The man dodged to the side, but the surrounding crowd surged forward. Wu Changtian, with one hand, lifted the table and smashed it down on the crowd, simultaneously leaping away and landing lightly on the street. With a whistle, his black horse charged out. Wu Changtian leaped, and the horse galloped away, disappearing around the corner in an instant.
Night had fallen, and the border town's night held a certain depth and mystery. While the bustling streets outside were lively, the ancient alleyways were serene. Ancient alleys, ancient houses, ancient stone-paved paths. At the end of the alley stood a small inn, two large red lanterns hanging high at the entrance. Wu Changtian walked up, ascending the old spiral wooden staircase to the third room upstairs. He secretly felt his quiver and dart pouch, gripped his sword tightly, and pressed his ear to the door. Just then, the old wooden door opened silently. Liu Ruyan's well-preserved face peeked out from the crack. She giggled and grabbed Wu Changtian's arm. Wu Changtian steeled himself and entered the room. He looked around, a sense of unease creeping in. The outside was so old, yet the room was luxuriously furnished, with a soft couch, carved bed, and tables. A delicate lamp emitted a dim red glow, creating a warm and somewhat exciting atmosphere. Wu Changtian looked around, finding nowhere to hide. He lifted the curtain and looked down; the alley remained silent, without a sound. As he pondered, Liu Ruyan, her soft breasts partially exposed, leaned against him. Suddenly, Wu Changtian drew a short sword from his sleeve and swiftly pointed it at her throat, whispering, "Tell me, were those people at the restaurant today brought by you?"
"Changtian, don't you believe me? I'm your unchanging Yan, how could I?" Liu Ruyan's large eyes showed a hint of sadness.
"Then why are assassins following me the moment you appear!" Wu Changtian moved the short sword forward two inches.
"Don't assassins follow me when I'm not around? You call yourself the 'Number One Assassin of the Border City,' you've offended countless people, and countless martial artists want to compete with you for that title!" Liu Ruyan said softly.
Wu Changtian raised his hand and touched the scar on his face. Many years ago, his reputation as the "Number One Assassin of the Border Town" spread like wildfire. Even a single Dome was challenged and ambushed. This scar was left by a lone bandit, a man wielding twin swords who frequently robbed traveling merchants, often both robbing them and killing them. After killing, he would often leave behind a handkerchief with an orchid pattern and the words "Orchid in a Secluded Valley," earning him the nickname "The Hermit of the Secluded Valley." The government repeatedly sent constables to arrest him, but he was elusive, always disappearing without a trace. Either the constables sent out mysteriously vanished, or they couldn't find him.
A dozen or so wealthy merchants in the area jointly requested Wu Changtian's help, and Wu Changtian agreed. Unexpectedly, the next day, "Konggu Ke" suddenly appeared before Wu Changtian, his face covered with a dark blue silk scarf embroidered with orchids. He declared he wanted to fight the "Number One Assassin." If he lost, he would live in anonymity and retire from the martial world; if he won, he would take Wu Changtian's life and continue to roam the martial world without fear. It was a truly thrilling and fierce battle. As "Konggu Ke" stabbed Wu Changtian in the face, Wu Changtian thrust out with one palm, unleashing the "Stone-Breaking and Tablet-Splitting Hand," which shattered
two of "Konggu Ke's" ribs. "Konggu Ke" flew away like a kite and fell to the ground, unable to get up. Wu Changtian drew a cross on his chest with his sword and then turned and left. Even after he had gone a long way, he could still hear "Konggu Ke's" howl, "Why didn't you kill me?" He admired heroes; although the man had committed evil deeds, his martial arts skills were truly extraordinary, unlike anything he had ever seen in his life. He believed that the man would retire from the martial world from then on.
Sure enough, there was no news of "Konggu Ke" after that.
"Yes, I've killed countless people in my life, and nearly been killed by countless others." He turned around, his eyes flashing with a cold light. "But these past few days have been strange. Why are people constantly chasing me now that I've just announced my retirement from the martial world? Could it be that these people completely disregard the code of the martial world?"
"Changtian, if you don't believe me, then kill me." Liu Ruyan closed her eyes, a tear sliding down her long eyelashes.
Wu Changtian sighed deeply.
Suddenly, Liu Ruyan snatched the short sword and stabbed it into her chest. Caught off guard, Wu Changtian quickly used two fingers to catch the sword, but even so, the tip pierced her delicate skin, and a trickle of blood oozed from her fair skin.
"I believe you, why are you doing this!" Wu Changtian quickly pressed her acupoints to stop the bleeding and hurriedly found some wound medicine to apply to her wound.
After a long, intimate moment, Liu Ruyan suddenly said softly, "If you help me kill that slut, I'll be truly grateful."
"You really care that much about Tang Dingbang?" Wu Changtian asked. "Wouldn't it be better if you came back to me?"
"Is it that easy? Tang Dingbang is a high-ranking official. He'll kill you. Even if you're capable, can you fight against the court? Although he thinks I'm too old, since I'm with him, even if I'm just a decoration, he won't let anyone take me away. Besides, I'm used to a life of luxury, being waited on hand and foot. Being with you would only be a burden. I don't care who he likes; I just can't stand that slut's arrogant attitude in front of me. That slut often comes to the Tang residence, and Tang Dingbang gives her whatever she wants! Ugh! I've never been treated like that before!"
Wu Changtian cursed inwardly. Women! They're so damn complicated. But he still said, "Since I promised you, I will definitely do it." "
Changtian, you, the number one assassin, have never failed! If you fail again, it will damage your reputation," Liu Ruyan said, half-scolding.
Wu Changtian remained silent, looking up at the dark sky, where a shooting star streaked across the night.
"Changtian, do you know who runs this inn?" After a while, Liu Ruyan suddenly asked.
"You run it?" Wu Changtian asked casually.
"You would never guess that this is that little slut's inn."
"What?" Wu Changtian was startled for no reason.
Night deepened, and crickets chirped softly somewhere. Liu Ruyan was already breathing heavily. Wu Changtian tiptoed out of bed, changed into his night clothes, and "whoosh," jumped out of the window, peering into the courtyard close to the eaves. All around was quiet; the whole world was fast asleep. He used his gecko-like wall-climbing skills to climb onto another room. Suddenly, he saw a light still on in a side room. He quietly crept up to it.
"Daughter! I'm afraid my illness won't get better. You…please don't make me take any more medicine. It's pointless anyway, and you don't earn money easily! I'm thinking of selling the old shop to get some money for your dowry," an old woman said weakly. Then came a heart-wrenching cough.
"Mom, please don't say anymore. Your illness can definitely be cured," a young woman sobbed.
Wu Changtian slipped to the window, licked open the paper window with his tongue, and peered inside. He saw an elderly woman with white hair and beard reclining on the bed, and beside her, feeding her medicine, was none other than Han Yimei. Wu Changtian felt a sting in his heart.
Han Yimei wore a light blue cloth dress, her black hair casually tied in a bun with a wooden hairpin. Her face was bare, yet her natural beauty possessed a unique charm. Her brows were lowered, and an ancient sorrow struck Wu Changtian's chest.
Wu Changtian sighed deeply in his heart. He had killed countless people, including heroes and corrupt officials and merchants, but most were powerful and wicked. He had never encountered such a frail yet filial woman.
"Daughter, with the silver Mr. Tang gave us, it's enough for us to live well for a few years. You shouldn't go out to work anymore. You're a young woman, and the world is quite complicated these days," the old woman coughed twice.
"Mom, I'll listen to you." Han Yimei nodded vigorously. "After I finish this plum, I'll come back to serve you."
Wu Changtian loosened the trigger in his hand; he really couldn't bring himself to kill such a woman.
He leaped onto the window frame and returned to the room. Liu Ruyan was still fast asleep. Wu Changtian crawled into the covers to wake her, but Liu Ruyan turned over and fell asleep again. Wu Changtian gazed at the starry sky outside the window, tossing and turning, unable to sleep. After a while, he finally dozed off. Around
dawn
, Wu Changtian was suddenly awakened by a flurry of footsteps. It turned out that the merchants who had stayed the night before and their men were setting off. They led horses out of the stable; judging from the sounds, they seemed to be salt traders, carrying salt to Tibet, and would have to travel from dawn till dusk. Han Yimei and the innkeeper's staff were busy settling their bills with them.
Wu Changtian reached to his side, only to find Liu Ruyan gone.
He quietly got up, found his Xuan Tie sword, quiver, and dart pouch, and noticed a crumpled piece of paper in the dart pouch. He quickly stuffed the paper into his pocket, slipped out the door, leaped onto the roof, and, taking advantage of the remaining darkness, quickly left the inn. A few more leaps, and he was on the main road. He first walked a hundred steps to the left, then a hundred steps to the right, and then a hundred steps forward, arriving at a mansion. He pressed the first dot of the character "福" (fortune/blessing) on the screen wall opposite the vermilion gate, revealing a small, round hole just wide enough for one person to pass through. He silently slipped into the hole, descended the sloping stone steps, and emerged from another opening into a secret chamber. Complete with a stone bed, table, and stools, this was Wu Changtian's hideout in the border town. The mansion belonged to his friend, "Danqiu Sheng," and this secret chamber was built for Wu Changtian. "Danqiu Sheng" appeared to be one of the wealthiest merchants in the border town, but secretly he was a renowned "Healing Hand" in the martial arts world, especially skilled in detoxification. No one knew of his relationship with Wu Changtian, and Wu Changtian never revealed it to anyone. For decades, no enemy had imagined he would be hiding here.
Wu Changtian lit a tinderbox and unfolded the crumpled paper. It was left by Liu Ruyan, with a few delicate characters written on it: "Changtian, my love for you will last until death. Please do your best to fulfill the request I made. We will meet at Huagai Temple at noon ten days from now. Your cigarette."
Wu Changtian frowned. He was conflicted. Liu Ruyan was pressing him relentlessly. How could he explain himself to Han Yimei if he didn't kill her? But Han Yimei was such a good woman. What should he do? Wu Changtian was completely perplexed, so he strolled into the back garden.
This was a garden spanning hundreds of acres, with artificial hills and strange rocks, flowers, birds, insects, pavilions, and terraces—a hidden paradise. Wu Changtian breathed in the morning air, temporarily leaving his troubles aside. Turning past an artificial hill, he saw Danqiu Sheng practicing his sword in the garden. Wu Changtian hurriedly bowed and said, "Brother, you're here so early!"
Danqiu Sheng quickly tossed his sword aside and invited Wu Changtian to sit in the pavilion. He said in surprise, "Brother Wu, didn't you buy a house and land by Cuiyun Lake and retire from the martial world? I was thinking of visiting you sometime, but it turns out you've come out again." Danqiu Sheng was lean and wiry, with a long black beard reaching his navel, and wore a dark blue robe, looking quite energetic.
Wu Changtian recounted the pursuit by the "Azure Dragon Society," but omitted the part about meeting Liu Ruyan.
Danqiu Sheng said, "Actually, there's no need to worry. The 'Azure Dragon Society' is currently at the height of its power, and with the added support of the Governor-General of Yunnan and Guizhou, Tang Dingbang, they are truly lawless. However, I heard that in a brawl with the Qingcheng Sect of Sichuan a couple of days ago, the Qingcheng Sect received assistance from the Diancang Sect of Dali, Yunnan, and the 'Azure Dragon Society' suffered considerable losses. It seems that the saying 'evil people will be punished by other evil people
' is quite true." Wu Changtian nodded without speaking. After a while, he said to Danqiu Sheng, "It's been a long time since we brothers have exchanged blows. I'd like to see how your 'Returning Wind Sword Technique' is." As he spoke, he drew his Xuan Tie Sword.
Danqiu Sheng laughed heartily, "I suppose your 'Heavenly Palace' sword technique has reached a state of perfection." Without saying more, he thrust his sword at Wu Changtian. His swordsmanship was light and elusive, combining strength and gentleness, truly achieving complete control. His first move, "Gentle Breeze Brushes the Face," swept towards Wu Changtian's face. Wu Changtian blocked the incoming sword with a horizontal stroke of his Xuan Tie sword, but this was actually a feint. Before Dan Qiusheng could finish his move, his longsword suddenly turned inward, thrusting directly towards Wu Changtian's "dantian" (lower abdomen). This second move, called "Wind Blowing Willows," was extremely agile. Wu Changtian was shocked and forcefully swerved two feet to the side. At the same time, he changed his thrust into a slash, aiming directly at Dan Qiusheng's right shoulder. Seeing the fierce attack, Dan Qiusheng lowered his waist and lifted his hips, swinging his sword horizontally. His sword was the famous "Green Jar Sword," impervious to slashes. A loud "clang" rang out, and both men staggered back two steps, their hands numb. They couldn't help but exchange a smile.
"Hehehe!" A night owl-like laugh came from the sky. A gray shadow floated down from a Bodhi tree. It was the gray-robed man with triangular eyes who had arrested Wu Changtian at the tavern that day. As he walked, he clapped his hands and exclaimed, "Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful! One gentle, one strong; one light, one heavy. Both possess profound inner strength. I admire you."
"Who are you, and how dare you trespass into my garden?" Danqiu Sheng asked.
"Well done, Danqiu Sheng! Don't be so petty. I just came to admire the scenery. I didn't expect you to be living such a comfortable life. While others are experiencing the ups and downs of the martial world, you're enjoying the beauty of spring here. I'm quite envious!" The man stroked his sparse beard.
Danqiu Sheng looked left and right, somewhat taken aback. The man looked familiar, but he couldn't recall ever seeing him before.
"Brother, don't take offense. I was just sent by my master to invite this Brother Wu to his residence for a chat. I searched all night but couldn't find him. I just happened to pass by the garden and, seeing the beautiful scenery, came in to rest for a while. I didn't expect to run into Brother Wu. Brother Dan, please rest for a while. You're still your boss." He said, bowing slightly.
Knowing the newcomer meant no harm, Wu Changtian gripped his longsword and attacked without a word. The man split his arms, drawing two hooks, and lunged at Wu Changtian. Wu Changtian's strength was fierce, each strike creating a whistling wind, but the man was incredibly elusive, sometimes attacking like a sudden storm, sometimes moving as gracefully as a willow in spring, making his moves unpredictable. Suddenly, Wu Changtian unleashed a move called "Heavenly Light and Cloud Shadow," his longsword creating a gust of wind that enveloped the man in sword light. The man, unperturbed, countered with a single hook, "Yaksha Probing the Sea," aiming straight for Wu Changtian's throat. His right hook, however, met Wu Changtian's sword. This was precisely Wu Changtian's weakness; the "Heavenly Light and Cloud Shadow" sword circle was extremely large, except for the weakest point in the center. Seeing his left hook approaching, Wu Changtian could only retreat to defend himself. The man then closed in, aiming his right hook at Wu Changtian's perineum—a most vicious and despicable attack. Wu Changtian was terrified. He leaped into the air, slashing twice with his sword, forcing the man back two steps. Then, he repeatedly activated the mechanisms in his sleeve, sending hidden arrows flying from above, below, left, and right. The man dodged the arrows, but Wu Changtian, with a few leaps, soared out of the garden like a bird. The man followed closely behind.
At this moment, the sounds of vendors hawking their wares filled the city…
The Tender Feelings Restaurant was back, offering the same fine wines and exquisite snacks. But Wu Changtian had lost interest. Having escaped the man's pursuit, he felt extremely tired. His desire to retreat to the countryside and live in anonymity grew stronger each day, but the words of "Drifting Duckweed" Shen Qinglian kept echoing in his ears: "The world is full of martial arts; where can you retreat to?" He knew that the mansion by Cuiyun Lake was now under the surveillance of the "Azure Dragon Society." Although the secret chamber of "Danqiu Sheng's" place remains unknown, the gray-robed man's knowledge of his relationship with "Danqiu Sheng" today inevitably raises suspicion, so it seems best to avoid that place.
And since the gray-robed man fought him here before, even if he's shrewd, he wouldn't expect me to be here again.
While pondering, he finished a pot of "Lion Mountain Aged Wine." He shouted, "Waiter, another pot!"
"Alright! You didn't even invite me for a drink, brother!" The voice arrived as soon as he appeared; with a refined and elegant figure, long sleeves fluttering, "Danqiu Sheng" in a blue robe was already at his table.
"Ah! It's Master Chen! What a rare guest. It's a pleasure to patronize our humble establishment!" The fat restaurant owner followed behind "Danqiu Sheng."
"Do you have any private rooms?" "Danqiu Sheng" asked casually.
"Yes, yes, please, gentlemen!" The restaurant owner invited the two to a private room on the top floor facing the street, where a pot of fine Tieguanyin tea was brewed.
Danqiu Sheng lowered his voice and said to Wu Changtian, "As you know, I have spies everywhere in the city. I've already investigated, and that gray-robed man is a constable in the governor's mansion. He seems to spend his days drinking and gambling, but I never expected him to have such good skills."
Wu Changtian pondered for a moment, "I think this man is quite remarkable. Although his martial arts have no discernible style, his skill is superb, and his movements and footwork seem familiar, but I can't remember where I've seen him before."
"I'll let you know if there's any news later. You'd better leave the border town for a while!" Danqiu Sheng said.
"Okay, I'll go after I finish what I'm doing." After Wu Changtian finished speaking, he poured a full cup of wine down his throat.
"Danqiu Sheng" drifted away. Wu Changtian continued drinking heavily at the table. Too many things had happened in the past few days, leaving him restless and unsure of where to go. He cast his blank gaze onto the long, winding street. Suddenly, his eyes lit up; he seemed to see Han Yimei. She was still wearing that light blue robe, still had those melancholy eyes, wandering alone in the crowd. He rubbed his eyes and looked again—it was her, it really was her. He picked up his sword in his left hand and carried a wine jug in his right, then leaped down from the tavern and followed Han Yimei.
The street was bustling with people, shouts rising and falling, but Wu Changtian only looked at Han Yimei, looked at... Her figure appeared and disappeared in the crowd.
After passing the street corner, Han Yimei turned into a long, narrow alley. The alley was very narrow, with high walls on both sides, rarely seeing sunlight even during the day. Han Yimei walked lightly into the depths of the alley, like a lilac blooming in the wind.
Wu Changtian took out a crossbow from his black bundle, drew the bow, and nocked an arrow. Wu Changtian was known as the "Number One Assassin of the Border City" not only for his extremely powerful and fierce "Stone-Breaking and Stele-Splitting Hand," and his boundless "Heavenly Sword Technique," but also for his renowned skill in hitting the bullseye with a crossbow bolt from a hundred paces.
He aimed the arrow at Han Yimei, and saw her walking lightly ahead. He saw the arrow tip pointing at her vital spot. He had already drawn the bowstring, but for some reason, his hand was trembling. "Damn it," he cursed inwardly, "am I drunk?" He drew the bowstring again, his hand shaking even more violently. He sighed inwardly.
A hawk flew by, sweeping across the alleyway. Wu Changtian suddenly aimed the arrow at the sky, and with a "whoosh," the hawk plummeted to the ground…
Wu Changtian tilted his head back, staggering out of the alley, his long, thin shadow swaying on the cobblestone path.
The setting sun shone golden, evening clouds gathered, and Wu Changtian stumbled to the shore of Cuiyun Lake. Watching the fishermen returning with their nets and the waterbirds heading home, Wu Changtian suddenly felt a profound sense of loneliness and desolation. He sat down on the beach, gazing up at the distant sky and the dark green mountains. Perhaps he should go beyond the mountains; he should leave this place. Never to return. As he thought this, his eyelids grew heavy, and he fell asleep on the beach.
He didn't know how many hours had passed when Wu Changtian suddenly awoke. He opened his sleepy eyes and looked around; it seemed he was in a room. He rubbed his eyes, looking around again. The paintings and calligraphy on the walls seemed familiar. Where was he? How did he get here? Wu Changtian shook his head, still unable to remember how he got there.
"You're awake! Come, have a cup of tea!" A soft, melodious voice rang in his ears, so clear and gentle, like willow branches swaying gently among plum blossoms. A dark red ceramic cup, carved with gold patterns, was offered to him. Wu Changtian was indeed thirsty, and without hesitation, he drank the tea in one gulp. He slowly turned his head to look, first seeing slender, white fingers, then pale blue arms, and then… Wu Changtian was startled. That face—who else could it be but Han Yimei? Wu Changtian's heart began to pound wildly. He closed his eyes and asked, "Where am I? What happened to me?"
"You are now in Tianxiang Pavilion. You were drunk and slept on the beach by Cuiyun Lake. I happened to go out for a walk and saw you, so I had someone help you here. Are you feeling better?" Han Yimei's voice was still gentle and soothing, every word comforting.
Wu Changtian kept his eyes closed and murmured, "Thank you!"
"Is there anything else, sir?" “
No, thank you. You’re such a kind person.” Wu Changtian smiled wearily.
Han Yimei gently tucked him in. She turned and walked to the window, silently gazing at the distant sky.
Wu Changtian cursed himself inwardly. What’s wrong with you? So many enemies are hunting you down, yet you’re drunk and unconscious on the beach. You haven’t been drunk in over ten years, nor have you been so sentimental and indecisive. If you don’t act now, you’re finished.
Suddenly, Wu Changtian sprang to his feet with incredible speed. He drew a short sword from his inner garment, lunged, and grabbed Han Yimei by the neck, pointing the tip at her throat. He said in a low voice, “Someone wants me to kill you. Forgive me!”
“Who wants you to kill me? Am I really worth killing a hero like you?” Han Yimei remained calm, as if she had seen through life and death.
“I’m entrusted with this task. I cannot tell you.” As for me, I'm just a nobody. You shouldn't have let a wolf into your house." Wu Changtian's cold sword tip had already touched her warm skin. "I've spent half my life wandering the martial world, and you're the only woman who has ever moved my heart, but I have no choice but to kill you." Wu Changtian said, word by word.
"I'm not worth your killing." Han Yimei continued gazing at the distant sky. "I see the vicissitudes and heroism in your brows; you're not a notorious bandit, nor a hired assassin; you have an independent personality and a chivalrous heart. You may kill, but your targets aren't the vulnerable." Han Yimei's words, though seemingly casual, struck Wu Changtian's eardrums like a heavy hammer.
Wu Changtian's short sword slowly drooped. His brows furrowed, filled with anguish: "Why is killing you so difficult?" He slowly lowered his head.
"Because you won't kill someone who can't resist. And she has no bad record." Han Yimei continued gazing at the sky.
Wu Changtian dejectedly picked up his long sword and slowly walked out the door.
Behind him, Han Yimei's gentle voice came: "My door is always open for you."
Huagai Temple was a scenic spot in the border town, where a tall, protruding mountain peak shaped like a steamed bun stood, and Huagai Temple was built on top of this "steamed bun." Before the temple stands an ancient cypress tree, thousands of years old, its shape resembling a giant umbrella reaching for the sky; the temple
's name originates from this cypress. Climbing to the top of the temple offers a panoramic view of the border town. However, the stone path leading to the ancient temple follows the steep mountainside, making it difficult to traverse. Consequently, few people usually come here.
As the golden sunlight bathed the mountain peaks, Wu Changtian arrived at the tree before the temple. He stood there quietly, gazing at the border town where he had lived for decades. He knew every street, even every alley, every building in this border town. The building with eaves resembling a roc about to take flight was the Jinri Tower, the place where he had once diligently studied and practiced martial arts. But now, all of that was going to be far away; perhaps tomorrow, he would be leaving.
Liu Ruyan slowly walked up from the foot of the mountain. Although the stone steps were steep, her steps were light. Her black dress accentuated her noble and elegant demeanor, as well as her cold beauty. Although she covered her head with a bamboo hat, Wu Changtian could still recognize her.
"You've come!" Wu Changtian approached and smiled at her.
She took Wu Changtian's arm, giving him a charming smile. Then she suddenly threw herself into his embrace, wrapping her arms around his strong waist. She seemed to use all her strength, as if trying to become one with Wu Changtian. She was like a cluster of black flames, burning fiercely.
Wu Changtian felt his blood rushing through his veins.
After a long while, Liu Ruyan looked up at his face: "Changtian, I know you brought me good news."
Wu Changtian looked at her with melancholy eyes, then gently shook his head.
"Don't joke around. With your skills, you could kill her ten times over." Liu Ruyan laughed.
"I can't kill her. I failed to keep my promise. For the first time in my life, I broke my word. And in front of my former lover." A tear seemed to glisten in Wu Changtian's eyelashes. "But she's just a weak woman. I can't bring myself to do it." Wu Changtian leaned against the gnarled old trunk of a cypress tree.
"You haven't fallen in love with her, have you?" Liu Ruyan said bitterly.
“No, I just felt that killing a weak woman would violate my principles.”
“An assassin has principles? What a joke. Don’t you know she’s beautiful but heartless?” Liu Ruyan said. “You’re not afraid of offending me. Aren’t you afraid of ruining your reputation as the ‘Number One Assassin’?” Liu Ruyan said angrily.
“Please forgive me, I really can’t kill her,” Wu Changtian said.
“Fine, then I won’t trouble you any further. I’ll find someone else, and if necessary, I’ll hire another expert,” Liu Ruyan said coldly.
“Are you absolutely determined to kill him?” Wu Changtian asked seriously.
“Absolutely,” Liu Ruyan said through gritted teeth. She turned and walked down the mountain.
“Wait!” A clear, cold voice drifted over, and a short, stout old man in a gray robe gracefully descended from the cypress tree. His sparse yellow beard was repulsive, and his face was ashen. It was the gray-robed man who had tried to capture Wu Changtian. With a flick of his double hooks, he knocked off Liu Ruyan’s hat. “‘Deadly Rakshasa,’ I never expected to encounter you here. You, the Governor’s wife, are still having an affair here; truly, the world has lost its way!”
Liu Ruyan’s face flushed red and then paled. Suddenly, she flicked her wrist, her soft whip shooting towards the gray-robed man’s face. The gray-robed man smiled coldly, remaining motionless. As the whip tip brushed past, he simply raised his hand, grabbing the whip and pulling it away. With a swift movement, Liu Ruyan’s whip was in his hand.
“Go!” Wu Changtian roared at Liu Ruyan, drawing his Xuan Tie sword. With a swift movement, he positioned himself between the two, the sword held horizontally, tip pointing downwards. The gray-robed man didn’t speak, his double hooks attacking Wu Changtian from above and below, still using the same attack technique of striking the face and groin simultaneously. This “Yin-Yang Hook” move was vicious and insidious from the start. Wu Changtian was already experienced in this. Instead of dodging, Wu Changtian changed his thrusting technique to a slashing one with the Xuan Tie Heavy Sword, slicing diagonally downwards. This seemingly simple slash was Wu Changtian's specialty. This Xuan Tie sword was six feet long, longer and heavier than ordinary swords, with blades on both sides, allowing it to be used in conjunction with saber and staff techniques. Wu Changtian's "Heavenly Palace Sword Technique" was a powerful and vigorous style, unassuming in appearance but highly effective. The gray-robed man's "Yin-Yang Hooks," though extremely vicious, were ultimately too short. If he didn't withdraw his attack, his arm would be severed before the hooks even reached him. He had no choice but to forcefully withdraw the hooks. Suddenly, the gray-robed man leaped into the air, his hooks striking Wu Changtian's eyes like eagle claws. Seeing the fierce attack, Wu Changtian crouched down, simultaneously thrusting his longsword upwards in a "One Sword Supporting the Sky" style. A series of clanging sounds rang out, and both the gray-robed man and Wu Changtian felt their hands go numb. The Xuan Tie sword had already cut several notches into the hooks. The grey-robed man let out a soft "Eh," then swiftly leaped up the tree, disappearing in a few bounds.
A chill crept across Liu Ruyan's face: "Why didn't you chase after him?"
"I wasn't confident of victory!" Wu Changtian said calmly .
"Since this person knows I'm 'Deadly Rakshasa,' he must be a renowned figure in the martial world. Who is he?" Liu Ruyan asked, still shaken. "I don't know!" Wu Changtian sheathed his sword and descended the stone steps. Liu Ruyan watched his departing figure with incredibly complex emotions… At the edge of Emerald Cloud Lake. Fine waves like silver, a warm breeze gently blowing, Wu Changtian strolled slowly along the lakeside. His gaze drifted to the opposite shore, the dark green peaks evoking a sense of longing. No longer acting as Liu Ruyan's assassin, this relieved him of a tremendous burden; he had decided to leave this place of sorrow. Perhaps tomorrow, perhaps tonight. Suddenly, Han Yimei's slender figure appeared in his field of vision. He knew that figure all too well. She was still dressed in a pale blue robe, walking barefoot on the warm sand, silver waves kissing her delicate feet. Suddenly, Wu Changtian felt a strange, inexplicable emotion welling up inside him. Abruptly, she turned and smiled faintly at him, a smile that held so much meaning, like a fine steel needle piercing his heart. "You haven't fallen in love with her, have you?" Wu Changtian seemed to hear Liu Ruyan's mocking voice again. His heart sank: If I leave like this, what will happen to her? How can she be killed? At dusk, Wu Changtian, the "Number One Assassin of the Border City," strode steadily into Tianxiang Pavilion. He walked to Han Yimei's door. The moment the door opened, Han Yimei's pure smile greeted him. "I knew you would come again," Han Yimei said. Her lotus-colored dress made her resemble a blooming water lily. “I love you!” Wu Changtian said. “At first, I didn’t know I loved you, but then someone reminded me. That’s when I realized why my heart ached—it was love.” “A truly honest man doesn’t hide his feelings. Love is love, hate is hate, so I came.” Wu Changtian said, each word distinct. Han Yimei remained silent, two tears streaming down her face. “I am an assassin. Assassins cannot have emotions, but I have. Therefore, I cannot kill you. I can only love you. I am killing myself.” Wu Changtian remained standing there. “I know,” Han Yimei said softly. [The End]

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Wu Changtian, the Border Town Assassin

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