Chapter - 38 Muddled Intoxication, Lasting Emotions But Short Ruse (2/2)

Duan Yu's body is supported by Wang YuYan, she is also crying for him, his soul had long float away, he is extremely happy, he ask: ”Miss Wang, you.....you shed tears for me?” Wang YuYan nod her head, tears flow down again. Duan Yu said: ”Duan Yu finally achieve something today, even if i am thrust by sword 10 times, i am willing.” Unexpectedly both of them did not hear Xu Zhu's words at all. Wang YuYan felt really grateful, she can't control her emotions. Duan Yu saw his sweetheart crying, moreover she is crying for him, why would he even care about his life and death?

Xu Zhu seize and return the sword, it happen for only a split second, only Murong Fu saw everything clearly, Zhuo BuFan knew it in his heart, however the rest of the bystanders assume Zhuo BuFan is being lenient and he did not try to kill Duan Yu. Zhuo BuFan's shock and anger is simply indescribable, but in an instant he is having second thoughts, he pondered: ”I accidentally acquired a sword manual at ChangBai Mountain, i train bitterly for 20 years, in the present age how can anyone be my match? Yes, most likely this chap got lucky, he so happen to touch the 'TaiYuan acupoint' on my wrist. There are lucky coincidence in this world. If he really intend to seize my weapon then how come he return it to me after taking it? This chap is so young, how can he have any great abilities, how can he seize Zhuo BuFan's sword?” when he thought of it his heroic spirit rose again, he said: ”Chap, you are too meddlesome!” he thrust out his long sword, the sword tip pointing at Xu Zhu's back, he only need to push lightly, he wanted to pierce Xu Zhu's clothe and let him suffer some pain, similar to how he handled Duan Yu.

Currently, the [Pure Energy of Northern Darkness] in Xu Zhu's body is abundant and circulating around, its just like physical substance, when Zhuo BuFan's sword arrived it bump against Xu Zhu's internal energy, the sword tip was deflected and slide off Xu Zhu's body. Zhuo BuFan had a huge shock, he change move quickly, immediately he slash horizontally at Xu Zhu's torso. This move is called 'Jade Belt Surrounding Waist', the sword attack his front, right and back, the fatal acupoints are all targeted in these 3 positions, the move is extremely fierce and vicious. At this moment, Zhuo BuFan is aware that Xu Zhu possess high level martial arts, its way beyond his expectation, thus he send out his full strength in this move.

Xu Zhu cry out in surprise, he slanted his body slightly, he don't understand, Zhuo BuFan was talking to him nicely but he suddenly became hostile, unexpectedly he is out to kill him? There is a 'Chi' sound, the sword pass by his armpit, his old monk robe was cut open. Zhuo BuFan failed in his 2nd attack, he is 50% amazed and 50% afraid, he spin his body and made a half-circle, he straighten his long sword, the sword tip suddenly spit out half-chi green light. From the crowd, around 10 people cry out in surprise: ”Sword light, sword light!” the sword light is like a long snake, it lengthen and shorten indefinitely, Zhuo BuFan revealed a sardonic smile, he gathered his energy from his dantian, the green light suddenly flourish and thrust straight at Xu Zhu's chest.

Xu Zhu has never seen green light emit out from a weapon before, he heard the heroic cheer of the crowd, he presume this must be some kind of awesome martial arts, obviously he can't handle it, he step back and slide away. Zhuo BuFan exerted his full strength, he cannot switch move midway, there is a 'Shua' sound, the long sword thrust into a huge stone pillar and penetrate deeply around 1 chi. This stone pillar is made of extremely hard granite, unexpectedly the soft-bodied long sword can penetrate around 1 chi, it can be seen that the energy attached to the sword is truly no small matter, the crowd cannot help but cheer out.

Zhuo BuFan channelled his internal energy and pull his sword out of the stone pillar, he chase Xu Zhu and shouted: ”Little brother, where can you run?” Xu Zhu is inwardly scared, he slide away to avoid.

Suddenly someone laugh coldly from the left side, the voice said: ”Little monk, lie down!” its a female voice. Two white light flickered, two throwing knives flew towards Xu Zhu. When Xu Zhu carried Child Elder initially, she taught him some lightness martial art, currently his internal energy is deep and profound, when moving his hands and legs are incomparably light and agile, his body can turn according to his wish, although the throwing knife is fast but he still dodge it skilfully. He saw a middle-age pretty woman wearing light red clothes, she wave her hands and caught the throwing knives. Her palm seems to have some kind of strong suction force as it attracted the flying knives.

Zhuo BuFan praised: ”Hibiscus Fairy divine skill in throwing knife, it really broaden everyone's horizon.”

Xu Zhu suddenly remembered, previously when the crowd conspired to attack Misty Peak, Zhuo BuFan and Hibiscus Fairy, both of them and Taoist BuPing are from the same group, Taoist BuPing was killed on the snowy peak by his pine cone, thus its not surprising that both of them want to kill him to avenge their companion. He is having guilty conscience, he stop moving, he press his hands together and bow towards Zhuo BuFan and Hibiscus Fairy, he said: ”I made a huge mistake, i deserve to die, although its really not my true intention, sigh, in short this blunder is hard to redeem. If both of you want to beat or scold me, i....i....i won't dare to dodge anymore.”

Zhuo BuFan and Hibiscus Fairy Cui LuHua look at each other, they thought: ”At last this chap is scared.” In reality, they are unaware that Taoist BuPing was killed by Xu Zhu, but even if they knew, they still won't kill Xu Zhu to avenge Taoist BuPing. Both of them had the same thoughts, they move close to Xu Zhu simultaneously, one left one right, they grab Xu Zhu's wrist.

Xu Zhu recalled the miserable death of Taoist BuPing, he regret it alot, he ask for forgiveness: ”I made a mistake, its really too late for regrets. Both of you, please don't hesitate to punish me heavily, i willingly accept it, if you want to kill me i also won't dare to resist.”

Zhuo BuFan said: ”Its really easy if you want me to spare you, you just have to tell me Child Elder's last words, i will spare you.” Cui LuHua smiled and said: ”Mr Zhuo, can little sister listen as well?” Zhuo BuFan said: ”I only want to seek the method to breaking the life-death talisman, all our friends here will benefit as well, i am not the only one who gain the benefit.” He did not agree to let Cui LuHua listen to the secret, but he also did not disagree, however his speech implied his desire to monopolize the secret.

Cui LuHua smiled and said: ”Little sister don't have your good conscience, i don't like this chap.” her left hand grip tightly onto Xu Zhu's wrist, she wave her right hand swiftly, two throwing knives flew towards Xu Zhu's chest.

Since Child Elder is dead, Zhuo BuFan can't avenge his sect, currently he want to find the method to breaking the life-death talisman and use it to control the crowd and rule over them. However Cui LuHua intention is completely different. Her elder brother was killed by the combine effort of 3 Cave-masters from the 36 Caves, thus she wants to kill Xu Zhu and nobody can find out about Child Elder's last words, the life-death talisman on the 3 Cave-masters will remain forever and they will undoubtedly suffer a death 100 times more miserable then her brother, its way better then simply killing them herself, thus she act out violently to kill Xu Zhu. Her moves are very quick, Zhuo BuFan sword had return back to its sheath, he quickly pull it out, however he is 1 step slower.

Xu Zhu was startled, there is no time to think, he involuntarily push out with both hands, Zhuo BuFan and Cui LuHua are jolted off simultaneously and they move back a few steps.

Cui LuHua shout out, the throwing knives left her hand and flew swiftly towards Xu Zhu. Although she fell back a few steps, but with regards to throwing hidden projectile the distance is considered to be extremely short. Zhuo BuFan is afraid Xu Zhu might be killed, he thrust his sword at the throwing knives. Cui LuHua already foresaw that Zhuo BuFan will thrust out his sword to rescue, when the two throwing knives left her hand, immediately after another ten throwing knives flew out in rapid succession, among them three knives flew towards Zhuo BuFan to hinder him, the remaining seven knives flew towards Xu Zhu's face, throat, chest, lower abdomen, Xu Zhu is shrouded by throwing knives.

Xu Zhu grab with his pair of hands repeatedly, he executed [Plum Breaking Hand Of Heavenly Mountain], he grab and throw accordingly, there is unending 'Ding Ding Dang Dang' sound, in a split second he cast 13 weapons beside his leg. The 12 weapons are Cui LuHuan's throwing knives, however the 13th item is Zhuo BuFan's long sword. When Xu Zhu executed [Plum Breaking Hand Of Heavenly Mountain], he is very anxious and frighten, thus he did not think about who his opponent is, he grab whatever weapon he lay his eyes on, without much effort he also seize Zhuo BuFan's long sword.

He seize all 13 weapons, he raise his head and saw Zhuo BuFan pallid expression, he turn his head, he saw Cui LuHua frighten expression, he pondered: ”Terrible, terrible, i offended people again.” he quickly said: ”Both of you please don't take offense, my conduct is rash.” he bend down to pick up the 13 weapons, he clasp the weapons with his pair of hands and delivered to both of them.

Cui LuHua assume he is deliberately humiliating her, she gathered internal energy to her palm and strike towards Xu Zhu's chest. There is a 'Pa' sound, an incomparably violent force counterattacked, Cui LuHua cry out in alarm, her body flew backward swiftly, there is a 'Peng' sound, she crash heavily against a stone wall and spurted two mouthful of blood.

Zhuo BuFan, Taoist BuPing, Cui LuHua, three of them are working together for the first time, prior to the event the three of them secretly tested each others internal energy, although Zhuo BuFan is slightly better than the other two but its only marginal, currently Xu Zhu is holding onto the weapons, he only use the internal energy within his body and he can repel Cui LuHuan and heavily injure her, Zhuo BuFan is absolutely not his match at all. Zhuo BuFan knew he cannot gain anything today, he cupped his hands towards Xu Zhu and said: ”Respect, respect, hope to see you again.”

Xu Zhu said: ”Senior please take back your sword. I accidentally offended you, please don't take offense. If senior wants to beat or scold me, to help Taoist BuPing vent his anger, i.....i definitely won't resist.”

When Zhuo BuFan heard it, he assume Xu Zhu is mocking him spitefully. His face already lost all its color, he took huge stride and went out of the hall.

Suddenly everyone heard a delicate voice, a female shouted out: ”Hold it! What is Vulture Palace, you think you can just come and go as you wish?” Zhuo BuFan trembled, without thinking he reach for his sword hilt, however he grab thin air, he suddenly recalled that his sword was seize by Xu Zhu, a huge rock is blocking the entrance, 2 zhang high 1 zhang wide, the entrance is completely sealed off. Unexpectedly he did not know when this huge rock move soundlessly into place.

When the crowd saw the situation they knew they had fallen into Vulture Palace trap mechanism. When attacking Vulture Palace everyone move forward together, they killed or captured all the yellow-clothed females, they wipe out everything cleanly, after entering the main hall they carefully look out for any hidden troops, however immediately after someone's life-death talisman flare up, everyone was shock at the ghastly sight since they will also suffer the same fate, afterwards a series of events happen in succession and they never ponder about the dangerous place they are in where crisis lurks in every corner, only when they saw the huge rock sealing off the entrance did they finally tremble with fear: ”To escape Vulture Palace alive today, i am afraid it won't be easy.”

Suddenly a female said from their top: ”The four envoy servants of Child Elder pay their respect to Mr Xu Zhu.” Xu Zhu lifted his head, nine pieces of rock are jutting out from the roof, it seems to be nine small platform, four 18-19 year old maiden are standing on four of the rock platform, they are prostrating when paying their respects. After paying their respects they jump down immediately, while in mid-air they already draw out their long sword, they landed lightly. The four maiden, one is wearing light red, one wearing light green, one wearing light blue, one wearing light yellow, they jump off at the same time and landed at the same time, they bow towards Xu Zhu at the same time, they said: ”Envoy servant is slow in welcoming, Owner please forgive us.” Xu Zhu press his hands together and bow to return the greeting, he said: ”Four sisters, no need to be overly courteous.”

The four maidens lifted their head, everyone was startled. The four of them are of the same size and height, their appearance also exactly the same, they had oval shaped face, bright and clear eyes, pure elegant and beautiful, the only difference is the color of their clothes.

The red-clothed female said: ”We four sisters are born together, Child granny named me Plum Sword, my three sisters are Orchid Sword, Bamboo Sword and Chrysanthemum Sword. Just now we ran into our sisters from Clear Heaven Division, Vermillion Heaven Division, etc, we found out about the various ongoings. Currently servant already sealed off the Supreme Hall, i invite Owner to decide how to deal with these bunch of brazen treacherous lackeys.”

The crowd heard these four sisters are quadruplets, they finally understood, no wonder their appearance are identical, these four are beautiful and their voice pure and gentle, everyone had favourable impression of them, unexpectedly Plum Sword called them 'these bunch of brazen treacherous lackeys', its extremely rude. Two men rush forward, one holding a broad sword, another holding a judge-pen, they yell in unison: ”Little girl, your mouth is filthy, you are fart......”

Suddenly green light flash repeatedly, Orchid Sword and Bamboo Sword thrust out their swords, two 'Dang Dang' sound, the wrists of both men are cut off, their palm along with the weapons drop onto the floor. This move is incomparable fast, the wrists of both men are cut off already but they still said: ”are farting! Ayo!” they shout out loudly and leap backwards, the floor is sprayed full of fresh blood.

The two females cut off the wrists of two men with a single move, although the remaining crowd had better martial arts than the two men but they don't dare to act rashly, moreover the hall is made of exceptionally thick granite, they don't know if there are other powerful traps or mechanism installed, everyone look at each other in dismay, nobody dare to speak.

Silence ensued, suddenly someone roar out 'He He He'. When the crowd heard it they knew the life-death talisman had come to claim another life again.

Everyone turn pale during this time, a big towering man jump out from the crowd, both his eyes red, he is randomly tearing off the clothe on his chest. Many people shouted out: ”Iron Sea Turtle Island Island-master! Iron Sea Turtle Island Island-master Ha DaBa!” Ha DaBa yell out, he is like a wounded tiger, he raise his iron-hammer fist, there is a 'Peng' sound, he shattered a coffee table, immediately he rush towards Chrysanthemum Sword.

Chrysanthemum Sword saw his terrifying expression, she forgot about her own superior sword art, she is extremely scared, she dive into Xu Zhu's bosom. Ha DaBa open up his fan-like arm and grab towards Plum Sword. The minds of these quadruplets are interlinked, Plum Sword already felt the reaction when Chrysanthemum Sword shake with fear, when Ha DaBa pounce towards her she scream out in alarm and hide behind Xu Zhu.

Ha DaBa grab empty air, he flip his pair of hands and dig his eyes out. Xu Zhu shouted: ”You must not do that!” he wave his sleeves and brush the crook of Ha DaBa's arm, Ha DaBa's pair of hands immediately hang downwards. Xu Zhu said: ”Elder brother your life-death talisman has flare up, my humble self will try to remove it for you.” at once he executed the move 'Great Heaven Sun Song' from [Six Solar Palm Of Heavenly Mountain], he smack the 'LingTai acupoint' on Ha DaBa's back. Ha DaBa shake violently, his entire body collapsed.

Green light flash everywhere, two long sword separately thrust towards Ha DaBa, Orchid Sword and Bamboo Sword seize the opportunity and attack. Xu Zhu said: ”No!” he pinch and seize the two swords, he mumbled to himself: ”Terrible, terribe! I wonder where his life-death talisman is located?” Although he knew the method to neutralizing life-death talismans, but ultimately his knowledge and experience is shallow, he cannot discern the location of the life-death talisman on Ha DaBa, the force he exerted in the move 'Great Heaven Sun Song' is too fierce, unexpectedly Ha DaBa cannot withstand it.

Ha DaBa said: ”Its planted....planted at....XuanShu.....QiHai....Si...Si KongZhu....” The move 'Great Heaven Sun Song' from Xu Zhu had made Ha DaBa regain his consciousness.

Xu Zhu said happily: ”Since you know it then its good.” At once he followed the method taught by Child Elder, he use the pure 'yang' energy of [Six Solar Palm Of Heavenly Mountain] to dissolve the cold ice life-death talisman in the 'XuanShu', 'QiHai' and ' Si KongZhu' acupoints.

Ha DaBa stood up, he wave his hands and kick out his legs, he became wild from his happiness, suddenly he threw himself towards the ground, 'Peng Peng Peng' he kowtow towards Xu Zhu and said: ”Benefactor, the life of Ha DaBa is saved by you old senior, from now on if Benefactor has any orders, Ha DaBa will not hesitate and willingly go through water and tread on fire for you.” Xu Zhu is always respectful towards others, seeing Ha DaBa pay such courtesy he quickly knelt down to return the courtesy, 'Peng Peng Peng' he kowtow as well and said: ”I don't dare to accept such heavy courtesy, you kowtow to me, i also have to kowtow to you.” Ha DaBa said loudly: ”Benefactor please get up quickly, you kowtow to me, you will really shorten lowly person's life.” To express his gratitude he kowtow several times again. Xu Zhu saw him kowtow, at once he kowtow again to return the courtesy.

Both of them are kneeling on the ground and kowtow endlessly. Suddenly several hundred people shouted in unison: ”Neutralize my life-death talisman, neutralize my life-death talisman!” the crowd of people who suffered from life-death talisman surge forward and surrounded both of them. An old man supported Ha DaBa up, he said: ”No need to kowtow, everyone need to invite Benefactor to treat their poison and save lives.”

Xu Zhu saw Ha DaBa stand up, he finally stand up and said: ”Everyone please don't rush, listen to me.” In a split second the hall turn completely silent. Xu Zhu said: ”To break the life-death talisman i have to confirm the location of the talisman, everyone do you know it yourself?”

In a split second everyone was thrown into confusion, some said: ”I know!” some said: ”Its at 'WeiZhong' and 'NeiTing' acupoints!” some said: ”My entire body is aching, damn it, i don't know at which bloody acupoints!” some said: ”My body is itchy and painful, its different every month, this life-death talisman can move!”

Suddenly someone shout loudly: ”Everyone please shut up, you all making so much noise, how can Mr Xu ZhuZi listen to it?” the person who shouted out is the chief of the group Wu LaoDa, everyone immediately became quiet.

Xu Zhu said: ”Although Child Elder imparted the method to breaking life-death talisman to me.....”

7-8 people cannot help but shout out:

”Fantastic, fantastic!”

”My old life can be saved!”

Xu Zhu continued: ”But my ability in distinguishing acupoints and recognizing the illness is shallow. But everyone don't worry, if you know the exact location of your life-death talisman, i will treat one by one and help you neutralize it. Even if you don't know, we will slowly research, those who are skilled in medical arts can also join in and study together, in short i will definitely cure you.”

The loud cheers of the crowd filled the entire hall with echoes. After a long time the cheers finally died off.

Plum Sword said coldly: ”Owner agree to remove your life-death talisman, that is because he old senior is merciful. But you lot are so brazen as to revolt, you cause Child Elder to leave the Palace and die outside, afterwards you even attack Vulture Palace and killed alot of our sisters from Great Heaven Division, how to account for this debt?”

Everyone look at each other in dismay, their breathing stop, Plum Sword is telling the truth, since Xu Zhu is Child Elder's successor then obviously he cannot brush aside their heavy crimes. Someone wanted to plead earnestly but he had second thoughts, they commit heavy crime in causing Child Elder's death and attacking Vulture Palace, how can the matter be resolved by a few earnest pleading? He is about to speak but swallowed his words.

Wu LaoDa said: ”Sister's words are reasonable, i commit a huge crime, i willingly accept Mr Xu ZhuZi's punishment.” He is banking on Xu Zhu's character, he knew he is honest and naive, he definitely can't be compared with the vicious and cruel Child Elder, Xu Zhu's punishment is definitely lighter than what the four sisters are capable of, thus his speech is directed at Xu Zhu.

Quite a few people from the crowd understood his intention, immediately after they shouted out: ”Correct, our crimes are very serious, everyone willingly accept Mr Xu ZhuZi's punishment.” A few thought about the pain and suffering when the life-death talisman flare up, unexpectedly their knees soften and they kneel down.

Xu Zhu don't know what to do, he said to Plum Sword: ”Sister Plum Sword, what do you think?” Plum Sword said: ”They are not good people, they killed so many sisters from Great Heaven Division, they definitely have to pay with their lives.”

WuLiang Cave Vice Cave-master Zuo ZiMu bow deeply towards Plum Sword and said: ”Miss, our lives are really miserable after being hit by this life-death talisman, when we heard Child Elder is not at Misty Peak we became anxious, thus we made a huge error, we really regret it. I beseech Miss to be magnanimous, put in a few good words for us in front of Mr Xu ZhuZi.” Plum Sword expression became grave, she said: ”Those who killed before, severe your right arm, this is the most minor punishment.” When she said those words she felt she is giving out orders, its really not appropriate, she turn around and said to Xu Zhu: ”Owner, is it ok?” Xu Zhu felt the punishment is too heavy, but he is also unwilling to offend Plum Sword, he stammered: ”This...this....en.....that......”

Someone suddenly rush out from the crowd, its the Prince of Dali Duan Yu. Duan Yu love to meddle in other people's business, debate about right and wrong, he cupped his hands and greeted Xu Zhu, he smile and said: ”My dear friend, little brother really disapprove when these friends attacked Misty Peak, i persuade them until my mouth turn dry but they simply refuse to listen. Today they commit a huge disaster, my dear friend you ought to increase their punishment. Little brother hope to become your official messenger, let little brother punish these friends, how about it?”

That day, the crowd wanted to kill Child Elder and swear an oath in her blood, Duan Yu was strongly against it and persuaded them, Xu Zhu heard everything, he is aware that this Gentleman is benevolent and heroic, he respect him deeply, when Li QiuShui push him and Child Elder off the mountain peak, they were saved by Duan Yu, moreover he really have no idea how to handle the situation, thus when Duan Yu said it he quickly cupped his hands and said: ”My knowledge and experience is shallow, i don't know how to handle affairs. Gentleman Duan volunteer to handle it, i can't thank you enough.”

When Duan Yu took the initiative and ask for permission to punish the crowd how can anyone accept it? Some of the bad-tempered people was about to abuse him but unexpectedly Xu Zhu permitted it, they are about to speak out but swallowed their words.

Duan Yu said happily: ”Very good.” he turn around and said to the crowd: ”The mistakes made by everyone is simply too serious, my punishment is not light at all. Mr Xu ZhuZi permit me to handle this matter, if anyone of you disobey then Mr Xu ZhuZi won't remove the life-death talisman for you. For the 1st punishment, everyone has to respectfully kowtow 8 times in front of Child Elder's coffin, be solemn and respectful, confess and repent, if anyone of you secretly curse Child Elder while kowtowing then you crime would have increase by another level.”

Xu Zhu said happily: ”Absolutely correct, absolutely correct! This 1st punishment is very good.”

Originally the crowd was afraid this bookworm might suggest some weird or difficult punishment, they were really anxious and worried, but he suggested kowtowing in front of Child Elder's coffin, they pondered: ”She is already dead, what is so difficult about giving a few kowtow in front of her coffin? Moreover, how will he know if we secretly curse that old thieving witch? I will simply kowtow and secretly curse that old thieving witch.” at once everyone agreed.

Duan Yu saw everyone happily agree to his 1st punishment, his spirit rose, he said: ”The 2nd punishment, everyone have to salute in front of the dead sisters from Great Heaven Division. Those who killed or injured people, you have to kowtow, confess and repent, you have to wear mourning clothes and pay your respects to the dead. Those who didn't kill, you have to cup your hands as courtesy, my dear friend Xu ZhuZi will treat your illness ahead of schedule as a reward.”

Among the crowd, more than half of them did not kill anyone from Misty Peak, they immediately agreed. As for those who killed or injured people, its only wearing mourning clothes and giving a few kowtow, its a thousand times better than what Plum Sword suggested, thus nobody objected.

Duan Yu said: ”As for the 3rd punishment, everyone have to swear your allegiance to Vulture Palace eternally, you cannot be disloyal. Whatever Xu ZhuZi says, everyone must listen to his orders. Not only must you be respectful towards Mr Xu ZhuZi, you must also be courteous towards Plum, Orchid, Bamboo and Chrysanthemum Sword, as well as all the sisters from Vulture Palace, convert an enemy into friend, your conduct and speech must be courteous and respectful. If anyone is not willing then come up and compete 2-3 moves with Mr Xu ZhuZi, see if he is brilliant or you are better!”

The crowd are joyous as they listen to Duan Yu, they said: ”Of course, of course!” someone said: ”Gentleman Duan's punishment is too lenient, is there anything else?”

Duan Yu clap his hands, he smiled and said: ”None!” he turn his head and said to Xu Zhu: ”The punishments set by little brother, is it correct?”

Xu Zhu cupped his hands and said: ”Many thanks, many thanks, extremely correct.” He glance at Plum Sword and the rest of her sisters, his expression is rather apologetic. Orchid Sword said: ”Owner, you are the owner of Vulture Palace, no matter what you say servant have to listen and obey. You are magnanimous, you spared these lackeys, you don't have to worry about us.” Xu Zhu smile and said: ”En, this....i still have some words, i don't know....don't know if i should say it?”

Wu LaoDa said: ”36 Caves and 72 Islands have always been the subordinates of Misty Peak, nobody dare to disobey any orders from Honourable Master. The three punishments set by Gentleman Duan is simply too lenient. If Honourable Master have any other punishment everyone willingly accept it.”

Xu Zhu said: ”I am young, my knowledge shallow, its just that Child Elder instructed me in some martial arts, i really don't deserve to be Honourable Master or whatever. I have two wish, this....this.....i don't know if it is right or wrong, i will be bold and say it out, this....i invite seniors here to think about it.” Ever since childhood, Xu Zhu have always been under someone, being ordered around and sent on errands, he never had the chance to suggest ideas or make decisions, thus he never dare to speak in public, he hemmed and hawed while speaking, his expression extremely meek.

Plum, Orchid, Bamboo and Chrysanthemum Sword, all four of them pondered: ”What happen to Owner, why the need to be so polite to these lackeys?”

Wu LaoDa said: ”Honourable Master is magnanimous, you pardon our serious crime and now you are so polite towards us, even if we offer our lives as sacrifice we can't even repay a fraction of this debt of gratitude. Honourable Master, please simply give your orders!”

Xu Zhu said: ”Yes, yes! If i said something wrong, everyone please....please don't ridicule me. I want to talk about two matters. The 1st matter, its a bit selfish, i....i am from Shaolin Temple, originally....originally i am a little monk, from now on when you travel around, please don't trouble the disciples of Shaolin. This is my 1st request, i don't dare to order you or anything.”

Wu LaoDa said loudly: ”Honourable Master's order: From now on, when we brothers travel around and come across great masters of Shaolin or Buddhist friends, we have to be respectful, absolutely cannot offend them, else the punishment will be severe without any mercy.” The crowd replied in unison: ”We will do as ordered!”

Everyone agreed, Xu Zhu became bolder, he cupped his hands and said: ”Many thanks, many thanks! The 2nd matter, everyone please take into the account the virtues of life, Buddha is merciful, you cannot injure or kill people randomly. Although you are not a monk, but its best that you don't kill any animals, mole cricket and ants are the same, its best that you don't eat any meat and fish, but this rule is not so easy, it doesn't mean that you definitely must be a vegetarian, even for me i broke my precept and eat meat. Thus....this...as for killing people, in short its not good, its better not to kill anyone, but i....i also kill people before, thus.....”

Wu LaoDa said loudly: ” Honourable Master's order: All the brothers and subordinates under Vulture Palace, from now on you cannot rashly kill the innocent or kill casually, else the punishment will be heavy.” Everyone replied in unison: ”We will do as ordered!”

Xu Zhu cupped his hands repeatedly, he said: ”I....i really can't thank you enough, back to the main topic, everyone please do more good deeds, don't do evil deeds, its for your own good achievements and virtues, you will definitely have immeasurable karmic rewards.” he laugh heartily at Wu LaoDa and said: ”Mr Wu, your few words are clear and distinct. I really cannot be compared with you. Previously i injured you with pine cones, i am really sorry, you....where is your life-death talisman located? I will remove it for you first!”

Wu LaoDa is willing to brave all the risk and danger to lead everyone in this revolt, its purely for the sake of removing his life-death talisman, he heard Xu Zhu promise to remove the life-death talisman for him, henceforth he will be free from the pain of having endless maggots gnawing at his bones, he is extremely happy, he felt really grateful, he knelt down and prostrate himself. Xu Zhu quickly knelt down to return the courtesy, he ask: ”Mr Wu, the injury you sustained from the pine cones, is it completely healed? You consume Child Elder's 'Tendon Breaking Bone Decaying Pill', we have to think of a method to remove the toxicity as well.”

*******

Plum Sword and her sisters operated the mechanism and move away the huge stone that block the entrance, they let Vermillion Heaven, Clear Heaven, Mysterious Heaven, all the nine divisions entered the hall.

Feng BoE and Bao BuTong are shouting, they came in with Deng BaiChuan and GongYe Gan. The four of them went out of the hall to battle Child Elder, however they bump into the females from the various eight divisions. Bao BuTong is rude in his speech, Feng BoE love to fight, they exchange a few words with the females and start fighting with them. Not long after, Deng BaiChuan and GongYe Gan join in to assist, although the four of them have strong martial arts, but ultimately they are heavily outnumbered, after a while all of them were injured, if the main entrance delay in opening for a few more moment and Plum, Orchid, Bamboo and Chrysanthemum Sword did not ask them to stop fighting, they four of them would have been captured or killed.

Murong Fu found the matter dull, he led Deng BaiChuan and the rest to say their goodbyes and prepare to leave the mountain. Zhuo BuFan and Hibiscus Fairy Chui LuHua did not say anything and left by themselves.

Xu Zhu saw Murong Fu wanted to leave, but he sincerely wanted him to stay. Murong Fu said: ”I offended Misty Peak, i am really ashamed, its elder brother's great kindness if you do not fault me, how dare i to disturb you any longer?” Xu Zhu said: ”You are too kind, you are too kind. Both gentleman are well versed in literature and martial arts, an accomplished hero, i admire you greatly, i wish....i wish.....i wish to ask two gentleman for advice. I....i am simply too stupid...too stupid.”

Bao BuTong cross swords with the group of females just now, he is heavily outnumbered and sustained numerous sword injuries, he is not in a good mood, Xu Zhu is so long-winded in trying to ask a guest to stay, moreover Murong Fu told him that Xu Zhu kept a portrait of Wang YuYan in his bosom, he pondered: ”This little bald thief is a hypocrite, he is a Buddhist disciple yet he have evil intentions towards Miss Wang, obviously he is a lascivious monk who does not abide by religious rules.” Bao BuTong said: ”Little master, asking the heroes to stay is fake, but asking the beauty to stay is real, why don't you be forthright and request Miss Wang to stay at Misty Peak?”

Xu Zhu was shock, he said: ”You....what you saying? I want to ask a beauty to stay?” Bao BuTong said: ”You harbour evil thoughts, you think the people from Gusu Murong family are idiots? Hei hei, you are ridiculous!” Xu Zhu scratch his head and said: ”I don't understand what Mister is trying to say, i don't find it ridiculous.”

Although Bao BuTong is within a tiger's den, but his stubborn character is aroused, he no long care about life or death, he shout loudly: ”You little bald thief, you are a Shaolin monk, since you are a disciple of a prestigious school how come you join a demonic sect and collude with these demons and ghosts? I get angry when i look at you. You are a monk but you force hundreds of women to be your wives, concubines and mistress, but you are still not satisfied and now you have funny ideas towards Miss Wang! Let me tell you, Miss Wang is attached to my young master Murong, you are just a toad wistful about eating swan meat, its best that you forget about your evil thoughts as soon as possible!” He is in deep rage, he clap his hands and stamped his feet and curse loudly while pointing at Xu Zhu's nose.

Xu Zhu was utterly perplexed, he said: ”I...i....i....” suddenly he heard two 'Hu Hu' sound, Wu LaoDa lifted his 'Verdant Wave Fragrant Dew Serrated Sabre', Ha DaBa lifted a huge iron hammer, they shout in unison and charge towards Bao BuTong.

Murong Fu knew that since Xu Zhu removed their life-death talisman he already gain the loyalty of these group of heroes, it would be incomparable dangerous if they start fighting in here, he saw Wu LaoDa and Ha DaBa pounce simultaneously, he dash forward and executed [Start Shifting Movement], in an instant the sabre chop towards Ha DaBa and the huge hammer smash towards Wu LaoDa, there is a violent 'Dang' sound, sparks flew in all directions from the two weapons. Murong Fu flip his hand and push lightly on Bao BuTong's shoulder, Bao BuTong was push a few zhang out, Murong Fu cupped his hands and said to Xu Zhu: ”Sorry for the offense, we will take our leave now!” his body flash past, he is already at the entrance of the hall. Murong Fu saw the mechanism at the entrance just now, if the huge rock move to block the entrance then he will be trapped and slaughtered.

Xu Zhu said quickly: ”Gentleman please wait, its really....not my intention....i.....” Murong Fu raised both his eyebrows, he turn around and said in a bright voice: ”Sire feels that he is unequalled under the heaven, you wish to advice a few moves?” Xu Zhu shake his head repeatedly and said: ”No...i don't dare....” Murong Fu said: ”I arrive without invitation, i am too bold, sire you simply must make us stay?” Xu Zhu shake his head and said: ”No...no...its not it....sigh!”

Murong Fu stood at the entrance, he look proudly at Xu Zu, the heroes from 36 Caves and 72 Islands, as well as Plum, Orchid, Bamboo and Chrysanthemum Sword and the females from the nine divisions. The group of heroes and the females are all intimidated by his imposing manner, nobody dare to step forward to ask for a fight. After a long time, Murong Fu brush his sleeves and said: ”Lets go!” he boldly step out of the entrance. Wang YuYan, Deng BaiChuan, etc, the five of them followed him.

Wu LaoDa said furiously: ”Honourable Master, if he leave Misty Peak alive, how can anyone of us hold our heads high? I invite Honourable Master to give us an order to intercept him.” Xu Zhu shake his head and said: ”Forget it. I....i really don't understand, why he is so angry......” Wu LaoDa said: ”Then subordinate will go and capture that Miss Wang.” Xu Zhu quickly said: ”No, no!”

Wang YuYan saw Duan Yu have yet to leave the hall, she turn around and said: ”Gentleman Duan, goodbye, see you again!”

Duan Yu was shaken, his chest ached, his throat seems to be blocked, he reply with great difficulty: ”Yes, good....bye. I....its better for me to follow you.....” he saw her shadow gradually move far away, she did not turn back, Bao BuTong's words kept echoing in his ear: ”He said Miss Wang is attached to Gentleman Murong, he ask outsiders to give up, a toad wistful about eating swan meat. Correct, when Gentleman Murong step out of the hall, his manner awe-inspiring, the lofty spirit of a true hero! He neutralize the moves of two formidable opponents with a single move, such deep and profound martial arts! I am someone who don't even have the strength to bind a chicken, i make a fool of myself everywhere i go, how can she even take note of me? When Miss Wang look at her cousin, its really full of love and adoration, as well as admiration, as well as affection, i.....i Duan Yu...i am merely a toad.”

Two people were stumped for words in the hall, Xu Zhu is preoccupied with doubts and suspicions, he scratch his head and hesitate, Duan Yu is listless and in low spirits, he is so sad that his soul left his body. The two of them stare at each other blankly.

After a long time, Xu Zhu gave a long sigh. Duan Yu followed and gave a long sigh and said: ”My dear friend, you and i suffer the same fate, this kind of bone-deep longing, how to free ourselves from it?” When Xu Zhu listen to him, he cannot help but blush deep red, he assume Duan Yu knew about his romantic encounter with his 'Dream Maiden', he stammered: ”Duan....Gentleman Duan, you....how you know about it?”

Duan Yu said: ”There isn't a person who don't like to look at a beautiful person. There isn't a person who is not fond of pretty woman. Its human nature to love beauty. Moreover you and i are in the same situation, we can sympathize with each other, our regret is indefinite!” he gave another long sigh as he finish speaking. He assume that since Xu Zhu carried a portrait of Wang YuYan in his bosom then he is in the same situation as him, both of them deeply adore Wang YuYan, thus the previous conflict between Murong Fu and Xu Zhu is naturally for Wang YuYan, he said: ”My dear friend, you achieve the apex of martial studies, but love is all about fate, no matter your literary talents or martial arts, it just won't do if you don't have fate.”

Xu Zhu mumbled: ”Yes, for Buddhist a person is born into this world due to karma, everything is about fate....correct....fate...you can only meet but not seek it...yes, after parting, a sea of people, how to find her?” He is referring to his 'Dream Maiden' but Duan Yu assume he is referring to Wang YuYan, both of them have their own foolish illogical view, unexpectedly the more they converse the more agreeable they become.

The female servants of Vulture Palace arrange a banquet, Xu Zhu and Duan Yu are seated together side-by-side. The various Cave-masters and Island-masters are subordinates of Vulture Palace, naturally nobody dare to approach Xu Zhu and share the same banquet with him. Xu Zhu is not familiar with entertaining guests, since nobody approach him, he did not voice out to invite them, he only discuss with Duan Yu.

Duan Yu is completely immerse in his adoration of Wang YuYan, he compliment her endlessly, he said her nature is sweet and gentle, her appearance beyond common beauty. Xu Zhu assume Duan Yu is complimenting his 'Dream Maiden', he don't dare to ask Duan Yu how he met her, he also did not inquire about the history of this maiden, however his heart is thumping madly, he pondered: ”I thought that since Child Elder is dead, nobody will know the location of this lady, heaven took pity on me, unexpectedly Gentleman Duan knows her. But listening to his speech, he seems to admire her deeply, he long for her, if i tell him that i had previous encounter with her in an icehouse Gentleman Duan will undoubtedly be angry, he will leave the banquet and i will not be able to inquire about her anymore.” He listen to Duan Yu's compliments of the lady, it suits his intentions, he also chime in as well, his speech extremely sincere.

Both of them talk about their own sweetheart, their speech intermixed with each other, but nobody mention the names of these two ladies, unexpectedly their speech connect flawlessly with each other. Xu Zhu said: ”Gentleman Duan, for Buddhist a person is born into this world due to karma. The scripture says: 'Buddha says, life is born due to karma, they will also be extinguish due to karma.' Ancestor Dharma says: 'All living things have no self, hardship and happiness is due to fate, if there is any pleasurable things then its constructed for a reason, you cannot seek to obtain it. Once fate is exhausted everything returns to nothing, where is the happiness?” Duan Yu said: ”Yes! 'Gains and losses is due to fate, there is no increase or decrease!' Be that as it may but i am a mortal, how can i reach the state of 'Gains and losses is due to fate, there is no increase or decrease.'?”

Buddhist doctrine is widespread and prosperous in Dali, Duan Yu studied Buddhist texts since childhood, both of them, one quoted from <>, another quoted from <>, they console themselves yet hurt themselves, they understood each other regrets, fellow suffers empathize with each other. Plum, Orchid, Bamboo and Chrysanthemum Sword took turns to come up and pour wine. Duan Yu drank a cup, Xu Zhu also drank a cup, they chatted till midnight. The group stood up to take their leave, the various females guide them to their resting place. Xu Zhu and Duan Yu are 80-90% drunk, yet they kept on talking and drinking endlessly.

Previously Duan Yu and Xiao Feng compete wine outside the city of WuXi, Duan Yu use his internal energy to force the wine out through his fingertip, however currently he is using alcohol to drown out his sorrows, he is drinking wine for real, he said in a daze: ”My dear friend, i have an elder sworn brother, surnamed Qiao named Feng, he is truly a great hero, brave and heroic, his martial arts and capacity for liquor matchless and without equal. My dear friend, if you meet him you will undoubtedly admire him as well, but its a pity he is not here if not the three of us can swear brotherhood together, it will truly be a joyous event.”

Xu Zhu never drink alcohol before, he relied completely on his exquisite internal energy and avoided alcohol intoxication, however his thoughts are fluttering around, he also became bold in his speech, initially he is reserved and timid, suddenly his heroic spirit burst forth, he said: ”Gentleman Duan if....that...if you don't look down upon me, the two of us will swear brotherhood first, in the future once we find elder brother Qiao Feng, we can swear brotherhood together again.” Duan Yu is elated, he said: ”Wonderful, wonderful! We will simply include elder brother Qiao when swearing brotherhood. Elder brother how old are you?”

The two of them talk about their age, Xu Zhu is older by three years. Duan Yu shouted: ”Second brother, please accept this salute from little brother!” he push away his chair and kowtow. Xu Zhu hastily return the courtesy, his knees soften and he fell forward.

Duan Yu saw him tumbled, he quickly extended his hands to support, their internal energy inadvertently collide with each other, they felt each other's internal energy is vigorous and abundant, they hastily restrain themselves. Currently Duan Yu is completely drunk, he stagger and stumble around, he can't stand on his feet. Suddenly both of them burst into loud laughter, they embrace each other and fell onto the floor. Duan Yu said: ”Second brother, little brother is not drunk, the two of us will drink another 100 cups!” Xu Zhu said: ”I should accompany third brother and drink to our delight.” Duan Yu said: ”Life should be full of joy and happiness, not let the empty golden goblet face the moon, haha, we have to finish 300 cups!” The two of them became more and more muddled, eventually they became intoxicated and lost consciousness.