Duel on Mount Hua: Nine Yin True Sutra Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Duel on Mount Hua: Nine Yin True Sutra Synopsis
Mei Ruohua, the daughter of a merchant, suffered the massacre of her family by treacherous villains in her youth, leaving her with an unquenchable thirst for vengeance. By fate, she became a disciple of Peach Blossom Island, where she took the name Mei Chaofeng. There, she developed a secret affection for her senior martial brother, Chen Xuanfeng.
Determined to master peerless martial arts to exact revenge, Mei mistakenly believed that her master, Huang Yaoshi, was withholding the "Nine Yin Manual" from her. Bound by love and a shared oath, she and Chen resolved to steal the manual and flee the island.
They mastered the "Nine Yin White Bone Claw", becoming the infamous "Twin Demons of the Dark Winds". Though their prowess brought them renown, their love was doomed—destined never to last.
Duel on Mount Hua: Nine Yin True Sutra Recap
Episode 1 Recap
In the Southern Song era, the Mei family of Lin'an prospered as successful seafaring merchants. Their beloved daughter, Mei Ruohua, lived a carefree childhood, unaware that her life was about to drastically change. On the day of her birthday and the Mid-Autumn Festival, Mei Ruohua's father introduced Qiu Yunhai, the family's new chief business manager, who had significantly expanded their commerce.
That very night, a meticulously planned scheme by Qiu Yunhai led to the massacre of the Mei family, and Mei Ruohua, a mere ten-year-old, was sold into a brothel. For the next decade, Mei Ruohua endured life as an entertainer, her every waking moment consumed by thoughts of vengeance. One day, the Madam of the brothel led her to a private room to serve a special client.
Removing her blindfold, Mei Ruohua was horrified to find Qiu Yunhai seated before her. Declaring her "dirty," Qiu Yunhai refused to touch her, instead offering her to one of his subordinates. Once alone with the man, Mei Ruohua produced a hidden dagger and killed him. Enraged, Qiu Yunhai commanded his men to capture Mei Ruohua alive. Though defenseless, she fled through the streets and into the wilderness.
Cornered, she braced for death, but at that moment, Huang Yaoshi, who had been cultivating nearby, was disturbed by the commotion. Witnessing the attack, he intervened, effortlessly scattering the men. Amazed, Mei Ruohua knelt and pleaded for him to accept her as his disciple so she could avenge her family. Moved by her resolve, Huang Yaoshi taught her three techniques and transferred some of his internal energy to her, but departed without accepting her as a student.
With newfound strength, Mei Ruohua returned to seek revenge on Qiu Yunhai's forces but was quickly overwhelmed by their numbers and exhausted. As the men were about to kill her, a kind young woman named Feng Heng intervened. When the thugs then turned their aggression towards Feng Heng, a weakened Mei Ruohua, touched by the stranger's kindness, bravely stepped in front of her. Just then, Huang Yaoshi, Feng Heng's husband, appeared and swiftly subdued the attackers.
Feng Heng, who felt a kinship with Mei Ruohua, convinced Huang Yaoshi to let the girl travel with them. Feng Heng, who possessed no martial arts, suffered from a severe cold poison from a Ninefold Yin Pill. Huang Yaoshi used his Solar Mantra to channel pure Yang energy into her to counteract it, but this method conflicted with his own internal energy, leaving him weakened after each session.
Learning of this from a subordinate who saw Huang Yaoshi spit blood, Qiu Yunhai saw an opportunity to defeat the legendary master and make a name for himself. He ordered his men to find and kill the vulnerable Huang Yaoshi. After a tender moment with Feng Heng, Huang Yaoshi was ambushed by Qiu Yunhai and his forces. Mei Ruohua, grateful for being rescued twice, attempted to sacrifice herself to protect him.
However, Huang Yaoshi, despite his condition, was still a formidable opponent and easily dispatched the attackers. Seeing Mei Ruohua's unwavering loyalty, Feng Heng again implored her husband, this time to formally accept the girl as his disciple. Huang Yaoshi agreed, and the three set off for their home, Taohua Island. Upon their arrival, Huang Yaoshi's disciples—Qu Lingfeng (the eldest), Chen Xuanfeng (the second), Lu Chengfeng (the fourth), and Wu Mianfeng (the fifth)—were surprised by their master's early return.
After some playful bickering, they greeted the newcomers. Lu Chengfeng introduced the disciples to Mei Ruohua, explaining that all of them bore "feng" as part of their names, and jokingly complained that because he skipped his formal discipleship ritual, his master made him study medicine instead of teaching him more martial arts. Mei Ruohua formally pledged her allegiance to Huang Yaoshi, vowing to learn the martial arts of Taohua Island and uphold its honor.
Huang Yaoshi accepted her, stating that the island had few rules and that he hoped she could find herself, begin anew, and release the burdens of her past. He then bestowed upon her the name "Mei Chaofeng," symbolizing a transcendent wind that soars beyond worldly cares. Feng Heng personally guided Mei Chaofeng to her new quarters, showing her the master's painting collection, incense made by Wu Mianfeng, and cosmetics she blended herself.
She advised Chaofeng to get three Nine-Flower Dew Pills from Wu Mianfeng to strengthen her internal energy for training. Later, the disciples discussed their new junior sister. While some found her cold, others admired her stubborn and determined gaze. They speculated about her origins, with Lu Chengfeng sharing that his incorruptible official father was framed and exiled before Huang Yaoshi rescued him.
The disciples noted their master's respect for loyalty and patriotism, as his own parents were anti-Jin patriots and Wu Mianfeng's parents were military doctors who died on the battlefield. They concluded that regardless of her past, Mei Chaofeng was now one of them, a part of their family on Taohua Island.
Episode 2 Recap
Mei Ruohua's past was scarred by tragedy; her parents were brutally murdered, and she was subsequently sold into a brothel. There, she suffered immense cruelty, including being bound and force-fed a dead mouse by the brothel madam for refusing to eat. This harrowing experience fueled a fierce desire for revenge and the urgent need to learn powerful martial arts. She arrived at Taohua Island, where she observed Qu Lingfeng and Lu Chengfeng diligently practicing martial arts.
Impressed, Mei Ruohua expressed her eagerness to learn their lethal techniques. Huang Yaoshi, observing her, noted her cold demeanor and chose to rename her Mei Chaofeng, hoping to temper her personality. Though grateful, her efforts to express thanks were cut short as Huang Yaoshi, accompanied by Feng Heng, retreated, leaving the new disciple behind. That evening, her fellow disciples discussed Mei Chaofeng, acknowledging her beauty but also noting the cold, formidable intensity in her eyes.
Their conversation also touched upon Huang Yaoshi's enigmatic nature, with some describing him as strict, while others saw a kinder side. On her first day, Lu Chengfeng brought Mei Chaofeng some exquisite pastries, explaining they were handmade by Madam Feng Heng. This kind gesture inadvertently triggered a painful memory for Mei Chaofeng, recalling the vile force-feeding incident at the brothel. The trauma solidified her resolve to master martial arts on Taohua Island and seek retribution for her past suffering.
During a class session, Huang Yaoshi inquired about Chen Xuanfeng's absence. While the other disciples remained silent, Mei Chaofeng subtly glanced upward, revealing Chen Xuanfeng's hiding spot on the roof. Huang Yaoshi effortlessly brought Chen Xuanfeng down. Though annoyed by Chen Xuanfeng's tardiness, Huang Yaoshi surprisingly acknowledged his disciple's appreciation for nature's beauty before dismissing class early. Afterward, Chen Xuanfeng confronted Mei Chaofeng, accusing her of deliberately exposing him.
Mei Chaofeng retorted that his irresponsible behavior had deprived her of a valuable martial arts lesson. Unwilling to back down, Mei Chaofeng sought out Huang Yaoshi personally to request instruction. However, Huang Yaoshi directed her to learn the foundational Bibo Palm from Chen Xuanfeng, stating he was the most proficient. Reluctantly, Mei Chaofeng approached Chen Xuanfeng with an apology. In response, Chen Xuanfeng handed her a broom and instructed her to sweep the fallen blossoms.
As soon as she cleared an area, he would slyly cause more petals to flutter down. Mei Chaofeng quickly saw through his trickery and, furious at being mocked, threw the broom aside, accusing him of being insincere. Later that evening, Chen Xuanfeng, feeling guilty, visited Mei Chaofeng and presented her with the Bibo Palm manual, offering to teach her directly. She eagerly accepted and dedicated herself to rigorous practice.
Her inherent aptitude and earnest effort led to rapid progress, and she diligently sought guidance from Huang Yaoshi himself when faced with difficulties. Her swift advancement did not go unnoticed. Huang Yaoshi, recognizing her intense dedication, explained that Taohua Island's martial arts focused on intent rather than rigid form. He recommended she read classical texts such as Zhuangzi, Dao De Jing, and the Book of Songs to temper her fierce disposition and deepen her understanding.
Madam Feng Heng further clarified that these readings were essential to refine her character, as she was prone to extremes. Chen Xuanfeng advised Mei Chaofeng that true mastery required facing real danger, suggesting she test herself in the island's Taohua Array. She took his advice and sustained injuries while attempting to navigate it. Afterward, Madam Feng Heng tended to her wounds, explaining that Huang Yaoshi had created the dangerous array to protect her during his frequent absences.
While recovering, Mei Chaofeng asked Madam Feng Heng about the ultimate purpose of martial arts. Instead of a direct answer, Feng Heng gently encouraged her to discover her own reasons for living beyond the pursuit of revenge. Later, Mei Chaofeng discovered Huang Yaoshi looking significantly weakened after treating his wife.
A maid revealed the grim truth: Madam Feng Heng's Yin poison was worsening, and Huang Yaoshi was draining his own vital energy to prolong her life, a process that was gradually harming them both. Deeply saddened by this revelation, Mei Chaofeng discreetly shared the grave news with her fellow disciples. Soon after, a senior brother excitedly announced a potential cure.
He brought a letter from Ouyang Feng of Baituo Manor, known as West Venom, which suggested a rare "Tinder Flower" found near volcanic craters on Liubo Island. This flower, possessing strong Yang properties, was believed to be capable of counteracting Madam Feng Heng's Yin poison. The disciples immediately planned an expedition to retrieve the vital ingredient.
Initially, they intended to leave Mei Chaofeng behind due to the island's dangers and her recent injuries, but she resolutely insisted on joining, confident in her ability to contribute to their crucial mission.
Episode 3 Recap
A group of disciples, including Mei Chaofeng, journeyed toward Liubo Island, a strange and barren volcanic island known for its lava eruptions and lack of life. They knew of the island's remote nature and the low profile of its master, Xue Qingyi. As they approached, Second Senior Brother Chen Xuanfeng cautioned the others that someone had been trailing them since they landed, urging vigilance.
Upon meeting Xue Qingyi, the disciples explained their purpose: to acquire a Tinder Flower for their Master, Huang Yaoshi. Xue Qingyi, clad in black and constantly fanning himself, expressed his admiration for Huang Yaoshi and readily agreed to provide the flower. However, he stated that the flower was not yet in bloom and that its medicinal juice, contained within its core, was only effective if extracted at the moment of blooming. He invited them to stay for a few days.
While a young servant was pouring them drinks, he nearly spilled the pot. As Mei Chaofeng steadied his arm to help, she noticed raw, red skin on his arm—a clear sign of abuse that immediately sparked her suspicion about Xue Qingyi's seemingly hospitable demeanor. Mei Chaofeng's doubts grew. She refused to eat the meal offered that evening and cautioned her senior brothers to be wary.
Although hungry, First Senior Brother Lingfeng, Third Senior Brother Chengfeng, and Fourth Senior Brother Mianfeng agreed to eat in turns to ensure someone remained alert. Chen Xuanfeng, sharing Mei Chaofeng's wariness, did not eat. As Mei Chaofeng had feared, Lingfeng, Chengfeng, and Mianfeng soon fell unconscious. Xue Qingyi then revealed his true colors, boasting of his title as the "Unorthodox Herbalist."
He explained that he hadn't poisoned the food directly; instead, the combination of the meal and the fragrance of the "Devil's Vine" created a potent hypnotic drug. He intended to turn the powerful martial artists into drug testers for his "Seven Emotions Powder," a toxic concoction designed to control the minds of even the greatest masters. Unaffected, Mei Chaofeng and Chen Xuanfeng were discussing a rescue plan when they were startled by the young servant, Feng Mofeng, being chased.
They intervened, saving him from his tormentors. Feng Mofeng revealed that his entire family had been enslaved by Xue Qingyi and forced to be drug testers, all perishing in the process. He confirmed that their senior brothers had been taken to Xue Qingyi's poison lab, a heavily guarded area with numerous traps, accessible only to Xue Qingyi and his two main guards.
Mei Chaofeng deduced they needed a diversion, suggesting an attack on Xue Qingyi's most prized possession: the alchemy chamber, where he stored his invaluable herbs and formulas. Using sulfur, saltpeter, and charcoal found on the island, Chen Xuanfeng concocted an explosive and detonated it, blowing up the alchemy chamber.
The explosion drew Xue Qingyi and his men away, allowing Mei Chaofeng to knock out the remaining guards while Chen Xuanfeng found the entrance to the lab and located Lingfeng, Chengfeng, and Mianfeng submerged in large vats. Mei Chaofeng and Chen Xuanfeng quickly rescued their unconscious brothers. Once awake, Lingfeng, Chengfeng, and Mianfeng expressed deep regret for not trusting Mei Chaofeng's warnings and thanked her for her foresight and bravery.
Together, they resolved to acquire the Tinder Flower and eliminate Xue Qingyi. Xue Qingyi reappeared, having used a newly developed poison on his own disciples to enhance their combat abilities and make them fearless, obeying his whistle commands. Prompted by Chen Xuanfeng, Mianfeng used sleeve arrows to fight them off, and Xue Qingyi eventually fled. They rushed to where the Tinder Flower was kept, secured behind a formidable black iron door crafted by Feng Mofeng's grandfather, Feng Asan.
Xue Qingyi mockingly claimed it was impenetrable. However, Feng Mofeng revealed he possessed a duplicate key, secretly given to him by his grandfather, who had anticipated Xue Qingyi's treachery. As Feng Mofeng unlocked the door, the ground rumbled, signaling the eruption of underground magma—a phenomenon Xue Qingyi had explained was necessary for the Tinder Flower to bloom once every nineteen years. Amidst the chaos of the erupting volcano, Mei Chaofeng bravely retrieved the precious juice from the blooming Tinder Flower.
Holding the flower, Feng Mofeng looked up, vowing he had avenged his family. The group then quickly fled the perilous island. Back on Taohua Island, Huang Yaoshi initially intended to punish his disciples for their unauthorized departure. However, Lingfeng and the others stepped forward, taking full responsibility. They unanimously praised Mei Chaofeng, acknowledging her acute judgment and courage, without which they would have perished.
Their confession was interrupted by a servant announcing that Huang Yaoshi's wife had fully recovered after taking the antidote. Overwhelmed with joy, Huang Yaoshi not only forgave his disciples but also accepted Feng Mofeng as his new disciple, allowing him to retain his name. Later that night, during a thunderstorm, Chen Xuanfeng went to check on Feng Mofeng. Hearing the boy cry out in fear, Mei Chaofeng, who was in the adjacent room, came to comfort him.
At his request, she sang a lullaby, just as his elder sister used to do. Chen Xuanfeng, listening from outside, was moved, realizing the kindness beneath Mei Chaofeng's guarded exterior. The following day, the disciples celebrated their safe return and their master's wife's recovery. Huang Yaoshi's wife personally thanked Mei Chaofeng, explaining how the Tinder Flower aided her recovery.
She reassured Mei Chaofeng that her past was behind her and that Taohua Island was now her home, encouraging her to embrace happiness. The senior brothers also expressed their profound gratitude to Mei Chaofeng and thanked Feng Mofeng for his help. Feng Mofeng, now part of this new family, was warmly welcomed, embarking on a new chapter of his life on Taohua Island.
Episode 4 Recap
Feng Heng’s cold poison appeared to have weakened, and Huang Yaoshi brought a cart of fireworks from Lin'an for Ruohua, a young disciple on Taohua Island, to enjoy. As Feng Heng felt her health returning, she suggested to Huang Yaoshi that they leave Taohua Island for a journey. Huang Yaoshi initially hesitated, citing her fatigue and the island's intrinsic beauty.
However, Feng Heng reminded him of their past in the lands of Qi and Lu, and he then expressed his profound desire to explore every inch of the world with her, savoring its delicacies and wonders. Having decided to travel, Huang Yaoshi instructed his disciples, including Lingfeng, to diligently practice and manage the island in their absence.
Upon hearing their master's plans, Mei Ruohua immediately requested to join them, eager to seek vengeance and test her skills in the martial world. Other disciples echoed her plea, expressing their desire to gain experience. Huang Yaoshi, reflecting on his own youth, acknowledged a similar yearning to discover what lay beyond mountains and seas, only to find the original side often better.
He advised them that they were still too young to understand this but conceded that they would not be content without experiencing it for themselves, hoping they would find their way back. Mei Ruohua, haunted by recurring nightmares of her parents’ murder by Yunhai, remained resolute in her quest. Though Chen Xuanfeng, her senior, tried to dissuade her from defying their master, Mei Ruohua was determined, stating that she would risk everything to avenge her family.
Seeing her unwavering resolve, Chen Xuanfeng vowed to accompany her. Mei Ruohua and Chen Xuanfeng ventured out, arriving at a tavern where men were tormenting a woman. Mei Ruohua, enraged, swiftly incapacitated one of the tormentors and declared, "Mei Ruohua is dead. Now, I am Mei Chaofeng." She demanded to know Qiu Yunhai's whereabouts.
The terrified man praised Qiu Yunhai as a generous and righteous hero, revealing he was the esteemed Manor Lord of Yunhai Manor, located fifty li outside the city. Realizing the formidable power Qiu Yunhai had amassed, Mei Chaofeng tried to send Chen Xuanfeng away to face him alone. When he refused, she cunningly suggested a race to Yunhai Manor, knowing Chen Xuanfeng prided himself on his horsemanship.
During the race, Mei Chaofeng tampered with Chen Xuanfeng’s horse, allowing her to gain a significant lead. Mei Chaofeng arrived at Yunhai Manor, where Qiu Yunhai was discussing his efforts to recruit martial artists and establish an intelligence network to aid the Jin invasion. Mei Chaofeng boldly confronted him. Qiu Yunhai, recognizing her, sneered at her survival.
Their battle ensued, during which Qiu Yunhai revealed that Mei Chaofeng had been poisoned; the more she exerted herself, the faster the poison would spread. He then shattered her meridians, leaving her powerless, and mockingly declared her a pathetic, helpless wretch. He ordered his man, Qiao Si, to pursue and kill her. Just as her life hung in the balance, Chen Xuanfeng arrived and saved her, administering a Nine-Flower Dew Pill to suppress the poison.
Mei Chaofeng apologized for her stubbornness. He asked if she regretted her actions, but she adamantly shook her head, explaining that her quest for vengeance was all she had left. Despite her defeat, she had no regrets. When she asked if her severed meridians meant she was permanently crippled, Chen Xuanfeng, acknowledging his limited medical skills, assured her that their Master could help and immediately carried her back towards Taohua Island.
Meanwhile, Feng Heng and Huang Yaoshi had a playful conversation about their hopes for their unborn child, envisioning a boy or a girl who resembled each of them. Feng Heng wished to name a daughter Rong'er. As they strolled, they encountered Zhou Botong fighting several men. Huang Yaoshi intervened, much to Zhou Botong’s annoyance. Zhou Botong then challenged Huang Yaoshi and noted that the domineering martial art he was practicing would eventually cause qi deviation.
He claimed the Nine Yin True Sutra was the only counter-method but that he was tasked by his senior to hide it. After complimenting Feng Heng’s beauty and expressing his desire for Huang Yaoshi’s Soft Hedgehog Armor, Zhou Botong invited them to wait for him at the Hupan Inn in Kuizhou. Concerned, Feng Heng asked Huang Yaoshi if Zhou Botong’s claims were true. Huang Yaoshi replied with a noncommittal "perhaps" and suggested they proceed to the inn.
At the Hupan Inn, Feng Heng proposed a bet to Zhou Botong: whoever could solve a nine-link puzzle first would win. If Zhou Botong won, he would get the Soft Hedgehog Armor; if Feng Heng won, she only wished to examine the Nine Yin True Sutra, claiming mere curiosity. Feng Heng won. As she read, she cleverly pretended the sutra was a common fortune-telling manual, even reciting a passage from memory to prove it.
Convinced he had been tricked by West Venom, Ouyang Feng, into guarding a fake copy, a furious Zhou Botong burned the book and vowed to retrieve the real sutra from the Western Regions. Shortly after, Feng Heng's cold condition relapsed. Huang Yaoshi explained that the Tinder Flower only treated the symptoms, not the root cause, and that the fetus was draining her yang energy, creating a dangerous imbalance. He suggested they could not keep the child.
Feng Heng was overcome with despair, pleading for the chance to be a mother and reminding Huang Yaoshi of their shared hopes. Witnessing her sorrow, he relented and decided they would return home immediately. Upon their unexpected return to Taohua Island, the disciples, including Mianfeng and Lingfeng, were dispatched to prepare medicine and charcoal for Feng Heng. They reported that Chen Xuanfeng and Mei Chaofeng had been missing since their masters left.
Just then, Chen Xuanfeng arrived, carrying the gravely injured Mei Chaofeng and pleading with Huang Yaoshi to save her. Despite her own relapse, Feng Heng insisted that Huang Yaoshi prioritize Mei Chaofeng. After treating her, Huang Yaoshi confirmed that Mei Chaofeng’s life had been saved, but her legs were crippled. He then instructed Feng Heng to rest and went to Qingyin Cave.
Episode 5 Recap
Following a period of intense healing for Feng Heng and Chaofeng, Huang Yaoshi withdrew to Qingyin Cave for secluded cultivation, having significantly depleted his vital energy. Upon awakening, Chaofeng discovered her legs were paralyzed. Xuanfeng comforted her, assuring her that Master would find a way to heal her. Feng Heng also visited, encouraging Chaofeng to remain calm and promising that Huang Yaoshi would devise a solution during his seclusion.
Mofeng, the youngest disciple, was already designing a new mobility device, promising it would help her stand without falling, even if not walk exactly as before. Despite everyone's care, Chaofeng felt "useless," but Feng Heng reiterated that with Huang Yaoshi, there was always hope, emphasizing that staying alive was paramount. Concerned by Huang Yaoshi's weakened state, Feng Heng, despite her own pregnancy and lingering illness, immediately instructed the maid Hong to prepare writing materials.
She intended to transcribe the Nine Yin True Sutra from memory, believing its methods could aid Huang Yaoshi's recovery. Meanwhile, Chaofeng struggled in solitude, repeatedly attempting to stand and falling, her efforts ending in heartbroken sobs. Xuanfeng, hearing her distress, felt immense pain and began to ponder ways to help her.
Other disciples also rallied, with Lingfeng offering acupuncture to aid her recovery, and Mofeng showcasing his meticulously crafted assistive device, still a work in progress, which he promised would eventually allow her to move freely. Surrounded by such unwavering support, Chaofeng began to regain her resolve, temporarily abandoning thoughts of despair. One day, Chaofeng overheard Feng Heng presenting the transcribed Nine Yin True Sutra to Huang Yaoshi.
Feng Heng believed it could counteract his Solar Mantra and urged him to cultivate it to balance his conflicting internal energies, also asking if it could help Chaofeng with its "bone forging" chapter. Huang Yaoshi refused to even look at the sutra, explaining that this was only the second volume containing martial techniques, lacking the essential mental methods of the first volume.
Practicing it without the mental methods, he warned, would lead to severe qi deviation, even turning one to dark arts, making it not only useless for healing Chaofeng but dangerous for his own cultivation. He revealed he already knew the sutra couldn't detoxify him and admitted that while his Solar Mantra harmed him, his current condition was exacerbated by Feng Heng's pregnancy and Chaofeng's previous troubles.
He pondered that he might be able to deduce the first volume's mental methods, but it would require considerable time. He expressed deep concern that Chaofeng, with her impetuous nature, would undoubtedly practice it without proper guidance, even if it meant turning to the "Way of demons," leading to lifelong regret. Desperate to regain her mobility, Chaofeng confronted Huang Yaoshi, directly asking for a martial art that could quickly heal her legs, specifically mentioning the Nine Yin True Sutra.
Huang Yaoshi firmly rejected her plea, reiterating that the sutra could not cure her and that she understood nothing about it, forbidding her from mentioning it again. Heartbroken and feeling "useless," Chaofeng pleaded for his help, but he simply dismissed her. Unbeknownst to Chaofeng, Xuanfeng and Chengfeng discovered that Qiu Yunhai, a vengeful villain, had desecrated Chaofeng's parents' graves in an attempt to lure her out. Recognizing Chaofeng's fragile state, they resolved to conceal this devastating news from her.
Meanwhile, Feng Heng discussed Chaofeng's situation with Huang Yaoshi, suggesting the Ninefold Yin Pill as a possible, albeit dangerous, solution, capable of regenerating bones and flesh but with the severe side effect of lifelong coldness, similar to Huang Yaoshi's own condition. Huang Yaoshi considered re-concocting the pill, acknowledging it as the only viable option.
Driven by her unwavering desire for revenge and the hope of healing, Chaofeng approached Xuanfeng, confessing her intention to obtain the Nine Yin True Sutra from Qingyin Cave and asking for his help in navigating its formations. Xuanfeng initially refused, unwilling to betray their Master, emphasizing the chaos the sutra had historically caused.
Chaofeng, however, tearfully recounted witnessing Qiu Yunhai murder her parents as a child, powerless to intervene, asserting that the sutra was her only hope for healing and vengeance. Her desperation was so profound that she attempted to end her life by jumping off a cliff, but Xuanfeng valiantly saved her, climbing the cliff face with her in his arms. This harrowing experience changed his mind, and he tearfully promised to help her.
He warned her that stealing the sutra would be an unforgivable betrayal, necessitating their escape from the island. Chaofeng confirmed her resolve, accepting the consequences. They began to plan their escape, which required repairing the hurricane-damaged boats and obtaining the island's formation diagram from Chengfeng, the fourth junior brother, who had always looked out for her. Chaofeng then discreetly sought out Mianfeng, the fifth junior brother, known for his knowledge of herbs.
Feigning a need for self-defense, she inquired about a colorless, odorless anesthetic that even martial experts wouldn't detect. Mianfeng revealed that Huang Yaoshi had indeed developed such a substance, one that worked fastest and most potently on individuals with high martial prowess, rendering them incapacitated for hours.
Although Huang Yaoshi never used it due to his disdain for poisons, Mianfeng had secretly modified the formula and provided Chaofeng with a small bottle, cautioning her not to let their Master discover it. With Chaofeng's spirit seemingly lifted, the disciples decided to celebrate Feng Heng's birthday, hoping to further cheer Chaofeng. As preparations for the feast were underway, Xuanfeng subtly checked with Chaofeng about her unwavering commitment to their dangerous plan.
Chaofeng confirmed her resolve, stating she would not regret their actions. The celebration began, with everyone gathering to toast Huang Yaoshi and Feng Heng. Chaofeng, with a determined glint in her eyes, insisted on pouring wine for everyone. As the toasts commenced, Huang Yaoshi took a sip of the wine, his expression immediately shifting as he sensed something amiss. He then collapsed, followed by several other disciples. Feng Heng, who had opted for water alongside Mofeng, witnessed their collapse and instantly understood what had happened as the scene faded.
Episode 6 Recap
Chen Xuanfeng and Mei Chaofeng navigated Huang Yaoshi's intricate formations near Qingyin Cave. Chen Xuanfeng, using knowledge of the "Nine-Square Model" and "Tai Chi" principles, skillfully disarmed the traps, noting their limited time. Upon entering the cave, Mei Chaofeng, despite Huang Yaoshi's strict warning not to touch it, located the Nine Yin True Sutra.
With a heavy heart, she expressed her apologies to her Master and Madam, promising to return, before ultimately leaving Taohua Island with Chen Xuanfeng and the stolen sutra. Huang Yaoshi regained consciousness to find his other disciples incapacitated due to a sedative. His wife, Feng Heng, informed him that Chen Xuanfeng was responsible for putting her to sleep by attacking her acupoints.
Realizing that Mei Chaofeng and Chen Xuanfeng were missing, Huang Yaoshi immediately dispatched his senior disciple, Lingfeng, to locate them. Lingfeng later confessed that he had provided Mei Chaofeng with the sedative and had also repaired a boat, enabling Mei Chaofeng and Chen Xuanfeng to leave the island. He also revealed that he had given the formation-breaking diagram to Mei Chaofeng previously. As these unsettling truths emerged, Hong Gu, a maid, expressed a strong premonition of impending disaster.
During this turmoil, Xue Qingyi, whom Huang Yaoshi had believed to be dead, secretly infiltrated Taohua Island. She first drugged Feng Heng's maid and took Feng Heng hostage. Then, using her potent Emotions Powder, she gained control over Hong Gu and the other disciples, turning them into her puppets. Xue Qingyi then forced them to attack Huang Yaoshi, intending to make him kill his own disciples, creating a scene of master and disciples fighting each other.
She further provoked Huang Yaoshi, declaring that his disciples had ruined her great plans, and it was time for retribution. She unleashed the full effect of her Emotions Powder, a powerful concoction she had spent half her life perfecting, taunting that it would have been even stronger if his disciples hadn't destroyed her poison lab. She then attempted to force Huang Yaoshi to kill his own wife, Feng Heng, and their unborn child.
Xue Qingyi revealed that some of Huang Yaoshi's disciples, fearing his revenge, had betrayed him by providing Mei Chaofeng with the drug, the formation-breaking diagram, and the boat. She claimed they had even helped her infiltrate the island with the explicit goal of killing Huang Yaoshi, Feng Heng, and their unborn child, stating that even as the best martial artist, he was ultimately betrayed by those he trusted.
Feng Heng desperately pleaded with Huang Yaoshi to fight the mind control, even as he, under the powder's influence, nearly strangled her. Witnessing her distress, Huang Yaoshi, with immense willpower, forcefully reversed his meridians, pushing the poison from his system despite the risk of losing control. Now free from the Emotions Powder's effects, he swiftly subdued Xue Qingyi, who, in a desperate bid for survival, offered him the antidote. Huang Yaoshi, however, ended her life, eliminating the dire threat.
Following Xue Qingyi's demise, Huang Yaoshi administered an antidote, and his disciples gradually regained consciousness. They were immediately overwhelmed with guilt and sorrow for their actions against him while controlled. Lingfeng, as the senior disciple, was particularly distraught and attempted to take his own life out of shame, believing he had no right to live. However, a junior disciple intervened, preventing him, and redirected the blame, asserting that the fault lay entirely with Mei Chaofeng.
They accused Mei Chaofeng of tricking Lingfeng into providing the drug, stealing the Nine Yin True Sutra, and facilitating Xue Qingyi's infiltration of Taohua Island, which almost led to Huang Yaoshi's death. Huang Yaoshi, recovering from his ordeal, took time to meditate and heal.
Hong Gu, while checking on the stable Feng Heng and the recovering disciples, revealed that Huang Yaoshi had been expending great energy, using the Solar Mantra, to prolong Feng Heng's life ever since she suffered severe injuries from a fall years ago, which had shattered her meridians and bones.
She further explained that Feng Heng had painstakingly transcribed the Nine Yin True Sutra specifically to aid Huang Yaoshi's recovery, only for it to be stolen by Mei Chaofeng and Chen Xuanfeng. Despite this betrayal, Hong Gu also informed the disciples that Huang Yaoshi had actually been seeking a cure for Mei Chaofeng all this time.
Given the recent events and the remaining disciples' injuries, Huang Yaoshi instructed Hong Gu to allow them to leave Taohua Island and recover on the mainland. The disciples, including Lingfeng and Mofeng, departed, finding shelter with relatives or former military comrades, wondering if they would ever be able to return to the island. Having left Taohua Island, Mei Chaofeng and Chen Xuanfeng settled in a secluded house on the mainland.
They discussed their plans for recovery and eventual revenge, expressing hope for the success of General Zhang's northern expedition. Unbeknownst to them, Qiu Yunhai, from his Yunhai Manor, had received orders to suppress martial artists from aiding General Zhang's campaign. His informants soon discovered Mei Chaofeng's presence on the mainland and her surprising recovery, despite the severe injuries he previously inflicted upon her.
Believing Mei Chaofeng must have received help from a powerful master and was now seeking revenge against him, Qiu Yunhai issued a lucrative bounty of 100 taels of gold for her head, fabricating a story that she had broken into his manor, committed murder, and stolen. In their secluded retreat, Mei Chaofeng discovered that the stolen Nine Yin True Sutra was incomplete, containing only the second volume of techniques and lacking the vital first volume of internal mental methods.
She deduced that without the mental methods, cultivating the techniques was not only impossible but also highly dangerous, leading to a loss of control, and it would not help heal her injuries. She questioned whether Huang Yaoshi might have withheld the sutra because it was incomplete. Driven by her desire for revenge, Mei Chaofeng attempted to cultivate the partial sutra, quickly suffering a severe internal backlash and spitting blood, nearly losing control.
Chen Xuanfeng immediately intervened, stabilizing her and emphasizing the perilous nature of forced cultivation. He devised a plan to test the incomplete sutra himself, intending to find a safe way to practice it. He patiently worked on adapting Taohua Island's internal mental methods to complement the Nine Yin True Sutra, urging Mei Chaofeng to wait. However, Mei Chaofeng grew impatient, demanding to participate in the dangerous trials, which Chen Xuanfeng firmly refused.
Ultimately, Mei Chaofeng insisted on taking the sutra to find her own solution, but Chen Xuanfeng rejected again, telling her to leave him, as her involvement in his quest for revenge was unnecessary.
Episode 7 Recap
After finding Chen Xuanfeng unconscious in the forest from self-administering arsenic, a concerned Mei Chaofeng rushes to prepare an antidote and saves him. Once awake, he explains his reckless action was an unorthodox method to boost his internal strength and master the Nine Yin True Sutra. He assures her that he has now mastered the dosage and is not in danger.
Touched by his devotion, Mei Chaofeng says he can take anything from her, but clarifies that her only desire is revenge, prompting him to say she has misunderstood his intentions. Meanwhile, on Peach Blossom Island, a pregnant Feng Heng works day and night to re-copy the Nine Yin True Sutra for Huang Yaoshi, enduring severe pain. Believing her husband has already granted her a full life, she has no regrets.
After completing the manuscript, she collapses from exhaustion, pleading for the child's survival. Feng Heng's labor is agonizingly long. Huang Yaoshi repeatedly insists on saving his wife, but Feng Heng tells their attendant to save the child. When the baby's cry is finally heard, a heartbroken Huang Yaoshi returns to find his wife has passed away peacefully. Devastated after the funeral, Huang Yaoshi is plunged into a deep depression.
However, the cries of his infant daughter stir his will to live. Recalling a promise to his wife, he resolves to raise their child, hoping to bring peace to Feng Heng's spirit. Having escaped Peach Blossom Island, Chen Xuanfeng studies the scripture and determines they can practice several powerful techniques—the Nine Yin Skeleton Claw, the Heart-Breaking Palm, and the White Serpent Whip—without the foundational mental methods, though it will require unorthodox training.
They retreat to a graveyard, as the scripture dictates using skulls to practice the Nine Yin Skeleton Claw. While there, they are ambushed by assassins sent by Yunhai Manor for a hundred-tael bounty, whom they easily defeat. Mei Chaofeng notes her technique is less effective on live opponents than on inanimate skulls. Chen Xuanfeng explains that living beings can defend with internal energy and suggests she rest.
He takes her to a market to relax, where she grows somber after noticing new wrinkles on her face. Her focus remains on revenge, though she has a moment of realization that it was Chen Xuanfeng who used to play the flute to help her sleep on the island. One morning, Mei Chaofeng sends Chen Xuanfeng out for errands. She then discovers strange symbols and follows them, leading her to overhear a conversation between him and his cousin, Chen Zhihe.
She learns that Chen Xuanfeng's clan had sent him to Huang Yaoshi to acquire martial arts for their revival and is now commanding him to kill her and bring back the Nine Yin True Sutra. Understanding the impossible position he is in, Mei Chaofeng decides to spare him the choice. That evening, she tells a heartbroken Chen Xuanfeng that she will go to Yunhai Manor for revenge alone and they must part ways.
Later that night, they are ambushed by men from Yunhai Manor, including Chen Zhihe. Mei Chaofeng fights them off, and in the process, her Nine Yin Skeleton Claw skill has a breakthrough. When she moves to kill Chen Zhihe, Chen Xuanfeng steps in to shield his kinsman. Chen Zhihe reveals that his clan has allied with Yunhai Manor to gain the support of the Jurchens for their restoration.
In response, Chen Xuanfeng publicly severs all ties with his family and warns Chen Zhihe to stay away from Qiu Yunhai. The next day, Qiu Yunhai hosts a lavish birthday banquet, announcing to the assembled heroes his plan to ally with the Jurchens and undermine the imperial court's northern campaign under the guise of peace. The proceedings are interrupted by Mei Chaofeng, who denounces Qiu Yunhai and his allies as traitors and vows to kill him on the spot to avenge her parents.
Episode 8 (Ending) Recap
The time arrived for Mei Chaofeng to face her adversaries at Yunhai Manor. Standing in the center of the estate, she accepted their challenges. Manor Lord Qiu's men surrounded her, intending to overwhelm her with their numbers. Chen Xuanfeng would not stand by idly; he positioned himself beside Mei Chaofeng, instructing her to confront Manor Lord Qiu while he fended off the surrounding forces.
Manor Lord Qiu was astounded to find that Mei Chaofeng, whom he had previously injured by severing her tendons, was not only fully recovered but possessed greatly enhanced martial arts. After a few exchanges, Manor Lord Qiu was utterly defeated, and Mei Chaofeng used her Nine Yin Skeleton Claw to crush his skull.
With her vengeance exacted, Mei Chaofeng intended to leave with Chen Xuanfeng, but was surprised to see Lingfeng, her first senior brother, and three other martial brothers arrive, all of them relying on crutches. Distraught, Mei Chaofeng questioned what had happened to their legs. Lingfeng revealed their injuries were a direct consequence of their actions: Mei Chaofeng had used a drug to incapacitate their Master, allowing an enemy, Xue Qingyi, to take advantage.
This caused the Master to fall into a martial arts-induced frenzy, during which he crippled his own apprentices. Lingfeng grimly added that while he and two other brothers could manage with canes, Chengfeng, their fourth senior brother, was now permanently confined to a wheelchair. He further disclosed that their Madam, Feng Heng, had died in childbirth while trying to save the Master from his state.
Overwhelmed with guilt and sorrow, Mei Chaofeng offered to return to Taohua Island with Chen Xuanfeng to face Master's punishment, but Lingfeng, declaring their ties severed, refused to accept their return. Chen Xuanfeng, severely weakened by internal injuries, urgently needed treatment. Lingfeng mentioned that Master's Wuchang Pills were a potent healing elixir, but he did not possess them. Seeking solace and expressing her deep remorse, Mei Chaofeng secretly visited Madam Feng's tomb on Taohua Island.
Tears streamed down her face as she apologized to the departed Madam, regretting how her pursuit of revenge had harmed those who cared for her. She expressed a profound wish that if she could relive her past, she would never have stolen the Nine Yin True Sutra, acknowledging the immense weight of her sins. Later, Huang Yaoshi, Feng Heng's husband and Mei Chaofeng's master, arrived to pay respects at the tomb.
Though he did not directly see Mei Chaofeng, he sensed her presence. He mused on the human tendency to desire what they lack and to take for granted what they possess, only to later realize the irreplaceable loss of what they once had, leaving an unfillable void within. After he departed, Mei Chaofeng revisited the tomb and discovered a bottle of Wuchang Pills, intentionally left by her Master.
She quickly retrieved the elixir and brought it to Chen Xuanfeng, who consumed it and gradually began to recover from his grievous injuries. Mei Chaofeng and Chen Xuanfeng hoped to live peacefully, but they were relentlessly pursued by a group of pugilists from Jiangnan. Their leaders were two brothers, Ke Bixie, the "Skyflying Dragon," and Ke Zhen'e, the "Skyflying Bat."
These self-proclaimed righteous figures accused Mei Chaofeng and Chen Xuanfeng, whom they called the "Black Wind Twin Evils," of desecrating graves, practicing evil arts with corpses, and murdering the benevolent Manor Lord Qiu. In the fierce battle that followed, Chen Xuanfeng killed Ke Bixie, and Mei Chaofeng blinded Ke Zhen'e. The surviving members fled, with the sightless Ke Zhen'e vowing revenge. Disliking their blood-soaked hideout near a desolate graveyard, Mei Chaofeng urged Chen Xuanfeng to leave with her.
They journeyed far along a river until they found a lush, vast grassland beneath a clear blue sky. Mei Chaofeng was captivated by the serene beauty of the place and decided they should settle there to live a quiet life. While observing a local wedding, Mei Chaofeng was given a traditional proposal hat. She presented it to Chen Xuanfeng, and under the full moon, they formally committed to each other.
Mei Chaofeng, having let go of her past grievances, reflected on her past wrongs and feared retribution. However, Chen Xuanfeng tenderly reassured her that he would willingly bear any punishment from heaven on her behalf, unable to imagine a life without her. They exchanged solemn vows, pledging their eternal love and promising to remain together through life and death.
Their tranquil existence was shattered when they were ambushed on a full moon night by the Jiangnan Seven Freaks, the group led by the vengeful Ke Zhen'e. Seeking revenge for his brother's death and his own blinding, Ke Zhen'e attacked Mei Chaofeng, injuring her eyes with a poisoned hidden weapon and severely impairing her vision. Chen Xuanfeng desperately shielded her, but was tragically stabbed in the chest by a young boy in the group.
Mei Chaofeng tearfully carried the dying Chen Xuanfeng away. In his final moments, Chen Xuanfeng, admitting he had killed Ke Zhen'e's brother, urged her not to seek revenge and get trapped in a cycle of violence. He then revealed that the Nine Yin True Sutra was tattooed upon his chest and implored her to continue practicing it, so that no one would ever dare to bully her again.
The loss of the one who loved her most plunged Mei Chaofeng into profound despair, and she wept for seven days and seven nights. Honoring Chen Xuanfeng's last wish, she diligently practiced and finally mastered the Nine Yin True Sutra. Mei Chaofeng had always been driven by a mission. Her early life was marked by great hardship; after her parents were murdered by villains, she was sold into a brothel and endured immense suffering.
This deep-seated hatred became her reason to live. Although she later found a new home and care among her martial brothers and Madam Feng on Taohua Island, her past haunted her. This internal struggle and her yearning for protection led her to steal the Nine Yin True Sutra. However, she never anticipated that her actions would endanger her martial brothers and tragically lead to the death of the benevolent Madam Feng.
With her long-sought revenge finally achieved, she reflected on the devastating consequences her choices had wrought upon her found family, leaving her with profound regret. Chen Xuanfeng, her second senior brother, remained by her side through everything, becoming her home and her greatest support. His steadfast love transformed her, inspiring her to seek a peaceful existence, even as their fleeting happiness was cut short by his tragic death. Despite the relentless trials of her fate, the cherished memories of being loved provided Mei Chaofeng with an enduring warmth, guiding her as she walked her solitary path.
