Arhats Subduing Demons: Starting with The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber

Chapter 118 What cannot be forced can be done

Zhang Wuji focused his mind and concentrated his energy, channeling the Nine Yang Divine Skill into his five fingers. In his plucking and strumming, he employed the most profound skill of the seventh level of the "Great Shift of Heaven and Earth".

This level of skill is the most demanding in terms of mental and physical strength, and cannot be neglected in the slightest. When he practiced the seventh level, he also discovered nineteen mental techniques, just like Yun Changkong. After practicing them, his blood and qi surged uncontrollably. He deeply understood the principle of "contentment brings no disgrace" and did not force it.

However, if this skill is not used properly, he will suffer from qi deviation. However, his fist and palm skills are not even comparable to those of second or third-rate people. If he were to use the fifth or sixth level of the Qiankun Shifting Skill to deal with Yun Changkong, it would naturally be of no use. Therefore, he focused his mind and used the most profound "Qiankun Great Shifting Skill".

The force of the five fingers collided with Yun Changkong's palm, and with a loud bang, the condensed earthen wall scattered.

Yun Changkong's palm strike was vast and powerful, so the dust on the ground was stirred up by the invisible palm wind, forming an earthen wall. Although Zhang Wuji had dispersed the dust, he felt as if there was a sieve in front of him, his whole body riddled with holes and full of flaws.

The Great Shift of Heaven and Earth excels at creating flaws and exploiting weaknesses.

However, Yun Changkong's Arhat Subduing Demon Skill could gather and disperse at will, without him having to consciously concentrate his power. The power of the Sumeru Palm still surged towards Zhang Wuji like a whirlwind, wave after wave.

Zhang Wuji faced the attack head-on but did not retreat. Ten years ago, he was struck by the Xuanming Divine Palm and was taught the "Wudang Nine Yang Skill" by Zhang Sanfeng. Later, he cultivated the complete "Nine Yang Manual" in Kunlun Valley for more than five years and now he has mastered the Nine Yang Divine Skill.

The Nine Yang True Qi was gentle yet profound. Zhang Wuji thought of the profound meaning in his mind: "Qi sinks into the abyss, strength condenses at the root of the mountain. Let him be strong, the breeze still caresses the mountain ridge; let him be fierce, the bright moon still shines on the great river."

He immediately protected his chest with one palm and swept the other sideways. The wind from the palm struck his body, causing his clothes to ripple violently. The palm force, as imposing as a mountain, swept past him, but he remained motionless. Only his clothes fluttered in the wind, like waves.

Everyone was shocked. It was said that Yun Changkong's powerful palm strike was capable of shaking mountains and valleys. If Zhang Wuji had tried to block it, he would have been injured.

But the reality was quite different; Zeng Aniu remained standing motionless, just as before, like a rock on the sea that, though battered, would not break.

At this moment, all the heroes in the arena turned their gazes to the two of them. They saw Yun Changkong slowly retract his right palm, exhale a long breath, and his eyes gleam with a sharp light.
A flush rose to Zhang Wuji's face, and he suddenly took a big step forward.

Zhang Wuji looked horrified. Suddenly, he leaped up and spun rapidly in the air, drawing four arcs as he spun higher and higher.

Yun Changkong thought to himself, "Sigh, this kid is still far from being good enough, he can't enjoy himself to the fullest!" His figure flashed like lightning, and he arrived at the edge of the square, pushing off with his feet.

In an instant, the "Dragon-Slaying Saber" that was stuck deep in the ground shot out, and at the same time, Zhang Wuji gracefully turned in mid-air and landed lightly several feet away.

Yun Changkong gripped his sword in one hand and instantly appeared in front of Zhang Wuji, but he did not attack; he simply stood motionless.

Just moments ago, his movements were equally swift and agile, but in an instant, he drew his sword and stood still, as steady as Mount Tai. He was truly as still as a virgin and as swift as a rabbit.

The two figures' leaps and horizontal glides had just demonstrated to the assembled heroes what true, unparalleled lightness skill looked like. It was truly breathtaking and awe-inspiring; had they not witnessed it with their own eyes, they would never have believed such skill existed in the world. The crowd erupted in cheers.

Wei Yixiao, the Green-Winged Bat King, was confident in his unparalleled lightness skills, at most inferior to Yun Changkong. But at this moment, he couldn't help but be amazed and impressed by Zhang Wuji, realizing that the saying "learning has no end" was not just empty words.

Zhang Wuji, however, showed no sign of pride. Instead, his face turned deathly pale, and he clasped his hands in a deep sigh, saying, "Great Hero Yun's divine skills are unparalleled, his techniques are almost divine. I am completely convinced." Only one thought occupied his mind: "Zhang Wuji, Zhang Wuji, how can you know there isn't an internal force more profound than the Nine Yang Divine Skill? How can you know there isn't a martial art more powerful than the Great Shift of the Universe? You must remember that there are always higher levels beyond the heavens, and people above people!"

Just now, Zhang Wuji thought he had neutralized Yun Changkong's palm strike, but suddenly, he felt as if his body was being driven and pulled by some force, and he involuntarily took a step. He hurriedly flew into the air to neutralize the remaining force.

It is important to know that the main purpose of "Great Shift of Heaven and Earth" is to reverse the Yin and Yang energies, while the "Arhat Subduing Demon Skill" is best at neutralizing and melting the Yin and Yang energies. Therefore, its internal energy is vast, boundless, and can be changed at will!
Although Zhang Wuji possessed profound internal strength, certainly no less than Yun Changkong's, he ultimately lacked expert guidance. His ability to counter techniques relied entirely on the Nine Yang Divine Skill, and while his Qiankun Great Shift was incredibly skillful, he reacted only to each move. His disadvantage lay in his lack of combat experience and adaptability in real-world situations.

Just when he thought he had neutralized Yun Changkong's palm strike, a counterforce was generated, pushing him into an unsteady stance and causing him to take a step forward!
Between masters, even the slightest shift in momentum or change in position can determine victory or defeat!

The top experts on the field all have exceptional eyesight and know that Yun Changkong is able to control his attacks with ease and command at will. Zhang Wuji is ultimately inferior. If Yun Changkong seizes the opportunity to deliver a palm strike when Zhang Wuji takes a step forward, Zhang Wuji's fate will be in jeopardy.

Similar to how Master Kongzhi and Abbess Miejue secretly applauded Yun Changkong's restrained divine skills and magnanimous heart.

Ultimately, not everyone wants to see a formidable opponent emerge.

They had all fought against Yun Changkong. He and Zhang Wuji did not use any clever moves, but simply fought with three ordinary moves. This was giving up his greatest advantage. Such magnanimity is rare in a hundred years!

They suddenly understood why Yun Changkong's martial arts skills were so high!
They also understood Yun Changkong's saying, "Cultivating the mind is better than refining qi." Their own stubbornness and competitiveness were hardly qualities befitting Buddhist disciples.

Yun Changkong smiled slightly: "I've only practiced martial arts a few years longer than you. A single mistake is nothing to worry about. I'm entrusting this Dragon-Slaying Saber to you. I hope you can use it to command the world and drive out the barbarians!"

Zhang Wuji shook his head and said, "No, no, no, Hero Yun, in terms of martial arts, status, and reputation, I am utterly worthless..."

Before he could finish speaking, Yun Changkong interrupted, "What do you mean by penniless? Those who are famous throughout the world, which one of them didn't start out as nobody? After today, who will dare to say you're penniless?"

“Indeed! Young Hero Zeng bravely faced danger, showing great benevolence and righteousness. Although he lost to Hero Yun by one move, it is enough to make him famous throughout the world!” Peng Yingyu said immediately.

“Exactly! I, Zhou Dian, have always dismissed Peng Zetu’s words as nonsense, but what he said today makes sense!”

Zong Weixia said, "I have always regarded the words of the Demonic Sect as nonsense, but Young Hero Zeng saw that we were numerous and powerful, yet he still defended the Ming Cult without hesitation. He is of noble character and repays evil with good, far surpassing countless famous heroes in the martial arts world. Moreover, regarding Master Yun's three palms, I am afraid that apart from Master Zhang, there is no one else in the world who could withstand them without injury!"

Everyone saw Zeng Aniu's actions. He didn't bully others with force, and he could heal the injuries of those who attacked him. Everyone likes a person like that!
I like Yun Changkong more than ten times more.

The reason is simple: offending Yun Changkong could mean death!

Offending Zhang Wuji, on the other hand, not only avoids death but also allows one to recover from injuries; it's obvious which is more desirable.

Everything has two sides!
Therefore, everyone fears the vast sky, but as for liking and respecting it, I'm really sorry!
They don't want to answer that question!
This is why some people proposed that Yun Changkong be the leader of the martial arts alliance. In fact, apart from the Beggars' Sect, the crowd was in an uproar.

It's simply because there are still people who are not convinced!

For example, there are Wudang Sect, Huashan Sect, Kunlun Sect, Ming Cult, White Eyebrow Cult, and so on, the list goes on and on!
Being unable to win and being convinced are two different things!

Yun Changkong was well aware of his unpopularity. He laughed loudly, his gaze sweeping over the assembled heroes like lightning. He raised his eyebrows and said, "Everyone heard me clearly. I once said that whoever could withstand three of my blows and remain standing would receive the Dragon-Slaying Saber."

"Young Master Zeng, you are exceptionally kind and righteous, and your martial arts are superb. It would be truly worthwhile for me to give you this sword!"

Zhang Wuji shook his head repeatedly and said, "I have been deeply indebted to Hero Yun and have been honored by his humble invitation. I would never dare to refuse to do my part for the cause of overthrowing the Yuan Dynasty."

"But to command the world is absolutely unacceptable. Among the various martial arts sects, Shaolin is the most revered. And when it comes to high moral standing and prestige, it must be me… Master Zhang of the Wudang Sect. How dare this humble one presume to overstep my bounds?"

Yun Changkong said calmly, "Others may not understand my thoughts, but don't you understand them?"

Seeing his stern expression, Zhang Wuji was puzzled and couldn't help but ask, "What are you thinking?"

Yun Changkong's voice deepened as he said, "I already said that the Dragon-Slaying Saber was forged by Master Guo and his wife. Therefore, it contains the military treatise of Marshal Yue Fei, as well as Master Guo's observations and insights gained while fighting alongside Temujin. This is of great use in driving out the Tartars. Do you understand?"

Zhang Wuji suddenly realized that the man wanted him to retrieve his adoptive father's Dragon-Slaying Saber. He said, "I understand. I will not fail you. But even without this, I would still go back. You should understand that."

The assembled heroes were all puzzled, wondering what they understood.
Yun Changkong naturally knew that Zhang Wuji would bring his adoptive father back, and said in a low voice, "A true man acts with a clear conscience, so naturally I must tell you everything. The sea is treacherous, and even if you go to fetch him, you might not return alive, putting you at great risk. I feel very guilty!"

In the original story, Granny Jin Hua brought Xie Xun back. This time, Yun Changkong naturally wouldn't let her go, nor would he. So, Zhang Wuji had to take the risk, which is why it was appropriate to help him become famous!
Zhang Wuji shook his head and said, "Even if I perish at sea, I will go. Hero Yun, there's no need..."

Yun Changkong looked solemn and covered his mouth with his hand as he slowly said, "Even if you get the Dragon-Slaying Saber, you still need to contact Abbess Miejue to get what's inside and obtain the Heaven-Reliant Sword, which also contains something she wants. So you have to accept this saber, and you also need to have the right to do so!"

Upon hearing this, Zhang Wuji vaguely understood that the true secret of the Dragon-Slaying Saber and the Heaven-Reliant Sword was not what Yun Changkong had said. However, this matter was related to Abbess Miejue. Her adoptive father had killed her brother, which would be difficult to handle, so he remained silent.

Yun Changkong said in a low voice, "I know this is difficult, but for your parents' sake, how can you back down?"

Zhang Wuji smiled wryly and said, "What does this have to do with my late parents?"

Yun Changkong said coldly, "Are you really unaware of your parents' reputation in the martial arts world, or what the Wudang Sect thinks of them, or are you pretending not to know?"

These words struck Zhang Wuji like a thunderbolt. He thought of the resentment and anger his uncles and grandmasters held towards his mother, and he believed that his father had been good in every way except for marrying her.

The thought of the Emei Sect members cursing his father, a fine young hero, for degrading himself and causing his own death and disgrace, bringing shame upon the Wudang Sect, echoed in his mind, causing him to tremble slightly.

Yun Changkong laughed and said, "So as your son, you must clear your parents' name!"
Is there anything more exhilarating or thrilling than wielding the Dragon-Slaying Saber, commanding the world, and driving out the barbarians? I know this is a difficult task for you, but in turbulent times, true men emerge. At that time, your grandmaster and the entire world will be proud of you!

A surge of passion welled up in Zhang Wuji's chest. He felt compelled to accomplish something great and prove to them that his father hadn't made a mistake in marrying his mother. He immediately reached out and took the counterfeit Dragon-Slaying Saber, saying, "I understand!"

Yun Changkong patted him on the shoulder and said earnestly, "It's very dangerous to have embarked on this path."

"The Ming Cult will definitely elect you as their leader soon. However, there's Zhu Yuanzhang. He has a group of capable men who can accomplish great things. But he's ruthless and heartless; there's no one in the world he won't kill. The Ming Cult will truly be destroyed by him. You must be on guard. If necessary, you can strike first!"

Zhang Wuji had met Zhu Yuanzhang and also thought he was a formidable figure. Hearing Chang Kong's words, he immediately felt a chill.
Yun Changkong continued, "If you want to deal with Abbess Miejue, you must understand that she is arrogant and conceited. So just go along with her, even if you think she is wrong, don't criticize her behavior."

Besides, a certain girl fed you a bowl of rice on a boat on the Han River, and kept thinking about whether she could feed you again in the future. So, it's nothing if you suffer a little hardship!

Upon hearing this, Zhang Wuji blushed deeply. He looked at Yun Changkong, then at Zhou Zhiruo, noticing her slightly furrowed brows as she stared at them, lost in thought.

Yun Changkong laughed and said, "Alright, I've said everything I needed to say. The rest will fall into place naturally. Whether others form an alliance or not is not that important. The main thing is the Beggars' Sect."

They outnumber us and are well-informed; this is a force we must unite with. However, the hatred runs deep because of the Sacred Flame Token issue. You need to work on mediating between them. Wang Xiaotian, the eldest disciple of Chief Shi of the Beggars' Sect, is my good brother. Like you, he's a loyal and righteous man. You should spend more time with him. If you get along well, I'll support you from behind, and I'll be happy for you!

Zhang Wuji solemnly replied, "I will remember this!"
"Master Yun, please accept my bow."

His gratitude towards Yun Changkong was beyond words!

Back when Xie Xun recounted Cheng Kun's story on Icefire Island, Zhang Wuji wanted to avenge his adoptive father. But who helped him accomplish this?
The sky is filled with clouds!

He subdued Cheng Kun and even allowed himself to avenge his adoptive father!
Later, he learned the "Great Shift of Heaven and Earth" mental technique. This time, in front of the heroes, he cleared his adoptive father's name, settled his adoptive father's long-cherished grudge with Master Kongjian of Shaolin, and promoted him to become famous throughout the world. He was like a second parent to Yun Changkong, and they should kowtow and pay homage to him!

Yun Changkong helped him up and said, "We are all men of courage and integrity, why be so formal! If you are truly grateful to me, please ask your grandmaster to give you some proper guidance. After six months to a year of training, we can have a real competition, and that will be more than enough!"

Upon hearing this, Zhang Wuji felt grateful and even closer to him. It's important to understand that those who have reached a high level of martial arts skill are already hard to find opponents, making it easy for a sense of mutual respect and admiration to develop between heroes!
His selfless act of kindness impressed Zhang Wuji greatly, who felt that a true man should act in this way!

Zhang Wuji immediately clasped his hands in greeting and said, "Great Hero Yun..."

Yun Changkong waved his hand and said, "Don't call me a hero anymore. Actually, my reputation in the martial arts world is mostly about being arrogant, domineering, conceited, and ruthless. I am hated by many people."

This includes the Wudang Sect!

The reason they call me a hero is simply because they hope I will live up to this title and truly become a hero!
They only believed that a gentleman could be deceived by reason! But I refused to do as they wished!

Zhang Wuji smiled and said, "I really suspect that Brother Yun is a god descended from heaven, as if there is nothing in the world that you do not know!"

"Yes!" Yun Changkong smiled faintly: "That is the human heart!"

Zhang Wuji was taken aback. Chang Kong swayed and arrived next to Zhao Min and Xiao Zhao.

The two women were completely confused. When they saw him coming over, they said in unison, "Now you should tell us the reason, right?"

They had been wondering why Yun Changkong had such high expectations for Zeng Aniu.

Yun Changkong said, "Because he is Zhang Wuji, the son of Zhang Cuishan and Yin Susu!"

These words struck like a thunderbolt from a clear sky, leaving the two women pale with shock. They had both heard from the Wu family that Zhang Wuji had fallen off a cliff and died; how could he be here?

The two women looked at each other and smiled bitterly, finally understanding the reason. Zhao Min said, "No wonder you remain calm and composed despite the storms, determined to retire from the martial world."

Xiao Zhao understood why Zhang Wuji could win people over with virtue, and said softly, "Young Master Zhang has a great grudge on his hands, yet he was able to make such a decision; it's truly remarkable." Yun Changkong smiled slightly, "Yes, I'm far inferior to such a person. Xiao Zhao, do you like him?"

Xiao Zhao blushed and lowered her head.

Zhao Min snorted, "If anyone forces my family to their deaths, I will kill them all! What's the point of living for someone like him?"

Yun Changkong laughed and said, "Then are you afraid of him?"

Zhao Min was taken aback.

At this moment, Yang Xiao, the Five Wanderers, and others bowed down in unison: "Greetings, Master Zhang! We request that Master Zhang succeed as the thirty-fourth leader of our sect."

The Ming Cult followers all bowed down in respect.

The heroes were not surprised by this, after all, Yun Changkong had made it clear that Zeng A Niu had practiced the Ming Cult's supreme martial art, "Qiankun Da Nuoyi". But they were also puzzled as to what kind of hero Zhang was this.

Yin Tianzheng asked in surprise, "Young Master Zeng's surname is Zhang?"

Yang Xiao said, "Eagle King, this young hero Zeng is none other than your grandson Zhang Wuji!"

"What?!" The Wudang heroes rushed forward in unison.

"You are Wuji!"

"Are you really Zhang Wuji, Fifth Brother's son?"

They chattered amongst themselves, forgetting all about the disputes and grudges between the six major sects and the Ming Cult.

The assembled heroes were all astonished, never expecting that this young man, who risked his life to protect the Ming Cult, possessed unparalleled martial arts skills, and repaid evil with kindness, was actually the son of Zhang Cuishan of the Wudang Sect.

Abbess Miejue understood everything; only Zhang Wuji could find Xie Xun and retrieve the Dragon-Slaying Saber.

This caused some people to be shocked and angry, while others were delighted but also filled with great doubt and astonishment!
The Ming Cult members supported Zhang Wuji as their leader because they admired his righteous act of risking his life for others, and also because of his high level of martial arts skills. They never expected that he had such a background.

There were those who were delighted, those who were surprised, and those who were both happy and worried.

My feelings were extremely complicated.

Especially people like the Five Elders of Kongtong.

It should be noted that when Zhang Cuishan and his wife committed suicide, they had both gone to Wudang Mountain. Although they were not the culprits, they could not help but feel guilty.

When they gathered at Wudang Mountain back then, many felt they had offended the Wudang Sect. At that time, they were not afraid of the Wudang Sect when they were all together. But when they left the mountain, they were all uneasy, fearing that the Wudang Sect would settle scores with them one by one. But the Wudang Sect never came.

They are a chivalrous sect, but back then, Zhang Wuji, the son of Zhang Cuishan and Yin Susu, circled around them with a face full of hatred. They dared not meet his gaze!

At this moment, the young man, having mastered his martial arts, did not take the opportunity to seek revenge. Instead, he repaid evil with kindness and healed his injuries.
This caused a great deal of turmoil in the hearts of the Five Elders of Kongtong, a mixture of emotions. Putting everything else aside, the Kongtong Sect was now completely in awe of Zhang Wuji.

As for the claim that Zhang Cuishan committed suicide because his wife hurt his third brother, and he was unable to avenge her, he was ashamed and committed suicide, and that Yin Susu died for love, that is the truth.

But this is not the truth in everyone's mind.

The principle is simple: if a person has something on their mind, no matter what situation they encounter, they will always connect that matter with their thoughts.

For example, a lawbreaker will avoid law enforcement officers because he feels that all law enforcement officers in the world are after him.

For example, when young boys and girls fall in love, they inevitably feel that everything the other says or does is for them!

Little did they know, they were overthinking it!

Even the most intelligent person cannot avoid this situation.

Of the thousands of people in the martial arts world who went to Wudang Mountain in the past, how many actually sought revenge against Xie Xun? The real goal was to force Zhang Cuishan to reveal Xie Xun's whereabouts! Therefore, his feelings upon seeing Zhang Wuji now were those of someone with a guilty conscience!
Zhao Min's expression was grave as she said, "Brother Yun, you should also think about me."

Yun Changkong sighed: "I know you're afraid of him."

Zhao Min sighed softly, her soft, boneless body slowly moving closer to her embrace. She murmured, "Actually, I'm not afraid of him. I have a hundred ways to ruin a nice guy like him. What I'm afraid of is his own example. If he really enlightens you martial arts people and you unite as one, none of my father and brothers will have a good ending!"

Zhao Min is of noble birth and possesses unparalleled beauty. To win her favor is enough to melt the hearts of countless tough men.

She gave her precious body, all her tenderness, and her sincere love to Yun Changkong without reservation.

But the current developments terrify her!
She was, after all, a Mongol, and ultimately, Zhao Min, whose love for her parents and brothers was no less than her love for them!
She's so smart, she sees so far ahead!

She witnessed Yun Changkong's refusal to shed a single drop of blood, and his personal efforts to forge the alliance. Or rather, the alliance was already formed.

Ordinary people cannot understand Zhang Wuji's appeal. Zhao Min, being exceptionally intelligent, naturally understood his immense strengths and Yun Changkong's weaknesses.

From the day he dealt with the Eagle Sect, Yun Changkong's later conflicts with the Huashan Sect, Kunlun Sect, Ming Cult, and others cut off his path to becoming the supreme martial arts master.

It's because you yourself acted swiftly and decisively, even at the cost of offending both the righteous and the demonic factions, yet you won't let us take revenge. Why should we?
Even if various means are used to make some people give up revenge, there will inevitably be many people who are not satisfied.

His insistence on being the leader of the martial arts alliance prevents everyone from working together effectively, rendering him utterly useless!
However, Zhang Wuji was different. From the moment he appeared, his actions showed that he forgot his hatred and repaid evil with kindness.

If he were to say that everyone should unite as one to fight against the Mongols, everyone would believe him.

His parents were forced to their deaths at Wudang Mountain by various sects, and he, with his superb martial arts skills and leadership of a major sect, not only did not seek revenge on anyone, but also repaid evil with kindness.

This exemplary conduct is always the most essential element in winning people's hearts.

That's why the original Zhang Wuji united all the martial arts forces, forming a powerful anti-Yuan force.

Yun Changkong said in a low voice, "Actually, even without me, Zhang Wuji was capable of forming a martial arts alliance. It would just have required wasting a lot of wealth and losing many lives! If your brother could come, it wouldn't have been so troublesome."

In the original story, the six major sects besieged the Ming Cult, suffering heavy casualties. Then, the Beggar Clan led more than twenty other gangs to besiege the Ming Cult again. At that time, the Ming Cult could not resist and left behind many corpses, before disappearing into the secret passage!
The Ming Cult's altars, built over a century, and its hundreds of magnificent halls and buildings were reduced to ashes. The fire raged for two days and two nights without extinguishing. In the end, only the charred remains of many Ming Cult casualties remained, leading the Beggars' Sect to believe that the Ming Cult had been wiped out. Only then did they withdraw!
However, some gangs did not leave, and the two sides fought again, resulting in many deaths and injuries. Later, whether it was Zhao Min's "Mantis Stalking the Cicada" or the Heroes' Gathering, many more people died because of this.

It wasn't until the Mongol army besieged Shaoshi Mountain that everyone elected Zhang Wuji as the leader of the martial arts alliance to jointly defend against the enemy.

Zhao Min said in a low voice, "My brother is more intelligent than me and is well-versed in strategy. Why would he travel so far to take advantage of your gathering? He wouldn't do something so counterproductive."

Yun Changkong naturally understood this principle as well.

If the Mongols come, things will be simpler. All internal conflicts will turn into external conflicts. But if they don't come, things will be very difficult!
Because everyone has different thoughts and ideas, it is extremely difficult to achieve unity.

At this moment, Shi Huolong and Wang Xiaotian walked over. Yun Changkong immediately stood up, and Shi Huolong immediately clasped his hands and said, "Hero Yun, I must apologize to you first."

Yun Changkong quickly helped him up, saying, "If it's about protecting the Dharma, then it's also because of your high expectations of me, Senior. I really can't accept that."

Shi Huolong sighed and said, "Since you started out, you have faced difficulties head-on and become more determined with each setback. You were the first to expose the Yuan court's treacherous schemes and spread the warning to the martial arts world. I truly admire you. I think I can pass this responsibility on to you."

Yun Changkong laughed and said, "But I'm hopeless."

Shi Huolong said, "You don't need to be modest. Today you single-handedly resolved the feud between our gang and the Ming Cult. You truly are a hero."

Yun Changkong laughed and said, "Chief, there's no need to flatter me. Zhang Wuji is kind-hearted, gentle on the outside but firm on the inside, and a man of great courage. You should get along well with him. It's a great thing to have him in charge of the Ming Cult!"

Shi Huolong said, "You intend to push him to become the leader of the martial arts world, right?"

Yun Changkong nodded and said, "Yes, only he can do it. And he is kind-hearted. Even if he achieves great things in the future, I am not afraid that he will betray me and take my life!"

Wang Xiaotian said, "Zhang Wuji is indeed a remarkable person, but he is too kind-hearted and soft-hearted. Without authority, he cannot command respect!"

Yun Changkong said solemnly, "If power can subdue the masses, why would we rebel against the Yuan? Is it because the Mongols haven't destroyed enough countries or killed enough people?"
Intimidation only provides temporary relief; it has no lasting effect. I've told you this countless times, but you just can't remember!

Wang Xiaotian was stunned, as if struck by lightning. It took him a long while to recover, and he said with a wry smile, "This is the principle of 'the dragon that soars too high will regret it,' I forgot again!"

Yun Changkong clasped his hands in a fist salute and said, "I have some personal matters to attend to, so I'll be leaving now! Take care, everyone!"

He nodded to Abbess Miejue and Master Kongzhi from afar, then flicked his sleeves and walked slowly down the mountain with Zhao Min. Xiao Zhao hurriedly followed, as her mother was waiting for her.

But then Master Kongxing called out, “Benefactor Yun, we invited you to Shaolin last time, but you haven’t been here for several years. You must come this time! Our temple has only ever had Bodhidharma, who was proficient in all seventy-two arts. As long as you come, you can practice freely!”

Kongxing held an extremely high position in the Shaolin Temple. Although he was simple and honest by nature and had no talent for managing affairs, he did not hold an important position in the temple. However, his character and martial arts skills were respected by the monks.

These words shocked all the heroes present.

But I really admire Yun Changkong.

Not only does he possess unparalleled martial arts skills and divine internal strength, but his wisdom, magnanimity, heroism, and chivalry are all rare in the world.

Because everyone understands that if Yun Changkong truly intends to become the supreme martial arts master, the support of Shaolin and the Beggars' Sect is enough!
But he refused!
Did he not know that he had grudges against the Ming Cult, the Huashan Sect, the Kunlun Sect, and even the Wudang Sect today?

Do not!
He surely understands.

But to avoid causing resentment, he refused to take on the task at all.

You can't kill those who oppose you just to ascend to the throne, or you'll defeat the original purpose of resolving the hatred!
This departure was reminiscent of the carefree spirit of "leaving without a trace after accomplishing one's task, concealing one's merits and fame."

Yun Changkong laughed and said, "Thank you for your high regard, Master, but I would never do what I cannot do!"

Some people might think, "Haven't you done enough things today where you couldn't possibly do them?"

Suddenly, Yun Changkong swept his sleeves and sang loudly: "The sky is dark, the moon is as bright as ever, I can fly across a thousand miles of rivers and mountains. When the song stops, people look around and invite the moon to stay with me in the depths of the green mountains..."

His inner strength was profound, and his voice was exceptionally loud, piercing through the high mountains and clouds. Although he could not be seen, his singing voice still lingered on the Kunlun Mountains, leaving a lasting impression.

"He wants to be carefree, but he insists on making us risk our lives!"

Some people are very dissatisfied.

But some people can understand Yun Changkong!

The matter of the Prince of Ruyang was his biggest problem, and he needed to solve it.

In life, there's never a perfect solution!

(End of this chapter)