The Journey of Legend Recap, Plot, Synopsis

> The Journey of Legend

The Journey of Legend Synopsis

Xiao Mingming, once a passionless “nobody” whose love for wuxia novels had been worn down by reality, embarks on a journey through the martial world from the perspective of his novel’s protagonist, Xiao Qiushui. From a hot-blooded young swordsman of modest skill, Xiao Qiushui ultimately grows into a great hero of loyalty and righteousness, devoted to protecting his country. Thereafter, Xiao Mingming continues to write in his spare time, carrying forward the belief that it is righteousness that brings people together.

The Journey of Legend Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

In the early Daxi Era, the martial world was in disarray, with righteous sects declining. The powerful Power Gang dominated the martial circle, while Heavenly King Zhu of the Waterway Sect controlled the waterways, leading to constant conflict between the two. Adding to the turmoil, North Wasteland armies rampaged, causing the emperor to flee the capital. Amidst this chaos, the long-lost Hero Token resurfaced, rumored to hold a great treasure and the key to unifying the martial world.

This token was in the possession of General Wu Jie's elderly mother. Martial artists from various factions pursued her, setting ambushes along her journey and cornering her in Jinzhong. At this critical moment, Xiao Qiushui, the third young master of the Huanhua Sect, intervened, saving Madam Wu from the Power Gang and Heavenly King Zhu.

He had mastered the graceful Huanhua Swordplay to perfection, wielding the Sword of Changge with boundless internal energy and supreme lightness skill, thus earning his fame in the martial world. He respectfully introduced himself to Madam Wu. However, this thrilling scene was merely the imaginative adaptation of a web novelist named Xiao Mingming. Using a tool called the Demon Codex System, he was rewriting the classic martial arts novel "Heroes of Divine Land".

In his story, Xiao Qiushui was an unrivaled martial arts genius, dashingly handsome, with top-tier lightness skill, internal energy, and swordsmanship. At twelve, he mastered the Huanhua Swordplay, and at eighteen, Yan Kuangtu personally imparted all his martial arts secrets, planting a Boiling Blood Cocoon within him that could unleash immense power in times of crisis.

By the age of twenty, Xiao Qiushui accidentally found and mastered the "Book of Oblivion", becoming the martial circle leader after crushing the Power Gang and defeating Heavenly King Zhu. He then led his friends and allies against the invading North Wasteland armies, and General Wu, grateful for his righteousness, bestowed upon him the Hero Token. Xiao Mingming reveled in his protagonist's glorious ascent, feeling "unmatched in the divine land, such pure loneliness."

As he considered integrating his project into the system, a "System bug" and "Out Of Character alert" flashed across his screen. Suddenly, Xiao Mingming found himself in the Daxi Era, transmigrated into his own novel as Xiao Qiushui. He woke up in an ancient room, surrounded by courtesans calling him "Third Young Master." Disoriented, he asked for his friend Li Cai, mistaking the women for actresses.

A servant explained that he, Xiao Qiushui, had led his brothers to raid an underground casino the previous day, and after celebrating, he got drunk and rested there. Xiao Mingming, still confused, wondered if he was dreaming about the character Xie Xiaofeng from "Sword Master". He soon realized that the props and setting were too realistic and that he was indeed Xiao Qiushui, the third young master of Huanhua Sect, in the Daxi Era.

He recalled his novel's Xiao Qiushui as a top master with peerless martial arts and the Boiling Blood Cocoon, initially believing his luck was good. However, when the casino thugs arrived for revenge, and a servant urged him to be careful, his attempt to escape from the second floor using his "supreme lightness skill" resulted in him crashing face-first onto the ground, revealing his real lack of martial prowess.

Just as the thugs were about to attack, Xiao Xueyu, Xiao Qiushui's elder sister, arrived. With a few swift moves, she drove off the thugs and insisted Xiao Qiushui return home to face their father, Xiao Xilou. At home, Xiao Xilou angrily confronted Xiao Qiushui, accusing him of visiting brothels and forgetting his family name. Realizing that, in this reality, he was his father's least favorite son, Xiao Qiushui quickly apologized.

Xiao Xueyu pleaded on his behalf, explaining that Xiao Qiushui had been diligently investigating North Wasteland army spies in Jinzhong as instructed. Xiao Xilou seemed inclined to let the matter drop, but his elder brothers, Xiao Kaiyan and Xiao Yiren, pressed for punishment to teach him a lesson. Before they could act, their mother, Sun Huishan, entered the hall. She took the cane, declaring it was also her fault for not raising her son properly.

She revealed she had specially made him leather underpants from a golden python, impenetrable by ordinary blades. She then gently struck Xiao Qiushui once, who feigned extreme pain and fled from the hall, with his mother chasing after him, seemingly scolding him but in fact covering his escape. Later, in a pavilion, Xiao Qiushui and Sun Huishan shared tea. He tearfully expressed his relief at seeing her, as he had feared never seeing her again.

He then asked about his martial arts ranking, including his lightness skill and internal energy, and how he compared to Li Chenzhou of the Power Gang. Sun Huishan was puzzled by his strange questions. She revealed that his lightness skill was his weakness and his internal energy mediocre. She also told him he ranked fifth in their household, after his father, herself, and his two elder brothers, Kaiyan and Yiren.

She explained that while he had potential, his restless nature as a child meant he didn't properly practice Xiao's Swordplay, instead creating his own "Qiushui Swordplay." She sternly warned him never to provoke the Power Gang, describing them as ruthless and dominant, with their leader Li Chenzhou being unfathomably powerful, and the Nineteen Demons being top-tier martial artists. She cautioned him against unrealistic dreams of instant fame.

When Xiao Qiushui asked if Yan Kuangtu had cleared his meridians, she replied that Yan Kuangtu had vanished when Xiao Qiushui was a child and had not reappeared since, warning that his return would bring bloodshed. He also inquired about powerful secret martial manuals and confirmed that Xiao Xueyu was an adopted daughter, whom he must protect.

After his conversation with his mother, Xiao Qiushui realized that while some of his changes to Xueyu's character remained, his own abilities were aligned with the original novel's portrayal. He deduced that if he could boost his combat stats, he might return to his desired storyline. Hoping to find a "cheat code," he headed to the Xiao Family Sword Tomb, remembering that the "Book of Oblivion" was hidden there.

He found a stone coffin in the center and opened it, only to find several fine swords instead of the legendary manual. The coffin automatically closed, and the Demon Codex system reappeared, reprimanding him for deviating from the original character settings of "Heroes of Divine Land". Xiao Mingming complained about the need for "cheat codes" in traditional martial arts stories to succeed.

The Demon Codex informed him that he could only follow his own narrative outline if he became the Huanhua Sect Leader. Otherwise, it would not interfere. It also warned him against "revealing key plot points" and stated that the Boiling Blood Cocoon, which he had intended as a powerful buff, had been reconfigured into a dormant poison that would activate if he crossed any "minefields," with the second activation being lethal.

The system emphasized that this was a "simple growth-through-suffering story." Xiao Mingming protested, but the system then presented him with his first task: "Challenge the Jinyin Bank." He instantly remembered that in his original novel, this event led to the massacre of the entire Xiao family. Fearing for his life, he decided to "lie low" and hide in the mountains, hoping to avoid the difficult plot points and survive until the finale.

However, the Boiling Blood Cocoon in his hand began to ache intensely, and he soon collapsed. The next day, Xiao Mingming woke up to find himself back in his bed at home, concluding that the system had reset. In the courtyard, Huanhua Sect disciples were practicing. Soon, three men approached. Xiao Mingming initially mistook them for his university roommates, Tang Xu, Deng Zhe, and Li Chaofan, wondering if they too had transmigrated and belonged to his university's "Instrument Society."

The men, however, were confused by his questions, mentioning they had only been watching dragon boats. Xiao Mingming quickly realized they were actually the original characters from the novel: Zuoqiu Chaoran, a grappling master; Tang Rou, the Tang Sect heir; and Deng Yuhan, the Hailin Sect leader's son. He understood that he could not evade the plot and his only option was to stick with his new friends to survive.

As Deng Yuhan joked about Xiao Qiushui getting drunk the previous night, Xiao Qiushui informed them that their trip to Zihui for the Dragon Boat Festival was merely a cover. Their true mission was to "take down the Jinyin Bank" which preyed on the vulnerable. His friends eagerly prepared for a fight, but Xiao Qiushui clarified that they would not engage in a direct confrontation but rather execute an "ambush." He then revealed the formidable truth: the Jinyin Bank was backed by Fu Tianyi, a Demon from the powerful Power Gang.

Episode 2 Recap

Xiao Qiushui proposed ambushing Jinyin Bank in a few days. When his companions, Tang Rou, Deng Yuhan, and Zuoqiu Chaoran, heard this, they were eager to act, believing that upholding justice meant disregarding the opponent's status. However, Xiao Qiushui, remembering that Tang Rou was ambushed during this very event in the original story, tried to find a reason for her not to participate. He claimed to have met a fortune teller who predicted danger for her on this trip.

His friends found his sudden timidity unusual, and Tang Rou dismissed it, asserting that while she might fear danger, her Meteoric Needles would not. Unable to explain, Xiao Qiushui reluctantly agreed to their participation. The four soon arrived at the Zigui dock. While dining, they witnessed several Jinyin Bank employees demanding protection fees from two boat owners, threatening to burn their boat if they didn't pay by noon the next day. Deng Yuhan intervened, driving the employees away.

Tang Rou then approached the boat owners, learning that since Jinyin Bank took control of the waterway, they had been tyrannical, extorting money from everyone, a practice that made making a living impossible. Xiao Qiushui, observing, remarked that these were non-player characters pushing the plot forward. While Xiao Qiushui wanted to plan their next move, his three impatient companions insisted on heading to Jinyin Bank immediately.

That night, Tang Rou, Deng Yuhan, and Zuoqiu Chaoran scaled the walls of the Jinyin Bank. They quickly subdued all the bank employees. Xiao Qiushui, after several failed attempts to demonstrate his own lightness skill, remained on the courtyard wall, admiring his companions' prowess, specifically Zuoqiu's precise grappling skill, Deng Yuhan's clever Hailin Sect sword techniques, and Tang Rou's formidable Tang Sect's hidden weapons.

He was also horrified to overhear the bank manager ordering an employee to gouge out a shop owner's eyes and display her as a warning. Finding himself getting increasingly nervous, Xiao Qiushui decided to discreetly leave the premises, prioritizing his own safety. As he walked by the riverside, he encountered the two boatmen from earlier, who were on their way to deliver the protection money.

Xiao Qiushui informed them that they no longer needed to pay, as Jinyin Bank had been dealt with. Suddenly, a voice from nearby announced that the Jinyin Bank was indeed destroyed, revealing the speaker to be Fu Tianyi, the Iron Demon of the Power Gang, who was fishing by the riverside boulders. An old man nearby who began denouncing Jinyin Bank's crimes was instantly killed by a fishing hook swung by Fu Tianyi.

Xiao Qiushui was shocked, realizing that despite his attempts to avoid this encounter, the plot had forced his hand. He urged the boatmen to quickly leave. Back at the bank, Tang Rou and her companions couldn't extract the mastermind's whereabouts from the subdued employees. A constable arrived with his subordinates and offered to lead the trio to Fu Tianyi.

Tang Rou, recalling Xiao Qiushui's earlier, cryptic warning to "beware of someone holding an umbrella," noticed that despite the rain having stopped, only the constable still carried an umbrella. Becoming wary, the trio cautiously followed. Fu Tianyi attacked Xiao Qiushui, attempting to strangle him with a fishing line.

During the struggle, Xiao Qiushui's dormant martial arts foundation was activated, allowing him to employ several moves from the Huanhua Swordplay, including Soaring, Petals Plucking, and Starry Fall, narrowly escaping Fu Tianyi's grasp. His companions arrived, mistakenly believing Xiao Qiushui was intentionally facing the most formidable enemy alone and cheering him on, much to his exasperation. Xiao Qiushui realized that his subconscious retained memories of the body's previous martial arts training.

Fu Tianyi, recognizing the Huanhua Swordplay, attempted to recruit Xiao Qiushui, but he refused. The constable then tried to ambush Tang Rou, but thanks to Xiao Qiushui's earlier warning, she dodged the attack and used a pair of underpants given by Xiao Qiushui for defense. She declared that no one could ambush a Tang Sect member and that the four of them would remain united. Fu Tianyi, frustrated, engaged all four in a fierce battle.

Fu Tianyi's iron palm technique proved impenetrable in direct combat. Xiao Qiushui devised a strategy, instructing Tang Rou and Deng Yuhan to restrain Fu Tianyi's arms while Zuoqiu Chaoran attacked his lower body. Xiao Qiushui then used the Flowers Rain sword technique, employing the sword as a hidden weapon and the scabbard as a killing blow, striking Fu Tianyi's heart and killing him instantly.

While his companions celebrated the elimination of a villain, Xiao Qiushui remembered that in the original story, the Power Gang's Eight Great Lords besieged the Xiao family upon discovering Fu Tianyi's death. To prevent this, he quickly instructed Deng Yuhan and Zuoqiu Chaoran to get money to silence the boatman, and Tang Rou to procure a small boat and some lamp oil. Tang Rou questioned the need for secrecy.

Following his instructions, they placed Fu Tianyi's body on the boat, set it ablaze, and the four of them hastily left Zigui before nightfall. After traveling a considerable distance, the four finally found a place to eat. Tang Rou questioned why they had to act like thieves when they had simply rid the world of evil. Xiao Qiushui explained that this was not out of fear, but to "stay humble and grounded."

He reasoned that they, four individuals, had barely managed to defeat one demon. If the remaining members of the Power Gang pursued them, they would surely be doomed. Therefore, he argued, they must secretly build their strength, and only when they possessed sufficient power should they openly challenge the Power Gang and eliminate all the remaining Eight Great Lords and Nineteen Demons.

Deng Yuhan was deeply moved by this strategic vision and suggested that now was the perfect time to form the Shenzhou Alliance, reminding Xiao Qiushui of his earlier promise. Xiao Qiushui was surprised, having thought they were simply the "Jinjiang Four Brothers," but his companions clarified that he had previously expressed a desire to unite righteous individuals from across the land, hence the ambitious name.

They then performed a blood oath, cutting their palms and dripping blood into wine, vowing to live and die together. Xiao Qiushui, though finding the ritual a bit dramatic, joined them. He expressed his confusion at their profound respect for him, prompting Tang Rou to recall how Xiao Qiushui, a stranger, had risked his life to save her when she was ambushed. Deng Yuhan and Zuoqiu Chaoran shared similar stories of Xiao Qiushui's past acts of selfless heroism.

Moved by their unwavering loyalty and his own past "chivalrous spirit," Xiao Qiushui resolved to protect his three companions. That night, the Demon Codex appeared, informing Xiao Qiushui that he had "spoiled a crucial plot to Tang Rou, altering the story's course." As a result, the Boiling Blood Cocoon was activated, inflicting excruciating pain, and a countdown began.

After the punishment subsided, the Demon Codex warned that the next activation would "deplete the user's Hit Points" and confirmed that the "story difficulty had increased from this moment." Xiao Qiushui was both frustrated and perplexed. He had taken care to destroy Fu Tianyi's body to prevent the Power Gang's retaliation, yet he still dreamt of the Xiao family being massacred. He realized he could not risk any more plot spoilers.

Remembering the Demon Codex's promise that becoming the Huanhua Sect leader would allow him to control the story's direction, he decided to pursue this goal. He planned to seek help from Xiao Xueyu, whom he had written into the story as an adopted daughter, and to search for various "cheat modes" he had embedded in his original novel, such as an indestructible sword, a martial arts-knowing white wolf, a Gatling gun, and the powerful NPC Feng Lang.

The next morning, Xiao Qiushui eagerly woke his three companions to search for these "auxiliary elements." However, their efforts yielded disappointing results: the "indestructible sword" turned out to be a broken pair of scissors, the "Gatling gun" a mere chamber pot, and the "martial arts-knowing white wolf" was a yellow wolf that showed no such abilities. Xiao Qiushui realized that the system's "difficulty increase" meant it was systematically removing all his pre-set cheats. His companions, still unaware of his true intentions, grew confused by his unusual search. Finally, Xiao Qiushui revealed his true ambition: to become the leader of the Huanhua Sect.

Episode 3 Recap

After his previous encounter with the Power Gang, Xiao Qiushui revealed to his companions, Deng Yuhan, Tang Rou, and Zuoqiu Chaoran, that his true ambition was to become the leader of the Huanhua Sect. Tang Rou reminded him that his father, Master Xiao Xilou, had already chosen his elder brother, Xiao Yiren, as the successor, and Xiao Yiren commanded immense respect in Jinzhong.

With the Succession Ceremony just days away, Xiao Qiushui sought their help to make his father change his mind. Acknowledging his lack of reputation compared to Xiao Yiren, Xiao Qiushui proposed a plan to "create hype" for himself. He suggested inventing impressive nicknames and spreading them, making people know his name before seeing his face, then challenging influential figures in the martial world.

Deng Yuhan diligently compiled a list of over a dozen formidable names, many of whom Xiao Qiushui had never heard of, making the task seem daunting. Another method discussed was acquiring the legendary Hero Token. Deng Yuhan explained it was a supreme treasure, forged from meteorites by the leaders of the Emei, Wudang, and Shaolin sects, rumored to contain the Book of Oblivion, a martial arts masterpiece. Obtaining it would instantly grant Xiao Qiushui widespread fame.

However, Tang Rou revealed that the Hero Token was in the possession of Madam Wu, the mother of General Wu Zhe at Xianren Pass, and her whereabouts were a mystery. Xiao Qiushui despaired, realizing he was in a "dead end"—he couldn't become sect leader without the manual, and he couldn't get the manual without being sect leader. Seeing his frustration, Zuoqiu Chaoran suggested they go out and relax.

They found themselves at the lively Qunfang Hall and settled into a private room. When Xiao Qiushui went to buy wine, he saw a group from the Power Gang storming into the hall. Fearing they had discovered his involvement in Fu Tianyi's death, he quickly ducked into a nearby room. Inside, a man was meditating, attempting to expel a potent poison from his body.

Xiao Qiushui was stopped by a network of silver threads woven across the room and was then thrown out, inadvertently drawing the Power Gang's attention to the room's occupant. The Power Gang members quickly entered the room to apprehend the man, but they too were temporarily ensnared by the silver threads. As the threads eventually lost their effect and the Power Gang advanced, Xiao Qiushui realized they weren't after him.

The injured man inside seemed overwhelmed, so Xiao Qiushui intervened to uphold justice. He identified the man by a jade pendant on his belt as Feng Lang, the Rain Sword, a character he had created in his novel as a "Lucky Bag" NPC. Feng Lang tossed him his Rain Sword, and Xiao Qiushui, with his newly awakened muscle memory, swiftly defeated the Power Gang.

His companions soon arrived and, assuming he was deliberately building his reputation, loudly praised his name to all the patrons of Qunfang Hall. Xiao Qiushui took Feng Lang to Qingzhu Inn. After confirming Feng Lang's identity through his jade pendant and the Rain Sword, Xiao Qiushui tried to bond with him. In his novel, Feng Lang was loyal and resourceful, but the real Feng Lang did not recognize Xiao Qiushui and seemed confused by his savior's enthusiasm.

Xiao Qiushui speculated that Feng Lang’s "Lucky Bag" abilities might not yet be activated. He left Feng Lang to rest and went to find a physician. The physician diagnosed Feng Lang with Tianjue Shimao poison, a rare toxin that required another "poison without toxicity" as an antidote, typically controlled by the Power Gang.

Xiao Qiushui considered taking Feng Lang to Xiao Xueyu for treatment, but Tang Rou cautioned that with only three days before the poison fully manifested, they wouldn't have enough time. Deng Yuhan then recalled a special wine at Brewer Manor called Drunken Styx, which was renowned for its ability to cause instant intoxication and could be considered a "poison without toxicity."

Xiao Qiushui immediately decided they would travel there, rationalizing to his questioning companions that he needed loyal followers in these turbulent times. On their journey, Feng Lang asked why Xiao Qiushui was so generous towards a stranger. Struggling to explain his "Lucky Bag player" concept, Xiao Qiushui simply stated his desire to make friends and mutual support in the difficult martial world. Feng Lang, in turn, promised his unwavering friendship if Xiao Qiushui could save him.

Upon arriving at Brewer Manor, Xiao Qiushui sent Tang Rou to find an inn for Feng Lang. He, Deng Yuhan, and Zuoqiu Chaoran proceeded to the manor entrance, where the steward was announcing the conditions for acquiring Drunken Styx: only rare treasures would be accepted, not gold or property. Just as Xiao Qiushui was about to offer something, a masked woman appeared, claiming to possess a treasure.

She presented a gourd containing Sheye Bloody Wine, a legendary, long-lost wine from a fallen kingdom, which the steward recognized as truly rare. As the steward prepared to accept the Bloody Wine, Xiao Qiushui interjected, proclaiming he had an even more extraordinary "wine unprecedented in history," though it would take another half a day to brew. Despite the masked woman's scoffing, Xiao Qiushui convinced the steward that his master would regret missing such a unique wine.

The steward, wary of missing out, agreed to have the master personally judge both wines in half a day. Xiao Qiushui quickly dispatched Deng Yuhan and Zuoqiu Chaoran to gather various ingredients like bamboo tubes, mint leaves, sugar, and salt, while he himself procured some common liquor. Half a day later, they presented their wines to the Manor Master. The masked woman offered her Sheye Bloody Wine first, which the master praised for its rich flavor and lingering aftertaste.

Then it was Xiao Qiushui's turn. He dramatically mixed his ingredients on the spot and presented his creation. After tasting it, the master was overwhelmed with praise, declaring it the most delicious wine he had ever encountered. Xiao Qiushui named his concoction "No More Sorrows," explaining that "worldly sorrows drown in a single sip." The masked woman dismissed his method as a "lowly trick," but the master was deeply impressed, feeling his own understanding of brewing had been profoundly expanded.

When the master's grandchildren clamored to try, Xiao Qiushui thoughtfully prepared a non-alcoholic "Soy Milk Qilin" for them, much to their delight. The Manor Master, recognizing Xiao Qiushui's ingenuity, declared him the winner and awarded him the Drunken Styx, returning the Sheye Bloody Wine and a thousand taels of silver to the masked woman. As Xiao Qiushui and his companions left, the masked woman, enraged by her loss, ambushed him from behind to seize the Drunken Styx.

Just then, Tang Rou rushed forward, revealing the masked assailant was her elder sister, Tang Fang. Tang Fang rebuked Tang Rou for her choice of friends and insisted on taking the Drunken Styx, citing an "Iron Command" from her sect that required her to use it as a gift to open the Clueless Gate, a mission she considered more important than any individual life. Xiao Qiushui, holding the bottle precariously, threatened to smash it if she persisted.

Episode 4 Recap

Upon the introduction of Tang Fang, Tang Rou mediated the tense situation concerning the Drunken Styx and the Silver Butterfly Dart in Xiao Qiushui's body. Tang Rou suggested that she would use part of the Drunken Styx to save Mr. Feng, and the remainder could be given to Tang Fang as a gift, noting that a full jar might not be necessary. Xiao Qiushui readily agreed to this arrangement, but Tang Fang warned them against any tricks.

Tang Rou then instructed Chaoran and Yuhan to take Mr. Feng upstairs for detoxification, while asking Tang Fang to remove the dart from Xiao Qiushui. Before removing the dart, Tang Fang initiated a conversation with Xiao Qiushui. She sternly warned him to stay away from her younger brother, Tang Rou, in the future, stating that Tang Rou was naive, easily influenced, and seemed to have been thoroughly misled by Xiao Qiushui's constant calls of "Boss."

Xiao Qiushui agreed to distance himself, but clarified that whether Tang Rou chose to follow him was Tang Rou's own decision, not his. Tang Fang dismissed this, simply demanding he keep his promise. Tang Fang then began displaying her array of tools, including a three-inch long instrument, unnerving Xiao Qiushui. She mockingly implied such tools were for those who didn't die instantly from a single dart. Despite his fear, Xiao Qiushui urged her to proceed.

Using her internal energy, Tang Fang successfully expelled one Silver Butterfly Dart from Xiao Qiushui. However, Xiao Qiushui immediately sensed another dart still lodged within him. Tang Fang confirmed his suspicion, declaring she would only remove the second dart a month later, and only if Xiao Qiushui had no further association with Tang Rou. Xiao Qiushui, frustrated, cursed her under his breath, attributing the unfairness to fate's unpredictability.

Shortly after, Chaoran, Yuhan, and Tang Rou descended, announcing that Mr. Feng had been detoxified, but the entire jar of Drunken Styx had been used. Tang Fang fixed Xiao Qiushui with an angry glare, accusing him of betraying their agreement. Xiao Qiushui retorted that she was the one who broke their trust first, again blaming fate. In response, Tang Fang activated the remaining Silver Butterfly Dart inside Xiao Qiushui, causing him excruciating pain.

She explained that her darts were interconnected, allowing her to exert control. She then demanded that Xiao Qiushui replicate the Drunken Styx for her to present to the Clueless Gate that night, threatening him with continued pain if the imitation was not convincing. Xiao Qiushui's friends pleaded with Tang Rou to remove the dart, but Tang Rou explained that each Tang Sect member's hidden weapon style was unique, and her reckless intervention could cripple Xiao Qiushui's arm.

Resigned, Xiao Qiushui prepared to brew the wine. Meanwhile, Liu Suifeng, disguised as Mr. Feng, met secretly with Song Mingzhu of the Power Gang. Song Mingzhu immediately knelt, apologizing profusely for failing to reinforce him in time and for his poisoning, offering to accept any punishment. Liu Suifeng, deeming her loyalty sufficient, chose not to kill her. He questioned her about Purple Phoenix, given their close association, and if she had noticed any suspicious activities.

Song Mingzhu swore her unwavering loyalty to him. The scene then flashed back to a few days prior, showing Purple Phoenix leading Power Gang members in an assault on the Everjoy Escort Agency. They demanded that Zheng Kaiyang, the agency head, surrender the Hero Token and reveal Madam Wu's whereabouts. Despite a valiant fight, Zheng Kaiyang and his guards were overwhelmed. Liu Suifeng then arrived, chastising Purple Phoenix for her incompetence.

He ordered Zheng Kaiyang's family to be brought forward and threatened to execute his eldest son if Madam Wu's location was not revealed within the time it took for an incense stick to burn. Under duress, Zheng Kaiyang confessed that they had encountered Madam Wu during an escort mission and had intended to seize the Hero Token, but Zhang Linyi, the Yin-Yang Swordsman accompanying her, had grown suspicious.

They lost track of Madam Wu upon entering Jinzhong but heard she had boarded a Huanhua Sect carriage. It was also reported that Marching Pills were found during the raid, rumored to be intended for the North Wasteland. Liu Suifeng then confronted Purple Phoenix directly, demanding to know who had bribed her to poison him. Purple Phoenix, taken aback, asked how he knew. Liu Suifeng explained that her meticulous preparation, including his favorite Qishan Cuimei Tea, had given her away.

He revealed his immunity to most poisons but noted his habit of inspecting Marching Pills, which led him to discover the deadly Tian Jue Shi Mao poison coating the pill she offered. Purple Phoenix defiantly claimed she wasn't the only one in the Power Gang who desired his death. Amidst this confrontation, pursuers suddenly attacked. Liu Suifeng seized the opportunity to escape, stumbling into a room in the Qunfang House, killing the real Mr. Feng, and adopting his identity.

Liu Suifeng, now disguised as Mr. Feng, reflected on the surprising trust Xiao Qiushui placed in him, especially with the nickname "Lucky Bag." He inquired with Song Mingzhu if "Lucky Bag" was a recognized title in the martial world, to which she replied she had never heard of it, speculating it might be an official position.

Liu Suifeng mused over the deeper meaning of Xiao Qiushui's persistent use of the term but ultimately saw his new identity as a fortuitous step. This disguise would allow him to enter the Xiao family and access the Xiao Family Sword Tomb ahead of Sword King, whom he suspected of orchestrating Purple Phoenix's assassination attempt to claim the Hero Token.

He noted to Song Mingzhu that Xiao Qiushui bore a slight resemblance to their gang's leader, but reminded her that only the eight kings in their gang knew his and the leader's true identity, so there was no risk of exposure. Liu Suifeng instructed Song Mingzhu to keep his whereabouts secret from Sword King and await his instructions near Huanhua.

Later, Mr. Feng, still disguised as Liu Suifeng, expressed his profound gratitude to Xiao Qiushui and his friends for saving him, noting his swift recovery. He apologized for any prior rudeness and vowed to repay their kindness. Xiao Qiushui, downplaying the rescue, emphasized their newfound friendship. Mr. Feng reciprocated this sentiment. He then mentioned that the Ironclad Constable had entrusted his master with a letter to be delivered to him in Huanhua, suggesting he could travel with Xiao Qiushui.

Concerned about Mr. Feng's lingering toxins, Xiao Qiushui graciously invited him back to Huanhua, promising to have someone help cleanse any remaining poison. Mr. Feng readily accepted the offer. Back at the inn, Tang Fang arrived, demanding the Drunken Styx. Xiao Qiushui presented the makeshift concoction he had brewed. Tang Fang, however, immediately detected it was fake by its scent and angrily shattered the jar, accusing him of deception.

Xiao Qiushui, losing his patience, retorted that he had tolerated her for Tang Rou's sake and that, but for their interference, he would have already "knocked on the Clueless Gate." Tang Fang, unyielding, ordered him to continue brewing until he got it right, threatening him with sleepless nights. Observing Tang Fang's red rope bracelet, Mr. Feng recognized her as a childhood acquaintance who used to bring him food when he was imprisoned.

He offered his jade pendant, explaining that it held enough sway to make Yu Zhiliao of the Clueless Gate speak once. Tang Fang was skeptical, initially accusing Mr. Feng of being another fraud. However, she accepted the pendant, reasoning that if it was a trick, she could easily find him at the nearby Huanhua Sect with Xiao Qiushui. Tang Rou, witnessing Xiao Qiushui's ongoing pain, pleaded with her sister to remove the remaining dart.

Tang Fang, though still critical of Xiao Qiushui's "disreputable" character, reluctantly removed the second Silver Butterfly Dart. She then advised Tang Rou to avoid such companions and promised to take him home once her business was concluded. After Tang Fang's departure, Xiao Qiushui confided in Mr. Feng about his ambition to become the Young Leader of Huanhua, a position currently favored for his elder brother.

Mr. Feng explained that in Jinzhong, a young hero could challenge the designated successor if they secured an endorsement from a respected martial artist. Xiao Qiushui, inspired, expressed his eagerness to seek such recommendations. Tang Fang then proceeded to the Clueless Gate and presented the jade pendant to Yu Zhiliao. Recognizing the craftsmanship as Liu Suifeng's, Yu Zhiliao agreed to answer one question.

Tang Fang inquired about the whereabouts of the Book of Oblivion, to which Yu Zhiliao revealed it was with the Xiao family of Huanhua. This confirmation solidified Tang Fang's belief that the rumors of Madam Wu hiding with the Xiao family were true. Meanwhile, at the Huanhua Sect, Xiao Xilou and Sun Huishan were hosting Madam Wu. They discussed her impending departure, as Xiao Xilou had received a secret letter from General Wu Jie.

They planned to discreetly escort Madam Wu to the Tongfu Inn in Lingliang Town in seven days to rendezvous with the General's men. Madam Wu expressed deep gratitude for their protection but voiced concern about potentially bringing disaster to the Xiao family, acknowledging that secrets rarely remain hidden in the martial world. Xiao Xilou reassured her that he would manage all arrangements, urging her not to worry.

Xiao Qiushui returned home with his companions, only to be immediately confronted and reprimanded by Xiao Xilou for disobeying his grounding and being idle. Xiao Xilou threatened him with corporal punishment. Sun Huishan quickly intervened, shielding Xiao Qiushui and reminding her husband of his own youthful escapades, including a memorable fall into the river during the Dragon Boat Festival. However, Xiao Xilou remained furious about Xiao Qiushui having lost his sword.

Sun Huishan then diverted Xiao Qiushui, telling him to assist his sister, Xiao Xueyu, implicitly urging him to help prepare for his friends' arrival. As Xiao Qiushui and his friends were about to leave, several martial arts seniors arrived. Seizing the opportunity, Xiao Qiushui boldly declared his ambition to compete for the Young Leader position and requested their recommendations. The seniors expressed their surprise, noting that his brother was the established successor and suggesting Xiao Qiushui wait five years.

Xiao Qiushui, however, insisted on his serious intent and immediate need for an endorsement. Xiao Xilou was mortified by his son's "unruly" behavior in front of esteemed guests. Sun Huishan quickly escorted Xiao Qiushui away, gently chiding him for his rashness but also expressing a quiet pride in his ambition. She checked his shoulder wound, reminding him to admit pain, to flee when outmatched, and to always prioritize his own life over any display of bravery.

Xiao Qiushui, touched, remembered his mother's childhood noodles and vowed to change the Xiao family's fate. Sun Huishan then informed him that she had ordered chicken soup and planned a celebratory dinner with his friends. Later that evening, the martial arts seniors, including Xiao Xilou, examined a Marching Pill. They confirmed it was identical to the pills used by the North Wasteland to harm the Daxi Era a decade ago, which caused users to become violent and frenzied.

They suspected that remnants of the previously eradicated Herbal Valley sect had recreated the pill, likely to conspire with the North Wasteland for an invasion. Meng Xiangfeng suggested sending people to investigate Guangling, where the Xiao family maintained an estate. Xiao Xilou agreed to make arrangements for the investigation the following day. At dinner, Sun Huishan hosted Xiao Xilou's friends and Xiao Qiushui's companions. She praised Xiao Qiushui's friends for encouraging his spirited nature.

She also complimented Mr. Feng, referencing his famed "Rain Sword" lightness skill and a race against a fine horse. Mr. Feng subtly corrected her, clarifying that in the watery southern regions, he had raced against a small boat, not a horse. Sun Huishan, probing for information, inquired about the rare Tian Jue Shi Mao poison he had suffered and the Power Gang's motive for inflicting it.

Mr. Feng reiterated his fabricated story: he had inadvertently witnessed something he shouldn't have during the Everjoy Escort Agency massacre. He claimed he had been there to arrange for a delivery, stumbled upon the Power Gang's atrocity, and was poisoned while narrowly escaping. He then cleverly turned the conversation, asking if anyone present had heard any rumors about the "important person" the Power Gang was searching for during the massacre, specifically asking Sun Huishan, given her extensive connections in Jinzhong. Sun Huishan, however, stated she had not heard anything. The group then collectively agreed to set aside such somber topics and enjoy the feast.

Episode 5 Recap

After dinner, Xiao Qiushui went for a walk in the Qianzhu Yard and noticed unusually strict security around Xiao Xilou’s residence. He internally deduced that Madam Wu, who was sought after in the martial world for carrying the Hero Token, was likely hidden within the Xiao family mansion, making it a potential target for powerful experts. He concluded that additional safeguards were necessary.

Meanwhile, Liu Suifeng received an update from his informant within the Xiao family, confirming increased security around Qianzhu Yard, suggesting that if someone important was indeed hidden, they would be there. Liu Suifeng, wearing a mask, later attempted to scale the wall but was thwarted when the entire courtyard suddenly lit up, a new security measure implemented by Xiao Qiushui.

Xiao Xilou and Sun Huishan were initially surprised by the sudden illumination, but a guard explained it was Xiao Qiushui’s "perpetual lights" to prevent sneak attacks, which had even scared away a wildcat. Xiao Qiushui then tried to leverage this success to discuss his ambition for the young sect leader position, but Xiao Xilou curtly dismissed him to bed. Still, Xiao Qiushui resolved to become sect leader quickly to deal with the potential threats Madam Wu's presence might bring.

Later that night, Xiao Qiushui found Liu Suifeng about to go for a walk and insisted he return to discuss an important matter. Xiao Qiushui expressed his frustration about not securing endorsements from prominent figures, which prevented him from challenging Xiao Yiren for the sect leader position. He pressed Liu Suifeng for a solution. Liu Suifeng questioned Xiao Qiushui's desperation, to which Xiao Qiushui vaguely replied that many things couldn't be done without holding the position.

Liu Suifeng advised against acting too urgently. Growing impatient, Xiao Qiushui urged Liu Suifeng to reveal any "secret weapons" or martial arts, which Liu Suifeng denied possessing or being able to teach. Xiao Qiushui then asked if Liu Suifeng, once recovered, could help him destroy the Power Gang. Liu Suifeng stated he lacked such power.

Feeling that their friendship wasn't deep enough, Xiao Qiushui then declared that their friendship had "issues" and they needed to spend time together day and night to resolve them, forcing Liu Suifeng to sleep on the floor. Liu Suifeng, annoyed, secretly observed that despite Xiao Qiushui's apparent simplicity, his unexpected actions made gaining his trust much harder than anticipated. The next morning, Xiao Qiushui pestered Liu Suifeng for a plan.

Liu Suifeng, still somewhat exasperated, suggested a strategy: Kang Jiesheng, the profligate son of Master Kang Chuyu, had gambled away disaster relief funds three years prior. However, Kang Chuyu, out of deep affection for his son, covered up the scandal by using his own money to placate public outrage. Liu Suifeng proposed that if Xiao Qiushui could befriend Kang Jiesheng, he could then secure a recommendation letter from Kang Chuyu. Xiao Qiushui agreed that this was a good idea.

Shortly after, Kang Jiesheng arrived with gifts to propose to Xiao Xueyu, but she firmly rejected him. He then demeaned her, calling her an adopted daughter of the Xiao family and accusing her of acting superior, claiming his interest was her good fortune. Xiao Qiushui intervened, ridiculing Kang Jiesheng's appearance and reminding him that his father's previous lessons hadn't been enough. Kang Jiesheng became aggressive, but Xiao Yiren arrived, defusing the confrontation.

Xiao Yiren apologized for Xiao Qiushui's rudeness but firmly stated that Xiao Xueyu's marriage was her own decision and criticized Kang Jiesheng's inappropriate behavior, mentioning that his gambling habits would tarnish the Xiao family's reputation. Xiao Xueyu expressed her desire to remain with her parents and pursue a heroic path instead of marriage. Xiao Yiren then instructed a reluctant Xiao Qiushui to make amends with Kang Jiesheng over tea.

Privately, Liu Suifeng advised Xiao Qiushui that a simple tea apology wouldn't suffice after such a public offense. Xiao Qiushui, deciding to "offend him completely," proposed a gamble. He asked Liu Suifeng to lend him the rare Hanhao Stone, explaining that Kang Jiesheng's father, Kang Chuyu, had used this material to forge his sword, enabling his "Sun Sword Technique." After some reluctance, Liu Suifeng provided the stone.

Xiao Qiushui then revealed his plan to use mercury-loaded dice to ensure Kang Jiesheng's defeat. During the game, Kang Jiesheng initially balked at wagering his gold against the Hanhao Stone, but Xiao Qiushui upped the ante by demanding Kang Jiesheng’s "Young Sect Leader's Token" (a thumb ring). Kang Jiesheng, despite initial hesitation, agreed. In the final round, Kang Jiesheng rolled a twelve. Xiao Qiushui also revealed a twelve, then accused Kang Jiesheng of cheating, claiming his dice contained mercury.

When they checked Xiao Qiushui’s dice and found nothing, they "discovered" that it was Kang Jiesheng's dice, which they had secretly switched, that contained mercury. Kang Jiesheng, caught in his own trap, lost. Xiao Qiushui collected the gold bars and the token. Enraged, Kang Jiesheng accused Xiao Qiushui and Xiao Xueyu of being "secretly involved."

Xiao Qiushui, in response, smashed Kang Jiesheng's token, delivering a scathing speech about privileged individuals who, due to their innate luck, believe they can disparage others, vowing that such behavior would not be tolerated by him. As Kang Jiesheng prepared to retaliate, Xiao Xilou and Kang Chuyu intervened. Kang Chuyu made Kang Jiesheng accept his loss. Xiao Xilou made Xiao Qiushui apologize but also praised his clever words, noting that the punishment would be "recorded for now."

Kang Chuyu, eager to save face, praised Xiao Qiushui for guiding his son and reluctantly agreed to provide the recommendation letter. Xiao Qiushui later explained to Liu Suifeng that Kang Chuyu had been forced to comply to maintain his public image after his son's humiliation, a testament to understanding "human nature and worldly affairs." Xiao Qiushui expressed his belief that this successful collaboration would strengthen their friendship and accelerate the recovery of his "settings."

Xiao Xilou then convened a family meeting to make two important announcements. First, he revealed that Marching Pills, thought to be from the long-destroyed Herbal Valley, had reappeared in Guangling. He dispatched Xiao Yiren, along with Kaiyan, the Tiger Guards, and Shinian, to investigate. Xiao Xueyu volunteered to join them, citing her aspirations to be a hero and her skills in both martial arts and medicine.

Sun Huishan supported her, stating that more experience would be beneficial, and Xiao Xilou granted his permission. Second, Xiao Xilou, nearing his fifties, declared his intention to pass the sect leader position to Xiao Yiren, who had been diligently assisting him and was now independently managing affairs at Guangling Villa. He decided to expedite the succession ceremony before Xiao Yiren's departure for Guangling.

However, Xiao Qiushui dramatically interrupted, presenting Kang Chuyu’s recommendation letter (after initially holding it upside down) and demanding a fair competition for the sect leader position. Xiao Yiren, while expressing happiness for Xiao Qiushui's ambition, suggested he first gain more experience in the martial world before challenging him. Sun Huishan echoed this advice.

Xiao Qiushui, however, insisted he "couldn't wait any longer" and "didn't have the time," even offering to serve as sect leader for a year or six months before returning the position. Xiao Yiren chastised him for treating such an important position as a joke. But Xiao Qiushui maintained that his urgency was tied to "the lives of everyone in the Huanhua Sect."

Witnessing Xiao Qiushui's firm resolve, Xiao Xilou agreed to arrange a duel between the two brothers before Xiao Yiren departed. Xiao Yiren and Kaiyan expressed concern about Xiao Qiushui's chances, but Xiao Qiushui reiterated his "compelling reasons" and his lack of fear of embarrassment. Xiao Xueyu assured them that Xiao Yiren would not harm Xiao Qiushui. Sun Huishan then took Xiao Qiushui aside for a private training session.

Liu Suifeng's informant later reported that all servants recruited within the last three years had been dismissed by Xiao Qiushui's order that morning. The informant also revealed that after Liu Suifeng's earlier reconnaissance at Qianzhu Yard, the Xiao family had sent a sedan to the Sword Retreat, though the occupant was unknown.

Liu Suifeng internally concluded that Madam Wu had been moved to the Sword Retreat, making his plan to use the duel to gain access to the Qianzhu Yard now useless. Meanwhile, Sun Huishan began teaching Xiao Qiushui her "Triple Shameless Moves," a set of self-defense techniques designed for safe retreat rather than victory, which she had used before marrying Xiao Xilou.

She emphasized that while Xiao Yiren was reasonable, he was very concerned with his reputation, and cautioned Xiao Qiushui against being reckless, advising him to surrender if he couldn't win, as his life was paramount. The duel between the two brothers formally began. Xiao Qiushui suggested three smaller contests—internal energy, lightness skill, and precision—instead of direct armed combat, as they were family. Xiao Yiren agreed.

For the first round, testing internal energy, they were to attract iron bars placed on a table. Xiao Yiren successfully attracted one. When it was Xiao Qiushui's turn, he effortlessly attracted all the remaining bars.

Episode 6 Recap

Xiao Qiushui won the first round of the competition, but Xiao Yiren quickly accused him of using tricks and sophistry rather than genuine skill. Xiao Qiushui defended his win as being within the rules and demonstrating intelligence, which he argued was beneficial for an heir. Other spectators agreed that Xiao Qiushui had indeed won.

For the second round, a test of lightness skills to grab a flower, Xiao Qiushui employed his mother Sun Huishan's "Triple Shameless Moves," ingeniously reversing sword techniques to dodge Xiao Yiren's first two attacks. However, as the final strike came, with his parents and others behind him, Xiao Qiushui chose not to dodge, taking the blow. Xiao Yiren, though acknowledging he acted rashly, explained he did so to teach Xiao Qiushui a lesson about relying too much on unorthodox methods.

Xiao Xilou, recognizing Sun Huishan's signature moves, questioned Xiao Qiushui's decision not to evade the final attack. Xiao Qiushui explained his refusal to dodge was due to his parents' presence behind him. Following the competition, Xiao Xilou handed the sect leader token to Xiao Yiren for temporary management. However, the decision for the permanent heir was postponed for six months, acknowledging Xiao Qiushui's filial piety in his actions.

Xiao Qiushui tried to protest the delay, but Sun Huishan reminded him that patience was a virtue for a sect leader. Xiao Xilou declared that the Huanhua Sect would bear any consequences and advised Xiao Qiushui to focus on his training. Meanwhile, Liu Suifeng observed Xiao Qiushui's performance. He noted Xiao Qiushui's surprising talent, believing that with time, he would surpass both Xiao Xilou and Xiao Yiren, but Liu Suifeng vowed not to grant the Xiao family that opportunity.

Xiao Xueyu gave Xiao Qiushui medicinal ointments before her departure to Guangling Villa with Xiao Yiren and Xiao Kaiyan, remarking on his newfound ambition for leadership and urging him to maintain his training. She also revealed that Xiao Yiren secretly cared for him. Xiao Qiushui, in turn, advised Xiao Xueyu to disregard Kang Jiesheng's previous comments and to choose her own happiness in a partner.

Xiao Yiren and Xiao Kaiyan then came to bid farewell, expressing concern for Xiao Qiushui's well-being and reminding him to diligently care for their parents and avoid trouble. Xiao Yiren promised a proper rematch in six months. Separately, Song Mingzhu reported to Liu Suifeng that Power Gang forces had been mobilized to Jin City under the pretext of avenging Fu Tianyi's death.

Liu Suifeng, aware that Madam Wu was in Sword Retreat, instructed Song Mingzhu to drive the Xiao family to desperation, confident he could infiltrate Sword Retreat to find Madam Wu and ordering the complete annihilation of the Xiao family. Elsewhere, Tang Fang arrived in Jin City seeking the Hero Token.

As she looked for the Huanhua Sect, she witnessed Power Gang members publicly display a blood coffin containing Fu Tianyi's charred remains and Xiao Qiushui's personal sword, confirming that the Xiao family was their target. Shortly after, Xiao Qiushui received a message warning him of Power Gang's impending attack and urging him to evacuate Madam Wu. Xiao Qiushui, realizing the gravity of the situation, nervously tried to persuade his parents to leave the residence for a trip.

Xiao Xilou initially dismissed it as another one of Xiao Qiushui's schemes. Just then, Tang Fang burst in, demanding to take Tang Rou away immediately, mentioning the Power Gang's blood coffin in Jin City. A servant confirmed the coffin's presence and that it contained Xiao Qiushui's sword. Xiao Qiushui was puzzled, as he had personally ensured Fu Tianyi's body and sword were destroyed. Sun Huishan grew increasingly anxious, while Meng Xiangfeng recounted the Power Gang's history of ruthless brutality.

Xiao Qiushui confessed to killing Fu Tianyi, presenting evidence that Fu Tianyi had been colluding with Northern Wastelanders. Xiao Xilou, accepting the evidence, declared Xiao Qiushui's act a righteous one that brought honor to the Xiao family. He announced that the Xiao family would face the Power Gang's wrath alone and urged all guests to depart. However, all the guests, including Tang Rou and her companions, and Liu Suifeng, refused to abandon the Xiao family, pledging to stand with them.

As their unity solidified, a servant collapsed and died from poison, delivering a final, incomplete warning. Xiao Xilou led everyone to the entrance, where the Power Gang unleashed a thick, toxic fog. Kong Yangqin, the Ultimate Sword Demon, appeared, not demanding vengeance for Fu Tianyi, but instead demanding the Hero Token. Xiao Xilou denied possessing it. Kong Yangqin responded by attacking with his chaotic music, initiating a fierce battle.

Kang Chuyu stepped forward to engage Kong Yangqin, while Xiao Qiushui, recalling the original story, realized that Hua Gufen, the Poison Demon, was also present. He quickly located and severely injured Hua Gufen, understanding that defeating the poison master would increase their chances. After a prolonged struggle, Xiao Xilou used his most powerful moves to repel a wave of attackers. Recognizing that the Xiao family could no longer hold their ground, he ordered a strategic retreat into Sword Retreat.

Inside Sword Retreat, Meng Xiangfeng expressed concern about its ability to withstand the continuous assault. Xiao Xilou reassured him, explaining that Sword Retreat was built as an impregnable fortress capable of holding out for months, even against North Wastelanders, with ample provisions. Xiao Qiushui then pressed his parents about Madam Wu's whereabouts, pointing out the Power Gang's specific demand for the Hero Token and the guards around the residential quarters.

Xiao Xilou and Sun Huishan finally revealed that they had moved Madam Wu to Zhenmei Pavilion within Sword Retreat after Xiao Qiushui's previous "spotlight" incident made them uneasy. Xiao Qiushui, still wary, questioned the existence of any secret passages and worried about the Power Gang's "backup schemes" and potential internal spies within Sword Retreat. Xiao Xilou admitted there were no secret escape routes, as the fortress was designed for defense, but reassured him of their safety.

Sun Huishan promised that they would investigate for any internal threats once everyone had rested. To boost morale, Xiao Xilou decided to host a banquet for all the defenders. During the feast, the elders praised Xiao Qiushui's courage and wisdom during the battle, though Sun Huishan playfully warned him not to get arrogant.

Xiao Qiushui, deeply moved by everyone's unwavering spirit and loyalty, raised a toast, acknowledging that their bravery far surpassed any tales of chivalry he had read, and for the first time, he truly understood the meaning of heroism. Unbeknownst to them, Tang Fang secretly reflected that she remained in Sword Retreat not for chivalry but to search for the "Book of Oblivion."

Later, as Xiao Qiushui and his sworn brothers went to share drinks with the other defenders, Liu Suifeng discreetly used a bell to control the Xiao family's housekeeper, a long-time spy who had been administered a "Better-Dead Pill." Under Liu Suifeng's command, the housekeeper soon rushed in, shouting that the woodshed was on fire. People immediately began to move to put out the blaze, but Xiao Qiushui quickly realized it was a diversion.

Episode 7 Recap

The alarm sounded throughout the Sword Retreat as the woodshed burst into flames. Xiao Qiushui immediately recognized this as a diversion and, taking his men, rushed to Zhenmei Pavilion, where Madam Wu was hidden. There, Tang Fang had already engaged Qiu, who had been stealthily approaching the pavilion. Tang Fang recounted how she had followed Qiu after noticing his suspicious behavior, only for him to attack her on sight.

As Xiao Qiushui and Xiao Xilou arrived, surrounding Qiu, the traitor took his own life. Xiao Xilou, lamenting the betrayal, revealed that Qiu, a long-time family servant, was actually a mole for the Power Gang. Xiao Qiushui then pressed the servants for details of Qiu's day. A servant reported that Qiu had cleaned the Sword Retreat, visited the woodshed, and even helped an old servant named Zhang water flowers.

Realizing the grim implication, Xiao Qiushui exclaimed, "Father, Mother, he watered the flowers to poison!" He instantly ordered that no one was to draw water from the well and commanded an immediate investigation into its contamination. Xiao Xilou confirmed their fears, stating, "We only have one well. The well water is poisoned. All of us are targeted." Sun Huishan, horrified, remembered she had just had soup made with well water sent to Madam Wu.

Rushing back, they found Madam Wu, who calmly assured them, "I've not eaten the soup yet." With the deception exposed, Xiao Xilou introduced Madam Wu to everyone present. Madam Wu expressed her gratitude, explaining that she was on her way to Xianren Pass to find her son when she was intercepted in Jinzhong by martial artists demanding the Hero Token. She attributed her safety and refuge to Xiao Xilou's timely intervention.

Qu Jianchi then respectfully asked, "Madam Wu, you're not from the martial world. Why do they think you have the Hero Token?" Madam Wu recounted the history of the Hero Token. Thirteen years ago, when the North Wasteland armies invaded the Daxi Era, causing immense suffering, the leaders of the Shaolin, Wudang, and Emei sects united. They forged the Hero Token from a celestial spar, swearing to grant it to anyone who could save the Daxi Era.

It was Yan Kuangtu who achieved this, infiltrating the North Wasteland camp, killing many elite soldiers, and nearly assassinating their commander. Though he received the Hero Token, Yan Kuangtu's arrogance made him an outcast, and he vanished after an ambush on Mount Wuxing. Recently, a falcon delivered the token to her. Madam Wu concluded her tale with sorrow, lamenting that the Hero Token had brought bloodshed and now calamity to the Xiao family, causing her great distress.

Xiao Xilou acknowledged the grave situation but reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Madam Wu and delivering the Hero Token to General Wu, a national hero who alone deserved it. He emphasized the urgency, as they had only two days to escort her, and the poisoned well left them with dwindling water supplies. Xiao Qiushui, seeking a solution, asked his father how long their remaining water would last if a portion of their people left.

Xiao Xilou replied that it could sustain them for twenty days. Xiao Qiushui then proposed a daring plan: he would lead a contingent to break out and draw the Power Gang's attention, while a separate group would escort Madam Wu to safety. He suggested using an impersonator as "bait to mislead them." Madam Wu, concerned about others risking their lives for her, expressed her unease, but Xiao Qiushui bravely declared, "I will draw them away."

He reassured his mother, Sun Huishan, that he had grown up, and with his elder siblings away, it was his responsibility to act for their family and the Sword Retreat. Before Xiao Qiushui's departure, Sun Huishan, her eyes filled with worry, admonished him, "Countless enemies await outside. You must protect yourself." Xiao Xilou urged her to trust their son, who had matured and had a well-considered plan.

Xiao Qiushui, apologizing for not spending more time with his parents, promised to protect himself, adding that he still longed for his mother's noodles. His mother then presented him with her "Hundred Treasures Bag," filled with various trap mechanisms, instructing him to use them "in the most treacherous way possible." Xiao Xilou, with a chuckle, admitted he had "been tricked by your mother before."

Xiao Qiushui reiterated his commitment to seek aid from the Jinzhong sects to repel the Power Gang once Madam Wu was safe, promising to gather support and return to rescue the Sword Retreat within twenty days. As the breakout commenced, Xiao Qiushui's elaborate plan unfolded: the group split into four. Mr. Qu, Mr. Meng, and Ironclad Constable led Group Dragon, serving as the main decoy.

To confuse and divide the enemy, an impersonator of Madam Wu, disguised under a black hat and escorted by others in black cloaks, would break out with two other groups. Xiao Qiushui, along with Master Kang, would lure the Power Gang deep into the forest.

He had previously instructed Tang Fang and Liu Suifeng, accompanied by Group Phoenix, to break through the eastern woods, reminding them to wear gas masks as they would pass through a poisonous forest where the Power Gang would hesitate. He also noted that the enemy wouldn't expect Madam Wu to be separated from Hero Zhang, making their path safer. Meanwhile, Tang Rou, Yuhan, and Zuoqiu were to proceed cautiously uphill, taking a reverse direction that the Power Gang wouldn't anticipate.

Xiao Qiushui, acting as the primary decoy, reflected on his strategy, thinking to himself, "In that case, I'll lure you all here." As Xiao Qiushui lured the Power Gang deeper, Kong Yangqin, the Guqin Demon, confronted him, demanding, "Leave Madam Wu, and I'll spare you." Realizing he had been tricked, Kong Yangqin furiously declared, "Tricking me? You're looking for death!" Xiao Qiushui retorted, "I'm going to send you to your death."

After a fierce struggle, Kong Yangqin fell into a trap, dying with Xiao Qiushui stating, "You slaughtered my family's disciples. Play your guqin on the road to the underworld." Shortly after, Hua Gufen, the Poison Demon, launched a surprise attack, taunting Xiao Qiushui that his tricks would cost him his life. Unfazed, Xiao Qiushui declared, "This is just an appetizer." Hua Gufen demanded Madam Wu's location, threatening to feed Xiao Qiushui to his poison insects.

Xiao Qiushui defiantly proclaimed, "Hua Gufen, the Poison Demon, this place shall be your grave." Hua Gufen then unleashed a venomous insect that embedded itself in Xiao Qiushui's neck, before Hua Gufen himself was caught in another explosion and killed. Tang Fang and Liu Suifeng arrived to find Xiao Qiushui wounded. Tang Fang offered to neutralize the poison, but Xiao Qiushui refused, stating that Xiao Xueyu had provided him with antidotes, which he would take shortly.

Liu Suifeng then inquired about Madam Wu and Tang Rou. Xiao Qiushui confirmed their safety, explaining that he had secretly instructed Tang Rou to escort Madam Wu and Hero Zhang to the cliff behind the mountain, from where they would depart using a specially prepared device. Zhang, who accompanied Madam Wu, later marveled at how the device "actually helped us fly." Madam Wu, having safely traversed the cliff, expressed her relief and commended Xiao Qiushui's clever strategy.

Liu Suifeng then asked why Xiao Qiushui had altered the plan at the last moment. Xiao Qiushui explained that the Power Gang's widespread infiltration and cunning tactics made it impossible to take risks with Madam Wu's life, necessitating the last-minute change. He recalled how he had informed his parents about the need for deception due to Qiu's betrayal and the Power Gang's extensive network of spies.

He had arranged for a maid to impersonate Madam Wu and depart with Liu Suifeng's group, intentionally keeping Liu Suifeng unaware of the switch. When his mother asked about the real Madam Wu, he simply stated he had "other arrangements." With Madam Wu safely evacuated and two Power Gang leaders eliminated, Xiao Qiushui instructed Tang Fang to meet Madam Wu outside of town and warn her about the Power Gang's pervasive infiltration, while he went to Tongfu Inn for information.

At the inn, he received a letter from the innkeeper, stating that the meeting with General Wu's forces had been moved to a new location the following afternoon. He trusted Madam Wu's group had their own means of contact. However, as he prepared to leave, he discovered that Sword King's men were also searching for Madam Wu, as they began to lock down the town, blocking all exits and preventing anyone from leaving.

Episode 8 Recap

Xiao Qiushui and Liu Suifeng sought refuge in Lady Hongxiu's room at Qunfang Hall. Lady Hongxiu, grateful for Xiao Qiushui's past kindness in defending the courtesans, willingly offered her help. She informed them that the town's exits were blockaded by Sword King's men, making a swift departure crucial to meet Madam Wu.

Xiao Qiushui asked for a way out, to which Lady Hongxiu suggested two options: disguising themselves as courtesans for an event outside town or hiding in a nightsoil cart. Xiao Qiushui firmly rejected the former, prompting Lady Hongxiu to explain the nightsoil cart option, noting its stench would deter thorough inspection. Xiao Qiushui expressed urgency to Liu Suifeng, stating the rendezvous point had changed and he needed to find Madam Wu quickly.

Meanwhile, Song Mingzhu, after searching extensively, reported to Liu Suifeng that Madam Wu was nowhere to be found on the main roads leading from the Xiao Residence. Liu Suifeng, confident in Xiao Qiushui's strategic mind, ceased the search, believing Xiao Qiushui had cleverly concealed Madam Wu's whereabouts. He recognized that Sword King's widespread blockades hinted at an inside mole near Madam Wu, a suspicion Xiao Qiushui had also harbored.

Liu Suifeng deduced the mole was likely the Nameless Demon, one of Sword King's generals whose identity remained unknown. He instructed Song Mingzhu to follow him discreetly, anticipating that Xiao Qiushui would inadvertently lead them to Madam Wu, thereby unmasking the Nameless Demon. Back in their hiding place, Liu Suifeng returned with food, finding Xiao Qiushui listing martial sects. Xiao Qiushui explained that his mother had identified these sects as staunch allies of the Xiao family.

He planned to seek their assistance in rescuing his family after ensuring Madam Wu's safety, believing the martial world was founded on righteousness. Liu Suifeng, however, held a more cynical view, asserting that power and profit were the true motivators in the martial world, and that Power Gang could easily sway allies with incentives.

Xiao Qiushui challenged this, recounting heroic tales and expressing his belief that despite the difficulties, true heroes who championed justice for the weak would always emerge and unite. They then made a wager: the winner would claim a cherished possession from the loser, testing whether the martial world was ultimately driven by profit or righteousness. Liu Suifeng accepted, confident in his own assessment.

Shortly after, Lady Hongxiu brought news that the nightsoil cart had broken down, leaving them without that escape route. Undeterred, Xiao Qiushui formulated a new plan: to impersonate Power Gang members. He asked Lady Hongxiu for two black cloaks and a carriage. His reasoning was that few of Power Gang's subordinates truly knew the faces of their top leaders, Li Chenzhou, Zhao Shirong, or Liu Suifeng. He declared he would impersonate Liu Suifeng, taking Liu Suifeng's distinct white fan.

He then assigned Liu Suifeng to impersonate Zhao Shirong, instructing him to stay hidden within the carriage, as Liu Suifeng's past conflicts with Power Gang made him too recognizable to be seen openly. He reassured Liu Suifeng that he would not have to wear women's clothing, simply to use his knowledge of Power Gang to avoid detection. That night, Xiao Qiushui, disguised as Liu Suifeng, rode on horseback while Liu Suifeng, as Zhao Shirong, sat hidden in a sedan chair.

At the town's checkpoint, a Power Gang guard, recognizing the distinctive white fan, questioned if they were Vice Leader Liu and Lady Zhao. Despite the guard's insistence on verifying their identities due to his orders, Xiao Qiushui's aggressive demeanor and Liu Suifeng's deployment of the Flow-Cloud Sleeve Technique from within the carriage quickly convinced the guard. Recognizing the unique martial art of Lady Zhao, the guard immediately ordered his men to clear the path, allowing them to pass.

Once safely outside town, Xiao Qiushui thanked the carriage drivers and asked them to return the cloaks to Lady Hongxiu. He then jokingly remarked on Liu Suifeng's unexpected skill with the Flow-Cloud Sleeve Technique, which Liu Suifeng dismissed as merely a "scare tactic." Meanwhile, in Guangling, Xiao Yiren, Xiao Xueyu, and Xiao Kaiyan discovered a sinister plot.

They found a poisoned officer and, after Xiao Xueyu's medical intervention, learned that a mysterious organization was forcing people to refine and test alchemical pills that induced madness and violence, identifying them as Marching Pills. The officer described the perpetrators as martial artists with cauldron-engraved tokens, leading Xiao Yiren to suspect the Power Gang. Soon after, Nangong Xiaoyi arrived, concerned about the dangerous investigation. She, along with Xiao Kaiyan, suggested caution, advising against direct confrontation with the powerful Power Gang.

Xiao Yiren agreed that making enemies would harm Huanhua Sect and decided to send a messenger pigeon to his father, Xiao Xilou, for guidance. Xiao Qiushui and Liu Suifeng reunited with Tang Fang. Together, they followed the secret markers and located Tang Rou, Kang Chuyu, and the other allies. Madam Wu expressed deep gratitude to Xiao Qiushui for risking his life to retrieve the letter, which had enabled their timely reunion.

Xiao Qiushui reassured her that once General Wu's forces arrived the next day, he would seek aid from martial allies to rescue the Xiao family. Kang Chuyu offered his personal assistance in this endeavor. However, that night, after gathering in a derelict courtyard, many of the group fell dizzy after consuming porridge. Kang Chuyu then revealed his true colors, announcing that he was the Power Gang's Nameless Demon and the porridge contained Limbs-Weakening Powder.

He gloated about his long-held deception, including his role in Xiao Qiushui's selection as young sect leader, vowing to kill Xiao Qiushui. Xiao Qiushui, who had not eaten the porridge, remained unaffected. As Power Gang members surrounded the courtyard, Madam Wu's personal guards bravely stayed behind to create a diversion, allowing Xiao Qiushui to escape with Madam Wu and the others. Deep in the forest, their path was blocked by Yan Guigui, the Iron Cavalry Demon, a brutal warrior.

Xiao Qiushui and Tang Rou fought together, eventually defeating him. In the ensuing chaos, Song Mingzhu snatched Madam Wu's package, and Liu Suifeng, feigning pursuit, followed her. Madam Wu warned that the package contained the Nieyuan Box, holding the Hero Token, and if opened incorrectly, a corrosive liquid inside would destroy it. Xiao Qiushui, prioritizing Madam Wu's safety over the stolen package, dismissed the loss of the Hero Token, insisting that her well-being was paramount.

Unexpectedly, a second man emerged from Yan Guigui's armor, revealing he was the "legs" for his brother for years and was now free. Xiao Qiushui and Tang Fang quickly subdued this second assailant. Liu Suifeng caught up to Song Mingzhu and took possession of the Nieyuan Box.

Realizing that only Madam Wu knew the safe method to open it, Liu Suifeng, working in concert with Song Mingzhu, inflicted a wound upon himself, intending to use his "injury" to trick Madam Wu into opening the box. Soon after, Kang Chuyu seized Madam Wu, demanding the Hero Token. Xiao Qiushui and Liu Suifeng arrived almost simultaneously, distracting Kang Chuyu. Amidst the confrontation, Kang Jiesheng, Kang Chuyu's son, ambushed Xiao Qiushui from behind.

Without hesitation, Tang Rou threw herself in front of Xiao Qiushui, taking the fatal sword blow. Just then, General Wu's reinforcements arrived. General Wu, upon seeing Tang Rou's grave injury, ordered his archers to eliminate Kang Chuyu and Kang Jiesheng. Kang Jiesheng was killed by a volley of arrows, while Kang Chuyu managed to escape in the confusion.

Back at the military camp, a medic sorrowfully informed everyone that Tang Rou's heart meridians were severed, and there was no hope of recovery. A distraught Tang Fang wept by her sister's side. Tang Rou, with her last breaths, expressed happiness at having saved a friend, though she knew she had angered her sister again. She spoke of her desire to build a reputation for chivalry to help her father and her struggling Tang Sect branch.

She then asked to speak with Xiao Qiushui alone. She reminded him of their first meeting, recalling his words about navigating the unpredictable martial world with "swords as oars" and "chivalry as a boat." She expressed gratitude for understanding these principles. Xiao Qiushui tearfully apologized for failing to protect her, but Tang Rou assured him that he had protected the "moral compass in their hearts."

Her final wish was for Xiao Qiushui to be patient with her strong-willed sister, Tang Fang, and to take care of her. Tang Fang, though heartbroken, insisted she could care for herself. Xiao Qiushui solemnly promised to fulfill Tang Rou's request. As Tang Rou passed away, she mused on the "Shenzhou Alliance being truly wonderful," hoping that in twenty years, when she was reborn, the land would be filled with chivalry.

Overcome with grief, Zuoqiu and Deng Yuhan vowed that every honor earned by the Shenzhou Alliance from that day forward would include Tang Rou's contribution, ensuring they would always remain together in spirit.

Episode 9 Recap

Tang Rou, gravely wounded, told Xiao Qiushui to look after his sister, Tang Fang, and expressed his wish to be brothers again in the next life. Xiao Qiushui tearfully agreed, but afterwards felt immense guilt, wondering why he couldn't prevent Tang Rou's death despite having saved him once before. The others placed Tang Rou's body in a coffin.

Madam Wu offered Tang Fang a carriage to transport Tang Rou's body back to the Tang Sect for burial, noting the urgency due to the heat. Tang Fang, however, stated she had urgent family matters to attend to and would be delayed a few days. She requested Madam Wu to send someone to escort Tang Rou's body instead, and Madam Wu, understanding, assigned Jiang Yue to the task.

Xiao Qiushui and his Shenzhou sworn brothers knelt before Tang Rou's coffin, vowing to be brothers in the next life. Liu Suifeng, who was disguised as Feng Lang, also regained consciousness. The doctor reported that while his sword wound was not critical, a palm strike from Kang Chuyu had burnt his lung meridians, aggravating an old injury from childhood that no conventional doctor could treat.

Liu Suifeng revealed that he had once been cured by a reclusive master named Dayin, who was known to wander the world. Feeling responsible for Liu Suifeng's injuries, Madam Wu, reluctant to see another life lost, offered the Hero Token to Master Zhang, instructing him to accompany Liu Suifeng on a search for Master Dayin, believing righteous martial artists would assist. Liu Suifeng initially declined, arguing it was his duty to guard the token, not use it for himself.

Madam Wu countered that the Hero Token, originally forged by the leaders of Shaolin, Wudang, and Emei to save the nation and punish evil, had instead caused decades of bloodshed. She declared that using it to save a life now would fulfill its true purpose. Tang Fang then volunteered to join the search, explaining that as a woman, she could provide more attentive care to the injured Liu Suifeng and assist Master Zhang.

Madam Wu, perceiving Tang Fang's hidden motives, agreed but cautioned her to remain true to her kind and innocent nature. Tang Fang recalled her father, Tang Shunyao, who had been gravely injured by Yan Kuangtu during the battle at Mount Wuxing. He believed the Book of Oblivion held the only cure and suggested that Yu Zhiliao of the Clueless Gate might know its location.

Tang Shunyao emphasized that his injury must remain a secret, as revealing the Tang family leader's weakness would lead to the destruction of their family branch. He entrusted Tang Fang with the vital task of finding the Book of Oblivion to secure their survival. Meanwhile, Xiao Qiushui, still consumed by guilt over Tang Rou's death, stayed by Liu Suifeng's bedside to find some comfort.

Deng Yuhan informed Xiao Qiushui that Chaoran, overwhelmed by grief, intended to seek immediate revenge against the Power Gang. Xiao Qiushui intervened, stopping Chaoran from acting rashly. He explained that a direct, impulsive attack would only lead to more casualties among their own and would not truly harm the formidable Power Gang. Instead, he urged them to find their true enemy and formulate a long-term plan for revenge. Xiao Qiushui then instructed Chaoran and Deng Yuhan to seek reinforcements.

Chaoran would return to his family to ask for help from the Hailin Sect, while Deng Yuhan would go to the Qu family at the Sword Retreat. Xiao Qiushui warned them to be extremely cautious on their journey, especially of Kang Chuyu, whose formidable ice-cold internal energy made him a dangerous opponent, and who would undoubtedly seek vengeance for Kang Jiesheng.

After they departed, Xiao Qiushui’s thoughts returned to Liu Suifeng's injury, finding it strange that Kang Chuyu’s attack, while severe, did not seem to have overly damaged his internal energy, making his completely bedridden state suspicious. As Master Zhang, Liu Suifeng (still disguised as Feng Lang), and Tang Fang journeyed to find Master Dayin, Master Zhang, concerned about potential damage from recent conflicts, decided to inspect the Hero Token.

He explained that the token was housed in a special box with two layers: an inner compartment for the token and an outer one filled with corrosive liquid that could destroy the token if opened improperly. He then used a password to open the box. At that moment, Liu Suifeng, showing no signs of weakness, snatched the Hero Token.

Master Zhang immediately drew his sword, but Liu Suifeng, who had orchestrated a setup with "Dream-Bound Jialuo Incense" burning in the room, quickly incapacitated both Master Zhang and Tang Fang. Xiao Qiushui, arriving just then, witnessed Liu Suifeng's sudden vitality, confirming his suspicions. He confronted Liu Suifeng, pointing out the critical flaw in his story: Kang Chuyu practiced ice-cold internal energy, yet Liu Suifeng’s lungs were supposedly "burnt," proving he had been faking his injury all along.

Liu Suifeng, no longer bothering with his disguise, admitted he was a mole for the Power Gang, sent to retrieve the Hero Token. Xiao Qiushui denounced his betrayal, recalling Liu Suifeng's earlier cynical statements about the world uniting through profit, to which Liu Suifeng mockingly responded, asking how Xiao Qiushui liked the "luck" he had brought. He declared that Xiao Qiushui and his family were pathetic and laughable.

Liu Suifeng attempted to leave with the unconscious Tang Fang, but Xiao Qiushui fiercely blocked him. A struggle ensued, and as Xiao Qiushui began to tire, Song Mingzhu arrived, warning Liu Suifeng that General Wu's troops were rapidly approaching. Liu Suifeng released Tang Fang to escape with the Hero Token, engaging Xiao Qiushui in a lethal duel to deter pursuit. After Liu Suifeng and Song Mingzhu fled, Xiao Qiushui, though severely injured, was rescued by General Wu's arriving soldiers.

A military doctor confirmed his injuries were not fatal, and Tang Fang, who was also rescued, felt a growing affection for Xiao Qiushui upon learning that he had worried for her even while unconscious. In a safe location, Song Mingzhu offered to kill Xiao Qiushui and Tang Fang to appease Liu Suifeng, but he sternly forbade her from harming Tang Fang.

Liu Suifeng then declared that with the Hero Token secured, the siege on the Xiao family would intensify, and he vowed to drag Xiao Xilou's corpse to Herbal Valley as a tribute once the Xiao family ran out of water. Song Mingzhu suggested he take some Pine Stone Pills to recover from the strain of using the Turtle Snake Thunder Sting Technique to fake his injuries, but Liu Suifeng sharply told her to mind her own business.

General Wu's former troops converged at Madam Wu's location. They reported that General Wu had been unjustly imprisoned a month prior, accused by the imperial court of failing to defend the pass. His loyal subordinates had deserted their military posts and retreated to the mountains, refusing to be disbanded and reassigned as laborers.

They pleaded with Madam Wu, urging her to use her noble title to petition the emperor and vindicate her son, arguing that only she could save him and, by extension, preserve their elite force. An aide further emphasized that refusing would lead to the massacre of these thousand iron cavalry, which would be a great loss for Daxi. Madam Wu, accepting the gravity of the situation, declared she would risk her old age and journey to the capital.

At the Power Gang's headquarters, Liu Suifeng secretly struck the Assembly Drum, summoning the various leaders. He accused Sword King's men of obstructing his pursuit of the Hero Token in Lingliang Town and questioned the mysterious appearance of Iron Cavalry Demon Yan Guigui, implying Sword King had acted without the gang leader's authorization. Ju Xiushan stepped forward and confessed to giving the orders on behalf of Sword King.

Liu Suifeng then cited Gang Rule Fourteen, which required approval from the gang leader or deputy for all commands. Ju Xiushan retorted that Liu Suifeng himself had violated gang rules by bringing a low-rank messenger into the Xixian Hall, which was reserved for high-ranking members. Liu Suifeng, unfazed, declared that the rule only applied to the living, not the dead, and brutally ordered Song Mingzhu to kill the messenger as a chilling warning.

Despite attempts by others to mediate, Liu Suifeng asserted his authority as deputy leader in the absence of Sword King and Fire King. Ju Xiushan, undeterred, reminded Liu Suifeng that even if he were found guilty of disrespect, his punishment would only be a brief confinement in the Contemplation Cell.

He then escalated his accusations, detailing how Liu Suifeng's subordinate, Iron Demon Fu Tianyi, had embezzled funds and colluded with enemies, and how Purple Phoenix had attempted to poison and assassinate him. Ju Xiushan further stated that all Kings had taken the "Better-Dead Pills," which would gravely injure any who killed another King, making them vulnerable to execution. Liu Suifeng confidently declared that one could still strike without murderous intent, hinting at a loophole.

Amidst the escalating tension, Li Chenzhou, the Power Gang leader, and his wife, Zhao Shirong, emerged from their seclusion, entering the main hall. Zhao Shirong immediately questioned the uproar, reminding everyone that the leader was in meditation. Ju Xiushan quickly seized the opportunity to denounce Liu Suifeng, accusing him of tyranny and false allegations. Zhao Shirong stated that mere words were insufficient as proof.

Ju Xiushan then produced a confidential letter, allegedly written by Iron Demon Fu Tianyi, accusing Liu Suifeng of secretly colluding with Heavenly King Zhu of the Twelve Waterways. Ju Xiushan further claimed that Liu Suifeng had orchestrated Fu Tianyi's death to eliminate a rival and consolidate his power. Liu Suifeng vehemently denied these accusations. Li Chenzhou, after examining the letter, deemed it a "self-serving fabrication" and insufficient as evidence.

He then questioned Liu Suifeng about the extensive siege on the Xiao family's Sword Retreat, which had caused numerous casualties. Liu Suifeng explained that his actions were motivated by the pursuit of the Hero Token, which he then presented to Li Chenzhou. As Li Chenzhou took the token, he was reminded of a past event: Yan Kuangtu, the legendary martial artist, being pursued by sixteen sects, defiantly holding the very same Hero Token.

In a flashback, Yan Kuangtu had challenged his pursuers, offering both the Hero Token and the Book of Oblivion to anyone who could defeat him, vowing that all would obey his commands if they failed.

Episode 10 Recap

Li Chenzhou recalled an incident from years ago when Yan Kuangtu single-handedly held both the Hero Token and the Book of Oblivion. The three major sects had besieged him but failed to inflict any harm. Only after someone struck him with a hidden weapon in the neck did Yan Kuangtu retreat and disappear.

Li Chenzhou then examined the Hero Token Liu Suifeng had presented, noting that the genuine token, forged by the Shaolin, Wudang, and Emei leaders, should bear their fingerprints. Upon inspection, Liu Suifeng confirmed the token was indeed a fake, lacking any such imprints. He immediately suspected Xiao Qiushui, who had, in fact, suggested to Madam Wu a plan to use a counterfeit token after Qiu Bo's betrayal.

Other Power Gang members, dismayed by Liu Suifeng's failure and the loss of disciples, demanded his punishment. However, Li Chenzhou defended Liu Suifeng, attributing the mistake to an oversight due to his many years of arduous work. He then assigned Sword King to investigate the Hero Token's true whereabouts alongside Liu Suifeng. Liu Suifeng vowed to reclaim the token and seek forgiveness from his master.

Xiao Qiushui, still consumed by grief and guilt over Tang Rou's death and his inability to prevent betrayals, sought solace in drink at a pavilion. Tang Fang found him there and expressed her gratitude for him rescuing her. Xiao Qiushui lamented his perceived failures, regretting his inability to protect Tang Rou and prevent friends from turning against him. Tang Fang reassured him, saying he shouldn't blame himself, as the martial world was treacherous and one person couldn't control everything.

She shared her deep understanding of why Tang Rou had trusted Xiao Qiushui so profoundly and declared their shared mission to avenge Tang Rou against the Power Gang. Madam Wu informed Xiao Qiushui that Mr. Zhang, despite his severe injuries, had managed to secure the genuine Hero Token. She also conveyed Mr. Zhang's profound admiration for Xiao Qiushui's righteousness and his desire to take him as a disciple, presenting Xiao Qiushui with Mr. Zhang's personal dagger.

Madam Wu then offered to deploy General Wu Zhe's cavalry to rescue the besieged Xiao family. Xiao Qiushui, however, vehemently refused, arguing that involving imperial troops in a martial world dispute would lead to unnecessary conflict, harm innocent civilians in Jin City, and invite further suspicion upon General Wu Zhe from the imperial court.

Instead, he requested Madam Wu to send a swift messenger to his eldest brother, Xiao Yiren, at Guangling Villa, while he would personally seek aid from the various sects in Jinzhong. Madam Wu agreed to dispatch the messenger. On a full moon night, Song Mingzhu brought Pine Stone Pills for Liu Suifeng's recovery, but he curtly instructed her to focus solely on her duties and not to entertain any personal feelings for him.

Shortly after, Zhao Shirong visited Liu Suifeng, advising him against rash actions and taking on too many responsibilities, especially after using the Turtle Snake Thunder Sting Technique which had severely taxed his body. She also provided him with some Pine Stone Pills. Once Zhao Shirong departed, Liu Suifeng, suspecting the Hero Token's connection to the Xiao family through Madam Wu, immediately ordered Song Mingzhu to relaunch the investigation, focusing on Madam Wu's associations.

Xiao Qiushui's sleep was disturbed by another dream of Tang Rou. Upon waking, he found a brocade pouch containing a message: "Mission Three: Redeem Liu Suifeng." He dismissed it as a cruel joke, finding the idea of "redeeming" the Power Gang's formidable Vice Leader an impossible task. Recognizing the unpredictable nature of the martial world, he resolved to prioritize rescuing his family and securing his position as sect leader to regain control of his own fate.

To avoid further endangering anyone, he quietly purchased a carriage and departed alone for Jinzhong. He left a message for Tang Fang, urging her to return to the Tang Sect for her safety, promising to reunite once he had avenged Tang Rou and resolved his family's crisis. On his journey to Jinzhong, Xiao Qiushui encountered bandits. During the ensuing skirmish, Tang Fang swiftly arrived and helped him subdue the attackers.

Upset that he had left without a word, she confronted him. Xiao Qiushui explained his desire to protect her by keeping her out of his dangerous quest, especially after losing Tang Rou. Tang Fang, however, adamantly refused to leave, reminding him of his own principle of righteousness and her commitment to avenging her brother, stating she would not leave any debts unpaid. She compelled the defeated bandits to pull their carriage.

Later, as they camped in the forest, Tang Fang recounted a poignant childhood memory of Tang Rou bringing her leftover food when she was punished, noting the similar comforting gesture. Xiao Qiushui then introduced her to the concept of constellations, theorizing that Tang Rou was a Libra, characterized by gentleness, righteousness, and loyalty, while Tang Fang herself was an Aries, stubborn and reckless yet fiercely brave.

He gave her a stone engraved with the Libra symbol, suggesting she keep it as if Tang Rou were always with her. Song Mingzhu reported to Liu Suifeng that Xiao Qiushui and Madam Wu had parted ways, with Tang Fang now accompanying Xiao Qiushui. Liu Suifeng surmised that Xiao Qiushui likely possessed the real Hero Token and would attempt to gather support from local sects. He confidently predicted that these sects, fearing the Power Gang's might, would refuse.

Realizing Tang Fang’s involvement, Liu Suifeng instructed Song Mingzhu to exploit Tang Song, a Tang family member known for currying favor with the Power Gang, by offering him incentives to cooperate. Meanwhile, Xiao Qiushui's attempts to enlist aid from various Jinzhong sects proved futile, as none dared to openly defy the Power Gang. With few options left, and despite his initial reluctance to involve them, Tang Fang proposed they return to her own Tang Sect.

She argued that the crisis facing the Xiao family today could eventually threaten the Tang Sect as well, and she believed she could persuade her father to assist. Xiao Qiushui agreed to try. Upon their arrival at the Tang Sect, a servant directed Tang Fang to an inner room to meet her father alone, while Xiao Qiushui waited in the main hall. This proved to be a trap orchestrated by Tang Song and his sibling Tang Qing.

Tang Song, addressing Tang Fang as "Seventeenth Sister," vehemently accused her of meddling in the Power Gang's affairs by bringing an outsider to seek aid, claiming she planned to exploit the Tang Sect's influence to save the Xiao family.

He revealed that he had intercepted a private letter from Tang Fang to their father and further stated he had received intelligence from the Power Gang confirming that the Xiao family's troubles stemmed from the Hero Token, which he believed Xiao Qiushui possessed. Tang Song then propositioned Tang Fang, threatening to expose her alleged transgressions to the Tang matriarch unless she agreed to marry him.

He smugly announced that Xiao Qiushui had been captured, intending to search him for the Hero Token and solidify Tang Fang's guilt. Concurrently, Deng Yuhan returned to the Hairin Sword Sect in Qianxi, seeking his father's help for the Xiao family. Instead of support, he was met with a stern rebuke for associating with Xiao Qiushui and risking the entire clan's involvement in a conflict with the Power Gang.

Deng Yuhan passionately reminded his father of the Hairin Sword Sect's founding principles of justice and righteousness, recalling his father's past camaraderie with Master Xiao and their shared adventures. Despite his emotional plea, his father remained resolute in his refusal to intervene, dismissing the matter as beyond his son's concern. When Deng Yuhan declared his intention to aid the Xiao family alone, his father ordered him to be stopped.

Episode 11 Recap

Tang Qing’s subordinates thoroughly searched Xiao Qiushui, but found no special items. Tang Qing, alongside Tang Song, aimed to intercept Xiao Qiushui and obtain the Hero Token, as this was the first time the Power Gang had responded to Tang Song’s overtures. She was determined to extract the token’s location from him. Identifying herself as Tang Fang’s close sister in the Tang Sect, Tang Qing claimed Tang Fang had asked her to "take care" of Xiao Qiushui.

She then forced Xiao Qiushui to ingest a special pill, confident it would make even the most formidable martial artist obedient. When asked about his identity, Xiao Qiushui, feigning confusion, identified himself as Xiao Qiushui from the Huanhua Sect. Tang Qing then questioned who was prettier between her and Tang Fang, to which Xiao Qiushui mockingly replied, "You’re slightly uglier than her."

Angered by his defiance, Tang Qing was about to strike him, but Tang Song intervened, reminding her of their objective. Tang Song pressed Xiao Qiushui for the Hero Token’s location, and Xiao Qiushui, still feigning disorientation, claimed it was buried in the bamboo forest outside the Tang Sect. Tang Qing was skeptical, having already searched both Xiao Qiushui and Tang Fang.

However, Tang Song believed Xiao Qiushui had taken precautions before entering the sect and led his people to dig up the bamboo forest. Unbeknownst to them, Xiao Qiushui had secretly obtained an antidote pill from Tang Fang earlier, anticipating such a trap, and was merely toying with the siblings. He mocked their foolishness internally. Meanwhile, Tang Fang managed to escape her confinement and came to rescue Xiao Qiushui, who easily broke free from his chains.

As they tried to flee, Tang Song and Tang Qing, having found nothing in the bamboo forest, realized they had been deceived and confronted them. Tang Song abruptly changed his arrogant demeanor, offering to introduce Xiao Qiushui to Madam Tang, whose experience, he claimed, could help Xiao Qiushui use the Hero Token to resolve his family’s crisis. Xiao Qiushui, however, asserted that the Hero Token had been taken by the Power Gang.

Tang Song immediately denied this, prompting Tang Fang to question if he was colluding with the Power Gang. Tang Song tried to sow discord by revealing that Tang Fang’s initial motive for going to the Xiao family was to obtain the Hero Token, and then attempted to shame her for bringing a stranger into the sect, suggesting their father was too injured to intervene and proposing marriage to Tang Fang to save her family’s main branch.

Tang Fang vehemently defended her father, stating he was in retreat for cultivation, and challenged Tang Song to disturb him if he dared. Seizing the opportunity created by the internal strife, Xiao Qiushui used the "Thick-Skinned Three Forms" to escape with Tang Fang. They fled, with Tang Song in close pursuit, until they reached a cliff. With no other option, they jumped, landing on a wedding boat passing below.

Tang Fang almost fell into the river, but Xiao Qiushui swiftly pulled her to safety, accidentally tearing her sleeve. Enraged, Tang Fang turned on him, drawing her sword. She recounted an oath sworn to her late mother: any man who saw her body must die. Xiao Qiushui argued that the oath was too rash and that he had saved her life. Tang Fang remained resolute, stating that only her husband was an exception.

The bride on the boat, observing their heated argument, suggested a practical solution: Xiao Qiushui should marry Tang Fang. Tang Fang readily agreed, seeing it as a way to escape Tang Song’s persistent harassment. Xiao Qiushui, though reluctant to enter a marriage so casually, agreed as well, particularly after Tang Fang mentioned needing his help to breach the Tang Sect's perilous Qianluo Formation to permanently get rid of Tang Song.

They departed the wedding boat, with Xiao Qiushui offering the couple money as a wedding gift and apology, and they in turn wished him and Tang Fang a happy marriage. Their immediate goal was to reach Guangling. Tang Fang produced a map of Jinzhong, which she had stolen from Tang Song's room, noting that he had diligently marked all of the Power Gang's outposts.

These red-marked sects, including the Wuhu Peng, Tanglang, and Wuyi Gang, were strategically located along the critical route to Guangling, likely having surrendered to the Power Gang. Xiao Qiushui realized these strongholds would hinder Xiao Yiren's return from Guangling to support the Sword Retreat, and decided they needed to be cleared. Tang Fang reminded him of his promise to help her with the Qianluo Formation after the Xiao family crisis was resolved, or she would take his life.

Xiao Qiushui vaguely responded that the matter could be discussed later and urged them to proceed. Meanwhile, Tang Song instructed Tang Qing to spread word that Xiao Qiushui and Tang Fang were heading to Guangling with the Hero Token. He aimed to incite martial artists along the route to ambush Xiao Qiushui, ensuring his demise.

In the Xiao residence, Xiao Kaiyan and Xiao Xueyu discussed collecting more evidence from the village, fearing it would be destroyed if they waited for their father Xiao Xilou’s reply. In the alchemy room, where Xiao Xueyu believed specific herbs could lead to an antidote for the villagers, they were ambushed by black-clad attackers. Xiao Kaiyan shielded Xiao Xueyu, but they were in peril until Xiao Yiren arrived, forcing the attackers to flee.

Xiao Yiren chided them for acting rashly, explaining that rushing to present evidence would only pit the Xiao family openly against the Power Gang, a situation to be avoided at all costs. Xiao Xueyu showed him Oldenlandia and Hedyotis herbs, suspecting their connection to the villagers' poisoning. Xiao Yiren, while acknowledging their good intentions, reasserted his authority as the acting leader of Huanhua, instructing them to consult him before any future actions.

Xiao Qiushui and Tang Fang successfully cleared two Power Gang outposts, securing a path for potential reinforcements to Jinzhong. However, based on Madam Wu's estimated timeline for her messenger, Xiao Yiren should have already returned to Jinzhong from Guangling. Finding no trace of him, Xiao Qiushui worried something had gone wrong. They decided to buy fast horses and head directly to Guangling. At a market, Xiao Qiushui noticed a military stamp on a horse’s stirrup.

Under questioning, the horse trader confessed he found the horse beside a dead soldier in the woods. Investigating further, Xiao Qiushui found the deceased soldier still clutching a letter—the message Madam Wu had sent to Xiao Yiren seeking aid. It became clear that Xiao Yiren and his forces in Guangling were completely unaware of the crisis, and Xiao Qiushui realized he needed to reach his brother immediately.

Knowing the main pass to Guangling was likely fortified by the Power Gang, they opted for a less controlled ferry further downstream. Unaware of these developments, Liu Suifeng expressed his frustration with Tang Song’s incompetence in letting Xiao Qiushui escape. He knew Tang Song was spreading rumors about Xiao Qiushui possessing the Hero Token, which would undoubtedly attract opportunistic martial artists.

Believing the real Hero Token was with Xiao Qiushui, especially after Madam Wu’s private conversation with him, Liu Suifeng offered his personal Wind Token to anyone who could bring Xiao Qiushui to the Power Gang, assuring his subordinate Song Mingzhu he would simply kill the token holder before any demands could be made. He dispatched Song Mingzhu to intercept Xiao Qiushui, who he presumed was rushing to Guangling for aid, likely from one of Guangling’s "three powerful men," Qu Hanshan.

Noting Tang Fang’s continued presence with Xiao Qiushui, Liu Suifeng’s concern for her was evident, prompting Song Mingzhu to call Tang Fang his master’s 'soft spot,' an observation Liu Suifeng did not deny. As Xiao Qiushui and Tang Fang approached the ferry, a street vendor warned Xiao Qiushui about two unscrupulous rascals running the nearby Ferry Inn, fearing Tang Fang might be in danger.

Xiao Qiushui rushed to the inn, where Tie Xingyue, known as the King of Farts, and Qiu Nangu, known as Iron Mouth, were celebrating Tang Fang’s capture. They had received a secret letter from the Power Gang’s Sword King and intended to hand over Xiao Qiushui, whom they expected to arrive, to gain favor with him.

Xiao Qiushui, feigning to be Xiao Donghuo, a distant relative of Xiao Qiushui, and claiming that Tang Fang had fallen out with Xiao Qiushui, demanded an antidote for the unconscious Tang Fang. He then cleverly manipulated the simple-minded duo by suggesting that if they had handed Tang Fang over to Zuo Changsheng, the First Cave Demon, as they claimed, Zuo Changsheng would extract information about Xiao Qiushui and claim all the credit with the Sword King, stealing their glory.

Convinced, Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nangu, now seeing Xiao Qiushui (as "Xiao Donghuo") as a friend, agreed to help him retrieve Tang Fang from Zuo Changsheng. Meanwhile, Liu Suifeng received an update that Sword King's men had captured Tang Fang. While Xiao Qiushui’s exact whereabouts remained unknown due to the Sword King’s control over Guangling, Liu Suifeng deduced he would seek help from Qu Hanshan. He reinforced the importance of securing both Tang Fang and the Hero Token, acknowledging his deep personal concern for Tang Fang.

Episode 12 Recap

Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nanshun led Xiao Qiushui near the rumored cave of the First Cave Demon, expressing their desire to join the Power Gang for glory and fame. They envisioned themselves becoming renowned, with Tie Xingyue even declaring his intention to be known as the Poison Demon due to his deadly skills. Xiao Qiushui subtly questioned if they would harm innocent people, to which they responded that their aim was prestige, not evil deeds.

Suddenly, a black-clothed figure appeared and took Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nanshun away. Before Xiao Qiushui could react, Zuoqiu and Deng Yuhan arrived. Deng Yuhan apologized for failing to secure reinforcements from his own family, explaining that his father had almost prevented him from leaving. Xiao Qiushui reassured him, appreciating his loyalty and presence. Zuoqiu introduced the Qu family sisters, Qu Mushuang and Qu Minmiao, who had also come to offer their support after hearing about the Xiao family's plight.

Hearing that Tang Fang had been captured by the Sword King, the sisters informed him that they were about to enter Guangling, the Sword King's territory, and suggested seeking help from the renowned righteous figure, Qu Hanshan, known for his Forest of Justice. Xiao Qiushui recalled his father mentioning Qu Hanshan's reputation for fairness, believing he would not refuse assistance. Xiao Qiushui decided to go alone to the Forest of Justice to meet Qu Hanshan.

He instructed Deng Yuhan, Zuoqiu, and the Qu sisters to proceed to the Guangling Villa to inform his elder brothers, Xiao Yiren and Xiao Kaiyan, about the situation at the Sword Retreat, emphasizing the need for collective action. Meanwhile, Qu Hanshan was seen justly resolving a dispute between Master Qi of the Blood Blade Sect and Master Huo. Qu Hanshan, known for his unwavering impartiality, reminded everyone of the "Forest of Justice" principle – equal judgment for all.

He ordered Master Qi to hand over his murderous disciple for punishment and warned Master Huo against further retaliation, stating he would personally intervene if innocent lives were harmed. He then made the two masters swear an oath of peace, breaking a stone tablet to symbolize the consequences of betrayal. Impressed, Xiao Qiushui approached Qu Hanshan, introducing himself as being from a side branch of the Huanhua Sect and urgently seeking his help with the Power Gang's siege.

Qu Hanshan graciously invited him into his study, ensuring their conversation would be private. As soon as Xiao Qiushui entered, Qu Hanshan inquired about the Hero Token, revealing he already knew Xiao Qiushui's true identity and his connection to Xiao Xilou. While pretending to answer, Xiao Qiushui noticed Tang Fang's distinctive floral accessory in a corner of the hall, immediately realizing that Qu Hanshan was indeed the Sword King, a vice-leader of the Power Gang.

Seizing the opportunity to sow discord within the Power Gang, Xiao Qiushui claimed that he had indeed received the Hero Token from Madam Wu, but in his panicked state after his friend's abduction near Guangling, he had encountered and been robbed by Song Mingzhu of the Power Gang. Believing Xiao Qiushui's story, Qu Hanshan furiously sought out Liu Suifeng. Liu Suifeng, however, had already anticipated Xiao Qiushui's trickery and mocked Qu Hanshan for being deceived.

He warned Qu Hanshan that his twenty-year facade as Guangling's great hero was about to be shattered. Enraged, Qu Hanshan dismissed Liu Suifeng and returned to his residence to confront Xiao Qiushui. While Qu Hanshan was confronting Liu Suifeng, Xiao Qiushui located Tang Fang's confinement room within Qu Hanshan's residence. After eliminating the guards, he was intercepted by Kang Chuyu. The two engaged in a fierce battle, but Qu Hanshan soon arrived and overpowered Xiao Qiushui.

Meanwhile, at the Guangling Villa, Xiao Yiren received a letter, supposedly from his father, Xiao Xilou, instructing them to cease the investigation into the Marching Pills and avoid provoking the Power Gang to prevent further calamity for the Huanhua Sect. Xiao Xueyu, finding the message uncharacteristic of her father, closely examined the letter and discovered it was written with common oil-soot ink, not the pine-soot ink her father typically used, confirming it was a forgery.

Shortly after, Deng Yuhan and Zuoqiu arrived, delivering the grave news that the Huanhua Sword Retreat was under siege by the Power Gang. Realizing their letters had been intercepted, Xiao Yiren immediately prepared to lead forces back to the Sword Retreat. However, Xiao Kaiyan argued that as the acting leader of the Huanhua Sect, Xiao Yiren's place was in Guangling to rally support.

Lady Weng of the Bishan Sect, who had also arrived to offer aid, concurred, emphasizing that Xiao Yiren should stay to personally gather allies in Guangling. Xiao Yiren agreed and dispatched Uncle Kong with the forces towards the Sword Retreat, planning to join them later with reinforcements. Deng Yuhan added that Xiao Qiushui was currently seeking Qu Hanshan's help. Concerned about Xiao Qiushui's impetuous nature, Xiao Yiren decided to personally visit Qu Hanshan, with Xiao Kaiyan accompanying him.

Xiao Qiushui, now Qu Hanshan's prisoner, was brought before him. Qu Hanshan, no longer concealing his identity as the Sword King, demanded the Hero Token, offering Xiao Qiushui safe passage in return. Xiao Qiushui defiantly refused, promising to expose Qu Hanshan's true nature to the world and denying he ever possessed the token, challenging Qu Hanshan to search him.

Just as Qu Hanshan prepared to do so, his old friend, Gu Junshan, the Divine Wanderer, arrived unexpectedly, having tracked Power Gang activity to Guangling. Kang Chuyu, also present, discreetly led Xiao Qiushui to an adjacent room, silencing him to prevent him from speaking. Gu Junshan grew suspicious of Kang Chuyu's presence and noticed sounds of struggle from the next room.

He presented evidence linking Kang Chuyu to Power Gang crimes, first describing the Sword King's unique white hair, which appears when he uses a special protective energy. He then presented Kang Chuyu's jade pendant, found at a crime scene, further pressing him. During Kang Chuyu's weak denial, Xiao Qiushui broke free from his bonds and rushed into the main hall, warning Gu Junshan that Qu Hanshan was the Sword King.

Kang Chuyu tried to stop Xiao Qiushui but was swiftly struck down by a poisonous palm strike, with Xiao Qiushui warning Kang Chuyu about the effects of the poison. While Gu Junshan bravely confronted Qu Hanshan, Xiao Qiushui slipped away to rescue Tang Fang, Tie Xingyue, and Qiu Nanshun from the storeroom. Tang Fang, upon seeing Xiao Qiushui, exclaimed about his deception regarding his identity, but Xiao Qiushui urged her to focus on escape.

Gu Junshan fought valiantly, but Qu Hanshan, unleashing his unique sword energy without a physical blade, inflicted a devastating injury, shattering Gu Junshan's facial features. In his dying moments, Gu Junshan questioned the whereabouts of Du Yueshan, another of the Great Three of Guangling. As Qu Hanshan prepared to deliver the final blow, Xiao Qiushui returned to protect his ally.

Qu Hanshan attempted to tempt Xiao Qiushui with power and glory if he surrendered the Hero Token and joined the Power Gang. Xiao Qiushui vehemently refused, condemning Qu Hanshan's betrayal of justice. Knowing Xiao Qiushui was outmatched, Gu Junshan made the ultimate sacrifice, using his last breath to hold off Qu Hanshan, urging Xiao Qiushui and the others to escape and expose the Sword King's secrets.

Before Xiao Qiushui, Tang Fang, Tie Xingyue, and Qiu Nanshun could escape Qu Hanshan's residence, they were ambushed by Kang Chuyu and his men. They fell into a hidden trap, plummeting into a dark underground cave. Inside, Xiao Qiushui heard the sound of flowing water, inferring there must be an exit. As they cautiously moved forward, they discovered a disheveled man chained to the cave wall, whom Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nanshun found eerily familiar.

Episode 13 Recap

After falling into the cavern, Xiao Qiushui and his companions discovered an old man with messy hair, chained to the cave wall. The man, who looked familiar to some, turned out to be Du Yueshan, the leader of the Mengxiang Sect and one of Guangling's "Three Greats" alongside Qu Hanshan and Gu Junshan. Du Yueshan, in a frenzied state, repeatedly roared about wanting to eat fresh meat, even remarking that unwashed flesh "smells better."

His erratic behavior raised questions among Xiao Qiushui's group, with some wondering if he served Qu Hanshan. Xiao Qiushui, realizing they were trapped and the entrance was blocked by the Sword King, deduced that Du Yueshan must also be a victim of Qu Hanshan. When Xiao Qiushui proposed escaping together, Du Yueshan, consumed by his hunger, lunged at them.

During the struggle, Tang Fang was inadvertently caught by the chains and pulled towards him, but Xiao Qiushui quickly intervened, using his sword to free her. The group was surprised to learn the madman was the renowned Du Yueshan. Xiao Qiushui quickly surmised that Du Yueshan was afflicted with the Power Gang's Bat Toxin, which had caused him to lose his sanity.

Tang Fang confirmed that draining his internal energy by striking his Jingmen and Baihui acupoints could cure him, though he would lose his martial arts. Despite Du Yueshan's formidable and frenzied state, Xiao Qiushui decided they had to act. The four united their efforts, targeting his acupoints. Du Yueshan was subdued and fell unconscious, his toxin dissipating with his internal energy, indicating he would soon recover.

However, their predicament worsened as Kang Chuyu's men began setting fires outside the cave entrance, attempting to smoke them out. Realizing they had no other option, Xiao Qiushui led the group, carrying the unconscious Du Yueshan, toward the sound of water. They arrived at a cavern with a waterfall endlessly cascading from above.

Though initially it appeared to be a dead end, Xiao Qiushui, observing the continuous flow of live water, speculated that an exit might lie beneath the pool, requiring them to explore its depths. Du Yueshan eventually regained consciousness. Tang Fang introduced herself, Tie Xingyue, and Qiu Nangu, and confirmed Du Yueshan's identity with his token.

He recounted his ordeal, explaining that the "wicked Qu Hanshan" had lured him there for a duel and then imprisoned him for years with Binding Chains, attempting to force him to reveal the Mengxiang Swordplay. Learning that Xiao Qiushui was from the Huanhua Xiao family, Du Yueshan cautioned him against leaving the cave. He revealed that Liu Suifeng of the Power Gang harbored a deep blood feud against the Xiao family, and if discovered, Xiao Qiushui would not escape alive.

Xiao Qiushui vehemently denied the existence of any such feud and declared his resolve to confront both the Power Gang and Liu Suifeng. Despite the warning, Xiao Qiushui remained determined to find an exit, questioning Du Yueshan about the pool's depths since he had been trapped there for so long. Du Yueshan, acknowledging Xiao Qiushui's sharp mind, disclosed that years of confinement had allowed him to understand the cave's structure.

There was a narrow fissure at the bottom of the pool, too small for a person to pass. He explained that his Mengxiang Swordplay included a technique to gather water with sword energy, allowing him to cleave a path through the water. However, having lost his internal energy, he could not fully execute the moves.

Thus, Du Yueshan offered to teach the Mengxiang Swordplay to one of them, believing that a quick grasp of its essence would be enough for their escape. After Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nangu eagerly but unsuccessfully offered themselves, Du Yueshan chose Xiao Qiushui, noting his decent aptitude. Although Xiao Qiushui initially hesitated, his companions urged him on, emphasizing that their escape depended on him. Xiao Qiushui accepted, and Du Yueshan immediately began imparting the swordplay to him.

Liu Suifeng sought out Qu Hanshan, who, upon Liu's arrival, remarked on his presence in Guangling and cautioned him against meddling in his affairs. Liu Suifeng responded by highlighting that both of them had been outsmarted by the cunning Xiao Qiushui, who, if pushed too hard, would rather destroy everything than allow others to benefit. He advised Qu Hanshan to step back and observe Xiao Qiushui's next moves.

Qu Hanshan, however, was concerned about Xiao Qiushui knowing his true identity and insisted he could not let him live. Liu Suifeng, leveraging Qu Hanshan's influence in Guangling, suggested twisting the truth about Xiao Qiushui and prioritizing the search for the Hero Token. He explained that after investigations, it was clear the true Hero Token was either in the Xiao Residence or with Xiao Qiushui.

Since the one with Xiao Qiushui had proven fake, the real one must be in the Xiao Residence. Despite their long-standing animosity and Qu Hanshan's initial surprise at Liu Suifeng's offer of cooperation, the allure of the Hero Token was too strong to ignore. Liu Suifeng revealed that the Sword Retreat possessed a self-destruct mechanism, which would activate explosives if an attempt was made to force entry, thus destroying the Hero Token. Therefore, internal access was necessary.

Since Liu Suifeng was already exposed, he proposed that Qu Hanshan, under the guise of aiding the Xiao family due to his esteemed reputation in Guangling, could gain entry to the Sword Retreat. Xiao Yiren, he predicted, would surely seek Qu Hanshan's help. Liu Suifeng suggested Qu Hanshan agree to infiltrate the Sword Retreat. Qu Hanshan voiced concerns that Xiao Qiushui, if left alive, might disrupt their plans.

Liu Suifeng assured him that Xiao Qiushui was not a threat and that dealing with him was well within his capabilities, only asking that Xiao Qiushui be left alive for him to exact his revenge. Qu Hanshan, impressed by Liu Suifeng's "killing two birds with one stone" strategy, agreed to the plan. Xiao Qiushui, proving to be a quick study, swiftly mastered the Mengxiang Swordplay.

Despite the inherent dangers and the energy-consuming nature of the technique, he plunged into the pool, successfully using the swordplay to cleave open a path through the water, creating an exit. As the pursuing guards closed in, Xiao Qiushui urged his companions to jump and follow him through the newly opened waterway. Meanwhile, a guard reported to Qu Hanshan that Xiao Qiushui had escaped through the waterways. Coincidentally, Xiao Yiren had just arrived at Qu Hanshan's residence.

Seeing this as "perfect timing," Qu Hanshan decided to prioritize meeting Xiao Yiren, momentarily setting aside the matter of Xiao Qiushui's escape. Xiao Yiren, accompanied by Kaiyan, arrived at Qu Hanshan's residence, seeking his assistance against the Power Gang's siege on their family. Qu Hanshan, however, was immediately hostile, accusing the Huanhua Sect of repeatedly provoking him. Xiao Yiren respectfully explained their plea for justice, acknowledging Qu Hanshan's reputation as Guangling's "Pillar of Justice."

Qu Hanshan then angrily recounted how Xiao Qiushui had recently led "riffraff" to his residence, made a scene, and "tarnished" his reputation by branding him as the Power Gang's Sword King and accusing his household of being Power Gang members. He claimed Xiao Qiushui intended to publicly ruin his fame and thus refused to aid the Xiao family.

A guard chimed in, suggesting Xiao Qiushui's companions were far more suspicious than Qu Hanshan's people and that Xiao Qiushui was making things up and, if unchecked, would disgrace their family and become a scourge to the martial world. Xiao Yiren was astonished by these accusations. While he admitted Xiao Qiushui did associate with various people, he couldn't believe his brother would act so baselessly.

Suspecting a misunderstanding or that Xiao Qiushui might have been tricked, Xiao Yiren decided to return immediately to investigate the matter, instructing Kaiyan to seek help from Master Ge of the Blade Hall. Xiao Qiushui intended to bring Du Yueshan to the Guangling Villa for treatment, believing his sister, Xiao Xueyu, skilled in medicine, could heal his internal injuries before arranging his return to Mengxiang.

However, Du Yueshan, feeling utterly disgraced by his years of imprisonment and half-destroyed cultivation, refused to be seen in such a wretched state by more martial artists. He declared he would rather die than have his humiliation spread throughout the martial world. Accepting some silver from Xiao Qiushui for his journey, Du Yueshan departed. As Du Yueshan left, Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nangu approached Xiao Qiushui.

Having witnessed his acts of heroism, they expressed their desire to join him, initially hoping to become disciples of the Huanhua Sect. Xiao Qiushui explained that joining Huanhua was a complex process beyond his sole discretion. Instead, he invited them to join the Shenzhou Alliance, an organization he described as welcoming all righteous individuals, regardless of their background, to be sworn brothers.

Delighted by the prospect of joining a "large sect" and becoming "sworn brothers," Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nangu enthusiastically accepted, pledging their loyalty to Xiao Qiushui. Tang Fang, however, voiced skepticism, questioning the informality of the Shenzhou Alliance and whether such members would flee in times of crisis. Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nangu retorted, feeling insulted, before leaving. Xiao Qiushui, Tang Fang, Tie Xingyue, and Qiu Nangu soon arrived at the Guangling Villa.

Xiao Yiren, greeting Tang Fang with courtesy, immediately ordered Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nangu to be driven out, referring to them as "gutter trash." Xiao Qiushui attempted to explain that Qu Hanshan was the Power Gang's Sword King and had tricked Xiao Yiren, insisting that Qu Hanshan's residence was the Power Gang's den. However, Xiao Yiren, already influenced by Qu Hanshan's earlier accusations, refused to believe him, threatening to use family law if Xiao Qiushui persisted.

Xiao Xueyu intervened, urging calm. Xiao Yiren expressed his frustration, stating that Xiao Qiushui was making enemies at a crucial time, pushing their family into deeper trouble. Xiao Qiushui countered by explaining that Qu Hanshan had framed him to conceal his true identity and that Gu Junshan had been killed by Qu Hanshan on the spot for discovering Kang Chuyu's true identity as the Nameless Demon.

Xiao Yiren, however, was skeptical, citing Qu Hanshan's long-standing impeccable reputation and the unlikelihood of such a prominent figure being part of the Power Gang. He recounted Qu Hanshan's version of events, where Kang Chuyu was lured for arrest, but Xiao Qiushui disrupted it, allowing Kang Chuyu to escape and framing Qu Hanshan. Tang Fang corroborated Xiao Qiushui's account, stating they had witnessed Qu Hanshan's deceit and that Kang Chuyu and Qu Hanshan were indeed in league.

Xiao Yiren dismissed Tang Fang's testimony, criticizing the Tang Sect's inaction during the siege of Sword Retreat. Amidst this heated exchange, a challenge letter arrived from Qu Hanshan. In the letter, Qu Hanshan demanded a duel at his manor the following day to clear his name, as Xiao Qiushui had "slandered" him and tarnished his reputation. Tang Fang immediately expressed concern for Xiao Qiushui's safety.

Xiao Yiren, troubled by the implications, recognized that accepting the challenge would make Xiao Qiushui a public enemy in Guangling and isolate the Xiao family. He volunteered to fight in Xiao Qiushui's stead but also confined Xiao Qiushui to his room, forbidding him from leaving without permission until the truth was cleared. Xiao Qiushui argued that Qu Hanshan merely wanted to silence him and that their priority should be to rescue their parents and secure the Sword Retreat.

Xiao Yiren, however, believed that offending Qu Hanshan meant offending the entire Guangling martial circle, making external help impossible. He also dismissed seeking help from distant sects like Shaolin or Wudang as impractical, urging Xiao Qiushui to resolve his immediate problems. Xiao Yiren continued his efforts to gather support, visiting several sects. However, all refused to help, fearing to offend Qu Hanshan, who commanded the loyalty of sixteen major sects in Guangling.

During this time, Weng Yueying of the Bishan Sect arrived at the villa, welcomed by Xiao Yiren and Kaiyan. She initially expressed her sect leader's willingness to help, but noted that Xiao Qiushui's conflict with Qu Hanshan complicated matters.

She then cast doubt on Xiao Qiushui's claims, stating that Gu Junshan was "perfectly fine" and that she had personally seen him off after he concluded discussions with her sect leader that very day, directly contradicting Xiao Qiushui's assertion that Qu Hanshan had killed him.

Nan Gongxiaoyi further reinforced the doubts, reporting that Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nangu had previously expressed a desire to join the Power Gang and were close to the "First Cave Demon," suggesting they might be spies sent to mislead Xiao Qiushui. Xiao Yiren began to believe Qu Hanshan's narrative, concluding that Xiao Qiushui had been deceived into misjudging the situation.

Xiao Xueyu, while acknowledging that Xiao Qiushui might have fallen into a trap, emphasized the urgency of resolving the conflict with Qu Hanshan to secure Guangling's support, lest the Xiao family become utterly isolated. Weng Yueying then offered to mediate, leveraging her past acquaintance with Qu Hanshan from a joint mission. Xiao Yiren, grateful, accepted her offer and, with Kaiyan, decided to visit Qu Hanshan to apologize, hoping to uncover the truth if Qu Hanshan proved to be deceitful.

Meanwhile, Tang Fang, overhearing these conversations, used a dart to relay the developments to Xiao Qiushui, who was confined to his room. He quickly surmised that Weng Yueying was also an agent of the Power Gang, a testament to Qu Hanshan's far-reaching influence. Trapped and unable to act, Xiao Qiushui attempted to leave his room to confront his brother, but Shinian, acting under Xiao Yiren's orders, prevented him.

Xiao Xueyu visited, expressing her belief in Xiao Qiushui's integrity but also her inability to secure his release without concrete evidence to sway Xiao Yiren. Xiao Qiushui reiterated his conviction that Weng Yueying was allied with the Power Gang and that the news about Gu Junshan was false, as he had witnessed Qu Hanshan kill him.

He urged Xiao Xueyu to stop Xiao Yiren from walking into a trap, but she explained that their pleas for aid had been rejected across Guangling and Wubei, and further impulsive action would only worsen their situation. Alone, Xiao Qiushui resolved that despite being grounded and Qu Hanshan's cunning, he could still act.

He determined that his immediate goal was to acquire Xiao Yiren's Sect Leader's Token, believing it might be the key to altering their fate and confronting the Sword King and the Power Gang. As predicted by Liu Suifeng, Xiao Yiren returned to Qu Hanshan's residence, earnestly seeking his help once more.

Qu Hanshan, following Liu Suifeng's strategy to use the Xiao family's "sense of justice" to deliver a final blow to Xiao Qiushui, agreed to convene a meeting the following day at the Forest of Justice. There, he would gather representatives from sixteen Guangling sects to discuss providing aid to the Sword Retreat, but only on the condition that Xiao Qiushui publicly apologize to him. Xiao Yiren and Kaiyan felt confident in Qu Hanshan's trustworthiness after their interactions.

Xiao Xueyu was informed of the arrangement and, although concerned for Xiao Qiushui, agreed that he would have to apologize publicly as a lesson and that Qu Hanshan, being highly respected, likely wouldn't be overly harsh in front of all the sect leaders. Xiao Xueyu planned to stay behind to prepare for the relief efforts, while Xiao Yiren and Kaiyan would accompany Xiao Qiushui to the Forest of Justice.

Meanwhile, Tang Fang, Tie Xingyue, and Qiu Nangu, aware of Xiao Qiushui's desire for the Sect Leader's Token, discussed the seemingly "absurd" idea of stealing it. Despite not knowing Xiao Qiushui's exact reasons, they trusted his judgment and resolved to support him, believing he always had a good rationale for his unconventional actions.

Episode 14 Recap

Xiao Qiushui asked Tang Fang to retrieve the Sect Leader's Token. Just as Tang Fang obtained it, Xiao Yiren discovered her and confronted Xiao Qiushui. Xiao Yiren expressed disbelief that Xiao Qiushui would vie for leadership at such a crucial moment, especially after he had labored to convince Qu Hanshan to aid the Sword Retreat. Xiao Qiushui insisted he had no interest in leadership but desperately needed the token to rescue their parents, even if only for half a day.

He warned Xiao Yiren that Qu Hanshan was a member of the Power Gang and should not be trusted, but Xiao Yiren dismissed his concerns, believing his own years of experience would reveal any schemes. Xiao Yiren assured Xiao Qiushui that he would protect him, and the presence of other sects at the upcoming meeting would ensure fairness.

Unable to make Xiao Yiren believe him, Xiao Qiushui mentioned that Master Du Yueshan, whom they had recently rescued from Qu Hanshan's dungeon, could testify against Qu Hanshan. Xiao Yiren was skeptical, recalling previous unverified claims from Xiao Qiushui. Xiao Qiushui, however, insisted he was not lying and promised to bring Master Du as proof.

Xiao Yiren, still wary, instructed his men to guard Xiao Qiushui and prevent him from leaving, while Tang Fang, Deng Yuhan, and Zuoqiu immediately set out to find Master Du. The next day, Xiao Yiren brought Xiao Qiushui to the Forest of Justice, where Qu Hanshan had already gathered several prominent martial artists, including Master Sikong, Master Xiao, Master Ge, Lady Weng, and the Five Tigers of Guangling.

Xiao Yiren formally apologized to Qu Hanshan on Xiao Qiushui's behalf and requested their collective aid for the Xiao family. Qu Hanshan agreed to consider helping but stated that certain matters needed to be clarified first, emphasizing his impartiality. He then publicly accused Xiao Qiushui of colluding with North Wasteland and betraying Daxi's martial world. Xiao Kaiyan, Xiao Qiushui's second brother, questioned this accusation.

Qu Hanshan claimed Xiao Qiushui had invaded his residence, slandered him, and conspired to free Yuchi Qing, a North Wasteland spy, from his dungeon. Xiao Qiushui vehemently denied the accusations, calling Qu Hanshan a Power Gang lackey. He proclaimed that he had witnessed Qu Hanshan imprisoning and torturing Master Du Yueshan in his secret dungeon and also killing Master Gu Junshan in Qu Hanshan's courtyard. Xiao Qiushui accused Qu Hanshan of twisting facts and framing him with false collusion charges.

The other martial artists expressed disbelief, citing Qu Hanshan's esteemed reputation. Qu Hanshan then clarified that only Yuchi Qing, a subordinate of North Wasteland King Helian Yan, had been imprisoned in his dungeon. He, Lady Weng of Bishan Sect, and Master Ge of Blade Hall had jointly captured Yuchi Qing to extract intelligence on North Wasteland's spy network, only for Xiao Qiushui to release him.

Xiao Qiushui countered that the person he rescued was Master Du Yueshan, who had endured torture and, before escaping, taught him Mengxiang Swordplay. He asked for patience, stating his friends would bring Master Du to confront Qu Hanshan. Qu Hanshan then pointed out that he had seen traces of a "Thunderous Slash" move at Yuchi Qing's escape site. He challenged Xiao Qiushui, asking whether he had learned Mengxiang Swordplay or Yuchi Qing's signature "Bloodshed Blade." Xiao Qiushui called him despicable.

Master Ge, stating that his Blade Hall had received guidance from Master Du in the past, volunteered to spar with Xiao Qiushui to test his Mengxiang Swordplay. Xiao Yiren urged Xiao Qiushui to prove himself. During the duel, onlookers noted that Master Ge's moves resembled Master Du's Mengxiang Swordplay adapted into blade form, while Xiao Qiushui's techniques appeared more like blade arts than swordplay.

Master Ge then executed the "Thunderous Slash" and pointed to a scar on his body, asking Xiao Yiren if he recognized the move from a past battle where Yuchi Qing had gravely wounded him. Xiao Yiren reluctantly confirmed it was indeed the Bloodshed Blade. Other sect members also recognized the move, solidifying the claim that Xiao Qiushui used Bloodshed Blade's "Thunderous Slash." Xiao Qiushui realized that Qu Hanshan had meticulously planned this elaborate trap.

Qu Hanshan then posed a question to the assembled sects: how would they punish a disciple who learned forbidden techniques? The unanimous response was to cripple their martial arts and ban them from practicing forever. Xiao Qiushui protested, arguing he had committed no crime by learning a blade technique and accusing Qu Hanshan of going to great lengths just to cripple him.

Xiao Yiren tried to defend Xiao Qiushui, suggesting he was misled and that his actions were not intentional, though he conceded punishment was due. However, Master Xiao interjected, accusing Xiao Yiren of being biased and implying that the Xiao family might be colluding with North Wasteland. Xiao Yiren angrily refuted this. At that critical moment, Tang Fang arrived with Master Du Yueshan. Xiao Qiushui eagerly urged Master Du to expose Qu Hanshan's villainy.

However, "Master Du" shockingly revealed himself to be Yuchi Qing, the North Wasteland spy. Yuchi Qing tearfully begged for his life, claiming Xiao Qiushui had used the Hero Token to trick him into teaching Bloodshed Blade and then tried to kill him after escaping the dungeon. He then accused Xiao Qiushui of possessing the Hero Token, claiming to have seen it himself.

Xiao Yiren was stunned by this revelation, and other martial artists immediately demanded that Xiao Qiushui surrender the token. Xiao Qiushui denied ever having the Hero Token, asserting that Qu Hanshan and Yuchi Qing were in league to frame him, and that the Power Gang already possessed the real token. Despite Xiao Qiushui's protests, Qu Hanshan ordered Liu Qianbian to search him. Liu Qianbian produced a Hero Token from Xiao Qiushui, stunning Xiao Yiren and Xiao Kaiyan.

Qu Hanshan then mocked Xiao Qiushui for bringing such disgrace upon the illustrious Xiao family. Xiao Yiren, lamenting Xiao Qiushui's perceived betrayal, offered to sever his own arm as atonement. Qu Hanshan, however, refused, insisting that only Xiao Qiushui could suffer the punishment, a demand echoed by the other martial artists. As Tang Fang attempted to expose the truth about Qu Hanshan's machinations, Qu Hanshan moved to punish her as an accomplice.

At that moment, Tang Song arrived, requesting Qu Hanshan's mercy and claiming he was sent by Madam Tang to bring Tang Fang back for judgment, stating that Tang Fang had been misled by Xiao Qiushui. Qu Hanshan permitted this, and Tang Song, along with his sister, escorted Tang Fang away. Recognizing that Tang Fang was safer with her own sect, Xiao Qiushui realized he needed to find a way to escape this situation and eventually clear his name.

However, as he tried to leave, Xiao Yiren's men blocked him. Xiao Qiushui resisted, attempting to break free and explain himself, but Xiao Yiren, feeling Xiao Qiushui had almost ruined the family's reputation and continued to make things worse, remained firm. Qu Hanshan seized this moment, reiterating that if Xiao Yiren continued to shield Xiao Qiushui, no one would dare to aid the Xiao family.

Under immense pressure and believing it was for the greater good of the family, Xiao Yiren hesitated, and Qu Hanshan swiftly seized Xiao Qiushui, crippling his martial arts. Xiao Qiushui screamed in agony. Xiao Yiren then ordered his men to take Xiao Qiushui away. Qu Hanshan declared that he would lead the martial artists to aid the Xiao family, and that he would safeguard the Hero Token until it could be returned to Wudang.

Meanwhile, in a dilapidated house, Yuchi Qing, having completed his task of framing Xiao Qiushui, pleaded with Liu Suifeng to remove the "Better-Dead Pill" from his body. Liu Suifeng refused, stating that the debt for the Herbal Valley remained unsettled. Yuchi Qing recognized Liu Suifeng as the young master of Herbal Valley, who confirmed his identity and his long-held grudge over the destruction of his family. Yuchi Qing insisted he was not responsible for Herbal Valley's demise.

He confessed that he had been sent by King Helian to steal the formula for a medicinal pill that could curb hunger and heal wounds, to produce "Marching Pills" for the North Wasteland army. He had been discovered and expelled from Herbal Valley. Subsequently, another informant, bribed by King Helian, had spread rumors throughout the Daxi martial world that Herbal Valley was secretly developing Marching Pills for the North Wasteland army.

These rumors led to Herbal Valley's annihilation by Daxi's martial factions, an act Yuchi Qing swore he had no part in. When pressed for the identity of the Daxi informant, Yuchi Qing stated it was military intelligence known only to King Helian, but he did remember that the Diancang Sect was involved in transporting Marching Pills to North Wasteland. Liu Suifeng then compelled Yuchi Qing to write down all his confessions.

While being escorted back to the Tang Sect by her brother Tang Song and sister Tang Qing, Tang Fang regained consciousness. Taking advantage of a moment of inattention, she used a hidden weapon to facilitate her escape. Back at the Xiao residence, Xiao Xueyu sealed Xiao Qiushui's acupoints and applied Tendon-Rejoining Salve to ease his pain.

Despite his severe injuries, Xiao Qiushui urgently warned Xiao Yiren and Xiao Kaiyan that Qu Hanshan was the Power Gang's Sword King, already possessed the Hero Token, and had orchestrated the frame-up. He implored them not to let the Power Gang enter the Sword Retreat, fearing it would endanger their parents due to Liu Suifeng's grudge against the Xiao family.

However, his siblings dismissed his warnings, reiterating that Qu Hanshan was now helping the family and that Xiao Qiushui had almost ruined their reputation. Xiao Yiren insisted Xiao Qiushui needed rest and left. Alone in his room, Xiao Qiushui reflected on how the events might diverge from the novel's plot. He looked through a pouch his mother had given him and discovered the Sword Retreat's key hidden inside.

He recalled a past conversation where his mother told him the key was with his father and, by ancestral rule, could only be passed on to his sons upon his death or abdication. He wondered why his mother had sealed such a vital item within his pouch.

Episode 15 Recap

Xiao Qiushui discovered a letter from his mother, Sun Huishan, in his travel bag, along with the Sword Retreat key. In the letter, his mother confessed that she and his father had lied about the Sword Retreat's water reserves, which were almost depleted. After consulting with the elders, they had decided to sacrifice themselves to give the younger generation a chance to survive.

She expressed her fear of not living to see him return and wished for him to reunite with his siblings and live well, trusting he would become the pillar of the Xiao family. She ended with a secret message, telling him not to inform his older brothers that he was her favorite and most handsome son. Reading this, Xiao Qiushui was heartbroken, realizing the Sword Retreat would not last long against the Power Gang's persistent siege.

He immediately sought out his elder brothers, Xiao Yiren and Xiao Kaiyan, and his sister, Xiao Xueyu, urging them to return to the Sword Retreat to save their parents. Xiao Xueyu expressed her sadness, wondering why their mother would write such a letter. Xiao Yiren insisted they should depart immediately and travel day and night, believing they could still make it back. He added that Qu Hanshan had already rallied Guangling's volunteers, and they would leave after regrouping.

However, Xiao Qiushui vehemently objected, pleading with Xiao Yiren that they could not delay any longer and that Qu Hanshan would never help them. He warned that their parents would truly die if they didn't act fast. Xiao Yiren reprimanded Xiao Qiushui for his "defeatist talk" and his persistent distrust of Qu Hanshan, reminding him that Guangling's martial arts community had pledged support.

Desperate, Xiao Qiushui revealed that he knew about future events, explaining that he had somehow fallen into this fictional world and possessed foresight of the story's ending. As he spoke, the Demon Codex activated the Boiling Blood Cocoon, causing him immense pain. Despite his suffering, he crawled towards Xiao Yiren, begging him not to take Qu Hanshan to the Sword Retreat, swearing on his life that Qu Hanshan was the Sword King.

He asked for one chance, promising to prove Qu Hanshan's true identity at the Forest of Justice. Xiao Xueyu intervened, vouching for Xiao Qiushui, saying he would never joke about their parents' lives and that if Qu Hanshan was truly trustworthy, he shouldn't fear a test. Xiao Qiushui, further pressed, swore that if he couldn't prove Qu Hanshan was the Sword King, he would atone with his life.

Xiao Yiren, however, dismissed his pleas, telling him to stop gambling with lives and to focus on recovering, citing a past instance where he had trusted Xiao Qiushui, and reiterating that the family's fate was too critical for any more missteps. Meanwhile, Tang Fang, having escaped her previous predicament, returned to the Guangling Villa.

Upon seeing Xiao Qiushui's severely injured state, with his limbs broken and martial arts crippled by Qu Hanshan, she felt immense guilt for not being able to help him. Xiao Qiushui, however, downplayed his injuries, saying he merely fell for Qu Hanshan's trick. He then light-heartedly asked to borrow one of her lucky darts for self-defense, which she reluctantly gave him.

He then tasked her with a mission: a reclusive master, living 15 miles south of the villa, had developed a potent Tendon-Rejoining Salve that could heal his injuries. Fearing that his follower Zuoqiu's poor communication skills would prevent him from acquiring it, he requested Tang Fang to retrieve it, and she immediately set off. Xiao Qiushui, however, had anticipated Tang Fang's return and her protective nature. He had secretly instructed Zuoqiu to intercept her.

As Tang Fang was led into a dense forest by Zuoqiu, she was suddenly trapped in an iron cage. Zuoqiu explained that Xiao Qiushui, severely injured, did not want her to get further involved in his dangerous plans. He conveyed Xiao Qiushui's wish for her to return to the Tang Sect quickly and warned her not to come back to Guangling Villa or visit the Forest of Justice once the cage's mechanism was released at night.

Tang Fang was enraged, demanding to be freed and questioning Xiao Qiushui's motives. Alone, Xiao Qiushui reflected on his realization that the fates of his parents and friends were far more significant than mere words in a book. He resolved to expose Qu Hanshan's true nature, even if it meant sacrificing his own life and never returning to his original world.

The next day, Xiao Yiren and Xiao Kaiyan discussed leaving Xiao Qiushui behind at the villa due to his severe injuries, believing it better for him to rest than endure the journey. Xiao Yiren and his entourage, along with Qu Hanshan, then proceeded to the Forest of Justice. Xiao Yiren formally thanked Qu Hanshan for his assistance on behalf of the Xiao family.

Qu Hanshan, maintaining his facade of righteousness, claimed to despise the Power Gang and assured them he wouldn't abandon the Xiao family. He mentioned that Xiao Xueyu was waiting at a suburban teahouse with other righteous sects, while the Five Tigers were already at the Forest of Justice. As they were about to depart, they were surprised to find Xiao Qiushui, gravely injured and in a wheelchair, waiting for them on their path.

Xiao Yiren rushed to him, questioning his presence. Xiao Qiushui, however, apologized to Qu Hanshan for his past offenses and asked to speak with him privately about the Hero Token. Initially hesitant, Qu Hanshan's interest was piqued by the mention of the Hero Token, and he approached Xiao Qiushui, despite Xiao Yiren's unspoken concern about what his brother might say.

As Qu Hanshan drew near, he expressed suspicion about Xiao Qiushui's intentions, questioning what more tricks he could play in his injured state. Xiao Qiushui, however, maintained his composure, declaring that he had no tricks but intended to expose Qu Hanshan's true nature. Provoked, Qu Hanshan lunged, grabbing Xiao Qiushui's arm, intending to cripple him further. With a surge of desperate strength, Xiao Qiushui forced out the Boiling Blood Cocoon, forcing Qu Hanshan to resist with his true power.

In doing so, Qu Hanshan inadvertently unleashed his Blood Sword Energy, revealing his true form as the Sword King. The onlookers, including Xiao Yiren and Xiao Kaiyan, gasped in realization. Exposed, Qu Hanshan swiftly fled. Xiao Qiushui, gravely wounded by the Blood Sword Energy, collapsed, his life ebbing away. His brothers rushed to his side, realizing with profound sorrow that Xiao Qiushui had sacrificed himself to reveal the truth.

With his last breaths, Xiao Qiushui clutched their hands, reaffirming that he had never lied to them and begging them to save their parents. Xiao Yiren and Xiao Kaiyan, overwhelmed with grief and remorse, promised to fulfill his dying wish.

Xiao Yiren quickly devised a plan to divide their forces: Xiao Kaiyan would take a detachment via the water route to the Sword Retreat, while Xiao Yiren would lead others to Jinzhong and then circle back, hoping to divert the Sword King's attention. The family butler, Liang, was tasked with arranging Xiao Qiushui's burial in Guangling. Meanwhile, Tang Fang managed to escape the iron cage.

Upon returning to the Guangling Villa, she found it adorned with white mourning cloths and a coffin in the courtyard, where Xiao Qiushui lay. Liang, the butler, presented her with a wooden box, as per Xiao Qiushui's instructions. Inside, she found the lucky dart she had given him and a letter.

In the letter, Xiao Qiushui apologized for sending her away and entrusted her with a Golden Swallow, a token Madam Wu had asked him to deliver to Yan Kuangtu's kin, a task he could no longer complete. He also mentioned a dagger given to him by Master Zhang Linyi, asking her to tell the elder that he had never disgraced his teachings.

Most importantly, he urged her and everyone else to live well and strictly forbade her from seeking revenge for him. Overcome with tears, Tang Fang remembered past tender moments with Xiao Qiushui. Unwilling to accept his death, she grabbed a sword, determined to avenge him. Liang desperately tried to dissuade her, reminding her of Xiao Qiushui's final plea not to seek revenge, emphasizing that his spirit would not rest if harm befell her.

Tang Fang, however, lashed out, asking if Xiao Qiushui had ever understood her feelings. Later that night, as Tang Fang sat alone, drinking in sorrow, a loud crash echoed from the mourning hall. She rushed inside to find Liang unconscious on the ground and Xiao Qiushui's coffin empty. Simultaneously, Xiao Qiushui awoke in an unfamiliar location, discovering Liu Suifeng beside him. Recognizing him, Xiao Qiushui initially mistook him for Feng Lang.

Liu Suifeng corrected him, revealing his true identity and explaining that he had saved Xiao Qiushui's life by administering Medicine King's Xuanhuang Elixir after he was fatally wounded by the Sword King's Blood Sword Energy. Xiao Qiushui, still angry, accused Liu Suifeng of being despicable for playing the savior. He confronted Liu Suifeng, asserting that he had exploited his trust to infiltrate the Xiao family, endangered the Sword Retreat, and engineered the frame-up in Guangling.

Liu Suifeng admitted to orchestrating all their actions, stating that their every move had been within his calculations. However, he confessed his only miscalculation was Xiao Qiushui's "death-defying heroism" in abandoning his martial arts for what Liu Suifeng considered false hope. Xiao Qiushui, undeterred, defiantly asked if Liu Suifeng had ever calculated his own death.

Episode 16 Recap

Xiao Yiren met with his sister, Xiao Xueyu, who had just learned of Xiao Qiushui's death at the hands of Qu Hanshan, the Sword King. Distraught, Xiao Xueyu wished to return to Guangling to see her brother one last time, but Xiao Yiren insisted there was no time for grief. He reminded her that Xiao Qiushui sacrificed himself to expose the Sword King and ensure their parents' safety, urging them to hasten their return to Sword Retreat.

Xiao Yiren explained that their second brother, Xiao Kaiyan, was already ahead, using a force map from Xiao Qiushui to find a path, and they would depart as soon as he returned. Meanwhile, Liu Suifeng continued to press Xiao Qiushui for the whereabouts of the Hero Token, to which Xiao Qiushui defiantly replied that the token was not his, and Liu Suifeng would never obtain it.

Finding Xiao Qiushui uncooperative, Liu Suifeng used pressure on his acupoints, causing him immense suffering. While Liu Suifeng consumed roast duck, taunting his captive, Xiao Qiushui, remembering his brothers' urgent journey to Sword Retreat, resolved to stall Liu Suifeng to buy them precious time. He decided to change his confrontational attitude. Soon after, Xiao Kaiyan returned to Xiao Yiren's group. He reported that Qu Hanshan had ambushed his scouting party, killing all the men who accompanied him.

Xiao Yiren deduced that Qu Hanshan had likely set up further defenses on their intended path. He decided they must alter their route and head towards Diancang Sect, leveraging their father's past connections with the sect. Despite the hardship, everyone agreed to endure and press on. Back with Liu Suifeng, Xiao Qiushui now ate the food offered to him with gusto, even though he knew it was poisoned.

Liu Suifeng mocked his intelligence for eating tainted meat, but Xiao Qiushui dismissed it, stating that after risking his life to expose Qu Hanshan, he no longer feared death or poison. He also revealed that Madam Wu had never mentioned the Hero Token to him, only instructing him to find Yan Kuangtu's relatives. Dissatisfied, Liu Suifeng activated the Qijue Poison, causing Xiao Qiushui to writhe in agony as if countless ants were devouring his meridians.

Later, Liu Suifeng's subordinate, Song Mingzhu, reported that the Snake King was en route to Diancang Sect. Wary of another betrayal similar to that of the Purple Phoenix, Liu Suifeng instructed Song Mingzhu to follow the Snake King and eliminate him if he showed any signs of disloyalty. Suddenly, the Sword King arrived at Liu Suifeng's lodging, demanding Xiao Qiushui's release. Liu Suifeng refused, accusing the Sword King of planting spies like Purple Phoenix and Kang Chuyu.

A fierce confrontation ensued, during which Xiao Qiushui, despite his poisoned state, seized the opportunity to escape the room undetected. The Sword King, realizing Xiao Qiushui was gone, was frustrated by Liu Suifeng's carelessness. Meanwhile, in Sword Retreat, the dwindling water supply was a grave concern. Xiao Xilou refused to drink the water offered by Sun Huishan, wanting to preserve it. He pondered their dire situation, acknowledging the valiant efforts of those resisting but lamenting their entrapment.

He declared his readiness to lead a final, desperate charge if no reinforcements arrived, prioritizing the survival of the younger generation and the sect's legacy. Sun Huishan reassured him, expressing her belief that Xiao Qiushui, being clever, would surely return with aid. Xiao Xilou echoed her sentiment, secretly expressing his pride in his brightest son.

Having escaped, a weakened Xiao Qiushui stumbled through a forest and was discovered by the Dragon River Four Punks, four men who made a living by collecting corpses for rewards. Initially intending to drown him and claim the bounty, they then recognized him as Xiao Qiushui. Believing him to be responsible for the deaths of their friends, the Dragon River Three Heroes, they sought revenge. Just as they were about to kill him, Liu Suifeng arrived and intervened.

The Snake King, true to Liu Suifeng's suspicions, massacred the Diancang Sect, leaving behind a few survivors to falsely accuse Liu Suifeng. As Xiao Yiren's group approached the sect's vicinity, they encountered a dying Diancang disciple who, before succumbing to snake venom, managed to utter "Liu Suifeng" and "snake." Xiao Yiren's party soon faced an ambush led by the Snake King and his followers.

The battle was fierce, and just as they were engaged, the Power Gang's Fire King, Zu Jindian, appeared by boat, further assailing them. During the battle, Song Mingzhu, having confirmed the Snake King's treachery and collusion with Zu Jindian, confronted and killed him. In the brutal fight that followed, many of Xiao Yiren's men, including Shinian, sacrificed themselves to protect him and the others as they tried to escape.

Witnessing the heavy losses, Xiao Yiren cried out to the heavens, questioning why the benevolent Xiao family was suffering such a fate. Xiao Xueyu, hearing his lamentations, finally grasped the reality of Xiao Qiushui's death. Overwhelmed by grief, she eventually found resolve, reminding Xiao Yiren that their parents' lives and the sect's future now rested on their shoulders. Back at Liu Suifeng's location, Xiao Qiushui had been recaptured.

Liu Suifeng brought the Dragon River Four Punks, now bound, before Xiao Qiushui. He warned that if Xiao Qiushui did not reveal the Hero Token's location within the time it took for three incense sticks to burn, he would cripple the four men. To prove his point, he immediately injured one of the Punks' kneecaps, causing them to frantically beg Xiao Qiushui to comply. Meanwhile, Song Mingzhu reported to Liu Suifeng privately, confirming the Snake King's betrayal.

She recounted the attack on Xiao Yiren's group, during which Shinian had fallen, and that she had recovered his personal token. Armed with this new leverage, Liu Suifeng entered the room and threw Shinian's token at Xiao Qiushui's feet. Horrified, Xiao Qiushui stared at the token and demanded to know what Liu Suifeng had done to his family. Liu Suifeng simply replied that his actions were irrelevant; what mattered now was what Xiao Qiushui would do.

Episode 17 Recap

Xiao Qiushui was held captive and interrogated by Liu Suifeng, who demanded to know the whereabouts of the Hero Token. The Four Punks, also captive and injured, urged Xiao Qiushui to comply. Liu Suifeng declared that only Xiao Qiushui could save his family and pressed him to recall conversations with Madam Wu regarding the token, threatening him if he failed to remember. Meanwhile, Tang Fang infiltrated Liu Suifeng's residence, recognizing the layout as the Tang Sect's Seven-Step Deadly Array.

This led her to suspect that the Tang Sect might be involved in Xiao Qiushui's abduction. After skillfully navigating several traps, Tang Fang found Xiao Qiushui, who was disheartened and felt he couldn't endanger her, especially after what happened to Rou. The Four Punks, fearing Liu Suifeng's return, implored Tang Fang to rescue them all. She promised to heal them if they helped get Xiao Qiushui out, then swiftly disabled the remaining mechanisms.

During the escape, the Punks mistakenly revealed that Feng Lang was Liu Suifeng, causing Tang Fang to wonder about Liu Suifeng's connection to the Tang Sect. Song Mingzhu promptly reported to Liu Suifeng that his array was broken and Xiao Qiushui had been rescued. Liu Suifeng deduced that Tang Fang was responsible, hinting at a deep personal connection by addressing her intimately.

Tang Fang then led Xiao Qiushui and the Four Punks to a secluded courtyard, where she gave Xiao Qiushui a special pill designed to absorb the ant toxin from his system. With internal meditation, Xiao Qiushui quickly expelled the poison. Tang Fang, seeing his recovery, returned his Golden Swallow and dagger, which he had left behind before his supposed death.

This prompted Xiao Qiushui to recall Madam Wu's earlier entrustment: Yan Kuangtu, a once-dreaded martial artist, had left the Golden Swallow with Madam Wu after saving her son, General Wu, which inadvertently led to his own brother's death. His lifelong obsession to find his younger sister had driven him to great turmoil in the martial world, leading to a siege that forced him into seclusion.

Madam Wu had been searching for Yan Kuangtu's sister for years without success and had asked Xiao Qiushui to continue the search during his travels. Tang Fang inquired about Xiao Qiushui's "resurrection." He explained that Qu Hanshan's palm strike had merely induced a state of suspended animation, making him appear dead. He emphasized the urgent need to return to Sword Retreat to aid his family.

Tang Fang then provided the Four Punks with Bone-Setting Balm and Recovery Powder, allowing them to temporarily move their injured limbs and restore some internal energy, before they all set off. Elsewhere, Xiao Yiren and his group were rushing towards Sword Retreat when Xiao Xueyu suddenly collapsed, weakened by snake venom. Nangong Xiaoyi bravely volunteered to stay behind and care for Xiao Xueyu, urging Xiao Yiren to continue to Sword Retreat to save his parents.

A hopeful rumor then reached Xiao Yiren that Xiao Qiushui was still alive. Liu Suifeng confronted Xiao Qiushui and Tang Fang, who was surprised he knew the Tang Sect's array. Liu Suifeng revealed his identity as her long-lost "friend Feng" by showing a distinctive scar, reminding her of a time she had saved him.

He recounted his tragic past: his mother and Tang Yaoshun had conceived him, but Tang Yaoshun abandoned them, leaving his mother and him in the peaceful Herbal Valley. Liu Suifeng claimed that Xiao Xilou, Xiao Qiushui's father, later led a massacre there, coveting their elixirs and framing them as collaborators with the Wastelanders. Xiao Qiushui vehemently denied this, stating his father would never harm the innocent.

The Punks, however, interjected, asserting the official narrative that the Herbal Valley had indeed collaborated with the Wastelanders. Disgusted by Liu Suifeng's ruthlessness as the Power Gang's vice-leader, Tang Fang declared that she sought her goals honorably and had not saved him from his past only for him to drag others into suffering. As Liu Suifeng prepared to attack Xiao Qiushui, Liang Dou, a close friend of the Xiao family, arrived with his personal guards.

Liang Dou condemned Liu Suifeng for attacking a defenseless man and asserted his allegiance to the Xiao family, forcing Liu Suifeng to retreat. Liang Dou, understanding Xiao Qiushui's urgency, had already prepared swift horses for them and informed Xiao Qiushui that the leaders of Shaolin and Wudang were also on their way to Sword Retreat. Xiao Qiushui thanked Liang Dou profusely, promising future repayment, while Liang Dou decided to join the other masters in their journey.

Meanwhile, Li Chenzhou confronted Liu Suifeng, reprimanding him for repeatedly failing to obtain the Hero Token, which was undermining his authority within the Power Gang. Li Chenzhou then revealed that Shaolin and Wudang were heading to aid the Xiao family and ordered Liu Suifeng to intercept and eliminate them. Liu Suifeng accepted the daunting task. His lieutenants, concerned about facing the combined might of Master Tianzheng of Shaolin and Master Taichan of Wudang, voiced their apprehension.

They described Tianzheng's formidable Yang energy and Taichan's unpredictable swordplay. Liu Suifeng acknowledged the danger but assured them he had a strategy and planned to activate Power Gang informants embedded within the various sects. At the Xiao family's back mountain, Master Tianzheng of Shaolin and Mo Yanxia of Hengshan arrived to support the Xiao family. Power Gang forces offered Bodhidharma's handwritten Heart Sutra in exchange for Shaolin's neutrality. Master Tianzheng refused, valuing justice over treasure.

A Power Gang leader threatened to destroy the Sutra, but Tianzheng prevented it, revealing he was aware of the gu bugs hidden within. He used his Wither and Thrive Finger to destroy the bugs, but was immediately ambushed by an attacker and sustained an internal injury. As the Power Gang pressed their attack, Master Taichan of Wudang arrived. While Mo Yanxia led the fight, Taichan began helping Tianzheng heal.

Seizing the opportunity, the Power Gang unleashed Yu Kuyu's energy-dispersing powder on the masters and revealed their cunning scheme. The gu bugs had not been truly destroyed by Tianzheng's "Ku" (wither) energy but merely reduced to algae-like dust. When he used his "Rong" (thrive) energy to heal, the dust revived and reinfected him. The poison then spread to Taichan as he was assisting with the healing.

The relentless attacks were designed to force the masters to use their internal energy, activating the combined poisons. As the Power Gang gloated over their apparent victory, Xiao Qiushui and Tang Fang suddenly burst into the courtyard.

Episode 18 Recap

Despite his weakened state, Xiao Qiushui fiercely fought the Power Gang. Witnessing Xiao Qiushui's desperate resolve, Taichan and Tianzheng considered transferring their internal energy to him. However, both masters were afflicted with gu poison, and they feared the transfer would also infect Xiao Qiushui, causing him immense suffering, like "having your bones ground to dust."

When Xiao Qiushui learned of their offer, he knelt before them, stating that he was already a broken man and did not care if he was poisoned. He pleaded with them, declaring that he would endure any pain for revenge and to protect his parents, begging them to grant him their internal energy. Seeing his unwavering determination, the two masters agreed, and the three immediately sat down to transmit the internal power.

Some time later, Xiao Qiushui's martial arts greatly improved, even surprising the masters, who remarked on his unbelievable resilience and limitless potential if he survived. During the intense fight, Liu Suifeng arrived and threw Xiao Xilou's jade pendant at Xiao Qiushui. Xiao Qiushui recognized it, recalling his father's words that the pendant never leaves his side if he is alive, and immediately understood that his parents had fallen victim to Liu Suifeng.

Enraged, he lunged at Liu Suifeng, demanding to know where his parents were and vowing, "today you die!" The two fought fiercely, each move lethal. Taichan and Tianzheng, observing the battle, were astonished that Xiao Qiushui showed no signs of gu poison. Tianzheng realized that because Xiao Qiushui's martial arts had been crippled earlier, there was no internal energy for the gu worms to latch onto. As Xiao Qiushui and Liu Suifeng battled, Longhu, a Shaolin disciple, suddenly attacked Tianzheng.

He explained that he owed a debt to the Power Gang for saving his life, which he now repaid. But he also owed many years of teaching to Tianzheng. He chose to take his own life to atone for his actions against his master. As Longhu died, Tianzheng lamented, "This karma. . ." Meanwhile, Mo Yanxia, revealed to be the White Phoenix, shifted her allegiance and joined Liu Suifeng in attacking the Huanhua Sect.

Xiao Qiushui, wielding water as a sword, struck Liu Suifeng in the chest. Liu Suifeng retaliated with increased force, and both sustained injuries. Liu Suifeng then led his forces away. Shortly after, Taichan and Tianzheng succumbed to the gu poison and died. Liang Dou lamented their deaths and the revelation that Lady Mo of the Hengshan Sect, also known as the White-Robed Guanyin, was part of the Power Gang, questioning how Daxi's martial world had fallen so low.

Xiao Yiren rushed to the front courtyard and found Xiao Qiushui kneeling, utterly devastated. He pressed Xiao Qiushui for answers about their parents. Xiao Qiushui, heartbroken, confessed that Feng Lang was Liu Suifeng, and it was his fault for trusting him, which led to their parents' demise and the ruination of Huanhua. Enraged, Xiao Yiren repeatedly struck Xiao Qiushui, proclaiming he disowned him as a brother and that Xiao Qiushui was no longer part of the Xiao family.

Xiao Kaiyan, who had just arrived, was shocked to hear the news and, after learning the truth, also blamed Xiao Qiushui, wishing his brother had died in Guangling instead. Liu Suifeng was surprised by Xiao Qiushui's rapid martial arts progress but considered the deaths of Taichan and Tianzheng a significant gain. With her identity exposed, White Phoenix (Mo Yanxia) prepared to return to the Hengshan Sect to manage affairs before reporting back to the Power Gang leader.

Before leaving, she told Song Mingzhu to keep an eye on Liu Suifeng, her "beloved." Song Mingzhu remained silent, fearing criticism for overstepping. Liu Suifeng expressed concern that White Phoenix might become "another Longhu." However, White Phoenix was ambushed by a masked man shortly after her departure. That night, Kang Chuyu met with the masked man, using a whistle as a signal.

The masked man expressed satisfaction with the current chaos in the martial world, aiming to exploit the conflict between the Power Gang and other sects for his own benefit and reshape the martial world's order. Xiao Qiushui remained unconscious for a long time. He awoke from a nightmare where Liu Suifeng killed his parents, mistaking Deng Yuhan and Zuo Qiu for Liu Suifeng. He brutally choked them, nearly suffocating them, while Tang Fang watched in horror.

Eventually, Tang Fang helped him regain some clarity. Still consumed by grief, Xiao Qiushui walked alone in the courtyard, reminiscing about his parents' loving yet stern demeanor and feeling excruciating pain in his heart. The next day, the three Xiao brothers began to arrange for the deceased. Xiao Xueyu finally returned to Huanhua, heartbroken by the devastation. She expressed her guilt for failing her adoptive parents but urged Xiao Qiushui to rest and recover, recognizing his injuries.

Due to the scorching heat, it was crucial to bury the bodies immediately. However, the mortuary at the foot of the mountain feared the Power Gang's return and would not come. Thus, the Xiao brothers, with the help of others, decided to bury the fallen disciples on the mountain itself. At Sword Retreat, Xiao Qiushui erected gravestones for Xiao Xilou and Sun Huishan.

He reflected on his journey, recalling his initial belief that his knowledge of the future would allow him to prevent tragedies. Yet, he realized that he had changed nothing, only exacerbating the situation and exposing his own arrogance and ignorance. He lamented that he wasn't the true Xiao Qiushui, a noble martial hero, and that he had only made things worse, sacrificing even the original Xiao Qiushui's potential for revenge, ultimately becoming "a complete failure."

Episode 19 Recap

Kneeling before the tombstones of his parents, Xiao Xilou and Sun Huishan, Xiao Qiushui was consumed by self-blame, lamenting his blind confidence that led to their demise and the near-destruction of his family. He felt his fate was predetermined by the original story, and his struggles only worsened the outcome, making him responsible for their deaths. Tang Fang arrived, gently comforting him.

She insisted that it was not his fault, assuring him that no one could have done better than him in challenging the Power Gang, defying death, exposing Qu Hanshan, and risking his life to save his family. Tang Fang also promised to find a cure for his injuries, leveraging the Tang Sect’s extensive connections with renowned physicians. Xiao Qiushui, however, remained despondent, feeling like a failure and a "loser," urging her to leave and not waste her time on him.

Tang Fang, in turn, expressed pride in his actions, stating that the truth of events was often obscured and that she hoped he would take care of himself. Meanwhile, Xiao Yiren swiftly began efforts to rebuild the Huanhua Sect, reopening its doors for new recruits before his parents' seven-day mourning period. This, he believed, would offer solace to their spirits. He instructed Xiao Kaiyan to oversee the forging of new swords, as swords were crucial for the new disciples.

Xiao Kaiyan affirmed his arrangements were already in place but inquired about the whereabouts of the Changge Sword, the symbol of the family head. Xiao Yiren expressed confidence in his leadership and assured Xiao Kaiyan that he had a plan for handling any issues, particularly concerning the land previously leased by the Xiao family. Elsewhere, Liu Suifeng diligently worked on recovering from his injuries.

Song Mingzhu brought him a Reviving Pill from the Medicine King and relayed news she had gathered from the Power Gang. She reported that Qu Hanshan had met with Li Chenzhou and shifted all blame for failing to retrieve the Hero Token onto Liu Suifeng. Consequently, Li Chenzhou had ordered the Fire King to conduct a thorough investigation. Liu Suifeng accepted responsibility for the failure.

For three days and nights, Xiao Qiushui toiled without rest, meticulously carving memorial tablets for the Huanhua disciples who had perished at the hands of the Power Gang, each one etched into a broken sword and set in the Sword Tomb. Left Qiu and Deng Yuhan watched, deeply pained by his relentless grief. Xiao Yiren, determined to secure resources for the sect's revival, hosted a banquet at the Xiao family's villa, inviting leaders from various Jin City sects.

While many congratulated him on Huanhua’s reconstruction, Xiao Yiren soon revealed his true intentions. He reminded them that his ancestors, in a gesture of goodwill to protect Jin City's martial world, had leased land between the Xiao and Tang families to the various sects for a hundred years, free of charge. Now, with Huanhua needing substantial resources to rebuild, he demanded the return of the fertile lands and the payment of a hundred years' worth of back rent.

The assembled leaders were incensed. Some argued that Xiao Xilou had promised a free lease, while others claimed they had already paid rent to the Tang Sect, effectively refusing Xiao Yiren's demands. His anger flaring, Xiao Yiren accused them of being ungrateful wretches and gave them a two-week ultimatum to produce the land deeds and money. As the frustrated sect leaders departed, many openly blamed Xiao Qiushui for the Xiao family's misfortune.

Xiao Qiushui, who had witnessed the entire contentious exchange from the doorway, approached Xiao Yiren, expressing his disapproval of such underhanded tactics, reminding him that their father never sought to exploit kindness. Xiao Yiren, still seething, furiously turned on Xiao Qiushui, accusing him of being responsible for their parents' tragic deaths and for bringing the "wretch" Liu Suifeng into their home. The verbal assault, coupled with his already weakened state and emotional turmoil, caused Xiao Qiushui to collapse.

Fortunately, Liang Dou was passing by and promptly took the unconscious Xiao Qiushui to his private residence for care. Xiao Qiushui awoke two days later in Liang Dou's home. Liang Dou informed him that the reconstruction of Huanhua would take time and offered his private residence as a temporary home for Xiao Qiushui and his companions.

He also revealed that Xiao Qiushui's courageous actions—exposing Qu Hanshan and establishing the Shenzhou Alliance—had already spread throughout the martial world, earning him widespread renown. Liang Dou then led Xiao Qiushui outside, where numerous martial artists from Guangling had gathered. They bowed respectfully, expressing profound gratitude to Xiao Qiushui for exposing Qu Hanshan’s true identity as the Power Gang's Sword King, which had allowed their sects to prepare and successfully repel Qu Hanshan's attacks.

Shortly after, a Wu family guard arrived, delivering a personal letter from Madam Wu. The letter brought joyous news: General Wu had been exonerated of all wrongdoing and had achieved a significant military victory against the northern barbarians at Xianren Pass, recovering over 100 li of territory.

Hearing this, Xiao Qiushui realized that, contrary to the original story where Madam Wu was supposed to die en route to Xianren Pass and the northern barbarians would attack, the narrative had been fundamentally altered. This newfound understanding ignited a spark of hope, suggesting he could now rewrite his own destiny. Inspired, the Guangling sects offered large quantities of timber and stone to aid in Huanhua's rebuilding.

They also expressed their desire to join the Xiao family and the Shenzhou Alliance, even proposing to establish a branch in Guangling. Xiao Qiushui, though grateful, humbly declined the role of leader, stating he could not serve in such a capacity, but he warmly welcomed them all to join the Shenzhou Alliance. Meanwhile, Xiao Xueyu, after diligent study of ancient texts, discovered a method for rejoining severed meridians.

She immediately applied the treatment to Xiao Qiushui, successfully restoring forty percent of his meridians. Despite his partial recovery and the warnings from Left Qiu and Deng Yuhan about the risks, Xiao Qiushui, feeling an urgent need to regain his strength, insisted on immediate sword practice. Observing Xiao Qiushui's renewed spirit, Liang Dou presented him with a letter he had discovered in the Sword Retreat. It was from Xiao Xilou, addressed to his three sons.

In the letter, Xiao Xilou revealed that he had anticipated the Sword Retreat’s siege would be insurmountable. He had sent his sons away under the guise of seeking aid, knowing it was a desperate measure to ensure their survival, believing that if he perished, it would be a noble death for justice.

He further explained that a century ago, when the Xiao family faced near-extinction, their ancestors had forged the Changge Sword from 128 broken blades of loyal kinsmen, imbuing it with the loyal spirit of the Xiao family. The Changge Sword possessed a spirit and would, by fate, find its true master in times of peril. Xiao Xilou urged his sons to remember his words: "Broken swords can be remade, and wilting flowers can bloom.

It's never too late to start over. Recover the Changge Sword, and Huanhua's legacy continues." Overcome with emotion, Xiao Qiushui initially blamed himself for his father's death, but Liang Dou reassured him, emphasizing that true righteousness lay not in the sword itself, but in the heart, and that such destiny would surely find him. Moved by Liang Dou’s words and his father’s enduring spirit, Xiao Qiushui, despite his previous reluctance to contend for leadership, resolved to shoulder the responsibility.

He returned to the Sword Retreat and, with a solemn ceremony, inserted his own broken sword into the sword array. As if by magic, the legendary Changge Sword slowly emerged. Xiao Qiushui firmly grasped the sword, finally becoming the rightful leader of the Huanhua Sect. At that moment, the Demon Codex reappeared, offering him a choice: assume another character or definitively remain in his current role.

Recalling the countless lives lost and his deep-seated desire for vengeance, Xiao Qiushui unequivocally chose to stay as Xiao Qiushui. Despite a system warning that this "unsanctioned action" would lead to a forced logout, the erasure of all data, and the loss of his real-world memories as Xiao Mingming, trapping him permanently within the Demon Codex, he remained steadfast.

He declared that both Xiao Mingming and Xiao Qiushui were him, and he would only choose what was right, echoing his father’s words: "Broken swords can be remade, and wilting flowers can bloom. It’s never too late to start over."

Episode 20 Recap

Xiao Qiushui gazed at the Sword of Changge, memories of his family and childhood flooding his mind. He recalled his father, Xiao Xilou, saying, "Broken swords can be remade, and wilted flowers can bloom again. With the body broken and bones shattered, I can still start over."

He remembered his brother, Yiren, teaching him swordplay, his mother making him his favorite noodles, and the solemn family oath they all took to uphold their parents' aspirations and bring renown to Huanhua Swordplay. Liang Dou, witnessing this moment, congratulated Xiao Qiushui, declaring him the new leader of the Huanhua Sect, remarking that only Xiao Qiushui, by recovering the broken blades of its fallen members, had truly fulfilled the prophecy of "reforging the broken sword."

Xiao Qiushui vowed to uphold his ancestors' legacy, and Liang Dou reassured him that he would continue searching for a way to heal his meridians. Xiao Qiushui expressed his profound gratitude for Liang Dou's help and kindness. Meanwhile, Tang Fang returned to the Tang Sect, immediately seeking her father, Tang Shunyao, for a method to heal shattered meridians.

Tang Shunyao had already heard of Xiao Qiushui's condition through widespread inquiries made by Liang Dou and surmised Tang Fang's feelings for him. He revealed that only Master Dayin possessed such a healing ability. Tang Fang then questioned her father about Liu Suifeng, asking why he wasn't kept in the Tang Sect and allowed to grow up there.

Tang Shunyao explained that intermarriage with outsiders was a grave taboo for the Tang Sect, and to secure his position as the first elder, he had been forced to sever ties with Liu Suifeng and his mother, a decision he regretted deeply. He noted that Tang Fang now faced a similar dilemma, as Madam Tang insisted she marry Tang Song.

Despite the complex family politics, Tang Fang firmly stated that Xiao Qiushui was her friend and Tang Rou's close confidant, and she must save him. Seeing her unwavering resolve, Tang Shunyao finally disclosed Master Dayin's residence at the nearby Biechuan Temple, asking her to send her friends to find him. Tang Fang promised to deliver the message to Liang Dou's residence and not stray.

Back at Liang Dou's residence, Xiao Qiushui experienced a profound realization, recognizing that everything in this world was real and that he and Xiao Mingming were one and the same. He speculated that the Demon Codex had intertwined the timelines of two worlds, granting them shared memories. Recalling that he had set the Book of Oblivion's location in the sword tomb within his original system, he opened a stone coffin.

He noticed some crossed-out characters on the coffin wall and found a crack, which he pried open with Madam Wu's dagger, accidentally breaking the blade. Inside, he discovered a Hero Token imprinted with three distinct fingerprints, which he identified as belonging to Tianzheng, Taichan, and Zhichen. He mused that this must be the true Hero Token, rumored to contain the Book of Oblivion, and wondered if it required a specific command to unlock its secrets.

An attendant then informed him that Tang Fang had sent word that a method to heal his meridians had been found with Master Dayin at Biechuan Temple. Liu Suifeng, recovering from his injuries inflicted by Xiao Qiushui's Shaolin and Wudang internal energy, was confronted by Qu Hanshan. Qu Hanshan accused Liu Suifeng of rebelling against Li Chenzhou for killing the Shaolin and Wudang leaders at the Xiao family residence, an act that had brought immense trouble to the Power Gang.

Liu Suifeng maintained he was merely following Li Chenzhou's orders. Qu Hanshan, displaying Li Chenzhou's token, declared Liu Suifeng a traitor and attempted to apprehend him, but Liu Suifeng stated he would go willingly if summoned by Li Chenzhou. When Liu Suifeng met Li Chenzhou, Li Chenzhou showed him a painting they had created at the Power Gang's inception, reminiscing about how Liu Suifeng had chosen to paint pines instead of a mountain like the other six brothers.

Li Chenzhou expressed disappointment, stating that Liu Suifeng's capabilities should have entitled him to paint the tallest mountain. He then confronted Liu Suifeng about the casual killing of Tianzheng and Taichan, two martial world icons, which had made Shaolin and Wudang hostile enemies of the Power Gang and led to White Phoenix's death. Liu Suifeng explained that he had received an order, supposedly from Li Chenzhou, to intercept and kill the two leaders.

He admitted his failure to retrieve the Hero Token had made him eager to atone, leading him to fall prey to a masterful impersonation of Li Chenzhou. Liu Suifeng pleaded that he never doubted Li Chenzhou's commands and had no rebellious intent. Li Chenzhou, however, was disappointed that after 15 years, Liu Suifeng could not discern the impersonation, attributing it to overconfidence and a forgotten purpose of the Power Gang. Acknowledging his fault, Liu Suifeng asked for punishment.

Li Chenzhou then delivered a powerful palm strike, declaring that, whether Liu Suifeng lived or died, he would no longer be a part of the Power Gang. After receiving word from Tang Fang, Xiao Qiushui announced his immediate departure for Biechuan Temple to find Master Dayin. Liang Dou cautioned him that the area was volatile, as Heavenly King Zhu's faction and the Power Gang were locked in conflict near Mount Yunxia.

Liang Dou explained that Heavenly King Zhu was capitalizing on the Power Gang's recent conflicts with Shaolin and Wudang and their rigid rules, drawing in rogues and enemies of the Power Gang, thereby seizing much of their territory. Both factions were also actively searching for Shao Liulei, who years ago had betrayed Heavenly King Zhu during the Battle of Mount Wuxing, helping Yan Kuangtu escape and vanishing with him.

Liang Dou suggested that the warring factions were seeking not just Shao Liulei and the Supreme Elixir, but also clues to Yan Kuangtu's whereabouts through him. Xiao Qiushui understood the perilous situation and resolved to rescue Master Dayin from the impending chaos. Deng Yuhan volunteered to accompany Xiao Qiushui, offering his knowledge of formations to navigate the temple's illusions. Liang Dou, knowing Master Dayin's reclusive nature, provided a letter of introduction to ensure their entry.

Liang Dou also announced his intention to unite the various sects in the face of the martial world's growing peril. Meanwhile, Liu Suifeng continued to kneel outside Li Chenzhou's door, seeking forgiveness. The Blade King, who enforced gang rules, reiterated Li Chenzhou's order for Liu Suifeng to leave and threatened him with his blade. Eventually, Zhao Shirong approached Liu Suifeng, telling him she couldn't intercede for him given the gravity of his mistake.

Liu Suifeng begged for death rather than exile, proclaiming his life meaningless without Li Chenzhou. Zhao Shirong advised him to rise, not to beg for forgiveness, but to wait for an opportunity to prove himself. Xiao Qiushui and Deng Yuhan arrived at Biechuan Temple, finding Master Dayin sweeping the grounds. Xiao Qiushui respectfully requested Master Dayin's help with meridian healing.

Master Dayin, noting the widespread strife on Mount Yunxia, initially refused, stating that in such chaotic times, survival was merely luck and that he would not treat Xiao Qiushui. Xiao Qiushui, undeterred, urged Master Dayin to evacuate the temple immediately, warning that the fighting between the Power Gang and Heavenly King Zhu would soon engulf the monastery.

Master Dayin dismissed the warning as a trick to gain his help, but soon a disciple reported that venomous snakes had appeared en masse around the temple. Xiao Qiushui quickly deduced that this was the Power Gang's scouting method. He instructed Deng Yuhan to escort Master Dayin and his disciples to Liang Dou's residence for safety, while he chose to remain, explaining that this dangerous gamble was his only chance to avenge his family, regardless of the outcome.

Upon hearing Xiao Qiushui declare his name as the third son of the Xiao family, Master Dayin recalled the recent tragedy that befell the Xiaos. He realized the depths of Xiao Qiushui's determination and decided to treat him. Despite the excruciating pain of the meridian reconnection, Xiao Qiushui endured, driven by his unwavering commitment to revenge. After his rapid healing, Master Dayin advised Xiao Qiushui to retreat from the world for several years to fully recover.

However, he then told him that the martial world needed warriors more than hermits and offered another piece of information: for several nights, he had heard a peculiar crying sound, like a cat or a human, coming from the temple's side chamber, suggesting it might be the hiding place of Shao Liulei. Xiao Qiushui, accompanied by Deng Yuhan who promised to await his return, quickly located Shao Liulei.

Shao Liulei, distressed and wary, questioned Xiao Qiushui's identity, demanding to know if he was with the Power Gang or Heavenly King Zhu. Xiao Qiushui invoked the name of Yan Kuangtu, claiming to be his elder brother, and stated that Yan Kuangtu regretted giving Shao Liulei only the Yang pill of the Supreme Elixir, causing him immense torment from the exploding Yang energy within. Xiao Qiushui offered to cure Shao Liulei's internal injuries if he returned the Supreme Elixir.

Shao Liulei, believing Xiao Qiushui's deception, presented the Yin pill, recounting how Yan Kuangtu had kept it for years but now, after their supposed reunion, intended to give it to Xiao Qiushui. As Xiao Qiushui prepared to take the elixir, members of both the Power Gang and Heavenly King Zhu's faction appeared in the courtyard, their previous skirmishes escalating into a full-blown confrontation. Just as the factions were about to clash and Xiao Qiushui reached for the elixir, Song Mingzhu dramatically intervened, snatching the Supreme Elixir from Shao Liulei's hand.

Episode 21 Recap

After Song Mingzhu unexpectedly snatched the Supreme Elixir, Shao Liulei swiftly retrieved it and sealed her acupoints. Enraged, Song Mingzhu cursed Shao Liulei and threatened to kill him. Xiao Qiushui questioned Shao Liulei's actions, but Shao Liulei then exposed Xiao Qiushui's deception, revealing that Yan Kuangtu, far from feeling guilty, had abducted him for ten years and subjected him to daily torment from the Yang energy in the half-Yang pill he was forced to ingest.

Shao Liulei declared his hatred for liars, recalling how Heavenly King Zhu had used him as a shield and falsely promised him hero status, only for Shao Liulei to discover he was branded a traitor. He vowed to make Xiao Qiushui suffer the same torment he endured, not to offer the pill to Heavenly King Zhu, but to force Xiao Qiushui to take it.

He then turned to Song Mingzhu, planning to use her to alleviate his own Yang energy torment, as he had long searched for spiritual insects to balance his condition. Song Mingzhu warned him that Master Liu Suifeng would make him suffer if he touched her, but Shao Liulei scoffed at her threats. As Shao Liulei prepared to undress Song Mingzhu, Xiao Qiushui, enduring immense pain from the pill already in his system, condemned Shao Liulei for his lack of dignity.

Shao Liulei mockingly retorted, asking what right Xiao Qiushui had to speak of dignity when he hadn't endured Shao Liulei's decade of living "neither human nor ghost." To inflict his own suffering upon Xiao Qiushui, Shao Liulei forced the remaining Yang pill into Xiao Qiushui's mouth, explaining that without Yan Kuangtu's true energy to sustain him, Xiao Qiushui would perish in agony within two hours.

He then challenged Xiao Qiushui to choose between life and dignity, by using the helpless Song Mingzhu as an "antidote." Shao Liulei sealed Xiao Qiushui's acupoints as well and threw both of them off a cliff into a valley below, leaving them to their fate. After throwing them down, Shao Liulei resolved to seek vengeance on Heavenly King Zhu, promising to feed him poison instead of the Yang pill.

Suffering from the recurring Yang energy torment in the valley, Xiao Qiushui refused to harm Song Mingzhu and instead jumped into a cold lake to quell the raging energy within him. A white serpent then bit him. Although initially painful, the bite caused the runaway Yang energy in his body to disappear. Realizing this might be the spiritual insect Shao Liulei mentioned as the Yin pill, Xiao Qiushui channeled his newfound internal energy into the lake, causing water to surge.

He then unsealed Song Mingzhu's acupoints. Xiao Qiushui asked Song Mingzhu about the whereabouts of his parents' bodies, to which she truthfully replied that her master, Liu Suifeng, took them but she did not know their final resting place. Xiao Qiushui warned her not to lie and declared that he would have killed her and sent her corpse to Sword Retreat to avenge his family.

He then instructed Song Mingzhu to relay a message to Liu Suifeng and Li Chenzhou: he would seek vengeance for every one of the hundred lives lost from his family, settling their blood debts one by one. Song Mingzhu, witnessing Xiao Qiushui's assimilation of the Supreme Elixir, worried about the danger to her young master. Meanwhile, Shao Liulei met with a general under Heavenly King Zhu, presenting him with a seemingly well-intentioned elixir, which was actually a fake.

The general then ambushed Shao Liulei. Kang Chuyu appeared shortly after, delivering a fatal blow to Shao Liulei. As Kang Chuyu prepared to leave, Xiao Qiushui intercepted him, angrily condemning him for his betrayal, lack of morality, and the slaughter of innocents. Xiao Qiushui declared that Kang Chuyu's death would atone for the hundred lives of his family.

With potent internal energy, Xiao Qiushui struck down Kang Chuyu, finally avenging his brother Tang Rou and satisfying his grief for his parents and family. From Kang Chuyu's clothes, a whistle fell out, which Xiao Qiushui carefully picked up. Liu Suifeng continued to kneel before Li Chenzhou's door, seeking forgiveness.

Qu Hanshan, one of the gang's leaders, confronted Liu Suifeng, remarking that since Heavenly King Zhu now knew of Power Gang's opposition to Shaolin and Wudang, Liu Suifeng's continuous troublemaking was hindering the gang's operations. He informed Liu Suifeng that Master Li had already given him a chance to leave, but since he chose to stay and now sought an opportunity to atone, he must earn it himself.

Understanding this as Li Chenzhou's will, Liu Suifeng declared his immediate intent to travel to Wudang to atone. On the journey to Wudang, Qu Hanshan, treating Liu Suifeng harshly, ordered him to "wake up" and not die on the way, lest he delay Qu Hanshan's mission. Liu Suifeng calmly affirmed his determination to reach Wudang alive as per Master Li's wishes.

Along the way, a group of Wudang disciples intercepted them, claiming to be sent by their master to take custody of the "sinner." Blade King, another Power Gang leader present, grew suspicious as he had not been informed of such an arrangement. Although Qu Hanshan quickly confirmed the Wudang letter's authenticity, Blade King challenged the Wudang disciples, questioning how they knew Power Gang's route given their covert movements. Blade King then accused them of forging the letter with stolen correspondence.

Panicked, Qu Hanshan drew his sword, inciting the conflict. Power Gang members, outnumbered, were in dire straits until Zhao Shirong arrived to assist them. She ordered the captured Wudang imposters to be taken back for interrogation, stating she would take charge of Liu Suifeng. Zhao Shirong then revealed to Liu Suifeng that Li Chenzhou had not truly wanted him to die.

She reminded him of a past event where she saved him as a child, finding the "coldness" in his eyes intriguing. Liu Suifeng acknowledged that he had sensed Li Chenzhou's underlying plan during the journey. Zhao Shirong confirmed that sending him to Wudang was a ploy by Li Chenzhou to "lure out the snake from its hole."

She assured Liu Suifeng that both she and Li Chenzhou had always trusted him, knowing he would never betray them even if everyone else in the gang did. She explained that Power Gang's recent failures indicated the presence of spies, and Li Chenzhou had seized upon Liu Suifeng's involvement in the deaths of Tianzheng and Taichan as an opportunity to smoke out these hidden traitors.

Liu Suifeng expressed his profound loyalty, stating that his life was a gift from them, and without their trust, he would be but a living corpse. Zhao Shirong then instructed Liu Suifeng to rest while she returned to the gang to interrogate the captured traitors, promising to keep him informed. Song Mingzhu later found Liu Suifeng, worried about what he had been through, but he was solely focused on the Supreme Elixir's whereabouts.

She confessed that Shao Liulei's martial arts surpassed hers, preventing her from securing the pill, and that Shao Liulei had taken one part while Cai Qishen, the Flaming God, had stolen the other. Liu Suifeng was angered by the failure of the mission, which left Song Mingzhu disheartened, realizing her devotion to him, even to the point of death, elicited no genuine concern. Despite this, she found contentment merely being by his side.

Meanwhile, Blade King and Zhao Shirong interrogated a captured spy, who, under duress from threats of the Better-Dead Pill and corpse beetles, revealed that the Eagle Flute's leader would meet at Qingfeng Manor. Blade King went to Qingfeng Manor and sounded an Eagle Flute, summoning Fire King, who was one of the conspirators.

Blade King attempted to question Fire King about his superior within the Eagle Flute, but Fire King refused to cooperate and tried to escape, only to be blocked by Liu Suifeng and Zhao Shirong. Liu Suifeng presented evidence, including a Marching Pill formula found at Fire King's residence and an Eagle Flute, proving his collusion with the North Wasteland.

Zhao Shirong offered Fire King a chance to confess his superior's identity and reveal other Eagle Flute loyalists within Power Gang, but Fire King remained defiant, declaring the Eagle Flute's rise unstoppable. Liu Suifeng then pressed him about the Herbal Valley massacre, but Fire King, while admitting to stealing the formula from Diancang Sect, denied any involvement in the massacre.

Fire King further provoked them by mentioning Liu Suifeng's actions that angered the martial world, predicting Power Gang's downfall, and claiming his own actions were for a greater, long-term plan, hinting at more knowledge about the Hero Token. Zhao Shirong, citing gang rules for unrepentant traitors, ordered his punishment.

Fire King, anticipating this, revealed he had mastered the Meridian-Melting Art from an exotic land, allowing him to neutralize the Better-Dead Pill that Li Chenzhou had previously administered to the Eight Kings to prevent their betrayal. Thus, he believed he was immune to their methods and could kill them while they succumbed to their own poison.

However, as Fire King prepared to unleash his Blazing Palm, Zhao Shirong subtly activated her own countermeasure, instantly triggering the Better-Dead Pill in Fire King, rendering him powerless. Blade King then killed Fire King with his blade, "Gut Piercer." Zhao Shirong remarked to Liu Suifeng that while they recovered the formula, Fire King was not Liu Suifeng's true enemy, and his vengeance would have to wait. With Fire King's death, the Eagle Flute's superior remained unknown.

Li Chenzhou, considering the flawless disguises used by their enemies, suspected the Fei family's Three Arts, particularly the Thousand Faces Art, despite Old Master Fei's claims of its destruction years ago. Liu Suifeng confirmed rumors of the art's deceptive power, acknowledging the heightened difficulty if their enemies possessed it. Recognizing the urgency, Li Chenzhou tasked Liu Suifeng with investigating the Fei family immediately. He also urged Ghost King to expedite the production of corpse beetles.

Liu Suifeng reported that the Insect King, crucial for this, was near death, and only Tang Sect's Heaven-Earth Pool in Insect Valley could revive it. Access to the valley was restricted, and forced entry could harm the Insect King. However, Liu Suifeng suggested that the upcoming inheritor campaign at Tang Sect on the inheritor campaign night, when they would choose a new family head, might offer an opportunity to gain access.

Li Chenzhou cautioned extreme prudence, emphasizing the importance of not offending Madam Tang under any circumstances. Despite the complex challenges, Li Chenzhou remained suspicious of the sudden rise of Heavenly King Zhu of Long River and the ongoing attacks on Power Gang outposts by various sects, believing the Eagle Flute's ambitions extended far beyond merely disrupting the martial world. He resolved that Power Gang would directly confront the mastermind behind these challenges.

Episode 22 Recap

Xiao Qiushui reunited with Zuoqiu and Deng Yuhan, who were delighted to see his martial skills fully restored and his internal energy significantly increased. Xiao Qiushui explained to Master Dayin and Master Liang that his newfound power stemmed from the Supreme Elixir, which Shao Liulei had forcibly administered to him, unexpectedly boosting his internal energy. He confirmed that Shao Liulei was now dead.

He also revealed that not only the Power Gang but also Heavenly King Zhu were relentlessly searching for the Supreme Elixir, signaling impending chaos in the martial world as Wudang and Shaolin braced for conflict with the Power Gang. Master Liang advised Xiao Qiushui to refine his martial arts before seeking revenge, as his internal energy was still unstable. Master Dayin, grateful for Xiao Qiushui's rescue, passed on his unique "Breath-Returning Technique" to help him better control his internal energy.

Xiao Qiushui then announced that he had personally killed Kang Chuyu, avenging Tang Rou, and handed the Eagle Flute found on Kang Chuyu to Zuoqiu and Deng Yuhan, tasking them with investigating its origins. Master Dayin expressed his confusion over how the seemingly impregnable Sword Retreat had fallen. Xiao Qiushui explained the tragedy: Qiu, a long-loyal servant, had betrayed them by poisoning the water supply, rendering their defenses unsustainable.

His parents, in a desperate act, had sent him and his brothers out to protect Madam Wu, thereby saving their lives. However, upon their return, Sword Retreat was ruined, and his parents’ bodies were never found, leading them to erect only symbolic tombs. Master Liang found Qiu’s betrayal particularly perplexing, as the man was ascetic, solitary, and had no family to be threatened.

Xiao Qiushui suggested Qiu might have been forced to ingest the Power Gang’s sinister Better-Dead Pill, which inflicts unbearable torment. To verify this, they returned to Huanhua to exhume Qiu’s body, where Master Dayin used his internal energy to extract a corpse beetle, confirming that it was indeed the Ghost King’s creation containing the Better-Dead Pill. Master Liang lamented the terrifying power of such mind-control methods, emphasizing the urgent need for righteous sects to unite against the Power Gang.

Xiao Qiushui and his companions pledged their solidarity in the fight against their common enemy. While Xiao Qiushui diligently practiced the Breath-Returning Technique, he recalled his mother's teachings about the Heavenly Swordplay, realizing that integrating his newfound internal energy with his sword techniques was crucial for true advancement. Meanwhile, Xiao Yiren was tirelessly striving to revive the Huanhua Sect. Xiao Xueyu offered him a calming herbal soup and tried to reassure him, suggesting he shouldn't be so anxious.

She reminded him that even though the other Jin City sects had forsaken them, the unity of the four siblings could ensure the Xiao family’s eventual resurgence. She tried to soften Xiao Qiushui’s earlier harsh words, believing they were spoken in haste and without malice. However, Xiao Yiren, still consumed by his resentment, dismissed her, stating he had no time to entertain such thoughts and was focused solely on reopening the sect.

The day came for the collection of rent, but none of the tenants arrived. A servant reported that the Tang Sect was holding an ancestral worship ceremony, which had drawn all the Jin City martial artists. Xiao Yiren, knowing that the Tang Sect usually held such ceremonies during the full moon, realized this sudden, early event was a deliberate provocation against the Xiao family. Enraged, he and Xiao Kaiyan went to the Tang Sect to demand an explanation.

Tang Song, showing blatant disrespect, not only taunted them but also revealed that he had lured away the child apprentices from the Xiao family’s martial hall. He declared that Jin City’s martial world was now under the joint leadership of the Nangong family and the Tang Sect, leaving Xiao Yiren deeply humiliated.

As they left the Tang Sect, Xiao Kaiyan expressed his dismay at the treacherous nature of people, especially the Nangong family, who had been long-standing allies, turning against them so readily. Xiao Yiren, however, speculated that since both Tang and Nangong were prominent "unique schools of martial arts," they might have internal conflicts despite their outward alliance. He decided to humble himself and seek cooperation with the Nangong family, hoping to find a turning point.

Xiao Yiren then visited the Nangong Residence, where Nangong Wushang and Nangong Han were present. Nangong Han proposed two conditions for an alliance: either Xiao Xueyu marry Nangong Wushang as a show of sincerity, or the Xiao family surrender the Huanhua Swordplay manual. Xiao Yiren refused both, asserting that marriage should be based on mutual affection and the sword manual was the very essence of their sect.

He left empty-handed, but not before Nangong Wushang warned him that if he did not comply, the Xiao family would find themselves with no standing in Jin City. That night, a disheartened Xiao Yiren sought solace in alcohol. Nangong Xiaoyi found him and confessed that she was ashamed of her family’s actions, having sent a letter to sever ties, believing that martial artists should uphold righteousness above all.

This moved Xiao Yiren, and he reaffirmed his resolve to reclaim everything his family had lost. The following day, Nangong Wushang arrived at the Xiao family manor with what appeared to be betrothal gifts. Before Xiao Yiren could respond, Nangong Wushang dramatically produced the Huanhua Swordplay manual, revealing it had been stolen by the rebellious child apprentices and handed over to the Nangong family.

Nangong Wushang reiterated his demand: Xiao Xueyu must marry him, and the manual would be returned as her betrothal gift. Otherwise, he threatened, the Nangong family would ensure the Xiao family's complete eradication from Jin City within five days. Meanwhile, Zuoqiu and Deng Yuhan’s investigation into the Eagle Flute yielded significant results. They discovered it originated from a mysterious organization with ties to the North Wasteland, which had already infiltrated the Power Gang.

They also reported that two days prior, Fire King, one of the Power Gang's Eight Kings, had been executed by Liu Suifeng and his allies for colluding with the Eagle Flute organization, and the Power Gang was now intensely cracking down on internal traitors. Given that the Eagle Flute was found on Kang Chuyu, a confidant of Sword King Qu Hanshan, Xiao Qiushui suspected Qu Hanshan of working for the North Wasteland.

Zuoqiu and Deng Yuhan informed him that Qu Hanshan was currently in Jin City, residing at Tongfu Inn. They also explained that Li Chenzhou had orchestrated Liu Suifeng’s "bitter-meat stratagem" to expose these spies, even tricking the Sword King. Xiao Qiushui, knowing the long-standing animosity between Qu Hanshan and Liu Suifeng, realized Qu Hanshan would be furious and desperate given the Power Gang's ruthless hunt for traitors. He decided to confront Qu Hanshan, believing that a desperate man would be more likely to reveal crucial information.

Episode 23 Recap

Xiao Qiushui, tracking a man he found familiar, followed him to a secluded courtyard where the man was playing a musical instrument and singing. Xiao Qiushui recognized the tune as "A Laugh Across the Seas." The man, Swordsman Sancai, initially wary, was convinced of Xiao Qiushui's identity as the mysterious figure who had saved him in the past by a secret code: "Asleep in spring, I don't perceive the dawn. Mosquitoes are everywhere.

When I turn over in bed, I crush countless mosquitoes." Xiao Qiushui recalled that this was Swordsman Sancai, a character he had created in his original story as a single, musically gifted individual who served as a Power Gang mole. Sancai revealed that he often heard strange words and melodies in his mind from another world, such as "I hate the 996 work schedule! I want to quit!" , and felt as though this world was a giant book.

He recounted a specific passage he had seen about Xiao Qiushui becoming the martial world's leader. Xiao Qiushui explained that because Sancai was a character he had written, Sancai retained fragmented memories from the other world, but these were fading as Xiao Qiushui’s presence in this world altered the narrative. Feeling a deep connection and loyalty, Sancai declared Xiao Qiushui his "Qiushui gege" (elder brother) and vowed to help him.

Xiao Qiushui then disclosed his plan to seek revenge on the Power Gang, and Sancai, already a mole within the gang, eagerly offered his assistance. Xiao Qiushui then whispered his strategy to Sancai, which involved delivering a "corpse" to Qu Hanshan, surprising Sancai. Following the plan, Sancai brought a bound Xiao Qiushui to Qu Hanshan's mansion, presenting him as a suspicious individual caught lurking outside.

Qu Hanshan, the Sword King, scoffed at Xiao Qiushui, noting that his meridians were reconnected but his martial arts were still weak. Xiao Qiushui demanded that Qu Hanshan hand over one of Liu Suifeng’s men, claiming he had witnessed Liu Suifeng secretly deliver a map to someone in the mansion. Qu Hanshan denied any involvement with Liu Suifeng. When challenged, Xiao Qiushui sketched the map from memory.

Qu Hanshan remained suspicious, accusing Xiao Qiushui of trying to sow discord due to their past enmity from Guangling, where Qu Hanshan had personally severed Xiao Qiushui's meridians. Xiao Qiushui dismissed that grievance as minor compared to Liu Suifeng’s role in his parents' murder. Xiao Qiushui then proposed an alliance: if Qu Hanshan helped him kill Liu Suifeng, he would hand over the Hero Token.

Qu Hanshan doubted Xiao Qiushui possessed such a legendary item, especially given how closely Liu Suifeng had been tracking him. To prove his claim, Xiao Qiushui revealed a closely guarded secret: the Hero Token bore the unique fingerprints of the Shaolin, Wudang, and Emei sect leaders—a detail known to only a select few in the martial world.

He explained that the Hero Token had brought him nothing but calamity, costing him his parents' lives, and thus, he was willing to relinquish it. During their discussion, a subordinate reported the discovery of Kang Chuyu's corpse, revealing a corpse beetle on his body. Qu Hanshan’s men suggested that only the Power Gang leader or Liu Suifeng could control such beetles, leading Qu Hanshan to believe Liu Suifeng had used Kang Chuyu as a spy against him.

This intensified Qu Hanshan's distrust of Liu Suifeng, just as Xiao Qiushui had intended by secretly planting the corpse beetle from Qiu Bo on Kang Chuyu's body. Qu Hanshan agreed to cooperate but demanded Xiao Qiushui first retrieve an item from Ghost King's stronghold in Yimen Town as a token of loyalty. Meanwhile, Tang Fang had returned to the Tang Sect, her mind preoccupied.

Her father, Tang Shun Yao, concerned for their family branch's future due to his lingering illness and the third branch's ambitions, expressed his worries. Tang Fang assured him she would find the Book of Oblivion to cure him and protect their family. Later, she caught Li, their loyal steward, poisoning her father's medicine. Confronted, Li confessed to his involuntary actions, tormented by the betrayal, and then tragically took his own life. From his wound, a corpse beetle emerged.

Tang Fang immediately suspected that Tang Song was using the Power Gang's corpse beetles to control people. Xiao Qiushui and Sancai discussed the new mission. Sancai revealed that the Corpse Beetle King, which they needed to retrieve, was crucial to the Power Gang's control, as it was linked to the "Golden-patterned Better-Dead Pills" (金纹不如死丸) that kept the Eight Kings in check. Possessing it would free Qu Hanshan from his fear of Liu Suifeng.

Sancai also warned that Ghost King was paranoid and preferred feeding live victims to his beetles in "coffin dens," suggesting Xiao Qiushui should proceed alone to avoid suspicion. At Yimen Town, Tang Fang secretly followed Tang Song. She witnessed him meeting with Song Mingzhu, who explained that the Corpse Beetle King's was weakened from laying too many eggs and needed human blood to recover.

Song Mingzhu also clarified that the Golden-patterned Better-Dead Pills were cultivated with the blood of the Power Gang's leader, Master Li, and Shirong, making them controllable only by those two. She warned Tang Song that if the Corpse Beetle King perished, all its larvae would become ineffective. Tang Song, along with his sister Tang Qing, then helped Song Mingzhu prepare to transport coffins containing unconscious civilians to Ghost King’s lair as "nourishment."

Xiao Qiushui, who was also in Yimen Town, spotted Tang Fang and cautioned her not to follow them further, but she persisted. Liu Suifeng was already at the Ghost King's stronghold. He and Ghost King exchanged pleasantries, with Liu Suifeng mentioning the new Xiaoyao Sect leader who dared to challenge the Power Gang. As Ghost King prepared to release the Corpse Beetle King to feed, he detected the presence of intruders.

Xiao Qiushui and Tang Fang, who had been hiding, were forced to reveal themselves. A fierce fight ensued. Tang Fang accidentally triggered a trap, falling victim to Energy-Dispersing Powder. Liu Suifeng confronted Xiao Qiushui and was shocked by his significantly enhanced internal energy. Amidst the chaos, Xiao Qiushui rushed to rescue Tang Fang. Soon after, Zuoqiu and Deng Yuhan arrived and helped free the captive civilians. Ghost King, having been exposed, quickly relocated his operations with the Corpse Beetle King.

Liu Suifeng, still reeling from Xiao Qiushui's newfound power, demanded answers from Song Mingzhu. She confessed that Xiao Qiushui had consumed the Supreme Elixir. Enraged by her betrayal and the secret she kept, Liu Suifeng condemned Song Mingzhu to kneel at Reflection Cliff for seven days without water, offering her only the chance to survive if it rained.

Despite the harsh punishment, Song Mingzhu found a strange solace, believing Liu Suifeng's decision not to kill her directly showed that he treated her differently from others. Later, Xiao Qiushui gathered his allies from the Shenzhou Alliance, including newly joined members Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nangu, for a celebratory feast.

During the gathering, Xiao Qiushui unveiled the Hero Token to Tang Fang, explaining that he had discovered the crystal hidden within a dagger given to him by Madam Wu, which was originally a gift from Master Zhang.

Episode 24 Recap

Xiao Qiushui revealed to Tang Fang that he discovered a Hero's Token hidden inside a broken dagger given to him by Madam Wu, which originally belonged to great hero Zhang Linyi. Tang Fang lamented the absence of the Book of Oblivion, but Xiao Qiushui explained the token bears handprints of Tianzheng, Taichan, and Zhichen. As only Zhichen is still alive, finding him might lead to information about the Book of Oblivion or Yan Kuangtu, potentially aiding Tang Shunyao.

Tang Fang, who had suspected Tang Song's ill intentions, was tracking him with an insect. She announced the Tang Sect's upcoming inheritor campaign, a tournament to determine the main branch leader, set in the forbidden Worm Valley – a suspicious choice hinting at the rearing of the Corpse Beetle King. Liu Suifeng, also present, had secretly instructed Tang Song to reinforce Worm Valley's defenses, anticipating Xiao Qiushui's appearance.

Xiao Qiushui presented the molted shell of the Corpse Beetle King to Qu Hanshan, noting its diminishing power and connecting it to Li Chenzhou and Madam Zhao Shirong's method of controlling the Power Gang's eight kings to prevent infighting. Xiao Qiushui intended to manipulate Liu Suifeng into violating Power Gang rules, making him vulnerable. He pressed Qu Hanshan for Liu Suifeng's hidden locations to facilitate his plan.

Qu Hanshan, already determined to kill Liu Suifeng, learned from Xiao Qiushui about the implications if one could escape the Corpse Beetle King's control. During the inheritor campaign, Xiao Qiushui and Liu Suifeng, both disguised, recognized each other. Tang Fang held the main arena at Scorpion Arena, drawing attention while Xiao Qiushui pursued Liu Suifeng into Worm Valley. Liu Suifeng met the Ghost King, who was preparing to release the Corpse Beetle King's 蛊虫.

Xiao Qiushui caused a diversion, leading Liu Suifeng on a chase. Qu Hanshan then arrived, fighting and killing the Ghost King after demanding his 蛊虫. Xiao Qiushui led Liu Suifeng to an open valley. In the ensuing confrontation, Qu Hanshan threw the Ghost King's body and, taking the Corpse Beetle King, revealed Liu Suifeng had been tricked. Qu Hanshan, realizing Xiao Qiushui had used him when the Corpse Beetle King's box was empty, was then killed by Xiao Qiushui.

Liu Suifeng, severely wounded, was rescued by Song Mingzhu. At the Scorpion Arena, Tang Fang won multiple rounds. Tang Song resorted to forbidden poison darts, which Xiao Qiushui blocked, and still lost. The other Tang Sect branches demanded Tang Song's removal. The five elders confessed they were forced to choose Worm Valley and were controlled by Tang Song's Corpse Beetle King's 蛊虫. Xiao Qiushui then healed them.

Madam Tang, aware of the Power Gang infiltrators, ordered Tang Song imprisoned in Avici Tower and made a slave. Tang Qing, attempting suicide, was stopped by Madam Tang and assigned to her courtyard. Tang Fang and Xiao Qiushui exposed Tang Song's involvement with the Power Gang in rearing the Corpse Beetle King. Madam Tang, while pleased the traitors were exposed, expressed displeasure at Tang Fang bringing an outsider to the tournament.

Xiao Qiushui interceded, leading Madam Tang to strike him with a powerful palm, but also presenting him with a Tang Sect invitation token, signaling the matter's resolution. Elsewhere, the severely injured Liu Suifeng was blamed by the other five Power Gang kings for the deaths of Sword King and Ghost King, but Li Chenzhou intervened, stating Liu Suifeng's actions were opportunistic, not rebellious. Xiao Yiren lamented his inability to rebuild the Xiao family/Huanhua Sect or protect its sword manual.

Xiao Xueyu comforted him, offering to marry Nangong Wushang to revive the family and protect the manual, fulfilling her gratitude to her parents. Meanwhile, Zuo Qiu was troubled by his complicated feelings for the Qu family sisters, particularly his unrequited love for Qu Mushuang.

Episode 25 Recap

Xiao Qiushui learned from Sancai about his eldest brother, Xiao Yiren. Sancai reported that Xiao Yiren was too busy to care for him and had disowned him as a brother. This left Xiao Qiushui disheartened, as he had intended to return the Changge Sword to his brother. Despite his sadness, Sancai brought a zither, and Xiao Qiushui, inspired, played and sang "A Laugh Across the Seas," while Tang Fang accompanied on the xiao.

Sancai, Zuoqiu, and Deng Yuhan joined in song, reaffirming their oath to the Shenzhou Alliance. Later that evening, as Xiao Qiushui was cleaning the Changge Sword, preparing to return it to Xiao Yiren the next morning, Tang Fang approached him. She inquired about his injuries and expressed gratitude for his help in securing her position as the Tang Sect's family head in Insect Valley.

As a token of thanks, she gave him a dart, explaining that it had helped her pass the Tang Sect's first trial and served as a protective talisman. She hoped it would shield him from further harm. Meanwhile, the Xiao Villa was decorated for a wedding. Xiao Xueyu, the bride-to-be, reflected on her decision.

She recalled Xiao Yiren's past promise to find her a suitable match and Xiao Qiushui's belief that a woman should marry for love, neither of which had materialized. Yet, she felt a duty to her parents to help revive the family. Xiao Yiren visited her, noting her beauty and asking if she was ready.

Xiao Xueyu asked him to manage her herbs, then reminisced about a childhood fall from a cliff while gathering herbs and how her brother had always collected special herbs for her. Xiao Yiren clarified that it was not he, but Xiao Qiushui, who had always done these things, often returning with wounds and being scolded by their father.

Realizing it was Xiao Qiushui who had quietly cared for her, Xiao Xueyu then, asserting her identity as a Xiao family member raised and cherished by their parents, declared her own desire to uphold the family's honor. She also thanked Xiao Yiren for his efforts on behalf of the Xiao family and asked him to retract any discouraging words he might have spoken.

Upon seeing the festive decorations, Xiao Qiushui learned from the steward that Xiao Xueyu was marrying into the Nangong family. He immediately confronted Xiao Yiren, demanding to know why their sister was being forced into such a marriage, asserting his right to know as her brother. Xiao Yiren dismissed his concerns, stating that Xiao Qiushui's involvement in family matters was over. Xiao Qiushui accused Xiao Yiren of sacrificing Xueyu for the family's status, especially since Tang Song's power was waning.

Xiao Yiren, alarmed by Xiao Qiushui's knowledge of the Tang Sect, accused him of shady dealings and bringing trouble to the family. Xiao Qiushui clarified he had only acted honorably to deal with those who undermined Jin City's factions. Xiao Xueyu then joined the heated discussion, stating that she was willing to marry for the family's sake and for her own security in these turbulent times.

She believed their parents would approve and urged them to stop arguing before leaving for the wedding. After Xueyu departed, Xiao Kaiyan intervened, explaining the Xiao family's precarious situation after offending the Power Gang, and that the Nangong family held their "Huanhua Sword Manual," leaving Xiao Yiren no choice but to agree to the marriage to prevent the manual from being lost. At the Nangong family entrance, Xiao Xueyu told Xiao Yiren that she would no longer burden the family.

Later that night, in the bridal chamber, Xiao Xueyu was horrified to find Nangong Han, not Nangong Wushang, entering as her groom. Nangong Han brazenly admitted to the deception, producing a marriage contract bearing Xiao Yiren's signature and seal. He mocked the Xiao family's decline, claiming his marriage to her was an elevation of her status. Xiao Xueyu defiantly declared she would rather die than submit to him.

Suddenly, Xiao Qiushui burst in, injuring Nangong Han and taking Xiao Xueyu away. Wielding the Changge Sword, he declared that any further provocation against the Xiao family would be met with his blade's mercilessness. Xiao Qiushui took Xiao Xueyu to a safe, temporary residence, promising to confront Xiao Yiren the next day.

Xiao Xueyu confided in him, recalling how he had been the first to make her feel like a true Xiao family member when she was a child, and how wonderful their family life had been then. Xiao Qiushui comforted her, asserting that family bonds should not be shackles of gratitude or obligation, but built on respect and understanding.

He emphasized that no one, including herself, should force her to do something against her will, urging her to cherish herself and pursue her own desires. Touched, Xiao Xueyu thanked him for his words and for his numerous past rescues. Xiao Qiushui reaffirmed his vow to protect her and ensure she recovered her health with the help of the Qu sisters who lived there. As Xiao Qiushui left Xueyu, he encountered Tang Fang, who was preparing to depart.

Tang Fang expressed her happiness at Xueyu's rescue, stating that women's struggles were interconnected. She explained that she had received a letter from her father, requiring her return to the Tang Sect to handle some urgent matters. Xiao Qiushui told her to take care of her affairs and then return so they could travel to Emei together to seek the secrets of the Book of Oblivion, which might cure her father.

Shortly after Tang Fang's departure, Zuoqiu rushed to inform Xiao Qiushui that Nangong Wushang and his brothers were causing a disturbance at the Xiao Villa. Xiao Qiushui immediately went there. Nangong Wushang, confronting Xiao Yiren, accused him of disrespecting the Nangong family, demanding the return of the betrothal gifts and an additional five thousand taels as compensation for their losses. He even threatened to demolish the Xiao Villa. Xiao Qiushui arrived wielding the Changge Sword, driving away Nangong Wushang's men.

He declared the marriage pact void and promised to return the betrothal gifts by the next morning, prompting Nangong Wushang to retreat, knowing he was outmatched. Xiao Yiren, seeing Xiao Qiushui with the Changge Sword and having angered the Nangong family, grew furious. Xiao Yiren, noting Xiao Qiushui's greatly improved martial skills, accused him of his trouble-making skills also growing.

Xiao Qiushui defended his rescue of Xueyu, stating that he had done nothing wrong and that Xiao Yiren was the one who had erred. He then declared that while he had initially intended to return the Changge Sword, he now deemed it unnecessary. He asserted that the responsibility to revive the Xiao family fell on all its members, but he vehemently disagreed with Xiao Yiren's methods and intended to take charge in his own way. Later, Sancai, appearing before Xiao Qiushui with his clumsy lightness skill, revealed he had found an Eagle Flute in a hidden compartment in the Sword King's bedroom.

Episode 26 Recap

Sancai, still recovering from a clumsy landing, presented Xiao Qiushui with an Eagle Flute he had discovered in Sword King's hidden compartment. Xiao Qiushui noted that Sword King possessed a similar flute, suggesting that his conflict with Liu Suifeng was not merely an internal Power Gang struggle but might also involve the Northern Wasteland. Sancai also found several secret letters with unusual characters. Xiao Qiushui recognized them as simplified Chinese, a script he hadn't seen since his transmigration.

He realized that this, along with an English letter "R" on the notes, implied the presence of another transmigrator who was actively altering events. He pressed Sancai for details about Qu Hanshan from the original story, learning that Sword King was supposed to be a loyal general who died for Li Chenzhou.

This contradicted the current reality where Qu Hanshan was found to be colluding with the Northern Wasteland, further confirming Xiao Qiushui's suspicion about an unseen force changing the narrative. He also recalled that the inscription of the Book of Oblivion on his family's stone coffin had been deliberately erased, leading him to believe this other transmigrator had acquired the book and was hostile, trying to prevent him from obtaining it.

Xiao Qiushui considered Liu Suifeng the primary suspect due to his past deceptions, but Sancai pointed out that Li Chenzhou, who remained a mysterious, unseen figure, was equally suspicious. Determined, Xiao Qiushui decided he needed to confront Li Chenzhou. Later, Xiao Qiushui intercepted Song Mingzhu as she bought tonic medicine for Liu Suifeng. He restrained her with a pressure point technique and instructed her to deliver two identical letters: one to Liu Suifeng and another to Li Chenzhou.

The letters contained peculiar modern song lyrics that the recipients found utterly nonsensical. Liu Suifeng, enraged, believed Xiao Qiushui had gone mad but still delivered his letter to Li Chenzhou. Li Chenzhou also found the lyrics incomprehensible but sensed Xiao Qiushui was no ordinary individual. Liu Suifeng informed him that Sword King had been swayed by the Eagle Flute faction, which exploited the Power Gang's internal strife.

He also reported that since the demise of Taichan and Tianzheng, Abbess Zhichen of Emei had been rallying the martial world to condemn the Power Gang. Li Chenzhou, who had been seeking a way to gather all the martial sects, saw the Emei summit as the perfect opportunity to advance his own plans.

He instructed Liu Suifeng not to harm Xiao Qiushui, speculating that since he was not part of their current scheme, he might prove useful to the Power Gang in the future. Xiao Qiushui was troubled by the impending Emei's Golden Summit gathering, uncertain if its events would unfold as recorded in the original novel where he was supposed to receive martial arts from eight masters and become the martial circle leader.

Sancai asked if becoming the martial circle leader meant Xiao Qiushui would return to his own reality. Xiao Qiushui stated he couldn't leave yet, as his friends were still in danger and he hadn't avenged his family by killing Li Chenzhou. He resolved to face the future one step at a time, but affirmed his intent to kill Li Chenzhou, the destroyer of the Huanhua Sect and an enemy of the righteous martial world.

Before departing, Xiao Qiushui anticipated that the Power Gang would mobilize all its forces for the Emei's Golden Summit confrontation. He tasked Tie Xingyue and Qiu Nangu, along with the Qu sisters, with dismantling the Power Gang's undefended strongholds. He urged Xiao Xueyu to stay safe, advising her to seek help from Uncle Liang if trouble arose. Xiao Xueyu revealed she had found her own purpose in life: healing people was as important as punishing evil.

Xiao Qiushui suggested she use a clinic run by the Shenzhou Alliance to treat the townspeople, especially with a recent plague outbreak. Meanwhile, Xiao Yiren, still asserting his position as acting head of the Xiao family, refused to accompany Xiao Qiushui to Emei, dismissing his younger brother's abilities as mere tricks. Upon arriving at Emei's Golden Summit, Xiao Qiushui sought a private audience with Abbess Zhichen.

She was astonished by his striking resemblance to Li Chenzhou and commended the Shenzhou Alliance for their valiant efforts against the Power Gang. Xiao Qiushui presented the Hero Token, inquiring about the Book of Oblivion's secrets, hoping to find a cure for his friend's father who was injured by its techniques. Abbess Zhichen explained that the Hero Token was originally forged to resist the Northern Wasteland and held no hidden secrets regarding the book.

She doubted Yan Kuangtu, despite his eccentricities, would embed the book's location within it, as he wouldn't want to incite chaos. She advised Xiao Qiushui that only Yan Kuangtu himself could reveal the Book of Oblivion's secrets, but finding him was akin to searching for a needle in a haystack. Xiao Qiushui then showed her the Golden Swallow, an item entrusted to him by Madam Wu, supposedly linked to Yan Kuangtu's lost sister.

Abbess Zhichen confirmed she knew something of the matter: Yan Kuangtu's fellow disciples, the Jiang brothers, had kidnapped his young sister to exchange for the Book of Oblivion. However, they fled with the child after breaking their promise, and the girl later fell gravely ill. Abbess Zhichen had chanced upon her and provided aid, but knew nothing of her fate thereafter.

When Xiao Qiushui asked about identifying marks, Abbess Zhichen remembered an apricot-blossom birthmark on the girl's nape and presented a red cloak that the girl wore, asking Xiao Qiushui to return it if he found her. The gathering at Emei's Golden Summit quickly escalated. The martial sects, though ostensibly united against the Power Gang, harbored their own desires for the Hero Token and the Book of Oblivion.

The atmosphere was tense when Liu Suifeng and Zhao Shirong arrived, immediately confronted by a furious Xiao Yiren who drew his sword. Heavenly King Zhu, leader of the Long River waterways, also appeared, declaring his intent to seek justice against the Power Gang. The Power Gang unveiled the Twin Swordsmen, long-hidden formidable warriors, while the Long River waterways presented their own exotic experts, Zhang Canjin and Wan Suiyu.

Even Shaolin and Wudang dispatched their top masters, who accused Liu Suifeng of killing their leaders and demanded his capture. A fierce battle erupted, with combatants falling down the precipice. During the chaos, Liu Suifeng discreetly withdrew, leaving Zhao Shirong to contend with the multitude of martial artists. Xiao Qiushui noticed his father's sword scabbard falling over the cliff with eight combatants.

Following it, he discovered an "R" mark on the scabbard, identical to the one found in Qu Hanshan's hidden compartment. The eight masters, now exhausted and severely injured, were at their last breaths. Moved by their righteous spirit, the Shaolin and Wudang masters, determined to prevent evil from prevailing, transferred all their lifelong internal energy and martial arts to Xiao Qiushui. Not to be outdone, the four opposing experts, even in their weakened state, also poured their ultimate skills into Xiao Qiushui, each hoping he would prove their school's supremacy.

Episode 27 Recap

In the aftermath of the cliffside battle, the eight masters, despite their lifelong animosity and exhaustion, passed on their internal energy and unique martial arts to Xiao Qiushui. Each master, in their final moments, insisted he receive their legacy, some hoping he would avenge them, others simply to pass on their knowledge and see whose martial arts were stronger. Xiao Qiushui, overwhelmed, initially resisted their desperate efforts.

One Wudang master, gravely wounded, struggled to impart his final words, urging Xiao Qiushui to endure. He declared that while Xiao Qiushui might not be a Taoist disciple, he was the only hope for Daxi's martial world against the encroaching Power Gang, a responsibility Xiao Qiushui solemnly accepted. After their passing, Xiao Qiushui reflected on these masters, acknowledging that despite their diverse origins, their shared dedication to martial arts transcended their differences.

He wished for them to find peace in the afterlife, free from worldly factions and able to spar purely for joy. He then laid his eight mentors to rest. Shortly after, Liu Suifeng stumbled upon their graves, perplexed by their demise and curious as to the events that transpired.

Xiao Qiushui, recalling the sword scabbard from Xiao Xilou and the mysterious "R" mark he had found on it, confronted one of the Twin Swordmen, who had also fallen off the cliff, asking if it was his and if he had left the mark. The Twin Swordsman confirmed the scabbard’s ownership and was surprised Xiao Qiushui recognized the symbol.

He then recounted how his dear friend's sect had been annihilated merely half a month prior by a traitor collaborating with outsiders, using the very same "R" mark. He confessed his ignorance of the mark's origin, urging Xiao Qiushui to tell him. Xiao Qiushui informed him it belonged to a shadowy organization within the martial world, possibly allied with the North Wasteland.

Zhang Canjin, in his final moments, marveled at gaining such a talented disciple in Xiao Qiushui, especially after decades of bitter rivalry with the other masters. He expressed his weariness with life, stating he could not live alone when the others had passed, and eventually succumbed, joining his companions on their journey. Meanwhile, on the Emei Golden Summit, Zhao Shirong proclaimed her victory over five challengers, inviting others to surrender.

Zhichen, the esteemed leader of the Emei sect, stepped forward to accept Zhao Shirong’s challenge, amidst onlookers who noted her formidable skill but also her rumored old ailment, fearing she was overexerting her internal energy. As their fierce duel reached its climax, Li Chenzhou made a dramatic entrance, his striking resemblance to Xiao Qiushui causing gasps among the crowd. His Power Gang followers greeted him with reverence.

Zhichen recognized Li Chenzhou and confronted him, demanding his purpose, while others remained fixated on the uncanny similarity between him and Xiao Qiushui. Li Chenzhou then unleashed his Thousand Kalpas Finger, a formidable technique that Abbess Zhichen immediately recognized. She revealed to the stunned crowd that this skill allowed Li Chenzhou to control their meridians, effectively holding their lives and deaths in his hands.

Unwilling to yield, Heavenly King Zhu loudly offered the Supreme Elixir to anyone brave enough to strike down Li Chenzhou. Li Chenzhou, with a smirk, elaborated that their predicament stemmed from their inferior internal energy, and the Supreme Elixir supposedly offered a way to break free. He challenged the assembly to choose between trying to kill him or seizing the elixir for their own survival.

Xiao Yiren, realizing he could not be controlled if he were to rebuild the Xiao family, resolved to obtain the elixir. However, Xiao Qiushui arrived, warning his brother that the Supreme Elixir was fake, a deadly poison crafted by Shao Liulei to exact revenge on Heavenly King Zhu. Xiao Yiren was stunned, but despite the warning, many sect leaders, desperate for a cure, continued to fight over the elixir.

Those who consumed it soon collapsed, dying from the poison, proving Xiao Qiushui’s words true. Abbess Zhichen watched the tragedy with profound sorrow, lamenting that people often found lies more palatable than harsh truths. She criticized their greed and infighting, reminding them that she had gathered them to unite against the evil Power Gang, not to squabble over treasures. Xiao Yiren then asked Xiao Qiushui how he possessed such knowledge about the elixir.

Zhao Shirong interjected, revealing that Xiao Qiushui had, in fact, consumed the "real" Supreme Elixir much earlier during an extraordinary adventure. Li Chenzhou then declared that with the elixir gone, only one path remained for their survival and demanded the Hero Token from Xiao Qiushui. Xiao Qiushui, filled with righteous fury, accused the Power Gang of annihilating his family and the 127 members of the Huanhua Sect, vowing to avenge them all that very day.

Their battle raged, Li Chenzhou acknowledging Xiao Qiushui’s proficient use of Wudang's Tai Chi Swordplay but critiquing its lack of refinement. Onlookers questioned how Xiao Qiushui had mastered both Shaolin and Wudang martial arts. Li Chenzhou eventually gained the upper hand, almost striking a fatal blow but stopping abruptly. Zhao Shirong solicitously offered Li Chenzhou a cloak, advising him to wear it to ward off the mountain chill.

Li Chenzhou acknowledged Xiao Qiushui as a rising star in the martial world, declaring he would spare his life for now. Xiao Qiushui fiercely retorted that if he wasn’t killed today, the day would certainly come when he would be the one to kill Li Chenzhou, a challenge Li Chenzhou readily accepted. Li Chenzhou then inquired about Xiao Qiushui’s true purpose in coming to Emei.

He cryptically stated he had always pursued a single objective, before presenting Xiao Qiushui with a jade pendant and instructing him to use it in conjunction with the Hero Token. As the two artifacts were combined, they projected a hidden map. Li Chenzhou explained that the map depicted treasures and martial arts manuals plundered by the North Wasteland during their invasion of the Daxi Era.

These treasures were intercepted by General Wu’s forces, hidden in Nantiandang, and later re-concealed by Yan Kuangtu, who engraved the map onto the Hero Token for General Wu, intending for Old Madam Wu to pass the secret to the General. This vital secret, however, was misunderstood by opportunists who erroneously linked the Hero Token to the legendary Book of Oblivion.

Li Chenzhou then announced his intention to travel to Nantiandang in three days, inviting any survivors who wished to join him, adding a stark warning that those who refused could expect to die on the Golden Summit. Abbess Zhichen, though acknowledging the tragedy of Daxi's lost treasures, cautioned Xiao Qiushui not to fully trust the Power Gang.

Li Chenzhou then declared that he had lifted the Thousand Kalpas Finger from most individuals, reserving its lingering effects only for those he deemed "useful." He reiterated the meeting point at Nantiandang’s entrance in three days. Before departing, Li Chenzhou directly addressed Xiao Qiushui, promising to return his parents' bodies after the upcoming mission.

He also dropped a bombshell, claiming that the Power Gang was not responsible for his parents' deaths, adding that Xiao Qiushui would eventually discover the truth himself. Later, Sancai and other companions lauded Xiao Qiushui’s heroic display at the Golden Summit, though they regretted Xiao Kaiyan’s absence and observed Xiao Yiren’s lingering discontent. Xiao Qiushui confided in a senior figure, expressing remorse for failing to kill Li Chenzhou and almost causing the ruin of the martial world.

The senior, however, reassured him that he had performed admirably by saving as many as he could, recognizing the distinct martial arts Xiao Qiushui had employed, specifically mentioning Tieqi, Yinping, Muye, Fanhua, the Twin Swordmen, Suiyu, and Canjin. Xiao Qiushui confirmed these were indeed the skills passed on by the eight masters.

The senior then declared himself a "cripple," entrusting the future of the martial world to Xiao Qiushui, who tried to reassure him, but the senior pressed him for a promise. Sancai then inquired if they were truly bound for Nantiandang. Xiao Qiushui affirmed their need to go, citing the widespread control of Thousand Kalpas Finger and Li Chenzhou’s promise to return his parents’ bodies.

One companion questioned whether Xiao Qiushui believed Li Chenzhou’s assertion that the Power Gang was innocent in his parents’ deaths. Xiao Qiushui responded that he trusted no one on this matter and was determined to uncover the truth himself. He mused that Li Chenzhou had the opportunity to kill him outright, recalling his earlier suspicion that Liu Suifeng, due to his false "Lucky Bag" identity, might be "R."

He pondered if Li Chenzhou himself was "R," having instructed Liu Suifeng's actions. Xiao Qiushui then articulated his theory: that "R" deliberately disseminated rumors about the Book of Oblivion being in Li Chenzhou’s possession to incite chaos and ultimately dismantle the entire martial world. When Deng Yuhan and Zuo Qiu struggled to comprehend, Xiao Qiushui offered a simplified analogy about constantly moving forward on life's path.

Xiao Kaiyan noted that his older brother, Xiao Yiren, had been noticeably despondent since his return from the Golden Summit, mentioning the circulating rumors that Xiao Qiushui had mastered the Book of Oblivion. Xiao Yiren vehemently dismissed these as baseless. Xiao Kaiyan advised Xiao Yiren to be patient, reminding him of Xiao Qiushui’s inherent respect for his elder brother. Given Xiao Qiushui’s newfound prominence, Xiao Kaiyan suggested leveraging his achievements to revitalize the Xiao family.

When Xiao Yiren hesitated, unsure how to approach Xiao Qiushui, Xiao Kaiyan hinted that perhaps Xiao Qiushui already wished to entrust the Changge Sword to him but needed a subtle invitation. Accepting this, Xiao Yiren arrived at the Liang Residence to find Xiao Qiushui and his companions. He commended their success in destroying twelve Power Gang outposts while the main forces were at the Golden Summit.

Xiao Qiushui then began to recount his "bizarre" experience, explaining how, after the eight masters tumbled down the cliff and continued their intense sparring, they unexpectedly bestowed upon him their lifelong martial arts and unique skills amidst the chaos. His companions were astounded, declaring that Xiao Qiushui now possessed the combined powers of eight grandmasters and looked every bit a sect leader. Xiao Qiushui humbly brushed off their compliments.

Later, Xiao Yiren approached Xiao Qiushui directly, asking if he intended to remain estranged from the Xiao Villa following Xueyu's wedding. He admitted his resentment over Xiao Qiushui’s secrecy regarding the Hero Token but acknowledged the gravity of their situation and conceded that Xiao Qiushui's growing independence was natural.

Xiao Yiren expressed his desire to clear up all misunderstandings and invited Xiao Qiushui to the villa that very night, adding that Xiao Kaiyan, having recovered from his illness, also wished to see him. Xiao Qiushui readily agreed, emphasizing the importance of brothers uniting and discussing matters with common enemies at hand. That evening, the three Xiao brothers – Xiao Yiren, Xiao Kaiyan, and Xiao Qiushui – gathered under the moonlight.

Xiao Yiren offered Xiao Qiushui some precious bamboo leaf tea from their family's old backyard, a rare treat he had saved for this occasion. Xiao Kaiyan then presented Xiao Qiushui with a cherished embroidered item of their mother's, adorned with his favorite camellias, a found memento from tidying the villa. Xiao Yiren reiterated his sincere hope that this gathering would be a candid exchange to resolve all their previous misunderstandings, a sentiment Xiao Qiushui warmly reciprocated.

They then shared a drink, an act of familial reconciliation. Xiao Yiren, still perturbed, asked Xiao Qiushui to honestly explain the source of his new profound energy and martial skills. Xiao Qiushui reiterated the tale of the eight masters imparting their powers to him at the Golden Summit. Xiao Yiren, however, found it hard to believe, questioning why these strangers would bestow such powers upon someone they barely knew.

Xiao Qiushui affirmed his sincerity, stating he would not fabricate stories to deceive his family and reminding them that the world held many unfathomable occurrences and extraordinary individuals. Given the perilous situation, Xiao Yiren then cut to the chase, directly asking if Xiao Qiushui had secretly studied the Book of Oblivion.

Episode 28 Recap

Xiao Yiren invited Xiao Qiushui back to his residence for a meal, a rare gathering for the three brothers. Yiren, wasting no time, directly confronted Qiushui, asking if he had secretly studied the Book of Oblivion. He questioned why Qiushui had suddenly gained such profound internal energy after losing his martial skills, and if Zhao Shirong's claim about Qiushui taking the Supreme Elixir was true.

Yiren also noted that the Hero Token given at the Golden Summit only contained a map, suspecting Qiushui had taken the book beforehand. Xiao Qiushui confirmed he obtained the elixir by chance from Shao Liulei and denied knowing the Hero Token was hidden in Master Zhang's dagger, stating that neither the dagger nor the Hero Token contained the Book of Oblivion. Yiren, however, dismissed this, calling Li Chenzhou a cunning manipulator whose words couldn't be trusted.

Kaiyan tried to mediate, suggesting that if Qiushui truly had the Book, it would be beneficial for the family. Qiushui expressed his weariness with the constant suspicion, arguing that if he had mastered the Book, Li Chenzhou couldn't have overpowered him at the Golden Summit, nor would he have stood by while Heavenly King Zhu deceived the martial world with fake elixirs.

This only angered Yiren further, who accused Qiushui of blaming him for trying to seize the elixir to restore their family's honor. Yiren again pressed Qiushui about the Book of Oblivion, and when Qiushui reiterated his denial, Yiren accused him of keeping it a secret. He declared Qiushui unfit to be the young sect leader for taking the Supreme Elixir, learning unorthodox techniques, and abandoning Huanhua's teachings, demanding he surrender the Sword of Changge.

Qiushui retorted that Yiren's own pursuit of the book was also unorthodox and that the sect would not be revived by one person's obsession. He refused to give up the Sword of Changge, challenging Yiren to take it by force. Yiren, infuriated by Qiushui's refusal and his accusation that Yiren was acting with prejudice, furiously overturned the table and disowned Qiushui as his brother. Qiushui left, lamenting Yiren’s inability to focus on their family's true plight.

Later, as Yiren sat alone drinking, a cloaked figure appeared. The figure shrewdly played on Yiren's jealousy, noting how Xiao Qiushui's martial prowess and reputation had overshadowed Yiren at the Golden Summit. When Yiren dismissed him, the figure suggested that Yiren's current strength was insufficient to surpass Qiushui and revive the sect, proposing he borrow power from "influential figures." The figure offered to connect Yiren with these powerful individuals if he retrieved a specific item from Nantiandang.

Though skeptical, Yiren was convinced when the cloaked figure summoned five exotic experts who would secretly follow and assist him. Meanwhile, Tang Song, held captive in Avici Tower, was rescued by Tang Qing. She revealed that the matriarch had ordered his release. Tang Qing presented an Eagle Flute, explaining that "the other side" had sent it, seeking their help to "play a bigger game."

Elsewhere, Xiao Qiushui was walking when he suddenly felt a chaotic surge of internal energy tormenting him, causing him to collapse. He awoke to find himself bound by iron chains, surrounded by a strange mist. The cloaked figure from before stood over him, revealing the mist to be North Wasteland's Sapping Incense. Qiushui, recognizing the man he had long sought, confronted him, identifying him as "R." R confirmed his identity and expressed admiration for Qiushui's ability to track him.

He refused to reveal his true face until Qiushui's death, stating Qiushui had "another purpose." R began to absorb Qiushui's internal energy, declaring that with it, he would become invincible in the martial world and shake its foundations, which prompted Qiushui to realize R's connection to the Book of Oblivion. However, Qiushui had feigned unconsciousness. He swiftly broke free, stating he had acted convincingly to lure R out. R, impressed by Qiushui's strong internal energy, vanished.

Qiushui pondered R's unnatural techniques, wondering why he sought his internal energy and who he truly was. Returning to Liang's residence, Qiushui had no appetite despite Sancai having saved dinner for him. He informed Sancai that he had met R, confirming it was not Liu Suifeng, and pressed Sancai for information about Li Chenzhou. Sancai revealed Li Chenzhou's secret identity: he was Daxi's royalty, the current emperor's own brother, and the former emperor's legitimate son.

Qiushui, recalling R's use of North Wasteland's Sapping Incense, a rare item obtainable only by North Wasteland experts, concluded that Li Chenzhou, being Daxi royalty, was unlikely to have deep ties to North Wasteland. Sancai agreed, noting the deep animosity between Daxi and North Wasteland would preclude such trust. Qiushui acknowledged this was mere speculation, as he had only met Li Chenzhou once, and resolved to quietly investigate his true motives.

On the appointed day, numerous martial sects converged at Nantiandang. The Power Gang arrived with Zhao Shirong and Blade King leading, while Liu Suifeng and Song Mingzhu followed discreetly. Li Chenzhou was conspicuously absent, prompting concerns from some sects about Power Gang's intentions. Zhao Shirong assured them that Li Chenzhou was delayed but would arrive soon.

She warned everyone about Nantiandang's perilous environment, explaining that its constant toxic fog was not ordinary water vapor but lethal miasma imbued with the poisons of various plants. She urged extreme caution, emphasizing that unknown dangers lay deeper within. Despite the warnings, the sects pressed on, eager for treasure. Zhao Shirong promised rich rewards for the first to find the treasure and compensation for any who perished.

As they advanced, Liu Suifeng questioned Song Mingzhu about Li Chenzhou's absence and their trailing position, to which Song Mingzhu replied that their leader surely had his own plans and they should simply obey. Xiao Qiushui also cautioned his companions about Nantiandang's complexity and dangers. After passing through a poisonous forest, Qiushui suggested they pause to examine their maps, as it was getting late and they had found nothing.

They gathered their maps, and Qiushui pointed out a black pattern that resembled a dragon's silhouette, with a distinct body, claws, and head. Others agreed, identifying the location as "Dragon raising its head." Qiushui deduced that the treasure would be at the highest point. He instructed everyone to split up and search for this location, signaling with fireworks upon discovery. That night, Xiao Qiushui wandered alone when Li Chenzhou appeared.

Li Chenzhou stated that he knew Qiushui distrusted the Power Gang, but asserted they rarely killed innocent people. He explained that during North Wasteland's invasion of Daxi, an organization called Eagle Flute emerged, colluding with the invaders to map the Central Plains. He claimed that all those recently killed by the Power Gang were Eagle Flute lackeys. Qiushui challenged this, asking if even the "respected Diancang Sect" was an Eagle Flute lackey.

Li Chenzhou confirmed that both Diancang and the Xuefu Sect were indeed part of the Eagle Flute. Qiushui then pressed him about the innocent lives lost in his own family. Li Chenzhou claimed he had ordered a siege, not a massacre, of the Xiao family, and that when the second wave of Power Gang members arrived, the Sword Retreat had already fallen, implying that the true killer of Qiushui's family was an internal member. Qiushui was incredulous.

He then accused the Power Gang of killing Tianzheng and Taichan, having witnessed it himself. Li Chenzhou admitted Power Gang's responsibility for their deaths but claimed that someone had impersonated him using "Thousand Faces" and issued the command, resulting in a grave error. He explained that he took Qiushui's parents' remains to investigate their true cause of death, revealing a note with an "R" found near their bodies, whose meaning was unknown to him.

Li Chenzhou suggested they shared a common enemy and mentioned that the Medicine King had identified a unique, rarely known finger technique as the cause of death. Qiushui, internally questioning if Li Chenzhou was truly not R, asked for details about this finger technique. Li Chenzhou promised to return his parents' bodies to Huanhua and provide full details about the technique after their return from Nantiandang.

Qiushui, still wary, questioned Li Chenzhou's true motives for gathering numerous small sects for the treasure hunt, implying he had ulterior motives if the Power Gang could find it alone. Li Chenzhou simply smiled without answering. The next morning, the Shenzhou Alliance discovered the location of the "Dragon's Head." Zhao Shirong, citing the unknown dangers within, suggested that Xiao Qiushui enter first, praising his keen eyesight.

Qiushui accepted, stating that he would go ahead to explore the unknown territory and provide backup upon his return, advising others to wait. Kaiyan, concerned, urged Qiushui to be careful. Other sects, growing impatient and suspicious, tried to force their way in, accusing the Power Gang of plotting to use them and monopolize the treasure. Zhao Shirong defended the decision, reminding them of Qiushui's formidable skills and arguing that if even he couldn't return, their entry would be futile.

She pointed out Qiushui considered the Power Gang an enemy, discrediting the idea of them monopolizing the treasure. The large gate then closed behind Qiushui. After some time with no movement, chaos erupted inside, and Kaiyan, fearing Qiushui was in danger, moved to rescue him.

Zhao Shirong intervened, stating the situation was unclear and ordering the Fuhu Sect, Wuyi Gang, and Guidao Sect to follow her to a suitable location to plant explosives and blast a wall to rescue Qiushui, while others waited. However, some sects defied her, opting to search for alternative entry points.

Meanwhile, Song Mingzhu revealed to Liu Suifeng the Power Gang's true strategy: all other sects were under the influence of the Thousand Kalpas Finger, but Zhu Datianwang had given his followers pills to temporarily suppress its effects to seize the treasure. Thus, any who defied Power Gang's orders would be identified as Zhu Datianwang's people. Song Mingzhu led some Power Gang members to blast through a weak point in the mountain wall.

The Wuyi Gang, Fuhu Sect, and Guidao Sect rushed in through the newly opened passage, discovering mounds of gold. However, upon touching the treasure, they were instantly poisoned. Blade King of the Guidao Sect realized it was a trap and confronted Zhao Shirong. Zhao Shirong, without hesitation, revealed that the Guidao, Wuyi, and Fuhu Sects had colluded with Heavenly King Zhu to secretly destroy Power Gang outposts, and it was time to settle scores.

She mocked Zhu Datianwang for being a coward who dared not show his face. Blade King realized Zhao Shirong had known their treachery all along and accused Nantiandang of being the Power Gang's entire conspiracy. Zhao Shirong swiftly incapacitated him with her water sleeve, stating that their own ulterior motives led them to fall for the trap so easily. Xiao Qiushui, who had navigated the initial dangers and located a treasure chamber, was joined by members of the Shenzhou Alliance.

Wary of the Power Gang's machinations, Qiushui cautiously triggered a mechanism with hidden weapons, unleashing a volley of poisoned arrows. After securing the area, he instructed his allies to carefully collect the gold and jewels, avoiding the poisoned shafts. Just then, Li Chenzhou appeared. Other sect leaders confronted him, reminding him of his promise at Emei's Golden Summit that the treasure hunt was not for personal gain and demanded an explanation for its disposition.

Li Chenzhou responded, acknowledging that the dire situation on the Daxi frontline, where North Wasteland forces were massing and the Wu Army was now on the defensive, necessitated their actions. He asserted that while Power Gang's reputation in the martial world was contentious, they had never acted against Daxi's interests.

When other sects noticed the absence of the Wuyi, Fuhu, and Guidao Sect members and accused Power Gang of killing them, Li Chenzhou firmly stated that they only killed those who deserved to die and that arguing now would waste precious time. He reiterated his pledge: ten percent of the collected treasure would be given to those who helped, and the remaining majority would be dedicated to supporting Daxi's frontline. Yiren, who had also arrived, was stunned by the sheer amount of gold.

Episode 29 Recap

As the Power Gang leader, Li Chenzhou, announced that the Thousand Kalpas Finger on everyone had been lifted, he offered those who still doubted him the option to take their promised payment and depart. However, most martial artists, grateful to Xiao Qiushui for saving them earlier, turned to him for guidance. Xiao Qiushui, realizing that directly confronting the "unfathomable" Li Chenzhou now would be "unwise" and "impossible to win," declared that supporting the frontline was paramount.

He urged everyone to set aside their conflicts, including those between the Xiao family and the Power Gang, and to ensure the collected treasures reached the "frontline warriors." He then challenged Li Chenzhou to "fulfill today's pledge" if he truly sought "the entire martial world's allegiance," to which Li Chenzhou readily agreed.

Inspired by Xiao Qiushui, various sects, including the Haisha Gang and Baibu Sect, renounced their rightful shares of the treasure, donating everything to the frontline efforts and later pledging their loyalty to Xiao Qiushui. While everyone helped load the collected treasures, Li Chenzhou confronted a newly recruited Huanhua Sect disciple brought by Xiao Yiren, who was "sneaking around." The disciple attempted to attack Li Chenzhou but was swiftly struck down.

Xiao Yiren, angered, was then forced by Li Chenzhou to reveal a North Wasteland mark on the fallen disciple's arm. Other martial artists immediately accused Xiao Yiren of colluding with the North Wasteland. Xiao Yiren, distraught, pursued another fleeing North Wastelander, demanding to know why he was framed, but the Wastelander dismissed him as an "insignificant worm" unworthy of their schemes. Yiren, furious and heartbroken, killed the man.

Xiao Qiushui quickly intervened, assuring the assembled sects that his brother, Xiao Yiren, could not possibly be a North Wasteland spy and must have been "ensnared in a plot." He promised that the Xiao family would provide a full account once the truth was uncovered. Zhao Shirong then stepped forward, reiterating the urgency of the frontline and allowing anyone unwilling to help transport the treasures to leave.

The other sects, reaffirming their trust in Xiao Qiushui, pledged their full support not only to Daxi but also personally to him, vowing to follow him through any peril. Once the treasures were loaded, Zhao Shirong approached Xiao Qiushui, relaying Li Chenzhou's message that Xiao Qiushui was to "handle the treasures' future arrangements" and "handle the overall situation" concerning them.

She further promised that after the treasures were successfully delivered to the frontline, the Power Gang would return the bodies of his parents, Xiao Xilou and Sun Huishan, to the Xiao family. Xiao Yiren returned to his severely damaged family home, where the black-clad man appeared once more. Yiren angrily confronted him, demanding to know why he had been tricked into bringing North Wastelanders to Nantiandang and what his true identity was.

The black-clad man brushed aside his identity as unimportant, declaring that Yiren's "only path now is to join me." He then revealed that when the North Wasteland "breached the capital" years ago, Daxi's "imperial jade seal" had vanished, hidden within the treasure hoard of Nantiandang. He explained that the North Wastelanders were sent to recover this seal to "return it intact" to Daxi's emperor, thereby performing a "great service" by "transforming conflict into harmony" and "sparing the people from war."

Xiao Yiren, though skeptical, questioned how Wastelanders could return the seal to the emperor and what it meant for reclaiming lost northern territories. The black-clad man scoffed at reclaiming lost lands as "martial artists' wishful thinking," claiming the emperor had no desire for war but merely lacked a proper "occasion to reconcile" with the North Wasteland. Returning the seal would fulfill the emperor's wishes and "benefit all."

Yiren expressed concern that his family would be labeled "forever traitors" for such an act. The black-clad man dismissed his worries about the nation's fate, promising "handsome rewards" and an "imperial plaque" for the Huanhua Sect, which would make both Jin City and the Central Plains martial worlds heed the Xiao family. Xiao Yiren pressed again for the man's identity.

Upon returning to his manor, Xiao Qiushui was relieved to find it rebuilt "exactly as it was before" with the assistance of the Shenzhou Alliance and various Guangling sects. They expressed their satisfaction and departed. Tang Fang was also present, offering her help. Suddenly, a wounded Xiao Kaiyan stumbled in, explaining that he and Xiao Yiren had pursued the Wastelander, but Yiren disappeared in the "treacherous paths" of Nantiandang.

Before Xiao Qiushui could inquire further, a report came that Zhao Shirong had arrived with the bodies of his parents, Xiao Xilou and Sun Huishan. Overcome with grief, Xiao Qiushui and Xiao Kaiyan mourned their parents. Kaiyan, consumed by sorrow and rage, swore "to avenge this blood debt." Xiao Qiushui restrained him, revealing that Li Chenzhou had claimed at Nantiandang that the Power Gang "weren't the murderers" and that "the true killer is someone else."

Kaiyan, however, was distrustful of the Power Gang and accused Qiushui of being "bewitched." Qiushui defended his belief, explaining that Li Chenzhou had shown him "irrefutable evidence" and promised to "expose the mastermind behind their deaths" within three days. Zhao Shirong then explained that the parents were killed by the "Marrow-Shattering Finger," a technique "left behind by Elder Tuoshan decades ago."

She presented "the iron sand" as "proof," having used "Twofold Needles to draw the iron sand" from their bodies "to their wrists." Xiao Qiushui inquired who Elder Tuoshan had taught the technique to. Zhao Shirong revealed he had "three direct disciples" from "three prominent martial families of the southern martial world": the Fei family, the Deng family from Hailin Sect's Qianxi branch, and the Tang Sect.

She specified that the "hard and rigid" technique could "only be practiced by men," and within the Tang Sect, its practitioner was Tang Yaoshun. Tang Fang swiftly clarified that her father, Tang Yaoshun, had been "bedridden for years" and "hasn't left Tang Sect in a year," rendering him incapable of using the Marrow-Shattering Finger, which demands "complete internal energy control."

Zhao Shirong corroborated this, acknowledging that Tang Yaoshun's "energy is severely depleted," thus making it impossible for him to perform the technique. Zhao Shirong then concluded that the killer "must be from the other two families," identifying Fei Yuqiao as the practitioner for the Fei family and Deng Qingfeng for the Deng family. Deng Yuhan immediately sprang to his father's defense, asserting he had "never seen my father use this technique" nor heard him "learning from Elder Tuoshan."

Xiao Qiushui, trusting Yuhan, declared he "doubts your father harmed my family." He decided that "For now, I'll investigate Fei Yuqiao first" by testing his skills to get answers. Before he could leave, Zhao Shirong intervened, stating that Li Chenzhou had "urgent information" for him and requested that he "visit Power Gang headquarters first," handing him a token for access. She then departed.

After Zhao Shirong left, Xiao Qiushui instructed Xiao Kaiyan to descend the mountain and "prepare coffins" so their parents could be laid to rest promptly, and to "inform Yiren and Xueyu." Other members of the Shenzhou Alliance offered their assistance. Xiao Qiushui then took a moment to be alone with his parents' bodies, weeping as he apologized for finally bringing them home. As he held Sun Huishan's hand, he unexpectedly discovered an "S" etched onto it.

This discovery sent his thoughts into a flurry, and he had a "wild guess" that there might be "another transmigrator" in this world, triggering a crucial memory from his life before transmigrating. Before transmigrating, Xiao Mingming had started working at a company owned by his senior from the Chinese department, Li Nan.

While Li Nan's latest work, `Sect Leader`, was receiving praise from fans, some wished for more romantic subplots, and Mingming privately labeled Li Nan as "shameless" and "a fraud." Li Nan had reviewed Mingming's "pure wuxia" novel outline, `Halfway Hero`, which featured "patriotic themes," but expressed reservations about the "genre." Mingming reminded Li Nan of their agreement: if `Sect Leader` met certain metrics, Mingming would receive an author contract.

However, Li Nan criticized Mingming's recent "slow updates," causing "readers to complain," and suggested he "reset" the story and "give more cheat codes" for popular appeal, even proposing to revive a retired character, Immortal Li. Mingming resisted, insisting that while "readers do enjoy cheat codes, but cannot overdo it," and that he preferred to write "pure wuxia."

Li Nan, claiming to treat Mingming "like my own brother" since Mingming's "parents died young," urged him to drop his "stubborn" attitude, "focus on writing well," and "don't overthink it." Driven by frustration, Xiao Mingming refused to let Li Nan continue to steal his work. His colleague, Li Cai, suggested that while one shouldn't "overthink" workplace matters, Mingming could try the "Demon Codex" interactive writing software.

Li Cai explained that the system used AI for writing and notably "includes the adaptation you're working on of Wen Rui'an's Heroes of Divine Land." Xiao Mingming opened the software, finding his own `Heroes of Divine Land` manuscript within it. He later discovered that `Sect Leader II`, Li Nan's "new book," used his `Halfway Hero` outline, leading to a heated confrontation in Li Nan's office.

Li Nan dismissed Mingming's accusations, claiming he had planned `Sect Leader II` months ago and arguing that his own authorship made the copyright "more valuable." Mingming, however, believed Li Nan had "lacked creativity for years" and was merely "counting on you to reset him." He declared, "This is my novel," and refused to ghostwrite further, demanding proper credit.

Li Nan attempted to negotiate, offering money, a new book, or authorship, but Mingming stated that while his personal matters could be set aside, "selling state secrets to foreign powers is a different story," revealing that he had discovered Li Nan secretly transmitting photos taken at a "military forum event" — photos that contained "state secrets." As they struggled over Li Nan's computer, an electrical shock occurred, leading to their simultaneous transmigration.

Back in the martial world, Xiao Qiushui, recalling the "reset" and connecting it to Li Nan, realized "It's him." He deduced that if Li Nan had also transmigrated into this world since his own arrival, then Li Nan might be responsible for manipulating events. He reflected on his past attempts to change the story, like rushing reinforcements home, yet his brother (Xiao Yiren) still "met misfortune on the way," and his parents were still killed.

He wondered if Li Nan had "changed the story's path again" and if he had "accomplices in my family." He recalled Li Chenzhou's earlier words: Power Gang's orders for the Xiao family were only to besiege, not to kill. When Power Gang's second group arrived, Sword Retreat had already fallen from within, suggesting that "the real killer of your clan is one of your own people."

This reinforced Qiushui's suspicion that his parents' killer was someone else, and he questioned Li Nan's identity and how he could "infiltrate my family so deeply." Still reeling from these revelations, Xiao Qiushui was approached by Deng Yuhan, who expressed his deep guilt.

Yuhan recounted that when "Sword Retreat was besieged," he had "vowed" to Xiao Qiushui that he would bring his father to aid the Huanhua Sect, but his father "cowered and did nothing," making Yuhan feel he had "failed" his sworn brother. Xiao Qiushui reassured him, stating that no matter his father's actions, Yuhan "will always be my brother," and the Marrow-Shattering Finger theory was "just speculation," advising him not to "dwell on it."

He reminded Yuhan of their oath as sworn brothers, that "no matter what happens and no matter when, you'll always be my sworn brother." Moved by this, Deng Yuhan offered to "accompany" Xiao Qiushui to Hailin Sect "to confront my father for answers." Xiao Qiushui agreed, believing "It'll spare you the torment," and told Yuhan to "Wait for me."

Episode 30 Recap

Xiao Qiushui arrived at the Power Gang headquarters to meet Li Chenzhou, who first inquired about the burial of Xiao Qiushui's parents. Xiao Qiushui then asked the purpose of the meeting. Li Chenzhou brought up the symbol left by the killers of Xiao Qiushui's family, which he had mentioned at Nantiandang, and explained that this person was also an enemy of the Power Gang, having colluded with North Wasteland to endanger Daxi.

Li Chenzhou asserted that the Power Gang bore the duty to protect their land. Xiao Qiushui questioned why Li Chenzhou resorted to intimidation to unite the martial world instead of doing so based on righteousness. Li Chenzhou countered that the martial world was complex and without his strong leadership, it would never unite. He was willing to be a villain if fear brought unity.

Xiao Qiushui argued that fear should not be the bond and that the events at Nantiandang proved righteousness was paramount. He stated that the Power Gang was making things worse and that Li Chenzhou was using the wrong methods. Li Chenzhou maintained that while their approaches differed, they shared a common goal. He then proposed an alliance.

Li Chenzhou presented an Eagle Flute, explaining that it was used by both Xiao Qiushui's family's killer and a Power Gang traitor, and was found on Wastelanders at Nantiandang. He concluded that Xiao Yiren was used as a pawn by these same culprits and stressed the necessity of an alliance, with the Marrow-Shattering Finger being their only lead.

Xiao Qiushui, though agreeing the alliance was more like mutual exploitation, confirmed he was already planning to confront Deng Qingfeng of the Hailin Sect and Fei Yuqiao of the Fei family. He then requested a favor: for the Medicine King of the Power Gang, known for his unique skills, to treat his friend Tang Fang's ailing father. Li Chenzhou acknowledged that sending the Medicine King to the Tang Sect was unusual but promised to arrange it.

Xiao Qiushui thanked him and departed. Later that night, Tang Fang was restless, kept awake by cicadas and concern for her father. She had left the Tang Sect six months prior, hoping to find clues about Yan Kuangtu at Nantiandang, but her hopes were unfulfilled. Xiao Qiushui comforted her, suggesting that a cure for her father might exist beyond the Book of Oblivion, and that their friends were also diligently searching for remedies.

He expressed his belief that a solution would be found. The next day, after paying respects to his parents, Xiao Qiushui informed Tang Fang that he would not be joining her, but the Medicine King was on his way to the Tang Sect to treat her father. After bidding farewell to his companions, Xiao Qiushui embarked on the journey to the Hailin Sect with Deng Yuhan.

Approaching Deng's home through a market, Xiao Qiushui suggested buying gifts for his family, but Deng Yuhan declined, citing a strained relationship with his father. Xiao Qiushui then questioned why Deng Qingfeng, whose family traditionally practiced sword arts, had learned the Marrow-Shattering Finger. Deng Yuhan explained that his father was a martial arts enthusiast who sought to revitalize the declining Hailin Sect by learning various techniques, with the Marrow-Shattering Finger likely being one of them.

He mentioned that his father had been in seclusion for years and that their relationship had grown distant, but firmly believed his father would never harm Xiao Qiushui's parents. Nevertheless, he agreed that confronting Deng Qingfeng was necessary to clear his name, a sentiment Xiao Qiushui echoed, hoping to quickly identify the true culprit. Upon their arrival at the Deng residence, Deng Yulan, Deng Yuhan's elder sister, warmly welcomed them.

She directed Deng Yuhan to the study to meet their father, Deng Qingfeng, while she escorted Xiao Qiushui to the main hall. However, as soon as Deng Yuhan entered the study, he was ambushed and tied up. Deng Yulan offered Xiao Qiushui a meal, promising his father would meet him afterward. However, after Xiao Qiushui consumed the poisoned food, Deng Yulan ordered her servants to tie him up and deliver him to Heavenly King Zhu.

To her surprise, Xiao Qiushui had anticipated their move and incapacitated her by striking her acupoints. Knowing Deng Qingfeng was present, Xiao Qiushui demanded he reveal himself. From behind a screen, Deng Qingfeng responded with a powerful voice, seemingly using a Lion's Roar technique, and launched hidden weapons. Xiao Qiushui, noticing the smell of saltpeter and deducing the use of mechanical devices to project voice and launch attacks, realized Deng Qingfeng lacked genuine internal energy.

He insisted Deng Qingfeng come out, stating he wouldn't leave until the truth about his parents' death was uncovered. After an exchange, Xiao Qiushui shattered the screen, forcing Deng Qingfeng into the open. They exchanged a single palm strike, which Deng Qingfeng, clearly weakened, could not withstand, collapsing to the floor. Xiao Qiushui noticed that Deng Qingfeng had used the Marrow-Shattering Finger. Deng Yuhan, now free, rushed to his father's side, shocked by the fight.

Xiao Qiushui explained that Deng Qingfeng was already injured and apologized for exacerbating his condition. He revealed the "Echo Wall" and the mechanical devices in the room, which Deng Qingfeng had used to simulate profound internal energy and maintain his family's standing. Deng Yuhan, stunned, urged his father to confess. Deng Qingfeng then admitted that fifteen years ago, during the Herbal Valley bandit purge, he was struck by Thunderfire bombs, severing his meridians and stripping him of his martial prowess.

Despite surviving, he had spent years in seclusion, only recovering a tenth of his original strength. He had refurbished his manor to install mechanisms, including the Echo Wall, to hide his weakened state from his past enemies. He further revealed that, witnessing the downfall of allied sects and aware of Liu Suifeng's machinations, he felt compelled to ally with Heavenly King Zhu to ensure his family's survival.

He expressed deep guilt for not aiding the Xiao family during their crisis, but swore he was innocent of their massacre. Finally, he stated that he chose to reveal the truth to help Xiao Qiushui find the real killer. After the confession, Xiao Qiushui, using Master Dayin's Breath-Returning Technique, attempted to restore Deng Qingfeng's meridians. He informed Deng Qingfeng that due to the long-standing nature of his injuries, only a tenth of his martial prowess could be recovered.

Deng Qingfeng, having long accepted his condition, expressed contentment, stating his sole wish was for his family's safety. After Xiao Qiushui's departure, Liu Suifeng secretly entered Deng Qingfeng's study, determined to seek revenge for the Herbal Valley tragedy. Deng Qingfeng confronted him, lamenting that Xiao Xilou should not have saved Liu Suifeng, who had become a demon.

Liu Suifeng presented a handwritten testimony from the assassin Yuchi Qing, which stated that Herbal Valley had no dealings with North Wasteland and only produced pills to feed the poor. She claimed the North Wasteland had fabricated rumors after their request for military use of the pills was denied.

Deng Qingfeng countered with his own recollection of the past, explaining how he and Xiao Xilou had investigated Herbal Valley after receiving tips about them colluding with North Wasteland to produce Marching Pills. He described how Xiao Xilou had offered Liu Suifeng's mother a chance to prove her innocence, but she stubbornly refused. Deng Qingfeng then recounted seeing North Wastelanders moving Marching Pills within the valley.

Liu Suifeng angrily retorted, accusing the martial artists of killing his people to cover up their crimes and questioning why they would expect a welcome after acting as bandits. He then demanded to know who provided the ledger detailing Herbal Valley's transactions with North Wasteland. Deng Qingfeng claimed ignorance, which Liu Suifeng disbelieved, leading him to inject Deng Qingfeng with a gu worm to force the truth out.

Surprised to learn that Xiao Xilou had saved his life and sent him to the Tang Sect after the Herbal Valley massacre, Liu Suifeng nevertheless dismissed it as an oversight, further berating Deng Qingfeng for betraying Xiao Xilou by allying with Heavenly King Zhu. Before he could press further, a servant's voice from outside forced Liu Suifeng to flee. Later that night, Deng Yuhan visited his father.

He observed Deng Qingfeng's tell-tale sign of lying—looking downwards—and directly confronted him about withholding the full truth regarding the Herbal Valley incident. Deng Yuhan warned his father that Liu Suifeng was ruthless and would not cease harassing the Hailin Sect, urging him to abandon his alliance with Heavenly King Zhu, which he deemed no better than the Power Gang.

He declared his intention to leave with Xiao Qiushui at dawn, pleading with his father to choose a righteous path and stop disappointing him. Shortly after Deng Yuhan left, Deng Qingfeng, reflecting on his son's words, began to write something at his desk. However, he was suddenly attacked by masked assailants who brutally murdered him to silence him.

The following morning, as Xiao Qiushui and Deng Yuhan were preparing to depart, Deng Yulan rushed to them with news of Deng Qingfeng's death. They immediately returned to the residence, where they found Deng Qingfeng deceased. Xiao Qiushui examined the body, discovering a gu worm on his hand and noting that the fatal wound was a puncture to the back, caused by a Tang Sect hidden weapon.

Deng Yuhan, overcome with grief and guilt, blamed himself for leaving his father and identified several external injuries matching the distinct pattern of Liu Suifeng's fan. Xiao Qiushui then drew attention to a piece of paper on the table, torn in half, suggesting that Deng Qingfeng had attempted to leave a message.

Episode 31 Recap

After discovering a half-torn paper and a gu worm on Deng Qingfeng's body, Xiao Qiushui scrutinized the scene with Deng Yuhan. Xiao Qiushui noted the torn paper, speculating that Deng Qingfeng had intended to leave a message. Deng Yuhan, remembering his father had previously concealed details about Herbal Valley despite his inquiries, believed Deng Qingfeng might have finally decided to reveal the truth.

Deng Yuhan immediately suspected Liu Suifeng, vowing to avenge his father regardless of where the killer fled, and questioned if Xiao Qiushui could confirm Liu Suifeng's guilt. Deng Yuhan asserted that his father had no other enemies, making Liu Suifeng and the Power Gang the only plausible culprits for such a monstrous act. Xiao Qiushui then asked Deng Yulan to recall any unusual events from the previous night.

Deng Yulan recounted that she had gone to her father's study during the second watch, Hai hour, and saw Liu Suifeng leaving. She had intended to follow him but was incapacitated from behind by Liu Suifeng, who struck her acupoint and rendered her unconscious. Deng Yuhan interjected, stating he had visited their father during the third watch, Zi hour, suggesting Deng Yulan might have misremembered the time.

However, Deng Yulan firmly insisted she heard the watchman's report before losing consciousness, making her certain of the time. Xiao Qiushui concluded that both accounts could be accurate, implying that another person must have entered Deng Qingfeng's room after Liu Suifeng. As Deng Yuhan began to lay the deceased of his household to rest, Xiao Qiushui noticed something in Deng Qingfeng's mouth. It was a bloodstained note bearing the words "Iron-clad."

Xiao Qiushui pondered if it referred to the Ironclad Constable, a close friend of his father who had bravely defended the Sword Retreat. He recalled that the Constable's body was never definitively found after the retreat was besieged, only some charred remains. He questioned why, among so many casualties, the Constable's body was uniquely missing. Deng Yuhan connected this to their father's past concealment of information about Herbal Valley but wondered how it intertwined with the Ironclad Constable.

Xiao Qiushui admitted he lacked certainty but was convinced that a hidden force was actively thwarting their investigation into the Marrow-Shattering Finger. Overwhelmed by guilt, Xiao Qiushui blamed himself, believing Deng Qingfeng would still be alive if he hadn't pursued the truth of his parents' deaths. Deng Yuhan quickly reassured him, declaring that the blame was not his.

He affirmed that vengeance for the Sword Retreat and the Hailin Sect was imperative, warning that without catching the murderer, more families would suffer. Deng Yuhan vowed not to be consumed by grief or surrender to the killer. He promised to join Xiao Qiushui in his hunt for this "cancer" of the martial world, as soon as he had completed the funerals for his father and fellow disciples.

Xiao Qiushui expressed concern for Deng Yuhan's ability to manage alone, but Deng Yuhan, driven by a fierce desire for justice, insisted he would make the killer pay. He urged Xiao Qiushui to be cautious. Meanwhile, Medicine King arrived at the Tang Sect to examine Tang Yaoshun. He informed Tang Fang that her father had been severely ill for a considerable time and his chances of recovery were slim.

Medicine King proposed a perilous method: a healthy individual would ingest a potent poison he prepared, then use their internal energy to transfer it to Tang Yaoshun. This "fighting fire with fire" approach carried a fifty percent chance of failure, with the risk that if it failed, Tang Yaoshun might not survive another week, and the healthy donor would also perish.

Tang Fang, desperate to save her father, knelt and begged Medicine King to teach her the method, declaring she would do anything. Touched by her filial devotion, Medicine King agreed. At the same time, Tang Qing, dispatched by the matriarch with a restorative soup, attempted to enter Tang Yaoshun's room, seemingly to ascertain his condition. Tang Fang blocked her, stating that Medicine King was merely a guest exchanging insights with her father, and the soup was unnecessary.

Tang Qing scoffed at Tang Fang's evasiveness, but Medicine King supported Tang Fang, explaining that while ordinary tonics were fine, a potent "life-saving" soup was unsuitable as Master Tang was ostensibly healthy. Tang Qing then delivered a veiled warning: the matriarch was concerned by Tang Yaoshun's infrequent appearances and suggested that if he could not lead the Tang Sect, a successor should be chosen.

She reminded Tang Fang that Tang Yaoshun was expected to appear at the mid-month assembly, which Tang Fang affirmed. After Tang Qing departed, Tang Fang, faced with her father's grave condition and the matriarch's pressures, implored Medicine King to proceed with the dangerous treatment. Tang Fang then began the process of transferring internal energy to her father, enduring significant strain on her own body.

Medicine King advised her to halt for the day, emphasizing that haste could be detrimental and promising to increase the dosage in future sessions. Tang Yaoshun briefly regained consciousness, apologizing to Tang Fang for being a burden. Tang Fang reassured him, vowing to do anything as long as he recovered. Unbeknownst to them, Tang Qing was discreetly listening outside the room. Elsewhere, Xiao Kaiyan, unable to get any news of Xiao Yiren, traveled to Jinzhong to inquire with Xiao Xueyu.

He heard that Xiao Xueyu was a benevolent heroine in the city, known for providing free medical care to disaster victims. Xiao Xueyu modestly confirmed this and asked why he had sought her out so late. Xiao Kaiyan expressed his deep concern about Xiao Yiren's fate, especially amid rumors of his collusion with the North Wasteland. Xiao Xueyu revealed that despite her extensive inquiries, she had also found no trace of Xiao Yiren.

Seeing Xiao Xueyu tirelessly practicing medicine alone, Xiao Kaiyan confessed that his feelings for her transcended sibling affection. However, Xiao Xueyu gently declined, stating she had always regarded him and Xiao Yiren as her elder brothers. She reminded him of her duty as a member of the Xiao family, especially now that only a few of them remained, and reiterated that he would always be her brother.

Meanwhile, Xiao Yiren, unable to return home due to accusations of colluding with the North Wasteland, was determined to uncover the true identity of the cloaked man who framed him. He believed that only by finding the culprit could he clear his name. Nangong Xiaoyi found Xiao Yiren and pleaded with him to return and explain the situation to their companions.

Xiao Yiren refused, feeling that no explanation would suffice without solid evidence, lamenting that he was now reviled like a rat in the street. Nangong Xiaoyi, however, insisted that she did not care what others said and only believed in him, urging him to stay. Concurrently, Zhao Shirong confirmed to Li Chenzhou that the supplies for the front lines were ready. Li Chenzhou announced his intention to travel to the capital for an audience with the Emperor.

Worried, Zhao Shirong tried to dissuade him, pointing out that he returned weaker after every visit due to the Emperor's jealousy and schemes. Li Chenzhou, however, reassured her that as long as the court still had need of him, his life was not in danger, and he would return safely. While traveling, Xiao Qiushui overheard conversations among common folk, mentioning the recent massacre of the reclusive Deng family by the Power Gang.

They also discussed Master Fei Yuqiao, head of the Fei family, one of the Three Mystic Sects, who had abruptly announced his retirement in three days, vowing to no longer involve himself in martial arts affairs. Xiao Qiushui realized that after his retirement, any secrets Fei Yuqiao held would be buried with him. He decided he must reach the Fei family within three days.

Xiao Qiushui arrived at the Fei residence, presenting a letter of introduction from Liang Dou, Devourer of Crimson Clouds, to Master Fei. Liu Suifeng arrived shortly after, attempting to enter without an invitation but was turned away. He then secretly ordered his subordinates to search for the Thousand Faces. Fei Yuqiao welcomed Xiao Qiushui, acknowledging Liang Dou's letter and inviting him to stay for a few days.

Xiao Qiushui then introduced himself as Xiao Qiushui, son of Xiao Xilou and Sun Huishan, and requested Fei Yuqiao to demonstrate the Marrow-Shattering Finger technique to confirm his parents' cause of death. Fei Yuqiao, surprised by the request, initially refused, stating the technique was too harmful and should have been eradicated. Xiao Qiushui clarified that he only sought to confirm his parents' death, not to learn the technique.

Fei Yuqiao then expressed suspicion, asking if Xiao Qiushui, known to be friends with Deng Yuhan, had massacred the Deng family to investigate the technique. Xiao Qiushui vehemently denied this, asserting that Deng Yuhan was his sworn brother and he would never harm his family, explaining that the accusation was a trap. He used Liang Dou's trust in him as proof of his character.

Fei Yuqiao conceded, agreeing that Liang Dou, a powerful figure, would not entrust a letter to a villain. Considering that the next day was his grandson Chengqing's coming-of-age ceremony and his own retirement, Fei Yuqiao wished to avoid complications. He agreed to demonstrate the technique "after" his retirement, once he had shed his responsibilities. Xiao Qiushui thanked him. The next day, many martial arts sects gathered at the Fei residence for the coming-of-age ceremony.

Fei Yuqiao addressed the crowd, announcing that his grandson, Chengqing, who preferred scholarship over martial arts, would succeed him as family head. He then declared his complete retirement from the martial world, stating that Fei family descendants would henceforth pursue commerce or scholarship and avoid martial affairs. He expressed hope that all past grievances with the assembled guests could be resolved. However, some guests immediately objected.

One man demanded compensation for his brother's arm, which had been severed by Fei Yuqiao's son, Fei Danfeng, and insisted on receiving the Thousand Faces technique. Many others joined in, clamoring for the Thousand Faces. Fei Yuqiao explained that five years prior, his eldest son, Fei Danfeng, was assassinated while on an imperial mission with the Thousand Faces, and his body was never recovered.

He claimed the Thousand Faces was burned to mere scraps that night and buried in the family's ancestral tomb to protect the Fei family from further troubles. He added that he had sworn an oath to exile and cripple any Fei family member who dared to learn the technique. Unexpectedly, two exiled Fei family grandsons who had secretly learned the Thousand Faces technique appeared.

They accused Fei Yuqiao of lying and demanded he hand over the item, claiming that if he had taught them earlier, they wouldn't have had to kill so many people. Fei Yuqiao denounced them as family traitors, reminding them of their expulsion for violating family rules and questioning their audacity to show their faces. The other guests continued to clamor for the Thousand Faces.

Fei Yuqiao, declaring that he would break his retirement oath, challenged them to a fight to the death. As Fei Yuqiao battled his two grandsons, he was struck by a poisoned palm. One of the grandsons then attempted to attack the young Chengqing. Xiao Qiushui intervened, blocking the attack and protecting Chengqing. Other martial arts members questioned Xiao Qiushui's interference in family affairs, accusing him of being a "traitor's kin" (referring to Xiao Yiren) and of massacring the Deng family.

Xiao Qiushui firmly stated that he could not tolerate the bullying of elders and children and insisted on intervening, especially since he needed answers from Master Fei. He proposed a wager: he would thrust his Sword of Changge into a giant rock. If anyone present could fully withdraw the sword, he would no longer meddle in Fei family matters.

If they failed, they must cease harassing the Fei family, and the two grandsons were to provide the antidote to Fei Yuqiao. The two grandsons confidently accepted the challenge, despite Fei Yuqiao's apprehension, boasting of their Qingtian Palm and Transmutation techniques. They attempted to pull the sword, even combining their efforts and shattering the rock, but a small piece of the stone remained stubbornly attached to the sword.

Xiao Qiushui explained that the smaller the piece, the harder it was to break, and their internal energy was insufficient. He asked if they conceded, which they did, and handed over the antidote. Xiao Qiushui reiterated that the wager was settled and instructed everyone not to trouble the Fei family again, dismissing the crowd. As the disillusioned crowd dispersed, believing the Thousand Faces to be truly gone, a servant rushed to Fei Yuqiao, reporting that the ancestral tomb had been desecrated.

Episode 32 Recap

Xiao Qiushui and Fei Yuqiao arrived at the ancestral tomb, where Fei Yuqiao’s young grandson immediately recognized his father, Fei Danfeng's sword buried within. Fei Yuqiao, the head of the Fei family, confessed a tragic secret from five years prior. He recounted that Fei Danfeng, returning from an Imperial City Office mission to investigate Heavenly King Zhu, was ambushed.

Rushing to his son's aid, Fei Yuqiao encountered a figure on the road he believed to be Heavenly King Zhu's subordinate, Lord Roushui. Thinking this person was attacking his son, Fei Yuqiao used his powerful Marrow-Shattering Finger technique to kill him. However, upon tearing off the mask the figure wore, he was horrified to discover it was his own son, Fei Danfeng. Overcome with guilt, Fei Yuqiao self-crippled his internal energy, vowing never to use the Marrow-Shattering Finger again.

His grandson, upon hearing this, confronted Fei Yuqiao, accusing him of his father’s death. Fei Yuqiao further revealed that Fei Danfeng had discovered the Ironclad Constable was none other than Heavenly King Zhu, and that the Constable had orchestrated Fei Danfeng's death to acquire the Fei family's Thousand Faces mask, leading Fei Yuqiao to mistakenly kill his son. Fei Yuqiao emphasized that the Thousand Faces mask was tied to major martial world cases, not just his family's.

He pleaded with Xiao Qiushui to bring justice to the martial world and prove his family's innocence in any future chaos caused by the mask. Unseen, Liu Suifeng overheard their conversation and deduced that if Heavenly King Zhu was indeed Ironclad Constable and possessed the Thousand Faces mask, he could have easily impersonated Gang Leader Li Chenzhou to frame Herbal Valley for colluding with North Wasteland and orchestrated the deaths of Tianzheng and Taichan.

Meanwhile, Li Chenzhou entered the imperial palace for an audience with the Emperor. The Emperor, aware of Li Chenzhou's actions, accused the Power Gang of misusing national treasures by distributing them to martial sects, claiming nine-tenths went to the Power Gang. Li Chenzhou admitted his guilt, explaining that he converted ninety percent of Nantiandang's treasures into supplies for the northern frontline troops, who were suffering from winter shortages, and accepted any punishment for overstepping his authority.

The Emperor, interpreting this as a subtle criticism of his own neglect of the troops, then offered Li Chenzhou a cup of poisoned wine, which Li Chenzhou had no choice but to drink. Afterwards, Lord Liang approached Li Chenzhou, lamenting his earlier prejudiced views and acknowledging Li Chenzhou's ultimate sacrifice for the country.

Li Chenzhou, now feeling the effects of the poison, stated that his life’s journey was like a fleeting footprint in the snow, caring little for how the world judged him, only for his own conscience. Lord Liang then pondered who would finish Li Chenzhou's work should he perish. The Ironclad Constable was then summoned by the Emperor, who had been informed that the Power Gang had indeed converted Nantiandang's treasures into supplies for the northern front.

The Constable also reported that his men had failed to retrieve the imperial seal from Nantiandang due to Li Chenzhou’s schemes. The Emperor, pleased with Li Chenzhou’s poisoned state, which would force him to seek antidotes monthly, proclaimed that Heavenly King Zhu, whom he had elevated, now rivaled the Power Gang's influence. He then formally entrusted the entire Daxi martial world to the Ironclad Constable, commanding him not to fail, to which the Constable vowed his unwavering loyalty.

Later that night, as Xiao Qiushui traveled alone, Fei Yuqiao appeared to him in his true, disfigured form. Seeing Xiao Qiushui's strong sense of justice, Fei Yuqiao revealed more details about the Thousand Faces mask. He explained that the Ironclad Constable had learned the Marrow-Shattering Finger technique after borrowing the family's manual and had stolen the Thousand Faces mask.

He further warned that each use of the Thousand Faces mask severely damaged one's internal energy and left irreparable facial scarring, a fate he now bore. He expressed his desire to have the mask destroyed to prevent further bloodshed in the martial world. After Xiao Qiushui departed, the Ironclad Constable appeared before Fei Yuqiao, demanding an antidote for the Thousand Faces' backlash.

Fei Yuqiao defiantly stated there was no cure, and that his own disfigured face was the Constable's inevitable future, mocking him as another monster, neither human nor ghost. Enraged, the Ironclad Constable struck Fei Yuqiao down, killing him. Meanwhile, Xiao Yiren confronted Heavenly King Zhu, questioning his deceitful actions at Nantiandang and his alleged collusion with North Wasteland. Heavenly King Zhu scoffed at the concept of martial world reputation, asserting that imperial honor was paramount.

To prove his point, he presented Xiao Yiren with an imperial plaque personally inscribed by the Emperor: "Loyalty in Jinzhong," promising that the Xiao family's prestige would soon rival that of Shaolin and Wudang. He instructed Xiao Yiren to eliminate a specific person for the Emperor, a task for which he would be summoned later. Overjoyed by this imperial recognition, Xiao Yiren brought the plaque home. Nangong Xiaoyi, however, felt unease.

While happy for him, she found the imperial favor suspiciously sudden, given that the Wastelanders were still at large and Xiao Yiren's reputation remained tarnished. Xiao Yiren, angered by her skepticism, accused her of undermining his efforts to restore the Xiao family's honor. He dismissed her concerns, claiming that with imperial favor, loyalty would naturally follow, and promised she would witness the resurgence of the Huanhua Sect.

Privately, Xiao Yiren harbored deep resentment towards Xiao Qiushui for constantly thwarting his plans and vowed that no one would stop him now. Back at the Sword Retreat, Xiao Qiushui met with the Four Punks, who were seeking Xiao Xueyu's medical expertise for their joints and meridians. They recounted seeing a black-clad figure push the Ironclad Constable off a cliff.

Skeptical, Xiao Qiushui accompanied them to the cliff base, where they found the Ironclad Constable's severely dehydrated corpse, his fingers fixed in the distinctive Marrow-Shattering Finger posture. This confirmed Fei Yuqiao's earlier revelation. Xiao Qiushui deduced that the current Heavenly King Zhu must be an impersonator using the Thousand Faces mask.

He also noted the corpse’s unusual dryness, recalling passages from a novel where the "Asura Seal" from the Book of Oblivion would absorb a person's power, leaving victims as desiccated husks. This sparked a chilling realization that the Book of Oblivion, which was supposed to be in the Sword Retreat but was stolen and destroyed, might be connected. He then dispatched the Four Punks to locate Heavenly King Zhu’s hideout.

Returning to the Xiao family villa, Xiao Qiushui knelt before his parents’ graves. Left Qiu reported that during the collection of bodies after the tragedy, the Qianji Lock at the back of the Sword Retreat had been found opened. Xiao Qiushui knew the Huanhua Qianji Lock was meticulously designed by his father, requiring simultaneous activation from both inside and outside, a method known only to his parents and his two elder brothers, Xiao Yiren and Xiao Kaiyan.

He initially dismissed his brothers as they had arrived at Sword Retreat after him. However, Left Qiu then mentioned that when the Sword Retreat was under attack, Xiao Kaiyan had been responsible for fighting his way out, but had returned to report the path ahead was blocked, causing Xiao Yiren to take a detour. This conflicting information triggered a profound suspicion in Xiao Qiushui's mind about his second brother.

Seeking answers, Xiao Qiushui inquired about Xiao Kaiyan’s whereabouts from Nangong Xiaoyi, who informed him that Kaiyan was drinking at Pipa Pavilion. Xiao Qiushui immediately went there, finding Xiao Kaiyan seated before a table laden with their parents’ favorite dishes, and offering him a cup of wine. As Kaiyan reminisced about their mother's cooking, a sense of dread washed over Xiao Qiushui.

He recalled Kaiyan's subtle "reset" remark and the scar on Li Nan's palm from his previous life, and the truth hit him like a thunderbolt. " You're R! Li Nan, it was you all along, Xiao Kaiyan!" Xiao Qiushui confronted him. Kaiyan feigned ignorance, but Xiao Qiushui pressed on, accusing him of mastering the Book of Oblivion and reminding him that only their three brothers knew the secret to the Huanhua Qianji Lock.

In a sudden flashback, it was revealed that on the night of the attack, Xiao Kaiyan had returned to his parents, who were surprised but relieved, asking about his brothers' whereabouts and expressing confidence in Xiao Qiushui's ability to succeed. Back in the present, a seething Xiao Kaiyan, full of resentment, confessed that he, the often-overlooked brother, had changed his own fate through his efforts. He then declared that it was he who killed their parents, destroyed the Xiao family, and he would now reclaim everything he believed was owed to him.

Episode 33 Recap

Xiao Qiushui confronted his second brother, Xiao Kaiyan, demanding to know why he had murdered their parents. Xiao Kaiyan, increasingly frenzied, explained that the entire Xiao family had waited for Xiao Qiushui and Xiao Yiren to return with reinforcements, yet no one believed he could save them. He declared his ambition was to change everything with the Book of Oblivion, asserting that he, too, could be the family's hero.

Xiao Kaiyan scoffed at Heavenly King Zhu's limited vision, stating his own ambitions were far greater. He proclaimed that the strong seize by brute force, while only the weak preach about morals and justice. Victory, he insisted, was the sole measure of worth, and once he conquered the world, everyone, including Xiao Qiushui, would bow before him. Xiao Qiushui, burning with anger, vowed that he would never let Xiao Kaiyan succeed.

As Xiao Qiushui turned to leave, Xiao Kaiyan attempted a sneak attack, but Xiao Qiushui deflected it with a swift sword stroke without even looking back. Hidden in the shadows, Liu Suifeng witnessed the entire exchange, finally understanding the truth. Alone in the backyard, Xiao Kaiyan reflected on recent events.

He recalled when Li Nan, whose soul had merged with his, had reminded him of their glorious life in another world, a life of effortless power, unlike his pathetic existence in this one. Li Nan revealed Xiao Kaiyan's original fate in the book: to be cannon fodder, always in Xiao Qiushui's shadow, forgotten in death. This revelation broke Xiao Kaiyan’s psychological defenses.

Driven by a desire to reshape his destiny and become the family's master, he succumbed to Li Nan's influence and entered the Sword Retreat, where he secretly learned the Book of Oblivion. During the siege of the Sword Retreat, Xiao Xilou and Sun Huishan, alerted by Xiao Qiushui before he left, had discovered Ironclad Constable Zhu Xiawu's true identity as an infiltrator seeking the Hero Token and had bound him.

Xiao Kaiyan, now empowered by the Book of Oblivion, confronted Zhu Xiawu and accidentally fatally wounded his mother, Sun Huishan, while attempting to use his new martial arts against Zhu Xiawu. Overwhelmed by self-reproach, Xiao Kaiyan was then found by Xiao Xilou. Zhu Xiawu, still alive but severely injured, seized the opportunity to denounce the Xiao family as hypocrites, claiming Xiao Kaiyan had purposefully used the Book of Oblivion to kill his mother.

Shocked by his wife's death and this accusation, Xiao Xilou confronted his son. As Xiao Xilou questioned him, Li Nan's voice inside Xiao Kaiyan's mind grew stronger, echoing that great individuals disregard minor details. Under Zhu Xiawu's manipulative influence, Xiao Kaiyan then killed his own father, Xiao Xilou. After being freed, Zhu Xiawu became accomplices with Xiao Kaiyan, assisting him in massacring everyone in the Sword Retreat to conceal the truth.

Xiao Kaiyan then used the Thousand Faces to impersonate Li Chenzhou and issue false orders to Liu Suifeng. After murdering Deng Qingfeng, Xiao Kaiyan decided Zhu Xiawu had outlived his usefulness, killed him, and took his place as Heavenly King Zhu, thereby seizing control of the Dragon River Waterway and securing the Emperor's favor.

Liu Suifeng returned to the Power Gang and reported to Li Chenzhou that Xiao Kaiyan, using the Thousand Faces, had impersonated Heavenly King Zhu, seized control of the Dragon River Waterway, and was responsible for the massacres of the Xiao and Deng families. Concerns arose within the Power Gang, as the false Heavenly King Zhu now commanded vast influence and the Emperor's backing, making him an unprecedented threat.

Blade King suggested uniting major sects like Shaolin and Wudang against him, but lamented that Liu Suifeng's past mistakes, having inadvertently killed the Shaolin and Wudang sect leaders, had alienated these powerful allies. After leaving the headquarters, Liu Suifeng resolved to take full responsibility for his past errors, which had inadvertently caused Power Gang's current predicament, vowing not to burden Li Chenzhou further. Meanwhile, Xiao Kaiyan, still disguised as Heavenly King Zhu, met with Xiao Yiren.

He presented an imperial decree, commanding Xiao Yiren to infiltrate General Wu's army on the frontline and secretly kill some North Wasteland soldiers to create chaos. This, he explained, would provide the Emperor with a pretext to recall General Wu. Xiao Yiren, knowing General Wu's loyalty and crucial role in defending Daxi, expressed his reluctance to commit such a dishonorable act. However, Xiao Kaiyan cynically pointed out that the Emperor's favor was paramount, not Jianghu reputation.

He threatened Xiao Yiren, stating he could either ensure the Xiao family's continued glory or brand them as traitors, destroying their century-old reputation, if Xiao Yiren refused. He mocked Xiao Yiren's moral high ground, claiming they were both driven by self-interest, but Xiao Yiren was merely more hypocritical. Xiao Kaiyan even suggested Xiao Yiren could cut ties with the family and let Xiao Qiushui take his place.

Liu Suifeng traveled alone to Shaolin and Wudang to atone for his actions, admitting he had been misled into killing the Venerable Tianzheng and Grandmaster Taichan. He offered his life to absolve the Power Gang, pleading that the two great sects cease their resentment.

A powerful voice from above declared that while his sins were grave, in these perilous times of martial world decline and Daxi's external and internal threats, his life would be spared, urging him to redeem himself by fighting for Daxi.

Xiao Qiushui sent a letter to Shaolin and Wudang via Zuo Qiu, informing them that he had received martial arts instruction from Shaolin's senior monks (Muye and Fanhua) and Wudang's elders (Yinping and Tieqi), along with other masters (East Swordman, West Swordman, Zhang Canjin, and Wan Suiyu), who had imparted their skills to him before their passing. He expressed his desire to join the two sects in defending Daxi.

He also revealed that someone had stolen the Fei family's Thousand Faces and orchestrated the massacre at the Sword Retreat, inciting conflict among various factions and attempting to divide Daxi's martial world. This imposter, he stated, was posing as Heavenly King Zhu. While unable to name the imposter without concrete proof, he promised to present evidence once found, warning all sects to be vigilant due to the imposter's cunning and the power of the Thousand Faces.

Xiao Yiren returned to his residence, finding Xiao Qiushui waiting at the desolate family gate. Xiao Qiushui, refraining from reproaching his brother, revealed that Xiao Kaiyan was the true murderer of their parents and the entire family. He explained that Xiao Kaiyan had secretly learned the Book of Oblivion at the Sword Retreat and had used the Thousand Faces to impersonate Heavenly King Zhu.

Xiao Yiren found this impossible to believe, pointing out that Heavenly King Zhu was already a renowned figure and Xiao Kaiyan, known for his gentle nature, couldn't have mimicked him. However, he recalled Xiao Kaiyan's uncanny ability to escape danger unscathed during the Sword Retreat's fall, which seemed uncharacteristic of his brother's usual martial prowess. While he had previously attributed it to good fortune, the details now seemed suspicious.

Despite these doubts, he was unwilling to accept the grim truth about his second brother. Later, Xiao Kaiyan revealed his true identity to Xiao Yiren, who had seen him use the Thousand Faces. Xiao Yiren directly accused him of their parents' murders. Xiao Kaiyan, however, denied acting disrespectfully towards their parents. He passionately explained that after the family's massacre, he was consumed by grief, vowing to do anything to avenge and restore the Xiao family.

He realized he could no longer rely on others and had to become ruthless. He claimed he poisoned the true Zhu Xiawu (the Ironclad Constable, who used the Thousand Faces to play dual roles and harbored malicious intentions) and used his organization as a stepping stone for the Xiao family.

He then contrasted his actions with Xiao Qiushui's, alleging that Xiao Qiushui, though outwardly heroic, was selfish, only pursuing powerful martial arts and influence over his elder brother, hiding the Hero Token and Supreme Elixir, and aligning with the Power Gang.

Xiao Kaiyan argued that his dealings with the North Wasteland were necessary for the family's advancement and aligned with the Emperor's true, unspoken desires, dismissing conventional Jianghu reputation as insignificant compared to the greater goal of restoring the Xiao family's glory.

Episode 34 Recap

Xiao Yiren arrived at Heavenly King Zhu's mansion, where he indeed discovered a thousand-faced mask hidden in a drawer. Xiao Kaiyan then appeared, no longer concealing his identity. Xiao Yiren, having heard from Xiao Qiushui, confronted Xiao Kaiyan, demanding to know why he had so cruelly murdered their parents. Xiao Kaiyan deflected the blame onto Heavenly King Zhu, who was conveniently dead, making it impossible to verify.

He further tried to manipulate Xiao Yiren, inciting hatred towards Xiao Qiushui, claiming that Xiao Qiushui had lost the Xiao family's fighting spirit and should not be trusted. Xiao Kaiyan feigned vulnerability, asserting that he was the one truly dedicated to restoring the Xiao family's glory. Unable to reconcile the drastic changes in both his brothers within a few months, Xiao Yiren was deeply conflicted. To prove his sincerity, Xiao Kaiyan deliberately stabbed himself with a sword.

Xiao Yiren quickly pulled the weapon out of his chest. Later, Xiao Yiren returned home to find that the Xiao family had been honored with the title of "Protectors of the Nation," an apparent token of imperial favor. Overwhelmed, Xiao Yiren visited his parents' graves, lamenting his unfilial nature and vowing to restore the family's honor through his own means, asking for their forgiveness for his perceived incompetence.

Meanwhile, Xiao Qiushui received news that Shaolin, Wudang, and Emei, along with other sects, had jointly called for a martial assembly at Changban Slope to elect a martial alliance leader. The various martial arts factions had learned of the emperor's decree and intended to unite to protect General Wu.

However, Xiao Qiushui realized that if Xiao Kaiyan, disguised as Heavenly King Zhu, were to succeed in becoming the alliance leader, it would pose a grave danger to General Wu and potentially lead to the destruction of the entire Daxi era. Three Talents asked Xiao Qiushui if he would participate, voicing concern that the powers of the eight masters within him were not yet fully integrated, and Xiao Kaiyan possessed stolen martial arts from the Book of Oblivion.

Xiao Qiushui firmly declared that he would go and publicly expose Xiao Kaiyan's true face, even if it meant sacrificing his own life. The other Shenzhou Alliance brothers quickly gathered, expressing their full support for Xiao Qiushui's bid for the martial alliance leadership, emphasizing their loyalty and unity. On the day of the competition, the martial world's heroes convened to determine the Central Plains' supreme martial artist who would lead them to rescue General Wu.

Xiao Kaiyan ordered Xiao Yiren to enter the ring first. Xiao Qiushui, unwilling to harm his elder brother, inadvertently sustained a sword injury. Xiao Kaiyan then stepped in, engaging in a deadly exchange with Xiao Qiushui. As Xiao Kaiyan thrust his sword into Xiao Qiushui's heart at close range, Xiao Qiushui simultaneously tore off Xiao Kaiyan's thousand-faced mask, revealing his true identity to everyone present. Xiao Yiren, finally seeing through the deception, immediately charged forward and stabbed Xiao Kaiyan.

Enraged, Xiao Kaiyan struck Xiao Yiren with a powerful palm, shattering his meridians, before fleeing the scene with his Waterway disciples. Xiao Yiren was mortally wounded. Xiao Qiushui desperately tried to channel his internal energy to save him, but Xiao Yiren weakly told him it was futile, that the palm strike had severed his heart meridians, and he did not deserve to live in shame anymore.

He expressed profound remorse for his past mistakes and asked to be buried by Huanhua Creek, on a hillside overlooking the Sword Retreat, as he felt unworthy to be interred within. Xiao Qiushui entrusted his Shenzhou Alliance brothers with Xiao Yiren's proper burial, then, with a heavy heart, headed to Changban Slope for the martial alliance leader election. At the martial arts assembly, Ji Wupeng, a master of yin and yang arts, provocatively challenged the assembled sects.

Xiao Qiushui and the Beggars' Sect Elder, Master Qiu, stepped onto the stage to confront him. Just as the fight was about to begin, Yan Kuangtu, the legendary martial artist, suddenly appeared. Some recognized him, noting that after twenty years, he had not aged but appeared even younger and more imposing. Yan Kuangtu stood alone in the center of the arena, declaring that the Hero Token belonged to him and no other.

Xiao Qiushui immediately contradicted him, asserting that the Hero Token should belong to a person of profound virtue, such as General Wu Jie, and not merely a "madman." Yan Kuangtu, captivated by Xiao Qiushui's fearless defiance and reminiscent of his own youth, offered to take him as a disciple, demanding that Xiao Qiushui kneel in submission.

Xiao Qiushui staunchly refused to kneel, stating that he only kneeled to heaven, earth, rulers, parents, teachers, and noble heroes, maintaining that Yan Kuangtu was merely a madman. Yan Kuangtu, further intrigued, insisted on making Xiao Qiushui kneel through sheer martial prowess. They engaged in a fierce battle. Yan Kuangtu displayed incredible skill, effortlessly using techniques like Ananda's Finger and Shaolin's Hundred Precept Steps.

Despite being forced to his knees by Yan Kuangtu's immense power, Xiao Qiushui exerted all his internal energy to slowly rise again, refusing to stay down. Impressed by Xiao Qiushui's unyielding spirit, Yan Kuangtu exchanged a powerful blow with him using his Obsidian Palm. After they separated, Zhao Shirong and several Shaolin and Wudang grandmasters surrounded Yan Kuangtu, but he easily eluded them.

Xiao Qiushui stopped them from pursuing, explaining that Yan Kuangtu had intentionally held back, and if he had truly intended to kill, none of them would have been a match for him. Following the intense confrontation, Xiao Qiushui was confirmed as the martial alliance leader.

As the Hero Token was about to be formally presented to him at Canghai Pavilion, Yan Kuangtu reappeared, snatched it, and declared that the martial alliance leadership was indeed Xiao Qiushui's, but he would "borrow" the Hero Token for a while before disappearing once more. In the aftermath, Nangong Xiaoyi, heartbroken by Xiao Yiren's death, left the Xiao family, taking Xiao Yiren's sword with her to find a place for peace. Those who dared to question Xiao Kaiyan's authority after his revelation as Heavenly King Zhu were brutally cut down, silencing all dissent and solidifying his reign of terror.

Episode 35 Recap

Xiao Kaiyan consolidated his control over the Twelve Waterways, asserting himself as the true Heavenly King by eliminating those who defied him and demanding loyalty from the terrified onlookers. He promised his followers martial world supremacy and abundant fame and fortune. This triumph fueled his ambition, recalling a recent audience with the Emperor. During their meeting, the Emperor expressed concern over General Wu Jie's unwavering resolve against the North Wasteland and the powerful pro-war faction supporting him.

Desiring peace, the Emperor hinted at Xiao Kaiyan's potential to become the Imperial Preceptor if he could resolve this. Xiao Kaiyan, seizing the opportunity, proposed a plan: the Emperor would issue an edict for Wu Jie's immediate return from Xianren Pass, while Xiao Kaiyan would ambush Wu Jie en route. His capture would delay Wu Jie, making it appear as if the general defied the imperial summons, thereby discrediting the pro-war faction and facilitating peace with the North Wasteland.

The Emperor, pleased with the "three birds, one stone" strategy, agreed, only stipulating that Wu Jie should retire honorably, not be punished. Later, when meeting with representatives from the North Wasteland, Xiao Kaiyan discussed the benefits he would receive, including the "Book of Oblivion," showing his confidence that his plans would soon come to fruition. Internally, he vowed to make Xiao Qiushui kneel and admit his defeat.

Meanwhile, Xiao Qiushui was recovering from his injuries when his friends found his room empty despite Xiao Xueyu's assurance that his wounds were healed. He had been abducted by Yan Kuangtu, who sealed his acupoints and put him in a carriage. Xiao Qiushui demanded to know their destination, and after Yan Kuangtu unsealed his acupoints, he revealed they were going to Wudang.

Yan Kuangtu had already recognized Xiao Qiushui as his worthy disciple and explained his grand vision: the North Wasteland was a looming threat, and the Daxi martial world was fragmented by internal strife and traitors. To revive the martial world within a decade, he sought to unite Shaolin and Wudang by merging their distinct martial arts into a peerless new form, which would then be spread for all righteous individuals to learn.

This unity, a "martial world for all," was essential to resist the external threat. Yan Kuangtu chose this moment because the newly appointed Shaolin Abbot Tianxiang was visiting Wudang Leader Taifeng, presenting a rare opportunity. Upon their arrival at Wudang, Abbot Tianxiang and Leader Taifeng respectfully greeted Yan Kuangtu, thanking him for exposing the villain Ji Wupeng at the recent Hero Assembly.

Yan Kuangtu wasted no time in criticizing their leadership, finding them unworthy successors to the legendary Tianzheng and Taichan. He directly proposed his demand: Wudang and Shaolin must open their martial arts to each other, sharing their techniques to avert a great calamity. Leader Taifeng strongly objected, arguing that merging unique martial arts styles was a serious taboo in cultivation. Abbot Tianxiang agreed, stating that while Shaolin and Wudang could fight side-by-side, exchanging techniques was unthinkable.

Yan Kuangtu scoffed at their narrow-mindedness, explaining that Wudang's internal cultivation and Shaolin's external techniques were complementary and would greatly strengthen each other if fused. When they still refused, Yan Kuangtu declared, "Then let's fight." Despite Xiao Qiushui's plea for mediation over violence, Yan Kuangtu proceeded to spar with both leaders, effortlessly defeating them using a combination of Shaolin's Great Palm and Wudang's Composite Fingers techniques. Humbled, Tianxiang and Taifeng admitted defeat and accepted his wisdom.

Yan Kuangtu lauded their willingness to accept defeat, declaring that with time, their sects would produce talents rivaling Tianzheng and Taichan. Just then, three legendary Wudang masters, Jiusheng, Jiusi, and Jiuyi, emerged. They acknowledged their defeat to Yan Kuangtu twenty years prior but confidently asserted that he might not defeat them now, especially using only Shaolin and Wudang techniques.

As they prepared for an internal energy clash, Xiao Qiushui intervened, echoing Yan Kuangtu's earlier sentiment that martial arts should not be solely for personal victory but for the greater good of Daxi. The Wudang elders, impressed by Xiao Qiushui's wisdom and reputation, discussed the current dangers posed by North Wasteland spies and the misuse of the Thousand Faces technique, which had caused much suffering among the sects.

Xiao Qiushui reiterated his support for Yan Kuangtu's proposal, emphasizing that combining the strengths of both sects would lead to ultimate victory. Leader Taifeng and Abbot Tianxiang, however, challenged Xiao Qiushui to prove his conviction: if he could withstand three strikes using Shaolin and Wudang techniques, they would consider his proposal. Yan Kuangtu encouraged Xiao Qiushui, stating that sometimes truth must be forged through fists. During the challenge, Xiao Qiushui skillfully countered the first two attacks.

In the third strike, the three Wudang elders unleashed a devastating "Five Fingers, One Heart" technique, a move that seamlessly integrated both Shaolin and Wudang martial arts. Unable to find a counter, Xiao Qiushui conceded defeat. However, the elders then revealed that he hadn't truly lost; they had been forced to use their combined Shaolin-Wudang technique because he was proving too formidable.

They praised Xiao Qiushui's benevolent valor and his concern for the world, proclaiming him a "hero of the younger generation" and asserting that the martial world's future belonged to young leaders like him. They officially endorsed him as the Martial Circle Leader. Later that evening, Yan Kuangtu led Xiao Qiushui to the peak to visit the Hero Monument, erected years ago by Tianzheng, Taichan, and Zhichen to establish the Hero Token.

Yan Kuangtu recounted how he had carved a turtle on the monument long ago to mock the "cowardly" heroes of his time, especially Taichan, for their inaction during chaotic periods. He expressed that his trip to Wudang had fulfilled a wish, and promised to return the Hero Token to Xiao Qiushui after completing one last task.

He spoke of his hopes for Xiao Qiushui's "Shenzhou Alliance" to transform the martial world and for his name to eventually grace the monument as a true hero. Xiao Qiushui humbly replied that his actions were not for fame, just like Yan Kuangtu's. Yan Kuangtu applauded his philosophy of living with a clear conscience.

Xiao Qiushui then confessed his struggle with the clashing Shaolin (rigid) and Wudang (soft) energies within him, asking if this was the reason Yan Kuangtu brought him there. Yan Kuangtu confirmed this, then, offering his assistance, he transferred all his internal energy to Xiao Qiushui to help him fuse the conflicting powers. The immense effort caused Yan Kuangtu to collapse, coughing up blood. Simultaneously, in the Tang Sect, Tang Fang diligently nursed her weakened father, Tang Yaoshun.

Tang Song, coveting the family head position, ambushed them, killing Tang Yaoshun in cold blood. He then used a Puppet-Control Needle to subjugate Tang Fang, forcing her to obey his commands. When the old Matriarch arrived, furious at Tang Song's treachery, he revealed he had already dosed her with a Weakness Toxin that would activate if she used her martial arts. Despite her failing strength, the Matriarch fought back, but Tang Song's bribed personal guard attacked her from behind.

As she struggled, Tang Qing, Tang Song's sibling, finished her off with hidden weapons. With both Tang Yaoshun and the Matriarch dead, Tang Song and Tang Qing seized the Tang Sect Token. Xiao Qiushui quickly brought the ailing Yan Kuangtu to his sister, Xiao Xueyu's, medical clinic.

Xiao Xueyu examined him and explained that while his life was not in immediate danger, an old iron nail, deeply embedded in his neck with profound internal energy, had flared up, affecting multiple meridians. Yan Kuangtu revealed that the "Soul-Piercing Nail" was from an ambush by Tang Yaoshun on Mount Wuxing years ago. Xiao Qiushui offered to remove it, and after Xiao Xueyu administered an Eaglewood Pill to stabilize Yan Kuangtu's energy, he attempted the extraction.

However, the nail seemed to merge their internal energies and burrow deeper with each attempt. Yan Kuangtu stopped him, explaining that the nail had become fused with his marrow over the years. He preferred to endure the dizziness and weakness rather than risk death by its removal. Despite Xiao Qiushui's determination to find a solution, Yan Kuangtu strictly forbade him from seeking help from the Tang Sect, declaring he would rather die. Xiao Xueyu then suggested they allow Yan Kuangtu to rest.

Episode 36 Recap

Xiao Qiushui finally presented Yan Kuangtu with a cloak that Madam Wu and Master Zhichen had entrusted to him, explaining he hadn't had the opportunity to return it earlier due to many prying eyes. Yan Kuangtu recognized it instantly as belonging to his younger sister, Yuan'er.

Xiao Qiushui further recounted Master Zhichen's mention that Yuan'er had been kidnapped by the Jiang brothers, contracted a severe illness during her escape, and was rescued by Master Zhichen, but her whereabouts remained unknown after that. Overwhelmed with regret, Yan Kuangtu confessed that his sister's disappearance was the greatest sorrow of his life, blaming himself for her loss.

Meanwhile, Xiao Kaiyan, having secured control of the Tang Sect and crossed Tang Yaoshun's name off his list, felt a step closer to his ultimate goal and wondered how Xiao Qiushui would respond to his latest move. Xiao Qiushui received news that General Wu was ordered back to the capital, raising concerns that the Wastelanders might seize the opportunity to invade Xianren Pass. He also predicted danger for General Wu on his journey, emphasizing the urgency of their actions.

Xiao Qiushui's teams had identified several suspicious Eagle Flute strongholds and were dispatched to investigate. The Shenzhou Alliance, including Deng Yuhan, was also clearing Eagle Flute strongholds, noting the Power Gang's unexpected cooperation in their shared objective. At the Power Gang, Zhao Shirong urged a weary Li Chenzhou to take his medicine, observing his old injuries flaring up. Li Chenzhou, despite his fatigue, inquired about the investigation into Xiao Kaiyan's stronghold within the Twelve Waterways.

Zhao Shirong reported no breakthroughs, prompting Li Chenzhou to order more men to be deployed. He then revealed a message intercepted by Song Mingzhu from the Eagle Flute: 20,000 elite Wastelander troops were bypassing Xianren Pass via waterways to infiltrate Daxi for a pincer attack, part of a larger force of hundreds of thousands secretly being assembled.

Li Chenzhou feared this would crush the people's will to resist and put General Wu in an impossible situation: returning to the capital risked Xianren Pass's fall, while refusing would lead to false accusations. Zhao Shirong suggested reporting Xiao Kaiyan's collusion with the Wastelanders to the Emperor. Li Chenzhou then instructed Liu Suifeng to accelerate the eradication of Eagle Flute strongholds and intercept the invading Wastelander troops.

Liu Suifeng, sensing Li Chenzhou's deteriorating health, discreetly asked Song Mingzhu to keep a close watch on the gang leader. Li Chenzhou later met with Xiao Qiushui, offering him the Power Gang Leader's Token and his vision for rebuilding the martial world. Xiao Qiushui, however, challenged the Power Gang's coercive methods, arguing that true leadership should stem from shared aspirations, not force. Li Chenzhou conceded that his methods were necessary in chaotic times to establish stability for future successors.

When Xiao Qiushui refused the token, stating their paths diverged despite shared goals, Li Chenzhou revealed that he was being poisoned with every imperial audience, an illness that had left him gravely ill and without other options. Xiao Qiushui reaffirmed that the martial world should be united by common purpose, like the Shenzhou Alliance, not governed by a single leader.

Given the Wastelanders' infiltration, he emphasized the critical need for unity to protect General Wu, ensuring he remains at Xianren Pass. Song Mingzhu, having overheard their conversation, reported to Liu Suifeng that Li Chenzhou intended to transfer leadership to Xiao Qiushui, expressing her disbelief and frustration at Liu Suifeng being bypassed. Although she omitted details of Li Chenzhou's poisoning, Liu Suifeng, already suspicious of Li Chenzhou's unusual conduct, deduced that the gang leader's illness was likely terminal.

While Yan Kuangtu was recovering, Xiao Xueyu urged him to rest and take medicine for his Soul-Piercing Nails. Yan Kuangtu, however, downplayed his injury. Many martial artists, coveting the Book of Oblivion, constantly spied on Yan Kuangtu. One day, Yan Kuangtu and Xiao Xueyu led some of these individuals into a desolate area. Yan Kuangtu escaped, but Xiao Xueyu was hit by a poisoned dart, immobilizing her. Searching frantically, Yan Kuangtu heard Xiao Xueyu blow a whistle.

The sound stirred a familiar feeling in him, and his Golden Swallow, a family heirloom, reacted to the whistle, guiding him to her. Upon seeing a birthmark on Xiao Xueyu's neck, Yan Kuangtu realized she was his long-lost sister, Yuan'er. He showed her the Golden Swallow, explaining it was their mother's legacy, activated only by her whistle. Xiao Xueyu then recalled fragmented childhood memories of flying kites with her brother.

The siblings joyfully reunited, with Xiao Xueyu expressing happiness while acknowledging the Xiao family who had raised her. Yan Kuangtu apologized for her past suffering. Xiao Xueyu, asking for nothing but his well-being, insisted he have the Soul-Piercing Nails removed. Yan Kuangtu reluctantly agreed. Xiao Qiushui, delighted by their reunion, promised to make arrangements for the nail's removal.

Following the Tang Sect rebellion, where Tang Yaoshun and Madam Tang were murdered by Tang Song, and Tang Fang was controlled by Puppet Needles, Liu Suifeng and Song Mingzhu arrived at the Tang Sect. They bypassed the trap-laden main entrance and entered an underground dungeon, where they found several medicine slaves, including an elderly one.

The old medicine slave, whose only reason for enduring his torment was to avenge himself on Master Tang, angrily attacked Liu Suifeng upon learning that Liu Suifeng had killed Master Tang. Liu Suifeng sought the Pulse-Restoring Art, but the old medicine slave, revealing it required "exchanging lives," refused to teach it. During their skirmish, Song Mingzhu found the secret manual. As they searched for Tang Fang, Tang Qing ambushed them.

Liu Suifeng detected her, and Tang Song, also present, used a ring to command the Puppet Needle-controlled Tang Fang to kill Liu Suifeng. Song Mingzhu swiftly retrieved the controlling ring from Tang Song, freeing Tang Fang. Liu Suifeng then urged Tang Fang to escape with them. Back at the Power Gang, Zhao Shirong reported to Li Chenzhou that the poison was spreading rapidly and offered him a Strengthening Pill from the Medicine King.

Liu Suifeng, however, asserted his ability to cure Li Chenzhou using the Tang Sect's medicine slave method. Li Chenzhou dismissed the offer, instead sending the Medicine King to check on Tang Fang and advising Liu Suifeng to abandon past grievances, seeing his entry into the Power Gang as a new beginning. Liu Suifeng, however, pledged unwavering loyalty, vowing never to forget Li Chenzhou's past kindness.

The Medicine King informed Xiao Qiushui that the Puppet Needle in Tang Fang had penetrated her marrow, warning of a severe backlash if the needle's removal was mishandled. Despite the grave risk, Xiao Qiushui insisted on immediate extraction. After a perilous procedure, Tang Fang slowly regained consciousness, recalling the traumatic murder of her father and Madam Tang by Tang Song. Xiao Qiushui comforted her, promising to help her rebuild the Tang Sect once she recovered.

Later, Liu Suifeng visited Tang Fang, bringing herbal medicine. Tang Fang thanked him, and Liu Suifeng advised her against reckless revenge, assuring her that those who colluded with the Waterway Gang would eventually face justice. Meanwhile, Yan Kuangtu, having just had the Soul-Piercing Nails removed, was drinking with Xiao Qiushui. He playfully expressed his feigned fear of Xiao Xueyu's scolding, admitting he only dared drink in her absence.

He thanked Xiao Qiushui for bringing the Medicine King to perform the extraction but confided that the deep-seated damage might prevent a full recovery, asking him to keep this a secret from Yuan'er (Xiao Xueyu). Pondering the meaning of life, Yan Kuangtu concluded it was "to revel in life, die without regrets, act with righteousness, and live a worthy life," a sentiment echoed by Xiao Qiushui.

Liu Suifeng gave Song Mingzhu a list of herbs, instructing her to procure them discreetly and without fail. When Song Mingzhu inquired about their purpose, Liu Suifeng firmly told her to complete the task without asking further questions. Professing her unwavering loyalty, Song Mingzhu vowed to stay by his side until her last breath and promised to gather all the herbs with utmost discretion.

Later, Song Mingzhu, after secretly arranging for the special herbs to be delivered to Liu Suifeng through a back entrance, publicly bought some common cold medicine from the front. She encountered Blade King, who, wary of the Power Gang's current instability, questioned her about the medicine. Knowing Liu Suifeng was often seen as cunning, Blade King suspected foul play. Song Mingzhu claimed it was for Liu Suifeng's cold and challenged Blade King to inspect it.

Blade King, still skeptical, expressed hope that the blade he had "forged" for Liu Suifeng, symbolizing punishment for traitors, would never need to be used, as it would deeply wound the gang leader. Song Mingzhu confidently dismissed his concerns, assuring him his efforts were wasted. She fiercely defended Liu Suifeng, stating that everyone misunderstood him; despite his cold exterior, his profound affection for those he valued was beyond their comprehension. Blade King, surprised by her passionate loyalty, surmised that she must be one of the rare few whom Liu Suifeng truly cherished.

Episode 37 Recap

Blade King reported to Li Chenzhou that Liu Suifeng had sent Song Mingzhu to buy medicine, expressing concern that Liu Suifeng might be plotting against the gang leader. Li Chenzhou, however, stated that he trusted Liu Suifeng and, though he did not approve of Liu Suifeng's intentions, he could not dissuade him. He instructed Blade King to continue monitoring Liu Suifeng.

Meanwhile, Song Mingzhu urged Liu Suifeng to reconsider taking the medicine, reminding him of the Tang Sect medicine slave's fate, which was described as worse than death. She confessed her fear of never seeing him again. Liu Suifeng, resolute, took the herbal medicine and ordered Song Mingzhu to leave, not wanting her to witness his agony. As the medicine took effect, Liu Suifeng endured intense suffering. Outside, Song Mingzhu listened, heartbroken, vowing never to abandon him.

Observing this, Blade King understood Liu Suifeng's true loyalty: he was refining himself into a medicine slave, risking his own life to save Li Chenzhou. Xiao Qiushui received intelligence that the Wastelanders had entered Daxi. He convened a meeting, revealing that General Wu was returning to the capital, and the Eagle Flute organization, in collusion with the Wastelanders, had bypassed Xianren Pass, smuggling elite enemy troops into Daxi via waterways to plot a scheme.

He rallied the martial artists to protect General Wu, destroy Eagle Flute strongholds, and foil the Waterway's plot, sending a message via carrier pigeon to warn Yan Kuangtu of the general's plight. The assembled martial artists pledged their full support. Concurrently, Xiao Kaiyan, using mercenaries hired by the Long River Waterway Gang, arranged ambushes along General Wu's route. Xiao Qiushui's forces captured some of these individuals, learning of a heavy bounty on General Wu.

Xiao Qiushui then received a secret report that General Wu would stop at the Guanyu Temple near the capital and immediately rushed there to prevent any unforeseen events. General Wu and his subordinates arrived at the Guanyu Temple and respectfully paid tribute to Lord Guan. Deputy General Jiang Yue voiced his apprehension about returning to the capital, suggesting it was a death trap and proposing they instead return to Xianren Pass to lead the fight against the Wastelanders.

General Wu reprimanded him, stressing the importance of upholding imperial decrees and the nation's laws. He argued that defying the emperor would play directly into the hands of court traitors and doom Daxi, making them "condemned for eternity." He then dismissed his subordinates. Alone, General Wu prayed to Lord Guan, lamenting the nation's plight and the presence of traitors. He declared his willingness to die, stating that his life was insignificant compared to the nation's survival.

He offered three wishes: first, for peace and stability, hoping his death would unite the people, eradicate traitors, protect Daxi, and help reclaim their lands; second, that only he be punished, sparing his soldiers and innocent civilians, emphasizing the critical need to hold Xianren Pass; and third, his unwavering commitment to Daxi, even if it meant facing extreme peril.

He sensed Xiao Qiushui's presence and, acknowledging his concern, reiterated his resolve to fulfill his loyalty through death, not for posthumous fame. An imperial messenger arrived, prompting General Wu to depart immediately. Xiao Qiushui watched, helpless, as the general left. Meanwhile, Yan Kuangtu, having received Xiao Qiushui's message, was recuperating in a medical hall. He presented Xiao Xueyu with a new red cloak, which delighted her.

He then feigned a craving for fresh fish, and as Xiao Xueyu left to prepare it, he departed for the temple. Realizing she had been deceived, she returned to find him gone. Yan Kuangtu arrived at the temple, where he encountered and eliminated several ambushers, including martial world scums and Wastelanders hired by the Waterway Gang. " General Wu," who soon arrived, was actually Xiao Kaiyan, disguised using the Thousand Faces technique.

Yan Kuangtu warned him about the dangers in the capital and the assassination plots, urging him to command the nation's forces against the Wastelanders. He offered the Hero Token to "General Wu." "General Wu" accepted the token, then suddenly attacked Yan Kuangtu, revealing his true identity as Xiao Kaiyan. Xiao Kaiyan explained that the real General Wu had been captured by his three foreign kings—Baili Hanting, Qianli Gumei, and Wanli Pingyuan—and that the trap was set for Yan Kuangtu.

Xiao Kaiyan then attempted to absorb Yan Kuangtu's internal energy. Just then, Xiao Xueyu burst in, shielding Yan Kuangtu. She accused Xiao Kaiyan of betraying their parents and ruining the Xiao family, declaring him unworthy of being her brother. Xiao Kaiyan dismissed her, asserting his superiority. He offered to spare Yan Kuangtu if Xiao Xueyu obeyed his commands. To save her brother, Xiao Xueyu reluctantly agreed. Xiao Kaiyan then ordered Yan Kuangtu to be taken away.

Deputy General Jiang Yue reached Xiao Qiushui, confirming that General Wu had been ambushed. General Wu, anticipating this, had instructed Jiang Yue to split from the main group and deliver the military token to Xiao Qiushui. Jiang Yue implored Xiao Qiushui to guard the token and rescue General Wu. Xiao Qiushui accepted the token and arranged for Jiang Yue to rest. Xiao Kaiyan brought Xiao Xueyu to his water fortress, boasting of its grandeur compared to Huanhua.

He tried to entice her with promises of wealth, power, and prestige, but she remained unresponsive. When she demanded to see her brother, Xiao Kaiyan promised frequent visits if she remained compliant, even attempting to adorn her with a hair accessory, which she resisted. Yan Kuangtu was confined in a water prison, his acupoints sealed, guarded by the Three Foreign Kings. Xiao Kaiyan tried again to drain Yan Kuangtu's internal energy but suffered a backlash.

Yan Kuangtu revealed that Xiao Kaiyan, having obtained the Book of Oblivion by dishonorable means, only understood absorption, not circulation, warning that he would "burst" if he continued. Xiao Kaiyan dismissed the warning, leaving the Three Foreign Kings to guard Yan Kuangtu. Later, Xiao Kaiyan brought Xiao Xueyu to see Yan Kuangtu. Yan Kuangtu noted Xiao Kaiyan's increasingly unstable state, predicting his eventual deviation. Frustrated by Yan Kuangtu's defiance, Xiao Kaiyan ordered Xiao Xueyu to persuade him.

When they were alone, Xiao Xueyu whispered that she would find a way to free him. Yan Kuangtu shook his head, telling her not to risk herself, and instead, secretly whispered crucial information about the Book of Oblivion.

Returning to her room, Xiao Xueyu, unable to find writing materials, ingeniously used plant juice to record the fifteen levels of the Book of Oblivion: Heaven Will, Terrain, Sovereign, Kinship, Master's Teachings, Metal Break, Wood Stubborn, Water Flee, Fire Spread, Earth Conceal, Sun's Radiance, Moon's Reflection, Wind Flow, Cloud Veil, and Void of Self. Liu Suifeng went to the Power Gang headquarters to see Li Chenzhou off, offering a toast for his success in the palace and for Daxi.

He intended to drug Li Chenzhou's wine to prevent him from entering the palace. Li Chenzhou, aware of Liu Suifeng's underlying intention, acknowledged his "good intentions." Liu Suifeng then offered a second toast, wishing Li Chenzhou health and longevity and pledging his eternal loyalty.

Before drinking, Li Chenzhou offered his own toast, expressing his hope that Liu Suifeng would, once the current matters concluded, live his own life, free from the Power Gang, from Li Chenzhou's influence, and from past conflicts. Liu Suifeng, after acknowledging this, suddenly felt dizzy. Li Chenzhou revealed that the wine Liu Suifeng had just drunk contained his "true dream" and told him to "sleep tight," having preempted Liu Suifeng's plan.

Liu Suifeng collapsed, trying in vain to warn Li Chenzhou not to go to the palace. Zhao Shirong escorted Li Chenzhou to the outskirts of the capital, where an imperial carriage awaited. She played a sorrowful flute tune, reminiscing about his previous palace visits becoming progressively longer, and expressed her deep concern for his current journey, unsure when he would return. She acknowledged that "things always get harder with time," but added, "it's almost over."

Li Chenzhou reassured her, stating he would "do his best and leave no regrets," then calmly boarded the imperial carriage. Upon regaining consciousness, Liu Suifeng anxiously asked about Li Chenzhou. Song Mingzhu informed him that Li Chenzhou had already entered the palace and that it was too late to pursue him.

Distraught, Liu Suifeng expressed hope that Li Chenzhou could suppress the poison with his internal energy, believing there might be a chance for survival if his heart meridian remained undamaged. Song Mingzhu comforted him, asserting that a solution would be found.

Episode 38 Recap

Xiao Xueyu was compelled to marry Xiao Kaiyan, who was delighted by the prospect. He expressed sorrow that their parents and Xiao Yiran could not witness their joyous day, but suggested they could pay their respects later and give Xiao Qiushui a surprise. Feigning compliance, Xiao Xueyu stated that her ideal husband had always been a hero capable of commanding the martial world.

Taking this as acceptance, a pleased Xiao Kaiyan presented her with the Hero Token, proclaiming they would rule the martial world together. Continuing her deception, Xiao Xueyu explained that she had always been an orphan, fortunate to be raised by the Xiao family and to learn medicine, aspiring to roam and help people rather than settling for a domestic life. Yet, she claimed to have moved past such "useless obsessions," stating one must always look forward.

As she poured the wedding wine, she secretly introduced poison into Xiao Kaiyan's cup. He praised her newfound perspective, assuring her that her talents could flourish beyond the Daxi Era, even if she wished to heal or roam. Upon drinking the wine, he realized her treachery. Xiao Kaiyan, enraged, questioned why his own family continually betrayed him.

He declared that her death was the only way she would "stay," and swore to make everyone understand who truly brought glory to the Xiao family before fatally striking her. Xiao Qiushui, having received a wedding invitation, arrived and confronted Xiao Kaiyan, demanding to know where Xiao Xueyu was. Xiao Kaiyan invited him to share a wedding toast, claiming it was his and Xueyu's big day.

He taunted Xiao Qiushui, asking if he feared poison, and assured him he would not be killed yet. Xiao Qiushui, accusing Xiao Kaiyan of imprisoning and forcing Xueyu into marriage, refused the drink, stating Xiao Kaiyan was unworthy. He criticized Xiao Kaiyan's appearance, saying he no longer seemed human, and reminded him that Xueyu had always been his greatest protector since childhood. Xiao Kaiyan, visibly agitated, retorted, "Protected me most?"

He then launched into a tirade, recounting his resentment over being overlooked while Xiao Qiushui and Xiao Yiran were favored. He painted Xiao Yiran as stubborn and self-righteous, and Xiao Qiushui as merely a troublemaker, claiming he himself was the true source of the Xiao family's glory and could obtain anything he desired. Ignoring Xiao Kaiyan’s words, Xiao Qiushui broke through a screen and found Xiao Xueyu, lifeless under her bridal veil.

He cried out her name, begging her not to scare him. As Xiao Kaiyan mockingly questioned why even his wedding day could not go as he wished, Xiao Qiushui tearfully held his sister's hand, discovering she still clutched the Hero Token. He carefully retrieved it and lifted her body to take her home. Xiao Kaiyan continued to provoke him, stabbing him in the back, but Xiao Qiushui remained steadfast, refusing to engage and carrying his sister away.

Xiao Qiushui simply stated that he would not kill Kaiyan, because he wanted Kaiyan to witness his reign over the world, adding that keeping Kaiyan alive was far more interesting. He then called Kaiyan pathetic. Meanwhile, Yan Kuangtu, under guard by three exotic masters who were tasked by Xiao Kaiyan, engaged them in conversation. He acknowledged their lightness skills but found their internal energy and swordsmanship lacking compared to Daxi's martial arts.

The exotic masters boasted about Daxi’s “hidden masters” but Yan Kuangtu countered that they were merely "hiding filth and decay," pointing out that without traitors, Xiao Kaiyan could not have captured Wu Jie. This confirmed to Yan Kuangtu that General Wu Jie was indeed imprisoned nearby. One of the exotic masters scoffed, revealing that Wu Jie's failure to report to the court had already aroused suspicion, and even releasing him now would not hinder the North Wasteland's plan.

Yan Kuangtu derided the three as "martial arts seniors" who were nothing more than greedy individuals serving Xiao Kaiyan for wealth and honor. Challenged to a fight by the exotic masters, Yan Kuangtu, despite his injuries, proclaimed he would show them the true martial arts of Daxi. Xiao Kaiyan then arrived, revealing he had underestimated Yan Kuangtu. He declared that while he once considered sparing him for Xiao Xueyu's sake, that consideration was now gone.

Yan Kuangtu questioned General Wu Jie's whereabouts, but Xiao Kaiyan dismissed it as irrelevant, stating he would now absorb all of Yan Kuangtu's martial arts. After draining much of Yan Kuangtu's internal energy, Xiao Kaiyan relished the power, thanking him for the "gift." A weakened Yan Kuangtu accused Xiao Kaiyan of being a thieving rat who would never plunge Daxi into chaos.

Reflecting on the purpose of life – to live joyfully, die without regrets, uphold justice, and live a worthy life – Yan Kuangtu, gravely injured, entrusted the remaining task to Xiao Qiushui before taking his own life by severing his meridians. General Wu Jie heard Yan Kuangtu's final words. Xiao Qiushui brought Xiao Xueyu’s body back to the ancestral home and buried her next to their parents and brother, Xiao Yiran.

He discovered that Yan Kuangtu had revealed the secrets of the Book of Oblivion to Xiao Xueyu while they were imprisoned, and she had meticulously transcribed the mantra onto the hem of her clothes, hoping he would find it. Grieving, Xiao Qiushui vowed to avenge his family. Later, sitting alone, he played an ancient guqin left by his parents.

As he played, memories surfaced of his childhood, when his father praised his musical talent, noting that his older brothers, Xiao Yiran and Xiao Kaiyan, struggled with it. His father had said that no one should be forced to do what they didn't want, and that was the desire of a caring family.

Xiao Qiushui realized that the Jiang brothers, in an act of gratitude, had not only inscribed the Book of Oblivion within the Sword Retreat but also embedded its essence within musical scores. The Book of Oblivion, he understood, was not about rigid techniques but about one's state of mind, where melodies birthed techniques and one's mindset conjured infinite possibilities.

He recalled his father’s words that those who cared for the world would always find each other, and that loyalty was the true essence of the martial world. As he played, he reflected on Yan Kuangtu’s final words, reiterating the philosophy of living joyfully, dying without regrets, and upholding justice to live a worthy life.

He then recited the fifteen techniques of the Book of Oblivion: Heavenly will, earthly form, monarch's sway, kinship's bond, mentor's creed, metal's edge, wood's tenacity, water's flow, fire's spread, earth's shroud, solar blaze, lunar glow, wind's charm, cloud's veil, and finally, selfless void, concluding that it meant to be empathetic to the world. Li Chenzhou arrived at the imperial temporary residence near Xianren Pass, where the Emperor eagerly awaited him.

The Emperor offered him wine, claiming it came from North Wasteland and suggesting it symbolized a path to endless delicacies through a truce. Li Chenzhou rebuked the Emperor, stating that Northern cavalry were poised to crush Xianren Pass, and its fall would leave Daxi's territory defenseless, leading to the capital's eventual demise. He questioned whose responsibility this would be. The Emperor, dismissing his concerns, accused Li Chenzhou of attempting to take advantage of the conflict.

He defended his policies by lamenting Daxi's long-standing weakness and public misunderstanding of his efforts, asserting that all his actions were for Daxi's long-term stability. Li Chenzhou countered, asking if the Emperor had truly considered his people, arguing that if peace talks worked, they wouldn't be in such a crisis. He questioned who truly benefited from endless war.

The Emperor then brought up Wu Jie, whose failure to return to the capital and whose army's defiance suggested someone was secretly aiding them in rebellion. Li Chenzhou fiercely defended the soldiers dying on the front lines and the general who was ambushed and missing, criticizing the Emperor for suspecting him, a "mere idle person," instead of focusing on fighting the enemy. He warned that if this continued, Daxi would inevitably perish.

The Emperor, furious, condemned Li Chenzhou's "treasonous words," invoking the legacy of Daxi's founders. Li Chenzhou retorted that complacency would lead to a dead end, and compromise would bring no lasting peace, insisting that Daxi's centuries-old foundation depended on the Emperor's willingness to act decisively. The Emperor, irritated, declared Li Chenzhou had "spoiled his mood" and, citing urgent state affairs, dismissed him. Li Chenzhou then took up the poisoned wine, stating he had "had enough of this wine."

He then raised the cup in a toast to the frontline warriors and the fallen heroes of the martial world before drinking it. He placed a note on the table, urging the Emperor to recognize North Wasteland's deceitful peace talks and their true intention to invade. He reminded the Emperor of the vow to reclaim lost territories, declaring he would fulfill it in his own way, and bid the Emperor to "take care."

As Li Chenzhou departed, the Emperor, in a silent thought, justified his ruthlessness, believing Li Chenzhou had chosen his own path to destruction. Outside the palace, Zhao Shirong was already waiting. Li Chenzhou smiled, visibly relieved to see her, but then suddenly vomited blood and collapsed. Zhao Shirong rushed to his side, pleading for him to wake up.

Episode 39 Recap

Xiao Kaiyan crossed Yan Kuangtu's name off a list, then hesitated for a long time before reluctantly striking through Xiao Xueyu's name. Song Mingzhu informed Liu Suifeng that Li Chenzhou had returned to the main headquarters. Concerned, Liu Suifeng immediately inquired about Li Chenzhou's condition, but Song Mingzhu's stammering made him suspect the worst. He rushed to Li Chenzhou's bedroom door.

Zhao Shirong then emerged from the room, her face pale, and instructed Liu Suifeng to notify the elders that a river burial would take place in three days. Liu Suifeng, devastated, vowed to avenge Li Chenzhou. Zhao Shirong urged him not to be rash, explaining that the funeral would certainly attract troublemakers. She asked him to keep Li Chenzhou’s death a secret, telling outsiders that Li Chenzhou was merely away for cultivation, and to preside over the proceedings.

She revealed that Li Chenzhou had anticipated his end before entering the capital and had left a secret letter instructing that the military token be buried with him if he met an unfortunate fate. Xiao Kaiyan received a secret message detailing Li Chenzhou's death from poison and Zhao Shirong's plan for a river burial with the military token. The message also noted the cover story that Li Chenzhou was merely away for cultivation.

Xiao Kaiyan, deeming Li Chenzhou to have overestimated himself by opposing him and the court's peace talks with North Wasteland, decided to attend the funeral. Despite a subordinate's caution about the Power Gang's cunning, Xiao Kaiyan was confident that his informant’s news was accurate. Regardless of whether Li Chenzhou was truly dead or faking it, Xiao Kaiyan’s sole objective was to seize the military token. On the day of the funeral, Tang Fang arrived to bid farewell to Li Chenzhou.

Mourners paid their respects as Zhao Shirong personally placed the military token into the coffin and ordered it sealed. As Liu Suifeng and Blade King prepared to carry the coffin to the riverside, Tang Song, accompanied by others, stormed into the funeral hall, initiating a massacre. Tang Song then mocked Tang Fang for being at Li Chenzhou's funeral instead of mourning their father. Zhao Shirong revealed that this was a trap to expose the traitors.

Waterway King and Mortal King immediately revealed their betrayal, stating that they had already informed Xiao Kaiyan of Li Chenzhou's supposed death as a pledge of allegiance. Waterway King confessed to years of covert intelligence work, believing the Power Gang was doomed after Li Chenzhou's illness. Mortal King stated his long-standing resentment, claiming he'd wanted to rebel after Sword King's death and saw no place for himself with Liu Suifeng in charge. A fierce battle immediately ensued.

Liu Suifeng declared he would use his blades against the two traitors, Waterway King and Mortal King. Blade King confronted Nangong Wushang, who boasted of seizing the military token. Liu Suifeng instructed Zhao Shirong to guard the coffin while he dealt with the traitors. Tang Fang confronted Tang Qing, who had betrayed the Tang Sect. Tang Qing admitted her regret was only for always losing to Tang Fang, not for her betrayal.

Tang Fang condemned Tang Qing for allowing her jealousy to be used by others, then killed both Tang Qing and Tang Song, avenging her father. Blade King killed Nangong Wushang, and Liu Suifeng personally eliminated Waterway King and Mortal King. Just as the loyalists regrouped in the main hall, Xiao Kaiyan suddenly arrived, severely injuring everyone present with his powerful internal energy.

He then provocatively addressed Li Chenzhou, vowing to kill him again regardless of whether his death was real or faked. Suspecting Li Chenzhou's death was a ruse, Xiao Kaiyan approached the coffin to investigate. As he opened it to retrieve the military token, Li Chenzhou suddenly leaped out, striking Xiao Kaiyan with a powerful palm. Both Liu Suifeng and Zhao Shirong were relieved to see Li Chenzhou alive.

A furious Xiao Kaiyan, realizing his mistake, declared he would kill Li Chenzhou himself. Xiao Kaiyan then used a technique from the Book of Oblivion. Liu Suifeng stepped forward to block the attack, taking the full force of the blow and collapsing, barely clinging to life. Xiao Kaiyan then seized the military token and hastily departed, taunting Li Chenzhou for his failed trap and mockingly thanking him for the token.

Li Chenzhou, distraught at Liu Suifeng’s condition, admitted that he had feigned his death to expose traitors within the Power Gang, but deeply regretted that Liu Suifeng had been gravely injured in the process. He instructed Blade King to take Liu Suifeng to his study and retrieve a Core-Stabilizing Pill from a hidden compartment, hoping it might save his life, though the rest would depend on Liu Suifeng's own resilience.

Song Mingzhu then approached Li Chenzhou with a request, stating that regardless of whether Liu Suifeng recovered, she wished to remain by his side. Li Chenzhou granted her wish. The Core-Stabilizing Pill proved effective, and Liu Suifeng miraculously survived. Song Mingzhu stayed diligently by his bedside. Upon waking, Liu Suifeng learned from Song Mingzhu that Li Chenzhou had given him the pill and was now safe.

Liu Suifeng expressed frustration at again being saved by his master, while Song Mingzhu noted how he usually only risked his life for Li Chenzhou and Zhao Shirong. Song Mingzhu expressed surprise that he had risked his life to save her at the funeral. Liu Suifeng pondered this, asking himself aloud why he had done it. Song Mingzhu simply replied, "For no particular reason," observing that he had changed.

Tang Fang discovered that Xiao Kaiyan was assembling the North Wasteland armies at the water fortress. Zhao Shirong had arranged for Tang Fang to sprinkle tracker powder on the military token, and a tracker bee later indicated activity in the southwest direction. Meanwhile, Xiao Kaiyan, after ordering the North Wasteland elite troops to march on Xianren Pass to breach it from within, declared that Wu Jie had outlived his usefulness.

He then commanded three senior figures to escort Wu Jie to Wansong Pavilion, a move intended to divert Xiao Qiushui's attention, before gathering their forces at Xianren Pass for the final assault. Members of the Shenzhou Alliance reported to Xiao Qiushui that they had discovered two concealed entrances to the water fortress and that hidden North Wasteland troops were moving towards Xianren Pass. Xiao Qiushui realized that the North Wasteland's ambitions were now undeniable.

Concerned that Xianren Pass would fall without General Wu, he devised a plan: he instructed Liang Dou to lead a contingent to reinforce Xianren Pass, while he himself would infiltrate the water fortress to rescue General Wu. Despite Zhao Shirong's pleas for him not to use his full internal energy due to his unresolved poisoning, Li Chenzhou was resolute.

He argued that the country was hopeless and that General Wu's death would incite public outrage, making a collective effort against invaders the best option. Realizing Li Chenzhou's true intentions, Zhao Shirong took it upon herself to go rescue General Wu. On the way, Li Chenzhou and Zhao Shirong intercepted the prison cart. Three exotic master fighters attacked them, and Zhao Shirong was critically wounded, struck by a sword. Li Chenzhou swiftly defeated the three attackers.

As he embraced Zhao Shirong, he prepared to personally rescue General Wu, but was struck by a palm from the person impersonating General Wu inside the cart. Li Chenzhou’s already weakened body succumbed to the attack. As he lay dying, still cradling Zhao Shirong, he murmured that he was coming to join her and reflected that life was "as lonely as snow." By the time Liu Suifeng and his men arrived, both Li Chenzhou and Zhao Shirong had tragically passed away. Liu Suifeng, heartbroken, swore to complete what they had left unfinished.

Episode 40 (Ending) Recap

Wu Jie remained imprisoned in the water fortress, where Xiao Kaiyan had set a deadly trap: a sand timer that, once depleted, would trigger a volley of arrows. Meanwhile, the North Wasteland armies, led by Helian Yan, laid siege to Xianren Pass. A Daxi commander urged his soldiers to immediately report the dire situation to the imperial court and General Wu, then rallied his troops, declaring they would fight to the death.

Helian Yan scoffed at Daxi's peace talks, asserting that since General Wu was no longer present, the agreement was void. Daxi soldiers, lacking General Wu and new orders, resolved to defend the heartland at all costs, vowing to die rather than let the invaders pass. Xiao Qiushui, carrying his guqin, infiltrated the water fortress alone, demanding to know General Wu's whereabouts from Xiao Kaiyan.

Xiao Kaiyan, dismissive, taunted Xiao Qiushui, saying that every moment he wasted merely hastened General Wu's demise. He challenged Xiao Qiushui, claiming that if he wanted to be a hero, he would prove him powerless. A fierce battle erupted between the two. Xiao Kaiyan realized that Xiao Qiushui had mastered the true essence of the Book of Oblivion, his moves flowing like water. Using his guqin as a formidable weapon, Xiao Qiushui inflicted a severe injury upon Xiao Kaiyan.

Defeated and critically wounded, Xiao Kaiyan defiantly told Xiao Qiushui that even though he had won, he would never reveal General Wu's location. Xiao Qiushui countered, explaining that Xiao Kaiyan's pursuit of shortcuts and stolen powers had led him astray, causing him to kill countless innocents and ultimately become deluded by his own power.

He emphasized that true enlightenment lay in selflessness and compassion, qualities Xiao Kaiyan, consumed by his own ambition, could never grasp, thus failing to understand that the highest realm of oblivion was, in fact, love.

As Xiao Kaiyan lay dying, he experienced vivid hallucinations of his family—his father, Xiao Xilou, praising him as the most stable of his children; his mother, Sun Huishan, offering to cook for him; and his siblings, Xiao Yiren and Xiao Xueyu, inviting him to roam the martial world together. Heartbroken at being the last of the Xiao family, Xiao Qiushui implored his brother one last time to reveal General Wu's hiding place, promising to atone for Xiao Kaiyan's mistakes.

With a few gasping syllables, Xiao Kaiyan uttered "General Wu is. . . in. . ." before succumbing to his wounds. At Xianren Pass, Helian Yan declared victory imminent, but the Daxi soldiers remained resolute, shouting their vows to defend Daxi and drive out the invaders. Helian Yan dismissed them as fools, claiming even their emperor would surrender.

Just as the North Wasteland prepared to make a final push, Liang Dou arrived with the members of the Shenzhou Alliance to defend the nation's borders. They engaged the North Wasteland's elite warriors but were quickly overpowered. As the North Wasteland prepared for a second assault, an arrow shot by Xiao Qiushui suddenly struck Helian Yan, pinning him to the city wall. With their commander killed and subsequently beheaded, the North Wasteland troops fell into a panic.

Xiao Qiushui then appeared with General Wu. General Wu, rallying his troops with a powerful call to arms, led a fierce counterattack, pushing the North Wasteland army out of Xianren Pass and securing a decisive victory for Daxi. The Emperor, having just received a secret report that exposed Xiao Kaiyan's deception, hastily ordered Li Chenzhou to rescue General Wu at all costs. Moments later, a flurry of eunuchs burst into the palace, joyously proclaiming a great victory at Xianren Pass.

They reported that General Wu had crushed the North Wasteland army, Helian Yan was dead, and the North Wasteland had surrendered, pledging a 50-year non-aggression pact. Overjoyed, the Emperor immediately ordered generous rewards for General Wu and the frontline troops, then, remembering Li Chenzhou, included him as well. However, his joy turned to sorrow when an eunuch informed him that Master Li Chenzhou had perished during his mission to rescue General Wu.

Overwhelmed with grief and regret, the Emperor mourned his loyal brother. That night, a celebratory bonfire lit up the army camp. General Wu expressed profound gratitude to Xiao Qiushui, acknowledging the Xiao family's unwavering loyalty and the immense debt of honor he owed for Xiao Qiushui's self-sacrificing rescue. Xiao Qiushui raised a toast to all the brave men who had fallen fighting the North Wasteland, acknowledging their shared part in the victory, and then proposed another toast to the survivors.

Amidst the joyous revelry and teasing among friends about Zuoqiu's impending marriage to Qu Mushuang, Tang Fang approached Xiao Qiushui and confessed that meeting him was the happiest event of her life. Observing the vibrant scene, Liu Suifeng, accompanied by Song Mingzhu, acknowledged that Xiao Qiushui had truly won. He remarked that the martial world was now united by righteousness, not profit, and that Xiao Qiushui had shown them a truly different path.

As Liu Suifeng and Song Mingzhu quietly departed, Liu Suifeng bid Xiao Qiushui farewell, saying they would meet again. Xiao Qiushui knew that activating the final chapter of the Book of Oblivion, while granting immense power far beyond his limits, would come at a fatal cost: it would rapidly deplete his vital energy, irreversibly damage his meridians, and ultimately cost him his life. Yet, his mission was complete. Back in the modern world, Xiao Mingming awoke in a hospital bed.

His college roommate, Zuoqiu, was by his side, informing him that the investigation had confirmed Li Nan's espionage, revealing he had stolen state secrets under the direction of foreign spy organizations. However, Li Nan had died two days prior, before he could be brought to justice. Xiao Mingming, still captivated by the vividness of his dream, envisioned himself as Xiao Qiushui, a figure in white, disappearing into the brilliant hues of a setting sun. The martial world, united by righteousness as Xiao Qiushui had envisioned, continued its saga, ever-changing like the tides.