Completed Let's play Tale of Wuxia Zero

[abnaxus]

Part XII: Red red beans

Spoiler

The three go and report to Wuxia Zi.

It’s a masterpiece.

…!! Seldom does Ji praise my drawing! Hehe, as good as the Painter, right? Looks like you are starting to understand art, good, good indeed.

It’s because the drawing clearly presents his hideous and creepy smile.

Wuxia Zi gets triggered by Shinji as usual.

Naughty kid! Be nice to the guests! Speaking of hideous and creepy, your smile is a living hell.

Naughty old man! Don’t punch my head! Again!

Bastard! How many times have I told you to call me master!

Nice punch, senior! Punch him more!

(*sigh* … there they go again)

Master, I have things to report.

Yes, Gu, go ahead, I can beat this bastard with one finger anyway.

Seems like Jianghu will face a terrible disaster… Gu, Ji, please escort Ziling back to Wei castle, then inform every sect as Great Xia Jiang has instructed and look into this in the meantime.

Yes.

Got it.

Shinji got a new martial skill from the fight with Ximen Feng and Xiahou Fei.

It's ok as it works in an arc.

There’s now an official main quest in the journal, dealing with investigating the five locations… first step is to find out where they’re actually located.

Shinji is seemingly happy to get rid of Wei Ziling but things are not so simple.

Come on, Ji.

Wei Ziling’s brooding causes her to slip.

…

Am I wrong? She’s been picking a hole in everything since the very beginning. I suppose she got kicked out because her father couldn’t stand it either.

Ji, mind your tongue. She’s…

Tch!

Shinji comes to Ziling’s aid.

It hurts! You almost broke my hand! Don’t you know to have a tender hand for the fair sex…

Tch, I shouldn’t have saved you and let you learn the lesson by yourself.

(Hehe, the usual Ji, harsh words and soft heart.)

I… I’m fine.

Gu, taking me out of the valley is enough, from there I can go home by myself.

But…

Indeed. She’s not handicapped, why did Master order us to take her home?

Today Miss Wei has only offended you a little bit, you should feel embarrassed acting like this.

Really?

Wei Ziling throws something at Shinji.

…Well! Hey, here you are!

…? What’s this…!!!

Why, your fierce look is really intimidating…

Where did you buy this red bean cake?!

Not a fan of that stuff tbh.

Hehe. Ji, she made it herself.

By… by herself? Really?

…Humph.

Last night after bidding farewell to Great Xia Jiang, didn’t we spend the night in the inn? I couldn’t sleep and wanted to take a walk.

Coming downstairs, I saw a light in the kitchen and smelt the fragrance of red beans. It turned out that Miss Wei rent the kitchen and made these desserts. Miss Wei really does have an exceptional culinary skill.

Yeah, culinary skill combined with poison sperging sounds like a great combination.

…

… About yesterday, I should be the one to blame, what I said was too much. Uncle Wuxia Zi mentioned you’re a picky eater yet you love desserts. So I made these red bean cakes to make an apology.

However… humph, I’m not asking for your forgiveness.

…

Let’s go.

Miss Wei!

So it seems Wei Ziling will be away.

 

[Darth Roxor]

b-baka

 

[RK47]

and yet he remains alone afterwards and lusted after a woman who slips as well.
methinks this guy has a slippy woman fetish.

 

[abnaxus]

Part XIII: Dukang Village

Spoiler

After Wei Ziling has gone Gu and Shinji arrive at Dukang Village.

Actually Miss Wei is a good person, she’s just a little stubborn. In some ways, you and her…

Nonsense, I’m not like her!

Heh heh heh.

Right on cue there’s another lady in trouble.

This is Zhao Ya’er, one of the romancable gurls from Tale of Wuxia.

I have an old mother and a younger brother suffering from severe illness! I cannot leave them uncared for! Have mercy… *weeps*

Bah! Like it’s only you who has loved ones to attend to? Don’t you see I have so many dogs to take care of? To hell with your mother and brother, give us our money! If I don’t get it today, don’t blame me for getting physical.

We’ve tried both carrot and stick. Our patience is running out.

*weeps*… Please… A few more days… I’ll get the money… please don’t sell me to him… no…

Damn, even our dogs are getting pissed off! I’ve already given you some extra days! Don’t force us to unleash the dogs to teach you a lesson.

Take our advice, as simple as that! Trust us, it’s all for your own good.

Assholes! How dare you coerce others in broad daylight!

Her word is loud and clear. It’s reasonable she should pay off the debt she owes, but human trafficking is illegal.

Please… please help me… *weeps*.

We are here, today no one will kidnap you!

Who the hell are you!

Wanna be the hero? Hehe, don’t get yourself in trouble. Bite them!

Shinji’s Killing Momentum is great to clean up weak trash such as this.

Tch! These two bastards are really something!

You think it’s that simple? Hehe, she has signed this receipt. As long as she doesn’t pay off her debt, a calm life is out of the question.

Even though you beat us, there are still others! Hahahaha!

You bastards!!

… Once she pays off her debt, you’ll let her off?

Of course, it’s only the money we’re after.

… I’ve got three, is that enough?

Three?! Are you kidding me? She owes me 200!

…

Bro, since you want to be the hero, why don’t we send him to participate in the underground fighting arena? He is bound to make a fortune for us…

Alright! Hahaha, you want to pay off the debt, that’s fine by me. However, you need to sign a receipt for a 200 loan. Agreed?

Damn it! Gu?

*weeps* The debts I owe should be paid off by myself. Forget it, I deserve such a miserable fate… don’t make things difficult for these gallant gentlemen, I’ll go with you two…

Absurd!!

… I understand, give me the receipt, I’ll…

Just as it seems we’re about to enter some sidequest Wei Ziling shows up in her male disguise.

You?! Didn’t you return home…

You’ll pay off the debt? Really?

You…

Here is 200, off you go and don’t you dare bother this girl anymore! Or… you’ll experience some real torment.

Wow! Real money! I’ve never seen such a great amount of money…

Alright! Since you paid off her debt, it’s over now. Let’s go!

Don’t mention it, you’d better leave now.

Thank you very much…

I helped you two solve the problem, did I not?

Miss Wei, thank you.

This is a good joke. I’m Mr Wei. Even though I have a pretty face, how could you call me “Miss”! If I were as hot-tempered as… a certain someone, you’d just be asking for trouble.

Mr Wei?! You’re a girl, why the hell do you have to disguise as a sissy?

*sigh* Gu, you’re an upright gentleman while Ji is warm-hearted and chivalrous, however in Jianghu one cannot trust others without reserve.

!! You mean…

They were on the same side. It was a staged show, the girl acting like the damsel-in-distress with the males as the villains. This is a common scheme some con artists take advantage of.

…

How do you know that?

First of all, earlier during their quarrel the girl revealed she’s a weaver, yet her hands were smooth as silk without any calluses at all… wasn’t that suspicious?

Secondly, the sachet such a poor girl with heavy debt was using came from Orchid Garden Workshop in Hangzhou, a popular brand among aristocrats. I happen to be a regular there.

And thirdly, the two thugs brought several dogs and the girl’s dress was covered with hairs the same color as the dogs, so she must be close to the dogs. To sum up, the girl was also a con artist.

What…!! But the money you gave them…

The money I gave them is official currency out of circulation which is likely beyond their knowledge. Furthermore, it is certain they will try to exchange the money right away. Once the authorities notice the suspicious money, they’ll be arrested.

Eh…!

Shame on us. If not for you, we both would never have realized it was a fraud.

Ji is young and inexperienced and hasn’t yet realized the malicious side of this society. You have some experience, but almost always deal with the heirs of renowned sects and families. This kind of scenario was unfamiliar to you guys.

I was born in a well-known Wulin family. And my father… is acquainted with all sorts of people. The investigation of the Acquittal Period will doubtlessly involve crafty schemes. You need my help.

You’ll come along?! Don’t you need to go home?

This is such a rare opportunity, I don’t want to go back home so early! Besides, investigating a case like the Acquittal Period and finding the one who’s behind everything… it would be a great achievement to brag about!

Tch, you just want to stir up trouble. Gu, what do you think?

As a young lady, if Miss Wei tags along with us her reputation may get stained. I’m afraid her father won’t allow it.

Humph! Now you’re referring to me as a girl? I totally don’t mind others’ gossip.

Still… your father’s oral permission would be necessary…

Gu, rest assured, I’ve already sent a letter to my father. He won’t be worried about me when I’m with the two skilled disciples from Xiaoyao valley.

Alright, suit yourself.

Ji, you…?

We need someone doing chores like cooking and washing clothes. Gu, you making meals is out of the question.

Eh!

Humph! Chores? I’m not your servant! Speaking of which, it’s you who’s dressing more like a servant…

Take it or leave it! We won’t force you anyway.

Hmm…!! Humph! Alright, but I’m cooking only for Gu, you’re just the add on. As for washing clothes, I definitely won’t do it for you!

Tsch!

Haha! Got it.

Great! Gu, calling me Ziling or Zi will be fine.

So where are we headed for now?

Uncle Jiang said we should visit the Masters of all sects and discuss the Acquittal Period, we may acquire some useful intel.

At the moment Shaolin, Wudang and Huashan are the top dogs. Let’s start with them.

Now that we’ve got a goal, let’s hurry then!

You really are as short-tempered as a monkey.

There is some minor stuff to do at Dukang village.

The game btw has a system of rumors that periodically show up. Some are informative, some are silly humor, some indicate that a possible party member (or enemy) gained a certain skill and others may give information about an item to find somewhere.

The episode with the con artists gave these two new skills as reward.

Dukang village is the village directly under the protection of Xiaoyao valley so Gu and Shinji know some people here.

Long time no see, madam.

Do you want of cup of Dukang wine?

No, thank you, we have things to do.

Some gardener has a small task.

No wonder the flowers grow so well.

Really, you think they are beautiful? Hah, I hope Du Juan could love them, too…

Just give one to her and you will know, right?

I… I can’t.

Every time I see her, I don’t know what to say… man, could you do me a favor? Give this flower to her?

Alright.

Thank you! I’m counting on you.

The rainbow carp picked up in the cave near String-Sword Manor can be given to a lady here for some experience.

Du Juan is inside the wine shop.

This is…

Thanks, I like it! Haha, seems I really am the most beautiful girl in this village, even outsiders have a crush on me!

…

Hehe! Um, you are pretty handsome, what’s your name?

You misunderstand me, Lady Du... these flowers are from Zhang Fun.

You said… it’s Zhang Fun who sent these to me?

Yes.

I thought that nerd only likes plants… but he also… haha, without question, I am so popular!

Well, my job is done, I shall leave then…

Wait, thank you for helping him, I like them. Eh, and, what’s.. what’s your name?

I’m Gu Yuexuan from Xiaoyao valley.

Here, my wine is pretty famous around here, I hope you can come here more often…

…

Thank you, goodbye.

Elsewhere is an old geezer in need of some help.

Alas! It’s a long story… a big stone fell on my hand while I was working, I can’t go back to work yet…

I have used a lot of medicine, but it still hurts and I’m running out of money…

Hey, Wei! You know a lot of odd stuff, right? Come on, have a look.

Really, lady? Please help me!

It’s not poison, as for medicine, I know as much as you… well, I’ll give it a try.

Except for the wound on his hand, everything is normal… sorry, sir, I can’t help you more…

It’ s ok, lady. Just my own fault.

Not far from here is Wangyou valley. That girl, Xiangyun, could perhaps help him!

Xiangyun? Yes, please.

The task for the gardener has as reward an orchid that can be equipped.

Really? That’s so great!

But I still think it’s better to show your true feelings to her in person.

Alas, she is the most beautiful girl in Dukang village, how could I? She likes my flowers, that’s quite enough.

…

Here, this one is for you guys, thank for helping me.

Back on the world map, the locations of Huashan, Shaolin and Wudang are now open.

 

[abnaxus]

Part XIV: Wangyou valley

Spoiler

The group will make a stop at Wangyou valley to check up on Xiao Fu. But revisiting Shen Lan is also worthwhile.

You idiot! Gallbladder of Cold Bat is not from an actual bat. It’s from a person who studies Insidious Internal Style!

Humph, why are you here again? Just shup up! I will get it by all means!

I just wanted to give some advice. But my kindness was for nothing.

Who asked for your advice anyway? Hmm? Show me your hand!

It hurts, don’t be so rude!

These little red dots are bites by poisonous spiders. Have you been practicing Spider Touch for a long time?

You have sharp eyes. Yes, that’s exactly why I’ve been doing. But what are you doing with that knife?

I’m releasing your blood. You are either mad or stupid, there is no other reason why anyone would want to study that kind of martial art! Do you know that your face will be disfigured over time? You will become a monster if you continue doing that!

Of course I know. That’s why I choose to use only blue snow-spiders. I also use Tongyou grass to reduce toxicity. This way, even though the power of Spider Touch is reduced, I will not be disfigured and not take people’s lives.

…That’s true. You’re not that stupid after all.

Ziling, I think you’d better give up studying that. It’s evil.

Of all the martial knowledge you can learn, why did you choose this vicious martial art?

Hmm… actually, I never thought of using it…

Wei Ziling now has a new internal style and martial skill for free.

Spider Touch works in an arc and is very dangerous combined with the automatic criticals from stealth. Not to mention it should stack with the poison aura.

Stars is a great internal style, at level 10 it will give her a poison aura which is kinda cheesy in combination with her invisibility.

Anyway, at Wangyou valley should be some familiar faces.

Don’t just shout out of nowhere. Brother, we are grown men now, don’t act like a child.

I am still not sure about Xiao.

Isn’t he in Wangyou valley now? I bet Doctor Miracle will cure him for sure.

Doctor Miracle can cure anything. But Xiao still doesn’t know that Celestial Melody is in Wangyou valley too.

What!? Celestial Melody is old enough to be his mother… He wouldn’t.

*cough* What are you talking about? Xiao is from String-Sword Manor, he is good at using music to practice arte, and Celestial Melody is the master of that. I am just worried that he would ignore healing and just focus on practicing his arte with Celestial Melody.

That does sound like something he would do.

Let’s go to Doctor Miracle’s place and visit Xiao, watch your manners here.

Brother, stop being a mother hen.

If I am your mother hen, I sure will beat the discipline into you.

Tsk!

There’s some awful music playing inside the valley.

Qin?

That sounds awful… I don’t think Celestial Melody can be that bad!

Now here’s a sight for sore eyes.

You brought him here! I’ve never had this kind of patient, only thinking about revenge all day long and totally ignoring the fact he still has unhealed wounds.

So Gu’s guess was right.

Hmm… what did Doctor Miracle say about this?

Dad is on the road, he will not be here for a while. But I don’t think he would have any cure for this even if he were here. Nothing can get into this Xiao’s thick skull.

Look at him, playing his damn Qin, it’s been like this for three days already.

He went through a horrible ordeal…

I thought you were good at medicine, just give him a pellet to calm down.

That’s easy for you to say, I’m just worried that he will hurt himself that way. He needs a head doctor instead of a body doctor.

It all started when he heard the sound of Celestial Melody’s Qin.

Looks like he broke the string again.

This tune sounded wrong, we should stop him.

Let’s go and take a look.

But first it’s time to visit some friends.

The stroke of penmanship is forcible and vigorous, giving a magnificent feel.

Hahaha, you have good taste.

(Since last winter, the Painter has started this painting. I don’t know how many times he’s drawn it.)

Hehehe, he has gone mad after he saw some paintings of Tang Yin in Hangzhou. Just leave him alone.

That’s right, the inscription must be too poor. Tan Yin is skilled in painting and calligraphy. I can paint a better painting, but the inscription ruins it…

Hey! It’s you who’s less competent! My calligraphy is better than Tang Yin, it’s your own fault!

(The two masters are starting to quarrel again! I might as well leave now.)

Ok, master Floriculturist. I will give them to you if I can get some.

All the masters seem to want something, they may even teach a new skill if they get what they want.

Thank you but I have other things to do. Please forgive me.

What a pity! Let me solve this chessboard alone.

(Master Ju Sou is obsessed with chess. He must be very exultant if I can give him some rare chess chart.)

Drunken brah will prolly require some kind of ultra rare wine.

Xiao Fu is in front of Celestial Melody’s home.

Xiao, you wound has not yet healed, you should rest for now.

I can’t. Every time I close my eyes I see the blood in String-Sword Manor. Gu, I can’t rest.

…

And when I thought I would never be able to get revenge, I met Celestial Melody.

Senior is a master of melody and martial knowledge, just like String-Sword Manor. This must be my chance to get revenge.

(Xiao has a look of madness…)

But she just wants me to play “Beauty of the Peach”, yet I can’t get it right. Senior won’t come out either, what should I do?

So you’ve just been playing for three days? I think you should focus on sword practice instead. Playing like that will ruin your fingers.

Xiao, your fingers?!

What do these hands matter if I can get my revenge.

Xiao, you should stop for now. Celestial Melody must do this for a purpose, maybe you should think about this first. Although I don’t understand music, I do know one can never improve under this kind of frustration.

Yeah, I don’t know how Celestial Melody can stand this horrible music. If it were me, I would just beat the shit out of you to make you stop.

Ji…

Celestial Melody, my apologies…

And that horrible sound isn’t disrupting?

Don’t be rude.

Fine. Are you two here for this man outside?

Not only for Xiao Fu. Our master asked us to pay a visit to you too.

Do you know why I test him with “Beauty of the Peach” even though I know that this man’s heart is filled with sadness and hatred?

That is what I want to know.

People only know “Beauty of the Peach” as a tune of celebration, but the truth is that this tune also means the equilibrium of everything. But because of the hatred in this man’s heart, the tune has changed into a grim one.

It is said in the book of music: “Thou shalt not hate, music is the cure for the heart and grants forgiveness”. He has forgotten the core, so how could I teach him?

Music comes from the sound of everything. That sad tune is just like the storm, it can never last long.

Hmm…

Thank you, Senior Celestial Melody.

I was just talking to myself, why do you thank me?

It seems you words today have enlightened him.

In that case please leave now. Where is my music collection?

It would be a good idea to add Xiao Fu to the party.

You are welcome.

I will heed your words and rest here.

That would be great.

I intend to return to String-Sword Manor after my wound have healed and practice my arte there. If you are ever in need of my help, you can find me at String-Sword Manor.

And I have a favor to ask: if you have any news about my enemy please tell me. I will slay that devil, no matter how long it will take.

(This desire for vengeance has settled deep into Xiao Fu’s heart, but he is alone, he needs my help.)

We will help you. But I hope you can promise that you won’t do anything rashly, let’s do it together.

I thank you on behalf of String-Sword Manor.

Rest well.

With the Xiao Fu matter settled Xiangyun should be able to join us.

You should thank Celestial Melody. She has been the most helpful.

Yes. I remember when Ji was 6 years old and crying all day. Nothing could calm him down. It was Celestial Melody’s song who stopped his crying.

No, that is not true! I don’t remember such a thing!

Haha, that was the first time I heard Celestial Melody’s voice. I still remember it to this day.

She is not only good at playing the Qin, her voice is also one of the best.

Damn you! You will regret it! I haven’t forgotten about the bed sheet and quilt you took to the river…

What did you say?

…ohoho… nothing… I didn’t say anything… (almost forgot she is as scary as her mother.)

Hehehe…

With Doctor Miracle’s return Xiangyun is free to go.

Nice to meet you, senior Doctor Miracle.

You are back! We have a patient here, please help him, dad.

Does it involve some serious wound?

Very serious wounds, just go there now!

Alright, alright, I’m going. Daddy still wants his rest…

Now that dad is here, I think Xiao should be ok now.

Now that Doctor Miracle is back we needn’t worry about Xiao, we shall leave.

Now that dad is caring for that man, I can finally rest. Remember to come visit me next time you pass through here. I haven’t left the valley for quite some time.

Of course we will add Xiangyun to the party.

Xiangyun is of course good at the healing stuff but she can’t learn a lot of skills. Plus she’s extremely fragile.

It’s also good she comes with her internal style already maxed.

She’s worth keeping around for her talents alone. Plus she’s needed to progress certain quests.

The last thing to do at Wangyou valley is return Celestial Melody’s music book.

(Master Celestial Melody is really enigmatic. Melodies of superior taste find few to join in chorus, I can understand her sadness.)

You will interrupt my performance. So please leave me alone.

Did you lost an unfinished score? This one?

Yes.

Sorry, Ji is too naughty…

Don’t call her Ji. It sounds like it was me who played tricks on her!

I don’t need it anymore.

Senior?

Do you mind that it was bitten by a cat? Weren’t you in a hurry to find it?

Times have changed. I no longer need it… dispose of it however you please.

I understand.

What? I don’t understand at all.

(I think this score was to be sent to Xiao Fu. Master Celestial Melody looks like she’s indifferent, yet she is more gentle than anyone. I should give this to Xiao Fu at String-Sword Manor when he’s recovered.)

Now everything is ready to visit the three sects.

 

[abnaxus]

Part XV: Shaolin Training

Spoiler

First sect to visit is Shaolin.

Gu goes to speak to the abbot.

I’m Gu Yuexuan from Xiaoyao valley, I was sent to the speak to the abbot with Jing Ji and Wei Ziling.

Here is the thing…

Eh. So many things have happened during my tenure. I’m sorry to say I never heard about these five places. However, I actually heard something about Feng Du. Maybe I can tell you for reference.

We are listening.

I heard the Master of Feng Du, Yan Dansheng, has disappeared from Jianghu these last two years. Some claim that he went insane, others claim he has become the true Yama. Furthermore, it is said that Mulian, the trusted subordinate of Yan Dansheng, has been in charge ever since Yama went missing.

Mulian? Are these people mad or something? Why didn’t he call himself Sakyamuni?

Sakyamuni is one of Buddha’s many epithets. Mulian is the Chinese name of Maudgalyāyan, one of Siddhārtha Gautama’s disciples.

*cough* *cough* Ji, don’t be rude to the abbot!

Am I rude?

You just mentioned Sakyamuni! That’s rude.

Please forgive us…

It doesn’t matter. If what’s said is true it would explain the conflict between Feng Du and Cult of Tianlong. From what I heard Yan Dansheng is a cautious man who never acts without assurance. Directly confronting Cult of Tianlong is uncharacteristic for him.

Then who’s behind this exactly…

I have no idea. What I do know are perhaps mere rumors. But I heard about String-Sword Manor and other innocent sects. We should not turn a blind eye to this.

We should unite as one. Shaolin Temple will support the investigation of this Acquittal Period with all our means.

We really appreciate that.

Pure Fairy is apparently Shui’s nickname. And yeah, we do want her in the party.

Mr Gu fought against Pure Fairy at Young Heroes Contest. He knows that she is skillful, reaching third place at the contest. Maybe Mr Gu should go to Chengdu and seek her help.

Indeed, I have met Miss Shui with my junior brother at Baima Temple a few days ago. Her swordsmanship has much improved since we met at Huashan Mountain.

Buddha be praised, demons are appearing all over this chaotic world. Please take the Grandmaster Dharma’s Portrait and wipe out evil.

Thank you, abbot.

Well, the artifact has some use.

Shaolin Temple is a good place to train up the party’s starting skills.

We only have four people in the party so can’t really go crazy.

The monks are immune to crits which is unfortunate especially for Wei Ziling. They can also heal themselves. But this is actually a good thing: the more the battles are drawn out, the more training experience can be amassed.

The monks can drop Wisdom fruit and also two Internal style scrolls can be picked up.

The Shaolin internal style is good to make Shinji tougher.

In these battles you can also get some 1,000 year ginsengs, a very rare and valuable item.

One monk also gives useful information about a quest.

Why does he do that?

Because he’s unable to leave behind his hatred. Even after becoming a monk he still seeks revenge. And because of his hard work at training without taking care of himself, his kung fu is much better than me.

An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, I don’t see anything wrong with that.

As Buddhists we should let go of of the past, if one cannot forget one’s hatred one will only hurt oneself. Three months ago, he left here seeking revenge, I’m worried about him…

Do you know where he is?

His family was killed in the outlands, I think he may be in the desert, looking for his enemies.

OK, we will take note of it.

Amitabha, thanks, Mr Gu.

Another monk is interested in Great Vajra Fist.

Next up Gu pays a visit to Wudang sect.

I cannot compare to my father. You flatter me.

Gu, Wudang Sect feels sorry for you. It’s all my brother’s fault. We wished see the Hero of Liaodong’s feats with our own eyes.

…

Master Zhuo, it’s no one’s fault. The past is the past.

I’ve been so sensitive recently, maybe it’s because of my age… what’s the matter that brings you here?

Here’s the thing…

This Acquittal Period is hard to penetrate. Actually, there must be someone behind the curtain. I’ve sent Fang Yunhua to investigate the truth. He is in Hangzhou presently.

It seems you are also investigating the truth. Perhaps you can cooperate with Yunhua.

If you can help us, our strength will be doubled of course.

We received a letter from Yunhua. He wrote that something strange has happened at Longjing Village beside Westlake. I don’t think whether this is related to the Acquittal Period but it couldn’t hurt to go there and have a look.

Thank you for the your information. We will depart immediately. Sorry for interrupting your meditation.

Wait. There are some Sanhuang Baola Pellets, good for curing a wound. Please take them. Also, take this Ti Yunzong Art book for practicing Qinggong.

Thank you, Master Zhuo.

Maxed out Ti Yunzong will give +1 to Movement. There’s a case for giving it to Gu, but I’d rather give it to Wei Ziling.

There are two Wudang disciples with some tasks.

Ha, I write sometimes.

My uncle is a famous calligrapher. I like calligraphy because of him. And my master often tells me that the trick of practicing Taijiquan is to keep calm. Calligraphy is good for self-cultivation.

I heard that Grandmaster Zhang comprehended Heaven Reliant and Dragonslayer Art from Calligraphy. I can never do that. If only I had more talent.

There is a saying, “You can write whatever you want when you are drunk but nothing when you are sober”. It could maybe give you inspiration.

Fair enough! But I can drink only one glass of wine. I can only get drunk with wines from Hmong Territory. But this kind of wine is not sold on the market. A pity.

I miss wine of Hmong Territory so much. It has a mellow flavor with a light flower smell. You will not get drunk unless you drink to your heart’s content.

”Hmong” is another name for “Miao”. As in the Miao people.

There’s also another dude with a task.

A few days ago, my master practiced his swordsmanship on the hill behind me. When I send him his meals, he muttered something to himself like Ri Xi Reng Qing. Was this perhaps a skill trick?

… Ah, you’re Gu Yuexuan from Xiaoyao valley. I didn’t recognize you before.

You are so polite.

I heard you are looking into the Acquittal Period. Alas! We are not in the same age. You’ve already done some big things for Wulin, while I’m still a nobody.

Don’t say that, all things in their being are good for something, don’t belittle yourself improperly.

Hehe, thank you for comforting me. But I know myself and what I can do. Actually, I already learnt some skills somewhere else before I came here. I was once a disciple of Shanxi Pigua Clan.

I betrayed my master and came to Wudang Sect in order to learn superb skills.

Bah! Betrayed your master? How could you do that! I’m surprised that Wudang Sect took you in.

Ji, don’t be so rude.

Judging from the characters, this means something like “Punishment by three blades (slashes) and six holes (puncture wounds)”.

Oh! That looks very painful!

Gu, I’m too ashamed to go see them again after I left and they wouldn’t understand me anyway. But the birthday of my former master is coming up. A teacher one day is a father for a lifetime. I really want to send my regards to him.

Would you please send this letter to my Senior Brother Huang Tianhua? He is at Jingyang Ridge now. I believe he will send this letter to my former master for me…

OK, I will deliver it to your brother.

Gu Shi is also here, but can’t be recruited.

This is Gu Shi from Wudang Sect.

You are Gu Shi, right? I will beat you next time. I’m Jing Ji from Xiaoyao valley. I will be your opponent at the next Young Heroes Contest.

Yes, I would appreciate your guidance. I’m so happy to meet with so many seniors.

Heh! Senior brother, I like this boy.

Gu Shi’s father is one of the three masters of Wudang Sect.

It’s possible to train at Wudang Sect but it’s less effective as Shaolin. The disciples can’t heal themselves and drop too quickly.

The last of the three major sects to visit is Huashan.

 

[Darth Roxor]

gotta keep the whoopass going

 

[baud]

Buddha be praised.

 

[abnaxus]

Part XVI: Monkey Business

Spoiler

At Huashan it is not possible to train.

Thanks for your concern. I came here in regards to the unrest happening in Jianghu…

…The Imperial Court… do they really want to destroy Wulin once and for all?

We don’t know the truth yet. The five locations mentioned in the letter are the only clues we have. Master Cao, do you have any ideas?

I only heard about Villains’ Valley of western region among these five places. I’m sorry. People in Villains’ Valley are vicious. They are willing to accept any villain. If you want to take anything from them, you’ll have to fight for it.

The rulers of Villains’ Valley are called the Seven Villains. They seldom set foot in Central China. But recently, some people said that they saw two villains at Luoyang.

It’s them!

You’ve seen them before?

More than that, we were in conflict with them days ago. Their martials arts are nothing extraordinary.

But their deeds are heinous. The Gambler was notorious before the joined Villains’ Valley. He uses a variety of means to force other to gamble with him on money, women, treasures and even lives.

The Pervert is even more malicious than the Gambler. He rapes all kinds of people including men, women, the old and the young…

He is worse than a beast.

Phew, I wouldn’t have spared their lives last time if I knew who they were.

Besides them, Tian Candao is the most murderous villain among the seven and he is also the Master. He is so mysterious no one knows his real name or has laid eyes on him. Even the residents know little about the Valley Master.

We only know that he is at the second place in Wulinpedia Broadsword Techniques, next to Yama, Lord of Feng Du.

The second place…

Do you want to…

… fight?

*sigh*… Newborn calves are not afraid of tigers.

I heard that Jiang Yu, son of Master Jiang, often spends time at Baima Temple to discuss Buddish Scripture with the abbot. Some say he’s a genius. He hit someone into internal injury when he was eight and learned Pull when he was nine. Our power would be doubled if he would help us.

Thanks for telling us, Master Cao. We will go to Luoyang soon.

You are doing a service for Wulin at such a young age. It makes me jealous that Wuxia Zi has such excellent apprentices.

I will keep an eye on this Acquittal Period. You’ve had a tiring day. These two books contain unique Internal Styles of our sect that can help the growth of health and infer force. You can choose one.

Mountains Code will help Shinji to become tougher.

Thank you, Master.

(We have already informed three sects and got some important information. Now we can start investigating.)

Most locations are now unlocked, we are free to visit locations and conduct the investigations however we wish.

We will first enter the forest.

There are monkeys to be fought here… they’re actually p. tough.

The Monkey King is actually a special enemy that can drop useful stuff.

Further in the forest there is an encounter.

Kindness, lord!! Help, robber!!

What’s going on?

My lord, I’ve come across some robbers, can you help me?

I sincerely recommend you stay out of this.

Dude, you got destroyed by Shui. We know you’re pathetic.

Two men taking advantage of one little girl, that’s interesting.

Bah, little girl? You simply don’t understand the situation here.

Senior brother, are they the two rogues from before at Baima Temple?

Yeah, let’s get rid of them first.

Xiangyun could take them.

Bah, Shi Yan, don’t get carried away, we will be back!

Shi Yan…?!

Your name is Shi Yan… You are…

Hehe, that’s right, I am “Yan the Tomb Raider”.

It’s you! “Golden sword” was a gift to my father by Uncle Wang, and you stole it! Also my antique painting of Early Tang period! You’ve been a pain for us for a long time!

Hehe, I like robbing the rich and give to the poor, I just helped your father to do good deeds!

You all know her?

That is… because Miss Shi got quite a reputation with both sides.

Did you steal something from those two who were bothering you just before?

Hehe, they robbed a few pieces of emeralds from a rich merchant. I just wanted to teach them a lesson so they would make an honest living. It was good for them!

You are just the same as them. Brother, why did we help her?

Don’t say that. If you guys need my help, I can give you a discount, OK?

Want your help? So that we can rob somebody’s tomb?

Ha, who knows.

A thief in the party is necessary. It’s possible to steal some really good stuff. Plus Shi Yan is necessary to progress some quests.

Bah, you lack money? Where’s your ill-gotten money?

You misunderstand me! I just take money from the rich to give to the poor! Don’t you think this is a crooked world? The rich get richer and the poor get poorer. It is not fair.

I don’t want to argue about this with you.

Aha. If you want to do business, please come to me then, hehe.

So how much money do you want before you take action?

You are such a straightforward girl! I can give you a discount. So that will be 10,000 Qian for one operation.

10,000? That’s robbery!!

Don’t say that, I am a principled bandit who never does loathsome things such as robbery.

So what’s the difference between robbing and stealing? How can you shamelessly say that?

Cut the cackle! Take it or not, this is my price. By the way, I won’t do any dangerous stuff.

She’s worth all the money tbh.

Miss Shi, here is 10,000 Qian, hope you can help us.

OK, let me count.

Great, Gu Yuexuan is such a righteous person. I will come with you.

Shi Yan is squishy but that’s okay since she’s a ranged character (Flower rain is a yuge AoE and the most effective for stealing) and with her internal style she gets very high evasion.

Piercing eyes talent is useful to prevent pixel hunting.

The only thing to look out for is her getting wounded and going AWOL (very in character for her).

In the woods are also bears… but they’re actually weaker than the monkeys.

Howling is probably the wrong noise for bear.

Anyway, we have Xiangyun and Shi Yan but there’s a party of 9, we still need more friends.

 

[ghostdog]

The Monkey King possesses immense strength; he is able to lift his 13,500 jīn or 7960 kg staff with ease. He is also extremely fast, able to travel 108,000 li (21,675 kilometres (13,468 mi)) in one somersault. Sun also knows the 72 Earthly transformations, which allow him to transform into various animals and objects.

The monkey king should have kicked your ass

 

[abnaxus]

Part XVII: Swordsmith Manor

Spoiler

Moving on the world map there are random encounters. There are repeatable ones (fights with various groups like Tangmen, Feng Du, Tianlong, etc.) but also unique ones.

On the way to Swordswith Manor the group encounters the Master of Baicao Clan, Gong Guangjie.

Something wrong, Master Gong?

Phew! Is this Gu Yuexuan from Xiaoyao valley? I just want to discuss some business with you.

(Brother Gu is a gentleman who is easily deceived. I will take care of this.)

Mr Gong, we are listening.

We’ve been looking for some precious medicine for half a month. We want to borrow some money from you.

How much?

Just 10,000 Qian.

Hilarious. We just paid 10,000 to Shi Yan.

What?

Look, the medicinal plants growing here must be ginseng. Looking at recent anomalies, it must be 1,000 year old ginseng.

Ordinary ginseng is worth hundreds or thousands of money. We’ll take the 10,000 Qian as interest. We will return it all if we find ginseng.

But if you don’t find it….

*says rapidly* There is always a risk with investment, you should read the instructions carefully.

… (such a profiteer. Shall we give him the money?)

lel. No.

Forget it.

What a pity! Then we must go back. Bye.

Anyway, Swordsmith Manor is Shinji’s favourite place.

Seldom have I seen your eyes glowing like that.

The most legendary weapons in the world came from Swordsmith’s Manor, of course I’ve been eager to see these weapons for a long time.

Haha! Ji was obsessed with blades and swords since he was little and he likes to ask about the origins and stories of the blades and swords.

Tsk! I’m not a child anymore, so don’t talk about that all the time.

Alright, we will visit Master Ren and check if Swordsmith’s Manor has noticed anything unusual these days.

Hehe! Gu, you quite the reputation, no wonder people say the hero comes from the teenager.

It’s just that I have been around and know some people.

Why don’t you just admit that you’re strong?

Gu is being modest, you should learn from him.

Humph! Wait and see, I will be more famous than Gu one day.

Then I shall wait.

Here comes the Master.

You flatter me.

…

Hahaha, then these must be your brother in training and the daughter of Wei Bao?

I am Jing Ji from Xiaoyao valley, Master Ren.

I am Wei Ziling, Master Ren.

Looks like I am getting old, you are all so young, with bright eyes and steady steps. I am so envious of your master right now, with such talented apprentices.

Hehe! The master of Swordsmith’s Manor is so insightful.

Why are you getting so cocky? You’re on a cloud now.

Why should I deny it when he was telling the truth?

Hahaha, I like him, he’s not like Jiannan who just wants to play the Qin all day long. It’s getting silly, he has some talent yet no interest in martial knowledge and forging swords. Very troubling.

Not liking martial knowledge and forging swords while living in Swordsmith’s Manor? Such a waste!

Ji, everyone has his own ambition, haven’t the seniors of Wangyou been studying their dedicated field their whole life?

Got it! I was just saying…

Sorry for this, we came here to seek wisdom from the master.

I was talking about nothing important. What is the matter?

Have you heard about the Acquittal Period?

If you are talking about the conflict between the Cult of Tianlong and Feng Du, I heard about that, but what does this have to do with you?

My master believes this isn’t a regular conflict so he asked me to look into it. The more I look, the more intriguing it seems to be, with many sects already weakened beyond description. There seems to be a huge plot behind all this.

Really…

I’d like to help, but I’m afraid you’ll get nothing from this trip.

How so?

You know, every master of Swordsmith’s Manor is devoted to forging blades and we don’t get involved in Jianghu conflicts. When it comes to martial knowledge we may not be as competitive as the other sects. But it’s because our weapons other sects respect us and don’t look for trouble with us. I really can’t give you much information about this.

Guess we got nothing from this trip then.

I understand. The Swordsmith’s Manor forged countless legendary weapons and you should be careful from thieves. We shall leave now.

What? We just got here and we’re leaving already?

Don’t forget what we’re here for!

Hahaha! Jing Ji looks very interested in weapons. Now that you are here, there’s no need to leave in such a hurry, how about…

The Master is interrupted by a disciple.

Master, Master!

What’s with all the panic? Don’t you see I have guests here?

Master, something is wrong with the blade we are forging and we are out of precious Blue Crystal to forge the Qinghua Blade while the time to deliver it is drawing near.

So why do you panic? Send people to go and find Jiannan right away, tell him to fetch the Blue Crystal.

But… the young master said he would go out to look for the legendary book of Qin. It will be some time before we find the young master.

*sigh* That kid!

Looks like you got things to take care of, we should take our leave now, goodbye.

Smells like a sidequest.

It’s very unexpected that we’re short of the mineral we use to forge our weapons… and it’s the rarest mineral out there, Blue Crystal. Such a big problem.

At the “Sword Grave” it’s possible to interact with a sword.

Great!

It looks like crap!

It looks good!

Why? I’m just being contrary.

Are you silly or what? Look, the palm print is engraved on the hilt. Its owner must’ve been a sword master before death.

Before… death? Swords cannot be alive at all.

You’re so vulgar. This is the Sword Grave. Of course the swords buried here are all dead.

… I don’t understand.

The group returns to the sick man in Dukang village with XIangyun.

Yeah! Your skill is not too bad.

Ahaaaa! What did you prick me with?

Hee hee! It’s nothing, just some new medicine I made recently. So please describe the effect for me, Ji.

You…

lel, hory chit.

Sir, please give me your hand.

Really? Lady, I’m counting on you.

Um… it’s not only your tendon, your vein is also blocked… OK, I’ll give you an acupuncture, you will be fine.

I will also give you a prescription later, after a few days you should be completely healed.

Ah! My hand feels much better now! You a lifesaver, lady! Thank you very much!

It’s just a doctor’s responsibility, no need for that.

No, how can I not return the favor? Right, I just got this blue ore a few days ago, it’s pretty nice.

I’ve been reluctant to sell it. But now I think I’ve found a suitable owner for it.

Well…

Please take it as a gift, lady.

Well… thanks, sir. This ore looks very beautiful, I shall treasure it.

Yeah, it’s what Ren Haoran needs, actually.

The blue crystal is given to Ren Haoran for a reward and another quest.

Yes… that’s it. And the quality is very good.

So just take it.

You’re just going to give it to me for free?

You are welcome to it. The Blue Crystal is useless to us, if you need it, consider it a gift.

Well… if you insisit I will not refuse. However I can’t take it for free since I know how difficult it is to acquire.

This… this is…

Hehe… I know you like swords very much. Would you like to see our skills?

Yeah! Of course, you don’t know how excited he was when he first came here.

Bah! Keep quiet!

Hahahaha… I want to hear your comments. I made this sword in my youth, its name is Breeze. What do you think about it?

… It is so light and easy to use, just as its name suggests. It is a good sword.

You know it well, I gift it to you.

Really? Thank you very much!

Gu and Wei don’t use swords, though, so let me have a think…

No, please don’t bother, Breeze is already more than reward enough.

Heh! Yeah, he is so happy, we can’t thank you too much!

Don’t be noisy! Do you even realize how good this sword is?

It was made by Master Ren and you are very pleased with it, so obviously it is very good. Heh…

Tsch!

Hahaha… you are lively, Jiannan hasn’t been here recently but you make this place feel better.

The Blue Crystal sword is soon finished.

! …This blade has a jade sheen and looks very sharp. Another good blade!

Look at Ji, he’s drooling again.

Eh… Humph!

Heh… this is Qioinghua blade ordered by young master Yan of Qingcheng sect. I was just about to deliver it to Qingcheng sect.

Yan has extraordinary swordsmanship, if he possesses this, it would be great.

Extraordinary swordsmanship? I would really like to meet him after hearing this.

Master, we can help with the delivery of the blade.

As you've already fetched me the Blue Crystal… I cannot bother you with this…

Don’t worry Uncle Ren! We travel a lot, delivering this blade is a piece of cake.

I see. In that case I will let you deliver the sword. In the meantime I shall think about what to gift Gu and Wei.

Really?

Really, master Ren, there’s no need for the gift.

I didn’t ask for a gift.

This time I agree with Ji, it would be impolite to say no to the senior!

You two…

Shinji can equip Breeze even though he’s supposed to dual wield.

The other sword has restricted use.

Next to deliver the blade to Yan Yu.

 

[Darth Roxor]

goddamn sowrd guards

 

[abnaxus]

Part XVIII: Qingcheng sect

Spoiler

On the way to Qingcheng sect there is a curious random encounter.

‘k

These guys are surprisingly tough.

But the Shaolin training pays off.

Each generation produces its own outstanding talents. Take the Laba Porridge. Li Si, let’s go.

The bringers of reward and punishment… it is rare to encounter them…

Yes.

Shame this was a once in a lifetime encounter of sorts.

At Qingcheng sect Gu already knows Yan Yu.

This is Jing Ji, and this is Wei Ziling of Wei Castle.

Nice to meet you.

Hehe! You are still taciturn. Master Ren of Swordsmith’s Manor sent us here to give you the Qionghua Sword.

Thanks.

This guy is very taciturn indeed.

You should learn from him.

You think I am noisy?

You bet I do.

Hum! You are getting bolder. You even dare to make jokes.

…

Don’t mind them, they’re always like this.

They are good friends.

I am not her good friend!

I am not his good friend!

Hehe! You are right!

It is a good sword, but –

But?

Something bad about it?

It just hasn’t got a worthy opponent to test. I’d like to see Qingcheng sect’s swordsmanship!

Let’s begin.

Shinji spent some time training so can take him.

Cheers.

That was a good fight.

I didn’t expect Ji being neck to neck with Yan.

Hehe! But Qingcheng sect swordsmanship really deserves its reputation.

Ji’s kung fu really has improved a lot.

Hey! If you’re gonna praise me, do it right without beating around the bush.

Bah! I was afraid you’d get cocky.

Now that the blade is here, we should take our leave now, Yan. We will go back and report to Master Ren.

What a pity, let’s have another match next time.

… I will go with you.

What’s wrong, are you not satisfied with the blade or something?

I want to give my thanks to Master Ren.

All right, the more the merrier.

Gu…

What’s wrong?

Yan is so silent, how will that be merrier?

…

Yan Yu is a decent but boring character with a great talent.

Perspective is used to raise attributes and can only be acquired by finishing quests. So it’s worth having this guy around just for that.

There’s nothing much else to do at Qingcheng sect. Save for a disciple with a task.

There’s also a sinister Taoist around but he doesn’t seem related to any quest.

Anyway, Gu Yuexuan, your performance at Young Heroes Contest was outstanding. Wuxia Zi should be pleased and satisfied with you.

You flatter me, Ziyang Taoist. People of all sects and houses were remarkable. I won the Young Heroes Contest just by luck.

Huh, I think so too.

(What an annoying person.)

Huh? Gu, what’s wrong with your collar? I will fix it for you.

Well…

(Ziyang Taoist is famous in Wulin, I believe he wouldn’t hurt me. It would be ungracious to dodge.)

You should pay attention to your clothes and words. You are the representative of Xiaoyao sect, don’t bring shame on them. Hehe.

… Thank you, Ziyang Taoist.

The Master of Qingcheng sect is taciturn as well. It’s his only line.

 

[abnaxus]

Part IXX: Love & Honour

Spoiler

Returning to Huashan, there are some stairs leading up from the training yard to the top of the mountain.

There’s a chess book on the table that Wangyou valley chessbrah will undoubtedly be interested in.

At the mountain top is Cao E’hua and a random putz.

Thank you for your advice. I’ll exert myself not to bring shame to Huashan sect. Has there been news about your brother yet?

Father has sent many people to find him but still nothing… Heaven rewards the good, he will be safe and sound.

I hope so.

Alright, prepare for the morning lessons and don’t be late.

Got it, see you later.

Why did we just eavesdrop?

Heh! Didn’t you think the atmosphere between them was brimming with youth? Why would we disturb them?

Tch, we’re around the same age as them.

But…

But what?

That girl just now is the daughter of the Master of Huashan sect?

Yes. Master Cao has a daughter and a son. Cao Yinshan is firstborn and the first disciple of Huashan sect, quite good at swordsmanship. Lady Cao is his daughter who I’ve met at Young Heroes Contest.

Hey, what are you thinking? Did her pretty face make you absent-minded?

Non… nonsense! Why would I tell you my thoughts?

Humph, you’re really thinking about Lady Cao!

How would you know I’m thinking about… Lady Cao! You’re being unreasonable!

A Shaolin appears out of nowhere.

That disciple of Huashan sect is a nerd, but the Chong-Ling Swordsmanship he practices is not bad… *hic*

(Bah, he’s really drunk!)

Chong-Ling Swordsmanship? What’s that? It seems no big deal.

It’s… a swordsmanship *hic* that the forebear of Huashan sect created with Yue Lingshan. Just something improvised by two kids, of course it never gained formidable force.

But… *hic* the “Share in Death” is quite remarkable…

Share in Death? The technique to perish together with enemies?

Who knows. I picked that up from rumors. Only down there one can find out the actual effect of Share in Death.

Down there? Where?

Of course personally asking the Linghu Chong! Hahaha! *hic*… I’ve heard about the Monkey Wine brewed by the monkeys of Huashan Mountain… I’m gonna look for it now.

Spoiler

Linghu Chong is the protagonist of the novel "Smiling Proud Wanderer", a major influence for the game. He’s the Huashan sect forbear Wudian talked about.

This sidequest is a nod to the novel.

Who’s this crazy monk…

Talking to the putz triggers the quest.

Hello, your swordsmanship is gorgeous, it doesn’t look like it belongs to Huashan sect. Could you tell me where it originates?

Eh? Who are you? I’ve never seen you before.

They are from Xiaoyao valley, I come from Wei Castle. We’re currently looking into the Acquittal Period and are here to see Master Cao.

I see. I’m just a disciple of Huashan sect and am flattered you talking to me. My swordsmanship…

Actually I know the name of this swordsmanship: it’s called Chong-Ling Swordsmanship. It was created by Grandmaster Linghu and Yue Lingshan.

Heh… Miss Wei is experienced and knowledgeable. Chong-Ling Swordsmanship is not recorded in the annals of our Martial Knowledge. I found it when I sorted out the belongings of ancestors. It was engraved on an old bed of Grandmaster Zhang.

The engraving was incomplete. The famous “Share in Death” was missing.

Chong-Ling Swordsmanship was named after Linghu Chong and Yue Lingshan. So it would be best if two people from the same sect practice this swordsmanship together. You really shouldn’t practice it alone.

*sigh* You’re right. Actually… there is someone I’d like to practice with…

This person you have in mind… you mean E’hua, the daughter of Master Cao?

Eh… hehe… she wouldn’t like me anyway. Only someone like Senior brother Cao Yinshan would deserve the love of Senior sister. Definitely not me.

Don’t belittle yourself. Nothing can’t be achieved if you set your mind to it!

Yes, you are right. I’ll try my best. But… she is always looking at the sky and barely says a word after returning from the last Young Heroes Contest.

I think… she fell in love with someone. I wonder which man has the honor of receiving her love.

OK. Let’s make a deal. I can help you discover the thoughts of Miss Cao and you teach me Chong-Ling Swordsmanship.

Well…

(Chong-Ling Swordsmanship is not some excellent technique and it doesn’t belong to our sect. I don’t betray my master even if I taught it to someone else. Besides, to know the thoughts of Senior sister… it’s worth it!)

OK, thank you, Miss Wei.

I wonder which man has the honor to receive her love… do I have a chance?

Wei Ziling will have to do a bit of sneaking.

(A girl’s mind is difficult to know. Gu is such a nerd. I should do it myself. Huh… I should find an appropriate opportunity.)

…Moonlight may not be as bright as the sun, but it can guide people in the darkness. Moonlight may not be as warm as the sun, but it can accompany people to the dawn.

A flashback cutsene starts.

Let’s begin.

Pure Fairy, come on.

So that’s how Shui only came in third: she was in the wrong bracket.

No weapons?

My two fists are my weapons.

(Matching the swordsmanship of E’mei sect with bare fists? You’ll learn your lesson.)

The match begins… NOW!!

Shui does her best but can’t even hit Gu.

I’ll surrender if you can parry my next move.

Please.

This swordsmanship is still immature, I’ll lose if it comes into perfection.

Then I’ll practice more and challenge you again.

Cao was there to witness the match.

Gu goes on to win the tournament.

Last match, here comes Xiao Fu from String-Sword Manor…

Cao finds something of Gu’s after the tournament.

Ah! It’s Gu’s…

So…

(This must be… a gift from the heavens.)

(I will keep this sachet… with all my heart.)

Or the courage to… return this sachet. No, perhaps I’m too selfish. Maybe deep within my heart, I want to keep this sachet…

Can I come near him a bit more?

Funnily, the putz was there too.

*sob*

Who’s there?!

Next time we speak to the putz, he goes full retart.

What’s wrong with this guy today? He is ruthless and brutal. It seems like he got hurt badly.

Ah… I think we should leave him alone.

Brother Gu… are you Brother Gu?

Brother, he is calling you.

Me? What’s wrong?

People say that Gu Yuexuan is a superb martial artist with handsome appearance… I can never compare with you…

They just flatter me.

I am Na Gesui from Xinjiang, disciple of Huashan. I want to challenge you!

What a strange name.

Are you serious? My brother is far beyond you. It’s not fair at all.

This is a request… about the dignity of a man. Mr Gu, will you take it or not?

I understand.

We already know the guy’s an utter putz.

(No wonder Wei Ziling likes him. I am no match for Guy Yuexuan forever…)

The putz gets a fit of nerd rage but he’s still a putz.

!?

Why is he suddenly berserk?

Melancholic Palm of the West was once a famous technique… the sadder you feel the stronger it is.

Ahh! Ahh! Again!!!

This Melancholic Palm you improvised is really something. With practice, you will be a legend later.

Maybe I misjudged him.

Hahaha… you deserve your reputation. I’ll strive to surpass you.

I believe that day will come.

There’s still some continuation to this quest.

Lady Wei, this is the Chong-Ling Swordsmanship I promised, all transcribed by myself. But forgive me, it still lacks the “Share in Death”.

Much appreciated! Rumor has it that Linghu Chong and Yue Lingshan tied the knot and settled down in Mei Manor which later became Swordsmith’s Manor. Maybe Swordsmith’s Manor is the best place to look for “Share in Death”.

It’s funny to speak to E’hua with Gu.

Nice to meet you, Miss Cao.

Father told me you are investigating the Acquittal Period. It’s important for the safety of Wulin. Just tell me if you need help.

You are so kind, I won’t forget it.

So… (I must return the sachet to Mr Gu)

What’s the matter, Miss Cao?

…Nothing, please take care, Mr Gu.

(I… I’m so selfish…)

…

What are you looking at, pervert? She doesn’t even see us.

Shut up! I… I didn’t watch her at all. It’s you who’s watching, be quiet.

Humph, you know the truth!

Why are you angry for no reason?

…! You must be the junior brother of Gu and Miss Wei. I apologize, please forgive me.

(She just ignored us. And now she acts natural and graceful.)

Oh, it doesn’t matter. Nice to meet you.

…Hi. I’m… Jing Ji.

You just said “hi”, right? You’ve never been so polite before!

…

Mr Gu, you must be hungry after walking so long. I prepared some dishes. You can pack the food if you don’t have time, in case you are hungry.

… (Yeah, you are the only good at cooking. We have a deal that I will cook tonight. I bought many ingredients from the market this morning and put them at the tavern. They will be bad tomorrow.)

We… really appreciate your kindness. But we will have dinner somewhere else and you can cook for us next time.

….Huh. Sorry, Miss Cao, we have to go now.

OK… Mr Gu, please take care.

…

Let’s go, quit it with your dirty looks!

I’m not giving a dirty look at all! What would you like for dessert? You can make an exception and add one dish.

Of course, red bean paste, the more the better!

Don’t eat too much!

…

The last thing to do at Huashan is finding the pendant for the Qingcheng disciple.

With Shi Yan’s talent it can be easily spotted.

The reward for returning the pendant is an internal style.

 

[abnaxus]

Part XX: Pure Fairy

Spoiler

It’s worthwile to periodically return to Xiaoyao valley.

After mastering first internal style Wuxia Zi will teach Gu and Shinji new skills after some sparring.

We’ve already reached your requirements! We’ll show you.

Oh? Nice. I’d love to see that.

It’s fun to spar with Wuxia Zi but he’s of course unbeatable.

Ji, you use swords and blades so the Art of Sun and Moon can increase your strength and defense.

Thank you, Master!

Thanks… I won’t let you down!

These two internal styles will mainly give Gu and Shinji more health and energy. 90% of the time their default internal styles are best.

Whilst in Xiaoyao valley, one must also not forget to introduce new party members to Hu.

It is said that Yan the Tomb Raider often gives money to the poor. You are a young girl with a chivalrous heart. I admire that.

I… I will not be happy with your compliment! My eyes may be wet… but I’m not crying!

I won’ t compare myself with Swordsmith’s Manor. You flatter me.

Hello, Mr Hu. I’m Xiangyun, sorry for your trouble. Did your waist hurt recently?

It has been much better thanks to your acupuncture, Miss Shen.

That’s good. I will make another bowl of medicine soup for you. Can I borrow your kitchen? I have invented a new recipe!

Ah… that would be unnecessary. I’m fine now.

In the meantime we already amassed enough rare ore to forge the Armor of Justice for Gu.

It’s also funny to return to Ji the kitty.

What the hell are you talking about? Damn, it is me who found the cat and I declare that from now on his name is Wei Ziling. Hey, Wei Ziling, come and eat!

*meow* (angrily scratching everywhere)

It hurts… you are such an ungrateful animal!

It is said that cats are similar to their masters. That seems true. Come on, Ji, give this Ji one incisive lesson.

Next the party travels to Chengdu to finally recruit Shui Panpan.

Chengdu has another name, Rongcheng, and a reputation as “nature’s storehouse” since ancient times. It’s not only a place for fostering great men but also a top-notch gastronomic city.

I remember a friend of our master is running a restaurant here? Right, it’s old Nian.

Show some respect, Ji, we should call him Grandpa Nian.

Heh heh, you’re just like my mother, brother Gu.

Tch! Grandpa Nian has a daughter our age, she’s a great cook. Speaking of this, we haven’t seem them for several years.

Since we are here now, we should pay a visit to Furong Restaurant and show our respect to Grandpa Nian.

I’ve always been looking forward to have a taste of Sichuan cuisine in Chengdu. Chinese Cabbage in Soup, Mapo Tofu… just thinking of them already makes my mouth water.

In that case, Baofu Restaurant near the market is known far and wide, we could try our luck there and let Ziling taste some local delicacies.

Why don’t we go to Furong Restaurant directly?

If we go there, Grandpa Nian will treat us with generous hospitality and charge no money. We will be ashamed if we disturb them and become freeloaders like that. They have a business to run, after all.

Right, so what are we waiting for? I’m starving to death after traveling so long. Now let’s have a big meal!

Sichuan cuisine is famous for its spices and can hurt the stomach. You must go easy or you’ll get a bad belly.

You should be worried about yourself.

Hum, regarding goodwill as malice. It’s best if you do as I said.

In Chengdu are some rumors about zombies… must be related to the Puppet Husk.

Living… corpses? There are zombies here?

This is just a superstition. I don’t believe it!

(Zom… zombies?)

We buy some superior rice here, it might come in useful.

Thanks to Shi Yan’s piercing eyes talent Gu notices a book under a table leg. Might be related to a quest.

There’s a butcher on the market in need of a bear’s paw… we actually got one from fighting the bears in the forest. But the reward is just some experience.

Chengdu is home to Tangmen clan but no one here is interested in the Acquittal Period.

At the Baofu restaurant are more zombie rumors. The rumors being related to Beastmaster’s Manor is a good lead.

A’fu also said that the appearance of that zombie… was similar to the older master of Beastmaster’s Manor – Ji Chaha. Old master is eighty years old and very health but he died from typhus recently.

These zombie rumors.. spread after the death of old master. But please don’t stay away from Sichuan simply because of these rumors.

There is an event upon ordering some food here.

I told you, Ji, you are not supposed to eat too much of Sichuan cuisine as it is hot and spice yet you devour it like a wolf… does your stomach still ache?

Greedy guy! Let’s see if you’ll eat like that next time.

Get off my back! Let me use my inner force to suppress it… purr!

Sir, don’t try to be brave. I still have some toilet paper here, why don’t yo go to the toilet again?

Well… I have… my own plans!

You’ve already gone to the toilet back and forth so many times!

Ji, if your stomach still aches, let me carry you upstairs so that you can lie down. You may feel a little better that way.

Don’t… don’t touch me! I’d rather die than let you carry me.

The bustle happens to attract the attention of Shui.

Miss Shui. Now we are…

Mr Jing doesn’t seem himself, what’s the matter? I’m afraid he might have eaten something wrong. Sichuan cuisine is known for being hot and spicy. Many outsiders are not used to this and inevitably end up with an upset stomach. I have some medicine here that may cleanse your system, you can take it if you trust me.

Wow, amazing, my stomach doesn’t hurt anymore!

The formula of this medicine is specially made by our sect. It can relieve stomach ache and its effects are immediate.

I remember you are always fiddling with your medicine, aren’t you, Shen? Why didn’t you say a word then… well! You were just waiting to humiliate me, weren’t you?

Isn't Doraemon a time-travelling cat? Translator breh taking the piss again.

Shinji then humiliates himself.

…

Sorry... I forgot to tell you this medicine might have… some side effects.

Once Shinji gets off the can it is time to recruit Shui. She doesn’t join easily.

Go away now!

Thanks for your concern. We are all safe and sound but… we won’t give up until the traitors are eliminated and our patriarch’s relics are retrieved.

Who on earth is this traitor and what’s going on with the relics? What do you know about it, Gu?

I know little of the whole story. Besides, this involves internal affairs of E’mei sect, discussing it would be irresponsible.

(I remember during the fireworks party, we were drugged by a girl claiming to be a disciple of E’mei sect… is she the one Miss Shui is looking for?)

It won’t hurt to let you know… and it might be helpful. I came to Chengdu this time mainly because I heard some news about the traitor Liu Qingyin.

Liu Qingyin?

Years ago, she stole fragments of Nine Yin Manual left by Patriarch Zhou of our sect. Since then, she stayed secluded for years and no one heard about her. But recently, I heard that there was a woman claiming herself to be Nine Yin who defeated many people with Nine Yin Bone Claw.

I guess… that female is none other than Liu Qingyin.

Nine Yin? That wicked woman in the fireworks party?

…

Have you met her before?

We ran into her and she told us she was from E’mei sect but was brought under the control of Feng Du by means of vicious poison.

Humph! That wicked woman was just trying to distract me.

I did notice she was surreptious in her behavior, therefore she might not be from Feng Du as she claimed. It’s more likely she’s connected with this mysterious force we’re investigating.

I didn’t expect that… Liu has deviated more from the right track than I thought.

Since Miss Shui is also looking for Nine Yin, how about we join up?

It sounds like a good idea, but I’m afraid I would be a hindrance.

How could you be a hindrance? It would be best for us if you would join us. And I find you very congenial, that does not happen often. Help me persuade Miss Shui, Gu, please.

Ziling is right. Miss Shui, your master would not want you to get stuck in danger alone when you confront the traitor.

If we go together, we could take care of each other and what’s more the more helpers we get, the better.

How could I refuse your kindness? It’s just that I haven’t fathomed the subtleness of “Ice-heard sword” yet… therefore I do not deserve to be your helper. So please forgive me for declining your invitation.

Luckily Wei Ziling is desperate to get an older sister in the party.

That’s easy! You can tell us which part you cannot fathom and we can figure it out together.

This involves E’mei sect’s…

It sounds great! Thanks for your help then.

… I told you she was much more decisive than you in her way of speaking and acting, Gu.

Well… she is indeed.

Ji, how about practicing with Miss Shui? You two together may figure out the subtleness of the Ice-heart sword, since Ji has researched blades and sword in great detail. Heh, you can still move, can’t you?

Tsch, of course!

After training at Shaolin and Wudang, Shinji actually stands a chance against Shui.

The fight starts badly for Shinji with Shui evading his attack two turns in a row and kicking his ass, but at least she didn’t counter.

Shinji gets back into the fight with a crit, but in the end like with Wei Ziling he manages to win by the skin of his teeth due to his Cheat Button talent. If she had countered, Shinji would be toast.

Who knows, maybe this kid could actually win the Young Heroes Contest.

After watching Mr Jing’s Xiaoyao swordsmanship, I have finally figured out the essence that had been puzzling me all these days.

Your swordsmanship does not show any homicidal intent when you are using it, while wherever your sword’s edge goes it casts a chill over everyone. I have finally had the chance to watch the swordsmanship of E’mei sect. It is indeed like a needle hidden in silk floss.

When he’s speaking of martial arts, Ji turns into an expert suddenly.

Shui is still reluctant to join after all this but Wei Ziling manages to convince her.

Thank you for helping me with my swordsmanship, I shall never forget your kindness. I am going to fulfill my commitments as promised. However, as I have just mastered my swordsmanship, my mind is still not free of obstructions. So I’d like to visit Master Jing Lan of Jing Yun Convent and stay secluded there to practice my swordsmanship. I will come to seek you after having perfected it.

Stay secluded to practice with your sword… how boring is that! It will be more fun if we practice together.

Ziling, Buddhist martial arts require tranquility and meditation, so let’s just leave Miss Shui alone.

Come with us, Panpan! Would you?

Hmm… alright, Ziling. Since you are inviting me with all this sincerity, it would be cruel to turn you down… I will stay with you a while before heading to Jing Yun Convent.

Bravo! I know you will be a big help to us, Panpan.

Anyway, Shui is the best swordfighter in the game. More importantly, she has a direct stake in the main plot.

Her starting internal style is already p. decent.

Her unique talent is p. curious.

Now to look around the town a bit.

 

[Darth Roxor]

updated my sichuan cuisine.txt

 

[abnaxus]

Part XXI: Chengdu

Spoiler

There’s a sales gurl in town with a social credit quiz… ang moh are sorely out of luck here.

It’s such a waste that a talented and beautiful girl like me is selling fruit here.

Puff! That’s really shameless boasting. Would anyone compliment herself like this?

Why are you laughing? You may think I’m just a fruit vendor, but I’m the one most knowledgeable about the history and literature of this dynasty!

Do you want to play a Q&A game with me? I will ask you questions about the great scholars and major officers of this dynasty and will reward you greatly if your answers are correct!

Alright, let me give it a try.

What’s the name of the new regulation Zhang Juzheng implemented?

It’s said that Liu Bowen was good at composing, what song did he compose?

…yeah, well after getting everything right there is actually a gud reward.

More people are connecting the alleged zombies to Beastmaster’s Manor. Sounds like a place to check out in the near future.

There’s also an easy fetch quest to pick up here.

Chengdu is also the home of Clan of Matchless Broadsword.

We are sorry for what happened in Luoyang, Xiahou Fei. I have brought Ziling to apologize to you.

…I’m sorry, please forgive me for what I have done.

Forget it. We all were taken in by that witch. However, you were brave to pick a quarrel with her under those circumstances.

She’s just good at making people angry.

You think it is funny turning me into a laughingstock?

Actually, I think it is very funny. Hahah…

…Uncle Wuxia Zi is right. Your smile is terrifying.

I just want to terrify you with it.

You two are becoming closer. You were like two old foes when I met you last time…

We are not close. Are you blind?

Hum… exactly my words.

They have always been like that. Don’t mind them.

I’m so envious. If only Furong and I were… Ah! I still have work to do. Please make yourself at home!

The Master of Matchless Broadsword clan isn’t interested in Acquittal Period either.

Giving a meat bun to a dog leads to another quest.

Hum… don’t look at me so pitifully… here!

You are too caring, Jing Ji!

Er, it keeps wagging its tail. Does it want to take us somewhere? Let’s go.

It’s digging something from the ground… is that a bone?

Let me have a look at that bone…

It’s just from a butcher’s shop! Why are you interested?

…We’d need to bring the butcher before the official if it were from a butcher’s shop.

…?

What’s wrong with it, Yuexuan?

There is nothing wrong with it. This is a human bone.

!!

A human bone? You’re not kidding, Yuexuan?

Where did the dog find this bone?

We need to look into this carefully while a man’s life is involved.

…Don’t speak with that bone your hand, Yuexuan. So scary.

It should belong to a corpse… look, there’s a leg bone over there…

What the!! I don’t want to see…

You’re so familiar with bugs and other creeping things, why are you afraid of an incomplete corpse?

…None of your business.

I think we need to go to the official.

You mean this one was killed…

I know nothing about autopsy but according to the corpse’s blackened throat poison may be involved. Let’s go see the official first.

I don’t know what poison it is, I can’t tell in this state.

Some time later…

Humph! I can see those constables just making lame excuses and not being in the mood to handle the case.

It takes some time to discover the true identity of the dead and it’s even harder to find the killer.

These officials don’t care about the death of mere civilians. If they make a perfunctory effort that man’s death will be for nothing.

We have to wait and see if the government have taken charge of the case…

Nearby a beggar gets butthurt by some gossip.

…

It is unfortunate… this case ended up this way.

I feel something is not right. That poisonous bait intended for dogs… could that really be enough to kill a man?

This is not the truth… Master Xu, I will avenge you in the end.

Look at that man, brother Gu.

Hmm, he looks like a disciple of Beggars’ sect. From his reaction, could it be that there is something more to this?

Thinking so much won’t help at all. Why don’t we come forward and ask him?

That’s right. We can’t stay out of the way as it’s us who found the body after all. Let’s go to Hangzhou Beggars’ sect and ask Master Li.

Chengdu is also the home of Baicao sect… the best pellets can be bought here, but they’re all annoying pricks.

There’s a child near Baicao in need of some food. It’s worth keeping an eye on simple tasks like this as they may unexpectedly lead to great rewards.

In the outdoor restaurant there’s another familiar face.

It seems you have encountered a problem. What can we do for you?

You are so kind, but this is but a little problem. I’m a novelist, focusing on chivalrous stories. In order to get inspiration I’m here to feel the ancient… er, the culture of Jianghu.

However I’ve been here for some time and still have no idea.

Novel… which novel? Pilgrimage to the West, Romance of the Three Kingdoms or Water Margin?

Hehe… I wouldn’t need to worry if I could wrote those classic novels. My novels are all little known. Now that I’ve met you here, I’ll give you one of my novels.

…Eh, where is my book?

Ah… I’m so miserable! How could you do this to my book…

The book is the one Shi Yan already spotted upon entering the city.

The book can be retrieved by handing over 10 precious herbs and we’ve quite a few of those already.

Interdastingly the book functions as an internal style.

We’ll have to come back here later.

Lastly the group pays a visit to Nian’s restaurant.

It’s so kind of you. Please forgive us we didn’t bring any gifts.

That boiled cabbage you cooked last time was very delicious. Can you cook it one more time?

Of course, I can do it for you right now.

Really! Great…

Don’t make trouble, Jing Ji. We still have things to do.

Hum! What else do you know except for eating?

Why are you so angry?

This is…?

This is Wei Bao’s daughter, Ziling. Ziling, this is Furong, the daughter of Chef Nian of Furong Restaurant. Master Wei and Chef Nian are both best friends of our master.

Such a nice name. You are so beautiful, sister.

You are so sweet… your cooking skill must be very good too. It’s also one of my interests, perhaps we can exchange experience some day.

You are good at cooking? Great. I’m trying new dishes…

You are doing it like this? When starching, I like to…

…Just let them talk all day.

Ziling… we really need to leave now.

We have chatted very congenially, Furong. Let’s talk about it another day.

Goodbye. Oh, I almost forgot. This is a kitchen knife manual my father wrote before. Can you bring it to your master?

No problem, thank your father for me.

The Ox dissecting was Rong Rong’s signature skill. It’s really gud.

Grampa Nian on the other hand has nothing much to say.

For now we’re done in Chengdu.

 

[Darth Roxor]

the dead john doe

 

[abnaxus]

Part XXII: Leshan Giant Buddha

Spoiler

The party heads to Leshan Giant Buddha to look for the Chengdu guy’s pendant.

The pendant is randomly lying around.

Some sloot appears out of nowhere.

Where did you come from?

Hehe, I have changed my mind. Even if you leave the pearls, I will you kill you. Because… I hate beautiful young girls the most. I will torture you as well to see if your two lovers feel sorry for you or not?

If you’re gonna fight three people all on your own better make sure you’re stronk. Sloot doesn’t have what it takes at all.

Thanks for the training.

At the foot of the giant Buddha Shi Yan’s talent will highlight items that otherwise would be very difficult to find.

The items are undoubtedly quest related.

On top of the Buddha is the Buddhist temple with some stuff to do.

The rice bought in Chengdu can be given to some kid in exchange for a rather useful internal style.

The five stones can be exchanged for a somewhat useful equippable item.

Elsewhere in the temple is another familiar face.

Strange… they were supposed to arrive at this time…

Hello, master…

I recently joined into Buddhism, please don’t call me master.

(He speaks in an elegant manner, just like that Jiang Wang.)

Are you the new disciple of master Huineng?

Er… do you know me?

I have met you once during the Buddhist ritual of Yulan last year. I’m Gu Yuexuan, and this is Jing Ji and Wei Ziling.

Nice to meet you?

Have you encountered some problems, master Xu Zhen? What can we do for you?

I was ordered to come here to preach one month ago. Before I left, the abbot said he would let other disciples send some scriptures. But I still haven’t received their message. I’m afraid…

I will look out for them during traveling.

Amitabha, thank you so much.

Outside the temple are more rumors about zombies.

The cave, though, is completely empty.

Returning the pearls to the guy in Chengdu nets a good item to equip for Shinji.

For now we’re done in Chengdu. Before continuing investigating it would be a good idea to get more party members. Xiao Fu should be added to the party next.

Interdastingly, after having talked to the master of Swordsmith’s Manor his son is now in the forest playing his Qin.

For now, though, we can’t do anything here.

On the way to String-Sword Manor there’s an interdasting random encounter.

Really, Yaksha Guardian is skillful. How was she captured by monks? I don’t believe that!

Believe it or not! Anyway, I believe it! Lord Gongsun Jian also believes it. We all know Lord Gongsun loves Yaksha Guardian the most. He’s on a rampage.

Yaksha Guardian is like god. How dare these monks!

I intend to go to Shaolin Temple and save Yaksha Guardian with Lord Gongsun.

I’m in too!

Brother Gu, Ji…!

Seems like something quest related as well.

 

[abnaxus]

Part XXIII: Pandemonium

Spoiler

Chit’s going down at String-Sword Manor manor again.

Why are there people running all over?

They really are, and some of them are injured! What is going on?

Excuse me, are you OK? What happened here?

According to rumors many people died here a few days ago, and the Taoists say this place is full of an evil aura, we – we really souldn’t have come here! Those two guys must be the devil kings of hell, it’s them… they are manipulating those ghosts… I can’t stay any longer!

Calm down, can you tell me exactly what happened here?

It’s like this: we are members of the Steel-sword sect, it was said that after the slaughter String-sword manor would be empty. So we… we intended to… to…

So you wanted to take it as your own home? The young master of String-sword manor is alive and well!

We knew this isn’t… isn’t pretty. A few hours ago, we brought food and wine here trying to take over this place. But we saw… a man all in black, yet pale face… a young man.

You must be talking about Xiao Fu. Then what?

He just stared at us without a word, his eyes were hollow and cold. But we outnumbered him so weren’t afraid and tried to drive him away.

But no matter how much we jeered and pretended to beat him he just… stood still, motionless, as if he were a ghost! And suddenly he sat down cross-legged and picked up a strange sword… or Qin? I don’t know!

I saw him touch the strings and producing an extremely weird noise. We all felt very weird yet none us dared to stop him from playing.

He was like this when he was in Wangyou valley, as if he were playing for ghosts. Keep talking!

Yes… he was bitter and full of grief, and he likes wearing black, which looks rather horrifying at midnight… even I was frightened several times…

Then I suddenly heard someone making strange noises. I couldn’t tell whether it was crying or laughing… then I noticed several others behaving unusual one by one…

Some of them were screaming, some howling, some lost control and pissed themselves all over… some took off their clothes and scratched their body til the skin was broken and blood came out… I was astonished and didn’t know what to do…

Just at that time I felt extreme pain in my back. When I turned around I saw one of my brothers hitting me! I saw many of them becoming mad and starting to kill each other. It was… just like a living hell.

I thought I would surely die if I stayed there any longer. So I stormed out with some brothers who were still in their right mind covering my ears… horrible… that sound of Qin was not made by a human. Everyone was bewitched.

Gu, what do you think happened here? Could it be… there really are… ghosts?

I don’t think so. After hearing what that guy said then men of Steel-sword sect must be controlled by some kind of powerful Qin. Master once said that a man with powerful Internal Style can inject their Energy into Qin and hurt others with the invisible aura of the blade. The more powerful the listener’s Internal Style, the more easily he is controlled.

When Great Xia Linghu was fighting against Huanggong of the Cult in Mei Manor with Nine-form Dugu Swordsmanship he was using a kind of Qin called “Seven-string invisible swordsmanship”. Great Xia Linghu had an internal injury and no Energy left, hence he wasn’t hurt by the Seven-string invisible swordsmanship at all.

I get it, the ruffians who ran away had no Energy inside at all, that was how they survived. The others all had some Energy inside so they were controlled by the Qin, acting strangely and even killing each other…

When did Xiao Fu learn this? If he was really this good, how could he be hurt by the zombies?

I found Xiao Fu acting a little weird after what happened at String-sword manor. I thought that with Celestial Melody’s guidance the enmity inside him could be dissolved in time, but now… it seems his enmity has lingered. What’s more, Xiao’s martial art has improved so quickly, I am afraid that he is practicing an evil arte.

Xiao is our friend and the people of Steel-sword sect are not that bad either. We should go in and stop Xiao by all means.

This poor guy…

Gu, if the Qin is so powerful, it will be a problem if we are exposed to it too.

You are right…

There are some crazed bastards along the way but this battles can technically be avoided.

It’s not the Puppet Master who’s pulling the strings, but his buddy.

Stop, Xiao!

You are… the partner of the Puppet Husk!

What? Oh… it’s you guys… why aren’t you moved by my “Soul-stealing string”…

What are you babbling about? I can’t hear! Seems it is you behind all this? I will slay you!

…So it turns you they tucked their ears. Xiao Fu, they’re the ones who killed your father, you should kill them for revenge.

Killing… killing! I want revenge, I want revenge!!

He is so scary!

He has totally lost his mind. Sorry about this, Xiao.

We need to be a bit careful here since Xiao will be protected by the possessed mooks. But Xiao can be taken down quickly with a sneak attack and a timely finger move.

The boss dude doesn’t need to be dealt with at all, he just runs off again.

What… what was this all about?

Don’t you remember?

Ji, Xiao is now very unstable, let him gather himself and we can talk later.

Who are these…?

Xiao, you are suffering internal injury, you should…

It’s me who lost my mind and killed them, right?

…

…

… This people lost their mind after hearing your Qin, they fought each other to the death.

I… I… what have I done…

I didn’t avenge my father… but instead committed such a crime…

Father… I will come and see you now…

You want to die so easily? Didn’t you cry about revenge every day?

Haha! Revenge, revenge, hahaha!

Xiao…

How can I get revenge with so little martial art? Haha… even if I spend my whole life, I couldn’t get revenge… Father…

… Xiao, where did you learn this evil arte? Could it be the one…

After I left Wangyou valley, I was all alone here in String-sword manor… I could not shake the idea of revenge as I watched the empty manor and thought of my father and everyone…

Just then… the one called himself “the Secluded Guest” came to find me. He gave me a song book called “Soul-sealing string” and it said it had been composed by the famous Qin Devil Lin Yifeng a hundred years ago. I thought only by learning this Qin could I have my revenge…

Qin Devil? Soul-sealing string? No wonder. I have heard the tale that Lin Yifen used the legendary martial art “Ancient Tianya Formulas” as bait to attract a great number of people to Tiandu Mountain to fight for it. Then Lin Yifen played his Soul-sealing string in front of everybody and made them kill each other…

This Secluded Guest who saved the Puppet Husk in Xianxiao cave and tricked Xiao into playing the Soul-sealing string, what was his goal?

As someone growing up in String-sword manor I have of course heard the tale of the Qin Devil. I used to resist this evil art… but the temptation of revenge was too big. So I… could not help reading the book.

However, the Soul-stealing string was more powerful than I thought. Once I opened the book I couldn’t stop reading. When I came to myself, I had… already killed so many people…

It’s better to destroy the book for good.

Stupid Ji! You are so impolite…

No, he is right… in order to use the Soul-stealing string one should have excellent technique of Qin in addition to a powerful inner force. Though my internal style is inadequate, my technique is good enough to master this evil art… I really shouldn’t be kept.

*cough*

Are you all right? You are coughing rather badly.

Xiao overextended his inner force to play the Soul-stealing string causing him to lose his mind and injuring himself internally. Xiao, don’t use your internal force again and breathe deeply.

Thank you Gu… it’s just… I didn’t get revenge for my father yet killed so many people… people like me don’t deserve to live on…

At this moment Ziling slaps Xiao around a bit.

You’re being willful again!

Ziling!!

Gu, Ji, this guy won’t realize unless someone teaches him a lesson. Thinking about escape and suicide every time something goes wrong, how easy is that? Just die and leave everything behind. The real task is to survive and face the problem.

What’s done is done already. If you realize this, then you should live on and make up for the mistake you have made today. This mysterious force that destroyed String-sword manor and many innocent people… if you really want to atone, you can help us to find the real killer and help to restore the peace to Wulin.

…

You finally made a point.

… Heh. Xiao, this is what Senior Celestial Melody wanted to give you.

Senior Celestial Melody?

Do you remember the day when Senior Celestial Melody kept you outside the door? She was hoping you wouldn’t be driven by hatred. Though I don’t know much about music, there must be a reason why she wanted you to have this.

I, I…!!

Xiao, I hope you don’t waste Senior Celestial Melody’s effort.

… Thank you. I shall practice day and night and hope to understand the real meaning of the song one day.

Xiao can be recruited the next morning.

Xiao will not get on the wrong path again. But I am worried this Secluded Guest could come back.

I believe the weirdo won’t be back for a long time.

What are you thinking now?

His martial art is far better than Xiao Fu… if he wanted to kill Xiao, he could have done it anytime. I think he just trying to use the Soul-sealing string to destroy Xiao Fu and control him.

Tsk, there are many people stronger than Xiao Fu, why choose him?

The martial art of Xiao Fu is not the best but this technique of Qin is extraordinary. Just watching him play is fascinating. And only he can play the Soul-stealing string… Think about it, if Xiao Fu were controlled to play in the Great Assembly of Wulin, what would happen?

…!!

If so, there would be slaughter…

The Secluded Guest must be one of those behind all these events. Let’s keep looking, one day we may come across him again. Now that the Qin is destroyed, Xiao Fu is useless to him.

Anyway, we can’t leave Xiao behind. We shouldn’t leave here too far. When Xiao feels better, we shall invite him to join us.

Xiao Fu can be recruited by giving him his father’s book we picked up at the beginning of the game in Xiaoyao valley.

Xiao, we found this book at the guest room of Xiaoyao valley… your father must have forgotten to take it back, it belongs to you.

*opens the book with shivering hands* …

My father was a reserved person with few words. We didn’t talk to each other much. We communicated through music…

I regret not talking with him frequently…

(The tree wants to be calm but the wind doesn’t; children want to repay their parents but they’ve passed away already. We should be nice to our parents all the time.)

I can cherish the memory of my father again thanks to you… Gu, I really appreciate it. My father composed this tune for me… its name is Cragged mountains and precipitous hills. He hoped that I could be a man like the mountains.

I… will not let you down, father.

You’ve helped me a lot, I will do my best to assist you during the investigation of the Acquittal Period.

Xiao Fu is a must in the party with healing and buffing spells. Some offense as well.

Xiangyun is now basically obsolete, but still useful because of her talents.

His starting internal style is nothing special but he can immediately learn a much better one: Celestial Melody’s gift.

 

[abnaxus]

Part XXIV: Return to Luoyang

Spoiler

On the way back to Luoyang there’s a random bandit encounter. A good opportunity to put Shi Yan’s skills to use.

These bandits are “strength in numbers” kinda enemies.

Shi Yan’s Flower Rain has the biggest radius of any AoE in the game. More important than the damage is the bleeding status effect it causes.

This encounter turned out quite fortuitous. There are two quest related items in the loot.

Shi Yan also managed to steal an internal style scroll. In fact, an internal style she herself is able to learn.

Not much later there’s a random encounter featuring Chu Hui’s beta orbiter.

My head?

Indeed.

Haha! I’m just a restrained and reclusive man. Why would you be after me?

A few years ago, your speech outside the Imperial Palace made you leave officialdom forever as well as arousing the indignation of certain Confucian scholars. If you happened to get killed by certain dignitaries today…

Haha, I had no idea how precious my life was until now. I wonder which eunuch you serve in Dongchang. The one that “always keeps his word”?

Dongchang was the Ming Dynasty secret police run by eunuchs.

!!

We serve our country, not the emperor. Isn’t that obvious? You are so blind you don’t know your master.

You are really much more intelligent and resourceful than those stale and pedantic scholars.

What do you want with Mr Jiang?

Benefactors, it’s you!

Please stay out of our business or you will get into big trouble.

Mr Jiang is our friend. We certainly will help him if he’s in trouble.

I have to bother you again to save my life. Thank you.

Such a nerd! Just thank you? You think that’s enough?

Of course not, you can come to my boat to have a drink after all this.

Heh. That’s worth discussing.

You have done many things for commoners as well as for the stability of Jianghu. I’ll make it quick and keep you from suffering.

You are talking too much. Let’s get started!

These imperial stooges are really nothing special.

Why would you let them go?

Though they are on a different path, they are still patriots. Everyone, let them go, don’t try to discover their identities.

You are righteous but we can’t accept it. In the future there will be other brothers to kill you. Take care.

He poisoned himself.

Back in Wangyou valley Chessbrah will teach a Hidden Weapon skill for the chess chart from Huashan.

… Why is he vomiting blood as soon as he receives the chess chart?

Please take care of yourself, Master Ju Sou.

My mind is full of… the moves of chess! Come play chess with me, Yuexuan!

Well…

Stop! I really don’t want to play with you! You think one night before making a move! I still have other things to do!

No, you can’t act like this! I want to play chess! In this case, take my Hidden Weapon instead! Hahaha, be careful!

He may be a master of hidden weapon, in this case he uses only fist skills…

The reward is Flower Rain, Shi Yan’s signature skill. P. gud.

Back in Luoyang next to Baima Temple there’ll be an event involving Chu Hui and her beta orbiter.

No, I believe they are fighting for territory.

You are not me, how do you know I don’t know the joy of those bramblings?

(The debate of Hao-Liang? Miss Chu is erudite and informed, I should not spoil her mood.)

I am not you, so I don’t know you. You were not the brambling, and so the conclusion is you don’t know the joy of brambling.

The Hao-Liang debate is some Chinese culture thingie. Originally the debate was about the joy of fish.

You are not me, so you don’t know me. But I should ask, do you ever want to know what I know?

Eh, Miss Chu? Forgive my ignorance, but where did this part come from?

…Mr Jiang, I feel a little unwell, I should take my leave in order not to spoil your mood.

Don’t mention it, I shall visit you with some fish soup later.

(This Mr Jiang is really slow, he doesn’t know when to say something nice and is such a killjoy.)

Having overheard your conversation, are you quoting Zhuang Zhou and Hui Shi from The Debate of Hao-Liang?

(Gu is the same guy as Mr Jiang…)

Yes. But I didn’t know where the next part was from.

I don’t understand what you’re talking about, but if you want to buy fish soup, the soup in the market is very fresh.

Right, have you had lunch yet? If you would come with me to the market to have a fish noodle, consider this as my appreciation. It’s not that I am stingy, it’s just that I really don’ t have much money.

There’s no need to worry about such a trivial thing.

Alright, then I will go to the market and buy the fish soup, you can come and visit me if you would like to.

Inside the temple is the “genius” Master Cao was referring to.

Some Buddhist sperging ahead.

The way of all things is the same, it is all about pursuing the true self. I have three questions, if you have interest you can solve them with me.

I am sorry for interrupting your discussion about Buddha Dharma.

Buddha be praised. Buddhism always helps people who have affinity. You are here at the right time, it is your fate.

I am Jiang Yu, nice to meet you. Gu, there is no doubt that these two people are Ji and Wei my father has mentioned.

So it is you who is Mr Jiang’s son! I’ve heard you are a child prodigy, I have admired you for a long time.

You are the Young Hero, I have a lot to learn from you.

You are so modest, it is my luck to meet you here. We should learn from each other. By the way, how is your father?

My father is well, thank you for asking. But Wulin is unstable recently, he is worried about that.

Mr Jiang is concerned about people, he sets a good example for us.

Yuck! Boring conversation.

Gu, Jiang, don’t ignore the abbot.

You are right, we apologize.

Please forgive us, abbot.

Buddha be praised, it is a good thing to communicate with others. I am not a monk who ignores the world.

You mentioned three questions just now, please test me.

lel, good luck to all ang moh bros.

This is the translation of a Chinese idiom.

In my opinion, all men have a Buddhist nature, and every man could be a good person I fthey abandon the evil side.

Amitabha, I think the second one is accurate.

You are very knowledgeable, sir. Here is the last question.

I think I’ve heard that before, the third answer is right.

You are all young but pretty knowledgeable. Well, I have a good book and I want to give it to you as a gift.

Thanks.

We can recruit Jiang Yu now but the real prize is Chan Lotus, a really good internal style. We shall give it to our Buddhist gurl in the party, Shui.

Jiang Yu is another rather bland and boring character like Yan Yu. But unlike Yan Yu, he lacks an excellent unique talent.

Experience is not a rare commodity unlike Perspective. We shall give Jiang Yu a pass.

After exiting the temple the group visits Mr Jiang at the market.

OK, I like that it very much but I don’t want simple riddles.

Haha, I’m just a simple bookworm, I merely know the Four Books and the Five Classics. Ah… my home school teacher once told me a funny riddle. Listen carefully.

I am listening

These riddles are completely lost in translation.

I think these are riddles based on the structure of Chinese characters similar to Wapanese kanji riddles. Untranslatable.

At any rate solving all the riddles give Ziling and Gu a point in Comprehension. While Shinji doesn’t give a feck.

Your riddles are very interesting.

Boring.

I finished my fish soup, I need to take it to Miss Chu, see you.

The stolen goods from the random encounter with the robbers can be turned over at the Yamen for some Perspective and experience (in fact, this encounter is repeatable).

With Shi Yan in the party, though, she will interject the first time Gu tries to hand over the goods.

Giving the booty to Shi Yan is very fruitful for her.

This is…?

Hah, lucky me, my nose was right. I did smell something earthy from them.

This is a ridiculously good item for Shi Yan to equip.

Returning to the antique dealer, Shinji can get an item for free.

This item is of use to Ziling.

With Xiangyun’s 20% discount it is now also beneficial to buy some stuff. Shinji needs an upgrade for this twin weapons.

 

[abnaxus]

Part XXV: Drinking Buddy

Spoiler

Next to the tavern Xiangyun will send one of the hammer bros home.

What’s wrong, Xiangyun?

The guy lying there is deeply injured, without proper treatment he will die in a year.

Little girl, I overheard your whisper!

I’m not saying frightening things just to alarm you… if your chest keeps bearing these smashes the inner injury will get worse and worse and nothing can be done later.

You are so funny. I am as strong as a bear. I eat and drink well every day, how can I die in a year?

Do you ever feel a sense of suppression in the chest and sometimes feel pain, breathing so harshly that you cannot even lay down?

This... this sometimes does happen.

That’s it, your symptoms are not severe yet so you can definitely still perform shows like Smashing Rock On Chest. But you should take pills for some months and you will be fine.

What... Are you messing with me?

Bro, this girl really knows about medical knowledge. You may belie her or not, but I totally buy her words and I’ll never smash with my full force after this.

Bro, the father of Miss Shen is Doctor Miracle and her medical skill is far higher you’re your average doctor. You should believe what she said.

Then… how should I mix the potion?

Alright.

Bro, we have been working together for more than ten years, it’s like it’s coming to an end.

Sorry about that, bro. It looks like I am bound to spend more time with my mother at home and be a dutiful son.

Hahaha. Bro, we shall meet again some day.

Inside the tavern are some bros dueling with chopsticks.

One of them is the drunken monk from Huashan mountain.

You think an idiot like you can understand the tricks?

Humph! It’s only you who can’t.

What are you saying!

Ji is right.

…?

The teenager’s chopsticks are brisk and varied, revealing some kind of swordsmanship and the master is mimicking a real Shaolin staff, each move stretching like a dragon flying in the sky.

His movement seems irregular like someone untrained at the sword yet each movement forces his opponent to have no choice but to defend.

The staff of the master is also extraordinary, each single swing and pull resolving the fierce attacks skillfully.

His moves have changed, the moves are slow yet extremely powerful as if pulling thousands of weights.

That’s right. This move suppresses the swiftness with slowness, defends against dexterity with clumsiness. No matter how the staff of the master changes, the chopsticks in his hand can always expose the vulnerability of the staff.

Monk, don’t lose on purpose just in order to drink.

We should pull out all stops and have a rematch.

Watching them competing with each other and drinking is so pleasing.

Although the teenager’s move are changeable, the monk is more tactful and calm. Gu, what do you think?

Humph! I say the teenager will win.

Ha! The monk will surely win.

How about a bet with me, to see who gets drunk first?

Why not?

Alright! Then Gu can be the witness, if the monk gets drunk first I win, if the teenager gets drunk first you win. The loser must do one thing for the winner, what do you think?

Up to you!

…

(Whether in inner force and martial art the monk is better than the teenager but Ziling is so confident… did Ji and I miss something?)

Deal!

Ziling is confident because she cheats.

OK, here’ s an ingot of silver. If you can get something done well, you can get more afterwards.

I’m all ears! I shall have this done properly.

Get two bowls and pour wine into them. Water down the teenager’s wine but add the strongest white spirit to the monk’s bowl.

This… Miss, this seems… not appropriate…

If you refuse to do so…. I shall have no choice but to tell your boss that you’re not only lazy but also steal wine from the customers.

You… you are blaming me for no reason.

Humph! You didn’t serve us when we walked in. You focus on the scenery which proves you are lazy. Moreover, you stole the peanuts from those guys’ table. I witnessed everything.

Please, I will not only take your ingot of silver, I will do whatever you say.

You can keep the silver, which is you reward for working for me. There’s no reason for me to take that back.

Thank you very much, I will do as told.

Perfect, that’s better!

Humph! I can go wherever I want!

Bah! Who cares.

The monk predictably loses because of the cheating.

Why is their movement getting so slow, are they drunk?

No, they did become slow yet every move is incisive and vivid, with endless meaning.

Is this… the Mighty Diamond Quan of Shaolin Temple? This master uses the chopsticks as fists. Though his move was executed clumsily the power of the quan technique didn’t decrease even a little, it’s matching the dexterity of the Xiaoyao quan techniques.

Hey, the monk is getting real, looks like the result is decided.

Don’t get cocky, we will see.

The monk loses consciousness because of the stronger booze.

Haha, good kid…

Master? Master?

Hoo… *grunt*

What happened!? Why did the monk get drunk first?

Haha, why not? I win the bet, you should pay now.

Tsk…

Ziling’s trickery is quickly exposed.

It’s… it’s…

You mixed water in my wine?

I, I…

Hee hee! To be honest, it was I who told him to do that.

You are cheating, the bet is off.

Ji, we were betting on who would get drunk first, we didn’t say anything about what they should drink.

You are arguing irrationally!

Humph! You spoilt my mood, seldom do I find someone to drink with.

I am Gu Yuexuan from Xiaoyao valley, what should I call you by? My little sister was naughty and spoilt your mood, sorry for that.

I am Fu Jianhan. Since I didn’t drink enough, how about you drink with me!

Fu Jianhan, good name. How about I treat you as an apology.

Good, I like your forthrightness, take a seat.

Mr Fu, Gu said your swordsmanship is brilliant. Where did you learn it?

I learnt it by myself, I don’t know if it’s good or bad.

…!?

(He learnt it by myself, he really is a genius at swordsmanship.)

Ji, since you said that our last best doesn’t count, how about a new one.

Humph, I know you would cheat anyway, I won’t fail this time.

This time I bet that your swordsmanship is not as good as Mr Fu’s. I can’t cheat with that, do you dare?

Betting on swordsmanship? That’s perfect. I will convince you this time.

Since Mr Fu didn’t have enough fun, how about competing with my little brother?

Alright, fighting after drinking is the best. What do I call this bro by?

Jing Ji of Xiaoyao valley.

Be careful Ji!

Fu starts this fight buffed and is dangerous with Dual strike capabilities. Plus, he has a talent that lets him do more damage the lower his health is.

Then again, Shinji can dish out the crits too and has his Cheat Button.

Good fight. You are good, Jing Ji.

You are not bad either. I did my best only to win narrowly.

It’s been a good day today, drinking and fighting. Farewell, we shall meet again.

Hey, how about we fight again next time we meet?

Hahaha, I would love to. I love the wine made by Li Daniang from Dukang village. If you ever come by Dukang village you must have a drink. If we meet again there, we can drink and fight again!

We should probably meet him again to add him to the party.

See, I win fair and square.

We were betting on swordsmanship and Mr Fu only used one sword while you used both your blade and sword only to get an equal match. How can you even brag about winning?

…

Hee hee, now you are out of words!

How about this: though Ji won by a little margin he got an advantage on the weapons. Let’s call it a tie. How about that, Ziling?

Gu, you are being partial to him.

Winning is winning, losing is losing. He is better than me in swordsmanship alone.

…

Why the expression? I am not a bad loser. Say it, what do you want me to do!

Hee hee, I haven’t decided yet. I’m waiting til something comes to mind!

Tsch!

Anyway, Gu can wake the drunken Shaolin up.

*hic*

I am Gu Yuexuan from Xiaoyao valley, Master Wudian.

Hehe. Kid, how did you recognize me?

I saw the Mighty Diamond Quan you were performing and seldom have I seen monks this strong yet still with the ability to drink. It could only be Master Wudian.

Hahahaha, good insight. Where is the young man who was drinking with me?

He’s gone.

Such a pity, seldom do I find such a drinking buddy. Alright, I should go now.

The monk leaves behind a scroll.

Could it be this drunken master Wudian who left this here?

What’s on it…

… it is Great Vajra Fist!

How can this master leave one of the 72 Shaolin arts so easily…

If so, we should keep this for Master Wudian and return it when we encounter him the next time.

Or better, Gu can learn it as soon as he’s possible.

Translator brah took the piss here with his Donkey Kong. It’s a very useful skill with its invulnerability triggering.

 

[Darth Roxor]

Bro, this girl really knows about medical knowledge. You may belie her or not, but I totally buy her words and I’ll never smash with my full force after this.

10/10 writung

 

[abnaxus]

Part XXVI: Ghost whisperer

Spoiler

The hammer bro Xiangyun sent home is back with his mother. Xiangyun has an interaction here.

See what?

There’s an old man standing beside this old woman.

Shen… are you serious?

I don’t see anything…

You don’t see him? Ah, he speaks.

Old man, what do you want to say?

Gu… Shen… who are you talking to? Is she possessed?

Xiangyun has a special talent, she can see something invisible for common people… don’t worry.

Pshaw, she’s not worried about Shen, she’s just afraid of ghosts!

I… I am not afraid of…

You keep it down, I can’t hear clearly what the old man is saying.

… Salt Fish porridge? I can help you to ask her…

Xiangyun, we can’t let her kow that this old man is still here.

Why?

No matter how he would like to linger here, ghosts are different from living people. If she knew that her husband is still around, maybe she wil cook Salt Fish porridge for him every day. He then will recall his old life with even more nostalgia and miss the Time of Reincarnation.

You are right…

Gu, you can be assured that I won’t let her know the Salt Fish porridge is given to him.

Hmm…

Ah, such a pretty little girl, is she my son’s wife?

Mom, don’t say that, she is your son’s savior.

Granny, I am not your son’s wife, but I have something to ask you?

Little girl, what is the matter?

I like to eat porridge and I heard that your Salt Fish porridge is the best. Can you sell me a bowl of Salt Fish porridge?

Speaking of Salt Fish porridge, my husband liked it very much… he ate thousands of bowls of porridge and every time he felt very happy. But now no one will eat it any more…

Mom, you still have me.

Ah, little girl, who told you I am good at cooking Salt Fish porridge?

I… I heard it in the neighbourhood…

Hmm… from who I wonder…

It doesn’t matter, will you cook for me?

Actually we had a rainbow carp at one point but gave it away.

No problem, granny. Wait a moment, I’ll be right back.

The fishing gurl at the market is also out.

Well, what do we do now?

Let’s go to the river.

OK.

If you are in dire need of rainbow carp, you can visit the old fisherman whose nickname is the King of Carp. He has top notch skill. If there’s someone who can catch rainbow carp it must be him.

I see, thanks.

The river is in the outskirts area north of Luoyang, we haven’t been there yet.

In the northern part of this area is a quarry… the guy who was locked up when we first visited Luoyang is actually here.

Ah, it’s you! They let you out?

Yes, thanks to you! See, I’m no longer a swindler. I got a job and get to live a nicer life!

That’s good! I’m really happy for you.

Oh, right, I just digged up something strange yesterday. I don’t know what it is, maybe you could use it. So, just take it, please.

This item is not so useful but at least it can be sold at the pawnshop.

Anyway, the King of Carp is predictably sitting around fishing.

Rainbow carp? Look, I’m not boasting here, I have caught ten rainbow carps every day over the past ten years.

But these last three months, I can’t even catch a normal fish during a whole day, not even rainbow carp, very strange…

It is…

Aha, but you know, I am the fisher king! And I just got one rainbow carp here, if you really need it, just give me 1000 Qian and it’s yours.

1000 Qian? Just for one carp?

Of course! The amount is fewer so the price is higher. You are quite a beautiful girl so I give you a price of 1000 Qian. But you know, for He Luo Inn I offered 1200 Qian.

After buying the rainbow carp the quest can be wrapped up.

Well, I will cook Salt Fish porridge for you, you are lucky.

Now Gramps can be returned to the Wheel.

What do you think, miss, is this to your taste?

Heh, was my husband happy eating?

What are you talking about, granny?!

You don’t need to deceive me, only my husband liked my Salt Fish porridge these past several decades, even my son dislikes it. Who else but my husband would like my Salt Fish porridge?

…

Hehe, little girl, please tell my husband this will be his last bowl of Salt Fish porridge, he can go anywhere he wants afterwards. If he still sticks to the world, then I will get him when he’s dead!

I believe… that grampa has heard this…

Hehehe, that’s good then.

I’m tired after cooking such a big pot of Salt Fish porridge. Little girl, you can leave once you finished, I need to rest.

Alright, thank you for the Salt Fish porridge, I shall never forget its taste.

When Xiangyun returns later, unfortunately Grandma has died.

Miss Shen, my mother died…

What? Why? Wasn’t she very well not long ago?

A few days ago, she told me that she felt relieved that I wasn’t doing dangerous work anymore… she also thought my father was lonely in the underworld so she wanted to go cook Salt Fish porridge for him, then she died that moment…

Grandma…

Sorry for your loss…

Gu, is it because of me that Grandma died so early…

Xiangyun, don’t say that. You fulfilled her wish, she died happy. She was old, would you rather see her worried until the end of her days rather than die happy?

Yeah, Miss Shen, don’t blame yourself, my mother was always thinking about you.

She told me give you this golden hairpin, she said it was supposed to be a gift to my wife but… I don’t have a wife. I can’t keep it til my death.

I can’t accept it.

My mother said this golden hairpin was left to you as your dowry, as she regards you as a daughter. You keep it and my mother doesn’t need to worry anymore.

Thank you…

This is a very useful item.

Xiangyun has another interaction with a fisherwoman in the northern outskirts of the city.

Well, I do know something about this… the amount of fish is becoming fewer and fewer ever since those miners came here…

You mean this problem is caused by the miners?

It has to be? I saw those miners pouring waste into the river and then the fish died.

Then why didn’t you stop them?

Hah, are you kidding me? Those miners look very strong, how could I stop them?

Gu, let’s go talk to them.

We must ask those miners to not do that ever again.

But will they listen to us?

Let’s give it a try.

Gu tries to reason with the miners but some Sword Guards arrive to pick a fight.

They’re p. weak.

It seems we need to return later to wrap this up.

Humph, you’re the boss today.

… Thank you so much.

Gu, they’re just playing us…

… There’s nothing we can do, let’s check back another time.

 

[Darth Roxor]

That's one hell of a sentence.