The Legend of the Condor Heroes Recap, Plot, Synopsis
The Legend of the Condor Heroes Synopsis
During the Southern Song Dynasty, Guo Jing and Yang Kang, who suffered the tragic death of their family, were raised under the tutelage of the Seven “Monsters” of Jiangnan and the Quanzhen Taoist priest Qiu Chuji.
Eighteen years later, Guo Jing was ordered by his master to go south. While Yang Kang was lusting after wealth and recognized the thief as his father.
Guo Jing and Huang Rong fell in love with each other at first sight, but because of the marriage contract of Hua Zheng, and the opposition of the seven “monsters” of Jiangnan, they went through a series of emotional twists and turns.
The five of his masters were killed on Taohua Island, and Guo Jing left Huang Rong in anger.
Through the rough and tumble of trials and tribulations, they finally came together.
Yang Kang also can not escape the fate of a tragic death.
Guo Jing traveled all over the country, befriending all kinds of the world’s top martial artists. His martial arts skills were improved day by day.
He was finally able to avenge his father’s murder, eliminate his master’s grievances, take the book “Wu Mu Yi Shu”, lead his army on a western expedition, take on the teachings of his mother, compete on Huashan Mountain, and save Xiangyang from national disaster.
The original pure and simple, mute and dull Guo Jing became the great swordsman.
The Legend of the Condor Heroes Recap
Episode 1 Recap
On a snowy night in Niu Village, Guo Xiaotian and Yang Tiexin, sworn brothers, shared drinks, reminiscing about the assassination of General Yue Fei sixty years prior on the 29th of January, 1142. They expressed deep admiration for the general and their own aspirations to serve the country faithfully. Their wives, Li Ping and Bao Xiruo, both visibly pregnant, soon joined them, carefully tidying up the broken bowls from the brothers' impassioned toasts.
Each wife insisted on handling the chores, mindful of the other's pregnancy. A Taoist priest approached their home, his light footsteps leaving no trace in the snow. Impressed by his martial arts, the brothers invited him in for warm wine. The Taoist, observing their own hidden skills, initially suspected them of ill intent. Their cautious exchange escalated into a brief skirmish. When the Taoist opened his bag, a human head fell out.
Mistaking him for a killer, the brothers fought, only for the Taoist to recognize the "Back Thrust of Yang Clan Spear" in Yang Tiexin's moves. Identifying himself as Qiu Chuji, he explained that the head belonged to Wang Daoqian, a traitor. The brothers, descendants of patriots themselves—Yang Tiexin from General Yang Zaixin and Guo Xiaotian from Guo Sheng of Mount Liangshan—quickly clarified their identities and expressed their profound respect for Qiu Chuji's heroic deeds against the Jin invaders.
Just as they were about to retreat inside, a group of Jin soldiers appeared, pursuing Qiu Chuji. He instructed the brothers to stay indoors, assuring them he would handle the attackers alone. True to his word, Qiu Chuji swiftly eliminated the Jin soldiers. Returning to the house, the brothers earnestly requested Qiu Chuji to stay for a few days and teach them martial arts. Qiu Chuji agreed and was introduced to Li Ping and Bao Xiruo.
Upon learning of their pregnancies, he gifted them two daggers, on which he carved the names Guo Jing and Yang Kang, hoping the children would remember the Jingkang Incident and grow up to serve their country. The four adults joyfully declared that if both children were boys, they would become sworn brothers; if girls, they would be sisters; and if one was a boy and the other a girl, they would marry.
They exchanged the daggers as tokens of this pact. Later that night, Bao Xiruo heard a noise and discovered an injured man, struck by an arrow, in their straw shed. Despite her initial fear, she was moved by his plea for help and carefully extracted the arrow, applied medicine, and provided care. She knew her husband would kill him if he found out, but also recognized him as an enemy of Taoist Qiu, leaving her conflicted.
The next morning, when Yang Tiexin decided to look for iron in the lumber room, Bao Xiruo rushed to accompany him, fearing the injured man would be discovered. To her relief, the man had vanished. Three months passed. Suddenly, a troop of government soldiers stormed Niu Village, led by an officer named Duan Tiande. They loudly declared Guo Xiaotian and Yang Tiexin to be rebels and threatened to burn down the village if they didn't surrender.
Believing themselves innocent, the brothers initially intended to go with the soldiers to clarify the misunderstanding and demanded to know their crime. Duan Tiande haughtily refused to provide a reason and instead ordered the capture of their wives as accomplices for harboring the "rebels." This forced the brothers to resist. A brutal fight erupted, and the brothers attempted to escape on horseback with their wives.
During the escape, Guo Xiaotian was shot with an arrow and died defending Yang Tiexin, entrusting his wife and unborn child to his brother's care. Yang Tiexin desperately tried to save both Li Ping and Bao Xiruo. He managed to reach Bao Xiruo first, urging her to hide while he went for Li Ping, promising to reunite later.
Bao Xiruo, heartbroken, begged him not to leave her alone, reminding him of their vow never to part and the baby's need for a father. Yang Tiexin, however, insisted she protect their child, expressing hope for their eventual reunion if fate allowed. He then rescued Li Ping, but they were quickly surrounded by a barrage of arrows. Yang Tiexin sustained multiple wounds and was pushed off a cliff. Li Ping was captured by Duan Tiande's men.
Meanwhile, Bao Xiruo, still fleeing the chaos, was unexpectedly rescued by the same injured man she had helped three months prior. Days later, Qiu Chuji rode back through Niu Village, aghast to see Guo Xiaotian's body displayed as a rebel. Realizing his presence had brought calamity upon the two families, he furiously questioned the soldiers, killing several before extracting Duan Tiande's name as the orchestrator.
Bao Xiruo awoke in an inn in Jiaxing, where her rescuer, introducing himself as Yan Lie, informed her that Yang Tiexin had been killed by the soldiers. Overcome with grief, she struggled to accept the news. Yan Lie had instructed the innkeeper to believe they were married to avoid suspicion, and from a doctor, he learned of her pregnancy. Meanwhile, Qiu Chuji pursued Duan Tiande.
Duan Tiande, bringing Li Ping with him, sought refuge in Fahua Temple with his uncle, Abbot Jiaomu, feigning piety and distress. Qiu Chuji confronted Jiaomu, demanding Duan Tiande. After a tense exchange, Jiaomu requested three days before handing over Duan Tiande, proposing they meet at Zuixian Tavern. As a powerful demonstration, Qiu Chuji moved a massive bronze tripod from the temple, signifying his resolve. Back at the inn, Wanyan Honglie discovered his money had been stolen.
He was then visited by the local official of Jiaxing, Gai Yuncong, who groveled before him. From her upstairs, Bao Xiruo overheard a guard reveal Yan Lie's true identity: Wanyan Honglie, the Sixth Prince of Jin. Recalling Yang Tiexin’s intense hatred for the Jin, she resolved to avenge her husband. Confronting him with a dagger, she declared her intention to kill him.
Wanyan Honglie, however, calmly stated that he was indeed Jin, but it was a Song official who had killed Yang Tiexin. He then appealed to her to live for the sake of her unborn child, who carried Yang Tiexin's bloodline and would need to seek revenge for its father. Overwhelmed by her grief and the thought of her child, Bao Xiruo helplessly gave up on killing him.
Episode 2 Recap
Qiu Chuji arrived at Zuixian Tavern with a large cauldron, as per his three-day agreement with Master Jiaomu. He found Jiaomu alone and immediately demanded to know the whereabouts of the vile official Duan Tiande. Jiaomu, feigning ignorance about Duan Tiande, admitted he had invited some "reputable friends" hoping to peacefully resolve the issue. Qiu Chuji, however, saw through this, calling Jiaomu a "sneaky old monk" for delaying for three days to gather reinforcements.
He declared that no matter who came, he would not rest until Duan Tiande was handed over. Soon, Jiaomu's invited friends arrived, revealing themselves to be the renowned Seven Heroes of the South, though they modestly referred to themselves as the Seven Freaks.
They were led by the blind Master Ke Zhene, known as the Flying Bat, and included the Marvelous-handed Scholar Zhu Cong, Horse Deity Han Baoju, Hidden Hero in the City Quan Jinfa, Laughing Buddha Zhang Asheng, Southern Hill Woodcutter Nan Xiren, and Yue Maiden Sword Han Xiaoying. Ke Zhene inquired about the dispute.
Qiu Chuji explained he bore no personal grudge against Jiaomu but was pursuing Duan Tiande, who had captured his friend Guo Xiaotian's pregnant widow, Li Ping, and hidden her in Fahua Temple. He sought to rescue her and another missing widow, Bao Xiruo, wife of Yang Tiexin. Qiu Chuji believed it was his chivalrous duty to intervene, a sentiment Ke Zhene agreed with. However, Jiaomu vehemently denied harboring any woman or Duan Tiande, calling the accusation "untrue and absurd."
Zhu Cong suggested that Qiu Chuji might be misled by rumors, implying Qiu Chuji was lying. Feeling insulted and seeing the impasse, Ke Zhene proposed settling the matter "the martial artist's way." Qiu Chuji, despite stating he had no animosity towards them, accepted the challenge. During the ensuing fight, Zhu Cong cleverly managed to take a poem from Qiu Chuji's person without causing him harm, leading Qiu Chuji to admit defeat to the Seven Heroes of the South.
Despite his loss, Qiu Chuji remained resolute, declaring he still had to save his friend's family and intended to search Fahua Temple. As Qiu Chuji made his way to Fahua Temple, the Seven Heroes of the South again confronted him, leading to another intense battle. During the fierce fighting, both sides sustained injuries, and Qiu Chuji himself was poisoned.
As the poison began to take effect, Duan Tiande emerged from within the temple, intent on seizing the opportunity to kill the weakened Qiu Chuji. However, Master Jiaomu intervened, trying to de-escalate the situation by calling it a misunderstanding and defending Qiu Chuji as a "good man." Amidst the commotion, Li Ping, who had been disguised as a man, struggled and her disguise fell apart, revealing her true identity as a woman.
Both Qiu Chuji and Ke Zhene, seeing her, realized the true nature of Duan Tiande's deception. Jiaomu, aghast, then understood that he had been manipulated by Duan Tiande all along. Enraged by the betrayal and the damage to his reputation, Jiaomu cursed Duan Tiande, declaring he would destroy him. In response, the ruthless Duan Tiande fatally stabbed Master Jiaomu. With Jiaomu dead, Duan Tiande seized Li Ping and fled towards the river.
Despite the Seven Heroes' valiant efforts to rescue Li Ping and Ke Zhene's attempt to kill Duan Tiande, the cunning official managed to escape by coercing a boatman, under threat to his family, to take them across the river to the Jin-occupied North. Qiu Chuji, injured and poisoned, urged Ke Zhene to prioritize saving Li Ping. Back at Fahua Temple, the remaining martial artists mourned Master Jiaomu, whose death Ke Zhene declared undeserved.
Ke Zhene expressed the Seven Heroes' shame at being "fooled by a nobody," admitting they would become the "laughing stock of the world." Qiu Chuji humbly apologized for his "reckless behavior" and for offending them. Despite Qiu Chuji's apology, Ke Zhene stated that their severe injuries meant the matter could not be settled easily. He proposed a rematch, suggesting they meet again at Zuixian Tavern one year later.
Qiu Chuji accepted the challenge but requested to set the criteria for the match, which he warned would be a "rather long time" but would be a true "demonstration of real abilities" rather than just "impetuous courage." He reminded them that their original conflict stemmed from the desire to save the children of his two great friends, Guo Xiaotian and Yang Tiexin. He confirmed that the woman abducted by Duan Tiande was Guo Xiaotian's pregnant wife, Li Ping.
He also mentioned Yang Tiexin's pregnant wife, Bao Xiruo, whose location remained unknown. Qiu Chuji proposed a unique bet: he would dedicate himself to finding and teaching Yang Tiexin's child, Yang Kang, while the Seven Heroes would find and instruct Guo Xiaotian's child, Guo Jing. Then, when both children turned eighteen, they would gather for a grand banquet at Zuixian Tavern, and the two young men would engage in a martial arts contest to determine whose disciple was superior.
Ke Zhene, finding the proposition suitable, agreed, and the eighteen-year bet was sealed. Some time passed. Li Ping, now a captive, was forced to labor alongside many other Song people by Jin soldiers in the harsh, snowy mountains. A Jin general, indifferent to their suffering, declared that these weak laborers would be killed once their work was done, and new captives would replace them. Amidst this arduous journey, the group was ambushed by bandits.
In the ensuing chaos, Li Ping seized the opportunity to escape. She fell down a snowy slope, and there, in the bitter cold, she desperately clung to life, speaking to her unborn child, "You can't die! Hang on till you give birth to Jing! That's what you promised Xiaotian!" She endured the pain and gave birth to her son, Guo Jing. Miraculously, a passing group of Mongol warriors heard the baby's cries.
Discovering Li Ping and her newborn in the snow, one of the warriors offered the baby milk, and they took the mother and child in, saving their lives. Years later, on the vast Mongolian grasslands, a young Guo Jing came across a severely wounded man who had fallen from his horse, being pursued by warriors.
After offering the man water, Guo Jing, remembering his mother's teachings to "give without taking anything in return," agreed to hide the man in a haystack. Soon, Temujin's soldiers arrived, questioning Guo Jing about the man's whereabouts. Despite being whipped repeatedly, Guo Jing bravely refused to divulge the secret. His mother, Li Ping, rushed to protect her child, enduring the beating herself. Unable to witness the injustice, the wounded man emerged, proclaiming, "Real men don't bully women and children!"
He introduced himself as Jebe, defiantly stating that he was a great archer and it would be a "shame" to be killed by anyone other than a true hero. Temujin, recognizing the name "Jebe" as meaning "great archer" in Mongolian, was impressed. His son revealed that Jebe had previously shot Temujin. Bo'orchu, Temujin's loyal right-hand man and a skilled archer himself, stepped forward to avenge his Great Khan.
Temujin, however, proposed an archery challenge: if Jebe could defeat Bo'orchu, he and the child would be spared. Jebe accepted, even boasting he would use a bow without an arrow. In a remarkable display of skill, Jebe won the contest by using his bowstring to strike Bo'orchu's arrow mid-flight. Temujin, moved by Jebe's prowess and the boy's integrity, declared he would spare both Jebe's life and Guo Jing's.
A grateful and humbled Jebe immediately pledged his lifelong loyalty and service to Temujin. Temujin offered Jebe a gold ingot as a gift, but Jebe, in turn, tried to give it to Guo Jing. Guo Jing, once again adhering to his mother's principles, refused the gift. Impressed by Guo Jing's "backbone," Temujin allowed Li Ping and Guo Jing to move into his military camp, experiencing life alongside him.
Furthermore, Temujin instructed Jebe to teach archery to both his own son, Tolui, and Guo Jing. Some time later, Jin envoys arrived on the Mongolian grasslands, led by the Jin Third Prince and Sixth Prince. Their stated purpose was to confer official titles upon the Mongols, which they presented as a "great honor." Temujin's son openly questioned why the Mongols should accept titles from the Jin or remain subservient to them, reflecting Temujin's own unspoken resentment.
The Jin Third Prince, displaying extreme arrogance, began to throw gold coins at the Mongols, declaring it "My act of generosity" and ordering them to "Pick them up!" as if they were begging dogs. Young Guo Jing, witnessing this blatant disrespect and humiliation, bravely stepped forward and retorted, "Nobody wants your stinky money." Infuriated by the child's defiance, the Jin Third Prince, ignoring his brother's attempt to restrain him, immediately drew his bow, shouted "Die!" , and shot an arrow directly at Guo Jing.
Episode 3 Recap
In the royal tent, Golden envoys distributed money to the Mongolians. Young Guo Jing, witnessing this, boldly declared that no one desired their "stinky money." Enraged by Guo Jing's defiance, the Third Jin Prince drew an arrow and shot it directly at him. Just in time, Jebe, an archer, swiftly fired his own arrow, knocking the Jin prince's arrow off course and saving Guo Jing.
Following the incident, the Jin envoys, including the Third Prince and the Sixth Prince Wanyan Honglie, were invited into the royal tent. Temujin, the Great Khan, subtly apologized for the "unruly child." As they toasted, Temujin and Jamukha introduced themselves as Wang Khan's godsons, and Sengum as Wang Khan's son. Wang Khan then highlighted their prowess. The Sixth Prince Wanyan Honglie expressed interest in the archer who saved Guo Jing, learning it was Jebe, a new recruit under Temujin.
He requested Jebe be invited for a drink. When Jebe arrived, Temujin offered him a drink from a gold bowl, but Sengum objected, deeming a squad leader unworthy. Temujin, in a clever move, called for his own war helmet, filled it with wine, and offered it to Jebe, stating that he allowed his soldiers to drink from it. Jebe gratefully accepted, pledging his life to Temujin, deftly resolving the subtle attempt at humiliation.
Meanwhile, on the vast grassland, Guo Jing and Tolui, Temujin's son, decided to become sworn brothers, or "andas" in Mongolian custom. Guo Jing initially hesitated, noting Tolui's status as the Khan's son, but Tolui dismissed rank, declaring Guo Jing a "top hero" for his bravery against the Jin prince. They exchanged gifts; Tolui gave Guo Jing a present and asked for Guo Jing's dagger.
Guo Jing, however, refused to part with the dagger, explaining it was a gift from his mother. Instead, he offered Tolui a small embroidered bag made by his mother, which Tolui happily accepted. Kneeling before the open sky, they swore an oath to be brothers for life, loving and supporting each other. Later, the Jin Emperor's decree was announced, appointing only Temujin as Commissioner of Bandit Suppression and granting his descendants the right to guard the north of Jin.
Temujin, recognizing this as a deliberate attempt to sow discord, inquired if any other Mongol heroes would receive appointments. The envoy dismissively stated that only Temujin and Wang Khan were truly significant. Temujin then sincerely championed his sworn brother Jamukha Khan, praising his virtues and military skill, and requested an appointment for him. When the envoy rejected the idea, Temujin offered to yield his own appointment to Jamukha.
This act surprised the Jin princes; Prince Rong observed that Temujin was too cunning to be easily divided from Jamukha, while Prince Zhao, still underestimating Temujin, scoffed at his relatively small army. Prince Rong, however, warned that a united Temujin and Jamukha could pose a significant threat to Jin. On the plains, Guo Jing and Tolui successfully shot a fat rabbit. However, they were intercepted by a group of children led by Dushi, Wang Khan's grandson and Sengum's son.
Dushi arrogantly claimed the rabbit, saying it was his and even demanding payment. Tolui protested, asserting it was a wild rabbit they had shot. Dushi escalated the argument, further boasting that Tolui’s sister, Hua Zheng, was betrothed to him, and therefore Tolui should obey. A fierce brawl erupted among the children.
Unbeknownst to them, the Seven Freaks of the South—Ke Zhene, Zhu Cong, Han Baoju, Quan Jinfa, Zhang Asheng, Nan Xiren, and Han Xiaoying—had journeyed to the Mongolian Desert in their six-year long search for Guo Xiaotian's child. They overheard the children fighting and noticed Guo Jing, who then revealed a dagger. Ke Zhene intervened, scattering the children and questioning Guo Jing about the dagger, which made them recall their quest for the two children.
When Tolui called out "Guo Jing," the Freaks realized they had found their charge. Overjoyed, Ke Zhene confirmed Guo Jing's identity and learned his father, Guo Xiaotian, was killed by Duan Tiande. The Freaks expressed their eagerness to teach Guo Jing martial arts so he could avenge his father, even though Guo Jing initially resisted, citing his mother's advice not to fight. They then taught him some basic moves.
Recognizing Guo Jing’s dullness but also his earnestness, Ke Zhene challenged him to climb the formidable cliff alone that night to prove his bravery and dedication, stating that fear could not be tolerated in martial arts training. That night, as the Seven Freaks waited on the cliff, Quan Jinfa discovered a pile of skulls, each bearing five finger marks.
Ke Zhene immediately recognized them as evidence of the Nine Yin Skeleton Claw, a sinister skill practiced by the "Twin Killers," Copper Corpse Chen Xuanfeng and Iron Corpse Mei Chaofeng. Ke Zhene recounted how these two had killed his elder brother and blinded him years ago. Though initially advising his companions to flee due to the Twin Killers’ formidable power, the other Freaks refused, vowing to face the danger together.
Zhu Cong then found a collection of empty coffins, leading Ke Zhene to deduce that the Twin Killers would return to the site for their macabre practice. He devised a plan for a surprise attack, hiding in a coffin himself while instructing the others to conceal themselves and strike without mercy, cautioning them about the Twin Killers' poisonous fingertips. Soon after, Mei Chaofeng arrived, killing a person and initiating her practice.
Ke Zhene launched his ambush, engaging her in a fierce battle. The combined efforts of the Seven Freaks gravely injured Mei Chaofeng, leaving her permanently blinded. Desperate, she cried out for Chen Xuanfeng, who promptly appeared. At this precise moment, young Guo Jing, having bravely climbed the cliff, reached the top only to be seized by Chen Xuanfeng.
The situation turned dire as Chen Xuanfeng held Guo Jing hostage, fighting off the Freaks while Mei Chaofeng, blinded, called out to him. During the intense struggle to rescue Guo Jing, Chen Xuanfeng, momentarily distracted, was fatally stabbed by Guo Jing's dagger. With his dying breath, Chen Xuanfeng urged Mei Chaofeng to retrieve the Nine Yin Manual hidden in his chest. In the chaos, Zhang Asheng, one of the Seven Freaks, suffered mortal wounds.
Han Xiaoying, distraught, wept as Zhang Asheng, with his last words, comforted her, promised to marry her, and praised her beauty before passing away in her arms. Witnessing Guo Jing’s bravery in facing the "bad guy," Ke Zhene formally accepted him as their disciple. Guo Jing kowtowed to his masters, including the fallen Zhang Asheng, who, even in death, served as an inspiration.
Ke Zhene and the others emphasized that though he may not be bright, Guo Jing must train diligently to avenge his father. Ten years passed. Under the guidance of the remaining six Freaks, Guo Jing practiced martial arts day and night. However, despite his relentless effort, his progress was dishearteningly slow, causing concern as the date for the contest at Zuixian Tavern drew nearer.
The masters, particularly Ke Zhene and Han Xiaoying, debated his lack of improvement, but Ke Zhene stressed the importance of persistence and stubbornness, traits Guo Jing possessed. One day, Hua Zheng rushed to Guo Jing, reporting that a flock of black condors were attacking their two white condors. Rushing to the scene, Hua Zheng denounced the black condors as robbers. Guo Jing, agilely mounting his horse, rode forward and, with a single, expert shot, brought down two black condors.
His impressive archery earned him praise from the onlookers, and Temujin himself awarded Guo Jing his golden knife, a weapon that had served him in countless battles. Later, Guo Jing and Hua Zheng discovered that the adult white condors had perished in the fight, leaving two helpless baby condors stranded on the dangerously high cliff. A Taoist appeared, and with remarkable agility, he flew up the cliff face and safely brought down the young condors.
Astonished by the Taoist's martial prowess, Guo Jing knelt and humbly requested guidance, confessing his struggles with learning martial arts and his masters’ frustrations. The Taoist, observing Guo Jing’s sincerity, agreed to offer him pointers. He instructed Guo Jing to meet him at the cliff top at midnight in three days, which would be the middle of the month, but strictly warned him not to disclose this to anyone. Guo Jing expressed doubt about his ability to climb the steep cliff, but the Taoist simply advised him to put his heart to it, and he would find a way.
Episode 4 Recap
Guo Jing strenuously climbed the cliff at night, struggling and falling multiple times from halfway up. The Taoist kindly lowered a rope and pulled him to the top. Upon reaching the peak, Guo Jing knelt to pay his respects and asked to become a disciple. However, the Taoist refused, stating that Guo Jing already had six well-known masters. He noted Guo Jing's lack of progress over ten years, attributing it to flaws in both teaching and learning methods.
Instead of teaching martial arts, the Taoist offered to teach Guo Jing how to breathe, sit, stand, and sleep properly, which Guo Jing initially found confusing as he believed he already knew how to do these things. The Taoist then had Guo Jing demonstrate his sleeping method and imparted four crucial phrases: "Clear the mind and forget feelings. Lighten the body and breath circulates. Make still the heart and the spirits come alive. Lift the Yang and Yin goes down."
He instructed Guo Jing to concentrate fully and think of nothing while sleeping. From then on, Guo Jing would practice these methods with the Taoist on the cliff nightly while continuing his martial arts training with his six masters during the day. More than a year passed quickly. Guo Jing's masters noticed a significant improvement in his martial arts, remarking on how much smarter he had become and how quickly he now grasped their teachings.
Their hopes for winning the upcoming competition were rekindled. One day, a fierce wild red horse appeared on the grasslands, known to be untamable. The Third Master, Ma Wangshen, attempted to subdue it but was promptly thrown off. Guo Jing, however, jumped onto the horse's back with agility and, after a brief struggle, effortlessly tamed the divine steed.
Observing from a distance, his masters were amazed by his rapid progress over the year and his suddenly apparent inner power, wondering if the spirit of their deceased brother Asheng was protecting him. That evening, Guo Jing reported to his masters that he had groomed the horse and secured it in the stable. Ke Zhen'e, the blind leader of the Seven Freaks, demanded Guo Jing kneel and questioned if he had secretly learned martial arts from others.
Guo Jing denied it, saying he had only learned archery and spear skills from Master Jebe. The masters pressed him further, asking about the inner power he used to tame the horse and accusing him of looking down on them because of hidden support. Guo Jing finally admitted that for the past year, someone had indeed been teaching him nightly how to breathe, sit, and sleep, though he insisted he hadn't learned any "inner power."
His masters quickly clarified that what he had learned was precisely inner power. Guo Jing explained that he didn't know the person's name as it was never revealed, and that the person had said Guo Jing's six masters were "not worse than him," thus he could not take Guo Jing as a disciple. He was also strictly instructed not to tell anyone about their nightly meetings. Ke Zhen'e, still suspicious, dismissed him.
The Seven Freaks, now even more curious and worried about a hidden agenda, secretly followed Guo Jing that night. They watched him climb the cliff. On the cliff, the Taoist and Guo Jing discovered an ominous "Skeleton Formation," which Guo Jing immediately recognized as the work of the Twin Killers, linking it to the death of Chen Xuanfeng (Copper Corpse) by his own accidental hand years ago.
The Taoist confirmed that Mei Chaofeng (Iron Corpse) had escaped and now possessed formidable power, potentially outmatching even him and the Six Freaks. Guo Jing realized Mei Chaofeng was there to avenge Chen Xuanfeng and would target his masters. While Guo Jing and the Taoist decided to follow Mei Chaofeng to watch her actions, the Seven Freaks, who had also reached the cliff, found the Skeleton Formation and the "Memorial of Zhang Asheng."
Misinterpreting the situation, they believed Guo Jing had been secretly learning martial arts from Mei Chaofeng for a year. Concluding that Guo Jing was being used by Mei Chaofeng to harm them as part of her intricate revenge, Ke Zhen'e painfully resolved to kill Guo Jing to avert their impending doom. Meanwhile, in a military camp, Prince Zhao of Great Jin, Wanyan Honglie, was conspiring with Sangkun, Wang Han's son, and Jamukha to eliminate Temujin.
Guo Jing, hidden outside the tent, accidentally overheard this sinister plot. Sangkun revealed that Temujin had betrothed his daughter, Hua Zheng, to Sangkun's son, Dushi, and was coming the next day to discuss the wedding. Sangkun planned to use this meeting as an opportunity to ambush and attack Temujin. Realizing the urgency of the situation, the Taoist found Guo Jing and told him that Mei Chaofeng was after his masters and urged him to warn them.
Guo Jing rushed back, with the Taoist accompanying him. When they arrived, the Seven Freaks were still mistakenly planning to attack Guo Jing. Guo Jing quickly told them the person who taught him inner power was outside and wanted to see them. Ke Zhen'e, expecting Mei Chaofeng, boldly declared her arrival. However, when the Taoist entered, the Seven Freaks were shocked to learn his identity: Ma Yu, Danyangzi, Chief of the Quanzhen Sect.
Ma Yu explained that he had met Guo Jing a year ago, found him kind, and had only taught him some skills to strengthen his body, apologizing for not seeking their approval. The Freaks realized their mistake and accepted that Ma Yu's guidance was Guo Jing's good fortune. With Mei Chaofeng still a threat, Ma Yu quickly instructed Guo Jing to find a fast horse and warn Temujin about the ambush.
Guo Jing raced off and encountered Hua Zheng, asking her to relay the critical message to her father. However, Temujin disbelieved Hua Zheng, thinking she and Guo Jing had fabricated the story to avoid her marriage to Dushi. He even threatened to teach Guo Jing a lesson for this perceived deception. Back on the cliff, Ma Yu informed the Seven Freaks that Mei Chaofeng's martial arts had advanced significantly, making a direct confrontation risky.
He proposed a daring plan: they would impersonate the legendary Quanzhen Seven Immortals to intimidate Mei Chaofeng. Disguised, they waited on the cliff, with Ma Yu speaking mercifully about giving Mei Chaofeng a chance to atone, while the Freaks, in character, expressed fierce determination to defeat her. Mei Chaofeng, lurking nearby, remained suspicious, noting the sudden appearance and strange mannerisms of the "Quanzhen Seven Immortals."
On the cliff, Mei Chaofeng, lurking nearby and still suspicious, sensed a presence and swiftly grabbed Guo Jing. Thinking quickly, Guo Jing feigned being a Quanzhen disciple named Yin Zhiping. Mei Chaofeng, intrigued by his inner power, tested him by asking about specific Quanzhen Sect internal cultivation secrets. Ma Yu, still in disguise, inadvertently provided the correct answers from hiding, warning Mei Chaofeng not to provoke the Quanzhen Sect further. Satisfied, Mei Chaofeng released Guo Jing and departed.
Shortly after, Guo Jing learned from Hua Zheng that Temujin still disbelieved them and was already on his way to Sangkun's camp. He immediately rode to intercept him. Ma Yu, realizing his error, was troubled that he had carelessly revealed Quanzhen Sect's inner power techniques, fearing "endless trouble." He also wondered how Mei Chaofeng, whose martial arts were from Peach Blossom Island, knew to ask such specific questions.
Guo Jing finally reached Temujin, urgently reiterating the warning about Sangkun, Jamukha, and Jin's plot, and that an ambush awaited him. Temujin, however, dismissed him, convinced it was a trick to prevent Hua Zheng's marriage. Despite Hua Zheng's pleas for her father to believe Guo Jing, Temujin continued forward. Shortly after, Temujin's forces were indeed ambushed, and a fierce battle erupted. Temujin's troops were surrounded, forcing him to retreat to a high hill, creating a tense standoff.
From above, Temujin angrily condemned Jamukha and Sangkun for being blind to Jin's oppression and their insatiable greed. Dushi then emerged to provoke Temujin, but Guo Jing intervened, swiftly capturing Dushi. Wanyan Honglie's personal guards, the Four Demons of the Yellow River, then appeared, demanding Dushi's release. Guo Jing bravely faced all four in a remarkable display of martial arts, defeating them single-handedly.
Seizing the opportunity, Temujin, holding Dushi hostage, ordered Sangkun to retreat, threatening to kill his son if he refused. Sangkun had no choice but to comply, ordering his troops to fall back. Temujin commended Guo Jing for his brilliant martial arts, hailing him as a true hero of the grasslands.
Episode 5 Recap
As Dushi remained captured, the warring parties entered a temporary truce to strategize. Sengum, worried about his son, Dushi, spoke with Wanyan Honglie, who noted that Temujin had been underestimated and that Guo Jing, Tolui’s sworn brother, was dedicated to Temujin. Later that evening, Jamukha requested a meeting with Temujin.
Temujin confronted Jamukha about his betrayal, but Jamukha attempted to persuade him to surrender to the Jin dynasty, promising that Prince Zhao would spare his life and they could still be blood brothers. Temujin, however, declared he never trusted the Jin and would never trust Jamukha again, proclaiming, "I, Temujin, would rather die on my feet than live on my knees!" Seeing Temujin's defiance, Jamukha responded, "Fine! You won’t take my advice.
Then we shall end it all," and ordered his troops to attack. During the fierce battle that ensued at dawn, Temujin was struck by an arrow. Guo Jing urged him to ride his Little Red Horse to escape, promising to protect him. But Temujin refused, asserting that if he were to run away, he wouldn’t be worthy of being their Great Khan.
Just as the fighting intensified, Temujin’s reinforcements, led by Tolui, arrived, surprising Jamukha's forces, who had believed Temujin was cornered. Jamukha and Sengum's forces were defeated and ordered to retreat. Tolui, concerned for his father's arrow wound, was reassured by Temujin, who then ordered them back to camp. It was revealed that the previous night, Temujin had secretly dispatched Tolui to hasten reinforcements.
He confided in Tolui, detailing a plan to use a narrow gully to pin down the enemy and then attack from the side, emphasizing this coordinated assault as the key to their victory. Back at the camp, Jebe expressed concerns about Sengum and Jamukha potentially allying with other tribes. Temujin asked Guo Jing for his opinion, but Guo Jing deferred to his Great Khan's judgment.
Temujin then made a shocking decision: he ordered Dushi to be brought in and untied, against Tolui's demand to kill Dushi for vengeance. Temujin claimed he bore no grudge against Sengum and Wang Khan, referring to them as benefactors, and instructed Dushi to convey his apologies for the recent conflict. Tolui and others protested Temujin's leniency towards Sengum's wicked son. Temujin silenced them, declaring Dushi his son-in-law and reminding him of his childhood engagement to Hua Zheng.
He announced that Dushi would marry Hua Zheng upon returning home, with a grand celebration. Hua Zheng immediately refused to marry Dushi, and Tolui vehemently supported her, calling Dushi unworthy. Enraged, Temujin ordered Tolui tied up and beaten. Tolui continued to protest Dushi’s unworthiness even as he was dragged out. Hua Zheng, in despair, threatened to die if forced into the marriage, to which Temujin coldly replied that he would send her dead body to Dushi.
Hua Zheng then declared her hatred for her father. Later, Hua Zheng tended to Tolui's injuries, lamenting that their father forced her into the marriage and hurt Tolui. Tolui called Temujin a ruthless tyrant, and Hua Zheng expressed confusion as to why Temujin, who did not fear death, would fear Sengum, a sentiment Guo Jing echoed.
She resigned herself to the marriage as her destiny but confided in Guo Jing that Dushi was a bad man and her father was pushing her to "the abyss of suffering." She suggested to Tolui and Guo Jing that they flee to the Central Plains, but Tolui rejected the idea, warning of war between the tribes. Guo Jing reassured Hua Zheng, promising to kill Dushi if he bullied her and affirmed that he would not forgive Dushi either.
The next day, Temujin explained to Dushi that his arrow wound would take three months to heal, preventing him from personally escorting Dushi back. He appointed Jebe and Guo Jing to escort Dushi back before the wedding, along with two carts of gold, furs, and fine wines as dowry. Meanwhile, Sengum, still in his camp with Wanyan Honglie, worried about Temujin's escape.
Wanyan Honglie assured him their garrison was strengthened, and Temujin would "walk right into the trap" if he invaded. Sengum was relieved when Dushi returned unharmed and recounted Temujin's apologies, his wound, and Temujin's wish for Dushi to marry Hua Zheng that day. Jamukha and Wanyan Honglie were suspicious, but Sengum, convinced that Temujin was a "timid little lamb" who feared them, dismissed their caution, especially after seeing Hua Zheng and the lavish dowries.
Hua Zheng, confronting Dushi, declared that while her father might fear him, she did not. Dushi responded that he wanted her love, not her fear. Overjoyed and complacent, Sengum ordered a grand celebration, butchering a lamb and encouraging everyone to feast and drink, effectively lowering their guard. In her temporary tent, Hua Zheng tearfully told Guo Jing she did not want to marry Dushi, finding him nauseating.
Guo Jing tried to console her, suggesting Dushi, who had admired her since childhood, might treat her well. But Hua Zheng confessed her love for Guo Jing, lamenting that if she couldn’t marry him, there would be no point in living, and embraced him. At that moment, a drunken Dushi burst into the tent. Seeing them, he accused Guo Jing of seducing his bride and grabbed Hua Zheng. Guo Jing intervened, pulling Dushi away.
Enraged, Dushi attacked Guo Jing, threatening to kill him. In a moment of desperation, Hua Zheng stabbed Dushi with a dagger, then, panicked, shouted to Guo Jing that she had killed him, and they both fled the tent. A wounded Dushi chased them, shouting orders to catch them, and chaos erupted as wedding escorts clashed with Sengum and Jamukha's men. Just then, Temujin, leading his forces, launched a powerful surprise attack, ordering everyone killed.
Jebe instructed Guo Jing to protect the princess. It was revealed that this elaborate wedding procession was a ruse planned by Temujin, who had anticipated Sengum's arrogance and susceptibility to deception. Temujin had hardened his heart, relying on Jebe and Guo Jing to protect Hua Zheng, and deliberately kept the full plan secret from others to avoid compromise. The plan was for the wine during the celebration to be used to burn down their tents, triggering a combined forces attack.
Temujin confronted Jamukha, echoing his earlier defiance: "I, Temujin, would rather die on my feet than live on my knees!" As Jamukha, defeated, repeated Temujin's defiant words from their earlier confrontation, now in despair, Temujin personally shot and killed him. With this decisive victory, Temujin’s army became invincible, unifying the Mongol tribes and fulfilling his grand ambition. He was henceforth known as Genghis Khan.
After the unification, Genghis Khan held a ceremony to reward his soldiers, appointing Jebe, Bo’orchu, and Muqali as commanders. He also appointed Guo Jing as a commander, much to the pride of his masters. Genghis Khan then announced that he would bestow upon Guo Jing a "very precious gift"—his favorite daughter, Hua Zheng—betrothing her to him and making him his "Golden Dagger Son-in-law." While others celebrated this great honor, Guo Jing hesitated, then politely declined the marriage.
Genghis Khan asked if Hua Zheng was not good enough for him. Guo Jing's mother, Li Ping, intervened, explaining that 18 years ago, her late husband and his sworn brother Yang Tiexin had made a promise: if their families had two boys, they would become sworn brothers; if a boy and a girl, they would marry.
Master Zhu, one of Guo Jing's masters, confirmed that the Yang family had indeed had a boy and that Taoist Qiu Chuji had located Yang Tiexin's son. He added that Qiu Chuji had asked them to bring Guo Jing to the South of Yangtze River to meet Yang’s son. Another master suggested that Guo Jing should first meet Yang's child and avenge his father's death, and only then return to marry Princess Hua Zheng.
Genghis Khan asked Hua Zheng for her opinion. Although saddened by Guo Jing's departure, Hua Zheng agreed, stating that if they were to marry and he still harbored thoughts of revenge, she would not be happy either, preferring him to fulfill his duty. Genghis Khan praised Hua Zheng's thoughtfulness and offered Guo Jing 10 taels of gold and 20 Mongol soldiers for his long journey.
However, Ke Zhen'e, the leader of Guo Jing's masters, politely declined the soldiers, stating that the Seven Freaks of the South would personally escort Guo Jing, as Mongol soldiers might draw too much attention. Genghis Khan accepted. They then raised a toast, wishing Guo Jing a rewarding journey. The next day, Guo Jing and his masters packed their belongings and left the desert.
Hua Zheng bade him a sorrowful farewell, reminding him of their promise and telling him she would wait for him. Guo Jing, seeing her distress, urged her to take care of herself, and then departed. After a long journey, Guo Jing and his masters arrived in Zhangjiakou.
His masters, delighted to return to the Central Plains after 18 years, reminisced about past times, including a friendly fight with Taoist Qiu, and remembered their deceased comrade Asheng, glad they brought Guo Jing there. Ke Zhen'e spotted some foreign women and their escorts. The masters, feeling tired, decided to find an inn to rest and drink.
They encouraged Guo Jing, who had grown up in Mongolia and was curious about the Central Plains, to explore the bustling streets by himself, instructing him to meet them at the inn later. As Guo Jing watched street performers, a young beggar, who was actually Huang Rong in disguise, dashed through the crowd, pursued by a bun shop owner. The beggar hid behind Guo Jing. Guo Jing, seeing the commotion, learned the beggar was being chased for stealing a bun.
He offered to pay for it, but when the owner demanded an exorbitant 30 cents, Huang Rong, angered by the price, threw the bun back at the owner and called him heartless. The furious owner then threatened to beat her. Guo Jing, seeing her outnumbered, quickly grabbed her hand and pulled her along, fleeing from the owner and his men. They climbed onto the rooftops, successfully shaking off their pursuers.
Catching her breath, Huang Rong complimented Guo Jing’s "great levitation skill." Claiming exhaustion, she then asked Guo Jing if he was hungry and led him to Yuzhen Restaurant, the best establishment in town. At the restaurant, a waiter, assuming Huang Rong was a beggar, tried to turn her away. She asserted she came to eat, and Guo Jing confirmed he would pay for the meal.
Annoyed by the waiter’s skepticism, Huang Rong told him to "cut the nonsense" and serve whatever she ordered, assuring him they would pay. She then proceeded to order an incredibly elaborate meal of various fruits and eight sophisticated appetizers, a list so extensive and refined that it left Guo Jing, who had only ever considered lamb dishes to be delicious, utterly astonished. However, Huang Rong barely touched the food, claiming she was "not impressed at all."
Guo Jing, seeing her lack of appetite, assured her he didn't mind paying, explaining that she was his first friend since leaving home, and his mother had taught him that friends should share everything. Guo Jing then inquired about her origins, noting her lack of a Northern accent.
Huang Rong, with a pitiful expression, fabricated a tragic tale: her mother died young, her father remarried, and her cruel stepmother tortured her daily, forcing her to do chores without food or sleep. She even claimed that wolves in the mountains didn't eat her because she was "too skinny." Guo Jing expressed deep sympathy, contrasting her sad story with his own "luckier" upbringing in Mongolia with his loving mother and seven masters.
He enthusiastically described Mongolia as a beautiful place with clear blue skies, full of "great heroes," and shared an anecdote about raising two well-trained white condors that came when he whistled. Fascinated, Huang Rong expressed a desire to go to Mongolia and catch her own condors. Guo Jing, concerned about her frail appearance, warned her she might not survive the Mongolian winter and urged her to return home to her father, but she insisted her father didn't care about her.
Touched by her story, Guo Jing generously gave her all 10 taels of gold he had received from Genghis Khan, saying it should last her a while. When Huang Rong asked if he regretted giving her all his money, and if he thought she was a swindler, Guo Jing firmly replied, "Of course not."
Observing her thin clothes, he then gave her his warm black fur coat, a gift from the Great Khan, telling her to wear it so she wouldn't catch a cold sleeping outside, and to take better care of herself. Huang Rong, touched by his kindness, asked why he trusted her when he didn't even know her name. Guo Jing admitted his oversight, introduced himself as Guo Jing, and asked for her name. She replied, "My name is Huang Rong."
Episode 6 Recap
Guo Jing and a disguised Huang Rong sat in a bustling tavern, where Guo Jing earnestly implored "Huang" not to steal again. Thinking Huang Rong was a boy, he advised him to use the gold he had given him to start a small business and lead an honest life.
Huang Rong, annoyed, retorted that she didn't care for a "stinking bun" and had only taken it as a prank because the vendors had looked down on her, wanting to lead them on a wild goose chase. Guo Jing, understanding it was a prank and not hunger, insisted that it was wrong to play such tricks on ordinary folks who depended on their livelihood. He urged Huang Rong to pay for the bun and apologize to the vendor.
Huang Rong adamantly refused, declaring she wouldn't apologize in this life or the next. Guo Jing then stated that if that were the case, they could no longer be friends. Huang Rong, feigning indifference, angrily stormed out. Despite her show of anger, Huang Rong secretly followed Guo Jing as he left the tavern. She watched him approach the bun stall, pay the vendor, and apologize on behalf of his "buddy," explaining that "he" was young and mischievous.
Observing Guo Jing's sincerity, Huang Rong inwardly mused on his naiveté, calling him "nosy" and "a bigger fool than he is." Shortly after, in a secluded alley, Guo Jing was ambushed by the Four Demons of the Yellow River and their master's junior, Hou Tonghai, known as the Three-headed Dragon. The Demons proudly declared their intent to avenge their past humiliation in front of Prince Zhao.
Overwhelmed by the five martial artists, Guo Jing was captured and bound, accusing them of setting a despicable trap. Huang Rong, who had witnessed the entire ambush, subtly approached the celebrating captors. Disguised, she flattered them with fortune-telling, predicting immense wealth and fame, all while secretly lacing their wine with a potent drug. Later, Huang Rong visited the bound Guo Jing.
When asked why she was there, she claimed she had merely "happened to pass by" and was checking on him. Guo Jing warned her that his captors were dangerous and asked her to untie him so his masters could intervene. Huang Rong mischievously offered to release him if he apologized for his earlier lecture. Guo Jing, unwavering in his principles, refused, insisting he had merely pointed out her mistakes and had done nothing wrong.
Huang Rong then threatened to leave him bound, and even pretended to reveal the Demons' plot to "deep-fry" him, but Guo Jing still refused to apologize, instead urging her to flee for her own safety. Frustrated by his stubbornness, Huang Rong left, but not without subtly leaving a dagger within his reach. Guo Jing, understanding her true intentions, smiled and used the dagger to free himself.
He then found the Four Demons and Hou Tonghai comically hanging upside down from trees, recognizing Huang Rong's clever handiwork. Meanwhile, a group of four female disciples of Ouyang Ke, clad in white, spotted Guo Jing's horse. Recognizing it as a rare Ferghana horse, they plotted to steal it to curry favor with their "Young Master" so he could present it to Prince Zhao, Wanyan Honglie.
However, their attempt was thwarted by the Seven Freaks of Jiangnan, who swiftly drove them away. Upon returning to his lodging, Guo Jing recounted his encounter with the Four Demons and Hou Tonghai, and how he had overheard their discussion about Prince Zhao of Jin calling for a martial artists' gathering in Yanjing. His masters immediately suspected a conspiracy against the Song Dynasty.
They decided that Guo Jing should depart for Jiaxing the next day, while they handled the matter of the Jin gathering. Ke Zhen'e specifically instructed Guo Jing to arrive at the Zuixian Tavern in Jiaxing before the 24th of the third month, no matter what. Master Nan also advised Guo Jing to be flexible and to retreat if he found himself outmatched.
Later, while feeding his horse, Guo Jing spoke aloud, expressing his concern that "Huang" might still be angry with him. Huang Rong then appeared, calling him a "fool" for talking to a horse. Guo Jing praised the horse's intelligence, prompting Huang Rong to retort that it was smarter than certain "stubborn as a mule" individuals who couldn't tell white from black, clearly referencing him.
Despite the teasing, Guo Jing thanked her for teaching the Four Demons a lesson and proposed they become "andas," sworn brothers. Huang Rong, still disguised as a boy, seemed hesitant and ultimately refused the offer. Guo Jing accepted her decision but reiterated his willingness to help if she ever faced trouble. He then mentioned the sable coat and gold he carried, which he had intended for her if they met again.
As Guo Jing spoke of his journey to Jiaxing, Huang Rong, testing his character, claimed she needed to go home, but as a "beggar," couldn't walk such a long distance. She then boldly asked for his precious horse. Without a moment's hesitation, Guo Jing agreed, only asking that she treat the horse well, as it had once saved his life.
He then affectionately addressed the horse, telling it that it was now "Huang’s horse," and asking it to be obedient and take "him" home safely. Huang Rong was deeply moved by his genuine generosity and pure heart. In the bustling market, Guo Jing stumbled upon a martial arts contest for marriage. Yang Tiexin, using the assumed name Mu Yi, was hosting the event for his adopted daughter, Mu Nianci. Her elegant martial arts caught Guo Jing's admiration.
A monk and an old man caused a ruckus, trying to claim Mu Nianci, but a dashing young man in white, Yang Kang, stepped in, easily defeating them. Yang Tiexin thanked him, but Yang Kang declared he was there to compete with Mu Nianci. Yang Tiexin expressed his apprehension, noting Yang Kang's noble bearing and suggesting they were not worthy of his family. Yang Kang brushed aside the concern, stating that martial arts prowess, not background, determined the outcome.
During their impressive contest, Yang Kang skillfully took Mu Nianci's embroidered shoe, though he did not notice that she had simultaneously snatched a distinctive jade pendant from his waist. As Yang Kang turned to leave, seemingly disregarding the betrothal rules, Yang Tiexin tried to stop him, reminding him of the commitment he had made by winning. Yang Kang's attendant scoffed, declaring that their "His Highness" was far too noble to marry a wanderer.
Yang Tiexin realized Yang Kang was "His Highness," a Jin, and accused him of mocking his family. He demanded the shoe back, but Yang Kang refused. Yang Tiexin then challenged him but was no match for Yang Kang's superior skills. Witnessing this injustice, Guo Jing stepped forward, criticizing Yang Kang for his outrageous behavior and insisting that he return the shoe and apologize to Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci. Yang Kang refused, and they began to fight.
Despite being repeatedly knocked down by Yang Kang's fierce attacks, Guo Jing tenaciously held his ground, relentlessly demanding an apology. As Yang Kang prepared to deliver a fatal blow, Wang Chuyi of the Quanzhen Sect, known as Iron Leg, intervened. Wang Chuyi recognized Yang Kang as Senior Qiu's disciple and questioned where he had learned such an "evil routine." Yang Kang denied knowing it, and they began to fight. During the confrontation, Wang Chuyi was injured by Yang Kang's subordinates.
The fight was finally halted by the timely arrival of Princess Bao Xiruo, Yang Kang's mother, who ordered him to stop. Back at the inn, a still-injured Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Guo Jing and Wang Chuyi. Yang Tiexin confided in Mu Nianci that the betrothal contest had a dual purpose: to find her a good husband and to secretly search for his wife and child, lost for eighteen years.
He revealed that he had adopted Mu Nianci during a famine because she was the same age as his lost child. He also shared his unsettling recollection of hearing the Jin Princess's voice in the arena, a voice eerily similar to his long-lost wife, Bao Xiruo, though he quickly dismissed the idea that his wife could be a Jin Princess. Meanwhile, Guo Jing informed Wang Chuyi of his upcoming journey to Jiaxing.
Recognizing Guo Jing's upright character and knowing of his background and the long-standing bet with the Seven Freaks of Jiangnan, Wang Chuyi decided to accompany him to Jiaxing for mutual protection. Wang Chuyi, still pondering, confided in Guo Jing his bafflement that Yang Kang, a Quanzhen Sect disciple, possessed the "Nine Yin Skeleton Claw," an evil technique, suspecting a deeper secret. At his royal residence, Princess Bao Xiruo confronted Yang Kang about his disrespectful behavior towards the Song people.
Angered by his dismissive attitude, she, a proud Song herself, made him kneel and swear upon a treasured spear that he would never wrong the Song people, explaining that the spear belonged to a "great hero, a most loyal man" from the Song Dynasty. Though Yang Kang reluctantly swore, his arrogance remained.
Afterward, informed by his attendant that Guo Jing and Wang Chuyi were staying at a nearby inn, Yang Kang, at his mother's insistence, reluctantly went to offer a superficial apology. He feigned remorse to Wang Chuyi, claiming his mother had chastised him and expressing concern that Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci might not accept his apology due to his past misbehavior. Guo Jing, ever guileless, earnestly reassured Yang Kang that Yang Tiexin was an understanding man and offered to accompany him to mediate their apology.
Episode 7 Recap
Yang Tiexin's servants secretly brought Yang Tiexin and his daughter, Mu Nianci, from the inn to Prince Zhao's Residence, where their freedom was restricted. Yang Tiexin expressed a deep apprehension, warning Mu Nianci to "be careful" and stating he had a "bad feeling about this" regarding the Young Prince's actions, whom he considered "wicked and cunning."
Mu Nianci, however, believed the Young Prince meant no ill and had other reasons for bringing them there, prompting her father to chide her, asking if she liked him and telling her not to be fooled. Back at the inn, Yang Kang received news that Yang Tiexin and his daughter had left, speculating they must have departed in anger at him.
Despite Yang Tiexin's serious wounds, Yang Kang ordered his men to find them and bring them back to his place. He then invited Guo Jing and Wang Chuyi to a gathering at his residence, explaining that his father, Wanyan Honglie, had invited many martial artists to share their skills.
Wang Chuyi initially declined, stating their discussion was over, but Yang Kang's earnest invitation, stressing that Wanyan Honglie would blame his "bad manners" if he excluded a master like Wang Chuyi, made refusal difficult. Wang Chuyi agreed, and Guo Jing accompanied them, only to realize upon arrival that it was Wanyan Honglie’s Prince Zhao’s Residence. Guo Jing immediately worried about being recognized by Wanyan Honglie, whom he had met in Mongolia, fearing trouble for Wang Chuyi.
Inside, Yang Kang introduced a group of martial artists: Peng Lianhu, Liang Ziweng, Lingzhi, and Hou Tonghai. Hou Tonghai immediately confronted Guo Jing, angrily accusing him of ruining Prince Zhao's great plan in Mongolia. Sha Tongtian, known as Dragon King the Hell, also joined, demanding Wang Chuyi hand over Guo Jing, but Wang Chuyi protected his disciple. Yang Kang attempted to mediate the escalating tension, suggesting they all sit down and talk.
Wang Chuyi directly inquired about the true purpose of their invitation. Yang Kang revealed Wanyan Honglie's desire for the martial artists to cooperate and work for the Jin Dynasty. Wang Chuyi, however, expressed reservations, fearing his "rough skills" would "disappoint Prince Zhao." Guo Jing directly interjected, warning Wang Chuyi not to trust them, stating that anyone colluding with Jin must be "scheming against Song" and that he "must not get involved."
Wang Chuyi firmly refused to serve the Jin and prepared to leave with Guo Jing. Sha Tongtian attempted to stop Guo Jing. Despite Yang Kang's feigned intervention to let his "guests" go "for my sake," Lingzhi seized the moment and struck Wang Chuyi with his potent Poison Palm. Wang Chuyi, realizing the deadly nature of Lingzhi’s Poison Palm, instructed Guo Jing to find a secluded inn and prepare a large bath of water to help purge the poison.
He warned that while his life was not in immediate danger, his "internal organs are poisoned." If the poison was not cleared within twenty-four hours, he feared he would "be permanently crippled." He gave Guo Jing a list of vital herbs needed for his recovery. Guo Jing rushed to several pharmacies but found all the required herbs had been bought, transported away by someone using a cart. Feeling dejected, Guo Jing unexpectedly encountered his Little Red Horse.
He asked the horse if it had safely taken Huang Rong home. Instead, the horse led him in a different direction, towards a tranquil lake. By the lake, Guo Jing heard a beautiful song. A young woman, elegantly dressed in silk, was gracefully singing from a boat. As her boat neared the shore, she called out "Jing," revealing herself to be Huang Rong.
Guo Jing was overjoyed and leaped onto the boat, immediately complimenting her beauty, comparing her to "a fairy on a snow peak" and saying "only one look is mesmerizing." He expressed his surprise that she was a girl, having always thought of her as "brother." Huang Rong, with a radiant smile, told him to call her "Rong," like her father does.
When Guo Jing asked why she had previously disguised herself as a beggar, Huang Rong explained she had run away from home in anger after her father "scolded me angrily" for interacting with a prisoner he had confined on their island. She admitted wanting to make her father worried. Guo Jing then presented her with a pastry he had saved for her, only to find it broken into pieces from his earlier struggles. Huang Rong, however, was unfazed.
She quickly took a piece and proclaimed it "the yummiest snack I've ever eaten," deeply touched by his thoughtfulness, noting that "besides my father, no one is this nice to me." Guo Jing promised to always be good to her. Moved by his genuine kindness, Huang Rong declared her intention to stay with him, vowing, "Wherever you go, I’ll be with you." Guo Jing happily agreed, and they pledged never to part.
Guo Jing then recounted Wang Chuyi's poisoning and his urgent need for medicine. Huang Rong, already aware of his troubles at the arena and Prince Zhao's Residence, quickly surmised that Prince Zhao's men had likely bought all the herbs to prevent them from obtaining the antidote. She called Yang Kang "so evil" and assured Guo Jing not to worry, promising to handle the matter.
She also highlighted that by getting the antidote and discovering their plan, they would "be doing a big deed." Meanwhile, Yang Kang approached Mu Nianci, returning her embroidered shoe. He earnestly apologized for his past behavior, claiming he had only taken her shoe to create "an excuse to meet you again." He explained that he was a prince "bounded by rules" and pledged his sincerity, promising he had "no intent to play around."
Mu Nianci, already enamored with him, was convinced by his words and expressed her belief in him, despite Yang Tiexin's skepticism. In a tavern elsewhere, the Jiangnan Seven Freaks were observing Ouyang Ke. Having followed his four white-clad female disciples, they had confirmed that Ouyang Ke was their "Young Master." They found his flamboyant and womanizing demeanor distasteful.
Zhu Cong suggested checking for a secret exit in case a fight broke out, and Han Baoju's disciple, Xiren, was dispatched to do so. Han Xiaoying decided to provoke Ouyang Ke, but he responded with flirtatious remarks, calling her a "lovely lady" and attempting to make her his disciple. Angered, she attacked him, and the rest of the Seven Freaks joined in, initiating a fierce battle.
Back at Prince Zhao's Residence, Guo Jing and Huang Rong overheard servants discussing that Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci were locked up by the Young Prince. Guo Jing expressed concern for their safety. They then listened in on Yang Kang's conversation with Yang Tiexin.
Yang Tiexin confronted Yang Kang about their imprisonment, but Yang Kang insisted it was solely for the purpose of marrying Mu Nianci, fabricating a story about his royal family's strict rules, saying he needed to wait years before officially proposing to avoid "trouble with the Emperor" and promising a grand wedding in due time. Yang Tiexin, however, saw through his lies and demanded that Yang Kang's mother, Bao Xiruo, come to discuss the marriage in person.
Yang Kang refused, stating, "How could my mother come to meet you?" Yang Tiexin, seeing through his lies, angrily dismissed him, accusing him of insincerity and "just fooling us." Later, Yang Kang deliberately broke a rabbit's leg and took it to Bao Xiruo, asking his "Mom" to heal it. Bao Xiruo, observing Yang Kang's apparent kindness towards animals, inquired about Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci.
Yang Kang, however, twisted the truth, claiming Mu Nianci was only interested in his princely status and that he had no intention of marrying her. He further lied, stating that Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci had staged a fake betrothal contest to extort money, and he had brought them to the residence to prevent his master from finding out and punishing him.
Guo Jing and Huang Rong, witnessing this, were appalled by Yang Kang's deceit and cruelty, with Huang Rong calling him "so sly" and "despicable." Huang Rong decided they should prioritize obtaining the antidote for Wang Chuyi before attempting to rescue Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci, as Yang Tiexin's injuries would make an immediate escape difficult. They then spotted Steward Jian, the man Guo Jing had seen buying all the herbs earlier. Huang Rong confronted Steward Jian, demanding the medicine.
When he denied knowing where they were, she feigned poisoning him with a thorn dipped in "snake venom," threatening him with a painful death if he didn't cooperate within an hour. Terrified, Steward Jian confessed that Yang Kang had ordered him to buy all the herbs and entrust them to Ginseng Immortal Liang Ziweng, with strict instructions that no one could access them without Yang Kang's permission.
Huang Rong then instructed Steward Jian to ask Yang Kang for a written note to retrieve the medicine. Steward Jian, still feigning a grave injury, approached Yang Kang and his mother, Bao Xiruo. He fabricated a story about getting drunk and falling down the stairs, claiming a doctor said he needed specific herbs—dragon's blood, ginseng, myrrh, and bear bile—from Liang Ziweng. Bao Xiruo, concerned for Steward Jian, instructed Yang Kang to write the note. Yang Kang complied.
Huang Rong then revealed to Guo Jing that she had lied about the snake venom, much to Guo Jing's admiration for her cleverness. Steward Jian took the note to Wanyan Honglie, who was at a banquet with many martial artists. Wanyan Honglie, recognizing Yang Kang's handwriting, ordered Liang Ziweng to release the specified herbs.
Huang Rong, realizing the significance of the gathering, decided to stay and eavesdrop on the conversations, instructing Guo Jing to follow Steward Jian to retrieve the medicine, then rescue Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci, and finally meet her in the garden. Guo Jing followed Steward Jian to Liang Ziweng’s room of poisons. Steward Jian, terrified, urged speed in collecting the pungent herbs: dragon's blood, ginseng, and bear bile. Once the herbs were collected, Steward Jian demanded the antidote.
Guo Jing then revealed that Huang Rong had lied about the poison. Realizing he had been tricked, Steward Jian panicked and called for guards. However, the guards hesitated to enter Liang Ziweng's room, fearful of the potent poisons within.
Episode 8 Recap
Prince Zhao hosted a banquet in the main hall for various martial artists, explaining his grand ambition for the Jin dynasty. He revealed that he had uncovered an ancient secret within the Jin's files: four peculiar poems penned by Yue Fei while imprisoned. After months of painstaking study, Prince Zhao deciphered that these lines, when combined and rearranged, unveiled Yue Fei's lifetime military strategies, compiled into a powerful tome known as the Wumu Manual.
He believed this book held the key to conquering the world, and for years, he had been searching for it in the south. Unbeknownst to them, Huang Rong was observing from the rooftops, musing that Prince Zhao's greed for the Manual was why such an assortment of "freaks" were gathered in his residence. Prince Zhao further speculated that the Manual must be in the possession of one of Yue Fei's jail guards.
Meanwhile, Guo Jing was in Liang Ziweng's herb room, tasked with finding medicine for Wang Chuyi. He felt overwhelmed by the selection, deciding to gather a bit of each for Taoist Wang to choose later. Suddenly, a large, venomous snake emerged, startling Guo Jing who cried out in alarm. His shouts soon attracted unwanted attention. Back in the main hall, a servant rushed in to report a thief.
Recognizing this as a potential problem for Guo Jing, Huang Rong thought, "Jing can't beat them. What am I supposed to do?" Prince Zhao, annoyed by the interruption, immediately instructed Master Lingzhi to escort him to the scene, while others also prepared to join the chase. Huang Rong quickly moved to intercept Ouyang Ke, Peng Lianhu, Sha Tongtian, and Hou Tonghai. She provocatively declared her intention to leave, engaging them in a series of challenges.
Yang Kang, alerted to the disturbance, also headed towards Liang Ziweng's room. There, he found Liang Ziweng distraught, weeping over his dead snake. The serpent, which Liang Ziweng had meticulously nurtured for twenty years with rare herbs, was now bloodless. He realized all his efforts were wasted and vowed to kill the thief who had stolen its blood. A servant hesitantly told Yang Kang that the culprit was the young man who arrived earlier with a "cruel lady."
Indeed, Guo Jing, having fought the snake, felt a burning sensation throughout his body and wondered if he had been poisoned. He had, in fact, drained the snake of its blood. Guo Jing then proceeded to rescue Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci. Mu Nianci suggested asking Yang Kang for a doctor, but Yang Tiexin refused any help from Jin people. When Guo Jing introduced himself, Yang Tiexin, currently disguised as Mr. Mu, asked for his father's name.
Upon hearing "Guo Xiaotian" and then confirming his mother's surname was Li, Yang Tiexin became deeply emotional. He revealed that Guo Xiaotian was his sworn brother and that he was Yang Tiexin. Guo Jing, shocked and overjoyed that his mother's old friend was alive, embraced him. Yang Tiexin observed Guo Jing's resemblance to his father and lamented that Guo Jing had grown up without ever knowing his dad.
Guo Jing, now recognizing Yang Tiexin as a father figure, promised to avenge his true father by killing Duan Tiande. Back with Huang Rong, she continued to stall the group. When Hou Tonghai challenged her to a fight, she proposed a contest involving three bowls of wine: whoever spilled first would lose. Ouyang Ke found the idea amusing and encouraged Hou Tonghai to compete.
After a swift exchange, Huang Rong struck Hou Tonghai with a roasted chicken, causing his wine to spill, and he lost. Ouyang Ke praised her agile movements, to which Huang Rong subtly mocked his education. As she declared her departure, Sha Tongtian blocked her path. She then proposed another bet: if she could exit the room, he must let her go. Sha Tongtian agreed.
Huang Rong boasted that her father taught her skills for breaking in, making exiting a room easy. She then swiftly jumped out, triumphantly announcing Sha Tongtian's loss. As Guo Jing, Yang Tiexin, and Mu Nianci prepared to leave, they heard Xiruo's voice. Guo Jing quickly hid, while Xiruo, Prince Zhao's Consort, ordered the father and daughter to be released, offering them money to return home.
As she spoke, Xiruo felt a strange familiarity about Yang Tiexin, though she couldn't place it. Yang Tiexin, however, looked at her intently, recognizing his long-lost wife. He was urged to leave quickly as more guards were approaching. Guo Jing, hidden from view, made sure Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci safely escaped through the backyard before he too made his move, realizing he now needed to find Huang Rong.
Huang Rong was still being harassed by Ouyang Ke and his companions. Just then, Liang Ziweng arrived, having tracked Guo Jing by the scent of his snake's blood. He confronted Guo Jing, accusing him of stealing his precious snake. Guo Jing retorted, challenging Liang Ziweng's involvement in Wang Chuyi's poisoning. Liang Ziweng, enraged, vowed to drink Guo Jing's blood in return.
As they fought, Guo Jing felt his body burning and his martial arts skills rapidly improving, realizing the snake's blood had enhanced his power. Yang Kang, observing, also noted Guo Jing's sudden surge in strength. Guo Jing, eager to avoid further entanglement, quickly disengaged and escaped. After escaping the residence, Yang Tiexin wrestled with his emotions. He was certain Xiruo was the Princess. Despite his injuries, he decided he must return to the residence to speak with her.
He instructed Mu Nianci to hide and, if he didn't return by dawn, to take the provided money and go back to Niu Village alone. He also gravely warned her not to trust or fall for Young Prince Yang Kang. Meanwhile, Xiruo returned to her private quarters, still unsettled by the familiar face of "Mr. Mu." She wondered if it was her husband, Tiexin, but quickly dismissed it as wishful thinking.
Prince Zhao soon arrived, expressing concern for her safety after the thief alarm. He fondly recalled how she saved him in Niu Village, a pivotal moment that led to them being together. Xiruo, however, asked him directly if he had personally witnessed Yang Kang's father's death eighteen years ago, confessing that she still felt Tiexin might be alive, watching over her.
Prince Zhao assured her he had seen it with his own eyes and tried to persuade her to move into his more luxurious palace to escape the sad reminders in her current room. Xiruo politely refused, stating she was used to her current dwelling. Prince Zhao tried to logically convince her that if Yang Tiexin were alive, he would have found her by now. Although Xiruo conceded the point, she remained fixated on returning to Niu Village.
She explained that she longed to revisit the place where she was separated from Tiexin, to see what had become of his grave, which Prince Zhao's men had buried. Despite Prince Zhao's warnings about the dangers of travel during wartime, Xiruo tearfully insisted, having yearned for it for eighteen years. Yang Tiexin, hidden outside her window, listened with tears streaming down his face. Huang Rong continued her game of cat and mouse with Ouyang Ke.
She proposed another challenge where the first to fall would lose. Ouyang Ke, confident, accepted. Huang Rong, wanting to quickly rejoin Guo Jing, played her trick, causing Ouyang Ke to fall, then followed suit, proclaiming that by his own rules, he had lost. However, the others still refused to let her leave. It was then that Peng Lianhu noticed her "Soft Hedgehog Armor," a legendary treasure from Peach Blossom Island.
Its presence revealed Huang Rong's extraordinary background, sparking the other martial artists' greed to possess it. Back in Xiruo's room, Prince Zhao, heartbroken, confronted her, asking why, after all these years of his unwavering love and protection for her and Yang Kang, she still couldn't give him her whole heart.
Xiruo gently explained that Yang Tiexin had left her out of necessity, to help her friend Ping, while she had left him by coming with Prince Zhao, making her the one who failed him. Prince Zhao insisted she had suffered enough and had not failed anyone. He tried to understand her lingering pain, apologizing for making her sad. He finally relented and promised to arrange safe travel for her to Niu Village.
After Prince Zhao left, Xiruo heard a knock on her door. Believing it to be Prince Zhao returning, she opened it, only to find Yang Tiexin standing before her. In the deep night, their reunion felt like a crossing of worlds, eighteen years in the making.
Episode 9 Recap
Bao Xiruo was surprised to find Yang Tiexin standing at her door. Despite her surprise, she politely invited him inside. Meanwhile, Yang Kang was infuriated upon hearing from his subordinates that Princess Xiruo had released Yang Tiexin and his daughter. He immediately ordered them to search for the escaped individuals without taking any prisoners.
Inside the room, Yang Tiexin took in his surroundings, realizing that all the familiar furnishings of his former home were now astonishingly arranged within the Jin Prince's mansion. He revealed his true identity to Bao Xiruo, recalling their happy past together. Bao Xiruo was overwhelmed with a mix of joy and sorrow, asking how he had survived all these years. Tears welled up and then streamed down her face when she learned he had spent eighteen years searching for her.
She confessed that Prince Zhao, Wanyan Honglie, had saved her when she was pregnant and alone, and she hadn't known his true identity at the time. She added that Wanyan Honglie had told her he personally buried Yang Tiexin's body. Yang Tiexin vehemently denied his death, exposing Wanyan Honglie's deception. Soon after, Yang Kang arrived at Bao Xiruo's room, expressing concern for her safety due to the "intruders."
He then reprimanded her for releasing Yang Tiexin and his daughter, showing his disdain for the common people of Song. Bao Xiruo, picking up an old, rusty iron spear and gently caressing it, told Yang Kang it was time to reveal the truth.
She reminded him of what she had previously told him about the spear—that it belonged to an honorable hero from Niu Village in Lin'an, the capital of Song, and that all the furniture in her room had been brought from there. Yang Kang, baffled by her preference for such a "ramshackle house" over the luxurious mansion, spoke of his martial arts prowess. Bao Xiruo then opened a cabinet and asked Yang Kang if he knew who his real father was.
When he replied "Wanyan Honglie, Prince Zhao," she told him that the spear belonged to his true father, who was not Prince Zhao, but Yang Tiexin. Yang Tiexin then emerged from the cabinet, and confirmed that Yang Kang was their child, adding that Yang Kang was a Song, not a Jin, and his real name was Yang Kang. Yang Kang refused to believe them, calling Yang Tiexin a swindler and lunging at him with the spear.
He stabbed Yang Tiexin, shouting that he was not his father and denying the name Yang Kang. Heartbroken by the sight, Bao Xiruo rushed towards a wall, threatening to take her own life if Yang Kang killed his father. Yang Kang froze, stunned. Just then, Mu Nianci, who had been worried about her godfather, arrived and helped Yang Tiexin and Bao Xiruo escape.
Meanwhile, Guo Jing was still being chased by Liang Ziweng, the Ginseng Immortal, and fell into a dry well. This turned out to be a vast, dark underground space. Liang Ziweng, determined to retrieve the snake blood he believed Guo Jing possessed, jumped down after him, oblivious to anyone else in the well. Down in the darkness, Guo Jing encountered Mei Chaofeng, whose legs were injured, but who fiercely wielded her long whip.
Liang Ziweng, demanding Guo Jing, questioned Mei Chaofeng's inability to stand. Mei Chaofeng, despite her injuries, demonstrated her powerful martial arts, striking his acupoints in the dark. Upon catching a glimpse of her dishevelled appearance, Liang Ziweng screamed, convinced she was a ghost, and fled in terror. Guo Jing mocked his cowardice. As Yang Tiexin, Bao Xiruo, and Mu Nianci reached the city gate, they found it heavily guarded by Jin soldiers.
Mu Nianci worried they wouldn't escape by morning, prompting Yang Tiexin to declare they would fight their way out. However, Yang Kang and Wanyan Honglie soon arrived. Bao Xiruo pleaded with Wanyan Honglie, reminding him that he had saved her eighteen years ago when she was pregnant and alone, and that she believed Yang Tiexin was dead until recently. She asked for pity, stating that she and Yang Tiexin were finally reunited and wished to leave.
Yang Tiexin urged her not to beg. Yang Kang, still insisting she was a princess, was rebuffed by Bao Xiruo, who said the title had felt like a cangue. She reiterated that Yang Tiexin was Kang's real father. Wanyan Honglie then declared Bao Xiruo was being held hostage by them and offered a reward to anyone who could kill Yang Tiexin and Mu Nianci.
Seeing the imminent danger, Bao Xiruo drew a dagger and threatened to take her own life if Yang Tiexin was harmed. Faced with her desperate resolve, Wanyan Honglie reluctantly ordered the city gates to be opened and allowed the three to leave. Concerned for Bao Xiruo, Wanyan Honglie instructed Yang Kang to return to the mansion and enlist the help of Ouyang Ke and others to find her.
Back in the well, Guo Jing offered Mei Chaofeng medicinal herbs or assistance, but she refused. He explained that he was there to find medicine for Taoist Wang and had accidentally killed Liang Ziweng's snake. Mei Chaofeng recognized Taoist Wang Chuyi and, learning that Ma Yu had taught Guo Jing inner cultivation techniques, grew excited. She immediately asked for the complete Quanzhen inner power cultivation method, believing it could heal her legs.
Guo Jing, though initially hesitant due to her past actions, agreed to teach her, on the condition that she promised to give Taoist Wang the medicine to save his life. She agreed, and Guo Jing began to instruct her on the techniques, starting with the five points of cultivation. Eventually, Huang Rong found Guo Jing, calling out his name from above the dry well.
Guo Jing explained his predicament, asking her to find a way to help him bring the injured Mei Chaofeng out. Huang Rong devised a plan, and soon, Guo Jing, carrying Mei Chaofeng on his back, emerged from the well. Once out, Mei Chaofeng immediately demanded more of the cultivation techniques. Guo Jing tried to postpone, citing the danger posed by other pursuers, but Mei Chaofeng insisted. Huang Rong then called Mei Chaofeng by her maiden name, "Mei Ruohua," startling her.
Huang Rong revealed she was Huang Rong, daughter of Lord Huang of Peach Blossom Island, and recounted details of the island to prove her identity. When Mei Chaofeng remained skeptical, Huang Rong demonstrated a move called "Falling Petals Palm," which Mei Chaofeng recognized as taught by her master. Huang Rong then cleverly created a diversion by calling out "Father!" making Mei Chaofeng believe Huang Yaoshi was present. Mei Chaofeng, startled and repentant, released Guo Jing.
Huang Rong attempted to escape with Guo Jing, but they were intercepted by Ouyang Ke and his female attendants. Huang Rong appealed to Mei Chaofeng for help, promising to speak to her father on her behalf, and Mei Chaofeng swiftly defeated Ouyang Ke's attendants. However, the situation quickly escalated as Sha Tongtian, Hou Tonghai, and the Seven Freaks of Jiangnan also arrived, having pursued Ouyang Ke.
The Seven Freaks, upon seeing Mei Chaofeng, labeled her an "evil witch" and Ouyang Ke a "pervert," and a chaotic battle erupted. Guo Jing explained the situation to his masters, the Seven Freaks, who, while initially wanting to avenge their deceased brother, were convinced to focus on Guo Jing's safety by Huang Rong. Amidst the melee, Huang Rong decisively urged Guo Jing to leave with the Seven Freaks, while she stayed behind with Mei Chaofeng to cover their retreat.
The fighting ceased abruptly when Yang Kang arrived, urgently requesting help to find his mother, Bao Xiruo, who had been taken by a wicked man. He, Ouyang Ke, and the others quickly departed to search for her. Once the others were gone, the area fell silent, and Mei Chaofeng realized that Huang Rong had quietly slipped away, leaving her alone.
Episode 10 Recap
Qiu Chuji and Ma Yu traveled through the forest, discussing Yang Kang. Ma Yu recounted meeting Guo Jing and the Seven Heroes in Mongolia, prompting Qiu Chuji to wonder who would triumph in their agreed-upon fight. Ma Yu pointed out that the original intention was to help the descendants of loyal heroes, making the outcome of the fight less important. Qiu Chuji acknowledged this, yet he felt the Quanzhen Sect, with its authentic martial arts, should not lose.
However, he admitted that while his disciple, Yang Kang, was clever, he lacked good moral qualities. Ma Yu, intrigued, agreed to join Qiu Chuji at a nearby abandoned hut to discuss it further. The dilapidated hut, long deserted, served as a hiding place for Yang Tiexin, Bao Xiruo, and Mu Nianci. Tense at the sounds outside, they relaxed upon seeing Qiu Chuji and Ma Yu.
Yang Tiexin sadly recounted how Wanyan Honglie's deception had separated him and Bao Xiruo for eighteen years. He lamented Yang Kang's refusal to acknowledge him as his birth father, especially after Yang Kang had gravely wounded him. Mu Nianci expressed her concern for her foster father. Qiu Chuji believed Yang Kang's rejection stemmed from his unwillingness to relinquish his comfortable and wealthy life. Ma Yu cautioned against jumping to conclusions, insisting they first escort the wounded family to safety.
Meanwhile, Wanyan Honglie had ordered his troops to seal off all mountain exits, sending Yang Kang with a search party. Yang Kang soon discovered the hut. Upon seeing Qiu Chuji, he demanded to know where his "mother," Bao Xiruo, was, claiming she had been kidnapped. Qiu Chuji introduced Ma Yu as the Chief of the Quanzhen Sect.
When Yang Kang tried to dismiss them, Qiu Chuji halted him, revealing he taught Yang Kang martial arts due to a promise made to his true father, Yang Tiexin, in Niu Village. Yang Kang, still confused, was denounced by Qiu Chuji for shamelessly taking a villain as a father and hankering after wealth, an act Qiu Chuji deeply regretted. Peng Lianhu, one of Wanyan Honglie's men, intervened, advising Yang Kang to ignore Qiu Chuji's words and prepare to fight.
He then formally introduced himself to Qiu Chuji. During the ensuing confrontation, Peng Lianhu struck Ma Yu with a hidden weapon, causing Qiu Chuji to angrily rebuke him. As the fight intensified, a subordinate informed Yang Kang that the hut was empty; Yang Tiexin and his family were gone. Yang Tiexin, Bao Xiruo, and Mu Nianci had indeed fled. Bao Xiruo, resolute, told Yang Tiexin she would rather die than be separated from him again.
However, they were soon encircled by Ouyang Ke's men. Wanyan Honglie then arrived, pleading with Bao Xiruo to return, while Yang Kang insisted she belonged in the mansion as the Princess. Bao Xiruo fiercely defended Yang Tiexin, accusing Wanyan Honglie of lying about her husband's death for eighteen years. She begged him to let them go, promising her eternal gratitude. Yang Kang, still defiant, called on Qiu Chuji to rescue his mother.
Qiu Chuji refused to be called Master, asserting Yang Kang was no longer his disciple. He declared that while he failed to protect the Yang and Guo families eighteen years ago, today he would not let anyone harm the Yang family. Wanyan Honglie ordered his men to "rescue" the princess, leading to a renewed clash. Ma Yu and Wang Chuyi confirmed they were both afflicted by poison. Wang Chuyi urged Ma Yu to prioritize getting the Yang family to safety.
As the battle raged, Yang Kang, seizing an opportunity, lunged with his sword to kill Yang Tiexin. Bao Xiruo bravely intercepted him, reminding him that Yang Tiexin was his father and that such an act would bring divine retribution. Mu Nianci also engaged Yang Kang in a struggle. Yang Tiexin told Bao Xiruo to stay out of the fight. Wanyan Honglie then commanded his archers to fire.
Seeing the Taoists injured and the situation dire, Yang Tiexin stepped forward, declaring that Wanyan Honglie sought only his life and pleaded for the others to be spared. He then took his own spear and tragically stabbed himself. Bao Xiruo, heartbroken, cried out that she would not leave him this time, proclaiming they would repay their debts of gratitude in their next lives before taking her life with a knife.
Guo Jing and the Seven Freaks arrived moments later, witnessing the tragic scene. With his dying breath, Yang Tiexin entrusted Mu Nianci to Guo Jing, reminding him of the old promise between their fathers that their children would marry, and asked Qiu Chuji to help fulfill it. Mu Nianci, deeply grieving, called Yang Tiexin "Father."
Bao Xiruo's final wish was for Yang Kang to call Yang Tiexin "Father" just once, but it was a wish that went unfulfilled as both parents passed away without hearing the words. Yang Kang, in his grief, cried out to his "father" and "mother." Guo Jing assured the departed couple that he would care for Mu Nianci and Yang Kang. With Bao Xiruo dead, Wanyan Honglie ceased to pursue the others. As everyone mourned, Yang Kang, distraught, fled the scene.
The Seven Freaks of Jiangnan then confronted Peng Lianhu, demanding the antidote for Ma Yu's hidden weapon. Zhu Cong, the Marvelous-handed Scholar, deftly demonstrated he had already acquired both Peng Lianhu's poison needle and the antidote, much to Peng Lianhu's astonishment. While some argued about the fairness of such "sneaky tricks" versus pure martial arts, Qiu Chuji proposed a formal duel, acknowledging both sides were injured.
They agreed to a rematch in six months, during the Mid-autumn Festival, at the Zuixian Tavern in Jiaxing. Zhu Cong then instructed Qiu Chuji on how to administer the antidote. Guo Jing and Mu Nianci held a somber memorial for Yang Tiexin and Bao Xiruo. Qiu Chuji and the Seven Freaks expressed their outrage and desire to avenge the couple, suggesting an immediate assault on the Jin prince's mansion.
However, Mu Nianci respectfully declined their help, stating she couldn't bear to cause further trouble or injury to anyone, believing her parents would not find peace if more sacrifices were made for them. She asserted it was her family's affair, and the others, respecting her wishes, desisted. Later, Yang Kang wandered alone in the forest, tormented by his mother's dying words.
He collapsed in the rain, crying for his mother, consumed by guilt and believing he was responsible for her death. Simultaneously, Wanyan Honglie, filled with anguish, set fire to Bao Xiruo's room in his mansion, lamenting that after eighteen years, her heart remained untouched by him, and she chose death over staying. He realized he had lost to "that Song man" after all. Yang Kang eventually found his way to the memorial hall.
He knelt before the spirit tablets of his parents, expressing deep remorse for his actions and his inability to save them. He begged his mother to wake up and scold him, lamenting being left alone. Mu Nianci, trying to comfort him, urged him to turn over a new leaf and return with her to Niu Village. Yang Kang vehemently refused, shouting that he was "Wanyan Kang," not "Yang Kang."
Agitated, he fled into the rain, grappling with his identity crisis, repeatedly asking "Who am I?" Back at the inn, as everyone recovered, Wang Chuyi inquired about Mu Nianci's martial arts, noting she displayed greater skill than her foster father during the betrothal contest. Mu Nianci explained that at the age of twelve, she received three days of instruction from a beggar-like master with nine fingers.
Ma Yu recognized him as Hong Qigong, the Nine-fingered Divine Beggar and chief of the Beggars Sect. Despite Mu Nianci's modesty about her limited learning, Ma Yu stressed the immense value of even three days of Hong Qigong's teaching, equating it to decades of training. Qiu Chuji, reflecting on Yang Kang's character compared to Guo Jing's, declared his disciple morally inferior to Guo Jing. The Seven Freaks agreed that moral values were paramount for martial artists.
Therefore, Qiu Chuji officially admitted defeat in the eighteen-year challenge and cancelled the rematch at Zuixian Tavern, promising to spread word of his loss. He advised Mu Nianci that Guo Jing was an honest and dependable man who would care for her as her parents wished, a sentiment echoed by the Seven Freaks. Unbeknownst to them, Huang Rong had been eavesdropping.
Troubled by the prospect of Guo Jing marrying Mu Nianci, her unease grew when she saw Guo Jing returning with snacks for Mu Nianci. When Guo Jing confirmed the snacks were for Mu Nianci, Huang Rong became visibly upset, asking if he liked her. Guo Jing denied it, trying to confess his true feelings by saying "the one I love is. . ." , but was interrupted by Han Xiaoying.
Han Xiaoying instructed Guo Jing to see Master Ke, who wished to speak with him. Guo Jing clarified that Han Xiaoying had asked him to buy the snacks for Mu Nianci because she hadn't been eating. He promised Huang Rong he would finish his confession later, as Master Ke was waiting. Huang Rong, still perturbed, declined to join him, stating his masters considered her a witch.
She insisted on meeting him later at the western tavern, and Guo Jing promised to be there as soon as he could. When Guo Jing met with Ke Zhen'e and the other masters, Ke Zhen'e reiterated the plan for Guo Jing to escort Mu Nianci back to Niu Village after the funeral, where they should also arrange their wedding. Qiu Chuji, with the Zuixian Tavern challenge now cancelled, offered to escort them as well.
Ke Zhen'e wholeheartedly agreed, believing it was the least they could do for the spirits of Yang and Guo. However, Guo Jing firmly stated that he could not marry Mu Nianci.
Episode 11 Recap
After the funeral, the masters urged Guo Jing to accompany Mu Nianci to Niu Village and marry her, fulfilling a promise to Yang Tiexin and Bao Xiruo. However, Guo Jing firmly stated he would not marry Miss Mu. Qiu Chuji pressed for a reason, while his other masters remained relatively calm, believing Guo Jing was simply conflicted due to his betrothal to Princess Hua Zheng, Genghis Khan's daughter.
Qiu Chuji became enraged, accusing Guo Jing of being "greedy and unfilial," comparing him to Yang Kang. Another master suggested that Guo Jing could take Mu Nianci to Mongolia to explain the situation to Genghis Khan, as men are permitted multiple wives. But Guo Jing adamantly refused, declaring he would not marry Hua Zheng either. When pressed further about who he loved, Guo Jing, standing in the center of the room, bravely admitted that he loved Rong.
This confession was met with strong opposition from his masters, who already harbored ill feelings towards Huang Yaoshi and, by extension, his daughter, Huang Rong. Meanwhile, Wan Yan Honglie had dispatched men across the city to find Yang Kang, but they reported no success, nor was he found with Taoist Qiu. Wan Yan Honglie commanded them to continue the search by any means. Disconsolate and soaked by the rain, Yang Kang wandered aimlessly, feeling utterly alone. "
I'm not Song, nor Jin. Who am I? Who can tell me?" he muttered to himself. Overwhelmed, he eventually collapsed in the street. He later woke in a warm bed in an inn room, dressed in dry clothes, to find Mu Nianci sitting by his side. Seeing him stir, she smiled gently and asked how he was, carefully feeding him a tonic. Her gentle demeanor reminded him of his mother.
Still reeling from his identity crisis, Yang Kang asked about Yang Tiexin, wanting to know what he was like. Mu Nianci described Yang Tiexin as "clear-minded and loyal," emphasizing that he never forgot Yang Kang and his mother. Then, testing the depth of her affection, Yang Kang asked if she would still care for him if Yang Tiexin was not his father and he was not his son.
Mu Nianci immediately and unequivocally replied, "Certainly," which somewhat eased Yang Kang's troubled heart. Huang Rong eagerly awaited Guo Jing at a bustling restaurant, passing the time by idly plucking flower petals and murmuring about Guo Jing's feelings for her. As night fell and the restaurant closed, Guo Jing still hadn't appeared, leaving her disappointed. Determined, Huang Rong went to the inn where Guo Jing was staying.
There, she overheard Great Master Ke Zhene sternly forbidding Guo Jing from seeing her, branding her a "little witch." Guo Jing tried to defend Rong, prompting Ke Zhene to launch into a tirade against Huang Yaoshi, calling him "Heretic Huang," a "ruthless and cruel killer" who had crippled his own disciple and whose former student, Mei Chaofeng, had killed Asheng, one of the Seven Freaks’ disciples, when Guo Jing was young. Ke Zhene emphasized the deep-seated feud between them.
Guo Jing, however, steadfastly maintained Rong’s good nature and even suggested her father's disciple might have "erred," further infuriating Ke Zhene. Guo Jing then declared he could not live without Rong, nor she without him. Enraged, Ke Zhene vowed that as long as he lived, Guo Jing would not see "that little witch," locking him in his room for three days without food and entrusting the key to Zhu Cong.
The next day, as the Seven Freaks of the South walked through the lively streets of the Jin capital, Huang Rong, disguised as a small beggar, cleverly attempted to pick Zhu Cong's pocket for the key, but the quick-witted master easily thwarted her. Undeterred, Huang Rong then reappeared, this time as a long-bearded fortune teller. She accosted Ke Zhene, drawing the character "Ke" and boldly interpreting it as "wooden brain," implying his stubbornness was misguided.
She accused him of having "separated lovers" recently and warned that anyone who "forces them apart on purpose opposes the God," adding ominously that "lightning will strike." Ke Zhene, dismissive, scoffed at her words. However, that night, thunder indeed rumbled, and to the horror of the other masters, strange, ghostly apparitions flickered outside their windows. Even the skeptical Ke Zhene was unsettled by the "unworldly" sights and the eerie accuracy of the divination.
Fearing divine wrath, the other masters implored Ke Zhene to release Guo Jing, and he reluctantly conceded, ordering his immediate freedom. Han Xiaoying released Guo Jing, urging him and Huang Rong to leave quickly before Ke Zhene could change his mind. Delighted, Guo Jing and Huang Rong embraced and swiftly rode off on Guo Jing's little red horse, vanishing into the night. Shortly after, the masters discovered Huang Rong's "ghost" mask, firecrackers, and other theatrical props hidden under a tree.
The truth of the elaborate ruse became painfully obvious, infuriating Ke Zhene, who declared he would no longer consider Guo Jing his disciple. Though one of the masters tried to argue that Huang Rong's actions proved her sincere love for Guo Jing and that he was fortunate, and that love should not be thwarted, Ke Zhene remained adamant that he would never approve of their relationship.
Later, as they rested in a tranquil, moonlit forest, Huang Rong, exhausted from her efforts, quickly fell asleep on Guo Jing's shoulder. Watching her, Guo Jing realized how much effort she had put into freeing him and wished for her to rest well. The next morning, Guo Jing confessed his unease about having deceived his masters and proposed returning to apologize, believing it was wrong to lie, especially to those who had taught him for eighteen years.
Huang Rong, however, disagreed, arguing that returning now was not a good idea, as his masters were still furious and reasoning with angry people was futile. Guo Jing then clarified that he truly would not marry Mu Nianci because the one he loved was her, Rong. Huang Rong warned that going back would only lead to Ke Zhene confining him again, preventing them from ever meeting.
When she playfully threatened to leave if he didn't care about her, Guo Jing quickly reassured her of his deep affection. Guo Jing then asked Huang Rong about her father, Huang Yaoshi, wondering why his masters held such animosity towards him. Huang Rong explained that her father, known as the "Eastern Heretic" in the martial arts world, was indeed "weird" and idiosyncratic. He disdained complicated rules, often declaring all worldly regulations "nonsense."
She described him as a man of immense knowledge, well-versed in the Five Elements and many other subjects, possessing exceptionally high martial arts skills, which led people to both "mistrust and fear him." Huang Rong shared a more personal side, revealing that her father "adores me much" as she is his only child, her mother having tragically died during her birth.
Following Mei Chaofeng's betrayal, he had "expelled all his disciples," leaving just him, her, and the servants on Peach Blossom Island, where they had relied on each other for years. Guo Jing felt that if his masters truly understood this, they would not hate her father or reject her.
Huang Rong then proposed they meet his masters at the Mid-Autumn Day competition in Jiaxing, six months later, by which time she believed their anger would have subsided, and they might even "bless" their relationship. Initially, Guo Jing was pleased, thinking of the six months as a time for enjoyment. However, he quickly corrected himself, stating his true purpose was not to "play" but to "find Duan Tiande to avenge my father." Huang Rong, without hesitation, declared, "Get revenge.
Don't forgive! We'll go to Lin'an now. Find the villain for revenge." In the quiet of their room, Yang Kang admitted to Mu Nianci that he felt lost, unsure of his identity or direction, and urged her to leave him. Mu Nianci refused, reminding him that he had won their betrothal contest, and by custom, she would follow him.
She declared her love for him, regardless of whether he was a "Jin Prince or Song commoner," and expressed willingness to endure any "hardship" by his side. Moved by her unwavering devotion, Yang Kang seemed to reconcile himself with his identity as a Song person. Mu Nianci then proposed a "new life" together in Niu Village, a place his godfather often spoke of as green and mountainous.
There, they could build a house, farm, and live simply, a prospect that she said would make her happiest. Yang Kang agreed to her plan, promising to "be good to you forever" and never disappoint her. As they went to buy travel provisions, Yang Kang overheard Wan Yan Honglie's men searching for the "Young Prince." This fleeting reminder of his former status stirred his resolve, reigniting his ambition.
He then turned to Mu Nianci, asking if she wanted to "go home with me and be Jin Princess." Mu Nianci was incensed by his question, angrily refusing the offer. She reminded him that Prince Zhao (Wan Yan Honglie) was responsible for her parents' deaths and declared her intention to remain an "upright Song" person, warning Yang Kang not to forget his own Song heritage.
Near a river, Huang Rong playfully teased Guo Jing for not knowing how to swim, a skill she had mastered on her sea-surrounded Peach Blossom Island. She joyfully taught him. After their swim, they prepared a "Beggar's Chicken," which Huang Rong explained was encased in lotus leaves and mud, sealing in the aroma to create a "juicy and tender, with a smoky flavor." The tantalizing scent soon attracted an old, disheveled beggar with only nine fingers.
Having previously overheard the Seven Freaks discussing the "Nine-Fingered Divine Beggar Hong Qigong," Huang Rong immediately suspected his identity. They offered him a share of their chicken, which he devoured with gusto, declaring it the best he had ever tasted. He then offered them a valuable item as payment, but Huang Rong refused, joking that the chicken was "stolen" or "shared" by passing chickens. They introduced themselves, and the old man introduced himself as Hong Qigong.
Eager to keep him, Huang Rong began to list many other exquisite dishes she could prepare, from pork meatballs to steamed duck. Hong Qigong, a notorious glutton, was easily swayed and decided to stay longer. He praised Guo Jing for being lucky to have such a "beautiful, smart girl who could cook." As Huang Rong served more dishes, Hong Qigong impressed them with his discerning palate, accurately identifying every ingredient in a complex meatball.
He even recounted how he had "tasted" dishes for the Emperor by living on the palace kitchen roof for three months, always ensuring he ate the best. After satisfying his legendary appetite, Hong Qigong offered to repay them. Huang Rong seized the opportunity to ask him to teach Guo Jing martial arts, explaining that Guo Jing often felt unable to protect her. Hong Qigong initially refused, stating he "never taught martial arts to anybody."
However, deeply impressed by her culinary skills, he eventually agreed to "teach him a little bit," emphasizing that Guo Jing's learning would depend on his own ability. Later, as Guo Jing and Huang Rong sparred, Hong Qigong observed Huang Rong's unique fighting style. He immediately recognized it as her father's technique, noting her resemblance to "Heretic Huang" in her eyes and nose, and correctly deduced her identity as Huang Yaoshi's daughter.
Huang Rong asked if he knew her father, to which Hong Qigong proudly replied, "He's Eastern Heretic. I'm Northern Beggar. We fought often." Realizing the caliber of the master before them, Huang Rong eagerly pulled Guo Jing down to kneel, begging Hong Qigong to "take us as disciples." Despite her fervent pleas and promises of more delicious food, Hong Qigong staunchly reiterated his rule: "I took no disciple," and walked away, unmoved by their entreaties.
Episode 12 Recap
Yang Kang and Mu Nianci arrived at the outskirts of the capital, the place Yang Kang had called home for eighteen years. As Mu Nianci suggested they leave and forget everything that had happened there, Wanyan Honglie rushed to stop them. Yang Kang hesitated, but Wanyan Honglie, calling out to him, embraced him.
Wanyan Honglie told Yang Kang that he knew Yang Kang was not his biological son but had always treated him as his own, his only child and successor. Overwhelmed, Yang Kang hugged Wanyan Honglie, calling him "Father," and agreed to return to the Prince Zhao's Residence with him. Yang Kang then turned to Mu Nianci, telling her he couldn't return to Niu Village with her now.
Mu Nianci accused him of being unwilling to give up his wealth and forgetting his parents' tragic death. Yang Kang calmed her, explaining he knew he was born a Song and could no longer be a Jin prince. He claimed he had to stay in Prince Zhao's Residence to find the Wumu Manual, to which Wanyan Honglie had important clues. He insisted that finding it first was crucial to save the Song dynasty.
He asked Mu Nianci to return to Niu Village, promising to join her once his task was complete. She believed him, agreeing to wait for him in Niu Village. Meanwhile, Huang Rong expressed her disappointment that Hong Qigong refused to teach Guo Jing martial arts. She watched Guo Jing practice, finding his moves rather ordinary, and wished Hong Qigong would instruct him. She desired for Guo Jing's skills to surpass his current masters and even those "wicked Taoists."
Guo Jing, sensing her continued distress over his masters' disapproval of their relationship, affirmed his commitment to her. Huang Rong playfully asked if he would rescue her if she were bullied or kidnapped. He earnestly promised to find her no matter where she was, declaring there was no other girl like her in the world. Hong Qigong, after sampling various dishes prepared by a renowned chef, found the food lackluster compared to Huang Rong's cooking.
He lamented that once one had tasted silk, rags were no longer appealing. Later, Huang Rong, knowing Hong Qigong was nearby, cleverly used a provocation tactic to make him reveal himself. She began praising him, attributing a compliment to her father, Apothecary Huang, who, she claimed, believed only the Nine-Fingered Divine Beggar, Hong Qigong, could surpass him in skill. Hong Qigong, surprised and pleased by this rare admiration from Huang Yaoshi, revealed himself.
Huang Rong feigned regret for previously offending him, emphasizing her sincere desire for Guo Jing to learn. She deliberately mentioned the "Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms" as a technique her father highly admired. Hong Qigong, flattered, confirmed the name of the technique, proclaiming it to be his. Hong Qigong agreed to teach Guo Jing "Proud Dragon Shows Remorse," the first stance of the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms.
He explained the profound meaning of the word "Remorse," emphasizing controlled power, like aged wine, leaving a rich aftertaste. Huang Rong then brought him delicious "eight treasure duck" and, with sweet words, asked Hong Qigong to teach her as well, reasoning that if Guo Jing became too powerful and bullied her, she wouldn't be in the mood to cook for him. Hong Qigong relented, agreeing to teach her a technique from the Carefree Fist routine.
As Guo Jing continued his practice, the troublesome Liang Ziweng, also known as the Ginseng Immortal, suddenly appeared, demanding Guo Jing return his viper blood. Guo Jing, using his newly learned "Proud Dragon Shows Remorse," displayed a surge of power. Liang Ziweng, convinced this was due to his viper blood, became furious and attacked him. Huang Rong quickly joined the fray, using her recently acquired Carefree Fist routine to assist Guo Jing.
The fight raged without a clear winner until Hong Qigong's arrival. Seeing Hong Qigong, Liang Ziweng immediately knelt, calling him "Chief Hong," before scrambling away in a panic. Back at their secluded forest dwelling, Huang Rong prepared more delectable dishes for Hong Qigong. Guo Jing, having heard Liang Ziweng refer to Hong Qigong as "Chief," asked if he was the legendary leader of the Beggars' Sect.
Hong Qigong confirmed, explaining the significance of his bamboo staff and gourd, symbols passed down through generations. He recounted how he had once humbled Liang Ziweng twenty years ago for attempting "Yang with Yin cultivation," pulling out his hair and severely beating him. Huang Rong expressed concern that if Hong Qigong were to leave, Liang Ziweng might return for revenge, emphasizing that their current skills were insufficient to defeat him.
She added, with a sweet tongue, that if they were killed, Hong Qigong would have no one to cook for him. Charmed by her clever persuasion, Hong Qigong agreed to teach Guo Jing another technique, "Dragon Soaring in the Sky," followed by "Dragon in the Fields" after enjoying another dish. After a month, Hong Qigong declared he had taught Guo Jing fifteen moves of the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms, which he deemed sufficient for a lifetime.
He acknowledged that Guo Jing's earlier training in the Quanzhen Sect's inner power, under Taoist Ma Yu, had significantly accelerated his learning. Hong Qigong announced his departure, stating he had never taught anyone for more than three days, let alone this "dumb kid" for thirty. Huang Rong, spotting a snake, tried to tempt him to stay by offering to make snake soup. At that moment, many venomous snakes emerged from the forest, seemingly targeting Hong Qigong and Guo Jing.
Guo Jing, due to having consumed the precious viper blood, was immune to their venom, and Huang Rong was protected by her Soft Hedgehog Armor. Hong Qigong gathered some snakes for snake wine and left. Soon after Hong Qigong's departure, Ouyang Ke and his entourage appeared, claiming the snakes. Ouyang Ke, recognizing Huang Rong, brazenly flirted with her. Guo Jing, angered by his behavior, stepped forward to defend her. Just then, Hong Qigong reappeared.
Ouyang Ke introduced himself as the Junior Master of White Camel Mountain and Ouyang Feng's nephew. Hong Qigong, recalling a past draw with Ouyang Feng twenty years prior, warned Ouyang Ke against causing trouble in the Central Plains and, out of respect for his uncle, ordered him to leave with his snakes.
Though Ouyang Ke defiantly invited Hong Qigong to visit White Camel Mountain, he ultimately retreated, acknowledging Hong Qigong's formidable martial arts, but not without a lingering, infatuated gaze at Huang Rong. He later informed his followers that Hong Qigong, having tied with his uncle, possessed unmatched skills and should not be underestimated. Huang Rong expressed her desire to blind Ouyang Ke for his lecherous eyes.
Hong Qigong dismissed Ouyang Ke as a minor threat, but warned them about his uncle, Ouyang Feng, the "Western Venom." He explained that the martial arts world was dominated by the "Five Greats": Eastern Heretic (Huang Yaoshi, Huang Rong's father), Western Venom (Ouyang Feng), Southern Emperor, Northern Beggar (Hong Qigong himself), and Central Divinity (Wang Chongyang, now deceased). After Wang Chongyang's death, the remaining four were considered equals.
Huang Rong, concerned that Ouyang Ke would inform Ouyang Feng about them, feared a future attack with venomous snakes. Hong Qigong resolved to devise a long-term solution. As Huang Rong stitched a tear in Guo Jing's clothes, Hong Qigong, seeing the needle, suddenly conceived a plan. Huang Rong, grasping his idea instantly, offered to buy many needles. Hong Qigong instructed Guo Jing to practice the "snake-tackling" technique with Huang Rong once she returned.
Guo Jing, however, respectfully declined, explaining that he was dull-witted and preferred to focus on mastering the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms before learning anything new. Hong Qigong, impressed by Guo Jing's focus and wisdom, smiled.
Episode 13 Recap
Huang Rong returned with an armload of sewing needles she had snapped up from town. Hong Qigong decided that she, not Guo Jing, should learn the "Needle Shower" routine to counter Ouyang Feng's poisonous snakes. He explained that Ouyang Feng, though formidable in single combat, uses snakes to deal with multiple foes, a tactic Hong Qigong despises.
Huang Rong proposed a strategy where Hong Qigong would fight Ouyang Feng, Guo Jing would engage Ouyang Ke, and she would use her Needle Shower to kill the snakes. Hong Qigong worried Guo Jing’s Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms were still three stances short, which Huang Rong countered by asking him to teach the full routine.
Although Hong Qigong initially hesitated to take Guo Jing as a formal disciple, finding him too "stupid," he eventually demonstrated the technique to Huang Rong, then left her to practice it alone in the forest, admonishing her to count every needle. Later, when Guo Jing and Hong Qigong brought food to the forest, they found Huang Rong missing. Huang Rong had been abducted by Ouyang Ke's snake shepherdesses and was now bound in a room.
Ouyang Ke passionately declared his love, telling her she was unique among all women and that he thought of her constantly. Huang Rong feigned being touched, but stipulated that she would only agree to be with him if he married her formally with a proper wedding. Ouyang Ke was overjoyed, immediately proposing that his uncle visit Peach Blossom Island to ask for her hand.
However, Ouyang Ke, aware of her Soft Hedgehog Armor, did not untie her, revealing his intention to take her to the Western Regions first, where his uncle, Ouyang Feng, would handle the situation. Meanwhile, Guo Jing and Hong Qigong searched frantically for Huang Rong, asking everyone they met, while Hong Qigong dispatched Beggars' Sect disciples to assist. As evening approached with no success, Guo Jing grew distraught, weeping and blaming himself for leaving her alone in the forest.
Hong Qigong urged him to use his brain, reminding him that Huang Rong was clever and would surely leave them traces. A flash of insight struck Guo Jing, and he began searching the ground, soon discovering one of Huang Rong's sewing needles. Hong Qigong confirmed it was a deliberate trace, meant to lead them to her, and Guo Jing, spurred on, found more needles, following the path she had laid.
Ouyang Ke, undeterred by Huang Rong's feigned affection, bundled her into a carriage, intending to take her to the Western Regions for his uncle to handle her Soft Hedgehog Armor. Huang Rong defiantly declared that Guo Jing would rescue her, a claim Ouyang Ke scoffed at, calling Guo Jing a fool. Just as the carriage was about to depart, Guo Jing and Hong Qigong arrived.
Ouyang Ke's men immediately engaged Hong Qigong, but the Old Beggar declared that meddling was his hobby and this was now his business. Hong Qigong then instructed Guo Jing to demonstrate the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms he had learned. Guo Jing unleashed three powerful stances, quickly gaining the upper hand. Huang Rong seized the opportunity to mock Ouyang Ke's inferior skills compared to his uncle. Defeated, Ouyang Ke, along with his men and snakes, retreated resentfully at Hong Qigong's command.
Guo Jing immediately went to Huang Rong, apologizing for her ordeal. She, in turn, expressed her unwavering faith that he would always come to save her. Hong Qigong lightly teased Guo Jing for nearly crying when she was missing, to which Guo Jing reaffirmed his promise to go to the ends of the earth for Huang Rong. Hong Qigong, declaring himself fed up with Guo Jing and Huang Rong's overly affectionate displays, announced his departure.
Huang Rong, however, convinced him to stay for a farewell dinner, promising not to use it as an opportunity to ask him to teach Guo Jing more martial arts. She then went to the market alone to buy ingredients. There, she spotted Mu Nianci and, recalling the previous attempt by Qiu Chuji to betroth her to Guo Jing, decided to play a trick.
Huang Rong deliberately bought up all the rouge Mu Nianci had shown interest in and then brazenly snatched a dagger from Mu Nianci’s possession, citing the "Guo Jing" inscription on it. Mu Nianci protested that it was her only memento from her parents and tried to reclaim it, but Huang Rong, confident in her superior martial arts, challenged her to fight for its return. During their sparring, Mu Nianci recognized Hong Qigong's "Carefree Fist" in Huang Rong's moves.
Huang Rong, admitting they were "old friends," then immobilized Mu Nianci and demanded she swear not to marry Guo Jing. Mu Nianci, to Huang Rong's surprise, laughed and said she had no intention of marrying Guo Jing. She explained that while her adoptive father had wished for it on his deathbed, he had previously betrothed her to another. Relieved, Huang Rong returned the dagger.
Mu Nianci then spoke warmly of Guo Jing's honest and chivalrous nature, prompting Huang Rong to confirm her own unwavering loyalty to him. Huang Rong then invited Mu Nianci to stay with them. As they were about to leave, they discovered a message from Hong Qigong carved on a tree branch, bidding them farewell and warning Huang Rong not to be naughty, confirming his departure.
That evening, Guo Jing was surprised to see Mu Nianci with Huang Rong, and Huang Rong recounted their encounter. Mu Nianci explained that Hong Qigong had taught her martial arts for three days years ago as repayment for her and her father saving two Beggars' Sect members. Later, under the cloak of night, Mu Nianci stood by a tranquil lake, gazing abstractedly at the water while caressing a jade pendant.
Huang Rong, noticing her, playfully snatched the pendant and, upon seeing the character "Kang" inscribed on it, immediately understood that Yang Kang was Mu Nianci's beloved. Mu Nianci confided that Yang Kang had promised they would return to Niu Village to live a simple life, but he was currently delayed by "something to take care of." Huang Rong, however, harbored deep skepticism, questioning whether Yang Kang would truly abandon his life of privilege for a commoner's existence.
Mu Nianci, undeterred, affirmed her belief in Yang Kang, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of love and the certainty one feels when meeting "the one." Elsewhere, Jebe and Tolui were en route to Lin'an to forge an alliance with the Song. Jebe expressed confidence in the alliance, noting the Song's financial strain from Jin's annual tributes and their renewed determination with Mongol backing. Huazheng, secretly missing Guo Jing, had disguised herself and followed them, only to be discovered.
She adamantly refused to return, determined to reach Lin'an to see Guo Jing. Simultaneously, Wanyan Honglie received intelligence of the impending Mongol-Song alliance. He urgently discussed with Yang Kang that Temujin's growing ambition, coupled with this alliance, would put Jin in a precarious position between two enemies.
Wanyan Honglie ordered Yang Kang to immediately travel south to Lin'an and prevent the Mongolian emissary from meeting the Song Emperor, suggesting that the emissary's death at Song hands would effectively drive a wedge between the potential allies. He advised Yang Kang to travel lightly with a few skilled fighters, remain discreet, and only intervene directly if absolutely necessary.
In the dim, eerie confines of a dry well within the Prince's residence, Mei Chaofeng practiced the Quanzhen Sect's inner power techniques that Guo Jing had taught her. Her legs were recovering remarkably fast. Yang Kang arrived, expressing admiration for her rapid progress and asking her to teach him the routine. Mei Chaofeng, however, refused, stating she had betrayed her own master and could not impart Quanzhen martial arts without proper permission.
She promised to teach him the formidable "Heart Shattering Palms" once he had fully mastered his existing skills. Yang Kang then requested Mei Chaofeng's assistance on his journey to Lin'an, seeking her as a safeguard for his mission. Mei Chaofeng agreed, eager to settle her score with the Seven Freaks, who were also heading south.
As she needed to practice daily and preferred land travel, while Yang Kang planned to travel by water, they decided to journey separately and rendezvous in Suzhou. Meanwhile, in Wuxi City, Mu Nianci was strolling through the market when she spotted one of Yang Kang’s attendants purchasing valuable wild ginseng to be delivered to "The Jin Emissary’s Residence." Realizing this meant Yang Kang was in the city and staying at the Jin residence, her heart stirred with suspicion and concern.
That night, Huang Rong observed Mu Nianci slipping out late and, curious, followed her. She watched as Mu Nianci hesitated outside a window, then heard Yang Kang’s voice from within. Understanding the situation and sensing Mu Nianci’s reluctance, Huang Rong, with a mischievous grin, gave her a decisive push through the door and then discreetly departed. Inside, Yang Kang was taken aback to see Mu Nianci.
She immediately confronted him, questioning why he was still working for the Jin, especially after finding him in the Jin Emissary’s Residence. Yang Kang vehemently denied her accusation, defending his presence by claiming he had not lied to her and was staying to find the Wumu Manual, a task he insisted was crucial for the survival of the Song and his reason for traveling to Lin'an.
He passionately reiterated his promise to return to Niu Village and marry her once the Manual was secured, emphasizing that as an orphan, she was his only family. Mu Nianci, deeply swayed by his earnest words, believed him and pledged to wait for him forever.
When Yang Kang made a physical advance, she gently but firmly resisted, reminding him of her dignity and his respect, to which he apologized and reaffirmed his commitment to a proper marriage after his mission was complete.
Episode 14 Recap
Huang Rong and Guo Jing discussed the recent events concerning Mu Nianci and Yang Kang. Huang Rong mentioned assisting Mu Nianci at the Jin Emissary's Residence, which puzzled Guo Jing, who wondered why Yang Kang was there. Huang Rong admitted she suspected Yang Kang still couldn't relinquish his life of luxury but held hope that Mu Nianci would eventually persuade him.
As they prepared to depart for Lin'an, Guo Jing suggested Huang Rong don male attire, expressing concern about encountering individuals like Ouyang Ke again due to her striking beauty. Huang Rong, flattered, readily agreed. Their journey led them to Tai Lake, where Huang Rong began to sing the "Water Dragon Chant." To their surprise, a voice from a nearby boat echoed her song with the same tune.
They approached the vessel and met Lu Chengfeng, a fisherman, who invited them to his home, Guiyun Manor. Upon arriving at the manor, Huang Rong noticed a distinctive Iron Eight Diagrams arrangement at the entrance, a feature typically associated with practicing the Air Striking Palms, a unique technique from Peach Blossom Island. Inside, Chief Lu's son, Lu Guanying, greeted them and led them into the estate.
In the study, Huang Rong's sharp intellect impressed Chief Lu as she critiqued a calligraphy piece he believed to be by General Han Shizhong. Huang Rong respectfully corrected him, explaining the poem was originally by General Yue Fei and had been inscribed by Han Shizhong only after Yue Fei's death due to political suppression.
She also pointed out that while Chief Lu's brush strokes were powerful, their hard-edged quality failed to capture the subtle depth intended by Yue Fei's profound concern for the nation. Chief Lu was deeply moved, declaring Huang Rong his first true soulmate. When Huang Rong subtly inquired about his leg injury, he vaguely attributed it to a childhood illness.
Later, Lu Guanying showed them to their rooms, cautioning them not to venture out at night due to the manor's intricate and confusing paths. Huang Rong, however, felt this was too simple; she surmised that Chief Lu, despite his appearance, was a highly skilled martial artist, observing the pervasive divinations and formations throughout the manor, which hinted at deeper secrets. Later that night, a horn sound roused Huang Rong and Guo Jing.
Huang Rong, recognizing it as a signal, excitedly pulled Guo Jing along to investigate. They discreetly made their way through the manor's maze-like formations, which Huang Rong easily navigated, explaining they were based on the 64 hexagrams of the Book of Changes, a specialty of her father. At the pier, they observed Lu Guanying marshalling a group of Tai Lake bandits, preparing to intercept a Jin Emissary's ship.
Among the bandits, they noticed a one-eyed man who notably opposed Lu Guanying's plan. This man was in fact Duan Tiande, though Guo Jing did not recognize him due to his altered appearance and the distance. Huang Rong mused about the unexpected dual identities within Guiyun Manor: Chief Lu, the seemingly reclusive master, and Lu Guanying, the outwardly ordinary young master who led a band of fierce bandits.
Soon after, Lu Guanying returned, having successfully raided the Jin ship and capturing Yang Kang. Initially, he intended to kill Yang Kang, given the deep animosity between the Jin and Song people. However, Guo Jing intervened, wanting to save Yang Kang for Mu Nianci's sake, hoping he might repent. Huang Rong subtly dislodged a waist token from Yang Kang, which revealed his identity as the Jin Young Prince.
Realizing Yang Kang's importance, Lu Guanying changed his mind, deciding to imprison him for thorough interrogation instead. The next morning, Chief Lu inquired about their sleep. Huang Rong brought up the horn sounds from the previous night, but Chief Lu quickly dismissed them as merely fishermen blowing conch shells during the fishing season, swiftly changing the subject.
Meanwhile, Yang Kang, having injured his guard, managed to escape his cell but found himself lost in Guiyun Manor's complex layout, eventually stumbling into Chief Lu's study. Lu Guanying confronted him, and Yang Kang, enraged by the "cunning tricks" used to sink his ship, challenged anyone in Guiyun Manor to a fair fight. He used the Nine Yin Skeleton Claw, gravely injuring Lu Guanying. Chief Lu then intervened, displaying formidable Peach Blossom Island martial arts to defeat Yang Kang.
Huang Rong was startled by Chief Lu's demonstration of skills related to her own master and tried to press him for details, but he skillfully evaded her questions, urging them to rest. Guo Jing suggested they extend their stay to further investigate Chief Lu's background. Lu Guanying, nursing his injury, questioned why his father had never taught him these advanced martial arts, instead sending him to Master Kumu.
Chief Lu explained that he was forbidden to teach his own techniques without his master's explicit permission. That night, Huang Rong heard noises and roused Guo Jing. They followed the sounds to find Mu Nianci attempting to navigate the manor's treacherous formations. Huang Rong secretly assisted her, guiding her to Yang Kang's cell.
Reunited, Yang Kang asked Mu Nianci to take his Jin Emissary's seal to Prime Minister Shi Miyuan in Lin'an, claiming it was crucial for arranging a Song-Mongol alliance, a facade to gain trust for the Wumu Manual. Mu Nianci, however, staunchly refused to serve the Jin. Yang Kang then shifted his request, asking her to find his "other master," Mei Chaofeng, at an abandoned temple, as instructed by Yang Kang.
He instructed Mu Nianci to carve a message into wood, explaining that Mei Chaofeng was blind and that this was the only way for her to receive the message and come to his rescue. After Mu Nianci departed, Guo Jing expressed concern for her safety. Huang Rong reassured him, saying Mei Chaofeng would not harm her if she mentioned Yang Kang. Following Yang Kang's instructions, Mu Nianci arrived at the dilapidated temple.
As she began to carve the message into a piece of wood, she was suddenly confronted by Ouyang Ke, who recognized her and, recalling their previous encounter, began to harass her. Just as Ouyang Ke attempted to force himself upon her, his henchmen rushed in, announcing Mei Chaofeng's arrival and quickly forming a defensive perimeter.
Episode 15 Recap
Mei Chaofeng returned to the ruined temple, discovering a message carved by Mu Nianci. At the same time, Ouyang Ke confronted her, aiming for the Nine Yin Manual. He unleashed venomous snakes, controlling them with his flute, and was gaining the upper hand. However, a mysterious, melodious xiao sound emanated from the distance, disrupting Ouyang Ke’s flute music and causing him intense pain. Unable to bear the torment, Ouyang Ke hastily ordered his concubines to plug their ears and withdrew.
Mei Chaofeng expressed gratitude for the unseen rescuer, and vowed to protect the Nine Yin Manual, dedicating it to her late love, Chen Xuanfeng. Meanwhile, an unnamed person reported to Wanyan Honglie that Young Prince Yang Kang had been abducted by Tai Lake bandits and was being held at Guiyun Manor, a stronghold known for its intricate contraptions and formations.
At Guiyun Manor, Guo Jing expressed deep concern to Huang Rong, revealing that Mu Nianci had gone to summon Mei Chaofeng to rescue Yang Kang, which would inevitably bring danger to the manor. Guo Jing suggested informing Chief Lu so he could release Yang Kang, thus sparing the lives of the manor residents. Huang Rong, however, vehemently disagreed, believing Yang Kang deserved more suffering.
She was confident in their ability to use the martial arts taught by Chief Hong to face Mei Chaofeng, while Guo Jing felt they had a responsibility to protect Chief Lu due to his kindness. A skull, marked by five distinctive finger holes, arrived at Guiyun Manor, confirming the impending arrival of the Twin Killers. Chief Lu revealed to Guo Jing and Huang Rong that Mei Chaofeng and Chen Xuanfeng were his former martial siblings from Peach Blossom Island.
He recounted how they had secretly eloped with the Nine Yin Manual, fearing their master Huang Yaoshi's disapproval. Lu Chengfeng admitted to reporting their transgression, leading to a pursuit that ended in Mongolia, where he tragically lost the use of his legs at their hands. Huang Rong, who had long suspected his connection to Peach Blossom Island, finally confirmed that Lu Chengfeng was indeed her father Apothecary Huang's disciple.
She pondered why her own father had never spoken of this painful past, to which Lu Chengfeng replied that it was too painful to revisit. Preparing for the confrontation, Lu Chengfeng sent his wife away and ordered his fortress leaders not to intervene, determined to face his foes alone, though his son Lu Guanying insisted on staying by his side. He then regretfully asked Guo Jing and Huang Rong to leave, wishing them well.
Having already discerned Huang Rong's true identity, Lu Chengfeng praised her cleverness and beauty, offering them a bag of gold as a wedding gift. Guo Jing politely refused the gold, but Lu Chengfeng insisted they accept his precious Nine Flowers Dew Pills, a potent medicine from his master's formula, citing his own uncertain fate. As Guo Jing and Huang Rong prepared to depart, Huang Rong secretly vowed to return.
Just as they were about to set sail, a formidable master named Qiu Qianren, renowned as "Iron Palm Floating Above Water," arrived, astonishing them by walking on the lake while carrying a large vat. Huang Rong recognized his name from her father's stories, knowing he had been famous twenty years prior.
Upon learning of the Twin Killers' threat, Qiu Qianren boldly offered his assistance, prompting Huang Rong to change her mind and decide to stay, confident in the powerful new master's protection. In the living room, Lu Chengfeng asked Qiu Qianren to instruct his son, Lu Guanying, who then performed a fist routine. Qiu Qianren, with an arrogant demeanor, dismissed Lu Guanying's skills as mere exercise, boasting about his own profound power.
At Huang Rong's insistence, Qiu Qianren demonstrated his abilities by effortlessly crushing a brick, seemingly generating smoke from his body. Everyone present was awe-struck, with Lu Chengfeng comparing his inner power to that of the Five Greats. Qiu Qianren then proclaimed his superiority over the Five Greats, claiming he could have bested Wang Chongyang at the first Mount Hua Martial Arts Meet if not for a "family matter," and shared his cynical view on the Nine Yin Manual.
Unbeknownst to them, the Seven Heroes of South were sailing on Tai Lake, returning to Jiaxing after eighteen years. Spotting Guiyun Manor, they decided to stop for water. Lu Guanying, mistaking their unusual attire for associates of the Twin Killers, engaged them in a fight. Guo Jing quickly intervened, identifying them as his beloved masters and diffusing the misunderstanding. Ke Zhene, however, was furious to see Guo Jing with Huang Rong.
He struck his disciple and issued an ultimatum: Guo Jing must abandon the "little witch" or be disowned. Huang Rong, angered by Ke Zhene's insults, retorted, exchanging sharp words with him. As the situation grew tense, Qiu Qianren smoothly intervened, greeting the Seven Heroes and inquiring if they were there to confront the Twin Killers. Lu Chengfeng formally introduced Qiu Qianren and apologized for his son's earlier misjudgment.
Qiu Qianren then proposed that all parties unite against Mei Chaofeng, subtly shifting the focus and easing the immediate conflict between the masters. At the subsequent banquet, the martial artists initially agreed to unite against the Twin Killers. However, Qiu Qianren steered the conversation, suggesting that releasing Yang Kang would appease Mei Chaofeng.
He then revealed his true agenda: he possessed intelligence that the Jin army would launch a massive invasion within six months, which the Song Dynasty could not withstand. He proposed that the martial artists should join the Jin to prevent prolonged warfare and the suffering of the people, effectively advocating for surrender. This proposition ignited outrage among the heroes, especially Ke Zhene, who defiantly declared that they would rather die than capitulate to the Jin.
Realizing Qiu Qianren was a Jin sympathizer, Lu Chengfeng indignantly asked him to leave. Meanwhile, in the dungeon, Duan Tiande, hoping to gain favor, informed Yang Kang about Qiu Qianren's presence, believing he was there on Prince Zhao's behalf. Despite being asked to depart, Qiu Qianren continued to provoke the defiant heroes with boasts of his martial prowess. Guo Jing, witnessing this, challenged Qiu Qianren.
During their brief exchange, Guo Jing quickly discerned that Qiu Qianren's martial arts were merely superficial, lacking genuine inner power. As the heroes debated how to deal with the fraudulent Qiu Qianren, Mei Chaofeng burst into the hall, demanding her disciple's release. Lu Chengfeng and Mei Chaofeng engaged in a heated exchange, with Lu Chengfeng revealing Guo Jing as Chen Xuanfeng's killer. Seizing the opportunity amid the escalating tension, Qiu Qianren attempted to escape but was quickly intercepted.
In a desperate move, he fabricated a shocking lie: Huang Yaoshi had been killed by the Quanzhen Seven Masters. Huang Rong, Mei Chaofeng, and Lu Chengfeng, utterly distraught and consumed by grief, momentarily put aside their grievances, vowing to unite and avenge their master. Qiu Qianren tried once more to flee, but Zhu Cong caught him, revealing a cunning ring on Qiu Qianren’s finger that he used to create his illusion of power, such as breaking a wine cup. Zhu Cong then expertly exposed all of Qiu Qianren’s supposed martial arts as nothing more than elaborate parlor tricks, revealing him to be a complete charlatan.
Episode 16 Recap
After Qiu Qianren was exposed as a fraud, Huang Rong was greatly relieved, confirming that her father, Huang Yaoshi, was not dead. Qiu Qianren had claimed the news came from Hong Qigong, but Huang Rong knew that was impossible, further cementing her belief that her father was alive. She and the others had seen Qiu Qianren's tricks, like a brick made of flour and underwater footholds to appear to float on water, proving him entirely untrustworthy.
Meanwhile, Mei Chaofeng pressed Lu Chengfeng to release Yang Kang, reminding him of their shared master. Lu Chengfeng questioned her loyalty for serving a Jin, to which Mei Chaofeng, consumed by her desire for revenge, expressed that national and familial duties held no meaning for her.
Huang Rong, seeing that no one present could match Mei Chaofeng's formidable martial arts, proposed an idea: she would intercede with her father on behalf of both Mei Chaofeng and Lu Chengfeng to allow them to return to Peach Blossom Island. Both were pleased by the prospect, but Mei Chaofeng was unwilling to set aside her quest for vengeance. The Seven Freaks of Jiangnan, who had a long-standing feud with Mei Chaofeng, were now willing to put their differences aside.
Mei Chaofeng, however, scorned this idea and challenged Guo Jing, vowing to kill herself if she couldn't defeat him within three moves. Guo Jing accepted, suggesting they fight for fifteen moves. The fight began, and Mei Chaofeng acknowledged Guo Jing's significant improvement. However, when Mei Chaofeng injured Guo Jing, his masters, the Seven Freaks, rushed to his aid, with Ke Zhene suffering the most severe injuries.
Huang Rong suddenly realized that Mei Chaofeng, being blind, relied solely on her hearing to fight. She quickly told Guo Jing to use his Silent Palms technique against her. Guo Jing followed the advice, injuring Mei Chaofeng. Just then, a masked figure with incredibly high martial arts appeared, effortlessly rescuing Mei Chaofeng and disappearing from sight.
The mysterious rescuer was none other than Huang Yaoshi, who, despite wearing a mask, had also saved Mei Chaofeng in the ruined temple a few days prior. Huang Yaoshi, proud and aloof, refused to let his disciples be bullied by others. After allowing Mei Chaofeng to rest briefly, he ordered her to return to Guiyun Manor and provoke Guo Jing again, promising to help her overcome the Silent Palms.
Back at Guiyun Manor, Ke Zhene, recovering from his grave injuries, immediately inquired about Guo Jing's well-being, despite his usual harsh demeanor. His fellow masters remarked on how deeply he cared for Guo Jing, treating him like his own son. Zhu Cong returned the dagger, a keepsake from Guo Jing's father, which he had retrieved from Mei Chaofeng. Huang Rong offered a special external medicine she prepared for Ke Zhene, which he accepted with a gruff 'Thanks, Miss Huang.'
Suddenly, Mei Chaofeng returned to challenge them again. Huang Rong confronted her, pointing out the impropriety of challenging Guo Jing, who had just been healed, and warned that such an act would tarnish the reputation of Peach Blossom Island. She then proposed a new challenge: if Mei Chaofeng couldn't defeat Guo Jing within fifteen moves, she must leave.
As Mei Chaofeng and Guo Jing fought, Guo Jing realized a masked figure on the roof was subtly guiding Mei Chaofeng's moves by flicking small stones, using a powerful "flick of the fingers" technique. Huang Rong, recognizing her father's unique "flick of the fingers" technique, cried out "Dad!" and shielded Guo Jing as Mei Chaofeng struck him. Huang Yaoshi descended from the roof, removing his mask. Lu Chengfeng and Mei Chaofeng immediately knelt before their master.
Huang Rong then introduced Guo Jing to her father, calling him "the best man in the world." Huang Yaoshi acknowledged Lu Chengfeng's son, Lu Guanying, and praised Lu Chengfeng for adhering to Peach Blossom Island's rules by not teaching their martial arts to his son. However, he then provided Lu Chengfeng with a secret manual for the Whirlwind Sweeping Leg, instructing him to begin teaching Lu Guanying this martial art from the following day.
He also promised that with diligent practice of this technique, Lu Chengfeng's own crippled legs would be able to walk normally in five or six years. He also commanded Lu Chengfeng to find his three other martial brothers and teach them the Whirlwind Sweeping Leg. Mei Chaofeng, overcome with guilt, begged Huang Yaoshi to grant her death. Instead, Huang Yaoshi demanded she return the Nine Yin Manual.
Mei Chaofeng was horrified to discover it was missing and immediately accused the Seven Freaks of stealing it. Zhu Cong vehemently denied the accusation, asserting that while they were known as "freaks," they were honorable and wouldn't steal. Seeing no resolution, Huang Yaoshi inflicted Mei Chaofeng with a "Bone-penetrating Needle," a slow-acting poison that would torment her for a year before taking her life.
He gave her three tasks to earn its removal: first, to retrieve the Nine Yin Manual and kill everyone who had read it; second, to find the descendants of her four martial brothers, Qu Lingfeng and Feng Mofeng, and bring them to Guiyun Manor; and third, to completely eradicate her Nine Yin skills and Heart Shattering Palms, which she had practiced without his permission.
Later, in a private conversation, Huang Rong frequently spoke of Guo Jing with admiration, which clearly displeased Huang Yaoshi and fostered a growing animosity towards Guo Jing. The next morning, Huang Yaoshi announced his intention to take Huang Rong back to Peach Blossom Island. He found Guo Jing practicing his martial arts and, finding fault with his every move, deliberately provoked him.
Huang Rong, seeing her father's hostility, reluctantly agreed to return to Peach Blossom Island, pleading with him to spare Guo Jing for now. Guo Jing, still needing to avenge his father, pledged to present himself at Peach Blossom Island in one month to face Huang Yaoshi's judgment, provided his masters were unharmed. Before leaving, Guo Jing, still believing in Yang Kang's good nature, appealed to Master Lu to release him.
As they discussed this in the main hall, Lu Guanying brought in Duan Tiande, revealing that he had been secretly communicating with Yang Kang. Duan Tiande, kneeling and begging for mercy, seemed to move Guo Jing, who again pleaded for leniency. Lu Guanying agreed to release Duan Tiande.
As Duan Tiande then gratefully announced his full name to Guo Jing, "Duan Tiande," Guo Jing's expression changed dramatically, realizing that the man standing before him was the very person he sought to avenge his father's death.
Episode 17 Recap
Having finally located Duan Tiande after years of searching, Guo Jing, consumed by rage, confronted the man responsible for his father's death. Guo Jing revealed Duan Tiande's long-concealed birthmark, confirming his identity as Guo Xiaotian's murderer. Duan Tiande, desperate to save his own life, confessed that he had acted under the orders of Wanyan Honglie, the Jin Prince, to kill Guo Xiaotian and Yang Tiexin and abduct their wives.
He further revealed that the entire plot was orchestrated by Wanyan Honglie to acquire Bao Xiruo, Yang Kang's mother. Enraged by this shocking revelation, Yang Kang ended Duan Tiande's life with a single, furious palm strike. Yang Kang was left reeling from the eighteen years he had unknowingly spent calling his parents' killer "father." Overwhelmed with anguish and shame, he retreated to the forest to vent his fury.
Guo Jing, meanwhile, knelt before his father Guo Xiaotian's memorial tablet, vowing to personally avenge his father by killing Wanyan Honglie, the true mastermind. Yang Kang joined him, swearing that even if Guo Jing faltered, he would personally seek out and eliminate Wanyan Honglie.
Before Guo Xiaotian's spirit, Yang Kang solemnly pledged his allegiance to the Song people, declaring he was the son of a loyal Song subject and would never betray his homeland, accepting a tragic death if he broke his word. Unable to sleep, Guo Jing and Yang Kang later talked in a bamboo grove. Yang Kang, who had once prided himself on being the Young Prince of Jin, now considered his identity a source of "unbearable shame."
He disclosed that his journey south was initially on Wanyan Honglie's orders to prevent a Mongol-Song alliance. He suspected that Wanyan Honglie, now aware of Yang Kang's capture at Tai Lake, would personally travel south to thwart the alliance. Resolved not to let Wanyan Honglie succeed, Yang Kang declared his intention to go north immediately to kill Wanyan Honglie and avenge their parents. Guo Jing readily agreed to join him.
Remembering their fathers' long-standing pact, they formalized their bond, becoming sworn brothers, each using a dagger, inherited from their fathers, as a token of their brotherhood. They swore before heaven and earth to be of one mind and to collectively avenge their fathers by eliminating Wanyan Honglie. Meanwhile, the Mongolian emissary party, including Hua Zheng, Tolui, and Jebe, was resting in a forest clearing. Hua Zheng, missing Guo Jing deeply, wished for her white eagles to find him.
Tolui teased her, suggesting her true wish was for Guo Jing to return to Mongolia and marry her. Their conversation was abruptly interrupted when Wanyan Honglie's forces attacked, aiming to intercept and eliminate the emissaries before they could reach the Song emperor. Outnumbered, Jebe instructed Hua Zheng and Tolui to escape. To evade their pursuers, Tolui quickly sourced Song-style clothing for them to wear as a disguise.
Guo Jing and Yang Kang then bid farewell to Lu Chengfeng at Guiyun Manor. The masters of the Seven Freaks of Jiangnan offered their advice, with Ke Zhen'e warning Guo Jing about the unpredictable nature of Lord Huang and the dangers of Peach Blossom Island. However, Han Xiaoying reminded them of Huang Rong's intelligence and devotion to Guo Jing, recounting how she cared for him when he was poisoned, which softened their stance.
Ultimately, Ke Zhen'e set a meeting point for Guo Jing, his masters, and Yang Kang: the Zuixian Tavern in Jiaxing on the first day of the fifth month, from where they would collectively travel to Peach Blossom Island to fulfill the standing appointment. As Guo Jing and Yang Kang traveled north, they found pre-arranged accommodations and meals at every inn. Guo Jing wondered about their mysterious benefactor.
Yang Kang initially assumed it was Lu Chengfeng, viewing it as a strategic move to win over martial artists. However, Guo Jing admired Lu Chengfeng's chivalrous nature. Over dinner, while discussing martial arts, Yang Kang envied Guo Jing's numerous masters, including Hong Qigong. Guo Jing, however, praised Qiu Chuji of the Quanzhen Sect as a benevolent master, encouraging Yang Kang that with dedication, he too could achieve greatness.
Convinced, Yang Kang contemplated abandoning the unorthodox martial arts taught by Mei Chaofeng and seeking out Qiu Chuji with Mu Nianci, wondering how she was faring. Unbeknownst to them, Mu Nianci had been abducted and was held captive by Ouyang Ke. She attempted to escape but was quickly discovered. Ouyang Ke, showing no mercy, punished her by confining her within a coffin. Later that night, Yang Kang, alone in his room, reflected on his situation.
Although he maintained a facade of friendship with Guo Jing, he felt a deep-seated resentment, realizing that his martial arts and opportunities were now inferior to Guo Jing's, leaving him with a sense of unfairness. Someone continued to arrange food and lodging for Guo Jing and Yang Kang. Guo Jing noticed his favorite dishes at every meal, particularly a specific Beggar's Chicken, and realized it was Huang Rong's thoughtful handiwork.
Yang Kang, seeing Huang Rong's devotion, felt a pang of envy at Guo Jing's good fortune. Guo Jing, realizing Huang Rong must be in Baoying County, decided to head there immediately to find her. Concurrently, Baoying County was troubled by a spate of missing women, drawing the attention of the Beggars' Sect, who were investigating.
Ouyang Ke, the Young Master of White Camel Mountain and nephew of Western Venom Ouyang Feng, had set his sights on Miss Cheng of Tongren Pawnshop. Despite the presence of Beggars' Sect disciples guarding her shop, he brazenly approached Miss Cheng at her pawnshop, attempting to woo her with a valuable jade pendant, which she politely but firmly rejected. Undeterred, Ouyang Ke confidently declared that no one could stop him from having her.
Guo Jing arrived at the largest inn in Baoying County, where he spotted Huang Rong making arrangements for him and Yang Kang. He discreetly followed her to a quiet spot by a small river. There, Huang Rong, believing herself alone, spoke aloud of her longing for him and her desire to cook his favorite dishes. Unable to contain himself, Guo Jing emerged, and the two, overjoyed at their reunion after their separation, embraced tightly, sharing their mutual affection.
Huang Rong playfully chided him for following her, reminding him of her father's disapproval, but Guo Jing declared that without her, life held no meaning. He also shared that his masters now viewed her more favorably, acknowledging her kindness and devotion. A sudden thunderstorm forced Guo Jing and Huang Rong to seek shelter in a dilapidated temple. Inside, they overheard several Beggars' Sect disciples discussing Miss Cheng of Tongren Pawnshop and their plan to "act first" to capture her.
Huang Rong, aware that even within the vast Beggars' Sect there could be unsavory characters, and feeling a responsibility to Hong Qigong's reputation, decided with Guo Jing that they should intervene to prevent these rogue disciples from harming her. They quickly followed the disciples to Tongren Pawnshop, where they witnessed an altercation. Guo Jing skillfully used the "Divine Dragon Swishes Tail" move to stop the fighting, confronting the Beggars' Sect members for their despicable actions.
Episode 18 Recap
Guo Jing, after using his "Divine Dragon Swishes Tail" technique, was accused by Beggars Sect disciples of disgracing their sect. Huang Rong quickly realized it was all a misunderstanding. Master Li and Master Yu of the Beggars Sect, along with Ms. Cheng, explained that several girls had gone missing in Baoying recently, and after Ouyang Ke appeared, they had gathered their disciples to set up an ambush.
Ms. Cheng, a martial artist from the Quanzhen Sect, revealed that Ouyang Ke had visited her pawnshop and shown his true colors as a wicked lecher. Everyone present agreed to teach Ouyang Ke a lesson. Huang Rong then proposed a plan: she would disguise herself as Ms. Cheng and allow Ouyang Ke to abduct her.
She anticipated Ouyang Ke would act at midnight using sleeping gas, but she would counter it by holding camphor in her mouth and holding her breath. She instructed Guo Jing, who possessed excellent levitation skills, to follow her closely and leave marks for Master Li and the Beggars Sect disciples to track.
At Ouyang Ke's hideout, the Baoying Ancestral Hall, Huang Rong told Guo Jing to hide outside a window and attack Ouyang Ke from behind when she made her move, while Master Li and the others would ambush from the door. However, Ouyang Ke had already anticipated their arrival, expressing his delight that the "beggars" were coming for his "hungry snakes."
Realizing her plan had failed, Huang Rong watched as Ouyang Ke ordered his men to suspend her, preventing any sneak attack. Unable to wait any longer, Guo Jing burst in to save Huang Rong, only then did Ouyang Ke realize he had kidnapped the wrong person. Guo Jing and Ouyang Ke engaged in a fierce battle. Ouyang Ke mocked Guo Jing for only knowing fifteen palms of the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms.
Suddenly, chicken bones began flying from an unseen source, hitting Ouyang Ke. Huang Rong immediately recognized Hong Qigong's unique "weapons," confirming his presence. With Hong Qigong's unexpected arrival, Guo Jing and Huang Rong were relieved. Huang Rong and Hong Qigong bantered, exchanging insults directed at Ouyang Ke, calling him "Little Venom" and comparing the chicken bones to leftovers for dogs. Ouyang Ke, not wanting to appear weak, subtly accused Hong Qigong of bullying the young.
Huang Rong seized the opportunity, suggesting that to maintain Hong Qigong's esteemed status and avoid personally engaging with such a "sly dog," he should take Guo Jing as a disciple and teach him the final three stances of the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms. That way, Guo Jing could fight Ouyang Ke. Hong Qigong, after some feigned reluctance and a complaint that it was a "win-win" for everyone but him, agreed, admitting he was too tempted by Huang Rong's cooking.
Guo Jing immediately knelt and formally became Hong Qigong's disciple, promising to risk his life to uphold his master's honor. Hong Qigong warned him that if he lost, their master-disciple relationship would end. Hong Qigong began teaching Guo Jing the final three stances, unconcerned about Ouyang Ke watching, stating that true martial arts talent was key.
Huang Rong soon realized that these last stances were built upon the previous fifteen, making it impossible for Ouyang Ke to learn anything just by observing. Ouyang Ke tried to provoke Guo Jing, mocking his slow comprehension. Hong Qigong, however, encouraged Guo Jing, reminding him that talent isn't everything and that often the "hardest tasks are accomplished by dumb people," advising him to be patient.
Eventually, Hong Qigong urged Guo Jing to fight Ouyang Ke, confident that even with partial understanding, he could succeed. Guo Jing defeated Ouyang Ke, who fled in disgrace. Huang Rong then insisted that Guo Jing kill Ouyang Ke, but Hong Qigong intervened, stating he needed to "give Old Venom a chance to save face" and instructing Ouyang Ke to tell his uncle that "the Old Beggar's disciple taught you a lesson."
Afterward, Huang Rong, with her characteristic wit, persisted in asking Hong Qigong to accept her as a disciple too. Initially, Hong Qigong refused, citing her father, Huang Yaoshi's equally formidable martial arts and his concern about offending him. But Huang Rong cleverly argued that if he truly didn't fear her father, he should take her on, and she would even defend him if her father picked on him.
Wearied by her relentless persistence, Hong Qigong finally relented, and Huang Rong gleefully bowed to him as her master. Meanwhile, Yang Kang encountered Liang Ziweng, who informed him that Wanyan Honglie was worried about his disappearance and had sent search parties. Yang Kang vehemently rejected Wanyan Honglie's concern, declaring himself "Yang Kang," a commoner of the Song, and Wanyan Honglie his mortal enemy.
He prepared to kill Liang Ziweng, but Guo Jing and Huang Rong arrived just in time, stopping him. Guo Jing warned Liang Ziweng with a threat of the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms, causing him to flee. Yang Kang explained that Liang Ziweng wanted him to return to Wanyan Honglie, which he had refused. Guo Jing commended his decision.
Yang Kang then learned that Hong Qigong had taken Guo Jing as a disciple and completed his training in the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms, and congratulated him. As the three continued their journey north, Huang Rong reminded them to hurry to pursue Wanyan Honglie. Elsewhere, the Mongolian delegation was ambushed by Wanyan Honglie's forces. Hua Zheng was injured and became separated from Tolui and Master Jebe, who barely managed to escape.
Guo Jing, hearing the sounds of battle, quickly recognized Tolui and Master Jebe approaching, being pursued. With Guo Jing's intervention, the tide of the battle turned, and Wanyan Honglie was injured and forced to retreat. Yang Kang immediately gave chase. Guo Jing had no time for pleasantries with Tolui, quickly explaining that he needed to kill Wanyan Honglie, who had murdered his father. Tolui informed Guo Jing that Hua Zheng had been injured and lost during their escape.
They briefly parted ways, with Tolui and Master Jebe going to find Hua Zheng, while Guo Jing and Huang Rong continued the pursuit of Wanyan Honglie. Yang Kang's pursuit of Wanyan Honglie led him to the ancestral hall where Ouyang Ke had imprisoned Mu Nianci. In the dim and silent interior, Yang Kang confronted Wanyan Honglie, demanding to know what had happened in Niu Village eighteen years ago and how Yang Tiexin died.
Mu Nianci, hidden inside a coffin, heard Yang Kang's voice. Yang Kang accused Wanyan Honglie of ordering Duan Tiande to kill his real father, Yang Tiexin, to satisfy his selfish desires, expressing sorrow for his mother's death, who lived for eighteen years with her husband's murderer. He declared himself Yang Kang, son of Yang Tiexin.
Wanyan Honglie admitted his role, explaining his love for Yang Kang's mother, and then challenged Yang Kang to kill him, using emotional manipulation and questioning his resolve. He spoke of the joy of Yang Kang's birth and how he had raised him for eighteen years, contrasting it with Yang Tiexin's brief presence in his life. Wanyan Honglie promised Yang Kang a powerful future, offering him control of the world.
From the coffin, Mu Nianci desperately urged Yang Kang not to be swayed by Wanyan Honglie's "sweet words," reminding him that Wanyan Honglie was his enemy. Yang Kang, however, found himself torn, unable to kill the man he had believed to be his father for so long, especially after Wanyan Honglie had risked his life to save him from a tiger six months prior. Soon after, Guo Jing and Huang Rong arrived at the ancestral hall.
Yang Kang tried to mislead them, claiming he hadn't found Wanyan Honglie and that the hall only contained coffins, urging them to search elsewhere. But Huang Rong, sensing something was amiss and noting Yang Kang's strange demeanor, insisted on checking the coffins herself. As Guo Jing opened the coffins, apologizing to the spirits within, Huang Rong eventually discovered a trapped Mu Nianci.
Despite the reunion, Yang Kang showed no joy, his face stiff with discomfort, knowing Mu Nianci had heard his entire conversation with Wanyan Honglie. Guo Jing and Huang Rong left to continue their search, leaving Yang Kang and Mu Nianci alone. Mu Nianci confronted Yang Kang, expressing her disappointment and accusing him of lying, believing he was now fully embracing his identity as the Jin Young Prince.
Yang Kang, feeling misunderstood, tried to explain his emotional conflict, recalling how Wanyan Honglie had saved him from a tiger, and asking what she would do in his place, a man who had raised him for eighteen years. He claimed he no longer cared for luxury but couldn't bring himself to kill the man who had been a father to him. Later, when Guo Jing and Huang Rong met up with them, Huang Rong keenly observed the tense atmosphere between Yang Kang and Mu Nianci.
Episode 19 Recap
Upon their return, Huang Rong and Guo Jing expressed regret over Wanyan Honglie's escape, having searched for him all day. Huang Rong noticed Mu Nianci's subdued demeanor, which Yang Kang tried to dismiss as fatigue. However, Huang Rong suspected something was truly bothering Mu Nianci. To get a private word with her, Huang Rong cleverly sent Guo Jing and Yang Kang away for a walk.
Realizing Mu Nianci likely couldn't keep his secret from Huang Rong, Yang Kang took the initiative to confess to Guo Jing that he was the one who let Wanyan Honglie go. He explained he couldn't bring himself to kill a man who had raised him for eighteen years, having seen him as a father for so long. Torn between avenging his parents and repaying Wanyan Honglie's kindness, he felt conflicted.
Guo Jing understood Yang Kang's predicament, assuring him he wasn't wrong and that their parents would understand. Guo Jing then offered to pursue Wanyan Honglie for revenge himself. Yang Kang revealed Mu Nianci mistakenly believed he spared Wanyan Honglie for the sake of wealth and glory, and Guo Jing encouraged him to clarify the misunderstanding with her.
Inside, just as Huang Rong began to ask Mu Nianci what she heard while trapped in the coffin, Yang Kang re-entered and called Mu Nianci outside for a private conversation. Under the dim moonlight, Yang Kang explained to Mu Nianci that he no longer wanted to live in such a dilemma and had entrusted Guo Jing with the task of vengeance.
He then proposed they abandon their current struggles and return to Niu Village to live a peaceful life together, just as their parents once had. Mu Nianci, deeply moved by his genuine desire for repentance and a quiet life with her, agreed. Yang Kang then headed back inside to inform Guo Jing of their decision but paused when he overheard Huang Rong speaking.
Huang Rong was telling Guo Jing that Yang Kang's confession was merely a ploy to preempt Mu Nianci, and that he was still unwilling to give up riches and glory for a humble life. Hurt by these words, Yang Kang turned away silently. He and Mu Nianci departed without saying goodbye, with Yang Kang lamenting that Huang Rong didn't believe in his desire for a new start.
Mu Nianci, however, offered words of encouragement, affirming that if he truly committed to a path of good, Huang Rong would eventually come to understand. Later, Guo Jing and Huang Rong discovered their absence and speculated that they might have returned to Niu Village, a thought Huang Rong found reassuring. Guo Jing then resolved to track down Wanyan Honglie for revenge.
Huang Rong deduced that Wanyan Honglie would likely attempt to intercept Mongolian envoys in Lin'an before the Song-Mongol alliance could be finalized, so they decided to head there. On their journey, they encountered Tolui and Jebe, who were carrying a severely wounded and unconscious Hua Zheng.
The Mongolian envoys were on their way to Lin'an for alliance talks, and Tolui, concerned for Hua Zheng's safety and the potential for her injuries to worsen on the journey, entrusted her into Guo Jing's care. Hua Zheng, in her unconscious state, continuously murmured Guo Jing's name. Guo Jing dedicated himself to her care, viewing her as a sister, and Huang Rong, out of love for Guo Jing, assisted him diligently in nursing Hua Zheng back to health.
While collecting herbs in the mountains, Huang Rong sensed Guo Jing had something important to tell her. Guo Jing explained the kindness shown to him and his mother by Hua Zheng, Tolui, and the Great Khan during his youth in Mongolia. Huang Rong, recalling Hua Zheng's repeated calls for his name, asked if he had feelings for the Mongolian princess. Guo Jing quickly clarified that he only saw Hua Zheng as a sister, which greatly pleased Huang Rong.
Hua Zheng eventually awoke and, overcome with emotion, embraced Guo Jing tightly, expressing how much she missed him and wished for them never to be separated again. Just then, Huang Rong entered with medicine and witnessed the embrace, her heart sinking. She turned and left heartbroken. Guo Jing rushed after her, attempting to explain, but Hua Zheng intervened, proudly declaring herself a Mongolian princess and Guo Jing as the Great Khan's son-in-law, his Golden Sword Consort.
This revelation deeply angered Huang Rong, who chastised Guo Jing for never disclosing this significant detail before, and she stormed off. Guo Jing searched desperately for Huang Rong but couldn't find her. Returning to the inn, he discovered Hua Zheng had also departed. Feeling lost, he confided in his Little Red Horse, expressing his certainty that Huang Rong was furious.
With the Peach Blossom Island appointment fast approaching, he decided to go there first, hoping to find Huang Rong and explain his true feelings. Guo Jing found a boatman to take him to Peach Blossom Island, despite the boatman's dire warnings that it was a "dark and horrible place" from which no one returned. Undeterred, Guo Jing insisted. Upon arrival, he was captivated by the island's beauty, adorned with fragrant peach blossoms, a stark contrast to the boatman's description.
As he wandered deeper, he became trapped within the intricate Peach Blossom Forest array. Following cries for help, he arrived at Qingyin Cave, where he met an eccentric elder. The elder claimed to be poisoned by an invisible net set by a "ruthless martial arts expert" and would die within two hours. Guo Jing, ever compassionate, immediately offered to seek an antidote from this "evil man."
Unbeknownst to Guo Jing, Huang Yaoshi had already detected his presence on the island and, amused by his daring, was confident that Guo Jing would not be able to leave the island's labyrinthine traps. Meanwhile, Huang Rong had retreated to her mother's tomb. The elder, Zhou Botong, pointed Guo Jing towards the woods near the cave entrance, where the "evil man" supposedly lurked.
Guo Jing, chasing the black-caped figure, soon realized it was Zhou Botong himself, who laughingly admitted it was all a game to relieve his boredom. Guo Jing, recognizing the name, recalled that Zhou Botong was Wang Chongyang's junior disciple, known as the "Old Urchin" for his martial prowess and unpredictable nature. Guo Jing then explained his presence on the island, admitting he was there to apologize to Rong.
Zhou Botong, knowing Huang Rong to be the daughter of Huang Yaoshi, inquired about their relationship, subtly warning Guo Jing about the dangers posed by Huang Yaoshi. Guo Jing, undeterred, affirmed his commitment to Huang Rong. Zhou Botong then revealed that the Peach Blossom Forest was an intricate "Eight Front Strategy" array designed by Huang Yaoshi, making escape nearly impossible.
Guo Jing pleaded with Zhou Botong to lead him out, but the Old Urchin refused, stating he himself had been trapped in the cave for fifteen years, unable to overcome Huang Yaoshi. Zhou Botong recounted the story of the Nine Yin Manual and his senior, Wang Chongyang. At the Sword Meet on Mount Hua, Wang Chongyang was declared the "Top Master in Martial Arts" and won the two tomes of the Nine Yin Manual.
However, foreseeing the bloodshed it would cause, Wang Chongyang neither practiced it nor allowed anyone in his sect to do so, carefully hiding it. Zhou Botong explained that Wang Chongyang faked his own death to lure out Ouyang Feng, who coveted the manual. Wang Chongyang then used his Divine Finger to cripple Ouyang Feng's Toad Stance, leaving him powerless. Before truly passing away, Wang Chongyang instructed Zhou Botong to hide the two parts of the manual separately.
Zhou Botong successfully hid the first part, but something unexpected happened on his way to hide the second part on Mount Yandang. He then revealed that "she" had cheated him, causing him to destroy the second part of the manual, hinting that "she" was Huang Yaoshi's wife, who resided on Peach Blossom Island.
Episode 20 Recap
Huang Rong stood before her mother's tomb, pouring out her heart. She wondered why the more deeply she cared for someone, the more pain it brought her. Guo Jing had once promised to be with her forever, yet he had been titled Golden Dagger Son-in-law by the Mongols. Her father, Huang Yaoshi, overheard her lamentations and, filled with rage, declared his intention to kill Guo Jing, calling him shameless.
Huang Rong tried to defend Guo Jing, explaining his simple nature and how his acceptance of the title was due to an obligation to the Mongolians. Huang Yaoshi then revealed that Guo Jing had walked into his own trap and was currently ensnared in the Peach Blossom Formation. Huang Rong desperately wanted to save him, but her father forbade it, threatening to make Guo Jing die miserably if she dared to intervene.
He asserted that this was to show Guo Jing the severe consequences of wronging his daughter. Meanwhile, inside the cave, Zhou Botong continued recounting the tale of the Nine Yin Manual to Guo Jing. He explained how Huang Yaoshi's wife, feigning a lack of martial arts knowledge, had persuaded him to lend her the manual. To his surprise, she later returned it, claiming it was fake.
She even recited a different text from memory, accusing Ouyang Feng of swapping the original. Guo Jing, initially confused, soon realized the clever deception. Zhou Botong revealed that Mrs. Huang possessed an extraordinary photographic memory, capable of memorizing the entire manual after a single reading and even reciting it backward, a brilliant trait inherited by Huang Rong.
He then recounted Mrs. Huang's tragic end: after the "Twin Killers," Mei Chaofeng and Chen Xuanfeng, stole her transcribed copy of the manual, she, while pregnant, exhausted herself attempting to rewrite it from memory for Huang Yaoshi, ultimately dying in childbirth. Guo Jing concluded that the manual brought only misfortune. Suddenly, the cave resonated with the melodic yet unsettling "Jade-colored Tidal Wave Song" played by Huang Yaoshi. Zhou Botong quickly instructed Guo Jing to sit down and enter meditation.
Though Zhou Botong himself struggled immensely, eventually collapsing under its influence, Guo Jing, through his inner cultivation and pure heart, managed to withstand the powerful melody. Impressed, Huang Yaoshi ceased playing. Once recovered, Zhou Botong praised Guo Jing's resilience, noting that Huang Yaoshi had to employ his most potent technique against him. Guo Jing humbly attributed his presence to his belief that Huang Yaoshi disliked him and he had come to die.
Curious about Guo Jing's unexpected strength, Zhou Botong inquired about his masters. Guo Jing listed his teachers: the Seven Heroes of the South, Taoist Ma Yu, and Hong Qigong, who taught him the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms. Zhou Botong, observing Guo Jing's pure state during the music, deduced that Huang Yaoshi's true intent was to test the nature of Guo Jing's relationship with Huang Rong, and Guo Jing had merely been an unfortunate casualty of this elaborate test.
Guo Jing apologized for inadvertently involving Zhou Botong, but the elder dismissed it. Desiring a companion to practice his unique techniques, Zhou Botong insisted on teaching Guo Jing his self-created "Mutual Hands Combat." Guo Jing initially resisted, claiming he was too dull and only wished to see Huang Rong to explain himself. Zhou Botong, exasperated, argued that mastering formidable martial arts was crucial to gain Huang Yaoshi's approval and successfully marry Huang Rong. Convinced, Guo Jing agreed to learn.
The first lesson involved simultaneously drawing a perfect square with one hand and a perfect circle with the other. Despite hours of effort, Guo Jing struggled to coordinate his hands independently. Zhou Botong, who had spent fifteen years perfecting this skill, grew increasingly frustrated by Guo Jing's perceived denseness. Meanwhile, Huang Yaoshi confined Huang Rong to her room.
When she attempted to leave, he sternly threatened to kill Guo Jing, promising him a swift death if she remained obedient but a gruesome end if she defied him. Alone, Huang Rong grappled with a heart-wrenching dilemma. She vowed not to let her father kill Guo Jing, but realized that saving him would likely mean his return to Mongolia to marry the princess as the Golden Dagger Son-in-law.
The thought of this outcome made her feel she "can't live any more." She then found herself understanding Mu Nianci's past sorrow, concluding that "love is the most potent poison in this world." On their journey back to Niu Village, Yang Kang and Mu Nianci stopped at an inn. Yang Kang seemed distracted, and Mu Nianci asked if he was still contemplating Wanyan Honglie's words, which he denied.
Later that night, Mei Chaofeng suddenly burst into their room, intent on killing Yang Kang. She explained that Huang Yaoshi, her former master, had ordered her to eliminate anyone who had learned the Nine Yin Manual, which Yang Kang had inadvertently practiced. Yang Kang pleaded for his life, reminding her of his past kindness to her and his own tragic parental history.
Mei Chaofeng, out of a sense of past obligation, agreed to spare his life but insisted on destroying his martial arts. Feigning acceptance, Yang Kang offered her tea as a gesture of respect, then cunningly stabbed her. As he and Mu Nianci attempted to flee, they were intercepted by Wanyan Honglie's men, who had been sent to find Yang Kang. The men informed him that Wanyan Honglie wished to meet him on a bridge three nights later.
However, Yang Kang defiantly sent a message back, vowing to kill Wanyan Honglie if they ever met again, firm in his commitment to have nothing more to do with his adoptive father due to their "vengeful grudge." Mu Nianci, overjoyed by Yang Kang's unwavering stance, assured him that her recent physical suffering was worth hearing his declaration. Yang Kang, in turn, promised to protect her and ensure her safety for the rest of her life.
Back in the cave, after an entire night of persistent effort, Guo Jing surprised Zhou Botong by finally mastering the Dual Cultivation technique, successfully drawing a perfect square and circle simultaneously. Zhou Botong marvelled that Guo Jing achieved in one night what took him half a month, jokingly attributing it to Guo Jing's "dullness" which allowed for unparalleled focus, unlike his own easily distracted mind. He called Guo Jing a "lucky fool."
Zhou Botong then introduced the second lesson: performing South Mountain Fist with one hand and Yue Maiden Sword with the other. During their meal, which Zhou Botong explained was regularly provided by Huang Yaoshi, Guo Jing discovered a hidden note from Huang Rong in his steamed bun, which mentioned the upcoming "full moon night in 7 days." Before Guo Jing could fully read it, Zhou Botong quickly snatched and ate the note, asserting that "no paper, no trouble."
Though Guo Jing was eager to know its contents, Zhou Botong cryptically stated he would understand his "kindness" later and urged him to eat or resume training. When Guo Jing expressed his desire to find Huang Rong, Zhou Botong questioned his intentions, and upon hearing Guo Jing wished to marry her, reminded him of the importance of obtaining Huang Yaoshi's permission through proper channels, including parental consent and a matchmaker.
Inspired by this advice, Guo Jing then summoned his loyal white condors, realizing they could carry messages to his masters, ensuring a polite and proper approach to seeking Huang Rong's hand in marriage.
Episode 21 Recap
Days in the cave dragged on, and Zhou Botong and Guo Jing engaged in complex sparring, a dazzling display of martial arts. Zhou Botong, however, complained that Guo Jing was like a dull piece of wood with a wooden brain, easily tricked. Guo Jing apologized, saying he was slow-witted. Zhou Botong then retorted that Guo Jing wasn't "that" stupid, as he had reduced his strength during their fights, fearing to hurt Zhou Botong.
Zhou Botong then used an analogy of empty and full jars to explain his martial arts philosophy, emphasizing the utility of emptiness. He then decided to teach Guo Jing a new, greatest technique of the Quanzhen Sect, which he himself had invented: the Vacant Fist. Guo Jing, however, was distracted, his mind fixated on a note Huang Rong had sent him. He only managed to read "The full moon in seven days," before Zhou Botong snatched and ate it.
Guo Jing believed Rong wanted to meet him, but he was worried about being stuck in the forest, unable to read the rest of the note. His heart was confused, making it hard to learn. Zhou Botong urged him to focus on learning the Vacant Fist, arguing that if he couldn't even defeat him, Huang Yaoshi would never entrust Rong to him.
He advised Guo Jing to master his martial arts so he could either take Rong away or at least be strong enough to speak with Huang Yaoshi. Guo Jing conceded, and Zhou Botong began teaching him the Vacant Fist, repeating maxims like "Great perfection seems flawed, but it never fails. Great fullness seems empty, but it never ceases." Meanwhile, Huang Rong was confined to her room, grappling with her dilemma.
She heard footsteps, and Huang Yaoshi entered, finding her practicing calligraphy. He noted that while her writing was neat, it lacked strength, indicating a distracted mind. Huang Rong feigned sadness, explaining she was preparing the calligraphy as a gift for her mother’s upcoming death anniversary. She lamented that her calligraphy and poetry were far inferior to her mother's, suggesting her efforts were useless. Hearing her speak of her mother, Huang Yaoshi's expression softened.
Huang Rong, seizing the moment, declared she now understood his love and that everything he did was for her own good, and feigned giving up on Guo Jing to make her father spare him. She promised to obey him. Huang Yaoshi then announced he would kill Guo Jing. Huang Rong pretended indifference, claiming Guo Jing had disappointed her and she no longer cared. Later, Huang Yaoshi stood before his deceased wife Heng’s tomb.
He gently placed Huang Rong's calligraphy there, telling his wife that their daughter was almost sixteen, beautiful and smart, just like her. He refused to let her marry a "dumb fool" like Guo Jing. He mused that if Rong could truly forget Guo Jing, he might spare his life, leaving him to fend for himself in the Peach Blossom Forest. He promised to find Rong the best possible husband.
After that, free of worries, he would bring the Nine Yin Manual to his wife. In a tranquil inn, Mu Nianci was worried. She believed Yang Kang had gone to meet Wanyan Honglie despite his promises. Just then, Yang Kang appeared, holding a hand warmer. He explained it was for her, to combat the cold poison she sustained from Mei Chaofeng while saving him. He promised that once she felt better, they would return to Niu Village.
Yang Kang did meet Wanyan Honglie, telling him that he had spared his life previously out of gratitude for being raised, but now they were even, and if they met again, he would kill him. Wanyan Honglie eloquently tried to persuade him, asking if he was content to be a common Song citizen, reminding him that his destiny was his own to choose.
He tried to manipulate Yang Kang by recalling how he had sent Duan Tiande to Niu Village to seize Yang Kang's mother, claiming it was because he believed she deserved a better life than in the impoverished village. Wanyan Honglie argued that he loved Yang Kang’s mother more than Yang Tiexin did, and that Yang Tiexin had ruined their happiness and Yang Kang’s future. He suggested a true lover would have wished them well and left.
Yang Kang listened, his eyes wet with tears, but ultimately asserted his decision to return to Niu Village with Mu Nianci for a quiet life. Wanyan Honglie scornfully painted a picture of a commoner's life, suggesting it was beneath him. Despite Wanyan Honglie's words, Yang Kang and Mu Nianci arrived at their dilapidated home in Niu Village. Mu Nianci, full of excitement, envisioned their future, describing how they would decorate the house and plant osmanthus in the yard.
Yang Kang, however, was distracted, Wanyan Honglie’s words echoing in his mind. Noticing his unease, Mu Nianci asked what was wrong. Yang Kang confessed his guilt towards his deceased parents, for injuring Guo Jing, and for shaming his master and the Quanzhen Sect. Mu Nianci comforted him, assuring him that repentance would appease his parents' spirits.
Yang Kang then revealed his plan: he had heard Wanyan Honglie mention that Yue Fei's Wumu Manual had been stolen by a jailer named Kui Shun, who later joined the Beggars' Sect. Since Mu Nianci knew Beggars' Sect martial arts, he asked her to introduce him to Chief Hong, hoping to recover the Manual before the Jin acquired it and unleashed war on the Song people. For several days, Mu Nianci and Yang Kang searched for Chief Hong.
She explained that Chief Hong had only taught her for three days, so she didn't know other masters. Yang Kang expressed his anxiety, emphasizing the grave danger to the Song nation if the Jin obtained the Wumu Manual. Eventually, Beggars' Sect Elders Yu and Li sought them out. Yang Kang, after being introduced as a descendant of General Yang Zaixing, explained his concern about the Jin's pursuit of the Wumu Manual and asked about Kui Shun.
Impressed by his patriotism, the elders revealed that Kui Shun had hidden the Wumu Manual in Cuihan Hall within the Imperial Palace. Yang Kang immediately reported this information to Wanyan Honglie, who was delighted and forgave Yang Kang's past transgressions. When Wanyan Honglie planned to seize the Manual that very night, Ouyang Ke mocked his bravado, warning that the Imperial Guards would apprehend them before they could even enter the heavily fortified palace.
Yang Kang agreed that direct confrontation was unwise and suggested enlisting Ouyang Feng’s help, praising him as one of the Five Greats. Ouyang Ke declined, stating his uncle was obsessed with martial arts and was currently tracking the Upper Volume of the Nine Yin Manual on Peach Blossom Island. Yang Kang then offered a deal: if he could obtain the Lower Volume of the Nine Yin Manual, Ouyang Feng should help them secure the Wumu Manual.
Ouyang Ke, surprised that Yang Kang knew Mei Chaofeng possessed the Lower Volume, agreed to the exchange. In a deep mountain, Yang Kang cunningly set a trap for Mei Chaofeng. He had been intentionally leaving traces of the Nine Yin Skeleton Claw, knowing she would seek him out to remove his martial arts. When Mei Chaofeng arrived, she was ambushed and captured. She demanded to know who had used such vile tricks.
Yang Kang declared it was her own fault and that she couldn't escape this time. As his men dragged her away, Yang Kang feigned concern, promising to find a way to save her. Back on Peach Blossom Island, Huang Rong had prepared a feast for her mother's death anniversary and her own birthday. Huang Yaoshi sampled her cooking, deeming it "acceptable" but not as good as her mother's.
Huang Rong, pretending to be slighted, mentioned how others always praised her cooking. Huang Yaoshi saw through her act, realizing she was still thinking of Guo Jing. Huang Rong then offered him a toast with wine she had secretly drugged. Meanwhile, seven days had passed. Guo Jing decided he could no longer stay in the Echo Cave. He knelt before Zhou Botong, expressing his profound gratitude for teaching him martial arts and how to propose marriage.
Zhou Botong, eager to avoid being indebted, tried to kowtow back to Guo Jing. Seizing the chaotic moment, Guo Jing sprang up and dashed out of the Echo Cave, despite Zhou Botong's warning shouts about the dangers of the Peach Blossom Formation. Unable to sleep, Zhou Botong worried about Guo Jing getting lost in the Peach Blossom Formation and ventured out to find him.
He called out for Guo Jing, lamenting Huang Yaoshi's mastery of formations, and soon found himself disoriented. Suddenly, a silver snake struck, biting him on the leg. Zhou Botong cried out in pain, calling for help. Hearing his shouts, both Guo Jing and Huang Rong, who had arrived at the empty Echo Cave looking for Guo Jing, converged towards the sound. They met in the Peach Blossom Forest, overjoyed at their reunion.
Huang Rong, still upset but more concerned for his safety, asked why he had come into the formation when her note had instructed him to wait in the Echo Cave. Guo Jing explained that Zhou Botong had eaten the note. Huang Rong offered to lead him out and urged him to never return to the island, suggesting they should never meet again. Guo Jing adamantly refused, declaring his intention to propose marriage to Huang Yaoshi.
Episode 22 Recap
In the quiet confines of Qingyin Cave on Peach Blossom Island, Zhou Botong, finding days boring, insisted on sparring with Guo Jing, teaching him profound martial arts, including the "Mutual Hands Combat" technique and later the "Empty Fist." Meanwhile, Huang Rong was confined to her room, grappling with a difficult situation. Her father, Huang Yaoshi, found her practicing calligraphy, which she cleverly used to placate him.
She feigned sadness about her mother's upcoming death anniversary, presenting the calligraphy as a tribute. Huang Yaoshi, remembering his beloved late wife, softened and, seeing Huang Rong seemingly relinquish her affections for Guo Jing, decided to leave Guo Jing to his own devices in the Peach Blossom Forest. Elsewhere, in a secluded inn, Mu Nianci worried over Yang Kang’s disappearance, suspecting he had gone to meet Wanyan Honglie.
Yang Kang eventually returned, bearing a hand warmer for her, stirring her emotions. Under the cloak of night, a thoughtful Yang Kang met Wanyan Honglie, who, with his eloquent persuasion, deeply moved Yang Kang, causing him to shed tears. Despite this, Yang Kang initially resolved to return to Niujia Village with Mu Nianci. Their arrival at the dilapidated Niujia Village, with its broken roofs and overgrown weeds, contrasted sharply with Wanyan Honglie’s descriptions of a royal life.
Realizing this simple existence was not for him, Yang Kang turned his attention to the Beggar's Gang. Mu Nianci helped him meet Elders Yu and Li, to whom Yang Kang revealed the Jin people’s interest in the Wumu Legacy. The outraged elders unwittingly divulged the crucial location of the Wumu Legacy: Cuihan Hall. Yang Kang, however, promptly betrayed this information to Wanyan Honglie, returning with significant merit, which earned him forgiveness for past transgressions.
Knowing Cuihan Hall was heavily guarded within the imperial palace, Yang Kang proposed involving Ouyang Feng. Ouyang Ke, Ouyang Feng’s nephew, quickly declined, explaining his uncle was engrossed in martial arts and planning to seek the Nine Yin Manual’s upper scroll on Peach Blossom Island. Yang Kang’s interest was piqued; he offered to help find the lower scroll of the Nine Yin Manual in exchange for Ouyang Feng’s assistance in seizing the Wumu Legacy.
Subsequently, in a remote mountain region, Yang Kang cunningly captured Mei Chaofeng, exploiting her blindness under the guise of concern. Back on Peach Blossom Island, Huang Rong, having diligently feigned obedience for days, finally seized an opportunity to drug Huang Yaoshi. At the same time, Guo Jing, no longer able to endure his confinement, rushed out of Qingyin Cave, despite Zhou Botong's attempts to stop him. Unable to sleep, Zhou Botong soon followed in search of Guo Jing.
Huang Rong, arriving at Qingyin Cave, found it empty. In the beautiful yet treacherous Peach Blossom Forest, a silver snake suddenly attacked Zhou Botong, biting his leg and causing him to collapse in pain. Hearing his cries, Guo Jing and Huang Rong, who had coincidentally met on their way, rushed to him, their long-awaited reunion filled with immense joy. After their joyful reunion, Huang Rong suggests that Guo Jing leave Peach Blossom Island and they part ways.
Guo Jing becomes anxious, swiftly explaining that his agreement to be the Great Khan’s son-in-law was merely out of necessity. He assures her he never wanted that role, viewing Hua Zheng as a sister whom he doesn't want to upset but won't marry. He declares his unwavering love, stating he only wants to be with Rong and will stay with her even if everyone disagrees. Deeply moved, Huang Rong decides they will leave Peach Blossom Island together.
Just as Guo Jing and Huang Rong prepare to depart, Zhou Botong's pained cries for help echo through the forest. Huang Rong warns Guo Jing against returning, revealing she drugged her father's wine, and fears he will be furious if he wakes to find them there. However, Guo Jing insists on helping Zhou Botong, stating he cannot abandon a friend in need, and Huang Rong vows to go with him.
They discover Zhou Botong, unconscious with blue lips, suffering from a severe snakebite. Huang Rong quickly instructs Guo Jing to tie off Zhou Botong’s leg to prevent the venom from reaching his heart. Without hesitation, Guo Jing sucks the poison from Zhou Botong's wound. At that moment, Huang Yaoshi arrives, furious to learn Huang Rong drugged his wine for Guo Jing's sake.
Guo Jing tries to reason with him, promising to return to Genghis Khan to cancel his betrothal to Hua Zheng. However, Huang Yaoshi declares that even if Guo Jing is not the Great Khan's son-in-law, he still forbids him from marrying Huang Rong and attacks Guo Jing. Zhou Botong, regaining consciousness, intervenes, pointing out that Huang Yaoshi would not be a hero if he killed a man already weakened by poison.
Recognizing Huang Yaoshi's long-standing desire for the Nine Yin Manual, Zhou Botong offers to give him the complete manual if he releases Guo Jing. Huang Yaoshi, visibly tempted, agrees to temporarily spare Guo Jing. Suddenly, a distant flute sound is heard, and poisonous snakes begin to appear, signaling the arrival of Ouyang Feng. Huang Yaoshi, realizing Ouyang Feng's unexpected visit must signify something important, takes a reluctant Huang Rong with him to greet their guests.
Ouyang Feng arrives with Ouyang Ke and his disciples, presenting many gifts. Ouyang Ke attempts to apologize to Huang Rong for his past behavior, claiming he didn't know she was Huang Yaoshi's daughter. Huang Rong scoffs at his insincerity, but Ouyang Feng intercedes, assuring Huang Yaoshi that he has already disciplined his nephew. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Huang Yaoshi invites Ouyang Feng and his entourage to enter the island.
Meanwhile, Zhou Botong and Guo Jing return to Qingyin Cave. Guo Jing asks if Zhou Botong is alright, and Zhou Botong confirms his recovery, crediting Guo Jing for almost sacrificing his own life to save him. Guo Jing remarks that he feels fine and attributes his quick recovery to having once consumed the blood of a viper at Prince Zhao's Residence, which seemingly granted him resistance to poisons.
Zhou Botong, now feeling a profound obligation, struggles to find a way to repay Guo Jing. Despite Guo Jing's assurances that no repayment is necessary, Zhou Botong, after some deliberation, proposes they become sworn brothers. He reasons that as brothers, their lives would be shared, thereby nullifying any debt for saving his life. Though Guo Jing hesitates, Zhou Botong presses him, and they perform the ritual, becoming sworn brothers.
Guo Jing expresses his concern for Huang Rong, to which Zhou Botong replies that Huang Rong was taken away by her father and that Guo Jing likely won't see her for a while, adding to Guo Jing's worries. In a small pavilion over the lake, Huang Yaoshi gives Ouyang Ke permission to explore the island, cautioning him to avoid the Peach Blossom Forest due to its numerous traps.
Ouyang Feng then reveals his true intention: to propose marriage between Ouyang Ke and Huang Rong. He presents a rare Rhinoceros Dragon Pill, a Western treasure impervious to all poisons and the only one of its kind, as the formal betrothal gift, in addition to the earlier "souvenirs." Huang Rong vehemently rejects the proposal, declaring she would rather die than marry Ouyang Ke, whom she despises for his wickedness.
However, Huang Yaoshi disregards her feelings, stating he finds Ouyang Ke far superior to Guo Jing and that a union between their two families, both led by renowned martial arts masters, would be a proper and dignified match. He then pronounces his decision final. Zhou Botong, eager to relieve his boredom, insists on sparring with Guo Jing. He offers to fight barehanded while Guo Jing uses any weapon.
When Guo Jing retrieves his dagger, Zhou Botong spots that it is wrapped in a piece of human skin covered with intricate writing. Recognizing it instantly as the lower scroll of the Nine Yin Manual, he is overjoyed, exclaiming about the treasure he has found. Guo Jing, oblivious to its significance, suggests throwing it away, explaining that his second master, Master Zhu, acquired it from Mei Chaofeng.
Zhou Botong's excitement soon turns to despair as he recalls his solemn vow to his senior brother never to practice the Nine Yin Manual himself. Noticing Zhou Botong's distress, Guo Jing asks if he has a problem, offering to help despite his own perceived stupidity. This sparks an idea in Zhou Botong's mind: he cannot practice the manual, but Guo Jing can. By teaching Guo Jing and observing him, Zhou Botong believes he won't be breaking his oath.
He devises a deceptive name for the technique, calling it the "Bu-Butong Manual," and proceeds to instruct Guo Jing in the practice of the Nine Yin Manual, starting with breathing techniques and concentration while facing north. In a damp, frigid prison cell, Mei Chaofeng is securely confined within an iron cage suspended over a pool of water. Yang Kang visits her, feigning concern and claiming he is not responsible for her capture.
He reveals that Ouyang Ke informed his adoptive father, Prince Zhao, that Mei Chaofeng possessed the lower scroll of the Nine Yin Manual, which led to this elaborate trap. Mei Chaofeng, however, dismisses his words as lies, highlighting that he still refers to Prince Zhao as "father," proving his reluctance to relinquish a life of wealth and glory. She then informs him that the Nine Yin Manual is not with her, nor does she know its whereabouts.
A surprised Yang Kang presses her for the location, promising her freedom in return. Mei Chaofeng remains steadfast in her ignorance, and Yang Kang's attempts to persuade her are futile. His subordinate later asks if he successfully obtained the manual, to which Yang Kang responds that he needs to find another way to compel her cooperation. Distraught by the forced marriage proposal, Huang Rong decides to prank Ouyang Ke to buy time to see Guo Jing.
When Ouyang Ke approaches her, declaring his deep affection, Huang Rong, though annoyed, feigns interest and offers to show him the beautiful Peach Blossom Forest. Despite her father’s earlier warnings about the traps within, Ouyang Ke, eager to please, agrees to follow her. Inside the forest, Huang Rong gives him peaches, deceptively calling them "poisonous," and then pretends to go fetch an antidote, leaving him entangled in the maze-like traps while he cries for help.
She then rushes to Qingyin Cave, relieved to find Guo Jing well. Huang Rong informs him of Huang Yaoshi’s decision to marry her to Ouyang Ke, and firmly states she will never agree, insisting that she, Guo Jing, and Zhou Botong must leave the island together. Guo Jing readily agrees. Zhou Botong attempts to prevent their departure, reminding Guo Jing of their oath as sworn brothers.
Huang Rong suggests he join them, but Zhou Botong is determined to defeat Huang Yaoshi first. A spark of inspiration hits him, and he realizes he can employ his "Mutual Hands Combat" technique to effectively fight Huang Yaoshi as two individuals. As the trio finally attempts to leave the cave, they hear Ouyang Ke’s desperate shouts for help from the Peach Blossom Forest. Shortly after, a familiar voice—that of Hong Qigong—is heard from within the forest.
Hong Qigong explains that he received Guo Jing's message sent by a condor and has come to act as a matchmaker for Guo Jing. Huang Yaoshi personally comes to greet Hong Qigong, a distinguished guest. Hong Qigong apologizes for accepting Huang Rong as his disciple without first consulting her father, explaining that her beauty, intelligence, and exceptional cooking skills were irresistible. Huang Yaoshi, pleased by his daughter's good fortune, accepts the situation and asks Hong Qigong to guide her.
Huang Rong then reveals that Hong Qigong has also taken Guo Jing as a disciple, teaching him the powerful Eighteen Dragon-Subduing Palms. Huang Yaoshi, surprised by Guo Jing's good fortune, regards him with newfound respect. Zhou Botong attempts to interject, but Huang Yaoshi tries to dismiss him. Hong Qigong reminds Huang Yaoshi of the proper guest etiquette, and Huang Yaoshi, conceding, agrees to deal with Zhou Botong later, noting he's still trapped.
Hong Qigong clarifies that he specifically came to Peach Blossom Island for Guo Jing, to act as his matchmaker. For Hong Qigong's sake, Huang Yaoshi agrees to allow Guo Jing to stay on the island for a few more days. Just then, Ouyang Ke’s frantic cries for help echo through the air, prompting Huang Yaoshi to go find him. Huang Rong, when questioned, denies any involvement in Ouyang Ke's predicament.
Still within the Peach Blossom Forest, Hong Qigong, found by Huang Rong and Guo Jing, playfully comments on Ouyang Ke's predicament, whose incessant itching from the "poisonous" peaches later clearly indicates his discomfort. Huang Rong, still concerned about her father's insistence on her marriage to Ouyang Ke, expresses her worries to Hong Qigong.
After a moment of teasing, Hong Qigong, recognizing Guo Jing's sincere love for Huang Rong, reassures them both, promising he will not allow Huang Yaoshi to force the marriage. Meanwhile, Ouyang Feng finds Ouyang Ke, still entangled and itching. Ouyang Feng probes Ouyang Ke about his true feelings for Huang Rong. Ouyang Ke initially maintains that his pursuit of Huang Rong was merely to aid Ouyang Feng in acquiring the Nine Yin Manual, but his hesitation betrays deeper emotions.
Ouyang Feng then gently takes Ouyang Ke's wrist, acknowledging his nephew's affection. He solemnly declares that he considers Ouyang Ke his own son and will ensure all his wishes are granted, including marrying Huang Rong, seeing it as a strategy that achieves two goals simultaneously.
Episode 23 Recap
Ouyang Feng narrowed his eyes, perplexed by Hong Qigong's presence on Peach Blossom Island. Ouyang Ke surmised that Hong Qigong might be there for the Nine Yin Manual. Ouyang Feng gripped his staff, determined to acquire the Nine Yin Manual regardless of who stood in his way. Zhou Botong, who had been hiding and listening, let out a few laughs before running off. Meanwhile, Guo Jing and Huang Rong were enjoying tea together.
Zhou Botong rushed in, relaying Ouyang Feng’s conspiracy. He revealed that Ouyang Feng and Ouyang Ke did not truly care for Huang Rong, but viewed her as a mere chess piece. Their proposed marriage was a pretense to get their hands on Huang Yaoshi's Nine Yin Manual. Guo Jing, ever straightforward, wanted to immediately inform Huang Yaoshi and Hong Qigong.
Huang Rong stopped him, cautioning that her father harbored prejudice against Guo Jing and would likely mistrust any information coming from him. Zhou Botong then urged the couple to flee Peach Blossom Island and go as far as possible to avoid Huang Yaoshi's wrath. However, Guo Jing insisted they couldn't just leave, emphasizing the need to warn Huang Yaoshi about Ouyang Feng’s true intentions to prevent him from falling into their trap.
Just then, Ouyang Feng arrived, demanding Zhou Botong appear. Guo Jing and Huang Rong went to investigate. Zhou Botong, unfazed, immediately engaged Ouyang Feng in a fight, having confronted Ouyang Feng earlier for a snake bite and accidentally overhearing the conspiracy. Despite Zhou Botong's improved martial arts, he couldn't gain an advantage over Ouyang Feng. The sounds of their fierce combat, which moved from the ground to the rooftop, attracted Huang Yaoshi, Hong Qigong, and others.
As a rare spectacle, no one intervened. Huang Rong seized the opportunity to tell her father that Ouyang Feng and Ouyang Ke were actually after his Nine Yin Manual, but Huang Yaoshi dismissed her claims, deeming Zhou Botong's words unreliable. During the fight, Ouyang Feng remarked on Zhou Botong's improved martial arts.
To Ouyang Feng's surprise, this praise troubled Zhou Botong, who declared the fight "not fun at all" and abruptly left, feeling he had mistakenly used techniques from the forbidden manual. Hong Qigong then unexpectedly proposed marriage for Guo Jing. Huang Yaoshi, caught off guard, almost agreed, but Ouyang Feng quickly intervened, stating that Huang Yaoshi had already promised Huang Rong to his nephew, Ouyang Ke, and they were there with betrothal gifts.
Hong Qigong and Ouyang Feng, each asserting their right to Huang Rong's hand, became hostile. Hong Qigong instructed Guo Jing and Huang Rong to cover their ears as Ouyang Feng, playing the zither, and Huang Yaoshi, playing the xiao, began a contest of internal energy through music. Guo Jing noticed the music aligning with his heartbeat. During this intense display, Ouyang Ke attempted a sneak attack on Guo Jing, accusing him of faking his profound inner power.
However, Guo Jing, utilizing the "Mutual Hands Combat" technique taught by Zhou Botong, retaliated, severely injuring Ouyang Ke. When Huang Yaoshi inquired about the technique, Huang Rong explained that Guo Jing had become Zhou Botong’s sworn brother after saving him from a poisonous snake bite. Huang Yaoshi expressed his disbelief at their absurd brotherhood. Recognizing the escalating conflict and with two powerful masters vying for his daughter's hand, Huang Yaoshi proposed a compromise.
He announced three tests for the two young men, Guo Jing and Ouyang Ke, declaring that the winner would marry Huang Rong. Ouyang Feng expressed concern about Ouyang Ke's recent injury, but Huang Yaoshi assured them the trials would be fair and take place the following afternoon. Huang Rong, knowing her father's dislike for Guo Jing, worried he would be biased and that if Guo Jing lost, they couldn't be together.
That night, Huang Yaoshi visited his late wife’s coffin, expressing his hope to choose the best husband for Huang Rong. Huang Rong secretly overheard him and prayed for Guo Jing’s victory. The next day, the trials began. For the first test, martial arts, Huang Yaoshi set up an unconventional challenge. Instead of fighting each other, Ouyang Feng would spar with Guo Jing, and Hong Qigong with Ouyang Ke.
The four would fight on peach trees, and the first to fall into the water would lose. Additionally, if either Ouyang Feng or Hong Qigong accidentally injured their young opponent, their candidate would lose. Hong Qigong criticized the rules as "wicked," but Huang Yaoshi defended them, stating he couldn't allow his future son-in-law to be harmed. During the sparring, Ouyang Feng summoned his inner power against Guo Jing.
Ouyang Ke seized the moment to launch a sneaky kick at Guo Jing. Outraged by this foul play, Huang Rong threw silver needles at Ouyang Ke. Ouyang Feng deflected the needles, redirecting them back towards Huang Rong. Seeing Huang Rong in peril, Guo Jing rushed to protect her. At the critical moment, Huang Yaoshi intervened, saving both of them.
Citing the rule that injuring an opponent resulted in a loss, Huang Yaoshi declared Guo Jing the winner of the first round. The second test was on music. Huang Yaoshi explained that his late wife was a music virtuoso and would want a music lover for a son-in-law. Huang Rong protested, pointing out Guo Jing's lack of musical knowledge from growing up in Mongolia. Huang Yaoshi remained firm, stating their son-in-law couldn't be tone-deaf.
Although Hong Qigong attempted to withdraw Guo Jing, Guo Jing insisted on continuing, believing it was a reasonable test given Huang Rong's parents' musical affinity. Huang Yaoshi instructed Guo Jing and Ouyang Ke to beat time with bamboo sticks while he played an ordinary tune, and the one who did it best would win. Ouyang Ke, a music enthusiast, performed well but became so engrossed in the music that he swayed with the rhythm.
Guo Jing, despite his musical ineptitude, focused intently and surprisingly managed to disrupt Huang Yaoshi's intricate rhythm, causing Huang Yaoshi to change tunes repeatedly. Afterward, Huang Yaoshi declared Ouyang Ke the winner. Hong Qigong protested, arguing that Guo Jing demonstrated superior self-control by disrupting the performance, while Ouyang Ke got carried away. However, Huang Yaoshi maintained that while Guo Jing showed self-control, the test was about musical understanding, in which Ouyang Ke excelled.
For the third and final test, Huang Yaoshi presented his late wife’s hand-written copy of the Nine Yin Manual, explaining she had died while transcribing it and it was her legacy. He challenged the two young men to read it once and then recite as much of it as they could, with the one remembering the most winning Huang Rong's hand. Hong Qigong protested, highlighting Guo Jing's poor literacy.
Ouyang Ke, realizing the significance of the Nine Yin Manual, saw it as an unexpected windfall. Guo Jing was astonished to find that the manual's contents were identical to the "Butong Manual" that Zhou Botong had taught him. Fearing Guo Jing's memory might fail him, Huang Rong attempted to distract Ouyang Ke by fabricating a story about the ghost of Mu Nianci, whom Ouyang Ke had previously trapped in a coffin, coming to seek revenge.
Ouyang Ke recited a commendable portion, though with some errors. To everyone's surprise, Guo Jing then flawlessly recited the entire manual. Huang Yaoshi, visibly moved, asked Guo Jing if he possessed Mei Chaofeng's lost Nine Yin Manual. Guo Jing denied any knowledge, claiming he would return it if he ever found it. Believing his late wife's spirit had chosen Guo Jing, Huang Yaoshi prepared to declare him his son-in-law.
However, Ouyang Ke quickly interjected, pointing out that Guo Jing had recited "more" than what was written in the provided book, accusing him of having prior knowledge of the Nine Yin Manual. Guo Jing steadfastly denied it, reiterating that he had only learned the "Butong Manual" from Zhou Botong. As Huang Yaoshi pressed Guo Jing for proof of his innocence, Zhou Botong suddenly appeared, having tied himself up.
Huang Rong urged Zhou Botong to clarify that Guo Jing had not known what Zhou Botong taught him was the Nine Yin Manual. However, Zhou Botong, much to everyone's dismay, asserted that Guo Jing had indeed known it was the Nine Yin Manual and had even begged him to teach it. Hong Qigong, growing increasingly anxious about Guo Jing's future, implored Zhou Botong to speak clearly. Instead, Zhou Botong playfully ran off, challenging them to catch him for further explanation.
The group pursued Zhou Botong to the Qingyin Cave, where they found childish messages scrawled on the walls, including a taunt from Zhou Botong implying he was making Huang Yaoshi "even" for the fifteen years he was imprisoned. Zhou Botong then splashed "footbath water" on Huang Yaoshi and Ouyang Feng before running off again. Huang Yaoshi and Hong Qigong confronted Zhou Botong once more.
Zhou Botong, unhelpfully, reaffirmed that Guo Jing knew he was learning the Nine Yin Manual and further implicated Guo Jing by claiming Guo Jing had "given" him the second volume of the manual, asserting that Guo Jing had stolen it from Mei Chaofeng. Zhou Botong's erratic statements made it difficult to discern the truth, deepening the mystery surrounding Guo Jing's knowledge of the Nine Yin Manual.
Episode 24 Recap
Huang Yaoshi angrily accused Guo Jing of stealing the Nine Yin Manual, expressing his deep disappointment and declaring that he almost allowed Huang Rong to marry him. As Guo Jing tried to explain, Huang Yaoshi cut him off, telling him to "get lost." Zhou Botong then revealed the second part of the Nine Yin Manual, written on human skin, claiming Guo Jing had given it to him.
Huang Yaoshi demanded the manual, but Zhou Botong, after stating Guo Jing was a "living Nine Yin Manual," defiantly refused, throwing both parts of the manual into the air and obliterating them with a powerful palm strike. Enraged, Huang Yaoshi attacked Zhou Botong. Although Zhou Botong had inadvertently learned some of the manual's techniques, he deliberately fought with only one hand, honoring a promise to his senior and regretting his unintended learning. He was eventually defeated and injured.
Later, Huang Yaoshi offered Zhou Botong a precious Pill of Transience for his recovery and granted him the freedom to leave or return to Peach Blossom Island at will. Huang Yaoshi then formally broke off Huang Rong's engagement, stating she was willful and needed further discipline before any talk of marriage. To appease Ouyang Feng, he offered to teach Ouyang Ke a martial art.
Ouyang Ke chose the Five Elements technique, and Huang Yaoshi agreed to lend him the comprehensive map of Peach Blossom Island for study. Huang Yaoshi then unequivocally banished Guo Jing, warning him never to return. He returned the Rhinoceros Dragon Pill to Ouyang Feng. As everyone prepared to depart from the dock, Zhou Botong insisted on taking a particular ornate boat.
Huang Yaoshi sternly warned him that the vessel was "out of order" and a "boat of bad luck," but Zhou Botong dismissed the warnings, finding Huang Yaoshi's explanations contradictory. Hong Qigong, observing the exchange, declared he would join Zhou Botong and Guo Jing on the supposedly ill-fated boat, claiming he wanted to see if his own bad luck could be worse than what the boat might bring. Despite Huang Yaoshi's concern, Hong Qigong affirmed his friendship and bid him farewell.
Aboard the boat, Zhou Botong gleefully explored, proclaiming Huang Yaoshi had lied about the boat being faulty, noting its pristine condition and ample provisions. Hong Qigong, however, confronted him about his earlier claims regarding Guo Jing and the manual. Zhou Botong casually admitted he had only said those things to provoke Huang Yaoshi and didn't expect him to believe it. Guo Jing, heartbroken by his separation from Huang Rong, was furious, lamenting that this "casual remark" had ruined everything.
Zhou Botong, still frivolous, insisted he had done Guo Jing a favor by teaching him a powerful martial art, dismissing women as sources of trouble. Hong Qigong, exasperated, warned Zhou Botong to clarify the truth with Huang Yaoshi, or he would summon Ying. Meanwhile, Ouyang Feng's ship stealthily followed the trio.
Ouyang Ke questioned their pursuit, to which Ouyang Feng explained that even though the original Nine Yin Manual was destroyed, Zhou Botong and Guo Jing were "two living copies" he was determined to acquire. Back on Peach Blossom Island, Huang Rong tearfully visited her mother's grave, expressing her sorrow over Guo Jing's banishment and her dilemma: she longed to find him but felt obligated not to abandon her father.
Huang Yaoshi arrived at the tomb, speaking aloud about his long-held wish to symbolically offer the Nine Yin Manual's contents to his late wife, believing the destruction of the physical copies had thwarted his plan. Huang Rong, overhearing, was confused until Huang Yaoshi revealed his true design: the "Flower Boat" Zhou Botong, Guo Jing, and Hong Qigong boarded was intentionally designed with a bottom loosely tied with ropes, meant to collapse at sea.
By sinking with Zhou Botong and Guo Jing—the "living manuals"—it would fulfill his wish. Overwhelmed by this horrifying revelation, Huang Rong frantically declared that if Guo Jing died, she would not live either, and rushed off to find them. The magnificent boat carrying Guo Jing, Zhou Botong, and Hong Qigong soon began to take on water and sink. The three were forced to jump overboard, clinging precariously to a wooden plank as sharks began to circle.
Zhou Botong, in his characteristic manner, found the perilous situation amusing and even suggested they bet on who would be eaten first. Ouyang Feng's larger ship quickly approached, offering the stranded trio their only escape. Once aboard, Zhou Botong, ungrateful, dismissed Ouyang Feng's rescue. Ouyang Feng then proposed a bet: he would kill all the sharks in the sea.
If he won, Zhou Botong would have to do "something hard" for him; if he lost, Ouyang Feng would fulfill a request for Zhou Botong. When Hong Qigong asked about the penalty for not honoring the bet, Ouyang Feng suggested the loser feed himself to the sharks, which Zhou Botong readily accepted. Ouyang Feng then demonstrated his power by using a potent substance to kill all the circling sharks, winning the bet.
Zhou Botong, acknowledging defeat, asked for Ouyang Feng's demand. Ouyang Feng invited Hong Qigong and Guo Jing to a lavish dinner while revealing his demand to Zhou Botong: to write down the Nine Yin Manual. Zhou Botong defiantly refused, stating he would rather honor his bet and "feed himself to the sharks" than comply, and promptly jumped into the sea.
When Guo Jing learned of Zhou Botong's fate, he confronted Ouyang Feng, furiously accusing him of murder and calling him "eviler than a snake." Ouyang Feng then turned his attention to Guo Jing, threatening him to write the manual. Hong Qigong swiftly intervened, grabbing Ouyang Ke as a hostage, and successfully negotiated Guo Jing's release in exchange for Ouyang Ke.
In retaliation, Ouyang Feng unleashed venomous snakes onto the ship's deck, forcing Guo Jing and Hong Qigong to climb the mast for safety. From atop the mast, Hong Qigong suffered greatly, watching Ouyang Feng and Ouyang Ke enjoy their sumptuous meal. Tortured by the sight and smell of the food—his lifelong weakness—Hong Qigong finally "surrendered," admitting the torment was worse than death. He agreed to Ouyang Feng's demand, but insisted the snakes be removed before they descended.
Once he and Guo Jing were seated and eating, Hong Qigong revealed his true plan to Guo Jing: to write a "pseudo Nine Yin Manual." He reasoned that since only Guo Jing knew the authentic contents, he could fabricate a manual with ambiguous instructions, thereby deceiving Ouyang Feng, ensuring their safe escape, and maintaining their chivalrous integrity.
Episode 25 Recap
Hong Qigong instructed Guo Jing to write a pseudo Nine Yin Manual for Ouyang Feng. He explained that since only Guo Jing knew the manual's true contents, he could write whatever he wanted, and no one would be able to judge if it was right or wrong. This way, they could escape safely without violating their code of chivalry. Guo Jing praised his master's brilliance, but Hong Qigong reminded him that Ouyang Feng was a formidable martial artist.
He advised Guo Jing to make the text ambiguous, adding something untrue for every three verses, especially for keywords. For instance, if the original text said to breathe eight times, he could change it to two or ten. Hong Qigong emphasized that Zhou Botong would rather die than help Ouyang Feng, and he would not do such a disgraceful thing either. Guo Jing began to brainstorm changes, suggesting "palms facing the sky" could become "soles facing the sky."
He then suggested "gathering energy in the lower abdomen" could be changed to "gathering energy to the butt," but Hong Qigong rejected it as too obvious. Guo Jing then proposed "gathering energy in the chest," which Hong Qigong approved of, noting that Guo Jing’s time with Huang Rong had made him more clever. Meanwhile, Yang Kang was in a dim room, frustrated as he repeatedly failed to pierce a skull with his Nine Yin Skeleton Claw technique.
Sha Tongtian reported to him that Mei Chaofeng refused to reveal anything about the Nine Yin Manual despite their efforts. Yang Kang then went to the dungeon, feigning concern for Mei Chaofeng, who was disheveled and spitting blood from torture. He promised to intercede with Wanyan Honglie for her release if she revealed the manual's whereabouts. Mei Chaofeng agreed, stating the manual was not on her but she could lead them to it. Her true intention, however, was to escape.
As they traveled, she pretended to teach Yang Kang the verses for the fourth level of Nine Yin Skeleton Claw, reciting, "Channel energy to ten fingers through the Centre. . . Handstand facing tree like the palm civet. Climb with claws to enhance grip strength." Then, she seized an opportunity, caught Yang Kang off guard, and leaped off a cliff. Mei Chaofeng, bruised and battered, stumbled into Niu Village and collapsed at Mu Nianci's home.
Despite Mei Chaofeng having harmed her in the past, Mu Nianci, with her kind heart, tended to her wounds and brewed her medicine. Mei Chaofeng warned Mu Nianci that Yang Kang was working for Wanyan Honglie and had tried to kill her. Mu Nianci dismissed this, insisting that Yang Kang had his own reasons for being with Wanyan Honglie and that his heart truly belonged to the Song dynasty.
Mei Chaofeng scoffed, calling Mu Nianci a moron and stating that she knew Yang Kang best, describing him as cruel, hypocritical, and unscrupulous, entirely captivated by power and wealth. Yang Kang and his men pursued Mei Chaofeng to the outskirts of Niu Village. Reluctant to enter the village himself due to Mu Nianci, Yang Kang ordered Sha Tongtian and his men to search it.
Sha Tongtian's group arrived at Mu Nianci's house, where they discovered the lingering scent of herbal medicine used for wound healing. Realizing Mei Chaofeng must have been there, they broke in. Mei Chaofeng had already fled, but Mu Nianci was apprehended by Sha Tongtian as she tried to escape. She was bound and subjected to questioning about Mei Chaofeng's whereabouts. Suddenly, Yang Kang burst in, disregarding his men's attempts to stop him.
He declared Mu Nianci was his woman, then swept her into his arms and carried her away. News of Yang Kang's actions reached Wanyan Honglie, who was furious. He chastised Yang Kang for forgetting his status as a Jin prince for an "ordinary Song woman." Yang Kang explained that Mu Nianci had stood by him during his darkest days, risked her life to save him, and that everything she did was for him.
He assured Wanyan Honglie of his unwavering loyalty to Jin and promised that Mu Nianci would never oppose Jin or Wanyan Honglie. However, Wanyan Honglie remained suspicious, especially after Sha Tongtian informed him of Mu Nianci’s past connection with Yang Tiexin and her bond with Guo Jing. Concerned that Mu Nianci could hinder their search for the Wumu Manual, Wanyan Honglie ordered Sha Tongtian to keep a close watch on Yang Kang and report any suspicious activity.
Later, Yang Kang tenderly applied ointment to Mu Nianci’s injured hands. She expressed her worry for his safety with Wanyan Honglie, suggesting they seek help from Guo Jing and Huang Rong, whose combined skills and intelligence would be invaluable. Yang Kang vehemently refused, stating he didn't need their help, remembering how they had looked at him when they last parted ways.
He insisted that only by acquiring the Wumu Manual could he truly elevate his status and earn the respect of everyone, including Taoist Qiu, Guo Jing, and Huang Rong. Mu Nianci then offered to stay by his side, ready to face the dangers with him. Yang Kang, however, decided to take her back to Niu Village first, promising to discuss her staying with Wanyan Honglie at a more opportune moment. He asked her to simply believe in him.
On the open sea, aboard Ouyang Feng’s spacious ship, Guo Jing diligently copied the Nine Yin Manual while Ouyang Feng watched over him. In another cabin, Hong Qigong engaged Ouyang Ke in conversation, subtly mocking Ouyang Feng. Ouyang Ke, offended by Hong Qigong's remarks about his uncle's supposed inferiority, went to complain to Ouyang Feng. This, ironically, reassured Ouyang Feng; he concluded that Hong Qigong's indignation meant that the manual Guo Jing was copying must be genuine.
Ouyang Feng then revealed his true intention to Ouyang Ke: he planned to set the ship ablaze and send Hong Qigong and Guo Jing to a watery grave, along with all the concubines and maids. Ouyang Ke expressed a slight hesitation, but Ouyang Feng chided him, saying that a leader couldn't be weak-minded. Unbeknownst to them, Hong Qigong had wandered into the wine storage, searching for a drink, and overheard Ouyang Feng's sinister plot.
He rushed to Guo Jing, rousing him from his writing, exclaiming that Ouyang Feng intended to burn the ship and kill them all. They swiftly boarded a small boat and rowed away. Ouyang Feng and Ouyang Ke, preparing to escape themselves, discovered their small boat was gone. At that moment, Huang Rong arrived at sea, seeing the large ship engulfed in flames.
Distraught, she ignored Ouyang Ke's warnings and rushed onto the burning vessel, determined to find Guo Jing and Hong Qigong. From a distance, Guo Jing spotted Huang Rong on the blazing ship and immediately began rowing back. On the burning deck, Hong Qigong engaged Ouyang Feng in a fierce duel. Ouyang Ke, seizing the opportunity, took Huang Rong hostage on the small boat and confronted Guo Jing. The situation escalated, with thick smoke and raging fires consuming the ship.
Hong Qigong gained the upper hand over Ouyang Feng. Seeing the mainmast about to collapse, Hong Qigong, with a selfless cry, urged Ouyang Feng to escape first. But Ouyang Feng, lacking any chivalry, instead retaliated by releasing a venomous snake, which bit Hong Qigong. Guo Jing and Huang Rong, witnessing their master's injury, rushed to his aid. Huang Rong quickly moved Hong Qigong to the small boat, while Guo Jing confronted Ouyang Feng, buying her time.
No sooner had Huang Rong settled their master than the massive ship, weakened by the fire, suddenly split apart. Guo Jing and Ouyang Feng plummeted into the churning waters. Huang Rong, watching helplessly, immediately plunged into the sea to save Guo Jing.
Episode 26 Recap
After drifting for many days, Huang Rong, Hong Qigong, and Ouyang Ke finally reached the shore of an uninhabited island. Huang Rong, exhausted, had collapsed in the sea and was rescued by Ouyang Ke. On land, Hong Qigong was gravely ill from snake venom, and Ouyang Ke claimed to have no antidote.
Huang Rong quickly found a cave to settle her master, giving him a Nine Flowers Dew Pill to temporarily alleviate the poison, though it was not a lasting solution. Seizing the unexpected opportunity for solitude, Ouyang Ke, cheerful, began to flirt with Huang Rong. Despite her predicament, Huang Rong was not one to be easily bullied. She used her Soft Hedgehog Armor to injure him, warning him to never bother her again.
Undeterred, Ouyang Ke remained outside the cave, hoping to spend the rest of their lives together. Inside the cave, Huang Rong wept over her master's critical condition and the unknown fate of Guo Jing. Hong Qigong tried to console her, attributing their circumstances to fate and assuring her that heaven would be kind to people like them who possessed love and righteousness.
He then remembered the Beggars' Sect meeting on the 15th day of the 7th month in Yueyang City, where he was meant to announce his successor. Despairing that he was stranded and Guo Jing was nowhere to be found, he confessed his intention to pass the leadership to Guo Jing, praising his moral character. Suddenly, Hong Qigong looked at Huang Rong, recognizing another suitable candidate.
Huang Rong, discerning his intention, hesitated, worried that her playful nature made her unfit for such a weighty responsibility. Seeing her reluctance, Hong Qigong dramatically bemoaned to the Beggars' Sect ancestors that the sect would be ruined in his hands. Unable to bear her master's distress, Huang Rong finally agreed. Despite the primitive surroundings, Hong Qigong held a solemn ceremony, proclaiming Huang Rong the 19th chief of the Beggars' Sect and bestowing upon her the Dog-beating Staff.
He instructed her to attend the Yueyang assembly on the appointed date. Huang Rong admired the beautiful, emerald-green Dog-beating Staff. Hong Qigong explained that it was not merely a symbol of leadership but also came with the 36 Dog-beating Staff Routines. He began teaching her the first move, "One Staff against Two Dogs." Shortly after, while Huang Rong was gathering wild fruits, she returned to find Hong Qigong unconscious. Ouyang Ke, seeing his chance, moved to attack the weakened master.
Huang Rong, using her newly learned Dog-beating Staff Routines, fiercely fended him off. Hong Qigong, with a surge of energy, intervened with a powerful, albeit bluffing, strike, startling Ouyang Ke and sending him fleeing. Hong Qigong warned Ouyang Ke to behave or face dire consequences, then quickly collapsed again, having used his last reserves. Huang Rong realized her master's intervention was a facade, and their situation remained perilous.
She worried how they would survive if Ouyang Ke realized Hong Qigong was bluffing. Feeling helpless, Huang Rong walked along the island, searching for a solution. She spotted a large boulder perched precariously on a cliff, sparking an idea. Later, she roasted some delicious clams for her master on the beach. Ouyang Ke, drawn by the aroma, approached them. This time, Huang Rong did not reject him. She offered him food and even went for a walk with him.
Taking this as an opportunity, Ouyang Ke passionately declared his love for her, recounting his feelings since their first meeting and promising to treat her better than anyone. Distracted by his fervent confession, he failed to notice Huang Rong discreetly wrapping vines around his leg. He walked forward innocently, still professing his love, when suddenly the giant boulder from the cliff cascaded down, crushing his leg and eliciting screams of agony.
At that very moment, Guo Jing and Ouyang Feng finally washed ashore. Upon seeing his nephew trapped, Ouyang Feng furiously lashed out at others present.
Realizing they were no match for Ouyang Feng in his rage, Huang Rong strategically proposed three conditions for their help in rescuing Ouyang Ke: Ouyang Feng must not harm them on the island, he must never again propose marriage to her father, Huang Yaoshi, on Ouyang Ke's behalf, and if they failed to save Ouyang Ke, Ouyang Feng could not take his anger out on them. Desperate to save his nephew, Ouyang Feng reluctantly agreed to all conditions.
The four of them—Guo Jing, Huang Rong, Hong Qigong, and Ouyang Feng—strained to push the massive boulder, but it was too heavy. Huang Rong suggested they needed to use ingenuity rather than brute force, proposing a windlass system similar to how her father moved large objects. Guo Jing and the others went to gather vines and logs. As they worked under the scorching sun, Huang Rong offered Ouyang Ke some water wrapped in a lotus leaf.
He thanked her, to which Huang Rong, unable to resist, revealed that she had engineered the trap. Ouyang Ke quickly cut her off, fearing his uncle would overhear her confession and punish her. Once the windlass was constructed, they all pulled together, and the boulder began to shift. Ouyang Ke, seeing a sliver of hope, struggled to pull his leg free, but suddenly, the vines snapped, and the rock crashed back down, negating their efforts.
Back in the cave, Huang Rong fumed at Ouyang Feng's bullying. She wondered if Hong Qigong would still save such a person if given another chance. Hong Qigong, looking at her earnestly, affirmed he would, saying it was fate, and that Ouyang Feng and Ouyang Ke also had their own destinies. Huang Rong, heartbroken, cried and promised to cook all his favorite dishes.
Hong Qigong gently consoled them, philosophizing about the inevitability of goodbyes in life and expressing his contentment with a life lived as a "blissful and carefree wanderer." Later, Huang Rong and Guo Jing walked along the sandy beach. Huang Rong asked if he wanted to be the chief of the Beggars' Sect, but Guo Jing quickly demurred, stating he was incapable of managing such an organization. Huang Rong then noticed the rising tide with a worried frown.
She realized that Ouyang Ke, trapped in a low-lying area, would soon be engulfed by the seawater. She expressed concern that if Ouyang Ke drowned, Ouyang Feng would surely seek revenge on them. Hearing this, Guo Jing immediately declared his intention to save Ouyang Ke, a display of pure-hearted compassion that Huang Rong deeply admired.
Episode 27 Recap
The seawater continued to rise, pressing against Ouyang Ke who was trapped beneath the boulder, causing him immense physical and mental torment. He desperately begged Ouyang Feng to end his suffering and kill him. Ouyang Feng refused, even considering the drastic measure of cutting off Ke's legs if the stone could not be moved, a suggestion Ke vehemently rejected, preferring death over living as an invalid.
Ouyang Ke then seized the moment to ask the question that had long tormented him: whether Ouyang Feng was truly his uncle or his father. Ouyang Feng deflected, promising to reveal the truth once they were safely off the island. Ke recounted his traumatic childhood, his father's drunken abuse, and his mother's dying wish for him to find Ouyang Feng, expressing his deep longing to finally call him "father." Ouyang Feng remained silent, seemingly lost in thought.
Just then, Huang Rong and Guo Jing arrived. Huang Rong handed Ouyang Ke a reed, instructing him to use it to breathe when the tide rose. This was not a permanent solution, so Huang Rong, having formed a plan, deliberately kept them guessing, only stating that help would arrive the next day. As the tide receded, Huang Rong suggested she and Guo Jing leave. Ouyang Feng forbade it, ordering them to find thick ropes to move the boulder.
Huang Rong retorted, reminding him of Hong Qigong's severe injuries, caused by Ouyang Feng's own viper, and declared that Ouyang Feng was now reaping what he had sown. Unmoved, Ouyang Feng threatened them if Ke was not saved. Huang Rong then confidently announced that help would arrive the next day, and despite Ouyang Feng's protests, she pulled Guo Jing away. Meanwhile, Yang Kang reported to Wanyan Honglie that Ouyang Feng and Ke were missing.
They were indispensable for retrieving the Wumu Manual, and any delay could jeopardize the entire plan. Wanyan Honglie explained that the palace infiltration could not be postponed as the Song court was set to ally with Mongolia, and a grand ceremony would make palace security lax, offering a prime opportunity. Yang Kang volunteered to lead an expedition to sea to find Ouyang Feng and Ke, believing that saving them would secure their gratitude.
He then requested permission to bring Mu Nianci. Wanyan Honglie initially objected, but Yang Kang, desperate, fabricated a story about them being "a couple in fact" and Mu Nianci being "pregnant with my child." Convinced, Wanyan Honglie consented, but insisted on accompanying them himself. On a lavish ship at sea, Mu Nianci was preparing for bed when Yang Kang entered her room. He reminded her of the lie he told Wanyan Honglie and instructed her to maintain the charade.
They discussed sleeping arrangements, and Yang Kang offered to sleep on the hard floor. Mu Nianci, however, suggested they share the bed. She expressed her hope that he would acquire the Wumu Manual soon so they could return to Niu Village. The following day, Huang Rong, revealing her "help" was her own ingenuity, returned with Guo Jing to orchestrate Ouyang Ke's rescue. She cleverly used the high tide's buoyancy to help Guo Jing move the massive boulder, freeing Ouyang Ke.
Ouyang Feng, showing no gratitude, immediately demanded Hong Qigong vacate the cave for Ke's recovery. Guo Jing offered to find Hong Qigong another place, but Hong Qigong dismissed it, stating that "whether a pigsty or the emperor’s bed, they are the same" to him; he only cared for "goodies." Huang Rong soon prepared a delicious roasted rabbit. When Guo Jing questioned if they should share it, Hong Qigong suggested a cunning plan.
Drawing Ouyang Feng out with the tantalizing aroma, Huang Rong, as part of their plan, ensured Ouyang Feng received a rabbit generously seasoned with salt. Ouyang Feng, though initially pleased, found the meat "a bit salty." Concerned about Ke's internal injuries, Ouyang Feng decided they needed to return to the Central Plains for proper healing. He imperiously ordered Guo Jing to chop down a hundred trees before nightfall, threatening to break his legs if he failed.
He then commanded Huang Rong to care for Ke. Guo Jing was visibly upset by this, but Hong Qigong advised "patience." As he accompanied Guo Jing to chop trees, Hong Qigong asked him to recite parts of the Nine Yin Manual. He realized certain passages could aid his recovery, confirming that his life was no longer in danger, though his martial arts might not fully return. This insight sparked a plan to scare Ouyang Feng.
Although Ouyang Ke had called Ouyang Feng "father" earlier, he eventually continued to address him as "uncle." Ouyang Feng, intending to study Guo Jing's transcribed Nine Yin Manual for Ke's cure, ventured into the forest. He observed Hong Qigong seemingly chopping a large tree with ease. This was part of Hong Qigong's elaborate ruse.
Huang Rong, Guo Jing, and Hong Qigong then staged a conversation within Ouyang Feng's earshot, discussing Hong Qigong's rapid martial arts recovery thanks to the Nine Yin Manual, and how Guo Jing, guided by the manual, chopped over a hundred trees without fatigue. Believing Hong Qigong was almost fully restored and fearing their combined power, Ouyang Feng concluded they must leave the island immediately.
He then ordered them to build a large raft and gather provisions for a departure the next morning. The following morning, the raft was ready. Ouyang Feng, feigning cooperation, suddenly seized the raft with Ke and made a swift escape. Guo Jing was enraged by Ouyang Feng's treachery, but Huang Rong and Hong Qigong remained calm. Huang Rong revealed her foresight, explaining that the raft, though large, was constructed to disintegrate once it was "out in the sea."
Hong Qigong added that such deceit was characteristic of "Old Venom." As Huang Rong predicted, the raft indeed broke apart in the open sea, leaving Ouyang Feng and Ke stranded. Just as despair set in, a large ship appeared on the horizon. They desperately called for help, and to their relief, it was Wanyan Honglie's vessel, carrying Wanyan Honglie and Yang Kang, who had been searching for them. They were rescued and welcomed aboard.
A banquet was held on the ship to celebrate Ouyang Feng and Ke's rescue. Wanyan Honglie formally introduced Ouyang Feng to his associates. Yang Kang, trying to gain Ouyang Feng's favor, apologized for his failure to retrieve the second half of the Nine Yin Manual. During the feast, Sha Tongtian and Peng Lianhu openly challenged Ouyang Feng's reputation, questioning if "Western Venom" was inferior to "Northern Beggar."
Insulted, Ouyang Feng silenced them by striking the table, sending a wine cup hurtling past their ears and embedding it firmly in a wooden pillar, a clear display of his formidable power. Later, Mu Nianci discovered Yang Kang secretly practicing the sinister Nine Yin Skeleton Claw. She confronted him, upset by his choice of such a "wicked" martial art.
Yang Kang tried to justify it by explaining its power and quick skill enhancement, but Mu Nianci warned him that it would corrupt his "humanity," reminding him of Mei Chaofeng's fate. She implored him to be "an upright and honest man." Eager to appease her, Yang Kang promised to abandon the practice and asserted that he would listen only to her.
He then produced a pair of delicate jade shoes, giving one to her and keeping the other, a gesture that evoked memories of the shoes she wore during their betrothal contest, finally bringing a smile to Mu Nianci's face.
Episode 28 Recap
After enduring their ordeal on the isolated island, Guo Jing, Huang Rong, and Hong Qigong found themselves adrift on a small bamboo raft once again. Huang Rong suggested they name the island they had just left. Hong Qigong proposed "Rascal-crushing Island" due to Ouyang Ke's near-death experience there, but Huang Rong disliked the name as it would remind her of "Little Venom" and suggested "Sunset Glow Island" instead.
While Guo Jing approved of "Sunset Glow Island," Hong Qigong still insisted on "Rascal-crushing Island," considering "Sunset Glow Island" too bookish. Meanwhile, aboard a grand ship, Ouyang Feng continued to treat Ouyang Ke's leg injuries using the "Nine Yin Manual" that Guo Jing had written from memory. However, Ouyang Ke felt no improvement, leading him to doubt the manual's famed efficacy.
Ouyang Feng dismissed his nephew's doubts, recalling how Wang Chongyang had guarded the manual and how Hong Qigong had recovered much of his power after being poisoned. He suspected the manual contained a deeper, hidden meaning, a "bizarre language," that Guo Jing might comprehend. Convinced that Guo Jing held the key to Ouyang Ke's full recovery, Ouyang Feng sternly ordered Wanyan Honglie to turn the ship back to search for him.
Wanyan Honglie initially resisted, citing the urgency of reaching Lin'an for the "Wumu Manual", but Ouyang Feng's unwavering determination, emphasizing the critical state of Ouyang Ke's legs, compelled him to agree. Back on their small raft, Guo Jing, who had grown up in the desert, suffered terribly from seasickness, vomiting repeatedly. Huang Rong and Hong Qigong worried about his condition. Their spirits lifted when they spotted a large ship approaching, signaling their potential rescue.
However, their joy quickly turned to dismay upon realizing the ship belonged to Wanyan Honglie. Enraged, Guo Jing lunged at Wanyan Honglie, determined to avenge his father, but Huang Rong quickly intervened, holding him back. Guo Jing then saw Yang Kang standing beside Wanyan Honglie and accused him of once again siding with his father's murderer. Wanyan Honglie observed Guo Jing's improved martial arts, and later, in a private conversation, he questioned Yang Kang about Guo Jing's capabilities.
Yang Kang downplayed his sworn brother's strength while Wanyan Honglie mused about their lingering feud. The trio was escorted to a cluttered storeroom on the ship. Guo Jing, still baffled by Huang Rong's earlier restraint, asked why she prevented him from fighting. Huang Rong explained that facing only Peng Lianhu and his associates would have been manageable, but Ouyang Feng's presence would have complicated matters, potentially exposing Hong Qigong's weakened state, which would put them in grave danger.
Hong Qigong confirmed Huang Rong's strategy, likening it to a "bluffing the enemy" tactic. They also speculated on Ouyang Feng's motives for returning to pick them up, concluding that he must be facing some difficulty with the "Nine Yin Manual". Meanwhile, in a hidden chamber, a brooding Yang Kang secretly practiced the "Nine Yin White Bone Claw", his heart consumed by envy for Guo Jing's seemingly effortless martial arts progression.
Later, Ouyang Feng paid the trio a visit, bringing wine and dishes as a gesture of goodwill. He admitted that Ouyang Ke's legs had not improved despite diligently practicing the "Nine Yin Manual", and again questioned Hong Qigong about his swift recovery from Ouyang Feng's venom. Huang Rong, seizing the opportunity, declared she could reveal the secret, but only if Ouyang Feng guaranteed their safe release once they reached shore.
Ouyang Feng, however, gave her only one day to translate the "bizarre language" within the manual, threatening to throw them overboard to feed the sharks if she failed. After Ouyang Feng left, Huang Rong confessed to Guo Jing and Hong Qigong that she had been bluffing about her knowledge of the Tocharian language.
She warned them that Ouyang Feng, whose nephew's life depended on a cure, would not be easily fooled a second time, and they needed a genuine escape plan. The next day, during dinner, Ouyang Feng pressed Huang Rong for the translation. Huang Rong claimed the secret to Ouyang Ke's recovery was for him to chop down a hundred trees with his bare hands.
She supported this by quoting a passage about internal and external cultivation, stating that Ouyang Ke needed to move about rather than stay in bed. Hong Qigong corroborated her story, claiming his own recovery had been aided by helping Guo Jing chop trees. Ouyang Ke questioned how Huang Rong understood the Tocharian language.
Huang Rong fabricated a tale about her father, Huang Yaoshi, having once kept a Tocharian lecher as a servant, allowing her to learn the language before her father inflicted a gruesome punishment upon him. Ouyang Feng, still suspicious, tested Hong Qigong, who, with the aid of a trick item from Qiu Qianren, managed to convincingly feign a resurgence of his internal energy. This performance largely convinced Ouyang Feng that Huang Rong's explanation was true.
Separately, Mu Nianci urged Yang Kang to help rescue Guo Jing and the others, reminding him of their sworn brotherhood. Yang Kang, however, hesitated, claiming that saving them was impossible given Wanyan Honglie's power. Around the same time, Wanyan Honglie, plagued by nightmares of Guo Jing seeking revenge, presented Yang Kang with a dagger and ordered him to eliminate his sworn brother, Guo Jing.
Yang Kang was visibly torn, tormented by the conflicting loyalties, repeating to himself, "One side's forcing me to be Yang Kang, and the other wants me to kill my brother!" Back in the storeroom, Huang Rong grew uneasy about the unusual silence from Ouyang Feng and Wanyan Honglie, sensing a trap. Guo Jing, however, found it preferable to their constant harassment.
Huang Rong insisted that even if Ouyang Feng honored his promise, Wanyan Honglie would never let them go, fueling her ominous premonition. Realizing they couldn't afford to wait until they reached shore, Huang Rong devised a plan to escape. She successfully tricked the guard, Master Hou (Sarcoma Head), into opening the door, and the trio slipped out. As they made their way across the deck towards the small boats, Ouyang Feng appeared, blocking their path.
Huang Rong confronted him about breaking his promise of safety, but Ouyang Feng coldly stated he had only promised safety, not freedom. Ouyang Feng quickly immobilized Hong Qigong by locking his acupoints. Hong Qigong, stripped of his remaining martial arts, bravely offered his life, warning Ouyang Feng against harming his disciples. Huang Rong quickly interjected, threatening to withhold the true secrets of the "Nine Yin Manual" and leave Ouyang Ke crippled if Ouyang Feng harmed her master or Guo Jing.
Guo Jing, in turn, shielded them, declaring Ouyang Feng would have to kill him first. As the tension reached its peak, Yang Kang, clutching the dagger given to him by Wanyan Honglie, slowly advanced towards Guo Jing. Suddenly, a familiar voice cut through the eerie silence. Zhou Botong appeared on the ship's deck, oblivious to the gravity of the situation, cheerfully greeting everyone.
Ouyang Feng immediately seized the opportunity to remind Zhou Botong of their old bet, where Zhou was supposed to have plunged into the sea after losing. Zhou Botong, however, refuted this, recounting how fragments from Huang Yaoshi's sunken boat, specifically a stick wedged in a shark's mouth, had prevented the shark from consuming the poisoned meat. This, he argued, meant he hadn't lost the bet entirely. Hong Qigong, agreeing, declared that the true winner of their peculiar wager remained undetermined.
Episode 29 Recap
Zhou Botong suddenly appeared on the boat, revealing he had survived jumping into the sea. He had brought with him a stick, which he claimed had saved a shark, thus proving Ouyang Feng had lost their bet to kill all sharks in the sea. Hong Qigong agreed that Ouyang Feng had indeed lost, and Ouyang Feng, reluctantly admitting defeat, asked what Zhou Botong desired.
Zhou Botong first suggested throwing Ouyang Feng into the sea, then comically proposed making him pass gas publicly. Huang Rong intervened, stressing that their priority was Hong Qigong’s recovery and that they needed a boat to leave. Ouyang Feng, bound by his lost bet, instructed Wanyan Honglie to prepare a vessel for them. As they prepared to depart, Guo Jing urged Yang Kang to join them, but Huang Rong knew he would refuse. The group successfully disembarked.
Huang Rong wanted to settle accounts with Zhou Botong, reminding him that his earlier blunders on Peach Blossom Island had caused them great suffering. He apologized and promised that the next time he saw Huang Yaoshi, he would clarify that Guo Jing had been unaware it was the Nine Yin Manual he possessed. Their journey then led them to Niu Village, Guo Jing’s ancestral home.
Standing amidst the serene landscape, Guo Jing felt a profound sadness, realizing he did not know which house was his own, despite his mother's vivid childhood descriptions of the village's stream, crickets, fireflies, and the comforting smells of home. Overwhelmed by emotion, Guo Jing vowed to personally slay Wanyan Honglie to avenge his father, with Huang Rong adding her support to his pledge. Meanwhile, Huang Yaoshi, playing his flute, navigated the vast waters in search of his daughter.
He soon encountered Wanyan Honglie’s ship. Ouyang Feng feigned politeness, offering greetings. Huang Yaoshi inquired if Ouyang Feng had seen Huang Rong, but Ouyang Feng falsely claimed he had not. Ouyang Feng then introduced Wanyan Honglie as Prince Zhao. As Huang Yaoshi prepared to continue his search, Sha Tongtian spoke up, asserting that three days prior, he had seen the bloated body of a fifteen-year-old girl in a green outfit floating in the sea.
Ouyang Feng added to the deception, suggesting that based on the description, it sounded like Huang Rong and expressing feigned sorrow for her tragic, young death. Believing their lies, Huang Yaoshi’s voice trembled with anguish. In a fit of grief and rage, he violently struck Sha Tongtian, knocking him into the water. Huang Yaoshi then sailed away alone in a small boat, forlornly reciting a poignant “Grief Poem for Daughter” by Cao Zijian.
Huang Rong's group soon arrived at a deserted establishment called Qu San Tavern. Huang Rong, feeling uneasy, wondered if the place was haunted. Zhou Botong, ever playful, donned a mask and tried to scare her. Soon after, a young woman named Shagu, holding a watermelon, appeared in the yard. Zhou Botong, mischievous, snatched her watermelon, provoking a scuffle. During their fight, Hong Qigong and Huang Rong noticed that Shagu was using moves from Peach Blossom Island’s Blue Wave Palms.
Huang Rong decided to test her skills and discovered that Shagu only knew the upper-body routines, lacking any footwork. Guo Jing, ever kind, cautioned Huang Rong not to harm the girl. At Guiyun Manor, Lu Chengfeng received a letter from Huang Yaoshi. The letter tragically informed him of Huang Rong’s supposed death at sea, claiming she had drowned while pursuing Guo Jing’s ship. Huang Yaoshi, in his grief, blamed Guo Jing and ordered Lu Chengfeng to find him.
However, Lu Chengfeng, respecting Guo Jing’s character, believed in his innocence. He immediately instructed his son, Lu Guanying, to locate Guo Jing as quickly as possible and warn him to go into hiding, promising to find a way to resolve the misunderstanding with his master later. He also sent men to notify the Seven Freaks of Jiangnan, who might have heard from Guo Jing. Lu Guanying quickly received word of a sighting of Guo Jing near Lin’an and set off.
Back at Qu San Tavern, Huang Rong was preparing a meal and asked Zhou Botong to fetch some bowls. While searching, Zhou Botong stumbled upon a secret chamber. Inside, they found two skeletons. One of the bodies had a crippled leg, and they found an iron Eight Diagram, leading Huang Rong to identify it as her senior disciple, Qu Lingfeng, given the tavern’s name. They also found an imperial token belonging to Shi Yanming, the Defender of Zhongzhou.
Zhou Botong then found another secret chamber, revealing a trove of treasures, including a Dragon Tripod, Zhou Ju’s Vessel, and a painting of Buddha by Wu Daozi, all rare artifacts from the Imperial Palace in Lin’an. Huang Rong deduced that Qu Lingfeng must have stolen these treasures to present to her father, but this act led to a fatal confrontation with Shi Yanming, resulting in both their deaths.
Zhou Botong, disappointed that he hadn’t found any martial arts manuals, quickly lost interest. Later, Huang Rong practiced her Dog-beating Staff routines. She confided in Guo Jing that she did not wish to become the chief of the Beggars Sect, expressing her desire to simply live a carefree life with him after they avenged his father. Guo Jing suggested that once Hong Qigong fully recovered, they could ask him to appoint a more suitable disciple as chief.
Hong Qigong, overhearing their conversation, became enraged. He passionately recounted the century-long history of the Beggars Sect, emphasizing its role in upholding justice and defending the country, lamenting the possibility of it ending in his hands. Zhou Botong then intervened, revealing Hong Qigong’s declining health and scolding Huang Rong and Guo Jing for upsetting him. Though Hong Qigong downplayed his condition, Huang Rong felt immense guilt and promised to attend the Yuezhou Assembly on July 15th to assume her responsibilities.
She then remembered Ouyang Feng mentioning that someone named Emperor Duan could heal Hong Qigong. The moment she spoke his name, Zhou Botong reacted with extreme fear and abruptly fled. Hong Qigong, without explanation, sternly forbade them from ever mentioning Emperor Duan again. Elsewhere, members of the Iron Palm Sect were harassing local people, prompting some Beggars Sect disciples to intervene. During the ensuing skirmish, Cheng Yaojia, a disciple of Sun Bu’er of the Quanzhen Sect, happened upon the scene.
She bravely joined the fight, utilizing her Quanzhen Swordsmanship and invoking her master's name, which, coupled with their numbers, prompted the Iron Palm Sect members to retreat, vowing to return. Cheng Yaojia told the Beggars Sect disciples that her family’s Tongren Pawnshop in Baoying had been destroyed in a fire, leaving her orphaned. Following her father's dying wish, she was traveling to Niu Village to find her master's senior, hoping to find a new home.
After bidding them farewell, she was ambushed by Iron Palm Sect members. She initially mistook Lu Guanying, who was also passing by, for one of her pursuers, but he quickly came to her aid, driving off the attackers. Cheng Yaojia apologized for her mistake and introduced herself, learning that Lu Guanying, a Xianxia Sect disciple from Guiyun Manor, was on an important mission.
In a bustling market, Guo Jing and Huang Rong were shopping for ingredients to prepare a tonic meal for Hong Qigong. They spotted Sha Tongtian, leading them to suspect Wanyan Honglie was nearby. They cautiously entered a nearby inn and overheard Wanyan Honglie, Yang Kang, and Ouyang Feng in a private room. Wanyan Honglie explained the connection between an old poem and Jin, then recited a poem by Emperor Wanyan Liang, recounting the Emperor’s ambitious desire for Lin’an.
Impressed, Yang Kang humbly asked Ouyang Feng to accept him as a disciple. Ouyang Feng politely refused, citing his sect’s strict rule of only ever having one disciple, and suggested they could learn from each other after their current mission. Wanyan Honglie then brought up the Wumu Manual, stating that the impending alliance between Mongolia and the Song Dynasty would be the perfect opportunity to seize it.
Huang Rong recognized the name, recalling Wanyan Honglie having mentioned it previously at Zhao Wang Fu. She explained to Guo Jing that the Wumu Manual was a military treatise left by General Yue Fei, containing his lifelong military strategies. Guo Jing immediately realized its immense importance, declaring that they could not allow it to fall into the hands of the Jin. He proposed they acquire the Wumu Manual, give it to a patriotic hero, and then finally kill Wanyan Honglie.
Huang Rong admitted her fear of Ouyang Feng, but conceded that the Wumu Manual was too crucial for the Song Dynasty's fate, leaving them no choice but to fight for it.
Episode 30 Recap
Yang Kang, soaked from the rain, visited Mu Nianci. She offered to mend his cloak and asked if he had missed her, to which he replied she was always on his mind. He informed her of his plan to retrieve the Wumu Manual from the Forbidden Palace the night after tomorrow, and that he would send her back to Niu Village the next day to await his return.
When Mu Nianci offered to accompany him, expressing concern for his safety, Yang Kang, feeling she didn't trust him, dismissed her offer and left for a walk, appearing dejected. Later, Yang Kang sought solace by drinking with Ouyang Ke, who was still suffering from his leg injury.
Ouyang Ke, noting Yang Kang's low spirits about women, then advised him on romantic pursuits, downplaying martial arts as something beneath a prince destined for greater things like the Wumu Manual, before offering him a potent concoction that he claimed would make a woman compliant. Mu Nianci, who had come to find Yang Kang, sadly overheard this entire exchange, her eyes welling with tears before she discreetly departed.
Shortly after, Yang Kang returned to Mu Nianci's room and apologized for his earlier behavior. Sensing his distress, she asked about his drinking. He admitted to drinking with Ouyang Ke due to his low spirits. Yang Kang then presented her with the drug Ouyang Ke had given him, confessing its intended purpose. Though Mu Nianci initially reacted with disdain, Yang Kang sincerely declared his love and admiration for her unwavering honor, distinguishing himself from Ouyang Ke's lecherous ways.
He recounted their first meeting, praising her as a heroic woman in red, and reminded her of her steadfast loyalty through his various trials, including his parents' deaths and his captivity, where she risked her life to get Mei Chaofeng to save him. He also respected her decision to wait for their wedding. His heartfelt words moved Mu Nianci deeply, and her demeanor softened.
The next day, as Guo Jing and Huang Rong were searching for Wanyan Honglie, they unexpectedly met Yang Kang and Mu Nianci on the street. Huang Rong initially expressed her lingering distrust with a sarcastic remark. However, Mu Nianci quickly intervened, explaining that Yang Kang had rejoined Wanyan Honglie's side solely to obtain the Wumu Manual for the Song Dynasty.
Yang Kang elaborated that personal misfortunes after their separation in Baoying led him to this decision, and he couldn't reveal his true intentions earlier due to the presence of Wanyan Honglie's adepts. Guo Jing, feeling foolish for his misjudgment, apologized for misunderstanding his sworn brother.
Huang Rong then pressed Yang Kang for details on the manual's hiding place and Wanyan Honglie's plans, but Yang Kang claimed he did not yet know the specific time or location, promising to inform them as soon as he had information. This meeting was observed by Lingzhi Shangren. Meanwhile, Tolei and Jebe celebrated the successful alliance with the Song Dynasty, scheduled to be formally signed the following day.
Despite their joy, Princess Hua Zheng remained dispirited, still upset with Guo Jing. Tolei, understanding her feelings, reassured her that Guo Jing was an honorable man who would uphold his promise to her, believing their issues were merely a misunderstanding that Guo Jing would clarify upon their reunion. Huang Rong presented Hong Qigong with a lavish meal, but he showed no appetite.
He confessed that his internal injury had dulled his cravings, and he yearned for a rare delicacy called "Poached Five Treasures," a dish so intricate—requiring specific ingredients, a 49-day marination, and steaming in a century-old stock—that it could only be prepared and enjoyed within the Imperial Palace. Hong Qigong was convinced this dish would cure his injury.
Seizing on the impending Song-Mongol alliance ceremony, which would feature a grand palace feast, Huang Rong proposed taking him to the palace the following night. Hong Qigong, previously lethargic, immediately became animated. Guo Jing expressed concern about Hong Qigong, who had lost his martial arts, entering the heavily guarded palace. Huang Rong assuaged his fears by noting that palace security would be relaxed during the celebrations, and Zhou Botong would be there to ensure Hong Qigong's safety.
Zhou Botong, overhearing, eagerly asked about "fun things" to do in the palace. Lingzhi Shangren reported to Wanyan Honglie that he had seen Yang Kang with Guo Jing and Huang Rong. Undeterred, Wanyan Honglie sent Yang Kang to invite Ouyang Feng for a meeting to discuss their palace infiltration plan. Yang Kang found Ouyang Feng deeply preoccupied with Ouyang Ke, who was in agonizing pain from his leg injury.
Ouyang Feng was consumed with deciphering the "odd words" in the Nine Yin Manual, convinced that only Guo Jing and Huang Rong held the key to understanding them and thus finding a cure for his nephew. He curtly dismissed Yang Kang, stating he was unavailable and would join Wanyan Honglie tomorrow.
Despite Ouyang Feng's refusal, Wanyan Honglie, unwavering in his resolve, decided to proceed with the palace mission the following night, asserting that the Wumu Manual was hidden precisely 200 paces east of Cuihan Hall. Guo Jing later expressed his lingering concern to Huang Rong about bringing Hong Qigong, who had lost his martial arts, into the dangerous Imperial Palace.
Huang Rong, however, reaffirmed their mission: the Wumu Manual was hidden within the palace walls, and Wanyan Honglie's forces would undoubtedly attempt to steal it. She emphasized that allowing the manual to fall into Jin hands would bring immense suffering to the Song people. Therefore, they had to seize the manual before Wanyan Honglie, and Zhou Botong would ensure Hong Qigong's safety during the celebration.
The next morning, as Huang Rong's group prepared to depart for the palace, they bid farewell to Shagu, who wished to join them. Huang Rong gave her some silver to buy treats, promising they would return to play with her once their mission is complete. To further ensure Hong Qigong's safety, Huang Rong purchased several frightening masks for Zhou Botong, knowing his playful nature would be appeased, making him more likely to protect their master in the palace.
Meanwhile, back in Niu Village, Mu Nianci gazed at a red dress, consumed by a profound sense of foreboding about Yang Kang's fate. She longed for his triumphant return with the Wumu Manual, envisioning a peaceful future where they could grow old together, away from all conflict. However, her unease grew, fearing she might lose him forever, especially given Wanyan Honglie's ruthlessness.
Concluding she could not allow him to face such dangers alone, she resolved to secretly follow him into the Imperial Palace to protect him. As night fell, both parties successfully infiltrated the Imperial Palace. Hong Qigong, his senses sharp, immediately located the royal kitchen, where he indulged in various delicious dishes from the rafters, though not the coveted Poached Five Treasures.
Zhou Botong, initially eager to explore for fun, was reminded by Huang Rong of his responsibility to protect Hong Qigong before she and Guo Jing departed to search for the Wumu Manual. However, once Guo Jing and Huang Rong departed, Zhou Botong, impatient with Hong Qigong's quiet enjoyment of his meal, decided to seek out his own entertainment, slipping away with a warning to Hong Qigong not to tell Huang Rong.
Guo Jing and Huang Rong explored the imperial garden, expressing dismay at the lavishness amidst public suffering. They saw Wanyan Honglie's group approaching Cuihan Hall and, having already suspected the Wumu Manual was hidden nearby, laid an ambush, catching them off guard. Wanyan Honglie, convinced the manual lay 200 paces east of Cuihan Hall, specifically at a waterfall, dispatched Yang Kang to retrieve it.
As Wanyan Honglie's men cautiously approached the waterfall, one was ambushed by Guo Jing and Huang Rong, who were already concealed there. Realizing their adversaries were nearby, Huang Rong and Guo Jing decided to split up: Guo Jing would search for the Wumu Manual, while Huang Rong would create a diversion. Huang Rong, adopting the persona of an assassin, successfully drew the attention of the palace guards.
She also encountered Zhou Botong, who, having wandered off, was delightedly joining in the chase. Huang Rong sternly reminded him of his duty to protect Hong Qigong, prompting him to reluctantly return to his post. Meanwhile, Guo Jing confronted Yang Kang, who had arrived at the waterfall with Ouyang Feng. Guo Jing accused Yang Kang of betraying his heritage by serving the Jin and reminded him of their oath and his parents' tragic fate.
Yang Kang, however, openly embraced his identity as "Wanyan Kang, Young Prince of Jin," mocking Guo Jing for his allegiance to the Song. Ouyang Feng then engaged Guo Jing in combat, primarily interested in the martial arts Guo Jing had learned from the Nine Yin Manual. As they fought, Yang Kang located the Wumu Manual. When Guo Jing attempted to stop him, Ouyang Feng continued to distract Guo Jing, allowing Yang Kang to treacherously stab Guo Jing in the back. Guo Jing fell, stunned by the betrayal. Hidden in the shadows, Mu Nianci witnessed the entire heartbreaking scene.
Episode 31 Recap
As a storm raged, Yang Kang ruthlessly stabbed Guo Jing from behind, after Ouyang Feng had entangled Guo Jing, creating an opening. Yang Kang, having found the Wumu Manual, joined Wanyan Honglie's group in seizing the stone box containing it and escaping. Wanyan Honglie was greatly pleased. Meanwhile, Huang Rong, after drawing the attention of imperial guards, returned to find Guo Jing gravely wounded and unconscious in a cave. Distraught, she cried out his name, "Jing! Jing! Jing!
Please don’t die! Jing! Wake up!" as she carefully helped him out of the cave. Huang Rong brought Guo Jing back to Qu San Tavern in Niu Village. A dagger, thrust into Guo Jing’s side by Yang Kang, was still embedded there, staining his clothes with blood. Huang Rong hesitated, fearing to pull it out herself, but Shagu, in her simple-minded way, playfully yanked it free. The sudden pain brought Guo Jing back to consciousness.
He was relieved to learn that the Wumu Manual had not fallen into the wrong hands. Seeing Huang Rong's tears, he reassured her, "There’re ways of healing in the Nine Yin Manual. I won’t die." He explained that healing would require them to sit in seclusion for seven days and seven nights, maintaining a constant inner power flow without any movement, or they risked serious injury. Huang Rong immediately thought of the secret chamber beneath the tavern.
As she helped Guo Jing to the chamber, she instructed Shagu not to tell anyone about their presence. However, Shagu, singing a repetitive tune about them eating watermelons inside, inadvertently revealed their secret. Fearing Shagu might accidentally endanger Guo Jing, Huang Rong considered drastic measures, but Guo Jing stopped her, insisting, "She is simple-minded. She knows no evil at all. How could you kill someone like that? If she dies because of me, I would never forgive myself."
Heartbroken after witnessing Yang Kang's betrayal, Mu Nianci reflected on her misplaced trust. " I thought he would become a hero who’d care about the people. I never expected he’d help the wicked and killed his sworn brother," she lamented. Overwhelmed by despair and feeling she had failed her adoptive parents and Guo Jing, she whispered an apology to her adoptive father before closing her eyes and throwing herself into a nearby lake.
Later, Wanyan Honglie and his entourage, having escaped the palace with what they believed to be the Wumu Manual, sought refuge at Qu San Tavern. Wanyan Honglie expressed relief, despite being pursued by Lin'an troops and even the eccentric Zhou Botong. When he eagerly opened the stone box, hoping to finally inspect the Wumu Manual, he discovered it was empty. He concluded the manual must still be within Cuihan Hall in the Imperial Palace.
Yang Kang volunteered to return, but Wanyan Honglie recognized the palace security would be heightened. He turned to Ouyang Feng, who, believing Guo Jing to be dead, agreed to help, thinking Zhou Botong was now his only key to the Nine Yin Manual. Ouyang Feng departed with his men, leaving Wanyan Honglie and Yang Kang to await their return.
Wanyan Honglie then reminisced to Yang Kang about meeting his mother, Bao Xiruo, in Niu Village nineteen years ago, recounting how she had saved him and how he had fallen deeply in love, which ultimately led to the ruin of the Guo and Yang families. Unbeknownst to them, Guo Jing overheard this from the secret chamber, infuriated by Wanyan Honglie's audacity. " The wicked Wanyan Honglie is just steps away from me. I can simply kill him with this dagger!"
he fumed, wanting vengeance for his father and the Yang family. Huang Rong, however, held him back, reminding him that a gentleman's revenge can wait and his immediate priority was to heal. Wanyan Honglie then imparted some counsel to Yang Kang: to achieve greatness, one must forget love and worries and possess the courage to sever all ties. He declared his ambition to conquer the world with Yang Kang.
Guo Jing, still seething, muttered about Wanyan Honglie’s "despicable" actions and vowed to kill him. Huang Rong once more urged him to calm down and focus on his recovery. Meanwhile, in the Imperial Palace's kitchen, staff puzzled over mysteriously disappearing dishes, speculating they had angered the Kitchen God. High above on the rafters, Hong Qigong sat, happily devouring the stolen food, his face gleaming with grease.
Zhou Botong, bored with Hong Qigong's continuous eating, declared he was "out for fun" and left the kitchen. Ouyang Feng's group returned to the Imperial Palace, noting the significantly tightened security. Inside, Zhou Botong, still seeking entertainment, encountered Sha Tongtian and his companions. He decided to play a prank, causing the men to scream about ghosts and flee in terror. Ouyang Feng, however, recognized Zhou Botong and asked him to translate the strange writings in the Nine Yin Manual.
Zhou Botong, ever playful, challenged Ouyang Feng to catch him first and dashed away. Elsewhere, at the Changtai Inn, Cheng Yaojia was about to continue her journey when the innkeeper's accomplices attempted to steal her horse. Fortunately, Lu Guanying, who had also stayed at the inn, intervened and helped her retrieve it. Discovering they were both headed to Niu Village, they decided to travel together.
Back in the secret chamber, Guo Jing felt much better, a testament to the miraculous healing techniques of the Nine Yin Manual. Huang Rong again reminded him to focus on healing. Outside, Sha Tongtian and his men returned, bruised and battered, claiming they had encountered a "ghost" in the palace, failed to retrieve the Wumu Manual, and that Ouyang Feng himself had been "caught by the ghost."
Wanyan Honglie, exasperated, left with Yang Kang for Zhoujing Hall, ordering the others to wait for Ouyang Feng. Guo Jing, hearing they had failed to secure the manual, felt a surge of relief. At Zhoujing Hall, Wanyan Honglie received alarming news: the Mongolians had captured Yan and Yun Sixteen Prefectures, placing Jin in a precarious position. Disillusioned by Ouyang Feng's lukewarm commitment, Wanyan Honglie resolved to seek assistance from Qiu Qianren of the Iron Palm Sect.
Starving, Sha Tongtian's group rummaged through Qu San Tavern and accidentally uncovered the entrance to the secret chamber. Huang Rong quickly donned Zhou Botong's ghost mask, terrifying them and making them flee, though she worried how long the trick would last. Soon after, Lu Guanying and Cheng Yaojia arrived at the tavern. Cheng Yaojia explained she was seeking her master's senior, Qu Lingfeng.
Lu Guanying, who was actively looking for Guo Jing, also shared a troubling rumor he'd heard: Huang Rong had supposedly died in a shipwreck, and her father, Huang Yaoshi, blamed Guo Jing and was seeking revenge. Inside the chamber, both Guo Jing and Huang Rong were stunned by this news. Guo Jing, agitated, wanted to confront Huang Yaoshi, but Huang Rong urged him to maintain his healing.
Meanwhile, Zhou Botong and Ouyang Feng continued their playful chase when they encountered Huang Yaoshi, who appeared grim and inquired about Guo Jing's whereabouts. Unaware of Huang Yaoshi's anger, Zhou Botong blithely directed him to Qu San Tavern in Niu Village. Outside the tavern, Lu Guanying offered Cheng Yaojia refuge at Guiyun Manor. Just then, Cheng Yaojia's master, Sun Bu'er of the Quanzhen Sect, arrived. Misinterpreting Lu Guanying's actions as inappropriate, Sun Bu'er immediately attacked him.
Before the situation could be resolved, Sha Tongtian's group, having realized they were tricked, returned to the tavern. Seeing the three martial artists, they mistakenly assumed they were the "ghosts" who had scared them earlier and quickly overpowered and captured Lu Guanying, Cheng Yaojia, and Sun Bu'er. Sha Tongtian then declared his intent to search the tavern for more "ghosts."
Episode 32 Recap
Sha Tongtian and his companions opened the secret room, causing Huang Rong to worry about their discovery. Just then, a flute's melancholic sound filled the air, striking fear into Sha Tongtian and his group. They recognized it as the "Jade-Colored Tidal Wave Song" of Apothecary Huang, a tune they had heard on the sea, causing them to flee in terror. Huang Rong, who had played the Purple Jade Flute she found, breathed a sigh of relief.
However, the group soon realized their internal power was unharmed, which wouldn't be the case if it were truly Apothecary Huang. Daringly, they returned to investigate who was impersonating a ghost. As they approached the secret room, Shagu suddenly appeared, adamantly stating, "You can't go inside," and adding that "The girl inside is eating watermelons!" Despite her efforts, she couldn't stop them.
Behind Sha Tongtian's group, Huang Yaoshi appeared, clad in a green robe and wearing a formidable green-faced fanged mask. Sha Tongtian's companions, thinking it another trick, challenged him, saying, "Look who's disguised as Apothecary Huang. Look at the mask! Almost real! Where did you buy it? You think you can fool us again?" Huang Yaoshi quickly overpowered them, having Shagu "punch back" at them, then calmly dismissed them all, stating, "You don't deserve to know my name.
Get out, all of you!" With them gone, Huang Yaoshi addressed Lu Guanying and Cheng Yaojia. Lu Guanying respectfully addressed him as "Grand Master." Cheng Yaojia then revealed her true identity, explaining that her father, Wu Mianfeng, was saved by the Cheng family, and she was adopted by them. She then recognized Shagu as the daughter of Master Qu Lingfeng, connecting her to her master's senior. Lu Guanying also clarified that his father was Lu Chengfeng.
Huang Yaoshi confirmed that Lu Guanying, Cheng Yaojia, and Shagu were all his disciple's disciples. Sun Bu'er then tried to introduce herself, saying she was from the Quanzhen Sect, but Huang Yaoshi rudely cut her off, stating, "I didn't ask who you are. I'm asking you to leave."
When he further disparaged the Quanzhen Sect, saying, "Learning from the Seven Masters of Quanzhen Sect is a waste of time," Sun Bu'er angrily challenged him, but he easily defeated her, telling her, "If you knew I'm skillful, then you'd better leave." As night fell, with countless candles flickering in the tavern, Huang Yaoshi observed Lu Guanying and Cheng Yaojia's evident affection, which made him recall Huang Rong.
He mused, "If I had approved of her marriage on Peach Blossom Island, Rong wouldn't have died at sea." Despite Sun Bu'er's earlier dismissal of Guiyun Manor as inferior to the Quanzhen Sect, Huang Yaoshi, despising conventional etiquette, declared that Lu Guanying and Cheng Yaojia should marry immediately, even tonight, in the tavern.
From the secret room, Guo Jing, deeply moved by the scene, told Huang Rong he was happy for the couple and promised her, "We will marry each other!" During the wedding, Huang Yaoshi played a long flute, its music familiar to Lu Guanying, who remembered it affecting Ouyang Ke on Peach Blossom Island. As the music played and candles swayed, Lu Guanying promised Cheng Yaojia, "I will always love you and protect you. I will never let you down."
The enchanting melody, however, stirred deep emotions in Guo Jing. He found himself involuntarily drawn closer to Huang Rong, his heart pounding. Just as he was about to embrace her, he accidentally touched her Soft Hedgehog Armor, the sharp prick bringing him back to his senses. Filled with remorse, Guo Jing questioned how he could act like the lecher Ouyang Ke, apologizing and asking for punishment.
Huang Rong gently reassured him, explaining that even the Old Urchin couldn't resist her father's flute music, and with his serious injuries, it was understandable he couldn't either. The next morning, Cheng Yaojia thanked Huang Yaoshi for arranging their marriage. Lu Guanying then privately asked Cheng Yaojia about her plans. She replied that she intended to find Guo Jing, and Lu Guanying stressed that Huang Yaoshi must not know about her plan.
Yang Kang rushed into a farmhouse, where he found Mu Nianci lying lifelessly on a bed. A villager explained that she had jumped into the lake a few days prior but was rescued. She had been unconscious for two days. The initial physician delivered a grim prognosis, advising Yang Kang to prepare for the funeral, which infuriated him, causing him to almost harm the doctor before sending him away.
Yang Kang then ordered his men to find the best physician in Lin'an. Looking at Mu Nianci's pale, lifeless face, Yang Kang was overcome with grief, knowing she had cut her hair before her suicide attempt, a clear sign of her despair. He cried out, "Nianci, you silly girl. You mean so much to me. Don't you know that?"
He confessed that he had come back to Niu Village specifically to find her and promised to do anything if she would just wake up and talk to him. Sun Bu'er had sent messages to her senior brothers, Qiu Chuji, Ma Yu, and Wang Chu'yi, to inform them of Huang Yaoshi's insult and injury. They arrived, determined to seek an explanation from him. As they prepared to leave, they heard Yang Kang's urgent cries for a physician.
The masters found Yang Kang tending to Mu Nianci, and he claimed she had drowned. The best physician from Lin'an confirmed her pulse was weak but revealed she was pregnant and the fetus was unharmed. Wang Chu'yi asked if acupuncture would work, and Qiu Chuji then guided the physician through the precise acupoints to stimulate her awakening. Ma Yu then questioned Yang Kang about Guo Jing's whereabouts.
Fearing for his own life if the truth came out, Yang Kang falsely claimed that Huang Yaoshi had killed Guo Jing, stating that Huang Yaoshi blamed Guo Jing for Huang Rong's supposed death at sea and sought revenge. This fabrication ignited the Quanzhen masters' anger even further, solidifying their resolve to confront Huang Yaoshi. On the open fields, Zhou Botong and Ouyang Feng continued their seemingly endless chase, which remained a draw after hundreds of miles.
Huang Yaoshi then caught up, relentlessly demanding to know Guo Jing's whereabouts, expressing his intention to kill Guo Jing to avenge his beloved daughter, Huang Rong, whom he believed had died saving him. Zhou Botong, unaware of Huang Yaoshi's deep sorrow, secretly found amusement in his suffering, thinking, "He doesn't know Rong is still alive. I wonder who told him that she is dead. I won't tell him. Let him suffer a little longer."
To prolong the game, Zhou Botong proposed a race to Qu San Tavern, promising to reveal Guo Jing's location if Huang Yaoshi arrived first. The three then sped off. Unbeknownst to them, Qiu Qianzhang was hidden nearby, observing their conversation and thoughtfully repeating, "Qu San Tavern is the finishing point." All Seven Masters of Quanzhen Sect gathered at Qu San Tavern, discussing their plan to confront Huang Yaoshi and avenge Guo Jing.
From the secret room, Guo Jing and Huang Rong overheard their conversation, realizing that Yang Kang had cunningly pinned Guo Jing's supposed death on Huang Yaoshi. Just then, Qiu Qianzhang strode into the tavern, grandly introducing himself as "Iron Palm Floating Above Water Qiu Qianzhang." He then recounted a fabricated tale, claiming he had witnessed Huang Yaoshi brutally kill Zhou Botong with the Falling Petals Palm.
The Quanzhen masters, already incensed by Yang Kang's earlier lie, were furious and immediately vowed to avenge their senior. Guo Jing and Huang Rong, however, recognized Qiu Qianzhang's deceit, remembering his past tricks at Guiyun Manor and finding it illogical that Huang Yaoshi would kill Zhou Botong now. Despite their skepticism, the Quanzhen masters were swayed by Qiu Qianzhang's theatrical performance, which included a feigned invincibility against a dagger stab.
Qiu Qianzhang then made an excuse to leave, urging the masters to engage Huang Yaoshi in a combined attack without hesitation upon his arrival. Guo Jing, now fully aware of the impending conflict, grew anxious. He felt he couldn't remain in the secret room, as the Quanzhen Seven Masters stood no chance against Huang Yaoshi. He acknowledged Ma Yu as his master due to the breathing techniques he taught and felt duty-bound to prevent a battle that stemmed from lies.
Huang Rong tried to calm him, reminding him of their promise to each other. Suddenly, the quiet atmosphere of the tavern shifted as Huang Yaoshi arrived. The Quanzhen Seven Masters immediately prepared to unleash their formidable "Big Dipper Formation" against him. Just as they were about to engage, a dark figure with flowing black hair flew into the tavern, and a voice echoed, "Who's down there?" It was Mei Chaofeng.
Episode 33 Recap
Mei Chaofeng, wondering how the Quanzhen Seven Masters are gathered at Qu San Tavern, quickly learns their purpose: they are there to confront her master, Apothecary Huang. Qiu Chuji reveals the reasons, claiming Huang Yaoshi harmed their fellow members and killed Guo Jing and Zhou Botong. Identifying Qiu Chuji, Mei Chaofeng declares she will deal with them on behalf of her master, and the battle quickly begins.
Miles away from Qu San Tavern, Zhou Botong, accompanying Huang Yaoshi and Ouyang Feng, suddenly complains of hunger and refuses to proceed until he eats. He suggests they find food first, specifically a Beggar's Chicken, claiming he cannot move. Huang Yaoshi mocks him, saying he sounds just like Old Beggar, only thinking about food. This comment makes Zhou Botong realize with alarm that he left Hong Qigong in the palace, now vulnerable without his martial arts.
Fearing Huang Rong's wrath, he declares he must leave immediately to find Hong Qigong and abruptly departs, telling Huang Yaoshi and Ouyang Feng to search for Guo Jing themselves. Qiu Qianzhang observes this exchange from a distance. Inside Qu San Tavern, Mei Chaofeng, wielding her Silver Whip, confronts the Quanzhen Seven Masters. They acknowledge her blindness but point out she is fighting alone against seven. Mei Chaofeng scoffs, challenging them to face her silver whip.
The masters respond by forming their Big Dipper Formation. From a secret room within the tavern, Guo Jing observes the fight. He recalls his father teaching him about the Big Dipper Constellation and realizes the Quanzhen formation mirrors its celestial alignment. This observation helps him understand profound verses from the Nine Yin Manual that previously baffled him, as the masters' coordinated movements seem to explain the text.
Huang Rong expresses surprise at his newfound insight, and Guo Jing remarks on the alignment of Taoist martial arts with the Manual. As Mei Chaofeng struggles, Huang Yaoshi arrives, chastising the Quanzhen masters for ganging up on his disciple. Qiu Chuji retorts, demanding answers from Huang Yaoshi, and attacks him. From their hidden vantage point, Guo Jing asks Huang Rong about the battle's progress; she reports it's a tie. Meanwhile, Ouyang Feng also arrives, observing Huang Yaoshi and Quanzhen fighting.
He muses on the formidable Big Dipper Formation and Huang Yaoshi's strength, realizing that their mutual exhaustion will reduce his rivals for the upcoming Sword Meet on Mount Hua. Ouyang Feng initially offers to "help" Huang Yaoshi, only to attack him. After being fended off, Ouyang Feng turns his attack on the Quanzhen Seven Masters, disrupting their Big Dipper Formation and fatally striking Tan Chu.
Ouyang Feng then tells Huang Yaoshi that he "finished his turncoat disciple" (referring to Mei Chaofeng, whom he also attacked) and leaves. The remaining Quanzhen Masters grieve Tan Chu's death and vow vengeance against Huang Yaoshi, believing him responsible. Huang Yaoshi, witnessing Mei Chaofeng's sacrifice, cradles her as she lies dying. She expresses gratitude for being able to protect him and for his forgiveness, wishing she could return to Peach Blossom Island as he promised.
She says that of the three orders he gave her, she only had time to complete this last one—protecting him. After she passes, Huang Yaoshi vows to avenge her death by finding Ouyang Feng. From their hiding spot, Huang Rong explains to Guo Jing that Ouyang Feng deliberately inflamed the conflict, making Quanzhen Sect believe her father killed their member, ensuring deep-seated enmity. Guo Jing worries about the escalating feud.
Yang Kang brings an unconscious Mu Nianci to the Prince's residence from Niu Village, worriedly watching over her and telling her about their unborn child. Wanyan Honglie enters, observing Yang Kang's deep affection for Mu Nianci, and comments on how alike they are in their deep affections. He then reminds Yang Kang of their greater ambitions, especially with the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun lost to the Mongolians.
Yang Kang, concerned about not yet finding the Wumu Manual in the Palace, assures his father of his commitment. Later, Wanyan Honglie meets with Qiu Qianren, who reports on his success in sowing discord between the Quanzhen Sect and Apothecary Huang, leading to a fierce battle and heavy casualties. Wanyan Honglie praises the chaos, believing it benefits their plans.
He then tasks Qiu Qianren with intercepting and killing the Mongolian emissaries returning north, aiming to nullify the newly formed Song-Mongolia alliance. A servant excitedly announces Mu Nianci's awakening. Yang Kang rushes to her side, relieved she's conscious. He quickly tries to explain his actions in the palace, denying he truly intended to kill Guo Jing, claiming he only feigned it to maintain Wanyan Honglie's trust and secure the Wumu Manual.
Mu Nianci, having been told by the physician that she is pregnant, expresses her new perspective. She declares that after her near-death experience, she will support Yang Kang in all his endeavors, even if it means being the Young Prince of Jin, because she wants a good life for their child. Yang Kang, surprised by her transformation, is overjoyed.
Later, Yang Kang discusses Ouyang Feng's absence with Wanyan Honglie, lamenting that they cannot proceed with their plans without him and that Ouyang Feng's rule of a single disciple (Ouyang Ke) prevents Yang Kang from learning his powerful martial arts. Wanyan Honglie, seeing Ouyang Ke as the only obstacle, suggests eliminating him to gain Ouyang Feng's tutelage. Yang Kang immediately agrees and departs for Qu San Tavern to carry out the task. Mu Nianci overhears this conversation.
Lu Guanying and Cheng Yaojia return to Qu San Tavern, finding it in ruins and Guo Jing nowhere in sight. They are startled to find Ouyang Ke there, starved and weak. Cheng Yaojia recognizes him from Baoying, and Ouyang Ke tries to explain away his past behavior as a "misunderstanding" born of curiosity about her beauty. Pleading for food, Cheng Yaojia pities him and provides him sustenance.
Once his strength is restored, Ouyang Ke quickly turns on them, lamenting their "bridal bliss" and expressing a desire to be the groom himself. He then incapacitates both Lu Guanying and Cheng Yaojia by striking their acupoints. He cruelly threatens to kill Lu Guanying if Cheng Yaojia does not strip, forcing her to comply. Lu Guanying laments his ungratefulness, wishing they had left him to die.
As Ouyang Ke corners Cheng Yaojia, the innocent Shagu's voice is heard outside the secret room, singing and asking for more watermelon from "Sis Watermelon." From inside, Huang Rong, with Guo Jing still healing, secretly urges Shagu to leave, but Shagu doesn't hear. Ouyang Ke, intrigued by "Sis Watermelon," tricks Shagu into opening the secret room door by promising to keep her secret. Guo Jing, seeing Ouyang Ke, warns Huang Rong to get ready.
Ouyang Ke is thrilled to find Huang Rong, whom he calls his "dearest Rong," confirming she is "Sis Watermelon." He expresses relief she is alive and attempts to take her away. Huang Rong, still tending to the recovering Guo Jing, furiously uses her Dog Beating Staff technique, driving Ouyang Ke out of the secret room and injuring him. As Ouyang Ke retreats, Mu Nianci arrives, having overheard Yang Kang's plot.
She sees the immobilized Cheng Yaojia and Lu Guanying, who warn her of the danger. Mu Nianci tries to warn Ouyang Ke that Yang Kang is coming for him, but Ouyang Ke, instead of heeding the warning, compliments her beauty and immobilizes her, declaring he won't miss this opportunity after their last encounter in Baoying.
Episode 34 Recap
Ouyang Ke was reveling in the company of two beautiful women, delighting in their fragrance. He commented on their beauty, even likening one's scent to his mother's. As he enjoyed himself, Yang Kang appeared. Ouyang Ke quickly tried to explain that it was a misunderstanding, but Yang Kang dismissed it, claiming he was tired of "the woman" and Ouyang Ke could have her if he wished.
Ouyang Ke, pleased by this apparent generosity, continued his lewd banter, boasting of his talent for discerning foot size by face. When Ouyang Ke's guard was relaxed, Yang Kang suddenly stabbed him. Shocked, Ouyang Ke cried out, asking why Yang Kang would betray him, a man he considered a brother, for a woman. Yang Kang coldly stated that the woman was carrying his child, and he would not fail to protect his family.
Ouyang Ke then threatened that his uncle would avenge him, but Yang Kang continued his assault until Ouyang Ke was dead. After killing Ouyang Ke, Yang Kang quickly released Lu Guanying and Cheng Yaojia, who expressed their gratitude and departed. He then turned to Mu Nianci, ensuring she was unharmed and reiterating his protective stance, claiming he killed Ouyang Ke because he deserved it and that no one would harm her with him around.
When he asked why she was at the tavern, Mu Nianci gave a fabricated story about picking up things from her old house. Yang Kang then intended to bury Ouyang Ke's body, but upon noticing the dagger embedded in it was inscribed with Guo Jing's name, he immediately changed his mind and decided they should leave at once, despite Mu Nianci's query about not burying the body.
Meanwhile, from their hiding place, Huang Rong expressed concern as Shagu picked up the Dog-beating Staff and ran after Yang Kang and Mu Nianci. Guo Jing tried to calm her, believing they could retrieve it later. However, Shagu approached Yang Kang and gave him the staff, which he accepted. When he tried to question the simple-minded girl about what she had witnessed, she could only babble "Bad guy!"
Huang Rong and Guo Jing, still trapped, were left perplexed by Yang Kang's actions, realizing he intentionally left the dagger to frame Guo Jing and provoke Ouyang Feng's vengeance. Shortly after Yang Kang's departure, Ouyang Feng arrived at Qu San Tavern, frantic for Ouyang Ke. His grief and rage quickly surfaced when he discovered Ouyang Ke's lifeless body. He desperately tried to heal him, calling out "Ke!" and even "my son!" in his anguish.
Overcome with sorrow, Ouyang Feng cried out, demanding to know who had committed such an act, urging his son to tell "Father." Hidden nearby, Huang Rong and Guo Jing were stunned to realize that Ouyang Feng was, in fact, Ouyang Ke's biological father. Ouyang Feng's gaze then fell upon the dagger embedded in Ouyang Ke's chest, clearly engraved with the name "Guo Jing." Blaming Guo Jing for his son's murder, Ouyang Feng swore a deadly oath of vengeance.
As he set Ouyang Ke's body ablaze, he expressed profound regret that his son had died without ever having called him "father," wishing he had acknowledged him sooner. Huang Rong and Guo Jing recognized the insidious plot, realizing Yang Kang had successfully shifted the blame for Ouyang Ke's death onto Guo Jing, inadvertently making Ouyang Feng a formidable enemy. Walking through the bustling streets, Yang Kang carried the Dog-beating Staff.
As he passed, members of the Beggars' Sect respectfully saluted him, addressing him as "Young Master." Initially confused by this deference, Yang Kang soon learned from some disciples that the green staff was, in fact, the Chief's Staff, the sect's sacred symbol of authority. He cleverly claimed that the Chief himself had personally entrusted it to him.
The disciples then informed him about the approaching Yuezhou Assembly on July 15th, the annual grand meeting where all members gather at Mount Jun to receive the Chief's teachings. Yang Kang feigned knowledge of the event and, after dismissing the disciples, secretly exulted in his newfound power.
Back at the mansion, Wanyan Honglie was overjoyed upon seeing the staff, realizing it meant Yang Kang could become the Chief of the Beggars' Sect, thereby turning the sect into an ally against the Mongolians. Yang Kang explained he had acquired the staff from a "fool," further delighting Wanyan Honglie, who saw it as divine favor for the Jin empire.
Yang Kang then voiced his desire to formally become Ouyang Feng's disciple, but Wanyan Honglie advised patience, warning that Ouyang Feng, still reeling from Ouyang Ke's death, might grow suspicious if approached too hastily. Later, Wanyan Honglie was surprised to find Mu Nianci in his room. She explained that Yang Kang had mentioned his recent fatigue, and she had prepared a refreshing flower tea for him, considering it her duty to show respect.
Though Wanyan Honglie feigned politeness, his naturally suspicious nature made him wary of the sudden gesture. He complimented her increasing thoughtfulness and noted Yang Kang's good fortune in having her, but also gently reminded her to rest due to her pregnancy, suggesting servants handle such chores. Mu Nianci encouraged him to try the fragrant tea, but he merely praised its aroma without taking a sip.
After he left, Mu Nianci put away the poison she had intended for the tea, realizing Wanyan Honglie's deep distrust made a direct assassination attempt incredibly difficult. She was relieved she hadn't managed to add the poison, as it would have exposed her true intentions. Inside the secret chamber, Huang Rong happily noted that their seven-day healing period was almost complete.
When she asked Guo Jing what his first priority would be upon their release, he promptly stated his intention to find Huang Yaoshi and clarify the misunderstanding regarding Huang Rong's supposed death, thereby protecting his own masters. Huang Rong playfully chided him for only thinking of his masters, but was secretly pleased when he added her name to his list of priorities.
Meanwhile, Guo Jing’s masters, the Seven Immortals of Quanzhen, having received a message from Chief Lu about Guo Jing's whereabouts in Niu Village, arrived at Qu San Tavern. They found Mei Chaofeng's body and were quickly confronted by Huang Yaoshi, who, still believing Guo Jing was responsible for Huang Rong’s death, had come to exact vengeance upon his disciples. He declared that all of them would die for Jing's perceived transgression.
Hearing his masters being attacked, Guo Jing, despite Huang Rong’s warnings about the risk to his recovery, impulsively burst through the wall to intervene. Severely injured and spitting blood from his incomplete healing, he managed to interrupt Huang Yaoshi's deadly assault. Huang Yaoshi's rage immediately vanished upon seeing his daughter, Huang Rong, alive and well. He swiftly attended to Guo Jing's critical injuries, making it clear he did so only out of love for his daughter.
Guo Jing and Huang Rong both expressed their gratitude. Guo Jing's masters, relieved and confused, asked Huang Rong to recount what had transpired since they last saw her. She explained her escape from the palace with Hong Qigong after a confrontation with Ouyang Feng and Hou Tonghai. She also revealed that Hong Qigong had made her his successor as the Chief of the Beggars' Sect, a position she reluctantly accepted but planned to relinquish.
She noted that she wasn't sure of Hong Qigong's current whereabouts after their venture to the palace for food. After their reunion, Huang Rong led her father, Huang Yaoshi, into Qu San's secret chamber. There, she showed him a dagger found on the skeleton of an imperial guard.
She revealed that Qu Lingfeng, one of Huang Yaoshi's former disciples, had stolen the numerous paintings and artifacts filling the chamber from the Imperial Palace, intending them as gifts to please his master. He was then pursued by imperial guards and died in the tavern. Huang Yaoshi initially dismissed the notion, asserting Lingfeng's righteousness. However, discovering Lingfeng's written confession, Huang Yaoshi was confronted with the painful truth.
He was deeply saddened, regretting his past harshness in banishing Lingfeng from Peach Blossom Island and crippling his legs, which ultimately led to Lingfeng's tragic death while attempting to seek his approval. Huang Rong consoled her father, encouraging him to focus on how to move forward. Moved by Shagu's solitary plight, Huang Yaoshi announced his decision to take her back to Peach Blossom Island and teach her all his martial arts.
Shagu, captivated by Huang Rong's playful mention of abundant watermelons on the island, eagerly agreed to go. Huang Yaoshi decided to leave the invaluable treasures in the secret chamber, as they were a constant reminder of Lingfeng's sacrifice and brought him only sorrow. Huang Rong then requested a specific painting depicting Cuiwei Mountain, explaining she wished to give it to Guo Jing, who had admired it at Guiyun Manor.
Shagu then presented Huang Rong with a crumpled note, describing the sender as "an old man, sillier than me." Huang Rong recognized it as a message from Zhou Botong, reminding her of the impending Yuezhou Assembly and assuring her that he would look after Hong Qigong. Concerned, Huang Rong realized she had lost the Dog-beating Staff. She gently questioned Shagu about who she had given the thin, green staff to.
Shagu, recalling the "bad guy" who had choked her, confirmed she had given it to Yang Kang. Guo Jing immediately recognized the gravity of the situation, knowing Yang Kang would exploit the staff to cause chaos and harm the Beggars' Sect, urging Huang Rong to retrieve it. Huang Rong, though she did not desire the position of Chief, felt honor-bound to fulfill her master's wishes.
Her plan was to go to Yuezhou, reclaim the staff from Yang Kang, and then identify a trustworthy elder within the sect to whom she could pass the leadership. Huang Yaoshi, after confirming his daughter's plan, advised her that she should not live a "dirty life" as Chief of the Beggars' Sect and instructed her and Guo Jing to return to Peach Blossom Island once the matter was resolved.
Huang Rong and Guo Jing were overjoyed, realizing this meant Huang Yaoshi had finally accepted Guo Jing, a sentiment seemingly influenced by Zhou Botong's earlier explanation about Guo Jing's unwitting mastery of the Nine Yin Manual. Huang Yaoshi sternly warned Guo Jing to always prioritize Huang Rong's happiness. Guo Jing’s masters also expressed their approval of Huang Rong, admonishing Guo Jing to treat her well and setting a meeting for August 15th at Zuixian Tavern.
After heartfelt goodbyes, the group separated. Suddenly, the cries of white eagles pierced the air, and Guo Jing immediately cried out, fearing something terrible had befallen Hua Zheng. High in a sturdy tree, Hua Zheng, Tolei, and their companions found themselves ensnared in a large net. Hua Zheng angrily demanded to know who their captors were and their intentions. Qiu Qianzhang, a figure they had encountered before, gloated, revealing he was behind their capture.
He recognized Hua Zheng's Mongolian royal lineage and anticipated finding valuables. Tolei, bound and helpless, offered a luminous pearl but pleaded for the return of his brocade pouch, a cherished gift from a friend. When Qiu Qianzhang discovered Guo Jing's name inscribed on the pouch, he questioned Tolei's relation to him. Tolei proudly declared Guo Jing his sworn brother.
Qiu Qianzhang scoffed at the notion of brotherhood, informing them that their lives were demanded by Jin's Prince Zhao, Yang Kang, and that he was merely executing orders. He mockingly advised them to avoid being Mongolian in their next lives. As Qiu Qianzhang prepared to deliver the final blow, a volley of projectiles swiftly cut the ropes, freeing Hua Zheng and her companions. Guo Jing and Huang Rong, with their group, arrived at that critical moment. Guo Jing rushed to Hua Zheng, asking if she was harmed. Overjoyed, Hua Zheng embraced him tightly, proclaiming she knew he would come to their rescue.
Episode 35 Recap
Hua Zheng was overjoyed to see Guo Jing, exclaiming that she knew he would come to her rescue. Guo Jing checked if she was hurt, reassuring her that everything was fine. Huang Rong then pointed out Qiu Qianzhang to her father, Huang Yaoshi, recalling that Qiu Qianzhang had claimed Huang Yaoshi was dead back in Guiyun Manor, causing her great sorrow. Huang Yaoshi, angered by this, instructed Huang Rong to tear off Qiu Qianzhang's skin to make a waterskin.
Huang Rong enthusiastically agreed and began to slap Qiu Qianzhang repeatedly. Qiu Qianzhang tried to deter Huang Rong from further slapping him by humorously claiming that "she" had already suffered internal injury and needed 49 days of secluded recuperation without exposure to wind, or "she" would be doomed. One of Guo Jing's masters remarked that the Chief of Iron Palm Sect, once formidable, was now no match for a girl.
Qiu Qianzhang quickly retorted that he had merely held back his strength because Huang Rong was a delicate girl. When Guo Jing offered to fight him without any restraints, Qiu Qianzhang, seeking to avoid a real fight, claimed he needed to relieve himself. While he was attempting to escape under this pretext, Zhu Cong deftly took a token from him, which was identified as the Iron Palm Sect's revered Chief token, granting the holder safe passage across a vast region.
Realizing Qiu Qianzhang had slipped away, the group expressed their carelessness. Guo Jing then turned to Tolui and Hua Zheng, asking why they were there. Tolui explained that they had encountered the con man Qiu Qianzhang after their alliance with the Song court, who had tricked and captured them. Tolui then asked if Guo Jing had avenged his father and reminded him that Genghis Khan was awaiting his return to Mongolia to marry Hua Zheng.
Huang Rong asked Guo Jing if Hua Zheng was his fiancée, and upon his affirmation, she questioned why he would marry someone else when he had only her in his heart. Huang Yaoshi demanded Guo Jing declare that he would marry his daughter and never see Hua Zheng again. Guo Jing stated that he regarded Hua Zheng as a sister, having grown up together, and would miss her if he could no longer see her.
Huang Rong, trying to appear understanding, told Guo Jing he could see whomever he liked, believing he wouldn't truly love Hua Zheng. Huang Yaoshi pressed Guo Jing further, urging him to make it clear to everyone that he would marry Huang Rong. Tolui, recalling Genghis Khan's decree naming Guo Jing "Gold Dagger Son-in-law," urged him to return to Mongolia.
Hua Zheng, despite her sorrow, told them not to force Guo Jing, stating she would return to Mongolia alone as countless brave men would vie for her hand. Tolui, furious, declared that he and Guo Jing were no longer brothers, though he acknowledged Guo Jing's past kindness in saving his father and promised to care for Guo Jing's mother.
As Tolui, Hua Zheng, and Master Jebe turned to leave, Master Ke Zhen'e advised Guo Jing that while matters of the heart were personal, a man must never forsake his brothers and should always prioritize loyalty. Torn, Guo Jing finally called out, announcing his decision to marry Hua Zheng, explaining that he must honor his word.
Huang Yaoshi, enraged, offered to kill Hua Zheng to solve the problem, but Huang Rong intervened, saying that if Hua Zheng died, Guo Jing would hate her forever, and she didn't want him to hate her even if they couldn't be together. Guo Jing apologized to Huang Rong, who said she understood. She lamented that she was merely a swallow compared to them, like two condors on the steppes.
She asked Guo Jing why he had to marry Hua Zheng if he loved her. Guo Jing, admitting he was not bright and often struggled to understand things, firmly stated that he must keep his word. Tolui then invited Guo Jing to return to Mongolia with them, but Guo Jing explained he still needed to avenge his father by killing Wanyan Honglie and had promised Chief Hong to go to Yuezhou for an errand.
Hua Zheng agreed to meet him in Lin'an on August 6th, and they departed. Huang Yaoshi urged Huang Rong to return home and never see Guo Jing again. However, Huang Rong asserted that she would accompany Guo Jing to Yuezhou, stating that since he was marrying someone else, she would marry someone else too, but if he only had her in his heart, she would only have him in hers. She wanted to spend every remaining day with him happily.
As heavy rain poured, Guo Jing apologized to Huang Rong, expressing remorse that his past promise to Genghis Khan had led to their current predicament. Huang Rong assured him she didn't hate him, but wished they had never left Sunset Glow Island to avoid such troubles. She embraced the rain, saying there was no use running from what awaited them, and they should cherish every moment they had together.
Suddenly, Guo Jing noticed that the painting Huang Rong had given him was ruined by the rain. To their surprise, the water revealed hidden writings on the painting: "Wumu Manual," "Iron Palm," "Middle Peak," and "Second." Huang Rong realized that the painting, stolen by Qu Lingfeng from the palace, was not the Wumu Manual itself, but a guide to its whereabouts. She theorized that the writing pointed to Iron Palm Mountain.
Meanwhile, Wanyan Honglie expressed suspicion to Yang Kang about Mu Nianci's recent change in demeanor, noting her past animosity and newfound closeness. Yang Kang defended her, claiming she was a simple-minded girl, now pregnant with his child, and had a renewed appreciation for life after a brush with death.
Wanyan Honglie remained cautious but decided to send Mu Nianci with Yang Kang to Yuezhou, believing her connection to the Beggars' Sect and Hong Qigong would help Yang Kang smoothly secure the position of Chief. Despite some hesitation, Mu Nianci agreed, assuring Wanyan Honglie that Yang Kang would take care of her during the journey.
In Yuezhou, Yang Kang and Mu Nianci were courteously greeted by three nine-bag elders of the Beggars' Sect's Clean Clothes Faction, including Master Peng, who had arranged a banquet for them. During their meeting, the elders expressed skepticism about Yang Kang's claim that Chief Hong Qigong had personally passed him the Dog-Beating Staff. They questioned how the invincible Hong Qigong could have been in danger enough to require saving, and demanded supporting evidence.
Later, a frustrated Yang Kang confessed to Mu Nianci that he needed something to win the elders' trust before the assembly. He then insisted that she teach him the Carefree Fist, a unique martial art taught to her by Hong Qigong, which he believed would serve as proof of his connection to the former Chief. Mu Nianci reluctantly complied.
The next day, Yang Kang staged a dramatic display of the Carefree Fist in public, impressing the elders who observed from a distance. Convinced, they acknowledged Yang Kang's legitimacy, secretly hoping his leadership would benefit the Clean Clothes Faction. Guo Jing and Huang Rong also arrived in Yuezhou and met Lu Youjiao, an elder of the Beggars' Sect's Dirty Clothes Faction, at a tavern.
Lu Youjiao, overhearing them discussing the Iron Palm Sect, warned them of its power and its leaders' collusion with Jin forces. Huang Rong, however, jokingly mimicked Qiu Qianzhang's earlier excuse to use the restroom, making light of his supposed Iron Palm prowess. Guo Jing then asked Lu Youjiao about the distinction between the Clean and Dirty Clothes Factions of the Beggars' Sect.
Lu Youjiao explained that his faction comprised genuine beggars who lived simply, while the Clean Clothes Faction maintained a more conventional lifestyle. Huang Rong, observing Lu Youjiao's unkempt appearance, innocently remarked that he was "literally in rags and stank," questioning why the Dirty Clothes Faction chose to live in such squalor and suggesting that washing more often would allow the factions to merge. Offended, Lu Youjiao accused her of looking down on beggars and stormed off.
Guo Jing attempted to apologize, while Huang Rong, still puzzled, wondered why he was angry. Guo Jing, teasing her, explained that Lu Youjiao's name, "Youjiao," meant "stinking feet," and he used them to kick dogs, implying Huang Rong's comment had likened her to a "mean dog." Meanwhile, Yang Kang and his group arrived at the same tavern.
Spotting Guo Jing and Huang Rong, Yang Kang quickly gathered the elders he was with and falsely informed them that Chief Hong Qigong had passed away, hoping to further solidify his position and trust among them. Just then, Master Peng, one of the Clean Clothes Faction elders, approached Guo Jing and Huang Rong. He claimed that Lu Youjiao, a poisoning expert, had poisoned their food in revenge for Huang Rong's words and offered them an antidote.
Huang Rong was skeptical, boasting of her and Guo Jing's immunity to poisons and comparing Lu Youjiao's supposed poison to Ouyang Feng's potent concoctions, which had caused a fiery, crawling sensation in their throats. Undeterred, Master Peng told them to look into his eyes. Despite Huang Rong's initial defiance, calling his eyes "pig's eyes," both she and Guo Jing soon felt their eyelids grow heavy, their limbs weaken, and they fell into a deep sleep.
Guo Jing and Huang Rong later awoke in a dark, dusty, dilapidated room, their hands and feet bound. They struggled to understand what had happened. Huang Rong recalled Master Peng's hypnotic gaze. Yang Kang then entered, gloating that their ropes, twisted from cowhide and steel strings, were unbreakable, and they could not escape.
Episode 36 Recap
Guo Jing and Huang Rong found themselves bound with ropes made of steel wire and cowhide, unable to escape. Yang Kang entered, looking smug, and questioned why they were in Yuezhou. Huang Rong retorted that they were there for the same reason as him. Yang Kang proudly declared he was there to become the Chief of the Beggars Sect, holding up the Dog-beating Staff.
Guo Jing immediately countered that the Staff belonged to Huang Rong and Hong Qigong had not given it to him. Yang Kang simply laughed, asserting that it didn't matter who gave it to him, only that it was now in his possession, making him the next Chief. A servant then handed Yang Kang a painting found on Guo Jing.
Yang Kang's eyes lit up as he recognized "The Wumu Manual," and he quickly sent a message to Wanyan Honglie, informing him of its whereabouts. Upon receiving the news, Wanyan Honglie was ecstatic. He swiftly summoned Ouyang Feng and set off for Yuezhou. Wanyan Honglie's grand scheme was for Yang Kang to first become the Beggars Sect Chief, then immediately orchestrate the relocation of the sect members to the south.
To ensure the Beggars Sect's cooperation, Wanyan Honglie had also invited Qiu Qianren of the Iron Palm Sect to act as a spokesperson. Yang Kang, in a bid to solidify his alliance, offered Ouyang Feng a "gift": Guo Jing and Huang Rong. He explained that Ouyang Feng wanted to kill Guo Jing to avenge Ouyang Ke, and Huang Rong could translate the strange text in the Nine Yin Manual.
Ouyang Feng agreed, stating that once Huang Rong had finished translating, he would kill them both to avenge Ke. Yang Kang then knelt before Ouyang Feng, requesting to be taken as his disciple. Amused by Yang Kang's ruthlessness, Ouyang Feng agreed and proceeded to teach him the White Camel Mountain's most advanced levitation skill, "Thousand Miles in One Moment."
Meanwhile, Sha Tongtian brought Mu Nianci pregnancy tonics and inadvertently revealed that Wanyan Honglie had arrived, and Yang Kang had captured Guo Jing and Huang Rong and presented them to Ouyang Feng, which had led to Yang Kang becoming Ouyang Feng’s disciple. Concerned for their safety, Mu Nianci hurried to find Yang Kang.
When Ouyang Feng confronted Guo Jing and Huang Rong, Huang Rong bravely asserted that Yang Kang was the true killer of Ouyang Ke, and Guo Jing had been framed. However, Ouyang Feng dismissed her words as lies. Huang Rong, desperate, tried to bargain, offering to translate the Nine Yin Manual in exchange for Guo Jing's life.
Ouyang Feng adamantly declared that he wanted both the strange text and Guo Jing's life, menacingly threatening to inflict slow, agonizing torment upon Guo Jing. Yang Kang was discussing plans for the Yuezhou Assembly with several elders when Mu Nianci arrived. She cunningly suggested that instead of letting Ouyang Feng kill Guo Jing and Huang Rong immediately, Yang Kang should keep them alive until the assembly.
Executing them publicly there, she argued, would allow Yang Kang to establish his authority and impress both the Clean Clothes and Dirty Clothes Factions, securing his position as Chief. Yang Kang, finding this idea advantageous, agreed and immediately went to Ouyang Feng. He pleaded with Ouyang Feng to spare Guo Jing and Huang Rong for one more day, explaining his intention to use their deaths to cement his leadership at the upcoming assembly.
Ouyang Feng reluctantly consented, but demanded that their dead bodies be delivered to him by the following night. On the day of the Yuezhou Assembly, Mu Nianci, deeply worried about Guo Jing and Huang Rong, desperately sought a way to save them. Seeing several Beggars Sect disciples outside, she offered them steamed buns. Just as she was about to speak, Wanyan Honglie appeared, forcing her to abandon her direct plea.
Instead, she subtly placed a note inside one of the buns. Later, two disciples discovered the note, which instructed them to inform Elders Li Sheng and Yu Zhaoxing that Guo Jing and Huang Rong were in trouble. As night fell, the annual Yuezhou Assembly began. Yang Kang arrived, holding the Dog-beating Staff, and announced the tragic death of Hong Qigong, claiming he died in Lin'an after being besieged and seriously injured.
He then falsely accused Huang Yaoshi and the Seven Masters of Quanzhen Sect of colluding to kill Hong Qigong to eliminate a rival for the Mount Hua Sword Meet. Despite Elder Lu Youjiao's skepticism regarding Yang Kang's sudden succession, Elder Peng confirmed the authenticity of the Dog-beating Staff, and Yang Kang was formally recognized as the 19th-generation Chief. He then underwent the customary ritual of being spat upon by the disciples, enduring the insults as a test of his leadership.
Next, Yang Kang declared that while the main culprits were still at large, two accomplices had been caught. Guo Jing and Huang Rong, gagged and bound, were dragged onto the altar. Many disciples, incensed by Yang Kang's accusations, clamored for their deaths. However, Elders Li Sheng and Yu Zhaoxing, who had previously interacted with Guo Jing and Huang Rong, intervened, asserting their belief in the two's innocence and pleading for a fair investigation.
Yang Kang, undeterred, proceeded to "interrogate" Guo Jing. He asked if Huang Rong was Huang Yaoshi's daughter and if Guo Jing had learned martial arts from the Quanzhen Sect. Since Guo Jing was gagged and couldn't speak, Yang Kang interpreted his silence as an affirmation, further fueling the crowd's anger and proving his fabricated narrative. Just as the situation escalated, fireworks erupted in the distance, signaling the arrival of Qiu Qianren.
Yang Kang quickly halted the execution of Guo Jing and Huang Rong, ordering them to be held while he, along with several elders, went to greet the distinguished guest. During this pause, Guo Jing looked up at the Big Dipper in the night sky, and combining it with the Big Dipper Formation he had seen at Qu San's tavern, he suddenly had an epiphany and made a breakthrough in his martial arts.
Qiu Qianren, representing Prince Zhao (Wanyan Honglie), presented numerous boxes of gold, silver, and jewelry as gifts to the Beggars Sect. He then proposed that the entire sect relocate to the south, claiming it was for their own good, away from the northern wars. Yang Kang, in perfect sync with Qiu Qianren, readily accepted both the lavish gifts and the relocation proposal. This decision sparked outrage among many Beggars Sect members.
Elder Lu Youjiao, along with numerous disciples, vehemently opposed the idea, arguing against abandoning their northern homeland and submitting to the Jin, their sworn enemies. They accused Qiu Qianren and Yang Kang of conspiracy. Undeterred, Yang Kang reaffirmed his authority. In a powerful act of protest against Yang Kang's collaboration with the Jin and his decision to relocate the sect, Elders Li Sheng and Yu Zhaoxing tragically sacrificed their lives.
They made their solemn stand as loyal citizens of the Song dynasty, choosing death over becoming Jin's lackeys. They also implored Elder Lu Youjiao to save Guo Jing and Huang Rong. Yet, Yang Kang remained resolute, declaring that as the Chief, his word was final.
Episode 37 Recap
The Yuezhou assembly descended into chaos as Elder Li and Elder Yu sacrificed their lives to protest Yang Kang's collaboration with the Jin and his plan to move the Beggars' Sect south. Amidst this turmoil, Guo Jing, tied and silenced, found a breakthrough in understanding the Big Dipper Formation by observing the night sky.
As the last Elder fell, Lu Youjiao, deeply pained by the sight of his brethren's sacrifice, desperately implored Yang Kang not to be exploited by the Jin. Yang Kang, however, remained unmoved. Qiu Qianren then stepped forward, challenging Lu Youjiao who, though no match for Qiu Qianren's renewed skill, adamantly refused to surrender to the Jin. From his restraints, Guo Jing watched, noticing Qiu Qianren's surprising prowess.
With a powerful roar, Guo Jing broke free from his bonds and unsealed his mute point. He immediately joined the fray, using the formidable Big Dipper Formation to confront Qiu Qianren. Seeing Guo Jing and Huang Rong now unrestrained and fighting back, Yang Kang grew anxious, ordering his followers to subdue them. Elder Peng, aiming to wear down Guo Jing and Huang Rong, suggested a strategy of continuous attacks.
The relentless assault pushed Guo Jing and Huang Rong to the very edge of a cliff. Facing imminent danger, Huang Rong expressed her contentment to die alongside Guo Jing. Just as Yang Kang ordered his men to dash forward, Guo Jing swiftly lifted Huang Rong onto the altar. From there, Huang Rong quickly snatched the Dog-beating Staff, brandishing it as she announced to the assembly that Chief Hong Qigong was still alive, and Yang Kang had been spreading deceitful rumors.
Yang Kang tried to reassert his authority, ordering his men to push Guo Jing off the cliff and seize Huang Rong. Huang Rong countered by pointing out the plight of the Beggars' Sect under Yang Kang's false leadership, specifically mentioning the deaths of Elder Li and Elder Yu and the severe injury of Master Lu.
She then dramatically revealed Yang Kang's true identity, declaring him to be Wanyan Kang, son of Prince Zhao Wanyan Honglie of the Jin, and accused him of colluding with the Iron Palm Sect to betray the Song. To prove her claims, Huang Rong produced an Iron Palm Sect token that she had subtly taken from Yang Kang during their skirmish. Yang Kang reacted with an attempted assassination, attacking Huang Rong to silence her, but Guo Jing intervened.
When the elders still expressed doubt, particularly Elder Peng, who questioned her knowledge of the Dog-beating Staff Routines, Master Lu Youjiao, despite his injuries, confirmed that Huang Rong indeed performed the authentic routines, including Carefree Fist, and explained that the thirty-six routines are passed down verbally and through demonstration.
Challenged by Elder Peng and two other elders to prove her legitimacy, Huang Rong skillfully demonstrated the Dog-beating Staff Routines, effortlessly defeating them with moves like "Whack Two Dogs" and "Jab the Dog’s Bottom." With the truth undeniable, the Beggars' Sect disciples knelt, recognizing Huang Rong as their new Chief. Qiu Qianren, seeing their plans unravel, quickly advised Yang Kang that it was time to leave.
Yang Kang and Qiu Qianren made their escape, leaving Huang Rong to assume her new role. The Beggars' Sect elders began to prepare for the traditional spitting ceremony for a new chief, but Huang Rong abolished the ritual, stating that while faith must be followed, rigid etiquette was secondary. She appointed Master Jian and the eight-bag disciples to travel to Lin'an to escort Chief Hong Qigong back.
Master Lu Youjiao was entrusted to oversee the sect in her absence, after he had recovered from his injuries, and she specifically instructed him to ensure a proper burial for Elder Yu and Elder Li. With the Beggars' Sect affairs temporarily settled, Huang Rong and Guo Jing departed, now focused on deciphering the mystery of Qu Lingfeng's painting to prevent the Jin from getting the Wumu Manual. Just then, they spotted a familiar figure, Qiu Qianzhang, performing street tricks.
Huang Rong, recalling his earlier inconsistencies, questioned him about their previous meeting. When Qiu Qianzhang mistakenly mentioned Lin'an, Huang Rong pressed him on his whereabouts the previous night, exposing his lies. Attempting to escape by feigning a stomachache, Qiu Qianzhang was blocked by Guo Jing and Huang Rong.
Cornered, the trickster proposed a meeting seven days later at the foot of Iron Palm Mountain, a name that immediately piqued Huang Rong's interest, as it matched a phrase in the mysterious painting. Despite Guo Jing's doubts about Qiu Qianzhang's erratic behavior and skills, Huang Rong agreed to the meeting, intending to investigate Iron Palm Mountain. Meanwhile, the real Qiu Qianren led Wanyan Honglie and Yang Kang to Iron Palm Mountain.
Upon arrival, Wanyan Honglie was captivated by the unique five-fingered peaks of the mountain, which Qiu Qianren explained was how the Iron Palm Sect derived its name. Curious about his host's background, Wanyan Honglie inquired how Qiu Qianren, a southerner, came to lead the sect. Qiu Qianren recounted that his late predecessor, Shangguan Jiannan, a former subordinate of General Han Shizhong, had chosen him over his twin brother to pass on his advanced martial arts due to his superior talent.
Wanyan Honglie then subtly probed about any belongings Yue Fei might have left behind after his death, but Qiu Qianren feigned ignorance and disinterest. Wanyan Honglie's keen observation confirmed his suspicion that Iron Palm Mountain was indeed the mountain depicted in Qu Lingfeng's painting, and he became convinced that the Wumu Manual was hidden there. Yang Kang, eager to prove himself and display his new skills learned from Ouyang Feng, suggested sending Chief Peng and others to search the mountain.
However, Wanyan Honglie advised caution, noting the pervasive sentry posts and guards. He explained that Qiu Qianren's alliance with the Jin was born more from his disdain for the Song than genuine loyalty, and he might resist if he knew they were after the Manual. Wanyan Honglie also clarified that the incompetent individual Yang Kang encountered at Guiyun Manor was likely Qiu Qianren's twin brother, not the formidable Qiu Qianren himself.
He admonished Yang Kang not to underestimate Guo Jing and Huang Rong, whose skills had greatly improved, and encouraged him to focus on learning from Ouyang Feng, as the Wumu Manual was their last hope for the Jin's declining military fortunes. Later, Yang Kang escorted a visibly weary and pregnant Mu Nianci for a walk.
She confessed her concern about Chief Hong Qigong, to which Yang Kang admitted that Hong Qigong was indeed poisoned by Ouyang Feng, alive but stripped of his martial arts. Noticing Mu Nianci's unspoken unhappiness about her pregnancy without being married, Yang Kang assured her that he would propose their marriage to Wanyan Honglie in a few days, especially now that he had a lead on the Wumu Manual.
He then revealed that their extended stay at Iron Palm Sect was due to the painting's hint about the manual's location. As they approached a unique mountain peak, Yang Kang and Mu Nianci attempted to explore it, but Qiu Qianren intercepted them, declaring it a forbidden area, the "second knuckle of the Middle Finger Peak," where ancestors' remains and relics were interred. Trespassers, even the chief, faced death.
Yang Kang, feigning understanding, retreated with Mu Nianci but inwardly rejoiced, now certain of the manual's hiding place. Meanwhile, Guo Jing and Huang Rong, after days of travel, finally arrived at Iron Palm Mountain. Huang Rong, leveraging the information from a tea house waiter she had skillfully coerced and her keen intellect, had deduced that the "second" in Qu Lingfeng's painting referred to the "second knuckle" of the mountain.
Using an Iron Palm token they possessed, they gained entry, disguised as Iron Palm Sect disciples. They observed Qiu Qianren practicing, with Huang Rong dismissively calling his moves a trick, but Guo Jing sensed a deeper, more refined inner power behind his seemingly simple actions. Their observation was cut short when they were called out by other sect members.
Episode 38 Recap
As Guo Jing and Huang Rong moved stealthily through Iron Palm Mountain in disguise, Huang Rong expressed her disbelief that Guo Jing could still trust "Old Qiu," reminding him of how they had been deceived before. A passing guard, oblivious to their true identities, called them over and instructed them to deliver a light meal, prepared by the Chief, to the Young Prince of Jin.
Feigning ignorance as newcomers, they accepted the task, and the guard began to lead them towards Yang Kang's room. However, Mu Nianci intercepted them along the way, dismissing the guard and taking over the delivery herself. Once alone, she expressed her relief at seeing them safe. Huang Rong immediately confronted her about Yang Kang’s true character, revealing that he had killed Master Li Sheng and Yu Zhaoxing, and questioning why Mu Nianci remained fixated on such a wicked man.
Guo Jing tried to calm Huang Rong. Mu Nianci acknowledged that they were there for the Wumu Manual but warned them of the Iron Palm Sect’s heavy defenses, quickly adding that tomorrow would be their only chance to retrieve it. Suddenly, Yang Kang’s voice was heard, prompting Guo Jing and Huang Rong to quickly hide. Yang Kang entered, noting the untouched meal, to which Mu Nianci replied she was feeling tired and had taken a nap.
He showed concern for her, urging her to eat for their unborn child. Noting her cold hands, he gently suggested they take a walk outside. Mu Nianci led Yang Kang to Xin Nv Rock, explaining its ancient legend. She recounted how Emperor Gao Xin promised his daughter Xin Nv to whoever brought back his enemy Rong Wu’s head. Unexpectedly, a hound named Pan Hu returned with the head.
Xin Nv, upholding the pledge, insisted on marrying Pan Hu, whose devotion moved the heavens, transforming him into a handsome young man. They married at that very spot, had children, and lived happily. Inspired, Yang Kang vowed that they too would live happily ever after and have many children. Mu Nianci, however, expressed a quiet fear about their child’s future.
In response, Yang Kang promised that he would discuss their marriage with his father that evening, proposing they marry right there at the Iron Palm Sect to secure her status before their child’s birth. He envisioned himself becoming the world's conqueror with the Wumu Manual, making her an empress and their son a crown prince. Wanyan Honglie was initially reluctant but eventually agreed to a grand wedding for Yang Kang and Mu Nianci at the Iron Palm Sect.
Yet, his true agenda quickly surfaced. He instructed Yang Kang that after three rounds of drinks, they would immediately ascend the mountain to seize the Wumu Manual. Yang Kang, worried about Mu Nianci discovering their true intentions, tried to object, but Wanyan Honglie sternly reminded him not to prioritize personal affections over the bigger picture, stressing that this wedding offered a rare opportunity.
He then presented Mu Nianci with his late wife's favorite hairpin, an heirloom she felt was too valuable to accept. Wanyan Honglie insisted it was custom and then subtly probed her about her previous fall into the water. Mu Nianci claimed she was distracted by jumping fish and accidentally fell. Wanyan Honglie, recalling Yang Kang's earlier account of her avoiding a horse, grew suspicious, wondering which of them was lying.
Later, Mu Nianci and Yang Kang visited a bustling market at the foot of Iron Palm Mountain. Yang Kang, beaming with happiness, eagerly bought various items for their unborn child. Mu Nianci, however, remained somber, thinking of her unborn child and wishing to provide a healthy, loving home.
She silently resolved to kill Wanyan Honglie, believing it was the only way to awaken Yang Kang and deliver justice for her foster father and the innocent Guo family, as well as the Beggars Sect. Meanwhile, Wanyan Honglie meticulously orchestrated his plan to secure the Wumu Manual, dispatching Liang Ziweng and Master Lingzhi with his token to gather reinforcements and instructing Chief Sha and Hou Tonghai to put knockout drops in the wine to incapacitate Qiu Qianren and his men.
On their wedding day, Mu Nianci, clad in a red bridal gown, looked solemn rather than joyous. During the ceremony, she offered tea to Wanyan Honglie. Knowing his cautious nature and anticipating he would not drink it directly, especially given the discrepancy in their stories about her fall, she had applied arsenic to her lips.
As Wanyan Honglie hesitated, claiming the tea was too hot, Mu Nianci blew gently on it, then tasted it herself before offering it back, thus transferring the poison. Wanyan Honglie, seeing her taste it, feigned a sip. Unbeknownst to them, Qiu Qianren's twin brother, Qiu Qianzhang, seized the opportunity to pilfer treasures from Qiu Qianren's room, muttering about his brother's long-standing collusion with the Prince of Jin and his reluctance to share his ill-gotten gains.
On his way out, he stumbled upon a drunken Hou Tonghai, who, mistaking Qiu Qianzhang for Qiu Qianren, believed the stolen valuables were wedding gifts. Hou Tonghai spotted an embroidered pouch bearing Guo Jing's name among the treasures. Recognizing its significance due to Yang Kang's intense hatred for Guo Jing, Hou Tonghai eagerly snatched the pouch and, in his drunken state, hung it around his own neck. Qiu Qianzhang, relieved, quickly made his escape.
Meanwhile, Guo Jing and Huang Rong discovered the mountain guards incapacitated by the drugged wine. Guo Jing wondered if Mu Nianci was helping them, but Huang Rong immediately realized it was Wanyan Honglie’s doing, confirming her earlier suspicion that he intended to seize the Wumu Manual during the wedding. They decided to ascend the mountain immediately. As they climbed, a guard spotted them and swiftly reported their presence to Qiu Qianren.
At the wedding feast, a horn blast announced the intruders. Qiu Qianren quickly excused himself to investigate. Wanyan Honglie, sensing his plan was at risk, instructed Yang Kang to follow Qiu Qianren. But before Yang Kang could move, Mu Nianci suddenly spat a mouthful of blood. Liang Ziweng quickly identified the poison as arsenic. Wanyan Honglie coldly accused Mu Nianci of poisoning herself. Yang Kang, in shock, demanded an explanation.
Mu Nianci, her voice laced with bitterness, confessed that she had feigned loyalty to him and Wanyan Honglie. Her sole purpose, she declared, was to kill Wanyan Honglie for her deceased foster father, for the innocent Guo family, for the Beggars Sect, and for her unborn child, whom she would rather never be born than have an ungrateful and disloyal father like Yang Kang.
She scorned Yang Kang for stabbing his sworn brother, Guo Jing, asserting that Yang Kang was the one truly inferior to Guo Jing. Wanyan Honglie, revealing he had not actually drunk the poisoned tea, furiously choked Mu Nianci for ruining his plans and sacrificing her child. Mu Nianci defiantly retorted that he would never obtain the Wumu Manual. Just then, an attendant reported that Guo Jing and Huang Rong were on the mountain.
Knowing that the main ascent was likely sealed, Wanyan Honglie demanded that Yang Kang, who possessed Ouyang Feng's "Thousand Miles in One Moment" levitation technique, scale the side cliff to retrieve the manual. He threatened to kill Mu Nianci if Yang Kang refused. Torn, Yang Kang reluctantly agreed. As Guo Jing and Huang Rong ascended the mountain, they encountered Qiu Qianren. Huang Rong, mistaking him for his less formidable twin brother, Qiu Qianzhang, confidently challenged him.
She stood still, intending to let him strike her, certain he couldn't inflict serious harm. However, Qiu Qianren's powerful iron palm technique sent her reeling. Fortunately, her Soft Hedgehog Armor absorbed most of the blow, saving her life, though she was still badly injured. At the same time, the effects of the poisoned wine began to manifest in Qiu Qianren, weakening his powers. Guo Jing quickly seized the opportunity to carry the injured Huang Rong away.
He wished to descend the mountain to get her medical attention, prioritizing her over the Wumu Manual. But Huang Rong, despite her pain, insisted he continue the mission, not wanting her injury to hinder his important task. Yielding to her wishes, Guo Jing continued to ascend with her on his back. They soon reached the second knuckle of the Middle Finger Peak, where they discovered a stone door, realizing it was the entrance to the Wumu Manual's hiding place.
Episode 39 Recap
Guo Jing and Huang Rong arrived at the solemn stone door on Middle Finger Peak, which they believed held the Wumu Manual. To their surprise, Guo Jing easily pushed it open, and a man identifying himself as Qiu Qianren rushed out. He immediately questioned why they had come, mentioning a seven-day agreement, which instantly aroused Guo Jing and Huang Rong's suspicion. He then proclaimed, "How daring of you to come here! You have guts!
But this is the forbidden zone of Iron Palm Sect. Nobody gets out alive." Huang Rong, suspicious, asked why he was in a forbidden zone himself. The man stumbled and tried to leave, but Guo Jing stopped him. Guo Jing grabbed his hand and saw that there were no marks from the Soft Hedgehog Vest on it. The man denied any injury.
Meanwhile, down the mountain, the real Qiu Qianren was instructing his subordinates to remain vigilant and ensure no one left the mountain alive, reinforcing his warning that "no one shall trespass on our forbidden zone again!" Huang Rong, connecting the pieces, realized there were two Qiu Qianrens: "One is a skilled martial artist, and the other one is a bluffer." She confirmed that the skilled one had injured her.
Under pressure, the man inside the house confessed that he and Qiu Qianren were twin brothers. He was Qiu Qianzhang, the elder, and the one down the mountain was his younger brother, Qiu Qianren. Qiu Qianzhang recounted how his name, "Qianzhang" (meaning "thousand zhang"), was numerically greater than his brother's, "Qianren" (meaning "thousand ren"), by three thousand feet, yet fate had played a cruel trick on them.
He explained that when they were thirteen, their parents saved Shangguan Jiannan, the thirteenth chief of the Iron Palm Sect, who promised to teach one of them martial arts. Qiu Qianzhang, as the elder brother, was initially given this opportunity. However, due to his poor health, he let Qiu Qianren take his place. Qiu Qianren then gained great martial arts prowess, became the Chief of Iron Palm Sect, and was known for his "Iron Palm Floating Above Water."
Qiu Qianzhang admitted to impersonating his brother to deceive others, feeling it was his right to take back what was originally his. As he spoke, he tripped over a pile of stolen jewels, revealing a hidden book. Guo Jing and Huang Rong were overjoyed to discover it was the Wumu Manual. At that moment, Yang Kang appeared, feigning cordiality, "Brother Jing. Miss Huang. It’s been a while." Huang Rong, recognizing his duplicity, quickly advised Guo Jing to hide the Manual.
She confronted Yang Kang, reminding him, "Who in the world doesn’t know you’re an ungrateful backstabber?" Yang Kang quickly dropped his pretense and demanded the Wumu Manual, threatening them. Below the mountain, Wanyan Honglie's forces were clashing with Qiu Qianren and the Iron Palm Sect. Wanyan Honglie's chief, Peng, suggested a fire attack to force Guo Jing and Huang Rong down the mountain, despite Yang Kang being up there.
Qiu Qianren's subordinate informed him that the Jin troops had surrounded the mountain. Wanyan Honglie then offered Qiu Qianren a deal: if he handed over Guo Jing and Huang Rong, the Jin forces would immediately retreat. When this failed, Wanyan Honglie gave the order to burn the mountain. Qiu Qianren protested but was powerless to stop him.
Wanyan Honglie then used Mu Nianci as a hostage, calling out to Guo Jing to surrender the Wumu Manual if he wanted to leave alive. He tried to appeal to Guo Jing's compassion, asking if he would let Miss Mu "sacrifice her life for merely a Manual?" Mu Nianci, who had already been poisoned (by herself), defiantly told Guo Jing not to listen to Wanyan Honglie and that he would never get the Manual.
Declaring that she would not let Wanyan Honglie succeed, she reminded Guo Jing of his loyal lineage and urged him not to give the precious Manual to the Jin. With a final cry of "Don’t!" , she leaped off the cliff. Yang Kang, distraught, jumped down from the mountain, screaming her name. He was intercepted and held back by Sha Tongtian and others. After her death, Yang Kang found a letter from Mu Nianci.
In it, she spoke of their meeting as both the most beautiful thing and the worst nightmare of her life. She expressed no regrets for dying, hoping that her sacrifice would make him "come to your senses, help you break away from Wanyan Honglie and start a new life." She concluded by stating her love for him and hoping they would meet again, while also urging him, "Don’t repeat your mistakes."
As the flames engulfed the mountain, Wanyan Honglie commanded his forces to continue the fire attack to burn Guo Jing and Huang Rong. Huang Rong, severely injured and realizing that descent was impossible due to Wanyan Honglie's men, told Guo Jing to carry her to the peak. At the summit, they heard the chirping of white condors. Guo Jing called out, and the condors arrived, carrying them both away from Iron Palm Mountain and the spreading fires.
Qiu Qianren, seeing them escape, swore to settle the score with Guo Jing later. The condors eventually dropped Guo Jing and Huang Rong in a peculiar forest. Huang Rong insisted they enter, despite its strangeness, to avoid Qiu Qianren, who was still pursuing them. As they ventured deeper, the forest became filled with miasma. Qiu Qianren and his men followed their tracks to the edge of the forest.
He coldly stated that even if they evaded the miasma, they wouldn't escape the Black Marsh Hermit, and ordered his men to simply guard the forest exit. Amidst the dense miasma, Guo Jing carried Huang Rong until they discovered a small thatched cottage. A black marsh surrounded the house, impassable due to a complex array. Huang Rong spotted a line of words by the marsh.
Recognizing it as a "Nine Palace Array," she quickly solved the riddle, explaining that such formations were foundational to Peach Blossom Island's teachings and thus easy for her. Following her precise instructions, Guo Jing navigated the treacherous marsh, and they safely reached the cottage door. They cautiously entered the cottage, where they found a white-haired woman in a green robe, engrossed in calculations. This was the Divine Mathematician, Ying Gu.
Huang Rong, without hesitation, revealed the correct answer to Ying Gu's complex square root problem. Ying Gu was astonished, thinking Huang Rong was joking when she claimed to have solved it in just a few days as a child. Huang Rong then corrected another of Ying Gu's calculations, emphasizing that "one tiny mistake can lead to a disaster" and had almost ruined her armillary sphere.
Suddenly, Qiu Qianren's voice resonated through the forest, disrupting Ying Gu's work and damaging her armillary sphere. Enraged, Ying Gu accused Guo Jing and Huang Rong, but Guo Jing quickly explained that they were disciples of Hong Qigong, the Nine-Fingered Divine Beggar, and were being pursued by Qiu Qianren for trespassing. He subtly pointed out that the one who truly damaged her device was outside.
Ying Gu then stepped out and coolly rebuffed Qiu Qianren, asserting that no one had ever survived her Black Marsh and daring him to test her. Qiu Qianren, though skeptical, ordered his men to guard the forest, believing Guo Jing and Huang Rong would eventually succumb. Back inside, Ying Gu examined Huang Rong's serious injury. She offered Huang Rong a pain reliever, but Huang Rong, cautious of strangers, hesitated. Ying Gu scoffed, warning that the pain would soon be unbearable.
Angered by Ying Gu's harsh tone, Guo Jing decided to leave with Huang Rong. Ying Gu, a recluse for ten years with an eccentric temperament, lashed out, declaring that her house was not a place to come and go as they pleased. She struck her table, sending wooden sticks flying, but Guo Jing's advanced martial arts easily defeated her.
Ying Gu, defeated and crestfallen, mused aloud about her decade of solitary cultivation, which had finally brought her enlightenment and the imminent chance for revenge. Yet, she had been defeated by a mere "kid." She noted Huang Rong's blackened face, a sign of her critical condition, and predicted she wouldn't live much longer. Seeing Guo Jing's deep affection and unwavering loyalty towards Huang Rong, Ying Gu grew wistful.
Tears welled up as she recited an old love poem, "Out from the weaver, the mandarin ducks poise to fly and quiver. . . Pity the hair, prematurely white of the head." Both Guo Jing and Huang Rong found the verses strangely familiar. Taking pity on them, Ying Gu informed them that only one person in the world could cure Huang Rong.
She gave them three embroidered pouches, instructing them to open them in the specific order of red, yellow, and blue, but only upon reaching Taoyuan County. When Huang Rong began to feel unwell and asked for a Nine Flowers Dew Pill, Ying Gu became intensely agitated, recognizing it as a divine medicine from Peach Blossom Island. Upon learning that Huang Rong was Huang Yaoshi's daughter, Ying Gu immediately demanded the pouches back.
Guo Jing earnestly pleaded with her not to punish Huang Rong for her father's past actions. However, Huang Rong, unwilling to let Guo Jing beg, resolutely returned the pouches. Ying Gu, after a moment of cold contemplation, observed Huang Rong's apparent strength despite her injury and mused that if Huang Yaoshi's daughter was so formidable, her own plans for revenge on Peach Blossom Island were likely futile. Accepting her fate, she returned the pouches to them, but warned that the Nine Flowers Dew Pill would worsen Huang Rong's condition and must not be taken again.
Episode 40 Recap
Guo Jing and Huang Rong arrived at Taoyuan County, Huang Rong's condition worsening, her face growing paler. Following Ying's instructions, Guo Jing first opened the white pouch. It indicated that only Emperor Duan, the Southern Emperor who was on par with Huang Yaoshi, Ouyang Feng, and Hong Qigong, could save Huang Rong. Opening the second red pouch, they learned that Emperor Duan had become a recluse to avoid conflict, making him extremely difficult to meet.
Seeking medical treatment was a taboo, and his four disciples—the Fisherman, Woodsman, Farmer, and Scholar—would launch preemptive strikes to prevent them from passing. Therefore, they were instructed to pretend Hong Qigong had sent them. Once they met Emperor Duan, they were to hand him the drawing from the yellow pouch, which was Huang Rong's only hope.
Guo Jing expressed reluctance to lie, but Huang Rong assured him that her good fortune was in having met an honest man like him, urging him to tell the truth. As they continued, they encountered a serene river where a fisherman, wearing a bamboo hat, sat on a log bridge, seemingly fishing. Huang Rong recognized him as the first of Emperor Duan’s disciples, the Fisherman, who was blocking their path.
The Fisherman claimed he was trying to catch a gold salamander to combat a noxious insect plague in the village. Huang Rong seized the opportunity, asking Guo Jing to catch one for her in the river. Distracted by the golden salamander Guo Jing presented, the Fisherman let down his guard, allowing them to pass. As they crossed, Huang Rong quickly instructed Guo Jing to break the bridge, successfully overcoming the first challenge.
Further up the mountain, they found the path seemingly ended. A Woodsman was diligently binding firewood, paying them little attention. Huang Rong surmised that the Woodsman, assuming they had been allowed to pass by the Fisherman, was not on guard against them. She believed they simply needed to please him to gain passage. Observing the Woodsman’s deep and powerful voice and martial arts prowess, Huang Rong speculated he was a former general turned recluse.
She echoed his recitation of "Tongguan Elegy" with a poem about finding peace in nature, both reflecting on the suffering caused by war. Impressed by their understanding and insight, the Woodsman pointed them to the only way up the mountain: scaling the sheer cliff face using the hanging vines. Guo Jing, with Huang Rong on his back, began the arduous climb. His grip was firm, but the ascent was slow and taxing.
At one point, his hands slipped, and they plunged several feet. Huang Rong, terrified, begged him to let her go, fearing they would both fall. Guo Jing adamantly refused, reminding her of their vow to always be together, alive or dead. He urged her to use a thin rattan to tie them together for safety, but she tearfully refused. He persisted, biting down on his lip, but his strength waned, and they fell again.
Huang Rong’s arm slipped from his neck, but Guo Jing miraculously caught a vine. Despite her desperate pleas to give up, Guo Jing refused, his resolve unwavering. Through sheer determination, they eventually reached the top of the cliff. Continuing their journey, they encountered a strong Farmer struggling to hold up a giant boulder, claiming it would crush his ox if he let go. Guo Jing, ever kind-hearted, offered to help.
However, the Farmer immediately exposed his true intention, knowing they sought treatment for Huang Rong and intending to prevent them from passing. He challenged Guo Jing about his master. Guo Jing declared his master to be Hong Qigong, the Nine-Fingered Divine Beggar. Huang Rong, noticing the Farmer's tactic, cleverly outwitted him, and the couple swiftly continued their journey, leaving the Farmer struggling with the boulder.
They then came upon a broken bridge spanning a gurgling stream, with a small pavilion nearby. Inside, a Scholar diligently read a sage's book. Huang Rong identified him as the last of Emperor Duan’s four disciples. She engaged him in a discussion about Confucius, revealing her deep understanding of the Analects. The Scholar, impressed by her ability to discern the hidden meaning in a passage about Confucius's 72 disciples, challenged her to complete a couplet.
He presented the first line: "With Qin, Se, Pi, and Pa, four kings share a common countenance." Huang Rong responded with: "With Chi, Mei, Wang, and Liang, four devils reveal their true intentions," a witty and pointed jab at the four disciples who had tried to block their path. The Scholar laughed, acknowledging the perfection and daring nature of her reply.
He then directed them across the broken bridge, implying that with a bridge in their hearts, their feet would guide them. Guo Jing carried Huang Rong, and they successfully "walked" across the seemingly impassable bridge. Having passed all four challenges, Guo Jing carried Huang Rong unimpeded to a monastery. A young sweeping monk informed them that Emperor Duan no longer lived in this world, plunging Guo Jing into despair. He refused to give up, insisting they find other renowned doctors.
Huang Rong, however, felt her time was short and preferred to spend her last days peacefully in the monastery rather than enduring futile journeys. As she spoke, she coughed violently, spitting blood, and then collapsed. Guo Jing desperately tried to transfer his inner energy to her, but it was to no avail. Huang Rong, weakly caressing his face, expressed her desire that he not be too sad.
Devastated, Guo Jing knelt outside in the pouring rain, pleading with Heaven to save Huang Rong. He recalled his mother teaching him that good deeds are rewarded, and although Huang Rong was mischievous, she had done no evil. He offered his own life in exchange for hers, staying on his knees all night. The next morning, a venerable master approached him, introducing himself as Yideng, the very Emperor Duan Guo Jing sought.
Relieved and overjoyed, Guo Jing learned that "Emperor Duan no longer lives in this world" meant his identity as a monk, Yideng. Guo Jing presented Yideng with the drawing from the yellow pouch. Yideng recognized it as a drawing depicting the story of King Sibi, who cut flesh from his own body to save a dove, a tale meant to subtly goad him into treating Huang Rong.
He examined Huang Rong, confirming her severe internal injuries, with her internal organs damaged and circulation blocked. Despite his disciples' pleas not to sacrifice his own well-being by using his most powerful martial arts, Yideng declared that saving lives was paramount. He ordered Guo Jing to stand guard, ensuring no one, not even his own disciples, entered, as Huang Rong's life depended on it.
During the treatment, Huang Rong experienced extreme sensations of heat and cold, as if between a volcano and an ice cave. After the intense healing process, Yideng, now with white hair and a much older appearance, announced that Huang Rong was cured and would fully recover in a couple of days. However, to save her, he had used his Divine Finger and Xiantian Skill, completely depleting his inner power.
It would take him five years of diligent cultivation to regain his martial arts, with any mistake leading to permanent invalidity or even death. Guo Jing and Huang Rong were overwhelmed by his sacrifice, finally understanding the true meaning of Ying's pouches and the King Sibi drawing—it was not a test, but a powerful moral imperative to ensure Yideng would use his unique skills to save Huang Rong, even at such a great personal cost.
Episode 41 Recap
After Guo Jing and Huang Rong found Yi Deng, who was the former Emperor Duan, Yi Deng selflessly used his formidable martial arts to heal Huang Rong, sacrificing his internal energy and turning his hair white. Guo Jing was appalled by Ying Gu's ruthless scheme, using Buddhist tales with ill intent and attempting to frame Huang Rong. Yi Deng, however, did not blame Ying Gu, stating that the "root cause is actually me."
Huang Rong then inquired about the long-standing animosity between them. Yi Deng began his tale, explaining that it all started many years ago at the Sword Meet on Mount Hua. Taoist Wang of the Quanzhen Sect, concerned about Ouyang Feng's potential to seize the Nine Yin Manual after his own impending death, traveled to Dali with his junior brother, Zhou Botong.
While Emperor Duan (Yi Deng) and Taoist Wang secluded themselves to exchange the Divine Finger and Xiantian Skill, Zhou Botong, an artless young man who didn't keep his distance from women, wandered the palace and inadvertently caused trouble. He befriended Noble Consort Liu (Ying Gu) and, out of good intention, began teaching her acupoint striking techniques.
Yi Deng explained that this martial art, with the exception of family members or spouses, is traditionally never taught between opposite genders due to the necessity of touching all acupoints on the body for proper instruction. Huang Rong interjected, noting that "Old Urchin is always horsing around regardless of severity." She then revealed that Zhou Botong had been trapped by her father on Peach Blossom Island for fifteen years but had recently escaped and even become Guo Jing's sworn brother.
As Yi Deng continued his story, Huang Rong, seeing his exhausted state from healing her, offered him some Nine Flowers Dew Pills. Yi Deng recalled that at the Sword Meet on Mount Hua, Huang Yaoshi had shared the elixir with the fighters when they were drained, and "it worked like a miracle." However, after taking the pill, Yi Deng suddenly coughed up blood. His disciples, witnessing this, immediately suspected Guo Jing and Huang Rong of poisoning their master.
Yi Deng assured them that the poison "only disables my self-healing ability temporarily. It can’t harm my body." Huang Rong then realized that Ying Gu had tampered with the pills, remembering how Ying Gu had handled the bottle and warned her not to take them. She deduced that Ying Gu did not want her to take the poison and discover the truth, thus foiling her plan to harm Yi Deng.
Yi Deng sighed, attributing the events to "bad karma," and described Ying as a "pitiful woman" seeking to "put an end to the vicious cycle." Yi Deng resumed his narrative, confirming that Ying was indeed Noble Consort Liu. After Zhou Botong and Noble Consort Liu became intimate, Zhou Botong, upon learning her true identity, confessed everything to Taoist Wang.
Taoist Wang, taking responsibility, brought Zhou Botong tied up to Emperor Duan, allowing the Emperor to punish him as he saw fit. Emperor Duan, however, chose to "let the matter rest" and even "blessed [their] marriage," stating that "martial artists should put the chivalric code before lust" and he wouldn't let a woman damage their friendship.
To Noble Consort Liu's dismay, Zhou Botong refused the offer, asserting that "real men don’t steal other people’s joy" and returned the mandarin duck embroidered handkerchief she had made for him, then left. Emperor Duan empathized with Noble Consort Liu, who was "first neglected by me. Then she was left behind by Zhou. It must hurt like being stabbed in the heart." Yi Deng explained that the pain she felt was not yet the worst.
After Zhou Botong's departure, Emperor Duan stopped formally seeing Noble Consort Liu but "still saw her in my dreams." One night, unable to control himself, he snuck to her bedchamber and heard a baby crying. He remained on the rooftop all night, understanding that the child was Zhou Botong's. Later, a masked man broke into her bedchamber, struck the baby, and fled. Noble Consort Liu, holding her wailing child, desperately sought Emperor Duan's help.
He examined the infant and found "all his meridians have been damaged." Saving the child would require him to "exhaust my energy," jeopardizing his chances at the next Sword Meet on Mount Hua and the Nine Yin Manual. He hesitated, but her persistent pleas swayed him, and he reluctantly agreed, believing "nothing is more important than saving lives." However, when he uncovered the baby's chest, he saw the mandarin duck embroidered handkerchief.
His compassion vanished, and he angrily confronted her, asking, "You gave birth to your lover’s child. Now you even want me to exhaust my energy to save him?" He then struck her acupoint, paralyzing her as she watched her child suffer, her hair turning white from grief. After he released her, Noble Consort Liu, to end the child's agonizing cries, took a dagger and killed her own baby.
As she left, she vowed that "one day I will stab you in the chest with this dagger!" Following this tragic event, Emperor Duan fasted for three days and nights, achieving enlightenment. He abdicated his throne to his eldest son and became a Buddhist monk, with his loyal disciples, the Fisherman, Woodcutter, Farmer, and Scholar, joining him in seclusion.
Yi Deng lamented that his "hardened heart" prevented him from saving the child, and that he seeks peace by saving lives, but truly believes only "repaying him with my own life" can end his bad karma. Huang Rong expressed her continued belief that Yi Deng wasn't entirely to blame. Yi Deng then revealed that after leaving the palace, Ying Gu traveled widely, seeking martial artists to learn skills for her revenge.
He deduced that the painting in her brocade pouch was created by Ouyang Feng, who likely knew the Buddhist story. Yi Deng concluded, "Ouyang Feng used Ying. Ying used me. It was a set of vicious plans to kill with a borrowed knife." He speculated that Ouyang Feng had planned this for over a decade, waiting for an opportunity, which presented itself when Huang Rong, injured by Qiu Qianren, needed Yi Deng's help, thereby consuming his energy.
Huang Rong wondered why Ying Gu hadn't used a deadly poison if her hatred was so deep. Yi Deng explained that "she must vent her hatred with her own hands." Guo Jing and Huang Rong offered to go down the mountain to intercept Ying Gu.
Yi Deng, acknowledging his deep debt to Ying Gu, asked them to help her if she ever encountered danger and, crucially, to "tie the knot between her and Zhou," for which he would be "deeply grateful." Earlier, a package containing a mandarin duck embroidered handkerchief was delivered from the foot of the mountain. Upon seeing it, Yi Deng knew Ying Gu had arrived.
Recognizing that the confrontation was imminent, Yi Deng asked everyone to leave so he could face Ying Gu alone. Unbeknownst to him, Guo Jing quickly struck his acupoint, immobilizing him. Ying Gu soon arrived on the mountain. Huang Rong tried to calm her, revealing that her father had set Zhou Botong free. Ying Gu was pleased to hear this but affirmed, "I just want to avenge my child today." She ignored Huang Rong's pleas, and a fight ensued.
Guo Jing, protecting the recovering Huang Rong, was distracted and quickly incapacitated by Ying Gu's acupoint strike. Her four disciples were no match for her. Ying Gu then reached the immobilized Yi Deng, who had been struck by Guo Jing earlier. She declared, "This day has finally come!" and stabbed him with the dagger. Believing her revenge complete, she laughed triumphantly.
However, a moment later, she questioned if she truly had her revenge, realizing that "the real killer wasn’t Duan Zhixing, but the masked man." At that moment, the real Yi Deng descended from behind, while the 'Yi Deng' she had stabbed was revealed to be Guo Jing, who had broken free from his acupoint blockade and courageously impersonated Yi Deng. Yi Deng calmly offered the dagger to Ying Gu, accepting his fate and telling her to stab him.
She raised the dagger high but, in the end, could not bring herself to strike. Ying Gu then fled, crying hysterically, lamenting that she couldn't avenge her child. The following day, Yi Deng was seen healing one of his disciples, who had been affected by the poison. Guo Jing apologized for his deception, but Yi Deng readily forgave him, acknowledging that he "risked your life to save me."
Huang Rong noticed a book in Yi Deng's hand written in an unfamiliar script. Yi Deng explained it was Sanskrit, a language he learned when a monk from India taught him detoxification from a Sanskrit text. Huang Rong then had an epiphany: the last chapter of the Nine Yin Manual, which Zhou Botong had made her memorize, was also written in Sanskrit. Yi Deng, surprised by the coincidence, offered to translate it for her.
Episode 42 Recap
Master Yi Deng revealed the general principle of the Nine Yin Manual and Huang Shang's insightful footnotes to Guo Jing. This crucial section, originally written in Sanskrit by Huang Shang – a scholar proficient in Taoist canon, Buddhist sutras, and Sanskrit – was intended to prevent those with ill intentions from misusing its unparalleled martial arts to bring disaster upon the world.
Guo Jing, despite not knowing Sanskrit, had by chance memorized the entire passage, which Master Yi Deng regarded as a blessing in disguise, a reward for his kindhearted and chivalrous nature. Huang Rong, concerned for Master Yi Deng who had depleted his powers to save her, inquired if cultivating the general principle would aid his recovery.
Master Yi Deng explained that although his Buddhist martial arts differed from the Manual's Taoist inner power cultivation, the general principle taught ultimate martial arts applicable to all cultivations. Thus, his recovery, which would typically take five years, could be achieved in just three months by following the Manual's guidance.
Huang Rong was delighted by this news and further asked if the general principle could also help her master, Hong Qigong, who had lost his martial arts after being bitten by Ouyang Feng's viper. Master Yi Deng confirmed that if Hong Qigong practiced according to the general principle, his martial arts would be restored in no time. With renewed hope, Guo Jing and Huang Rong bade farewell to Master Yi Deng and began their journey down the mountain.
As they walked by a flowing river, Huang Rong mused on their remarkable luck. She felt that no matter what perils they encountered, they always managed to find a silver lining. She cited their narrow escape from Yang Kang at Xuanyuan Platform, which led Guo Jing to uncover the secrets of the Big Dipper Formation, and her own injury from Qiu Qianren's palm, which inadvertently revealed the mysteries of the Nine Yin Manual.
However, Guo Jing expressed that he would rather lose his own martial arts or suffer any harm himself than see Huang Rong endure any pain. Huang Rong playfully chided him, feigning anger that he would choose to be injured, thus making her grief-stricken. Guo Jing, with his characteristic clumsiness, struggled to articulate that he merely wished for neither of them to be harmed. Seeing his earnest but fumbling explanation, Huang Rong burst into laughter, cherishing her simple and kindhearted Jing.
Their immediate task was to find Hong Qigong and impart the general principle of the Nine Yin Manual to him. Huang Rong remembered their master mentioning that he would attend the martial arts duel at Zuixian Tavern in Jiaxing on August 15th, arriving several days early to enjoy the local cuisine. They decided to head straight for Jiaxing.
Meanwhile, in Prince Zhao’s residence in Lin'an, Yang Kang remained cloistered in his room, drowning his sorrows in wine since his return from the Iron Palm Sect. He commissioned a painter to create a portrait of Mu Nianci, and only when her image appeared on paper did a faint smile touch his lips as he whispered her name. Elsewhere, in the bustling streets of Jiaxing, Hua Zheng and Tolui were out shopping.
Hua Zheng was visibly ecstatic, eagerly counting the days until August 6th, when Guo Jing was expected to return with them to Mongolia for their wedding. She declared that after that date, Miss Huang would have to let go of him. Yang Kang, standing nearby, overheard their conversation and appeared thoughtful. Later, Yang Kang silently returned to Prince Zhao's residence, where Wanyan Honglie confronted him.
Wanyan Honglie expressed concern over his son's prolonged grief for Mu Nianci, insisting that dwelling on the past was unproductive. He reminded Yang Kang of the dire military situation faced by the Jin Dynasty, which had suffered several defeats, and the Emperor's pressing demand for the Wumu Manual. Wanyan Honglie believed the Manual could turn the tide and even help conquer the entire land.
He reiterated that the August 15th duel at Zuixian Tavern would attract many martial adepts, including the Seven Freaks of the South, who would undoubtedly lead them to Guo Jing and the Manual. Earlier, Wanyan Honglie had lamented to his subordinates his regret at not having exposed Mu Nianci's true intentions, believing they would have secured the Wumu Manual then, and later in his conversation with Yang Kang, he further blamed Mu Nianci for her deceit.
Upon arriving in Jiaxing, Guo Jing and Huang Rong planned to find an inn, but then they spotted Yinggu and discreetly followed her to the Green Dragon Tavern. Sitting at a table, Yinggu suddenly told Huang Rong about four medicinal ingredients for treating Huang Rong's poison: black sesame, pokeweeds, plum, and wormwood. The tavern waiter then hurried Yinggu upstairs to her room.
After Yinggu departed, Huang Rong found her words perplexing, wondering why Yinggu would offer such a prescription, especially while checking into an inn so close to her Black Marsh abode. Feeling something amiss, they decided to stay the night to observe Yinggu. Their assigned room had no windows, a detail the waiter dismissed as being the last available, while Yinggu's room was directly next door.
Unknown to Guo Jing and Huang Rong, Yinggu had recently been ambushed and poisoned by Qiu Qianren upon her return to the Black Marsh. Qiu Qianren had accused her of hiding Guo Jing and Huang Rong, and knowing she had saved their lives, gave her a potent poison, declaring she would die from internal organ failure if she didn't get an antidote within seven days.
As a waiter delivered their meal, Guo Jing began to eat, but Huang Rong quickly stopped him. She had a sudden realization: black sesame and wormwood were generally incompatible in traditional medicine. She then deciphered Yinggu's cryptic message: the first characters of the four ingredients – "Hei, Shang, Wu, Liu" – sounded phonetically similar to "Black inn, don't stay" in Chinese, a clear warning that the establishment was a trap.
Guo Jing immediately spit out his food, and they promptly fled the tavern. However, as they reached the courtyard, they were surrounded by members of the Iron Palm Sect. Qiu Qianren emerged, laughing triumphantly, confident he had them ensnared. Yinggu, hearing his distinct laughter, recognized it as identical to that of the masked assailant who had injured her son years ago. Fueled by rage, she violently struggled, breaking free from her ropes.
As Qiu Qianren clashed with Guo Jing, Yinggu leaped from her room and demanded the antidote. Seizing an opportunity during their intense exchange, Huang Rong deftly snatched the antidote from Qiu Qianren’s grasp. Yinggu swiftly consumed it, her renewed strength directed at Qiu Qianren as she sought vengeance for her son.
Huang Rong surmised that Qiu Qianren had likely injured Yinggu's child back then to force Master Yi Deng to expend his inner power to save him, thereby weakening Yi Deng and eliminating a formidable opponent for the Mount Hua Sword Meet. Qiu Qianren, despite their combined efforts, managed to escape. Meanwhile, Yang Kang continued to drown his sorrows, slipping into a semi-conscious state where he hallucinated Mu Nianci by his side.
He reached out to embrace her, only to find his arms empty. A violent storm then blew open his window, revealing a helpless, squawking baby bird that had fallen from its nest. Yang Kang bitterly reflected on his and Nianci's fates, likening themselves to the vulnerable birds, their lives controlled by others, their destiny subject to the whims of fate.
This realization ignited a fierce defiance within him, and he vowed never again to be manipulated by Wanyan Honglie or anyone else, proclaiming that he would be the master of his own destiny. Later, as Wanyan Honglie discussed his plans for the August 15th takeover of the Wumu Manual, Yang Kang entered with Ouyang Feng.
Yang Kang questioned Wanyan Honglie's strategy, revealing that Guo Jing was slated to return to Mongolia with Princess Hua Zheng for their wedding on August 6th, suggesting he might not even be at the Zuixian Tavern. He also pointed out Guo Jing's increasing martial prowess under Hong Qigong and his knowledge of the Nine Yin Manual, coupled with Huang Rong's intelligence, making them formidable opponents.
Yang Kang then presented his own comprehensive three-step plan to eliminate Guo Jing and the Central Plains martial artists, and elevate Ouyang Feng to martial supremacy. Wanyan Honglie was unsettled by Yang Kang's sudden maturity and strategic acumen, feeling he no longer recognized his son. Wanyan Honglie proposed enlisting Prime Minister Shi Miyuan to deploy Song troops alongside Jin forces to encircle Zuixian Tavern.
However, Yang Kang vehemently disagreed, arguing that a civil official ordering troop deployments would arouse suspicion and jeopardize their entire operation. Despite Wanyan Honglie's anger, he patiently listened as Yang Kang elaborated on his strategy: on the day before August 15th, Ouyang Feng would instigate internal conflict among the martial artists, driving them into Zuixian Tavern. Once trapped, they would be ambushed with a barrage of arrows and venomous snakes, ensuring no one could escape.
As the first step of his plan, Yang Kang sent a letter along with a silk pouch embroidered with Guo Jing's name to him. This pouch, originally given by Guo Jing to Tolui during their sworn brotherhood, had fallen into Qiu Qianzhang's hands (likely via Hou Tonghai when Tolui was tied up) before reaching Yang Kang.
For the second step, Yang Kang announced that he and Ouyang Feng would personally implement it, while others were dispatched to meticulously survey Zuixian Tavern, charting every possible exit. Meanwhile, in Jiaxing, the Seven Freaks of the South arrived at Zuixian Tavern earlier than planned. They reminisced about their legendary battle against Qiu Chuji and Master Jiaomu eighteen years prior, noting how much the tavern had changed, with the old waiter now promoted to manager.
They planned to attend the August 15th gathering. Elsewhere in Jiaxing, Guo Jing and Huang Rong continued their search for Hong Qigong. Huang Rong, craving Jiaxing's famous mould cakes, asked Guo Jing to buy some. Guo Jing went to Zuixian Tavern, known for its cakes, and there, to his surprise, he encountered his Seventh Master, Han Xiaoying.
Episode 43 Recap
Guo Jing enthusiastically followed his Seventh Master upstairs at Zuixian Tavern to greet his other masters. It had been many days since they last met, and their reunion filled everyone with joy. Guo Jing recounted his and Huang Rong’s experiences over the past few months, including how Hong Qigong (Chief Hong) had asked Huang Rong to succeed him as chief of the Beggars Sect, but it hadn't gone smoothly, and Huang Rong had almost lost her life.
He shared how they found Master Yideng, who saved Huang Rong, considering it a blessing in disguise. Now that Guo Jing had grasped the essence of the Nine Yin Manual, his masters believed Chief Hong's powers would soon be restored. Guo Jing explained they had come to Jiaxing specifically to find Hong Qigong.
Over hearty drinks, his masters reminisced about their legendary battle with Taoist Qiu (Qiu Chuji) at Zuixian Tavern eighteen years prior, mocking the poor quality of his wine. They recounted how they, as sworn brothers led by Ke Zhen'e, had fought Taoist Qiu on behalf of Master Jiaomu, even finishing a large bronze tripod full of wine that Taoist Qiu had used to intimidate them.
This led to their famous bet to raise Guo Jing and Yang Kang for a duel after eighteen years. They also recalled their carefree youth over thirty years ago, often getting into fights with bullies and celebrating their victories at the tavern. Guo Jing felt a pang of guilt, regretting that his masters had to leave their hometown for Mongolia for eighteen years because of him.
However, his masters quickly reassured him, expressing their happiness at seeing him grow into a fine young man and stating they expected nothing in return. A server interrupted, announcing that their boat was ready. When Guo Jing inquired about their destination, Ke Zhen'e explained they were sailing to Peach Blossom Island. They had heard that Tan Chuduan of the Quanzhen Sect was killed by Heretic Huang (Huang Yaoshi), and the Seven Masters of Quanzhen were seeking revenge.
His masters intended to mediate the conflict. Guo Jing, however, urgently clarified that he and Huang Rong had witnessed Ouyang Feng (Western Venom) murder Taoist Tan inside a secret chamber at Qu San Tavern, framing Lord Huang to sow discord. Realizing the truth could resolve the conflict, Ke Zhen'e asked Guo Jing to accompany them to explain.
But Han Xiaoying reminded them that Guo Jing was scheduled to meet Princess Hua Zheng in Lin'an on August 6 to return to Mongolia for their wedding, making it impossible for him to join them. Han Xiaoying sighed about fate’s cruel joke on Guo Jing and Huang Rong, acknowledging they couldn’t attend his wedding because of the upcoming duel at Zuixian Tavern.
Guo Jing, understanding their dilemma, promised to return to Jiaxing after his wedding, as he still had many things to accomplish. Han Xiaoying offered parting advice, urging him to be a responsible husband, care for his family and wife, emphasizing that his happiness was all that mattered to them. After a final toast, his masters departed, with Zhu Cong playfully warning Guo Jing to eat well or risk a spanking.
Guo Jing bade them farewell, promising to meet again in Jiaxing. Meanwhile, Zhou Botong (Old Urchin) and Hong Qigong (Old Beggar) were by a river. Zhou Botong, proud of catching a fish, was disappointed when Hong Qigong dismissed it as a bland, muddy grass carp. Zhou Botong retorted he only fished for fun, not like Hong Qigong who only thought of eating.
Hong Qigong then mischievously suggested Zhou Botong go off and play by himself, adding that if he met Huang Rong, he would tell her Zhou Botong had taken excellent care of him. Realizing Hong Qigong was subtly using Huang Rong to keep him from leaving, Zhou Botong conceded and promised to stay with Hong Qigong until August 15, when Huang Rong was scheduled to meet them at Zuixian Tavern.
Hong Qigong, seizing the moment, firmly declared that Zhou Botong was "stuck" with him and couldn't go anywhere he pleased. Not far away, Sha Tongtian, Lingzhi Shangren, and their group were discussing Yang Kang (Young Prince), noting his recent grumpiness and how he commanded respect at Zhoujing Hall, even over his father. They were on a scouting mission for Yang Kang around Zuixian Tavern. Suddenly, Zhou Botong appeared, swiftly striking their acupoints.
He then fed them mud balls, claiming they were the world's deadliest Central Plains poison, which would take effect in forty-nine days, and only he had the antidote. Liang Ziweng, a poison expert, mistakenly confirmed the taste matched descriptions of such venoms. Terrified, the group agreed to do Zhou Botong’s bidding, which was to find him a sedan chair. Hong Qigong praised Zhou Botong's cleverness in acquiring five coolies and compared his "poison" to that of Ouyang Feng.
As Sha Tongtian’s group grumbled about their misfortune and the impossibility of finding a sedan chair in the wilderness, they spotted a wedding procession and appropriated the bridal sedan chair. Hong Qigong and Zhou Botong rode comfortably, drinking wine, while the five men strained under the weight. Upon reaching Jiaxing, Hong Qigong and Zhou Botong indulged in delicious eight-treasure duck, tantalizing the hungry carriers, who were too afraid to eat due to the supposed poison.
Zhou Botong, reveling in his trickery, accidentally let slip that his "poisonous dead skin pills" were made from dirt he rubbed off himself. The group was enraged at being fooled and tried to leave, but Zhou Botong effortlessly stopped them. Recognizing they couldn't overpower Zhou Botong, Sha Tongtian proposed a "Divine Contemplation Skill" contest between Zhou Botong and Lingzhi Shangren—a meditation duel where the first to move or even blink would lose. If they won, Zhou Botong would release them.
Zhou Botong eagerly accepted the challenge, confident he couldn't lose. As the two sat in deep concentration, the other members of Sha Tongtian's group quietly slipped away. Meanwhile, Huang Rong and Guo Jing arrived in Jiaxing, remembering Hong Qigong's fondness for its eight-treasure duck. They went to a restaurant, only to find Zhou Botong and Lingzhi Shangren locked in their motionless contest. Huang Rong quickly deduced it was a concentration competition.
Deeming it a waste of time, she discreetly touched their laughter acupoints, declaring the first to laugh would lose. Zhou Botong quickly burst into laughter, conceding defeat, while Lingzhi Shangren remained impassive. Huang Rong realized Lingzhi Shangren's acupoints had already been struck by Sha Tongtian's group, making him unable to react, and that Zhou Botong had been tricked. Zhou Botong, understanding he was cheated, indignantly demanded a rematch. Upon seeing their master, Huang Rong and Guo Jing rejoiced.
Hong Qigong, noting the Dog Beating Staff in Huang Rong's hand, knew she had become the chief of the Beggars Sect and expressed his pride. He then instructed her that her most important duty was to prevent conflict between the Clean Clothes and Dirty Clothes Factions, suggesting she lead fairly by having them take turns wearing different attire each year. Zhou Botong, eager to resume his carefree life, attempted to leave after entrusting Hong Qigong to Huang Rong.
However, Huang Rong playfully recited lines from the "Four Stanzas on Weaving," a poem associated with Yinggu. Zhou Botong, recognizing the verses, panicked and fled in terror at Huang Rong's teasing confirmation that Yinggu was on her way. Hong Qigong, puzzled, asked Huang Rong how she knew about Zhou Botong and Yinggu. Huang Rong explained that they learned of the history between Zhou Botong, Yinggu, and Master Yideng when Master Yideng healed her injuries, and they had even encountered Yinggu.
Hong Qigong was relieved that Emperor Duan (Master Yideng) and Yinggu had finally found peace. Guo Jing then shared the true secret of the Nine Yin Manual: the Sanskrit text, translated by Master Yideng, contained the complete principles for restoring martial arts on one's own. He recited the core tenets about Yin and Yang, which deeply impressed Hong Qigong, who realized his powers could be restored in no time.
Relieved, Hong Qigong then lightheartedly requested Huang Rong cook him many delicious dishes for the next ten days until the duel at Zuixian Tavern. However, Huang Rong's expression turned sorrowful as she revealed that tomorrow, August 6, Guo Jing would be leaving to marry Hua Zheng in Mongolia. Hong Qigong expressed his sympathy, acknowledging that fate had its own way despite his hopes for them.
It was their last day together, and Guo Jing promised to indulge Huang Rong's every wish. To ensure privacy for their final meal, Huang Rong rented out the entire restaurant, dismissing all other patrons. She then lovingly prepared a feast for Guo Jing.
As she served each dish, she recounted the memories they shared: the "Zhangjiakou Beggar’s Chicken" reminded them of their first meeting when she was disguised as a beggar; the "Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms" recalled their time with Hong Qigong; and the "Sunset Glow Island" brought back memories of their adventures there. Huang Rong encouraged Guo Jing to eat, lamenting that she wouldn't be able to cook for him again.
Through tears, she apologized, acknowledging that no one cared for her as he did, but she couldn’t marry him. She confessed her pain and that her father had taught her everything but how to say goodbye to her love. Guo Jing, his voice thick with emotion, told her that despite the brevity of their time together, it had been the happiest of his life.
He admitted that he never truly understood the word "unforgettable" until now, for every moment with her was etched in his heart, never to be forgotten even in death. Huang Rong, equally heartbroken, assured him that was all she wanted to hear. Guo Jing then embraced the tearful Huang Rong, their love and sorrow filling the small room.
Episode 44 Recap
Huang Rong stood by the river, her shadow puppet clutched in her hand, singing a melancholic song about inevitable parting and a gloomy world. She confessed to Guo Jing that she had learned this song from a shadow play artist on the day she sent him to get mould cake, specifically to sing it for him before they parted.
With the dawn, Guo Jing was meant to return to Princess Hua Zheng, and Huang Rong feared they would never see each other again. She poured her heart into the song, hoping it would embed itself in his memory, ensuring he would never forget her. Deeply moved, Guo Jing embraced her as she wept silently. The somber mood was abruptly broken the next morning when a messenger arrived, asking for Guo Jing.
The man delivered a letter contained in an embroidered sachet, which Guo Jing recognized by his name stitched on it—a token he had given Tolui when they became sworn brothers. His eyes lit up with joy as he read the contents. He excitedly called Huang Rong over, declaring that the August 6th appointment was cancelled! Tolui had written that Hua Zheng had thought things over and their engagement was off. They could finally be together.
Overjoyed, they embraced and spun in circles, exclaiming their happiness. Meanwhile, on the other side of town, Hua Zheng and Tolui waited in vain for Guo Jing until the city gates closed for the night. Tolui gently told Hua Zheng that Guo Jing was not coming, explaining that if he truly couldn't make it, he would have sent word. Hua Zheng, despite her disappointment, had no choice but to leave with Tolui.
At his royal residence, Yang Kang received a report from Sha Tongtian, confirming that Guo Jing had seen the sachet and note and had not returned to Mongolia. Yang Kang was pleased that his first step had succeeded and predicted Guo Jing would now head to Peach Blossom Island. He boasted to Nianci that he would soon obtain the Wumu Manual and rule the world. On Peach Blossom Island, Heretic Huang, Huang Yaoshi, was exasperated.
He was attempting to teach Shagu, his disciple Qu Lingfeng's daughter, to write, but she struggled even with the simple character for "Qu," her father's surname. Huang Yaoshi sighed, wondering how Qu Lingfeng could have had such a silly daughter. At the same time, the Seven Freaks of Jiangnan arrived on the island looking for Huang Yaoshi. He, however, refused to see them, instructing a mute servant to send away "those unimportant people."
The servant then delivered a report to Huang Yaoshi, mistakenly informing him that Guo Jing had returned to Mongolia with Princess Hua Zheng and Huang Rong was left alone in Jiaxing, sad and lonely. Unaware of this mistaken report, Guo Jing and Huang Rong were happily walking hand-in-hand in Jiaxing. Guo Jing told Huang Rong he was glad his masters were on the island, as he planned to ask them to intercede with her father, Heretic Huang, for their marriage.
He also hoped his masters had resolved Heretic Huang's misunderstanding with the Quanzhen Sect, and that Heretic Huang would help them against Ouyang Feng at the upcoming Zuixian Tavern contest. Suddenly, they spotted Hong Qigong. Hong Qigong expressed his delight that Guo Jing would not have to return to Mongolia and could be with Huang Rong. Huang Rong noticed Hong Qigong seemed to be searching for someone. He confirmed he was looking for Ke Zhene.
Guo Jing was surprised, believing his eldest master was still on Peach Blossom Island. Hong Qigong explained he had seen Ke Zhene at the pier, looking disheveled and ferocious, yelling "Where is your conscience?" and threatening to "chop Rong’s head." Before Hong Qigong could question him, Ke Zhene had vanished. Hong Qigong speculated that perhaps an argument had erupted between Heretic Huang and Ke Zhene, given their similar eccentric natures.
He advised Guo Jing and Huang Rong to proceed to Peach Blossom Island as planned while he continued his search for Ke Zhene, hoping to clarify any misunderstanding. As they sailed towards Peach Blossom Island, Huang Rong confessed her anxieties to Guo Jing, asking if he would abandon her if his masters and mother disliked her. Guo Jing passionately affirmed his love, stating that her sadness brought him sadness, and her joy, joy.
He vowed to stand by her and protect her even if the entire world turned against her. Huang Rong, still uneasy, asked him to promise he would never leave her. Guo Jing, reminding her of their past trials and Hua Zheng's decision, pledged never to part from her in this life, the next, or the life after that, sealing it with a pinky promise.
Her spirits lifted, Huang Rong danced gracefully amidst the blooming peach trees, captivating Guo Jing, who thought she looked like a flower spirit. Their joyful interlude was shattered by a grim discovery. Guo Jing found his third master Han Baoju’s beloved horse dead in the peach forest, its neck and legs broken. A short distance away, Huang Rong gasped as she saw her mother's gravestone shattered. They rushed into the tomb, where they found a scene of carnage.
Guo Jing’s sixth master, Quan Jinfa, lay dead on the steps. His second master, Zhu Cong, was on the ground. Huang Rong questioned why her mother’s belongings were on Zhu Cong, but Guo Jing vehemently insisted that his master would never steal from her mother’s tomb. Deeper inside, they found other masters dead, confirming that all six masters who had come to the island were deceased, except for Ke Zhene.
They discovered an incomplete blood-written character left by his third master Han Baoju. Guo Jing immediately recognized it as part of the character for "East," referring to Heretic Huang. Enraged, he stormed into Huang Yaoshi’s room, where he found bloody clothes, which he took as irrefutable proof. Guo Jing, his voice filled with fury, vowed to find and kill Heretic Huang to avenge his masters.
Huang Rong, however, tried to reason with him, arguing that they didn't know the full truth and it might not be her father. But Guo Jing was beyond listening, pointing out that only Heretic Huang could move so freely on the island, break steel, open her mother's tomb, and kill at will. When Huang Rong asked what he would do to her if it was indeed her father, Guo Jing, in his distress, could only reply, "I don't know. .
. I don't know!" and fled from the tomb. Guo Jing desperately dug graves for his fallen masters, first with his broken sword, then with his bare, bloodied hands. As he prepared the bodies, he noticed a small jade shoe in his second master Zhu Cong's hand. He casually tossed it aside, but Huang Rong picked it up, realizing it wasn't her mother's and that the character "Zhao" was inscribed on its sole. Suddenly, anguished cries echoed through the island.
They found Guo Jing’s fourth master, Nan Xiren, covered in blood and in a state of delirium. Nan Xiren, enraged, began savagely attacking Guo Jing. Huang Rong pushed Nan Xiren away, but in his madness, he struck her. The blow landed on her soft armor, causing him immense pain and momentarily clearing his mind. With his dying breath, Nan Xiren used his fingers to draw a horizontal and vertical stroke on the ground.
Guo Jing, distraught, interpreted this as a clear indication that Nan Xiren was trying to write the character "Huang," confirming his belief that Heretic Huang was the murderer. At the freshly dug graves, Guo Jing knelt and swore to kill Heretic Huang for brutally murdering his masters. He then declared that he would never again accept any favor from anyone on this island, effectively breaking ties with Huang Rong.
She tried to stop him from leaving, reminding him they didn't know who would win in a confrontation, but he was resolute. Meanwhile, Qiu Chuji and Ma Yu arrived in Jiaxing. They discussed the challenging situation of having to contend with both Heretic Huang and Wanyan Honglie. Qiu Chuji mentioned he had summoned their brothers and his disciple Yin Zhiping to form the Big Dipper Formation, anticipating their arrival in Jiaxing soon.
Guo Jing walked through the bustling streets of Jiaxing, his face devoid of emotion. He paused at a stall selling Su's cakes, recalling how his seventh master, Han Xiaoying, had once made similar cakes in the desert. The familiar taste brought a wave of grief for his lost masters. He then made his way to Zuixian Tavern, the very place where he had shared drinks and camaraderie with his masters days earlier.
Qiu Chuji entered, carrying a large tripod, and happily reminisced about the legendary contest between himself and the Seven Freaks of Jiangnan eighteen years ago in that very tavern. As Qiu Chuji spoke of those days, tears welled in Guo Jing's eyes. He choked out the devastating news: five of his masters were dead, all but Ke Zhene. Qiu Chuji's face darkened, and he demanded to know who was responsible. Just then, Heretic Huang's distinctive flute music pierced the air. Guo Jing pushed open a window, seeing Heretic Huang fighting outside. His voice thick with hatred, Guo Jing declared to Qiu Chuji, "Heretic Huang! He killed my masters!"
Episode 45 Recap
Huang Yaoshi found himself locked in a fierce battle with the Quanzhen Sect members. His martial arts were profound, and the initial few Quanzhen Taoists were no match for him. Observing from a window, Qiu Chuji saw his junior brothers struggling and quickly descended to assist, joining them to form the intricate Big Dipper formation. Despite the array’s complexity, Huang Yaoshi navigated through it, responding with surprising agility.
However, Qiu Chuji's disciple, Yin Zhiping, with his shallow foundation, was the first to sustain an injury. Ke Zhene, who had been watching the prolonged conflict, then also entered the fray. Guo Jing, who was watching from above with Hong Qigong, intended to join the fight, but Hong Qigong restrained him.
Hong Qigong observed that Huang Yaoshi was not fighting with intent to kill; otherwise, the Quanzhen Taoists would have been dead, as none of them were a match for him. Guo Jing, however, was determined, asserting that Huang Yaoshi had killed his five masters. Hong Qigong doubted this, stating it was impossible and that Huang Yaoshi was not that kind of person. Guo Jing countered, claiming he had buried them himself and that it was definitely Huang Yaoshi.
Dismissing this as "Nonsense!" , Hong Qigong insisted Huang Yaoshi would not do such a thing. Overwhelmed by his desire for revenge, Guo Jing leaped into the battle. He declared loudly that he would kill the "thug" Huang Yaoshi to avenge his masters, a sentiment echoed by Ke Zhene. Huang Yaoshi, seemingly unfazed by the attack, questioned why Guo Jing was there and where Rong was, asking if she had been driven away by the Mongolian princess.
Guo Jing angrily told him not to bring her up, stating he would still kill Huang Yaoshi even if Rong were present, and branded him a "mortal foe." As Guo Jing prepared a killing blow, Ma Yu of the Quanzhen Sect intervened, calling a halt. He deemed it dishonorable to defeat Huang Yaoshi with a numerical advantage, but he still demanded an explanation for the deaths of Tan Chuduan and Zhou Botong.
Huang Yaoshi, refusing to explain, dared them to kill him to glorify Quanzhen's name. Guo Jing then clarified that Zhou Botong was alive and that Tan Chuduan had been killed by Ouyang Feng. He recounted that he had seen Ouyang Feng ambush Tan Chuduan in Qu San Tavern while recovering from an injury. Hong Qigong corroborated this, confirming that Zhou Botong had been with him all along, much to the surprise of the Quanzhen Taoists.
With this new information, Ma Yu apologized to Huang Yaoshi for the misunderstanding, resolving the feud between the Quanzhen Sect and Huang Yaoshi. However, Guo Jing's personal vendetta against Huang Yaoshi remained. He reiterated his demand for justice for his five masters. Huang Yaoshi initially denied involvement, but when Guo Jing refused to believe him, Huang Yaoshi defiantly admitted to the killings, saying, "Yes, I killed them. So what?"
Just then, Huang Rong rushed in, distraught, pleading with her father not to take the blame, as she knew he was innocent. Huang Yaoshi, however, insisted he had "finished them off." Before the situation could escalate further, Ke Zhene suddenly collapsed, poisoned. Qiu Chuji urged Guo Jing to take his master away for treatment. As Guo Jing left with Ke Zhene, he vowed to return the next day to take Huang Yaoshi's life.
Huang Rong was beside herself with worry, having tried to convince her father to defend himself, but he remained stubbornly silent. Hong Qigong found her and listened to her account of events on Peach Blossom Island. He reassured her, believing it unlikely that Huang Yaoshi was the true culprit, noting that even Huang Yaoshi found Guo Jing's masters admirable.
Hong Qigong concluded that only by uncovering the real killer could Huang Yaoshi's name be cleared and the truth brought to light. Meanwhile, Qiu Chuji treated Ke Zhene's poisoning. Ke Zhene, emotionally distraught by the loss of his five brethren, recounted their lifelong bond. He then compelled Guo Jing to kneel and swear a solemn oath. Guo Jing had to vow that he would kill Huang Yaoshi with his own hands to avenge his five masters.
If he ever allowed Huang Rong to sway him again, Ke Zhene would die a gruesome death, dismembered, and suffer eternal damnation without reincarnation. Guo Jing initially resisted, begging not to utter such a terrible curse upon his beloved master, but Ke Zhene threatened to take his own life if Guo Jing refused. Tears streaming down his face, Guo Jing reluctantly took the full, horrifying oath.
Unbeknownst to them, Huang Rong was outside, listening to every word, her eyes welling up with tears as she witnessed Guo Jing's agony. Later that night, Hong Qigong met with Huang Yaoshi for drinks. He gently chided Huang Yaoshi for his stubbornness and tendency to invite misunderstanding. He revealed that Huang Rong had confided in him about the events on Peach Blossom Island.
Hong Qigong warned Huang Yaoshi that the person who framed him was meticulous and ruthless, and he feared this incident was merely part of a larger, more sinister conspiracy. He urged Huang Yaoshi to resolve Guo Jing's misunderstanding with him and to focus on finding the true killer. Meanwhile, Guo Jing and Huang Rong met by a lake outside the city. Guo Jing, heartbroken by the oath, told Huang Rong they should no longer meet.
Huang Rong, who had overheard the oath, pleaded with him not to abandon her, reiterating that her father was innocent and merely too proud to defend himself. She reminded him of their shared journey and deep bond. Suddenly, Ke Zhene appeared and attacked Huang Rong, branding her a "little witch." Guo Jing instinctively blocked the blow but was reprimanded by Ke Zhene, who accused him of prioritizing Huang Rong over his fallen masters.
Ke Zhene vehemently insisted that Huang Yaoshi was the killer, citing his brethren's accounts and his own miraculous escape, saved by Xiren. Despite Guo Jing's attempts to explain, Ke Zhene threatened to disown him and, failing that, attempted to strike Huang Rong again. Guo Jing, torn, once more protected Huang Rong, but the pressure from his master was immense. Overwhelmed, Huang Rong tearfully left, disheartened by Guo Jing's apparent choice.
The next morning, at the agreed-upon location, Guo Jing declared his intention to face Huang Yaoshi alone, seeking to avenge his masters personally. Huang Rong, however, stepped in front of her father, declaring that Guo Jing would have to kill her first. She asked Huang Yaoshi to promise not to intervene, as she intended to sever ties with Guo Jing herself. Ke Zhene sternly reminded Guo Jing of his sacred oath and the tragic deaths of their masters.
Guo Jing, his face a mask of agony, raised his palm as if to strike Huang Rong, but at the last moment, he turned the blow upon himself. He vomited blood, declaring that this self-inflicted wound was to repay Huang Rong for saving and treating him at Qu San Tavern, and that from that moment, their bond was broken, they owed each other nothing. Kneeling before Ke Zhene, he tearfully confessed his inability to harm Rong.
Just as this emotional confrontation reached its climax, Ouyang Feng arrived with his disciples. He openly admitted to killing Tan Chuduan and attempted to incite Huang Yaoshi to join him in eliminating the Quanzhen Sect. Huang Yaoshi rebuffed Ouyang Feng, reminding him of Mei Chaofeng's death. When a Quanzhen Taoist remarked that Huang Yaoshi had "lost to us yesterday," Ouyang Feng, seeing an opportunity, announced his intention to avenge Huang Yaoshi's supposed humiliation. Before Ouyang Feng could act, Hong Qigong, who had been observing from a balcony, leaped down, announcing he had something to say.
Episode 46 Recap
Hong Qigong intervened in the escalating conflict, announcing that the duel at Zuixian Tavern was scheduled for August 15th, making today, August 14th, too early for a full-blown fight. He expressed annoyance at the commotion disturbing his rest, describing the morning's chaos as a "slaughterhouse" with various absurd fighting formations like night stool and urinal formations, and even a man beating his wife and father-in-law.
Ke Zhene confirmed that Master Hong was right about the date, stating they should not cause a disturbance before the appointed time. Hong Qigong then warned everyone to cease fighting for the day, promising to remain neutral during the official duel the next day. Ouyang Feng, despite complaining about Hong Qigong's meddling, reluctantly agreed. Hong Qigong, feeling sore, asked Huang Rong for a massage.
Later, Ouyang Feng attempted to form an alliance with Huang Yaoshi, claiming they were "birds of a feather" due to their shared disdain for "loyal and good people," recounting how he once killed a teacher for promoting patriotism and filial piety. Huang Yaoshi, however, vehemently rejected this, stating that while he might be an eccentric "Eastern Heretic," he deeply respected loyal officials and filial children, emphasizing that all men bore responsibility for the fate of their country.
Guo Jing, overhearing Huang Yaoshi's words, was deeply moved. He pondered the conflict between avenging his five masters and the greater importance of the Wumu Manual he carried, unsure how to reconcile his personal vendetta with his national duty. The next day, August 15th, arrived, and Yang Kang, accompanied by Wanyan Honglie, journeyed to Zuixian Tavern by boat. Qiu Chuji immediately confronted Yang Kang for siding with the Jin.
Yang Kang defiantly declared himself a descendant of the Jin and rejected Qiu Chuji as his master. The conflict quickly erupted, with Ouyang Feng, Sha Tongtian, and Peng Lianhu launching the initial attack. The Quanzhen Sect, Guo Jing, and Ke Zhene bravely fought back. Yang Kang, having learned martial arts from Ouyang Feng, gained an advantage over Ke Zhene.
Seeing Ke Zhene in danger, Huang Rong secretly assisted him, but Ke Zhene angrily refused her help, viewing her father as the murderer of his brethren. Yang Kang seized the opportunity to taunt Ke Zhene, remarking that the "Seven Freaks" were now reduced to one, who even needed assistance from an enemy. This comment made Huang Rong suspicious about how Yang Kang knew the fate of the Seven Freaks.
As Yang Kang prepared to strike Ke Zhene again, Huang Yaoshi intervened, preventing the blow. Zhou Botong then arrived, excitedly joining the fray. Huang Rong quickly urged him to confront Ouyang Feng. Suddenly, numerous Jin soldiers appeared, deploying poisonous smoke that enveloped Zuixian Tavern. The gas quickly weakened everyone inside, forcing them to retreat further into the tavern.
Peng Lianhu reported to Yang Kang that the tavern was completely surrounded, and Ouyang Feng boasted that his poisonous gas would ensure no one escaped. Huang Rong realized that the Jin intended to exploit their internal divisions. The assembled martial artists, acknowledging the dire situation, agreed to put aside their personal grievances and unite against the Jin. Guo Jing then presented the Wumu Manual, explaining its profound significance as General Yue Fei's military treatise, essential for the Song Dynasty's defense.
He suspected that the manual was Yang Kang's true objective and sought guidance from the elders on its safekeeping. However, before a decision could be made, Yang Kang ordered a volley of arrows, and Ouyang Feng unleashed a swarm of venomous snakes into the tavern. Yin Zhiping of the Quanzhen Sect was bitten, but Huang Yaoshi provided a Nine Flower Dew Pill to sustain him.
Zhou Botong, ever pragmatic, suggested giving the manual to Yang Kang, arguing that they would all die anyway, and the Jin would seize it regardless. However, the other heroes vehemently opposed this, emphasizing the manual's critical importance for the Song Dynasty's future. Hong Qigong swore that even if they all perished, they would ensure Guo Jing and the Wumu Manual escaped unharmed. Ma Yu proposed that instead of waiting for death, they should fight their way out.
At that moment, Ke Zhene remembered a secret passage in Zuixian Tavern, a long-unused route leading to the back alley. Guided by Ke Zhene, everyone managed to escape through the secret passage to the back alley. The Quanzhen Sect members and Huang Yaoshi's group prepared to depart. Huang Yaoshi tried to talk to Ke Zhene about the events on Peach Blossom Island, but Ke Zhene remained unforgiving, and Huang Yaoshi, seeing his resolve, decided against further explanation.
Hong Qigong led Huang Yaoshi away. Huang Rong, however, refused to leave with her father, insisting on staying with Guo Jing. She then asked Zhou Botong to confront and kill Qiu Qianren, ostensibly to avenge Ying, but also to remove a significant threat to Guo Jing. Even though Guo Jing had declared their ties severed, Huang Rong was still determined to help him.
Guo Jing and Ke Zhene had not gone far when they were ambushed by Hou Tonghai and his men. Guo Jing, struggling against multiple opponents, found it difficult to protect his master. Huang Rong, arriving just in time, used her "Bone-Penetrating Needles" to disable Hou Tonghai and rescued Ke Zhene. She decided to take Ke Zhene to safety, confident that Guo Jing could escape on his own.
Huang Rong and Ke Zhene sought refuge from the pursuing Jin soldiers in a deserted Iron Spear Temple. Ke Zhene wondered how she knew about the place, and Huang Rong explained it was a childhood haunt where she played with her six brethren. He asked about the temple's statue, and she identified it as Wang Yanzhang. Ke Zhene dismissed Wang Yanzhang's legacy, pointing out his eventual capture and beheading.
Huang Rong then removed the metal spearhead from the statue's iron spear, transforming the shaft into a sturdy walking staff for Ke Zhene, lamenting that she couldn't replace his broken one. She challenged him to recover and then face her and her father in a duel. Exhausted, Huang Rong eventually fell asleep. Ke Zhene, consumed by his desire for revenge for his masters, contemplated killing the sleeping Huang Rong and then taking his own life.
However, he was conflicted, remembering that she had just saved him and provided the staff. Just then, Wanyan Honglie's party, including Yang Kang, arrived at the Iron Spear Temple. Huang Rong and Ke Zhene quickly hid behind a yellow curtain draped over a large statue. Yang Kang began searching the temple, nearing their hiding spot, but was suddenly interrupted by Shagu, who playfully ran into the temple, having snuck away from the boat where she was left alone.
Wanyan Honglie expressed frustration to Yang Kang, complaining that their "perfect plan" had failed, allowing Guo Jing to escape and alerting the Lin'an officials. Yang Kang, however, remained unfazed, declaring that they did not need to fear the officials. He further asserted that with Guo Jing and Huang Rong now at odds, capturing them would be much easier. Wanyan Honglie, though still apprehensive, agreed to rest there for the night.
Episode 47 Recap
After a day of relentless pursuit, Yang Kang and his group, weary from the chase by Song soldiers, decided to rest for the night at the Iron Spear Temple. Unbeknownst to them, Huang Rong and Ke Zhene were already hiding there. Huang Rong, observing from behind a yellow curtain, realized that Shagu, who had been with her father on Peach Blossom Island, might know what happened there.
Taking Ke Zhene's hand, Huang Rong secretly wrote a message on his palm: "Please, tell my father who killed me." Having conveyed her intention, Huang Rong boldly emerged from hiding and greeted Ouyang Feng as "Uncle Ouyang." She cleverly spun a tale to stall him, claiming her father, Huang Yaoshi, was being harassed by Quanzhen Taoists in Xinsheng Town, who insisted he had killed five of the Freaks of the South.
She also mentioned that Zhou Botong, referred to as Old Urchin, was planning to duel her father after forgetting the martial arts from the Nine Yin Manual, suggesting her father was in great peril. To further entice Ouyang Feng, Huang Rong claimed her father had deciphered the obscure text of the Nine Yin Manual. She then offered to provide the translation in exchange for Ouyang Feng's help in rescuing Huang Yaoshi.
Eager for the manual's secrets, Ouyang Feng agreed to rescue her father the following morning. Soon after, Shagu joyfully greeted Huang Rong as "Sister Watermelon." Huang Rong, seizing the opportunity, gently questioned Shagu about the events on Peach Blossom Island. Shagu revealed that Huang Yaoshi had become furious after reading a message about Guo Jing leaving with the Mongolian princess Hua Zheng and Huang Rong being heartbroken in Jiaxing.
Concerned for Huang Rong, Huang Yaoshi hastily left the island after dining with the Six Freaks of Jiangnan, and never returned. Shagu further confirmed that Yang Kang and Ouyang Feng then arrived on the island and took her away. Huang Rong directly accused Ouyang Feng and Yang Kang of killing the five freaks, which Ouyang Feng did not deny.
Hidden behind the curtain, Ke Zhene realized Huang Rong's dangerous ploy was to expose the truth and clear her father's name, deeply regretting his previous assumptions. Ouyang Feng explained he kept Shagu as a bargaining chip, believing she was kin to Heretic Huang. Huang Rong meticulously reconstructed the sequence of events at her mother's tomb. She explained that Ouyang Feng first donned Huang Yaoshi's green gown and mask at Jicui Pavilion, then he and Yang Kang hid inside the tomb.
They waited for Shagu to lead the Six Freaks of Jiangnan inside. In the dark passage, Ouyang Feng unexpectedly broke Quan Jinfa's scale pole and killed him, taking the freaks by surprise. Then, Ouyang Feng poisoned Zhu Cong with his viper venom, and when Han Xiaoying and Nan Xiren tried to help, they were injured by Zhu Cong's poisoned state. Han Baoju was then assaulted by Yang Kang.
Knowing they were in grave danger, Nan Xiren pushed Ke Zhene out, urging him to flee. Ouyang Feng confirmed they deliberately spared Ke Zhene because his blindness would prevent him from identifying the true killers, ensuring Huang Yaoshi would be blamed. Huang Rong revealed her deduction of Ouyang Feng's involvement from Han Baoju's dying incomplete word, which she interpreted as "Western Venom."
She then explained that Nan Xiren's dying attempt to write "Huang" was actually the initial strokes of "Yang Kang." Huang Rong then produced a small, exquisite jade shoe, which Yang Kang instantly recognized as his betrothal gift to Mu Nianci. He was shocked to see it in Huang Rong’s possession. Huang Rong explained that Zhu Cong, the Marvelous-handed Scholar, had stolen it from Yang Kang while Yang Kang was trying to frame him with other valuables.
She pointed out the words "Bi" (比) and "Zhao" (招) engraved on the shoe, recalling that Yang Kang and Mu Nianci had met during her martial arts betrothal contest . This made it clear to her that Yang Kang was the mastermind. Huang Rong then questioned Yang Kang about the letter Guo Jing received on August 6th, supposedly from Tolui, stating Hua Zheng was returning to Mongolia.
Yang Kang confessed to forging the letter after overhearing Hua Zheng and Tolui in Lin'an, realizing it could prevent Guo Jing from taking the Wumu Manual back to Mongolia, making it harder to acquire. Ke Zhene, hearing all of this from his hiding spot, was filled with profound remorse, realizing his own foolishness had led to such suffering and injustice, and now Huang Rong was in danger.
Huang Rong skillfully redirected the conversation to Ouyang Ke's death, exposing another of Yang Kang's wicked schemes. She revealed to Ouyang Feng that Ouyang Ke was indeed his son and that Guo Jing was not his killer. Instead, the real killer was a Quanzhen Sect disciple. As Huang Rong spoke, Yang Kang began to sweat profusely, betraying his guilt.
Huang Rong then prodded Shagu, who, when asked if "her buddy" killed someone, excitedly recounted how Yang Kang stabbed the "crippled guy" (Ouyang Ke) multiple times after he had inappropriately touched "her buddy's wife" (Mu Nianci). Huang Rong clarified that Yang Kang's true motive was not to defend Mu Nianci's honor, but to become Ouyang Feng's disciple. She reminded Ouyang Feng that he had previously rejected Yang Kang because White Camel Mountain's rules only allowed one disciple at a time.
Thus, eliminating Ouyang Ke was the only way for Yang Kang to achieve his goal. She also explained that the dagger with "Guo Jing's name" found at the crime scene was one of the tokens Guo Jing and Yang Kang had exchanged when they swore brotherhood, which Yang Kang had cynically used to frame Guo Jing. Enraged and exposed, Yang Kang lashed out at Huang Rong, striking her on the shoulder.
However, Huang Rong was protected by her Soft Hedgehog Armor. Yang Kang's hand instantly became paralyzed and he began to suffer from intense pain and hallucinations. Ouyang Feng was puzzled, realizing the venom was his but he hadn't poisoned Yang Kang. Huang Rong explained that on Peach Blossom Island, Nan Xiren, already poisoned by Ouyang Feng's viper venom, had struck her on the shoulder, leaving traces of the venom on her armor.
Yang Kang, striking the exact same spot, had thus inadvertently poisoned himself with Ouyang Feng's venom. Wanyan Honglie desperately pleaded with Ouyang Feng to save Yang Kang, but Ouyang Feng vehemently refused, stating that Yang Kang deserved to die for killing his son, Ouyang Ke. As Yang Kang convulsed and suffered, he hallucinated Mu Nianci approaching him in a red dress, just as she had appeared when they first met. Yang Kang eventually succumbed to the poison.
With Yang Kang dead, Wanyan Honglie and his remaining men departed at daybreak, leaving only Ouyang Feng, Huang Rong, and the hidden Ke Zhene in the Iron Spear Temple. Ouyang Feng demanded the translation of the Nine Yin Manual. Huang Rong, feigning forgetfulness, asked to see the copy Guo Jing had given him. When Ouyang Feng presented it, she deliberately mispronounced a line, then seized the manual, threatening to burn it.
She demanded that Ouyang Feng allow Ke Zhene to leave safely. Ke Zhene, unwilling to abandon Huang Rong, initially refused to go. To ensure his safety, Huang Rong insisted that Ouyang Feng take her with him and leave Ke Zhene behind. As she was led away by Ouyang Feng, she urgently reminded Ke Zhene, "Don’t forget what I wrote on your palm." Ke Zhene, deeply repentant and with a newly injured leg, limped through the forest using a makeshift staff.
Soon, he heard the familiar cries of Guo Jing's white condors. Shortly after, Guo Jing appeared with the Quanzhen Sect's Qiu Chuji and Wang Chuoyi. Ke Zhene, his voice filled with sorrow and remorse, recounted the true story of how Guo Jing's five masters were brutally murdered by Yang Kang and Ouyang Feng.
Guo Jing, realizing the profound injustice and how gravely he had wronged Huang Rong, was overcome with regret and grief, questioning how he could ever face her again after the pain he had caused.
Episode 48 Recap
Guo Jing, accompanied by Taoist Masters Qiu Chuji and Wang Chuyi, followed Ke Zhene to the desolate Iron Spear Temple. Inside, Yang Kang lay dead. Guo Jing, filled with sadness, spoke to his deceased sworn brother, recalling how Yang Kang had forgotten their vow, colluded with their parents' killer for fame and money, and died unrepentant. He expressed sorrow to Yang Kang’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Yang, for his failure as a brother.
Ke Zhene, however, cursed Yang Kang, stating that while he deserved to die, it was a pity to see the loyal Yang Tiexin's reputation ruined. Qiu Chuji, consumed by guilt, carved "Disloyal Disciple Yang Kang Taught by Incapable Qiu Chuji" onto a tablet at the grave, taking responsibility for failing to guide Yang Kang to be a good man. Guo Jing acknowledged Qiu Chuji's righteousness in admitting his mistake. Afterward, Guo Jing buried Yang Kang in a nearby forest.
Nearby, Zhou Botong had apprehended Peng Lianhu, Hou Tonghai, and their group. Still holding a grudge from the Zuixian Tavern incident, Zhou Botong lightheartedly suggested various brutal punishments for them. When Guo Jing arrived, he asked the villains about Huang Rong’s whereabouts, but they claimed ignorance, stating they had parted ways with Wanyan Honglie after Yang Kang’s death.
Guo Jing was shocked to learn Huang Rong was missing, and Zhou Botong clarified that Old Venom (Ouyang Feng) had taken her away. Zhou Botong suggested killing the villains since they knew nothing, but Guo Jing proposed a more merciful approach: to allow them to repent. He requested that the Taoist Masters take the villains to the Quanzhen Sect to be tutored.
Qiu Chuji agreed, and Zhou Botong also approved, eagerly imagining having them to play with daily, though he quickly excused himself from returning to the sect. Guo Jing then asked the Taoist Masters to take the blind Ke Zhene back to his home in Jiaxing, which Qiu Chuji agreed to. Before departing, Ke Zhene urged Guo Jing to find Huang Rong and bring her home.
With Ke Zhene taken care of, Guo Jing joined the Beggars' Sect disciples in an extensive, nationwide search for Huang Rong. Months passed without success. One day, as Guo Jing and Elder Lu Youjiao were dining outside a small restaurant, Guo Jing studied the Wumu Manual, admiring its intricate military formations. He noted the eight formations—Sky, Earth, Wind, Cloud, Dragon, Tiger, Phoenix, and Snake—created by Zhuge Liang and modified by General Yue, were indeed powerful.
He asked Lu Youjiao if he understood them, but Lu Youjiao humbly admitted he knew nothing of military strategy. Guo Jing lamented that the valuable manual was wasted in his hands, wishing Huang Rong were there, as her cleverness would allow her to understand it instantly. Suddenly, a large number of desperate refugees appeared, begging for food. When the restaurant owner tried to drive them away, Guo Jing intervened.
After learning from the refugees that the Jin army's retreating remnants were brutalizing villagers, killing, robbing, and assaulting women, Guo Jing was enraged. He gave the owner all his money, instructing him to feed the starving refugees. He prepared to fight another approaching group of soldiers, but they turned out to be his sworn brother Tolui and Master Jebe.
Tolui, however, immediately confronted Guo Jing, calling him "Golden Dagger Son-in-law" and striking him, believing Guo Jing had broken his sister's heart. Guo Jing explained he had been framed by the Jin and showed Tolui the pouch from their sworn brotherhood, clarifying that they were both victims of the "Young Prince's" scheme. The misunderstanding cleared, and the brothers reconciled. Tolui explained they were returning to the steppes after being unable to breach Tongguan, which the Jin fiercely defended.
He suggested Guo Jing return to Mongolia with them, and Guo Jing agreed, eager to see his mother. He asked Lu Youjiao to continue searching for Huang Rong. Back in Mongolia, Guo Jing observed the vast expansion of Genghis Khan’s territory. Tolui proudly spoke of their father's unparalleled achievements.
They found Genghis Khan in his royal tent, fuming over the repeated provocations of the small country Chorasmia, whose king, Mohammed, had robbed Mongolian trade caravans, killed their people, and burned the beards of their emissaries—a grave insult to Mongolian pride. Genghis Khan's anger subsided when Tolui announced Guo Jing's return. Genghis Khan welcomed him warmly, noting that Tolui had explained Guo Jing had been framed by the Jin.
Guo Jing pledged his life to aid the Great Khan, who declared war on Chorasmia. Guo Jing then surprised his mother, Li Ping, who had been speaking to her deceased husband Guo Xiaotian’s memorial tablet, expressing her deep worry for her son. As they talked, Guo Jing recounted his adventures, focusing on Huang Rong. Li Ping understood Huang Rong was a good girl but was concerned about Guo Jing's engagement to Hua Zheng.
Guo Jing expressed his dilemma between his promise and his love. Li Ping advised him that a man must be responsible and keep his word, following his father's example. Guo Jing decided: if Huang Rong was found safe, he would marry Hua Zheng; but if she suffered misfortune or remained unfound, he would remain unmarried. He relayed this decision to Hua Zheng, who, despite her initial heartbreak at Lin'an when she thought he had broken their promise, accepted his terms.
She acknowledged his integrity and declared that she would wait for him on the steppe for as long as she lived, even for ten or twenty years, stating that finding Huang Rong was his business, and waiting for him was hers. While Guo Jing helped Genghis Khan prepare for the western campaign, he continued to study the Wumu Manual.
One day, Lu Youjiao arrived with two Beggars' Sect disciples, offering assistance for the upcoming war and reassuring Guo Jing about the ongoing search for Huang Rong. Soon after, Tolui rushed in, reporting that his elder brothers' drunken soldiers were fighting. Lu Youjiao discreetly gave Guo Jing a note detailing how to use the Coiled Snake Formation to separate the fighters and the Winged Tiger Formation to capture them. Guo Jing swiftly quelled the chaos, even tying up the princes.
Genghis Khan, observing from afar, praised Guo Jing's military prowess and appointed him Noyan, the highest military rank, to lead three troops on the right flank during the western campaign. Guo Jing humbly declined the promotion but eventually accepted, pledging his life to the Great Khan. He also successfully pleaded for the two princes' lives, who were pardoned on the condition of redeeming themselves in the war.
Genghis Khan declared that after the conquest of Samarkhand and Mohammed's death, he would arrange Guo Jing's wedding to Hua Zheng. Genghis Khan then deployed his army, with Ögedei, Chagatai, Jochi, Guo Jing, Tolui, and himself leading various flanks. In his tent, Guo Jing, now a general, continued to study the Wumu Manual but still struggled with some of the formations.
He grew suspicious of Lu Youjiao's sudden military insight, especially since Lu Youjiao repeatedly claimed he needed to "go back and think" to explain specific formations. Once, after Lu Youjiao left, Guo Jing glimpsed a familiar figure in the army and tried to pursue, but Lu Youjiao quickly intervened, urging him to rest. Suddenly, Ouyang Feng appeared in Guo Jing's tent, demanding Huang Rong, stating she had escaped and must be with him.
Guo Jing was overjoyed to hear Huang Rong was alive, but feigned ignorance of her whereabouts, realizing she must be secretly helping him and needed protection from Ouyang Feng. Ouyang Feng sensed Guo Jing was hiding something. Ouyang Feng then returned Guo Jing's dagger, explaining that Huang Rong had revealed at the Iron Spear Temple that Yang Kang and Wanyan Honglie's trap had caused his masters' deaths, for which Ouyang Feng was mistakenly blamed.
He proposed a deal: if Guo Jing revealed Huang Rong's location, he would not harm her. Guo Jing refused, asserting that Ouyang Feng could not harm Rong in his military camp. Lu Youjiao arrived, and Guo Jing further warned Ouyang Feng that this was not a place he could come and go as he pleased. Guo Jing countered with his own condition: Ouyang Feng must respect Huang Rong's choice regarding the Nine Yin Manual and not force her.
Ouyang Feng scoffed, and after a brief standoff, left without Huang Rong. Guo Jing stopped his soldiers from chasing him. After Ouyang Feng's departure, Guo Jing asked Lu Youjiao to tell Huang Rong to stop hiding and meet him. Lu Youjiao, however, seemed troubled and demurred, claiming he didn't know where she was.
Guo Jing, worried about Huang Rong falling into Ouyang Feng's hands, became stern and issued a military order: if he did not meet Huang Rong by the same time tomorrow, Lu Youjiao would face military punishment. Meanwhile, Wanyan Honglie was actively inciting the King of Chorasmia to wage war against Mongolia.
Episode 49 Recap
Heavy snow fell as tens of thousands of soldiers prepared for battle, awaiting their general's command. The war began, filling the battlefield with smoke and countless casualties. The city of Samarkhand, the new capital of Chorasmia, was well-defended and proved difficult to breach. During the assault, a feather arrow, bearing the mark of Prince Zhao of Jin, pierced and killed the Mongolian general Bo’orchu. The Mongolian forces were forced to retreat.
Temujin learned that the arrow belonged to Wanyan Honglie, who had sought refuge with King Mohammed in Samarkhand. The city was built against the extremely steep Mount Tumu, making direct assault impossible. Mohammed commanded one hundred thousand soldiers and was advised by Wanyan Honglie to engage in a protracted war, a tactic that would greatly disadvantage the Mongols. Temujin declared Wanyan Honglie their irreconcilable enemy, responsible for the deaths of Guo Jing's father and now Bo’orchu.
Guo Jing, filled with a desire for vengeance for Bo'orchu, stood ready. Temujin promised that whoever broke the city, captured Wanyan Honglie, and avenged his warrior, would be rewarded with all the people and treasures within Samarkhand. Later, Temujin asked Guo Jing if he remembered their conversation before the battle with Sengum, when he had questioned who would win. Guo Jing confidently stated that Temujin would emerge victorious in this battle as well.
Temujin expressed concern over the unusually long and cold winter, which made the war challenging. Withdrawing would expose their army to attacks from Jin from multiple directions, leading to heavy losses, while remaining static meant dwindling food supplies and plummeting morale, risking complete annihilation. Faced with such an unprecedented predicament, Temujin wondered if it was Heaven's will. Guo Jing, feeling helpless, wished Huang Rong were by his side, believing her cleverness would offer a solution.
That evening, Lu Youjiao found Guo Jing and led him to the base of Mount Tumu, informing him that Huang Rong was at the summit. Guo Jing initially doubted how Huang Rong could ascend such a perilous, icy peak, but his doubts vanished when Lu Youjiao showed him a piece of paper bearing Huang Rong's distinct handwriting, containing a poem. Resolved, Guo Jing declared that no mountain, however steep, would prevent him from reaching Rong.
With Lu Youjiao's help, who had roasted lamb legs arranged on the cliff as footholds, Guo Jing began his climb. Upon reaching the snowy summit, Guo Jing and Huang Rong shared a heartfelt reunion. Huang Rong feigned anger, playfully chiding him for being "fierce" to her on Peach Blossom Island and for pursuing his betrothal to Hua Zheng while she was held captive by Ouyang Feng.
Guo Jing, overcome with remorse, knelt to apologize, but Huang Rong quickly pulled him up, admitting she knew he worried for her and had even made a deal with Ouyang Feng for her sake. She recounted her escape from Ouyang Feng at Guiyun Manor, using her father's intricate formations, which Ouyang Feng later burned down in a rage. He had followed her to Mongolia, but she had managed to evade him.
Just then, Huang Rong subtly pointed out Ouyang Feng's shadow from behind a large rock, confirming he was still trailing them. She then turned to Guo Jing, proposing they return the following night for her to "explain the weird words in the Nine Yin Manual" to him, knowing Ouyang Feng would be listening. Guo Jing immediately understood her intention to trick him, and Huang Rong confirmed her plan to teach the Old Venom a lesson.
The following night, Huang Rong began "translating" the Nine Yin Manual for Guo Jing at the summit, ensuring Ouyang Feng, still hidden, could hear every word. Guo Jing, playing along, claimed he had memorized most of it. Ouyang Feng, believing he was successfully eavesdropping, relished the thought of acquiring the manual. Guo Jing then announced he had to leave for an hour due to Temujin's summons, promising to return to finish the translation that night.
Once Guo Jing left, Huang Rong spoke aloud to herself, feigning fear of being alone and expressing her intent to go down and return with Guo Jing. Ouyang Feng remained hidden, confident she would return. However, Huang Rong had already arranged with Lu Youjiao to soak the ropes wrapped around the lamb leg footholds in oil. Once she and Guo Jing were safely down, they burned the ropes, effectively trapping Ouyang Feng on the peak.
Guo Jing, impressed by Huang Rong's cleverness, expressed his joy at seeing her again and his desire never to be separated. He reaffirmed his plan to capture Wanyan Honglie and take Samarkhand, after which he would ask Temujin to cancel his marriage with Hua Zheng, a prospect that pleased Huang Rong greatly. Three days later, the Mongolian army faced a dire situation. Freezing temperatures led to widespread illness, and morale plummeted.
With only three days of food remaining, Guo Jing felt helpless despite Wanyan Honglie being within reach. He had studied the Wumu Manual but found its strategies ineffective against Samarkhand's unique defenses. Suddenly, Ouyang Feng, desperate and trapped, seemed to defy gravity, descending from the mountain. Seeing this, Huang Rong had a flash of inspiration, realizing Ouyang Feng had inadvertently shown them a new way to conquer the city.
Guo Jing immediately ordered all army tents to be cut and fashioned into 10,000 bat-shaped wings, using wooden poles for skeletons, to be completed within three hours. He sent word to Temujin to lead the main army to the South Gate. Temujin viewed this as Heaven's final opportunity, knowing failure would mark the end of his conquest. Guo Jing, along with his brave warriors, donned the improvised wings and flew into Samarkhand.
The city's defenders watched in disbelief as Mongolian soldiers rained down from the sky. King Mohammed of Chorasmia panicked and fled with Wanyan Honglie, attempting to escape through the East Gate. As the city fell to the Mongol forces, Huang Rong, anticipating Wanyan Honglie's cunning, had set an ambush with Lu Youjiao at the East Gate, where they successfully captured him.
Guo Jing confronted Wanyan Honglie, who defiantly warned him that Temujin was ambitious and that Guo Jing would regret serving him. Although Guo Jing yearned to kill his archenemy, he explained to Huang Rong that, as a Mongolian General, he must present Wanyan Honglie to Temujin. Huang Rong praised Guo Jing's achievement, assuring him that Temujin would grant any request, including the cancellation of his marriage to Hua Zheng. Guo Jing presented Wanyan Honglie to Temujin.
Temujin recalled Wanyan Honglie's past insolence and declared that the time for reckoning had come. Wanyan Honglie, however, merely laughed, asserting that Temujin, like himself, was merely chasing the world—a fierce beast that devours its conquerors. He declared that Temujin would soon share his fate. Temujin, unwavering, vowed to subdue this "beast." Wanyan Honglie then lamented his life, recalling the loss of his beloved wife, Bao Xiruo, and his son, Yang Kang.
He concluded that even conquering the world brought only "unbearable loneliness" and warned Temujin that he, too, would eventually face such a fate despite his many sons and warriors. With those final words, Wanyan Honglie took his own life, uttering "Xiruo." Guo Jing, though avenged, felt a profound sadness at the tragic end of his enemy. Temujin, fulfilling his promise, offered Guo Jing all the people and treasures of Samarkhand as a reward.
Guo Jing respectfully declined, expressing gratitude for Temujin's generosity and stating he needed no further rewards. Temujin, surprised, then asked what Guo Jing truly desired, promising to grant his wish. Guo Jing began to ask to "call off. . ." his marriage, but his words were cut short by the screams of innocent civilians being massacred by Mongolian soldiers. Horrified, Guo Jing immediately pleaded with Temujin to spare the city's inhabitants.
Temujin, enraged by Guo Jing's unexpected request, questioned why he would ask for mercy for his enemies after rejecting valuable rewards. Guo Jing countered, arguing that true heroes should embody tolerance and mercy, like the vast grasslands, and condemned the ruthless slaughter of innocents. Temujin, furious at Guo Jing's defiance and criticism, stormed away. Guo Jing was left in despair, looking at the devastated city and the suffering people, pondering the terrible cost of revenge and conquest.
Episode 50 Recap
After the war concluded, Master Lu led the Beggar Clan disciples back to the Central Plains. Huang Rong, filled with joy, tidied Guo Jing's tent. When Guo Jing returned looking distraught, she eagerly asked if he had successfully called off his marriage. Guo Jing looked pained and confessed that he hadn't mentioned it to the Great Khan. Before he could explain further, Hua Zheng arrived. Enraged, Huang Rong stormed off alone, disappearing before Guo Jing could catch up to her.
Guo Jing pursued Huang Rong for a long time across the desert. He encountered Ouyang Feng, who was trapped in quicksand. Guo Jing rescued Ouyang Feng, only to be told by him that Huang Rong had perished in the quicksand. Disbelieving, Guo Jing frantically leaped into the quicksand himself, crying out for Rong, oblivious to the danger. Ouyang Feng swiftly pulled Guo Jing out, immobilized him, and carried him to a nearby refugee dwelling.
Ouyang Feng, seeking to acquire the Nine Yin Manual, knew Guo Jing's stubbornness would prevent him from willingly translating it. He planned to spar with Guo Jing, hoping to gradually learn its techniques through their exchanges, believing that over time, he would master it. During their confinement, Ouyang Feng provided food and constantly urged Guo Jing to translate the Manual, warning him against any escape attempts.
Guo Jing accused Ouyang Feng of causing Huang Rong's death, though Ouyang Feng denied it, arguing he wouldn't kill her before she translated the Manual. Guo Jing retorted that Ouyang Feng's obsession with the Manual led to her demise and swore to avenge her. As they fought, Ouyang Feng mentally acknowledged Guo Jing's reluctance to translate but continued to learn key techniques from their exchanges.
While Ouyang Feng was away, Guo Jing secretly poured a potent poison into Ouyang Feng's water. This was the same medicine Ying had once used to harm Master Yi Deng, coating it on a Nine Dew Pill. The poison would not be fatal but would temporarily incapacitate one's martial arts. Guo Jing, having kept the pill, used it to his advantage. After Ouyang Feng consumed the poisoned water, he found himself unable to use his power.
Guo Jing revealed his action, spared Ouyang Feng's life, and seized the opportunity to escape. More than a month later, Master Jebe and his men, having successfully captured Mohammed's head, were returning to Mongolia to report their victory to the Great Khan. Along the way, they found Guo Jing, in a drunken stupor, repeatedly calling out Huang Rong's name. They brought him back to Mongolia.
Guo Jing was utterly dejected, spending his days drinking, blaming himself for Huang Rong's death, and lamenting that his martial arts couldn't protect her. Hua Zheng found him, chastised him for his cowardice, and urged him to embody the spirit of a true warrior who can rise again after being hurt, comparing him to a white condor soaring high. She emphasized that Huang Rong, even in heaven, would not wish to see him in such a state.
Her words resonated with Guo Jing, finally stirring him to recover. Having avenged his father's death, Guo Jing's mother, Mrs. Guo, inquired about his future plans. With the Great Khan preparing to invade Jin, Guo Jing declared his commitment to assist fully. He then expressed his desire for them to return to Niu Village after the campaign, aspiring to a peaceful life there.
The Great Khan, after months of preparation and with sufficient supplies and high morale, decided to launch the Jin campaign immediately. Scouts reported that Jin's elite forces were stationed in Tongguan, a strategically difficult location. Guo Jing proposed a strategy: feign an invasion of Daliang, the Jin capital, knowing that Jin forces would undoubtedly dispatch reinforcements from Tongguan, a long and exhausting journey.
The Mongolian army would then ambush these weary reinforcements outside Daliang, wiping them out before seizing the city. The Great Khan lauded this brilliant plan, recognizing its alignment with his own thoughts. Before the southern campaign, the Great Khan presented three pouches, one each to Guo Jing, Tolui, and Ögedei, instructing them to open them together in the Golden Throne Room after capturing Daliang, strictly forbidding any premature opening under penalty of military law.
Guo Jing requested to bring his mother along for the expedition, but the Great Khan, feigning anger, refused, stating that war was not a sightseeing trip and promising to care for Mrs. Guo until Guo Jing's victorious return. Mrs. Guo, observing the Great Khan's unusually generous rewards coupled with his refusal to let her accompany Guo Jing, suspected an ulterior motive. She confided in Guo Jing her fear that the Great Khan intended for him to undertake an unwelcome task.
Sensing danger, Mrs. Guo decided to discreetly open the pouch given to Guo Jing, confident that her sewing skills from Lin'an would allow her to reseal it undetected. Inside, they found a shocking command written in Mongolian: after annihilating Jin, the Mongolian army was to advance south and invade Lin'an, the Song capital, to destroy the Song dynasty.
The pouch also stated that if Guo Jing showed any disloyalty, he would be immediately executed, and his mother would also face execution. Realizing they were Song people and could never betray their homeland, Guo Jing and his mother resolved to flee Mongolia before the Great Khan discovered their knowledge of the secret command. Guo Jing left to prepare horses, while his mother began packing.
Upon his return, Guo Jing found his mother gone and was immediately apprehended and brought before the Great Khan. Guo Jing vehemently refused to betray the Song, despite the Great Khan's attempts to entice him with power and titles. He accused the Great Khan of treachery for planning to attack Song after allying against Jin. Enraged, the Great Khan ordered Guo Jing's execution, but Tolui, Master Jebe, and others pleaded for his life, citing his past services.
The Great Khan, giving him one last chance, offered him the title of Prince of Song and governorship of the southern territories if he helped annihilate the Song. Guo Jing firmly rejected the offer, declaring he would rather die than betray his homeland. The Great Khan then brought in Mrs. Guo, using her life as leverage.
Mrs. Guo, facing her son, reminded him of his birth in Niu Village, the meaning behind his name "Jing" (to remember the Jingkang Humiliation), and her efforts to raise him as a true man of Song. She implored him to uphold his integrity and not disgrace their family. With these final words, Mrs. Guo tragically plunged a dagger into her own chest.
Devastated, Guo Jing cradled his mother's body and fought his way out of the Great Khan's tent, with guards in pursuit. Master Jebe, ordered to capture him, confronted Guo Jing. Guo Jing pleaded to be allowed to first bury his mother. Witnessing Guo Jing's profound grief and remembering how Guo Jing had saved his life as a boy, Master Jebe, unable to condemn him to certain death, made the difficult decision to let him go. Guo Jing, mourning his mother, vowed never to forget his Song heritage and never to betray his country, honoring his mother's sacrifice.
Episode 51 Recap
Despite Genghis Khan's ruthlessness, Guo Jing's loyal followers, including Jebe and Tolui, risked their lives to help him escape. Jebe insisted that Guo Jing leave, saying he would surely die if taken back to the Great Khan. He reminded Guo Jing of how he had saved him as a boy and that he could not now stand by and watch him perish. Tolui also arrived, offering Guo Jing gold and urging him to flee.
Although Guo Jing tried to protect Jebe by claiming he was being taken back to the Khan, Jebe assured him he would be fine given his long service in countless battles. Tolui then asked the assembled soldiers if any were there for personal rewards, and they all affirmed their loyalty, wishing General Guo a safe journey home. Guo Jing, touched by their devotion but worried about their fate, was again urged to run.
Before Guo Jing departed, Hua Zheng came to bid him farewell. She tearfully confessed that she was the one who had informed her father, Genghis Khan, about Guo Jing and his mother's attempt to leave Mongolia. She hoped it would prevent him from departing, but never intended for such tragic consequences, especially his mother's death. Overwhelmed with shame, Hua Zheng told Guo Jing she didn't expect his forgiveness and formally annulled their betrothal, setting him free.
She wished him well before he left. Riding alone across the vast plains, Guo Jing reflected on the profound losses of the past year: five of his masters, his beloved Rong (whom he believed to be dead), and his mother had all passed away.
He questioned the very purpose of his martial arts, lamenting that despite mastering powerful techniques like the Eighteen Dragon-subduing Palms, Mutual Hands Combat, Seventy-two Vacant Fist, and Nine Yin skills, he had failed to protect those dearest to him. He found himself deeply confused, contrasting the tragic ends of his heroic masters with the continued existence of wicked individuals like Ouyang Feng and Qiu Qianren.
Upon entering a city in the Central Plains, still clad in Mongolian attire, Guo Jing was mistaken for a brutal Mongolian soldier. Enraged villagers, who had suffered greatly under both Mongolian and Jin armies, savagely beat him. Adhering to his newfound resolve, Guo Jing refused to fight back, enduring the blows until his master, Hong Qigong, intervened and rescued him. Hong Qigong explained the people's turmoil, highlighting that the Mongols were just as cruel as the Jin.
Guo Jing reiterated his decision never to fight again and recounted the tragic deaths of his mother and Rong. Hong Qigong was heartbroken by the news, reminiscing about Huang Rong's lively spirit. Guo Jing felt his martial arts were useless if they couldn't protect his loved ones, noting how Genghis Khan's military triumphs only brought more suffering. He expressed a strong desire to forget all his martial skills.
Hong Qigong argued that martial arts, at their core, were for physical well-being and protecting the innocent. He mentioned his own partial recovery from injuries using the Nine Yin Manual and suggested they travel to Mount Hua for the upcoming Sword Meet. Guo Jing, however, was reluctant to participate in a competition for martial supremacy.
Seeing his disciple's despair, Hong Qigong shrewdly suggested that Zhou Botong, the Old Urchin, who was proficient in the Nine Yin Manual, could help Guo Jing forget his martial arts. He added that Zhou Botong would undoubtedly be at the Mount Hua Sword Meet because of its exciting nature. Convinced by the prospect of forgetting his martial arts, Guo Jing agreed to accompany his master.
As they ascended Mount Hua, Hong Qigong warned of the increasingly treacherous path, but Guo Jing was undeterred, eager to find Zhou Botong. They paused at the Chess Bet Pavilion, where legend held that Emperor Taizu of Song lost Mount Hua in a chess game to Taoist Chen Tuan, freeing its people from taxation – a stark contrast to the current war, which cost not just rulers' lives but also the peace of the common people.
Suddenly, they spotted Ouyang Feng rapidly climbing the mountain. Following him, they overheard him arguing with a young woman in a cave about the Nine Yin Manual. Guo Jing instantly recognized Huang Rong's voice and, to his immense joy, saw her, staff in hand, alive and well. She was cleverly instructing Ouyang Feng to cultivate the manual in reverse, blaming his lack of comprehension for his slow progress, thereby sending him off to practice further.
Overjoyed, Guo Jing rushed out and embraced Huang Rong tightly, relieved she was alive. Hong Qigong discreetly left them to check on Ouyang Feng. Guo Jing tearfully apologized, blaming himself for all their misfortunes. Huang Rong affectionately called him a "fool" but was deeply moved when he showed her her hairpin, which he had carried with him, believing it was all that remained after her supposed death in the quicksand.
He confessed he would take it out to remember her whenever he missed her. Huang Rong explained that she had faked her death in the quicksand trap, leaving the hairpin and a sable coat behind to deceive Ouyang Feng, who had been relentlessly pursuing her after she left the barrack. Guo Jing then explained his delay in annulling their betrothal, revealing he had risked his life to save the citizens of Samarkand from slaughter.
Huang Rong confirmed she had learned of his heroic act from refugees and had intended to return to him, but Ouyang Feng had found her again and forced her to translate the Nine Yin Manual. She admitted to teaching him a deliberately flawed, reversed version of the manual, which he had been diligently (and dangerously) cultivating. Huang Rong then offered to help Guo Jing win the title of "Number One" at the upcoming Sword Meet.
However, Guo Jing, still burdened by guilt over his mother's death and the suffering he felt his martial knowledge had caused, declined, reiterating his desire to forget all his martial arts. Though surprised, Huang Rong pledged to support him in whatever path he chose. Their conversation was interrupted by the appearance of Zhou Botong, who was being chased by Qiu Qianren, the latter having a venomous snake wrapped around his hand.
Ying Gu then arrived, consumed by rage and vowing to avenge her son's death at Qiu Qianren's hands. Zhou Botong, shielding Ying Gu from Qiu Qianren's attack, was stunned to learn he was the child's father. Ying Gu recounted how Qiu Qianren, mistakenly believing the child was Emperor Duan's, had fatally wounded him to compel Emperor Duan to expend five years of cultivation to save him. However, Emperor Duan, harboring deep resentment towards Ying Gu, had refused to intervene.
His subsequent regret led him to become a monk. Yi Deng, the former Emperor Duan, arrived and confirmed Ying Gu's story, expressing his twenty years of remorse and his desire to settle the past that day. Hong Qigong, outraged by Qiu Qianren's lifetime of wickedness and his collaboration with the Jin, fiercely attacked him. He condemned Qiu Qianren's treachery, contrasting it with the loyalty of his predecessor, Shangguan Jiannan, and questioning his right to compete for the "Number One" title.
As Hong Qigong prepared to deliver a fatal blow, Yi Deng intervened, offering his own life as atonement for his past inaction, believing his sacrifice could resolve the long-standing feud. Moved by Yi Deng's compassion and words that "a change of heart to goodness can shake heaven and earth," Qiu Qianren was overcome with repentance, remembering the noble teachings of his former master. He humbly asked Yi Deng to accept him as a disciple.
Yi Deng agreed, bestowing upon him the monastic name Ci’en. With the twenty-year feud resolved, Yi Deng bid farewell to the others and departed. Zhou Botong, citing other matters and still wanting to avoid Ying Gu, swiftly fled, with Ying Gu still hot on his heels.
Having witnessed these events and recalling Hong Qigong's earlier wisdom that martial arts, like water, could either bear or sink a boat depending on its user, Guo Jing realized he didn't need to forget his martial skills if he used them for justice and to help others. With this newfound clarity, the Mount Hua Sword Meet officially began.
Huang Rong cleverly laid out the rules: Hong Qigong and Huang Yaoshi would each spar with Guo Jing, and the victor would be the one who could defeat Guo Jing in fewer moves. However, if neither of them could defeat Guo Jing within 300 moves, then Guo Jing would be crowned the Number One martial artist.
Hong Qigong, despite having recovered much of his power through the Nine Yin Manual, declared he would only use his own school's techniques, refusing to rely on borrowed skills against Huang Yaoshi. Huang Yaoshi then stepped forward to begin his challenge against Guo Jing. After an intense battle of 300 moves, Huang Yaoshi was unable to defeat Guo Jing. With Huang Yaoshi's turn concluded, Hong Qigong prepared to face his disciple, Guo Jing.
Episode 52 (Ending) Recap
On Mount Hua, the Second Sword Meet was underway, but with a unique twist. With Emperor Duan (Southern Emperor) having retired, Ouyang Feng (Western Venom) yet to arrive, and Hong Qigong (Northern Beggar) disinclined to compete, Huang Rong proposed a challenge. Her father, Huang Yaoshi, and Hong Qigong would each spar with Guo Jing. The one who defeated Guo Jing in fewer moves would be declared the victor.
However, if neither of them could defeat Guo Jing within 300 moves, then Guo Jing would be the Number One in the martial world. Huang Yaoshi sparred first, failing to defeat Guo Jing within 300 moves. Then, Hong Qigong and Guo Jing began their intense spar. Huang Rong excitedly counted the moves, calling out numbers as they exchanged blows.
Both martial artists employed techniques from the Dragon Subduing Palms, with Hong Qigong attacking with water and Guo Jing countering with stone, creating a spectacular display. After 300 moves, neither could claim victory, leading Huang Rong to happily declare Guo Jing the Number One in the martial world. Just as she spoke, Ouyang Feng arrived, shockingly performing martial arts while standing inverted. He proclaimed himself the Number One, boasting that he had mastered the Nine Yin skills.
Huang Rong, recognizing "Old Venom," mockingly asked if his meridians had circulated in reverse, which Ouyang Feng proudly confirmed. She explained to Hong Qigong and Huang Yaoshi that she had deliberately mistranslated parts of the Nine Yin Manual, telling Ouyang Feng he had to practice it in reverse, and to her dismay, he had unintentionally gained immense power by doing so.
Guo Jing confronted Ouyang Feng, and even with Huang Yaoshi and Hong Qigong joining the fray, the three grandmasters were no match for Ouyang Feng’s distorted but potent martial arts. Ouyang Feng repeatedly asserted his claim to be the Number One. Realizing that Ouyang Feng was completely delusional from his reversed meridians, Huang Rong led him to a pool of water.
She pointed at his reflection, telling him that the true "Ouyang Feng" and the Number One in the martial world was in the water, challenging him. The mad Ouyang Feng, confused about his own identity and asking "Who am I?" , fiercely engaged in a battle with his own reflection. Huang Rong, Hong Qigong, and Huang Yaoshi seized the opportunity to leave.
Huang Yaoshi praised Huang Rong's quick wit, acknowledging that without it, he and Hong Qigong might never have escaped. As they descended the mountain, Guo Jing mused that the title of "Number One" was empty and only drove people mad. Huang Yaoshi agreed, stating his purpose at Mount Hua was not for fame but to meet friends. Hong Qigong then revealed his true intention: he came to witness Guo Jing become the Number One.
He believed the younger generation should take over and that the Central Plains desperately needed someone like Guo Jing, who was both skilled in martial arts and upright in character. Hong Qigong wished for Guo Jing to lead the martial world against intruders and revive their land, becoming a true hero of their time. Guo Jing assured his master he would bear his teachings in mind.
After their serious conversation, Hong Qigong suddenly declared he was hungry and asked Huang Rong for her good dishes. Huang Rong laid out a lavish feast, offering Hong Qigong his favorite drumstick. However, he surprisingly claimed to have no appetite, stating it was the first time in his life he felt this way in front of good food. Huang Rong then teasingly went to retrieve another dish from the pot.
When she returned with it, the aroma immediately piqued Hong Qigong's interest. He recognized it as the "Poached Five Treasures," a dish he had longed for his entire life. Despite his earlier claims, he eagerly devoured it, proclaiming it better than anything made by imperial chefs and declaring he could "retire from the martial world" after tasting it. Huang Yaoshi then suggested that Guo Jing and Huang Rong return to Peach Blossom Island to finally marry.
Guo Jing, whose mother had passed away, agreed, deferring to his masters and future father-in-law. Huang Yaoshi decided to send someone to Jiaxing to inform Guo Jing's Master Ke Zhen'e. Their plans were interrupted by a familiar eagle's cry, delivering a letter from Hua Zheng. In her letter, Hua Zheng informed Guo Jing that Genghis Khan intended to attack Xiangyang, knowing of his loyalty to his country. The urgent news changed their plans entirely.
Huang Yaoshi instructed Guo Jing and Huang Rong to rush to Xiangyang. He advised them to help the local official guard the city if he was cooperative; otherwise, they should replace him and lead the people and soldiers themselves against the Mongolians. He also instructed Huang Rong to inform the northern branch of the Beggars' Sect to join the national effort. Guo Jing and Huang Rong immediately set off for Xiangyang. Along the way, they stopped at a mountain inn.
They heard a baby crying and soon saw Mu Nianci emerge, gently cradling the child. Guo Jing and Huang Rong were astonished to find her alive. Mu Nianci explained that after she jumped off the cliff, she was rescued by an elderly woman and later given an antidote by a traveling physician. She woke from a three-day coma, and the child was saved.
She had since stayed at the inn, helping the old woman to make a living, choosing not to return to Niu Village due to painful memories and preferring to focus on raising her child away from thoughts of Yang Kang. Guo Jing then gently broke the news of Yang Kang's death. Mu Nianci was heartbroken but, through her tears, admitted she had come to realize that it was Yang Kang's own greed and ambition that led to his tragic end.
She hoped he could find a better path in his next life. She asked Guo Jing to name her child. Guo Jing, reflecting on Yang Kang's family loyalty and unfortunate choices, named the boy Yang Guo, signifying "making amends for faults." He promised to teach Yang Guo all his martial arts when he grew up, hoping he would become loyal, devoted, and a protector of the innocent.
Guo Jing also gave Mu Nianci a dagger, the token of brotherhood between him and Yang Kang, explaining that weapons themselves hold no good or evil, only the person wielding them does. After bidding farewell to Mu Nianci, Guo Jing and Huang Rong sped towards Xiangyang. Upon arriving, they found the city bustling. They immediately sought out the Pacification Commissioner to report the enemy's approach and strategize defenses based on the Wumu Manual, hoping to save Xiangyang.
However, they were initially turned away by guards who claimed the commissioner only saw guests on specific days. Undeterred, they forced their way in and found the commissioner enjoying himself. Guo Jing tried to deliver his urgent military report about the Mongolian attack, but the commissioner was confused, mistaking them for Jins and disbelieving the Mongolians would attack after forming an alliance. Just then, a scout reported the Mongolians were only a few miles away, charging towards the city.
The commissioner, realizing his error, immediately panicked and ordered the gates shut, intending to flee. Huang Rong had the cowardly commissioner arrested. Guo Jing then addressed the disheartened Song soldiers, reminding them that Xiangyang was Song's protective barrier and that defending it meant protecting their own families. His impassioned speech, emphasizing that "If the city falls, the family is ruined," rallied their spirits, and the soldiers vowed to "Guard Xiangyang! Protect Song!"
Huang Rong then proposed a tactic from the Commentary of Zuo, "Xian Gao's Way," to buy them time. She disguised herself as the Pacification Commissioner, Lv Wende, and rode out to meet the Mongolian general. Presenting gold, silver, and jewels, she claimed the Song Emperor believed the Mongolians were attacking Jin via Xiangyang and offered these treasures as a token of appreciation. She then invited the general to the city tower for drinks, where General Meng Gong awaited.
The Mongolian commander, wary of a trap, politely declined, stating his troops had already set up camp outside the city, and left. Huang Rong knew her stratagem was merely a delaying tactic. The true solution was to capture the Mongolian commander. That night, Guo Jing infiltrated the Mongolian camp. To Guo Jing’s dismay, he discovered the commander was none other than his sworn brother, Tolui. They reunited, a poignant moment as old friends found themselves on opposing sides.
Tolui revealed that his father, Genghis Khan, was unwell, and he and Ögedei were leading the army. Guo Jing pleaded with Tolui to withdraw, appealing to their brotherhood. Tolui, torn, acknowledged their different loyalties—he was a Mongolian, and Guo Jing was a Song. He expressed sorrow at their predicament but declared he could not abandon his mission. Guo Jing, in turn, could not bear to see Song fall and its people suffer bloodshed.
They lamented their fate, remembering their childhood vow to be together through thick and thin, now bound by conflicting duties. They shared a solemn drink, knowing their next meeting would be on the battlefield. Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by a messenger reporting that Genghis Khan was gravely ill and summoned Tolui back immediately.
The Great Khan also expressed a strong desire to see Guo Jing one last time and instructed Tolui to bring him along if he was found in the south. Guo Jing informed Huang Rong of the situation, assuring her that Xiangyang was safe for the moment. He felt compelled to visit Genghis Khan one last time. Huang Rong, ever supportive, immediately agreed to accompany him. Guo Jing and Huang Rong traveled to Genghis Khan's camp.
The Great Khan, despite his illness, was excited to see Guo Jing and insisted on donning his armor. He invited Guo Jing for a walk, reminiscing about uniting all Mongolian tribes and his ambition to conquer the Central Plains. His weakened state was apparent when he missed a shot with his bow, noting it was his first miss in decades and that his end was near. He boasted about the vast empire he had built, unparalleled in history.
Guo Jing acknowledged his immense achievements but gently countered, reminding him of the countless lives lost and the orphans and widows left grieving due to years of war. Guo Jing asserted that a true hero does not merely fight wars but cares deeply for the people, possessing a compassionate heart, earning admiration in life and adoration in death. Genghis Khan, deeply affected, recalled Guo Jing's words from Samarkand about a hero needing a heart large enough to embrace all people.
He reflected on his own life, from his youthful ambition to be a grassland hero, through his conquests that earned him titles like "Wolf of Steppe" and "Pride of a Generation," to his current realization that he was just "an old man waiting to die." He pondered, "What is a hero? What does it take to be a big hero admired by everyone in this world?" In 1227 A. D.
, Genghis Khan passed away, concluding a life defined by conquest and the battlefield. It was said that until his last breath, Genghis Khan murmured the word "hero." Guo Jing reflected that while everyone desires to be a hero, a true hero's purpose is to save those suffering. He spoke to Huang Rong, admitting their plans to leave the martial world after Mount Hua had changed.
Huang Rong reassured him, stating she would follow him anywhere, content as long as they were together. Recognizing the unending misery of the people, Guo Jing declared their destination: Xiangyang. He acknowledged that while they alone might not be able to defend the entire Song dynasty, they could at least protect Xiangyang and shield its people from the ravages of war, allowing them to live in peace.
