RNP Page 32
Page 32
Torches flickered, illuminating the rugged beams and pillars and the weathered faces of the people. In the center of the hall, a bonfire roared, upon which sat a roasted, golden-brown, juicy lamb. The gang leader, Qiao Feng, was drinking heartily with a wiry young man.
Qiao Feng stood eight feet tall, with a majestic physique, a square face, thick eyebrows, and large eyes, radiating an imposing aura. Though dressed in patched-up Beggars' Clan attire, his commanding presence and commanding leadership were undeniable. At this moment, he raised a large bowl and laughed loudly, "Xiaoyu, good brother! This bowl is a toast to your thwarting of the Western Xia's First-Class Hall's conspiracy at the Yellow River ferry yesterday for our Beggars' Clan! Cheers!"
"Cheers!" The wiry young man was Xie Xiaoyu. Without hesitation, he tilted his head back and downed the bowl of strong liquor in one gulp. His upper body was bare, and his bronze skin was covered with a dense network of crisscrossing scars—knife wounds, sword marks, arrow wounds—old and new, layered upon each other, like a cruel painting depicting countless bloody battles and unwavering loyalty. Each scar told a story of his past, risking his life for the Beggars' Sect and for Qiao Feng.
In the crowd, Madam Kang Min, dressed in white mourning clothes, stood quietly in a corner. She lowered her eyes and looked sorrowful, but her beautiful eyes would occasionally rise and shift between Xie Xiaoyu's strong and masculine physique covered in scars and Qiao Feng's heroic and godlike figure, her gaze complex and unfathomable.
Qiao Feng put down his wine bowl, his gaze sweeping over the shocking wounds on Xie Xiaoyu's body. A flicker of pity flashed in his tiger-like eyes, quickly transforming into deeper admiration and resolve. He abruptly stood up, his voice booming like a bell, echoing throughout the entire Hall of Righteousness:
"Elders! Brothers! Behold Xiaoyu!"
He strode over to Xie Xiaoyu and pointed to a deep, bone-revealing scar on his chest: "Look, everyone! This scar is from last year, when I fought against the combined attack of the 'Three Heroes of Northern Hebei' to protect my flank!"
He moved his finger to a gruesome arrow wound on his ribs: "This arrow was three years ago on the road to Xinyang. He was wounded by a stray arrow while trying to intercept and kill a Liao scout. He chased the enemy for thirty miles with the arrow still in his hand and finally killed the enemy leader!"
He then pointed to the numerous shallow marks crisscrossing behind him: "These are from two years ago in Jiangnan, when I single-handedly stormed the Lianhuan Dock to rescue kidnapped women and children, fighting against dozens of river bandits, and was injured by fishing nets and hooks!"
Qiao Feng, his voice fervent, continued to recount the origins of Xie Xiaoyu's numerous scars, each one a testament to a fierce battle and unwavering loyalty. The many Beggars' Sect disciples in the hall, regardless of seniority, listened to these stories painted with blood and flesh, and gazed upon Xie Xiaoyu's silent yet mountain-like figure, all filled with admiration. Some of the younger disciples even had tears welling in their eyes, their blood boiling with patriotic fervor.
"Such a loyal and brave man has repeatedly rendered outstanding service to our Beggars' Clan, risking his life without hesitation!" Qiao Feng surveyed the entire scene, his gaze finally settling on the faces of Elder Lü Zhang, the Transmission Elder, Elder Bai Shijing, the Enforcement Elder, Quan Guanqing, the leader of the Great Wisdom Branch, and other high-ranking members. "Our Beggars' Clan's rules have always stipulated that the secret techniques of the clan should not be lightly passed on, especially the clan's most treasured martial arts. But today, I, Qiao Feng, propose this in the name of the clan leader!"
His tone was resolute and brooked no argument: "I will make an exception and teach Brother Xie Xiaoyu the Beggars' Sect's ultimate technique—the Eighteen Subduing Dragon Palms! I hope Elder Lü will witness the transmission, and I request all the elders to discuss and approve it!"
"The Eighteen Subduing Dragon Palms?" Elder Lü Zhang, who was passing on his skills, was taken aback upon hearing this, and subconsciously asked in confusion, "Chief, do you mean... the Twenty-Eight Subduing Dragon Palms?"
Upon hearing this, Qiao Feng let out a hearty and unrestrained laugh that shook the rooftops: "Elder Lü, no! It's the Eighteen Palms!"
His eyes shone brightly, and he said with unparalleled confidence, "This is the result of my years of dedicated research, and with the guidance of my elder brother, I have come to understand the ultimate principles of martial arts. I have refined and simplified the original twenty-eight palms, and integrated them into a complete system! Although there are only eighteen palms left, each one is still the essence of the art, and its power is even greater than before!"
He spoke loudly, his tone filled with pride in his own martial arts skills:
"This palm technique is extremely powerful and yang, overwhelming and unstoppable, perfectly embodying the principle of 'one force can overcome ten techniques'! No matter your thousand skills or myriad variations, I can break them all with a single palm strike!"
"However, fierceness is not recklessness! The movement of these eighteen palms also contains endless flexibility, with the power flowing freely and controlled! It can destroy a solid target with a single palm strike, like a thunderbolt; or it can unleash a torrent of palm power, like a raging torrent crashing down a ravine, making it unparalleled in its group attack!"
"What's even more wonderful is that although its power is overwhelming, its intent is flexible! From afar, it can unleash a palm strike through the air, striking a cow across a mountain; up close, it can deliver a powerful blow that is invincible! In the world of palm techniques, in terms of ferocity and dominance, and in terms of free and easy execution, none can surpass the Eighteen Subduing Dragon Palms!"
Qiao Feng's words were powerful and imposing, as if he held the universe in his hands. He paused slightly, his voice deep and profound, revealing a hint of mystery: "Moreover... on the day I achieved my goal, I practiced my palm technique on Dongting Lake. Observing the surging lake water and the dragon reaching out its claws, I felt something and vaguely touched upon a trace of... artistic conception! From then on, my inner strength surged and my skill advanced rapidly! Qiao Feng hereby declares that with these eighteen palms, I do not need any other martial arts to stand against the heroes of the world and bring glory to my Beggar Clan!"
These words, spoken with both boldness and substance, vividly described the power and wonder of the Eighteen Subduing Dragon Palms, leaving the audience mesmerized and filled with awe for Qiao Feng's martial arts prowess.
After Qiao Feng finished speaking, he patted Xie Xiaoyu's shoulder heavily, his eyes burning: "Xiaoyu, my good brother! You have risked your life for me, Qiao Feng, and for the Beggars' Sect, blocking countless open and hidden attacks! This palm technique, after me, Qiao Feng, is unmatched by anyone but you! Today, on behalf of the Beggars' Sect, I formally pass on this skill to you!"
Xie Xiaoyu's body trembled, and he suddenly knelt on one knee. This cold and stern man's voice was choked with emotion as he clasped his hands and said, "Chief! Xiaoyu... will live up to your expectations and will not fail this divine skill!"
A moment of silence filled the hall, followed by thunderous cheers and applause. Elder Lü Zhang stroked his beard and nodded, Bai Shijing's expression was complex but he didn't object, and Quan Guanqing's eyes flickered, lost in thought. In the corner, Kang Min looked at Qiao Feng, who shone like the sun in the arena, and Xie Xiaoyu, whom he valued so highly and who was about to learn the divine skill, and a subtle, almost imperceptible smile appeared on her lips.
The Beggars' Sect's ultimate martial art, the Eighteen Subduing Dragon Palms, is about to welcome a new successor.
Chapter 104 Mountain Rain, the Entire Building
During the Yuan You era, the Song Dynasty welcomed the young Emperor Zhezong, with Empress Dowager Gao ruling from behind the curtain. The old faction of powerful officials returned to court, transforming the political landscape. Meanwhile, in the north, Emperor Daozong Yelü Hongji of the Liao Dynasty held sway beyond the Great Wall. Although there were no signs of a major southern campaign, his iron cavalry patrolled the border, and war was frequently raging, creating an atmosphere of impending doom that enveloped the two countries' territories.
The landscape of the martial arts world is also undergoing a new upheaval.
Shaolin, an ancient temple with a history of over a thousand years, sits firmly as the pinnacle of the martial arts world. Its seventy-two unique skills are renowned throughout the land! Martial arts practitioners everywhere look up to it.
The Beggars' Sect, the number one sect in the world, has disciples all over the north and south. After the sudden death of its former leader, Wang Jiantong, Qiao Feng won the support of the sect members with his unparalleled palm techniques, heroic spirit, and achievements in thwarting the Liao Kingdom's provocations and mediating border disputes. His prestige rivaled that of his predecessors, and the name "Qiao Feng of the North" resounded throughout the world.
Wudang, though established for only a little over a decade, has risen like the sun, its power unstoppable. Its leader, Qiao Tian, possesses unfathomable martial arts skills and, having inherited the legacy of his master's Xiaoyao Sect, was immediately bestowed the title of "Guardian of the Nation's Daoist School" by imperial decree upon founding the sect. He was also ordered to compile the "Wanshou Daozang" (Ten Thousand Longevity Daoist Canon), gathering the elite of Daoist sects from across the land. Today, Wudang Mountain is thriving, its rules strict, and it is subtly rivaling Shaolin, both revered as the "Twin Peaks of Buddhism and Daoism."
At this pivotal moment, undercurrents in the martial world also surge.
In the past six months, several renowned martial arts masters have met their demise under mysterious circumstances, most of them killed by their own unique skills. Ma Yuanyi, the "Divine Whip" of Hebei; Zhao Heming, the "Iron Palm" of Shandong; and Tan Fang, the "Shadowless Leg" of Huainan… all suffered this fate. Clues at the scene are scarce, but the ancient saying "an eye for an eye" has spread like wildfire, subtly pointing the finger at the Murong clan of Gusu. The recent reappearance of Young Master Murong Fu in the martial arts world, with his unpredictable movements, adds even more suspicion. The martial arts world is abuzz with discussion, and although the Murong clan vehemently denies the allegations, this case has become a dark cloud hanging over the martial arts community.
Just then, Qiao Tian, the leader of Wudang Sect, did something astonishing!
A call to arms from Wudang Mountain has spread throughout the land: On the 22nd of the twelfth lunar month, heroes from all over the world are invited to gather at Shaoshi Mountain! Qiao Tian, the leader of Wudang, will personally go to Shaolin to debate and discuss the Dao with the Shaolin monks and determine who is superior!
This news was earth-shattering!
The Shaolin Temple, with its thousand-year history, has never been so openly challenged. The martial arts world instantly erupted in excitement. Whether it was a prestigious sect or a wandering knight, everyone turned their attention to Shaoshi Mountain, eagerly awaiting this battle between Buddhism and Taoism that was destined to be recorded in history.
Even more remarkably, two days later, Wudang Mountain will host a grand event—the completion of the compilation of the "Wanshou Daozang" (Taoist Canon for Longevity) and its grand ceremony! The imperial court has issued a decree to send a high-ranking official to personally invite the Daozang to be enshrined in the national treasury, in order to demonstrate the civil administration and honor the Taoist community.
In an instant, the eyes of the martial arts world were focused on Shaolin Temple because of Qiao Tian's challenge, while the imperial court's attention was drawn to Wudang Temple because of the publication of the Taoist Canon! These two momentous events, one after the other, propelled this sacred Buddhist and Taoist land to the forefront of the times!
The Beggars' Sect headquarters, the training ground in the back mountain.
Dust and sand swirled, and the faint roar of a dragon could be heard!
Two imposing figures were locked in fierce combat, their palms whistling, their energies clashing, and the sound of muffled thunder echoing through the air. It was none other than the leader of the Gang, Qiao Feng, and his trusted sworn brother, Xie Xiaoyu!
Qiao Feng unleashed his renowned Eighteen Subduing Dragon Palms, a technique that shook the world! His palm strikes were like raging torrents, possessing boundless power and subtle variations. Seemingly straightforward, they were in fact a perfect blend of strength and gentleness, controlled at will. Each strike carried an aura of dominance, as if he held the universe in his own hands, invincible!
Xie Xiaoyu also used the Eighteen Subduing Dragon Palms! However, his style was completely different from Qiao Feng's. His palm technique was more fierce and decisive, each move exerting all his strength, each strike a life-or-death struggle, pushing his will and power to their peak, carrying an indomitable and suicidal aura! He was shirtless, and the crisscrossing scars on his bronze skin faintly reddened when he circulated his energy, adding to his ferocity. Although he lacked some of Qiao Feng's smooth and skillful maneuvering, his pure and extreme ferocity was equally earth-shattering!
"Kanglong has regrets!"
"See the dragon in the field!"
"It is advantageous to cross great rivers!"
The same palm technique, Qiao Feng's palm is like a vast ocean, unfathomable; Xie Xiaoyu's palm is like a volcanic eruption, fiery and unrestrained!
After a long and fierce battle, the two suddenly separated, their energy drawing them together, and dust slowly settled on the ground.
Qiao Feng's breath was deep and steady, his tiger-like eyes gleaming with admiration. He laughed loudly, "Good! Good brother! Your palm technique is unparalleled in its power and has captured the essence of the Dragon Subduing Palm! This palm technique suits your temperament perfectly, and in your hands, it will surely unleash its full power!"
Xie Xiaoyu was slightly out of breath, his usually stern face flushed with excitement. He clasped his hands in a deep voice and said, "It's all thanks to the gang leader's instruction! This palm technique... is exactly what I wanted!"
Looking at his unparalleled loyalty and bravery before him, Qiao Feng felt a surge of heroic spirit. With such a savior and such divine skills, what was the vastness of the martial world but a matter of utmost importance?
However, his gaze drifted south, a hint of worry crossing his mind. His elder brother, Qiao Tian, had stirred up trouble this time—the gathering at Shaoshi Mountain on the twenty-second of the twelfth lunar month…
The mountain rain has filled the building!
Chapter 105 Demon-Slaying Order
The side hall of the Zichen Hall in the Imperial Palace of the Song Dynasty.
The air was thick with the scent of sandalwood and the aroma of ink. The young Emperor Zhezong, Zhao Xu, lay hunched over his desk, a purple brush in hand, his mind focused and his brush moving with the force of a dragon. His writing was neither a grand treatise on state affairs nor a beautiful poem, but rather a single character, "静" (jing, meaning stillness), its strength gradually becoming apparent. The brushstrokes were concealed, yet the structure subtly revealed a sharp, unyielding spirit, much like his current state of mind—outwardly complying with the wishes of the Empress Dowager and the old faction, maintaining a facade of silence, while inwardly his heart surged with ambition, his heart set on conquering the world.
The chief eunuch of the palace guards stepped in quietly, bowed three zhang away, and whispered, "Your Majesty, Master Jintai is waiting for your decree outside the palace."
Emperor Zhezong did not look up. He steadily drew the last stroke with his brush before putting it down. He then used a piece of bright yellow silk to carefully wipe away the non-existent ink stains on his fingertips and said calmly, "Summon."
A moment later, a tall, imposing old man with an ancient face, dressed in a simple, dark robe, entered steadily. His steps were deliberate and seemingly slow, yet he was already ten steps away from the imperial desk in an instant. He stopped, not performing the full kneeling ceremony, but simply bowing, clasping his hands, and offering a simple, ancient salute: "This old minister, Jin Tai, greets Your Majesty." His voice, though deliberately lowered, resonated faintly in the quiet hall. This was a privilege reserved for the Imperial Tutor and Chief Steward of the Dragon Guard; not bowing before the emperor was a sign of respect and a display of superiority.
Emperor Zhezong raised his hand in a gesture of support: "Imperial Tutor, there's no need for such formalities. Please take a seat."
After Jintai sat down on a sandalwood stool, Emperor Zhezong said slowly, "Two days later, the compilation of the 'Wanshou Daozang' at Wudang Mountain will be completed, and a grand ceremony will be held. This is a grand undertaking of civil administration established during the reign of the late emperor, and it is also a major event for our dynasty to honor the Daoist school and demonstrate its teachings. The court needs to send a person of high moral character and sufficient status to Wudang to receive the Daoist canon on behalf of me and the court, and to enshrine it in the national treasury."
His gaze fell on Jin Tai, his tone calm yet carrying an undeniable air: "The Imperial Tutor is my teacher and also the chief steward of the Dragon Guard Pavilion. He is unparalleled in martial arts, renowned for his virtue, and carries weight in both the martial world and the imperial court. No one but the Imperial Tutor is fit for this mission."
Jin Tai remained calm and showed no surprise. He simply nodded slightly and said in a deep voice, "This old minister obeys the decree." His words were concise and to the point, without any unnecessary words.
Emperor Zhezong was not surprised by his reaction. He casually picked up a dossier sealed with sealing wax from the corner of his desk and handed it over: "In addition, Imperial Tutor, please take a look at this as well."
Jin Tai accepted the document with both hands, untied the silk ribbon, and unfolded the scroll. Inside was no ordinary memorial, but a list detailing the names, origins, martial arts characteristics, and even general whereabouts of all known grandmaster-level masters in the martial arts world. From Shaolin to the Beggars' Sect, Wudang, and even reclusive masters from the Western Regions, Tibet, and Dali, and even some enigmatic figures with ambiguous righteousness, all were listed—more than twenty in total! Each name represented a terrifying martial force capable of shaking an entire region.
Jin Tai's gaze swept across the list with lightning speed, his brows furrowing almost imperceptibly. He closed the file, looked up at Emperor Zhezong, and asked inquiringly, "Your Majesty, what is the meaning of this list?"
A coldness, incongruous with his age, flashed across Emperor Zhezong's young face. He stood up, walked to the window, and gazed at the sky divided by the palace walls. His voice was not loud, but each word was like an ice bead falling onto a jade plate:
"The late emperor was a man of great talent and ambition, reforming and governing the country. His support for Wudang was intended to counterbalance Shaolin and stabilize the martial world. This strategy itself was not fundamentally flawed." He abruptly changed the subject, his tone tinged with sarcasm and gravity, "However, perhaps because the late emperor was so busy with his new policies, he seems to have forgotten... another legacy left by our Emperor Taizu of Song!"
He whirled around, his gaze fixed intently on Jintai: "Sixty years, the Demon-Slaying Decree!"
These five words were like a thunderclap, exploding in Jin Tai's ears and finally causing a ripple to appear on his usually calm face.
Before he could respond, Emperor Zhezong pointed heavily at the list, his tone growing increasingly urgent and intense: "Imperial Tutor, look! Look at the martial world today! Grandmasters are emerging in droves, and experts are everywhere! And the many figures on this list... and these are just the ones on the surface!"
He took a deep breath, as if to expel all the pent-up emotions in his chest, his voice carrying a barely perceptible hint of fear: "The power of the martial world has expanded so much! If we wait another thirty years, another sixty years, or even longer, until you, the Imperial Tutor, who are like pillars of stability, are gone, will my empire... still be secure? If these martial artists with unparalleled martial arts skills were to rise up in unison, or be manipulated by ambitious individuals, who could control them? The laws of the court, the million-strong Imperial Guard—how much deterrent power do they have in the face of true masters?!"
Jin Tai remained silent for a moment before slowly speaking, his voice low and powerful: "Your Majesty, I dare not forget the late Emperor Taizu's instructions. However, the 'Demon-Slaying Order' is no small matter; it can implicate countless people and cause rivers of blood to flow. Moreover... the time is not yet ripe. According to ancestral rules, there are still nearly twenty years until the next sixty-year cycle. Furthermore, the Empress Dowager... I'm afraid she would not agree to Your Majesty easily reactivating this order, nor would she sit idly by while Your Majesty defies the late Emperor Shenzong's established strategy of supporting Wudang and stabilizing the martial world."
Emperor Zhezong smiled, a smile that seemed incongruous with his youthful appearance and bordered on cold: "The Empress Dowager is getting on in years and has recently expressed her desire to return power to me. I... can wait, and I can prepare."
He walked back to his desk, his gaze falling once more on the list, especially on the words "Qiao Tian of Wudang." His tone became deep and unfathomable: "Imperial Tutor, this time when you go to Wudang, you might as well take a good look and think it over. If this Wudang, this 'sword' forged by the late Emperor, cannot be used by me in the future, and cannot obediently point in the direction I hope for..."
He raised his eyes, his gaze landing squarely on Jin Tai's face, and said, word by word, "Then, when the time is right, I will have to trouble the Imperial Tutor to lead the Dragon Guard and personally take action to cleanse this potentially dangerous blade, along with those restless 'demons,' from my hands. Either join the Dragon Guard or die!"
A hush fell over the hall, broken only by the lingering fragrance of sandalwood incense. Jintai, meeting the emperor's gaze—a mixture of naivety and ruthlessness—slowly lowered his eyes, clutching the heavy scroll of names tightly in his hands. His ancient face betrayed no emotion, uttering only a barely audible reply:
"This old minister... understands."
An invisible, chilling aura, seemingly carried by this promise, quietly permeated the deepest recesses of the Song Dynasty imperial palace. Before the rain even reached the court, the murderous intent was already hidden within the nine heavens.
Chapter 106 Purple Qi Comes from the East, Daoist Charm is Naturally Formed
In the autumn of the year x of the Yuan You era, at Wudang Mountain.
As the sun rises, its rays pierce the sea of clouds, painting the seventy-two peaks in a golden-red hue. Today, Wudang Mountain presents an extraordinary sight. From the mountain gate to the summit of Tianzhu Peak, the white jade steps are swept spotless, and ancient pines on both sides hang dark black Taoist banners inscribed with gilded characters such as "Longevity Taoist Canon" and "Guardian Taoist Sect," which flutter in the morning breeze.
The vast plaza in front of the Zhenwu Hall was teeming with people, solemn and dignified. Thousands of Wudang disciples, arranged according to their inner and outer sect affiliations and seniority, stood in neat square formations, completely silent. Their auras were steady, their eyes clear, and although most were young, they already subtly displayed the demeanor of disciples from a major sect. Further away were high-ranking priests and renowned figures from Taoist temples across the land, as well as many famous figures from the martial arts world who had come to witness the ceremony, all with solemn expressions, filled with reverence and curiosity.
The auspicious hour has arrived; bells and tripods resound in unison!
Nine deep, resonant bronze bell tolls echoed from the Golden Summit, their sound waves rippling and sweeping across the mountains. Immediately afterwards, seventy-two leather drums struck simultaneously, their rhythm deep and powerful, like the heartbeat of the earth.
Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, a person slowly ascended the high platform in the center of the square.
He was not the sect leader Qiao Tian, but a young man dressed in a blue scholar's robe—Huang Shang. He had a thin face and a frail figure, which was out of place with the powerful martial arts aura around him, but his steps were steady and his eyes were clear, and he had a calm demeanor that remained unchanged even if Mount Tai collapsed in front of him.
Huang Shang stood in front of the stage, without using his internal energy to raise his voice, but his clear and peaceful voice clearly reached the ears of everyone present, revealing his exquisite control over his internal energy, rather than brute force.
"The Way of Heaven operates, and Yin and Yang give birth to all things. The Way is the mystery of all things and the treasure of the virtuous... Now, thanks to the boundless grace of Heaven and His Majesty's favor, all Taoist practitioners under Heaven have worked together with one heart and one mind for many years, thoroughly studying all the scriptures, discarding the dross and retaining the essence, adding to the missing and supplementing the deficiencies, and the 5,481 volumes of the Longevity Taoist Canon have finally been completed!"
His words were concise, yet he clearly and thoroughly explained the compilation process and the value of the Daoist canon, citing classical texts with ease. He then announced the ceremony's schedule, arranged for disciples to guide the process, and coordinated the various personnel—everything was well-organized and efficient. The many Daoist elders below the stage, witnessing this, all nodded in approval, thinking to themselves that Sect Leader Qiao Tian indeed possessed keen insight; this young man's composure and administrative skills were truly extraordinary.
Qiao Tian stood on the steps in front of the Zhenwu Hall, his black sect leader robe making him appear even more imposing. He didn't deliberately release his aura, yet he naturally became the focus of attention. He smiled and exchanged greetings with the guests who came to offer their congratulations, his gaze occasionally sweeping across the room, noticing Huang Shang's performance and feeling gratified.
Soon, the clear, resonant sound of ceremonial horns echoed from the foot of the mountain. A troop of imperial guards, their armor gleaming and their bearing imposing, led the way, escorting an elderly man in a purple python robe, his face ancient and dignified, as he slowly ascended the plaza. Wherever he passed, the crowd parted to make way, and an invisible pressure spread out.
The newcomer was none other than the Imperial Tutor, Jin Tai, the chief steward of the Dragon Guard Pavilion.
Qiao Tian, along with Wu Yazi, Su Xinghe, and other core members of Wudang, personally greeted them at the entrance of the main hall.
"Qiao Tian of Wudang respectfully welcomes the Imperial Preceptor." Qiao Tian performed the Taoist salute with neither servility nor arrogance.
Jin Tai stopped, his sharp, hawk-like gaze lingering on Qiao Tian's face for a moment before sweeping over the smiling Wu Yazi, and the imposing Su Xinghe, Granny Yu, and others behind him. He nodded slightly and spoke in a loud voice: "Sect Leader Qiao, everyone, there's no need for such formalities. I have come on His Majesty's orders to congratulate him on the successful completion of the 'Longevity Daoist Canon' and to welcome it into the national treasury."
"The Imperial Tutor and the court have shown us great favor, and the entire Wudang sect is deeply grateful. Please come into the hall for tea." Qiao Tian stepped aside to invite them in.
The group entered the magnificent and solemn Zhenwu Hall. Inside, the statues of the Three Pure Ones, the Taoist Ancestors, stood majestically, and fragrant tea had already been prepared on the incense table.
After the guests and hosts were seated, Jintai did not exchange many pleasantries. He directly took a scroll of bright yellow silk imperial edict from the eunuch beside him and stood up solemnly.
"Qiao Tian, receive the imperial decree."
Qiao Tian and everyone in the hall bowed and listened attentively.
Jin Tai unfurled the imperial edict, his voice deep and resonant, each word like the clash of gold and jade, echoing in the vast hall: "By the grace of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: The Wudang Mountain Protectorate of the Nation Daoist Sect, upholding the Daoist principle of following nature and gathering the essence of various schools of Xuanmen, has compiled the 'Wanshou Daozang' (Treasury of Longevity), a feat that benefits the present and future generations… I am greatly gratified! Therefore, I hereby bestow upon the 'Wanshou Daozang' the title of a national treasure, to be stored in the Imperial Archives, to forever safeguard the nation… This is the imperial decree!"
"Qiao Tian, accept the imperial decree and express your gratitude." Qiao Tian stepped forward and respectfully accepted the heavy imperial decree with both hands.
After the ceremony, the atmosphere eased slightly. Jin Tai sat down again, picked up his teacup, and asked casually, "Sect Leader Qiao, Wudang has only been established for a little over a decade, yet it has achieved such a grand occasion. Its disciples are full of talented individuals, and it has even accomplished the unparalleled feat of compiling the Daoist Canon. It is truly astonishing."
Qiao Tianqian replied, "Imperial Tutor, you flatter me. This is due to the support of the court, the unity of all Daoist sects, and the diligence of my disciples. I dare not take credit for it."
Jin Tai's gaze swept past Qiao Tian and landed on Wu Yazi, who sat quietly to the side. He seemed to casually mention, "Master Wu Yazi, your demeanor remains as elegant as ever. The martial arts of the Xiaoyao Sect are profound and captivating. However... the martial world is vast, and while many talented individuals emerge, it is also inevitably rife with all sorts of scoundrels. Sect Leader Qiao is young and promising, but he should know the principle that a tall tree catches the wind. The Daoist way emphasizes naturalness and non-action, and one must also understand the profound truth of 'retiring after achieving success, which is the way of Heaven.' I hope that Wudang can always uphold its original aspirations and avoid getting involved in unnecessary conflicts; this is the way to longevity."
His tone was calm, like an elder giving earnest advice to a younger person, but the scrutiny and subtle admonition in his words pierced Qiao Tian's ears like needles.
Wu Yazi smiled slightly and replied, "The Imperial Tutor's words are invaluable. The Xiaoyao Sect is no longer what it used to be; now it is merely an old guest of Wudang. Its disciples only ask to have a clear conscience and follow the natural order."
Qiao Tian felt a chill run down his spine, but his smile remained unchanged. He raised his cup in acknowledgment: "I will remember the teachings of the Imperial Tutor. The purpose of Wudang Sect is to inherit the Daoist tradition, promote the righteous law, and protect our country. Heaven and earth can bear witness to this heart and this will."
Jin Tai gave Qiao Tian a deep look, said nothing more, and raised his cup to drink tea. The hall was filled with peace and tranquility, the aroma of tea wafting through the air, as if the brief exchange of words had never happened.
But Qiao Tian's fingers, holding the teacup, tightened almost imperceptibly. Jin Tai's words, like a pebble thrown into a calm lake, sent ripples of unease through his heart. The court's "favor" seemed not to come without a price. Was the completion of the *Wanshou Daozang* a blessing or a curse for Wudang?
He looked up and gazed outside the hall. The square was still bustling with activity, a vibrant and lively scene.
Chapter 107 Huang Shang, the Leader of Wudang Sect
Imperial Tutor Jintai's entourage, carrying the "Wanshou Daozang" (Taoist Canon of Longevity), a work embodying countless efforts, descended Wudang Mountain in a grand procession. After the commotion subsided, Wudang Mountain did not immediately return to its former tranquility; instead, it was enveloped in an even more solemn and dignified atmosphere.
Inside the Zhenwu Hall, incense smoke curled and the atmosphere was solemn.