Completed Let's play Tale of Wuxia Zero

[abnaxus]

Part LXIII: Batman

Spoiler

With Shui back in the party we now enter Black-Bat Cave proper.

(So the Secluded Guest we ran into at String-Sword Manor really is Ouyang Xiao.)

It’s hard to see but Ouyang Xiao is talking to a mysterious person.

(Who is this old man? With such a pitched voice, it makes me feel uneasy.)

I remember there is a man capable of face changing in the Korean hometown of that double-faced lad… do not forget he helped you too.

I understand.

Humpf, if you do carry my words into your heart, why would you obey my orders again and again?

!! Master, I don’t understand…

We do need to kill these people. But who has given you the permission to do wicked things to them? The shadow incense Meng Po carried is the special spice she used to track her prey. The odour is not strong but it can be residual for a couple of months. It’s difficult for normal people to sense it but not for me.

Beside the stinking smell of bats, you also have this shadow incense on you. If not for extensive physical contact, why would you have such a dense smell?

I…I’m sorry, master.

So, rape?

(That bastard!!)

And you wasted my Take Souls on Xiao Fu in the String-Sword Manor. Ouyang Xiao, I’m disappointed.

…

The unknown figure notices Gu but chooses to just zap out of the cave.

Look, someone has followed your trail.

But that is not possible? No one can enter my bats maze without me!

Deal with the outsiders. You have two failures, there will no failures ever again, you understand?

Yes, master.

(We are not even near them, how did that old man spot us?)

Humpf, you have quite some skills, I must say. I only sensed you just now. It’s her birthday today so I will do no killing. Consider yourself lucky, kids. You know what to do, Ouyang Xiao.

The old man gets out of the cave faster than lightning.

In any case it’s time to take down that creep.

Wanna know? Go ask her yourself… in hell.

It’s all my fault. I let myself become the tool of his evil and hurt so many people in the process. I will finish this beast today.

You have committed countless crimes. My master teaches us to forgive but with you, I can’t. I am Gu Yuexuan of Xiaoyao Valley.

Let’s slay this evil together.

Bold words you have… heh, goldback poison? You got help from the Five Venoms, no wonder you were able to break into my bats maze.

You and that old man… my understanding of you is shallow, but I do know one thing: you are evil.

Fine, I will go and make for each one of you a nice grave. Hahahaha!

He runs off and we need to chase him deeper into the cave.

I have been waiting for you.

The creep casts Mirror Image.

Five of him?? But that is not possible?

What sorcery is this…

Is he human at all?

Calm down now. Everything in the world has an explanation. If they are not quintuplets, then he must have found four people with similar body shape and face.

Quintuples… right, there used to be a group called “the immortal six of the peach valley”, they were sextuplet brothers.

Tsk, these crooked men, always using tricks. Five? So what? We just need to beat all of them.

Wait, Ji. His Cold Bat Venom is very strange. There is always only one apprentice and when he learns from his master, the apprentice will eventually always kill the master.

Because of practicing the Cold Bat Venom, one must consume a human gallbladder infused with extremely cold venom to succeed. Also, the practitioners’ power will reject others’ powers. So if there are two people practicing this arte at the same time, both will die due to the wrong flow of blood.

… (Who is this little girl and how does she know my secrets?)

I got it. There must be only one who knows how to use the venom powers and that fellow must be the real Ouyang Xiao!

If so, he will not use the Cold Venom at first. He would trick us and then kill us in our carelessness. Grasping this, we have a chance to win.

Got it!

How about just killing them all, rather than trying to find the real Ouyang Xiao?

Once they are all down, the real Ouyang Xiao reveals himself.

The real Ouyang Xiao will need a dip of human blood, betraying himself.

This guy… bit another Ouyang Xiao and killed him?

The Cold Venom took effect in his body and he needed to drink human blood. The man who sucked blood is the real Ouyang Xiao… he is a monster.

I never expected you to be so tough. You are the first ones to break my Five Bodies Formation other than Grand Princess. I will give you a quick death in order to express thanks.

Be careful, he is going to use his full strength.

The real Ouyang Xiao is much tougher, but we can fight him with our entire party. All his techniques inflict Frostbite.

Ouyang Xiao tries a final trick in defeat.

This is karma, it is your own fault you become like this…

You…!!

Blood… trouble!

Batman has unleashed the bats.

They are blocking our way out! Ouyang Xiao decided to go out with all of us… sorry Ji, Ziling. It is my fault…

What are you talking about? This is our own choosing. I will bring a couple of these bats with me if I have to die.

Ji…

…

As usual Ziling comes up with something.

Ouyang Xiao used venom to control these bats. There must be a cure within his body.

Who could’ve thought a little timid one like you could do such bold things in dire times.

… (Please, let me find it…)

Bat swarms are closing in!

Damn… so be it then!

I GOT IT, I GOT IT!!

Way to go, girl! What… what did you do?

Heh! Ziling saved us all this time.

The cure was right in his kidneys. Squeezing the kidney and throwing it into the bats made the bats go away… not to mention, the gallbladder of Ouyang Xiao is still a valuable poison… the essence of those who practice Cold Venom for decades… so I took that out as well.

I am gonna chance my opinion of you from now on. Experiencing this kind of bloody scene you would be freaking out by now, but now you seem calm.

(Is this the so-called adrenaline rush?)

Hey… I was complimenting you, some response, please? So rude…

Ziling faints and needs to be carried out of the cave.

Why did you puke on me… hey , wake up, girl, wake up…

Rise and shine.

Thank you, Ziling. Rest for now.

OK… WHAT! Drop… put me down… you were carrying me this whole time?

Don’t talk, you are too weak now. Don’t move, just sleep!

… men. Anyway… thank… thank you.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXIV: Cold bladder

Spoiler

We got the following souvenir, literally pulled out of Ouyang Xiao. It is something Shen Lan has been looking for.

It doesn’t matter where I got it, do you want it or not? If you don’t, that’s fine.

Just give it to me. But I won’t say thank you.

Humph, you are not kind at all! Take it, it’s useless to me after all.

Great, I can make the right medicine with this and save Wan…

Hmm? What did you just say?

It’s none of your business.

Listen, I hate to own others. I will pay you back.

I wonder what you will give us.

We can do more with the poison soup now too.

It surely does.

What are you doing there? Go away! We inherited this soup with a poisonous cauldron from our ancestors. You are forbidden to touch!

We won’t do anything but watch. You are so mean.

Humph! You gave me the cold bat gallbladder, so I will let you watch this time. But do not disturb me.

The cauldron is almost dry. Hurry up and capture five kinds of poisonous insects and throw them into the cauldron.

How dare you command me!

Will you do it or not?

OK, I will capture the insects for you.

Finding the poisonous beasties is easy with Oman in the party.

There’s a very beneficial event for Ziling when interacting with the cauldron.

Ah…

Ziling!

Ziling! Are you OK?

Take it easy you fools! Help her into my room!

I-I’m fine! Ha…

!!! (How is this possible? If my Poison has reached the 6th grade, hers much have reached the 10th!)

Are you OK?

Sorry for the trouble, I’m fine! I was really frightened just now…

Ziling, you look better than before, how can this be? Your inner force seems to be improved.

Humph! She stole the energy from my poisonous soup. Her inner force has obviously been promoted! How will you compensate me?

I’m sorry, Miss Shen. I didn’t do it on purpose.

Never mind. I’m always unlucky with you around. Go away now and leave me alone!

The poison soup internal style is Wei Ziling’s best! The 500 extra crit damage is great combined with the auto crits from stealth.

Back on Sea-hid island we can open a chest with Shen Lan’s key.

Inside is an internal style and another martial skill for Ziling.

Ziling already learnt six internal style so can’t learn Dragon Curse. That one will need to go to Oman.

On the way back is an odd random encounter involving the Taoist and some Nightwing cosplayers.

I’m just a carefree person who never takes part in Jianghu business. So please go back.

Then die.

The idiots stand no chance.

*sigh* Life is precious and there so many good things in life, why did you have to die?

We were late, are you OK?

Oh, it is you. Though I am old I can still fight. I am fine.

Who are these guys in strange clothes?

Are they related to the mysterious force that we are tracing? Do you know anything about it?

I don’t know, but they have a Yellowtail totem, I have seen it somewhere before… seems like a pattern on some flag?

Hehe, I am too old to remember. I’d better go back home.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXV: Conshipiracy

Spoiler

Taking the otherwise utterly useless blue hair to Duke Sai’s mansion he can interact with an item.

What are these… war horses? Tsk, useless stuff, I thought it was some kind of Art book.

You know your horses…

Heh! Looks like the House of Duke Sai really got something.

How come?

These war horses are forbidden by the law of the Imperial Court.

Only high ranking officers can use these. There must be some rats in the Imperial Court.

We can’t be sure about that yet. Besides, a mole in the Imperial Court is very serious stuff, we need more evidence.

Then we should find someone and ask them to give us more information.

Not the most elegant way, but it is the easiest.

I’ll take that as a compliment.

We need to bully some Tartars near the stables outside.

Your lord is much more malicious!

Hey! You called us malicious southern barbarians, so I won’t let you die so easily.

What did you give me?

Poison. Are you scared?

Please… spare me…

Answer my questions and I will give you the antidote. Where did you get the warhorses?

Warhorses?

Yes. I want to know where they came from. They are not horses from beyond the Wall, so how did you get them?

Some people from Central China sold them to us.

Do you know who they are?

We don’t know them, they only talk with the Duke’s trusted followers. I am only in charge of taking care of the horses they sent here.

How often do they come here?

Once every six months. They will be here again in two days.

What a coincidence. Let’s observe them then and see who they are. You just take the antidote and go away.

Thanks, thanks!

Ziling, the thing you fed him is…

Gu, I know you don’t like it. The effect of the medicine is clearing the lungs and throat.

Two days later we spy on the Imperial crooks.

Look at them. These men should be serving a Court officer, but we can’t know which one exactly.

Let’s follow them, maybe they will lead us to the man behind it all.

By the way, you there following us, show yourselves.

Tsk.

He sensed us. This man is no ordinary soldier.

We beat them of course, but the head Imperial stooge commits suicide.

What happened? We didn’t hurt them that much?

They… poisoned themselves.

As you said, they are not general officers. What they used is Tianyi poison from Tangmen Clan.

Tangmen Clan? Is Tangmen Clan involved in this?

They are all dead, there’s no longer a way to know that.

At least we have the clue about Tangmen Clan.

Tangmen Clan is always secretive so it is not easy to investigate their private affairs. We may even become enemies with them, so we should be careful.

We head to Chengdu next, where Tangmen Clan is based.

We find the son of the Tangmen Master at one of the shops.

(Tianyi poison… it seems that Tangmen has a relationship with those suicidal killers. But I can’t ask them directly since Xiayao Valley isn’t that friendly with them… we should leave now.)

We need Shi Yan in the party to be able to progress.

It is so exasperating that we cannot ask Tangmen directly while we know that they are involved. We need a stealth expert to check it out.

Yan, you have been looking at that man, are you…

Haha! You are so smart, Ziling. The poison is very unique and it’s sold at high price in the black market!

…

…

What are you looking at? There is honour among thieves too. I won’t steal any harmful poison.

I have seen the master of Tangmen several times, he is a little difficult to get along with…

Don’t worry, Yuexuan. Since Shi Yan is so familiar with the poisons of Tangmen, she must have experience in dealing with them.

You are really so smart, Ziling.

… So brave you are, Shi Yan.

Can you help me with one thing if you will infiltrate the mansion of Tangmen?

I’m listening. But you need to pay for it.

Humph!

Check the account book of Tangmen and see who they have sold this poison to?

Tianyi poison? This poison is very deadly. What dangerous things have befallen you?

I will kindly help you this time. Since I’m in a good mood, I’m not charging you. Wait for me in front of the ruined temple until I’m done.

Thank you.

Be careful and protect yourself first.

Please wait for my news.

Some time later Shi Yan is back to report.

Look how smug you are, you must have found out something, right?

Heh heh! Such a clever girl you are. I looked through the account book and found out Tianyi poison is unpopular for its scarcity and high cost. But there was one entry of Tangmen doing business with someone on a particular time.

Don’t keep us in suspense, go on!

Humph! You are such a dull fellow. OK, let’s move on. It’s the Imperial Guard.

Dongchang…

The arrogance of the Imperial Guard is getting increasingly blatant, I’ve heard some rumours in the black market.

The owner of “Cloud Drifting Sword” Yan Baifeng cut off the head of his master “The Silent Swordsman of Jingzhou” Jingshu, brought it to the Imperial Guard and claimed that his master was brewing up a wicked plot. He ended up executed as an accomplice by You Jin. That’s kind of ironic.

It is indeed. Yan Baifeng wanted to exchange his master’s life for a high position and great wealth, yet he completely miscalculated.

Only a beast would do something like that, he deserved to die! This time the Iron Mask killed the right person.

Yan Baifeng reported to the Imperial Guard that his master was brewing up a wicked plot… but the Imperial Guard still killed him…

It seems that we’ve become embroiled in a large conspiracy.

Hold on, it sounds dangerous. Dongchang is not one to trifle with. It’s best if I know nothing. I’d better leave now.

…

I have an idea… it is known in Jianghu that at one time, as a result of assisting General Qi, Great Xia Jingshu got on friendly terms with Elder Xu of Beggars’ Sect. Now they both fell victim and died…

We ran into that dead beggar’s quest on our first time in Chengdu.

It is said by Beggars’ Sect that Elder Xu was a poison expert so it’s impossible that any ordinary poison would be able to trick him… do you think it could be possible that Tianyi poison was the cause of Elder Xu’s death, brother Gu?

You are making a good point. It seems their death has something to do with the Imperial Guard.

But we don’t have any evidence or any new clues. If we just meddle without consideration, the Imperial Guard will be a tough nut to crack.

… We could let this be?

Even if the Imperial Guard is powerful, I would never give up the pursuit of truth. Since Great Xia Jingshu and Elder Xu were both highly respected seniors in JIanghu, how could we just let them both die like this?

Well said!

But it seems we’ve come to a dead end both in the case of Elder Xu and Great Xia Jingshu, so how are we to proceed?

Great Xia Jingshu was from Wudang Sect and he was of the same generation as the Three Saints. Master Zhuo certainly wouldn’t turn a blind eye to this matter.

Let’s leave for Wudang Mountain to tell Master Zhuo what we think and see if we can find more clues.

So what are we waiting for? Let’s leave immediately.

We get more clues at Wudang.

Please accept our sympathy.

I’ve met with Jingshu and his family last year. We’ve been separated at such short notice. Things are changing. Yan Baifeng is truly a malicious person. I misjudged him.

It is said that Elder Xu of Beggars’ Sect also died a tragic death. I wonder if there’s any connection between these two events…

What do you mean? Changlin was also…

He had a good relationship with Jingshu. They died together now… You are right, I don’t believe Jingshu would harm anyone and had anything to do with Changlin’s death.

I know that Great Xia Jingshu and Master Zhuo were good friends. So I want to ask you if there you noticed something wrong.

Although Jingshu and I were good friends, I seldom bother about things in Jianghu. Mrs Jing and her daughter arrived at Wudang recently. Let’s visit them and maybe we can find some evidence and get revenge for Jingshu.

They’re disciples from Xiaoyao Valley. Gu Yuexuan is gallant and chivalrous, I totally trust them. They are suspicious about the death of Jingshu and Changlin and come here trying to find the real murderers.

Pardon me, Mrs Jing, did your husband act strangely recently?

I never bother about the affairs in Jianghu. However, a few days ago Elder Xu dropped by late at night and gave my husband a letter. I have no clue about the details.

Mom, I know something.

Nonsense, we’re in the middle of something here!

Mom, I really do know about it. I couldn’t sleep that day so I played hide-and-seek with father. During that time I heard Uncle Xu coming. I noticed the serious tone in which father spoke so I didn’t make any noise.

Can you tell us what you heard that day?

You may say now! He… is a good person.

Not much. Only something about the Court of the Imperial Stud, warhorses and Imperial Guard.

…!!

So it must be the Imperial Guard selling the warhorses. But how is the Court of the Imperial Stud involved?

Huh, these sophisticated politics.

… I see.

Did you figure out something?

The Court of the Imperial Stud is in charge of horse and carriages. If the Imperial Guard intends to sell warhorses privately, someone inside the Court must take part in it.

The Beggars’ Sect always devote themselves for the country and people. Elder Xu must’ve found out the truth and told Jingshu. Unexpectedly, Yan Baifeng found out and that scumbag betrayed his master.

Bureaucrats stick up for each other in wrongdoings. No wonder the Imperial Court get increasingly corrupted with each passing day. Jingshu and Elder Xu died for nothing.

Mrs Jing, sorry for your loss. Now we know the truth and the Beggars’ Sect is still looking for the murderer. Pardon me, I should leave and tell them about this.

The final lap is the Beggars’ Sect but this quest doesn’t get any further resolve. This is kind of an introduction to the Imperial Route in Tale of Wuxia.

Master Li and fellows of the Beggars’ Sect…

Malfeasance, bribery and corruption are common in present political circles. As for the Emperor, he acts and makes decisions capriciously. Loyalty is not worth the candle.

The Emperor… *sigh*

Thanks to Gu we found the man behind the curtain. Is avenging Elder Xu still impossible?

The Imperial Guard must’ve destroyed all the evidence. How can we accuse any official without evidence? Let alone if the opponent is the reputable Imperial Guard.

Damn, so there’s nothing we can do?

Branch Master Li, we do have the ledger of Duka Sai’s Manor. Can’t we ask General Qi to prosecute the conspirator in the Court of the Imperial Stud?

Indeed! Xiao, write a letter go General Qi at once.

Well, so the last witness is also dead now… what a sophisticated scheme.

Now the testimony is gone along with the official… *sigh*

Master Li…

The Beggars’ Sect will continue to investigate despite the current situation. Imperial Guard or Dongchang, we’ll never surrender!

Such thoughts are a blessing for the nation.

Thank you for all the help. You’ll have the full support of the Beggars’ Clan when in trouble.

You’re welcome.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXVI: God of Rain

Spoiler

We return to the brothel in Hangzhou to execute Ziling’s plan to whore herself out.

What are you talking about?

Are you kidding me? A female going to a brothel?! I have never seen this before.

Why? A female can’t be here? Open your eyes and look at the money I have.

Forget about it! Help yourself, miss. I will bring our best wine soon.

But a VIP has booked the whole second floor. Let me take you to another room, ok?

Don’t worry! I know the rules and won’t let you suffer a loss. How much money do you want?

Miss! Money is good but my life is more precious. The customers upstairs belong to the Sea Shark Clan and Golden Wind Security Escorts. I can’t afford to offend them.

This brothel will suffer disaster if I annoy them. I really can’t take your money!

Hehe. My stupid brother’s blade has no mercy. Take this money, if not… I’ll have him kick your ass.

Hey! Who is stupid? Let’s not hesitate anymore and just fight our way up!

Oops, don’t be like this! My dear girl! You’re going to kill me! Please do not be too hard on me!

She is right, Ziling. We need to find out information, but can’t get others involved for no reason.

Huh! Acting this way can only bring misfortune to more girls… don’t worry, Gu! I can handle this.

You lead me in and take all the girls away. I won’t make you feel awkward.

You better not offend the customers upstairs! Anyway, I still need to keep my business.

Remember, you need to protect yourself if there is something wrong… I’m waiting for you outside.

Thank you, Gu!

Hey! You better not flaunt your superiority.

… hee hee, just wait for my good news.

…

Upstairs Ziling must coax information from two imbeciles.

How could I forget your orders? Thanks to you, we’ve got some new girls so I bring this courtesan who I poached from somewhere else!

Come here! These two are deputy Shi of Sea Shark Clan and young master Lu of Golden Wind Security Escorts!

Hehe, I’ll leave right now. Zi’er, the rest is up to you now.

Master Lu is really a genius! Come on, this one is for you!

Well, well, let’s drink!

Unlike young master Lu, I’m just a sailor and don’t know the fancy poems to please the girls. Why don’t you sing a song to liven things up!

Ehhh! That’s rude! Zi’er, don’t mind him. Sing whatever you want.

Eh! Well… Zi’er, your singing can’t live up to your reputation!

Sorry, actually I’m much better at poetry than singing.

If that’s the case, let’s discuss poetry.

I wonder if you know the origin of “Golden Wind Escorts” and “Sea Shark Clan”.

Oh? I would love to hear the details.

Oh? I’ve heard about this poem but my memory is a little vague. I’ll take it to my heart if you can recite it for me.

Hmm… I’ll recite the poem once you empty this cup.

Hehe! All right, since the little lady says so. Deputy Shi, this one is for you.

Huh? Drinking? Nice, let’s drink.

Brilliant! When Autumn’s Golden Wind embraces Dew of Jade, all the love scenes on earth, however many, fade. Lady, so the love between us can last for aye, why need we stay together night and day?

(Stay together night and day with you? You two can go to hell!) Hehe, it really hurts my feelings. I long to be together with you day and night! You need to drink more for saying the wrong words.

Indeed, I deserve it! *burp* Zi’er, so what’s the story of Sea Shark Clan?

Deputy Shi must be a tough guy so you must like the poem written by Zuo Si: “In sharkshin armor and with glittering blade, the cortege is valiant.”

Hehehe! Deputy Shi, drink! *burp* This is short and elegant, why don’t we change the secret code to this?

*burp* You’re drunk! We sailors can’t remember such a complicated code. The present one is much easier.

Easier? May I have the honor to hear it?

For the little lady, no problem. It’s “The sea takes in the wealth all around, the shark…” Shi, what is it again?

The shark swallows in the prey all nearby. You’re really drunk today. Little lady, come on, leave him alone. You’re all mine now.

*burp* Weird, I feel all light-headed…

With the passcode in hand we can go save the Wapanese gurls.

Hehe! Told ya it would be alright. The passcode is “The sea takes in all the wealth around, the shark swallows in the prey all nearby.”

Humph!

They’re off-guard with the girls and failed to notice that I put drugs in their drinks.

Humph! You seem to have blended in quite alright.

You’ve been weird since just now… Oh? I get it now. Master Jing, you feel iced out and unhappy? You wanna see me, I’m right here, am I not?

You…! Who says I’m unhappy? Quit that tone and leave me alone.

Enough, Ziling. Since you have the secret code, let’s hurry to the Ferry.

With the passcode we can get on the ship and get passage to the East Branch of Feng Du after causing a distraction and hiding among the cargo.

The East Branch itself isn’t very well guarded.

Now you’ve experienced how it is to be treated as cargo. But isn’t Ao Guang notorious for treating women as cargo?

Tch.

It’s not the right time for bickering. As the strength of Ao Guang is unknown, we’d better be discrete.

Got it! You’re always lecturing us like the master.

In Jianghu, one should proceed with caution. However, the fearless courage of Gu and my strategic insight are both necessary parts. So, we three are the perfect match, aren’t we?

Nonsense! Let’s go, what’s the hold up? Save those Japanese women!

Hehe.

Any guards along the way need to be defeated quickly which is easy enough to do.

Inside the compound we need to temporarily hide away.

Understood.

Ao Guang emerges some time later to receive his sloots.

Alright. Heh heh! Enjoy!

I know what you’re thinking. The rest are yours when I’m finished.

Hail to Branch Master.

There’s a conspicuous red-head among the Wapanese gurls.

Why are you playing dumb? Alright, later I’ll make you scream all day long.

…

Hahaha! I wonder what your pretty face will be like later on!

Shinji decides to go full white knight out of the blue.

I feel the same way. Humph!

Crap, Ji ran out of patience. Let’s go.

Isn’t this your doghouse? Free those women right now.

A few words alone aren’t enough to release them. Standing on my turf, you’re quite bold to talk freely.

That’s who I am!

Young and presumptuous, you really remind me of my teenage past.

Setting them free is not gonna happen. The redhead’s a pretty young lady. An extra bedmate wouldn’t hurt.

Shut up, or I’ll tear your mouth apart!

You’re a well-known figure in Wulin, please be self-dignified.

What on earth are you treating women as? You guys take advange of power and money to force poor pretty women to be your concubines. And even trade them like merchandise.

Oh? Interesting. It is how the world works. For the first time I am criticized like this. Who are you?

Gu Yuexuan from Xiaoyao Valley.

You’re not entitled to know my name.

… You guys. I did know that someone was investigating the Acquittal Period but I never thought you’d be so young. Jianghu is not some playground for kids. Today I’m in a good mood and will cut you some slack.

You want us to leave? No problem, as long as you free these women.

Rumor has it that Branch Master Ao is a valiant hero. Little does one think the actual person is just a lecher. I’m really disappointed.

Oh? You can do nothing about me. My Branch of East Sea has hundreds of people, while there are only three of you. You really think you can leave here safely after insulting me like that?

Besides, you invaded us first. By the rules of Jianghu, nobody will reproach even if I kill you.

Branch Master Ao, since you gained your place on the dangerous East Sea, you must value a bargain, right?

Quite indeed. The rule is that one cannot betray a bargain even if means betraying your parents.

So I’m offering you a bargain.

Shoot.

Right now, right here, you and I are going to have a duel. If I win, please free these women.

Hahaha, why would I do that? What is in it for me? What if you lose?

Then I’ll be your servant on this island forever. But only under one condition, you’ll not make things difficult for my companions.

Gu, you can’t do that!

What are you saying? Only you are allowed to be gallant?

If I win I only get you, but if I lose I’m letting go so many beautiful girls. Well, this bargain is not worthwhile.

Of course it’s worthwhile.

How dare you say so?

I dare because I’m Gu Yuexuan.

…!!

Ha ha ha ha ha! Good, very good! Sorry I didn’t recognize you. If I can get the Fist of Justice as a servant, a hundred, even a thousand are not a match for you. You are right. Nothing is more worthwhile that this. I accept.

Gu!

I thought only Ji would act recklessly, why did you even…? I’m sorry… it’s all because I went my own way.

Listen, Ji and Ziling, we are not going to lose.

Definitely. I must punch his shining teeth through the back of his skull.

…

Please favor me with your instruction, Branch Master.

Since this is a bargain, we must ensure its fairness. Minions, let down your guard.

I’m not gonna take advantage even if we are superior in numbers. Let’s have a one-off. I swear I will not use tricks to win victory so that you can fully own up to your defeat.

You guys from Feng Du are all strong and resolute heroes. I’m impressed. Let’s start.

Ha ha ha ha ha! You should be careful.

They really should have made Ao Guang tougher, though he is not bad.

In the DLC though you can make him crazy strong.

Gu wins and the gurls are freed. But there’s no happy end.

Wait, can they understand Chinese?

Oh, I… I forgot about that. Well, I know nothing about Japanese as well.

I… I had once learnt Chinese at a Chinese school.

Bravo! You can finally go home!! Tell your sisters.

…

Hm? What’s wrong?

Thanks for your kindness, but… but… we came here of our own free will.

Of your own free will?

What are you talking about?

When we were born… our status and fate were sealed with no other options. Since we can’t go against God’s will it matters not where we go. Therefore, what’s the difference between Central China and Japan?

You are masters of your own life and fate, so go your own way instead of waiting on others to make your decisions for you! I control my own fate!

…

Easier said than done. We are orphans and all we can depend on is our beauty and youth.

You…! Everything has its first time. As long as you are willing to take the first step, I can help with the rest.

How can you help us?

I…I…

Master Ao is a hero we admire... serving a man like him is what we longed for.

But now, you destroyed such a good chance… God knows what kind of man we will serve instead? What a pity to have such a great opportunity slipped away!

…

We have no other options but to return to Japan and await another arrangement… sometimes, what you think is good for others is actually cruel instead.

It seems this entire trip was kind of a waste of time. But we did gain information on East Branch at least.

Ziling… just forget about it. We all have our own way and sometimes we just can’t do anything about it. It’s not your fault. Don’t blame yourself.

No, it’s all my fault… if not for my leap in the dark we wouldn’t have ended up in danger and those Japanese girls’ lives would not be ruined. It’s all because I was so full of myself.

You set them free and offered them another possibility. But it’s their own choice to make.

I…

Tsch!

Shinji snaps Ziling out of it by slapping her around a bit.

Ouch! It hurts! Don’t be rude! Damn monkey.

Nobody is willing to hear your moaning. Didn’t we make the decision on this matter together? Besides, it was me who hastily attacked that bastard Ao Guang. What are you worrying about?

Hmm… I almost forgot that we had intended to set the girls free. It turned out that you upset my plan and we had no choice but to fight with Ao Guang in a big way. If we hadn’t offended Ao Guang this way we could have done things quietly.

It’s all my fault anyway. One shall be responsible for one’s actions. You can do whatever you want to punish me.

Look how pitiful you are. This time I will not punish you. Next time, you must be obedient and not make us worry for you.

Don’t push your luck!

Losses make us more cautious. We are no saints and can’t make a perfectly right decision all the time… but our conscience must be clear. This time we learnt a very hard lesson. We can only grow up through all these experiences, right?

Tsch… you really like to moralize, don’t you?

Thank you, Gu and Ji.

We have to go. There are more important things to do.

We are done here for now.

Thanks for your kindness, Master Ao. It’s a pity that we have a different pursuit, sorry.

That’s a real pity! You can always return if you change you mind.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXVII: Red Fury

Spoiler

Returning from East Branch we encounter a familiar face.

Thunder Hall… why do they show up at the port? Perhaps they're here to sail off?

Why don’t we ask them directly? Then the mystery is solved.

Ha! Makes sense, let’s go!

It’s Hongshang.

The Sea Shark Clan used to long for the firearms techniques of Thunder Hall and make a lot of trouble for us. Karma’s a bitch, now they got into such a plight.

Hongshang is 15 here, same as Shinji. Considering she’s supposed to be his twin sister.

Still as upright and evil-abhorrent as ever.

I’m Gu Yuexuan from Xiaoyao Valley and this is Jing Ji and Wei Ziling from Wei castle. It’s been a while since the last Young Heroes Contest. You seem to have made great progress.

Haha. Last time at Huashan Mountain I failed both competitions and even didn’t get the chance to fight you. What a disgrace to Thunder Hall!

Humph! On behalf of Thunder Hall, I’ll participate in the next contest when I’m 16 and take the crown!

What a pity, your dream won’t come true. Because the next Young Heroes Contest is right around the corner.

Gu Yuexuan? You’re already over 20 which violates the contest rules.

Tsch! Senior disciple? You’re no match for me. Keep dreaming.

Humph! Defeating you is a piece of cake. Let’s fight!

In Tale of Wuxia the two come to blows quickly too.

Ji… Sorry, it’s rude of us.

*sigh* As impulsive as always. You can’t be like this just because of your name.

Shinji in Chinese is written “荆棘” which literally means “thorns/prickly”.

Eh… Gu, we should also apologize. Guardian Qin… has a short fuse.

You show no respect to me! I’m really pissed! I may be young, but don’t you dare disrespect me.

Why would I disrespect you?

Our bad… please forgive us.

I’m not a kid. There’s no need to apologize for me!

Heh… (It’s funny that their reactions are nearly the same.)

Alright. Cut the bickering now. Save your energy for the contest to prove yourself. This quarreling makes no sense. Besides, Ji, if Wuxia Zi gets a new disciple, maybe you will lose the opportunity.

Where is this new disciple?

Right in front of you.

Impossible! You can’t be his new disciple.

You’re younger than me. If I become Uncle Wuxia Zi’s disciple, you’ll be my elder disciple. Don’t you want a cute younger fellow disciple?

…This is non-negotiable.

Hehe, stop the bickering now.

It’s quite a coincidence that we meet today. Why don’t we sit down and have a cup of tea?

Don’t bother. Today we’re here for an urgent matter.

The safety of the nation is always Guardian Qin’s top priority… ever since she learnt that the Imperial Court arranged the wedding of Princess Mu and Black Necro, she has already set her mind on eliminating the evil and saving the Princess…

Black Necro? The one who surpassed both Sea Shark Clan and Feng Du? Those Japanese pirates have been a pain in the ass and bullying fishermen for a long time. It’s really disappointing the Imperial Court doesn’t plan a mop-up operation. It’s even worse that they want to make peace with the pirates by means of an arranged marriage.

Indeed!

That’s why we came from Thunder Hall and are trying to find out the lair of Black Necro. Then we can turn it upside down and rescue Princess Mu.

*sigh* The whole family of Duke Mu was murdered in cold blood, and the Princess has no choice but to go to such a dangerous place. What a sad story!

Everyone is obligated to shoulder the burden of the nation’s safety. But we can’t sacrifice a young lady for it.

That’s quite what I thought!

Gu Yuexuan of Xiaoyao Valley is truly a man with a wide scope of knowledge.

Defending the motherland is everyone’s responsibility… one should fight to the death!

How could anyone put a delicate woman in a tight spot, sacrifice her freedom and strip away her happiness… just for one’s own safety? This is just not right.

Tsch! As a man, surviving in this world should be his own responsibility! Marriage for peace is not an option!

Quite indeed! Gu, we can’t sit this one out!

I also think the safety of the nation should not require such a personal sacrifice… besides, it’s likely against her will…

Furthermore, as the marine tyrant, Black Necro commits all sorts of crimes… if he has a falling out with the Imperial Court, Princess Mu will be caught in the middle of it…

As far as I’m concerned, it’s of the utmost importance to wipe out the influence of Black Necro and return Princess Mu safely.

Since you all approve, then we can help each other! Mutual help means better opportunity!

We’ll help since Big sister Qin says so! We don’t know the whereabouts of Black Necro, so why don’t we split up and do some investigations? Then we can swap information and come up with a plan.

You two have just met and you’re already calling her Big sister. What if she’s younger than you?

Humph, none of your business!

It seems we’ll be teaming up with Hongshang in the near future.

Returning to the monk in Northern Shaolin after finding the Bronzeman in the desert leads to a good reward for certain party members.

Returning to Dukang village leads to another familiar face.

Perfect timing. The young master of Golden Wind Security Escorts is here too!

The young master? Why is he here?

It seems he got hurt… and this place was nearest so he came here to have his wounds treated…

Alright! Let’s not delay and go check up with young master Lu Shaolin.

Lu Shaolin is inside one of the storehouses.

Lu Shaolin, you talk a lot. I assume you have recovered already, so why don’t you return to Golden Wind Security Escorts!

*sigh*… I was just so grateful for young master Guan’s help. Never would I have expect you would throw me out so hastily…

Surprisingly Qi Li is here too. Prolly 15 too.

I didn’t want to keep if from you… I was looted while on escort…

Do you know who did this?

*sigh* That’s what makes me so confused! Our Security Escorts has cozied up to so many people everywhere and never failed to be chivalrous. So who framed us? Our reputation shall not be slandered!

Speak clearly. It was a bunch of beggars from Beggars’ Sect.

Beggars’ Sect? How can that be? Guan Wei, don’t make up stuff!

This time he is talking the truth, Jing Ji. I was on escort myself that day and a bunch of beggars surrounded me out of nowhere. They claimed that our Golden Wind Security Escorts was colluding with Dongchang… and claimed I was protecting something bad so they took it by force…

If it’s the real Beggars’ Sect they wouldn’t harm someone so easily. Why were you so badly injured?

They robbed us, so how could I just watch and do nothing? Speaking of which, they looked strange… they hurt me badly yet they didn’t kill or disable me, as if they were just trying to teach me a lesson.

Gu, it’s like those beggars did it on purpose and wanted others to know about it.

I didn’t expect Ji to be clever sometimes… Gu, this is really odd, what are we going to do?

I intend to go back to the branch of Beggars’ Sect in Hangzhou and make some inquiries.

(This is similar to the Mysterious Organization’s tactics.)

If you clear this up, my Golden Wind Security Escorts will owe you bigtime!

You flatter me… I got things to take care of, so I will say goodbye for now.

Lu Shaolin recognizes Ziling from the brothel but she takes care of him quickly with some sleeping powder.

No, it can’t be wrong! You must be Ziling… Eh, why am I so sleepy… *snore*

Falling asleep in the middle of talking? Just like a pig. Do you know him? I should warn you first, this is a famous Casanova…

Hehe, I sure know. I don’t like such a rascally guy. I just gave him Anmian decoction. He’s badly injured and can’t get proper treatment here. He should be taken to the hospital in town. Gu, Ji, let’s go!

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXVIII: Earthly Delights

Spoiler

Back in Hangzhou there’s an event in the brothel.

Why would I lie to you?

He’s one known to Gu from Young Heroes Contest.

You know him?

I do. He must be Long Mo, son of the master of Diancang Sect.

Tch, it seems you really do have quite a few friends.

Not really a friend… we met on Young Heroes Contest. A prodigy whose martial art is quite unique and he’s… ravishing and casual.

Even someone like him can participate in Young Heroes Contest? It appears Diancang Sect is not as good as rumour has it!

Ziling, stop the nonsense.

What nonsense? Look at him, isn’t he a playboy?

Hahaha! Looking down at Diancang Sect, who are you?

I’m…

Pleasure meeting you, we’re Gu Yuexuan and Jing Ji from Xiaoyao Valley.

Oh? You also came here to have fun? What a coincidence. But it’s understandable since we’re all young.

Nonsense.

No, you misunderstand.

It’s alright that you brought along a buddy… but what’s the deal with this mean missy here?

Why? I’m not allowed in here?

Haha, of course you can! Help yourself here.

Since you brought along a girl, I assume you came here for another purpose?

We’re here for the investigation of the Acquittal Period.

The Acquittal Period… what a shame. I’ve been enjoying myself here in Honeyseeking Boudoir the entire time.

You’ve… been here the entire time?

Haha. You know, I’ll be the master of Diancang Sect in a short while.

I won’t have the luxury after succeeding to Master. That kind of behavior will stain Diancang Sect.

As usual Ziling starts a rant against wymyn of this particular profession. Still hasn’t learnt from the geisha debacle.

There must be a reason why you chose to make a living like this… but where’s your dignity to become a lapdog like this? The males will only think less of you!

Oh? You’re just here to sabotage our business. Please leave now.

Mr Long, pardon us for not treating you to the fullest.

Not at all, see you next time.

Deal! Don’t make me wait forever. See you next time, Mr Long.

Ziling stirred the pot enough to make trouble in the near future.

Hard on them? I just want them to face themselves squarely and never become the entertainment of males. You know, money is not everything.

You’re totally right, but here is not the proper place to make such speeches…

So you mean I should just quietly watch the dignity of these girls get trampled?

Don’t throw a tantrum! Life gave them no choice… they’re lucky to have a pretty face and be able to make a living while bringing joy to others. What’s the harm in it?

Oh? Having a pretty face and bringing joy to everyone? Excellent!

You seem like a toyboy, come here and make me happy! Sing a song, maybe I’ll reward you generously!

Quit the nonsense!

…

No? I got money, so why not? Now can you understand the feeling of being treated as a plaything?

Since Oman is in the party she interacts here.

Sorry. Forget what I said. It’s my fault for bringing you here.

Not really. There are lots of beautiful ladies here, quite fun. But they all wear heavy make-up. Are all Han people like this?

Ziling… (Now I understand her feelings… but this will cause serious trouble.)

Hahaha! Intriguing! Girls like you I’ve never encountered before! Your words make sense. Such thoughts never occurred to me…

Some peeps appear attempting to throw us out, to no avail of course. Strangely enough, they look like Feng Du.

Long Mo has a really gud internal style and some p. impressive Broadsword skills.

This battle doesn’t last long.

Clowns? So what? At least it’s much better than some stray dog. You’re not entitled to see the branch master.

Stray dog?

Hehe, indeed. Talented Mr Long created the so-called Swiftblade and abandoned Diancang Swordsmanship. So his father felt humiliated and threw him out of the family. That’s why he’s been here the whole time!

Hahaha! Well, well! How dare some ruffians insult the Master of Diancang Sect!

Gu interferes trying to stop Long Mo from killing the annoying twat.

Stop!

None of your business, step away!

They have a foul mouth, but don’t deserve to die… why not just let them go? Besides, killing people of Feng Du would bring disaster to your sect. Surely you don’t want such a terrible outcome!

They show no respect to my father, such behavior cannot be tolerated! Out of the way!

If you insist.

Gu needs to personally take Long Mo down, which is easy to do for the Young Heroes Contest Champion.

However, the Feng Du twat ends up cut in two anyway.

Luck favors me this time. Think it over, that’s all I want you to do.

Indeed. Bullying the weak would only disgrace my father…

To earn my father’s forgiveness, I have no choice but to devote myself to Swiftblade so as to bring glory to Diancang Sect.

Diancang Sect got wiped out during this Acquittal Period! Becoming master will be as pointless as chasing a rainbow!

Im… Impossible! Impossible!

Hahaha! Just a bunch of trash! By the way, we Feng Du killed those good-for-nothings…

It seems this twat is not really from Feng Du, but another infiltrator trying to stir up trouble.

Long Mo kills the faggit and dashes off.

Astonishingly swift!!

… (Even Diancang Sect got… but is it true that Feng Du is involved?)

We’d better find and stop him…

He seems to want to fight Feng Du with a death wish.

It’s me who caused this mess. I…I can’t let anything happen to him.

Tch! You realize this now?

I…

Enough, Ji.

However, what you said just now makes some sense. His killing spree has nothing to do with you. Put away that scowling face, it’s quite annoying.

(Ji is trying to comfort Ziling.)

A-annoying? You’re the annoying one! But… thank you for your concerns.

Tch, come on! Let’s go!

There are some Diancang Sect survivors in the streets to point the way.

Yes, I am.

Mr Gu! I have seen young in the Young Heroes Contest! I am Luo Yin of Diancang Sect and this is Gu Hai… the whole sect has only young master and us left… *sob*

*sob* I hate myself… I don’t have enough strength!

We have already heard what happened. In fact, I happened to come across the young master Long some time ago. He has gone berserk. I’m looking for him now.

The killing by young master in the brothel has caused an uproar… we are too weak to take revenge against Feng Du right now… if young master suffers misfortune we will feel really guilty for the late master.

I see. I will find him and stop him from seeking revenge on his own.

Thank you so much! We will be forever indebted!

Young master must have gone to the nearby Branch of Raksha of Feng Du… it is said that this so-called Raksha is very powerful, a skilled spear user. Please be careful.

Anyway, this has something to do with what we’re investigating. Don’t worry, I will do my best.

You talk as if you would bring him back in one piece. The disciples of Diancang Sect are of no use, why are you so proactive?

Ji…

You have already promised. Can I make you come back on your word? Hey, you two.

Yes?

Don’t be so cowardly if you are still disciples of Diancang Sect. Relatively speaking, Long Mo is more courageous than you… OK, let’s go.

I…I…

I apologize for my friend’s behavior. You are the lost hope of Diancang Sect, please take care of yourself. Farewell… I will bring him back.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXIX: Lost an entire update lel

Spoiler

Just a summary then of chit that happened

We had a fight with Raksha at Branch of Raksha.

Raksha wasn't responsible for the destruction of Diancang sect, then Chitcan attacks masquerading as Cult of Tianlong.

We beat Chitcan and Long Mo leaves for Chengdu.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXX: The Buddhist Connection

Spoiler

Upon returning to the world map we encounter a messenger from Great Xia Jiang.

I see. For what purpose did you come looking for us?

Much appreciated. Please send my thanks to Great Xia Jiang. I’ll get to the bottom of this.

I wonder how Uncle Jiang got hold of this intel and how reliable it is. Gu, perhaps it’s a trap?

It’s worth a shot even if there’s a little risk.

I can’t say for sure, either. But it will do no harm to have a look there.

This is another lead to follow.

In the lost update we had also visited the Beggars’ Sect to inquire about the attack on Lu Shaolin. They gave us yet another lead: investigating some Buddhist sutras related to Baima Temple.

I am a disciple of Xiaoyao Valley, Gu Yuexuan. I came here with Jing Ji and Wei Ziling because of some Buddhist sutras we got hold of. The patterns seem related to Baima Temple so we wanted to ask about it.

These are no common Buddhist sutras, it is one of the sutras our abbot carries.

What do you mean?

We are friendly with Lingyun Temple so the abbot is always in communication with them… some days ago, the abbot picked some precious sutras to send to them. I was standing beside him then.

It was me who put these Buddhist sutras inside the box.

I wonder why they are here?

Why did the Buddhist sutras the abbot carried go into the boxes of Golden Wind Security Escorts?

Did the Buddhist sutras get replaced by someone? But… who did it?

It is easy. Let’s just go to Lingyun Temple and find the abbot, open the boxes he carries and compare… then it will be easy to find out who did it.

That makes sense. Let’s go and check it!

Let’s go!

Lingyun Temple is on top of Leshan Giant Buddha.

Master, there’s no point disputing our words. How about you open these chests and take out the scriptures. Then we can compare them to the ones I’m carrying. What do you think?

It’s not that I don’t believe what you said… it’s just that the scriptures we’re carrying are for the eyes of monks only. If I take them out to compare them, wouldn’t that be disgracing the monks?

I know this is thickheaded and bad for the practice of Buddhism. It’s just that I should spare no effort to protect the reputation of the disciples in the temple.

How can you… be so stubborn…

Just then we are attacked by neenjas out of the blue.

The phaggets can evade well but are otherwise easy.

Gu, I think maybe it’s the stubbornness of the old monk that earned the hatred of someone so that these Japanese were sent to kill him…

No bullshit, Ji! That’s rude.

Alright! I see.

It must be the ninjas! They must have taken all the chests away during the panic.

What do you mean with “ninjas”? What does that mean?

My father once told me that Japanese fighters use special tricks that can also be used in detecting information. It’s called Ninjutsu in Japan.

Your father really knows a lot of stuff.

Of course, who do you think my father is?

Sorry to alarm you. It’s good that you are all safe…

Thank you for your help… or else we could have died here…

Did you know why these Japanese took the chests away?

Maybe it’s about the contents of the chests? Now that we got the scriptures of Baima Temple, there must be something else in the chests…

It’s a pity they took it before we could open them…

*sigh* I wonder what was in these chests.

It’s my inconsideration that caused all this.

To be honest, there seems to be a lot involved in this. We will get to the bottom of this.

Buddha be praised, thank you.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXI: Long Bro

Spoiler

We head to Chengdu to look for Long Mo.

There’s some unrest in the city.

(Three Sects and Four Houses… Long Mo? What the hell is going on?)

Hey, what are you guys talking about?

Ji…

I asked for you since you are interested in it.

I’m also curious to know what kind of trouble he got himself in.

Three Clans refer to Tangmen Clan, Clan of Matchless Broadsword and Baicao Clan. The four Houses are led by Beastmaster’s Manor and also include Shadowless Kick of Li House, Wire Punch of Hong House and Snake Hand of Chen House.

During this Acquittal period, E’mei has been hiding in the mountains and then Diancang was exterminated by Feng Du. These sects have been removed from Wulin of Sichuan.

Diancang sect was not exterminated by Feng Du.

Then who did it?

I don’t know, I just know it isn’t Feng Du.

We have heard of it since Diancang suffered such a big calamity. The only survivor of Diancang is their young master Long Mo. Considering your tone, you are… a little unhappy with him.

Not just a little… we really want to get rid of him.

Why do you say that?

Long Mo is a total prodigal. Diancang sect focuses on sword techniques yet he prefers broadsword techniques. He stays in the brothel all day long after he was driven out by his father. I never knew his sect was exterminated. Hehe…

It explains what’s been happening. He desperately wants to prove Diancang has not been exterminated and has come to challenge the three Clans and four Houses. Several disciples have been wounded by him.

I will teach him a lesson if I meet him. But the Clan of Matchless Broadsword suffered the most, as their young master was defeated by Long Mo.

*sigh*

Only Beastmaster’s Manor has been spared. Long Mo has offended almost half of Sichuan.

(Long Mo wants to restore the dignity of Diancang by challenging the three Clans and four Houses alone. What a pitiful man… he doesn’t know who his enemies are and can only vent his anger this way…)

This only shows that you are less competent. You can defeat him by your own skill if you want to save face.

What do you know? The rules of Wulin are not decided by you. It is none of your business that we can use whatever means to deal with him. Let’s go!

Long Mo has been causing some massive butthurt, defeating many weaklings, including the son of the Master of Matchless Broadsword.

The butthurt masters hold a meeting on how to deal with Long Mo.

Be quiet for a moment, please. Master Xiahou’s beloved son was hurt by Long Mo. Do you have anything to say, Master Xiahou?

All your disciples agree with your decision to stay away, Master Xiahou? Are we just taking the rules of Wulin as nothing?

What do you think, Master Tang?

It’s not my call to decide what to do with him. It’s up to all the masters.

According to the rules, if you want to kill him, you can vote for stabbing him twice. If you agree to spare his life, you can vote for stabbing him once. If you want to stay out of this, you can just abstain and leave it to us. The minority should submit to the majority and no one will raise objection.

In the end only Gong Guangjie votes to kill Long Mo. Xiahou Cheng abstains. The rest votes for sparing his life but take away his martial arts.

Guess Gu will need to save Long Mo from the masters, but primarily from himself.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXII: Flower Fagget

Spoiler

We must find a way to help Long Mo.

Diancang sect has sunken in Wulin and now if its only successor dies… *sigh* Diancang sect will vanish with the wind. That is just too cruel…

Humph! These old men are really unreasonable. How could they draw Long Mo’s fangs just because their disciples are too weak to beat him?

Honesty, Mr Long was too impatient. There are so many ways to improve onself… yet he chose the most impractical one. That is, to oppress others in order to advance himself. It was his fault to break the rules, therefore the masters have shown their mercy by sparing his life.

Rules, it’s always all about the rules. The word “rules” always annoys me.

Nothing can be accomplished without rules… some rules may be pedantic though, some rules are just inevitable. Since the masters have to take care of so many people and maintain their livelihood. So, are we just turning a blind eye to it?

Under these circumstances, this decision is settled unless a more prestigious senior intervenes.

Let’s not talk about the Four Houses. The Masters of the Three Sects are of the same status with the Masters of Huashan Mountain and Wudang Mountain. If we need to find someone of higher status… I’m afraid it’s just the abbot of Shaolin and uncle Wuxia Zi.

I remember the Tianji Taoist who’s over a hundred years, right? No one lived longer than him, I suppose.

Tianji Taoist has nearly disappeared from Jianghu so it’s not an easy task to find him. Uncle Wuxia Zi and the abbot of Shaolin are both of high prestige and universal respect but they are not related to Sichuan. People of Wulin attach much significance to the division of regions. It is inconvenient for them to intervene.

Tut! So you are saying we have no one to ask for help?

That’s not true, there is still one person that can be helpful.

Who is it?

Are you thinking to ask… him for a favor, Gu? But, that senior is famously eccentric, I’m afraid…

So who are you talking about?

Hmm… after careful consideration, only this senior might agree to help.

So you are talking about…

Ah, I still have no idea who you are talking about, so just tell me now!

Sorry, Ji, I got lost in thought. We were talking about the Sword Saint.

So it’s him! The Fastest Sword as the old man once said?

The Sword Saint was almost invincible in his early years and rumor has it that his Kung fu was as good as Nagaraja of the Cult of Tianlong… speaking of his temperament, however, he is quite unpredictable. Master once told me that he did the most terrible job in dealing with people like him.

Have you been to Luoyang Flower Festival last year, Gu and Ji?

No, why?

Why should we? We are not the Floriculturist, fiddling with flowers and plants all day.

I’ve been there are and met a man calling himself the Flower Saint. He was a venerable man with immortal strength and great presence. He planted a beautiful fiery peony but was a little eclipsed by the Floriculturist’s.

So?

The former Sword Saint has become the Flower Saint!

The Sword Saint was at the Flower Festival? I’ve heard that he became fascinated with gardening after his retirement but that never occurred to me.

There is always some arrogance in the heart of people like him. He was invincible in swordsmanship and now he’s trying to become matchless in gardening. You really should see what he was like, when he lost to the Floriculturist. He badgered her to teach him.

How did you know he was the Sword Saint?

Because I was with my father. And my father knows more than us. He said it was the Sword Saint and he would not make mistakes about that.

Oh, I see. We are going to ask the Floriculturist for help and maybe she can persuade the Sword Saint to mediate between Long Mo and the Three Sects and Four Houses.

We have no other option…

We head to Wangyou Valley to recruit the Floriculturist.

Now is not the time to admire the beauty of flowers!

Peony… is blooming now. It is a good time!

…

This Floriculturist is so cute!

*soft-voiced* I think she is a little pedantic.

Your flowers are absolutely beautiful. But one of our friends is in a bad situation right now. We are here to find help for him.

Oh… you are not here for my flowers… then what’s the matter?

Are you familiar with the Sword Saint, or Flower Saint?

You mean… Master Fu. I…I know him. In the last Luoyang Flower Festival, his Fiery Peony was so beautiful.

Your brilliant White Peony is better. And you also won the first prize with it!

!! You… you are here too? The Brilliant White Peony is also called Moonlight Peony… and…

You are still the same as always. You become enthusiastic when it comes to flowers.

Sorry… I’m puffed up with pride. You must be impatient at my… speech. You want to visit Master Fu?

Yes.

Thank you, sister! You are so kind!

Not at all. I have a friend in Chengdu named Hua Weng. He often exchanges experience in horticulture with Master Fu.

I will send word to him and have him invite Master Fu. However… Master Fu is a little unsympathetic… I’m afraid that he will refuse to help us.

Anyway, we need to try.

Okay… wait for me… a moment. I will go with you!

The Floriculturist can be a decent character. She even has Lady internal style.

With Floriculturist in party we head to Chengdu.

How about this Drunk Lotus, Fu?

I see, thanks for your explanation.

Eh? You are finally here, Li.

You are here, Mingjiu. This Drunk Lotus is difficult to take care of…

(How long will they talk about flowers?)

Why did you bring these irrelevant people here?

Let me introduce you. This is Yuexuan and Jing Ji… and this is Ziling.

Why the hell aren’t they talking? Are they mutes?

Sorry, we’re being impolite. I’m Gu Yuexuan of Xiaoyao Valley…

Xiaoyao Valley? Hmm, the disciple of Wuxia Zi. Look, you seem the same as Wuxia Zi when he was young… it really makes me…

(Makes you nostalgic?)

Makes me angry!

Sword Fagget prolly got cucked by Wuxia Zi in the past.

…

This gathering is meant for only us three, Li Mingjiu. Do you want to make me angry by bringing these lackeys here? And this is the first disciple of Wuxia Zi.

Don’t be angry, Fu. We’re just meeting new friends!

I’m really sorry, Fu. It’s my fault not to tell you in advance…

Forget it. I should have known you don’t understand the ways of the world. Let them go, to say one more word is a waste of breath.

(This Sword Saint’s temperament… is really strange.)

You say she doesn’t understand the ways of the world? I think you are the same! Hmm, you didn’t ask my name.

Ji!!!

Alas… speaking of not understanding the ways of the world… we also have one.

Then who are you again?

Jing Ji of Xiaoyao Valley. And this is Wei Ziling, the daughter of Wei Bao.

Nice to meet you, Master Flower Saint.

Interesting, your character is entirely different from Wuxia Zi. It seems like Xuanming. I like you better than them.

Xuanming refers to Xuanming Zi, former disciple of Xiaoyao Valley who went to join with Tianlong and became Wuxia Zi’s archenemy.

…

Who is Xuanming? I almost forgot, we need your help.

What?

Long Mo of Diancang Sect has gotten into trouble and is being chased by the Three Clans and Four Houses. Can we ask you to protect him since you have high prestige?

…it is… so direct (However, maybe this is the most effective).

Hum! Get out of here now! I don’t care about the trivial matters in Jianghu anymore.

You are so stubborn! What do you want for your help?

Master Fu… here you are.

These are… the seeds of the Brilliant White Peony? The flower than won the last Flower Festival? Great! I really can’t get this kind of flower… so pure white and flawless… just like her…

Apparently Sword Fagget had a thing for Xiao Xiao as well.

These are the flower seeds… I cultivated them carefully. The flowers will be more white… in the evening.

Thank you. I accept this gift.

Alright…

Now that you have received Mingjiu’s gift, you’d better help them this time. Or else it’s just mean.

Right. This is the best way of returning the favor to her if you can help us.

… you are ganging up on me?

No no no, we are really…

This is so shameless. Damned Wuxia Zi.

Why do you insult my master?!

Hum! I curse him!

We are being rude this time. Let’s leave now. I will find another way to help Long Mo.

Brother Gu…

OK. I also don’t want his help.

Your name is Gu Yuexuan, right? You are a man of integrity. I have changed my mind. If you want me to help…

Who needs your help? Yuexuan has said that we can find another way ourselves!

No matter what you choose to do, I will help now.

…you prefer to do the opposite, right?

However, you need to prove your qualification. I will help you, if you can take my three attacks.

This embarrasses us. You are the number one in Wulin, how could we deflect your attack?

Don’t be like this, I can do it!

Come on, Master Fu.

You… okay, let’s have a try.

OK, take care!

Sword Fagget has a ridiculous internal style, he can kill you by just standing around.

By being defensive Gu can survive. Plus he can trigger invulnerability when necessary.

Thank you, senior!

Shinji gets a new skill from the Sword Saint.

In the meantime, Long Mo is kicking ass.

Long Mo is attacked by a group led by three lesser Masters.

Hahaha! Destroy my martial arts and banish me? No way! No one can leave here alive.

We don’t destroy you, but you destroy yourself. Hoho, you are too young.

Lord Tang, let’s just kill this stubborn boy.

We can’t change the rules. We don’t kill him but if he commits suicide, that’s another thing.

Haha, you are right, someone just wants to die.

…

Master Hong, Master Chen, Master Li, please.

Take it!!!

Long Mo can easily defeat this first group. It also helps that he starts the fight buffed.

Tour’s over though when he needs to face the three other Masters. By then he gets debuffed to ensure his loss.

Bad news travels fast, but I like to to bad things. I am sorry if I ruined the reputation of the Three Sects and Four Houses.

The three aren’t exceptionally strong individually but as a group they’re not beatable. The debuff doesn’t help either.

Diancang must be proud to have trained a guy like you.

Tang Fei, you don’t seem sincere in your utterance.

Indeed.

Master Tang, do it! From now on, there will be no Long Mo in Wulin anymore and Diancang ends here. You did this to yourself and your clan.

As I said, no one in Diancang would bear being disabled. We’d rather die and never accept a humiliation inflicted on to us.

Stop!

Gu arrives in time to save the day… or not.

Brother Gu?

Gu, it is none of your business. Step aside, please!

Such authority you people from Xiaoyao Valley have. Even Shaolin and Wudang have no right to interfere in the business of Wulin of Sichuan province, let alone you. Even if Master Wuxia Zi was here, it would not change a thing.

The Sword Saint!

The master of the sword is past. Now I am the god of flowers! Do not utter those two words or you will be sorry.

W…Why…

Masters, is there anyone in Wulin who is the equal of the master of flowers, I pray?

Fu, it was decided by the Three Sects and Four Houses and witnessed by the deputy of Wushuang Sect. Even though you are extraordinary, you can break the long-lasting rules of Wulin of Sichuan only with your words.

If you want to protect him, nobody will be genuinely convinced.

Who said I want to help him? This guy is really cocky, abandoning the sword for the blade. Is a sword really worse than a blade? Ridiculous, that’s just ridiculous.

Senior! How… how dare you!!

His pulse is disorderly and there’s no inner force in him at all. He’s ruined.

You! Aren’t you here to mediate? How can you take their side?

And why should I care about what you think? Take him out of here.

Heh! Thank you for the justice.

…

In the end, it was all a trick by the Sword Saint.

How are you feeling, Long?

His martial art was ruined by others, how could he feel?

I didn’t expect that we would be so helpless… even with senior Sword Saint there.

No, maybe we misunderstand.

What do you mean?

You are awake, Long? Let him talk himself.

Where… where is this place?

In which direction did the Sword Saint go?!

The north.

This… what the hell is going on?

That’s right! Senior Sword Saint… he took your martial art, yet you kneel for him and thank him… I’m really confused.

Took my martial art? Hahaha!

Long Mo wasn’t deprived of his martial art at all. Rather the reverse.

You are even tougher than before?

The senior used a kind of advanced Qigong. He blocked the pulse inside Long and disguised him as a man without any martial art.

The energy inside Long merged with his own inner force and this not only healed him but added to his own power.

It’s just not that easy to tolerate. Though I was in a coma these past days I could still feel extreme pain inside. I will think twice if I have the chance to do this again! Ha ha!

But the pain is totally worth it if you get stronger afterwards.

Eh! We have all been mistaken about Senior Sword Saint for days. Gu is bad too for not telling us even though he knew.

Heh. I was not sure too. Long waking up proved my suspicions.

It’s good that it ended well.

Gu, thank you for saving me several times. I don’t know how to repay you. My life is yours from now on.

Don’t say that. Long, I think of you as my friend and that’s what friends do for each other. But, I need to tell you something as a friend.

We are all sorry about what happened to Diancang Sect. I know that you want to revive your sect but you are going about it the wrong way. Martial arts are meant to stop fighting instead of showing that you are better than others.

…

(Seldom have we seen Gu so angry.)

Yes, I was so wrong. I was so wrong! I will listen to what you say from now on, elder brother.

Elder brother?

I have said that I owe you my life. I shall surely listen to you. I am not joking when I call you elder brother. I mean it.

But… you are older than me… it feels wrong.

Alright, I will not call you that but I will take you as an elder brother in my heart. That should be fine then.

*sigh*

We can add Long Mo as a party member now. He’s indeed strong, but we’re reserving a place for Hongshang instead.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXIII: Luoyang Conspiracy

Spoiler

Shi Yi is in some trouble in Jingyang Ridge.

Is my Sea Shark Clan destined to perish? No, no! Ahh!

Bullshit! That is all bullshit. I would rather give up my life than satisfy you.

We need Shi Yi to continue the main quest and need to save him.

Let’s go help him!

Shi Yi is an offensive staff user. Actually a good character.

Shi Yi joins us for a while. He’s related to the matter Hongshang wants to deal with.

I am sorry for that.

*sigh*…

Eh? This girl looks familiar. Have I seen her before?

This is Wei Ziling, you have met in Hangzhou before…

Oh yeah? Haha! But I would never forget such a pretty face… I don’t remember her at all. Am I getting old?

You are a busy man, it is understandable.

You’re all lard and no brain!

It’s not something he would mention out loud in the first place. I wouldn’t remember it either.

And I don’t want him to remember! It’s not the same thing! Don’t run your mouth!

There was a lackey from the Imperial Court here… could you explain this to me?

Humpf, those men were here to take me in for the bounty!

Bounty? You Sea Shark Clan are really something with the court putting that on your heads.

Get lost! Some rats framed us for kidnapping Black Necro’s bride, Princess Mu Ping, and the destruction of the house of Duke Mu.

When Shi Yan is in the party, she will get cold feet for some reason.

Black Necro is the pirate king of the East Sea. Even the Imperial Court dreads him but since they were behind the marriage arrangement there is no way they will take him on.

Now that Princess Mu Ping got kidnapped and the house of Duke Mu destroyed, these events will deal a heavy blow to the Imperial Court’s reputation and will invoke the wrath of Black Necro… no wonder the Imperial Court is eager to capture all the suspects.

Sea Shark Clan and Black Necro all deal in sea business, that is true. Hey, did you really do all this?

We didn’t do anything! It’s just Luoyang looking for a scapegoat! Damn courts…

Kidnapping? Killing? That does not fit the Sea Shark Clan’s profile… (Although they are troublemakers, they would never do anything like that).

That’s right! You are one of the smart guys! Sadly, most people are only after the bounty, not the truth.

We earn our living by the sea and were looking for ways to deal with those pirates. Sadly, we don’t have the strength for it. Our lives belong to the sea, we shall never let our deaths be at the hand of landlubbers!

You are right. Sea Shark Clan is not a small clan, but to take on Black Necro… shrimps can’t fight a whale. If I may say so.

It’s alright if those dogs want our heads, but we can’t drag our people with us…

The Grandmaster didn’t escape, he is being held prisoner in Luoyang right now.

Gu, I want to ask you to come with me to Luoyang , find the true culprit and save the Grandmaster!

Save your Grandmaster? Are we going to say yes?

Lives are on stake here, we can’t walk away from this. Besides, something is not right about this… it might have something to do with this Mysterious organization we are after. Shi, we will help you.

Shi Yan really gets cold feet at this point.

Gu! Thank you. Sea Shark Clan will help you in return if Xiaoyao Valley needs us.

We will see about that!

Gu, I think you might need a soothsayer. Everywhere you go, you always get into these kinds of nasty affairs.

You might be the one causing us bad luck.

How dare you!! But, whatever.

I don’t even care.

Shi, how exactly did Sea Shark Clan get framed?

Xiong was in Luoyang, attending the annual meeting of the clans at the house of Duke Mu. Xiong past out during the party. After he woke up, he found himself drenched in blood and and the house of Duke Mu was filled with dead bodies… you know what happened next.

Hmm… I think you should lay low for now. We will come for you if we have information.

No… I am going with you. I need to prove my own innocence and save Xiong.

But…

We can’t stop him.

I understand your feelings, Shi. Let’s go to Luoyang and find out the truth.

We’ll team up with Shi Yi, then.

Ziling, this is too grave. You should go back to House Wei. You wouldn’t want Master Wei to get all worried about you.

Gu, now you are looking down on me. I realize how entangled this plot is ever since we started the investigation of the Acquittal Period. I wouldn’t stay with you this long if I were afraid.

But…

Save it, you can’t stop her anyway.

Did you just say what I was thinking just now? Anyway… you are right. I am going with you, no matter what.

Tsk! You just won’t go away.

Silly boy. Remember you got a pretty and clever sister like me. Don’t be so rude now.

Whatever…

Actually at this point we have a lot of staff related skills and even internal styles for Shi Yi to learn that would make him very powerful. But he prolly won’t be around that long.

Next up, we have things to clear up in Luoyang.

We should go to the mansion of Mu if we want to find out more about the culprit. The problem is that the mansion of Mu was sealed and the bodies were moved away…

Whoever committed the murder, he must have killed them with martial arts. We should check the bodies to find out the particulars. How about we find information on where the bodies were moved first?

Shi Yi is now a major suspect. It’s too conspicuous to ask around in the city.

Then what do we do?

How about we go to the joss sticks and candles shop and buy something used for memorial services. We can pretend to be mourning relatives. Meanwhile we find out some information from the show owner. What do you think?

Yes, that’s a good idea. Let’s do it.

Right. Aunt, I have a distant cousin working in the mansion of Mu but he died in the massacre. We came all the way to pay our respects to this cousin but we don’t know where to find his corpse. Do you by any chance know where I can find the corpses of those who were massacred at the mansion of Duke Mu?

Little girl, look at the expression on your face. You must be wanting to pay respect to your lover instead of your cousin. *sigh* The dead can’t be brought back to life. You should restrain your grief and find another good man.

You are right… but where can I find the corpse of my… my cousin?

Ah, most corpses related to the massacre were taken away. The rest such as the servants or the guards are kept in the coffin repository. You can go there to check.

Thanks, Aunt.

Can we just swagger in like that?

It’s getting dark, how about we go and check it at night in case we alert the enemy.

Excellent.

At this point, Shi Yan will actually leave the party.

Miss Shi…

We head to the coffin repository at night but there’s an ambush anyway.

Don’t worry, it’s just the blowing wind moving the coffins…

Gu, do you see anything weird?

Yes… these people should have been killed with blades but if so, they should’ve looked terrified as they were slain from the front.

Gu, what are you saying?

If they were killed by blades there wouldn’t be so little blood on their clothes… I’m afraid these people didn’t die from blades but instead from powerful inner forces.

Shi, is there anyone in Sea Shark Clan with powerful inner force?

No, we Sea Shark Clan make our living at sea, we all depend on strength. There’s not anybody with powerful inner force.

If so, then indeed Sea Shark Clan was framed on purpose.

Gu… now that we know these people weren’t killed by Sea Shark Clan, we don’t have to linger here any longer, how about… we leave here before anyone notices us.

Ziling is right, let’s leave here.

A fagget we haven’t seen in a long time shows up.

We Sea Shark Clan may not be good guys but we didn’t commit this massacre. Don’t even think about blaming us just because you are men from the Imperial Court.

Commander You, we just discovered that the cause of death of these people is not so simple, it’s not related…

Right or wrong, somebody in charge will decide! Gu Yuexuan, I forgive you for your ignorance to team up with a murder suspect. Listen to me and don’t help the criminal or I will have no choice but to take you into custody as well.

I think you are the criminal!

Commander, I am sorry but I can’t let you take Shi Yi into custody until everything is cleared up.

There’s a fight with You Jin and some guards where we’re supposed to hold out for 8 rounds.

Unfortunately for him, the mooks he brought are very weak.

By Turn 3 You Jin is all alone.

Remember when this dude seemed like a god at the beginning of the game? Now he’s on his own and goes down like a little bitch.

Even with You Jin beaten, we “lose” in a cutscene.

We are saved by the gurl that left a short while ago.

Hehe, is this the way to treat your savior?

Thank you very much for helping.

Hehe, to hijack people directly from under the eyes of the Imperial Guard… I wanted to do so for a very long time. It looks like I got another achievement.

But, we may not be rid of the crime of “collusion with bandits”…

If you are talking about the massacre at the mansion of Mu…

Do you know something?

Hehe, actually I was on a roof girder when the massacre happened, so I saw everything.

What? Why didn’t you mention this earlier? Now we are at this gloomy place late at night and hunted as criminals by the Imperial Guard…

Hehehe, don’t you think this is exciting?

Nevermind. Did you witness the culprits? We need to find the real killer.

I did see, but I didn’t recognize them. They were very tough people. I was too terrified on the roof girder to move or make any noise. I just watched them slaughter everyone at the mansion of Mu and capture the Princess.

Miss Shi, what did they look like, do you remember?

Yes, they were a man and a woman. The man was middle-aged, all in fine clothes. The woman looked very weird. She was not a Buddhist nun yet she was bald.

Gu, you’ve been around. Do you recall anyone matching this description?

Hmm… no. It seems like it won’t be so easy to quickly find the real killers for now. It’s good that Miss Shi has witnessed the whole thing. It shouldn’t be so hard now to clear Sea Shark Clan.

With Miss Shi’s reputation, I am afraid it won’t be that easy.

Ziling does have a point. We should get some real evidence.

Alright, I got things to take care of. Goodbye. You can find me in the woods if you need me.

After this nonsense she pulled, we’ll mostly be using Fatty from now on.

What do we do now, Gu?

Hmm… it looks like we have to find those two who slaughtered everyone at the mansion of Mu.

Thank you for saving my life, Gu. I will never forget.

It’s no big deal.

We should sneak out right now. In the morning You Jin will receive more people to search and it will be harder to escape.

Alright, let’s do it.

There’s some kind of minigame to get out of the city.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXIV: Box Girl

Spoiler

We report back to Hongshang at East Ferry.

Finally you’re here! While you were away, we managed to locate the seaborne strongpoint of Black Necro.

Humph, the Japanese turtle has nowhere to hide now! I’m gonna tear its shell apart.

Thunder Hall is truly impressive! We also got some solid clues…

So Sea Shark Clan was wronged in the first place… Besides, it’s said that Black Necro was trained by the Japanese “Winddevil Tribe”. This remarkable tribe specially cultivates ninjas.

The ninjas who attacked you are probably followers of Black Necro.

So Black Necro tried to rob Baima Temple. Thus… the missing boxes must have something to do with Black Necro.

So? Where are the boxes now?

While we were in the middle of a fierce fight against the Japanese ninjas, the cargo was stolen by others accidentally.

Tch! Nothing helpful.

The Four Stooges appear out of nowhere just then.

Ji…? What?

You bastards!

Hahahaha...

You… Humph!

Are you blind? Nowadays boys like to dress like girls. Didn’t you wear your mother’s dudou?

Damn you!

It’s definitely a man dressing like a woman. Finger-guessing game! The winner gets the chance to verify with his hands.

Enough. I think she’s an eunuch…

Hahaha! Hey, little eunuch, why don’t you speak…

You… are outrageous…

(…Why am I feeling chills up my spine?)

“Four Dragons of the Great Mountain”, who wouldn’t know these four heroes? Back in the tavern, your gallant spirit deserved my attention. So why are you coming here today?

We’re heroes, didn’t you hear?

Didn’t we get beaten up last time? Heroes? More like losers.

Bah, we didn’t pull out all stops or they wouldn’t have a chance. We’re renowned seniors and should care about the younger generation.

Well, that makes sense.

Cut the crap! I don’t have time for your babbling.

Here is the thing. The other day we snatched something…

What? I’m confused.

When you were talking to the monks of Baima Temple and then fighting the Japanese ninjas we stole… the boxes out of poverty…

Nonsense! Poverty or not, we steal anyway. And we never lie!

Don’t be stupid! If we tell the truth, what if we get our ass kicked again?

But our goal is still to be decent… thieves.

Forgive us! Didn’t we come here to admit the truth? We never opened the box and looked at the “thing” within. We want you guys to have it.

You…

Enough, Ji. While we were in the middle of a fight against villains, the four heroes took care of the box for us. Am I right?

Yes, yes! You’re reasonable!

So I’m unreasonable?!

Ji, be lenient whenever possible. Let them off the hook since they’ve confessed. People like them lack others’ respect.

Tch, boring!

We hid the box somewhere secret, why don’t you follow us?

Hehe, sorry for the trouble, four heroes. You two wanna tag along?

What a mysterious box they’re talking about. Perhaps it’s related to Black Necro? Zhan Hong, let’s go.

Hehehe, alright. (Though acting prudent, she’s obviously interested. What a stubborn girl.)

Turns out there’s wombyn inside the box.

Unexpectly there lies a sleeping beauty…

We could have saved the trouble asking for your help and just let her sleep!

Well now, this beauty belongs to you and has nothing to do with us!

As expected, you’re afraid she may not survive and leave everything up to us.

Tch, cut the crap. Save her.

Indeed, let’s check on her condition.

Hmm… judging from her complexion she’s not in a coma because of poison. Maybe she’s in hibernation?

Really? She’s not a bear or a snake!

So our Great Xia Jing has a better explanation?

Probably she’s practicing the Trance of Convalescence.

She’s doesn’t seem to have inner force. Someone may have sealed a critical acupoint, turning her into a kind of stasis state.

You mean she’s still conscious?

Judging by the twitches around her eyes and her fluctuating pulse when we approach, I’m afraid so.

Gu, how do we help her? She’ll die due to blocked blood circulation if nothing improves.

Whoever sealed her acupoint must’ve used a very ingenious force as the sealed acupoint is a strange one. Unless we use the exact same technique things could go south.

So what can we do? We have no idea about the acupuncture technique and who used it, we can’t just watch her…

…

Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand?

What’s that? Sounds no good.

Jing Ji, how do you know this?

How? Hasn’t master told you? That day I went to Wangyou Valley with him, Celestial Melody happened to play a song called “The song of sea and waves”.

The song that made the Scholar and Painted hurry away red-faced when they heard it?

Who knows, perhaps. Master said I’m too young to understand the depths of that song…

Master also said this is a remarkable martial art, channeling one’s inner force into it, which made me a little interested. But using melody against enemies? Tch, boring.

…

Xiao, Ji means no offense.

Then, out of a sudden, the tune of Celestial Melody rose and seemed both close and distant simultaneously which made me feel sick. I felt better after Master patted my shoulder. In my eyes, her playing became mysterious, her ten fingers seemed to double and even triple.

Master said Celestial Melody was playing with “Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand”. Master told me it’s Celestial Melody’s unique technique. If an acupoint is sealed with it, only the same brilliant technique could solve the problem.

Alright… Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand. Celestial Melody must have a way of helping this girl. Jing Ji, thanks for reminding me.

Tch! I suppose at your age you suffer from amnesia.

Hehe, Jing Ji can remember nothing but martial arts.

Enough with the babbling!

Without further ado, we’d better hurry to see Celestial Melody in Wangyou Valley.

I and Zhan Hong will stay and attend her. Humph, these ruffians cannot be trusted.

We’re Four Dragons of the Great Mountain, taking advantage of another’s perilous state is impossible! Absolutely impossible!

You’re right, we can’t rely on these people.

Rest assured and come back soon in case her condition gets worse.

Thank you.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXV: Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand

Spoiler

We go to see Celestial Melody in Wangyou Valley.

We want to learn your Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand.

…

Ji, show your respect. Senior Celestial Melody, we were asking because a friend of us was hit by an enemy on an acupoint.

If we can’t save her quickly, I am worried that she might die. My master used to say your Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand is excellent. Can you teach us the way to unlock the acupoint?

Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand is my sect’s secret arte. Leave.

Can we at least talk about it? Our friend is in danger. Helping others leads to good karma. Besides, Gu is not a bad guy, so your arte will not be used for ill.

Please reconsider. You helped to raise Gu, he is just like an apprentice to you… you know him well.

Looks like you are the daughter of Wei Bao.

Ziling!!

…Ziling, daughter of Wei Bao.

I don’t care about my secret arte. Our sect was founded on the single idea of being “unorthodox”. Our founder was not constrained by anything, we should be the same.

Then why are you not teaching us?

I didn’t say that.

Eh? But you just said…

Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand is our treasure, not everyone can practice it. Our arte focuses on speed and accuracy. It’s simple yet unorthodox. Xuan is good but he is too aplomb, he can’t use strange moves.

Ji is a free spirit but his temper holds him back. You will never master artes that do not suit you. Besides, the power you need to unlock the acupoint needs to be precise.

How about this, you go with us. Or we take her to you.

No. I practiced Soul Fading Melody when I was too young and it hurt my inner force. I can use Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand but cannot unlock its true power.

Well…

Please teach me, Senior. I can master it.

Yes, Ziling is familiar to Celestial Melody in many ways…

Yeah, she must be able to use it. Please teach her, Celestial Melody.

Follow me.

Ziling must spar with Celestial Melody.

Your mood changes again.

Every family has a skeleton in the cupboard… I thought you would teach me Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand.

I said too much. I can teach you, but on one condition.

Please say it.

Don’t hurt those two.

…!! What are you saying… why would I hurt them.

You don’t mean to, but the better you treat them, the more likely you will deeply hurt them. You understand me?

No, I don’t understand.

Sound has a soul. That is all. This is Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand, look carefully.

All Celestial Melody’s techniques ignore defenses, but unlike Gandharva she has nothing very damaging.

If you understand, there is no way you can’t perform it.

Thank you for teaching me.

I guess so.

Tsk, why are you putting on that face then. Come on.

What… what face! Damn Ji!

Why are you getting mad now?

…

Thank you, Celestial Melody.

Xuan, the location of your friend’s acupoint and her flow, tell me about it.

Yes, Senior. Every part of her limbs has a strange flow of coldness. And every ten seconds the flow moves to her heart and head. The flow feels strange.

I may be wrong.

Hmm, you are improving. I can now say that the one who did it, he or she must know Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand.

What!? A brother or sister from your sect?

This has nothing to do with you. You have learnt my arte, now go.

This is all our business! There’s a dozen dead in Duke Mu’s mansion and this is related to it. Don’t hide the murderer just because you are from the same sect.

Ji!!

The only disciple that can practice Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand is me.

If that is true… why would the perpetrator…

My master used to take me on this trip to Maurya Empire. Master was a friend of the Saintess. She gave us many treasures, so Master gave the Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand to the Saintess’ Handmaiden as a return gift.

Maurya Empire… Saintess? The slaughter of the house of Duke Mu… the princess… what is the connection between all these and this exotic kingdom far away?

Maurya Empire is long gone now because of the war. This is all I know. I’m tired, you should leave now.

Thank you, Celestial Melody!

…

What are you doing there? Let’s go!

Humpf! Watch out now, I can lock your acupoint!

Tsk.

Ziling has mastered the arte, let’s go to the forest and save the girl in the box.

This acupuncture thingie is not bad for a plot related skill.

We can now save the girl in the forest.

Still feeling uncomfortable? We’ve got food and water here.

I’m fine… I can survive without food or water over a month. Your help is much appreciated.

You guys want your ass kicked again?

(She doesn’t seem like a commoner, who the hell is she? For what purpose are all these factions fighting over her… Ah! She’s…!)

Throughout these past days I was still aware of my surroundings. I’d be dead by now without your help.

I have nothing to reward you for your kindness. But I still have a favor to ask.

As long as it’s within my powers.

Please send me back to my fiancé Black Necro.

Princess Mu, is it really worth the trouble?

Indeed, I am the daughter of Duke Mu Yi – Mu Ping. According to the imperial edict, Black Necro and I are to marry. Please help me accomplish this mission.

As I expected…

How could this be? There are other ways to maintain the peace in the East Sea… perhaps political marriage is one of many options but there are more appropriate ones…

We just got you out of the lion’s den, how can we send you back to the dragon’s lair? Responsibility of a nation’s rise and fall cannot fall solely on the shoulders of one person! Let alone by arranged marriage! Since we’ve saved you, we cannot turn a blind eye to all this.

Why do you insist on fulfilling the commitment? Has the tragedy at Duke Mu’s manor make you lose the will to live? Or do you think that the fate of the whole country depends on it?

Humpf! The sacrifices of innocents are only a temporary measure. Who can live with such an unconscionable decision?

I’m aware of all that, but… I must do this. Even if not for the country, I still have other reasons.

No, don’t act rashly! With Black Necro’s natural strongpoint in the East Sea and mighty forces, even the Imperial Court can do nothing about him. How can I abandon the commitment for my own good and put Thunder Hall at risk?

Your Highness…

There’s another reason: my stay in Central China only intensifies the current conflict in Wulin. Hence I won’t stay any longer.

Why would you be involved with Wulin in the first place?

Let’s recall everything that happened after the tragedy at the Duke’s manor. Something is really not adding up.

Quite right.

First, the Imperial Court pins the crime on Sea Shark Clan and tries to close the case for good.

Second, why was the box that contained the princess in the convoy from Baima Temple to Lingyun Temple?

Third, a group of Japanese ninjas launched the attack right when we found the monks of Baima Temple. All these events show that perhaps the princess has some secret. There are two, no probably more than three, involved factions.

Tch, these four clowns did something good unconsciously.

Huh? Wait a moment, how don’t I know of this? Princess Mu, who on earth are you messing with?

How does this related to the disputes in Wulin? It still confuses me.

Sivasutrani? Whats that?

It’s a Vajrayana codex which can cure the handicapped and make them strong.

Duke Mu had some relations with Wulin, but how do you possess such an important codex?

I’m from a vassal state of Japan, the Saintess of Maurya Empire.

Maurya Empire…!! Celestial Melody mentioned…

There’s only one Saintess in Maurya Empire. I’m the successor after the former passed away. I’ve been raised in the temple with the duty of guarding Grand Sivasutrani.

Black Necro invaded us out of the blue… the temple preceptor was worried something might happen to me and Grand Sivasutrani lost, so he entrused me to the custody of Duke Mu. Since then I became Princess Mu Ping.

My only wish was to avenge my people. Thus I advised my father to petition the Imperial Court… for permission of marriage with Black Necro. After marriage I then would wait for an opportunity to kill Black Necro and destroy his organization from within.

So this is why you’ll marry Black Necro.

Duke Mu protected me with all his heart and kept the secret about my past… however Yidam, the guardian of my childhood, turned out to be devoted to villains!

She betrayed my secret to one so-called Duke Sai and tried to kidnap me to obtain the Grand Sivasutrani.

So that Yidam… your former servant was the one who learnt Orchid Acupuncture Brushing Hand from the Master of Celestial Melody. No wonder she could use that technique to subdue you.

That day an imperial edict commanded my presence at the Imperial Palace. When I came back to the manor, I saw… my poor father… *weeps*

Princess, we’re sorry for your loss.

I’m fine… at that moment I was desperate and at a loss, then Yidam took advantage and sealed my acupoint.

Somehow another flock of Dongchang assassins suddenly showed up and put me in a box. They hid the box in the caravan from Baima Temple to Lingyun Temple. They said I was to be the gift for Lord Chen to help him recover.

What was the purpose of those Japanese ninjas? Only to retrieve you?

Supposedly, those ninjas intended to put an end to the arranged marriage and stop Black Necro and the Imperial Court reaching a consensus. Once the marriage successfully proceeds, Black Necro would slow his territorial expansion, which some of his henchmen would object to.

Fair point.

So you want us to send you back to Black Necro to fulfill your wish of revenge, is that right?

Indeed, right now I have nobody to rely on and my father’s family met their doom because of me… that tragedy only made me more determined.

I speak without reserve because I’m in need of your help. If you sincerely want to help, please grant my wish.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXVI: Semuren

Spoiler

We return once more to East Ferry to meet with Hongshang. Everything should be ready to sail off now.

Also, the Princess is now in disguise.

You… you are Princess Mu?

We disguised her slightly to avoid being recognized. Even so, the beauty of Princess Mu still can’t be covered up.

Hehe, the outstanding temperament of Princess Mu can’t be easily covered up. Is the Princess beautiful, Yuexuan?

… Hum! I think you are… very remarkable, Princess. We can only help a little. It can’t be compared to what… you are going to do.

Thank you.

*grunt* Em…

I have arranged the ships and since we know exactly where Black Necro is located we can set off anytime.

OK, let us…

Shi Yi shows up out of the blue to mess up our plans.

Deputy Shi, what is it?

Tch, Sea Shark Clan, what’s up? We’re busy right now.

Thunder Hall, don’t try to be a smart ass. The ship you arranged is total garbage. Sailing with it would be a ticket to hell.

What are you talking about?!

Guardian, there is bad blood between us and Sea Shark Clan, but they make a living by the sea and are much more familiar with it than us. Since this involves the safety of the Princess we must proceed with caution. Why not hear them out?

So Thunder Hall are not all fools.

Shoot!

Do you know the meaning of “Black Necro”?

Tch, boring. Black Cat, isn’t it? Why would someone call himself a cat?

…Ji, it’s “Necro” not “Neko”… *sigh* it’s my fault that you’re illiterate.

Hahaha, Black Neko… hahahahaha! Hell of a joke! Hahaha.

Stop laughing! Just one character wrong, nothing funny at all! Humph!

Back to the topic. “Necro” means someone channeling death forces?

Brilliant. Deep, dark and roaring “Blackwater Strait” is not only the comfort zone of Black Necro, but also the nightmare of sailors. Lots of ships can’t pass and sink there.

So the Japanese call Blackwater Strait “Black Necro”. The man who’s the overlord of East Sea took his name from that. He possesses top notch pirate ships and sea craft!

So you mean our ship can’t cross Blackwater Strait.

Indeed! This ship is out of the question. Only the finest battleship can barely overcome the waves. But the Imperial Court impounded all our ships.

What shall we do now? Time is of the essence, how can we find a ship big enough to cross Blackwater Strait right now?

Heh! That’s the reason I’m here. Superior ships of Sea Shark Clan were all constructed by a legendary shipwright – Tang Mu. He lives in Eastern Ferry nearby.

Really, that’s good.

So why does your expression say otherwise? Let’s go find Tang Mu.

Needless to say, the blame is on those idiots from the Imperial Court. What you have gone through is way too hard, which deserves my admiration! *sigh* Were it not for the engagement between you and Black Necro, I’d be more than happy to tie the knot with you…

Deputy Shi…

Please take us to Mr Tang.

Unfortunately Tang Mu is not very forthcoming.

Tch, “friends in adversity”, nice!

It seems things are not well?

Impossible! Old Tang! You’re not this kind of person! Damn, get the hell out!

Deputy Shi, forget it.

Damn, how did this happen? No, something must’ve happened to Tang Mu! Five years ago he still had use of both legs when I met him.

You also noticed his broken leg? I thought your brain was just full of muscle and you ignored that.

What are you talking about! A man always has some pains he’s reluctant to talk about. It’s alright if he’s willing to talk about it , but wouldn’t it hurt his feelings if I asked bluntly?

Quite reasonable.

Deputy Shi turns out to be a considerate person.

Deputy Shi. About the ship, it has to be this Old Tang?

Of course, he’s the best shipbuilder and the only option.

I see. Then let’s ask around East Ferry and find out what led to this change of temperament in Old Tang. Perhaps we can be helpful in some way.

*sigh* Seems it’s the only way.

Asking around leads to the needed information.

We need to find a Semuren somewhere to be able to continue here.

So that explains it. Old Tang, saved by a fleet of Semuren in a shipwreck. He must’ve mistaken them for monsters.

”Semuren” normally refers to a Yuan dynasty caste. In this case it likely just means “westerners”.

If we can find Semuren and bring them to meet Tang Mu, perhaps it’ll solve the problem. I’ve heard the Petals Tribe consists of Semuren, maybe we can try our luck there.

We are stuck here for now, but at least we can now add Hongshang to the party.

We have a ton of broadsword skills for Hongshang to learn (like Ox-dissecting).

Hongshang can still learn 3 more internal styles but her default Thunder one is best. She has natural high crit and being able to trigger invulnerability upon crit is very useful.

Her unique skill is the Thunderfire Grenade which has wide range and packs a punch, but is most useful for the debuffs it causes.

And as always, new party member should be taken to Hu.

Who is this young lady… (I thought it was young master from the tone of speaking)

I’m Qin Hongshang from Thunder Hall.

Oh, it’s Guardian Qin. I’ve heard about you so many times. I thought Guardian Qin was a guy with a big beard and thick eyebrows. It turns out you are a sweet little girl.

Don’t look down on me! I’m much better than some beard guy.

Hongshang is also a good luck charm. During a fight with tigers in Jingyang Ridge they dropped a 9 Yang Divine Art scroll… a top internal style which will replace Gu’s default internal style.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXVII: Secret meet

Spoiler

For now we head to the Primeval Forest to follow up on the lead that Great Xia Jiang gave us.

There are some familiar faces here.

That’s my duty. Once the taxes on farm hands are paid, I will send it to you in one of the next days.

OK! I heard that some annoying flies appeared in Jianghu recently who are asking about Acquittal period everywhere. You’d better investigate and deal with them. The master can’t be bothered with this.

Ji, calm down. It looks like these three belong to the mysterious organization.

It seems that An Daohuang has been providing gold to the mysterious organization in secret all these years. He helps a villain do evil deeds, we can’t let him go.

Ha! Then why are we hiding here? We should rush out and interrogate them!

We don’t know all the details, so don’t act rashly.

Exactly! Don’t you remember last time… Eh-hem, anyway, we should listen to what they say and take action after.

…

Oh… this woman looks familiar to me. Yes, she is one of the Japanese selected by Ao Guang at East Sea Branch. She can speak Chinese fluently… wait, that’s not the point. Why is she here?

Obviously, she is with them. She mixed among those other Japanese girls to sneak into East Sea Branch. She was to gather information or to instigate Ao Guang.

We accidentally stopped her tricks last time. Ji, you did a great job.

I know you are teasing me.

Moreover, An Daohuang, when you hear about the death of Yaksha, please tell people the witch from Cult of Tianlong was killed by Shaolin and Wudang.

Haha, that’s simple. I’ll do as you say.

I can’t do that, it has nothing to do with me.

What?! Don’t be so arrogant, master…

Xincan is your master, not mine. He can’t command me.

You want to do this the hard way? Do you think… Who?! Who is there?

…

The three finally notice Gu and manage to get away.

Damn, they found us.

That An Daohuang can’t run far away. Let’s follow them.

We are led right into a boss fight of sorts.

We already beat Hetuo and didn’t even really need Drunken Brah’s help.

You are wrong. Who do you think you are? How dare you command me? You and me are like dirt and gold. If someone’s dog is too arrogant… what should I do?

Hetuo, I just said something without thinking. I hope you can forgive my rudeness! I will donate more silver to your temple. Haha…

The ugly bald bitch is a new face… but the Princess told Gu about her. Plus she matches Shi Yan’s description… she killed everyone at Duke Mu mansion together with Hetuo.

That’s right, that’s right.

I have no interest in the chaos of Central China. Don’t forget what you promised when everything’s over.

My master always keeps his word, please rest assured. These guys are really annoying. We should deal with them here, or…

Brother – brother Gu!

Ji, Ziling, I will distract them. You two should run north with everything you’ve got when I give the signal.

What did you just say?! This is a good chance to prove myself.

Ji?!

I can never be the Nr. 1 of Wulin if I cannot defeat them. I am Jing Ji of Xiaoyao Valley, I won’t let you down!

Heh. Ji, do you remember when we took the rattle-drum from Master? We can use Tactic Tian.

I remember.

Interesting. I wonder if you’ve made any progress these days.

Heh, let’s start.

In this fight we can only use Gu, Shinji and Ziling.

Gu and Shinji should change their default internal style to a defensive one here.

We already know Hetuo is very dangerous with his Flaming Blade.

The ugly bitch also has some dangerous AoE. To make matters worse, she can trigger invulnerability with critical hits… combined with two talents that guarantee a critical hit after she’s hit with a critical hit and when she attacks from behind.

There’s also a gimmick in this fight: Shinji must finish off Hetuo. If either Gu or Ziling defeats him, he’ll heal to full health.

So it’s better to finish off Yidam first, the more dangerous of the two.

After that, Shinji can take down Hetuo in peace.

So much nonsense. Take that!

You are very strong and rare, just like the flammable ice of Ordos Basin. Maybe I am no match for you in a few years. But…

?!

You lack experience.

Ziling, get away!!

Hetuo attacks Ziling but Shinji goes white knight again.

Ji!!!!

Stupid… why can’t you avoid that…

Hehehe! The hero saves a beauty! Tsk-tsk! That’s extremely touching. A pity you can only be a couple in death.

You forced me!

As usual Ziling pulls something from her sleeve.

!?

You are no different! You even learnt the sinister martial art Strength Erasing. I am ashamed of being inferior.

(Strength Erasing!! How?)

I…*cough* I underestimated you.

Ziling, you…

Gu, there is no time to speak too much! Now, let’s go!

Shinji somehow survived Hetuo’s blow.

Eh… ah!

Ji, Ji… don’t be afraid! I’m right here.

What should we do, brother Gu… He still remains unconscious, this is all my fault…

We can only buy some medicine and stabilize his wound. You should let him have a good rest.

Gu, look… is he getting better?

Ji… have a good rest! I will take you back to the valley to see Master and Doctor Miracle… they must have some way to heal you.

Yes! Wuxia Zi and Doctor Miracle must be able to heal Ji!

We will go back to Xiaoyao valley immediately when Ji is awake.

Em… it will be OK. It has to be OK.

Ziling…

Can you tell me where you learnt Strength Erasing?

I…I can’t say it.

That strength erasing is really useful at times.

These days, I’ve secretly observed you and found you know many things… maybe a little too many. Your understanding of poison and martial arts beyond what you should know at your age.

…

As far as I know – Golden Blade and Silver Spear are equally famous, and Castle Wei has always been heroic and chivalrous…

*frowns slightly* …

I don’t understand where you learnt this knowledge?

Gu… please don’t ask… I can’t say.

If you can’t be honest with me, how can I let you go with us?

I swear I really don’t want to harm you, please believe me.

…

Please… Gu…

Shinji wakes up in time so Gu isn’t forced to take some drastic decision.

Ouch…

Ji!! Ji, how do you feel?

I… feel better now. That damned monk… I must get revenge… *cough*

You stupid monkey, I thought you hated me? Why did you jump in front of me, huh?

I didn’t do that. It was an accident.

Idiot, you are an idiot.

OK, cut it out. Ji, you are badly hurt. We can just control your condition and take you back to Xiaoyao valley tomorrow. Master must have some solution.

I am fine. Let’s go to Villains’ Valley.

No, Ji. Nothing is more important than you. Listen to me, we return to Xiaoyao Valley first to heal you.

We finally got clues on those guys, how can we just give up? If they escape, where should we go look for them?

I said I am fine, didn’t you hear? They want to use Yaksha to create trouble. We can’t let that happen, Gu.

You… leave Yaksha alone. Do you know how worried we are about you? Top priority is healing your injuries!

Well, no means no! If you don’t want to go back, I will take you back by force.

Gu Yuexuan!!

Ji, no matter what you say, I won’t let you put your body on the line!

That is enough! I know my body best of all, you can’t order me.

Ji… I didn’t mean that…

What are you saying? We are worried about your health. Can’t you understand?!

You don’t need to remind me!

…!!

You know those people are very crafty, always hiding in the shadows… if we miss this opportunity we don’t know when we will find them again…

I…I don’t want to see more sects disappear! You once said helping others is our duty!

Ji…

*sigh* You beat me.

Gu, how can you allow this?

It is OK. If you really want to go, I will protect you. But I will take you back after whether you like it or not.

I know.

We set out tomorrow, for now take some medicine and rest! I will accompany you. If you don’t feel good on the way to Villains’ Valley, let me know.

OK! You’re really nagging…

After this the game automatically moves us to Villains’ Valley.

It’s unclear how that dumbfukk Shinji suddenly managed to deduct its location.

Ji, your injury is still not healed, don’t use your inner force rashly.

Alright, alright, I won’t. You are killing me with all your advice.

Quickly a fight breaks out with some local scum.

Is that so? And what can you do about it?

This is Villains’ Valley, the place where all evil resides. What does a young man like you want here?

We are not good guys either.

Heh! Is that right? So you wouldn’t mind getting your hands dirty then? Here! Kill these people and you may pass.

These are innocent folks! What have they ever done to you?

Heh heh, every single person who wants to enter the valley must prove themselves first. And the same goes for you.

We need to prove we are bad? Sorry, but we are not common bad guys.

I am the villain of villains, specialized in killing bad guys of Villains’ Valley.

I can deal with these guys. Just sit tight, let me crush them for you.

You…!!

Ji, don’t forget my promise, I won’t leave you alone. Don’t worry, this is a piece of cake.

…

Don’t look down on Villains’ Valley! Kill them!

After beating Hetuo and Yidam this is a breeze.

Saving the innocents marks a new location on our map.

At this point, there’s not really any need to enter Villains’ Valley proper.

Ji, are you alright?

I’m fine.

You still got wounds to heal. And don’t forget we are your companions! Let me protect you this time.

…

I’m going forward.

For now, we leave here.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXVIII: The petal from Petals

Spoiler

We will pay a visit to Petals tribe, west from Kashgar.

The inhabitants are all ang moh so the derpy translation is on purpose.

What is he talking about?

Don’t you recognize him? He is that Semuren you saved in Villains’ Valley.

Oh, this is him.

It sounds like he is the chief here, and wants to reward us.

Yes, reward. I wat to reward you.

It doesn’t matter. We focus on chivalry and don’t want any reward.

Wat cheval? Can we ride it?

Well...

A braid-tugging ang moh gurl appears.

Taya! Ma fille, vous pouvez me renseigner!

It appears this particular one is French.

Oui, son majesté.

Wow, such a pretty little girl, she looks like a porcelain doll.

Does she? I feel that those Semu people all look the same.

And they cannot tell which monkey is pretty and which is not, as they look just the same… vice versa.

Excuse me, I’m Taya, the premier handmaiden of the chief. And I happen to know some Chinese, please allow me to talk with you on behalf of the chief.

Thank you then.

You speak Chinese fluently. That’s amazing.

Thank you for your compliment. The chief said that you are all excellent warriors so he wants a favor from you that will make you become stronger.

Become stronger? Great! Which one is the strongest one here, that big guy over at the door? I’d like to compare notes with him.

Don’t think about fighting all the time, okay?

Don’t you want to know whose kung fu is the strongest, us Central China or Semu people.

If I said no… I’d be lying.

You Han people are all well versed in kung fu, as if you all have magical powers. My father once told me that in Central China there’s a mysterious power called “Force”. Rumor has that it can hurt people by telekinesis and I feel it must be quite amazing. We don’t stand a chance to beat them.

Force?

What you called “Force” should be “Inner force” in our words. It’s a kung fu that is practiced by a special breathing pattern. One can master it only by working hard on it. But if you want to hurt someone by telekinesis one must have a very strong inner force. We have only a few masters that could do that.

Take them to the Star Tower. They might find a way.

Oui, son majesté. How do I address you?

Sorry for being rude. I’m Gu Yuexuan, this is Jing Ji and Wei Ziling.

Okay then. I believe you must be tired as you’ve come a long way. I’ll just leave you to your rest. You can find me near the Star Tower whenever you are ready.

The Star Tower is on the outskirts of the town.

Is there anything wrong, Taya?

I remember one thing. You are from Wulin of Central China, right? Do you know the sects there? Can you tell me?

Of course! What do you want to know, Taya?

Er… it seems that it isn’t an official sect… I only remember it is called Xiaoyao Valley.

…!

Xiaoyao Valley? How do you know?

So you know it, right? That’s great!

We two are the only disciples of Xiaoyao Valley! I’m the junior disciple and he is the elder disciple.

Only two? In my country, a teacher like that would starve to death… with so few students. What about you, sister?

I’m just their company.

Then… you must know Wuxia Zi, right?

He is just our master.

Really? That is… so great! Nainai would be glad… if she were alive…

Who is Nainai, Taya? Did she know Wuxia Zi?

Nainai is what we call our grandma… she once met Wuxia Zi when she was young… they were friends in some sense…

I chose to learn Chinese because of her influence. In order to learn it, she used various ways… all she wanted was to speak with that man in his native language. But he never came back again…

…

Is your master alright? Has he… mentioned a girl named Sophia?

Yes, Master remembers.

Really… that’s great. Nainai would be happy… if she were alive…

Ah, I almost forget. I’m here to lead the way.

It does not matter, Taya. We can drop by at another time if you have other things to do.

No… it’s alright. Let’s go inside the Star Tower!

My father is the guardian of Star Tower and the greatest philosopher here.

Yes. I am the greatest philosphere “here”. Because there is only one “philosopher” in here, haha!

Papa!

My sunshine, what is it?! Petals is too isolated, we are too far away from outside knowledge. We can’t just debate and study everything alone…

Although the chief wants us to teach our philosophy… what I am really excited about is the culture of Central China you brought here!

Mr Zodia, I think I might disappoint you, because I only know martial knowledge…

Quite the opposite! My idea is that every man has his own philosophy. It’s in our way of treating lives, morals and everything.

You don’t know philosophy because you never considered it as philosophy, am I right, my child?

What is this about? I don’t understand a single word of it!

Ji, come on. Don’t say anything now, otherwise people will find out you are not who they think you are, hehehe.

Humpf, whatever! I don’t know anything besides martial arts and I don’t care.

Knowing nothing except martial arts is fine! Your heart will stay pure and true, not distracted by anything. I envy you.

In the eyes of Petals, we think philosophy is a certain parameter of life. It is the total sum of your origins and your knowledge.

In other words, everyone has his own destiny. It is a different view than all classes of authors that are writing the philosophy of life.

I see…

But the theory that the owner of Star Tower wants to pass on is different from Petals. He wants to form a theory that includes views such as the definition of individualism and the definition of human existence.

But he only handed down the knowledge to people who could understand him.

How did he hand down the knowledge? The tower seems too old and the owner should have died long ago.

You mean that… you still don’t understand the owner’s theory?

Yes… I was ashamed because I was unable to think like him… or maybe I was too cowardly to admit I cannot understand his theory.

It took me ten years but I could never solve the Sage’s Puzzle… I think that is the reason why I cannot acquire his knowledge.

Sage’s Puzzle? Is that a kind of mechanical one?

Speak up, Taya.

My father’s Chinese vocabulary has run out. Sage’s Puzzle is not mechanical, it is just a riddle said by the tower’s owner.

I guess that the purpose of the tower’s owner was to make people think for themselves and decide what philosophical theory they prefer.

Father doesn’t want to solve the Sage’s Puzzle because he is afraid his choice is different from the theory of the tower’s owner.

I am the guardian of Star Tower… if my answer is different from the tower’s owner how can I still stay in here?

Taya, I remember that the chief hopes we will gain something here which could promote our inner force. That is why he sent us to Star Tower. Is that right?

Yes, I believe in your ability. You can gain something since you are from Xiaoyao Valley.

You have such faith in Xiaoyao Valley, how could we let you down?

*blushes* Ah… yes.

Do you really intend to solve this puzzle? It seems weird.

If I enter the Sage’s Puzzle and solve it it can only bring advantage to us. So why wouldn’t we go?

You can go if you want. Just don’t get trapped in there!

Taya, can you tell me where the Sage’s Puzzle is?

We’re already inside.

Oh, this room is Sage’s Puzzle?

The Sage’s Puzzle only has one word that means “blessing”. The scholar said “Put a blessing in here and I will open the door for you”.

Blessing…

That sounds very general. What on earth is “Blessing”?

…

There is no rush. You can stay here or deal with your own business… when you have the answer you can return.

To solve the puzzle we need to look at leaflets around the town.

Taya is around to translate.

Gu figured out the answer.

I… I think I have found the answer. Sorry to disturb you, Taya.

(Oh! Is he such a straight-forward person?)

!!! The answer is…

Blessings are here, in houses, in places, in the city, in the heart, in the mountains, in shelters, in valleys, on land, in the sea, on islands, on grasslands. Where God praises God, his name is glorified.

That’s it… people of Central China say a case involving human life is to be treated with the utmost care.

Solving the riddle apparently triggers an elevator.

Taya, hold me!

Gu!

It turns out there’s a basement here.

*voice coming from the upper floor* Are you alright, Gu and Miss Taya?

Yeah, we are fine. Down here there seems to be a storeroom, I will be up soon with Miss Taya.

Gu, I’m good… you can just… put me down here.

Of course, I am so sorry for offending you… I was thinking of the puzzle “blessing” and got lost in thought. I did not know what I was doing.

Never mind, it’s nothing…

It appears that a drastic change of the weight of anyone on this floor could trigger the trap floor opening. And just now you… holding me triggered the trap.

Actually, I was harboring an attitude of simple trying. This scholar who constructed the Star Tower, his thinking pattern was incredible indeed.

It would be much appreciated, Miss Taya.

Just follow your own path bravely, may my spirit and blessing be with you! The other book “Everything Has Its Destiny” is the repository of my philosophy and martial art, which could be of great help to you. The owner of Peach Blossom Island, Huo Wuchou.

The scholar you were talking about… was his name Huo Wuchou, Taya?

Yes, that was his name by transliteration. Was he very famous in Central China?

I’ve heard from my master that Scholar Huo was a great mathematician about 150 years ago. He belonged to Hui nationality and settled down in Central China afterwards. He claimed himself as the owner of Peach Blossom Island. He has a world-renowed disciple, one of the Five Greats, “Evil of the East”…

I never expected I would have the honor of reading his book. I… I’m very flattered.

You solved the Sage’s Puzzle with your own intelligence, Mr Gu so you deserve this. The scholar must feel relieved and delighted to know that his knowledge has passed to you… if you don’ t mind, Mr Gu, I’d like to translate “Everything Has Its Destiny” for you.

Thank you, Taya.

It’s my pleasure.

It’s good to see you are safe. You freaked me out when you two went down.

I’m sorry I made you worried.

What did you see inside? Can you tell me?

Of course, let me explain to you.

On the floor below there is the library of Scholar Huo, with thousands of volumes documenting all the knowledge in the world. You can read whatever you want there, Mr Zodia…

No, you are the one who cracked the Sage’s Puzzle, so you are the only one eligible to read those classics.

The library was cleverly designed and it allows only one person coming in and out. After you got down, Mr Jing wanted to go down and find you yet the door wouldn’t open.

You… you promised not to tell!

Tch!

Papa, do you mean… that we’ll have no access to the library of Scholar Huo forever? That’s a shame, with such a precious collection of books inside.

Those treasures do not belong to us, so we cannot take them by force.

Fortunately, I made a copy of “Everything Has Its Destiny” for you, Mr Gu. I believe this book will be helpful for you.

It’s your courage and intelligence that lead you to solve the puzzle of the tower’s owner. And they enabled you to help me find the truth I’ve longer for all this time, so you deserve this.

What I did is nothing, really. You are very welcome, Mr Zodia.

You’ve been a great help for me and my father, and I’m much obliged… so what’s your next move?

We have a lot to do! Errands for our master. We have no time to stay here.

Can I go with you?

You want to come with us?

Yes. I suppose you will have to handle quite many difficulties and many hands make light work… so please allow me to go with you!

Great! I won’t feel so lonely if sister Taya comes with us.

There is an old saying that goes it is better to travel ten thousand miles than to read ten thousand books… we should take care of each other and learn from each other in the days to come.

I appreciate that. I’m gonna see the whole world as I promised you, papa.

It’s reassuring to have Mr Gu with you, my sunshine. Go! You should leave for Central China to investigate and verify your philosophy and beliefs.

Yes, papa…

Don’t cry, silly girl, it’s not like you will never come back. You really shouldn’t waste your precious tears on this moment. You are expected to leave here with a smile.

I will… papa…

Gu got a new internal style out of this that he might as well learn.

As far Taya, she’s a permanent replacement for Xiangyun. Unlike Xiangyun, she has some offense as well and quite a few internal styles to learn. She’s the only character in the game that can learn Wulin Legend.

In fact, she’s one of the best party members in the game just for the fact that she speaks French when you right click on her during combat.

Her Astronomic Morph is a mix of healing and offense with a really big range but is not that damaging… yet.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXIX: Wulin Legend

Spoiler

There’s an event as soon as we depart from the Star Tower with Taya.

Let’s check it out!

…

How come…

Taya can’t handle the shock and faints.

Taya!

*sobs* Why… they were so kind… who did that to them…

That’s right… I… know a little bit of Tazinese… what a cruel way to deal with the dead… *sobs* My poor uncle Aaron and uncle Koda. Your souls can’t find peace even after death.

The words, what do they mean? Tell us about that, Taya.

“All heretics must be offered up as a sacrifice to God”.

Just like we thought, it’s them again.

It’s the Black Robes.

Black Robes? Who are they?

They are a radical Tazi sect… they believe in the same God as we do. However, they are firmly convinced that their doctrine is paramount to all others. All sects that dare show any disagreement are wiped out by force of arms.

As far as I know, “Tazi” might simply refer to “Islam”.

Tch! What kind of God would allow that?

Don’t say that. We should only put blame on the ruling class. In order to satisfy their selfish desires, they abuse former sages’ scriptures and brainwash the ignorant masses. After all, these measures are aiming to put all people under control. It’s not rare in our Han era.

The chief implies that you have been in conflict with these Black Robes before, Taya?

Hum… that was when I was very young. Years ago, there was a massive invasion and many of my countrymen were killed by them. We were forced to stay here… with the natural barriers, we defended painstakingly for eight months but could not defeat them. We were on the brink of falling into their hands.

Then a miracle appeared. Eight messengers brought by the Dragon God saved us.

Hold on, I know about your gods, but what you just said is just bullshit! Your story is getting a bit weird.

Of course not, Ji. I guess the people Taya talked about must be from Cult of Tianlong.

Gu is right. The eight world-renowned masters of Cult of Tianlong are exactly named after the Eight Guardians in Buddhist sutras.

Indeed they are.

Yes, Cult of Tianlong indeed. At that time, Li Cangtian, the leader Devaraja of the Cult of Tianlong was a great hero. He led his men to assist us in fighting the Black Robes. We finally were victorious after three months of bloody battle.

Since then, Black Robes became terribly afraid of the Cult of Tianlong. Even though Devaraja is long gone, they still didn’t dare to enter our territory. Ten years of peace, until this day…

It seems they got word of the feud between the Cult of Tianlong and Feng Du. These wretches must think the Cult of Tianlong don’t have the strength to defend you.

Let’s go destroy these monsters! Black Robes, you are wearing your own shroud!

No deal.

What are you saying!

Haven’t you heard what Miss Taya said? Even with the help of Cult of Tianlong in their prime, the conflict took three months to resolve. We are just some small fries in comparison, what can we do?

Are you saying we should just sit around and do nothing?

Well…

No, we still have a chance. Taya, that Guardian of Tianlong with the hawk once said whenever we find ourselves in danger, to give this token to the clown of the snow cabin. He will help us.

Clown… it sounds like that extraordinary figures who’s as famous as Nan Xian: Beichou.

Yes, Chief, I will.

Don’t worry, Taya. We are coming with you.

Thank you! I will try to be strong.

The fate of petals is in your hands.

Back in Central China, first of all we introduce Taya to Hu.

Heh! The two masters really like to make friends, even outlanders. Where are you from?

Hi, Mr Hu. I’m Taya from Petals, originally from France. I like it here, it’s like fairyland. Mr Hu works as a blacksmith in the mountains just like a celestial from paintings.

Choose your words carefully. Hu is just a boor, not some celestial. Our master is celestial. If somebody else heard what you just said, they might think you are making fun of him.

I-I’m so sorry, I will look consult the dictionary more often in the future…

(I heard that babies of Han people and outlanders are pretty. If young master and Taya… Heh, master would be happy to have a grandchild. I’ll take the chance and talk to young master.)

Once Taya has mastered Wulin Legend internal style (which is probably her best), we take her back to the scholar Xu in Chengdu.

However, upon arrival in the noodle shop there’s another event first.

It’s Dumb and Dumber.

That is to say Shaolin kung fu is showy and useless.

That’s the reason I betrayed Shaolin.

They raise the anger of a Shaolin.

I will show you the true Shaolin martial knowledge.

You can’t even kill a fly at such a distance.

Is there really a Quan technique that can hurt people so many meters away?

The morans get pwned.

Wuji and Hetuo are wanted criminals. Arrest them.

Gu and Co happened to witness everything.

Senior brother, the strength of his fist seems to have increased since we last met him.

Indeed.

Don’t mention it. This kind of loss is insignificant. We can deal with it ourselves.

No, I broke them so I shall pay for that.

Y-you really want to pay us?

Of course, a real man never goes back on his word.

Are you Feng Qingxiao? No, we can’t take your silver!

Why?

Commoners all know that Lord Feng and Lord You are the most righteous and incorruptible people among the Imperial Guard. You have done a lot for us and capture many corrupt officials and thieves. So we can’t take your silver.

Then you have more reason to take it. You said that I’m incorruptible. I can’t ruin my own reputation.

Lord Feng is a real man of honor. Let me see, it’s about 8,000 qian in total.

8,000… I don’t have that much money yet. Please take this hairpin as a pledge. I will redeem it when I receive my salary.

I will take good care of it.

We have the opportunity to help out Feng Qingxiao.

(Mr Feng is not only good at martial arts but also a righteous man.)

Brother Gu, that is Brother Feng you mentioned before? He is truly awe-inspiring.

I’ve heard a lot about him.

Since we want to make friends with him, we should redeem the hairpin for him.

We can buy the hairpin for 8,000 qian.

But we were really here for the scholar and his book.

Mr Xu! Oh no please let me call you master Xu… this book is so wonderful! Bravo!

What?

Sorry, I mean this is so great. This is the most wonderful book I have ever read…

On the eighth page, I’m adopted by master Xiaoyao. I never thought that the entrance examination would include arts. I fail at the Chinese chess test and turn to the 94th page. Finally, I’m shot by a hunter when I walk out of the valley…

I’m not happy at all and start over from the beginning. I finally pass this time. But I die in the battle of Luoyang…

I’m much wiser the third time. I know I need to work hard at the academy. After four years I finally become the leader of Wulin.

I still haven’t read enough and reached the three endings. I’m really sad about the treachery plot. Why can’t everybody get along well?

The content of this story…

…is so real…

You are really my good friend. Do I really want of anything with a reader like you?

However…

Just say it.

Er… maybe it’s just my prejudice but at the end of the story the hero marries 6 beautiful girls at the same time. Isn’t this a bit undue? As a girl it doesn’t sit well with me.

Actually… if I could only stay with the elder apprentice… or younger apprentice… or that young swordsmanship genius… Ah, what am I talking about?

…

…

You are right, it seems that the freedom of choice in this novel is still not enough. Are you willing to listen to my ideas about the sequel?

Of course… Please tell me, master Xu!

Er… I’d like to write a prequel instead of a sequel. The time is set two years ago. And the heroes are the other two fellow apprentices. What do you think about that?

In that case… will the development of the plot be restricted?

Then what about changeable endings? Just the same as this novel? There is a branch associated with the plot of this novel.

You are right, I think you should give it a try. Maybe it will get a good result.

Thanks for your encouragement. I have more confidence now. Please take this Wulinpedia as my thanks.

Wulinpedia?

Are… are you the so-called Erudite – Xu Ziyi?

I thought you were an old man!

You are so famous, master Xu.

It is just an undeserved reputation. Compared to Wulinpedia, I value my novel more. I have more confidence now and have decided to write this prequel seriously. Are you willing to be my first reader?

It would be my pleasure.

With the Wulinpedia equipped all Taya’s attacks will be much more powerful.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXX: Feng Qingxiao

Spoiler

We go to see Feng Qingxiao with the hairpin in hand.

Why is it in your hands?

I redeemed the hairpin to give it back to you.

Thank you so much. Without this hairpin my sister would be very angry with me. I never met this girl before yet you are not common looking. May I ask who is your master?

Greetings. I am Wei Ziling. My father is called the Silver Spear in Jianghu.

So you are the daughter of Wei Bao. Wei Bao is a prominent man. I’ve heard that besides the Big Gun Xu, the Free Sparring of Wei is also first rate martial knowledge. It’s a pity I never got the chance to compete with him.

It’s the Hour of Shen now, how about you visit my house to have a meal.

Wait, I am confident about my cooking. How about I cook some dishes for everyone? What do you think?

(Feng is not rich, you can even say poor. If we ask him to treat us, it would be a burden for him. We should prepare the meal ourselves.)

Feng, Ziling really cooks great dishes, please don’t say no to this.

This little girl cooks impeccable dishes.

Who said you can call me ‘little girl’? Be prepare for duck heads only today.

We visit Feng’s home.

Yes! I made a lot of friends recently. Come, I’ll introduce them to you.

I can’t see them at all, why would you bring them here?

(This little girl is blind, she is pretty but so stubborn.)

Don’t do this, Ziyun. The hairpin I gave you would be lost if it wasn’t for them.

Did you pledge my hairpin to others again? I don’t wear things touched by other people. Hey, why are you still here? Get out!

*sigh* Sorry about that. Mr Gu, we should have a meal another day.

Mr Feng, never mind about that. But your sister is…

You saw? Ziyun was born with an incurable disease. It results in cold venom, her organs are all influenced. I’ve visited almost all doctors around the world. They all said that she had only 16 years to live. So I allowed her to do anything she likes. I didn’t expect she would be like this.

I know that you belong to Chunyang of Shaolin. Have you ever tried to cure her with your energy?

My master taught me Shaolin Nine Yang Art, but it can only relieve her pain. I visited Dr Miracle with Ziyun in the past. He said that even if the successors of Shaolin, E’mei and Wudang Sect use their Nine Yang Art to help Ziyun, the chance of removing the cold venom is less than one percent.

We met a senior before who was also poisoned by cold venom. The three successors helped her but the result was less than satisfactory. The only hope of removing cold venom is the original Nine Yang Divine Art.

What’s funny is that Gu already mastered Nine Yang Divine Art from a scroll dropped by a tiger.

My master told me that the Hierarch of Ming religion learnt Nine Yang Divine Art in the past. The base of Ming religion was around the Kunlun Mountains. Maybe some information can be found there. We will ask around for information on Nine Yang Divine Art for you.

I couldn’t thank you more. I will remember your kindness forever.

Next we are in Chengdu there is some drama. Some putzes are trying to apprehend Feng Qingxiao.

There must be some misunderstand. I did not and will not hurt an innocent person.

Humph, everyone knows that you are a righteous man. Wei Yinchong extracted oil with waste liquid and sold them to make a lot of money. All commoners in Jiangnan were dissatisfied with him. Killing him fits with your justice concept totally.

The Night Watch saw an Imperial Guard climb the wall of Wei’s mansion. The fist mark in Wei Yinchong’s chest is quite clearly sunken. His muscles and bones were all broken. He was obviously killed by a strong fist.

Nobody in the Imperial Guard except you has such a powerful fist. In the whole of Wulin, few can compare with you when it comes to fist power.

Every citizen of Ming dynasty including me should abide by the laws. Torturing somebody privately is illegal. If I were you, I would bring the culprit to justice and hand him over to the Ministry of Penalty and Grand Court. I can come with you if you suspect me.

So come with us to the Judiciary. Put him in chains.

Unexpectedly You Jin himself interferes.

He is not convicted yet, why are you using shackles?

We all know Feng Qingxiao is a skilled Shaolin disciple. We put him in chains to prevent him from hurting us and escape.

Humph! What a righteous excuse. The Judiciary and Imperial Guard have been feuding for a long time. You put Qingxiao in chains for the purpose of insulting him and oppressing us.

Qingxiao is an Imperial Guard, so it’s our Imperial Guard’s duty to arrest him if he commits a heinous crime, let alone if he’s innocent. It’s none of the Judiciary’s business.

I’m your brother and your superior. I can’t ignore that you are framed and insulted by others.

You Jin, do you really want to cover for him? We have no choice but to arrest you together.

I’m commander of the Imperial Guard, third grade. I see you belong to the fifth grade, how dare you name and contradict me?

Such a commanding mood! The Judiciary can bypass grades when handling a case. You just tell us what you want.

Such a group of bandits! The morality of the Judiciary is just… Fine, we can solve this according to the rules of Jianghu.

These putzes are in for a world of pain.

I agree.

I trust Mr Feng and don’t want to see him humiliated.

Feng Qingxiao himself sorts out the mess.

I didn’t mean to offend you, sorry for that. Commander, Gu, you are all friends of mine and I don’t want to see that you are sent to jail because of this. Everybody from the Judiciary, I didn’t do anything wrong, please don’t push me too hard.

Fine, if you insist.

Which sect do those two teenagers belong to?

Gu Yuexuan, first disciple of Wuxia Zi of Xiaoyao Valley.

Jing Ji of Xiaoyao Valley.

You Jin, what Feng Qingxiao has done must not be ignored. You shall not bend the law and release Feng Qingxiao in private. Or the Judiciary will not concede even if it breaks the peace with the Imperial Guard.

I’d be willing to give up my own life if I really did this.

We will continue investigating and will not treat anybody unjustly.

I don’t mind.

Qingxiao, let’s go. You should stay at the garrison these days. I will tell others to look after your sister. Please be assured.

Yes.

We will need to clear Feng Qingxiao’s name.

Please take care.

You mean the Judiciary?

The Judiciary arrests all kinds of people in Jianghu. And they can’t all be innocent…

Senior brother knows Jianghu more than you.

*sigh* I’m just worried about Brother Gu. On one hand, he is always ready to stand up for justice. On the other hand, he is just too upright.

I’m sorry to have made Ziling worried about me.

We should find a way to prove that Brother Feng is innocent.

Throughout all sects of Wulin, only Shaolin excels at Quan and Zhang skills. We should visit Shaolin first.

 

[abnaxus]

With DLC installed you can recruit Shen Lan

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXXI: Three Stooges

Spoiler

We ask the Abbot about Feng Qingxiao.

Hmm… there are only three people in Shaolin that could match him in strength.

But they are all good disciples and haven’t left here in three years.

I see… thanks master.

I just thought of another suspect, but I’m not very sure. Gu, let’s go back to Chengdu now. Maybe we can find another clue.

In Chengdu a stall owner helps us further.

Hah! What a coincidence! Mr Jiang is also in Chengdu, let’s find him. With Miss Chu’s presence I believe Mr Jiang will tell us all he knows.

Hehe! Mr Jiang can’t take his off eyes Chu. We were here looking for you.

Hm, I spotted 2 men that night. They jumped over the wall into a dark alley one by one after arguing for a while.

What else?

I remember the first guy was medium size who looked like a foreign monk. The other one looked strong and in the officer uniform of the Imperial Guard. It’s just…

It’s alright, just say it.

That guy ran too fast so his hat fell off. Since the moon was bright that day, I could clearly see that he was bald.

These two guys must be the murderers. But if the murderer was Mr Feng, why was there a foreign monk there? And why was the officer bald?

I got a theory. Maybe he was masquerading as Mr Feng.

Your words solve the puzzle.

Mr Jiang, did you hear anything when they were arguing?

They said they will meet at Villains’ Valley before disappearing.

Villains’ Valley? Tsk! That’s the perfect place for them.

Thank you, Jiang. We have a better chance to prove Feng’s innocence with this information.

You are welcome. I have heard about Officer Feng and I admire him. It’s a pity that I didn’t have the chance to make his acquaintance.

It’s getting late, I shall delay you no longer. Miss Chu, take care and farewell.

The sooner Hetuo and Wujie get caught, the earlier this will be resolved.

My brother, it’s not just your guess, is it?

Ji, I shall regard you with new eyes.

Heh. Ziling, Ji is intelligence and smart but focuses on Martial Knowledge only. So please don’t look down on him.

Senior brother, you make it sound I think of nothing else in my daily life.

Eh… haha. Ji, you worry too much.

We return to Villains’ Valley and find the Three Stooges.

Your conspiracy is bound to fail!

There’s even some help here from Imperial troops but they are useless.

Yidam and Hetuo are far easier now we can fight them with more party members.

After 2 turns, Hetuo and Yidam are already down.

Wujie is far weaker than the other two. In this fight Ziling’s Erasing Art is useful so Yidam and Wujie can’t crit at all and trigger Invulnerability.

The bad guys run off as usual but at least Feng Qingxiao is now rehabilitated.

Wujie apparently left this item behind… its usefulness is debatable.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXXII: 9Yang Redux

Spoiler

Feng Qingxiao is now back at his home. We still need to find a way to cure his sister.

You are welcome.

Feng, you don’t look very well. Did the officers in jail use their position to get even with you out of a private grudge?

You are mistaken, it’s just that Ziyun has been worried about me and the cold venom has struck her worse than before. I was busy taking care of her, so I feel a little tired.

Looks like Ziyun will continue to suffer from cold venom without Nine Yang Art.

Your little sister is getting worse. We can delay no longer, let’s head to the western region and look around near Mount Kunlun.

In Kashgar we need to talk to a Tianshan disciple.

Tianshan Sect… Brother Gu, we want to inquire about Nine Yang Divine Art, right? Tianshan Sect has been living in Kunlun Mountains for a long time, maybe they know something.

Nine Yang Divine Art has been lost for ages. It’s difficult for us to find any clues. There’s no harm in asking.

Aloyal, we want to ask about an internal style called Nine Yang Divine Art. The Hierarch of Ming Religion learnt it in the past.

Nine Yang Divine Art? That martial knowledge belongs to Shaolin, Wudang and E’mei. With the death of Ming Religion… wait, Nine Yang Divine Art…

(Could it be true that we met someone who knows the whereabouts of Nine Yang Divine Art?)

I remember saving a monkey when I was young… let me think.

Yes! After saving it, the money often played with me. It carried a shabby parcel with some books one day. I was so curious I opened the parcel. Two books were unreadable, the others were barely discernible.

But the characters were twisty and weird mixed with regular Chinese script. Some of them read “Expiration and inspiration containing the essence of nature”. This book may be Nine Yang Divine Art.

Thank God! We can save Miss Feng now.

Unbelievable, the gods may have heard our prayers.

Aloyal, do you know where those books are now? We need those books to save a young woman.

Thank you so much, Aloyal.

For what follows the Floriculturist needs to be in the party.

Luckily we don’t need to return to Wangyou valley once again.

Ji is right, we can save a lot of time with the help of the Floriculturist.

What does this have to do with the Floriculturist?

The Floriculturist can communicate with animals. If the monkey is found the possibility of finding Nine Yang Divine Art would be much bigger with the help of the Floriculturist.

Returning after some time the monkey will be there.

(What’s happening? Does the Floriculturist know this monkey?)

Senior Floriculturist, do you know this monkey?

Yes, he was very nice to me when I was little. I thought it had died… I didn’t expect to see it again.

That’s great.

Hmpf.

Senior Floriculturist, can you please ask where the book is?

OK…

The monkey goes to fetch the book.

We can now give this scripture to Brother Feng so he can save his sister.

Feng Qingxiao’s sister can now be cured.

The internal style of Nine Yang Divine Art is inside this sutra.

I will practice Nine Yang Divine Art now and will return the book to Shaolin Temple after helping Ziyun.

You saved my sister, Gu! If you want anything from me, as long as it’s not immoral or illegal, I will do it.

…

I’m worried about her too, brother Gu. I think we should visit Miss Feng some time to make sure she is completely cured.

After some time visiting Miss Feng gives a second copy of Nine Yang Divine Art.

It’s no big deal. Feng is honest and upright, it’s impossible he would’ve done that.

Miss Feng, it seems like you have completely recovered. The Nine Yang Divine Art is indeed impressive.

I’m sure Brother Feng can rest assured now.

I heard it was you who found the Nine Yang Divine Art so I could finally get rid of the cold venom, thank you so much.

Now that we know the cold venom is gone, we shall take our leave.

Wait.

What’s wrong?

My brother told me if you came, I should pass this on to you.

This is… the Nine Yang Divine Art!? How do you know it?

I was blind since childhood so I could only listen to others. Unconsciously I developed an extraordinary auditory memory. No matter how many words I can recite them after hearing them. Feng repeated the words several times when he was practicing so I remember them.

This second one is for Shinji.

 

[baud]

In fact, she’s one of the best party members in the game just for the fact that she speaks French when you right click on her during combat.

Apparently she says "Brother Gu, je t'aime", which means Brother Gu, I like/love you (strangely enough, Brother is not translated in French)

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXXIII: Snow clown

Spoiler

We head to the snow fields to find the clown, Beichou.

Tsk, noisy fella.

There are many extraordinary figures in the word and each different from normal people. You better watch your mouth.

T

I am not a child anymore.

Would a grown up say those stupid words every day? So childish…

…

Sorry to interrupt, I am Gu Yuexuan of Xiaoyao Valley…

Dang dang dang! In the time of peril, Jiang Ziya stands against the evil horde, halberd in hand, kneeling on one leg, shouting “The lord cometh forth!”. Hei, he!

Wind blowing wildly, he brandishes his godly whip just like a god himself! And… I don’t know how to continue.

What… what is this, is it magic?

Lady Taya, he is just using his Internal Styles. Look at that, it means his level of inner force mastery is excellent.

So what you are saying is he created this wind himself? No wonder the old people always say “Beware of the mysterious power of the East”…

So you are Beichou? Dressed up like a clown. What happened next? Did Jiang Ziya win?

Dang dang dang! Dang! Daji used her Ling Bo Wei Bu, Zhao Gongming used his Ben Lei Jian Bu. In a flash they appeared right in front of Jiang Ziya and… his golden haired Mi-lu!

Ling Bo Wei Bu… isn’t that Duan Yu’s... hey, what are you blabbing about?

… (Why would you even listen to him)

Dang! Dang! Dang! Daji and Zhao Gongming joined forces. The Kunlun army was trapped inside the Peach Blossom ritual. Only Jiang Ziya and his Mi-lu… standing tall against the archenemy!

So how would Jiang Ziya deal with this situation? Legend goes… how?

Come on! Finish the story!

Dang dang dang! Act 4, two evil ones against Jiang Ziya! Don’t just stand there, the play is on! Hey, newbies, go to your positions!

We need to enact a play for Beichou.

Eh?

Are you talking to us?

Didn’t you hear what I just said, Mi-lu? Quickly!

I am the golden-haired Mi-lu?

…

Eh? Then I shall be… the witch Daji?

Who else? What’s wrong with your memory? Come on, quickly! This is no time for rest yet!

Heh heh… thank you, foreman!

Stop that gloating!

Why should I be the beast! That’s racist…

Mi-lu means “elk” in Chinese.

Don’t be sad, Taya. Look at me, a female fox.

Daji (Chinese: 妲己; pinyin: Dájǐ; Wade–Giles: Ta-chi) was the favorite consort of King Zhou of Shang, the last king of the Shang dynasty in ancient China. She is portrayed as a malevolent fox spirit in legends as well as novels. Her identification as a fox spirit seems to have originated from at least the Tang dynasty. These accounts have been popularized in works such as the Wu Wang Fa Zhou Pinghua (武王伐紂平話), the Fengshen Yanyi, and the Lieguo Zhi. She is considered a classic example of how a beautiful woman can cause the downfall of a dynasty in Chinese culture.

In the Song dynasty, fox spirit cults, including those dedicated to Daji, became outlawed, but their suppression was unsuccessful. For example, in 1111, an imperial edict was issued for the destruction of many spirit shrines within Kaifeng, including those of Daji.

But at least you look human…

What are you doing!!

Ji, we need to ask for this senior’s favor. Many seniors have their own rules, maybe this is just a test.

Are we really doing this for him?

What’s the harm in it anyway? We haven’t had any time to relax ever since we started investigating this Acquittal Period. Just consider this as some entertainment.

Tsk, whatever!

What are you whispering there! You, older one, you are Jiang Ziya and the bad tempered muff will be Zhao Gongming! Dang dang dang! Act 6, battle and action…

I thought we were at act 4?

It is what I say it is. Take your golden serpent. Those two props behind you! Get to your position, bow when on stage! Dang dang dang!

Eh!? Do you mean me?

Of course, hurry up!

OK. Gu, no… Mr Jiang, I am sorry, I am going to help Daji.

Mi-lu… good! Give it to me!

…

… (He is fast to join in the play.)

Hehehe! Mi-lu, do you see the bad guys? He has enslaved you for so long, don’t you hate him? This is a good chance for revenge. Scare him first!

Scare him? How do I do that?

Ah!! This is crazy, how can the Mi-lu Deer speak?

Eh, so… *barks*

Do you think it is a dog?! It is a kylin!! Try again!

Kylin…?? Ah, I see, that is a giraffe, right? But I don’t know its sound?

Well, never mind. You can’t even do such simple things, just continue the play!

*barks*

Mi-lu, I can’t bear to become your enemy…

First Gu needs to hold for some turns against the three.

After 4 turns Taya returns to Gu’s side and both Shinji and Ziling need to be defeated.

There’s a caveat here: Shinji and Ziling need to be taken down AT THE SAME TIME. If you don’t remove their equipment and disable their best skills/internal style this is a real pain in the ass.

Basically you need to line them up for a Flaming Blade, which can take some time.

Gu Yuexuan of Xiaoyao Valley with my brother Jing Ji, Wei Ziling of Wei Castle, Lady Taya of Petals, nice to meet you, Senior Beichou.

*sigh* I never want to meddle in any of your conflicts. Normally, you would need a dozen Wisdom fruits as the price for my wisdom. But, you have satisfied my hunger for opera, so this time I won’t charge you.

Mr Clown, please… I need you to save my clan!

Black Robes… those guys never learn. Li Cangtian is missing now and his brother is not as loving as him. So you can’t ask the Cult of Tianlong.

We already know this… right now Cult of Tianlong is not only the enemy of Feng Du but the enemy of all famous sects of Central China. Cult of Tianlong is not itself anymore…

Our only hope is now you, Mr Clown. The man with the hawk said this to us… and I believed him.

*sigh* Damn Garuda, the only thing I got from you is endless trouble… Only Li Cangtian’s former officers can help your Petals now.

What!? Li Cangtian’s goons are still alive?

Quiet! We do need his help!

Devaraja’s companions… where can we find them?

After Li Cangtian went missing, the Cult of Tianlong has been divided into two factions. Those who oppose Nagaraja all left, looking for their old master and saving their strength.

Right now Nangong Longfei has the biggest force among them. Get him on board and you get the whole package.

If you want to find him, go to the south west. Maybe your paths will cross in Hmong territory.

We appreciate your advice.

Dang dang dang! I need to prepare for my next show! *sigh* Where can I find good actors?

Lady Taya, we should go too.

Yes!

Finishing the play gave us some Large wisdom fruit, extremely rare but very good for leveling up quickly.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXXIV: Black Robes

Spoiler

We go to find Devaraja’s loyalists in the SW part of the map.

Brother Gu, their clothing… corresponds with what the the chief said of Devaraja. That man must be Captain Nangong mentioned by Mr Clown.

They are tangling with Tianlong Cultists!

Those guys seem to be formidable.

Brother Gu, we better help them repel those Tianlong Cultists before asking for help.

Help or not, I must make friends with him due to his high aspirations and courage.

Well said!

We already fought the two bearded Devarajas.

The other two are weak but the female has the annoying Spellbound talent.

Nangong is a badass with the same internal style as Sword Saint.

Normally you’d want to take down the female Devaraja last but with Nangong’s internal style that can’t really happen.

Yes. I am Gu Yuexuan, this is Jing Ji. I admire your heroism. Allow me to kneel to you.

Wait! I might have lost many brothers without your help. It is me who needs to kneel. Hahahaha!

Eh, a Semuren girl? Are you from Petals Tribe?

I am Taya from Petals Tribe… Zodia is my dad. Please help us!

Did Black Robes attack you again?

That is right.

In those days, the leader of Petals Tribe helped the Hierarch. Your father also talked much with the Hierarch about philosophy, they were good friends. Petals Tribe’s business is our business.

Thank you very much, Mr Nangong… I have nothing to give in return.

You are welcome! If the Hierarch were still here, he would certainly help you too. I will inform everyone to head to Petals Tribe right now.

We meet back at Petals Tribe.

You are a man of your word.

It is a basic principle to treat people with sincerity. I have sent out scouts. They have gathered 50,000 troops and want to destroy the so called heresy in one fell swoop.

50,000 troops…

The troops of Devaraja and the militia of Petals are nearly… 2,000. They surely cannot withstand the Black Robes.

A weak force to overcome a powerful opponent, that is the strategy.

Then what’s the strategy?

Black Robes are under a reign of terror. They have a large number of troops who are fanatical, but also extremely superstitious. If we manage to assassinate their leader, they will collapse without the need to attack them.

Ah… to catch bandits, first catch the ringleader.

That’s right. There will be a Rite of Worshipping Fire presently, where hundreds of people will be sacrificed to their god. The man who performs this rite is their High Priest, Bahareed.

We infiltrate this rite and assassinate the High Priest. In that case, the morale of Black Robes will be greatly decreased so that we can destroy them one by one from the rear.

Wonderful! For this merciless rite, we can’t sit around!

Above all, how can we infiltrate this rite? Their defenses must be very tight.

Only the top levels of Black Robes can approach the High Priest during the rite. My scouts happened to retrieve a box from a dead disciple. Here it is.

The disciples of Black Robe keep their Art of Black Robes inside these boxes. We have used various methods but can’t open it.

Maybe you can open it, little girl. We need to read the Art of Black Robes and memorize it. This task can only be completed by you.

I see, Mr Nangong.

Wait! Uh… you mean only Taya can approach the High Priest. Do you want her to kill that miscreant?

Bahareed…

Can you do it, Taya? The whole clan will be buried with you if you fail.

*nods with pale face* I… must protect my clan.

I trust your determination.

…

(Taya…)

We pick up the Art of Black Robes after solving a lockpick minigame.

The Art of Black Robes is a powerful offensive skill. Taya can quickly learn this with the large wisdom fruit from Beichou.

We set out once it is completely mastered.

What in hell is the meaning of Sagis?

This is the highest praise to a wise person in Petals.

You are so clever, Taya. I thought you were just a little girl.

Er… in fact, I’m just twenty… not a little girl anymore.

What?! I thought you were one or two years older than me…

…

(Unexpectedly, Taya and I are the same age. It is impolite that I…)

Then take this dagger, I have applied poison to it. Stab his heart with it when you approach him.

Of course.

…

Let’s set off when you’re ready. The place where this rite takes place is in the desert near Kashgar. This is a very dangerous operation, whoever says they don’t want to participate can stay here.

Do you look down on us?

Taya is also our friend, Mr Nangong. No one will stand aside in this matter.

Whether success or failure, I will stay with you, Taya.

Thank you…

Great! I really admire your sincerity. Let’s go now!

Next up, we’re at the ritual.

Are those the Black Robes? They… they look like they’re possessed.

Hush now. Don’t let them know we are here.

… (Lady Taya, please be alright.)

…

(Now!)

………!!

Taya bungles the job completely.

No, she missed!

It’s my fault… she didn’t want to kill Bahareed.

Taya!!

(Sorry, sorry… it is my fault… sorry, everyone.)

Nooo!!!

Gu jumps to Taya’s defense but it’s still a precarious situation.

This battle is lost when Taya dies and she’s surrounded by many enemies that can all use the fan AoE Thunder Storm like Chu Hui.

To be 100% safe we need to kill Bahareed in the first turn.

We deploy Ziling, Fatty and Chu Hui for high movement + Flicking Finger very high single target damage.

Ziling starts the turn with Erasing Art so Bahareed cannot counter and trigger invulnerability.

After Taya uses Art of Black Robes and Gu uses Flaming blade Bahareed can be finished off by the remaining party members.

Fatty dual strikes a Flicking Finger here, it’s over.

The time is now! Taya, do it!

I am sorry, God forgive you!

After the battle, Taya is sad.

Lady Taya, there you are.

Gu…

I… killed…

You killed Bahareed and saved us. Not only us, you saved all the people from slaughter.

I…I…

Lady Taya, I know the feeling of having blood on your hands… it is not easy. No one has the right to take the lives of others.

But, a lot of time… we just don’t have a choice. This is the way of life… No one can do what they want.

…

Lady Taya, forgive me…

Gu, you know magic!

This is Qinggong, I can teach you if you want.

I… I don’t think I can do that.

Anything is possible as long as you put your heart into it. Don’t you want to learn something like this?

I do!

But with great power comes great responsibility… you must have many things to worry about?

Heh heh, I wasn’t born with power, it took me many years of practice to have ability like this. I… was consumed by hatred, unable to feel peace.

Hate? Gu, you…

Lady Taya, you have a father who loves you. But mine is lost to me… when I was just an infant. My father died… just in front of my eyes… killed by the enemy.

Ahh! Sorry… I’m really sorry…

…

Gu…

I...I...

Thank you, Lady Taya. Actually, you kind of look like my mother… she had Semuren blood in her too.

Is that true? Your mother must be so beautiful.

…

Gu, how… how did you go through the pain?

When I lost everything, I met my master and Ji. I had someone important to me again.That’s when I came to understand we aren’t just living for ourselves. And that’s the reason why I started to practice martial arts.

I can use this power to protect everyone.

Nowadays, I like to climb mountains and just staring into the world when I’m having a bad time. I will always remember why I started all this when I look up at the sky.

We are just a drop of water in a huge sea. Everything will go away eventually. The only thing we can do is to seize the day… protect everyone who is important to us.

Thank you, Gu. I have made up my mind. I’m going to learn Qinggong from you.

It’s a deal.

After the battle with Bahareed we got the Golden Armor which should be put on Taya immediately.

Taya also gets the following new skill:

Being able to trigger invulnerability at will is p. useful.

 

[abnaxus]

Part LXXXV: Villains Valley

Spoiler

We take the time to enter Villains Valley.

There’s a weirdo with a crocodile here, there’s probably a quest here.

Along the way to the entrance are some fights with petty thugs.

The true villains here are the Pervert, Gambler, Drunk and Glutton.

The pervert remembers Ziling.

We might change the name to good guy’s valley if we were all good. What are you doing here in this godforsaken land? Heh heh, I guess it must have something to do with Xincan.

Where is he? I want to see him, I have no time for you losers.

I was just preserving my strength, it will not be that easy this time. I pay no mind to men… but…

Quit staring at me with those eyes!

Heh heh… for a beauty like you, I will use 100% power this time.

You… how dare you!

Ouch, that hurt.

Humpf! Even though I don’t care about that Xincan, we still have a reputation to keep, so…

Right, just be quick this time, I’m starving.

Ji, Ziling, we can’t reason with these guys. But… you got me here, so no need to worry.

…Pst!

Gu, I’m not a child either!

…

…?

Go play your hero games in hell! Die!

The four losers almost go down in 1 turn.

Tsk! Fine. What can you do even if you know his whereabouts? You think you can walk out of here alive?

You villains aren’t always united. Xincan and you want to get rid of each other, am I right?

Just like here and now, if one of you got injured, others will tear you apart like wolves. Otherwise, we wouldn’t be able to deal with all of you together anyway.

Hahaha, interesting girl. You know our minds like one of us.

…

So what is it going to be?

You want to be the bosses of Villains’ Valley, right? Tell us where Xincan is and we will take care of him for you.

Heh heh, sounds like a good deal. But sadly, I don’t know the whereabouts of Xincan.

Yes, but I know.

I wouldn’t believe you.

Fuck off. The only thing I am good at, is women. Xincan never thought his lover was seeing me from the start. Hehehehe!

Wow.. anyway, all women have a big mouth.

Right now, he is at the Gaocang Relic. And you can choose to believe me or not.

(Gaocang Relic… can we believe him?)

Thanks for you information. Let’s go, to the Gaocang Relic.

Ziling, aren’t you afraid this might be a trap?

We have no other trail for now. So we have to go there even if it is a trap.

No… just like I said, us getting rid of Xincan will only benefit them, so they will not lead us into a trap.

Okay, let’s go then.

We are teleported to Gaocang Relic but don’t want to enter yet and leave.