Chapter - 15 Within the Apricot Forest, Discussing Ones True History (1/2)

This person was carrying five cloth bags on his back; he was a five-bagged disciple of the Beggar's Clan. He ran away extremely frantically. It was obvious that he was the one who transmitted the false order and tricked elder Xiang aboard the boat. The skill-instructing elder and the law-enforcing elder each let out a sigh, not saying a word. Suddenly, with the flicker of a shadow, someone rushed forward and blocked the fleeing five-bagged beggar. This person's face was red and vigorous, and he wielded a demon-headed sabre. It was elder Wu. In a fierce voice, he said, ”Liu Zhuzhuang, why are you running away?” The five-bagged beggar said in a trembling voice, ”I…I…I…” He said the word 'I' six or seven times, unable to say anything else.

Elder Wu said, ”As we are disciples of the Beggar's Clan, we must follow our ancestor's laws. Right is right, and wrong is wrong. When a real man acts, he must be willing to bear the consequences.” Turning his head, he said to Qiao Feng, ”Chief Qiao, all of us met together and decided to oust you from your position as chief. Elders Song, Xi, Chen, and Wu all agreed to this. We were afraid that the skill-instructing elder and the law-enforcing elder would not allow it, and thus devised a way to imprison them. In doing so, we were considering the greater good of our clan and couldn't help but act in such a way. Today, we lost the momentum and you have seized the advantage. You can just go ahead and deal with us as you see fit! I, Wu Changfeng, have been in the Beggar's Clan for over thirty years. Everyone knows that I'm not the sort of person to cravenly fear death!” As he spoke, he hurled his demon-headed sabre far away, then folded his arms in front of his chest, a totally fearless look on his face.

When he clearly explained how their plot was to 'oust the chief', everyone within the clan was shocked. Although each of the plotters was well aware of what they were trying to do, none of them dared to openly say it. Wu Changfeng was the first person to state it openly and clearly.

The law-enforcing elder, Bai Shijing, said in a clear voice, ”Elders Song, Xi, Chen, and Wu betrayed the chief and have broken the cardinal rule of the clan. Law-enforcing disciples, take them into custody and bind them!” The law-enforcing disciples under his command took some cow-sinew ropes and first bound elder Wu. Elder Wu continued to smile, not resisting in the slightest. Next, elders Song and Xi also threw away their weapons, allowing themselves to be bound as well.

Elder Chen had an extremely ugly look on his face. He repeatedly muttered, ”Cowards. Cowards! If we all had charged him, we wouldn't necessarily have lost, but everyone was afraid of Qiao Feng.” These words were very true. When Quan Guanqing had been subdued, if the rebels had immediately launched an attack, Qiao Feng would have been hopelessly outnumbered and in dire straits. Even after the skill-instructing elder, law-enforcing elder, and the hall-masters of the 'Great Benevolence,', 'Great Righteousness', 'Great Trustworthiness', and 'Great Loyalty' halls arrived, the rebels still outnumbered the loyal forces. But with Qiao Feng standing there in such an awe-inspiring manner, no one dared to make a move. Consequently, the opportunity had been lost and now all of them were being bound. After elders Song, Xi, and Wu had been bound, even if elder Chen was still determined to fight, he would be fighting alone. Letting out a sigh, he threw away his gunnysack and allowed the law-enforcing disciples to bind his wrists and his feet with cow sinew rope.

By now, it was totally dark. Bai Shijing ordered his disciples to light some torches. The light of the torches flickered across the faces of the bound elders, revealing a series of gloomy, dejected expressions.

Bai Shijing turned to stare at Liu Zhuzhuang. ”How could you act in such a manner? Are you fit to be a member of the Beggar's Clan? Shall you end it yourself, or will you force others to act for you?” Liu Zhuzhuang said, ”I…I…” He wasn't able to finish his sentence, but he slowly withdrew a dagger from his waist, wanting to slit his own throat. However, his hand shook so badly that he was unable to chop at his own neck. A law-enforcing disciple called out, ”You are so useless! It's unfortunate that you've wasted so much time within our clan!” Catching his upper arm, the law-enforcing disciple gave a mighty pull and helped him cut his own larynx. Liu Zhuzhuang gurgled, ”I…thank you…” He immediately passed away.

Within the Beggar's Clan, there was a rule that if a person broke the laws of the clan in such a way as to merit the death penalty, so long as he took his own life, all of his sins would have been washed away and everyone would still consider him as being one of their brothers. But if it was one of the law-enforcing disciples who killed him, his honor would be forever besmirched. Earlier, that law-enforcing disciple saw that Liu Zhuzhuang wanted to take his own life, but simply didn't have the strength to do so. That was the only reason why he had assisted him.

Wang Yuyan, Duan Yu, Ah Zhu, and Ah Bi accidentally oversaw an internal rebellion within the ranks of the Beggar's Clan. They all felt as though they were outsiders peeping in on the Beggar's Clan's secret affairs, which was highly improper. But if they were to leave now, they would run the risk of raising the beggar's suspicions. All they could do was sit far away and pretend to be indifferent and unconcerned. After seeing how Li Chunlai and Liu Zhuzhuang's blood splattered across the ground, how their corpses now lay cold on the flower, and how the four awe-inspiring elders Song, Xi, Chen, and Wu had been bound, it seemed to them as though there must be even more soul-stirring events to come. All of them looked at each other, feeling extremely awkward. Duan Yu was Qiao Feng's sworn brother, and earlier, when Feng Bo'e had been poisoned, drained away the poison on Qiao Feng's behalf. Wang Yuyan and the other two girls felt extremely grateful towards Qiao Feng. Now, seeing how he had pacified the rebellion and dealt with the traitors one by one, they all felt happy for him.

Qiao Feng uncomfortably sat to one side. Although the traitors had been subdued, he didn't feel the least bit triumphant or happy. He remembered how, thanks to the benevolence of his master, chief Wang, he had been given the position of chief of the Beggar's Clan. Over the past eight years as chief, Qiao Feng had endured many trials and tribulations, from pacifying internal wrangles to resisting outside foes. He had always used every ounce of his strength to deal with the matters in such a manner as to make the Beggar's Clan greatly flourish, without harboring the slightest selfish thought. Now, the Beggar's Clan had a magnificent, glorious reputation in the martial world, something which truly was in large part a product of his efforts. Why would so many people, in such a short period of time, suddenly scheme to revolt against him? If it was simply a matter of Quan Guanqing being ambitious and desiring to rule the clan, why would senior statesmen such as elders Song and Xi or an honest and upright person such as elder Wu all participate? Could it be that he accidentally did something to greatly offend all of the brothers of the clan which even he himself did not know about?

Bai Shijing said in a clear voice, ”Brothers, chief Qiao did not succeed chief Wang by force of arms or trickery or use any inappropriate methods to gain his position. In the past, chief Wang tested him by giving him three tough problems to deal with and ordering him to accomplish seven great deeds on behalf of the clan before passing the 'Dog Beating Stick' to him. That year, when we were holding our great conference at Mt. Tai, our clan was besieged by enemies and in a very critical situation. It was all thanks to chief Qiao wounding nine powerful enemies in a row that we were able to pull through. Many of the brothers present personally witnessed this. Over the past few years, our clan has flourished and prospered. Everyone here knows that this is all thanks to chief Qiao's efforts. Chief Qiao treats people justly and benevolently, and handles matters even-handedly and impartially. We should expend every effort to support him as leader. How can it be that there are people who've gone stupid and decided to engage in armed rebellion? Quan Guanqing, tell us now!”

Quan Guanqing had his 'Mute' acupoint sealed by Qiao Feng. Although he clearly heard all of Bai Shijing's words, he wasn't able to reply at all. Qiao Feng walked to him and gently tapped him twice on his back, unsealing his acupoint. Qiao Feng said, ”Hall-master Quan, if I, Qiao Feng, have done wrong by our brothers, please go ahead and openly accuse me. Don't be afraid and don't have any misgivings.” Quan Guanqing immediately leapt to his feet, but because his legs were still numb, immediately sank to his knees again. He loudly shouted, ”You haven't done anything wrong by our brothers yet, but you soon will!” Only after saying these words did he rise to his feet again.

Bai Shijing roared, ”Nonsense! In his conduct and bearing, chief Qiao has always been open and upright. He's never done anything bad in the past, and never will in the future. Based on these baseless accusations, you actually agitated our brothers and convinced them to betray the chief? To tell you the truth, I myself have heard these rumors before, and simply treated them as utter bullshit. This old man punched the person who was spreading this bullshit and shattered three of his ribs. I can't believe that there are so many idiots who actually believed your crap. No matter what you say, all you have is these few words. Go ahead and end your own life!”

Qiao Feng thought to himself, ”So there have long been ugly rumors about me spread behind my back which even elder Bai has heard. For him to not bring them to my attention must mean they are extremely vicious rumors indeed. A real man isn't afraid to confront any words or deeds. Why the need to hide them?” He said in a calm voice, ”Elder Bai, no need to be impatient. Allow hall-master Quan to clearly explain everything in detail. For even the likes of elder Song and elder Xi to put themselves against me means that I must have acted improperly in some manner.”

Elder Xi said, ”I was wrong in rebelling against you. No need for you to keep bringing it up. Later, after judgment has been passed, I'll just go ahead and chop at my short neck and give you my head!” He said the words in a cheerful manner, but everyone present felt deep grief in their heart. None of them showed the slightest hint of a smile on their faces.

Bai Shijing said, ”Chief, your instructions are wise. Quan Guanqing, go ahead and speak.”

Quan Guanqing, seeing how all four of the elders who had conspired with him had been subdued, knew that this battle was lost. But he couldn't at least go without a final struggle, and loudly said, ”I believe that vice-chief Ma was murdered according to Qiao Feng's orders.”

Qiao Feng's entire body trembled. Shocked, he said, ”What?”

Quan Guanqing said, ”You've always despised vice-chief Ma and wanted nothing more than to get rid of him. You worried that if you didn't get rid of him, your position as chief would never be secure.”

Qiao Feng slowly shook his head. ”That is not the case. Although I did not have deep ties of friendship with vice-chief Ma and we did not always agree, I've never even thought of harming him. Let the emperor Heaven and empress Earth be my judge and scrutinize my words and deeds. If I, Qiao Feng, have ever had the intention of harming Ma Dayuan, then destroy my honor and my reputation, suffer thousands of calamities, and become the laughingstock of the martial world.” These words were spoken with the utmost sincerity and were filled with a vast, boundless heroic spirit. Not a single person present doubted him in the slightest.

But Quan Guanqing said, ”Then why is it that, after we have come to Gusu to seek revenge upon Murong Fu, you keep on colluding with the enemy?” Pointing to Wang Yuyan and the other maidens, he said, ”These three are the family members and servants of Murong Fu, but you protect them.” Pointing at Duan Yu, he said, ”This person is Murong Fu's friend, but you became sworn brothers with him…”

Duan Yu repeatedly shook his hand in denial. ”Tis not so, tis not so! I am not a friend of Murong Fu, and have never even seen his face. These three ladies can be said to be his relatives, but can't be said to be part of his family.” He thought to himself that Wang Yuyan could only be considered Murong Fu's 'relative', and definitely not a member of his household. This had to be made clear.

Quan Guanqing said, ”'Tis not so, tis not so.' Bao Butong is Murong Fu's subordinate, the master of the 'Golden Wind Manor'. 'A Gust of Wind', Feng Bo'e, is also Murong Fu's subordinate, the master of the 'Mysterious Frost Manor'. If it hadn't been for you, Qiao Feng, rescuing them, one would have died from poison, and the other would have been ground to paste. Everyone here saw this with their own eyes. What is there for you to deny?”

Qiao Feng unhurriedly said, ”The Beggar's Clan, ever since it was founded centuries ago, has always been venerated and respected by the people of the martial world. This is not because of our numbers, or our martial arts ability, but because we act righteously and nobly, and because we support justice and equity. Hall-master Quan, you are blaming me for protecting these three maidens. True, I am protecting them. This is because I cherish the centuries-old spotless reputation of our clan. I refuse to allow the people of the world say, 'The elders of the Beggar's Clan joined forces to bully three young girls.' Elders Song, Xi, Chen, and Wu. Which of them isn't a senior figure in the martial world? Even if you don't cherish the reputation of the Beggar's Clan and the reputations of those four elders, the many brothers of our clan cherish them!”

After hearing these words, everyone present glanced at those three delicately sweet maidens. They all felt these words were reasonable. If others knew that they had made things difficult for three maidens, it really would greatly damage the Beggar's Clan prestige.

Bai Shijing said, ”Quan Guanqing, what else do you have to say for yourself?” Turning to Qiao Feng, Bai Shijing said, ”Chief, there's no need to waste time and words with a rebel who can't see the big picture. Let us go ahead and immediately sentence him in accordance with the crime of revolting against one's superiors.” Qiao Feng thought to himself, ”Elder Bai wants to execute Quan Guanqing as quickly as possibly. It seems as though he wishes to avoid allowing him to spew out harmful rumors regarding me.” In a clear voice, he said, ”For hall-master Quan to convince so many people to conspire to overthrow me, he clearly must have had a compelling case. A real man clearly differentiates between right and wrong. Brothers, if I, Qiao Feng, have done something wrong, please feel free to tell me openly!”

Elder Wu let out a sigh. ”Chief, either you are an evil, unscrupulous person of great ambition who is putting up a front, or you are an honest, bold, straightforward man. I, Wu Changfeng, don't have the ability to tell. Just go ahead and kill me now.” Qiao Feng felt extremely uncertain. He asked, ”Elder Wu, why did you say that I am a liar who bullies others? You…you…why do you doubt me?” Wu Changfeng shook his head. ”If this matter is openly discussed, it will cause too much trouble. If the story gets out, the Beggar's Clan will never be able to raise its head in the martial world again, and everyone will look down at us with scorn. Originally, we wanted to simply kill you with one chop and end the affair thus.”

Qiao Feng was now totally bewildered and couldn't make head or tail out of it at all. He mumbled to himself, ”Why? Why?” Raising his head, he said, ”I rescued two of Murong Fu's high-ranking subordinates, so all of you suspect me, right? But your conspiracy to rebel came before, and my rescuing of them came after. These two things have nothing to do with each other. Besides, it's hard to say with certainty whether I am right or not, but I simply do not feel that vice-chief Ma was killed by Murong Fu.

Quan Guanqing asked, ”Why do you say that?” He had asked this question earlier, but the tumultuous events had prevented Qiao Feng from answering. Now, he asked again.

Qiao Feng replied, ”I believe that Murong Fu is a great hero and a good man. He wouldn't kill second brother Ma.” Wang Yuyan, hearing Qiao Feng praise Murong Fu as 'a great hero and a good man', was overjoyed. She thought to herself, ”It seems chief Qiao really is a great hero and a good man as well.”

But Duan Yu, on the other hand, frowned, thinking to himself, ”Not necessarily, not necessarily! Murong Fu isn't necessarily a great hero or a good man.”

Quan Guanqing said, ”Over the past two months, there have been many experts who were killed using the skill which they themselves were best at. Everyone knows that these murders were committed by Gusu's Murong family. How can such a person who has murdered so many of our friends in the martial world be considered a great hero and a good man?” Qiao Feng slowly began to pace about as he said, ”Brothers, last night, I was drinking wine at the 'Tavern Overseeing the River' in the city of Jiangyin, next to the Yangtze river. I met a middle-aged scholar who drank over ten large bowls of hard liquor without batting an eye. What an excellent drinking capacity, and what a fine man!”

When Duan Yu heard this, he couldn't help but grin. He thought to himself, ”So elder brother got into a drinking competition with someone last night as well. This fellow had a good tolerance for alcohol and drank freely, so elder brother liked him. But that doesn't necessarily mean this fellow was a good man.”

Qiao Feng continued, ”I drank three bowls of wine with him, then we began discussing the martial artists of Jiangnan. He bragged that he possessed the second highest level of skill in palm techniques in Jiangnan, with young master Murong being the best. Thus, I exchanged three palms with him. He was able to receive the first and second palms, but when he took my third palm, the wine bowl he was holding in his left hand was obliterated. The porcelain shards from the bowl slashed across his face, making him bleed, but he remained composed and said, 'What a waste, what a waste! What a waste of a perfectly fine bowl of liquor.' This greatly endeared him to me, and thus I did not send out a fourth palm. I said, 'Sir, your palm techniques are exquisite. You truly deserve the title of being the second best in Jiangnan!' He replied, 'The second in Jiangnan, but only a fart in the rest of the world!' I said, 'Brother, no need to be too modest. With regards to palm techniques, you can be considered a first-class master.' He said, 'You are chief Qiao of the Beggar's Clan! I freely admit my loss and submit to you. Thank you for showing mercy and not injuring me. Let me offer you another toast!' The two of us drank three more bowls together. When we departed, I asked him for his name. He said that his last name was 'Gongye', and his given name was 'Qian'. This is not the 'Qian' of 'universe' [Qian Kun], but the 'Qian' in toasting others. He said that he was a subordinate of young master Murong, in charge of the Scarlet Clouds Manor. He invited me to go to his manor and drink with him for three days straight. Brothers, what do you think of him? Would you consider him a good friend?”

Wu Changfeng loudly said, ”This Gongye Qian fellow is a good man and a good friend! Chief, please introduce us sometime!” He forgot that he had committed a great offense and was now a prisoner, soon to be executed. When he heard about such a hero and such a good man, he immediately had the desire to make friends with him. Qiao Feng smiled, but in his heart, he was sighing. ”Wu Changfeng is heroic and straightforward. Unexpectedly, he got mixed up in this rebellion as well.” Elder Song said, ”Chief, what happened next”

Qiao Feng replied, ”After I bid Gongye Qian farewell, I hastened to Wuxi. Roughly two hours before midnight, I heard the sound of two people loudly arguing in the middle of a small bridge. By now, it was totally dark. I thought it was very strange that people would be getting into a heated argument at this time, and went to go check it out. The bridge was a single-planked bridge. On one side was a man dressed in black. On the other was a countryside villager who was carrying a bucket of feces on a carrying-pole over his shoulder. The two of them were arguing over who should cross first. The man in black yelled at the villager to go back and allow him to cross, as he reached the bridge first. The villager said that he was carrying a bucket of feces and couldn't retreat. He wanted the man in black to let him go past him. The man in black said, 'We've already been arguing here for two hours. Even if we argue all the way to midnight, I still won't give way!' The villager said, 'Aren't you afraid of how bad this bucket smells?' The man in black said, 'You're carrying a heavy bucket of crap on your shoulder! As long as you aren't afraid of being tired out, then let's just remain here until the end!'”

”When I saw this situation, I thought it was extremely funny. I thought to myself, 'That fellow in black has a really weird temper. All he had to do was take a few steps back and let him pass. What's the point of him getting into an in-your-face confrontation with a villager carrying a bucket of crap? Judging from their words, they've been at it for over two hours.' Now that my curiosity had been aroused, I wanted to see how this would end. Would the man in black no longer be able to resist the stench and surrender, or would the villager become so tired that he would admit defeat? I didn't want to smell the crap, though, so I watched from far away upwind. Both of them were arguing using the local Jiangnan dialect, and I couldn't be too sure what they were saying. All I knew was that both of them were claiming that they were in the right. That villager really was strong and had a nasty stubborn streak. He moved the bucket of crap from his left shoulder to his right shoulder, then later moved it from his right shoulder to his left shoulder. No matter what, he wouldn't retreat.”

Duan Yu looked at Wang Yuyan, Ah Zhu, and Ah Bi. He saw that all three of them were smiling, happily engrossed in Qiao Feng's story. He thought to himself, ”There has been an attempted revolution in the clan which is yet to be resolved. The situation is extremely critical, and yet elder brother is calmly and leisurely telling stories. It's natural for Wang Yuyan and the girls to be interested in stories like this, but how could a heroic, bold man like elder brother show such a childish innocence as well?

Unexpectedly, the hundred-plus members of the Beggar's Clan present were all solemnly and respectfully listening to Qiao Feng's story. Not a single person thought Qiao Feng's words were boring.

Qiao Feng continued, ”After watching for a while, I slowly grew astonished. I noticed that the man in black had an extremely stable footing, not budging in the slightest, as immovable as a mountain. He was actually someone who possessed a high level of martial arts. The villager carrying the bucket of crap was just an ordinary person. Although he was very sturdy and robust, he didn't know any martial arts at all. The more I watched, the more baffled I was. I thought to myself, 'With the fellow in black's strong level of martial arts, all he has to do is extend his little finger in a single poke and knock both the villager and his bucket into the river. But instead, he doesn't use any martial arts at all. For a master such as him, it might be natural for him to exercise self-restraint, but even if he refused to let the other person by, he could easily jump over the villager's head. But instead, he insists on standing there and arguing with the villager. How amusing!”

”The man in black suddenly raised his voice and shouted, 'If you don't let me by, I'm going to start cussing you out!' The villager said, 'If you want to cuss, then cuss. So you know how to cuss at people. You think I don't?' The villager actually seized the initiative and immediately began to cuss. The man in black began to cuss right back at him. Trading cusses back and forth, the two pulled out all sorts of strange, bizarre, and filthy curses to insult the other with. I couldn't even understand half of these strange local Jiangnan swear words. After cussing for over an hour, the villager became exhausted. The man in black, thanks to his strong internal energy, was perfectly fine and still energetic. I saw the villager's body began to sway. It seemed that very shortly, he would be so exhausted that he'd fall into the river.”

”Suddenly, the villager stuck his hand into the bucket of feces, grabbed some of it, then tossed it towards the man in black's face. The man in black never imagined that he would be attacked like this. As he let out a cry of alarm, the crap splattered him in the face. I secretly said to myself, 'Oh no! This villager has just doomed himself, and he can't blame anyone else for what will happen.' I saw that the man in black was furious. Lifting his palm, he struck downwards towards the villager's head.'

Although Duan Yu was listening to Qiao Feng, his eyes were fixed on Wang Yuyan's slightly parted, cherry-like lips. Out of the corner of his eyes, he saw Ah Zhu and Ah Bi smile at each other, but paid them no mind.

Qiao Feng continued, ”All of this happened too quickly. To avoid the stench, I was over a hundred meters away. I wanted to go rescue that villager, but I wouldn't be able to. Unexpectedly, just before the man in black's palm was about to strike down on the villager's skull, he suddenly froze and didn't follow through, bringing his palm to a halt mid-air. He loudly laughed, 'Old chap, in our contest of patience, who won and who lost?' That villager was really stubborn. He had clearly lost, but he refused to admit it. He said, 'I'm carrying a big bucket of crap. You gained an advantage from this. If you don't believe me, how about you take this bucket and I'll stand here with my hands free. Then, we'll see who wins and who loses!' The man in black said, 'That's fair enough!' He reached out and pulled the bucket of crap towards himself, straightening his arm and lifting the bucket up with the palm of his left hand.”

”Seeing as how the man in black was carrying the bucket while holding his arm straight, the villager was stupefied. He said, 'You…you…' The man in black laughed, 'I'll help you support the bucket of crap like this without moving. Let's compete again, and this time, whoever loses has to drink this entire bucket of crap!' Seeing how incredibly strong the man in black was, the villager no longer dared to argue with him. He hurriedly retreated, but he was so flustered that he lost his footing and fell down towards the river. The man in black stretched out his right hand, grabbing him by his collar and lifting him up. Still supporting the bucket with his left hand while lifting the villager in the air with his right, the man in black laughed loudly. ”Fun, fun!” In the twinkling of an eye, he lightly leapt over to the other side of the bridge, placing both the villager and his bucket on the floor. Then he utilized his qinggong and disappeared into the mulberry forest.”

”The man in black had his face splattered with crap by the villager. He wouldn't have had to use any effort to kill him. Even if he wasn't willing to kill someone just like that, it would have been very natural for him to give the villager a beating. But he didn't do that at all. He had a very unique temperament, the like of which is rarely seen in the martial world. Brothers, I witnessed this with my own eyes. I was very far away from him, and I do not believe he knew I was there and was just putting on a show for me. Would you consider a person like this a good friend and a fine man?”

Elder Wu, elder Chen, and elder Bai all said in unison, ”Right! He's a fine man!” Elder Chen said, ”It's unfortunate that you didn't manage to get his name, chief. If you had, you could introduce him to us, so as to let us know that within the personages of Jiangnan, there's actually a hero such as him.”

Qiao Feng slowly said, ”This friend actually just exchanged a few stances with elder Chen, and his arm was wounded by your poison scorpion.” Elder Chen was shocked. ”He is 'A Gust of Wind', Feng Bo'e!” Qiao Feng nodded. ”Correct!”

Only now did Duan Yu understand that Qiao Feng had carefully and meticulously described this anecdote in order to recount to everyone Feng Bo'e's character and temperament. Duan Yu now realized that although Feng Bo'e was very ugly and loved to cause trouble and fight, he was by nature a very good person. This truly was an example of how one should not judge a person by their appearance. Earlier, when the girls were raptly listening to the story and Ah Zhu and Ah Bi exchanged smiles, it was because they well knew Feng Bo'e's temperament. They knew that this gentleman must be Feng Bo'e, and also knew that this gentleman definitely wouldn't wantonly kill others.

Qiao Feng continued, ”Elder Chen, the Beggar's Clan considers itself to be the foremost large clan of the world. You yourself are a very important figure within our clan. Your rank and prestige cannot be compared in the same breath with the local Jiangnan martial artist named Feng Bo'e. Feng Bo'e, when feeling insulted and humiliated, could control himself and not harm an innocent. How can the experts of the Beggar's Clan prove ourselves to be lesser than him?” Elder Chen's entire face blushed, with even his ears reddening. ”Chief, thank you for the lesson. You ordered me to give him the antidote because of your concern for my reputation and prestige. I, Chen Guyan, didn't understand your noble intentions and harbored a grudge against you. I'm as stupid as a wooden ox or a braying donkey.” Qiao Feng replied, ”Preserving your reputation and the reputation of our clan was only a secondary concern to me. The most important rule for us martial artists is to not harm innocents. Elder Chen, even if you weren't a very important figure within our clan and weren't such an illustrious figure within the martial arts world, you still cannot take the lives of others so easily, without a clear certainty regarding the facts!” Elder Chen bowed his head. ”I, Chen Guyan, admit to my wrongdoing.”

Seeing that he had managed to convince Chen Guyan, the most haughty of the four elders, with his words, Qiao Feng felt extremely happy. He slowly said, ”Gongye Qian was a heroic man, and Feng Bo'e was a man who knew right from wrong. Bao Butong acts unrestrained and naturally, and these three maidens are gentle, refined, and proper. All of these people are young master Murong's subordinates, his friends, or his relatives. As the saying goes, 'things of one kind come together, birds of a feather flock together'. Brothers, calm yourselves and think: If young master Murong has friends and associates such as they, can he himself be a wicked, vile, despicable, shameless villain?”

The people of the Beggar's Clan highly valued the code of brotherhood and loved friends. They all thought that these words were reasonable, and many people chimed in agreement.

But Quan Guanqing said, ”Chief, are you saying that in your opinion, it definitely was not Murong Fu who killed vice-chief Ma?”

Qiao Feng replied, ”I dare not say that Murong Fu is definitely the person who assassinated vice-chief Ma, but I also dare not say that he definitely was not the person either. There's no need to rush to complete our vengeance. We need to clearly investigate the situation. If we can prove that it was Murong Fu who did the deed, naturally we will seize him and avenge vice-chief Ma's death. But if we cannot prove it was him, we must continue to seek the real perpetrator. If we kill a good man solely based on wild conjecture while allowing the real killer to remain free and secretly laugh at how stupid and incompetent the Beggar's Clan is, not only will we have wronged the person we falsely accused and killed and wronged vice-chief Ma, we'll also have ruined the Beggar's Clan's illustrious name. Brothers, do you think you will enjoy the taste of being ridiculed and insulted as you travel about the martial world?”

Hearing his words, every person present was moved. This entire time, the skill-instructing elder had remained silent. Now, he stroked his thin, fine beard and said, ”Your words are reasonable. In the past, I once killed an innocent man by mistake. To this very day, it troubles me. To this very day, it troubles me!”

Wu Changfeng loudly said, ”Chief, we rebelled against you because we made the mistake of listening to the words of others. We knew that you didn't get along with vice-chief Ma, and secretly suspected you of conspiring with Gusu's Murong family to kill him. All sorts of things added up and we couldn't help but be suspicious. In hindsight, we were all so stupid! Elder Bai, please bring out the knives of law! We'll take our own lives in accordance with clan regulations!”

Bai Shijing's face was as cold as winter. In a heavy voice, he said, ”Law-enforcing disciples, please bring out the knives of law.”

Nine of his disciples immediately said, ”Yes sir!” Each of them withdrew a yellow cloth bundle from a sack on their backs. They opened the bundles, each retrieving a short knife from within. The nine gleaming, brilliant knifes were placed side by side. They were equal in size and shape. Underneath the blazing light of the torches, a blue light could be seen gleaming from the edges of the knives. A law-enforcing disciple brought over a tree trunk, and all nine of the other law-enforcing disciples stuck the knives into the trunk. The knives slipped into the trunk with ease; clearly, these blades were extraordinary. The nine of them called out in unison, ”The knives of law have been assembled!”

Bai Shijing let out a sigh. ”Elders Song, Xi, Chen, and Wu made the mistake of listening to the lies of others and conspired to rebel. They would have caused great damage to the clan. Their punishment is death by one knife. Quan Guanqing, the hall-master of the 'Hall of Great Wisdom', spread vicious rumors and created internal dissent. His punishment is death by nine knives. All other disciples who participated in this revolt bear responsibility for their offences as well. In the future, there will be an investigation and they shall each receive punishment.”

As he declared every person's crime and punishment, no one spoke. In every single organization in the world, the penalty for plotting to overthrow the leader or betraying the organization was death. There was nothing strange about this at all. When the people present had participated in the plot, they knew of this possible outcome.

Wu Changfeng took large steps forward. Bowing to Qiao Feng, he said, ”Chief, Wu Changfeng has wronged you! I hope you understand that I was foolish. After I die, please forgive me, Wu Changfeng!” As he spoke, he walkd to the knives of law and loudly said, ”Wu Changfeng will take his own life. Law-enforcing disciples, release me from my bonds!” A law-enforcing disciple said, ”Yes sir!” But as he went forward to cut Wu Changfeng loose, Qiao Feng shouted, ”Wait!”

Wu Changfeng's face immediately turned a deathly, ashen pale. With bated breath, he said, ”Chief, is it that my sin is too great, and you will not allow me to take my own life?”

According to the rules of the Beggar's Clan, if a person who had broken the laws of the clan took his own life, his reputation would be restored and spotless, and the crimes he had committed would not be revealed to anyone else. If anyone in the world insulted that person's memory, the Beggar's Clan would actually intervene on their departed comrade's behalf. All of the heroes of the martial world greatly valued their reputation and were unwilling to allow it to be besmirched after their deaths. Wu Changfeng, seeing that Qiao Feng was not willing to allow him to take his own life, felt both shame and dread.

Qiao Feng did not immediately reply. He walked to the knives of law, then said, ”Fifteen years ago, the country of Khitan invaded us via the Yanmen Pass [Wild Geese Pass]. After elder Song received this news, he rushed back to inform us of this critical military news. He did not eat for three days, and did not sleep for four nights. Enroute, he rode nine horses to their deaths. He himself was so exhausted that he sustained severe internal injuries and vomited blood. But with his news, our country, the Great Song, was prepared for the attack and the Khitaners were beaten back and forced to retreat. This was a major, meritorious deed which affected the entire country. Although the heroes of the martial world are not aware of the details of this event, we in the Beggar's Clan are. Law-enforcing elder, I hope you will take into consideration the major contributions which elder Song have made and will allow him to atone for his crimes in some other fashion.

Bai Shijing replied, ”Chief, it is reasonable for you to beg clemency on behalf of elder Song. But it is said thusly in our laws: 'The great crime of betraying the clan cannot be pardoned. No matter how meritorious the offender's past deeds, it cannot atone for this crime. This is so that those who have done great deeds will not become arrogant and overbearing and risk destroying our clan.' Chief, your plea is not in keeping with the laws of our clan. We cannot breach the rules which the many successive chiefs of the past have laid down!”

Elder Song laughed sadly. He took two steps forward, then said, ”The law-enforcing elder's words are totally true. For us to become elders of the clan, we all naturally had to perform many great deeds of valor. If everyone excuses themselves by pointing to their past valors, then all sorts of crimes will be committed. Chief, please be merciful and allow me to take my own life.” With two cracking sounds, he shattered the cow sinew-strings which bound his wrists.

Looks of shock appeared on everyone's face. The sinew-strings were both hard and tough. Even if a person were to chop at them using a steel sabre, it still might take a while to chop them apart. Elder Song was actually able to shatter them simply by lifting his hands up. He really lived up to his reputation as being one of the elders of the Beggar's Clan. His hands now free, elder Song stretched them out to snatch a law knife in front of him so as to take his own life. Unexpectedly, a soft stream of energy gushed towards him. His hand was only a foot away from the knives, but he could no longer move his hand forward any further. Qiao Feng was refusing to allow him to withdraw the knife.

A grieved look on his face, elder Song called out, ”Chief, you…” Qiao Feng stretched his hand out, pulled out the first knife on the left side. Elder Song said, ”Forget it, forget it! I had the intention to kill you. It is just that I be punished! Go ahead and kill me!” The knife blade flashed across his eyes. With a puffing sound, Qiao Feng stabbed himself in his own shoulder with the knife.

All the beggars let out a loud cry. In unison, they all rose to their feet. Shocked, Duan Yu said, ”Elder brother, you!” Even outsiders such as Wang Yuyan were so terrified by this unexpected development that their lovely features changed. The maidens cried out, ”Chief Qiao, don't…”

Qiao Feng said, ”Elder Bai, within the regulations of our clan, there is this line: 'When the disciples of our clan commit a crime and cannot be forgiven, if the chief wishes to pardon them, he must shed his own blood on their behalf to wash away their crimes.' Am I right?”

Bai Shijing's face was as rigid and hard as stone. Slowly, he said, ”Within our regulations, there is such a line. But for the chief to shed his own blood to wash away their sins, he must consider whether or not it is worth it.”

Qiao Feng replied, ”As long as I am not breaching the laws of our ancestors, I am happy.” Turning around, he said to elder Xi, ”In the past, elder Xi instructed me in martial arts. Although he was not formally my master, he acted in that capacity. However, that is just an act of personal kindness to me. In the past, chief Wang was surrounded by five elite Khitan fighters and trapped within the 'Cave of Sinister Wind' of Mt. Qilian. The Khitaners intended to force our clan to surrender to them. Chief Wang was short and stout, and also looked something similar to elder Xi. Elder Xi disguised himself as chief Wang and went to die in his place. Only then did chief Wang manage to escape. This is a great deed which benefited both our clan and our country. I absolutely must pardon him for his crimes!” As he spoke, he pulled out a second knife of law. With a light swish, he cut apart the cow sinew-strings binding elder Xi's wrists, then stabbed himself in the shoulder with this knife as well.

He slowly turned to walk towards elder Chen. Elder Chen had a very strange temperament. In the past, he had wronged his family clan, changed his name, and fled. He was always afraid that others would rip open this scar of his. He dreaded Qiao Feng's intelligence, and thus always was distant towards Qiao Feng, not willing to become close friends. Now, seeing Qiao Feng turn his eyes towards him, he loudly said, ”Chief Qiao, I don't have much of a friendship with you. I offended you far too often in the past, and don't dare ask for you to shed blood on my behalf.” Flipping his arms around, he suddenly brought his bound hands to the front. His skill in the 'Arm Passing Through' technique had reached the acme of perfection, and he was able to retract and advance his arms easily. As he squatted down, he snatched out and grabbed one of the knives.

Qiao Feng launched a backhanded attack and easily removed the weapon from his grasp. In a clear voice, he said, ”Elder Chen! I, Qiao Feng, am a crude, boorish fellow. I don't like to make friends with people who are cautious, conservative, and prudent. I also don't like people who don't drink, don't laugh, or who are taciturn. This is just my natural disposition. I can't change it. We have totally different personalities, making it difficult for us to avoid quarrelling. I didn't like vice-chief Ma's personality much either, and whenever I saw him, I would avoid him. I'd rather go and drink strong liquor or eat roast meat with low ranking, one-bagged or two-bagged brothers. Everyone knows this temperament of mine. But if you think that I wished to get rid of you or vice-chief Ma, then you are wrong, totally wrong! You and vice-chief Ma are experienced, prudent people who never drink. Those are good traits. I, Qiao Feng, cannot measure up to you!” And as he said this, he stabbed himself in the shoulder with this third knife, before continuing, ”Outsiders don't know who committed the great deed of killing Yelu Bulu, the deputy marshal of the left wing of the Khitan army, but can it be that I also don't know?”

All the beggars immediately began to murmur and whisper in mingled shock and admiration. Many years ago, the Khitan nation carried out a major invasion of the Great Song, but many of their generals and leaders kept on being assassinated. Their leadership decapitated, they retreated without winning any victories and the Great Song managed to avoid a catastrophe. Amongst the generals who were killed was Yelu Bulu, the deputy marshal of the left wing of the army. Aside from the highest ranking members of the Beggar's Clan, nobody was aware that elder Chen was the one who did this great deed.

Elder Chen, hearing Qiao Feng publicly advertise his great accomplishment, felt consoled. In a low voice, he said, ”I, Chen Guyan, whose name is known throughout the world, am deeply moved by my chief's great benevolence and virtue.”

The Beggar's Clan had always secretly assisted the Great Song in fighting off its enemies, protecting the nation and defending its citizens. But in order to prevent the enemies from noticing them and focusing their efforts on destroying the Beggar's Clan, the clan decided that regardless of whether or not their stratagems succeeded, they would not reveal what they had done to outsiders. They even kept the secrets from as many members of the Beggar's Clan itself as possible. Chen Guyan had always acted arrogantly and rudely. He was older than Qiao Feng, had served in the clan longer, and thus usually was not especially meek or modest in front of him. All the beggars within the clan knew this. Now, seeing how the chief forgave him his crimes and shed blood in order to wash away his sins, all of the beggars present were moved.

Walking towards Wu Changfeng, Qiao Feng said, ”Elder Wu, you once guarded the Yinchou Gorge by yourself, using nothing but your own strength to resist the experts of the Western Xia's 'League of Elites' and prevented them from achieving their goal of assassinating the general of the Yang family, Yang Ye [The legend of Yang Ye and of the Yang family generals is a famous Chinese legend]. The 'Golden Medal of Valor' which Marshall Yang awarded him is in and of itself sufficient to pardon him of his crimes today. Take it out and display it to everyone!” Suddenly, Wu Changfeng's face flushed, as he looked both embarrassed and uneasy. ”That, uh…uh…” Qiao Feng said, ”All of us present are your brothers. Elder Wu, if there's anything problematic about my request, just go ahead and say it without worry.” Wu Changfeng replied, ”About that golden medal of mine…well…to tell you the truth, chief, it…um…it…it disappeared.” Astonished, Qiao Feng said, ”How did it disappear?”

Wu Changfeng said, ”I lost it. Um…” After composing himself, he said in a loud voice, ”One day, I really was craving some alcohol, but didn't have any money on me. I sold the gold medal to a jewelry store.” Qiao Feng laughed uproariously. ”Forthright and carefree! Only, I'm afraid that by doing so, you've wronged Marshall Yang a bit!” As he spoke, he pulled out a fourth knife. First, he used it to cut Wu Changfeng's bonds. Then, he planted it in his left shoulder.

Wu Changfeng loudly shouted, ”Chief, you have shown me great benevolence and mercy. From this day forth, Wu Changfeng's life belongs to you. I'll never listen to anyone who spreads rumors about you ever again!” Qiao Feng clapped him on the shoulder, then laughed, ”We're beggars. If we don't have food to eat or wine to drink, we should go beg for some. There's no need for us to sell gold medals.” Wu Changfeng laughed, ”It's easy to beg for food, but hard to beg for alcohol. Everyone always says, 'Foul beggar, now that your stomach is full, you want alcohol to drink as well? How shameless! I won't give you any, I won't give you any!'”

All the beggars listening boomed with laughter. Plenty of beggars within the clan had begged for alcohol, only to be refused. In addition, now that Qiao Feng had pardoned the four elders of their crimes, everyone felt as though a great burden had been lifted from them. Now, everyone's eyes turned to Quan Guanqing. They thought to themselves that he was the chief instigator and agitator of this plot to cause a revolt within the clan. No matter how magnanimous Qiao Feng was, there was no way he could pardon him.

Qiao Feng walkd to Quan Guanqing. He said, ”Hall-master Quan, do you have anything to say?” Quan Guanqing replied, ”I rebelled against you for the sake of the safety of our nation, the Great Song, and for the sake of preserving the Beggar's Clan. Unfortunately, the people to whom I revealed your true history are all cowards who are afraid of death and aren't willing to reveal themselves. Just go ahead and kill me!” Qiao Feng pondered for a bit, then said, ”If there's anything wrong with my history, go ahead and say it openly.” Quan Guanqing shook his head. ”If I make empty accustations now, no one will believe me. It's best if you just kill me now.”

Qiao Feng was filled with suspicion. He loudly said, ”A real man says whatever is on his mind. Why hem and haw and refuse to speak when you want to? Quan Guanqing, a real man isn't afraid of death, much less saying a few words.”

Quan Guanqing laughed bitterly. ”Right. If one doesn't even fear death, what does he have to fear? Qiao Feng, hurry up and kill me with a single chop. That way, I won't have to stay alive and watch the Beggar's Clan submit to the barbarians, or the beautiful mountains of the Great Song be annexed by foreigners.” Qiao Feng said, ”Why would the Beggar's Clan fall under the control of barbarians? Explain clearly!” Quan Guanqing replied, ”No one will believe anything I say now. They'll assume that I'm a coward who fears death and who made everything up. No matter what, I will die. Why should I leave behind a bad name?”

Bai Shijing loudly said, ”Chief, this person is crafty and deceptive. He's saying a bunch of garbage, hoping to convince you to spare his life as well. Law-enforcing disciples, take the knives of law and carry out the sentence!”

A law-enforcing disciple said, ”Yes sir!” He stepped forward, pulling out a knife and walking towards Quan Guanqing.

Qiao Feng never let his gaze waver from Quan Guanqing. Qiao Feng only saw an aggrieved, angry look on his face, and did not see any crafty or deceptive signs. Nor did Qiao Feng see any fear or dread. He began to feel suspicious, and said to the law-enforcing disciple, ”Give me the knife of law.” The law-enforcing disciple respectfully presented it to him with both hands.

Receiving the knife, Qiao Feng said, ”Hall-master Quan, you say that you know my real history, and that it affects the safety of the Beggar's Clan. And yet, you are afraid to reveal what you claim the truth is.” As he spoke, he wrapped up the knife into a bundle, placing the bundle within his clothes. ”You have formented armed rebellion. It will be hard to pardon your crimes. However, I will temporarily grant a stay of execution. After the truth of the matter comes out, I will personally kill you. I, Qiao Feng, am not a fussy person who dithers and dickers. Now that I am determined to kill you, I'll wager you won't be able to escape me. Go away now, and leave behind your bags. From now on, you are no longer a member of the Beggar's Clan.”

The phrase, 'leave behind your bags', carried with it the implicit meaning of expelling him from the Beggar's Clan. Aside from brand new members of the Beggar's Clan who had no formal duties at all, every person in the clan carried anywhere from one to nine cloth bags over their backs. The number of bags they carried signified the rank they held within the clan. When Quan Guanqing heard Qiao Feng order him to leave his bags behind, a murderous look filled his eyes. Turning around, he snatched one of the knives of law, inverted it, then pointed it towards his chest. Being expelled from one's clan or sect is so humiliating that the depth of the shame is difficult to describe. It was often considered to be even more intolerable than being executed on the spot.

Qiao Feng coldly watched him, waiting to see if he would actually kill himself or not.

Quan Guanqing held the law knife with a steady arm, hand not shaking in the slightest. Turning his head, he stared at Qiao Feng. The two locked gazes. Instantly, everyone went silent and no noise could be heard at all within the apricot forest. Quan Quanging suddenly said, ”Qiao Feng, you are so calm and self-possessed! Can it be that you really don't know?” Qiao Feng said, ”Know what?”

Quan Guanqing opened his mouth, but in the end, he said nothing. He slowly returned the knife of law to its original location, then just as slowly removed the bags from his back, reverently placing them on the floor.

Just as Quan Guanqing removed his fifth bag, the sound of galloping hoofsteps could be heard as a horse charged towards them from the north, followed by two whistles. The beggars on sentry whistled in report as the horses grew nearer and nearer. Wu Changfeng mumbled to himself, ”What sort of critical event has happened?” Before the horse from the north had arrived, the sound of another horse could be heard from the east. Only, it was farther away and its hoofsteps were indistinct. No one could tell in which direction it was headed.

In a short period of time, the horse from the north arrived at the outskirts of the apricot forest. A man leapt off the back of the horse and ran into the forest. He wore an extremely magnificent wide-sleeved gown, which he hurriedly shucked off and threw away, revealing a tattered uniform of the Beggar's Clan. Duan Yu only had to think about it for a moment, before immediately understanding: For a member of the Beggar's Clan to rush about on a horse would be very conspicuous, and government officials would often halt them to investigate. However, a messenger delivering an urgent message absolutely must use a horse. Thus, the beggar dressed up as a rich, prosperous merchant. However, he continued to wear his own original clothes underneath, so as to show that he had not forgotten where his loyalties lie.

That person walked to hall-master of the 'Hall of Great Righteousness', respectfully presenting him with a package. ”Urgent report on the military situation…” After saying these words, he ran out of breath and began panting. Suddenly, the horse he had ridden here let out a mournful neigh, then collapsed on the floor. It had been exhausted to death. The courier's body swayed, then he suddenly fell down as well. It was obvious that both the courier and his horse had been rushing for a long distance, and both had used up all of their strength.

The hall-master of the 'Hall of Great Righteousness' recognized this courier. He was one of the beggars whom had been sent to spy upon the Western Xia's 'League of Elites'. Seeing how this person had exhausted himself to deliver this message, its contents surely must be of great importance and unusual urgency. Thus, he did not open the pouch itself, and instead offered it to Qiao Feng, saying, ”Critical military report regarding the Western Xia. The courier was sent to keep an eye on the Western Xia along with brother Yi Dabiao.”

Qiao Feng took the pouch. Opening it, he saw that there was a wax pellet. He broke open the pellet, retrieving from within a roll of paper. Just as he was about to read what was written on the paper, the sound of hoofsteps grew louder as the horse from the east burst into the apricot forest. Just as it entered the forest, the man on the horse flew out of its saddle, shouting, ”Qiao Feng, the message within the wax pellet involves critical military intelligence. You cannot read it!”

Everyone present was startled. They saw that this person was an extremely old beggar with a white beard which fluttered in the wind, and who wore a turtledove robe which had been repaired over and over again. The skill-instructing elder and the law-enforcing elder rose to their feet simultaneously. ”Elder Xu, what business causes you to grace us with your presence?”

When the beggars heard that it was elder Xu who had arrived, looks of shock appeared on their face. Elder Xu, at eighty seven years of age, was of an extremely senior generation within the Beggar's Clan. Even the previous chief, chief Wang, addressed him as 'martial-uncle'. Everyone within the clan was of a lower generation than him. He had retired many years ago, and had long since ceased to pay attention to worldly affairs. Every year, when Qiao Feng, the skill-instructing elder, and the law-enforcing elder went to pay their respects to him, they would only casually discuss some of the affairs of the clan. Unexpectedly, he would suddenly rush here today, and then forbid Qiao Feng from reading the urgent news regarding the Western Xia's military movements. Everyone present was greatly shocked.

Qiao Feng immediately bowed forward in a salute. ”Elder Xu, have you been well?” Following this, he opened his hand and delivered the roll of paper to elder Xu.

Qiao Feng was the chief of the Beggar's Clan. Although it was true that he was of a younger generation than elder Xu, he was still the person in charge when it came to events of great import involving the clan. Even the previous chief, chief Wang, would be subject to his commands, much less a retired elder such as elder Xu. But unexpectedly, when elder Xu forbade Qiao Feng from reading the urgent military news regarding the Western Xia's movements, Qiao Feng did not defy him in the slightest. Everyone present was shocked.

Elder Xu said, ”Excuse me!” He took the roll of paper from Qiao Feng's hands, then immediately cast his gaze at the group of beggars. In a clear voice, he said, ”The widow of vice-chief Ma Dayuan, madame Ma, is soon to arrive. When she arrives, there are some things which need to be discussed. Everyone, what say ye?” All of the beggars looked at Qiao Feng, wanting to know how he would respond.

Qiao Feng was filled with doubt and suspicion. He said, ”If this is a matter of great importance, then we can simply wait.” Elder Xu said, ”This is a matter of great importance.” After saying these words, he said nothing further. He belatedly paid Qiao Feng the courtesies due to the chief, and then sat down to one side.

Duan Yu felt some misgivings about the whole situation, and also wanted to seize the opportunity to make some conversation with Wang Yuyan. He said to her in a low voice, ”Miss Wang, the Beggar's Clan has so very many affairs. Should we depart, or should we stay here and watch all the fun?” Wang Yuyan wrinkled her forehead. ”We are outsiders. Originally, we shouldn't get involved in their secret internal issues. However…however…the matter which they are fighting over involves my cousin. I want to listen.” Duan Yu chimed in, ”That's right. It's said that vice-chief Ma was killed by your cousin and left behind a helpless, pitiable widow.” Wang Yuyan hurriedly said, ”No! No! My cousin didn't kill vice-chief Ma. Isn't that what chief Qiao says as well?” At this moment, the sound of hoofsteps could be heard once more as two riders galloped towards the apricot forest. In setting up their conference here, the beggars of the clan naturally left behind signs for others. In addition, they had people nearby who could lead the way for friends or give out warnings if enemies arrived.

Everyone was certain that one of the riders must be vice-chief Ma's widow. Unexpectedly, one of the riders was an old man, and the other an old lady. The man had a small, short figure, while the female was extremely tall and lofty. They formed a total contrast.

Qiao Feng rose to greet them. ”Granny Tan and Grandpa Tan of Mt. Taihang's Cavern of Flowing Clouds, you honor us with your presence! Qiao Feng apologizes for not welcoming you from afar, and thank you for your forgiveness.” Elder Xu and the other six elders all rose up and saluted them as well.

Upon seeing this, Duan Yu realized that Granny Tan and Grandpa Tan must be wulin figures of great renown and dignitas.

Granny Tan asked, ”Chief Qiao, why are there a number of knives planted on your shoulder?” Lifting up her arm, she immediately pulled out all four knives from his shoulder. The movement of her hands was extremely quick. Right after she pulled out the knives, Grandpa Tan withdrew a small box from his bosom. Opening its lid, he dabbed his finger into some ointment within the box, then spread it on the wounds on Qiao Feng's shoulder. As soon as he applied this 'Golden Wound' ointment, the fresh blood which was spewing forth from the wounds instantly came to a halt. The speed which Granny Tan displayed in retrieving the knives was very rarely seen, but it was only a single action. Grandpa Tan's movements in withdrawing the box, opening the lid, dabbing the ointment, applying it to the wounds, then staunching the bleeding were neat and tidy. Although his movements were very quick, everyone was able to see them clearly and distinctly. It truly appeared almost like magic, or sleight of hand. In addition, the 'Golden Wound' ointment's almost divine efficacy in stopping the flow of blood was even more unimaginable. As soon as it was applied, the blood stopped flowing, without even the slightest delay.

Qiao Feng saw that Granny Tan and Grandpa Tan immediately helped him treat his wounds without even carrying about the how's and why's of the situation. Although he felt this was a bit rash of them, he also felt extremely moved. Even as he was in the process of thanking them, he felt that the pain in his shoulders became replaced by itchiness. In a very short amount of time, much of the pain was greatly reduced. He had never even heard of a cure as miraculous as this 'Golden Wound' ointment, much less have personally seen it before.