Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils: The Successor of Bodhidharma

Page 28

When Li Qiushui's palm strike, which could bend and straight as she pleased, touched the vortex, it felt as if she had pressed on a rapidly spinning, slippery sphere. The force was instantly diverted and most of it was dissipated. The remaining force was like a gentle breeze brushing across a hill, leaving no ripples.

A genuine look of surprise flashed in Li Qiushui's beautiful eyes! Although she hadn't used her full strength in that flick, it still contained seventy percent of her power, intended to force out the opponent's true strength. She hadn't expected that Xuan Cheng, in his delirious state, would so easily neutralize it based solely on instinct!

Her interest grew even stronger, and her figure shifted again like a ghost. She pressed down with her left palm, and a pulling force tried to disrupt Xuan Cheng's balance. Her right hand's five fingers bloomed like orchids, brushing towards several major acupoints on Xuan Cheng's chest. Her technique was ever-changing, combining the wonders of grappling and breaking qi. It was her exquisite technique that integrated the strengths of many schools!

Xuan Cheng remained seated. Faced with this exquisite offensive, he simply picked up the wine bowl on the table, tilted his head back, and gulped down a large mouthful, while casually swinging a chicken leg in his other hand to block.

"The illusory body of the five aggregates, what is it ultimately illusory about?"

"Return from delusion to truth, for truth and delusion are not two."

He chanted verses incessantly, his movements seemingly chaotic, yet with each swing of the chicken leg, he always managed to intercept Li Qiushui's attacks perfectly. He would either use the powerful yet skillful force of the "Weituo Staff Technique" to deflect her grasp, or the supple essence of the "Compassionate Knife Technique" to neutralize her finger strikes. The greasy chicken leg, in his hands, seemed to become the most fitting "weapon," impenetrable and even causing Li Qiushui's fingertips to tingle slightly from the recoil!

Li Qiushui was increasingly alarmed as she tried! Although Xuan Cheng was delirious, his Shaolin skills seemed to have been completely integrated into his instincts. Every move he made was profound and natural, without any trace of artifice! His level of skill was clearly much higher than when they fought back then! Even if she used all her strength, she probably wouldn't be able to budge him in the slightest!

Feeling bored and knowing that further probing would only be pointless, Li Qiushui gracefully retreated, landing beside Duan Yu. Suppressing her shock, she glanced at Kumārajīva, who stood beside her, dumbfounded and pale-faced.

"Little~dove~" Her voice instantly became seductive and alluring, her beautiful eyes seemingly overflowing with tears, her slender fingers gently twirling the ribbon of her veil. "Looks like you've found a powerful backer, huh? What? Now that you've climbed the social ladder, you don't recognize your older sister anymore? How disheartening..."

Kumārajīva felt a chill run down his spine from her gaze and tone, goosebumps rising all over his body. He quickly clasped his hands together, closed his eyes tightly, and chanted, "Amitabha! Form is emptiness, emptiness is form! Red powder skulls, white bones and flesh! Female benefactor, this humble monk is a monk! A monk!" His expression contrasted sharply with Duan Yu's infatuated and intoxicated look beside him, who seemed ready to go through fire and water for the "fairy sister."

Seeing his cowardly appearance, Li Qiushui chuckled and stopped teasing him. She had tested Xuan Cheng earlier that day and witnessed his unfathomable cultivation, knowing that entanglement was pointless. She pulled up Duan Yu, who was still gazing at her intently, and said softly, "Young master, this place is boring. Let's go. I'll take you to see a wider world."

Duan Yu readily agreed and nodded repeatedly.

Watching Li Qiushui and Duan Yu drift away like white clouds emerging from a mountain peak, Kumārajīva finally breathed a long sigh of relief and wiped the cold sweat from his forehead.

Xuancheng finished the last bite of his chicken leg, tossed the bone aside, patted his belly, and let out a satisfied burp. He looked at Kumārajīva, grinned, revealing teeth covered in bits of meat, patted his shoulder, and said in a muffled but spirited voice, "My dear grandson! Don't be afraid! The world is vast, and your ancestors are here! From now on, you can cause as much trouble as you want! If you can't handle something, your ancestors will handle it for you! If you dare not fight someone, your ancestors will fight them! As long as you... hehe, are filial! Understand?"

Upon hearing this, Kumārajīva was first taken aback, then looking at Xuan Cheng's unfathomable expression, and recalling that even someone as formidable as Li Qiushui had failed to achieve anything against him, a surge of heroic spirit welled up within him! He straightened his back instantly, and his face once again displayed that spirited and arrogant look, as if he could already see his glorious future of kicking Shaolin monks, punching Wudang monks, and becoming famous throughout the Central Plains! He pounded his chest heavily: "Senior, rest assured! Xiao Zhi... no, this junior will definitely serve Senior well! I will definitely not disappoint Senior!"

Outside Tingsong Pavilion on the back mountain of Wudang Mountain.

The moonlight, like water, poured down into the tranquil mountain forest. Qiao Tian and his apprentice Huang Shang sat casually on the ground, with only a pot of tea in front of them.

Qiao Tian looked at his disciple, a man in a simple blue robe, with a serene and composed demeanor, his eyes filled with undisguised doting affection, as if he were looking at his own child. He sighed softly, his tone carrying a rare touch of感慨 and self-reflection:

"Shang'er, I sometimes think to myself, if it weren't for the circumstances of my life, the fortunate acquisition of the Nine Yang Manual and many other opportunities, I would never have achieved what I have today and established this Wudang foundation based solely on my own temperament and aptitude." He gazed into the distance, "In terms of calmness of mind and superior comprehension, I am inferior to you; in terms of heroic spirit and martial arts talent, I am inferior to Brother Feng; in terms of ambition and lofty aspirations, I am inferior to Jinzha; in terms of focus, purity, and a solid foundation, I am inferior to Yaoyao."

He patted Huang Shang on the shoulder, his tone carrying a barely perceptible weariness and a sense of entrustment: "If Wudang wants to flourish and truly lay a foundation for future generations, it needs you. Wudang's foundation is still shallow, and I... am actually incompetent. I have not been able to truly perfect a systematic and harmonious martial arts system that belongs to our Taoist school. In many aspects, we still borrow and piece together, and even fall short of our capabilities. Whenever I think about this, I feel deeply that I have failed your grandmaster and your great-uncle's expectations."

Huang Shang listened quietly, his gaze clear and firm. He slowly shook his head, his voice calm yet full of power: "Master is too modest, and also too harsh."

"Master often said, 'The Great Way is all-encompassing, and can be turned to the left or right.' The path of creation is always difficult. Master rose from the ranks of menial servants in Shaolin at the tender age of twenty, acquired divine skills, comprehended the Great Way, fought against numerous heroes, established the mountain gate, gained the recognition of the imperial court, absorbed the legacy of Xiaoyao, and stood shoulder to shoulder with the thousand-year-old Shaolin. Such achievements cannot be summarized by the word 'opportunity' alone. Without Master's unwavering heart and far-sighted vision, even with such opportunities, they would be like fleeting clouds."

"What Master taught us was not merely techniques and internal strength, but also the philosophy of 'Tao,' the original aspiration, and the magnanimous spirit of 'inclusiveness.' The principles of Tai Chi, the foundation of Nine Yang, the vastness of Beiming, the wonder of Lingbo, and even teaching us to understand reason, distinguish right from wrong, and value loyalty... these are all the foundation. The perfection of the system is not achieved in a day, but requires the accumulation of generations. Master has cleared the thorns for us, laid the foundation, and pointed out the direction. The road ahead requires us disciples to follow the path opened by Master, forging ahead with determination, so that we may ultimately achieve success."

Listening to his disciple's words and seeing his calm and wise demeanor, Qiao Tian felt a surge of warmth in his heart, and a relieved and gratified smile appeared on his face. He took a sip of tea, gazed at the bright moon in the sky, and said leisurely, "I am very pleased that you think this way. In truth, I know that I have no chance of becoming the best in the world. What I have always sought is simply to have a clear conscience and protect my family's safety. Seeing you all safe and sound is my greatest satisfaction. In this world, what I have sought has never been the pinnacle of martial arts, but simply a 'family'."

His tone was tinged with a mixture of helplessness and indulgent teasing: "Alas, you lot are all ambitious and have lofty aspirations. Brother Feng wants to shoulder the responsibility of the Beggars' Sect and uphold justice; Jinzha wants to meet all the heroes of the world and test his swordsmanship across the four seas; Yaoyao pursues the ultimate in the art of music; and you... are even more determined to understand the classics and the great Dao. Well then, well then, since you all want to fly high and see far, then your teacher... will have no choice but to stay behind, stabilize the foundation of Wudang, be your support, and 'clean up' for you."

Upon hearing this, a warm smile appeared on Huang Shang's lips.

After a moment of silence, Huang Shang solemnly took out a thread-bound book from his bosom. The cover had no title, and the paper was slightly worn, clearly indicating that it had been read and revised many times. He presented it to Qiao Tian with both hands.

"Master," Huang Chang's voice carried a hint of barely perceptible excitement, "In the past five years, while compiling and organizing the 'Wanshou Daozang,' I have combined the martial arts philosophy of my Wudang school with the essentials of numerous martial arts classics of the Xiaoyao School, and cross-referenced them with the methods of 'Nine Yang Divine Skill,' 'Northern Darkness Divine Skill,' and 'Lingbo Weibu' passed down by Master. I have attempted to strip away the overly obvious Shaolin Zen and the unpredictable nature of the Xiaoyao School, and based purely on the core concepts of Taoism such as 'Tao follows nature,' 'Yin Yang and the Five Elements,' and 'Refining the Spirit to Return to Emptiness,' I have independently comprehended, organized, and compiled a... outline of the 'Nine Yin Manual.' I humbly request Master's review and correction."

Qiao Tian spat out the tea he had just taken a sip of, staring at Huang Shang in shock, then at the seemingly ordinary book, his voice trembling slightly:

"The Nine Yin Manual?... Chang'er,..."

Chapter 88 The True Scripture's Birth Astounds Grandmasters; The Foundation of Wudang's Dao

Qiao Tian forcibly suppressed the absurdity churning in his mind, took a deep breath, and solemnly accepted the book from Huang Shang. He composed himself and began to carefully peruse it.

At first, he was able to remain calm, but as he read page by page, his expression became more and more serious, and in the end, he even felt a chill run down his spine!

This book is not simply a collection of martial arts moves, but a vast, profound, logically rigorous, and self-contained system of martial arts theory! Its foundation is purely derived from Taoist classics, perfectly combining the profound philosophies of classics such as the Tao Te Ching, the Zhuangzi, and the Yellow Emperor's Yin Fu Jing with the human body's meridians, the circulation of qi and blood, and mental intentions, thus explaining the ultimate principles of martial arts.

The general principles of internal cultivation do not pursue extreme yang or extreme yin, but rather point directly to the origin of "yin and yang complementing each other, dragon and tiger in harmony." It cleverly incorporates the "Buddha's compassionate power" of the Nine Yang Divine Skill, which is endlessly regenerating and nourishing to all things. It emphasizes using internal energy to cleanse the meridians, dissolving the erosion of the mind and body by the five poisons of greed, anger, ignorance, pride, and doubt, pursuing a balanced, peaceful, and perfectly integrated state of being. This concept deeply aligns with the Tao Te Ching's "harmonizing through the interaction of qi" and Zhuangzi's supreme ideal of "pure and unmixed, still and unchanging."

In terms of technique, it draws on the strengths of many schools, absorbing the essence of the Free and Unfettered School of martial arts (such as the Yin-Yang transformation of the Tianshan Six Yang Palm and the flexible and unpredictable power of the White Rainbow Palm), integrating the mysteries of Shaolin skills (such as the lightness of crossing the river on a reed and the power generation techniques of various palm and finger techniques), and encompassing the strengths of various schools and sects in the martial arts world in palm, finger, fist, foot, lightness skill, body movement, whip techniques, claw techniques, and even the soul-capturing techniques of music. However, all of these are unified under the core concepts of Taoism: "Tao follows nature," "overcoming hardness with softness," and "controlling movement with stillness." It is no longer a simple imitation and patchwork, but rather the refinement of its "spirit" and its integration into its own "principle."

What alarmed Qiao Tian even more was that the scriptures also contained extremely profound healing and tendon-strengthening techniques. The methods described therein subtly pointed to unblocking meridians that had been stagnant for many years and nourishing atrophied muscles. Could this not correspond to the aftereffects of Wu Yazi's long-term disability, where although his broken bones were repaired with the Black Jade Bone-Mending Ointment, his meridians were still somewhat atrophied, and Wu Xingyun's predicament of being permanently stuck in a thirteen-year-old state due to Li Qiushui's sneak attack and his cultivation of the "Eight Desolations and Six Harmonies, I Alone Am Supreme Technique" going into a qi deviation?

Qiao Tian suddenly raised his head, looking at Huang Shang, who remained calm, his eyes filled with complex emotions, as if he were looking at a "monster" who should not exist in this world. A monstrous wave surged in his heart: "The chosen one! This is truly the chosen one! The foundation of Wudang's path may... lie in this book, in this very child!"

His greatest concern had always been that while Wudang was powerful, it lacked a truly unique, systematic, and harmonious martial arts system of its own. He could only use "Tai Chi" to select those with exceptional temperament and comprehension, but what followed remained diverse, originating from Shaolin, Xiaoyao, and various other martial arts schools. This always felt disconnected from the "Tao" principles that Wudang championed, far inferior to the later Zhang Sanfeng, who created Tai Chi Chuan, Tai Chi Sword, the True Martial Seven-Section Formation, and the Cloud Ladder Leap—unique skills perfectly aligned with Taoist thought and renowned throughout history. Now, Huang Shang's "Nine Yin Manual" gave him hope!

He suppressed his excitement, closed the book, and said to Huang Shang, "Shang'er, come with me." He needed to gather ideas from all sides and consult with his elders.

The two arrived at a secluded pavilion on the back mountain, the place where Wu Yazi and Wu Xingyun practiced their cultivation. Over the years, Wu Xingyun had always stayed by Wu Yazi's side. Although he had never said it aloud, the deep affection and protection that had been tempered by hardship spoke for itself. The atmosphere between the two was much more relaxed than in the past, filled with a sense of tacit understanding and tranquility.

Upon seeing Qiao Tian and Huang Shang arrive together, Wu Yazi put down the Daoist scripture he was reading and a gentle smile appeared on his face. Wu Xingyun, however, maintained her aloof demeanor, especially upon seeing Huang Shang, she let out a cold snort and turned her head away, clearly still dissatisfied with his "neglecting his duties" and "only studying and not practicing martial arts" attitude. Wu Yazi, however, extended his affection to Qiao Tian's disciples, maintaining the demeanor of an ancestor, and smiled as he gestured for them to sit down.

Qiao Tian didn't say much, and directly handed the "Nine Yin Manual" to Wu Yazi with a solemn expression: "Master, Uncle-Master, this is a martial arts outline that Chang'er recently compiled. After reading it, I feel that its principles are profound. Perhaps... it will be of great use to my Wudang, and even to the health of Master and Uncle-Master. Please take a look."

Wu Yazi took it with some curiosity. Although Wu Xingyun was disdainful, he was also aroused by Qiao Tian's serious attitude and glanced at him sideways.

Wu Yazi slowly turned the pages of the book and began to read aloud the general outline and essential parts. At first, his voice was steady, with a hint of appreciation. But soon, his speech slowed down, his eyes became more and more focused, brighter and brighter, even carrying a hint of disbelief and shock!

"...Therefore, the movement of true qi is neither hard nor soft, but both hard and soft. It follows the meridians and guides the blood vessels, like clouds spreading rain to nourish and cleanse the five internal organs, resolving stagnation... Hmm?!" When Wu Yazi read the section on healing about clearing atrophied meridians and nourishing the source, his voice suddenly stopped. He looked up at Huang Shang in shock, then quickly looked down to continue reading.

Wu Xingyun had been listening casually, but as Wu Yazi recited those profound methods about harmonizing Yin and Yang, reversing the physical abnormalities caused by the backlash of the cultivation technique, and even mentioning "strengthening the foundation and cultivating the original nature, reflecting back to the innate state, which can soothe old ailments and restore the natural state of growth," her usually cold and beautiful face showed a dramatic change for the first time! She suddenly sat up straight, no longer caring about maintaining her indifference, and stared sharply at the book as if trying to see through it!

Wu Yazi became more and more excited as he read, his voice trembling slightly: "...The way of music is in harmony with the rhythm of heaven and earth. It can stimulate the blood and qi, and also soothe the soul. Capturing the soul is just a minor skill. Harmonizing the body and mind is the fundamental thing... This... This has explained everything I have thought about, and even things I could not understand before, clearly?!"

He suddenly looked up, his gaze fixed intently on Huang Shang. His eyes were no longer those of a junior, but rather those of a fellow practitioner who could discuss martial arts and principles with him on equal footing! Wu Xingyun felt the same way. Her gaze towards Huang Shang was filled with extreme shock and scrutiny. All her previous disdain and contempt had vanished at this moment!

Both of them were martial arts masters, possessing vast knowledge and keen insight. They already held Qiao Tian in high regard as their disciple, but upon seeing the "Nine Yin Manual," they realized what it truly meant to be "there are heavens beyond heavens, and people beyond people!" Qiao Tian's achievements were largely due to opportunity and courage, while Huang Shang's pure, reasoned deduction, integration of various schools of thought, and unique comprehension and wisdom were simply... simply superhuman! Even a hundred Qiao Tians tied together would pale in comparison to such pure "enlightenment" talent!

The attic was silent, with only Wu Yazi's heavy breathing remaining.

Qiao Tian took in the reactions of his two teachers, his heart pounding with emotion. He remained silent for a moment, suppressing his turbulent feelings, then looked at his composed disciple beside him and asked slowly, in a tentative tone:

"Shang'er, after reading this general outline of the true scripture, I deeply understand the Taoist principles of 'balance' and 'cycle.' However... I have an idea. What if we changed the first sentence of this general outline to 'The Way of Heaven is to take from the excess and give to the deficiency; therefore, emptiness overcomes fullness, and deficiency overcomes excess'... Do you think that such a change would be more fitting, better highlighting the core concept of Wudang's strategy of striking after the opponent has moved and using softness to overcome hardness? Would it also be more in line with the original meaning of the Tao Te Ching?"

Huang Shang's previously calm eyes suddenly narrowed upon hearing Qiao Tian's words! He abruptly looked up at his master, his face displaying an expression of extreme shock for the first time, as if he had heard some profound truth! His lips parted slightly, as if he wanted to say something, but he was speechless for a moment, his whole body frozen in place, lost in deep thought and shock!

Chapter 89 The Shameless Qiao Tian

Qiao Tian's seemingly casual remark was like a spark that instantly ignited the myriad thoughts that had been accumulating in Huang Shang's mind for a long time!

He stood frozen in place, unconsciously repeating the phrase over and over: "The way of Heaven is to take from what is in excess and give to what is lacking... Therefore, emptiness overcomes fullness, and lack overcomes excess... Emptiness overcomes fullness... and lack overcomes excess..."

His eyes were initially blank, but then grew brighter and brighter, as if countless stars were being born, colliding, and recombining within them!

He was completely immersed in his own world, as if everything around him, including his grandmaster, great-uncle, and master, had ceased to exist. He suddenly turned around, even forgetting to bow, muttering to himself, sometimes frowning in deep thought, sometimes clapping his hands and chuckling, and stumbled and ran wildly toward his residence—the quiet room piled with books, leaving behind a series of suppressed, joyful laughs that echoed outside the silent attic.

Inside the pavilion, Wu Yazi, Wu Xingyun, and Qiao Tian looked at each other, staring blankly at Huang Shang's departing figure as if possessed.

Qiao Tian gazed at his disciple's back, completely immersed in the ecstasy of enlightenment. Instead of scolding him, a complex and enigmatic smile, tinged with doting affection and感慨, appeared on his face. He murmured to himself, his tone carrying a hint of wicked charm and heartfelt admiration: "Truly... an enviable talent that makes one jealous."

As he spoke, he unexpectedly walked a few steps to the rattan chair where Wuyazi usually sat, sat down with an air of authority, and deliberately straightened his clothes, straightened his back, and adopted a solemn and dignified appearance. He cleared his throat and asked in a serious tone, "Master, Uncle-Master, what do you think of my demeanor... as a patriarch who has inherited the legacy for thousands of generations and founded a sect? Am I composed enough? Am I dignified enough?"

His sudden outburst startled Wu Yazi, who then couldn't help but smile, shaking his head and chuckling. Wu Xingyun rolled her eyes at him, coldly snorting, "Hmph! Founding Patriarch? I think he's just a patriarch who reaped the benefits! This 'Nine Yin Manual' was clearly written by your precious disciple Huang Shang with painstaking effort, what does it have to do with you? Look how smug you are! It's really... the later generations plant the trees, and the predecessors shamelessly enjoy the shade, even calling themselves the garden owners!" Her words were sharp, but her tone also carried an undisguised admiration for Huang Shang's extraordinary talent.

Qiao Tian, ​​unfazed by her sarcasm, burst into laughter. He stood up, walked to Wu Yazi's side, and naturally knelt down to massage Wu Yazi's legs. A genuine smile of joy spread across his face as he said, "Uncle-Master, you're mistaken. I'm happy precisely because they are all more promising than me! Jinzha, Yaoyao, and even more so, Chang'er! Our Wudang sect has successors, each generation stronger than the last. Isn't this what I, as their master and sect leader, most want to see? I hope they can all soar to the heavens, while I... hehe, I'll stay down here to stabilize their foundations and enjoy the scenery. It's quite nice!"

Wu Yazi felt the gentle force coming from his legs. Looking at Qiao Tian's unconcerned and genuinely proud appearance as his disciple, his eyes revealed kindness and satisfaction. He stroked his beard and said slowly, "Tian'er, you are kind and magnanimous, without jealousy or greed. You can tolerate others and help others grow. This is a great mind, which is your blessing, our blessing, and the blessing of Wudang."

Looking at Qiao Tian's shameless attitude of "I just love living off my disciple's achievements, I'm proud of it," Wu Xingyun was both angry and helpless. He couldn't help but mock him again: "Yes, yes, yes! You have a broad mind! Throughout history, no one has ever been as magnanimous as you, directly taking credit for your disciple's achievements and doing so with such self-righteousness and smugness as a 'founding father'! It's truly unprecedented, and I'm afraid there will be no one like you in the future! I'm afraid your Wudang lineage will only be able to 'pass down for ten thousand generations' by relying on the extraordinary talents of your disciples and grand-disciples!"

Upon hearing this, Qiao Tian laughed even harder, but his massage became even gentler and more meticulous.

Meanwhile, in a remote mountain stream.

The waterfall, like an inverted Milky Way, crashes into the deep pool with a roar, splashing up a cloud of water mist that reflects a rainbow of colors in the sunlight.

Li Qiushui removed her shoes and socks, revealing a pair of perfectly shaped, jade-like feet. She sat on a smooth rock by the pool, immersing her feet in the cool stream, gently swaying them and creating ripples. Her face was still veiled in white gauze, but her languid and alluring posture made her seem like a mountain spirit, or a fairy descended to earth.

Duan Yu, following Li Qiushui's instructions, used his Lingbo Weibu (a martial arts technique) to its fullest extent on the open ground beneath the waterfall. His figure moved swiftly, weaving through the rocks and puddles, his footwork following the sixty-four hexagrams of the Book of Changes, exquisite and ingenious.

"The Kan position turns to Li, stepping into the central palace... Yes, Qi follows the steps, spirit and intention unite... Hmm, not bad, not too clumsy." Li Qiushui casually pointed out while splashing the clear stream with her jade feet. Her voice, mixed with the roar of the waterfall, carried a strange magic and clearly entered Duan Yu's ears.

Duan Yu followed his instructions, his steps becoming increasingly fluid. However, his gaze was involuntarily drawn to the white figure by the pool. Especially when he caught a glimpse of Li Qiushui's jade-like feet submerged in the water—her skin was fair and radiant, her ankles slender, her toes round like pearls, appearing and disappearing in the water, swaying gently with the current… He felt a sudden surge of energy in his mind; the image of the "Fairy Sister" on the scroll in the Jade Cave of Wuliang Mountain reappeared vividly, perfectly overlapping with the vibrant, ethereal scene before him, like a fairy playing in the water!

His heart pounded wildly, his blood rushed to his head, and his cheeks instantly burned, even his ears turning bright red. His previously smooth footwork suddenly became disordered, and he stumbled, almost falling, but his eyes remained fixed on those captivating jade feet. He was completely mesmerized, his soul seemingly drifting with the rippling water to the side of that "fairy sister."

Li Qiushui noticed his unusual behavior, turned her head, and a knowing and playful smile appeared on the corner of her mouth under her veil, but she did not point it out. However, the smile in her beautiful eyes deepened, like a secluded pool under the moon, rippling with a captivating charm.

Chapter 90 White Rainbow Palm Force

Seven days, in this secluded mountain stream, seemed to stretch out, yet also seemed to pass in the blink of an eye.

Under the personal guidance of Li Qiushui, a master who can be considered a living classic of martial arts, Duan Yu's Lingbo Weibu (Lingbo Steps) progressed rapidly. He was no longer satisfied with merely following the divination symbols, but could also comprehend the carefree spirit of "avoiding the strong and attacking the weak" and "riding the right path of heaven and earth" contained in the footwork. His figure moved swiftly, as if riding the wind. Combined with his already profound Beiming True Qi, he had already acquired a certain ethereal beauty of "silk stockings stirring up dust".

One day, during a break from training, Li Qiushui leaned lazily against a bluestone, watching Duan Yu panting heavily. Suddenly, she spoke, her voice still carrying its usual alluring charm, but with a hint of barely perceptible seriousness:

"Young master, this is all I can teach you. In three days, whether you return to your Dali royal palace to be your heir or go to Wudang Mountain is up to you. Consider these few days of fate as fulfilling our... master-disciple relationship."

Upon hearing this, Duan Yu felt a sudden emptiness in his heart, a strong sense of loss and reluctance welling up inside him. He cried out urgently, "Fairy Sister! You...you're leaving? I..."

Li Qiushui extended her slender finger and gently pressed it against his lips, stopping him from speaking. Her beautiful eyes sparkled with a hint of pride and expectation: "Don't act like a little girl. In my entire life, I have never been inferior to anyone. Now that you have inherited my skills, don't tarnish my reputation. If you have the chance in the future, you must teach the Lingjiu Palace disciples on Wudang Mountain a good lesson for me. Hmph, only when you can defeat all your peers from Wudang with dignity will you have the face to say that your martial arts were taught by me, Li Qiushui!" Her words revealed the undeniable pride in her bones.

Duan Yu was deeply moved. He felt that he would go through fire and water to bring glory to the "Fairy Sister". He nodded vigorously and said, "Duan Yu will definitely study hard and never let Sister down!"

Li Qiushui smiled with satisfaction, then said, "Your Beiming Divine Skill, which absorbs other people's internal energy, is ultimately domineering and easily attracts trouble. I will teach you a set of 'Xiao Wuxiang Skill'. This skill is formless and untraceable, and can simulate thousands of martial arts techniques. It is most suitable for activating the skills you have already learned. Combined with Lingbo Weibu, it will be enough for you to establish yourself in the martial arts world." Then, she began to carefully teach Duan Yu the mental techniques, formulas, and essentials of energy cultivation of Xiao Wuxiang Skill. Duan Yu was naturally intelligent and grasped the subtle methods of internal energy application immediately, making rapid progress.

During this time, perhaps to give Duan Yu more skills to rely on, Li Qiushui casually taught him a few exquisite grappling techniques and acupoint striking skills. Although they were not her core skills, Duan Yu benefited greatly from them.

However, the closer they got to parting, the stronger the attachment and reluctance in Duan Yu's eyes became. Every time he looked at Li Qiushui, his eyes were filled with the pain of impending separation, which made even a person as experienced as Li Qiushui feel a strange ripple in her heart.

Day 10, early morning.

The waterfall still roared, its mist still billowing. Duan Yu stood on the open ground by the pool, displaying all the skills he had learned in the past ten days. His figure moved like smoke, darting through the morning light and shimmering water. His Lingbo Weibu (Light Steps on the Waves) was fluid and graceful, elegant and unrestrained. Occasionally, he would casually swing his hand, the power in his fingers and palms shifting and changing under the influence of the Xiaowuxiang Gong (Lesser Formless Skill). Though formless and invisible, it already possessed a certain grandeur. The rising sun gilded him with a layer of gold, and water droplets dampened his temples and clothes, making him even more handsome and extraordinary, like a banished immortal descending to earth.

Li Qiushui stood quietly not far away, watching Duan Yu's dashing and agile figure, yet also possessing a pure and innocent heart. Gazing at the focused and clear expression in his eyes, she was momentarily captivated. In a daze, that figure seemed to overlap with that of her senior brother, Wu Yazi, whom she remembered—equally handsome and talented, yet ultimately the one with whom she had a lifetime of intertwined love and hate…

A complex and indescribable emotion, a mixture of years of loneliness, lingering embers, and a strange pity for the innocent boy before him, quietly welled up in his heart.

Night fell quietly, and the campfire flickered in the cave, illuminating the faces of the two men.

Duan Yu was concentrating on memorizing the last point Li Qiushui had explained about the key to circulating qi when suddenly, a fragrant white silk scarf was gently placed over his eyes from behind, plunging the world into a hazy darkness.

His heart skipped a beat, and before he could speak, a warm and soft body pressed against his back, a pair of jade-like arms encircling him like tender hands. He heard Li Qiushui's soft, seductive whisper in his ear, each word seemingly hooked, tugging at the most sensitive strings of his heart:

"Young master... today, I will teach you one last set of kung fu... called 'White Rainbow Palm Force'... This force emphasizes the direction of intention, and the strength can bend or straighten as desired..."

The four words "as you wish" were pronounced very lightly and slowly by her, and along with her fragrant breath, they entered Duan Yu's ears, instantly igniting the blood in his entire body.

The darkness before his eyes, the alluring whisper in his ear, the soft warmth behind him, and the unique fragrance of the "Fairy Sister" in the air completely shattered Duan Yu's reason and resolve. His mind went blank, leaving only that captivating voice and an indescribable flutter in his heart…

The crackling campfire illuminated the entwined, swaying figures on the stone wall. The spring light of the night was given to the mountain stream, the gentle breeze, and the bright moon.

Chapter 91 Sunflower Collection

Inside the Imperial Study of the Great Song Dynasty Palace.

The sandalwood incense wafted gently, its fragrance soothing and refreshing, yet it couldn't dispel the faint, heavy atmosphere in the air.

Li Yan respectfully accepted the bright yellow imperial edict with both hands, bowed, and silently retreated from the main hall. Only after reaching the door did he straighten up, glance back at the deep hall entrance, and look back with a complex and unfathomable expression.

After sitting at his desk, Emperor Zhezong picked up a Ru kiln teacup, gently blew away the loose leaves, and took a sip of the warm tea. His movements were slow and deliberate, displaying a calmness beyond his years.

Seated at the lower seat was Zhou Tong, the head instructor of the Imperial Martial Arts Academy. His face was slightly grim, and his tone carried a hint of suppressed anger: "Your Majesty, this Qiao Tian clearly has a very close personal relationship with Eunuch Li Yan. He is using Eunuch Li to extend his reach into the court! Does he really think that just because he has the title of 'Guardian of the Nation Dao Sect,' he can act lawlessly and disregard the laws of the court?"

Upon hearing this, the emperor chuckled softly, put down his teacup, and said in a calm voice, revealing no emotion: "Minister Zhou, you are a pillar of the court and a model for all martial arts masters in the land. How can you be so restless and agitated?"

He tapped the table lightly with his fingertips and continued, “Wudang Mountain was personally designated by the late Emperor; his words are golden and cannot be disobeyed. Moreover, Qiao Tian’s request has no impact on the overall situation of our court. It’s nothing more than some… well, trivial matters.” A knowing glint flashed in his eyes. “He only asked for help because of his precious younger brother’s life. His vision is ultimately short-sighted. He may not yet truly understand what the words ‘imperial edict’ really mean, and what consequences he will have to bear.”

As he spoke, the emperor's smile vanished abruptly, like a clear sky suddenly turning cloudy. His tone remained calm, yet it carried a chilling undertone: "However, I do not like... this feeling of being schemed against and exploited."

He turned his gaze to the window, as if looking towards the distant Wudang Mountains.

"Wudang must not be touched. At least not now." The emperor's voice was soft, but it carried an undeniable determination. "However, the foundation of Wudang—...a tree with too many branches and leaves, if it does not know how to prune itself, will sooner or later attract envy. When the 'Wanshou Daozang' is completed, I will make my own arrangements."

He paused, then turned to Zhou Tong and recounted an amusing anecdote from the capital recently. His tone softened again, as if the coldness from before had never existed. Although Zhou Tong still harbored resentment, he had no choice but to remain silent and laugh along. For a moment, a harmonious scene of emperor and subject appeared in the imperial study.

Outside Tingsong Pavilion, Wudang Mountain.

The sea of ​​clouds rolled in and out, and the pines rustled in the breeze. At a stone table, with two cups of tea, sat Qiao Tian and Li Yan facing each other.

Lacking the solemnity of a palace, this place offered only the tranquility of the mountains and the serenity of the aroma of tea. Li Yan had changed out of his official robes and was now dressed in dark casual clothes, appearing less sinister and more otherworldly. Qiao Tian, ​​on the other hand, wore a black Taoist robe, his aura restrained, profound and imposing.

"Thank you for your trouble, Eunuch Li. I am deeply grateful for your efforts." Qiao Tian picked up the teapot and poured a cup of tea for Li Yan. His movements were fluid and graceful, blending seamlessly with the surrounding natural scenery.

Li Yan smiled slightly, his pale face softening somewhat in the rising steam of the tea: "Sect Leader Qiao, you're too kind. We've known each other for many years, why stand on ceremony? The imperial decree has been issued, and I'm fortunate to have fulfilled my mission." He gently pushed the bright yellow imperial decree in front of Qiao Tian.

The two exchanged a few pleasantries, their words revealing the familiarity and tacit understanding of longtime friends. Li Yan occasionally offered hints about the court's movements, his words, though unspoken, conveying goodwill towards Qiao Tian and Wudang.