Chapter - 42 Old Devil And Clown, How Can They Strike, Fighting a One-sided Battle (2/2)

Plum Sword said brightly: ”Old Freak of XingXiu, this half pill can stop the itch for 3 days. After 3 days the strange itch will flare up again, at that time whether our owner will bestow this miracle medicine will depend on how obedient you are.” Ding ChunQiu was trembling from head to toe, he remain silent.

At once several hundred XingXiu disciples rush forward and kneel down in front of Xu Zhu, they request earnestly: ”Owner of Vulture Palace is a hero without equal, we humbly submit to you, our devotion unswerving, we will put in utmost effort for owner.”

”This gathering of martial artists, owner will surely become the leader. Owner only need to give the order, we will risk our lives and limbs to go through water and tread on fire!”

In an attempt to make themselves more devoted, many pointed at Ding ChunQiu and curse endlessly, he is a ”candle light who dares to fight with the moon and sun”, he is ”concealing wicked intentions, utterly sinister”. Some beseech Xu Zhu to execute Ding ChunQiu swiftly to rid the world of an evil person. Gongs and drums rang out, the crowd of disciples begin to sing: ”Owner of Vulture Palace, virtue fitting heaven and earth, power shaking the entire world by force, he is without equal from then and now.” other than changing ”Divine Elder of XingXiu” to ”Owner of Vulture Palace”, the melody and lyrics are exactly the same as those used to praise Ding ChunQiu previously.

Although Xu Zhu is simple and unsophisticated, he cannot help but feel somewhat smug and elated when hearing the praise.

Orchid Sword said loudly: ”You despicable vermin, those mushy tune used to praise Old Freak of XingXiu, shameless speech, how dare you use it to praise our owner? Extremely rude!” the XingXiu disciples immediately became terrified, some said: ”Yes, yes! Lowly person will come up with a completely new version, guarantee to satisfy fairy sister.” some sing out loudly: ”Four fairy sisters, beautify and elegant, their beauty surpass Xi Shi, transcend imperial consort.” after they kowtow to Xu Zhu, the XingXiu disciples voluntarily stood behind the Island-masters and Cave-masters, each of them extremely proud and smug, they disregard the crowd of heroes, Beggar Clan members and Shaolin monks.

XuanCi said: ”Xu Zhu, you set up your own school, from now on your conduct have to be chivalrous and righteous, restrain and educate your disciples, don't let them break the law or commit crimes, bringing disaster and harm to people. Remember to accumulate virtue, do more good deeds, whether you become a monk or not, it is still the same.” Xu Zhu choked with emotions and said: ”Yes. Xu Zhu sincerely comply with abbot's instruction.” XuanCi said: ”I cannot abolish your expulsion, however you are exempted from the punishment of rods.”

Suddenly someone laugh loudly and said: ”I thought Shaolin valued monastic discipline, enforce the law strictly, but it seems they also curry favour with those in power. Hei hei, owner of Vulture Palace, virtue fitting heaven and earth, power shaking the entire world by force, he is without equal from then and now.” the crowd turn towards the person, it is the Grand Tutor of Tubo Jiumozhi.

XuanCi change countenance and said: ”Grand Tutor is righteous in your reproach, old monk admits his mistake. Martial brother XuanJi, arrange for the punishment rod.” XuanJi said: ”Yes!” he turn around and said: ”Serve the punishment rod!” he turn to Xu Zhu and said: ”Xu Zhu, presently you are still a Shaolin disciple, lie down and receive the rod.” Xu Zhu bow and said: ”Yes!” he kneel down and salute XuanCi and XuanJi and said: ”Disciple Xu Zhu violated temple regulations, i respectfully accept abbot and head-monk of Discipline Courtyard's rod punishment.”

XingXiu disciples suddenly made a huge din: ”You Shaolin monks, how dare you touch old senior's precious body?”

”If you touch a single strand of hair on old senior, we will fight till death with you. We will sacrifice our lives to protect old senior, die a glorious death.”

”We are loyal and devoted, our flesh and blood is dedicated to protecting our owner!”

Grandma Yu said loudly: ”The phrase 'our owner', how dare you demons and ghosts use it? Quickly shut your dog mouth!” when the XingXiu disciples heard her shout they became silent immediately, they don't even dare to breathe loudly.

The enforcement monks from Disciple Courtyard heard XuanJi shout: ”Use the rod!” at once a monk remove Xu Zhu's robe, revealing the skin on his back, the other monk lifted the ”Abiding Disciple Rod”. Xu Zhu pondered: ”I am receiving punishment from the rod because i did not abide by monastic disciple, for every rod i receive my sin will reduce by a fraction. If i use internal energy to resist, my body won't experience any pain, then this rod will be wasted.”

Suddenly a sharp female voice shouted out: ”Wait, wait! You....what is that on your back?”

The crowd look at Xu Zhu's back, they saw 9 incense scar burnt neatly on his waist. Currently, the custom of burning incense on one's head when taking the monk oath have yet to become popular. China's Buddhism is subdivided into 8 school and 11 faction, there are also small group and minor sect, each of their custom and practice different from each other, quite a number of them advocate ascetic practice, disciples have to burn incense on their head or burn their fingers to show their determination to follow Buddha. Shaolin does not require disciples to burn incense on their head, however they also never forbid disciples from doing so. The incense scar on Xu Zhu's back is as large as copper coin, evidently they were burnt during infancy, as his body grew up the scars also enlarged, currently the scar is not entirely circular in shape.

A middle-age woman suddenly rush out from the crowd, she is wearing cyan gown, 3 blood scars on her left and right cheek, its precisely one of the ”Four Great Evils”, ”No Evil Left Undone” Ye ErNiang. She pounce forward, her pair of hands pushing away the two enforcement monks, she grab Xu Zhu's trousers, wanting to pull it off.

Xu Zhu stood up from shock, he float several chi backward and said: ”You....what you doing?” Ye ErNiang is trembling from head to toe, she shout out: ”My.....my son!” she spread both arms to embrace Xu Zhu. Xu Zhu dodge her advance and Ye ErNiang hug empty air. Everyone pondered: ”This woman is mad?” Ye ErNiang try to hug Xu Zhu several times, however Xu Zhu dodge all her attempts skilfully.

Ye ErNiang act wildly and shout out: ”My son, why don't you recognize your mother?” Xu Zhu shiver with fear, akin to an electric shock, his voice trembled: ”You....you are my mother?” Ye ErNiang said: ”My son, after giving birth to you, i burnt 9 incense scar on your waist and both side of your buttocks. You have 9 incense scar on both side of your buttocks correct?”

Xu Zhu had a huge shock, indeed there are 9 incense scar on both side of his buttocks. It is there since childhood, he never inquire its origin, he is too shy to discuss it with others, sometimes when he see it while bathing he assume he is fated to follow Buddha, he is born with it naturally, thus his resolute devotion to Buddhist doctrine. When he heard Ye ErNiang's speech, it is akin to hearing thunderbolt from midair, his voice trembled: ”Yes, yes! There are 9 incense scar on both side of my buttocks, you.....mother....did you burn it on me?”

Ye ErNiang burst into tears and cry out: ”Yes, yes! How will i know if i did not burn it on you? I....i finally found my son, my biological son!” while crying she stretch her hands to stroke Xu Zhu's cheek.

Xu Zhu did not dodge, he allow her to embrace him. He have no father or mother, he thought he was an orphan adopted by Shaolin, the incense scar on his buttocks, only his most intimate companion at Shaolin is aware of it, unexpectedly Ye ErNiang is also aware of it, how can it be fake? For the first time in his life he finally get to experience warm motherly love, his tears overflowing, he cried: ”Mother...mother, you are my mother!”

The whole affair turn out too abruptly, everyone felt greatly surprised, however seeing both of them hugging and sobbing together, their grief yet happiness, one of them showing deep affection towards her child, the other admire earnestly, quite a number of people felt deep sorrow.

Ye ErNiang said: ”My child, you are 24 years old, for the past 24 years i think about you day and night, i was so angry that other people have a son, but my own son was stolen by some wretched thief. I....i stole other people's son to carry them. But....other people's son, how can they be better than my own son?”

Crocodile Deity of Southern Sea burst into loud laughter and said: ”3rd sister! You always steal other people's healthy and adorable child for your amusement, when you had enough fun you randomly deliver it to some other family, make it difficult for the parents to find their child, as it turns out your own son was stolen by someone else. Whenever Yue LaoEr ask you the reason you refuse to answer. Very good, fantastic! Little chap Xu Zhu, your mother is my sworn-sister, quickly come here and call me 2nd uncle Yue!” his generation ranking is higher than this owner of Vulture Palace who possess superior martial arts, his joy is no laughing matter when he thought of it. Yun ZhongHe shake his head and said: ”Wrong, wrong! Xu ZhuZi is the elder brother of your master, you have to call him martial uncle. I am the sworn-brother of his mother, i am two generation higher than you, quickly call me martial granduncle!” Crocodile Deity of Southern Sea was stumped for words, he spit and cursed: ”Damn your grandma, old man refuse to call!”

Ye ErNiang release Xu Zhu's neck, she held onto his shoulder, looking left and right, her joy boundless, she turn her head towards XuanJi and said: ”He is my son, i cannot permit you to hit him!” immediately after she said to Xu Zhu: ”Which wretched swindler stole my son and cause us mother and son to separate for 24 years? Child, child, even if we have to travel till the ends of earth, we have to find this wretched swindler, hack him into thousand pieces, turn him into mincemeat, your mother cannot beat him, but my child possess outstanding martial arts, he can avenge his mother.”

All of a sudden, the black-robed man who has been sitting motionless under the tree stood up, he said unhurriedly: ”Your son, he was stolen or snatch away by someone? The six blood scars on your face, where did they come from?”

Ye ErNiang's expression turn grave, she shriek: ”You....who are you? You...how did you know?” the black-robed man said: ”Don't tell me you cannot recognize me?” Ye ErNiang shriek even louder: ”Ah! It is you, it is you!” she pounce forward and rush to a spot ten feet away, suddenly she stood still, her fingers flexing, gnashing her teeth with rage, her anger has reach the extreme but she don't dare to move closer.

The black-robed man said: ”Correct, i snatch your son, the 6 blood scar on your face, i scratch them.” Ye ErNiang shouted: ”Why? Why did you snatch my son? I am a total stranger to you, i have no hatred or enmity with you. You....you....you really make me suffer. For the past 24 years, i suffer endless torment day and night, for what purpose? Why.....why?”

The black-robed man pointed at Xu Zhu and said: ”Who is the child's father?” Ye ErNiang's entire body is shaking, she said: ”He....he....i cannot say.” Xu Zhu is extremely agitated, he rush beside Ye ErNiang and said: ”Mother, tell me, who is my father?” Ye ErNiang shake her head repeatedly and said: ”I cannot say.”

The black-robed man said slowly: ”Ye ErNiang, originally you are a proper lady, gentle and beautiful, virtuous, dignified and chaste. But when you were 18 years old, you was seduced by a reputable martial art expert, you lost your chastity to him and gave birth to this child, correct?” Ye ErNiang remain motionless, after a long time she finally nod her head and said: ”Yes. But he did not seduce me, i am the one who seduce him.” the black-robed man said: ”This man only care about his own reputation and future, he did not care about the plight of a young unwed mother of a child, how miserable her fate.” Ye ErNiang said: ”No! He cared, he gave me a lot of gold and silver, he arrange and plan for my livelihood for the rest of my life.” the black-robed man said: ”Then why did he let you drift around Jianghu in solitude?”

Ye ErNiang said: ”I cannot marry him. How can he take me as his wife? He is a good person, he have always treated me well. I do not wish to implicate him. He....he is a good person.” from her speech, evidently she is still full of longing for this lover who abandoned her, the love and affection from olden days, they are not affected by her misery, they did not fade away with time at all.

Everyone pondered: ”Ye ErNiang is a well known evil doer, however she is still deeply devoted to her lover. Who is this man?”

Duan Yu, Ruan XingZhu, Hua HeGen, Fan Hua, Ba TianShi, when they heard her mention her lascivious sin from past, they cannot help but glance furtively at Duan ZhengChun, evidently they thought the identity of Ye ErNiang's lover, his temperament, his behaviour, his age, all of them similar to him. Someone recalled: ”Previously the 'Four Great Evils' visit Dali, most likely they are searching for Prince ZhenNan to settle this debt.” Even Duan ZhengChun himself was suspicious: ”I met quite a number of ladies, don't tell me she is included as well? How come i don't recall at all? If i implicated her, even if i lose all my reputation in front of the heroes, i definitely cannot treat her unfairly. But....but....how come i cannot remember anything at all?”

The black-robed man said brightly: ”The child's father is right here, why don't you point him out?” Ye ErNiang was startled, she said: ”No, no! I cannot say.” the black-robed man said: ”Why did you burn a total of 27 incense scar on your child's waist and buttocks?” Ye ErNiang covered her face and said: ”I don't know, i don't know! I beg you, don't ask me anymore.”

The black-robed man's voice is still dull and flat, it seems as if he is unconcerned, he continued: ”When your child was born, you want him to be a monk?” Ye ErNiang said: ”No, no.” the black-robed man said: ”Why, then why did you burn these incense scar on him?” Ye ErNiang said: ”I don't know, i don't know!” the black-robed man said brightly: ”You refuse to say, but i know. Because this child's father is a Buddhist disciple, he is a reputable eminent monk.”

Ye ErNiang groan out, she can't support herself anymore and fainted.

At once everyone made a huge clamour, base on Ye ErNiang's reaction, it seems the black-robed man is correct, as it turns out her secret lover is a Buddhist monk, moreover he is a reputable eminent monk. Everyone whisper to one another, discussing the identity of the monk.

Xu Zhu help Ye ErNiang up and said: ”Mother, mother, wake up!” after a long time, Ye ErNiang woke up and said softly: ”Child, quickly help me down the mountain. This....this man is a devil, he....he knows everything. I don't want to see him. This hatred....there is no need to avenge anymore.” Xu Zhu said: ”Yes, mother, let us go now.”

The black-robed man said: ”Wait, i have yet to finish. You don't want revenge, but i want revenge. Ye ErNiang, why did i snatch your child, you know the reason? Because....because someone snatch away my child, my family ruined, husband and wife, father and son, we cannot reunite. I did it for revenge.”

Ye ErNiang said: ”Someone snatch your child? You did it for revenge?”

The black-robed man said: ”Correct, i snatch your child and put him inside Shaolin's vegetable garden, let Shaolin monks raise him up, teach him martial arts. My own child, someone snatch him away, he was adopted and a Shaolin monk teach him martial arts. You want to see my true identity?” he did not wait for Ye ErNiang to reply and took off his face curtain.

The crowd cry out in alarm, his face is squarish with big ears, beard overgrown, his appearance extremely formidable, he is around 60 years of age.

Xiao Feng was pleasantly surprised, he rush forward and kneel down, his voice trembling: ”You...you are my father.....”

The person laugh heartily and said: ”Good child, good child, i am your father. We father and son have the same figure and appearance, anyone can tell straight away that i am your father.” he stretch out his hands and pull open his front jacket, revealing a tattooed wolf's head, he raise his left hand and help Xiao Feng to stand up.

Xiao Feng pull open his front jacket as well, revealing a green tattooed wolf's head, mouth wide open and bearing its fang. Both of them walk shoulder to shoulder, suddenly they look up to the sky simultaneously and whistled, the sound is like violent gale and anger cry, it transmit to a distant place, even the mountain valley echoed, when the crowd of heroes heard it they cannot help but shiver with fright. The 'Eighteen riders from YanYun' pull out their blade and cry out with them together, although there are only 20 people but they exude might and power, as if they are a magnificent army of thousands men and horses.

Xiao Feng retrieve a tarpaulin package from his bosom and open it, revealing a patched white cloth, he spread it out, it is an imprint of the writings on the stone wall given to him by monk ZhiGuang, the characters written on it are all Khitan text.

The bearded old man pointed at the last few words, he smile and said: ”The final words of Xiao YuanShan, the final words of Xiao YuanShan! Haha, child, that day in my grieving state i jump off the cliff to commit suicide, who would have expect, my life did not come to an end, i fell onto a branch of a large tree, unexpectedly i survived. My desire to die already dissipate, a new desire for revenge arose. That day at YanMen Pass, the heroes from Central Plains did not bother to inquire the truth, they killed your mother who did not know any martial arts. Child, tell me, should we avenge this hatred!”

Xiao Feng said: ”I cannot live under the same sky with the enemies of my parents!”

Xiao YuanShan said: ”Those who killed your mother, more than half of them were killed by me at the scene. The former Chief of Beggar Clan Wang JianTong contracted an illness and died, he got off lightly. But the leading 'Big culprit', he is still healthy and alive till now. Child, tell me, what should we do?”

Xiao Feng said unhurriedly: ”This person was deceived by a rumour, it was not his original intention. He already confess and repent. Moreover, father you are alive and well today, child is extremely hearten, let us just write off this hatred with one stroke.”

Xiao YuanShan gave a long sigh and shouted: ”How can i write it off with one stroke!” his gaze electrifying, one by one he scan the face of the crowd of heroes.

When the crowd of heroes lock gaze with him they felt as if they are in danger, although they have absolutely no relations with the matter at YanMen Pass, but seeing Xiao YuanShan's expression, nobody dare to move or even give out the slightest bit of sound for fear of inviting trouble.

Xiao YuanShan said: ”Child, that day your mother and i carried you to visit your maternal grandmother, unexpectedly when we reach YanMen Pass, 10 martial art experts suddenly jump out and killed our entourage. Great Song haven deep hatred towards Khitan, it is not strange for them to kill each other, however these warriors have been waiting in ambush, obviously it was premeditated. Child, do you know the underlying reason?”

Xiao Feng said: ”They obtained news and mistakenly believe that a Khitan warrior is coming to Shaolin to seize martial art manuals, after that he will return to Liao nation and prepare to invade Great Song, thus they carried out the ambush and killed my mother.”

Xiao YuanShan laugh bitterly and said: ”Hei hei, hei hei! I did not have any intention to seize martial art manuals from Shaolin, they accuse me wrongly. Fine, fine! Xiao YuanShan will carry it through since it started, since they accuse me, i will simply do it for them to see. For the past 30 years, Xiao YuanShan has been hiding in Shaolin, i look through all their martial art manuals till hearts content. Senior monks from Shaolin, if you are capable you can come here and kill Xiao YuanShan, if not the martial arts of Shaolin will surely spread across Great Liao. It will be too late if you try to attempt another ambush at YanMen Pass.”

When the crowd of Shaolin monks heard it, they were overwhelmed with shock, mostly like his speech is not false, if the martial arts of Shaolin spread into Liao nation it would be like a tiger that has grown wings, what should they do? Along with the rest of the crowd of heroes, they pondered: ”No matter what we definitely cannot let this man leave the mountain alive!”

Xiao Feng said: ”Father, at that time the leading big brother killed my mother, it is due to misunderstanding, although he was impulsive but he did not deliberately commit evil. However there is another evil person, he killed my foster parents the Qiao couple, my reputation became tainted, father do you know who is the person?”

Xiao YuanShan laugh and said: ”Child, i killed the Qiao couple!”

Xiao Feng had a huge shock, his voice trembled: ”Father, you killed them? Why.....why?”

Xiao YuanShan said: ”You are my biological child, husband, wife and son, the whole family united together, can you imagine the happiness? But these southern warriors treat us Khitans as lower than pigs and dogs, they kill us for no reason, they stole my son and gave him to someone else, become other people's son. The Qiao couple pretend to be your parents, since they take away my family bliss and they never told you the truth, then they deserve to die.”

Xiao Feng heart turn sour, he said: ”My foster parents treat me extremely well, both of them are very good people. That being the case, the one who set fire on Dan household, murdered grandma Tan, Zhao QianSun, etc, it was......”

Xiao YuanShan said: ”Correct! I did it. Although master ZhiGuang died, but i still strike his 'Taiyang acupoint' to vent my anger. These people knew the leading big brother who killed your mother, but they refuse to say, each and every one of them shielded him, don't tell me they don't deserve to die?”

Xiao Feng was speechless, he pondered: ”The 'Great evil person' i have been tracking down all along, it turns out to be my father, this...what should i say?” he said slowly: ”Shaolin Master XuanKu instructed me in martial arts, 10 years of effort, my achievements today is entirely due to revered teacher's training.....” he lowered his head, his eyes tearful.

Xiao YuanShan said: ”These southern martial artists are devious and treacherous, how can they be good? I killed XuanKu with a single palm.”

The crowd of Shaolin monks chanted in unison: ”Buddha is merciful, Buddha is merciful!” their voice full of grief ad indignation, although they have yet to step forward to challenge Xiao YuanShan, but their chanting already contain deep sorrow and anguish, it already embodied their determination, they will not let the matter rest.

Xiao YuanShan continued: ”Among the people who killed my beloved wife and snatch away my only son, there is the Chief of Beggar Clan, there are also experts from Shaolin, hei hei, they only hope to cover this bloody sin forever, turn my son into a Han Chinese, make my son take the enemy as master, succeed the enemy and become the Chief of Beggar Clan. Hei hei, child, after i land a palm on XuanKu, i hide myself nearby, soon after i saw you paying respect to that bald thief. XuanKu saw the resemblance in us father and son, he assume it was you who hit him, even that young Buddhist monk cannot differentiate between us father and son. Child, we Khitan endured injustice and their bullying, do you think it is enough?”

Xiao Feng finally understood, why at that time when Master XuanKu saw him, unexpectedly he was so startled, why that young Buddhist monk adamantly accuse him of killing XuanKu. Who would have expect the true killer to be someone who bear strong resemblance with him, linked closely by flesh and blood?

Xiao Feng said: ”Since father killed these people, then there is no difference from me killing them, it seems i did not bear this bad reputation in vain.”

Xiao YuanShan said: ”The chief evil who lead the ambush at YanMen Pass, the one who destroyed my family, i have investigated everything clearly. If i kill him with a single palm, won't he get off too lightly? Ye ErNiang, wait!”

He saw Ye ErNiang holding onto Xu Zhu, step by step they are walking further away, at once he shouted out to stop her: ”Who help to deliver your child, if you refuse to say then i will say it. I hide beside Shaolin for so many years, i enter the temple every night, which matter can escape my eyes? Both of you meet at Ziyun Cave, he ask grandma Qiao to deliver your child, various kind of affairs, i need to narrate everything in full details?”

Ye ErNiang turn around, she rush several steps towards Xiao YuanShan, knelt down and said: ”Old hero Xiao, you are humane and righteousness, please be magnanimous, spare me, spare him. My child and your son are sworn brothers, he....he...he have great reputation in the martial arts fraternity, his status and position....he is so old already, if you want to kill then please kill me only, don't.....please don't trouble him.”

Previously the crowd heard Xiao YuanShan mentioned Xu Zhu's father is a 'reputable eminent monk', now Ye ErNiang said his reputation is great, his status and position extremely high, putting the descriptions together, could it be this person is an eminent monk from Shaolin? Everyone cannot help but gaze towards the white-haired old monks from Shaolin.

Suddenly abbot XuanCi said: ”Excellent, excellent! Since there is a cause, then there must be a resolution. Xu Zhu, come over here!” Xu Zhu walk towards abbot XuanCi and kneel down. XuanCi scrutinize him for a long time, he stretch out his hands to caress Xu Zhu's head gently, his face tender and loving, he said: ”You have been in the temple for 24 years, unexpectedly i did not know you are my son!”

When he finish speaking the crowd of monks and heroes made a huge clamour. Everyone had looks of being flabbergasted, appalled, disgust, anger, fear, pity, all sorts of expression, it is really hard to describe. Abbot XuanCi is a person of high moral standings and reputation, everyone admire and respect him very much, who would have imagine him to commit such act? The disturbance went on for half of the day before coming to a rest.

XuanCi said unhurriedly, his voice still serene and calm like normal: ”Senior Xiao shizhu, you were separated from your son for 30 years, you cannot meet him, however you knew his martial art is excellent, his reputation soaring, he is a first class hero, in your heart you must certainly be comforted. I get to see my son every day, however i thought he was taken away by some ruffian, his life and death unknown, i worry day and night.”

Ye ErNiang cried: ”If....if you didn't say it, won't....won't it be better? What to do now?” XuanCi said tenderly: ”ErNiang, i already commit the evil deed, it is too late to go back, it is useless to cover up the truth. All these years, you have suffer much!” Ye ErNiang weep: ”No! You suffer in silence, unable to voice it out, that is true suffering.”

XuanCi shake his head slowly, he said: ”Senior Xiao shizhu, the battle at YanMen Pass, old monk made a huge mistake. My brothers forgave me for this matter but one by one they lost their lives. Previously old monk tie my hands and voluntary seek death, i intend to let your esteemed son kill me to avenge his mother, however your esteemed son is benevolent, he refuse to kill old monk and let me live till today. Today, old monk voluntary seek death again, it is truly long overdue.” suddenly he raised his voice and said: ”Murong Bo senior Murong shizu, at that time you spread false information, you claim a Khitan warrior is carrying out a large scale attack to seize Shaolin's martial art manuals, eventually this led to all kinds of sin, have you ever felt a twinge of guilt and regret?”

Everyone heard him say the name 'Murong Bo', they was startled. The crowd knew that Gentleman Murong's father had a single name 'Bo', however he died a long time ago, how come XuanCi suddenly call out his name? Could it be the person who spread false information is Murong Bo? Everyone follow the direction of his gaze, however his pair of eyes are focusing on the grey-robed monk sitting under the tree.

The grey-robed monk gave a long laugh, he stood up and said: ”Great master abbot, your eyesight is terrific, unexpectedly you recognize me.” he pull away his face curtain, revealing his lively and refined features and long drooping white eyebrows.

Murong Fu was pleasantly surprised, he shouted out: ”Father, you....you are still alive?” countless questions bubble forth: Why did father fake his death? Why did he conceal it even from his own son?

XuanCi said: ”Senior Murong shizu, i known you for many years, i respect your character deeply. That day you inform of this matter, old monk firmly believe you without any doubt. Later on i accidentally injure a good person, from then on old monk never saw you again. Afterwards i receive news of your death due to illness, old monk felt deep sorrow and lament, i assume you and i are the same, we mistakenly believe someone else's false information, ultimately leading to numerous sins, thus you died early due to guilt, who would have expect.....sigh!” his deep sigh embodied boundless regret and condemnation.

Xiao YuanShan and Xiao Feng look at each other, only until now, both father and son finally got hold of the identity of the person who spread false news, the person who instigated the matter and created the disaster, unexpectedly it is Murong Bo. Xiao Feng pondered: ”The disaster at YanMen Pass, although abbot XuanCi is the leader, but he is Shaolin's abbot, he is duty bound to protect Great Song and the martial art manuals of his temple. Later on when he discovered the mistake, he did his utmost to atone for it. The true evil person, it is Murong Bo not XuanCi.”

When Murong Fu heard XuanCi's speech, he understood immediately: ”Father spread the false news, it is to incite a big battle between Song and Liao, eventually leading to war between Song and Liao, my Great Yan can then take advantage from within. After the event, XuanCi will inevitably seek my father out to question him. Since father cannot defend himself, his status as a great hero, a towering figure, he cannot admit the matter and destroy his lifelong illustrious reputation. He knew abbot XuanCi's temperament, if he die then XuanCi will never disclose the truth behind the matter and damage his reputation after death.” immediately after he had another thought: ”After father's death, Murong family's reputation is unaffected, i can still continue the great undertaking to restore Great Yan. If not, the heroes of Central Plains will surely treat Murong family as the enemy, it is difficult to even survive let alone gather forces to restore Yan nation. Thus, at that time, he definitely have to fake death. It seems that father is afraid of my youthful vigour, i will inevitably give the game away, thus he concealed his death from me. Other than mother, i am afraid even elder brother Deng and the others are kept in the dark as well.”

XuanCi said unhurriedly: ”Senior Murong shizu, today old monk heard you advising your esteemed son, unexpectedly your Gusu Murong family is the descendant of monarch, hatching a grand scheme. The true purpose of spreading false news, it became apparent right away. However your grand scheme, ultimately it is difficult to achieve, aren't you causing the death of many innocent lives in vain?”

Murong Bo said coldly: ”Man propose but heaven dispose!”

XuanCi's expression is compassionate, he said: ”My junior martial brother XuanBei, he receive orders from me to inquire the matter from you, perhaps his speech offended you, or he found out some clues at your home and deduced your intention to revolt, thus you killed him to prevent him from divulging the secret.” Murong Bo laugh and did not reply.

XuanCi continued: ”But you killed Ke BaiSui, Ke shizu, why?”

Murong Bo laugh darkly and said: ”Senior abbot is incomparably astute, you rarely step out of your temple main gate but you know all the matters in Jianghu like the back of your hand, i admire you greatly. I want you to make a guess for this matter.....” he have yet to finish when two men bellowed simultaneously and pounce towards him, its 'Golden Abacus' Cui BaiQuan and his martial nephew Guo YanZhi. Murong Bo brush his sleeve, both Cui and Guo were thrown several zhang away, they lie down on the floor and remain motionless, unexpectedly both of them was hit by his [Finger Within The Sleeve].

XuanCi said: ”Ke shizu is rich and powerful, his conduct cautious. En, you recruit solders and horses, accumulate wealth and stockpile grains, you settled on Ke shizhu's property, you want to recruit him and make him take up Murong's 'Yan banner'. Ke shizhu refused, maybe he even try to report you to the authorities.”

Murong Bo laugh heartily, he stick out his thumb and said: ”Senior abbot is amazing, amazing! But it is a pity, you are able to see the minute details but you fail to see the major issues. Elder brother Xiao and i hide beside your noble temple for so many years, unexpectedly you remain completely ignorant about it.”

XuanCi shake his head slowly, he sigh and said: ”It is easy to understand others, but difficult to understand oneself. It is not easy to subdue an enemy, but to subdue the greed, anger and delusion in one's heart, the three poison, it is incomparably difficult.”

Murong Bo said: ”Senior abbot, base on our former friendship, i will speak forthright and not hide anything from you. What else you wish to inquire?”

XuanCi said: ”The Vice-Chief of Beggar Clan Ma DaYuan, Madam Ma, Clan Elder Xu ChongXiao, Clan Elder Bai ShiJing, four of them, senior Murong shizhu did you kill them, or they were killed by senior Xiao shizu?”

Xiao Feng said: ”Madam Ma and Bao ShiJing conspired together to kill Ma DaYuan, Elder Xu was killed by both of them as well, Bai ShiJing was killed by his own clan member when they tidy up clan affair, Madam Ma died during the tidying of clan affair as well. As for the details, Prince Duan from Dali and Beggar Clan's Elder Zhu saw and heard everything. If abbot wish to know the details you may find out from both of them later.”

Xiao YuanShan took two steps forward, he point at Murong Bo and shouted: ”Old thief Murong, previously i traded palm 3 times with you, i deeply regret not knowing you true colours, i did not kill you. Come over here to receive death!”

Murong Bo gave a long laugh and leap swiftly up the mountain. Xiao YuanShan and Xiao Feng shouted: ”Chase!” they chase after him separately from left and right. The 3 of them had reached the pinnacle of martial arts, in a blink of an eye they already move far away. Murong Fu shouted: ”Father, father!” he followed and chase as well. His lightness martial art is excellent, however it appear insignificant when compared to the 3 experts. Murong Bo, Xiao YuanShan and Xiao Feng, 1 in front and 2 behind, unexpectedly the 3 of them are running towards Shaolin Temple. A grey shadow and two black shadow, in a split second they vanished behind the yellow walls and glazed tiles of Shaolin Temple.

The crowd was greatly surprised, they pondered: ”The martial arts of Murong Bo and Xiao YuanShan are on par with each other, in addition their sons are assisting as well, Murong family will lose for sure. How come Murong Bo did not run down the mountain to escape, on the contrary he enter Shaolin Temple?”

Deng BaiChuan, GongYe Gan, Bao BuTong, Feng BoE, as well as 18 Khitan warriors, they want to run up the mountain to assist their master, when they are just about to move, XuanJi shouted out: ”Deploy the formation and stop them!” around a hundred Shaolin monks chorus, row after row they block the road up the mountain, their staff or blade held horizontally, they prevent anyone from advancing. XuanJi said in a stern voice: ”Shaolin Temple is a sacred Buddhist site, it is not a place for private fights. Shizhu, please do not enter without permission.”

Deng BaiChuan and the rest saw their impressive power, they knew they cannot break through, although they are concern about their master but they have no choice but to stop. Bao BuTong said: ”Correct, correct! Shaolin Temple is a sacred Buddhist site......” all along he always begin with ”not true, not true!”, unexpectedly he change to ”correct, correct!”, those who knew him were flabbergasted, however Bao BuTong continued: ”...a sacred site for raising illegitimate child!”

When he finish speaking, several hundred pair of angry eyes shoot towards him. Bao BuTong is reckless, he is fully aware there are many martial art experts among Shaolin monks, he is certainly no match for any of the monks from 'Xuan' generation, he have always been blunt and forthright, he never consider the consequence before speaking. Several hundred Shaolin monks glare at him angrily, he also glare back angrily, his eyes unblinking.

XuanCi said brightly: ”Old monk broke a major prohibition and brought disgrace to Shaolin's clear reputation. Junior martial brother XuanJi, base on our temple's regulation, what is the punishment?” XuanJi said: ”This.....martial brother.....” XuanCi said: ”A nation has its own law, a family has its own regulation. Regardless of which sect, school, clan or temple, they will inevitably produce some unworthy disciples. To maintain a clear reputation, it is not to hope nobody will ever break the rules, but to enforce the law and administer justice, no tolerance to any evil deeds. Law enforcement monk, administer 130 rods on Xu Zhu, 100 rods for his own sin, 30 rods for which he willingly accept in place of his master HuiLun.”

The law enforcement monk look at XuanJi. XuanJi nod his head. Xu Zhu is already kneeling down to receive punishment. At once the law enforcement monk lifted his rod, rod after rod it landed on Xu Zhu's back and buttocks, his flesh lacerated from the punishment, blood splatter in all direction. Ye ErNiang felt her heart ached, however she is fearful of XuanCi's strict manner, she don't dare to plea for leniency.

With great difficulty 130 rod was completed, Xu Zhu did not use his internal energy to resist, he was in so much pain that he can't stand on his feet. XuanCi said: ”From now on, you are expelled from the monastic order, you are not a Shaolin monk anymore.” Xu Zhu shed tears and said: ”Yes!”

XuanCi continued: ”XuanCi commit lascivious act, he commit the same sin as Xu Zhu, his punishment is doubled due to his capacity as Shaolin's abbot. Even if Bao shizhu did not say it, Shaolin's regulation will definitely not let him off lightly. Law enforcement monk, punish XuanCi heavily with 200 rods. Shaolin's clear reputation is of top priority, there cannot be any leeway.” when he finish speaking he crouch down on the ground, facing the distant Buddha statue at Shaolin's Hall of Great Strength, he lifted his monk robe, revealing his bare back.

The crowd of heroes look at each other in dismay, Shaolin's abbot being punished in public, it is truly horrifying, it greatly go against convention.

XuanJi said: ”Martial brother, you......” XuanCi said sternly: ”Shaolin's hundred years of clear reputation, how can it be spoiled by me?” XuanJi said tearfully: ”Yes! Law enforcement monk, administer the rod.”

Two law enforcement monk put their palms together, bow and said: ”Abbot, please pardon our offense.” at once they stood upright, lifted the punishment rod and strike towards XuanCi's back. Both monk knew that when XuanCi is being punished, the most painful feeling is not due to physical pain, but the pain of being humiliated in front of everybody, if they hold back while striking bystanders will be able to detect it and it will become a matter for gossip, then abbot XuanCi would have suffer humiliation for nothing, thus they did not hold back and strike forcefully, 'Pa Pa' sound, in a short period of time XuanCi's back and buttocks are riddled with rod scar, blood splattering on his monk robe. The crowd of monks listen to the law enforcement monk counting of rods, they lowered their head and pray to Buddha in silence.

Pudu Temple's Master DaoQing said abruptly: ”Senior martial brother XuanCi, your esteem temple values monastic discipline, abbot receiving punishment in public, i really admire very much. But senior martial brother XuanCi is old, moreover you refuse to use your internal energy to protect your body, you cannot withstand this 200 rods. I may be presumptuous but let me make a suggestion, since we already administer 80 rods, we will take note of the remaining rods and administer another day, it will not violate your esteem temple's monastic discipline.” a large number of people shouted out: ”Correct, correct, we wish to ask for this favour as well.”

XuanJi have yet to reply as XuanCi said brightly: ”Many thanks for everyone's good intention, but our temple's monastic discipline is unshakeable like a mountain, there cannot be any leeway. Law enforcement monk, quickly employ the rod.” the two law enforcement monks already suspend the punishment, when they heard the abbot's firm speech, they have no choice but to carry on hitting. They administered another 40 rods, XuanCi cannot withstand anymore, his pair of hands soften and his face touch the ground.

Ye ErNiang cried: ”You cannot blame abbot for this matter, it is all my fault! My father had a serious illness, great master abbot visit us to provide treatment, he saved my father's life. I was grateful towards him, admire him, a woman from a poor family unable to return the favour, thus i gave myself to him. I was young, silly and ignorant, i did not realize my mistake, it is my fault. The....the....the remaining rod, let me receive it!” while weeping and shouting, she rush forward to lean on XuanCi's body to receive the rod on his behalf.

XuanCi pointed with his left finger, with a light 'Chi' sound, he sealed her acupoint, he smile and said: ”Silly woman, you are not a Buddhist nun, you did not break any prohibition, where is the sin?” Ye ErNiang lie down on the ground, unable to move, tears streaming down her eyes.

XuanCi shouted: ”Administer the rod!” with great difficulty 200 rod was complete, blood flowing all over the ground, XuanCi forcefully summoned a mouthful of inner energy to protect his heart so as to avoid fainting due to the pain. The two law enforcement monks held the rod vertically and said to XuanJi: ”Reporting to head-monk, abbot XuanCi's punishment is done.” XuanJi nod his head, he don't know what to say.

XuanCi struggled to stand up, he said: ”XuanCi violated a major Buddhist prohibition, he cannot be the abbot of Shaolin anymore, from now on, the abbot position will be held by the head-monk of Discipline Courtyard XuanJi.” XuanJi step forward, he put his palms together and bow, tears streaming down his eyes, he said: ”I receive the decree.”

XuanCi directed his finger at Ye ErNiang and pointed, he want to undo her sealed acupoint, unexpectedly it is difficult to condense internal energy due to his serious injury, his finger had no effect at all. Xu Zhu saw the situation, he quickly rush forward to undo his mother's acupoint. XuanCi beckon both of them over, Ye ErNiang and Xu Zhu move beside him. Xu Zhu was in turmoil, he did not know if he should address him as ”father” or ”abbot”.

XuanCi stretch out his hands, right hand holding onto Ye ErNiang's wrist, left hand holding onto Xu Zhu, he said: ”For the past 20 years, every day every night, my heart worry for both mother and child, i committed a huge sin, but i don't dare to confess to my fellow brothers, today i finally free myself, henceforth i have no fear or worry, my heart is at peace.” he said a Buddhist verse: ”One's time on earth, there is desire and affection, worries and hardship, to free oneself is happiness!” when he finish speaking he close his eyes slowly, his face revealed a peaceful smile.

Ye ErNiang and Xu Zhu don't dare to move, they are unsure if he have more to say, however they felt his palm getting colder. Ye ErNiang had a huge shock, she stretch out her hand to check his breath, unexpectedly he died, she shouted out: ”You....you....how can you abandon me and leave?” suddenly she leap up in the air, her body falling down from mid-air, with a 'Peng' sound she landed beside XuanCi's feet, she twitch a few time and stop moving altogether.

Xu Zhu shouted: ”Mother, mother! You....you....you must not......” he stretch out his hands to support his mother, however he saw a dagger stuck at the pit of her stomach, only the handle is exposed, most likely she died as well. Xu Zhu sealed the acupoints around her wound quickly, at the same time he channel his internal energy into XuanCi's body, he was flustered, he desire to bring both of them back to life simultaneously. Xue MuHua rush forward to assist, however he saw their heart and breathing had ceased, there is no hope, he advised: ”My condolence to martial uncle. You cannot save these two senior anymore.”

Xu Zhu refuse to give up, he channelled his [Pure Energy of Northern Darkness] for a long time, but where is the least bit of activity from them? Xu Zhu's sorrow burst forth, he cannot help but sob loudly. For the past 24 years, he thought he was an orphan with no father and mother, he never get to experience the slightest bit of family bliss, today he finally found his biological parents, however the reunion was less than an hour and both of them died miserably.

Initially when the crowd of heard that Xu Zhu's father is Shaolin's abbot XuanCi, everyone felt that he did not abide monastic regulation, they despise him greatly, but later when he allowed himself to be punished in public to preserve Shaolin's clear reputation, his bravery is truly extraordinary, such heavy punishment should be enough to make up for his moment of folly. Unexpectedly when he completed the corporal punishment and hand over the abbot's position, he immediately severe his own meridian channels. Originally his death would have ended all trouble, he should have seek death early and not reveal his lascivious act, avoid the humiliation of 200 rods, however he refused to cover his past sin and insist on suffering the punishment of rods for the sake of protecting Shaolin's clear reputation, its truly the conduct of a great hero and great man. The crowd respected his character and conduct, a lot of people walk forward and bow at his corpse in respect.

Crocodile Deity of Southern Sea said: ”2nd sister, you are dead now, Yue LaoSan won't fight with you for the ranking anymore, you can simply be number two.” he step forward and kowtow at Ye ErNiang's corpse. For the past few years, he will do anything to fight for supremacy with Ye ErNiang, he hope to surpass her in martial arts and occupy the position of ”Number Two Evil Under the Heaven”, unexpectedly he willingly cede the position to her, it is truly not easy for him but because he is devastated by her death and he also admired her courage to sacrifice her life for a noble cause.