The Tang Dynasty era could be considered an extremely peaceful period throughout history. There were no border skirmishes or territorial wars, and it was a time when poetry, literature, and cultural arts flourished most brightly. With a benevolent emperor ruling, the entire country was serene and prosperous.
Martial artists are also citizens, and thus the state of the martial arts world is directly proportional to the political situation of the country. When the nation is peaceful and prosperous, the martial arts world can be said to be relatively stable.
Especially after the Battle of the Death Valley, the entire martial arts world became peaceful. With the demise of the Skeleton Demon and the collapse of the Skeleton Sect, the dark martial arts world became weakened and could not recover for 100 years.
The daily battles for survival, bullying, and bloodshed almost completely disappeared.
This period of stability had lasted for over 100 years. Now, however, signs that the entire martial arts world would be stirred up suddenly appeared. These events began with a peculiar piece of news.
No one knew where this news originated, nor did anyone ponder the underlying reasons behind it. Regardless, it was certain that this news had stirred up the entire martial arts world.
Subsequently, martial artists from various sects and individual martial arts heroes suddenly gathered one after another at Mount Tianshan. Why? For no other reason than this very news.
The news was…
…that within a great ravine in the Tianshan mountain range, a sword manual personally written and recorded by the Black Guest, along with his treasured Sapphire Dragon Sword, were buried. The Black Guest was considered a Sword Emperor, not only because he could easily defeat the two great mazes of the Shaolin and Wudang sects but also because he defeated the Skeleton Demon, who was feared by the entire martial arts world.
It is no surprise that martial artists coveted a martial arts manual written by such a person. Aren't martial artists a class of people who sacrifice their lives for martial arts and honor?
The power of the Sword, wielded by the Black Guest, was also well-known throughout the martial arts world. Its ability to cut through any object, to increase internal energy when drinking its sword essence, and to overcome all kinds of poisons were greatly favored by martial artists.
Greed can sometimes consume human reason. When overshadowed by the darkness of greed, people lose their ability to distinguish right from wrong and blindly follow their desires.
Then, they commit many irreparable mistakes. However, humans are always victims of greed, anger, and delusion. Martial artists, being also victims of greed, arrived at Mount Tianshan, each vying to be first.
Tianshan and Tianshan District are located in a border region and are extremely remote, with almost no human presence. The forest is deep, and natural disasters are abundant. In particular, this area is the territory of the Black Dragon Sect.
What is the Black Dragon Sect? The Black Dragon Sect is the newest sect to emerge in the martial arts world. Black Dragon Sect members wear tight-fitting black clothing and are extremely secretive.
No one knows where the Black Dragon Sect headquarters are located, nor does anyone know the identity of the Black Dragon Sect leader. Black Dragon Sect members frequently rob and attack travelers and armored horse carriages passing near Mount Tianshan.
The Black Dragon Sect would certainly not tolerate martial artists interfering in their territory, the Tianshan mountain range. It would be a grand spectacle indeed.
It was a bitterly cold winter. The whole world was covered in white due to the heavy snowfall. The entire Tianshan mountain range was covered in snow due to record-breaking cold temperatures.
It was an impossible time for travel. Anyone who traveled carelessly would surely be buried under the ice and snow.
Almost all the martial artists who came to search for the Sapphire Dragon Sword and the sword manual were disheartened by the severe weather. Being experienced individuals, almost all of them knew how dangerous snow-covered ground could be.
Regardless, almost all of them had to wait until the snow melted. Furthermore, they also had to be wary of the danger posed by the Black Dragon Sect. It was truly a difficult situation.
Many martial artists had already arrived at Mount Tianshan. What was unusual was that the Black Dragon Sect had remained silent and made no moves so far.
They did not interfere with the continuous arrival of martial artists, nor did they show any signs of participating in the competition for the sword manual. It was as if the Black Dragon Sect had never existed in the Tianshan mountain range, completely vanishing.
The Tianshan mountain range stretches for hundreds of miles and is extremely dense with forests. It is a vast region where rare and wild animals, on the verge of extinction, reside.
In such a place, finding the great ravine where the Black Guest's sword manual and the Sapphire Dragon Sword are buried would not be easy. Without a map, it would be almost 100% certain to be a futile effort, like searching for a needle in a haystack, only wasting time.
Nevertheless, the greedy victims continued to arrive steadily, with little to no reason. Among them, some, hoping to be the first to find it, wandered lost and in trouble in the dense forest.
Some died after eating poisonous fruits. Others perished brutally at the hands of wild beasts.
Valuable treasures are things that invite many dangers. Even today, many martial artists searching for the sword manual and the precious sword have lost their lives. It is human nature to lose one's life while pursuing material wealth and treasures.
This can be called human life, and it can also be said to be humanity's sorrow. Haven't moths perished by flying into a fire?
The bone-chilling wind blew fiercely. White snowflakes whirled and swirled, falling heavily. All eight directions were covered in white snow. One might call it a world covered in snow.
A lone horseman was traveling rapidly along the main road leading to Mount Tianshan. He continued his journey despite the heavy snowfall.
The traveler on horseback was about 16 years old, with handsome and distinguished looks. The young man's appearance was not just ordinarily handsome; it was a kind of handsome, regal look, like that of a prince, radiating a certain aura.
The young man wore two layers of coarse cloth shirts, which, though old, seemed thick. He also tucked both hands into his shirt.
Neither his shirt nor his actions seemed to protect him from the intense cold. Though he couldn't hold the reins with both hands tucked in, the large horse he rode seemed very intelligent. It ran straight towards its destination.
The coarse cloth shirt he wore seemed unable to hide the unique aura emanating from the young man. His dark eyebrows, sharp eyes, and tightly pursed lips indicated that the young man was courageous and manly.
Who was this young man?
The young man was Fone Jiefang, who had left Red Bone Valley. As soon as he entered the martial arts world, he heard about the Black Guest's sword manual and the Black Dragon Sword on Mount Tianshan.
This news was spreading everywhere and was popular on everyone's lips, so he didn't need to specifically investigate much. Simply sitting in a restaurant and listening, Fone Jiefang learned about the Tianshan news.
Upon hearing the name "Black Dragon," his whole body stiffened. His muscles tensed. This sword was not a bringer of good fortune. He recalled seeing his grandfather in his study, before his death, explaining about a sword called the Black Dragon to a stranger.
Fone Jiefang clearly saw that the stranger's left palm had a precise cut at the ring finger. Hadn't the stranger drunk the tea served by his grandfather with his left hand?
Again, he heard the stranger's joyful laughter in his ears. A peculiar, cracking, rough laugh. He would never forget this sound throughout his life. Fone Jiefang clenched his teeth tightly.
Regardless, the current news in the martial arts world concerned the Black Dragon Sword, so he would have to go to Mount Tianshan. It was his duty to gather as many clues as possible and try to identify the culprit who killed his grandfather.
Furthermore, with martial artists gathered at Mount Tianshan, weren't his teachers, the Three Devils of Chongliao Mountain, likely to arrive as well? It had been six years since the Three Devils left Red Bone Valley.
This was how he found himself on the path to Mount Tianshan. Just then...
Loud whinnying sounds came from behind him. It wasn't the sound of just one horse. Four horses were galloping abreast. The path was wide enough for only about four horses to ride abreast.
As the four horses galloped at full speed, they were about to collide with Fone Jiefang's horse, which was already ahead of them. If he didn't move, Fone Jiefang would be hit. The four horses behind showed no signs of dodging. They seemed intent on crashing through.
Fone Jiefang hastily pulled on his horse's reins and moved to the side of the road. The four horsemen were arrogant. Not only did they not apologize to Fone Jiefang, but one of them looked back from his horse and cursed, "Pfft! A country bumpkin savage!"
If it were just that, Fone Jiefang could have endured it. But now, not only did they curse, but one of the four horsemen lashed out at Fone Jiefang with his riding whip.
This was going too far. A person's patience has its limits. When that limit is crossed, ordinary people get angry. Fone Jiefang's anger flared up.
The twisted and coiled whip straightened like an arrow as it reached Fone Jiefang, and the tip of the whip shot directly at his chest. The horseman's whip strike was quite advanced, and his internal energy was not bad. He seemed to be a top-tier martial artist.
If the whip strike connected, it would not be a light matter. It was a blow that could cause severe internal injuries, even if it didn't kill him. The horseman was cruel and ruthless. He intended to kill someone he had just met, without any reason or enmity.
Fone Jiefang's anger exploded. He grabbed the whip flying towards him with his right hand and pulled it hard, using the internal energy of the "Under Heaven and Earth" technique.
The horseman who lashed out with the whip was thrown awkwardly into the air, like a dilapidated shack caught in a severe storm, and landed with a thud on the ground, sprawled out. It wasn't the fall of a cat, but the fall of a dog. The horseman's 32 teeth had permanently separated from his body.
Looking at the horseman's fate, Fone Jiefang felt bad. He even forgot that the horseman had initiated the conflict. He had never harmed anyone in his life, so he genuinely felt sorry for the horseman.
He decided not to engage in further conflict with the remaining people and prepared to turn his horse back onto the road and gallop away. However, his wish was not fulfilled. This was because the remaining three horsemen drew their swords and fiercely attacked Fone Jiefang. The one who had fallen to the ground couldn't even get up.
The three horsemen's attacks were perfectly coordinated. One filled in the gaps left by another. One complemented the weaknesses of another.
When one retreated, two attacked. Their entries and exits, their retreats and advances, were perfectly balanced. It seemed as if a massive, all-encompassing sword net covered Fone Jiefang's entire body.
Fone Jiefang, upon entering the martial arts world, was immediately confronted with a fierce battle. The combined attack of the three horsemen was no ordinary martial arts move. It was called the Quadrilateral Sword Formation. It was a famous martial arts move of the Kongtong Sect.
The Kongtong Sect was renowned for its unarmed martial arts. In particular, their "Seven Steps Fist" was recognized by all martial artists as a top-tier martial art. The Quadrilateral Sword Formation, however, was unusually not an unarmed martial arts move but a sword technique.
About 40 years ago, an exceptionally talented swordsman emerged within the Kongtong Sect, which was famous for its unarmed martial arts. For unknown reasons, this swordsman was expelled from the Kongtong Sect and entered the dark martial arts world.
The swordsman's name was "Whirlwind Sword" Qin Ti. The Quadrilateral Sword Formation was a sword technique invented by Qin Ti, a technique that required four people to coordinate their attacks perfectly. The four horsemen were Qin Ti's personal disciples and top martial artists of the "Sailing Sect," which operated along the Yellow River.
The combined attack of the three swordsmen was both fierce and meticulously coordinated. If their attack was compared to the waves in the sea, then Fone Jiefang's movements could be compared to a small boat. He was like a small boat under the foot of a great mountain, amidst great waves and winds.
His "Hero's Shadow Lightness Skill" was unparalleled. Fone Jiefang's body moved as gracefully as a butterfly fluttering, or like a gentle breeze blowing in spring. After a while, Fone Jiefang lost patience.
These horsemen were too arrogant. They didn't know who they were dealing with – a dragon or a tiger. He would have to show these scoundrels who the dragon was. Fone Jiefang let out a loud roar and unleashed the "Dragon Might Palm" from the "Crimson Blood Palm" technique.
Because it was executed with immense internal energy, Fone Jiefang's palm strike was incredibly powerful. The three swordsmen felt a sudden heat throughout their bodies, and their vision blurred. It was like falling flat on their faces before a tiger.
The tightly woven sword net, which had been spread without any gaps, vanished in a flash, like snow disappearing in the sun, or like a roaring flame being doused with water. It seemed as if countless shadows emerged from Fone Jiefang's palm.
In reality, a single palm strike was extended into three distinct blows. Although the original technique only involved one powerful blow that required full force, when fighting against three swordsmen, it was automatically used as three strikes.
Fone Jiefang realized that martial arts were not one-sided and should not be rigidly followed. They could be innovatively adapted and used with intelligence. This realization elevated Fone Jiefang's martial arts to a new level. He had automatically reached a new branch of martial arts.
The sword-holding hands of the three swordsmen were shattered at the wrists, and their swords fell to the ground. Since the entire Quadrilateral Sword Formation was completely destroyed, the three swordsmen were left dumbfounded, mouths agape, like chickens with their necks twisted. There is always a mountain higher than the one you're on.
Just then...
With loud hoofbeats, a horse galloped from the direction of Mount Tianshan. The horse was incredibly fast. It seemed to be a fine breed. In a matter of seconds, as he turned to look at the sound of the hooves, it reached the vicinity of the battle.
Riding the horse was a young woman, slightly older than Fone Jiefang. Since Fone Jiefang was only 16, the young woman would at most be no older than 18. Fone Jiefang was captivated, staring at the young woman on horseback.
Having lived for nine years in a remote, deep forest, isolated from people, Fone Jiefang had been far from women. How could he, a mortal, resist the allure of the opposite sex? They say a woman can ruin not only a man but even a nation.
It was no wonder Fone Jiefang's breath hitched. The young woman on horseback was truly beautiful. There are many ways to be beautiful.
The young woman's beauty was like a young flower just blooming on a branch. It was the beauty of the moon emerging from behind hazy clouds.
When the quality of daring and decisiveness was added to her fresh and youthful presence, the young woman's beauty was no longer that of a delicate magnolia, but rather the challenging beauty of a rose.
Her pure and fair skin seemed even fairer due to the intense cold. However, it wasn't a bloodless, pale white, but rather a faint golden hue. Her deer-like eyes, beneath her bow-shaped eyebrows, sparkled with moisture.
Her alluring lips, tinted with rose, intoxicated all who saw them. Her chest, neither too full nor too flat, was just right; her waist was so slender it seemed it might break in a strong wind; her hips were full; and her thighs, slender and well-proportioned like an elephant's trunk.
When all these parts were perfectly combined, the young woman seemed like a celestial fairy, a goddess descended from heaven, created by deities.
The young woman, who had been galloping on her horse, expertly reined it in when she reached the site of Fone Jiefang's battle.
Then, with sparkling eyes, she assessed the situation of the conflict. With just one glance, she understood the battle's state.
A shadow of anger crossed her beautiful eyes. A sweet voice emerged from her lovely lips. The sweet voice contained a hint of firmness. Some coldness was intertwined within it.
"You four are late, so I came looking. Just as I thought, you're causing trouble. Haven't you heard the martial arts saying, 'There's always a mountain higher than the one you're on'? You arrogant people, now you've gotten what you deserve, haven't you? Good. You four don't need to follow me anymore. Just go back to headquarters and await your punishment."
It was astonishing. At the end of the young woman's words, the three arrogant, pitiful men, like a broken viper's fangs, carried their unconscious comrade from the ground and, with dejected faces, mounted their horses and returned the way they came.
The young woman's face turned towards Fone Jiefang. Then, she smiled beautifully at Fone Jiefang. Fone Jiefang's heart fluttered at her smile. He felt as if ten thousand flowers had bloomed in his heart because of that one smile.
For a young man from the wilderness, who had been isolated from women, it was no surprise that he felt this way. Not being able to resist the attraction of the opposite sex is simply human nature for ordinary mortals.
"Who might you be, little brother? Your martial arts prowess doesn't seem to be minor. 'Whirlwind Sword' Qin Ti's Quadrilateral Sword Formation is not to be underestimated."
Fone Jiefang shrugged.
"These people were arrogant and underestimated their opponent, that's why they suffered, Sister. My martial arts aren't that good."
The young woman chuckled sweetly.
"Don't be so humble, little brother. That's how a truly talented person is. An arrogant person will suffer terribly when they meet someone superior. I know your martial arts level is not bad, little brother. My name is Su Liang. The leader of the Sailing Sect, Su Ting, is my father. Little brother, you're probably also here to find the Black Guest's sword manual, like us. The path up the mountain is covered in ice, so we can't ascend Mount Tianshan yet. So, little brother, why don't you come with us? You'll have company."
Fone Jiefang smiled.
"I'm not here to find the sword manual, Sister. I came here because I have something to investigate while martial artists are gathered. You go ahead. I'll follow slowly behind."
Su Liang's face darkened, like the sky before rain, filled with dark clouds.
"Flower Picking Hand" Su Liang. Yes, friend. Her full name is "Flower Picking Hand" Su Liang. The name "Flower Picking Hand" Su Liang caused headaches not only for white-clad martial artists but also for black-clad ones. In later years, Su Liang's name soared to prominence in the martial arts world.
She was as beautiful as a goddess. She was arrogant, haughty, quick-tempered, cruel, and ruthless. She acted on her own whims and sought revenge. It was said that her martial arts were even more brilliant than her father's. How could they not be? Su Liang was the only disciple of the Heavenly Mountain Nun, a top figure in the martial arts world, and aside from internal energy, she was fully capable of following in her teacher's footsteps in other skills.
When such a renowned young woman named Su Liang heard Fone Jiefang's refusal, an expression of sadness, completely uncharacteristic of her nature, appeared on her face, and she pleaded with Fone Jiefang again.
"Please come, little brother. If you're not looking for the sword manual, that's even better. I'll help you investigate whatever you're looking into. The Sailing Sect isn't a small sect, little brother."
Fone Jiefang could no longer refuse. He thought for a moment, sighed, and nodded. A beautiful smile blossomed on Su Liang's face. Fone Jiefang's heart beat a little faster. Beautiful Sister Su Liang! This was going to be difficult.
Then, like deities creating a perfect match, the young couple, each on horseback, set off towards Mount Tianshan.
If Fone Jiefang had been able to refuse Su Liang's invitation, his life's journey might have continued smoothly. But now, by accompanying Su Liang, Fone Jiefang's life took a sharp turn, leading to many future problems.
The entire Tianshan region was covered in thick snow. Snow, of course, was a symbol of winter. As the mist, snow's companion, swirled and descended, the entire surroundings became hazy and dim.
The faint sunlight struggled to penetrate the thick layer of snow. But it struggled in vain. Only the dripping sound of snowflakes, the music of winter, covered the surroundings. The entire vicinity was not clearly visible. This was the winter painting of the Tianshan region.
Two horses were traveling rapidly, defying the heavy snowfall. Their destination was the Batong Pass, located halfway along the path before the ascent to Mount Tianshan. The two horses ridden by Fone Jiefang and Su Liang ran straight along the small red dirt road.
After traveling for some time, they vaguely saw a small, shabby restaurant in the mist, about two bamboo lengths away. Beyond the restaurant lay the Tianshan Pass. The entire pass was visibly blocked by ice from a distance.
They would have to wait until these ice floes melted. The terrain of Mount Tianshan was extremely rugged, and if covered in ice, wouldn't it be extremely dangerous?
After a while, Su Liang spoke.
"Little brother, we'll have to stay at the restaurant ahead for about four days. We can only continue our journey after the ice melts. Otherwise, it's very dangerous, little brother. My four companions have already turned back, so I'm alone now. You'll keep me company, won't you?"
Su Liang's voice was soft, gentle, and tender. It sounded pleading. She subtly showed a woman's vulnerability. How could Fone Jiefang, a man, refuse? All he said was, "Yes, Sister."
The dilapidated restaurant was packed with martial artists. They were greedy souls, eagerly pursuing the Black Dragon Sword and the sword manual. Inside the restaurant, there were white-clad martial artists as well as many black-clad ones.
Whether white or black, people are inherently greedy. If one could obtain the Black Dragon Sword and the sword manual, one could become a Sword Emperor, so it was not wrong to be greedy.
Fone Jiefang and Su Liang entered the dining area. The voices of the original diners suddenly fell silent. It wasn't because an extremely compatible young couple had entered the restaurant. It was solely due to Su Liang's unparalleled beauty.
Almost all the diners in the restaurant were staring at Su Liang. All the men were intoxicated by her unparalleled beauty. Some were secretly glancing at Su Liang and whispering to each other.
Some nodded in agreement. However, they seemed unwilling to speak loudly. Hadn't all of them understood that "Flower Picking Hand" Su Liang's "Flower Picking Butterfly Sword Technique" was not to be trifled with?
Fone Jiefang and Su Liang found an empty, shabby table inside the restaurant and ordered some food. The restaurant's condition was quite poor, and the food available was only noodle soup, fried beef, and low-quality alcohol. They couldn't help it. When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
"Little brother, did you notice? Everyone in the shop is a martial artist. It's surprising how white-clad and black-clad martial artists are sitting together without fighting."
Fone Jiefang nodded.
"Yes, Sister, martial artists are truly amazing."
"Hehe, little brother, you must have just entered the martial arts world. You'll learn more about it later if you just follow me."
While they were talking, a man sat in a dark corner of the restaurant. That man spoke to no one, as if he were the only one in the restaurant, and didn't order any food or drink, sitting silently like a statue.
However, the man's eyes were fixed on the restaurant's entrance. Was he waiting for someone, or was there some other reason? The shadow of death appeared in his eyes.
The man wore a white outfit and carried a sword on his back. There was no need to question whether he was a swordsman. The man's face was as pale as if all the blood had been drained from his body.
Su Liang, while talking to Fone Jiefang, saw the man and trembled. She whispered to Fone Jiefang:
"Little brother, look at the man sitting in that corner. He must be the husband from the 'Spirit Couple.' He's an extremely terrifying kind of person. He seems to be waiting for his wife. If this couple is here, something is going to happen. Just wait and see."
Just then, a woman entered the room. The woman had applied more makeup than necessary and wore flashy clothes. She walked with an exaggerated sway of her body.
The woman's face was annoyingly smirking, almost repulsive. She walked past Fone Jiefang's table, gave Fone Jiefang an exaggerated smile, and sat down next to the man in white.
"Big brother, you've been here for so long and haven't ordered anything yet? I'm hungry, dear."
The man in white said nothing in return but called the waiter and ordered food. The Spirit Couple had arrived in full.
The entire shop was secretly watching the Spirit Couple's actions. Especially at a table not far from them, three men were secretly observing the Spirit Couple and consulting about something.
Among the three men, the one dressed as a scholar with a distinguished appearance spoke in a low voice.
"Brother Ma, aren't these two the 'Spirit Couple' who cause a lot of trouble in the martial arts world?"
The handsome man in a gray outfit next to the scholar nodded.
"That's right, Brother Wu. The wife is a troublemaker, and the husband acts on his wife's words without thinking or reasoning. They are indeed the 'Spirit Couple,' known by the nickname 'Troublemaker Couple.'"
The scholar, addressed as Brother Wu, looked a little troubled. He seemed a little annoyed. Brother Wu shook his head and began to speak.
"We already knew that getting the Sapphire Dragon Sword and the sword manual wouldn't be easy, Brother Ma. Just look at the people in the shop now, they're all top martial artists. Look at that young couple over there. The girl must be the 'Flower Picking Hand' Su Liang, who has become incredibly famous recently. I don't know who the young man next to her is. But since he's with Su Liang, he must not be an ordinary person either. And yet, martial artists from the major star sects like Shaolin and Wudang haven't even arrived yet. But among them, the Spirit Couple is the most troublesome. It seems like more trouble is brewing."
Just then, the third man, who had been silent all along, spoke. He was dressed in a green outfit.
"Don't think so much, Brother Wu. With your martial arts level and the prowess of us three Jiangnan brothers, no one would dare to underestimate us."
These three men were the "Three Jiangnan Brothers." They were top martial artists who had been famous in the Jiangnan region for 30 years and were renowned white-clad martial artists of the martial arts world.
Brother Wu was called Wu Liang and was a swordsman. Brother Ma was Ma Yanfeng, who had rapidly risen to fame for his meridian-blocking skills and was known for his intelligence.
The man in green was named Jing Liangfeng and was a top expert in hidden weapon throwing and lightness skill. Judging by their 30 years of fame in the martial arts world, one could gauge the level of their martial arts.
While the three of them were talking, Brother Wu's eyes suddenly darted to the shop's entrance. Then, a strange expression appeared on his face.
At the shop's entrance stood an old man. The old man was holding a cute little girl by the hand with his left hand and a silver fishing rod with his right. On his shoulder, he carried a bamboo basket, like those fishermen use for carrying fish.
This was the Fisherman Martial Artist, Ba Feng. He was ranked 5th among the top martial artists in the martial arts world. He was a person who had created a unique martial art by imitating the nature of ocean waves and the movements of aquatic creatures. This very Fisherman Martial Artist had now joined the fight for the Sapphire Dragon Sword.
As soon as Su Liang saw the old fisherman, she whispered to Fone Jiefang:
"Little brother, this old man is the Fisherman Martial Artist, ranked 5th in the martial arts world. The little girl next to him must be his granddaughter. Truly prominent figures have arrived. Little brother, you'll gain a lot of martial arts experience today."
Just then, from a table near the kitchen, obscured by shadow, a seemingly weak voice emerged. The voice was shaky, but it cut through the other conversations clearly.
"It was good fishing by the sea. Why come to Mount Tianshan to die with your nose in a dry stream? The little girl is pitiful."
The speaker coughed violently as he spoke. He seemed to have an underlying illness. How did a sick person arrive here in such cold weather?
Upon hearing the coughing man's words, the Fisherman Martial Artist Ba Feng smirked. He seemed to have known the speaker all along.
"So you're here too, sick old man. You don't want to die from your illness, so you want someone else to kill you, I suppose."
The coughing man laughed loudly and rose from the table. He continued coughing violently as he laughed. Laughing, coughing, laughing, coughing. The coughing man was an old man around 70 years old, with completely white hair. His body was extremely thin, just skin and bones.
The old man had no eyebrows on his face. Furthermore, his entire face was as pale as if it had no blood, and his eyes were dull and lifeless. He looked less like a martial artist and more like a dying invalid. However, since he spoke as an equal to the Fisherman Martial Artist, the level of this old man's martial arts was already apparent.
The old man was none other than the "Sick Martial Artist" Qu Yuchun, ranked 4th in the martial arts world. Qu Yuchun had achieved his rank of 4th in the martial arts world with his "Bamboo Sea Palm" technique.
In the shabby restaurant at the foot of Mount Tianshan, dragons and tigers had already gathered. The allure of the Dragon Sword and the sword manual was indeed immense. Just then...
The people inside the restaurant heard a sharp whistle from outside. Due to the whistle, almost all the diners looked up.
Three people entered through the shop's door. The group was led by a monk. The monk had an exceptionally good demeanor, but his skin was slightly reddish, and his tendency to be quick-tempered and easily angered was clearly visible. The monk held a black staff in his hand.
Upon seeing this monk, some of the diners hastily rose and paid their respects. This incident astonished Fone Jiefang. Who was this monk? He turned to look at his Sister Su Liang and strangely found that Su Liang was also paying her respects like everyone else.
This monk was none other than the Venerable Monk Ru Jing, a direct disciple of the Great Master Kong Jue of the Shaolin Temple's Luohan Hall. He was said to be one of the most influential great masters after Great Master Kong Jue in the Luohan Hall.
Under the Abbot of Shaolin Temple, Great Master Tian Ming, who could be considered the source of all martial arts and a great star of the martial arts world, there were two deputy abbots: Great Master Kong Wen of the Dharma Hall and Great Master Kong Jue of the Luohan Hall.
The Dharma Hall was primarily responsible for the administration of Shaolin Temple, the preservation of scriptures, and the dissemination of martial arts, while the Luohan Hall was mainly responsible for receiving challengers to Shaolin and ensuring Shaolin's security.
In particular, the Luohan Hall was the hall primarily responsible for Shaolin Sect's combat duties, so one could estimate the martial arts level of Venerable Monk Ru Jing, the second-highest master of the Luohan Hall.
Immediately following Venerable Monk Ru Jing was a man in white scholar's robes, about 40 years old, with a dignified and distinguished appearance. He carried a sword on his back and walked very swiftly.
He was Chu Daozhong, the Taichi Swordsman, the most promising individual among the younger disciples of the Wudang Sect, and a person who was tipped to become the future sect leader of the Wudang Sect.
The other person was a beggar. The beggar was dirty and smelly all over, covered in scabs. His two feet were exceptionally large. Carrying seven bags on his back, it was clear that this beggar was Sung Yangpao, the head of the Beggar Sect.
This was because in the Beggar Sect, he was the only one with the "Seven Bag" rank, and above him were only two "Eight Bag" ranks, four "Nine Bag" ranks, and the Sect Leader himself.
As soon as Venerable Monk Ru Jing entered the restaurant, he assessed his surroundings. Seeing the Fisherman and the Sick Martial Artist, a look of surprise appeared in his eyes. He respectfully saluted the two venerable old men.
He had no choice but to do so. The Fisherman and the Sick Martial Artist were figures of the same level as their Abbot, Great Master Tian Ming, and were ranked 4th and 5th among the top martial artists in the martial arts world. Venerable Monk Ru Jing felt uncomfortable in his heart and secretly sighed.
With these two individuals present, it would be difficult for him to handle the current situation. But he couldn't help it. He had to obey the orders of the Abbot.
"So, gentlemen, you two are here. The Abbot asked me to extend his greetings to you. I have come here on the orders of Great Master Tian Ming. Therefore, I would like to ask you two to step aside in some matters."
Venerable Monk Ru Jing spoke cleverly, revealing the name of Great Master Tian Ming. He clearly stated that he was acting solely on the Abbot's orders.
If these two old men interfered, it would be as if they were challenging Great Master Tian Ming, the Abbot of Shaolin. Great Master Tian Ming was considered by the entire martial arts world to be the number one figure at present.
The old fisherman chuckled.
"Monk, do what you have to do. We won't interfere."
"Thank you."
As soon as Venerable Monk Ru Jing finished speaking, he slowly walked to the center of the shop. Fone Jiefang and Su Liang watched the monk's movements with interest.
The monk, with his hands behind his back, walked around the shop and then suddenly bumped into someone. The person Venerable Monk Ru Jing bumped into was none other than the Spirit Couple themselves. It was a surprise attack, and terribly formidable.
The monk's hand seemed to split into many fingers: one to two, two to four, four to eight, and so on. The famous Spirit Couple's martial arts were not low. Their bodies leapt backward horizontally. Then, the couple, instead of fighting back, fled into the snowy forest and disappeared.
Venerable Monk Ru Jing's sudden attack caused a commotion throughout the shop, surprising everyone. It was now clear that the monk had not just come to search for the Sapphire Dragon Sword but to fulfill some mission.
Just then, Ma Yanfeng's voice emerged.
"The Spirit Couple is cunning and malicious. They bear great grudges and are vengeful. They are like venomous snakes, Master. You should not underestimate them. These people will come back to demand retribution one day."
Venerable Monk Ru Jing laughed heartily.
"Hahaha! This monk doesn't care about that couple. In fact, this monk just saved their lives. The news of the Black Dragon Sword and the sword manual is not ordinary! It's not ordinary! We suspect there are secrets behind it. When the ice melts, battles for survival will erupt on the Tianshan mountain range. Those who can't protect their own lives should not expect to leave this region alive!"
The monk's words were filled with the scent of death. One could hear the call of death. Almost everyone in the restaurant felt a chill down their spines.
Venerable Monk Ru Jing continued to assess the entire shop as he spoke. His originally loud voice continued to emanate from his lips.
"I believe everyone in this shop heard what I said clearly. I assume everyone here is here because they want the Black Dragon Sword and the sword manual. So, if you're confident in your martial arts level, you can stay in this shop. If you think your martial arts level is not even as good as the Spirit Couple's, then quickly mount your horses and return the way you came. Your martial arts level won't be able to protect your lives. Great Master Tian Ming sent me to drive you away so that you don't lose your lives in vain!"
Venerable Monk Ru Jing's purpose in coming here was clear. Great Master Tian Ming seemed worried that lower-level martial artists who couldn't protect themselves would needlessly lose their lives.
However, martial artists are stubborn and self-willed. The Great Master must have also realized that it was impossible to reason with them by being gentle. That's probably why he assigned the hot-tempered and rough Venerable Monk Ru Jing the task of driving these martial artists away.
Upon hearing the monk's decisive words, some of the martial artists in the shop exchanged glances and then left the shop. The monk watched the martial artists leaving the shop with his hands on his hips.
Then, he re-assessed the situation in the shop and frowned when he saw Fone Jiefang and Su Liang's couple. However, he said nothing yet and turned to another table.
Four people were sitting at that table. These four were martial artists known as the "Four Falcon Brothers." The Four Falcon Brothers were merely highway bandits. Although they were highway bandits, their martial arts level was not low. They were the kind of highway bandits who only robbed for a good score once in a while.
Venerable Monk Ru Jing stood in front of the Four Falcon Brothers and asked in a stern voice:
"You filthy highway bandits, aren't you leaving yet? You don't know your place. If I act, you'll die!"
The Four Falcon Brothers' faces turned pale, and they exchanged glances before rising almost simultaneously from their seats. The monk seemed to grow even angrier as he looked at the Four Falcon Brothers. He made an extremely swift movement. He lunged into the group and grabbed the neck of the nearest person.
The Four Falcon Brothers had already moved to dodge as soon as they saw the monk move. Their movements were not slow. They could even be considered fast. However, Venerable Monk Ru Jing's movements were even faster. He used "Black Tiger Claw," one of the four basic Shaolin martial arts, and one of the Four Falcon Brothers was beautifully caught by the monk.
Even though he used only a basic martial arts move and not an advanced one, the monk's movements were precise and meticulous. The second-highest master of the Luohan Hall should indeed have such power.
The monk grabbed the person he had seized by the neck and threw him out of the shop. Then, in the same manner, he caught the other three, one by one, and threw them out of the shop.
After Venerable Ru Jing had dealt with the Four Falcon Brothers, he turned to the audience and shouted:
"Those who don't know their place deserve this! Come on, come on! This monk won't say it again. Just leave quickly!"
The people inside the shop left one by one, in a continuous stream. What was strange was that the two top martial artists, the Fisherman and the Sick Martial Artist, watched Venerable Ru Jing act as he pleased without interfering in any way, sitting calmly and eating as if watching a play. In truth, this monk was inferior to them in seniority, wasn't he?
Only a few people remained in the shop.
About nine out of ten of the original number had assessed their situation and left. Or rather, they would have been driven out anyway, so leaving voluntarily was more sensible.
Venerable Ru Jing placed his hands on his hips and looked at the people remaining in the shop.
"I assume those who remain in the shop are top martial artists who can protect themselves and are full of capability. But it won't be that simple; they'll have to be tested. When real trouble comes, no one will come to save you, just like the saying goes, 'When trouble arises, neither kings nor emperors can save you.'"
Su Liang secretly worried about Fone Jiefang. If Venerable Ru Jing were to test him, she worried that Fone Jiefang would be unable to withstand the test and be shamed. She was racking her brain to find ways to help him.
At that moment, Venerable Ru Jing's eyes were fixed on the Three Jiangnan Brothers. Wu Liang, the leader of the Three Jiangnan Brothers, saluted Venerable Ru Jing and greeted him.
Venerable Ru Jing smirked.
"So, the Three Jiangnan Brothers are 'Butterfly Sword' Wu Liang, correct? Since you're top martial artists who have been famous in the Jiangnan region for 30 years, I assume your abilities are not small. Come, drink a cup of wine offered by this monk."
As the monk spoke, he filled a wine cup to the brim and tapped the rim of the cup with his index finger. The wine cup, filled with wine, spun rapidly like a wheel and suddenly flew towards Wu Liang. He had combined Shaolin's advanced "Iron Finger" martial art with a soft-force technique.
Wu Liang was no slouch either. He suddenly drew the sword from his back and subtly touched the bottom of the flying cup with the tip of his sword, stopping its momentum. The delicate beauty of the "Butterfly Sword" technique was evident. It was clear that Wu Liang's martial arts were highly advanced.
"Thank you, Master."
As Wu Liang spoke, he quickly took the wine cup spinning on the tip of his sword and, without spilling a drop, drank all the wine. Then, he threw the empty cup back to the monk.
The wine cup flew back towards the monk with powerful momentum. The monk's expression did not change in the slightest. He calmly caught the empty cup and poured another glass of wine.
"Hahaha! 'Butterfly Sword' Wu Liang indeed has excellent martial arts, living up to his name. Now, who else wants to drink this cup of wine?"
This time, Venerable Ru Jing's eyes were fixed on Ma Yanfeng. Ma Yanfeng was perceptive. He cleared his throat and hastily rose from his seat, saying something to Venerable Ru Jing.
"This disciple is Ma Yanfeng, the second brother of the Three Jiangnan Brothers, Master."
He then gestured with his hand to the entire shop:
"Master, look! The people currently remaining are truly prominent figures. Look at that table over there, that's Ku Qianqing, 'Night Shadow Blade."
Then he pointed to another table.
"The person sitting at that table is 'Cloud Dragon' Li Mo. And next to him is Tang Jinxiu, 'Hundred Wild Cats Martial Master,' Master."
Ma Yanfeng's finger pointed to another table again.
"These three elders over here are Gu Zuiao, the leader of Yomeng Camp, Li Po, 'Leaf Blade,' and Chu Yi, 'Supporting Finger.' All of these people are famous figures in the martial arts world. They are all people who can protect themselves, Master. You don't need to worry about them. The one you should really worry about, Master, is that young couple over there. I think the young woman must be 'Flower Picking Hand' Su Liang, who has become incredibly famous recently. But who is the young man next to her? Where is he from? He's a new face in the martial arts world. At this moment, Master, you should truly worry about him."
"Hahaha! Clever Ma Yanfeng, what a smooth talker you are. What you say is true!"
Venerable Ru Jing laughed heartily and then suddenly turned to Fone Jiefang and Su Liang, asking:
"Hey, young man, who are you? What are you doing here? Get out quickly before this monk drives you out!"
The time Su Liang had been worried about had arrived. When confronted with an unavoidable situation, meeting the danger head-on is the best approach.
"My name is Fone Jiefang, Master. I am a newcomer to the martial arts world who just entered today."
"Hey, young man, this is not a place for inexperienced young men like you to seek experience. If a major battle erupts, no one can save anyone, and lives will be lost in vain. So, leave this place quickly. If you don't go, I will have to teach you a lesson!"
Upon hearing Venerable Ru Jing's words, a shadow of anger crossed Su Liang's beautiful face.
"Oh, Master, I'll take responsibility for him!"
"Hahaha! Don't be arrogant just because you're the disciple of the Heavenly Mountain Nun. You know you haven't reached the level of the Heavenly Mountain Nun, don't you? When it comes to a real emergency, let alone taking responsibility for others, you'll be lucky to save your own life! The sword manual and the precious sword are actually a curse. Don't be greedy. Now, both of you, go back!"
Just then, Fone Jiefang slowly rose and saluted Venerable Ru Jing.
"Master, this disciple is not here for the Sapphire Dragon Sword or the sword manual, nor am I here to gain experience. I came here because I have something to investigate. Therefore, this disciple will not move an inch from this place, Master."
Fone Jiefang's tone was sweet. He was polite. Gentle. It was clear that he came from a high-class family. However, as sweet as his tone was, the meaning of his words was clear. Resolute. Firm. He indicated that no matter what the situation, he would enter the Tianshan mountain range.
Venerable Ru Jing's anger exploded. Being naturally quick-tempered, Fone Jiefang's refusal acted like a fuse igniting his mountain of rage. His reddish face turned fiery red, as if splashed with blood. Due to the intense waves of energy, his robes even billowed.
At this point, Ma Yanfeng seized his opportunity. He had already diverted the situation where he would have been tested by Venerable Ru Jing to the ignorant young man. Hearing the young man's refusal, he secretly rejoiced. He had already calculated that Venerable Ru Jing would definitely get angry. The time had come for him to intervene and take credit.
"Master, please control yourself! It's not necessary to throw a rock the size of a fist at a sparrow, Master. Just as the creature and the weapon are disproportionate, Master, you must also consider your reputation and that of the Shaolin Sect! This disciple will teach this young man a lesson, Master!"
Ma Yanfeng's words brought Venerable Ru Jing back to his senses. Ma Yanfeng was right. This young man was only a teenager, a newcomer to the martial arts world. And he, on the other hand, was the second-highest master of the Shaolin Temple's Luohan Hall.
The age and seniority gap between him and this young man were immense. If he were to compete with this young man, he would only lose face and gain nothing else. He would just hand him over to Ma Yanfeng. Whether a cat is white or black, what matters is that it catches mice, right?
Unexpectedly, Venerable Ru Jing's solo demonstration turned into a situation where Ma Yanfeng and Fone Jiefang would compete. In reality, Ma Yanfeng, living up to his "clever strategist" name, had skillfully used his words to deal his own cards and distribute them.
Not only would he avoid being tested by the monk, but by demonstrating his skills against this young man, he would also simultaneously display his own martial arts level. Ma Yanfeng secretly smiled to himself.
He would use just a few moves to block this young man's meridians. That would be enough. It wasn't appropriate to fight a newcomer to the martial arts world for more than ten moves, was it?
Ma Yanfeng was the kind of person who was sweet-tongued but ill-tempered. He was the kind of person who was gilded on the outside but dark within. When such a person also possessed sharp intelligence, it was worse than giving wings to a tiger.
"Young man, it would be better for both of us if you quickly turned back from this place. Then neither of us would have to exert ourselves. Martial arts are not something to be tested. Just as people's minds are hard to fathom, swords and spears have no eyes, my young friend."
A tiger feigning kindness. A wolf in sheep's clothing. His seemingly sweet words contained a subtle threat. Fone Jiefang smiled calmly.
"Don't hold back, Uncle. Just fight with all your might. Only if my martial arts can withstand the test will the Master allow me to stay here."
"Very well, young man. Now, be careful!"
As he spoke, Ma Yanfeng unleashed one of the best martial arts moves of his life. He had intended to throw Fone Jiefang to the ground within a few moves, so he used his best move from the start, as if trying to drill a hole with a hammer.
Ma Yanfeng's martial arts, which made him famous for his meridian-acupuncture and blocking skills, were based on three principles: softness, speed, and cunning.
The "Walking Under Moonlight" technique, from the 48 "Moon Shadow Meridian Blocking" techniques, was Ma Yanfeng's most relied-upon martial art. This technique had brought him success countless times. He was confident that he would definitely win this time as well. Within one move, this young man would have his meridians blocked and lie stiff on the ground.
Ma Yanfeng's body, like an arrow, shot close to Fone Jiefang's side, and his right hand, like a falcon's claw, aimed to strike the meridian point on Fone Jiefang's back. It was the cunning move of a seasoned martial artist who had fought countless battles for survival.
There was no other way but to jump aside. Su Liang's eyes, watching from the side, blurred. It was over. This time, Fone Jiefang was truly finished.
Just then, a flash of sword light appeared. With a painful cry, the entire restaurant floor was instantly covered in blood. With a thud, a severed arm fell to the ground.
Within seconds, Ma Yanfeng's right arm had permanently separated from his body. Due to the extreme speed of the incident, almost all the audience were left in confusion.
In the middle of the shop, Ma Yanfeng was holding his severed right arm with his left hand, his whole body trembling from the intense pain. Fone Jiefang, however, stood there blankly, holding a blood-stained steel longsword, seemingly unable to understand what had happened.
The incident was incredibly fast. Fone Jiefang himself was unable to comprehend it. He had not intended to injure Ma Yanfeng. Due to Ma Yanfeng's cunning and advanced martial arts move, it was difficult to dodge, and he had automatically unleashed "Return of Hell's child" a sword technique he had diligently practiced. In other words, it was an automatic defense mechanism due to a subconscious sense of danger.
He had not yet fully understood the intensity, danger, and scope of the "Blood-red Sword" technique, nor had he yet mastered the balanced application of the "Under Heaven and Earth Great Internal Energy" that was to be used in conjunction with the sword technique.
If he had been more experienced in battle, he could have merely grazed Ma Yanfeng's clothes with his sword, but now, he had gone too far. The cunning Ma Yanfeng, however, had lost an arm at the hands of a 16-year-old newcomer to the martial arts world. There was nothing that could be done now. What's done is done.
The power of the " Blood-red Sword" was terrifying. The sword's entry and exit were as fast as lightning, so no one saw it clearly, but when the sword technique emerged, all the martial artists in the room felt a terrifying aura of danger, and their muscles tensed.
Regardless, the fire of enmity had been ignited. This debt of vengeance would consume Fone Jiefang's entire life. Ma Yanfeng and the Three Jiangnan Brothers were people who collected their debts at all costs.
To be continued...