Duan Yu drifted out and in of consciousness. Slowly regaining his senses after an unknown size of time, he opened his eyes to see a fabric cover and located himself inside the blankets of a mattress. He was nonetheless in a state of confusion. Considering exhausting, he solely recalled that he had suffered the results of Jiumozhi’s plot. He couldn’t recall how he obtained into the mattress. Feeling that his mouth was unusually parched, he sat up and tried to maneuver slightly and felt a horrible ache in his chest. “AH!” he couldn’t assist however yell out.

A younger woman’s voice referred to as from outdoors the room. “Grasp Duan is awake! Grasp Duan is awake!” Her voice was crammed with pleasure. Duan Yu felt that this woman’s voice was acquainted however couldn’t pinpoint it. He then noticed a woman wearing inexperienced dashing into the room. A chubby face with dimples – certainly it was Zhong Ling whom he’d met at Wuliang Palace a number of years again.

Zhong Ling met his gaze and blushed, saying in an tried joking tone: “Have you ever lengthy forgotten me? Do you continue to keep in mind my identify?”

Duan Yu noticed her expression and recalled to thoughts a picture of her sitting on the ceiling beam of Wuliang Palace’s nice corridor, each legs waving and chewing on melon seeds. At this second, he recalled even the yellow embroidery flowers on her pair of inexperienced footwear in nice readability. “The place are your yellow flower-embroidered footwear?” he requested.

Zhong Ling blushed once more, overjoyed. With a small snigger, she replied: “They wore out way back. Belief you to recollect these. You… You actually have not forgotten me!” Duan Yu laughed, “Why aren’t you consuming melon seeds?” Zhong Ling stated: “I have been tending to your accidents these few days and virtually went mad with anxiousness. Who would have the time to eat melon seeds?” Upon saying these phrases, she felt that she’d revealed her true emotions an excessive amount of and blushed terribly.

Duan Yu gazed at her intenty, pondering that she may very well be counted as his spouse for the reason that starting. Who would have thought that she would change into his sister? He sighed and stated: “My pricey sister, how did you get right here?”

Zhong Ling’s face was nonetheless pink. Eyes shining with delight, she stated: “After you left Wan Jie Valley, you by no means got here to see me. I used to be very upset with you. Duan Yu stated: “Why upset?” Zhong Ling gave him him a sideways look and stated: “Upset that you simply’d forgotten me.”

Duan Yu noticed solely sincerity in her gaze and was moved. “My pricey sister!” he exclaimed. Zhong Ling laughingly scolded him: “Now that you have addressed me so affectionately this time, you absolutely have to return and see me at the least this as soon as. I couldn’t relaxation and went to the Zhennan Palace to hunt information. I then discovered that you simply went off with a depraved monk. I used to be so anxious that I couldn’t assist however come and discover you.”

Duan Yu requested: “Concerning my father and your mom, has your mom defined it to you?” Zhong Ling replied: “What matter? That night time whenever you left together with your father, my mom fainted and was not effectively for a while. She would maintain weeping each time she noticed me. I compelled her to talk however she wouldn’t say a phrase.”

Duan Yu stated: “En, she did not say a phrase. That… which means you do not know.” “Know what?” Zhong Ling requested. Duan Yu replied: “Do not know that you’re my… you might be my…”

Zhong Ling flushed scarlet and bowed her head. Hesitantly, she stated: “I knew… That day after we got here out from the stone home, as you have been carrying me you ran into many individuals and I used to be each terrified and bashful. I may solely maintain my eyes shut. Nonetheless, your father’s phrases… I heard all of them clearly.”

Each she and Duan Yu recalled the day within the stone home when Duan Zhengchun stated to Zhong Wanchou: “Ling likes to serve Duan Yu on this home. Given time, a boy and woman undressed in a small darkish room, what good can come out of it? My son is the Zhennan prince. Though he can not marry her because the lawful spouse, why cannot she be the third or fourth spouse? Would we not be in-laws then? Ha ha!

Duan Yu noticed that she was blushing terribly and stammered: “My pricey sister… so you continue to… nonetheless do not know the problem. This… this may by no means work out.” Zhong Ling reduce in: “Is it due to Sister Mu?” Duan Yu stated: “No. She… She can also be my…” Zhong Ling smiled, “Your father nonetheless stated one thing a couple of third or fourth spouse. It isn’t that I do not give need to her however she’s extraordinarily fierce, would I be capable of beat her? She caught out her tongue as she stated it.

Duan Yu noticed that she was nonetheless an image of good innocence. On the identical time, his chest gave ache once more. It was not a handy time to clarify the reality to her. He then requested: “How did you get right here?”

Zhong Ling stated: “I’ve been trying to find you the entire approach even to the east and west of the Central Plains however I heard no information in any way. I coincidentally met your disciple Yue the Third a number of days in the past. Though he didn’t see me, I heard him discussing with others that every one the chivalrous heroes want to collect at Shaolin Temple as there was going to be a giant and full of life occasion. He informed them to return. Nonetheless, the depraved man Yun Zhongyue sneered and him and stated that he would see his grasp quickly. Yue the Third flew right into a rage and stated that when he noticed you he would break your neck. I used to be each glad and anxious, so I quietly adopted alongside. I used to be afraid to be noticed by Yue the Third and Yun Zhongyu and so I didn’t dare to comply with to carefully, however wandered across the base of the mountain haphazardly. I needed to warn you to be cautious that your disciple needed to interrupt your neck. After I got here throughout this uninhabited home, I moved in with out reservation.”

Duan Yu heard her communicate of issues frivolously however her face was flushed with emotion. She now not appeared carefree like earlier than. Younger as she was, she had gone by way of a lot issue wandering alone all through the Jianghu to search out him. Her emotions towards him have been real certainly. He impulsively stretched out his hand to carry hers and stated in a low voice: “My pricey sister, at the least Heaven took pity (on us) and allowed me to see you once more!”

Zhong Ling laughed and stated: “Sure, at the least Heaven felt sorry for us certainly and allow us to see one another once more. Sitting down on the mattress, she requested: “How is it that you simply got here right here then?” Duan Yu stated to her, eyes large: “I used to be nearly to ask you that, how did I get right here? I solely recall that the evil monk did a sneak assault on me and I took successful of his Formless Saber talent to the chest, taking a heavy harm. I do know nothing after that.”

Zhong Ling frowned and stated: “That is actually unusual! Yesterday night, I used to be selecting greens within the backyard. I had washed and reduce the greens within the kitchen all able to prepare dinner once I heard a moan within the room. It gave me a fright and I took the vegetable knife and entered the room. I solely noticed that there was an individual sleeping on my mattress and requested a number of instances: “Who’re you?” There was no reply. I believed it was a nasty particular person and raised the vegetable knife, able to stab it into the particular person sleeping on the mattress. Thankfully… happily you have been sleeping face-up. Earlier than the knife pierced you, I obtained a glimpse of your face and at that second… I virtually fainted from the shock. I did not even realise that the knife had fallen to the ground. ” At this level, she patted her chest a number of instances, recalling the shock of that second.

Duan Yu contemplated: “This place will not be removed from Shaolin Temple. It must be that somebody despatched me right here after I used to be injured.” Zhong Ling continued: “I referred to as to you a number of instances however you solely moaned and ignored me. I felt your brow and also you have been working a horrible fever. Your garments have been soaked with contemporary blood and it was apparent to me that you simply have been injured. Nonetheless, once I uncovered the wound, it was effectively bandaged. I used to be gripped in confusion and dared not open the securing string. After ready for a protracted whereas, you have been nonetheless unconscious. Ai! I used to be each glad and in a panic, not realizing what to do with you.”

Zhong Ling’s expression instantly stiffened and he or she stated: “You are not an excellent particular person. If I would recognized earlier that you simply lack a conscience, I might have lengthy forgotten you. I will ignore you from now onwards, no matter whether or not you reside or die.”

Duan Yu stated: “What? Why are you instantly indignant now?” Zhong Ling hummed and stated pointedly: “You recognize very effectively, why ask me?” Duan Yu replied in a panic: “I… I positively do not know. My pricey sister, inform me!” Zhong Ling retorted: “Pooh! Who’s your pricey sister? What did you say in your desires? You keep in mind and nonetheless ask me? You are actually ungrateful!” Duan Yu requested: “What did I say whereas dreaming? That will need to have been nonsense and never correct. Ah! I keep in mind! I will need to have seen you in my dream and being very keen on you, I will need to have spoken rashly and offended you.”

Zhong Ling instantly teared and stated dejectedly: “You are still mendacity to me right now. Who did you truly dream of?” Duan Yu sighed and stated: “After I was injured, I used to be unconscious and actually didn’t know what nonsense I stated.” Zhong Ling instantly exclaimed: “Who’s Miss Wang? Who’s Miss Wang? Why did you retain calling her whenever you have been in a daze?”

Duan Yu’s chest ached and stated: “Did I name Miss Wang’s identify?” Zhong Ling stated: “Why aren’t you calling her? You saved calling her whereas in a daze. Even now, you are still pondering of her. Nice! Go and name Miss Wang to are likely to you. I do not care any extra!” Duan Yu sighed a number of instances and stated: “Miss Wang’s coronary heart has no house for me. I solely consider her however it’s ineffective.” Zhong Ling requested: “Why?” Duan Yu replied: “She solely likes her cousin and has ignored me fully all this whereas.”

Zhong Ling’s temper brightened and he or she laughed. “Thank heavens, the depraved get their simply desserts!” Duan Yu requested: “Me, depraved?” Zhong Ling tilted her head and laughed, hair model coming partly undone: “Your disciple Yue the Third is among the Three Evils. If the disciple is so evil, the grasp is certainly much more so.” Duan Yu laughed and stated: “What in regards to the Grasp-Spouse? Does Yue the Third not name you Grasp-Spouse? As he uttered the phrases, he instantly regretted them. “How can I communicate such careless phrases to my organic sister?”

Zhong Ling blushed once more and spat, however her coronary heart was a lot appeased. She stood up and went to the kitchen to convey out a bowl of rooster soup, saying: “This soup has been boiling for half a day, ready so that you can awaken with out as soon as placing out the fireplace.” Duan Yu replied: I actually do not know the right way to thanks.” Seeing Zhong Ling bringing the soup over, he tried to sit down up however aggravated his chest harm once more. He couldn’t assist however groan.

Zhong Ling busily stated: “Do not stand up. I’ll feed the little evil ancestor.””What little evil ancestor?” Duan Yu requested. Zhong Ling stated: “You’re the grasp of the depraved man. Is that not being the little evil ancestor?” Duan Yu laughed and stated: “Then you might be…” Zhong Ling brandished a spoonful of soup at his face and stated in mock anger: “Watch me splash you with scorching soup in case you maintain speaking nonsense once more!”Duan Yu stretched out his tongue and stated: “I do not dare! Miss Depraved Woman, depraved aunts are certainly formidable and really evil!” Zhong Ling set free a smile, and virtually splashed Duan Yu with the soup. Duan Yu with nice presence of thoughts tasted that the soup was not too scorching earlier than swallowing it.

Duan Yu drank a number of mouthfuls of rooster soup and admired her appears to be like and her jade-like complexion. He thought: “Such a pity that she’s my organic sister! Ai, if the one now feeding me rooster soup was Miss Wang, even it have been poison I might nonetheless drink it.”

Zhong Ling noticed him vacantly looking at her and by no means in her wildest desires imagined that he was pondering of another person. She smiled and stated: “What’s so good to take a look at?”

There was a sudden sound. Somebody was pushing the door apart to enter, adopted by a teenage woman’s voice saying: “Let’s take a break right here for some time.” A person’s voice stated: “Good, if we drained you out I might not forgive myself. The woman snapped again: “Nonsense!”

—

Duan Yu heard the 2 voices and recognised them to be A-Zi and Beggar Clan Chief Zhuang Juxian. Though he had not met A-zi or spoken to her personally earlier than, he knew that she was one other illegitimate daughter of his father’s from what Zhu Danchen informed him. One more sister! Thank goodness he had no prior involvement along with her. This youthful sister had been underneath the steerage of the Xing Su elder since younger and was tainted by evil methods. Along with her wilful methods, the 4 Zhennan Palace protectors had fallen to her petty anger. Duan Yu had been near the 4 protectors since younger. On recalling their deaths, he had no want to see this sister of his. Moreover, he had just lately aided Xiao Feng towards Zhuang Juxian and feared for his life in the event that they have been noticed. He raised a finger, making a shushing gesture.

Zhong Ling nodded and held onto the bowl of rooster broth, not daring to put it on the desk, terrified of creating even a small sound. She heard A-Zi name out: “Wei, anybody there?” Zhong Ling glanced at Duan Yu and didn’t reply, pondering: “This particular person will need to have given his coronary heart to Miss Wang, however she’s along with her cousin and therefore Duan Yu does not want to see her.” She was itching to try “Miss Wang’s” look, questioning how lovely she should look to bespell Duan Yu so. Nonetheless, she dared not take a step, pondering that nothing good may come of Duan Yu assembly her. Hopefully, she would name a number of extra instances and go away along with her cousin if there was no response.

A-Zi referred to as loudly as soon as extra: “Why are not one of the folks in the home taking a damned step out?” For those who nonetheless do not present your self, I will burn your home down!”

Zhong Ling thought: “This Miss Wang is basically tyrannical!” You Tanzhi quietly stated: “Be quiet, somebody’s coming!” A-Zi replied: “Who? Beggar Clan?” You Tanzhi replied: “I do not know, however there are 4 or 5 and will not essentially be Beggar Clan members. They’re coming this fashion.” A-Zi stated: “These stinking beggar clan elders! Other than Elder Quan, none of them are good. They might need to maintain this towards you. If we’re seen, each of us will likely be in hassle.” You Tanzhi replied: “Then what ought to we do?” A-Zi stated: “Let’s go and conceal in the home first. You have been badly injured and might’t battle with them.”

Duan Yu quietly agonised, making a hand sign to Zhong Ling to inform her to cover. Nonetheless, on this slim and crampy mountain hut, there was nowhere to take action. Zhong Ling appeared round and had no higher concepts. From the sound of the footsteps, the duo have been strolling in the direction of the room. She quietly stated: “Let’s disguise beneath the bed-stove! [炕 Kang2]. She put down the bowl of soup. Earlier than ready for Duan Yu’s response, she carried him up they usually burrowed underneath the bed-stove. Nonetheless, the underside of the bed-stove was crammed with soot. Duan Yu’s nostril was crammed with mud and he managed to stop a sneeze with nice issue.

Zhong Ling appeared out and noticed a pair of toes clad in purple footwear strolling into the room. She heard the person say: “Ai, I wanted you to hold me round – it was actually unsuitable give you the results you want.” The woman retorted: “One in every of us is blind and one is damaged – we have now no selection however to rely upon one another.” Zhong Ling was puzzled and thought: “Seems that Miss Wang is blind and he or she’s carrying her cousin on her again. No marvel that I can not see his toes.”

A-Zi positioned You Tanzhi on the mattress and exclaimed: “Yi! Somebody simply slept on this mattress! It is nonetheless heat!” All of the sudden, there was a banging noise. The principle door had been kicked open and some folks dashed in. A tough voice stated: “Clan Chief Zhuang, the plans of the clan have come to nothing. How may you slip away identical to that?” It was Elder Track. He had been main two Seven-Pouch disciples together with two Six-Pouch disciples to look out You Tanzhi.

With the Xiao, Murong father-son duos together with the Shaolin monks and the numerous heroes of the Central Plains all concerned within the Shaolin Temple occasion, the Beggar Clan felt that they have been in nice peril. They wanted to urgently consider an answer. They have been afraid that even being the largest clan with a foothold within the Central Plains they’d be affected by the Xiao father-son feud with Murong Bo that may drag on. They didn’t care and didn’t need to intervene. Even when they informed Bao Butong that they shared a standard enemy and introduced ailing upon Xiao Feng, their essential concern was to keep away from British Rule and be led by a robust Clan Chief to revive their unique energy and glory.

Clan Chief Zhuang disappeared within the mess after they have been attempting to find him. They thought that with each legs damaged, he couldn’t have gone far and looked for him close by. As to the right way to take care of him after that they had discovered him, the clan had but to determine and have been nonetheless at a loss. Nonetheless the bulk have been unanimous in that he was positively not match to proceed as clan chief. Some lambasted him for taking the Xing Su Elder as his trainer and shaming the clan. Some cursed him for sending folks to kill clan members, swearing to settle scores with him. As for Quan Guanqing, he had lengthy been captured by Elders Track and Wu, ready to be handled together with Zhuang Juxian.

Elder Track led the 4 disciples to look the southeast of Shaolin Mountain and noticed a flash of purple clothes within the distant forest – somebody coming into a farmhouse. He recognised A-Zi and noticed her carrying an individual that appeared like Zhuang Juxian. Instantly pursuing, they barged into the farm home and noticed Zhuang Juxian and A-Zi sitting on the bed-stove.

A-Zi frostily stated: “Elder Track, though you handle him as Clan Chief, how will you maintain making such a commotion with out half a way of the right respect? Elder Track was shocked and felt that her phrases weren’t completely unreasonable. He stated: “Clan Chief, we quantity a thousand members, all who stayed behind on Shaolin Mountain. As to what to do subsequent, we’d like your orders.” You Tanzhi replied: “Do you continue to deal with me as Clan Chief? You need me to return solely to kill me to vent your anger, is not it? I am not going!”

Elder Track turned to the 4 disciples and stated: “Fast, unfold the phrase that Clan Chief is right here.” The 4 disciples acknowledged “Sure!” and turned to go away. A-Zi shouted: “Strike!” You Tanzhi adopted the sound and struck out a palm. From beneath the bed-stove, Zhong Ling and Duan Yu felt a bone-freezing chill instantly permeate the room. The 4 disciples fell as 4 corpses to the bottom with out making a sound. Elder Track was each shocked and indignant. He raised his hand to his chest and yelled: “You… You… You dared to deal with the clan brothers so wickedly!” A-Zi stated: “Kill him too.” You Tanzhi punched out once more. Elder Track blocked with a raised fist and with an “Ah!” sound, fell out of the primary door.

A-Zi giggled and stated: “This man is useless for positive! Are you hungry? Let’s go and discover one thing to eat. You Tanzhi carried upon her again, the 2 of them went into the kitchen and took Zhong Ling’s cooked dishes to eat within the corridor.

Zhong Ling whispered in Duan Yu’s ear: “These two shameless persons are ingesting the rooster soup I cooked for you.” Duan Yu whispered: “They’re vicious and evil, killing at whim. Let’s sneak out by way of the again door. Zhong Ling didn’t need him to see that “Miss Wang” and strongly agreed with what he stated.

The 2 of them frivolously crawled out from beneath the bed-stove. Zhong Ling noticed that Duan Yu’s face was filled with soot and couldn’t assist however snigger. She coated her mouth. Sneaking out by way of the kitchen and simply earlier than they went by way of the again door, Duan Yu’s lengthy suppressed sneeze may now not be managed. “Qi chi!” the sound snapped out.

They heard You Tanzhi exclaim: “Somebody’s there!” Zhong Ling appeared round and noticed nowhere to cover within the room. Nonetheless, there was a small room used for storing firewood behind the kitchen. She grabbed Duan Yu they usually tunnelled into the pile of firewood. A-Zi referred to as out: “Who’s there? Such sneaky behaviour, get out right here!” You Tanzhi stated: “They’re almost definitely farmers from this countryside. We will most likely ignore them.” A-Zi referred to as: “Why do you continue to ignore me? Along with your clumsiness you may absolutely undergo tremendously sooner or later. Do not make a sound!” After she turned blind, her listening to turned exceptionally delicate. She heard some rustling within the firewood pile. ‘There’s somebody within the pile of firewood!”

Zhong Ling was startled and felt some water dripping on her face. She brushed it along with her hand and felt dampness accompanied by the scent of blood. She was horrified and murmured: “You… how’s your wound?” Duan Yu stated: “Silence!”

A-Zi pointed to the firewood room and referred to as out: “Over there.” You Tanzhi struck a palm in the direction of the room with a ka-la-la sound. The door burst aside and wooden splinters and tinder scattered throughout.

Zhong Ling referred to as out: “Do not assault! We’re popping out!”. She supported Duan Yu and crawled out of the pile of firewood. Duan Yu had taken a stab from Jiumozhi’s Blazing Sabre talent and his accidents weren’t gentle. With a lot motion crawling out of the firewood storage wound, his wound opened and contemporary blood gushed out. Together with his accidents, even together with his plentiful inner power and his life on the road, he couldn’t recall the right way to use the Liumai Shenjian (Six Meridians Divine Sword).

—

A-Zi requested: “Why is there a woman’s voice?” You Tanzhi replied: “A person introduced a younger woman to cover within the wooden pile. His physique is soaked with blood whereas the woman simply retains looking at you with shining eyes.” Since A-Zi turned blind, she had turn out to be extraordinarily delicate to the point out of “eyes”. Not solely had You Tanzhi talked about “eyes”, he truly stated “the younger woman’s eyes” and it agitated her. “What ‘shining’?! Are her eyes so good?” You Tanzhi was but to understand how indignant she was and went on: “She is scruffy – a farmer’s daughter. Her eyes, nevertheless are darkish and full of life.” Zhong Ling’s face was coated with soot and filth however her eyes have been darkish and liquid like summer season rain.

A-Zi stormily exclaimed: “Nice! Grasp Zhuang, dig out her eyes instantly!” You Tanzhi was shocked and stated: “Why ought to I dig out her eyes for no cause?” A-Zi went on: “My eyes have been destroyed by Elder Ding. Hurry, dig out her eyes and provides them to me to see the world. Is not that good?”

You Tanzhi was quietly shocked and thought: “If her eyes are restored and he or she sees how ugly I’m, she could ignore me. Moreover, if she acknowledges my face and is aware of that I’m the ‘Steel Clown’, that may be dreadful! I can not do that.” He stated: “If I can heal your eyes, that may be fantastic… … nevertheless, I am afraid this plan of yours won’t work.”

A-Zi knew that taking somebody’s eyes to interchange her personal wouldn’t work. Nonetheless, since she had misplaced her sight, she had turn out to be crammed with rage and hoped that everybody on the earth would lose their eyes as effectively. She stated: “If you have not tried, how would you understand it would not work? Rapidly make your transfer and dig out her eyes.” She walked in the direction of Duan Yu and Zhong Ling with You Tanzhi on her again.

Zhong Ling was alarmed to listen to their alternate and dashed away. A-Zi being blind and carrying You Tanzhi had issue pursuing her. Moreover, You Tanzhi had no intention of catching Zhong Ling and steadily gave A-Zi the incorrect instructions in a garbled approach.

A-Zi listening to, Zhong Ling’s footsteps, knew that she couldn’t catch her. She referred to as again: “If younger Miss escapes, the person will die quickly!”

Zhong Ling heard this and obtained a fright. She instantly stopped and turned again, solely to see Duan Yu collapsed onthe flooring with a pool of contemporary blood round him. She dashed again and referred to as out: “Little Blindy! You’ll be able to’t harm him!” At this level when she confronted A-Zi, she observed that she was definitely a magnificence. Who would count on that her coronary heart was this vicious?

A-Zi cried out: “Seal her acupoints!” Though You Tanzhi was unwilling, he had by no means dared to defy A-Zi, whether or not or not it’s within the Liao Manor or being the Beggar Clan lader. Instantly elevating his finger, he sealed Zhong Ling’s acupoints and he or she fell to the bottom.

Zhong Ling referred to as: “Miss Wang! Don’t harm him! He referred to as your identify in his desires and has nothing however sincere intentions in the direction of you!” A-Zi requested in confusion: “What did you say? Who’s Miss Wang?” Zhong Ling stated: “You… you are not Miss Wang? Who’re you then?” A-Zi smirked and stated: “Hm. You referred to as me ‘Little Blindy’. You are about to turn out to be blind your self now. Why ask so many questions? You continue to have a pair of eyes now. Higher take a number of extra appears to be like rapidly.” She positioned You Tanzhi on the bottom and stated: “Dig out her eyes!”

You Tanzhi replied: “Sure!” and stretched out his left hand, grabbing Zhong Ling’s head. Zhong Ling in shock cried out: “Do not dig out my eyes! Do not dig out my eyes!”

Duan Yu mendacity on the bottom in a daze realised that the 2 of them have been about to take away Zhong Ling’s eyes to put in A-Zi’s eye sockets. He knew Zhong Ling had already escaped however returned and positioned herself in peril to save lots of him. He sighed and stated: “It is best to take my eyes, we… we’re household… they’d be extra appropriate.”

A-Zi had no thought what he was speaking about and didn’t care. She urged You Tanzhi: “Why have not you moved?” You Tanzhi had no selection however to acknowledge: “Sure”. He pulled Zhong Ling towards himself and caught his proper index finger in the direction of her proper eye in a digging movement.

They instantly heard a girl’s voice calling out: “Wei, what are you doing right here?” You Tanzhi raised his head and his expression modified tremendously. He noticed two males and 4 ladies beneath the house’s willow tree. The 2 males have been Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu, whereas the 4 girls have been Xu Zhu’s servants, the 4 swords: Plum, Orchid, Chrysanthemum and Bamboo.Glancing into the room, Xiao Feng noticed Duan Yu collapsed on the ground and dashed in to hold him up. Frowning, he stated: “Your wound has opened once more with a lot blood.” He knelt down on his left leg to help Duan Yu’s physique and examined his wound. Xu Zhu got here nearer and noticed Duan Yu’s wound, saying: “Elder brother, don’t be alarmed. This [Nine-changing Bear Snake Pill] could be very efficient for treating wounds. He sealed the acupoints round Duan Yu’s wound to cease the bleeding, then fed him the tablet.

Duan Yu referred to as out: “Elder brother… second brother, rapidly, save her! Do not let him dig out Miss Zhong’s eyes! She’s… she’s my good sister.” Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu checked out You Tanzhi. You Tanzhi was startled. As he had initially not wished to dig out Zhong Ling’s eyes, he let her go instantly.

A-Zi referred to as out: “Brother-in-law, what did my sister say earlier than she died? After you beat her to loss of life, did you overlook all about her requests?” Xiao Feng, listening to her convey up A-Zhu, was as soon as once more harm and annoyed, letting out a sigh. He didn’t reply. A-Zi continued: “You did not take excellent care of me. Elder Ding destroyed my sight however you were not even involved. Brother-in-law, everybody says you are the primary hero, however you possibly can’t even defend your sister-in-law. Are you truly nugatory? Hm, Elder Freak Ding cannot defeat you, nevertheless it’s simply that you simply did not handle me and defend me.”

Xiao Feng dejectedly replied: “You have been taken by the Beggar Clan and misplaced sight in each eyes. It was actually that my safety was insufficient. I actually can not make it as much as you adequate for this. He had seen early on that A-Zi was as much as her unreasonable methods and asking others to dig out Zhong Ling’s eyes. He was indignant and but when he noticed her blind gaze, he recalled A-Zhu’s final needs on that stormy night time on the Inexperienced Stone bridge the place A-Zhu took his killing blow, telling him in his arms: “I solely have an excellent sister from the identical dad and mom. Whereas we can not proceed being collectively, I urge you to handle her as I concern she’s going to go astray.” He had additionally himself stated: “Not just one activity, I might do 100 or a ten thousand duties for you.” Nonetheless, A-Zi’s dropping each eyes have been his fault for his inadequacy of care it doesn’t matter what she had executed incorrect. His coronary heart ached when he considered all this and his eyes shone with heat in the direction of her.

A-Zi had spent a very long time with Xiao Feng and knew his character effectively. So long as she talked about A-Zhu, she would handle to make him comply with tough requests for positive it doesn’t matter what. She hated how Zhong Ling referred to as her “Little Blindy” and thought to herself: “I’ll make you’ve gotten a style of being a “Little Blindy” for positive”. She then sighed a number of instances and stated to Xiao Feng: “Brother-in-law, I am blind and might’t see something. It could be higher for me to only die.” Xiao Feng stated: “I had already returned you to your father and mom. How is it that you simply’re with Clan Chief Zhuang as soon as once more?” At the moment he had already seen that Zhuang Juxian was totally prepared to comply with A-Zi in addition to being very obedient to her phrases. “You’d higher return to your father to Dali. Though your eyes are blind, Dali Palace has many servants to attend upon you and it’ll not be too inconvenient.”

A-Zi replied: “My mom is not an actual palace concubine. If I have been to go to Dali, with all of the palace intrigue and plotting occurring one after one other, ought to Father’s underlings hate me, I will likely be at their mercy with my blindness.” Xiao Feng thought that she had a degree after which replied: “Then comply with me again to Nanjing the place you possibly can lead your life peacefully with out taking dangers within the Jianghu.”

A-Zi retorted: “Now you ask me to go to your personal palace? Ai yo! I used to be bored sick there even once I may see. How may I ever return there? You refuse to be like Clan Chief Zhuang, by no means disagreeing with me. I might be moderately drift alongside within the Jianghu and be happier.”

Xiao Feng glanced at You Tanzhi and thought: “Seems to be like little A-Zi appears to be keen on this Beggar Clan Chief. He stated: “Have you ever requested about this Clan Chief Zhuang’s background?”

A-Zi replied: “Naturally. Nonetheless, asking somebody for their very own background could not essentially be dependable. Brother-in-law, whenever you was the Beggar Clan Chief, would you’ve gotten willingly informed others that you simply have been a Khitan?”

Xiao Feng upon listening to her acerbic phrases sighed once more and didn’t proceed. He was undecided if he ought to go away her alone to proceed following this Beggar Clan Chief.

A-Zi requested: “Brother-in-law, are you ignoring me now?” Xiao Feng frowned and stated: “What would you like then?” A-Zi stated: “I would like you to dig out this woman’s eyes and provides them to me.” She paused and continued: “Clan Chief Zhuang was about to do it for me. For those who hadn’t interfered, he would have been lengthy executed. En, even in case you let me do it myself it is advantageous. Brother-in-law, I need to know in case you or Clan Chief Zhuang treats me higher. Up to now, you used to hold me round on a regular basis to get my wounds handled. Then, you additionally obeyed me dutifully, doing no matter I requested. Once we stayed outdoor in the identical tent, you carried me carefully regardless if it was day or night time. Brother-in-law, have you ever forgotten all this?”

You Tanzhi stared at Xiao Feng with a vicious expression, seeming to say: “A-Zi is mine, from this present day on, do not even consider touching her!”

Xiao Feng cared not about him and stated: “You have been closely injured then. To make use of my inner power to maintain you alive, I had no selection however to go together with you. This woman is my sworn brother’s good friend. How can I dig out her eyes to fit your order? Moreover, the medical method to put in nerves doesn’t exist. This need of yours is futile!”

Xu Zhu instantly interjected: “I took a take a look at Miss Duan’s eyes. It is solely the floor layer that has been destroyed. It could be doable to do a transplant with a residing particular person to remedy her. The Xiaoyao Sect’s medical expertise have been very superior. Moreover, Divine Physician Xue was Xu Zhu’s martial nephew. Though Xu Zhu didn’t have a lot medical data, he had adopted Tianshan Tonglao (Baby Elder) for a variety of months and had heard her mentioning many issues.

A-Zi cried “Ah!” with pleasure and cheered, saying: “Mr. Xu Zhu, you are not fooling me proper?” Xu Zhu replied: “Monks don’t battle or lie……” then paused and flushed slightly as he considered himself now not being a monk. He continued: “Naturally, I’m not fooling you, nevertheless…” A-Zi requested: “Nonetheless what? Good Mr. Xu Zhu, you might be sworn brothers with my brother-in-law – each of us are virtually household!” You additionally heard my brother-in regulation earlier. He dotes on me tremendously. Brother-in-law, brother-in-law, regardless, you could ask your sworn brother to remedy my eyes!” Xu Zhu stated: “I heard my martial uncle point out earlier than that if the eyes aren’t fully destroyed, it’s doable to regain sight by transplanting a part of a residing particular person’s eye. Nonetheless, I’m not acquainted with the tactic of doing so.”

A-Zi stated: “In that case, your martial uncle should absolutely have the tactic. Please assist me to ask him! Xu Zhu sighed and stated: “My martial uncle is now not alive.” A-Zi yelled: “So that you have been making tales as much as mess with me!” Xu Zhu repeatedly shook his head and stated: “No, no! There are numerous medical books saved in Lingjiu Palace. I consider the tactic to transplant eyes must be out there there. However… however…” A-Zi was each happy however anxious and stated: “You are a grown man and but communicate in such a stuttering wishy-washy method. Ai! What do you imply by ‘however’ this and ‘however’ that?”

Xu Zhu stated: “Nonetheless… Nonetheless… Eyes being as valuable as they’re, who would need to donate theirs to you?” A-Zi laughed and stated: “I used to be questioning what tough matter you meant. Getting eyes from a residing particular person? Is not that straightforward? Simply dig out that woman’s eyes!”

Zhong Ling loudly exclaimed: “No approach! You’ll be able to’t take my eyes!” Xu Zhu replied: “Sure! Placing your self in her footwear, you did not want to turn out to be blind. Naturally, neither does Miss Zhong. Though Siddharta was a Buddha in his earlier life and was prepared to offer his flesh and blood to others, how can Miss Zhong evaluate to Tathagata Buddha? Moreover, Miss Zhong is an effective good friend of my third brother.” He was instantly startled and exclaimed: “Ai ya! Not good! That point in Lingjiu Palace, I used to be having a heart-to-heart discuss with Third Brother after drinks. It turned out that his beloved one was my “Dream Maiden”. It appears now that Third Brother could be very near this Miss Zhong now. From what he stated earlier to A-Zi, he would moderately have his personal eyes dug out than to let Miss Zhong be harm though the eyes are an important of the bodily organs. May or not it’s that this Miss Zhong is definitely the “Dream Maiden” whom I spent three nights with?

After pondering up up to now, he involuntarily shivered and turned his head to sneakily look at Zhong Ling. Though she was coated in soot and grass, it didn’t conceal her underlying magnificence. The time Xu Zhu had spent together with his “Dream Maiden” was not that insignificant, nevertheless because it had been within the darkened ice room, he had no thought what she appeared like. If he may use his hand to really feel her face, he may get some trace; if he may hug her waist, he may very well be much more sure. Nonetheless in broad daylight, how would he be capable of really feel her face? To not point out hugging and cuddling.

Whereas having these ideas, he blushed furiously. Though Zhong Ling’s voice was totally different from his “Dream Maiden”, to acknowledge a voice inside the ice room and within the open could be very totally different. It was not stunning that they’d not be alike. Xu Zhu gazed at Zhong Ling, feeling as if he may stretch out a hand from his coronary heart and gently caress her face in order to search out out if she actually have been his “Dream Maiden”. His face glowed with tender heat in the direction of her as he had these overflowing emotions.

Upon seeing that Xu Zhu had an amiable expression and didn’t appear prone to be about to gouge out her eyes, Zhong Ling was barely relieved.

A-Zi stated: “Mr. Xu Zhu, I am your third brother’s sister by blood. This Miss Zhong is just his good friend. There is a large distinction between a sister and a good friend.”

After Duan Yu had taken the Lingjiu Palace ‘9-Altering Bear Snake Capsule’, his bleeding quickly stopped and he regained his senses. Though he had not totally understood the alternate relating to eye-switching, A-Zi’s previous couple of phrases made all the pieces clear to him. He couldn’t assist however sighed and stated: “Because you had lengthy recognized that I’m your brother, how may you ask others to hurt me?”

A-Zi laughed and stated: “I’ve by no means spoken to you earlier than. How would I acknowledge your voice? It was solely once I heard Father and Mom talking yesterday that I knew about my brother-in-law and Mr. Xu Zhu changing into sworn brothers and that the one who thrashed Younger Grasp Murong was truly my buddy. That is fantastic. Each my brother-in-law and my very own brother are nice heroes, how admirable!” Duan Yu shook his head and stated: “What nice hero? A laughable shame.” A-Zi laughed and stated: “Ai ya, do not be courteous. Little elder brother, whenever you hid within the wooden storage room, how would I’ve recognized it was you? I can not see. It was solely once I heard you handle my brother-in-law as “Elder Brother” did I do know it was you.”

Duan Yu felt that she had a degree there and stated: “Second brother ought to know the tactic of treating your eyes and he ought to be capable of concoct a remedy plan for you. Miss Zhong Ling’s eyes should not be touched in any respect prices. She… She can also be my sister by blood.”

A-Zi cackled: “Earlier on that mountain, I heard you desperately attempting to ingratiate your self with Miss Wang. How did you begin eyeing this Miss Zhong within the blink of a watch? You even managed to name her your sister by blood. Little elder brother, are you not within the least shy?” Duan Yu turned scarlet at her phrases and stated: “Nonsense!” A-Zi replied: “If this Miss Zhong turns into my sister-in-law, I might naturally not contact her eyes. Nonetheless, if she will not be my in-law, why cannot I take advantage of her? Little elder brother, is she or is she not my sister in regulation?”

Xu Zhu gave a sideways take a look at Duan Yu, his coronary heart pounding wildly. He didn’t know if Zhong Ling was his “Dream Maiden”. If she weren’t, it will not matter, nevertheless if she have been and Duan Yu married her, he wouldn’t know what to do. He had a depressed expression as he waited for Duan Yu’s reply, the second seeming to pull on for a protracted whereas.

Zhong Ling was additionally ready for Duan Yu’s response and questioned: “So this woman is your youthful sister and even she says that you simply maintain attempting to get in Miss Wang’s good books. It will probably’t be unfaithful then that your coronary heart is with Miss Wang. Why did you say earlier then that I’m Yue the Third’s martial mom? Why did you even agree to make use of your eyes in alternate for mine? Why did you name me your personal sister in entrance of everybody?”

She heard Duan Yu say once more: “It doesn’t matter what, you aren’t allowed to hurt Miss Zhong. You might be younger and at all times doing unhealthy deeds. Our Dali elder brother Zhu Wanli was angered to loss of life by you. For those who begin your wickedness once more, my second brother will refuse to deal with your eyes.”

A-Zi pursed her lips and stated: “Heng! Placing on airs now! Talking to me for the primary time, you are not being affectionate however trying to lecture me!”

Xiao Feng noticed that Duan Yu was talking coherently though his power stage was low and his power appeared to be enhancing. He knew that the Lingjiu Palace “9-Altering Bear Snake Capsule” was miraculous and Duan Yu’s life was now not in danger. He then stated: “Third Brother, allow us to go to the room to relaxation and talk about. Duan Yu replied: “Good timing!” He straightened up and stood. Zhong Ling referred to as out: “Ai ya! You’ll be able to’t transfer carelessly. Do not trigger your wound to open up once more!” Her voice was crammed with tenderness. Xiao Feng delightedly stated: “Second brother, your superb medication is really a miracle second to none.”

Xu Zhu made a number of “En” sounds however his coronary heart was nonetheless flustered over Zhong Ling’s few emotion-filled strains and crammed with nice remorse.

The group entered the room. Duan Yu lay on the bed-stove whereas Xiao Feng sat in entrance of it. Evening had fallen and the Lingjiu Palace 4 Swords lit oil lamps, whereas making ready tea and meals to serve to Xiao Feng, Duan Yu, Xu Zhu and Zhong Ling. Nonetheless, they pointedly ignored You Tanzhi and A-Zi. A-Zi was irritated and in step with her character needed to secretly hurt the Lingjiu Palace 4 Swords, however when she considered her blindness and that she must depend on Xu Zhu for remedy, she had no selection however to swallow her rage.

Xiao Feng didn’t discover or care about A-Zi throwing a tantrum and opened a drawer of the stove-bed. Duan Yu and Xu Zhu noticed that the within was crammed with toys for younger kids. There have been carved wood tigers, clay puppies, woven grass cages for bugs, bamboo containers to retailer crickets and likewise a number of rusty small knives. These toys have been widespread to farmer properties and nothing out of the odd. Xiao Feng nevertheless took the wood tigers and stared at them blankly.

A-Zi had no thought what he was doing and was stressed and bored. She swept a hand by way of her hair and shifted her elbow, knocking right into a cotton loom. She took out her sword and with a ‘Shua!’ sound sliced the machine into two.

Xiao Feng’s expression darkened and he cried out: “You… what are you doing?” A-Zi replied: “This stitching machine hit and injured me, how does it hassle you for me to destroy it?” Xiao Feng angrily yelled: “Get out! How dare you harm the issues on this home?”

A-Zi retorted: “Nice, I will go!” and he or she quickly ran out. She walked briskly in her anger and with a banging sound hit her brow on the highest of the door. She grunted and quickly saved going though she couldn’t see the best way out clearly. Xiao Feng’s coronary heart softened and he grabbed her proper arm to cease her, gently saying: “A-Zi, are you injured?” A-Zi turned and wilted in his embrace, sobbing.”

Xiao Feng gently patted her shoulder and stated in a low tone: “A-Zi, it is my fault. I shouldn’t have been so harsh on you.” A-Zi sobbed: “You have modified! In contrast to up to now whenever you have been so good to me.” Xiao Feng tenderly stated: “Sit down and relaxation for some time. Sip a cup of tea, all proper?” He took his personal teacup and positioned it at A-Zi’s mouth, his left hand supporting her waist.

Up to now when he had damaged A-Zi’s rib-cage, Xiao Feng attended to her together with his utmost for greater than a yr. Not simply with tea and meals, even aiding along with her dressing, hair combing and private bodily capabilities, Xiao Feng assisted her intimately, denying her nothing. When she had been unable to sit down upright then, Xiao Feng when feeding her soup and medicine had turn out to be accustomed to supporting her physique together with his left hand. He instinctively did so now when feeding her tea. A-Zi sipped a number of cups of tea in his arms and felt soothed. She broke amusing and stated: “Brother-in-law, are you continue to chasing me away?”

Xiao Feng let go of her and turned to put the teacup on the desk. Within the darkness, he instantly noticed two eyes shining fiercely like these of untamed beasts with a vicious bloodlust directed at himself. Xiao Feng was shocked barely and noticed You Tanzhi sitting on the nook of the room clenching his tooth tightly, nostrils flaring, as if he have been about to pounce in the direction of himself to chunk. Xiao Feng thought: “This particular person’s background is unknown and his behaviour is extraordinarily odd.” He heard A-Zi saying once more: “Brother-in-law, I solely broken a number of damaged stitching looms. Why did you must fly into such a rage?”

Xiao Feng gave a protracted sigh and stated: “This dwelling was my godparents’… The stitching loom you destroyed was my godmother’s.”

Everybody was shocked.

Xiao Feng grasped the small wood tiger in his palm, gazing into the gap. Within the yellow lamp-light, his giant shadow loomed on the clay wall. He gently rubbed the wood tiger’s again together with his index and center fingers, a young expression on his face and stated: “This was carved for me by my godfather once I was 5. Godfather… I used to name him Father then… carved it by the sunshine of this very lamp. Mom was stitching. I sat beside Father’s leg, watching the type of the tiger’s ear showing, then the nostril. I used to be delighted.”

Duan Yu requested: “Elder brother, was it you who introduced me to this place?” Xiao Feng nodded and replied: “Sure.” Whereas the anonymous aged monk had been reciting scripture to the group, Jiumozhi instantly struck and injured Duan Yu. The anonymous monk waved his sleeve and shoved Jiumozhi out, the place he quickly turned and fled down the mountain.

On seeing that Duan Yu had suffered a heavy harm, Xiao Feng had given Duan Yu particular treatment as he was anxious to assist him. Jiumozhi’s [Blazing Sabre Skill] was extraordinarily harmful. Had Duan Yu’s inner power not been extraordinarily dense and powerful, he would have died on the spot after his vitals had been struck.

Xiao Feng noticed that the mountain’s climate was harsh and it will be unhealthy for Duan Yu to endure the sturdy winds together with his extreme harm. He carried Duan Yu to his childhood dwelling, inserting Duan Yu on the bed-stove. Instantly turning, he was about to satisfy up together with his father in addition to the eighteen Khitan warriors, when he was shocked to search out that somebody had been residing within the empty dwelling these few days, and that it was an outdated acquaintance of Duan Yu’s.

He returned to Shaolin Temple to search out that the state of affairs had calmed down. Xiao Yuanshan and Murong Bo had determined to turn out to be Shaolin monks underneath the steerage of Anonymous Monk. Not solely had they resolved their enmity, that they had even turn out to be senior and junior disciples.

Xiao Yuanshan had not unfold the data of Shaolin’s martial arts to the nation of Liao. The heroes of the Central Plains have been relieved and reassured. Throughout Xiao Feng’s disappearance, the eighteen Khitan Warriors have been unable to trigger any hurt underneath the course of Lingjiu Palace. The assorted heroes noticed that the matter had been settled and dispersed from the mountain. Xiao Feng had no want to meet others and start the struggles anew. He hid in a cave beside the mountain till night time earlier than going to the doorway door requesting to satisfy his father.

The monk answerable for dealing with company for Shaolin Temple went in to report. Returning after a time, he stated: “Elder Xiao has turn out to be a monk on this temple. He needs me to tell you that he has buried his grievances and his coronary heart is now crammed with peace and pleasure. He intends to dedicate himself to scripture examine any further. When he was a Liao official, he solely hoped for peace between Liao and Track. If the Liao Emperor has the intention of invading, please dissuade him to guard the hundreds of thousands of lives within the two nations.”

Xiao Feng replied: “Sure!” His coronary heart was awash in sorrow and he questioned: “Father is getting outdated. If he doesn’t want to see me right this moment, I concern that I can’t get to see him once more.” He thought: “I’ve been charged by the Liao Emperor with the heavy activity of subduing the South. If Nice Track desires to invade Liao, I’m a common and must defend the North, nevertheless if the Emperor desires to kill the Track troopers, I must dissuade him.”

He heard footsteps while he was deep in thought. Seven or eight eminent monks together with Shenshan and Daoqing got here out of the temple together with Zheluoxing (Indian Monk) and different overseas monks. Monks Xuanji (Self-discipline Corridor head) and Xuansheng had their palms clasped within the Buddhist greeting. Boluoxing (Indian Monk Zheluoxing’s junior) stood behind Xuanji as they exchanged courtesies.

Zheluoxing stated: “Junior, I will likely be heading to the West. Once we half right this moment, we will likely be separated by hundreds of miles. Who is aware of after we will meet once more? You might be decided to not return dwelling to Tianzhu (outdated identify for India). Do you need to spend your remaining days within the Central Plains?” He spoke in Chinese language to his junior disciple to keep away from any misunderstanding or suspicion from the Shaolin monks.

Boluoxing laughed frivolously and stated: “Senior Brother, why do you retain asking me this? Tianzhu and the Central Plains are one and the identical. Bodhidharma got here to the East as effectively.” Zheluoxing was shaken and stated: “Junior’s phrases have enlightened me. You are not my junior, however my trainer.” Boluoxing laughed and stated: “When following the Dharma, understanding could come early or late. It’s advantageous whether or not late or early simply to realize understanding.” The 2 shared amusing.

Xiao Feng remained inconspicuous on the aspect and waited till Reverends Shenshan, Daoqing, Zheluoxing had gone down the mountain earlier than slowly following behind. He had solely gone a number of steps when one other particular person got here out from the temple. It was Xu Zhu. He noticed Xiao Feng and was elated, speeding over and saying: “Elder brother, I used to be trying throughout for you. I heard that Third Brother was closely injured. How is he?” Xiao Feng replied: “Nice, advantageous!” The 2 went off collectively. Earlier than that they had gone a brief distance, the 4 Sword sisters got here out from the forest to comply with Xu Zhu.

Xu Zhu stated that the Lingjiu Palace maidens in addition to the people of the Seventy Two Islands and Thirty Six Caves had already left the mountain with the Eighteen Khitan warriors and he believed that there wouldn’t be any reckless battle with the Central Plain warriors. Xiao Feng felt that this was praiseworthy and thought: “This sworn brother of mine is basically superb. It was my Second Brother who turned sworn siblings with him. Who knew that he could be such an ideal assist to me?”

Xu Zhu then talked about that Ding Chunqiu been positioned within the care of Shaolin Temple’s medical wing. The Shaolin monks would give him the Lingjiu Palace treatment twice yearly throughout the Dragon Boat and Double 9 Festivals to allievate the agony he felt from the Life and Dying Talisman. His life and loss of life was within the palms of others and he dared not do evil.

Xiao Feng gave a hearty snigger and stated: “Second Brother, you’ve gotten eradicated an ideal evil from the martial world. This Ding Chunqiu will likely be underneath Buddhist affect, however whether or not it’s going to draw him away from his evil methods stays to be seen.” Xu Zhu was slightly upset and stated: “I wanted to turn out to be a monk once more within the Shaolin Temple. Nonetheless, I used to be chased away by the senior masters. This Ding Chunqiu is extraordinarily depraved and has executed many evil deed and but he can stay in Shaolin Temple to meditate. Why is there such a double commonplace in our therapies?

Xiao Feng smiled and stated: “Second Brother, you envy Previous Freak Ding, however he envies you a thousand instances extra. You’re the grasp of Lingjiu Palace and main the thirty six cave masters in addition to the seventy two island masters, together with your nice fame shaking the heavens, what’s to not like?” Xu Zhu shook his head and stated: “Lingjiu Palace is all ladies. It is actually awkward being slightly monk and never realizing what to do with myself. Xiao Feng laughed gustily and stated: “You imply you are still slightly monk?”

Xu Zhu stated: “These sycophantic lackeys of the Xingxiu Sect have turned to pestering me. I don’t know the right way to take care of them.” Xiao Feng replied: “These folks have been doubtless not initially this fashion. Underneath the affect of the Xingxiu Elder Freak, it that they had not realized to be this fashion they’d doubtless not have been in a position to survive. Second Brother, simply deal with them extra strictly and in the event that they refuse to alter then throw them out.”

Xu Zhu considered his dad and mom acknowledging one another in a single day after which dying collectively. How tragic! He couldn’t assist however tear up.

Xiao Feng stated consolingly: “Second brother, unlucky happenings are widespread in every single place. After I was expelled by the Beggar Clan, the heroes of the world all handled me with a lot enmity and I used to be extraordinarily upset. However after a while, issues obtained higher.” Xu Zhu replied: “Proper, proper. Tathagatha Buddha as soon as preached Scripture on the Lingjiu Mountain of Rajgir. The phrase Lingjiu has its origins in Buddhism. Maybe sooner or later, I’ll flip Lingjiu Palace into Lingjiu Temple and ask the ladies each young and old to be nuns.”

Xiao Feng bellowed with laughter and stated: “A monk temple crammed with nuns, that can actually be an oddity!”

Each folks chatted and as they arrived at Qiao San Huai (乔三槐) home (the Home of Qiao?), they got here throughout You Tanzhi nearly to dig out Zhong Ling’s eyes and it was lucky that they stopped him within the nick of time.

Duan Yu requested: “Elder brother and second brother, have you ever seen my father?” Xiao Feng replied: “Not afterwards.” Xu Zhu stated: “The heroes have been preventing chaotically and I couldn’t pay my respects to Uncle, actually disrespectful.” Duan Yu replied: “Second brother, no should be well mannered. That Duan Yanqing is a superb enemy of my household and I’m afraid that he would trigger hassle for my father.” Xiao Feng replied: “This matter must be handled. Let me go and search Uncle (Duan Zhengchun) out.”

A-Zi reduce in: “You retain speaking about elder uncle and little uncle, why do not you handle him as ‘Father-in-law’?”

Xiao Feng sighed: “That is one thing I’ll hate myself for the remainder of my life for, what else is there to say?” He stood up and left the room.

At the moment, Plum Sword carried in a bowl of rooster broth and was coming into the room to serve it to Duan Yu when she heard their dialogue. She stated: “Hero Xiao, you need not trip off personally to look. Your lowly servant will unfold Grasp’s order and Lingjiu Palace will search in every single place. If Duan Yanqing is noticed to be doing evil, we are going to set off smoke alerts and we are able to go in and seize him. What do you suppose?” Xiao Feng joyfully stated: “Nice! These underneath Lingjiu Palace quantity within the hundreds. In the event that they cut up up the work, it will likely be much better than the few of us going out to look.”

Plum Sword went off to offer the directions for the search. Lingjiu Palace had a really environment friendly communications community. As soon as Xu Zhu returned to the Home of Qiao, the Xuantian Part ladies had already obtained data. Underneath Fu Minyi’s management, they rushed to the neighborhood and secretly elevated safety.

Duan Yu was reassured after which began to consider Wang Yuyan, pondering: “She hates me deeply. I concern that she’s going to ignore me sooner or later.” He couldn’t assist however sigh a number of instances over his sturdy craving. Zhong Ling was involved and requested: “Does your wound harm?” Duan Yu replied: “Not a lot.” A-Zi stated: “Miss Zhong, though you want my little elder brother, you don’t perceive his coronary heart. I see your confused ideas – the long run is unsure.” Zhong Ling replied: “I wasn’t speaking to you. Who requested you to interrupt?” A-Zi laughed: “It is irrelevant whether or not I interrupt or not. I solely concern that there’s a woman ten instances extra lovely than you might be, ten instances extra devoted and caring who could intervene. My brother would then haven’t any place for you in my coronary heart. Why he sighs, do not you understand? Sighing implies that his coronary heart is unfulfilled. You might be contented to be with my brother and don’t sigh. My brother’s frequent sighing – definitely it’s due to one other woman!” A-Zi couldn’t dig out Zhong Ling’s eyes, so she used her phrases to pierce her and needed her to be depressing. That gave herself cheer.

Zhong Ling upon listening to this was indignant and upset. Nonetheless, she felt that A-Zi had a degree and he or she turned gloomy. When she had been youthful, she had at all times been harmless and full of life. Though she had been keen on Duan Yu, it was not a really deep need, simply that she felt that her coronary heart had no phrases to explain the consolation and pleasure she felt being with him. Duan Yu’s coronary heart being with another person and never bothering an excessive amount of about her was moderately saddening. Though she was slightly upset, there was nothing a lot to be executed about it.

Duan Yu hurriedly stated: “Zhong… Zhong… Youthful sister Ling, do not take heed to A-Zi’s blind phrases.” Zhong Ling on listening to Duan Yu handle her as Youthful Sister Ling and now not Miss Zhong, felt that it was a extra intimate type of handle and was cheered, saying: “She loves to harm others along with her phrases – I do not care about it.”

A-Zi was livid. After she had turn out to be blind, she hated others mentioning the phrase “Blind”. Duan Yu had meant to say that she was talking rashly or with out logic, however he managed to make use of the phrase “Blind” twice. She stated: “Brother, do you truly like Miss Wang extra or Miss Zhong extra? Miss Wang has already organized with me to satisfy on the morrow. I’ll inform her the phrases you communicate with your personal mouth.”

Duan Yu upon listening to that sat up and hurriedly requested: “You organized to satisfy with Miss Wang? The place and when? What are you discussing?”

On seeing his determined expression, Zhong Ling knew that no matter what he stated, Miss Wang was much more vital to Duan Yu than herself. She was easygoing and easy in character. She had been upset earlier nevertheless it had dulled tremendously by now. She could be very upset if she have been in Wang Yuyan’s place however knew that her beloved’s coronary heart was not with herself. Mu Wanqing had gone straight for Duan Yu; A-Zi have to be planning some wickedness in the direction of Wang Yuyan. Regardless of all her ideas, Zhong Ling stated: “Do not stand up, watch out or your wound could open up and bleed once more.”

Xu Zhu was watching the three of them from the aspect and contemplated: “Miss Zhong is so dedicated to Third Brother. It is unlikely that she is my Dream Maiden. In any other case, how would she be so detached when she heard my voice?” Nonetheless, he thought slightly extra: “Aiyo, that is not proper? The women like Elder Tonglao, Li Qiushui in addition to Jade Granny, Stone Aunt and Aunt Fu are sophisticated and suppose very in another way from males. Maybe Miss Zhong is basically my Dream Maiden and he or she acknowledged me from the beginning, nevertheless she intentionally didn’t present any recognition to maintain me at the hours of darkness?”

Duan Yu saved questioning A-Zi as to when she was assembly Wang Yuyan the following day. A-Zi noticed his anxiousness and questioned the right way to mess with him. Considering that she may receive some advantages, her solutions have been all perfunctory.

Orchid Sword returned to report and stated that the Xuan Tian Part had already despatched out phrase and requested Duan Yu to be relaxed. Duan Yu stated: “Many thanks Sisters in your effort, I’m extraordinarily grateful.” Orchid Sword noticed that he carried himself like a Dali Prince however with none hint of haughtiness. She thought effectively of him and on listening to him ask A-Zi once more in regards to the subsequent day, she couldn’t stand however reduce in: “Grasp Duan, your sister is just taking part in a joke on you however you’re taking it so severely!” Duan Yu stated: “How have you learnt that she is taking part in a joke on me?” Orchid Sword laughed and stated: “If I defined, Miss Duan (referring to A-Zi) would blame me for it, and I have no idea if Grasp permits it.”

Duan Yu hurriedly stated to Xu Zhu: “Second brother, please ask her to talk!”

Xu Zhu nodded and stated to Orchid Sword: “Third brother and I are shut. You needn’t disguise something.” Orchid Sword stated: “Earlier on, we noticed Grasp Murong’s group taking place Mount Shao and heard them discussing whether or not to go to Western Xia. Miss Wang adopted her cousin within the group. They have to be tens of Li away by now. How may she presumably meet Miss Duan tomorrow?”

A-Zi shrieked: “Stinking wretch! You recognize that I might blame you and also you persevered in talking. You 4 sisters are a bunch of blabbermouths. Your grasp’s household is talking and you haven’t any respect to chop in like that.”

There was a sudden voice from outdoors the window. “Miss Duan, why do you scold my sister? Lingjiu Palace’s Divine Farmer (Shen Nong referring to Medical) Division’s key’s saved on my own, do not you understand? Grasp desires to search out the tactic to heal your eyes and the one approach is to go to the Shen Nong Division to search out the related books.” The one who spoke was Bamboo Sword.

A-Zi was shocked and thought: “I am afraid that what this wretch says is true. Earlier than this idiotic Xu Zhu monk heals my eyes, I can not offend the servant ladies by his aspect. Ought to they do something resembling altering the medicines, my eye remedy will go incorrect. Hng! As soon as my eyes are healed, I will allow you to study what I can do.” She remained silent.

Duan Yu requested Orchid Sword: “Many thanks Sister in your data. They went to Western Xia? No matter for?” Orchid Sword stated: “I did not hear them say the explanation.” Xu Zhu stated: “Third Brother, I do know of this matter. I heard Mr. Gongye (Gongye Gan) inform the Beggar Clan elder that alongside the best way, that they had met a Beggar Clan member returning to the Central Plains from Western Xia, carrying a written proclamation by the King of Western Xia saying that the Princess is of marriageable age and could be in search of a suitor throughout the Mid-Autumn competition within the eighth month. Western Xia could be inviting all the most effective heroes on the earth to carry out their expertise. Ought to they cross the King’s choice, they’d turn out to be the Prince Consort.”

Plum Sword couldn’t assist however communicate up: “Grasp, why do you not go to Western Xia and provides it a attempt? So long as Hero Xiao and Grasp Duan don’t compete with you, changing into the Western Xia Prince Consort could be a chunk of cake for you.”

The Plum, Orchid, Bamboo and Chrysanthemum Sword sisters have been lovely and shiny. Tonglao (Baby Elder) had handled them very effectively, like her personal kids. Though they have been grasp and servant in identify, they have been truly extra like grandparent and grandchildren. It was solely that Tonglao was strict and dominated with an iron fist. The 4 sisters didn’t dare to be too audacious. Xu Zhu nevertheless was easygoing in his interactions with them. He didn’t have the strict manner of a Grasp and handled them with politeness and respect. Therefore, the 4 sisters did and spoke as they happy with none reservation.

Xu Zhu shook his head and stated: “I will not go! I’m a monk…” he as soon as once more spoke the phrases of ‘being a monk’ however swallowed the final phrase. The 4 sisters laughed out loud collectively on the identical time. Xu Zhu blushed and turned to secretly look at Zhong Ling. He solely noticed her devotedly gazing at Duan Yu with no heed for his phrases. His coronary heart instantly wavered: “Going to Western Xia, I… I and my Dream Maiden met in Western Xia’s Lingzhou Palace’s ice storage space. My dream maiden could maybe be in Lingzhou. Third Brother most likely wouldn’t be prepared to say the place she lives. Possibly I ought to go and try Western Xia?”

As he thought this, Duan Yu stated: “Second Brother, your Lingjiu Palace and Western Xia are in shut proximity. As you are about to return, why not go and go to Western Xia? This sister whose sword I have no idea… apologies, you 4 look equivalent. I can not inform the distinction. This sister desires you to turn out to be the Prince Consort. Though it was a joke, however on desirous about the Midautumn Competition, everybody heading to Lingzhou would positively imply that it will be very full of life and rowdy there. Elder brother, you needn’t hurry again to Nanjing. Let’s go collectively to Western Xia after which go to Lingjiu Palace to style Tianshan Tonglao’s (Baby Elder of Mount Tian) greatest aged wines. It might actually be a pleasure to be be ingesting myself useless drunk with Second brother in Lingjiu Palace.

[Translator note: Duan Yu’s exhibiting some really sneaky cunning in manipulating them to head to Western Xia where Wang Yuyan is.]

When Xiao Feng had arrived at Mount Shao, the eighteen Khitan warriors had carried large skins of wine with them. Nonetheless, the group was not with him and he had not drunk wine for a very long time. On listening to Duan Yu point out about tasting Lingjiu Palace’s greatest brews, he couldn’t assist however smile in anticipation.

A-Zi hurriedly stated: “Go, go, go! Brother-in-law, let’s all go collectively.” She knew that she must go along with Xu Zhu to Lingjiu Palace to deal with her eyes. Nonetheless, with out Xiao Feng’s help, Xu Zhu could not essentially be prepared to deal with her and will his 4 Sword sister underlings give her hassle, she could be on their lonesome. She heard Xiao Feng pause with out replying and thought: “Brother-in-law’s look is roughshod however he’s a fragile soul [姊夫相貌粗豪,心中却着实精细]. It could be simpler for me to ask him on to get him to agree.” She stood up and tugged a number of instances gently at Xiao Feng’s sleeve, pleading: “Brother-in-law, if you don’t convey me to Lingjiu Palace, I…I’ll by no means see the sunshine of day once more.”

Xiao Feng thought: “To return her sight would really be an ideal matter.” He then thought: “Whereas I commanded nice respect within the Nice Liao, I had no shut associates whom I may discuss to. I’ve offended all of the heroes of the Central Plains. If I may simply go along with these two easygoing and magnanimous brothers of mine, even for a number of days it will be a pleasure. Since I’ve positioned A-Zi, even when I return to Nanjing now with out something to do, it will be extraordinarily boring.” He then stated: “Nice, Second brother, Third brother, let’s make a go to to Western Xia, and in a while to Second Brother’s Lingjiu Palace to drink ourselves foolish for days, in addition to request that Second Brother deal with Miss Duan’s eyes.”

The group headed off on the street the following day. Xu Zhu returned to Shaolin Mountain’s entrance to pay his respects. The primary bow was to thank the Buddha for his blessings, the second was to thank the masters in Shaolin temple for caring for him for the previous twenty years and the third bow was to bid farewell to the souls of his father Xuan Ci and his mom Ye Erniang.

Arriving on the base of the mountain, the Lingjiu Palace servant ladies harnessed up the donkey cart to permit Duan Yu and You Tanzhi a relaxation within the carriage. You Tanzhi was extraordinarily dissatisfied however he most well-liked to endure it silently moderately than to half with A-Zi. So long as A-Zi sometimes pulled apart the doorway curtains to say a number of phrases to him, he could be glad for half the day. Nonetheless, it was simply that A-Zi would trip on the horse, carefully sticking to Xiao Feng on a regular basis. You Tanzhi was upset about this however dared not communicate a phrase to her about it.

Strolling for 2 days, the Lingjiu Palace divisions slowly gathered. The Luan Tian division head delivered their report back to Xu Zhu and Duan Yu that that they had already returned to the Zhennan (South-Suppressing) King to tell him about Duan Yu’s restoration going effectively. The Zhennan King (Duan Zhengchun) was relieved and requested the Luan Tian Division to inform Duan Yu that he ought to return to Dali quickly. The Luan Tian division ladies additionally reported: “Zhennan King’s social gathering has been heading to the north-east. Duan Yanqing and the Crocodile Deity of the South Sea along with Yun Zhonghe have been heading to the west. Each events won’t meet. Duan Yu was delighted and gave because of the Luan Tian division ladies.

Zhong Ling requested Duan Yu: “If the king desires you to return to Dali quickly, why is he going to the north-east as an alternative?” Duan Yu smiled and didn’t reply. A-Zi laughed: “Dad will need to have been pulled by my mom and forbidden to return to Dali. Miss Zhong, if you wish to seize my brother’s coronary heart, you should study from my mom.”

These couple of days, Duan Yu had been pondering if he ought to clarify that Zhong Ling was his sister, nevertheless he felt that talking of this matter could be extraordinarily awkward and would possibly harm Zhong Ling’s emotions in addition to mirror badly on his father’s identify. He determined to not communicate of this in the interim.

Zhong Ling knew that Duan Yu needed to go to Western Xia wholly as a result of he wished to satisfy up with that Miss Wang. Seeing Duan Yu each day, her coronary heart was at peace and he or she didn’t trouble to suppose how issues would possibly change after that. A-Zi’s chilly spiteful phrases mattered little to her.

Midday time was scorching throughout the scorching summer season. Fortunately, it was a protracted approach to the Mid-Autumn Competition. Most individuals made haste to journey within the early morning and the evenings, solely protecting 60 – 70 Li a day earlier than taking a relaxation. As the times steadily handed, Duan Yu’s harm healed rapidly. Xu Zhu mended the bone of You Tanzhi’s damaged leg and splinted it with planks of wooden. It appeared like he had some hope of restoration. You Tanzhi spoke to nobody. As Xu Zhu was treating his leg, he wore a bitter expression and stated not a single phrase of thanks.

The group arrived at Xianyang Highway. Duan Yu spoke in regards to the historic areas of the Liu and Xiang conflicts on the space to Xiao Feng and the group. Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu each had little training and have been delighted by Duan Yu’s data.

All of the sudden, horse hoof steps rang out. There have been two horses speeding over from the again. Xiao Feng and social gathering pulled their horses to the aspect to permit the rear company to go forward first. Nonetheless, A-Zi blocked the street by herself. When the 2 horses had arrived virtually beside her, she raised the horse-whip and went for the horse’s head. The rider behind raised his personal horse-whip to deflect A-Zi’s and stated: “Grasp Duan! Nice Hero Xiao Feng!”

Duan Yu turned to look and noticed that the person in entrance was Ba Tianshi (Dali King’s Royal Bodyguard) and the one behind was Zhu Danchen (Duan Zhengchun’s Royal Bodyguard). Ba Tianshi hit A-Zi’s horse whip away and jumped down from the horse with Zhu Danchen to kowtow to Duan Yu. Duan Yu hurriedly returned the greeting and requested: “Is my father secure?”

He heard a “Sou!” sound. A-Zi had waved her horse-whip once more to strike down at Ba Tianshi’s head.

Ba Tianshi had but to stand up and was nonetheless kneeling on the bottom. As A-Zi’s whip was placing, Ba Tianshi shifted to the aspect and caught the whip. A-Zi tried to drag it again with drive however couldn’t budge it. She knew that her inner power was not a match for her opponent. She waved her palm and thrust the deal with of the whip straight for Ba Tianshi. Ba Tianshi was nonetheless angered at how she had angered Zhu Wanli to loss of life and initially needed to show her a lesson. He had not anticipated that even along with her being blind, her actions have been nonetheless swift and the deal with flew over at a excessive pace. He heard the push of wind and hurriedly turned his head to keep away from it. Though his head and face have been untouched, with a “Pa!” sound, his shoulder had been hit.

Duan Yu yelled: “Sister Zi, you dare trigger hassle once more!” A-Zi replied: “Me? He needed my whip. I simply gave it to him, that is all.” Ba Tianshi laughed and stated: “Many thanks Miss for the whip.” He stood up and took out a letter from his chest pocket, presenting it to Duan Yu with each palms.

Duan Yu obtained it and took a glance. He observed that the letter was addressed to “Son Yu” with the three phrases written in his father’s handwriting. He hurriedly straightened his apparel and respectfully opened the letter. It appeared that his father was be instructing him to go to Western Xia to hunt the princess’ hand in marriage. The letter stated: “My Dali Kingdom within the South is a small nation with a weak army and can’t repel exterior threats effectively. If we are able to turn out to be kinfolk with Western Xia, we might be stronger and higher in a position to defend our folks. This matter is of nice nationwide significance and you could do your greatest.”

Duan Yu completed studying the letter and his face flushed between scarlet and white. He stated: “This… this…”

Ba Tianshi took out a big envelope. It was stamped with the massive official official seal of the “Dali Nation King’s Youthful Brother, Zhennan Normal”. He stated: “That is his Majesty’s personally written missive to the Western Xia emperor requesting the wedding. Younger grasp ought to kindly give this to the Western Xia emperor after arriving at Lingjiu Palace.

A-Zi laughed and stated: “This can be a father that really is aware of his son effectively. Father heard that Murong Fu went to Western Xia and guessed that Miss Wang would additionally comply with. His personal son would naturally comply with. Hng, the apple does not fall too removed from the tree. Does he suppose that the emotional woes of his son are extra vital than the nation’s issues? Why does he not return a lot after leaving for therefore lengthy?”

Ba Tianshi, Zhu Danchen, Duan Yu on heard A-Zi voicing out such disrespectful phrases directed in the direction of their father determine and their expressions darkened. Though what she stated had some reality to it, being his daughter, how may she communicate ailing of her father like that?

A-Zi continued: “Brother, what did father write in his letter? Did he point out me?” Duan Yu replied: “Father doesn’t know that you’re presently with me.” A-Zi replied: “En, sure, he doesn’t know. Did Father not ask you to look? Did he ask you to plan the right way to handle this blind youthful sister of yours?”

Duan Zhengchun’s letter talked about nothing of the kind. Duan Yu felt that he would harm his sister’s emotions if he spoke the reality and he gave Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen a look, attempting to trace to them that they need to admit that her father did get them organized to seek for A-Zi. Who would have anticipated that the 2 of them didn’t perceive his intention and didn’t play alongside. Zhu Danchen stated: “The Zhennan King ordered the 2 of us to search out Younger Grasp to instruct him to hunt Western Xia’s princess’ hand in marriage. If we returned to Dali as an alternative, even when his Majesty didn’t blame us, we might not have the face to see anybody. The which means conveyed was that Duan Zhengchun ordered them to search out Duan Yu to turn out to be the Western Xia’s Prince Consort in any respect prices.

Duan Yu laughed bitterly and stated: “I initially couldn’t do martial arts and moreover was badly injured and unable to entry my inner power. How may I compete with the good heroes of the world?”

Ba Tianshi turned to take a look at Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu. Bowing deeply, he stated: “Zhennan King ordered his lowly servant to greet Hero Xiao and Mister Xu Zhu, and to request that within the identify of your brotherhood to help our younger grasp.” Zhennan King additionally instructed to current items to the 2 of you whom he knew within the chaos at Mount Shao. Saying this, he took out a carved jade Lion and offered it to Xiao Feng with each palms. Zhu Danchen took out an ivory fan with Duan Zhengchun’s calligraphy to current to Xu Zhu.

Each receipients obtained their items with thanks and stated: “This matter of Third Brother’s we are going to naturally help with all our capacity – why ought to we hassle Uncle Duan? We dare not covet these valuable items.”

A-Zi stated: “Do you suppose Father is displaying goodwill? He is asking the 2 of you to not compete with my brother in changing into the Prince Consort. My father is afraid that his valuable son can not defeat the each of you. By agreeing this fashion, you’ve gotten fallen for my father’s lure!”

Xiao Feng gave a small sigh and stated: “Since when have I had the considered marrying one other ever since your sister died?” A-Zi replied: “It is pure so that you can say this however who is aware of how your coronary heart feels? Mr. Xu Zhu, you might be loyal and sincere not like my philandering and lecherous brother leaving damaged hearts in every single place. You’ve gotten by no means shaped any relationships with any ladies. Would it not not be good to marry the princess of Western Xia?” Xu Zhu turned scarlet and waved his hand hurriedly saying: “No, No! I… I’m missing and can naturally do my greatest to help Third Brother on this matter.”

Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen glanced at one another after which paid their respects to Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu, saying: “Many because of each of you in your assist.” Phrases stated within the martial world are exhausting to take again. Ba and Zhu hurriedly left not as a result of they have been afraid of the 2 reneging on their phrases however as a result of they needed to place extra stress on Duan Yu to simply accept.

The group headed to the west, slowly getting nearer to Lingzhou and assembly extra Wulin warriors alongside the best way.

Though Western Xia was smaller than Nice Liao and Nice Track, it was an ideal nation within the Western frontier in its personal proper. The king of the time was addressed as Emperor Li Qianshun. He was often known as Zhong Shengwen? and the nation loved peace and prosperity underneath his reign.

The Wulin one who married the Western Xia princess would take pleasure in nice riches and advantages; was there a greater deal in the entire world? The one situation was that many of the well-known Wulin names have been already married with kids whereas the brand new upstarts weren’t as expert. There have been numerous senior heroes who introduced their sons and disciples alongside to attempt their luck. There have been additionally a variety of bandits and members of assorted clans who got here alone with excessive hopes. Many thought: “Maybe if I’ve good affinity with the Western Xia princess, she could fall for me when she sees me and I might have an opportunity to be the Prince Consort even when my martial expertise aren’t the most effective.”

Alongside the best way, the youths they noticed have been clad in contemporary, shiny clothes. Even their instruments and weapons have been in tip-top situation, as in the event that they have been off to some nice competitors. A standard saying going round was that the poor studied literature whereas the wealthy studied martial arts. These learning martial arts have been largely pretty well-to-do and steadily used cash to offset their misconduct. The younger martial artists heading to Western Xia have been bedecked of their greatest finery within the hopes of acquiring the princess’ favor. When these related varieties of folks met, they steadily jibed at one another and tried to acquire details about what the princess appeared like in addition to tried to evaluate if the opposite social gathering was a robust contender or not. If issues did not work out, they’d deal with the opposite social gathering as an enemy.

This present day, Xiao Feng was occurring his approach when he instantly heard the pounding of horse hooves and noticed a horse headed their approach. The rider’s arm was in a white fabric sling and his garments have been tattered. He seemed to be in dire straits. Xiao Feng thought that this particular person definitely didn’t fall however was doubtless attacked by others which was moderately alarming. He didn’t count on that earlier than lengthy, one other three horses came visiting with all of the riders additionally badly injured, both with damaged arms of legs. The three new riders had distraught and regretful expressions on their faces, passing by with heads bowed, not daring to look Xiao Feng within the eye. Plum Sword requested: “Is there a battle occurring in entrance? Why are so many individuals injured?”

As she spoke, one other two folks got here alongside. These two weren’t on horseback and their faces have been coated with blood. One in every of them had a inexperienced fabric tied on his head and blood was frequently oozing out from it. Bamboo Sword requested: “Wei, would you like treatment? How did you get injured?” That particular person glared ferociously at her and spat at her earlier than slinking off. Chrysanthemum sword was extraordinarily indignant and whipped out her longsword, eager to hack at him. Xu Zhu shook his head and stated: “Overlook it! This particular person has been severely injured. You needn’t thoughts him.” Orchid Sword stated: “Sister Bamboo supplied him treatment out of goodwill however he dared to be so insolent. It might be higher to let him die of ache.”

At this second, one other 4 horses blazed in the direction of them, two on both aspect. They may hear the riders on the horses having an ideal quarrel. Somebody stated: “It is all of your fault for being a lascivous toad lusting over swan meat. With out even contemplating your personal skills, you dare consider heading to Lingzhou to be the Prince Consort!” One other particular person scolded: “For those who had the talent, why do not you go for it your self? You misplaced and determined to take it out on me.” The particular person on the opposite aspect stated: “For those who had not carried out a sneak assault, how would I’ve misplaced?”

These 4 folks have been speeding previous and talking quick. It was unclear as to what they have been quarreling about. Within the blink of a watch, they have been in entrance of the group. The 4 of them noticed Xiao Feng’s sizeable social gathering and didn’t dare to trigger hassle. Therefore, they pulled the horses to the perimeters and rushed on. Nonetheless, they continued to squabble amongst themselves. From their dressing, it appeared just like the 4 supposed to go to Lingzhou to be the Prince Consort, nevertheless for some cause the circumstances had modified they usually needed to return dwelling.

Duan Yu stated: “Eldest brother, I believe…” Because the phrases left his mouth, one other two folks got here alongside on foot, additionally coated with wounds from head to toe, one bleeding severely and one limping. Zhong Ling couldn’t management her curiosity and drew her horse ahead, asking: “Wei, are the folks forward on the cross very sturdy?” A center aged martial artist replied: “Hng! You are a woman so they won’t cease you from passing. It might be higher for males to obediently flip again right here.” As he stated this, Xiao Feng and Xu Zhu felt that it was very unusual and determined to go forward to have a look, urging their horses ahead.

Because the group progressed seven to eight Li forward, they noticed the curving mountain path heading upwards. After turning a number of bends, they noticed a dense group of individuals gathered. Xiao Feng pressed on and noticed two towering males within the centre of the mountain cross, each taller than six toes. On held a big metallic membership in a single hand and one held a pair of copper hammers in each palms. They eyed the group ferociously.

Gathered in entrance of each males have been at the least seventeen or eighteen males, all saying various things. Some stated politely: “Excuse me, we’re headed to Lingzhou, please allow us to cross.” Some stated: “Are the 2 of you amassing street taxes? Would you like one silver tael or two every? For those who state your worth, we are able to work one thing out.” Some stated” “For those who each do not transfer and irritate me, I’ll chop you each to meat paste so advantageous that it will likely be exhausting to piece you each again collectively. You’d higher get out of the best way to keep away from a tragedy.” Some stated: “Each of you might be imposing and grand, why do you not head to Lingzhou to turn out to be the Prince Consort? Would it not not be a waste if the gorgeous princess chosen another person? Regardless of the continuing chatter, the 2 males ignored all of them.

All of the sudden, somebody within the crowd yelled: “Transfer it!” He waved his sword with a chilly gleam and charged in the direction of the person on the left. The towering man was giant and his weapon was heavy, nevertheless his motion was unexpectedly swift. He struck out together with his twin hammers and trapped the sword. These two hammers weighed at the least forty jin every. With a loud ‘Dang!” sound, they shattered the longsword into greater than ten segments. The hammer-user gave a kick on the man’s decrease stomach. With a big shout, the person flew seven to eight zhang away and fell with out additional motion.

The following second, one other man brandishing twin knives charged forwards, the dual blades whirling in a flash of white gentle to defend his complete physique. When he reached the 2 towering defenders, he gave a loud yell and switched to the Di Tang knife method, rolling on the bottom with twin knives stabbing in the direction of their legs. The club-user barely spared a look as to the course that the knives have been coming from. He raised his metallic membership and struck violently on the blur of white gentle. With an “Ah!” sound, the second man’s twin knives have been damaged and the hilt of the knife was buried in his chest. He rolled down the hill.

The 2 defenders had injured two folks in a row and the remaining folks dared not strategy once more. A sudden beating of hoof sounds was heard and a donkey approached from across the mountain bend. On the donkey’s again was a younger scholar who appeared no older than eighteen or nineteen. He was wearing a scholar’s robe and wore an clever, cultured expression. His options have been delicate and delightful. As he rode his donkey previous Xiao Feng and the others, the group felt that he was a world other than the opposite Jianghu wanderers and couldn’t assist however look a number of extra instances at him in curiosity. Duan Yu instantly exclaimed: “Ah!” and stated: “You… You… You…” The scholar by no means glanced at him however proceeded to the entrance of the group.

Zhong Ling requested in puzzlement: “Are you aware him?” Duan Yu blushed and stated: “No… I made a mistake. He’s a person, how would I’ve acknowledged him?” A-Zi instantly burst out laughing and stated: “Brother, so it seems that you simply solely acknowledge girls and never males.” She paused and requested: “Is the one who simply went previous actually a person? Clearly, it is a girl.” Duan Yu replied: “You say that he is truly a lady?” A-Zi replied: “Definitely, her physique has a robust perfume. It is clearly a female scent.” Duan Yu heard the phrase ‘perfume’ and his coronary heart began pounding. “Maybe… Maybe it is actually her?”

The scholar rode his donkey into the midst of the 2 tall males and demanded: “Transfer it!” As these phrases rang out clearly, it was certainly the voice of a lady.

Duan Yu’s suspicions have been confirmed and referred to as out: “Miss Mu! Wan Qing! Sister! You…you…you… I… I… I…”. As he referred to as out, he rode forward. Xu Zhu referred to as: “Third Brother, watch out of your wound!” He whipped his horse into motion and rushed ahead together with Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen.

The younger scholar on the donkey’s again stared on the two towering man and by no means as soon as turned again Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen upon analyzing her profile famous her female options and recognized her to certainly be Mu Wanqing. The 2 males cursed themselves and silently thought: “How regretful, we have now eyes to see however are not any match for a blind particular person.” They didn’t know that A-Zi’s listening to had sharpened past a traditional particular person’s and that she had recognized Mu Wanqing being a woman from her lingering perfume. The group noticed the younger scholar of their midst however had issue differentiating the scholar’s gender.

Duan Yu hurried to Mu Wanqing’s aspect and positioned his hand on her shoulder, gently saying: “Mei-zi (sister), the place have you ever been all this time? I pined tremendously for you!” Mu Wanqing dodged away from his hand and turned, asking coldly: “You considered me? Why did you consider me? Did you actually consider me?” Duan Yu was dumbfounded. He didn’t know the right way to reply these three strains of hers.

The defender with the membership laughed heartily and stated: “Nice, as you’re a woman, I’ll allow you to cross.” The hammer-user stated: “Ladies can cross however stinking males can not. Wei, get again, get again!” As he spoke, he pointed at Duan Yu and referred to as out: “You little gigolo (小白脸), it makes me indignant simply to see your face. For those who take a single step forwards, I’ll definitely pound you into pulp.” Duan Yu retorted: “You have to be mistaken. This can be a street for all. Why cannot I cross? Kindly clarify.”

The defender replied: “The Tibetan King Zong Zheng has decreed: This cross will likely be sealed for ten days and solely reopened after the mid-autumn competition. Earlier than then, girls could cross however males can not. Monks could cross however lay-people could not. Aged could cross however youth could not. The useless could cross however the residing could not! That is referred to as: 4 can cross however 4 can not!” Duan Yu replied: “What sort of logic is that?” The defender shouted: “Purpose? Purpose? My copper hammer and his metallic membership are cause sufficient! King Zong Zheng’s phrases are cause sufficient. You’re a man. If you’re not a monk or an aged, the one approach you possibly can cross is useless.”

Mu Wanqing angrily retorted: “Pei! Who cares about your stinking guidelines!” With a wave of her proper hand, two ‘chi’ sounds have been heard and two small arrow factors shot in the direction of the 2 defenders. Nonetheless, two beating sounds have been heard and the arrow factors fell to the grass. The factors had clearly shot into their chests and but the duo have been unharmed. The defender with the membership angrily bellowed: “Insolent woman, why did you employ hid weapons?” Mu Wanqing obtained an ideal shock and thought: “These two have to be carrying armor that they didn’t die from my poisoned arrows.” The club-wielder struck a palm in the direction of Mu Wanqing. He was extraordinarily tall such that though Mu Wanqing was on the donkey’s again, he may strike instantly in the direction of her chest together with his peak.

Duan Yu referred to as out: “Don’t be disrespectful!” and his left hand stretched out to dam the strike. The defending warrior flipped his palm and grabbed Duan Yu’s arm in a vice grip. The hammer-user shouted: “Fantastic! Brother goes to tear this younger dandy into two items!” He grabbed each hammers and used his proper hand to drag exhausting on Duan Yu’s wrist.

Mu Wanqing urgently shouted: “Do not harm my brother (哥哥)!” She shot out a number of darts however the impact was like throwing stones into the ocean. Though they impacted the our bodies of the 2 warriors, they hardly dealt any harm. She needed to shoot on the eyes of the duo however Duan Yu was trapped between them and he or she was afraid to injure him. Xu Zhu, Ba Tianshi and Zhu Danchen have been mounted on horses and unable to help instantly.

Xu Zhu blazed down from his horse and sped beside the club-wielding warrior, extending his finger to seal his acupoints. He as an alternative heard Duan Yu laughing loudly and saying: “Elder brother, don’t be alarmed. They can’t harm me.”

Duan Yu puzzledly requested: “Ai, how do you know?” Mu Wanqing replied: “My mom obtained the reality out of your pricey father. I used to be with Mom and naturally heard all about Father’s issues.” Duan Yu stated: “So that is the case. You recognize that I needed to go to Lingzhou after which determined to return and have a look, is that it?” Mu Wanqing’s face blushed frivolously. This assertion of Duan Yu’s was spot on. Nonetheless, she was naturally inclined to replying harshly and stated: “What would I be watching you for? I needed to research the wonder strategies of the Western Xia princess, however all the pieces turned so sophisticated.” Duan Yu needed to say: “If she have been half as fairly as you might be, it will already be fairly outstanding!” He then felt that this line was appropriate for a lover however not his youthful sister. He stopped simply earlier than he spoke. Mu Wanqing stated: “I additionally needed to see in case your Dali Nation’s nice prince Duan would tackle this matter of marriage.” Duan Yu stated in a subdued tone: “I can’t turn out to be the Western Xia Prince Consort. Sister, maintain this to your self. If Father desires to drive me to it, I’ll flee distant.”

Mu Wanqing stated: “You dare defy Father’s order?” Duan Yu stated: “I am not defying it, I am escaping!” Mu Wanqing laughed: “What distinction is there? Why do you not need the princess who has been introduced up within the lap of luxurious?” Ever since that they had met, this was the primary time she had laughed. Duan Yu was overjoyed and stated: “Are you want Father? Falling in love with everybody as you meet them till ultimately changing into inseparable?”

Mu Wanqing stated: “Hng, I do not see a lot distinction between you and Father. Seems to be like its true that father and son are alike. It is simply that you do not have Father’s luck. She sighed and stated: “Like mom. She retains saying how a lot she hates Father, nevertheless as soon as she noticed him, she was overjoyed and agreed to forgive all the pieces. The younger girls of right this moment are inferior to my mom.”