"Many sects are saying that the Northern Liang Army is going to confiscate their property—they've already started rebelling!"
Even without a report from his subordinates, Chen Sanshi could see from atop Splitting Moon Manor that fires were breaking out all across Liangzhou City.
There were only two Martial Saints in the entire city.
But several sects were still guarded by Profound Manifestation Realm cultivators.
Such sudden chaos would bring serious trouble. And to make matters worse—there was also an enemy attack outside the city.
"Chu Shixiong!"
"You will take the left, right, and rear battalions—surround Splitting Moon Manor, calm them down, explain the situation clearly. Before dawn, the situation must be under control!"
"The front and middle battalions—come with me to the Great Wall!"
In times of turmoil, the most dangerous thing was disorder. Once chaos spread, even a million soldiers wouldn't be enough to stop it.
Right now, the only unit that could mobilize the fastest was Hongze Battalion.
The Black Turtle Garrison and others would take time to gather, so it was better to leave them to pacify the city's unrest.
"Three beacon fires, three piles of kindling—it means at least two thousand enemies are approaching!" reported Xia Cong.
"Keep scouting and report again! I want their exact position!"
"Report—!"
"A breach has appeared in the northwestern corner of the Great Wall! Over one thousand barbarian cavalry have already crossed inside—they're pillaging around Fengxi Village!"
"Middle Army—seal the breach!"
"Front Army—head for Fengxi Village immediately!"
—
Fengxi Village.
At the end of the village, inside a cracked tile-roofed house.
A young woman sat in the dim candlelight, patching torn clothes with careful, clumsy stitches.
"Phew…"
She sighed softly, then blew out the flame, as if reluctant to waste the candle. Under the faint moonlight, she continued sewing, though her eyes kept darting to the window—distracted, anxious.
"Hiss…"
As expected, the needle pricked her finger.
She didn't care—just pressed the fingertip to her lips, waited for the bleeding to stop, then continued sewing. But her movements grew more restless, her heartbeat uneasy.
Finally, she couldn't stay still anymore. She set the clothes aside and stood up.
"Why isn't A-di back yet…"
Her name was Su Wen, and since childhood, she and her younger brother Su Can had relied on each other to survive.
Su Can wasn't one for studying.
Recently, after saving up enough silver, he'd bought a bow and arrows, learning from the older hunters in the village to earn a living in the mountains.
But tonight—
He still hadn't come home, even at this hour.
The mountains were crawling with beasts—tigers, black bears, and even strange creatures with glowing red eyes and poisonous fangs. Several villagers had already died recently.
If something had happened to her brother… she didn't know how she could go on living.
With worry gnawing at her, Su Wen opened the window, leaning halfway out. Her gaze stayed fixed on the village entrance—but there was no sign of him.
Just as her heart began to pound faster, a hand suddenly patted her shoulder from behind.
"Ah!"
"A-di?!"
"You scared me half to death!"
"How did you come back without a sound?"
Seeing her younger brother standing there, bow on his back, Su Wen finally let out a long, trembling breath.
Su Can grinned, carrying a bow on his back, a rabbit in his left hand, and a pheasant in his right. "A-jie, we're eating meat tonight!"
"Next time, don't come back this late again—you almost scared me to death."
"Don't worry, A-jie."
Su Can began to unload his gear as he spoke. "I've been asking around. It's too hard to join a sect for martial training, so I'm planning to enlist instead. I'll start in the Liangzhou Garrison, and if I do well, maybe I'll get into the Northern Liang Army later.
"If I'm lucky, I could even get assigned to Hongze Battalion, under that famous general."
"If that happens, our lives will get better, A-jie. You could even marry into a good family."
"You're joining the army?"
Su Wen's eyes widened with worry. "A-di, haven't you heard? There's talk that war might break out any day now. To enlist now…"
"It's fine, A-jie."
The young man spoke with firm conviction. "If I make it into Hongze Battalion, we'll never lose."
"But still—"
"That's enough, A-jie. In times like these, a man has to learn martial skills to survive. Don't worry, I know what I'm doing. I'm starving—did you make dinner?"
"I'll cook right now."
Su Wen hurried to the stove, soon bringing out a bowl of rice.
Su Can lifted his chopsticks, just about to eat—when the table suddenly began to tremble.
No…
The entire house—no, the entire village—was shaking.
"Da-da-da-da—!"
Then came the thunder of hooves, followed by terrified screams echoing through the night.
"The barbarians!"
"The barbarians are attacking!"
Screams, laughter, steel clashing, fire crackling—chaos consumed everything in moments.
Within a single cup of tea's time, the peaceful village had turned into a blazing hell on earth.
"The barbarians…"
Su Can clenched his teeth.
Years ago—
Their parents had died in an attack just like this.
"A-jie, run!"
Grabbing his bow, Su Can pulled his sister out the door.
The whole village was in chaos.
Families fled barefoot through the dirt, carrying their children, clutching what few belongings they could.
"A-jie, you head for the city!"
"What about you?!"
Su Wen reached for him—but her hand closed on empty air as her brother dashed into the burning streets, bow in hand.
"Girl!"
A middle-aged man shouted, watching helplessly as his daughter was dragged onto a horse by a barbarian raider. He raised his pitchfork and charged—but he was no match for a trained warrior.
The raider struck him aside effortlessly.
"Filthy peasant!"
The barbarian raised his curved blade, ready to cleave the man in two—
—but at that moment, a black arrow shot through the firelight, whistling past like lightning.
It pierced straight through the raider's throat.
The man froze mid-swing, the blade clanging to the ground as he toppled from his horse.
"Su Can?!"
The middle-aged man turned—and there, framed by the burning rooftops, stood the young archer.
"Uncle Xu!"
Su Can shouted, "Take Ling'er and get to the city! The army will come soon!"
"Alright, I will!"
The man hoisted his unconscious daughter onto his back. "And you, Canzi?!"
The boy didn't answer. He just tightened his grip on his bow and stepped back into the fire.
"Swish, swish, swish—"
Arrow after arrow tore through the air.
Each one found its mark—piercing throats, cutting down riders.
In just a short while, more than ten barbarian raiders lay dead beneath the flames.
Su Can's eyes were sharp like a hawk's as he drew and loosed his bow in one fluid motion.
Before long, he drew the barbarians' attention.
A barbarian warrior at the Bone Tempering Realm spurred his horse and charged straight toward the boy.
"Swish! Swish! Swish—!"
Su Can shot several arrows in succession, each aimed at the rider's throat.
But the barbarian raised a round shield, deflecting every arrow with ease.
As the horse closed the distance, Su Can snatched up a fallen long blade from the ground and swung it desperately.
The next instant—
He felt as though he had slammed headfirst into a mountain.
The impact shattered the bones in his arm, the long blade flew from his grasp, spinning several zhang away, and his small frame was hurled back against a wall. The blow crushed his chest, rupturing his organs; blood poured from his mouth as his body slumped to the ground, unable to move.
The edge of a curved blade gleamed before his eyes.
At that very moment—
A dragon's roar split the air.
A thunderous boom followed as a black dragon seemed to scream across the night sky.
The barbarian's head exploded into a cloud of blood and bone; red and white splattered across Su Can's face and body like a rainstorm.
"Thud!"
Something heavy struck the ground beside him.
It wasn't a dragon—but an arrow.
A long black arrow, glimmering faintly in the firelight.
Following its path back, Su Can saw through the burning haze a lone rider upon a white horse. The man was tall and steady, his movements fluid as he lowered his bow. He cast a glance toward Su Can, then kicked his horse forward, long spear flashing silver beneath the flames. Everywhere he passed, barbarians toppled from their saddles.
Then he disappeared into the darkness.
"The Northern Liang Army!"
"The Northern Liang Army is here!"
"It's Chen Sanshi of Hongze Battalion!"
The villagers, drowning in panic, seized upon the name like drowning men clutching driftwood.
The Northern Liang Army swept through like the blazing sun burning away night's darkness.
Within a quarter of an hour, Fengxi Village was purged of barbarians. Not one survived.
"Sound the whistling arrow!"
"Tell the Great Wall's Central Army to tighten the encirclement—don't let a single one escape!"
"Hyah!"
Chen Sanshi urged his mount forward. The great bow in his hands hummed with each release, every shot claiming another barbarian's life. When his arrows ran out, he switched to his long spear and plunged into the thick of battle.
Wherever his eyes landed, he saw enemies—and wherever his spear struck, bodies fell. The weapon's gang qi swirled like a tornado, tearing through soldiers and horses alike, unstoppable and absolute.
Hundreds of barbarian cavalrymen screamed in terror.
The Northern Liang Army hadn't seen such a terrifying figure since Lü Ji himself!
They'd all heard that Chen Sanshi was a master of Archery, but his spearwork was even more fearsome than the legends claimed.
Blood and steel danced beneath the moon.
Chen Sanshi had no idea how many men he'd slain. Every time he saw movement, he struck without hesitation. Only when he noticed that the armor around him had changed color and design did he finally pull on the reins.
Looking back, the field was carpeted with corpses.
Xia Cong rode up and reported, "The breach in the Great Wall is sealed. The barbarian cavalry who got through have been completely wiped out. Should we return to the city now or—"
"Hold position at the Great Wall," Chen Sanshi ordered.
The city was in capable hands with his senior brothers. The priority now was the defense line.
"Yes, sir!"
Soon after, Chen Sanshi climbed to the northern watchtower at the town's north gate.
From the battlements, he could see shadowy shapes retreating far off—barbarian cavalry slowly withdrawing across the plain. It seemed they didn't plan to attack further. Most likely, the earlier assault had just been a test.
By dawn, several Night-Scout units returned.
"We found a new barbarian camp near Tiger Hill Mountain!"
"There's another one near the Maniao River!"
Once the reports were compiled, a clear picture began to form.
The barbarians were pressing forward across the entire northern border.
But the full details—numbers, formations, command structure—were still unclear.
"Keep scouting and report again," Chen Sanshi commanded. "Find out exactly how many troops are at Tiger Hill Mountain—and who's in command."
"Yes, sir!"
By midday, new reports came from the city.
The sect uprisings had been mostly contained.
However, Shao Yuqing, Wen Zhi, and several high-level Profound Manifestation Realm martial masters had all vanished without a trace. No one knew where they'd gone.
It had all happened too suddenly. If Chen Sanshi hadn't discovered that they'd been controlled, and they'd remained hidden in the rear when war began, the consequences could have been disastrous.
He thought back to the night before—how the sect disturbances and the enemy attack on the Wall had happened almost simultaneously.
It couldn't be coincidence.
There was definitely a connection.
And this Northern Expedition War… could no longer be delayed.
"His Highness commands all fourteen battalion generals to return to the city for council."
—
Thousands of li away.
Heavenly Capital City (Tiandu).
Among the barbarian tribes of the great desert, the Yu Wen, Murong, Tuoba, and Duan clans were known as the Four Great Khans.
Though united under the name of the barbarian race, they had never truly been at peace.
For over a thousand years, they had fought and schemed against one another, each seeking to swallow the rest.
Only in the last few centuries, facing the power of the Great Sheng Dynasty, had they reluctantly formed the Grassland Alliance—joining forces to plunder the fertile Central Plains. They fought together when invading and retreated together when losing.
Even so, trust between them remained a fragile illusion.
But now—
For the first time in history, all four Great Khans had gathered together in one place.
Wolf Juxu Mountain.
Even the vast steppe had its divisions—lands of plenty and lands of poverty.
The Yin Mountain Range marked the border between the southern and northern deserts.
South of the mountains, the land was mild and rich—ideal for herding and hunting.
The barbarians' strength had grown precisely because of the resources of the southern steppes.
Wolf Juxu Mountain, one of the many peaks within the Yin Range, was said to have once been the gathering ground of ten thousand ancient demons—until a divine wolf descended from the heavens and drove them away, allowing humankind to flourish there.
Because of that, this place had become the sacred mountain in the hearts of all barbarian tribes.
To them, its status was as holy as Mount Ziwei was to the people of the Central Plains.
On this day, the Four Great Khans gathered at the mountain's peak to offer sacrifice to their ancestors.
"Three hundred years ago!"
"Our Heavenly Tribe ruled the Central Plains for over a hundred years!"
"Who would have thought—!"
"That damned Emperor Cao Xie of the Great Sheng would rise from nowhere and drive us back into the wastelands, forcing us to suffer three hundred years of humiliation!"
"But now… that humiliation ends!"
Among the four tribes of the grasslands, the Tuoba were the strongest.
The Great Khan of Tuoba raised a bronze bowl of wine and addressed the other three khans. "The Great Sheng Dynasty is rotten to its core—its fate is spent!
"This time, we have the Witch God Sect and the Ancient Demon Clan Immortal Masters aiding us!
"Not only will we reclaim the Central Plains, but we will also bathe it in blood and ascend the path of immortality!
"From this day forth, the people of the Central Plains will never lift their heads again!"
"The Sheng Emperor is laughable!"
The Great Khan of Yu Wen sneered. "If he hadn't helped Yunzhou endure those ten days, we'd never have been able to perform the blood sacrifice and tear open the heavenly seal to receive the aid of the Ancient Demon Immortal Masters!"
"Indeed," said the Great Khan of Murong, smirking. "That decrepit emperor of Sheng, all for the sake of living a few more years—he'd sell out his people without hesitation. Tsk tsk, millions of his own citizens, slaughtered like cattle and sheep… even we barbarians have to work harder to match such cruelty."
"He succeeded though," the Great Khan of Duan said coldly. "He bought himself twenty more years of life, enough to chase after his so-called Immortal Dao. Too bad his dynasty doesn't have that long to live."
"The Immortal Masters of the Ancient Demon Clan have spoken," said the Tuoba Khan. "The key to this war lies with Sun Xiangzong!"
"That's why the High Priest placed the core of the blood ritual right at the end of the Fiend Vein. Once the formation merges with the vein and activates, even that Sun Xiangzong won't be able to stop it!"
"To the Heavenly Tribe!"
"To the Heavenly Tribe!"
As the khans raised their bowls to toast the heavens, the black-robed High Priest of the Witch God Sect standing by the altar suddenly stiffened. His robe fluttered though there was no wind. His eyes snapped open—cold and grim.
"What is it?"
The Tuoba Khan turned sharply toward him. "High Priest, has something gone wrong?"
"Extreme Yin Gu," the High Priest murmured, his tone low and grave. "The infiltrators we buried within the city have been exposed."
"What? How could they be discovered?"
The Yu Wen Khan's voice tensed. "Will this affect our grand plan?"
"No major issue," the High Priest replied icily. "The preparations for the blood ritual are nearly complete anyway. We'll simply start earlier than planned."
—
Liangzhou City.
The Sixth Prince, Cao Huan, had gathered all fourteen main generals of the Northern Liang Army before a vast sand table, discussing the events of the previous night and the coming battle plan.
"This time," said Cao Huan, "we owe much to General Chen for uncovering the signs within the sects early. Who could've imagined that the sect masters themselves were the culprits? If we had gone to war while they remained hidden in the city, the consequences would've been disastrous.
"Grand Commander Sun Xiangzong hasn't yet returned to Liangzhou. I've gathered you all here today to discuss what we should do next.
"Our original plan was to march north in five months, at the start of spring. But after last night's events—should we maintain that plan, or make changes?"
"Of course, we should maintain it."
The Heavenly Eagle Battalion Commander rose to speak. "Everyone knows the barbarians are a nomadic people. Each autumn, when grass is plentiful and men and horses are at their strongest, that is when they thrive. But come winter, food and forage grow scarce. After months of consumption, by the time spring arrives, they are at their weakest.
"Our Northern Liang Army, on the other hand, has been stockpiling supplies for years—we have no such concerns.
"When spring comes, we'll strike from strength against weakness. The balance of power will be entirely in our favor. Victory will be ours in one swift blow!"
"General Li is right!"
"I agree with him as well."
Several generals nodded in support.
"General Lü," said Cao Huan, "you've served longer than anyone here, with more experience in war than the rest of us combined. What's your view?"
"In my opinion," Lü Ji said calmly, "last night's events were no coincidence. Combined with the enemy's movements along the front lines, it's clear they're planning something bigger. If we keep waiting, we'll just be dancing to their tune and losing initiative. It's better to strike first—catch them off guard."
"General Chen," Cao Huan asked next, "what do you think?"
All eyes turned to him.
Now, Chen Sanshi was one of the most respected figures in the entire Northern Liang Army.
"I agree with General Lü," Chen Sanshi said frankly. "We should move early. What does General Fang think?"
Fang Qingyun, stationed in Liangzhou due to health issues, nodded slightly. "We're not the only ones who know the barbarians weaken in spring. They know it too. For them to advance this early means they've already made preparations. Striking first truly is our best option."
"Master Xu," Cao Huan turned to another figure.
Xu Wencai slowly fanned his feather fan and said in his calm, deliberate voice, "In my humble opinion—it's time to act."
In the end, the room split evenly between the cautious and the aggressive.
But those who favored immediate action—Chen Sanshi, Lü Ji, Fang Qingyun—were all men of immense reputation.
Finally, Cao Huan slammed his hand on the table.
"Until Grand Commander Sun returns, I'll serve as acting commander and hold full authority. I may not have fought many wars, but I know one thing—hesitation kills opportunity.
"Pass the order—mobilize 200,000 troops of the Northern Frontier Army!
"In one month, we march onto the grasslands!
"After that, we'll finalize our battle plan."
The hall erupted in murmurs as generals leaned over the sand table, discussing the terrain and logistics.
The conclusion was unanimous: before anything else, they had to capture Tiger Hill Mountain.
That mountain was strategically vital.
If they were to advance thousands of li into the steppe, they would need a stable base to secure supply lines.
And Tiger Hill Mountain was the perfect anchor point.
But as of now, their intelligence on the barbarian forces stationed there remained incomplete.
All they knew was that the Yu Wen Tribe's Chancellor was commanding the troops in person.
"Information brought back by the scouts and Night-Scouts might not be completely accurate. The art of war thrives on deception, and the barbarians understand that as well. This war concerns the fate of the nation—we can't afford a single mistake."
Cao Huan said calmly, "If I'm not mistaken, Tiger Hill Mountain lies right within your area of surveillance. You should be the most familiar with its terrain. Five days from now, take eight hundred light cavalry to probe the area. Can you manage that?"
"No problem."
Chen Sanshi accepted without hesitation. It was exactly what he had been planning.
The military council lasted until the Hour of the Dog (around 9 p.m.).
By the time the generals left the Prince's residence, darkness had already swallowed the city. Liangzhou had entered full curfew, the streets deathly quiet, the air heavy with the stillness before war.
"Brothers," came a deep voice from the end of the street.
It was Fang Qingyun, standing beneath a flickering lantern. "Don't leave yet. The war is about to begin. Let's gather together—just once more, as family."
"Good, good!"
Meng Guangxin grinned widely. "I remember you once hid away a fine jar of wine. I say it's time to open it tonight!"
"Let's go," said Cheng Wei. "We rarely get to meet these days."
"I hunted a Zouwu beast last week," said Chen Sanshi. "Send someone to fetch it. We'll roast the meat for the wine."
The ten brothers and sisters walked together in twos and threes through the silent streets.
In terms of martial realm, Chen Sanshi was actually the weakest among them. His senior brothers and sisters were all at Profound Manifestation Realm – Perfection, each one stuck at the bottleneck before the Martial Saint stage.
They arrived at the Grand Commander's Residence.
Inside were Sun Buqi and Sun Li as well.
"We're only missing Master," said Third Senior Brother Nie Yuan softly. "Then we'd truly be all together again."
"No kidding," Meng Guangxin muttered. "How long has it been since we last saw the old man?"
"At least five or six years," said Chen Sanshi quietly. He had actually seen his master not long ago, but even he didn't know where the old man was now—or what he was doing.
"Honored generals," said a maid, bowing. "The banquet is prepared in the Hall of Return."
They followed her in.
The banquet was not held indoors, but in the middle of the courtyard beneath a towering osmanthus tree. Pots of greenery and stone bonsai lined the edges, while above, the bright moon hung like silver over the quiet night.
An old man sat at the head of the table, white-haired and thin as bamboo.
"Master?!"
Everyone's faces lit up with shock and joy.
But that joy quickly vanished.
Because they saw that Sun Xiangzong's face was pale and sunken, his spirit dim. He looked not two years older, but twenty. The weight of age had piled upon him like layers of frost—he looked like a man already standing at the edge of death.
"Master?!"
They all cried out together.
Usually silent and calm, Ye Fengxiu dropped his sword and rushed forward. "Master, what happened to you?!"
The disciples crowded around him.
"You trying to block the old man's breath?" Sun Xiangzong said gruffly, waving them off. "Move aside, all of you."
They immediately stepped back, uneasy.
"Master," said Rong Yanqiu, refusing to leave his side. "What happened to you?"
"I'm exactly one hundred years old this year," said Sun Xiangzong matter-of-factly. "Is it strange for me to look old? Which of you sitting here can live longer than I have?"
That, at least, was true.
Everyone laughed awkwardly, though the unease in their chests didn't fade. The tension eased a little as the steward brought out a large wine jar and began pouring.
"This is Spirit Wine," said Sun Xiangzong slowly. "It doesn't just make you drunk—if you try to use your cultivation to dissolve it, your meridians will ache for days.
"Now, the ten of you—each of you will demonstrate your cultivation technique for me. Every flaw I point out, you drink one bowl.
"Eldest, you start."
"Yes, Master."
Lü Ji took up his Fangtian Halberd and began performing a broad, fierce halberd form, movements grand and steady as a king's.
Then came the second disciple, then the third…
All the way to the fifteenth disciple—Chen Sanshi.
Yes, fifteenth. Five of their senior brothers had died together in an earlier campaign.
"Second one—your spearwork is still absolute garbage. Drink five bowls."
"Third one—your sword's too impatient. Drink four bowls."
"Old… sixth one! Don't pretend you're not here—I know you came back! Still practicing that long saber, huh? I told you before, you're built for short blades, but no, you had to mess with a broad sword! Idiot! Drink five bowls, and I don't care if it hurts, finish them all!"
"Ninth, not bad. You, just three bowls."
"Even if I did well, I still have to drink?" Rong Yanqiu froze mid-move, clutching her iron whip.
"When I say drink, you drink!"
"Chen Sanshi—get out of my sight. I'm not even gonna watch your form."
Chen Sanshi, who had already raised his spear, awkwardly lowered it again.
A breeze passed through the courtyard.
Sun Xiangzong raised his fist to his lips and coughed lightly. "Enough. You're all useless anyway. Compared to me, you've got a long way to go. Sit down. Eat."
"Girl," he called toward Sun Li, "you come here too. You're good at everything, but since you don't like martial training, stop forcing yourself. Don't practice anymore."
"Right!" said Meng Guangxin, laughing loudly. "You've got us, Junior Sister. No need for you to train!"
"Yeah," Lü Ji agreed. "With your brothers here, what's the point?"
"Exactly," said Sun Buqi, smiling lazily. "I've always said that too."
Everyone chuckled. The table was filled with Profound Manifestation Realm experts, future Martial Saints in the making.
As for Sun Buqi, he had long decided training was pointless. He'd rather charm people than fight.
"Get out," Sun Xiangzong barked suddenly, slamming his palm on the table. "Who said you could sit at my table?"
"Eh? What—Master, what did I do?"
Before he could finish, Meng Guangxin grabbed him by the collar and tossed him clean out of the courtyard. "Master, don't get angry!"
Sun Xiangzong poured himself another cup, took a slow sip, and started eating.
Once the master moved his chopsticks, the disciples finally dared to eat too.
The meal lasted until midnight.
When the wine ran out, they moved from the courtyard to the main hall, switching from wine to tea.
The night deepened, and outside, the moonlight lay pale across the tiles. The laughter of the disciples echoed softly through the halls—half joy, half sorrow.
Rong Yanqiu and Sun Li stood on either side, helping Sun Xiangzong sit down on the grand teacher's chair.
"Second," Sun Xiangzong said faintly, "kneel."
"Huh?"
Cheng Wei was startled, but he didn't dare to hesitate and dropped to his knees.
"You," Sun Xiangzong said slowly, "have been narrow-minded since you were a boy. And even now, you haven't changed. Sometimes, being too calculating isn't a virtue. When you return, copy this Heart Sutra ten thousand (10,000) times."
Beside him, the steward had already prepared a scroll and brush.
"Master…"
Second Senior Brother Cheng Wei suddenly understood what the old man was doing—why he had summoned all the disciples tonight. His hands trembled as he accepted the scroll.
He couldn't speak for a long time.
"Third!"
Sun Xiangzong called.
Nie Yuan knelt heavily. "Master, please instruct me!"
"Your sword technique doesn't suit you," Sun Xiangzong said, coughing lightly. "Or perhaps… there is no sword technique in this world that truly suits you. I've created a new one for you. It should be stronger than what you practiced before. When you return, try it carefully."
"Thank you, Master!"
"Bang!"
Nie Yuan bowed deeply, his forehead striking the floor with a dull thud.
"Fifth!"
Sun Xiangzong beckoned. "After this war, leave the army and go to Lingyin Temple. There's a place for you there. I know you're the most compassionate among your brothers. These years have been hard on you."
"Master…"
Meng Guangxin pressed his palms together in silent prayer.
"Sixth."
Sun Xiangzong's tone turned stern. "Do you admit your mistake?"
"I do!"
Wang Zhi burst into tears. "Disciple should not have acted on impulse!"
"You still know that? Sun Buhui's life is a life, but the 15,000 soldiers of the Black Turtle Battalion aren't? If luck hadn't been on your side—if you hadn't followed your junior brother back and fought through—I'd never want to see you again!"
He was genuinely angry.
After the harsh rebuke, his voice softened. "Here. These are some precious medicinal pills I brought back from the far north. Take them. Since you've chosen to return, remember your duty and act accordingly."
"Seventh," he continued. "I went to Qing Kingdom and had an old friend forge a sword for you. Take it. You've always been brooding—travel more, see more. Stop obsessing over revenge. As for the girl you like—I've already arranged the marriage for you. Once the war's over, go and marry her."
"Master…"
Ye Fengxiu accepted the sword with both hands. "I'll remember your teachings."
"Ninth, you as well."
Sun Xiangzong's gaze fell on Rong Yanqiu. "The events of the past left your heart heavy—and your killing intent even heavier. When you have time, stay with Fifth and read the Buddhist scriptures. Wash away that bloodlust. I've also created a new whip technique for you, along with a few elixirs."
"Disciple will remember!"
Rong Yanqiu bowed deeply, eyes red.
"Chen Sanshi."
"Disciple is here."
Chen Sanshi knelt quietly, awaiting his master's words.
"You're my youngest, my final disciple," said Sun Xiangzong softly. "Your senior brothers and sisters have followed me since they were children. Some were even raised by my own hands. Even the ones who joined later, like Xu Bin, have been with me for many years.
"Strictly speaking, your bond with me can't compare to theirs. But regardless, you and I are still master and disciple. In the future, I hope you'll look after that troublemaker Sun Buqi and your senior sister."
"Master, please don't say that," Chen Sanshi said earnestly. "Though I joined late, I've received your instruction and care. Naturally, I regard all my brothers and sisters as family."
"Heh, you brat…"
A faint smile touched the old man's lips. "You remind me of myself when I was young… and yet, you're also completely different. If one day you face the same trials I once did, I hope you'll make a better choice than I did."
He turned to the others. "Everyone else—leave us."
"Leave?"
Fang Qingyun hesitated, then nodded to the others.
In that moment, all the disciples understood.
Tonight…
Their master was settling his affairs.
Every disciple had received something—each gift rare and priceless.
But the fact that the youngest was being kept behind could only mean one thing…
He was to inherit the master's legacy.
Outside, the others gathered in silence.
Lü Ji stood at the doorway, torn with emotion. After pacing several times, he finally forced himself to leave.
Inside, Chen Sanshi approached the old man and took out a luminous Spirit Pearl. "Master, when we parted at the Edge of the World, I didn't have a chance to return this to you."
"Boy."
Sun Xiangzong didn't reach for it. His voice was calm. "Tell me—what did you think of the cultivation world? Do you still plan to walk that path?"
"The immortal world is crueler than the mortal one," Chen Sanshi said honestly. "But yes… I'll go again someday. The word immortality—everyone yearns for it. I'm no exception."
"Your Fourth Senior Brother probably told you—I never wanted you to go," Sun Xiangzong sighed. "But since you've chosen this path, I've nothing else to give you except this—a spiritual vein. May it guide your immortal journey."
"For me?"
Chen Sanshi's eyes widened. He understood perfectly what this meant.
It meant…
He could become an independent cultivator of the Immortal Dao without ever entering the immortal world, avoiding countless dangers and saving endless resources.
It was a gift heavier than any treasure.
"When I'm gone," said Sun Xiangzong, tapping the ring on his finger, "take this ring. Inside are techniques beyond the Martial Saint realm and a long spear. The Dragon Gall Silver Spear within will recognize you—but you'll still need strength and reputation to command it. You understand?"
"Yes, Master."
"The Battle of Mingzhou—you didn't fight with the Eight Battalions."
"The Eastern Qing campaign—you weren't there either."
"But this war on the grasslands—if you fight it well, if you win it decisively—only then will the Northern Frontier and the Eight Battalions truly acknowledge you. Remember that."
There was no doubt now.
This was a final instruction.
Chen Sanshi pressed his forehead to the ground. "Disciple will remember."
"Good. You're not one for flowery words," Sun Xiangzong said with a faint grin. "I'm a hundred years old already. I should've been buried long ago. I don't know what the others are so sad about."
He leaned back slightly, his tone softening. "Remember what you promised me—take good care of Sun Buqi and his sister. Think of it as me trading all my belongings for your word."
"Now go. And send your eldest brother in."
"Yes, Master."
Chen Sanshi rose and bowed once more before leaving the room.
As he reached the door, Sun Xiangzong lifted his teacup and, seeing him still walking away, deliberately coughed twice.
"I said—take care of Sun Buqi and his sister. You remember that, right?!"
"Disciple remembers…" Chen Sanshi's voice drifted softly from beyond the doorway.
Chen Sanshi stopped walking, finally understanding what his master truly meant.
He quickly turned back, dropped to his knees, and raised his voice, saying loudly, "Master! Your disciple likes Senior Sister Sun and wishes to marry her properly. The betrothal gifts will be delivered to your residence tomorrow morning. Please grant your blessing!"
"Hmm. The old man will think about it."
Sun Xiangzong waved his hand in satisfaction. "Go on."
Marry Senior Sister.
Those three words echoed clearly through the courtyard.
Chen Sanshi's voice was loud enough that every senior brother and sister heard him.
This kind of thing was upright and honorable—nothing to hide.
"Yo~"
Cheng Wei grinned. "Junior Brother really has guts!"
"Amitabha," said Meng Guangxin, clasping his palms together. "Good, very good."
"About time," said Rong Yanqiu, letting out a soft sigh of relief. "If he still didn't say it, I'd really start to think he was hopeless."
"Huh?"
At the courtyard gate, Sun Buqi had also heard it clearly. "So Chen Sanshi is really gonna be my brother-in-law? Sister, did you hear that?"
In the darkness, no one could see Sun Li's expression, but her voice was calm. "Do you have a problem with that?"
"No, no problem at all."
Everyone laughed, happy and relaxed.
Only Lü Ji's smile was stiff, forced out like it didn't belong on his face.
But his turn hadn't come yet—there was still a chance.
Creak—
The door to the study opened.
"Eldest Brother," said Chen Sanshi, bowing slightly. "Master calls for you."
"Alright."
Lü Ji strode forward, entered the room, and closed the door behind him. Then, he knelt down heavily.
"It's been over thirty years," Sun Xiangzong said, looking at him quietly. "It's been over thirty years since I picked you up from the chaos of war."
"Master's grace is deeper than the sea. This disciple will never forget it!"
Lü Ji pressed his forehead to the ground, not daring to speak further, but hope flickered in his eyes.
"You can stop hoping," Sun Xiangzong said bluntly. "The Dragon Gall Silver Spear belongs to your junior brother."
Silence.
A long, suffocating silence—ten full breaths passed before Lü Ji finally spoke again. "Disciple… understands. The Dragon Gall Silver Spear I can accept. But why, Master—why will you not pass your cultivation method to me either?"
"Good. Very good."
Sun Xiangzong calmly set the lid on his teacup. "If you've got resentment, say it out loud. At least you're honest about it—that makes me respect you more."
"Then please tell me," Lü Ji said with sincerity. "Is it because my talent is poor… or because of something I've done wrong?"
He paused, then lowered his voice. "Is it because of what happened back then?"
"I've long since repented, Master. Every man who died that day—every single one—I carved their names into a monument myself and placed it where the mountains and rivers are most beautiful."
"Ten years."
Sun Xiangzong's voice was quiet, almost weary. "I buried the ring that contained my techniques beneath that monument for ten years. But you only built the monument for me to see—you never truly believed you were wrong. If you had gone there even once—just once—you would have found it."
Lü Ji's body trembled violently.
The cultivation art he had longed for his entire life…
It had been buried beneath the dirt for ten years—right under his feet.
If he had gone there even once, it would've been his.
"Child."
Sun Xiangzong sighed deeply. "Your temperament won't change. It's carved into your bones. Still, we are master and disciple. My only wish is that one day, you won't turn your blade against your own brothers."
Lü Ji's voice shook. "Then… may I at least see the technique once, Master?"
"You've already stepped into the Divine Path of Incense and Faith," said Sun Xiangzong, setting down his cup and closing his eyes. "Why still chase after what you no longer need?"
"Everyone, come in."
The door creaked open as the brothers and sisters entered together.
They saw Lü Ji's pale face and downcast eyes—and understood. Some decisions had already been made.
"Let me say one last thing," Sun Xiangzong said slowly.
"Master, about the upcoming battle?" Wang Zhi asked.
"Yes."
"Master, you're the Grand Commander—the leader of the Northern Liang Army. Even His Highness the Sixth Prince is waiting for your orders."
"That's exactly what I need to tell you," Sun Xiangzong said evenly. "I can no longer fight. From this day on, Northern Liang will depend on all of you."
"Rest assured, Master!"
All of them knelt together.
"Eldest Brother leads in might. Fourth and Junior Brother lead in strategy. With this war, we'll crush the four barbarian tribes in one decisive strike and bring peace back to the northern frontier!"
"Master, you've fought all your life from south to north—it's time you rested and enjoyed your years."
"That's right," another said. "Once the war's won, we'll all resign our posts and stay by your side—to serve and honor you in peace."
"Heh."
Sun Xiangzong smiled faintly, waving his hand. "Go on, all of you. The old man is tired. The road ahead—you'll have to walk it yourselves."