Sword from the Tang Dynasty

Chapter 98 The Holy Emperor in Person
The moment the imperial edict was issued from the Eastern Capital, the whole country was in an uproar, and troops mobilized from various places also headed to Liaobei.

Emperor Yang Guang personally led his troops to Zhuojun, awaiting the convergence of the five armies, vowing to annihilate the corrupt official Yuan of Liaodong.

However, the trip did not go smoothly.

Ordinary people aren't fools; they don't want to die.

When Yang Guang arrived at Linyu Palace, he executed fleeing soldiers in an attempt to intimidate them, but the result was the opposite, and more and more people fled.

Throughout the land, the number of righteous armies is increasing daily.
On the Yangtze River, four massive warships, flying the Song Dynasty flag of Lingnan, are sailing westward against the current.

Standing at the bow of the boat was a young man dressed as a scholar, with a straight back and broad shoulders, giving the impression that he was well-versed in martial arts.

"Uncle Lu, we'll part ways at the ferry crossing ahead."

Song Shidao looked at the man beside him. He was about forty years old, but had a full head of white hair and a beautiful silver-white beard, and had the air of a great man.

It was none other than Song Lu, a famous master of the Song family in Lingnan, known throughout the martial arts world for his formidable Silver Dragon Crutch technique.

Upon hearing this, Song Lu stroked his beard and sighed:
"Back when Emperor Wen was alive, even though the head of the family had great talent and ambition, he still dared not act rashly. Now, with internal strife and external troubles, and the court in disarray, Yang Guang's trip to Liaodong shows that he has completely failed to grasp the situation of the world."

Song Shidao smiled and did not continue the topic with Song Lu.

"I just hope we can close the deal this time."

The Song family of Lingnan had always been engaged in one of the most profitable businesses: transporting smuggled salt from coastal counties to the inland via waterways, making huge profits.

They had a close relationship with Duzunbao in Bashu, and transported smuggled salt to Bashu, from where it was distributed to local salt merchants.

The martial arts judge, Xie Hui, wielded immense power in Sichuan and Chongqing. Consequently, this salt route was largely monopolized by these two major powers, leaving other groups unable to intervene despite their covetousness.

However, once they reached the Central Plains, the Song family's influence was greatly diminished.

For example, in places like Dongdu, Xiangcheng, and Nanyang, such businesses were mostly controlled by the Yuwen clan.

The Hai Sha Gang under its control has steadily suppressed the Shui Long Gang under the Song Clan, a situation that has lasted for more than a decade.

but
Recently, a strange thing has happened: the masters of the Yuwen Clan and the Hai Sha Gang have suffered repeated losses in Nanyang.

Yuwen Huaji's son, the Demon Spear's disciple, the Sea Sand Lion King, and Yuwen Wudi's capable henchman all died tragically.

Some people's bodies were never recovered.

The Water Dragon Gang originally managed to hold a ten percent share of the business in Nanyang, and it was in danger of being swallowed up by its rivals at any time.

But right now, it's making their business better and better.

Using Nanyang as a breach to penetrate the heart of the Central Plains, how could the Song family miss such an opportunity?

Song Que had one son and two daughters. His second son, Song Shidao, was in charge of operating a private salt business.

To show the importance attached to it, Song Shidao personally went to Nanyang.

Song Lu stroked his silver beard, and as he approached the ferry crossing, a look of caution flashed in his eyes.

"Although there is no war in Nanyang, it is not a peaceful place. The people who died were all important and had different identities."

"It's clear that the people of the Jianghu in Nanyang don't really follow the rules of the Jianghu, so I'm afraid my Song family's reputation isn't that useful."

"You must be careful on this trip, and do not fight with others on their territory."

Song Lu thought of something and then said:

"Many demonic traces have appeared in Nanyang, and experts are emerging one after another. There are even rumors that a demonic scripture has appeared in the world. We should keep to ourselves and not interfere with each other. You must not get involved, lest you be caught up in the struggle for the demonic sects."

Song Shidao nodded:
"Don't worry, Uncle Lu, I will suppress my curiosity."

As the two were talking, they suddenly looked towards the riverbank.

A man was seen running swiftly along the shore, pursued by seven or eight men. The man turned around and struck with a palm, unleashing a fierce demonic aura that caused two of his pursuers to cough up blood and die instantly!

The powerful energy swept across four zhang, and the foul wind blew onto the faces of Song Shidao and Song Lu.

A strange look flashed in their eyes.

Someone on the shore shouted:

"Master, he's the guy who escaped from Nanyang!"

"Come on!"

Someone else shouted, "Hold him back!"

Song Shidao and Song Lu did not intervene. Seeing that the people behind them were chasing closely, the fleeing man suddenly stopped, turned around and rushed back into the crowd.

With a pair of iron palms, he killed two people and broke the weapon of the guild leader.

With a combination of attack and defense, he quickly wiped out the eight pursuers.

after that
The face, bearing a touch of scholarly refinement, turned to Song Lu and Song Shidao.

The experts on the Song family's giant ship gathered around, but Song Lu stopped them with a wave of his hand.

The man on the shore glanced at the Song family flag, then headed against the giant ship, taking the route to Jiangdu.

"The people who were killed seemed to be from the Baling Gang. How did these guys dare to chase after such a master?"

Song Shidao had a vague sense of unease: "Also, what is the meaning of those who escaped from Nanyang?"

Song Lushen turned to the back and ordered, "The rest of you do not go to Bashu. Accompany the Second Young Master to Nanyang."

"Yes!" the five skilled swordsmen replied in unison.

"I have never seen this person's martial arts style before; he seems to be a member of the Demonic Sect."

"But it doesn't seem like the Baling Gang's style to pursue members of the Demonic Sect."

Song Lu was filled with suspicion and looked towards Nanyang.

"What has happened in this place where the dragon rose to power?"

In short, you need to be careful.

"Once the deal is finalized, we will immediately withdraw from Nanyang and leave the rest to the Water Dragon Gang."

……

On Wolong Mountain, Chen Laomou was watching a certain Taoist master painting in peace when he couldn't help but read out the latest news.

These messages were no longer confined to Nanyang, but concerned the situation across the country.

"Liu Jialun, a native of Yan'an, gathered a crowd of 100,000, proclaimed himself 'Emperor King,' established the era name 'Da Shi,' and allied with the Ji Hu tribe in northern Shaanxi, shaking Guanzhong!"

"Meng Rang, who had been defeated by Zhang Xutuo, made a comeback. He captured Xuyi and burned down Yang Guang's temporary palace, Duliang Palace."

Zhou Yi waved his hand: "Old Chen, you don't need to read it anymore."

Mr. Chen then briefly explained:

"Zhai Rang, Zhang Jincheng, Gao Shida, Dou Jiande, Du Fuwei, and Zheng Wenya are currently facing a situation where war is raging across the land, and Yang Guang is still in Huaiyuan Town. The Sui Dynasty is already beyond saving."

He couldn't help but ask, "Can the Celestial Master still sit still?"

"Of course I can sit still."

"Liu Jialun is powerful, but hasn't Qu Tutong, the Left Valiant Guard General, arrived?"

Upon hearing this, Chen Laomou was slightly taken aback.

Because he hadn't read the message aloud yet: "The Celestial Master gives me the feeling of Zhuge Liang reborn."

"Lying quietly on the hillside, one can know the affairs of the world."

Zhou Yi laughed and said, "Our Taiping Dao is the most law-abiding. Let them fight first, and I'll deal with them after I've collected my debts."

Having spent a long time with him, Chen Laomou had come to understand his intentions.

"The two people who owe you money are now being targeted by the big boss. Yang Zhen won't interfere with their business dealings with Mobei. But this time, Ren Zhi has gone mad and boarded the Turks' pirate ship."

Zhou Yi threw down his pen: "Could it be that he's colluding with Zhu Can?"

"Guessed it right."

Chen Laomou sneered:

"To be precise, it was the Turks who cooperated with Zhu Can. These steppe people wanted to take this opportunity to make the Sui Dynasty even more chaotic. With Ren Zhi's help, Nakorpo was preparing to sell a batch of fine horse tack and triangular whistling arrows to Zhu Can."

"It's practically a sale at a discount."

"Korpo originally wanted to cooperate with Yangzhen and bribed the major forces in the city, but these forces were settled in Nanyang and each guarded their bottom line, so he failed."

"Now he hopes Zhu Can will take power. Once this cannibal controls Nanyang and Guanjun, it will undoubtedly benefit the grasslands."

Zhou Yi perked up: "That's exactly what I've been worrying about."

"I'll have reservations about going out to do business if I don't settle this score."

Old Chen joked, "Which city or prefecture does the Celestial Master plan to conquer?"

"No, I just wanted to go out for a walk."

Old Chen nodded in agreement: "Indeed, we should go out and contact other forces. When the banner is raised, all places will respond, and we can be called a great wise teacher of our time."

“Yang Dalongtou is still hesitating, but I think he will eventually come to pay his respects.”

Mr. Chen placed the news in his hand on the table.

Zhou Yi gave him a couple more instructions, and then Chen Laomou returned to Nanyang City.
Two days later, the weather in Nanyang changed drastically.

A series of booming sounds rang out, and thunder roared through the sky.

The rain poured down, and the sky looked as if it had been split open.

The mountain stream first murmured from the crevices of the rocks, then quickly became a roaring torrent. The creek suddenly surged through the secluded path, then instantly boiled.

One after another, thunderclaps from the sky pierced Zhou Yi's ears.

He remained unaffected and sat quietly in the backyard of the Taoist temple.

He had been practicing the Hand Yangming Large Intestine Meridian for three days, and he was originally practicing the ninth meridian, the Foot Taiyang Bladder Meridian.

As the internal energy of the Xuanmen sect increased again, the Zhiyang acupoint, which had not been able to release its energy for a long time, finally opened up.

Outside, a fierce storm raged, turning the green peaks into a deep, dark blue.

Meanwhile, it felt as if a violent storm was raging within Zhou Yi's body.

Her cousin, who was not far away, sensed something was amiss. She moved quietly, took the painting, and sat down on the path leading to the backyard, not wanting anyone to disturb her.

One stream of true energy after another was injected into the Yang acupoint. This seemingly insatiable acupoint, through Zhou Yi's tireless efforts, like Jingwei filling the sea with stones, suddenly began to generate energy within his body.

The Qi of the Ren and Du meridians connects from the Tanzhong point on the Ren meridian to the central point on the Du meridian.

Finally, the most auspicious Yang point was fully opened!

The malevolent energy originally stored in the Tanzhong acupoint was instantly refined.

It became the purest form of true energy, merging into the true essence flowing within the body.

Zhou Yi's Qi cultivation speed was extremely fast, but the days were still short.

Although his internal energy was refined, it was not as profound as that of a veteran martial arts master.

This massive surge of malevolent energy was equivalent to ten years of arduous cultivation by an ordinary person.

At the same time, with just one exertion of his power, he could discern the subtle sounds of insects crawling and ants moving within a radius of ten feet in the rain.

This skill of listening to sounds amidst chaos is even superior to that of Shi Long, the top martial artist in Jiangdu.

Zhou Yi opened his eyes from meditation.

He gathered his energy in the hollow of the silk and bamboo acupoint, and it was as if a flash of lightning passed through his eyes.

This is a rare phenomenon that only highly accomplished Taoist practitioners can experience, known as "electricity arising from a void."

This is enough to prove that he did not simply practice demonic arts.

Zhou Yi saw Aruina raise her head and look at him. To him, the Uyghur girl's deep blue pupils appeared even clearer and brighter.

The internal mystical and demonic arts can be switched more freely.

It gave Zhou Yi a carefree and joyful feeling.

He drew Zhanlu from his side, channeled his true energy, and instantly the blade gleamed, reflecting in people's eyes.

At a glance, one can immediately recognize it as an orthodox Xuanmen (Taoist) sect.

But after he circulated his Ren and Du energies, the demonic energy manifesting in his Zhiyang acupoint startled Zhou Yi himself.

Zhanlu was completely black, with demonic energy flickering like flames above it.

That's right, it feels like the sword is tainted with demonic fire, its pure Yang energy surging and boiling.

Old Zhou sighed that he had practiced demonic arts, making his eyes look like two ghostly flames. This was a manifestation of demonic true energy.

It can be compared to the manifestation of Zhou Yi.

Lao Tan's artworks are merely simple folk porcelain, while Zhou Yi's are exquisite porcelain with a lustrous, jade-like glaze.

This is the ultimate beauty that Lao Tan is pursuing.

"you"

The Uyghur girl's expression changed, and she stepped forward: "Your skill has increased a lot. Could it be that you have mastered the Dao Heart Demon Seed Technique?"

"Who said I'm practicing the Dao Heart Demon Seed?"

When Zhou Yi spoke, all his demonic energy vanished, and he transformed into a Taoist master.

Upon seeing his gentle and serene eyes, one might be tempted to ask him for guidance on Taoist scriptures.

Ina looked him up and down, and considering his identity, she couldn't help but slightly open her mouth: "Taiping Hongbao."

"So, how about it? Has it lived up to the reputation of the Fifth Mystic Book?"

Ina clearly agreed with the idea of ​​the Five Great Books.

"Hmm, that's unusual. You have two completely different auras, and that's when you're fully conscious."

"Perhaps you are suited to cultivate the highest secret text of Sabulagam, but unfortunately that wisdom scripture is only in the hands of the Great One."

She shook her head, ending the conversation herself.

"Actually, I'm better suited to repair this."

Zhou Yi pulled out a copy of "Laozi Xiang'er Commentary": "Actually, the source of all the wonders is right here."

The girl stared at the scroll and couldn't help but say, "Cousin, can I borrow it to take a look?"

"Look, look."

Zhou Yi was very generous. He placed the scriptures in her hands and then walked briskly to the main hall in the front courtyard.

For a moment, the girl's gaze was drawn to his back, but she quickly returned it to the scriptures.

This is practically the most precious and invaluable manual of the Taiping Dao (Way of Peace).

She had seen the Taoist master's book many times, especially the section about his period of ascetic practice.

Thinking about these things gives me a feeling of being trusted.

Looking at the peach trees in the courtyard and the renovated roof tiles, the rustic colors of Wuzhuang Temple gradually replaced the boundless green of the grasslands beyond the Great Wall.

Zhou Yi walked to the main hall of the Huang family, lit an incense stick, and muttered:

"My uneasy heart has finally settled down a bit. The future is long, I hope you two will take good care of me."

Offering incense to the Yellow Emperor and Laozi, inserting it into the incense burner.

Turning around to listen to the pattering rain, I felt quite relaxed.

The two eyes involuntarily flew towards Jiangdu.

"Let's settle the two accounts at hand first, and then find a suitable time to discuss the Dao with Fellow Daoist Shilong."

Thinking of this, a gentle smile involuntarily appeared on her face.
Outside the temple, the rain was pouring down; it had been raining heavily for three days and three nights.

A series of footsteps interrupted Zhou Yiqing's meditation.

"Big Boss, please come in!"

Yang Zhen visited Wolong Mountain twice and was invited into the temple by two strong men.

When Zhou Yi came from the backyard, Yang Zhen and Su Yun were taking off their straw hats, but they were still wearing their raincoats.

The two sides greeted each other upon meeting.

"Why are Brother Fan and Brother Meng not here today?"

"They also want to come here, but they can't leave."

Yang Zhen took the tea that Xia Shu handed him and took a big gulp.

Su Yun thanked him and placed the tea on the table.

"Does the Abbot guess why we've come?"

Zhou Yi glanced at the two of them, feeling there was no need to hide anything, and said directly:
"Because of the matter between Keerpo and Master Ren."

"Exactly."

Yang Zhen was not surprised that Zhou Yi knew the news: "I am hesitant, please teach me, Master."

"Simple, just one word."

Su Yun asked, "Which character?"

"kill."

After hearing this, the two looked at him intently.

Zhou Yi said lightly, "Zhu Can is the biggest threat to Nanyang City. He is a vicious wolf. Killing these two traitors now is like mending the fence after the sheep are lost, but it's not too late."

"The world today is engulfed in flames of war."

"This Korpo obeys the Turkic Khan, who is ambitious but stubborn and unrepentant, and colludes with foreign enemies. If Nanyang wants to remain unscathed in this chaotic world, it must first secure its internal stability."

"What does the big boss think?"

Before Yang Zhen could speak, Su Yun said directly:
"Actually, the head of the dragon and the abbot share the same view, but they haven't gotten over that mental hurdle yet."

Zhou Yi comforted him:
"The head of the gang acts with benevolence and cherishes old friendships, just like when he faces Qiu Qianbo. But Chief Qiu and Headmaster Ren have different thoughts. One is interested in martial arts, and the other is interested in profit. Headmaster Ren is blinded by greed and has put righteousness aside."

"Since that's the case, why bother talking about benevolence and righteousness with the big boss?"

Yang Zhen remained silent for a moment, then finished the hot tea in his cup.

"Thank you, Abbot."

"We will make our move in five days."

After speaking, Yang Zhen and Su Yun took their leave.

Zhou Yi saw the two off at the temple gate.

"Senior brother, are they here to ask for advice?"

"of course not."

Zhou Yi looked at the mountain road: "Yang Dalongtou is wholeheartedly protecting Nanyang. He does not want to be affected by the war and will definitely eliminate any future troubles."

"Then why did he rush here in the rain?"

"I don't know. Maybe it's to show our attitude, or maybe it's just to tell me when we're going to take action."

"After all, this is something only the Nanyang Gang knows; even Old Chen couldn't find out about it."

After Yang Zhen's visit, Zhou Yi gathered the people in the temple.

When the Great Dragon Head attacks the Turks, Wolong Mountain naturally has to lend a hand.

"do you need my help?"

"Need not."

Zhou Yi smiled at the Uyghur girl: "This time it's the Nanyang Gang's home turf. I'm just going to pick up some bargains. You stay home and keep watch."

Arrange everything.

Zhou Yi was calculating the day to collect the debt when, unexpectedly, an uninvited guest arrived.

On the fourth day after Yangzhen climbed the mountain, there was a commotion at the entrance of Wuzhuang Temple.

“You Taoist priest, you’re being unreasonable. When did my abbot ever owe you any money?”

"I, the Taoist priest, disdain lying. Let me see your abbot."

The people at the door still tried to stop him.

The Taoist priest got angry and shouted loudly outside the temple gate, "Debts must be repaid, and one should not be too cunning."

“Come in, come in!”

A certain Taoist master flashed out of the temple and dragged the short, fat Taoist inside.

"Hahaha, I knew it was you!"

The wooden Taoist entered the Taoist temple and grinned broadly.

"How did you know I was here?"

Zhou Yi looked at the short, stout Taoist priest.

"Isn't this simple?"

"I'll make a few inquiries and find out where major events are happening frequently lately, and where there are the most supernatural occurrences. That should be enough to find out."

"but."

The wooden Taoist looked around Wuzhuang Temple: "Isn't this the lair of that foul-mouthed crow?"

“When Daoist Ya returned to his ancestral temple in Fugou, he gifted this temple to me.”

"I see."

As the wooden Taoist spoke, he stretched out a hand: "Where's the gold you promised?"

"It's Li Mi who owes us gold, not me who owes you gold. Don't get the accounts mixed up."

Zhou Yi glared at him, and seeing that he was about to speak, she interrupted him:
"But you came to see me, so it seems you're short of money. How about this, we're old friends, I'll take you to pull off a big heist tomorrow night."

"They're going to burn down the camp again? No way, no way."

"Don't worry, the risk is low and the return is high."

Zhou Yi patted him on the shoulder: "It's just about taking down one of the Turkic Khan's dens. How much you can take depends entirely on your abilities."

Zhou Yi then told him the details.

Mu Daoren was tempted.

Then, he went back to his room and retrieved an item, which he handed to him. “Last time you gave me the Quanxing Dharma, this time I will give you a Buddhist secret technique, which is very effective in suppressing inner demons and is perfectly suited to the Quanxing Way.”

The wooden Taoist held the copy of "The Mind's Zen Never Dies" in his hand.

He calmed down and began to examine it carefully.

Within the time it takes to drink half a cup of tea, Master Mu realized that this skill was far from simple.

He carefully read the records of the Undying Mind Zen.

Although the text is short, it is profound and concise, full of Zen wisdom, and deeply insightful.

Master Mu smiled and glanced at Zhou Yi, feeling that he had not misjudged him.

but
To master such a Buddhist secret art, one must inevitably spend a great deal of time.

"This is a Zen practice that is very easy to learn. I spent a few nights and basically mastered it."

Zhou Yi spoke frankly and then added:
"The Mind Zen is immortal and was taught by a high monk. Although he did not say that it could not be passed on to others, you must keep this method a secret once you have received it."

Master Mu nodded; how could he not understand this principle?

Suddenly, I paused, remembering what Zhou Yi had said earlier.

A few nights? Complete understanding?

He couldn't help but recall the process of his "Heavenly Frost Condensing Cold Method" being learned and taken away.

Painful memories flooded back.

It almost caused him to develop inner demons again.

"Inhuman, inhuman"

The wooden Taoist chanted repeatedly, treating Zhou Yi as if he were not a human being, and in doing so, he became much more at peace.

"I originally intended to ask you for some travel expenses before leaving, but I didn't expect to be ordered around by you again."

"Since you're such a good friend, I'll accompany you to kill one more time."

"Brothers!"

Zhou Yi patted him on the shoulder, looking very pleased.

"By the way, do you know a fierce-looking little girl dressed in black and carrying a sword?"

"Ok?"

The wooden Taoist priest was digging up old grievances:

"I was just telling the truth at the time, but she wouldn't let me speak ill of you and almost drew her sword. Fortunately, I'm magnanimous and didn't stoop to the level of this little girl."

"Of course I know her, but she's not fierce at all."

Zhou Yi advised, "Now I have friends all over the world. When you travel the world, just speak well of me, and you will also have friends all over the world."

"fart."

Master Mu looked incredulous: "When I went to Li Mi to collect a debt, his men, knowing of our dealings, immediately attacked. If it weren't for your improved skills, you would probably have been shot dead by the archers in Liang County."

Before Zhou Yi could speak, Aruina walked in from outside.

He glanced at the two of them, then turned and went back to the backyard in a cold and aloof manner.

The wooden Taoist gave an "oh," as if he had suddenly understood.

"Next time I encounter someone like that, I'll say I want to befriend them. If I encounter someone like Li Mi, I'll say I want to make an enemy of them. That way, I, the Daoist, will rise to prominence."

"Master Mu, you are truly wise."

"..."

Whether Mu Daoren comes or not is irrelevant. Zhou Yi really intends to help him make a fortune, since they gained nothing from the last attack on Yuwen Chengdu's camp.

That dog, Colpo, is rolling in money.

The Wood Taoist originally intended to borrow some travel expenses and visit his few friends.

He was willing to help Zhou Yi when he heard that Zhou Yi was in trouble.

The two teased each other, but they were laughing and joking.

Upon their reunion, Zhou Yi, knowing his fondness for wine, brought out the oldest vintage wine from the temple.

We enjoyed several meals and drinks to our hearts' content.

The next day, he used his internal energy to expel the smell of alcohol, preparing to take action.
Yuyang County is located north of Nanyang, with the Nie River flowing through it and heading straight to Xinye.

As night approached, a dozen or so large and small boats were sailing downstream on the upper reaches of the Nie River.

All of these ships were moored at the Hanxian Wharf.

After several days of heavy rain, the wharf flooded, and the wooden planks of the Jinqiao Bridge were half submerged in the water.

There is a large cargo hold near the dock.

Apart from the goods purchased from Yuyang County, the rest of the cargo in the hold was transported from Nanyang City.

The champion's business with Nanyang did not cease, but it was always kept under control.

This does not include large-scale military equipment transactions; only the Zhenyang Gang and Zhu Can conduct this business, and it is strictly controlled.

It was thanks to the head of the city gates' defenses and procurement that Ke'po was able to transport a huge amount of weapons out of the city.

Tonight, the goods have been purchased in Yuyang County.

After both parties counted,

Keerpo then sent men to load carts and head west, directly to the upper reaches of the Tuan River.

At that time, Zhu Can's large ship was waiting, and it sailed downstream to enter Champion City.

but
Ren Zhi and Ke Erpo thought it was a secret, but little did they know that while they were counting the goods, a large group of people had already gone upstream along the Ne River.

A large number of men from the Nanyang Gang and the Gray-Clad Gang rushed into the Han County Wharf under the cover of night!
The sentries placed on the outermost perimeter were all eliminated by the two groups of experts.

By the time the sentries at the dock noticed, it was too late.

Keerpo and Ren Zhi gathered more than 300 people at the dock. Not counting the Gray Clothes Gang, the Nanyang Gang alone had more than 800 members, all of whom were elites.

Yang Zhen came in person, and Fan Naitang, Meng Degong, and Su Yunqi also came.

At the Hanxian Wharf, it was basically a one-sided massacre!

The quiet summer night was shattered by shouts of battle and the clash of weapons.

Korpo had no shortage of skilled warriors, including elite Turkic soldiers who were extremely adept at mounted combat, but he was trapped at the ferry crossing and had no room to maneuver.

When Master Ren and Ke'erpo saw Yang Dalong, wielding a crescent-shaped blade, charging towards them, they abandoned their last hope.

"Yang Zhen, you'll regret this—!"

Korpo's roar, carrying surging true energy, resounded through the night as he and a group of Turkic masters fled towards the champion.

Yang Zhen ignored his threats and continued his pursuit.

Ren Zhi did not follow Keerpo; instead, he jumped into the Ne River and headed towards Nanyang.

Ren Zhi was very clear-headed at this moment.

As long as we can get back to the city, there's a chance.

All the Jingshan Sect members in the city were gathered together, numbering in the thousands.

Yang Zhen did not want to see internal strife, which gave him leverage to negotiate.
As night deepened, a major battle broke out at Huo's shop in Nanyang City.

The elite Turkic soldiers in the shop, the江湖客 (jianghu ke, a type of martial arts practitioner) kept by Korpo, and the debt collectors who broke in engaged in a fierce battle.

The burly man with the iron tower and the short, fat man teamed up again.

Back then, they followed a certain celestial master to wreak havoc on the Eagle Yang Prefecture army camp, burning down the entire camp. Now, this small shop is naturally no challenge in their eyes.

That night, several other chaotic incidents broke out in the city.

The Tiankui Sect masters, in cooperation with the Nanyang Gang, launched their attack under cover of night.

Yang Dalongtou carried out a rare weeding operation, which was noticed by other forces in the city, but they did not choose to escalate the situation.

Everyone was watching and observing, while simultaneously taking stock of the Jingshan Sect's assets overnight.

For example, Hou, the leader of the Zhenyang Gang, was laughing so hard he was practically dumbfounded.

Hou Gang Leader quietly played a significant role in the investigation of Ren Zhi by the Big Boss.

With Master Ren gone, all the business partnerships between the Jingshan Sect and the Zhenyang Gang fell into his hands.

Inside the Zhenyang Gang's inner hall, Gang Leader Hou listened to the commotion in the city, laughing as he used an abacus; he was clearly a skilled accountant.
"What's happening outside?"

Inside the Yangxing Association, Elder Yun watched as Ji Yinong returned.

"Hmph, that idiot Ren Zhi."

Ji Yinong's face was full of sarcasm:
"He's wasted all these years, completely disregarding Yang Zhen. He's living in the past, even though war is raging everywhere. Besides, Yang Zhen already warned him once, yet he still dared to collude with Zhu Can."

Elder Yun's expression remained completely unchanged:

"That's perfect, you go and gather the people from the Jingshan Sect."

"What's the point of having so many people in charge in this city?"

Ji Yinong nodded, then heard Elder Yun say slowly, "Since the people from the Evil Extreme Sect are in Champion City, they might make a move tonight. Send someone."

"Forget it, your people are unreliable, so I'll trouble you to make the trip yourself."

Why aren't you going?

Ji Yinong's mustache twitched, and he cursed inwardly, but he still went about his business with a smile.

It was late at Hai hour.

North of Nanyang City, Master Ren, his clothes completely soaked, glanced back at the Han County Wharf.

With hatred flashing in his eyes, he rubbed his face hard with his large hands a few times to rouse himself.

Ren Zhi looked out over the city wall at the north gate.

He squinted to focus the light, but didn't walk towards the city gate.

Traveling east along the moat, after about half an hour, he could pinpoint the location of the Jing Mountain Sect with just a glance at the city under the starlight and moonlight.

This is definitely the safest way to return to town.

Using his lightness skill, he took several steps on the city wall, flipped over, and entered the city.

The Jingshan Sect is not far from the city wall.

If there's any commotion, with his skill level, he could definitely hear it standing here.

Very good, there is nothing unusual about the Jingshan Sect.

Although Yang Zhen has changed, his core nature remains the same.

The worst-case scenario is that you lose face and beg for mercy, and you can still live a good life.

With his escape route clear, Ren Zhi felt a little relieved, and his face regained its radiance.

but
He had only taken a few steps when he heard the bright sound of footsteps.

This road is called Tuanhui North Street, which leads directly to the Jingshan School.

There are many alleys on both sides.

Ren Zhi stared at one of the alleys when he suddenly saw a figure flash out.

He frowned slightly, because this person's speed was extraordinary.

What chilled him even more was that he saw the newcomer's face clearly, and the implications of this were self-evident.

“Master Yi, it’s you.”

"Sect Leader Ren, you are the leader of a major sect, why are you so low-key, not even using the main gate?"

Ren Zhi felt a surge of resentment, but he didn't show it on his face: "Master Yi, why do you have to do this? There was a misunderstanding between us before, but I am willing to make amends."

"As long as the abbot is satisfied, what does it matter if it's a fortune? Just consider it a small donation from me."

"wonderful."

Zhou Yi laughed and said, "Sect Leader Ren is well-versed in the rules of the martial world. How about this, you compensate me with something, and we can let this misunderstanding go."

What should one observe?

"Your life, your life."

As they spoke, Zhou Yi strolled toward him.

A tremendous sense of oppression lingered in Ren Zhi's heart. He had initially been confident of fighting, but now he was intimidated by this momentum.

Hesitant in his heart, he was to fight or flee.

But
Just as he took a slight step back, showing signs of retreat, Zhou Yi immediately seized upon the weakness in his mind. This feeling was very strange; he had never had this sensitive grasp when facing enemies before.

The contest between martial arts masters also involves a battle of wills.

At this moment, Jingyun Shenyou stepped out and suddenly lunged forward.

He didn't even draw his sword; his right hand formed a claw, aiming straight for his face, while his left hand strangely slashed towards his waist.

Ren Zhi didn't think there was anything special about these two moves, but...
The opponent was extremely fast; its right claw was almost a phantom!

He dared not meet the attack head-on, so he spun around and took a step back, then slid a short sword out of his sleeve, twirled it, and thrust it straight at the Jianjing acupoint.

Unexpectedly, Zhou Yi's claws suddenly changed, his five fingers wrapped in icy true energy, which actually gripped the sword blade like an iron hook.

A chilling aura filled his fingers, guiding the energy straight to the acupoints along the sword!

Ren Zhi almost fell for the attack, so he quickly let go. The short sword, no longer imbued with his true energy, was instantly snapped in two with a crack.

He leaned back, bracing himself against the gate of the government office, and his back slammed against the door panel.

Zhou Yi pressed his attack, his right claw whistling as it passed, leaving five finger marks on the door panel behind Ren Zhi before it exploded with a bang.

"Hey~!"

Without thinking twice, Sect Leader Ren kicked away the lanterns on the eaves of the government office.

By using the flashes of firelight, one can see that although the opponent's moves are incredibly fast, their technique is not refined, which causes them to be slightly slow.

Then, with a flick of his left sleeve, another short sword appeared. At this moment, the sword technique changed, and he used a left-hand sword technique that was completely different from before. He poured in his true energy and thrust the sword at the "Qimen" acupoint under his ribs!
Zhou Yi neither dodged nor evaded; his right hand suddenly formed a crane shape, combined with Taoist profound skills, and with a change of technique, the crane's shadow drifted by, difficult to catch.

At this moment, the Crane Hand snatched the sword and struck Ren Zhi's forearm, hitting his pressure point and completely breaking his left-hand sword technique.

Ren Zhi struck again, his mind reeling.

Then he witnessed a scene that terrified him.

Suddenly, the opponent's left hand grabbed out. That hand was no longer filled with Xuanmen internal energy, but with demonic energy surging. There were five balls of cold flame at the tips of the five fingers. The yang energy was so pure that it had reached the point of affecting the spirit of martial artists.

Master Ren only saw the hind paw chasing the front paw. Just as he was about to boost his internal energy, someone grabbed his Tanzhong acupoint!
A stream of true energy entered the chest, instantly cutting off the flow of true energy through the Ren and Du meridians.

He could no longer raise the Qi in his Dantian.

"Sect Leader Ren, your skills are quite mediocre."

Ren Zhi trembled with anger and resentment: "I was out of my mind and you gained the upper hand at every step. Let me go, and we'll fight again."

"How can you, the leader of a sect, tell such a joke? Isn't losing your composure a defeat?"

Zhou Yi shook his head: "You are the worst among those who owe money."

Ren Zhi gritted his teeth and suddenly asked, "Who exactly are you? Why are you sometimes a demon and sometimes a Taoist? And what kind of martial arts is this?"

"Naturally, it is the most wondrous of the five great books."

Zhou Yi, too lazy to argue, pressed down with a palm.

Ren Zhi was still savoring the Five Great Books when he suddenly trembled and died.

Zhou Yi grabbed Ren Zhi by the back of the neck and stepped onto the city wall.

They were preparing to throw him into the turbulent water.

suddenly
A figure darted out from the other end of the alley and looked in his direction.

Zhou Yi instinctively used Ren Zhi's corpse as a shield.

then
The leader of the Yangxing Society, Ji, who was sent by Elder Yun to gather information, came looking for the fighting and witnessed a scene he would never forget.

Behind the crenellations of the city wall, a waning moon hangs high in the sky.

Ren Zhi, the leader of the Jingshan Sect, was being held by the back of his neck, his head tilted to one side, and those dead eyes were staring down at him.

Behind Sect Leader Ren, there was a faceless man in black.

A familiar yet unfamiliar demonic aura still lingered in the air.

then
Ji Yinong felt himself locked in by a force of energy. If he wanted to run away now, he could definitely retreat.

But
The thought that his face had been exposed filled him with apprehension.

Ji Yinong quickly weighed his options, then clasped his hands in a fist and said, "I wonder which senior from the Holy Sect is here to greet you?"

The people on the high wall remained silent.
However, they responded in a way that was a million times more effective than words.

A strange and pure demonic energy rose slowly, and the sect leader became an object of demonic possession. His whole body was enveloped by the supreme yang demonic energy, burning like flames!
That wasn't real flame, but a manifestation of true energy.

When Elder Yun first met Ji Yinong, he revealed the true energy of the Demonic Sect.

But compared to it, it's like comparing heaven and earth.

Ji Yinong has already joined the Yin Gui School. He's a connoisseur, and the more connoisseur he is, the more terrified he becomes.

Who else could possess such arrogance within the Demonic Sect, especially one located near Nanyang City?

Evil Emperor!

In an instant, Ji Yinong's back was covered in sweat, and now he didn't even dare to run.

Unless you wander the world like Chief Qiu.

Ji Yinong's thoughts formed in an instant, and he immediately knelt down on both knees, shouting in a trembling voice:

"I did not know that the Holy Emperor was in person, and I offended him so much. I, Ji, am truly guilty of a crime deserving to die."

At this moment, he didn't dare to raise his head.

According to the unwritten rules of the underworld, you can't judge a book by its cover; doing so will get you killed.

A young, slightly hoarse voice came from the high wall.

"You must be Ji Yinong of the Yangxing Society. I heard you're working for the Yin Queen, and I was just about to come and see you."

As expected, the Evil Emperor knows everything!

This young voice was much more harmonious than Elder Yun's.

But no one knows what kind of old monster it is.

When Ji Yinong was revealed to be a member of the Yin Gui Sect, he was terrified. His mind raced, and he came up with a way to survive:
"In my heart, the Holy Emperor is far superior to the Empress Yin. It is a pity that I have no chance to meet him. Now that you have inquired about me, I humbly request that you give me an opportunity to serve the Holy Extreme Sect."

"interesting."

The young voice said, "Aren't you afraid that Empress Yin will kill you?"

Ji Yinong said, "It would be easy for the Holy Emperor to kill me. Now that I am serving the Holy Extreme Sect, I have essentially saved my life and received the Holy Emperor's life-saving grace."

"Your subordinate is willing to hide in the Yin Gui Sect and spy on the Holy Emperor's strengths and weaknesses."

After a few breaths of suffocating silence, the young voice rang out again:
"Your life is spared. Go back and serve the Queen of the Underworld faithfully."

"As ordered!"

Ji Yinong got up, bowed again, and turned to run towards Yangxinghui.

He wanted to cry and laugh at the same time; his expression was incredibly awkward.

Zhou Yi watched his retreating figure and couldn't help but smile.

This season's chairman is really good at stirring things up.

Standing on the city wall, his gaze swept across the city of Nanyang.

They successively dealt with the Tuanjiang School and the Jingshan School.

The rest of the Gray-Clad Gang sided with Wuzhuang Temple. The Nanyang Gang and Tiankui Sect had a close relationship with him. The Zhenyang Gang's money bag was held by Little Phoenix. The leader of the Chaoshui Gang, Zeng, was the most honest one.

Now, the Yangxing Society has also joined in a sense.

The entire city of Nanyang can be said to be free of any further threats.

The rear area is basically stable.

Zhou Yi raised his hand and casually tossed Ren Zhi's body into the moat, where the surging water swept the body away.

He strolled leisurely back to Wolong Mountain.

Soon after
Yang Xinghui, in a secret room.

"Why are you sweating so much?"

Elder Yun leaned against the soft couch padded with a blanket, glancing at Ji Yinong with some disdain. Seeing his absent-minded expression, he couldn't help but ask:
"what happened?"

Ji Yinong stared straight at her: "Elder Yun, I... I think I saw the Evil Emperor."

Elder Yun sat up straight: "Say it again."

"He stood on the high wall, black demonic energy burning in the air like flames. The head of the Jingshan Sect was killed in an instant. I stood dozens of feet away, not daring to move."

Elder Yun stood up and stared intently at Ji Yinong: "Are you sure you're not mistaken?"

"That's all I saw, not a single word is wrong. If we follow the moat now, we should be able to find Sect Leader Ren's body."

"Elder, should we try to salvage it?"

"What a load of rubbish!"

"Did he see you?" This was the only question Yun Caiwen was concerned about right now.

She opened half a window and glanced outside with a slightly uneasy feeling.

Ji Yinong let out a long sigh:

"If he saw it, Ji probably wouldn't have a chance to come back alive."

……

(End of this chapter)