The morning light cast a sharp line of demarcation across the foothills of Mount Yichun. On one side of the line lay the official tents of the government; on the other stood the platforms of the martial world.
The two spheres, black and white, converged here for the same purpose. Though separated by less than a hundred paces, they maintained a final boundary. The Jinshi Bureau had pitched its great tents in a secluded spot downwind, using the shadows of the forest and the whistling wind to mask all movement. Even a top-tier expert would find it impossible to eavesdrop on a single word spoken within. Meanwhile, the leaders of the various sects gathered atop the nearby mountain crags, firmly believing that only upon a precipice could one truly "speak behind closed doors."
Each side had its own schemes and its own difficulties; for the moment, they were too preoccupied with their own affairs to pry into the other’s.
"We have come this time to demand justice!"
The Hall Master of Youyou Hall was the first to speak. Days of hard travel had left his face weathered, but his voice carried the explosive force of long-suppressed emotion, enough to make an ordinary person’s eardrums ache and nose bleed.
But these were no ordinary people.
Yuan Zhiyi picked at his ear, his eyes remaining closed as he rested his spirit, not even bothering to open them.
"If I recall correctly, the old grudge of your sect dates back seven or eight years. Why didn't I see you coming to demand justice back then?"
The Hall Master of Youyou Hall was momentarily flustered, but he had clearly come prepared. In a flash, he found a justification.
"The First Villa Under Heaven held the advantage; over the years, its roots grew deep and its branches strong. Youyou Hall is but a small southeastern sect of a hundred-odd people. How could we contend with them? Does Sect Leader Yuan think we haven't lost enough people, and insists we deliver ourselves to their door one by one to die?"
"Indeed. The Hall Master was previously forced by circumstances, and were we not the same? Over these years, the First Villa Under Heaven has acted overbearingly, bringing calamity to the martial world. Their deeds were plain for all to see. All those crimes were committed by Di Mo; in any case, the fault should not lie with us."
"That Di Mo committed suicide out of shame and indignation within the Villa, but the debt for my senior brother’s tragic death in the South Sea cannot be erased by that fire."
"Exactly. And the fourteen disciples of my sect..."
Voices listing grievances rose one after another, noisier than the clatter of abacuses in a counting house. Listening closely, the anger within them was real, but the sense of unwilling resentment ran even deeper. Ultimately, these debts hadn't been incurred in a single day; their gathering now to settle accounts was merely a way to bolster each other's courage.
"Since you all have harbored such grudges for so long and were so intent on seeking justice, why didn't you lay siege to the mountain earlier? Why wait until the fire started?" Yuan Zhiyi opened his eyelids just a crack, looking down upon the crowd of neck-craning, blustering martial lords. "Your information is so well-informed and your legs so swift—you clearly arrived earlier than I did, yet you cowered here doing nothing but shouting insults. Could it be you’ve taken a fancy to this old man and insisted on spending a beautiful night with me?"
Yuan Zhiyi had been in seclusion for so long, yet he emerged exactly as he had been before. As soon as he spoke, he was overwhelming. The old fellows standing at the front were left speechless. After a long pause, someone finally said indignantly.
"Sect Leader Yuan, did you not appear this time to preside over justice for us? As the Master of Kunxu and a senior of the martial world, instead of setting an example, you are here engaging in a war of words with us. What is the meaning of this?"
"Why do you always pin your hopes on others?" Yuan Zhiyi’s voice could not hide his disappointment. Floating clouds gathered and dispersed above his head, making the shadows cast over his features deep and inscrutable. "Since ancient times, there has been no victory without bloodshed, and certainly no freedom gained for nothing. You only wish to hide behind others to avoid the wind and rain, never thinking to stand up and take responsibility through your own strength. Before, you followed the First Villa Under Heaven’s lead; now that the Villa is gone, you can’t wait to turn your gaze toward someone else. Have you truly fallen to this state solely because of the First Villa Under Heaven?"
Unlike the righteous indignation of the accusers just now, his voice was exceptionally low, as if it could seep into the cracks of the stones and sink into the depths of one's heart. The silence that followed lasted a long time.
This brief dead silence was so subtle that in an instant, everyone became aware of the gloomy internal struggles they had each faced behind closed doors over the years.
Yuan Zhiyi surveyed his surroundings, his heart already clear.
"So, it’s not that you don't understand. Years ago, when Tang Xiao studied the ancient texts and concluded that the so-called *Andao Manual of Arms* was a lie, you chose to turn a deaf ear. You even conspired with Di Mo to burn his books, forcing him to change his name and live in exile for years. Do you feel even half a shred of regret now?"
The so-called *Andao Manual of Arms* had been nothing more than a chess game set by Di Mo from start to finish. Even if they hadn't realized it while caught in the game, how dull-witted could a sect leader be? Whether they thought of it day and night afterward or had a sudden epiphany at some point, they had mostly guessed the truth long ago. Their collective silence was merely due to the shame they could not face, and the errors and stupidity they could never admit in this lifetime.
Once the old scabs were torn away, those old ghosts of the martial world felt an unbearable sting. Immediately, someone stepped forward, eyes bloodshot as they retorted.
"Nonsense! If the *Andao Manual of Arms* never existed, then how did Di Mo dominate the martial world and stir up such trouble in just a few short years? Could it be that we simply yielded to him?!"
"Well said!" Before he could finish, someone nearby immediately chimed in. "Old Yuan, what are your intentions with these words? Everyone witnessed the matter of the manual back then. What is the fault in pursuing the pinnacle of martial arts? There is nothing we dare not admit about what we’ve done!"
"In the end, Di Mo was just reaping the benefits. If not for the help of the manual, where would his place in the martial world be today..."
The one who spoke the truth was labeled a liar, and the one who bravely stood up was counter-attacked. Yuan Zhiyi burst into laughter, his voice filled with an irrepressible sense of the absurd.
"He didn't have a place before, but he has one now! The so-called *Andao Manual of Arms* was nothing more than a collection of the essences of a hundred schools. May I ask, gentlemen, how many of your sects' secret manuals did you personally hand over as a pledge of loyalty to the First Villa Under Heaven? Over these years, you fought tooth and nail at those wretched Sword Appreciation Assemblies—how many of your finest disciples did you personally send into that Villa? Every brick and tile of the First Villa Under Heaven was built with your contributions; every dog raised by Di Mo in that Villa carries your blood and sweat. To this day, how much longer do you intend to deceive yourselves?!"
This blunt declaration was like copper beans hitting the ground, crisp and sharp. It struck the faces of those seventy and eighty-year-old grandmasters until they stung with shame, their blood boiling and their white hair bristling.
The old Taoist from Mingshan was the first to recover. He pointed a trembling finger and denounced him.
"Old Monster Yuan, what right do you have to criticize us? Did you not also cower in Kunxu, refusing to come out? Now that you have a chance to watch the spectacle, you scold us until we’re covered in dog's blood. Is this the behavior of a gentleman?"
When facts failed, they turned to morality, standpoint, and responsibility—the usual tricks used on this stage of the martial world to gloss over peace.
Unfortunately, the person before them was not an actor who would follow their script.
"When did this old man ever claim to be a gentleman?!" Tearing away the last shred of dignity, the white-bearded old man stood with hands on hips and cursed, his righteous air rivaling the most difficult rogue in the marketplace. "This old man is indeed thick-skinned and shameless, using his age to act superior, but I am still a thousand times better than you old turtles with hard mouths and soft bones!"
The martial world had been a heap of loose sand for a long time. Earnest persuasion was useless; in the end, a good scolding was necessary. If scolding didn't work, then they would have to take up arms and fight. If this were ten years ago, today's argument would surely have ended with severed limbs littering the ground.
However, the person standing before them now was truly not one to be provoked. If a fight really broke out, no one would gain an advantage.
Who was it that said the Old Monster of Kunxu had been in seclusion to cultivate his mind and character, nearly entering the void? Looking at this ghostly appearance now, his mental cultivation had clearly gone to the dogs.
The group of old fellows glared at each other with gnashed teeth, regretting on one hand that they hadn't brought more disciples to help today, while secretly feeling relieved on the other that they didn't have many people with them, so fewer would know of this pathetic and embarrassing scene.
Just when no one knew how this farce would end, the instigator suddenly stopped. He seemed to finally remember the Heart-Clearing Incantation he had recited this morning. All his emotions faded away, and he exhaled a long breath of "immortal air."
"A war of words and drawing swords is truly not my wish. We are all old acquaintances, and I, Yuan, am but a bag of old bones. These years I have cultivated myself, only hoping for peace in the world and longevity for the martial arts community. This earnest persuasion is also for your sake, and for the sake of the world's martial arts. Now that the First Villa Under Heaven is gone, consider the martial world returned to how it was twenty years ago. What will you choose this time?"
This cloud-shrouded declaration left everyone somewhat bewildered, but someone saw through it. After a moment of contemplation, they asked.
"Old Monster Yuan, by emerging from the mountains this time, do you wish for us to work together to clear the silt and cleanse the waters of this martial world?"
The speaker was Abbess Hanchu of the Xuanjin Sect. She was indeed the one who had once fought Yuan Zhiyi for forty-nine days; she understood her opponent far better than anyone else present.
Yuan Zhiyi looked at his old rival. He still shook his head, but his voice could not hide his pleasure.
"This old man already has half his body in the grave and hasn't asked about martial world affairs for years. How would I dare command you heroes? I merely thought of the saying that the tide turns every thirty years, and wanted to remind you to remember why you gathered here today. Do not repeat the same mistakes and miss your chance."
This time, everyone understood.
From today onward, the chess game played by Di Mo was officially over. But at the same time, a new game would begin. Anyone could become the player, and anyone could become the next pawn to be manipulated. If they didn't act today, they couldn't blame anyone else if they failed to claim a mountain for themselves when the world was carved up again.
"In my view, right now is such an opportunity." The Sect Leader of the Tiankui Sect from Mount Jiming was the first to declare his stance. "The First Villa Under Heaven has controlled the martial world for a long time. Even if these Yichun mountains are burned to charcoal, there must still be seeds scattered outside. What we must do is pull them out by the roots. Hall Master Mo, wouldn't you agree?"
He pointed his spear directly at the Hall Master of Youyou Hall, who had been jumping the highest and crowding the front earlier. The latter, hearing this, was not to be outdone and glanced at the person beside him.
"I heard that Di Mo sent the disciples staying in the Villa out in advance this time, and the Villa’s Shadow Envoys are still at large. They always use the waterways to hide their tracks. Even if we have the heart, we lack the power; we must rely on others for help. Speaking of accessible waterways, no one can surpass the Water Ghost Gang."
The drumbeat stopped, and the bright flower landed on the head of the Water Ghost Gang Leader. The latter cleared his throat and said solemnly.
"My gang has just undergone a great upheaval; I fear we cannot handle this arduous task alone. However, how can matters of the water lack the Shenpu Cult? If we can have the help of the two Dragon Kings, I believe this matter will naturally succeed."
The two Dragon Kings of the Shenpu Cult were dragged into the water by the "Water Ghost" before they could react. They immediately looked to their left and right.
"Xiangliang is vast; there are always places the waterways cannot reach. We still need those with superlative light-body techniques to cooperate."
"Chuiyun, aren't your legs quite swift? Take a few people and make a trip; it won't cost you much effort."
Chuiyun, being named, immediately struck back.
"I think Pavilion Master Liao should not be modest. When it comes to Yin Talisman secret arts and the Qimen Dunjia, no one can surpass the Daoshu Pavilion. I believe this operation should be led by the Pavilion Master..."
To reorganize the martial world and clean up the mess, every person in the martial world had to contribute.
When it came to those who best understood the details of the various sects in the martial world, it wasn't the First Villa Under Heaven, but their own old rivals. Having been at each other's throats and fighting openly and secretly for so many years, they might not know how many grains of rice they had in their own house, but they knew exactly how many melons and dates their rivals possessed. Everyone talked at once, refusing to back down, spilling old grievances and trivial details everywhere. Although it sounded chaotic and noisy, in just a few strokes, they had clearly assigned each other's tasks.
Yuan Zhiyi watched quietly, as if all of this was a sudden epiphany and spontaneous dedication from these selfish, stubborn old monsters of the martial world, having nothing to do with him. Only when the last syllable fell did he put on a gratified smile, opening his arms to summarize.
"Seeing you all caring for the world and the martial arts community, I, Yuan, am deeply moved. Since the world's martial arts are harmonious yet different, let everyone take this opportunity to turn weapons into silk. Even if there were some unpleasantries before, in the end, we are all one big, loving family."
Before his words could even land, the group of old rogues turned in unison, beards bristling as they cursed.
"Who is family with you!"
The roars of the grandmasters were scattered by the wind, falling intermittently down the cliffs and into the forest.
Qin Jiuye’s hand applying medicine paused. She looked with some uncertainty at the youth beside her. The latter had clearly heard more; sensing her gaze, he spoke softly.
"During the years the Villa controlled the martial world, there were many grievances and frictions between the sects. Even if their common enemy is gone in a day, they won't shake hands and make peace overnight. It would be normal even if they fought to the death."
Indeed, the waters of the martial world were inherently murky. Without a First Villa Under Heaven, who knew if another demon's den would be born twenty years later?
Qin Jiuye withdrew her gaze and continued her swift movements, bandaging the wounds of the Villa disciple before her.
"I was just thinking, if they really start fighting, wouldn't I be able to sell some medicine? Right now, there are none of those yellow-robed nuns to compete with me; it’s truly a god-given opportunity to make a fortune."
The First Villa Under Heaven disciple before her was a clean-looking youth no more than fifteen or sixteen years old. He had been stealing glances at her since a moment ago, and hearing this, he couldn't help but stare blankly.
Qin Jiuye noticed his pause and, thinking her hand had been too heavy, instinctively lightened her movements.
"Weren't you unafraid of death before? Why are you afraid of pain now?"
The youth didn't speak, but his hands on his knees tightened.
His burn was on the back of his neck. The woman’s hand, stained with medicinal paste, was slightly cool as it lingered behind his ear. Perhaps because no one had ever been so close to him, or perhaps because he had never been treated so gently, a strange sensation arose in his body. He forced himself not to look up at the person before him, but the tips of his ears still turned red uncontrollably.
This redness didn't catch the attention of the woman applying the medicine, but it fell into the eyes of the youth beside her. The latter lowered his gaze and wordlessly squeezed in.
"I'm still not quite sure about the coarseness of this ground medicine. Sister, help me take a look."
The woman, suspecting nothing, pulled away to check. He then naturally took the half-applied medicine from her hand and tilted the youth's face up with one hand.
A harmless face, younger than his, purer than his, more pitiable than his.
But no matter what, he was one step too late.
The distant mountain crags returned to silence. This time, no subtle sounds could be heard; it was unknown if that sudden martial gathering had ended.
Li Qiao retracted the emotions in his eyes and began to finish the task of applying the medicine. The youth before him had not yet sensed the danger, his eyes occasionally glancing at the woman grinding medicine nearby, only to feel a sudden sharp pain in his neck. The other's hand could be described as ruthless; the blister behind his ear was pressed and rubbed under a finger. He couldn't bear it and let out a low cry.
It was only a short sound, but it was particularly abrupt in the silent mountain forest. Qin Jiuye’s hand preparing the medicine paused; she instinctively sensed something and covered the Villa disciple's mouth, then looked uneasily toward the greyish rocks behind her.
A layer of thin mist drifted through the mountains in the early morning, and the cold wind through the forest made another rustling noise.
However, even a slight movement could not hide from the ears and eyes of a group of top martial artists, especially at such a hair-trigger, sensitive moment.
It was unknown who stopped first and looked over, but soon a second and a third person noticed. Clouds obscured the sky, the forest darkened, and over a dozen figures silently crossed through the mist, like Yama’s officials coming to claim lives after the gates of hell had opened.
Even a dying tiger or leopard would not become a lamb or pig. Stripping away the decent outer robes of sect leaders and martial sovereigns, beneath their skin they were still those iron-blooded wanderers of the martial world who believed in settling every grudge. Moreover, their unvented fury needed a new outlet.
The Buddhist monk leading the way stood still, his eyes slanting as his cold gaze swept over the huddled Villa disciples as if looking at a pile of rotting meat.
"Old Monster Yuan was right; we truly should have done something long ago. Though Di Mo is dead, the remnants of the Villa remain. Rather than letting them flow into the martial world to become a scourge, it is better to wipe them out today and be done with it!"
Before he could finish, the Demon-Subduing Staff in his hand was already striking out, intent on seeing blood.
Qin Jiuye hadn't even reacted before she was tackled aside by Li Qiao. The young boys and girls just stood there blankly, neither dodging nor crying out. It was as if they had long expected this result; even after escaping the Villa and the fire, they could never escape their predetermined fate.
*Clang.*
The sound of clashing metal exploded as a broken long blade rushed out from the side, recklessly intercepting the blow. The Demon-Subduing Staff carried full killing intent; the person who intercepted it was already injured and was forced back three steps in a pathetic state, kneeling on the spot.
"I beg Zen Master Miaojie to show mercy!"
Miaojie stood with his staff retracted, looking coldly at the woman blocking his path.
"Do not think that because you were once a member of Lord Duanyu’s sect, you are any different from them. You have no right to plead for them, nor do you have the right to forgive on behalf of my dead fellow disciples!"
Jiang Xin'er bit her lip, cold sweat trickling down her forehead, but she did not retreat an inch.
"Xin'er is but one of thousands of Villa disciples; I do not dare to claim any connection with Kunxu or the Qiu family. Whether you seniors consider me a remnant of the Villa or someone's dog, I have no complaints. But these children have never left the Villa, nor have their hands ever been stained with the blood of the innocent. They simply could not choose their own birth. Di Mo is dead; why not give them a chance to be reborn..."
Perhaps thinking of her former self, she became more agitated as she spoke, her eyes turning red and her voice trembling.
But the sect leaders, filled with fury and ready to denounce, could not hear a single word. Her genuine emotions only added fuel to the fire, reminding the accusers of their heavy debts of blood.
"What 'innocent people.' When Di Mo sent people to slaughter seventeen of my sect under the guise of searching the mountains, they were also innocent people. But who came to plead for them? Who ever spared their lives or gave them a chance?!"
Seeing the other's anger rising instead of fading, Jiang Xin'er hardened her heart and refused to yield even half a step.
Seeing that another person was about to die under the staff of judgment, a voice suddenly rang out from the side.
"I advise you all to think twice." Qin Jiuye stepped forward and pulled Jiang Xin'er and the youth back. The black Demon-Subduing Staff hung right over her head, but she only looked into the eyes of the one holding it. "I am not a person of the martial world, nor do I intend to judge past grievances. I only ask that you give him a chance to speak. I will ask him one question; if his answer satisfies everyone, then please grant them a path to live."
A silence fell over the forest, but the surging killing intent circulated among the branches.
Mount Sidu was on good terms with Kunxu. Master Kongyin recognized Qin Jiuye as the one who had been with Lord Duanyu on Qionghu Island. After some deliberation, he interjected.
"Zen Master Miaojie has waited years for this moment; it won't hurt to wait another moment. Let us see what she wants to ask."
Miaojie snorted coldly upon hearing this and didn't attack again, but the Demon-Subduing Staff in his hand didn't move an inch.
Qin Jiuye dared not delay further. She turned to the youth behind her and asked loudly.
"What cultivation method did you study in the Villa?"
The youth’s slightly pale lips moved for a moment before he blankly spat out half a sentence.
"...I... I studied the Great Stele-Opening Hand."
His voice was very soft and trembled slightly, but those few words were like a thunderclap exploding among the onlookers. A figure instantly jumped out and walked a few steps to stand before the Villa disciple.
"What did you say?" The one who spoke was none other than the old Taoist from Mingshan. He was nearly seventy, and his eyes, which usually seemed closed under his white brows, were now wide as copper bells. His voice also trembled. "Say it again."
Qin Jiuye lightly patted the Villa disciple's shoulder. Under the comfort of this strength, he repeated his answer.
This time, the old Taoist from Mingshan stood completely frozen. It wasn't that he didn't understand those words, but that those words were too distant for him.
"Senior Brother, your Great Stele-Opening Hand has a successor. If you have spirit in heaven, you can rest in peace..."
As soon as he spoke, there was an even greater uproar. The sect leaders who had lost their sects' secret techniques also turned their gazes toward the young boys and girls, hoping that one of them might hold their own stroke of luck.
The plan to pull them out by the roots was about to be abandoned before it even began. How could they work together afterward? Seeing this, the Hall Master of Youyou Hall stepped forward and said in a heavy voice.
"How can right and wrong be mixed? If the Zen Master cannot bring himself to act, then let me."
Youyou Hall had not lost any techniques, so he could naturally strike a pose of justice. But the old Taoist from Mingshan was clearly unwilling now, and he even stepped forward to block the youth.
"What if we just spare this one person..."
"Have you gone muddled? Even if he studied your senior brother's technique in that First Villa Under Heaven, it wasn't personally taught by your senior brother. He has only learned three-tenths of the surface; it doesn't even count as a clumsy imitation. How can it be considered inheriting the mantle? If you truly take him in and bring him back to your sect, you would be insulting your senior brother’s final wishes!"
These words were like a bucket of cold water poured over their heads, extinguishing the small flames of hope in the hearts of the others. They truly desired to restore their techniques and revitalize their sects. But they also valued their martial reputation above all. If the world knew that their so-called "restoration" was unjustly obtained from the filthy First Villa Under Heaven, the act would lose its meaning.
Seeing the situation, which had finally softened, take a sudden turn for the worse, Qin Jiuye broke into a cold sweat. The next moment, her peripheral vision caught Li Qiao standing beside her, and something stirred in a corner of her heart.
If every person born of the Villa deserved to die, then the youth who escaped the Villa seven years ago would not be exempt. She didn't believe Li Qiao would retreat when facing the siege of many sects, but she wanted to fight for more for him.
As if sensing something through fate, Li Qiao also looked over. At this moment, he seemed to finally understand why she had stood up for those strangers from the First Villa Under Heaven. He then gently took her hand.
"Does the 'inheriting the mantle' you all speak of include Li Qingdao’s saber techniques?"
As Qin Jiuye’s words fell, the Qingwu Blade also emerged, standing before everyone like a pillar of stability.
The youth who acted had a beautiful but unfamiliar face, but the blade was quickly recognized.
"You are the one who stole the blade on Qionghu Island that day?"
The Guanyu Boy was the first to speak. Beside him, the Tiger-Subduing Celestial Master sighed repeatedly upon hearing this.
"Li Qingdao has been missing from the martial world for years; it turns out she was also captured by Di Mo. Not only did her weapon fall into another's hands, but her saber techniques also drifted into the Villa."
"My saber techniques were not learned from the Villa, and Di Mo never obtained Li Qingdao’s techniques." The silent youth suddenly spoke, as if spitting out a thorn that had been stuck in his throat for a long time. There was an unprecedented sense of relief as the words left his mouth. "My master is Li Qingdao. My saber techniques were personally taught by her."
His declaration echoed in the mountains, vibrating among the onlookers.
"Li Qingdao never took a disciple. Where did you..." The questioning voice rose and then stopped abruptly, as if realizing something. "Who exactly are you?"
"Who he is is not important. What is important is that he can be anyone, can he not?" Qin Jiuye stood side-by-side with Li Qiao, facing those suspicious and uncertain faces. "When Li Qingdao chose to pass her saber techniques to him, did she despise his origin? Did she care that he came from the place that had imprisoned her for half her life? Did she conclude that because he came from such a place, he would surely become a heinous person relying on the blade in his hand? Li Qingdao never cared that her techniques were inherited by a disciple of the First Villa Under Heaven. You all claim to be martial heroes, coming and going as you please. If you judge a hero by his origin, how are you any different from those bureaucratic clans?"
The woman’s voice was not loud, but it gradually drowned out the murmurs of doubt and enveloped the entire field.
"Outside our Jiugao City, there is an ancient road called Mingde Avenue. The people who built it are now white bones, and the shrines and temples it connected are submerged at the bottom of the lake. But it is straight and unbending. Anyone who has walked that road will understand why it is named 'Virtue' (De). Seven years ago, he chose to fight for his life and escaped the Villa with Li Qingdao. A few months ago, he went deep into Qionghu Island alone and stole the blade under Di Mo’s nose. Today, he faced his past, returned to the First Villa Under Heaven, and killed Li Kuquan. Even so, do you still think he is unworthy?"
Indeed, when they had watched from afar as this youth faced difficulties and fought off a crowd of enemies alone, had they not felt a sense of exhilaration in their hearts? They admired that sharp edge of solitary courage hanging from the tip of a blade, yet they were unwilling to accept that this sharpness had been polished by savagery and slaughter. This was inherently a contradiction.
Finally, the old Taoist from Mingshan spoke again.
"Life practicing in the deep mountains is no more leisurely than your time in the Villa. Even so, are you willing to enter my sect?"
The Villa disciple stood frozen, unable to react for a time. Only after a long while did he speak tremblingly.
"I... I am willing..."
"Then what are you standing there for? Go find your senior brother and get some clothes. These clothes from the First Villa Under Heaven look truly unlucky."
The Mingshan Sect was the first to state its position, and everything that followed became smoother.
These young boys and girls who had walked out of the fires of hell thus received invitations to the outside world. Di Mo had originally used the so-called *Andao Manual of Arms* as bait to plunder many martial arts and mental methods from the martial world; today, they were returned to the masses in this unexpected way. Just like the waters of the martial world, even if they had once turned into rain, mist, sleet, or snow, they would eventually fall back to the earth and merge into ten thousand rivers.
"Your saber techniques are quite solid, but the transition between moves is not smooth, and the details are coarse. You excel in having a spirit that does not fear the strong, which happens to suit my sect's style. Since you have helped others find a place, are you willing to join my sect?"
The speaker was Kongyin. He was the most open-minded and unrestrained among those present today, and he didn't mind Jiang Xin'er’s background in saber techniques. However, to everyone's surprise, Jiang Xin'er only paused for a moment before shaking her head and cupping her fists in thanks.
"I am grateful for Master Kongyin’s kind regard. However, I grew up in the Villa, and after leaving, I focused on serving one person. Having stayed in one place for so long, I now only wish to go out and see the world alone. The world is vast; it holds not only legends of blades and swords but also the smoke and fire of the mortal world. I must personally experience those ten thousand flavors."
"Eh, of all the paths to choose, you had to choose the same one as Li Qingdao."
Kongyin sighed after saying this, chanted the Buddha's name twice, and without looking at Jiang Xin'er again, led his disciples away.
The figures thinned out, revealing a figure curled up at the roots of a tree. That person had been keeping his head down since a moment ago, his hair becoming messy during the escape and covering half his face, looking somewhat like the Old Dog Du of the past. He didn't want anyone to recognize him, but this precisely proved that his heart was not completely blinded; he had even heard something, sensed something.
Qin Jiuye carefully took Xie Xiu’s hand. The latter pulled back slightly but ultimately didn't break free, allowing her to lead him to Shen Kaiyuan, the Sect Leader of the Qiushan Sect.
After escaping, she had inadvertently checked Xie Xiu’s pulse. This young man had once suffered a deviation in his cultivation due to carelessness; he would be estranged from martial arts for the rest of his life. She didn't have the heart to say this to his face, so after some deliberation, she spoke carefully.
"When we found him, he was already in this state. There were others in that building; he suffered some hardships. To have kept his life is already a great fortune. As for the rest..."
Before she could finish, her vision blurred as Shen Kaiyuan stepped forward and grasped Xie Xiu’s dirty hand.
"It doesn't matter. It’s good that you’re back, it’s good that you’re back."
As a sect leader who had practiced martial arts for half his life, a single grasp was enough to know what had happened to his beloved disciple. But he didn't ask a single question, nor did he show half a shred of internal struggle. He only heavily patted Xie Xiu’s shoulder and, like comforting a child, pulled him into his embrace.
And as if sensing something through fate, Xie Xiu suddenly became quiet. His body no longer trembled, and he stood there obediently. There were tears in Shen Kaiyuan’s eyes. After calming himself, he solemnly bowed to Qin Jiuye.
"I, Shen, thank the lady for her help. In the future, if you ever need the help of my Qiushan Sect, feel free to come find me."
Qin Jiuye immediately returned the bow.
"Xie Xiu was a martial artist after all; his foundation is very well-laid. With more care in the future, he can still recover a lot. Perhaps one day he can hold a sword again..."
"It’s not important. If he wants to continue practicing the sword, he can; if he wants to practice the saber, he can. When he first joined my sect, he was only a child of four or five. Because he had no father or mother, he almost took me as his father. Among the dozens of disciples in my sect, he was always the most diligent in practice. Through bitter winter and scorching summer, he never complained a single word of hardship to me." The old Sect Leader wiped the tears from the corners of his eyes and patted Xie Xiu’s hand. "Back then, I treated him as a child; now, he has simply returned to how he was at the beginning."
Having said that, he led his recovered disciple into the depths of the forest, just as they had walked together to the Sword Appreciation Assembly that day.
"I thank Miss Qin on their behalf for today's matter."
Jiang Xin'er bowed while holding her wound. Qin Jiuye quickly pulled her up.
"What is this for? I just felt that after finally bringing people out of that hellhole, it would be a bit much if their heads were chopped off the moment they turned around. Besides, if you hadn't acted at the critical moment, where would I have had the chance to speak? The person they should thank is you."
The two had never spoken so politely. Jiang Xin'er also felt somewhat awkward. After a long pause, she asked seriously.
"Were Miss Qin’s words earlier truly from the heart?"
Qin Jiuye was a bit puzzled. Recalling what she had said, there was nothing inappropriate. She nodded.
"Naturally, they were from the heart."
"I am serious. If I encounter other Villa disciples wandering outside like them, would Miss Qin be willing to provide the antidote for Qingfeng Powder and give them a chance to start over?"
Qin Jiuye was stunned, clearly not expecting that the other, while saying she wanted to travel the world, actually harbored such a thought. Who wouldn't like to do a good deed? It was just... just that the antidote for Qingfeng Powder wasn't cheap. Adding up all the medicinal herbs, wouldn't the Qingfeng Pharmacy lose everything?
Thinking of this, she clicked her tongue and whispered pointedly.
"It’s not a matter of being willing or unwilling. I am a businessperson. Miss Jiang also knows that in business, one must be fair and trade things of equal value..."
Before she could finish, she saw Jiang Xin'er nod vigorously, her eyes sparkling as she looked at her.
"I understand. Just like back at the infirmary."
What did she understand? What did this have to do with the infirmary? She wanted silver, not a group of workers from the First Villa Under Heaven!
However, before she could say anything more, the red figure had already departed like a whirlwind.
The fire in the distant valley had still not completely died down. This martial assembly in the forest was nearing its end. Having made the decision to return to Jiugao, it was naturally better to set off as early as possible. To facilitate travel, all luggage needed to be streamlined, and the northward route had to be replanned.
"Are you not disappointed?"
Teng Hu’s voice rang out dryly behind her. Qin Jiuye was busy working with great fervor, not at all affected by the suppressed, dejected emotion in his voice.
"Disappointed about what?"
"The answer regarding the Yefuzi was not found, and so much time was wasted for nothing. Do you regret going to the First Villa Under Heaven this time?" The other paused here and added somewhat acidly, "But this was your own decision; regret is useless."
"Is Brother Teng Hu asking me, or asking yourself?"
As soon as she spoke, the area behind her fell into silence. Sensing the silence, she sighed and turned around.
In just one night, that bloated, smooth face had wrinkled, and even a few white hairs had appeared. Thinking back to how much he had despised her origin, feeling like he was covered in thorns just being in the same room as her—yet now, with countless heroes and legends gathered in this forest, he could only find her to talk to.
Qin Jiuye felt pity for him, but she knew that pity was not what he needed right now.
"I never pinned all my hopes on your master. For me, being able to learn of Ding Miao’s plot and the danger to Jiugao was already the most useful information. And for Brother Teng Hu, even if you didn't get the answer about the Yefuzi, you still received your master's reply, did you not?"
"What reply? When did Master ever give me a reply?" His voice unconsciously rose, his two habitually raised thin brows now drooping, making him look somewhat mournful. "Master never kept me in his heart; this letter didn't even mention my name..."
"Isn't your name already here?" Qin Jiuye interrupted his mournful complaint, speaking in a calm tone. "Zuo Ci never took another disciple. He wouldn't have known that anyone else would inherit his final wishes and pursue the truth of the secret formula. In that underground secret chamber, the only 'successor' he could think of was you alone."
The moment her words landed, Teng Hu’s resentment-filled face froze, his pupils trembling in disbelief.
"You... you're talking nonsense..."
"Whether it was becoming his disciple or becoming an excellent physician, your master believed from start to finish that he hadn't chosen the wrong person. The one who doesn't believe all this is actually yourself."
Qin Jiuye finished her last word and turned to hand over the luggage she had sorted earlier.
"These are things brought out from the Chuanliu Courtyard infirmary. I’ve separated our items; they’re all here. Regarding the process of curing the secret formula, I will truthfully record the entire process in a book. I won't omit the parts about Zuo Ci, Xu Qinglan, or you. I won't charge you for the writing; just don't come looking for trouble with me."
She finished her last word, her gaze falling on his waist.
He had placed that scrawled letter together with the notes left by Zuo Ci, keeping them close to his body. Those words contained no pharmacology, yet they were another kind of guidance. Perhaps even if she hadn't said these words today, the person before her would have already made a choice without realizing it.
After a long time, Teng Hu finally reached out and took the "divided" luggage.
"My reputation in the martial world is not good, and I don't want to have a good reputation. Saving lives and helping people is not my forte. You and I are not the same kind of people."
Qin Jiuye nodded sincerely. The relief of being about to part with this old poison-user swept through her entire body. She almost couldn't help reaching out to shake his hand, but remembering the previous situation, she refrained, only coughing lightly.
"Brother Teng Hu, don't feel regret. Being able to travel together for these days is already very rare. Besides, the days are long; who knows when we might meet again? When that time comes, we must have a chat under the moon and talk by candlelight."
As she spoke, the other's dead-fish eyes stared at her the whole time, as if she weren't saying words of mutual appreciation but some kind of vicious curse. After a long while, he finally put on his face mask and gloves, stepped back a bit, and said.
"Ding Miao made a move at the Sword Appreciation Assembly. Although Chuanliu Courtyard has been secretly acting to eliminate hidden dangers, some people are hidden very deep. Ordinary methods might not work." Having said that, he took out the insect cage Zuo Ci had left him from his sleeve. After stroking it, he gave a strange laugh. "You return to your Jiugao City, and I will walk my path in the martial world. It just so happens I'm short a few 'medicine men'; perhaps I can check for gaps and fill them in."
The situation in the martial world was complex; special places required special means. Lord Yan had already personally demonstrated this for her. Moreover, she was too busy with her own affairs now. To have someone who understood the secret formula walking the martial world for her—even if his methods were a bit harsh—she truly couldn't be picky.
Over there, Jiufang Qingqing’s horse was ready. The one leading the horse was Weng Xiaohai. After hearing a few whispered words from his junior brother, he turned a somewhat surprised gaze toward Qin Jiuye.
"This is Miss Qin?"
The junior brother following closely behind nodded in confirmation.
"This is Miss Qin."
Yuan Zhiyi, who had suddenly appeared at some point, also widened his eyes, his gaze unashamedly sizing Qin Jiuye up from top to bottom.
"This is Miss Qin!"
Qin Jiuye rubbed the dust on her face, momentarily unable to handle the style of these Kunxu people. Before she could speak, Yuan Zhiyi pulled her aside.
"Miss Qin, we can be considered friends at first sight. My disciples all like you very much. Why don't you consider it again? I think the feng shui of Kunxu is quite good; it’s a precious land suitable for starting a family and spending a lifetime together..."
"Master, San-lang hasn't gone far yet."
Weng Xiaohai spoke somewhat helplessly, his gaze toward Qin Jiuye filled with apology. The next moment, Qiu Ling’s voice rang out from behind.
"A letter just came from Master Tan. I'm afraid the Baiyu Pass is impassable."
"If the waterways are blocked, one can still take a detour through the martial world." Yuan Zhiyi cleared his throat and glanced at his disciple. "The waters of the martial world flow in all directions. Wherever there is a martial world, there is a path."
Jiufang Qingqing’s spirit was instantly lifted upon hearing this.
"I have the fine horse Qicong; it can travel treacherous paths. As long as the route is planned properly, we can cross Baiyu Pass within three days. However, if we take a detour through the martial world and avoid the official roads, we will have to rely more on Senior Brother’s help along the way."
Weng Xiaohai didn't speak, only nodding lightly, his confidence unspoken.
Yuan Zhiyi looked toward the forest. Those sect leaders had not gone far; their figures, near or far, clear or blurred, stood among the mountains. As if sensing something, they also looked back.
Compared to the grand excitement and the contention of a hundred schools at the Sword Appreciation Assembly, this dawn was brief and quiet. Yet for some reason, at the moment she saw the morning light flickering among those figures, Qin Jiuye felt for the first time the wondrous sensation of being within the rivers and seas of the martial world, beneath the galaxy of the martial arts community.
They had gathered here with different purposes, but they would ultimately step onto the same straight, great road.
The red sun jumped out from the shadows of the mountains and rivers. The silent horn for departure had sounded. Yuan Zhiyi gave a clear shout.
"The mountains and rivers do not move and can exist for eternity; the martial world is vast and can connect to the rivers and seas. With this parting, who knows when we shall meet again. Yet the mountains are high and the waters are wide; there will always be a day of reunion. I wish you all to take care. If there is any joy left unfinished in this life, let us discuss our grudges and debts in the next!"
***
| Chinese | English | Notes/Explanation |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| 悠游堂 | Youyou Hall | A martial arts sect. |
| 袁知一 | Yuan Zhiyi | Sect Leader of Kunxu. |
| 昆墟 | Kunxu | A prominent martial arts sect/location. |
| 安道兵谱 | Andao Manual of Arms | A legendary (and fraudulent) martial arts manual. |
| 唐啸 | Tang Xiao | A character who debunked the Andao Manual. |
| 溟山 | Mingshan | A martial arts sect. |
| 玄金门 | Xuanjin Sect | A martial arts sect. |
| 寒烛师太 | Abbess Hanchu | Leader of the Xuanjin Sect. |
| 鸡鸣山 | Mount Jiming | Location of the Tiankui Sect. |
| 天魁门 | Tiankui Sect | A martial arts sect. |
| 水鬼帮 | Water Ghost Gang | A martial arts sect focused on water. |
| 神瀑教 | Shenpu Cult | A martial arts sect. |
| 道枢阁 | Daoshu Pavilion | A martial arts sect focused on talismans and mechanics. |
| 大开碑手 | Great Stele-Opening Hand | A specific martial arts technique. |
| 妙诘 | Miaojie | A Zen Master/monk. |
| 泗渡山 | Mount Sidu | A location/sect. |
| 空音 | Kongyin | A Buddhist master. |
| 李青刀 | Li Qingdao | A legendary saber master. |
| 青芜刀 | Qingwu Blade | Li Qiao's weapon. |
| 铭德大道 | Mingde Avenue | A road near Jiugao City. |
| 秋山派 | Qiushan Sect | A martial arts sect. |
| 沈开源 | Shen Kaiyuan | Leader of the Qiushan Sect. |
| 谢修 | Xie Xiu | A disciple of the Qiushan Sect. |
| 晴风散 | Qingfeng Powder | A poison/medicine from the Villa. |
| 翁小海 | Weng Xiaohai | A disciple of Kunxu. |
| 九方青青 | Jiufang Qingqing | A female character, likely a noble or skilled rider. |
| 麒骢 | Qicong | A legendary or high-quality horse. |
| 百昱关 | Baiyu Pass | A strategic mountain pass. |
