Sword from the Tang Dynasty

Chapter 99 The Mysterious White Dragon
With the window half-open, the rustling of insects could be heard even more clearly.

The two people in the secret room of Yangxing Society remained silent for a long time.

"Elder Yun, what should we do?" Ji Yinong was prepared to follow orders.

Yun Caiwen had been pondering for a long time: "It is now certain that the Evil Extreme Sect has been managing Nanyang for a long time, and most of the forces in the city have been infiltrated. It's just that you are limited by your perspective and cannot detect it."

This is a common tactic used by the Demonic Sect, and the Yin Gui Sect used it to control Xiangyang.

Both are from the same sect and the Six Paths, but the Evil Extreme Sect uses this method as if it were commonplace.

"Then how should Ji conduct himself in Nanyang from now on?"

"Xiangyang and Nanyang were designated by the Sect Master and cannot be abandoned. You must understand this point."

Yun Caiwen paced back and forth: "As for doing things, you should regard everyone else as members of the Evil Extreme Sect. Think twice before acting and never reveal your identity as a member of the Yin Gui Sect."

"My guess is that the Evil Extreme Sect's infiltration is still ongoing. Ren Zhi was killed because he didn't cooperate."

"if"

Ji Yinong nervously replied, "What should I do if the people from the Evil Extreme Sect come looking for me?"

Yun Caiwen remained silent.

Ji Yinong took a step forward with a mournful face: "Elder Yun, I have shed blood for the Yin Gui Sect, you can't just abandon me."

"The world is vast, but the Empress is the greatest. I, Ji, must remain loyal to the Empress. I hope Elder Yun will teach me."

Yun Caiwen glanced outside a few times, then sat back down on the soft couch:
"Why are you panicking when I'm not? Although the Evil Extreme Sect has some power, it's still far behind our sect. The Evil Emperor's Demonic Art is not yet complete, so it avoids the sect leader. The Dao Heart Demon Seed Great Art is extremely difficult to practice, and I've never heard of anyone succeeding in it."

"Even if the current Evil Emperor is exceptionally talented, it is not something that can be achieved in a short time."

"It's just that they've been rooted in Nanyang for a long time and have concentrated their efforts in one place. Meanwhile, our sect is spreading its teachings throughout the world, not only competing with Buddhism and Taoism, but also gathering other sects and paths. If we focus all our efforts on this, the Evil Extreme Sect will definitely retreat."

Ji Yinong respectfully said, "I am naturally aware of the great power of our sect, but I am worried about the immediate crisis and have no solution."

Yun Caiwen nodded.
"The Evil Sect killed Luo Changshou first, then Ren Zhi. If they really come after you, when you see the Evil Emperor, do not hesitate, just bow down and pay homage."

Ji Yinong let out a sound of surprise, his facial muscles twitching.

I thought to myself: I had already knelt before you told me to.

"How can this be allowed? Wouldn't that be disloyal to the Empress Dowager?!"

"It's good that you're willing to help," Elder Yun advised. "A living person is always more useful than a dead one, and you can also take the opportunity to gather information."

"I am very puzzled by the relationship between the Evil Sect in Nanyang and Champion. If Zhu Can has already cooperated with the Evil Sect, there is no reason for him to be an enemy of Nanyang. It is simply a contradiction."

Ji Yinong exclaimed, "Could it be..."

"Could it be that there is internal discord within the Evil Extreme Sect?"

He wanted to muddy the waters, so he opened his mouth and said:
"The Evil Extreme Sect has been hidden for a long time, but suddenly a large number of experts have emerged, which shows that this generation is prosperous. There may even be more than one Evil Emperor, just like the northern grasslands, which have two Khans, Jieli and Tuli."

"Therefore, the two cities fought each other, and internally they were also vying for the right to rule."

Following his train of thought, Yun Caiwen realized that the Xieji Sect's foundation was deeper than she had anticipated.

But
Upon closer examination, many of these points can be connected.

For example, there should have been eight masters in the mortuary, but suddenly there were only five. Isn't this a manifestation of internal discord?
Elder Yun's expression changed repeatedly, as he felt that the waters of the Evil Extreme Sect had become even deeper.

"Perhaps your absurd idea is exactly right. I will report this to the Sect Master and count it as a meritorious deed for you."

Yun Caiwen looked at Ji Yinong with a hint of admiration in her eyes:
"You must keep a low profile these days and not keep an eye on everything. Wait until things calm down before you start gathering information."

"Understood," Ji Yinong replied in a deep voice.

"I will go find Elder Xia first and discuss this matter with her."

Without any hesitation, Elder Yun used his superb lightness skill to leap out of the window and disappear before he could finish speaking.

That night.
The host tossed and turned, unable to sleep.

One moment I dream of the Evil Emperor, the next I dream of the Queen of the Underworld.

Others cannot see the most terrifying vortex in the world, but he is already in the center of this vortex, stirring it up.

……

Champion City lies on the west bank of the Tuan River.

The cannibal Zhu Can gathered a group of thieves and proclaimed himself king, calling himself "Da Ke Han Thief" and also "King Garuda".

Therefore, the current Champion City is also known as the Garuda Kingdom.

Although this city is not as wealthy as Nanyang, it is still a large city.

He was known as the "cannibal," but Zhu Can concealed his cruel and bloodthirsty face to the city's residents.

Otherwise, if the city's inhabitants are scared away, leaving only an empty city, it will be too late to regret it.

"Your Majesty, Yang Zhen has ruined our deal and taken your goods. Aren't you angry at all?"

Inside Garuda's palace, Corpo had done his best to suppress his anger.

The man on the throne was tall and wore a light armor that shimmered with precious stones. He had a large head, a broad face with scattered eyebrows, and a brand of fire at the corner of his eye, giving him a fierce look.

Zhu Can said arrogantly, "I will take care of what's in Yangzhen, but you lost my things. Don't you bear any responsibility at all?"

Several Turkic experts beside Korpo all had unfriendly expressions.

However, this is the territory of cannibals, and no matter how arrogant they are, they dare not act recklessly.

Colpo reacted quickly:
“This batch of goods was never delivered to Champion City, and the King did not settle the payment. The loss is entirely on our Chamber of Commerce. If there is any responsibility, it can only be borne by Yang Zhen.”

"Oh?" Zhu Can tapped the chair. "Is this all the Khan has to offer?"

Colpo wasn't stupid either.

Seeing his expression, how could he not understand that Zhu Can had no intention of sending troops?

He used to threaten Yang Zhen, but now that he sees Yang Zhen's attitude has changed, he doesn't dare to push his luck anymore.

If Champion City were to truly wage war against Nanyang, without a sufficiently opportune moment, there would be no chance of taking it down.

Ke Erpo was seething with anger, thinking about how many of his capable subordinates had been killed, and he was eager to cause trouble for Yang Zhen.

At this moment
A loud chorus of footsteps sounded outside.

"Sect Master, this way please."

Korpo saw that the speaker was a charming woman, Zhu Can's daughter Zhu Mei. This woman was as ruthless as a snake and often gave Zhu Can advice and schemes.

She was accompanied by two tall men who disliked each other, as they were both Zhu Mei's male lovers.

In addition, there were more than sixty armed guards, all of whom were skilled in internal martial arts with bulging temples.

The two people, a man and a woman, were greeted by guards lining the road and led by Zhu Mei herself.

The man had a broad face, dressed in a monk's robe, and two ghostly flames flickered in and out of his pupils. It was clear at a glance that he was a pure demonic old monster.

The wrinkles around the eyes of the woman in palace attire beside her have faded, as if she is about to regain her youth.

Behind Zhou Laotan and Jin Huanzhen were eight martial artists, all of whom possessed demonic energy and were expressionless.

Corpo guessed who these people were and went up to greet them:

"Greetings to the two sect leaders."

"I am from Korpo, hailing from the grasslands beyond the Great Wall, and I am under orders from Tuli Khan."

As he spoke, he noticed that the two old devils remained unmoved and didn't even glance at him.

They seemed completely indifferent to the Turkic Khan.

So another sentence was added:
"I am also on good terms with the disciples of the Martial Venerable."

Old Zhou stopped in his tracks, two ghostly flames flickering in his eyes: "You know the Martial Venerable?"

Colpo carried a hint of pride:
"The Martial Venerable is invincible on the vast grasslands and has remained prosperous for decades."

The spear he used back then, Agushwara, contained a portion of Heavenly Rain Iron, which was donated by our Chamber of Commerce.

He was somewhat tactful in his speech, but Old Zhou was straightforward: "Do you know about the Blazing Sun Technique?"

"This," Colpo stammered.

Old Zhou sighed, his mouth opening and closing wide: "If you don't understand the profound methods, what qualifications do you have to discuss the mysteries with me? Don't waste my time, get out of here."

Korpo had been tricked by Zhu Can, and now he had lost face and felt extremely angry and upset.

Seeing that Old Zhou was still walking forward, I forced a comment:
"Yang Zhen has completely destroyed the sect leader's plans in Nanyang City, and even Qiu Qianbo, whom you arranged to hide, has been found by them."

If the clan leader and King Zhu Can cooperate, first punishing the ringleaders and then destroying Nanyang, wouldn't that be an easy task?

Colpo saw it.
Upon hearing this, both old demons stopped in their tracks.

Jin Huanzhen turned to look at him, while Old Zhou's body trembled slightly.

"Okay, okay." He said "okay" twice.

Colpo had no idea what he was doing.

at this time
Zhou Laotan's figure flashed, and before the Turkic experts around Korpo could react, they turned around and found that the old demon was already forehead to forehead with Korpo.

"Sect Master, I...I had absolutely no intention of offending you."

Korpo was completely bewildered, not knowing how he had offended this guy. He simply assumed that praising Yang Zhen had offended him, so he quickly offered some flattering words:
"Yang Zhen is nothing special. Although he discovered your men, Chief Qiu still managed to escape. It's clear that he's far inferior to you."

"Down below."

His words abruptly stopped as a large hand pressed against his acupoint at the center of his chest.

"You deserve to die!"

Old Zhou sighed and shouted angrily, unleashing a mysterious and profound true energy that instantly made Ke Erpo's body stiffen as if struck by lightning.

His eyes were filled with terror as Zhou Laotan grabbed him by the chest and threw him backward.

Five dark-skinned men in black lifted Corpo up and hoisted him onto their shoulders.

"Put him in a coffin." Old Zhou sighed, temporarily calming his anger.

"Yes."

Those who came with Kolpo were stunned and dared not move.

Jin Huanzhen comforted him, "What's there to be angry about? This person's internal strength isn't bad. He'll be good material if we refine him."

Old Zhou sighed, "He's still a bit lacking; he's wasting his true energy."

Jin Huanzhen gently patted his shoulder: "He practices a martial art from beyond the Great Wall, with intense internal energy, slightly different from the incomplete method he used before."

Old Zhou sighed and nodded.

Zhu Mei and her two male lovers felt a chill run down their spines.

The two old demons discussed demonic arts as if no one else was around, practicing this and that, and I was really afraid they would end up practicing them themselves.

Zhu Can stepped forward and asked, "Do the two sect leaders wish to inquire about Qiu Qianbo?"

"Where is he?"

"He appeared near Yong'an County and then went down the Yangtze River towards Jiangdu."

Old Zhou sighed and waved his hand, and several men in black appeared.

"Go after him now. Once you find out his exact location, report back immediately. I want to bring him back myself."

"Yes!"

Zhu Can looked at these black-clad experts with extreme envy.

Looking at Old Zhou was like seeing a treasure trove.

These men in black were in a similar situation to Qiu Qianbo; most of them were martial arts masters who couldn't resist the allure of demonic arts.

However, they lacked Qiu Qianbo's ambition.

Therefore, after being infused with a profound and mysterious true energy by Old Master Zhou, he obtained the secret manual of cultivation, but lost himself and became a member of the Crimson Shadow Legion.

This is a new method for cultivating and nurturing evil spirits that the old artist Zhou acquired after appreciating the heretical doctrines of the Great Ming Zunjiao.

Compared to the crude methods used to deal with Old Master Ren, this is a leap forward.

"The one who is most proficient in the Sutra of Light and the Sabulokan is still the Good Mother. If I fully understand the spiritual methods of the Good Mother and apply her carefree spirit to the spirit within the orifice, it will definitely be a completely new realm."

Following Zhu Can's gaze, Old Zhou also looked at the men in black, lost in thought.

Jin Huanzhen said, "I fully support you, but bringing Shanmu here right now will only cause big trouble."

Zhu Can interjected, "When will we be able to train a large number of experts?"

"It'll be soon. I'll bring that person back to repair the magic."

Old Zhou glanced at Zhu Can and casually drew him a big pie in the sky:
"Once this method is perfected, you will have thousands of skilled warriors under your command. At that time, conquering cities and seizing territories will be as easy as turning your hand."

"However, we must abide by the agreement."

Zhu Can smiled fiercely: "That's for sure."

“If my Garuda Kingdom becomes the world’s hegemon, the two of you may establish a state religion at will.”

"Hahaha"

The two looked at each other and burst into laughter.

Old Zhou sighed and looked at the Turkic experts again: "These people are mine now."

"The sect leader may use it as he sees fit."

"Zhu Can, are you insane? Do you want to be an enemy of the Khan?!" a Turk shouted in horror.

However, this threat had absolutely no effect.

As Zhu Can's external brain, Zhu Mei looked at the captured Turks, feeling some concerns but not daring to speak.

Even though she was equally ruthless, she was still deeply wary of the methods these terrifying old demons used.

The only thing that made her feel fortunate was
These old demons seem to be only interested in practicing martial arts, and they even let her command some people who have fallen into demonic possession.

Seeing this, the Zhu family father and daughter began to cooperate more deeply with the old demons.

After Zhu Can developed a larger and clearer ambition, he went from being barefoot to wearing shoes. His mentality even changed slightly, and he was no longer as willful as before.

Yang Zhen launched a night raid on the Han County dock, but he easily escaped punishment.
The second day after the sect leader's corpse was found encircled by the moat.

Zhou Yi escorted the short, stout Taoist priest to the foot of the mountain.

When the wooden Taoist arrived, he was empty-handed; when he left, he carried a bundle and had a smile on his face.

He patted the God of Wealth's arm with his large hand: "You must be like Zhou Yi. Next time there's such a good thing, be sure to call me."

Zhou Yi chuckled and said, "Are you going to find Master Ya?"

“Go and help him out,” the wooden Taoist said with a wicked grin.

He made a fortune from this upheaval of Korpo's stronghold, and he spoke extremely eloquently:

"The one who truly benefits our Taoist sect is someone like you. Once your martial arts skills are higher, we'll contact some friends in the Taoist sect and elect you as the number one person in the sect."

"Who is Ning Sanren? I'm not familiar with him."

"Shut up!"

Zhou Yi waved his hand dismissively, "Go, go, go back to your Gao Village."

"Hahaha!"

Seeing his cautious demeanor, the short, stout Taoist priest burst into laughter. Although he didn't understand the meaning behind the joke, he was used to it.

He stepped onto the narrow path, and without turning his head, said:
"You should practice your skills properly. With your talent, I'm not joking."

Zhou Yi ignored this and only gave a word of advice: "The world is dangerous, be careful."

"There are many enchanting women in the martial world, so please take care."

The wooden Taoist priest, facing the sunlight, strode away and disappeared down the path.

Zhou Yi looked at the short, stout Taoist's back and felt a little envious.

Master Mu is truly free and unrestrained.
Before he had returned from the foot of the mountain, he heard the sound of horses' hooves coming from the east.

There was only one rider.
quickly
A tall, bearded old man came into view.

This is Yang Dalongtou's third visit to Wolong Mountain.

"Big boss, please."

Zhou Yi invited him into the temple. The big dragon dismounted and looked at him with some complicated feelings.

Then he stretched out a hand towards the mountain path and said leisurely:

"Master Zhou, please."

A strange glint flashed in Zhou Yi's eyes, but he quickly calmed down.

The two climbed the mountain together.

The south wind rustled the ancient cypress trees on both sides, and they walked very slowly.

"Why should the big boss change my title? Actually, I'm quite content to be the abbot of Wuzhuang Temple here."

"Eh, Mr. Yang is also unwilling."

Yang Zhen stroked his long beard:

"But then I thought that I was getting old and would not have many more opportunities to meet the amazing people in the world. The Celestial Master stirred up a thousand miles of misty waves and suddenly went to cultivate the land in Nanyang. It would be a great regret of my life if I, Yang, did not take the initiative to say hello."

"You flatter me, sir."

Zhou Yi sighed softly: "I have had a long and arduous journey, and there is nothing to boast about. Now that I have a place to live in peace, I cherish it all the more."

Yang Zhen shook his head: "At first I was just curious, but I didn't expect to be so surprised as I investigated the clues. It also solved my doubts."

"Only the Celestial Master's Taiping Hongbao can defy fate and change the fate of Brother Su's injuries."

"Given Yang's initial temperament, he probably would have avoided the Celestial Master like the plague. Now that he knows what Celestial Master Zhou is like, his attitude is completely different."

He speaks frankly and directly, without beating around the bush.

Zhou Yi asked with a smile, "Does the Grand Dragon Head want me to continue as the Abbot, or as the Celestial Master?"

"That depends on your mood. I have no power to control that," Yang Zhen said with a wry smile.

"The Celestial Master is young, yet he has experienced the full spectrum of human emotions that ordinary people rarely encounter in their entire lives. He possesses a profound understanding that is beyond the comprehension of an old and frail person like myself."

"Eh~!"

Zhou Yi disagreed: "That's an exaggeration. We were weeding and leveling the fields together a while ago. What's the difference?"

Upon hearing this, Yang Zhen stroked his beard and smiled.

The two chatted all the way to the Taoist temple, and when they sat down to drink tea, the head of the temple finally got to the point.

"The Sui dynasty has lost its mandate; should the Celestial Master pursue it?"

Yang Zhen stared at him intently.

Zhou Yi said, "Actually, compared to losing the throne, I would prefer a stable life."

However

Zhou Yi met his gaze:

"If the Grand Dragon Head can find out my background, he knows that my identity has many flaws and cannot be kept completely secret. How can the court view the Way of Peace? Even if I lose my identity as the leader of the Way of Peace, in the eyes of those with ulterior motives, appearances can be changed, but the bones and blood cannot be changed."

"Unless I sever all ties with the mortal world and truly become a recluse, but to be honest, I might not be able to sit still. I already have the urge to go out for a stroll."

"In this chaotic world, the situation is constantly changing."

"I need to think about myself, but I also need to consider my loved ones and friends."

Yang Zhen understood his thoughts and even grasped a little bit of his predicament.

He then asked, "Does the Celestial Master intend to forge swords from Nanyang?"

Zhou Yi countered, "What are the major players' plans?"

Yang Zhen looked towards Dongdu and suddenly changed the subject: "The Celestial Master should be unaware of a certain matter."

"What's the matter?"

"It is related to the leader of the righteous path in the world."

Zhou Yi said without hesitation: "Cihang Jingzhai tells the Great Dragon Head to wait patiently for the appearance of the Lord of the World. At that time, when Nanyang is handed over, he can receive the favor and protect the people of Nanyang."

Yang Zhen gasped for breath, his heart still racing. This was a top-secret matter, and he would never let it out.

"Even the successors of the Holy Land couldn't have imagined that the Celestial Master could see right through them."

He didn't delve into it further, and added, "I, Yang, am quite adept at reading people, and thus I made a rather strange discovery."

Zhou Yi's expression changed slightly: "Could it be that Cihang Jingzhai has already informed the Grand Leader who will obtain the Sui Dynasty's throne?"

“That’s not true”

Yang Zhen's tone changed: "But strangely, from the tone of this successor's voice, it seems that he has someone in mind."

"Looking back, at that time, the imperial edict for the three campaigns against Goguryeo had not yet been issued in the Eastern Capital."

He picked up his tea and took a sip: "Or perhaps it's just my imagination. As the first successor of the sacred land of martial arts, it's normal for him to have confidence in his words."

The timing for Cihang Jingzhai's selection of personnel didn't match up, and Zhou Yi didn't have a definite answer for the time being.

Yang Zhen interrupted his thoughts:

"The words of the successor of the Holy Land originally resonated with me, but that was before I met the Celestial Master."

"Now, my mind has changed."

"Let's not mention the life-saving grace, nor the chivalrous deeds of Yongqiu that swept across the land, but only observe the surrounding area of ​​Wolong Mountain."

Yang Zhen sighed, "Some things can't be faked."

"However, I hope the Celestial Master will make good use of the Nanyang sword."

Zhou Yi chuckled, breaking the heavy atmosphere with a single sentence:
"Thank you for your trust, Great Leader, but please call me Abbot for now. This sword is with you, and I don't want to get caught up in the war."

"Just these words from the big boss are enough to put my mind at ease, and that overcomes everything."

"Thank you, thank you." Zhou Yi thanked him repeatedly, poured water for Yang Zhen, and toasted him with tea instead of wine.

Yang Zhen was taken aback.

With the world in chaos, the Taiping Heavenly Master has his support. Once he raises the banner of righteousness, hundreds of thousands of people will gather in an instant with the thunderous title of Great Teacher of Virtue.

At that time, we will destroy Champion City, unify Nanyang County, and then occupy Huai'an.

Following this, they would march south to seize Xiangyang, control the Han River, and then head north to capture Xiangcheng and threaten the Eastern Capital. In this way, the largest rebel force in the land could be formed within a few months.

Anyone with even a little ambition would probably dream about this.

The Celestial Master's calmness brought peace to his previously anxious heart.

after that
The two then discussed the events at the Hanxian wharf the previous night, the subsequent changes in the city, and Zhu Can's actions.

Around noon, Lao Dan brought some good food from the city and invited Yang Zhen to have lunch at the temple.

He came here today after careful consideration.

Therefore, he didn't consider himself an outsider, eating and drinking with Lao Dan, and finished off Zhou Yi's several months' worth of "aged wine".

The big dragon head's face was flushed with wine; if he were to wield his crescent blade and test his weapon against Old Dan, it would be a perfect opportunity.

Zhou Yi will probably have to search the boxes in the warehouse to see if Master Jiao Wuzi has hidden a pair of double-edged swords inside.

There is also a peach tree in the backyard.

That's absolutely right.

After Yang Zhen finished his meal and descended the mountain, he pondered the journey.

This third visit to Wolong Mountain was not only to be frank and open, but also to prepare to break the peace.

But the person on the mountain was much calmer than me.

Therefore, it was as if everyone had simply switched identities to chat and get to know each other better.

For Nanyang as a whole, not much has changed.

Yang Zhen looked down at the foot of Wolong Mountain, where Baihe Village had changed a lot.

More people, the renovated rows of houses, the regular morning market, and children chasing and playing.
He looked at all this with satisfaction and had thought of extending these changes in Baihe Village to Nanyang County.

Even this small goal proved difficult for him to achieve.

so.
Nanyang really needs a new leader.

He had been troubled by this for a long time, but now he has found someone who seems quite suitable.

With a smile on his flushed face, Yang Dalong slowly rode his horse back to the county town.

He figured out many things, and let go of many things.

At this moment, Yang Dalong's silhouette from behind looked somewhat like the short, stout Taoist priest.
……

Outside Nanyang City, in the eastern suburbs.

"Do you know this person?"

"I recognize him/her." The speaker's voice trembled slightly.

"He is the head of the Jingshan Sect in the city!"

Another person said, "Second Young Master, this person died because someone shattered his heart meridian with internal force."

"He had no other injuries, which shows that the leader of the Jingshan Sect did not last more than a few moves."

Song Shidao frowned: "Never mind, just throw it in the river."

"Yes!"

With a splash, the body that had just been pulled from the river was thrown back into it.

As Song Shidao gazed in the direction of Nanyang City, his ominous premonition grew stronger.

We haven't even entered the city yet.
They ended up picking up a dead sect leader.

Then I remembered.
He had only entered Nanyang territory a few days ago when he ran into seven or eight masters of the Demonic Sect.

The aura of these people is very similar to that of the person I bumped into on the banks of the Yangtze River.

Being far from home, Song Shidao naturally dared not provoke them.

What Uncle Lu said is true.
The reputation of the Song Clan was of no use whatsoever in the face of such a 'devil's den'.

As they walked toward the city gate, they asked the guide sent by the Water Dragon Gang for directions.

How strong is the Jing Mountain Sect?

"Reporting to the Second Young Master, the Jingshan Sect, like the Tuanjiang Sect, has been removed from the list of the eight major powers in Nanyang."

Lu Yi, the leader of the Water Dragon Gang, said: "The Jing Mountain Sect was initially ranked high in Nanyang, with more than 3,000 members. They controlled caravans traveling to and from the northern desert and did various leather goods business."

"However, it has now been divided up by various companies."

"There have been many changes in the city recently, such as the defense of the city gates. Originally, the defense was rotated among the eight forces every month."

“Now, the Nanyang Gang occupies the defenses every month, while the rest are distributed to other families.”

Song Shidao asked in confusion, "Why is the leader of Yangzhen not quite the same as I've heard? Don't the other sects have any objections to the Nanyang Gang doing this?"

"Most likely not."

Lu Yi looked around cautiously and said, "Yang Dalong has changed a lot. We must not look at him with the same eyes we had before."

Song Shidao was unaware of the inside story, but he had already seen a corner of the Nanyang Demon Cave.

To avoid being thrown into the river like Sect Leader Ren,

Young Master Song was extremely cautious and prepared to act politely according to the local gang's rules.

"In that case, we still need to discuss the business in Nanyang with Yang Dalongtou."

Lü Yi shook his head: "That's not the case."

"The Finance Department is under the control of the Nanyang Gang, but projects such as salt, freight, horses, tea, and wine are mostly operated by other factions. The Nanyang Gang doesn't need to manage everything, yet it benefits from each faction."

"This is also the basis for their dominance of Nanyang County."

"Salt, the quarterly supervisor of Guiyang Xinghui."

"This person is on good terms with the Yuwen Clan and the Haisha Gang, so we can't go looking for him. But going to Yang Dalongtou won't help either, as the Nanyang Gang won't directly intervene. That's why our gang couldn't seize the initiative with the Yangxing Society, and was suppressed by the Haisha Gang at every turn."

Song Shidao frowned: "Wouldn't that mean you have no foundation? Once the Hai Sha Gang's manpower is replenished, your current business will be crushed."

"so."

"The second young master is going to see someone."

West of the county seat, at the foot of Wolong Mountain.

Song Shidao looked up at the hillside and saw beautiful trees with intertwined shades, lush and verdant, a scene of perfect summer beauty.

He had already listened to Lu Yi of the Water Dragon Gang's detailed explanation and knew who lived on the mountain.

There's no need to verify the truth of those rumors.

Only one item.
Those who can build a Taoist temple on the site of a demon's lair are no ordinary people.

"I am in charge; do not act rashly."

"Yes!"

The eight Song family swordsmen all agreed.

Song Shidao looked at the hill again, sorted out his thoughts, and went to climb the mountain.

As the son of the Heavenly Blade, he would never be so nervous unless he was deeply trapped in the 'Demon Cave'.

The group climbed the steps without stopping until they reached the Wuzhuang Temple.

The gatekeepers were two burly men, broad-shouldered and thick-waisted, with a faint yellow light shining in their eyes, indicating that they were external martial arts masters who had cultivated their internal energy.

"Where are you all from?"

Two large men, one on the left and one on the right, greeted each other with clasped hands.

Song Shidao dared not underestimate him and said, "I am Song Shidao from the Song family of Lingnan. I have come to pay my respects to the abbot."

Song Shidao noticed the expressions on their faces.

Upon hearing that the Song family of Lingnan was present, they were not particularly surprised, nor did they immediately welcome them inside. They simply said a polite remark and then informed the family.

The titles of the four major clans are of little use.

No wonder Yuwen Huaji's son died here.

Before long, two intelligent-looking young Taoist disciples came out and said with a smile, "Friends from the Song family, please."

When Song Shidao entered the main hall, he was greeted by a handsome and refined young man.

Judging from appearances alone, one cannot tell whether the abbot is skilled in martial arts.

Then consider their age.
Barring any unforeseen circumstances, a remarkable figure will emerge in Nanyang.

News about the Song family is still somewhat out of the loop.

"Abbot, I apologize for disturbing you."

"Brother Song, please have a seat."

Zhou Yi looked at Song Shidao, who was dressed as a scholar, and was very puzzled.

How does the Son of Heavenly Blade find Nanyang?

"Brother Song, you've come all the way from Lingnan. May I ask what brings you here?"

"There are some trivial matters that may disturb the abbot's peace."

"You flatter me, please go on."

Seeing that Zhou Yi was straightforward, Song Shidao also made no attempt to hide anything.

He then told them everything about the Song family's salt business and the Water Dragon Gang, including the profit sharing.

After weighing the options, Zhou Yi stated frankly:
"Most of the salt goods in the city are under the jurisdiction of the Yangxing Association, and I shouldn't be getting involved. However, Brother Song's identity is somewhat special."

“I have a deep connection with your ancestor from the Song family in Lingnan.”

Song Shidao, who had been listening patiently, immediately straightened his back, which greatly surprised him:

"What Master Yi said is true, but my Song family has no descendants in the Central Plains."

"It has nothing to do with any offspring; the source is your ancestor, Senior Song Beifeng."

Zhou Yi, his eyes filled with a sense of vicissitude, murmured, "The swallows that once graced the halls of the Wang and Xie families now fly into the homes of ordinary people."

Song Shidao focused on his expression and was deeply moved.

"Master, could you please tell me the details? I wonder what kind of relationship our two families have?"

Zhou Yi shook his head slightly: "I need to meet with Clan Leader Song to verify this in person; otherwise, it's just empty talk."

"How can we verify this?"

Zhou Yi said, "I draw my sword, and the Heavenly Blade draws its blade."

Song Shidao stood up abruptly from his chair and looked Zhou Yi up and down: "Master Yi, you...you..."

He advised, "You must not do that."

“Once my father draws his sword, it will be no small matter.”

In Nanyang, even martial arts geniuses are this crazy; they're practically courting death.

Song Shidao inwardly complained, knowing very well what kind of person his father was.

They simply assumed that the abbot was young and impetuous.

I will not inquire about matters of ancestral friendship, lest I botch the Nanyang affair.

Zhou Yi smiled and changed the subject: "Although the Water Dragon Gang's salt trade is troublesome, I'm willing to help with this."

"Thank you!" Song Shidao quickly cupped his hands, once again experiencing the straightforwardness of Master Yi.

He knew this was a difficult matter and felt he owed a great favor.

So he then invited Zhou Yi to visit Lingnan, but told him not to resort to violence.

Zhou Yi found this second son of the Song family to be very strange. He was polite to people, but he seemed a little uneasy.

Guessing that he might have urgent business, they discussed how to contact the Water Dragon Gang and then did not keep him.

Watching the young master of the Song family hurriedly descend the mountain.

Zhou Yi laughed; this was a good deal.

Making money and gaining favors at the same time—we'd love to have more people like Song Erlang.

As for the Yangxing Society...
Ji Huizhu has something to hide, so he keeps a low profile in everything he does. There's no one in the city more honest than him.

It is worth noting that the Water Dragon Gang and the Giant Kun Gang are mortal enemies along the southeast coast.

Zhou Yi immediately went to Nanyang City to find Chen Laomou and told him about the Water Dragon Gang and the Song Clan, so as to avoid any misunderstandings.

Old Chen did not object and offered to send someone to keep an eye on the salt accounts of the Water Dragon Gang, guaranteeing a good share of the profits.

With their arch-enemies watching the accounts, the leaders of the Water Dragon Gang had no chance of shirking their responsibilities.
After Song Shidao left Nanyang at lightning speed.
With the support of the Five Villages Temple, the Water Dragon Gang's suppression within the city disappeared.

They had previously seized business from the Hai Sha Gang and quickly consolidated their position.

And they will operate openly and compete fairly with the Hai Sha Gang.

With no single company dominating the market, salt prices plummeted, benefiting ordinary residents of the county.

On the Gray-Clad Gang's side, Zhou Yi observed Qiu Wenzhong for a period of time and found him to be truly adept at handling mundane affairs.

So they often invited him to the Taoist temple and trained him diligently.

He also arranged for the two young Taoist disciples to follow him and learn from him in their spare time.

These days, Champion City is unusually quiet. It's unclear whether Zhu Can, that hungry wolf, is asleep or just pretending to sleep.

Yang Dalongtou felt a little uncomfortable.

The group secretly wondered if Zhu Can had already been put into a coffin by the old man.
That would be a good thing.

After his battle with Master Ren, Zhou Yi felt that he was somewhat lacking in his techniques and could not unleash his combat power commensurate with his speed.

So, on Yang Dalong's recommendation, he found some martial arts skills such as fist and foot techniques in the Nanyang Gang.

Why would someone who possesses the "Taiping Hongbao" need to engage in such mundane techniques? This was something Yang Dalongtou couldn't understand.

However, he has no shortage of patience.

I always practice any technique I know.

With such a master demonstrating the moves step by step, Zhou Yi's progress in mastering the techniques was greatly accelerated.

More than a month has passed in the blink of an eye.

In the tenth year of the Daye era, as autumn approached, Zhou Yi stood on the roof of Wuzhuang Temple, gazing at the temporarily peaceful rear area, his heart overflowing with emotion.

He had already made his plans; seven days later, he would step on the first fallen leaf of autumn and head southeast.
……

Five days before the beginning of autumn.

On the west bank of the lower reaches of the Yu River, forty miles north of Xinye, a salt warehouse is engulfed in flames!

Corpses littered the ground, weapons scattered, and blood splattered everywhere.
One of the salt warehouses belonging to the Water Dragon Gang was almost completely uprooted.

Corpses continued to drift downstream in the Yu River.

"Uncle, was this information accurate?"

On the banks of the Yu River, Yuwen Qinghui, covered in blood, was wiping the bloodstains off his longsword.

The tall man standing to the side was Yuwen Wudi, the second son of Yuwen Shang, the head of the Yuwen clan.

One of the four top masters among the second generation of the Yuwen family.

"Excellent, very well done."

Yuwen Wudi added, "It's really strange that Ji Yinong of the Yangxing Society has suddenly turned into a coward. However, it's not a big deal to not use these useless people for some things."

"Let's teach them a lesson this time."

"One of the three leaders of the Water Dragon Gang is dead. They should behave themselves in the city."

He smiled coldly, a hint of smugness in his eyes.

Yuwen Qinghui then asked, "Are we making arrangements in Huai'an?"

"of course."

"The Song clan is powerful in Lingnan, but what are they here?"

As the Yuwen clan members talked, they headed east towards the Yu River.

After everyone had gone far away, several figures drifted downstream of the Yu River, where some corpses were about to flow into Xinye.

A figure darted across the Yu River, scooped up a woman in white, and placed her on the shore.

Judging from her face, she is a woman who is not yet thirty years old.

She had a dignified appearance, with a slightly thin face that exuded a touch of gentleness.

At this moment, his face was deathly pale, blood dripped from his lips, and his fate was unknown.

"Let's go."

"You have to be careful."

"Ah."

A few brief, cold voices were swallowed by the Yu River.
The third day after Yuwen Wudi destroyed the Salt Warehouse of the Water Dragon Gang.

On Wolong Mountain, at dusk, Zhou Yi had packed his bags and was talking to Xia Shuyanqiu.

A series of hurried footsteps echoed along the mountain path. Zhou Yi heard them from afar and, without needing anyone to announce his arrival, left the temple gate on his own.

Most of the newcomers were unfamiliar faces, but one look at the markings on their bodies revealed that they were from the Water Dragon Gang.

At this moment, a door panel was being carried, and the person on top of it was breathing very unsteadily.

"Guanzhu!"

When the gang members saw Zhou Yi, they felt as if they had suddenly found their pillar of support.

"What's going on?" Zhou Yi frowned slightly.

One of the gang members said:

"The warehouse north of Xinye was attacked, and almost everyone in the rudder was killed. We found the leader downstream; she was unconscious and barely breathing."

"We have no other choice but to bring it here and ask the abbot to try it."

"Commander Ao would have a very difficult time surviving using ordinary methods."

"Please observe the test. Try to call her back from the underworld."

The Water Dragon Gang wasn't exactly grasping at straws, after all, it wasn't a secret that the Master of Wuzhuang Temple traveled between the realms of the living and the dead.

Zhou Yi glanced at the person on the door panel.

He was somewhat impressed.

The Water Dragon Gang has three leaders, and this one, the third, is called White Dragon.

Its name is...
Oh right, her name is Ao Zi.

Zhou Yi looked her over and confirmed that she was indeed Commander Bailong. He quickly waved to her.

“Carry her into the temple.”

"Yes Yes Yes!"

The Water Dragon Gang members answered hastily, clearly panicked.

Ao Zi was carried into the backyard, where the secrets of true qi were involved, and Zhou Yi dismissed the outsiders.

He reached out and checked her pulse; it was intermittent, and she could die at any moment.

However, the root of her problem remains unclear.

I touched the palms and backs of my hands; they were icy cold.

He raised his hand and gently touched her Tanzhong acupoint, sending a stream of true energy into it.

There was no demonic aura.

Just as this true energy entered the woman's Tanzhong acupoint in an extremely gentle manner, her body seemed to tremble slightly.

Zhou Yi grabbed the back of her neck and made her sit up.

At this point, press on her Mingmen acupoint from behind, then press on Yaoyangguan, then move to Zhongshu, and finally to Zhiyang.
True Qi flowed through her Ren and Du meridians.

That's it
Zhou Yi understood immediately and roughly guessed who was behind it.

The Ice Profound Force was created by Yuwen Fa.

The icy power of the Ice Profound Force remained stagnant in her body, causing blockages in her meridians. Coupled with internal injuries, this resulted in her often experiencing hidden meridians and her breath coming and going.

If we delay another day, we will surely die.

However, this was not a difficult task for him.

He immediately activated his Xuanmen power to dispel the cold energy in each of the acupoints.

Zhou Yi stood at the doorway, pushing his inner energy with his palm.

But he couldn't see it.
As his true energy slowly entered, Ao Zi, the White Dragon Commander facing the inside of the house, opened her eyes despite being severely injured.

At this moment, her eyes were hazy, occasionally flashing with an elfin brilliance.
She closed her eyes again, trying to feel it more deeply.

She unconsciously opened her mouth slightly, almost letting out a soft hum.
……

(End of this chapter)