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

Page 31

"Although Buddhism does not speak of the eight trigrams and directions, it has the profound principles of 'a mustard seed containing Mount Sumeru,' 'a flower is a world, a leaf is a Bodhi tree.' The footwork and body techniques of these seventy-two unique skills, though seemingly different, actually correspond to the movement of the stars in the heavens and the manifestation of the Buddha realms. Once a person uses supreme intention and body techniques to rapidly execute these 'heavenly directions,' they can manifest immeasurable supernatural powers within a small space. It seems as if they can transform into thousands of forms, but in reality, with a single thought, all techniques follow! The profundity of Buddhist martial arts is indeed unfathomable!"

Huang Shang's analysis was clear and logical, and he explained the phenomena in a simple and easy-to-understand way. He not only explained the phenomena, but also pointed out the underlying principles of martial arts. The disciples around him listened with great interest.

But he immediately changed the subject, revealing a hint of regret: "Unfortunately... this method places extremely high demands on the cultivator's mental fortitude, it's practically defying the heavens. If I'm not mistaken, when Bodhidharma created this extraordinary art, he must have left behind a supreme method specifically for tempering one's mental fortitude and stabilizing one's state of mind, or perhaps some kind of profound visualization manual, as a foundation. Otherwise, if a cultivator forcibly integrates and masters this art, their physical body might be able to withstand it, but their spirit would be easily overwhelmed by this vast and complex martial arts intent, leading to... leading to situations like Master Xuancheng, where one's mind is clouded and one's consciousness is lost."

At this point, a glimmer of understanding flashed in Huang Chang's eyes as he looked at Qiao Tian: "I suddenly remembered that Master once taught us the 'Marrow Cleansing and Mind-Calming Chapter,' which seems to contain some profound methods for tempering the spirit and purifying the mind. I just don't know where Master obtained such a profound method back then... whether he still has the complete version?"

At this moment, Qiao Tian, ​​Wu Yazi, and Wu Xingyun had also concealed their auras. Qiao Tian and Wu Yazi exchanged a glance, both seeing undisguised astonishment and a hint of understanding in each other's eyes. Having personally experienced the feeling of being overwhelmed by the entire treasure trove of Shaolin martial arts, they were also deeply impressed and amazed by the level Xuan Cheng had reached. If they hadn't witnessed it with their own eyes, it would have been hard to believe that someone could push martial arts to such a transcendent state, "skill approaching the Dao."

Although Wu Xingyun still had a cold face, the contempt in his eyes had disappeared.

Kumārajīva finally recovered from his extreme shock. His face flushed with excitement, he rushed to Xuan Cheng, wanting to say something, but he was too excited to speak coherently. In the end, he could only bow deeply to the ground and say in a trembling voice, "Senior... your divine skills are unparalleled! This junior... this junior has seen the true Buddha today, and I have no regrets even if I die today!" At this moment, his eyes were filled with incomparable fanaticism and awe as he looked at Xuan Cheng.

Seeing this, Qiao Tian smiled slightly, took a few steps forward, and cupped his hands to Xuan Cheng, who was still immersed in excitement and dancing around, and to the excited Kumārajīva, saying, "Uncle Xuan Cheng's Buddhist and martial arts have reached a state of perfection, which we truly admire. Ming Wang is also a guest from afar, and our exchange just now shows our good fortune."

He glanced at the two men and extended an invitation: "If you don't mind, please stay at Wudang for a few days so that we can show you some hospitality. Soon, the 'Wanshou Daozang,' compiled by the best Daoist scholars in the world, will be completed. This is a grand event for Daoism. We would like to invite you both to attend and witness the ceremony."

His words were both a way to give both sides a way out and a genuine desire to keep Xuan Cheng there so that his master, Wu Yazi, could carefully examine his mental state and see if there was any possibility of recovery.

Upon hearing this, Kumārajīva quickly clasped his hands in return, striving to maintain a solemn expression: "Sect Leader Qiao's invitation is too kind for us to refuse! To witness the completion of the Daoist Canon is truly a great opportunity, and we thank you in advance!"

He thought to himself: The martial arts skills of the Wudang Sect are extraordinary, truly hidden talents and unfathomable depths! It seems that the martial arts world of the Central Plains is far more complex than it appears on the surface.

Qiao Tian nodded with a smile and instructed his disciples to arrange accommodations for the distinguished guests. A world-shaking competition came to a temporary end in this seemingly harmonious manner, but above Wudang Mountain, the arrival of Xuan Cheng and the imminent publication of the "Ten Thousand Longevity Daoist Canon" were brewing an even greater storm.

Chapter 99 Dragon Guard Pavilion

In the depths of the Canhe Manor in Yanziwu, Suzhou.

Inside a perpetually lit ancestral hall, incense smoke curls upwards, and the memorial tablets of the Murong clan's ancestors are enshrined. At the very top, on a particularly ancient tablet, are engraved the words "Emperor Wucheng of the Great Yan Dynasty, Murong Longcheng."

A man knelt with his head bowed on a prayer mat, his posture upright. Though dressed in ordinary cloth, he exuded an air of authority and profound wisdom that befitted someone long accustomed to a position of power. If Murong Fu were here, he would be utterly astonished, for this man was none other than his father, Murong Bo, who had been "deceased" for many years!

Murong Bo raised his head, his gaze fixed on the memorial tablet of his ancestor Murong Longcheng. His eyes were complex, filled with guilt, resentment, and an almost obsessive determination.

"Ancestors above, your unworthy descendant Murong Bo kowtows." His voice was low and slightly hoarse. "Bo has toiled half his life, working hard, but to this day he has accomplished nothing. The revival of the Great Yan is still a long way off... I have truly failed my ancestors' high expectations and am ashamed of the foundation laid by my forefathers in Longcheng!"

His gaze was fixed on Murong Longcheng's memorial tablet, as if he were conversing with that brilliant ancestor.

"The world praises you as a hero of your time, with unparalleled martial arts and unmatched strategy. It's just that you were born at the wrong time, just as Emperor Taizu of Song, Zhao Kuangyin, was rising to power, and the unification of the world was an inevitable trend..." Murong Bo's tone suddenly rose, carrying a hint of resentment and unwillingness, "But they don't know! If you hadn't been caught off guard in that crucial battle, and hadn't had your heart meridian shattered by that mysterious and unpredictable 'Dragon Guardian' expert by Zhao Kuangyin's side with an extremely cold and unpredictable palm strike, leaving you severely injured and unable to recover... the fate of the Central Plains would still be uncertain! My Great Yan might not have been without a chance!"

His fists were clenched so tightly that his knuckles turned white, and his eyes burned with the flames of hatred and ambition.

"Our descendants must always remember the dying words of our ancestor in Longcheng: 'The Zhao family's rise to power relied heavily on the power of this barbarian. If this man is not eliminated, or if his lineage still exists, our Murong family must not act rashly in the martial world, much less meddle in the central government, lest we invite annihilation. Only by patiently waiting for the opportune moment, when the Song, Liao, Western Xia, and even Tibet are embroiled in conflict again, amidst border wars and global turmoil, can we seize the opportunity to reclaim our land!'"

Murong Bo slammed his forehead against the ground with a heavy thud. When he raised it again, his forehead was bright red, but his eyes were as sharp as a hawk's.

"With all my ancestors above, Murong Bo hereby swears that even if I am shattered to pieces and my body is burned, I will faithfully follow the ancestral teachings, seize the fleeting opportunity, and complete the restoration of the Great Yan dynasty for all eternity! Restore my Great Yan!"

The vow echoed in the empty ancestral hall, carrying a tragic yet resolute meaning.

Meanwhile, after leaving Wudang territory, Murong Fu and his group continued their travels in the martial world.

Along the way, Duan Yu was like a piece of chewing gum, always finding various opportunities to get close to Wang Yuyan. Sometimes he would quote classical texts, sometimes he would talk about poetry and songs, and even though Wang Yuyan was often absent-minded and her eyes were only following Murong Fu, he remained enthusiastic and chattered on and on.

This scene infuriated Bao Butong and Feng Bo'e. Bao Butong waved his fan and sarcastically remarked, "Not at all! I think this young master Duan is no prince of Dali at all; he's just a noisy sparrow on the street, disturbing the peace!" Feng Bo'e was even more direct, glaring at Duan Yu several times, his hand on the hilt of his sword. If Murong Fu hadn't remained silent, he would have already wanted to get rid of this annoying brat.

However, Duan Yu seemed completely oblivious, or rather, his entire focus was on Wang Yuyan's face, which resembled that of the "Fairy Sister," and he turned a deaf ear and a blind eye to the malice around him.

That night, the group stayed at an inn in a town.

As usual, A'Zhu was grinding ink for Murong Fu in the study, helping him write letters to contact the various forces affiliated with the Murong family. Looking at the handsome young master's slightly furrowed brows in the candlelight, A'Zhu hesitated for a moment, then asked softly, "Young master, that young master Duan seems to have quite a bit of affection for Miss Wang... he's always around her, don't you... don't you care?"

Murong Fu paused slightly with his pen, then continued writing, his brushstrokes steady and his voice calm and even: "A man born between heaven and earth should aspire to travel far and wide, and prioritize his family, country, and ancestors. A little personal affection between men and women is not worth mentioning."

He put down his pen, looked out at the dark night sky, and spoke with a barely perceptible chill and self-reflection: "If I am still as incompetent as I was a few days ago, humiliated by that Tibetan monk Kumārajīva, unable even to save my own face, who would truly follow me? How could I possibly revive the Great Yan?" He paused, his voice lowering even further, "Even my cousin... the person she admires is a strong, upright cousin with superb martial arts skills, not a coward who can't even protect her."

A'Zhu carefully considered Murong Fu's words, feeling both heartache and admiration. She had been taken in by the Murong family since childhood and was deeply indebted to them, so she had long regarded Murong Fu's affairs as her own responsibility.

“Young Master…” A resolute glint flashed in A’Zhu’s eyes. “A’Zhu understands. A’Zhu has received great kindness from Master and Young Master, and has no way to repay it. She will definitely share Young Master’s burdens and solve his problems, even at the cost of her life!”

Murong Fu turned his head and looked at A'Zhu's earnest little face. His cold expression softened a little, and he said gently, "Silly girl, we are family. There's no need to always say such formal things."

However, the words "family" only strengthened A'Zhu's resolve. She said no more, silently tidied Murong Fu's desk, and took her leave.

Back in her room, Azhu's eyes lit up, and a bold plan had already taken shape in her mind.

“Shaolin Temple…Yi Jin Jing…” she murmured to herself, her eyes gleaming with intelligence and a sense of adventure. “I’ve heard that it’s the supreme martial arts manual in the martial arts world. If I can retrieve it for you, young master, it will surely greatly improve your martial arts skills, and no one will dare to underestimate you anymore! Then, let’s see who dares to bully you!”

She made up her mind to find an opportunity to go alone to the Shaolin Temple, a place like a den of dragons and tigers, to steal the legendary martial arts treasure, the Yi Jin Jing, for her young master!

Chapter 100 Vanguard General, Kumārajīva

A quiet room next to Tingsong Pavilion on Wudang Mountain.

Outside the window, the sea of ​​clouds rolled in and out, while inside, the aroma of tea wafted through the air. Qiao Tian, ​​Wu Yazi, and their guest, Kumārajīva, took their seats as host and guest, while Xuan Cheng sat cross-legged on a futon to the side, scratching his head and occasionally gesturing at the wall, completely absorbed in his own world.

Qiao Tian personally poured Cloud Mist Spirit Tea for everyone, his demeanor composed. He glanced at Xuan Cheng, who was behaving strangely, and said to Wu Yazi, "Master, Uncle Xuan Cheng's current state is worrying. Would you please take a look?"

Wu Yazi nodded slightly and said gently to Xuan Cheng, "Master, please extend your hand for a look." Although Xuan Cheng was not in his right mind, he did not seem to have any ill feelings towards Wu Yazi. Hearing this, he chuckled and obediently extended his wrist.

Wu Yazi extended three fingers and placed them on Xuan Cheng's wrist, his expression focused. He sensed the flow of his Qi and blood, the circulation of his true Qi, and any abnormalities in his meridians and acupoints. At the same time, his eyes shone brightly as he carefully observed Xuan Cheng's gaze, complexion, and the length of his breath.

After a long while, Wu Yazi slowly withdrew his hand, his brows furrowed slightly, and said to Qiao Tian in a deep voice: "His vital acupoints, such as Touwei, Baihui, and Shenting, are blocked with qi and blood, and his spiritual light is dim. This is not an ordinary case of qi deviation, but rather a case of mental exhaustion and closed senses, making it difficult for him to manage and control the situation with his own spirit."

Upon hearing this, Qiao Tian's eyes flashed with understanding and regret. Although Kumārajīva, who was standing to the side, was not knowledgeable in medicine, he understood that Senior Xuancheng had lost his mind due to the backlash of martial arts, and his heart was filled with shock and sorrow.

Qiao Tian turned his gaze to Kumārajīva, a gentle smile returning to his face. He then changed the subject, saying, "Your Majesty's trip to the Central Plains and your visit to Wudang are truly remarkable. Not only is your martial arts superb, but your profound Buddhist teachings are also a great honor to our humble Wudang."

Upon hearing this, Kumārajīva felt as if he had drunk an ice spring on a sweltering summer day, feeling completely refreshed. His vanity was greatly satisfied, and he quickly put his palms together in humility, but the smugness between his brows could not be concealed: "Sect Leader Qiao is too kind. This humble monk has only gained some understanding on the path of Buddhist teachings and martial arts, and is simply adhering to his original intention."

Qiao Tian followed up smoothly, his tone carrying a hint of guiding praise: "Your Majesty is too modest. To be honest, Wudang has already invited heroes from all over the world to gather at Shaolin on the 22nd of the twelfth lunar month to discuss Buddhist scriptures. I wonder if you, Master, are interested?"

For a thousand years, Shaolin has held the reins of the Central Plains martial arts world, its prestige immense. However, over time, it has inevitably become complacent and its interpretation of Buddhist scriptures may have become rigid. All Buddhist teachings originate from one source, yet their branches and leaves differ, each possessing its own profound principles. If, in the near future, the Ming King could engage in a debate with Shaolin monks before the heroes of the world, using the subtleties of Tibetan Buddhism to directly address any potential obscurities in their interpretations, thus mutually verifying and enlightening wisdom, this would undoubtedly be a momentous event of immeasurable merit and a great tale in Buddhism. At that time, the heroes of the world would truly witness the Ming King's great wisdom and courage.

These words, like a spark, instantly ignited the tinder of "fame and fortune" in Kumārajīva's heart!

He could almost see himself standing atop Shaoshi Mountain, before all the heroes of the world, using his unparalleled wisdom and exquisite martial arts to refute the Shaolin monks into silence, thus establishing himself as the "Number One Buddhist Martial Arts Master" and proving that Tibetan Buddhism far surpasses that of the Central Plains! At that time, his name, Kumārajīva, would resound throughout the world!

Thinking of this, Kumārajīva's breathing quickened, his face flushed, and he forcibly suppressed his excitement, striving to maintain a solemn and dignified appearance. He solemnly said, "Sect Leader Qiao is truly a kindred spirit of this humble monk! These words are excellent! Buddhism is a method to universally save all sentient beings, and it should become clearer through debate. As a disciple of Buddhism, I have this opportunity, and I will do my utmost to explore the true meaning of Buddhism with fellow practitioners in the Central Plains and promote the true Dharma of our Buddha!" ​​He automatically interpreted Qiao Tian's "mutual verification" as "one-sided crushing," and regarded it as a golden opportunity to make a name for himself.

Qiao Tian looked at the burning flame in his eyes and knew that the plan to "drive away the tiger" had succeeded. He smiled slightly, raised his cup and said, "In that case, I wish the King of Ming a brilliant future, so that the martial arts world of the Central Plains can witness the boundless wonders of Tibetan Buddhism."

Kumārajīva, full of high spirits, raised his cup and drank it all in one gulp, feeling as if he had met Qiao Tian too late in life.

After seeing off the spirited Kumārajīva and the still bewildered Xuancheng, Qiao Tian and Wuyazi exchanged a glance.

Wu Yazi stroked his beard and said, "Although this monk is mad, he is a fine sword. However, the blade is easily broken and can easily injure himself."

Qiao Tian stood with his hands behind his back by the window, gazing towards Shaoshi Mountain, his eyes deep and thoughtful: "Grandmaster, rest assured, the purpose of this sword lies not in its sharpness, but in its movement. Shaolin Temple is an ancient temple with a thousand-year history and profound heritage. If we allow it to control the rhythm of the tournament, I have no confidence."

A calculating smile curled at the corner of his lips:

"Kumārajīva will not be content with a quiet journey. Given his nature, he will surely strike before anyone else, aiming directly at the authority of Shaolin Buddhism and martial arts. This will disrupt Shaolin's plans. At that time, the focus of the conference will no longer be what they want to discuss, but rather on dealing with the challenge from Kumārajīva, this 'Tibetan lion.' The muddier the waters, the more advantageous it will be for us."

Wu Yazi's eyes revealed admiration: "Using one tiger to devour another, then fishing in troubled waters. Tian'er, your plan this time is truly ingenious."

Qiao Tian smiled modestly, but the confidence and decisiveness in his eyes revealed that the upcoming gathering at Shaoshi Mountain was already part of his strategy. Kumārajīva, this "lucky general," was precisely the vanguard general who would unravel the mystery for his younger brother!

Chapter 101 Innate True Qi

The scene under that ancient sycamore tree on the back mountain of Wudang is quite peculiar.

Xuancheng sat cross-legged on a tree root, devouring a greasy chicken leg with one hand while gesturing casually with the other. Kumārajīva stood respectfully before him, sometimes listening intently, sometimes mimicking a move as instructed, occasionally receiving a tap on the forehead from Xuancheng with a chicken bone.

"Wrong, wrong! Xiao Zhi, you only learned the shadow of this 'Shadow-Following Kick,' you didn't grasp the soul!" Xuan Cheng, his mouth greasy, lectured him indistinctly, "Seven parts of the kick should be extended, leaving three parts in the bend of the knee, the energy flowing through the Yongquan point, not just a brute kick! Watch this!" With that, he casually flicked his greasy hand with a chicken leg, his figure moving like a ghost, the shadow of his leg instantly covering Jiu Mozhi's lower body, the force of the wind sharp yet contained, frightening Jiu Mozhi into retreating repeatedly, yet also dazzling and mesmerized.

"And that Flaming Blade of yours, it's too fiery! Why is Buddhist martial arts so aggressive? Even if you want to be powerful, it needs a foundation of Zen! 'Vajra Wrathful Gaze' is for 'subduing the Four Demons,' not for chopping wood and starting a fire!" Xuan Cheng grabbed a chicken leg and took another bite, speaking casually yet incisively, pointing out the flaws in Kumārajīva's martial arts. Kumārajīva, though covered in dirt and grease, had a gleam of excitement and greed in his eyes, feeling that every word of guidance was invaluable, experiencing both pain and pleasure. This teaching and learning, under the paulownia tree, had a unique, rustic charm.

On the other hand, inside the Zhenwu Hall, the atmosphere was much more solemn.

Led by Huang Chang, dozens of Daoist elites who participated in compiling the *Wanshou Daozang* stood solemnly in the hall. Huang Chang, holding a heavy general outline bound with gold thread, exuding the fragrance of ink and Daoist charm, bowed respectfully to Qiao Tian, ​​who sat upright above, his voice clear and steady:

"Reporting to Master, your disciple Huang Shang, along with fellow disciples from Wudang and senior Taoist practitioners, has spent several years reading through tens of thousands of volumes, removing the dross and retaining the essence, supplementing and correcting errors. Today, the 'Wanshou Daozang' is finally completed! It consists of 5,481 volumes, encompassing all things, tracing the origins of Taoism, and bringing together the great achievements of metaphysics. Please take a look, Master!"

The crowd behind him shouted in unison, "Congratulations on the successful completion of the 'Longevity Daoist Canon'!"

Qiao Tian stood up, took the heavy general outline, gently stroked it, and showed heartfelt joy and satisfaction on his face: "Good! Good! Chang'er, everyone, you have worked hard! This is a great achievement that benefits the present and future generations! It is the supreme glory of our Daoist sect and Wudang!"

He looked around at the crowd and announced loudly: "I hereby issue this decree: at noon the day after tomorrow, a grand ceremony for the presentation of the Longevity Daoist Canon will be held in the square in front of the Zhenwu Hall! At that time, the imperial court will also send an envoy to formally receive the Daoist Canon and store it in the national treasury to demonstrate the civil administration!"

Upon hearing this, everyone was even more excited.

After everyone dispersed, only Qiao Tian, ​​Huang Shang, and Wu Xingyun and Wu Yazi, who were listening in, remained in the hall.

Qiao Tian looked at his disciple, whose demeanor had become increasingly calm and profound, and said with a gentle smile, "Shang'er, at the grand ceremony the day after tomorrow, I will officially announce that you will succeed as the leader of Wudang Sect."

Huang Shang's body trembled slightly. He looked up at Qiao Tian and bowed deeply: "Disciple will live up to Master's high expectations and will do everything in my power to carry forward Wudang!"

Qiao Tian nodded with satisfaction, looking towards the distant mountains outside the hall with a sense of relief and longing: "Once the matter of Shaolin is settled, I will relinquish my heavy responsibilities, return to the mountains and fields, accompany my parents, and care for them in their old age, thus fulfilling my filial duty as a son."

Just then, Qiao Tian seemed to sense something and grabbed Huang Chang's wrist. A moment later, his face lit up with surprise: "Chang'er! You...you've actually developed internal energy?! And this energy...is incredibly pure. Did you start practicing martial arts?"

Huang Shang smiled slightly and calmly replied, "Master, you are wise. While compiling the Daoist Canon, I gained some insights and, in the final general outline of the Nine Yin Manual, I accidentally obtained a divine secret. This internal energy was not deliberately cultivated, but rather... it is like... the mind aligning with the Dao, and the skill naturally arises. It is like a breath of primordial energy, naturally flowing through the meridians, which is extremely wondrous. I feel that, with this opportunity, I may be able to perfect the manual in one fell swoop, and even... break through my own shackles."

Upon hearing this, Qiao Tian was initially delighted, but then, as if realizing something, he released his grip, somewhat helplessly rubbing his forehead. He thought of the sweeping monk in the Sutra Pavilion back then; he must have been like Chang'er, not through arduous practice of techniques, but through supreme Buddhist wisdom, comprehending a breath of innate true energy within Buddhist teachings, thus reaching the unfathomable realm of a Grandmaster!

His tone carried a hint of understanding and emotion as he looked at Wu Yazi and Wu Xingyun: "Alas, it seems that even if ordinary people exhaust all their efforts to collect all the martial arts in the world, if they do not have the opportunity to comprehend this 'Innate Qi,' they may find it difficult to cross that insurmountable chasm in their entire lives. Take Senior Brother Xuancheng, for example. Although he had unparalleled perseverance and forcibly fused the Seventy-Two Ultimate Techniques, he ended up in such a state... It is lamentable, admirable, and also tragic."

Wu Yazi stroked his beard and nodded, his admiration for Huang Shang undisguised: "Shang'er is blessed with great fortune and has extraordinary comprehension. This is a great fortune for our Xiaoyao Sect and Wudang Sect."

Suddenly, Wu Xingyun snorted coldly, his sharp gaze sweeping over Qiao Tian, ​​his words laced with sarcasm: "Tian'er, judging from your words, are you planning to give up this great foundation at such a young age, drift down the mountain, and comprehend the Great Dao?"

Qiao Tian, ​​having his thoughts exposed by his senior uncle, smiled sheepishly and quickly cupped his hands in greeting: "Senior Uncle, you are wise. My ambition... is not in this. The position of sect leader belongs to the capable, and Chang'er is the only suitable candidate. I only wish for peace of mind."

Wu Xingyun raised a brow, showing no anger, but instead revealing a smile that sent chills down Qiao Tian's spine: "Very well. Since you've made up your mind, I'm at ease handing the sect leader position over to that brat Huang Shang. However..."

She deliberately drew out her words, sizing Qiao Tian up as if assessing a piece of merchandise: "Since you're free from worldly affairs, it's time you considered your marriage. My Xiaoyao Villa is dwindling in talent and desperately needs to expand its ranks. As the sect leader, I'll personally arrange your marriage, finding you several ladies from prestigious families and martial arts heroines, I guarantee it..."

"puff--!"

Qiao Tian had just picked up his teacup and taken a sip to calm his nerves when he heard this, but he immediately spat out the tea, choking and coughing repeatedly, his face instantly turning bright red.

Seeing this, Wu Xingyun smiled even more "kindly": "What? Don't you trust my judgment? Don't worry, in my whole life, I've only ever acted as matchmaker for you. I'll make sure you have a glorious life with a harem of wives and concubines!"

Looking at Wu Xingyun's "malicious" smile, Qiao Tian felt a chill run down his spine, as if he could see a terrifying scene of being surrounded by countless beautiful women in the future!

"Grand...Grand Master Uncle! This matter...this matter needs further consideration! This disciple...this disciple suddenly remembered that there are some things to discuss with Chang'er, so I will take my leave first!" Qiao Tian almost incoherently dropped these words, disregarding any semblance of sect leader dignity, and pulled the still clueless Huang Chang, fleeing out of the Zhenwu Hall as if escaping.

Behind them came Wu Xingyun's hearty, mocking laughter and Wu Yazi's helpless shaking of his head and light chuckle.

Chapter 102 The Supreme Being

Deep within the Song Dynasty imperial palace, in that crimson palace, candlelight flickered, creating a luxurious atmosphere that was completely different from the solemnity outside.

A man dressed in a moon-white Taoist robe sat behind a zither table. His handsome face and refined, otherworldly air made him the "Joyful Taoist," deeply favored by the Supreme Lord. His fingers danced across the strings, playing not a solitary Taoist melody, but a captivating, exotic tune. His expression seemed detached, yet his gaze frequently lingered on the soft couch, and the subtle curve of his lips added a touch of untamed, carefree charm.

On the soft couch, the Empress Dowager reclined like a languid phoenix. A loose, crimson palace robe draped over her body, outlining her breathtaking curves. One slender hand held a luminous cup, the amber liquid swirling gently; the other hand casually propped her chin, her neck arched like a swan's, her long eyelashes trembling slightly above her closed eyes. To the rhythm of the zither music, her bare, jade-like feet tapped lightly on the couch, the golden bells on her ankles tinkling softly. This posture exuded both ultimate enjoyment and an undeniable, overwhelming aura of control; allure and majesty were perfectly intertwined within her, making one hesitant to look directly at her, yet captivating her heart.

Her red lips parted slightly, and accompanied by the sound of the zither, she recited a line of poetry imbued with a world-weary wisdom and pride:

"Sixty years have passed since the first move of the game, and the landscape has been turned into dice in my palm."

Forget about conquering the Qilin Pavilion, let's just get drunk on the top floor of the mortal world...

The music paused at just the right moment, and the Joyful Taoist clapped his hands in praise, his eyes full of admiration: "What a magnificent spirit! To regard the world and the country as nothing, this transcendence, this clarity, is unmatched in this world!" As he spoke, he rose and walked towards the soft couch, his posture intimate and natural.

The Empress Dowager slowly opened her phoenix eyes, which seemed to hold the movement of stars and were unfathomable. A bewitching smile curled at the corner of her lips as she watched her beloved male concubine approach.

The Joyful Taoist sat down on the edge of the couch, his hand naturally slipping beneath her wide red robe. His fingertips, like the most skillful paintbrush, traced a gentle, ingratiating path from her jade-like ankles, up the graceful curve of her calves. His voice carried a hint of coquettish grievance: "Your Majesty, do you know that in order to be by your side, I spend my days buried in the alchemy room, surrounded by cinnabar, mercury, and lead, serving the Empress Dowager as she refines elixirs and prays for blessings? It's truly... incredibly boring and tedious."

The Empress Dowager, savoring the perfectly timed massage and intimacy, let out a lazy hum, a sound both pampered and indulgent. She reached out her free hand and gently tapped the Joyful Taoist's forehead with her fingertips, her voice soft yet carrying an undeniable authority: "My darling, I wish I could bring you all the fun things and interesting things in the world. But... alchemy is your duty, the foundation of your position in the palace, and you must not neglect it."

Her tone was slightly somber, carrying a warning: "Firstly, this is for your sake. Don't think that just because I, the Empress Dowager, favor you, you can be even slightly presumptuous in this palace, especially in front of the Zhao royal family. You must know that only by being careful with your words and actions can you last long."

Her gaze seemed to pierce through the palace, looking towards the distant past, her tone tinged with reminiscence and solemnity: "Back then, Emperor Taizu was a man of unparalleled martial prowess. He established the 'Dragon Guard Pavilion' to recruit extraordinary individuals from across the land to aid him. I, the Retired Emperor, was fortunate enough to seize the opportunity on the night of Chenqiao, where I single-handedly settled the world, helping Emperor Taizu consolidate his empire and thus achieving the honor I enjoy today. However, the waters of the 'Dragon Guard Pavilion' are unfathomable. Its members are all extraordinary individuals, maintaining a balance of power and refraining from interfering with each other. This is the true foundation upon which the Zhao Song imperial family stands, something that neither you nor I can easily fathom or touch."

Upon hearing this, Huanxi Daoren's eyes flashed with a hint of fear, which quickly turned into even deeper flattery. He hurriedly said, "The Supreme One's supernatural powers are unparalleled, and his wisdom and foresight are far beyond my reach! To be favored by the Supreme One is already a blessing I have accumulated over several lifetimes. How dare I have any improper thoughts? I will always remember the Supreme One's teachings, be law-abiding, and never cause trouble for the Supreme One!" He worked even harder, doing everything he could to please the Supreme One.

The Supreme Being was quite satisfied with his reaction, and her expression softened again. She comforted him, "I know you don't like the constraints of these palace walls. Just wait patiently..." She leaned close to the ear of the Joyful Taoist, her breath sweet as orchids, carrying a tempting promise, "After some time, when the time is right, I will give you... a foundation enough to be passed down for ten thousand generations! So that you can truly live a carefree and happy life. You must not... be ungrateful and forget my kindness."

A glint flashed in Huanxi Daoren's eyes, but his face was plastered with an excited smile of being flattered, and his voice became even sweeter: "The Supreme One's kindness to this humble Daoist is as heavy as a mountain. Even if this humble Daoist were to give his life, it would be impossible to repay even a fraction of it! In this life, the Supreme One is the only one in my heart!" As he spoke, he seemed unable to contain his emotions, and he lowered his head deeply, his posture full of affection.

The Supreme Emperor leaned back contentedly against the soft pillows, gently swirling the wine in his glass with one hand. He closed his eyes, savoring the ultimate pleasure brought by this control and pampering, his demeanor graceful and his elegance unparalleled. Within the crimson palace, only the lingering strains of the zither and the ambiguous atmosphere remained, flowing slowly.

Chapter 103 The Eighteen Subduing Dragon Palms

Inside the Hall of Gathering Righteousness at the Beggars' Sect headquarters.