Word of Honor Recap, Plot, Synopsis, Total Episodes

Word of Honor Synopsis

To gain freedom, Zhou Zishu, the leader of Window of Heaven, doesn't hesitate to pay with his life to leave the organization. With not much time left, he encounters Wen Kexing, the Chief of Ghost Valley, who is determined to destroy the world and exact revenge. Drawn into the intricate disputes of the jianghu (martial arts world), the two meet and come to deeply understand each other, ultimately becoming soulmates who offer each other salvation. A conspiracy, two confidants, five pieces of a treasure puzzle, twenty years of grievances, and a centuries-old jianghu dream inextricably link their destinies.

Word of Honor Recap

Episode 1 Recap

Twenty years ago, the great evil Rong Xuan was vanquished in Mount Qingya by the Five Lakes Alliance and other heroes. Before his death, he left behind an armory said to grant its wielder invincible power overnight. To unlock this armory, one needed the mythical Glazed Armor. As a nursery rhyme about the armory began to spread, various factions started to covet this treasure, secretly searching for the Glazed Armor.

In the north, Prince Jin also grew ambitious, secretly cultivating the Window of Heaven, an organization of assassins and spies, to eliminate court officials and further his rebellious aims. The Military Governor, Officer Li, submitted a memorial to the court, accusing Prince Jin of treason. In response, Prince Jin ordered the Leader of the Window of Heaven, Zhou Zi Shu, to eliminate Officer Li and his entire family. Late that night, numerous Kongming lanterns floated over the Governor’s residence.

Guards shot one down, igniting a fierce fire, and three masked figures descended in the chaos, quickly killing all the guards. Officer Li's personal guard, a Swordsman in Green, tried to rescue him, fighting valiantly and attempting to escape across the rooftops. However, they were intercepted by a masked Zhou Zi Shu, who demanded Officer Li hand over a confidential letter. The Swordsman in Green refused, engaging Zhou Zi Shu in a fierce battle.

During their intense fight, the Swordsman managed to pull off Zhou Zi Shu's mask, revealing his identity. Officer Li, recognizing Zhou Zi Shu, pleaded with him to turn back from his misguided path and cease aiding evil. Zhou Zi Shu ignored his pleas, swiftly killing Officer Li and seizing the secret documents. Zhou Zi Shu then visited Princess Jing An, Officer Li’s daughter, who was the beloved of Zhou Zi Shu’s junior brother, Qin Jiu Xiao.

Zhou Zi Shu informed her that her father had been executed for conspiring with corrupt officials in an attempt to revolt. Princess Jing An was heartbroken, crying out that her father had always been loyal to the country. Zhou Zi Shu calmly acknowledged the pity of her father’s situation but insisted his actions warranted death.

Remembering her kindness in safely returning Qin Jiu Xiao’s remains to Four Seasons Manor, Zhou Zi Shu offered Princess Jing An a vial of poison, allowing her to take her own life with dignity rather than face humiliation. With tears in her eyes, Princess Jing An drank the poison. Zhou Zi Shu watched her die, holding a hairpin Qin Jiu Xiao had carved for her.

He recalled Qin Jiu Xiao's desire to retire and live with Princess Jing An, feeling a deep pang of regret for his actions and questioning how he could face his junior brother in the afterlife after killing his beloved. He lamented his fate as a cruel senior who gave a bottle of poison as a meeting gift to his junior brother's beloved. Upon returning, Zhou Zi Shu reported to Prince Jin.

He learned that Bi Chang Feng, a former member of Four Seasons Manor and now a guard of the Window of Heaven, had made a grave error during the mission against the Military Governor and insisted on leaving the Window of Heaven. Enraged, Prince Jin ordered Zhou Zi Shu to personally carry out Bi Chang Feng’s punishment. Zhou Zi Shu then went to the desolate Four Seasons Manor.

He reflected on the past ten years, remembering how 81 brothers had followed him to Jinzhou, but now only he and Bi Chang Feng remained, with even Jiu Xiao dead. Bi Chang Feng, who had faithfully followed Zhou Zi Shu for years, had grown disillusioned with Prince Jin’s true nature. He urged Zhou Zi Shu to stop being Prince Jin’s lackey, saying he would rather leave the Window of Heaven as a cripple than continue.

He pointed out that the persecution of their brothers and kin had made him question Prince Jin's intentions, saying he would rather endure a thousand cuts than continue serving. The rule for leaving the Window of Heaven was the Nails of Seven Torments, a horrific punishment where iron nails were driven into various parts of the body, causing the victim to gradually lose all five senses, become mute, and die a slow death of torment over three years.

Bi Chang Feng willingly accepted this fate. With a heavy heart, Zhou Zi Shu personally administered the seven nails to Bi Chang Feng. Despite the excruciating pain, Bi Chang Feng remained stoic. Zhou Zi Shu promised to care for Bi Chang Feng's family. Witnessing his loyal brother’s agonizing fate, coupled with the cumulative loss of all his Four Seasons Manor brethren, Zhou Zi Shu was overwhelmed with grief, spitting blood and falling gravely ill.

He forbid others from ever mentioning the title "Manor Lord" again. He also reflected on his life as the all-powerful Leader of the Window of Heaven, lamenting that he couldn't protect anyone he cared about. Prince Jin was displeased that Zhou Zi Shu had been in seclusion for over a year, recuperating from his injuries. He saw Zhou Zi Shu's grief over Qin Jiu Xiao as a weakness that made him unfit for great tasks.

Unknown to Prince Jin, Zhou Zi Shu had been preparing his own exit from the Window of Heaven for a year and a half. There were two methods for inflicting the Nails of Seven Torments. The first, administering all seven nails at once, resulted in a swift loss of all five senses and a three-year existence as a mute cripple before death.

However, by inserting one nail every three months, as Zhou Zi Shu had done, the nails would gradually integrate with the body, preserving half of one's martial arts and allowing the senses to fade slowly over three years, though this method comes at the cost of prolonged and agonizing pain. Summoned by Prince Jin, Zhou Zi Shu appeared before him, his face pale, and declared his intention to leave, asking for the seventh nail to be driven in.

He argued that his spirit was broken, his injuries unhealed, and he was no longer capable of serving Prince Jin. He reminded the Prince of his loyalty and hard work over the years, requesting that his wish be granted. Prince Jin was initially enraged, questioning why Zhou Zi Shu would choose such a painful exit instead of just dying. He desperately pleaded with Zhou Zi Shu to stay and help him conquer the land.

But Zhou Zi Shu, who had already embedded six nails into his body over time, only requested that Prince Jin administer the final nail. Infuriated by Zhou Zi Shu’s unwavering resolve to become a cripple rather than his trusted official, Prince Jin relented. He ordered Duan Peng Ju to administer the final nail to Zhou Zi Shu and appointed Duan Peng Ju as the new Leader of the Window of Heaven.

Prince Jin then vowed that within three years, he would ascend to the throne of the Central Plains, asserting that he was the chosen one and would succeed regardless of who helped him. Zhou Zi Shu rode away on horseback, seemingly leaving his past behind. After leaving the Window of Heaven, Zhou Zi Shu donned a specially made disguise and began wandering the martial arts world.

Meanwhile, in Ghost Valley on Mount Qingya, the Hanging Ghost, one of the Ten Devils, had stolen the Valley Chief’s Glazed Armor. Although pursued by other ghosts, he managed to escape by jumping off a cliff, but no body was found. The enraged Valley Chief ordered all three thousand ghosts of Mount Qingya to hunt down the traitor and dismember him. He promised that whoever recovered the Glazed Armor would be appointed as the head of the Ten Devils.

Three months later, Zhou Zi Shu arrived in Yue, a bustling city. Disguised as a weary, sun-drenched beggar, he rested by a bridge. From a nearby building, Gu Xiang and Wen Ke Xing observed him. Gu Xiang bet that Zhou Zi Shu was a beggar, while Wen Ke Xing believed he was merely enjoying the sun. Young Master Zhang Cheng Ling from Mirror Lake Manor, passing by, instructed his servant Xiao Wu to give Zhou Zi Shu some money.

Zhou Zi Shu politely refused the money. Intrigued, Gu Xiang decided to test him, offering him a flask of wine. Zhou Zi Shu accepted it, taking a deep drink and declaring that it was excellent wine, worth dying for even if poisoned. He thanked Gu Xiang, calling her a "kind lady," and affirmed that he only wanted wine, not money.

Skeptical and thinking he was merely trying to trick her out of more drink, Gu Xiang furiously attacked him with her whip. Zhou Zi Shu skillfully dodged her blows. Zhang Cheng Ling interrupted, reprimanding her for bullying a sick person and reminding her of a martial artist's virtues. Gu Xiang snapped back, threatening to cut out the boy’s tongue. Just as she attacked again, Wen Ke Xing intervened, stopping her.

Episode 2 Recap

Wen Ke Xing watched Gu Xiang struggling in a fight, commenting that while she looked sweet, she was quite fierce. He noted her poor martial arts and sense, telling her to stop being an embarrassment. He then apologized to the opponent for his maid's rudeness, who in turn said the apology was undeserved.

Later, Zhang Cheng Ling, a young master from the Mirror Lake Sect of the Five Lakes Alliance, approached the disguised and sickly-looking Zhou Xu, recognizing his martial arts skills. He introduced himself and generously offered his name card, inviting Zhou Xu to Mirror Lake Manor for rest and healing if he was injured or ill. Despite his servant's caution, Zhang Cheng Ling insisted on upholding the righteous code of helping others.

Zhou Xu thanked him, and Zhang Cheng Ling then hurried off to buy pastries for his mother. Observing this, Wen Ke Xing recognized Zhou Xu's unique footwork as the Swift Moving Steps of the Four Seasons Manor and concluded that Zhou Xu was a "variable" he needed to investigate. Zhou Xu overheard children singing a folk song about the Five Lakes Alliance vying for supremacy and the Glazed Armor.

He reflected on the martial arts world's fleeting peace and the alliance's ambition, believing they didn't deserve such power and would only bring disaster. He also found Zhang Cheng Ling's naivety reminiscent of his own deceased junior, Qin Jiu Xiao. Wishing to go to Mirror Lake Manor, Zhou Xu sought a boatman. The boatman, upon being woken, demanded an exorbitant three mace of silver. Zhou Xu agreed without hesitation.

Suspicious of Zhou Xu's frail appearance, the boatman accused him of planning to cheat him and refused the business. Wen Ke Xing then appeared, offering to share a ride. However, the boatman, annoyed by Wen Ke Xing's pretentious manner, quickly pulled Zhou Xu into his boat and departed, leaving Wen Ke Xing to muse that Zhou Xu was indeed a "variable."

Upon arriving at Mirror Lake Manor, a scenic place akin to a paradise, Zhou Xu rushed off the boat, forgetting to pay. The enraged boatman cursed him for "riding and dashing." Amused, Zhou Xu made good on the accusation by swiftly disappearing into the manor's peach forest. Wen Ke Xing, who had followed, ambushed him. After a brief exchange of blows, Wen Ke Xing, impressed by Zhou Xu's elegant footwork, invited him for a drink.

Zhou Xu curtly refused, demanding to know Wen Ke Xing's true purpose for following him before leaving. Inside the manor, a butler informed Zhou Xu that the head of the Mirror Lake Sect, Zhang Yu Sen, had long withdrawn from worldly affairs and forbade his three sons from getting involved in martial arts disputes. Zhang Yu Sen expressed indifference to who claimed the title of Wulin's supreme leader.

His eldest son, Zhang Cheng Feng, mentioned a new, unsettling verse to the children's song that hinted at the Glazed Armor, but was cautioned by his father. The butler also mentioned that Zhang Cheng Ling had given a name card to Zhou Xu, whom he perceived as a beggar. Consequently, Zhang Yu Sen instructed Zhang Cheng Feng to keep his younger brothers on the island.

Zhou Xu was provided a woodshed for lodging, which he accepted, but requested his wine gourd be refilled. Meanwhile, a report reached Jin Wang about the children's song spreading in Jiangnan and that the spy tracking Zhou Xu had lost his trail. Jin Wang ordered a thorough investigation and a continued search for Zhou Xu. As midnight approached, Zhou Xu's Nails of Seven Torments began to inflict excruciating pain.

While attempting to heal, he heard screams and discovered the Mirror Lake Manor engulfed in flames. He saw figures in "ghost masks" burning and pillaging, realizing it was the Ghost Valley from Mount Qingya. He also spotted a mechanical sparrow, indicating the presence of a Window of Heaven spy. Prioritizing saving lives over his own agony, he found that most of the manor's residents, primarily servants, had been brutally killed. Zhang Yu sen and his two elder sons were captured.

The boatman was protecting Zhang Cheng Ling, and as they tried to escape, Zhou Xu intervened, covering their escape by boat. From a distance, he noticed Wen Ke Xing calmly observing the chaos. Zhou Xu brought the injured boatman and Zhang Cheng Ling to a deserted temple.

The boatman, named Li, explained that Zhang Yu Sen had once saved his life, and he had spent three years as a ferryman outside the manor, waiting for an opportunity to repay the debt. He urged Zhang Cheng Ling to go to Tai Lake and seek out Chevalier Sanbai or any member of the Five Lakes Alliance. Zhang Cheng Ling refused to leave them. Zhou Xu, needing about 15 minutes to recover from his internal injuries, was severely weakened.

Suddenly, the Hanged Ghost, one of the Ten Evil Ghosts from Mount Qingya, burst in, demanding the Glazed Armor. The boatman bravely fought the Hanged Ghost to buy Zhou Xu time, but was overpowered. The Hanged Ghost then moved to attack Zhou Xu, but Zhang Cheng Ling shielded him. Just then, Gu Xiang arrived, engaging the other ghosts. The Hanged Ghost used the distraction to attack Zhang Cheng Ling, but the boatman shielded the boy and was fatally wounded.

As Gu Xiang became surrounded, Zhou Xu, though exhausted, forced himself up to help, driving off the remaining ghosts before nearly collapsing. Wen Ke Xing then appeared and caught him. Gu Xiang, now free, swiftly subdued the Hanged Ghost, denouncing him for daring to "do evil in front of me." The boatman, dying from blood loss, was briefly sustained by Wen Ke Xing's internal force.

With his last breath, he asked Zhou Xu to promise to deliver Zhang Cheng Ling safely to Zhao Jing of the Five Lakes Alliance. He then made Zhang Cheng Ling bow to Zhou Xu, declaring that the boy must listen to him from now on. The boatman called Zhou Xu by his assumed name, "Zhou Xu," which means "willow catkins," and sternly warned him against breaking his promise, vowing to curse his ancestors from the Netherworld if he failed.

With these final words, the boatman passed away. Zhou Xu buried the boatman. Meanwhile, Deng Kuan, a disciple of the Yueyang Sect, arrived at Mirror Lake Manor to find all the boats destroyed and the boatman's entire family dead. At the temple, Zhang Cheng Ling, exhausted from his injuries, struggled to stay conscious. Wen Ke Xing and Gu Xiang prepared some food.

Gu Xiang offered a bun to Zhang Cheng Ling, but he refused, prompting her to chide him for being ungrateful. Wen Ke Xing then spoke, praising Zhou Xu's honorable commitment by reciting a passage from Sima Qian about ordinary individuals keeping their promises even unto death, highlighting Zhou Xu as a true gentleman. Wen Ke Xing then offered to treat Zhang Cheng Ling's wounds, but Zhou Xu, wary of his intentions, refused.

When Wen Ke Xing pressed him, Zhou Xu confronted him directly, telling him to state his malicious intentions plainly instead of acting, and to stop pressuring them if he was not an enemy. A tense silence followed as Wen Ke Xing dropped his hand.

Episode 3 Recap

The morning after burying the ferryman, Wen Ke Xing continued to press Zhou Zishu about his true identity. He remarked on Zhou Zishu's refined physique, noting that his appearance seemed self-made and unnatural, despite his inability to detect a disguise. Gu Xiang, Wen Ke Xing's attendant, chimed in, reminding him of previous misjudgments, but Wen Ke Xing insisted Zhou Zishu was extraordinary and must be disguised.

Zhou Zishu playfully asked if his disguised face was "pretty," to which Wen Ke Xing responded it was "perfect." Wen Ke Xing then questioned Zhang Cheng Ling about how Mirror Lake Sect provoked the Ghost Valley of Mount Qingya, whose members wore distinctive ghost masks. Zhang Cheng Ling claimed ignorance. Wen Ke Xing turned to Zhou Zishu, asking if he knew about the Ghost Valley's power.

Zhou Zishu, appearing indifferent, stated that such martial arts matters usually stemmed from greed, hatred, and ignorance. He speculated that given Mirror Lake Sect's peaceful nature, greed must be the motive for the attack by the long-dormant Ghost Valley. Wen Ke Xing then brought up a popular nursery rhyme, "Five Lakes' waters, unite the world. Who among heroes rules all?" and revealed a new, ominous second half that had recently spread: "Colored clouds scatter, glazed armor shatters.

Who would mourn the Qingya Ghosts?" He explained that "Qingya Ghosts" referred not to a group, but to Rong Xuan, a great demon executed on Mount Qingya two decades prior. Legend held that Rong Xuan left behind the "World's Armory," a treasure trove of lost martial arts, which could make anyone invincible. The key to this armory was the Glazed Armor.

Zhou Zishu dismissed this as a laughable, age-old tale concocted to incite infighting and bloodshed in the martial arts world, a mere manifestation of "greed." Gu Xiang agreed, pointing out the folly of weak individuals fighting for such a treasure. Meanwhile, Shen Shen, the Leader of the Mount Dagu Sect, arrived at Mirror Lake Manor by boat to find utter devastation.

Deng Kuan, the first disciple of Yueyang Sect, explained that they arrived too late to help, as the boats across the lake had been destroyed, preventing them from reaching the burning manor in time. Shen Shen was heartbroken to discover the tortured remains of his sworn brother, Zhang Yu Sen, and his two elder sons, Zhang Cheng Luan and Zhang Cheng Feng, vowing revenge.

Tao Hong and Lv Liu, two martial artists, arrived and immediately verbally attacked Shen Shen, accusing him of hypocrisy and being a "flunkey" of Gao Chong, the Chief of the Five Lakes Alliance. Elder Huang of the Beggar Gang intervened, revealing he had invited Tao Hong and Lv Liu for their expertise and urged them to set aside personal grievances for the greater threat.

They identified the deadly Soul Winding Threads, left behind on a yellow seal, as the signature weapon of the Hanging Ghost, one of the Ten Devils of Ghost Valley. This confirmed that the Ghost Valley was indeed behind the massacre. Shen Shen then handed his alliance token to Deng Kuan, ordering him to report back to his master with the second part of the nursery rhyme and to gather forces to find Zhang Cheng Ling, no matter the cost.

Elder Huang pledged the Beggar Gang's support in the search. Later, Tao Hong and Lv Liu, speaking with Elder Huang, expressed their hatred for the Five Lakes Alliance, recalling how the Danyang Sect was decimated for its Glazed Armor. They worried that Ao Lai Zi, the Leader of the Mount Tai Sect, who was sheltering the last two Danyang disciples, now possessed the Glazed Armor and that it might fall into Ghost Valley's hands.

Zhou Zishu continued his journey with Zhang Cheng Ling, hoping to avoid Wen Ke Xing, but the latter proved relentless. At a nearby inn, they discovered Wen Ke Xing had booked every room. Zhou Zishu, reluctantly accepting Wen Ke Xing's "generosity," took the best room. He meticulously checked the room and new clothes provided by Wen Ke Xing for traps, finding nothing.

He urged Zhang Cheng Ling, who seemed hesitant to undress, to rest, and offered him medicine for his injuries, though Zhang Cheng Ling gave a vague excuse. Downstairs, Zhou Zishu confronted Wen Ke Xing, demanding to know his true intentions for following them. Wen Ke Xing openly stated his desire to see Zhou Zishu's true face and questioned Zhou Zishu's involvement with Zhang Cheng Ling.

Zhou Zishu calmly replied that he was merely fulfilling a promise to deliver Zhang Cheng Ling safely to Zhao Jing. Gu Xiang, joining the conversation, engaged in playful banter with Wen Ke Xing, both indirectly mocking Zhou Zishu's elusive nature. Meanwhile, Elder Huang distributed Zhang Cheng Ling's portrait to his Beggar Gang disciples, instructing them to find the boy and bring him back discreetly, without anyone else knowing.

Later, during a meal hosted by Wen Ke Xing, Zhang Cheng Ling went to wash his hands, unknowingly passing by Beggar Gang disciples who recognized him. At the table, Zhang Cheng Ling's lack of appetite drew a sharp rebuke from Gu Xiang, who called him a "delicate flower" for his weakness and urged him to eat to gain strength for revenge. Her words, though harsh, spurred Zhang Cheng Ling to eat, albeit tearfully.

Elsewhere, Gao Chong convened a meeting of various martial arts leaders, announcing a Heroes Conference for July 15th. He declared their intent to jointly assault Mount Qingya and eradicate the Ghost Valley in retaliation for the Mirror Lake massacre, a call met with fervent agreement. Separately, Ao Lai Zi, the Leader of the Mount Tai Sect, and his disciple Qing Bai, continued their arduous journey towards Mount Wudang with the two remaining Danyang disciples.

Ao Lai Zi expressed his determination to protect the Glazed Armor from falling into the hands of the Five Lakes Alliance, who he knew were pursuing them for it. Back at the inn, Zhou Zishu was meditating to recover his internal energy when he heard commotion. Rushing to Zhang Cheng Ling's side, he found the boy startled awake by nightmares, crying for his father. Zhou Zishu soothed him back to sleep.

Outside, he discovered that Wen Ke Xing had already killed two masked Ghost Valley attackers. Wen Ke Xing casually remarked on how quickly the Ghost Valley pursued them, then shared a cryptic observation: "It is difficult to tell a ghost from a human. Someone wearing a ghost mask is not necessarily a ghost. Someone who looks like a human may not necessarily be a human."

Wen Ke Xing then identified Zhou Zishu's choice of wine as 30-year-old "yellow seal" liquor, a sign of connoisseurship that he compared to his own ability to judge people. He playfully asked if he could call Zhou Zishu "A-Xu" and reiterated his conviction that a "big surprise" lay beneath Zhou Zishu's disguised appearance, to which Zhou Zishu simply challenged him to try and uncover it.

Episode 4 Recap

Zhou Zi Shu and Zhang Cheng Ling departed from the inn, with Wen Ke Xing already waiting for them at the roadside. Zhang Cheng Ling expressed his gratitude to Wen Ke Xing for saving his life. Wen Ke Xing, however, suggested they drop the formalities, reminding Zhang Cheng Ling that he and Zhou Zi Shu had shared dangers, meals, and shelter.

He then provided them with two horses, urging them to hasten their journey to Tai Lake to prevent further complications. Wen Ke Xing remarked that their chance meeting had quickly forged a bond, especially with Zhou Zi Shu, indicating that the depth of a friendship isn't measured by time.

Their conversation was interrupted by the Crippled Beggar, the Vice Captain of the Dazhi branch of the Beggar Gang, who identified himself as being under the orders of Law Elder Huang He and the Five Lakes Alliance. He stated their mission was to find Zhang Cheng Ling, the orphan of the Mirror Lake Sect, as a disciple had recognized him. Zhang Cheng Ling, frightened, hid behind Zhou Zi Shu, denying any knowledge of the beggars.

Zhou Zi Shu questioned why such a large group was needed merely for identification, implying they intended to seize Zhang Cheng Ling by force. The Crippled Beggar claimed that Shen Shen, the Leader of Mount Dagu Sect and Zhang Cheng Ling's father's sworn brother, had entrusted them with the task. Zhang Cheng Ling reiterated his desire to stay with "Uncle Zhou," a sentiment echoed by Zhou Zi Shu, who also denied knowing Shen Shen.

The Crippled Beggar then insinuated that Zhou Zi Shu might have drugged Zhang Cheng Ling. Wen Ke Xing quickly retorted, criticizing the beggar's talent for twisting facts and suggesting he become a lawyer instead. The Crippled Beggar commanded his disciples to form an encircling array. Zhou Zi Shu instructed Wen Ke Xing to protect Zhang Cheng Ling while he effortlessly dismantled the beggars' formation.

Zhang Cheng Ling, worried, urged Wen Ke Xing to assist, but Wen Ke Xing calmly assured him that Zhou Zi Shu was more than capable. Observing Zhou Zi Shu's agile movements, Wen Ke Xing commented that his "waist skills" must have been cultivated since childhood and offered Zhang Cheng Ling some amber walnuts for "tonifying the brain." Zhou Zi Shu then scattered a bag of soybeans on the ground, causing the Beggar Gang disciples to stumble.

Amidst the chaos, the Crippled Beggar tried to snatch Zhang Cheng Ling. Wen Ke Xing encouraged Zhou Zi Shu not to hold back against the malicious group and to draw his weapon. Zhou Zi Shu, however, focused on reaching Zhang Cheng Ling but suddenly coughed up blood. Wen Ke Xing intervened, rescuing Zhang Cheng Ling. Zhou Zi Shu then swiftly carried Zhang Cheng Ling away. Wen Ke Xing, in turn, killed the Crippled Beggar and the remaining Beggar Gang disciples.

Zhou Zi Shu led Zhang Cheng Ling to a secluded alley, where he began meditating to restore his depleted internal energy. Zhang Cheng Ling expressed concern, but Zhou Zi Shu reassured him that he was not in critical danger, though he lamented that he might be on the verge of becoming a "cripple" due to his injuries.

Meanwhile, Lovelace, one of the Ten Devils of Ghost Valley, had purchased two women, Yun Cai and Hong Lu, from a brothel and was harassing them. He warned them not to cry, stating that once a woman cried, he would lose all self-control. Gu Xiang arrived, reprimanding Lovelace for his conduct. Lovelace defended himself, asserting he had legally purchased the women and offered to show their deeds.

Gu Xiang dismissed his excuses, threatening to report him to "Aunt Luo" who would inflict severe punishment. To avoid Gu Xiang reporting him, Lovelace offered her the two women. Gu Xiang, in turn, demanded three favors from him for her silence. She then relayed the Valley Chief's directive for him to gather all the Ghost Valley devils currently outside and proceed to Sanbai Manor in Tai Lake.

Lovelace agreed, grumbling about his exceptional martial skills being used for errands, and departed. Zhou Zi Shu and Zhang Cheng Ling continued their journey, camping by a lake. Zhou Zi Shu attempted to grill some fish, but Gu Xiang, who had followed them, appeared and ridiculed his lack of domestic skills, pointing out that he hadn't even cleaned the fish, making it bitter. She then inquired about her Master.

Wen Ke Xing arrived on a splendid boat with Yun Cai and Hong Lu by his side. He invited Zhou Zi Shu and Zhang Cheng Ling to join him for a proper meal prepared by a renowned chef on board. He lightly chided Gu Xiang for her lack of refinement, suggesting she learn from the two women how to be more attentive.

Wen Ke Xing then turned his attention to Zhou Zi Shu, noting the striking resemblance between Zhou Zi Shu's sword and the legendary White Cloth, one of the three masterpieces forged by Magic Craftsman Rong Chang Qing, and the revered weapon of Qin Huai Zhang, the last leader of Four Seasons Manor.

Wen Ke Xing admitted he had been testing Zhou Zi Shu during the encounter with the beggars, puzzled why Zhou Zi Shu, despite being in danger, had refused to draw his sword. He speculated that either the sword wasn't Zhou Zi Shu's or Zhou Zi Shu was deliberately concealing his identity. Zhou Zi Shu, acknowledging Wen Ke Xing's past assistance, firmly stated that their relationship was "raw," lacking the familiarity for such probing questions.

He challenged Wen Ke Xing by saying that he himself did not know his origins or destination, and had no interest in Wen Ke Xing's. He warned Wen Ke Xing not to press further about the White Cloth. Wen Ke Xing apologized for his "deliberate testing" which had aggravated Zhou Zi Shu's internal injuries, expressing remorse and promising to be more direct in the future, trusting that Zhou Zi Shu wouldn't lie to him.

Suddenly, a piercing zither melody echoed from the dense forest, causing Yun Cai and Hong Lu to lose balance and fall into the water, from which Gu Xiang rescued them. Zhang Cheng Ling also felt dizzy and sick. Zhou Zi Shu immediately seized Wen Ke Xing's flute and played a counter-melody, overpowering the zither music. The zither player, Phantom Musician Qin Song, one of the Scorpion's Four Assassins, was badly injured by the backfire and fled.

Wen Ke Xing identified Qin Song, noting that it must have been a significant expense to hire such a formidable assassin. Zhou Zi Shu simply remarked that Qin Song had suffered greatly from the musical backlash. Wen Ke Xing, pleased, commented on their growing compatibility, and Zhou Zi Shu offered to replace his flute, which had been dirtied.

Wen Ke Xing declined, light-heartedly teasing Zhou Zi Shu about his "tone-deafness" despite his martial prowess, offering to teach him music, which Zhou Zi Shu politely refused. The injured Phantom Musician Qin Song stumbled back to his fellow Scorpion assassins: Golden-Haired Jiang Guai, Pretty Rakshasa, and Poisonous Bodhisattva. When the hot-tempered Pretty Rakshasa wanted to seek immediate revenge, the more cautious Golden-Haired Jiang Guai stopped her, reminding her of their orders to return and not to cause unnecessary trouble.

Zhang Cheng Ling continued to feel unwell and vomited. Zhou Zi Shu chastised him, pointing out that his insufficient internal cultivation made him vulnerable to the magic sound. Zhang Cheng Ling tearfully confessed that he had never properly learned martial arts, having assumed his older brothers would carry the family's legacy while he remained with his parents. He pleaded with Zhou Zi Shu to take him as a disciple.

Zhou Zi Shu initially refused, stating that at fourteen, Zhang Cheng Ling had missed the optimal time for foundational training, making it difficult to achieve the highest levels of martial arts, comparable to legendary figures like Bodhidharma or Changming Sword Immortal. Wen Ke Xing interjected, advising Zhang Cheng Ling that Zhou Zi Shu was "firm in speech but soft in heart," and that with persistent effort, he could still reach a high level of martial arts.

Zhou Zi Shu clarified that while early training was ideal, consistent effort from that day forward would still lead to improvement. He then agreed to teach Zhang Cheng Ling some basic internal mental skills to heal his current internal injuries. Gu Xiang, meanwhile, questioned Wen Ke Xing's dedication to helping Zhou Zi Shu, noting that he had played the flute all night for a "beggar" (Zhou Zi Shu), a favor she rarely received.

Wen Ke Xing brushed her off, reminding her that her internal energy was too shallow to benefit from such efforts. He further asserted that his decisions were his own, suggesting he simply "liked" Zhou Zi Shu and wanted to be friends, concluding philosophically that "once one enters the mortal world, karma is born." The following morning, Zhou Zi Shu felt his internal energy fully restored and remarkably refreshed, a sensation he hadn't experienced in a long time.

Zhang Cheng Ling also felt reinvigorated. Wen Ke Xing, who had played the flute all night, joked about a slight "lag" in his own internal energy but felt generally well. He offered to take Zhou Zi Shu's pulse, but Zhou Zi Shu declined. Zhang Cheng Ling again earnestly requested to be Zhou Zi Shu's disciple. Zhou Zi Shu reiterated his refusal, stating that their connection would end once he delivered Zhang Cheng Ling to Sanbai Manor.

Wen Ke Xing, ever the instigator, encouraged Zhang Cheng Ling to persistently "pester him," promising that "where there is a will, there is a way." As they prepared to depart, Wen Ke Xing, feigning exhaustion and claiming Gu Xiang had kicked him off the boat for playing the flute all night and causing him to feel a strain on his internal energy, insisted on hitching a ride. Zhou Zi Shu, unfazed, assigned him the task of driving the carriage.

Wen Ke Xing proved to be a capable driver, and as they neared Huzhou, he playfully criticized Zhou Zi Shu's simple culinary habits, expressing concern for Zhang Cheng Ling's weight loss and promising a grand meal in Huzhou. Zhou Zi Shu, however, cautioned Zhang Cheng Ling to remain discreet due to the Beggar Gang's extensive network and the numerous people searching for him, emphasizing that all precautions should be taken until they reached Zhao Jing's mansion.

Zhang Cheng Ling continued his pleas to become Zhou Zi Shu's disciple, while Wen Ke Xing praised his "toughness" and assured him that their "fate had not ended." Elsewhere, Tao Hong and Lv Liu relentlessly pursued Ao Lai Zi, the leader of the Mount Tai Sect, and his disciples, demanding the Glazed Armor. They mocked Ao Lai Zi for his perceived naivety, warning him against entanglement in dangerous affairs.

Ao Lai Zi, undeterred, declared that his sect feared no one and instructed his disciples to flee and seek help from Master Zhao. However, his loyal disciples refused to abandon him. As Tao Hong and Lv Liu pressed their attack, noting Ao Lai Zi's weakened state, Shen Shen suddenly arrived.

Observing the confrontation, Shen Shen intervened, scolding Tao Hong and Lv Liu and making it clear he was there to assist Ao Lai Zi against their aggression, effectively allowing Ao Lai Zi and his disciples to escape. Finally, Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing escorted Zhang Cheng Ling to Sanbai Manor. Wen Ke Xing admired the manor's magnificent and elegant architecture.

A disciple, Qing Hua, introduced the two to Zhao Jing, the leader of the Tai Lake Sect and a sworn brother of Zhang Cheng Ling's father. Zhao Jing warmly greeted Zhang Cheng Ling, welcoming him to make the manor his home and to ask for anything he desired. He then expressed profound gratitude to Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing for safely bringing Zhang Cheng Ling to him. As Zhao Jing offered his deep appreciation, Qing Hua burst in, urgently seeking Zhao Jing's help for Ao Lai Zi, who was being pursued.

Episode 5 Recap

Shen Shen, having just defeated the wicked old couple Tao Hong and Lv Liu, confronted Ao Lai Zi. He demanded that Ao Lai Zi hand over the two Danyang Sect disciples, whom Shen Shen insisted belonged to his "Third Brother Lu." Ao Lai Zi, however, countered that Leader Lu had personally entrusted the disciples to him on his deathbed and accused the Five Lakes Alliance of overbearing arrogance.

Shen Shen, growing visibly angry, dismissed the disciples' wishes and warned them of disgracing their sect if they followed Ao Lai Zi, declaring he wanted both the disciples and an unnamed item. Just as the argument reached a boiling point, Zhao Jing arrived with Qing Hua, interrupting the tense standoff. Shen Shen quickly changed his tone, claiming he had merely stumbled upon Tao Hong and Lv Liu being rude to Ao Lai Zi and had intervened.

Zhao Jing then politely invited Ao Lai Zi and the disciples to Sanbai Manor. Ao Lai Zi refused, warning Zhao Jing that "a common man's only crime is to carry treasure" and that the martial arts world would never be peaceful now that the Glazed Armor's secret was out. Although Shen Shen pressed for the disciples, they reaffirmed their loyalty to Ao Lai Zi as per their master's dying wish.

Zhao Jing, conceding, allowed Ao Lai Zi to leave with the disciples, telling them to be sensible and not bring shame to the Five Lakes Alliance. Following Ao Lai Zi's departure, Zhao Jing officially introduced Zhou Xu and Wen Ke Xing to Shen Shen, who expressed thanks for their role in bringing Zhang Cheng Ling to safety. At a celebratory banquet, Wen Ke Xing, charmed by the lavishness of Sanbai Manor, toasted Zhao Jing's refined taste.

Shen Shen also thanked them, and Wen Ke Xing returned the compliment when Zhao Jing introduced Shen Shen as the esteemed Leader of the Mount Dagu Sect. Zhou Xu, meanwhile, observed Zhao Jing's opulent lifestyle, noting that his wealth far surpassed the official records. Later that night, as Ao Lai Zi and his disciples journeyed toward Broken Sword Manor, they were startled by Mu Yun Ge, the young leader of Broken Sword Manor, who fled past them screaming for help.

He claimed a female ghost was pursuing him. A disembodied voice echoed, condemning Mu Yun Ge as unfaithful and declaring his name was now on the "List of the Unfaithful." Ao Lai Zi, recognizing the sinister nature of the voice, instructed his senior disciple Qing Bai to lead the other juniors to safety while he went to confront the spectral entity, but Mu Yun Ge was swiftly seized and dragged away.

Back at Sanbai Manor, Shen Shen, feigning drunkenness, attempted to force Zhang Cheng Ling to drink. Zhao Jing intervened, sending Song Huai Ren, a disciple of Gao Chong, to escort Shen Shen to his room, before taking Zhang Cheng Ling to his own chambers. After Song Huai Ren left, Shen Shen secretly opened his eyes, revealing his intoxication was merely a pretense.

Meanwhile, Wen Ke Xing engaged in polite conversation with Yu Qiu Feng, the leader of Mount Hua Sect, and his son Yu Tian Jie. Zhou Xu, disdainful of the empty pleasantries, feigned illness to withdraw from the festivities. He then observed Yu Tian Jie discreetly entering a secret room and subsequently chasing a masked figure from within, prompting Zhou Xu to ponder the intrigues within the Five Lakes Alliance. Suddenly, an uproar broke out at the manor's main gate.

Zhao Jing and the other leaders rushed outside, followed by Zhou Xu, to find Ao Lai Zi and his two disciples brutally murdered, their bodies grotesquely hanging from the gate tower. Yu Qiu Feng immediately identified the "Happy Ghost's mark," confirming the culprit as Happy Ghost, one of the Ten Devils of the Ghost Valley. He emphasized the systematic targeting of the Five Lakes Alliance by the Ghost Valley, which always left behind gruesome displays after their killings.

Realizing this was a diversion, Zhao Jing frantically rushed to check on Zhang Cheng Ling, relieved to find him safe, though badly shaken. Wen Ke Xing, casually downplaying the event, told Zhao Jing that a few masked men had attempted to kidnap Zhang Cheng Ling but had been easily repelled, suggesting the Ghost Valley's reputation was inflated. Zhao Jing nevertheless expressed immense gratitude to Wen Ke Xing for saving the boy.

Simultaneously, Beauty Ghost Liu Qianqiao, the female ghost who had abducted Mu Yun Ge, tormented the unconscious young leader. She confronted him with his past betrayal of her, Yan Wan, and their unborn child, whom he had left to die by a hemp rope at the foot of Broken Sword Manor. She conjured visions of their unborn child and demanded he join them in the afterlife, ultimately terrifying him into a deep faint.

Her companions later praised her elaborate illusion skills, which she noted were "easy to learn and difficult to master." Later, Zhou Xu found Zhang Cheng Ling weeping, still traumatized by the day's events. Zhou Xu gently informed him that their journey together was concluded, having fulfilled his promise to bring him safely to Sanbai Manor.

He advised Zhang Cheng Ling to remain and learn martial arts from Zhao Jing, Gao Chong, and Shen Shen, urging him to be a strong man who does not cry. Meanwhile, Zhao Jing and Shen Shen had a tense discussion. Zhao Jing was distraught that the Glazed Armor had been stolen from his supposedly impregnable secret room.

Shen Shen harshly criticized Zhao Jing's complacency over the past twenty years, citing the annihilation of the Danyang and Mirror Lake Sects and the death of an elder from Mount Tai Sect as consequences of neglecting the Glazed Armor. He confirmed that of the five pieces of the Glazed Armor, held individually by the five sworn brothers of the Five Lakes Alliance, three were now gone.

Shen Shen expressed dismay at how Zhao Jing had allowed the alliance's century-old prestige to crumble. A remorseful Zhao Jing confessed he never desired the armory or the Glazed Armor, wishing only for peace and the safety of his family and brothers. He proposed destroying the remaining pieces, but Shen Shen vehemently disagreed, reminding him of the countless lives already sacrificed for the armory's secret.

From his vantage point on the rooftop, Zhou Xu secretly listened to their conversation, finally understanding the true significance of the armory and the Glazed Armor. He then detected another figure, discreetly hidden, also eavesdropping. Zhou Xu pursued, only to discover it was Wen Ke Xing. Zhou Xu recounted seeing Yu Tian Jie chasing a masked man from the secret room, suspecting this masked individual to be the traitor responsible for the Glazed Armor's theft.

As they continued their investigation, they discovered Yu Tian Jie hanging from a tree, ensnared by the "Soul Winding Threads" of the Hanging Ghost. Wen Ke Xing observed that this was the genuine Hanging Ghost, implying that the one Gu Xiang had previously encountered was a mere imitation. Further on, they found Song Huai Ren's lifeless body. Zhou Xu immediately deduced that Song Huai Ren was the traitor.

However, Wen Ke Xing pointed out that Yu Tian Jie's "Taiyue's Green Peak Swordsmanship" was not the cause of death; a different, unfamiliar weapon had inflicted the fatal wound. Wen Ke Xing then spoke ominously of "owls laughing," a traditional harbinger of death, and drew a parallel between the unfolding events and a game of chess, where everyone, believing themselves to be the "yellow sparrow" observing, was in fact just a "small cicada" ensnared in a larger scheme.

Their pursuit led them to Zhao Coffin Home, Zhao Jing's ancestral hall. Upon entering, they were ambushed by hidden projectiles, but Zhou Xu swiftly pulled Wen Ke Xing to safety. The hall was filled with coffins and an unsettling atmosphere. They split up to search. Wen Ke Xing encountered a figure seemingly standing vigil over a coffin. After a brief, confrontational exchange, he was stunned to realize he was facing an illusion of his own father.

Meanwhile, Zhou Xu experienced a hallucination of his late master, Qin Huai Zhang, and his junior brother, Qin Jiu Xiao, joyfully building a snowman. Recognizing it as an illusion, he quickly cut his own arm to regain clarity, then struck down a perceived "evil ghost." He rushed to Wen Ke Xing, who was still smiling inanely, clearly trapped in his own hallucination. Zhou Xu identified the hallucinogenic scent as "Drunk Like A Dream" and quickly administered an antidote.

Wen Ke Xing, disoriented and childlike, complained about the medicine's bitterness and jokingly threatened to tell his mother. In his semi-conscious state, he then uttered Zhou Xu's true name, "Zhou Zi Shu," leaving Zhou Xu utterly bewildered and questioning how Wen Ke Xing could possibly know his real identity.

Episode 6 Recap

In the chaotic aftermath of the attack at the coffin home, Drug Men emerged from their coffins and surrounded Zhou Zi Shu. As Wen Ke Xing was still disoriented by a potent hallucinogen, Zhou Zi Shu was overwhelmed by the poisonous assailants. Snapping back to his senses just in time, Wen Ke Xing swiftly killed the Drug Men and their leader, the Hanging Ghost.

As the ghost died lamenting his terrible end, Zhou Zi Shu seized a Soul Winding Box from him. Wen Ke Xing, still somewhat dazed, responded playfully when Zhou Zi Shu called his name, earning a sharp retort. Zhou Zi Shu, having been cut by a Drug Man, first gave Wen Ke Xing an antidote as a precaution. He then began to treat his own arm wound by cutting it further and sucking out the poison.

Wen Ke Xing, concerned, noticed a more severe wound on Zhou Zi Shu's shoulder and insisted on helping, pulling out the poison with his mouth. Noting the sheer number of antidotes Zhou Zi Shu carried, Wen Ke Xing wondered if he hailed from the Healer Valley. He then called out Zhou Zi Shu's masterful disguise, pointing out that while his face was covered, his skin tone on his body was different.

He pressed Zhou Zi Shu, asking who he was hiding from and offering his unwavering protection, but Zhou Zi Shu stubbornly refused to reveal his true identity or the nature of his internal injuries, despite Wen Ke Xing's emotional plea. Wen Ke Xing continued to press Zhou Zi Shu, eventually initiating a sparring match to test his skills. Due to his internal injuries, Zhou Zi Shu lost his footing and fell into a lake.

Concerned by his prolonged absence underwater, Wen Ke Xing plunged in after him, only to find Zhou Zi Shu had removed his mask, revealing his true face. Upon resurfacing, Wen Ke Xing gazed intently at Zhou Zi Shu’s genuine appearance, his suspicions confirmed. As they warmed themselves by a fire, Zhou Zi Shu playfully questioned if Wen Ke Xing’s surname was truly Wen, to which Wen Ke Xing responded with a self-flattering description of his own gentle nature.

Zhou Zi Shu then revealed that the "Hanging Ghost" they had fought was an impostor, too young to be the legendary figure. He chided Wen Ke Xing for killing him, as it meant losing a valuable source of information. Wen Ke Xing, however, claimed he acted out of concern for Zhou Zi Shu's safety.

Zhou Zi Shu then sent Wen Ke Xing to forage for food and cautiously opened the Soul Winding Box, discovering a piece of the Glazed Armor inside. Wen Ke Xing returned with two rabbits, which Zhou Zi Shu readily accepted in exchange for the "unlucky" Glazed Armor, dismissing its importance with a proverb about scattered clouds and shattered glaze. Wen Ke Xing, amused, teasingly promised to cherish the item as Zhou Zi Shu's "first gift."

Meanwhile, Wuchang Ghost reported to the Scorpion King that despite the use of magic sound, a special scent, and Drug Men, an intruder had killed Long-tongued Ghost and the Drug Men, and stolen the Glazed Armor. The Scorpion King found the turn of events increasingly "interesting." Wen Ke Xing then speculated that the Glazed Armor must be Zhao Jing's.

Zhou Zi Shu agreed, explaining that the Ghost Valley wouldn't have gone to such lengths to abduct Zhang Cheng Ling if they already possessed his family's Glazed Armor. He elaborated that the entire scenario, including the hanging of Ao Lai Zi's body at Sanbai Manor, was a deliberate trap set by the Ghost Valley to sow discord between the Five Lakes Alliance and the Mount Tai Sect. Wen Ke Xing was visibly impressed by Zhou Zi Shu’s astute insights.

The next morning, Zhao Jing and Shen Shen aggressively questioned Zhang Cheng Ling about the events at Mirror Lake Manor and the two men who had protected him. Still traumatized and suffering from a fever that had blurred his memory, Zhang Cheng Ling insisted he couldn't recall the details. Shen Shen, enraged, reminded the boy of the tragic deaths of his family and 300 others, suggesting Zhang Cheng Ling was forgetting his duty to seek revenge.

Zhao Jing intervened, comforting Zhang Cheng Ling and gently rebuking Shen Shen for pressuring the child. He reassured Zhang Cheng Ling that they would avenge his family and that all major decisions regarding the Glazed Armor would be made by their eldest brother at the upcoming Heroes Conference in Yueyang. Zhao Jing, Shen Shen, and Yu Qiu Feng prepared to depart for the Heroes Conference, where they intended to unite the martial arts world against the Ghost Valley.

Zhao Jing advised caution to Yu Qiu Feng, urging him to restrain his disciples due to the recent unrest. Shen Shen, however, scoffed at Zhao Jing's apprehensions, proclaiming his readiness to face any evil ghost who dared to emerge. Later, Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing returned to Zhao's Ancestral Hall, only to find all traces of the previous night's battle completely erased, suggesting a powerful and organized force had cleaned up.

Wen Ke Xing pressed Zhou Zi Shu about the strange scent that had caused their hallucinations. Zhou Zi Shu revealed it was "Drunk Like a Dream," a hallucinogen he had adapted from an ancient recipe by turning it into an incense. He admitted he was unsure how the Ghost Valley acquired the exotic main ingredient, Wangyou Cao (Forget-Worry Grass), as it was not native to the Central Plains.

When Zhou Zi Shu asked what Wen Ke Xing had seen in his own hallucination, Wen Ke Xing evaded the question with a humorous anecdote. This left Zhou Zi Shu to silently ponder Wen Ke Xing's mysterious background and uncanny knowledge of the Four Seasons Manor, wondering about their true connection. As Zhao Jing, Shen Shen, and Zhang Cheng Ling continued their journey, an official from Prince Jin's Window of Heaven, Han Ying, arrived at Sanbai Manor.

Zhou Zi Shu, recognizing Han Ying, realized the Window of Heaven was now deeply involved in the Glazed Armor affair. Wen Ke Xing suggested they attend the Heroes Conference, seeing it as an opportunity to observe a "dogfight" among the martial sects and expressing pity for Zhang Cheng Ling's vulnerable position. Wen Ke Xing stated he would first go to arrange matters with Gu Xiang and then meet Zhou Zi Shu in Yueyang.

Zhou Zi Shu, worried about Zhang Cheng Ling, agreed and departed to follow Zhao Jing and Shen Shen, growing impatient with their leisurely pace. Wen Ke Xing visited a shop and commissioned thirty identical copies of the Glazed Armor, threatening the shopkeeper to ensure their completion within three days. He then returned to his residence, where he found Gu Xiang playing a game with Yun Cai and Hong Lu.

Yun Cai and Hong Lu, grateful to Wen Ke Xing and Gu Xiang for saving them from a life of being "sold around like kittens or puppies," pledged their eternal loyalty. Wen Ke Xing initially offered them silver to go their own way, but Gu Xiang interceded, vouching for their devotion and explaining their orphan status.

Wen Ke Xing relented, allowing them to stay as Gu Xiang's personal maids, though he warned Gu Xiang that she would be responsible for any future consequences. Finally, Wen Ke Xing showed Gu Xiang the thirty fake Glazed Armor pieces and assigned her two crucial tasks: one requiring immediate action and the other demanding careful planning.

Episode 7 Recap

The Tragicomic Ghost, known as the Owner of the List of the Unfaithful, convened the other ghosts from Ghost Valley to witness a macabre wedding. She had captured Mu Yun Ge, the Young Leader of Broken Sword Manor, for having abandoned Mo Yan Wan, a disciple of the Mount Emei Sect, after tricking her into a promise of marriage. Mo Yan Wan, heartbroken, had tragically hanged herself at Broken Sword Manor.

The Tragicomic Ghost intended to serve justice by forcing Mu Yun Ge to marry Mo Yan Wan's memorial tablet. During the ceremony, one of the impatient Ghouls expressed hunger due to all the red decorations, while another ghost complained about the Tragicomic Ghost's elaborate "pretend play." Her subordinate announced the "blessed hour" and detailed Mu Yun Ge's betrayal, stating that the Tragicomic Ghost was upholding justice.

According to her rules, ten of the unfaithful man's friends or relatives were invited as "guests" to fight to the death, with only one allowed to survive. When a captive questioned the devils' promise, a subordinate firmly declared that Ghost Valley never went back on its word, unlike some "chevaliers who throw around empty words." The captives were then forced into a brutal fight, much to the enjoyment of the observing ghosts, who delighted in the "dog-eat-dog" spectacle.

One ghost complimented the Tragicomic Ghost, saying he'd follow her forever for such entertainment. Ultimately, only one person remained alive, leaving Mu Yun Ge utterly terrified by the bloody scene. Meanwhile, Zhou Zi Shu followed Shen Shen and Zhao Jing to Yueyang City, staying at the same inn as them. Zhang Cheng Ling, also at the inn, observed Zhou Zi Shu from afar, noting a resemblance to his master but finding this man more handsome.

He wondered about his master and Uncle Wen's whereabouts. Zhou Zi Shu tried to order Wucheng wine, but the waiter informed him that a VIP from Huzhou, referring to Zhao Jing and Shen Shen, had reserved all the Wucheng wine in the establishment. Shen Shen, fueled by wine, vented his frustration to Zhao Jing, calling Zhang Cheng Ling useless and spoiled.

He voiced suspicions that Cheng Ling might be hiding information about the Glazed Armor, citing the torture and death of Zhang family's members, including Zhang Yu Sen who crushed his own skull, as evidence that Ghost Valley was still searching for it. Zhao Jing, however, defended Cheng Ling, insisting the child knew nothing and merely seemed distant and quiet. Shen Shen dismissed Zhao Jing's heartache as unhelpful. Zhang Cheng Ling overheard their conversation from outside the window, feeling deeply troubled.

In Yueyang, Han Ying, a leader from the Window of Heaven, arrived from Jin to investigate the Glazed Armor and confronted Gao Chong. Gao Chong denied any knowledge of the Glazed Armor, dismissing it as mere martial arts world rumors. Han Ying, impatient, offered a future favor and cooperation from the Window of Heaven if Gao Chong revealed what he knew.

Gao Chong, however, scoffed at the Window of Heaven's reputation for knowing everything, questioning why Han Ying needed to ask him then. When Han Ying brought up the Five Lakes Alliance's search for the Mirror Lake Sect orphan, Gao Chong stated it was an internal matter and reiterated his ignorance about the Glazed Armor. He warned Han Ying that while the Window of Heaven might dominate the Northwest, they were in Yueyang City, under the Emperor's authority.

He then forcibly expelled Han Ying from his residence. Realizing Prince Jin was aware of the Glazed Armor, Gao Chong hastily mobilized his men to escort Zhang Cheng Ling and the others into the heavily guarded Yueyang City to prevent any complications. Gao Chong personally greeted Zhao Jing and Shen Shen, instructing his daughter, Gao Xiaolian, to take Zhang Cheng Ling to rest. Xiao Lian warmly welcomed Cheng Ling.

After sending Zhang Cheng Ling away, Gao Chong revealed to Zhao Jing and Shen Shen that the secret of the Glazed Armor had been leaked. Elsewhere, Zhou Zi Shu felt a sense of relief seeing the robust defenses of the Yueyang Sect, believing Zhang Cheng Ling was now safe and wishing him luck in turning this challenge into fortune. However, his calm was shattered when he noticed a bun seller communicating using a secret code from the Window of Heaven.

Curious, Zhou Zi Shu followed the seller and tried to initiate contact with a code phrase. The seller, feigning ignorance, suddenly attacked Zhou Zi Shu with a hidden dagger. Zhou Zi Shu quickly disarmed and killed him, discovering a Scorpion emblem on the dagger, revealing the man was a Scorpion assassin, not from the Window of Heaven. Wen Ke Xing arrived, admiring Zhou Zi Shu's agility.

He playfully remarked on Zhou Zi Shu's deadly moves, comparing his "flexible like a willow branch and light as catkins" appearance to a "heart like a poisonous scorpion," and sarcastically suggested Zhou Zi Shu learn to be good like him. Wen Ke Xing also revealed his knowledge of the Scorpion as another major assassin organization, active like the Window of Heaven in the Glazed Armor affair, and teasingly referred to Zhang Cheng Ling as a "treasure."

Zhou Zi Shu deduced that Wen Ke Xing was concerned about impending trouble. Wen Ke Xing, however, described himself as a "modest, gentle, sophisticated, even-tempered, and successful philanthropist" who never encountered trouble, unlike Zhou Zi Shu, a "merciless killer" who attracted it everywhere.

Zhou Zi Shu then asked Wen Ke Xing not to follow him to avoid tarnishing Wen Ke Xing's "view," and when Wen Ke Xing asked why he was disguised, Zhou Zi Shu simply said it was due to the sun. Wen Ke Xing then asserted that the Glazed Armor, even if openly displayed, might not be recognized by "stupid people," using the analogy that the best way to hide money is to put it in a money box.

He was deliberately drawing attention to the fake Glazed Armor he wore at his waist. Yueyang Sect disciples soon questioned Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing about their identities and purpose. Wen Ke Xing quickly stepped in, claiming Zhou Zi Shu was his brother and that they were invited by Zhao Jing. The disciples, satisfied, let them pass.

Wen Ke Xing then commented on Gao Chong's extensive security measures in Yueyang City, assuring Zhou Zi Shu that his "dumb disciple" was finally safe. He also noted that "the stage was set" for the Window of Heaven, Scorpion, the Five Lakes Alliance, and other martial artists to compete, having just released the bait by allowing his fake Glazed Armor to be stolen. Feeling bored, Gu Xiang went to a pub alone.

She witnessed three young men from the Five Lakes Alliance, including a "young master" named Little Liu, harassing a singing girl. Gu Xiang intervened, offering to sing "Eighteen Touches" herself for double the silver, then proceeded to beat up the harassers. She challenged them to stay and fight, but they fled, with Little Liu threatening to return.

Cao Weining, a young master from the Gentle Wind Sword Sect, who was also drinking there, admired Gu Xiang's actions and invited her to join him for a meal. They quickly bonded over food, and Cao Weining introduced himself as a connoisseur of fine cuisine. Their meal was interrupted when Little Liu returned with Zhu Yao Zhi, a Yueyang Sect disciple, demanding an explanation. Gu Xiang explained the harassment, and Cao Weining corroborated her story.

Zhu Yao Zhi, realizing Little Liu was in the wrong, chastised him and sent him and his companions away, then apologized profusely to Gu Xiang and Cao Weining, asking them not to mention the incident to his master. Gu Xiang and Cao Weining continued their conversation, with Cao Weining expressing admiration for her fighting spirit and Gu Xiang teasing him about his politeness and flowery language. Zhou Zi Shu brought Wen Ke Xing to the same pub to gather information.

He signaled to the waiter by placing a flower pea on his chopsticks, and the waiter responded with coded language about tea from a government source outside the city that his shop couldn't afford. Wen Ke Xing, seeing Gu Xiang and Cao Weining engaged in lively conversation, became visibly annoyed, remarking that his "cabbage was being eaten by a pig." He quickly went upstairs and rudely interrupted them, referring to Cao Weining as a "pretentious half-wit" who misquoted classical poetry.

He told Cao Weining to "conveniently leave now," which he clarified was a polite way of saying "scram." Wen Ke Xing then warned Gu Xiang not to associate with such "uncultured boys." Gu Xiang defended Cao Weining, saying he was more cultured than her. She then asked about Zhou Zi Shu, whom she called "sick dude," noting that Wen Ke Xing seemed "more like a person" when Zhou Zi Shu was around.

As Cao Weining prepared to leave, he discovered his money pouch was missing and became embroiled in an argument with the waiter, claiming he would pay with calligraphy. Wen Ke Xing, seeing this, offered to pay Cao Weining's bill, asking Zhou Zi Shu for his wallet. Zhou Zi Shu initially refused. Gu Xiang approached, trying to grab money, claiming she had some, but Wen Ke Xing warned her to stay out of it.

She then impulsively touched Zhou Zi Shu's face, surprising both him and Wen Ke Xing. Wen Ke Xing sarcastically pointed out that Zhou Zi Shu allowed Gu Xiang to touch him but reacted violently when Wen Ke Xing did. Zhou Zi Shu retorted that Wen Ke Xing could also touch him if he were a "cute girl." The waiter pressed for payment.

Wen Ke Xing took Zhou Zi Shu's wallet, remarking on Zhou Zi Shu's wealth and playfully threatening to make Gu Xiang his collateral if the money wasn't enough. He warned Gu Xiang again not to interfere, or she would face trouble. Cao Weining, upon hearing Wen Ke Xing mention it, realized his money pouch had been stolen by "Fang Bu Zhi the Thief Master." Wen Ke Xing then paid the bill and, leveraging Zhou Zi Shu's generous funds, ordered the most extravagant banquet, highlighting Zhou Zi Shu's unexpected prosperity.

Episode 8 Recap

Zhang Cheng Ling was questioned by Gao Chong, Zhao Jing, and Shen Shen at Yueyang Sect. Gao Chong immediately asked about the Glazed Armor, but Zhang Cheng Ling claimed to know nothing. Zhao Jing tried to intervene, explaining that Zhang Cheng Ling was traumatized and had temporarily lost his memory, urging Gao Chong to be patient. However, Gao Chong refused, relentlessly pressuring the boy. Shen Shen also sided with Gao Chong, adding to the pressure.

Zhang Cheng Ling, frustrated, repeatedly stated he had no knowledge of the Glazed Armor's whereabouts, but Gao Chong dismissed his words and resorted to threats. Zhao Jing again tried to mediate, but Gao Chong, incensed, transferred his long-held resentment towards Zhang Cheng Ling's father, Zhang Yu Sen, onto the boy. After much persuasion, Zhao Jing managed to get Gao Chong to leave. Shen Shen expressed dissatisfaction with Zhao Jing, believing he was too lenient with Zhang Cheng Ling.

Meanwhile, Cao Weining's purse was stolen, leaving him unable to pay his bill at the tavern. He apologized profusely to Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing. Zhou Zi Shu, finding Cao Weining straightforward and pleasant, invited him to share a drink, and the two quickly bonded. Wen Ke Xing, however, was annoyed by Cao Weining and subtly instructed Gu Xiang to send him away. Gu Xiang saw an opportunity to use Cao Weining to gain entry into Yueyang Sect.

Wen Ke Xing remained adamant, demanding that Gu Xiang go apprehend Fang Bu Zhi, the thief who had stolen his purse. Aware of Fang Bu Zhi's formidable martial arts, Cao Weining offered to help Gu Xiang find him. Gu Xiang, delighted by Cao Weining's knowledge of local cuisine, eagerly accepted his offer to explore Yueyang's food scene.

Zhou Zi Shu remarked that it was surprising for the cunning leader of the Gentle Wind Sword Sect to have such a pure-hearted son as Cao Weining. Wen Ke Xing, noticing Zhou Zi Shu's warmth towards Cao Weining, made sarcastic remarks. Zhou Zi Shu admitted he intended to use Cao Weining to gather information about Zhang Cheng Ling's situation in Yueyang Sect.

Wen Ke Xing then revealed he had already instructed Gu Xiang to follow Cao Weining and find a way into Yueyang Sect to keep an eye on Zhang Cheng Ling for Zhou Zi Shu. Zhou Zi Shu, however, suspected Wen Ke Xing had ulterior motives.

Wen Ke Xing, calling himself "Philanthropist Wen," explained that he traveled the world to perform good deeds, believing that the darkest evils often hid beneath human guises, and he was there to expose and destroy them. Zhang Cheng Ling attempted to return to his room, but Gao Chong's disciple, Xie Wu Yang, insisted on escorting him. Zhang Cheng Ling, feeling like a prisoner, argued with Xie Wu Yang.

Fortunately, Gao Xiaolian arrived and dismissed Xie Wu Yang, reassuring Zhang Cheng Ling that her father, though strict, was kind-hearted. She then led Zhang Cheng Ling to the second-generation disciples' compound, instructing him to practice martial arts with them. Shortly after, Cao Weining arrived, looking for Gao Xiaolian. Gao Xiaolian, leaving Zhang Cheng Ling among the other disciples, went to meet him.

Cao Weining explained to Gao Xiaolian that Gu Xiang's purse had been stolen by Fang Bu Zhi and asked her to temporarily host Gu Xiang. Gao Xiaolian readily agreed, even offering Gu Xiang a room in her own courtyard's west wing. While Gu Xiang was settling in, a disciple informed Gao Xiaolian that Gao Chong intended to take Zhang Cheng Ling to worship the Five Lakes Monument.

Seizing the opportunity, Gu Xiang discreetly slipped away to report this to Wen Ke Xing. Zhou Zi Shu had learned from a tavern waiter about a group of "government-like people" operating outside the city, leading him to suspect the involvement of the Window of Heaven. As he left the tavern, Wen Ke Xing followed him.

They both noticed several sky lanterns being released, confirming Zhou Zi Shu's fear that Prince Jin had deployed the Window of Heaven to infiltrate Yueyang Sect. Gu Xiang hurried to report to Wen Ke Xing. Upon hearing that Gao Chong was taking Zhang Cheng Ling to worship the Five Lakes Monument, Zhou Zi Shu immediately rushed off to rescue him, fearing for the boy's safety.

At the Five Lakes Monument, Gao Chong recounted its history, explaining how it symbolized the unity of the Five Lakes Alliance. He then revealed that other sects deemed Zhang Cheng Ling unfit to lead and wanted to install a successor from their own ranks to the Zhang family. Gao Chong encouraged Zhang Cheng Ling not to betray his deceased father's legacy and to uphold the Zhang family name. Zhang Cheng Ling listened intently.

On their return journey, Gao Chong's group was ambushed by Han Ying, a commander from the Window of Heaven, who had captured Zhu Yaozhi and other Yueyang disciples. Han Ying, backed by crossbowmen, demanded Zhang Cheng Ling. Gao Chong refused to yield, drawing his sword, leading to a tense standoff. From the nearby forest, Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing observed the scene.

They donned masks and swiftly intervened, overpowering Han Ying and forcing him to command his crossbowmen to retreat. Han Ying immediately recognized Zhou Zi Shu's distinctive "Flowing Cloud Nine Palace Steps" and, falling to his knees, acknowledged his former master. Han Ying, whose life Zhou Zi Shu had once saved, swore unwavering loyalty. Zhou Zi Shu, not wishing to further endanger him, advised Han Ying to proceed cautiously.

Zhou Zi Shu deduced that the Five Lakes Alliance would surely coerce Zhang Cheng Ling into revealing the Glazed Armor's location before the Heroes Conference. Meanwhile, Fang Bu Zhi, delighted with his stolen loot, was examining a pouch containing two identical Glazed Armors. As he pondered their mystery, an intruder suddenly appeared and poisoned him to death. Wen Ke Xing, now more intrigued than ever by Zhou Zi Shu's true identity, pressed him about his connection to Zhang Cheng Ling.

Zhou Zi Shu admitted that he had once been a high-ranking member of the Window of Heaven but had since left the organization. He explained that he had promised an old fisherman to protect Zhang Cheng Ling's safety, and seeing the boy constantly surrounded by danger, he could not stand idly by. He considered his actions a form of "charity," hoping it might lessen his suffering in the afterlife.

Wen Ke Xing, feeling relieved, sought final confirmation that Zhou Zi Shu had no ties to the Five Lakes Alliance. Zhou Zi Shu then turned the question back, hinting at Wen Ke Xing's own potential grudge against the alliance. Wen Ke Xing also confessed that his presence at Mirror Lake Manor during its extermination was not a coincidence, as he had been actively following Zhou Zi Shu.

He explained that he did not believe in waiting for fate and preferred to take initiative in their "acquaintance." Zhou Zi Shu stated that he questioned Wen Ke Xing directly because he considered him a friend. Wen Ke Xing, with a hint of longing, commented on their shared experiences and implied a deeper connection than mere friendship. As they descended the mountain, Zhou Zi Shu quietly acknowledged Wen Ke Xing as his soulmate.

Back on the street, Wen Ke Xing continued to act like a glutton, sampling various foods, with Zhou Zi Shu reluctantly following behind, paying for everything. Zhou Zi Shu urged him to prioritize finding his stolen purse and jade amulet, but Wen Ke Xing playfully promised to repay him later, even offering to be at his command. Their attention was then drawn to a Western Regions magic show.

As the performance concluded, ten human heads tumbled out of a prop box. A chilling voice from the stage declared that the Ghost Valley had delivered this "goodwill gesture" for the upcoming Heroes Conference. The scene quickly descended into chaos. Yueyang Sect disciples rushed in to restore order, publicly assuring the panicked crowd that Gao Chong would ensure justice for the victims.

Wen Ke Xing suggested they go to Yueyang Sect to witness how Gao Chong would handle the audacious provocation. Inside the sect headquarters, numerous sect leaders, including Mu Yun Ge's father and Elder Sha, were already present, demanding justice for the recent murders. Wen Ke Xing and Zhou Zi Shu arrived to find Zhao Jing and Shen Shen scolding them for their abrupt departure from Sanbai Manor, even hinting at their involvement in a theft.

Wen Ke Xing smoothly deflected their accusations with a clever excuse. When Gao Chong emerged, Wen Ke Xing asked to visit Zhang Cheng Ling. Gao Chong stated that Zhang Cheng Ling was unwell and resting, thus unable to receive visitors. Gao Chong then scrutinized Wen Ke Xing, inquiring about his identity.

Wen Ke Xing, without missing a beat, introduced himself and claimed to be from no particular sect, having only learned rudimentary martial arts from his late, ordinary father, who was long forgotten by the martial arts world. Just then, a disciple rushed in to report that another body had been discovered during patrols.

Episode 9 Recap

The Yueyang Sect disciples brought back Fang Bu Zhi's body. Zhou Zi Shu recognized him as the Nine Clawed Fox who had stolen Wen Ke Xing's Glazed Armor, commenting that it was no surprise he died so quickly after touching such a "hot potato." Gao Chong carefully examined the body and found several Rain Hitting Banana Leaves Needles in Fang Bu Zhi's throat.

Zhou Zi Shu immediately identified these as unique to the Window of Heaven, concluding that Han Ying had taken the Glazed Armor from Fang Bu Zhi. Believing the Five Lakes Alliance to be preoccupied, Zhou Zi Shu suggested they not linger, and Wen Ke Xing readily agreed. Gao Chong, though unable to press them to stay, extended an invitation to the upcoming Heroes Conference. Meanwhile, Cao Weining treated Gu Xiang to a meal in the city.

He found her amusing, especially when she teased him about his "baby fat." Gu Xiang then playfully warned him about a Ghoul from the Ten Devils of the Ghost Valley who "especially eats the faces of handsome young boys" like him. Cao Weining reacted with horror at the thought of a human eating a human, vowing to protect Gu Xiang and kill all the ghouls to live up to his sect's mission of defeating evil and protecting justice.

He optimistically stated that with Chief Gao of the Five Lakes Alliance leading the Heroes Conference, the Ghost Valley would surely be destroyed. Gu Xiang, however, expressed skepticism, pointing out that the Ghost Valley had recently left ten human heads in Yueyang City, right under the Five Lakes Alliance's nose. Cao Weining reiterated his promise to protect her, making Gu Xiang feel much safer. She then spotted a mother and daughter sent by Wen Ke Xing.

Pretending she had mistaken them for singers, Gu Xiang quickly relayed her instructions to them to gather information, promising that when she asked them to sing, it would mean her mission was complete and they could tell her where to find "Master." She then returned to Cao Weining, resuming their meal. Later, Wen Ke Xing ordered a lavish meal for himself and Zhou Zi Shu. Zhou Zi Shu, lost in thought, realized his senses were beginning to fade.

He wondered why the Window of Heaven was involved with the Glazed Armor, speculating that Prince Jin might also covet the armory. He also questioned Gao Chong's true intentions for hiding Zhang Cheng Ling. Zhou Zi Shu expressed regret for sending Zhang Cheng Ling back to the Five Lakes Alliance. Wen Ke Xing tried to comfort him, suggesting that sometimes "all matters can wait" if one can enjoy a meal with a companion.

He then shared a story from his childhood about a beloved dog, a gift from an important person, which he ultimately "betrayed," concluding that while it's impossible for everything to go as one wishes, one should strive to have no regrets. As Zhou Zi Shu prepared for sleep, a sudden ear ringing prompted him to meditate and restore his internal energy. Wen Ke Xing, sitting in the room, softly played his flute, aiding Zhou Zi Shu's recovery.

The next morning, Wen Ke Xing attempted to rouse a sleepy Zhou Zi Shu, insisting they visit Yuefan Tower, which he described as the best place to admire Yueyang City's scenery. Despite Zhou Zi Shu's initial reluctance, Wen Ke Xing persuaded him with the philosophy that one might as well spend the day happily. At Yuefan Tower, they observed the Four Sages of Anji performing in a pavilion.

Zhou Zi Shu explained that the four were renowned music masters from diverse backgrounds who, fifteen years prior, had become soulmates and retired from the martial arts world to a beautiful bamboo forest. He highlighted that one of them, the solitary bandit He Yi Fan, had been "guided to give up evil for good" by his friends.

Zhou Zi Shu reflected on their profound bond and his own complex, friend-and-foe relationship with Wen Ke Xing, lamenting that with his own limited time, he longed to roam the world with a soulmate like the Sages. Wen Ke Xing agreed, stating that even "living like this for two or three years is better than wasting an entire lifetime."

Meanwhile, Zhang Cheng Ling, practicing with the second-generation disciples, endured taunts and physical punishment from a senior disciple who mocked his Mirror Lake Sword Sect's supposedly unique light footwork. Overwhelmed with emotion and believing his master had abandoned him, Zhang Cheng Ling cried when Gu Xiang approached him. Gu Xiang gently patted his head, reassuring him that she was sent by Wen Ke Xing and Zhou Zi Shu to protect him, as the Yueyang Sect was heavily guarded.

Zhang Cheng Ling revealed that Wen Ke Xing had instructed him to persistently call Zhou Zi Shu "Master" because Zhou Zi Shu was softhearted. That night, Wen Ke Xing invited Zhou Zi Shu to drink and enjoy the moon on the rooftop. Zhou Zi Shu found the sounds of fighting below distracting and "mood-ruining," but Wen Ke Xing expressed his excitement, declaring that the "show has finally begun."

He led Zhou Zi Shu to witness more of the night's deadly spectacles. They arrived at a courtyard strewn with bodies, where Cyclops Jiang Che and Furious Blademaster Li Heng had perished while fighting over a piece of Glazed Armor. Wen Ke Xing described their demise as a "perish together" act, a "wonderful" end for "idiots" who chase profit without considering their lives.

When Zhou Zi Shu speculated that this was the piece Fang Bu Zhi had stolen, Wen Ke Xing encouraged him to "think about it a bit more." Zhou Zi Shu soon noticed that there were two identical Glazed Armors. Realizing Wen Ke Xing had deliberately scattered many fake Glazed Armors to incite bloodshed among martial artists, Zhou Zi Shu was deeply disappointed, calling him "truly crazy," and turned away in anger.

The city of Yueyang descended into chaos as people frantically fought over Glazed Armor pieces. Han Ying, holding two identical pieces, was baffled. The next morning, Wen Ke Xing arrived to bring Zhou Zi Shu breakfast, only to find him gone. Back at the Yueyang Sect, the gravely injured disciple Zhu Yaozhi was brought back, much to the anger of Gao Chong.

Gao Xiaolian, deeply worried, stayed by Zhu Yaozhi's side, observing how the stress had prematurely grayed her father's hair. Word spread that the Anji Four Sages possessed a piece of Glazed Armor, drawing the attention of various sects, including the Beggar Gang, Mount Hua Sect, and Kongtong Sect. Huang He of the Beggar Gang confronted the Sages, demanding the Glazed Armor.

Feng Xiao Feng, a small man, joined the fray, calling the Sages "Ghost Valley's dogs" and ordering Gao Shan Nu to attack them. Amidst the chaos, He Yi Fan of the Four Sages was poisoned. Gao Chong and Shen Shen arrived with Yueyang Sect disciples, halting the fighting. Gao Chong chastised Huang He, accusing him of disrespecting the Five Lakes Alliance. Huang He retorted, criticizing the Five Lakes Alliance's recent arrogance.

Shen Shen then condemned Huang He for associating with Tao Hong and Lv Liu, prompting Tao Hong to retort that the Five Lakes Alliance "has no dignity to begin with." As the situation escalated, Feng Xiao Feng, claiming disgust, announced he was withdrawing from the fight, but the remaining Sages stopped him, demanding he hand over the antidote for the poison. During the chaotic fight, three of the Anji Four Sages tragically died from poisoning and injuries.

The Beggar Gang snatched the Glazed Armor from Madam Pei's hands. Seeing his companions fall, the last surviving Sage, the scholar Du, lamented to Gao Chong that their fifteen years of peaceful seclusion had been destroyed because of their friendship with him and the cursed Glazed Armor. Addressing his zither, his last companion, he cried, "With no soulmates left in the world, what use are you?" before smashing the instrument and taking his own life.

Wen Ke Xing, observing the tragedy from a distance, was filled with remorse, reflecting on how "fifteen years of companionship was destroyed in an instant." A heartbroken and enraged Gao Chong then threw two pieces of Glazed Armor at Huang He's feet, promising to reveal the full truth after the Heroes Conference and settle their score then. Huang He, upon examining the pieces, discovered they were both fake.

Episode 10 Recap

Wen Ke Xing, filled with remorse, began to bury the Four Sages of Anji, but the ground was frozen solid. He struggled to dig a grave with his sword, breaking the blade in the process. Zhou Zi Shu arrived and, seeing the tragic state of the Sages, chastised Wen Ke Xing for causing such bloodshed.

Wen Ke Xing, already regretful and now facing Zhou Zi Shu's accusations, retorted by exposing Zhou Zi Shu's past as the Leader of the Window of Heaven, reminding him that he too had taken innocent lives. Zhou Zi Shu was left speechless. Zhou Zi Shu later sat alone in the pavilion where the Four Sages once played music and recited poetry, his heart heavy with emotion. Han Ying observed him from a distance.

That night, Wen Ke Xing sought solace in a brothel, surrounded by courtesans. He distributed fake Glazed Armors and promised gold beads to those who would drink with him. Though the women happily indulged, Wen Ke Xing remained cheerless, lamenting the potential loss of Zhou Zi Shu as his soulmate. Meanwhile, Zhou Zi Shu was at a tavern, drowning his sorrows in drink until he passed out.

He reflected that he had once believed Wen Ke Xing to be his soulmate, but now realized it was his own wishful thinking, admitting his mistake in judging others. In the Chongwu Palace, Shen Shen reported to Gao Chong that Feng Xiaofeng, the killer of the Four Sages, had escaped, but promised to capture him after the Heroes Conference.

Zhao Jing, who had gone to Renyi Hall for the Sages' funeral arrangements, discovered a half-dug grave, leading him to suspect the Beggar Gang or Huang He. Shen Shen recalled following Ao Lai Zi and finding the area littered with joss paper, confirming the Ghost Valley's involvement in Ao Lai Zi's death. Zhao Jing accused Shen Shen of attempting to seize the Glazed Armor from Ao Lai Zi, leading to a heated argument.

Shen Shen insisted the Armor rightfully belonged to the Five Lakes Alliance, while Zhao Jing argued for respecting the deceased Lu Tai Chong's wishes. Gao Chong intervened, stating that Ao Lai Zi's inability to protect the Glazed Armor was his own downfall, but Zhao Jing maintained that forcing someone to give up their belongings was wrong.

Yu Qiu Feng, increasingly anxious about the escalating violence in the martial arts world and with no news of Yu Tian Jie, instructed his disciples to avoid conflicts. Despite this, disciples from the Mount Tai Sect arrived, informing him that Ao Lai Zi's death might have been orchestrated by the Five Lakes Alliance. Yu Qiu Feng, not wanting to get involved, ordered his disciples to tell them he was unavailable, sick, or even dead, refusing to meet them.

Zhou Zi Shu remained despondent after the deaths of the Four Sages. Han Ying, concerned about Zhou Zi Shu's internal injuries from the Nails of Seven Torments, suggested seeking a divine healer. However, Zhou Zi Shu knew his time was short and his injuries irreversible. He advised Han Ying to remain hidden within the Window of Heaven and prioritize his own safety. Zhou Zi Shu then handed Han Ying a genuine piece of Glazed Armor.

Han Ying, realizing the two pieces he had submitted earlier were fakes, wished to retrieve them, but Zhou Zi Shu forbade him from getting further entangled in the Glazed Armor dispute. Zhou Zi Shu emphasized that he was a dying man and no longer needed such an ominous object, urging Han Ying that his loyalty would best be shown by staying alive.

Elsewhere, Tao Hong Po, Lv Liu Weng, and Huang He discussed the widespread fake Glazed Armors, expressing their frustration at being manipulated. They were further enraged by the rumor that Gao Chong planned to marry his daughter, Gao Xiaolian, to Zhang Cheng Ling. They accused Gao Chong of being ruthless, willing to use his own daughter as a pawn to consolidate power over the martial arts world. Gu Xiang continued to look out for Zhang Cheng Ling.

Upon seeing him bruised and beaten by his senior disciples, she was ready to retaliate. Zhang Cheng Ling, however, stopped her, explaining that he was effectively under house arrest at the Yueyang Sect and didn't want to cause more trouble. Soon after, Gao Xiaolian brought him homemade osmanthus cakes.

Zhang Cheng Ling, aware of Gao Chong's intention to betroth him to her, respectfully declined her gifts and her friendship, stating that he was unworthy and would not be a puppet in their schemes. He knew accepting the marriage would lead to accusations of opportunism. Gao Xiaolian, hurt by his rejection, left in tears. Gu Xiang called Zhang Cheng Ling foolish, but he was resolute, expressing his eagerness to reunite with Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing.

Gu Xiang reported to Wen Ke Xing about Gao Chong's plans. She mentioned that Gao Xiaolian was originally destined for Deng Kuan, the last survivor of the "Funeral Game," who had mysteriously fallen ill upon returning to the Yueyang Sect, despite only suffering minor injuries previously. Gu Xiang also noted that Zhang Cheng Ling was being held under strict guard. Expressing pity for Zhang Cheng Ling, she asked Wen Ke Xing if they could help him escape.

Wen Ke Xing sternly reminded her of her identity as the Heartless Amethyst Fiend, a ghost among humans, and warned her not to interfere or pity humans. He suspected Gao Chong had ulterior motives for keeping Zhang Cheng Ling so closely guarded and instructed Gu Xiang to monitor Gao Chong closely. Wen Ke Xing then declared his intention to continue his "madness" and further destabilize the martial arts world.

Gao Xiaolian, having been repeatedly rebuffed by Zhang Cheng Ling, felt deeply hurt. She prepared a cooling lotus seed soup for her father, Gao Chong, who told her to take it to Zhang Cheng Ling. She tearfully pleaded with her father to annul the engagement, expressing her confusion and hurt over both his and Zhang Cheng Ling's actions. Gao Chong, though initially angered by her forwardness, softened and promised to speak with Zhang Cheng Ling about it later.

Gu Xiang met Cao Weining for dinner at Qing Yu Tower, where she requested the song "Happy Meeting." Cao Weining, misinterpreting her choice of song, seemed delighted, believing it to be a romantic gesture. Wen Ke Xing, as the Chief of Ghost Valley, summoned the Ten Devils and other subordinate ghosts. He expressed his dissatisfaction that after three months of being released from the valley, they had failed to locate the Hanging Ghost and retrieve the stolen Glazed Armor.

Instead, they had caused chaos: organizing "Funeral Games," annihilating the Danyang and Mirror Lake Sects, killing the Mount Tai Sect leader, and publicly displaying corpses to provoke the Five Lakes Alliance, thereby destroying two decades of peace. Despite this, he sarcastically praised their destructive efficiency, stating that as evil spirits, wreaking havoc was their true purpose. He then brutally executed White Grim Reaper for his perceived disloyalty and incompetence, terrifying the other ghosts. Wen Ke Xing then instructed them to devise a cunning plan to thoroughly humiliate Gao Chong and the other leaders of the Five Lakes Alliance at the upcoming Heroes Conference.

Episode 11 Recap

Inside Ghost Valley, Tragicomic Ghost confronted Wen Ke Xing, demanding to know why he was acting so erratically, especially after mercilessly killing the White Grim Reaper and ordering her girls to spread the nursery rhyme about the Ghosts on Mount Qingya. Wen Ke Xing, however, remained unmoved, stating his madness was his natural state and that his unpredictability likely made them more fearful. He warned her not to mistake his tolerance for weakness and dismissed her.

Beauty Ghost Liu Qianqiao knelt, pleading for Tragicomic Ghost, suggesting her master was upset out of concern. Wen Ke Xing insisted on speaking with Liu Qianqiao alone, sending Tragicomic Ghost away. Liu Qianqiao apologized for Tragicomic Ghost’s rudeness, assuring Wen Ke Xing that she believed his actions had deeper meanings and they only needed to follow. Wen Ke Xing scoffed at the idea of deeper meanings, claiming he simply felt like killing.

Liu Qianqiao, however, surmised that Wen Ke Xing killed White Grim Reaper as a warning to Changing Ghost, who had been restless and plotting. Wen Ke Xing sternly asked if she knew the fate of those who tried to guess their master's intentions, but accepted her loyal explanation. He then assigned her a new task, first inquiring if her transformation skills came from Four Seasons Manor. Liu Qianqiao confirmed this but stated she had never visited the manor.

She explained that as a child, she met a martial arts master, Qin Huai Zhang, who, pitying her disfigured face, taught her the skill. Wen Ke Xing mused about the beauty of Four Seasons Manor and asked why she hadn't visited. Liu Qianqiao declared that having entered the ghost path, she no longer yearned for worldly splendor, wishing only to serve Ghost Valley and its chief.

Wen Ke Xing then darkly added that they were indeed ghosts, and ghosts disappear in the light. Meanwhile, Zhou Zi Shu, haunted by his past and the recent tragedies, drowned his sorrows in wine outside Yueyang Sect. He lamented his fate, wondering why he had struggled so hard to leave the Window of Heaven only to end up alone and aimless.

Despite his desire to leave this chaotic world, his concern for Zhang Cheng Ling kept him lingering near the sect’s gates. Zhang Cheng Ling, still inside Yueyang Sect, discovered a note signed "Xu," instructing him to meet at the northern garden at midnight. Believing it was from Zhou Zi Shu, he tried to sneak out, but was intercepted by a senior disciple. Zhang Cheng Ling feigned hunger to escape, but the disciple refused to let him leave.

Just as the situation escalated, Gu Xiang arrived, dispatching the obstructing disciple. Zhang Cheng Ling excitedly asked about Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing, thinking Gu Xiang was sent by them. Gu Xiang was confused, but realizing Zhang Cheng Ling was lured out, she accompanied him. They quickly fell into a trap set by Pretty Arhat and Evil Bodhisattva, two assassins from the Scorpion organization, with Phantom Musician Qin Song providing a magic sound diversion.

Gu Xiang valiantly fought Pretty Arhat, urging Zhang Cheng Ling to flee, but Qin Song's magic sound incapacitated her and the Yueyang disciples, allowing Pretty Arhat to abduct Zhang Cheng Ling. Zhou Zi Shu, witnessing Zhang Cheng Ling's abduction, immediately gave chase. Pretty Arhat and Evil Bodhisattva viciously tortured Zhang Cheng Ling, demanding the whereabouts of the Glazed Armor.

Zhang Cheng Ling defiantly refused, declaring he'd rather die than betray his father's legacy, even spitting blood in Pretty Arhat's face during her brutal water torture. While they debated their next course of action, Wen Ke Xing caught Qin Song, who was separated from his companions. Wen Ke Xing brutally broke Qin Song's fingers, one by one, threatening to crush every bone in his body until he revealed Zhang Cheng Ling's location.

Zhou Zi Shu burst in, rescuing Zhang Cheng Ling. Jiang Laoguai soon arrived, joining Pretty Arhat and Evil Bodhisattva in a fierce three-on-one battle against Zhou Zi Shu. Already weakened by his internal injuries, Zhou Zi Shu realized he couldn't prolong the fight. He decisively used a hidden weapon, killing Jiang Laoguai. As Pretty Arhat and Evil Bodhisattva moved to capture the heavily injured Zhou Zi Shu, Wen Ke Xing arrived, dragging the mangled Qin Song.

Terrified, the remaining two assassins fled. Enraged that Zhou Zi Shu was hurt, Wen Ke Xing wanted to pursue them, but Zhou Zi Shu insisted they prioritize Zhang Cheng Ling's safety and escape. As they tried to flee, Scorpion King, accompanied by Pretty Arhat, Evil Bodhisattva, and a horde of Drug Men, intercepted them. Pretty Arhat hastily reported Jiang Laoguai's death and Qin Song's severe injuries, enraging Scorpion King, who vowed to kill all three of them.

Scorpion King then engaged them in a conversation, asking Zhou Zi Shu about his "fast friend" Wen Ke Xing and proposing a wager where the loser would reveal their true identity. Wen Ke Xing found the Scorpion King even more talkative than Zhou Zi Shu.

Taking advantage of the distraction, Zhou Zi Shu deployed a smoke bomb, allowing him, Wen Ke Xing, and Zhang Cheng Ling to escape the furious Scorpion King, who wondered how the "leader of the Window of Heaven" and the "leader of the ghosts" had come together. Meanwhile, at Yueyang Sect, Gao Chong, upon learning of Zhang Cheng Ling's abduction by the Four Assassins of Scorpion, inferred they were after the Glazed Armor.

He convened his disciples overnight, reassuring himself that Zhang Cheng Ling's life should be safe as long as he didn't reveal the armor's location. Safe with Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing, Zhang Cheng Ling finally broke down, pouring out his frustrations. He confessed that despite his initial hopes, his "uncles" at the Five Lakes Alliance, especially Gao Chong, only cared about the Glazed Armor, not about his family's revenge or his personal well-being.

He revealed Gao Chong was more preoccupied with organizing the Heroes Conference than avenging the Mirror Lake Sect. Zhou Zi Shu asked what he truly desired. Zhang Cheng Ling declared his wish to learn martial arts from Zhou Zi Shu, avenge his father and brothers himself, and continue the Mirror Lake Sect's legacy. He recounted his father's dying words, "Never trust anyone," but affirmed his complete trust in Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing.

He then offered the Glazed Armor, which his father had surgically hidden inside his body. Zhou Zi Shu, however, told him to keep it for now. Wen Ke Xing marveled at Zhang Yu Sen’s foresight in hiding the armor this way, realizing he must have already distrusted his sworn brothers.

Zhang Cheng Ling then revealed that his father had given him a letter to deliver to the Changming Mountain Sword Immortal, which he had discreetly hidden under a Buddha statue in an abandoned temple. He had memorized its contents: the Five Lakes Alliance brothers – Gao Chong, Zhao Jing, Lu Tai Chong, Zhang Yu Sen, and Shen Shen – were once close friends with Rong Xuan.

Their dispute over the Combined Six Cultivation Method led to a duel where Rong Xuan, though victorious, was poisoned by a substance on Gao Chong's sword, driving him mad. When Rong Xuan was subsequently hunted by the martial world, his sworn brothers stood by, doing nothing.

Zhang Yu Sen had intended to go to Mount Qingya to stand by Rong Xuan's side, but his own grandmaster broke his legs, confining him until it was too late, leaving him with lifelong regret. Both Wen Ke Xing and Zhou Zi Shu listened intently, processing this shocking truth. At the Yueyang Sect, Gao Chong entered a hidden room, pouring out his heart to the memorial tablets of Zhang Yu Sen, Lu Tai Chong, and Rong Xuan.

He expressed deep regret over losing Zhang Cheng Ling and the failure of his two-decade-long quest for truth, which had only brought him more sorrow and news of death. He bitterly reflected on his friends' distrust and his own profound regret over ever knowing Rong Xuan. Back at their safe haven, Wen Ke Xing light-heartedly demanded wine from Zhou Zi Shu.

Observing their strained interactions, Zhang Cheng Ling innocently asked if they had quarreled and urged Wen Ke Xing to appease Zhou Zi Shu, describing his master as outwardly cold but inwardly soft. As Zhou Zi Shu's internal injuries flared up, Wen Ke Xing, without a word, immediately used his internal energy to help him heal.

Afterwards, Wen Ke Xing proudly spoke of his own unique ability to discern a person's true nature from their physique, recalling how he instantly knew Zhou Zi Shu, despite his disguised appearance, was a peerless master. He also boasted of his flawless judgment, recalling a time he identified a dead woman as a rare beauty just by her shoulder blades. Zhou Zi Shu, uncomfortable with the topic, cut him short.

Wen Ke Xing then jokingly claimed to be Philanthropist Wen, a kind, wealthy man surrounded by beauties. After careful consideration, Zhou Zi Shu decided to formally accept Zhang Cheng Ling as his disciple. He revealed his true identity: Zhou Zi Shu, the current and last leader of Four Seasons Manor. His beloved master, Qin Huai Zhang, was the previous leader.

Zhou Zi Shu explained that after his master's sudden death when he was sixteen, he was unable to maintain the Manor's prestige. In a moment of despair and misjudgment, he led his eighty-one fellow disciples to serve the Jin Military Governor, founding the Window of Heaven. He confessed that this decision turned them into "eagles and dogs of power," leading to their gradual demise until he was the only one left.

He confirmed that he was the former leader of the Window of Heaven, explaining why the Scorpions knew him and how he knew their bases. He clarified that he was no longer the leader and was merely a common man, acknowledging his past actions had forced him to do and kill things against his will. Zhou Zi Shu reflected that he had once desired to wander the world and die unremarked, but fate seemed to have other plans.

He then asked Zhang Cheng Ling if, knowing his true identity, he still wished to become his disciple. Zhang Cheng Ling, deeply moved, reaffirmed his unwavering desire to learn from Zhou Zi Shu. At Wen Ke Xing's urging, Zhang Cheng Ling knelt and formally accepted Zhou Zi Shu as his master. Zhou Zi Shu, accepting his new disciple, expressed his joy, declaring that with such a superb disciple, the heritage of Four Seasons Manor would continue.

Episode 12 Recap

Wen Ke Xing stood by the lake, contemplating Zhou Zi Shu's heartfelt words. Soon after, Zhou Zi Shu found Wen Ke Xing, who playfully congratulated him on taking Zhang Cheng Ling as a disciple. Wen Ke Xing expressed surprise at Zhou Zi Shu's decision, given Cheng Ling's lack of martial arts talent and advanced age for starting.

Zhou Zi Shu explained that his master had taught him that humanity values two qualities: benevolence and the "solitary bravery"—doing what is right despite knowing the challenges and trusting people despite their unpredictable nature. Zhou Zi Shu admitted that it was difficult for them, at their age, to open their hearts. He had chosen to take a leap of faith, gambling that Wen Ke Xing was truly the person he had come to know.

Wen Ke Xing was visibly moved by this declaration. Meanwhile, Cao Weining, worried about Gu Xiang after hearing about the assassins at Yueyang Sect and Cheng Ling's kidnapping, had visited her courtyard the previous night, only to find her absent. Early the next morning, he sought her out and noticed her pale complexion, deducing she had been involved in Cheng Ling's rescue.

Gu Xiang, however, quickly brushed off his concerns with vague excuses and urged him to leave before anyone saw them together, muttering to herself about the foolishness of the people she'd met since leaving the valley, including Zhou Xu, Cheng Ling, and Cao Weining. Zhou Zi Shu woke Zhang Cheng Ling, planning to take him to a safe place to remove the Glazed Armor embedded in his body, as the prolonged presence of a foreign object could be harmful.

Zhou Zi Shu suggested they dispose of it, but Cheng Ling was adamant about attending the Heroes Conference to uncover the truth behind the Glazed Armor, as his family had been annihilated because of it. Wen Ke Xing offered to explain its history. He revealed that twenty years ago, an obscure yet formidable martial artist named Rong Xuan, also known as the Death Sword, emerged.

Rong Xuan held a radical theory: all martial arts shared a common origin, and if practitioners could shed their selfish desires and share their knowledge, they could forge an unparalleled martial art. This vision captivated a group of ambitious individuals, including Zhao Jing, Lu Tai Chong, Gao Chong, Zhang Yu Sen, and Shen Shen.

The martial world of that era was vibrant and full of genuine camaraderie, and these six friends rallied around Rong Xuan's ambitious quest to transform traditional martial arts. However, Rong Xuan soon became consumed by his dream, resorting to "trickery or violence, or even by deception" to amass secret martial arts manuals, transforming from a respected young master into a figure reviled throughout the martial world.

Fortunately, his wife, Yue Feng Er, the Fairy Ganoderma and a senior disciple from Healer Valley, repeatedly saved him from near-fatal injuries. Over several years, Rong Xuan and his five friends managed to collect countless martial arts secrets, which they stored in a hidden treasury known as the World's Armory. They fortified the armory with intricate traps and divided its key into five pieces, each entrusted to one of Rong Xuan's five closest friends, among whom was Zhang Yu Sen.

Wen Ke Xing continued, explaining that the chief of the Five Lakes Alliance eventually called a grand martial arts conference, rallying all heroes to collectively hunt down and kill Rong Xuan. Cornered and with no escape, Rong Xuan fought ferociously, killing many before ultimately committing suicide outside Mount Qingya, near the Ghost Valley's boundary stone. Following his death, the entire Ghost Valley erupted, engaging in a cataclysmic battle with the righteous sects outside Mount Qingya.

Both sides suffered immense casualties, nearly decimating the martial world's established sects and severely weakening the Ghost Valley. Despite the devastation, this conflict ironically ushered in twenty years of relative peace in the jianghu. Wen Ke Xing mused that had the World's Armory been opened twenty years prior, perhaps the tragic fate of the Mirror Lake Sword Sect would have been avoided. Hearing this, Zhang Cheng Ling realized his father, Zhang Yu Sen, was one of Rong Xuan's five friends.

After careful consideration, Cheng Ling resolved to return to Yueyang Sect to attend the Heroes Conference, determined to prevent the Mirror Lake Sword Sect from vanishing from jianghu history. Zhou Zi Shu supported his decision but urged him to return the Glazed Armor to the Five Lakes Alliance. Cheng Ling initially refused, arguing his father had died protecting it. Zhou Zi Shu patiently explained that his father's true commitment was to brotherhood, not the armory itself.

He pointed out that greed fueled the pursuit of the armory, and even if one amassed all martial arts, they could not master them all. Zhou Zi Shu implored Cheng Ling to live his own life, free from the entanglements of the past, believing that his father and Rong Xuan would have wished for his safety over any involvement in the ongoing conflict.

Meanwhile, Gao Chong gathered all guests who had stayed overnight at Yueyang Sect, suspecting an insider had aided the assassins who kidnapped Cheng Ling. Gu Xiang was among them, and Gao Chong pressed her for her identity and whereabouts. Gu Xiang attempted to evade his questions, claiming to be a simple country girl who admired the Five Lakes Alliance's prestige.

Gao Xiaolian stepped forward to vouch for Gu Xiang, revealing her as Cao Weining's friend and an old acquaintance of Cheng Ling. Gu Xiang internally criticized Gao Xiaolian's naivety. Gao Chong, however, remained suspicious, accusing Gu Xiang of being "glib-tongued and wicked" and not a respectable woman, demanding to know her movements from the previous night.

Just as Gao Chong intensified his interrogation, Cao Weining arrived and provided Gu Xiang with an alibi, claiming she had been with him all night. Wen Ke Xing and Zhou Zi Shu escorted Zhang Cheng Ling to the entrance of Yueyang Sect, giving him final instructions: make it known that he no longer possessed the Glazed Armor, and avoid engaging with the cunning leaders of the Five Lakes Alliance by remaining silent.

After the Heroes Conference, they promised to take him away. Cheng Ling, with a mix of sadness and determination, bid them farewell and walked into the sect. He was immediately taken to Gao Chong, where he dramatically cut open a scar on his abdomen to publicly present the Glazed Armor. Later, Gao Xiaolian visited Zhang Cheng Ling, expressing profound relief and gratitude.

She thanked him on behalf of her father for his trust and understanding, which she believed was crucial for mending the strained relationships among the five brothers and restoring the Five Lakes Alliance's honor. Gao Xiaolian also confessed that she wished for Cheng Ling to be her brother so she could always protect him, acknowledging that their proposed marriage was a strategic move for her father to demonstrate his resolve to the martial world.

She hoped their generation could finally put an end to the previous generation's grudges. After Gao Xiaolian departed, Gu Xiang arrived, dismissively calling Gao Xiaolian "dumb." Gu Xiang expressed happiness for Cheng Ling becoming Zhou Zi Shu's disciple. Cheng Ling, in turn, offered Gu Xiang the tonics sent by Gao Chong, thanking her for protecting him during the kidnapping attempt. Gu Xiang reassured him that her injuries were minor and she was recovering.

Inside Yueyang Sect, Gao Chong was perplexed, wondering who had rescued Zhang Cheng Ling and why they chose to remain anonymous. He believed that whoever it was, they were not enemies, given Cheng Ling's safe return with the Glazed Armor. He then discussed with Shen Shen the recovery of the remaining two Glazed Armor pieces from Ghost Valley and demanded Shen Shen's piece for safekeeping. Shen Shen reluctantly complied.

Soon after, Zhao Jing arrived, announcing his success in persuading Longyuan Cabinet to send a representative to the Heroes Conference to clarify the Glazed Armor's origins, a piece of news that greatly pleased Gao Chong. Shen Shen then recounted his unsuccessful attempts to summon the Sword Immortal of Changming Mountain using the Shan He Token, suggesting that the immortal was likely long dead, as there was no sign of life on the mountain.

Gao Chong dismissed Shen Shen's explanation and proudly showed Zhang Cheng Ling's Glazed Armor to Zhao Jing, who expressed his delight. Meanwhile, Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing journeyed to the Scorpion's branch fort, only to find it completely destroyed. Wen Ke Xing feigned surprise, but in an internal monologue, revealed that he had long been aware of Changing Ghost's secret collusion with the Scorpion and had orchestrated the fort's destruction.

They then returned to Yueyang City, settling down at a tavern to drink. Gu Xiang soon appeared to report back to Wen Ke Xing. Wen Ke Xing instructed her to leave Yueyang Sect, but she insisted on staying to continue protecting Zhang Cheng Ling. Just then, Cao Weining arrived, having followed Gu Xiang after learning she was meeting someone. Wen Ke Xing chided Gu Xiang for her lack of awareness.

Cao Weining, ever concerned for Zhou Zi Shu's health, offered to arrange a meeting with his master's uncle, who knew many skilled physicians, believing they could cure Zhou Zi Shu's severe illness. Zhou Zi Shu politely declined, admitting he was terminally ill and preferred to spend his remaining days "traveling around the world with a jug of wine" alongside Wen Ke Xing, living freely without regrets.

Zhou Zi Shu then subtly suggested that Gu Xiang, as a young woman, might find it inconvenient to travel with "two tough guys" like themselves, hinting that they were looking to find a "trustworthy partner" to settle her properly. Overjoyed and taking the hint, Cao Weining immediately proposed marriage to Gu Xiang.

Episode 13 Recap

Zhou Zishu actively tried to encourage a relationship between Gu Xiang and Cao Weining, much to Wen Kexing’s annoyance. Wen Kexing believed Cao Weining was not worthy of Gu Xiang and pointed out Zhou Zishu’s apparent hypocrisy in meddling with others’ romantic affairs while being so elusive about his own. Uncomfortable with the matchmaking, Gu Xiang quickly left, with Cao Weining following close behind.

Cao Weining passionately confessed his deep affection for Gu Xiang, drawing upon poetic metaphors and a story from his Master Fan about a sword and its singular, perfect scabbard, implying that she was his destined match. He eagerly proposed introducing her to his sect members and family to publicly declare their relationship. However, Gu Xiang deflected his advances, playfully calling him an "idiot" and asserting that she was only there to look after Zhang Chengling and learn about life.

She also observed that she had never seen her master, Wen Kexing, so lively before, a clear nod to his newfound companionship with Zhou Zishu. Meanwhile, Liu Qianqiao, in a masterfully crafted disguise as Yu Qiufeng, the leader of the Mount Hua Sect, arrived with generous gifts to solicit an alliance with Elder Huang of the Beggar Gang. Elder Huang was wary of this unexpected visit and the lavish offerings. "

Yu Qiufeng" dramatically expressed his burning desire for revenge, claiming that the Five Lakes Alliance had ruthlessly murdered his son, Yu Tianjie. To further his cause, he divulged a shocking secret: two decades ago, following Rong Xuan's death, the Five Lakes Alliance had deceitfully carved up the five pieces of Glazed Armor among themselves, exploiting the ambition of countless heroes who died in vain for a false promise.

He argued that the Beggar Gang, which also suffered heavy losses in those conflicts, should now lead the martial arts world to expose the Five Lakes Alliance's treachery, reclaim the Glazed Armor, and then unite against the Ghost Valley. Seeing the shifting power dynamics and "Yu Qiufeng's" fervent resolve, Elder Huang agreed to his proposal.

After successfully executing her mission, Liu Qianqiao removed her disguise, revealing a face marred by scars, a painful reminder of how Yu Qiufeng's wife had brutally disfigured and humiliated her years ago. Zhou Zishu grew increasingly concerned about Zhang Chengling’s safety. Despite Zhang Chengling having handed the Glazed Armor to Gao Chong, the latter had not yet made the news public, leaving Zhang Chengling vulnerable.

Recognizing that their own identities were now exposed and they were operating in the open against hidden enemies, Zhou Zishu insisted that he and Wen Kexing adopt disguises. He even tried on a plain face, which Wen Kexing immediately rejected as hideous, preferring Zhou Zishu’s current, mysterious appearance, or even a more handsome one. Wen Kexing, immensely proud of his striking looks, confidently refused to disguise himself, declaring his face a divine masterpiece that would be sacrilege to alter.

He playfully claimed to be a "troublesome forefather," suggesting that any danger would naturally steer clear of him. He then questioned Zhou Zishu about the intricacies of disguise, humorously asking if some components were "hip pads." Zhou Zishu patiently explained that while mimicking a person's appearance and voice was achievable, truly impersonating their unique habits, posture, and gait was exceedingly difficult unless one knew the individual intimately or the observers were largely unfamiliar with them.

Wen Kexing, in turn, jokingly boasted that he could easily imitate Zhou Zishu and deceive his "silly disciple," Zhang Chengling. The long-anticipated Sword Immortal Ye Baiyi from Mount Changming made a formidable appearance at the Yueyang Sect, sitting casually atop a tall mast. Gao Chong, along with his disciples, respectfully welcomed him. However, Shen Shen, mistaking Ye Baiyi’s youthful visage for arrogance, scoffed at him.

Ye Baiyi coolly returned the Token of Honor to Gao Chong and clarified his purpose: bound by an ancient oath with the token's first owner, he was there to eradicate the Ghost Valley should it threaten the martial arts world. He summarily dismissed Gao Chong's attempts to invite him to the upcoming Heroes Conference as trivial "nonsense," stating that his sole commitment was to "wipe out the Ghost Valley at Mount Qingya" once the other factions concluded their discussions.

Gao Chong was profoundly impressed, acknowledging Ye Baiyi's unfathomable power despite his youthful appearance. Later that night, Zhou Zishu, in disguise as a Yueyang Sect disciple, covertly visited a visibly haggard Zhang Chengling. Zhang Chengling, overjoyed to see his master, confessed his deep anxiety about the Heroes Conference. He revealed Gao Chong's unexpected proposal to betroth him to his daughter, Gao Xiaolian, with the wedding planned for two years later, supposedly to help rebuild the Mirror Lake Sect.

Zhang Chengling was confused by Gao Chong's continued goodwill even after he had given up the Glazed Armor and worried about the awkwardness of leaving if the engagement was publicly announced. Zhou Zishu comforted him, advising him to simply make an appearance at the conference to confirm the Mirror Lake Sect's legacy, after which he would take Zhang Chengling away from the martial world's turmoil.

Privately, Zhou Zishu pondered Gao Chong's true motives, speculating whether this elaborate plan was an attempt to atone for past wrongdoings concerning Rong Xuan. Under the cloak of darkness, Gao Chong led a swift and brutal raid on the Tragicomic Ghost's mansion, resulting in the deaths of 47 Ghost Valley members and the capture of the Tragicomic Ghost herself. Despite suffering casualties among his own men, Gao Chong declared the Ghost Valley merely a "motley crowd."

He identified the Tragicomic Ghost by her distinctive white hair and red dress, and when she defiantly challenged him to kill her, he scornfully refused, ordering her to be held captive at the Five Lakes Alliance, to be publicly executed at the Heroes Conference as a warning to all. Meanwhile, Ye Baiyi was observed consuming an astonishing quantity of food at an inn, drawing curious onlookers, including Zhou Zishu and Wen Kexing.

Zhou Zishu, struck by the man's presence, remarked that despite his youthful looks, Ye Baiyi exuded the formidable aura of a peerless master. Upon finishing his colossal meal, Ye Baiyi announced he would grant a favor to whoever settled his bill. Wen Kexing eagerly volunteered, then turned to Zhou Zishu for the money. However, Ye Baiyi interceded, accepting Wen Kexing’s offer but explicitly stating he could not help Zhou Zishu.

He then directly told Zhou Zishu that he was "courting death," expressing surprise that a man so close to death could still be so active. Ye Baiyi promised to ponder a solution for Zhou Zishu's condition and suggested they invite him for drinks another time, hinting he might devise a cure. Later, Liu Qianqiao, no longer in disguise, confronted the real Yu Qiufeng amidst a downpour.

She poured out her long-suppressed anguish, vividly recounting how his wife, in a fit of rage, had subjected her to a brutal assault, stabbing, stripping, disfiguring, and parading her for three days, publicly shaming her as "licentious and shameless." Yu Qiufeng was overwhelmed with guilt and remorse, tearfully confessing his enduring love and expressing profound regret for his past failures to protect her. He embraced her, appearing to attempt to strangle her, but his resolve faltered.

Liu Qianqiao coolly stated that he lacked the will to harm her. She then delivered the devastating news that his son, Yu Tianjie, had been killed by the Hanged Ghost's Soul Winding Threads, indicating that the Ghost Valley's resurgence was to capture this rogue ghost. Yu Qiufeng was shattered by his son’s death, pledging to atone for his past betrayals and all of Liu Qianqiao’s suffering.

Despite his remorse, Liu Qianqiao, still burdened by her deep-seated pain and unyielding attachment to him, departed. Later, Zhou Zishu and Wen Kexing were enjoying a drinking game. During their playful exchange, Wen Kexing probed Zhou Zishu about the origin of his severe internal injuries, which Ye Baiyi had earlier noticed. Zhou Zishu admitted that he had inflicted the injuries upon himself as an act of penance for his many past sins, hoping to lessen his torment in the afterlife.

Wen Kexing lightheartedly suggested they could be "fried into a youtiao" together in hell. When it was Zhou Zishu's turn to ask a "truth," he directly confronted Wen Kexing, asking if his true surname was Rong and if he was Rong Xuan's son.

Zhou Zishu theorized that Wen Kexing, driven by hatred for the Five Lakes Alliance and the martial arts world for his father's tragic end, had replicated Glazed Armors to instigate chaos and allow greedy individuals to bring about their own destruction. Wen Kexing vehemently denied being Rong Xuan's son, proclaiming his intense hatred for Rong Xuan and stating he would kill him on sight.

Annoyed by Zhou Zishu's calculated questioning, Wen Kexing stormed out, leaving Zhou Zishu to ponder if his suspicions were entirely baseless, yet still perplexed by Wen Kexing's strong animosity towards the Five Lakes Alliance. Sometime later, Ye Baiyi appeared before Zhou Zishu late at night, announcing he had found a way to treat Zhou Zishu’s injuries and insisted he follow him, warning of potential fatal risks. Zhou Zishu, wary and having never sought his help, demanded Ye Baiyi’s identity.

After testing Zhou Zishu’s combat skills, Ye Baiyi identified him as Qin Huaizhang’s disciple from the Four Seasons Manor. Upon learning of Qin Huaizhang’s passing, Ye Baiyi reflected somberly that "they all died," implying a bygone era. However, he quickly resumed his taunting, verbally disparaging Qin Huaizhang’s character and claiming his master was a good-for-nothing who wouldn't dare defy him. Enraged by the disrespect shown to his deceased master, Zhou Zishu drew his White Clothes Sword to attack.

Ye Baiyi effortlessly disarmed him, revealing that the sword was originally his, a gift he had given to Qin Huaizhang. Zhou Zishu was stunned by this revelation, realizing Ye Baiyi’s immense age and profound connection to his master. Ye Baiyi returned the sword, reiterating his intention to heal Zhou Zishu’s injuries out of respect for his former relationship with Qin Huaizhang, and moved to examine him. Zhou Zishu resisted, and just as Ye Baiyi pressed forward, Wen Kexing arrived to intervene.

Episode 14 Recap

Wen Ke Xing confronts Ye Bai Yi with harsh words, but Ye Bai Yi insists on examining Zhou Zi Shu's injuries, urging him to accept treatment. Ye Bai Yi warns that Zhou Zi Shu's meridians are dying, a condition beyond even the abilities of the Healer Valley Chief.

Wen Ke Xing expresses deep concern for Zhou Zi Shu, but his demeanor irritates Ye Bai Yi, leading to a tense standoff and a brief fight that Zhou Zi Shu quickly breaks up. Ye Bai Yi, unwilling to see Zhou Zi Shu's life fade, presses him to reveal his injuries. Wen Ke Xing, equally anxious, also tries to uncover them. Frustrated, Zhou Zi Shu unbuttons his shirt, revealing the horrific scars left by the Nails of Seven Torments.

Both Ye Bai Yi and Wen Ke Xing are stunned by the ingenious yet cruel torture, which Zhou Zi Shu admits he devised himself. Ye Bai Yi then takes Zhou Zi Shu aside for a thorough examination. He proposes a method to extend Zhou Zi Shu's life by ten years, but it requires abolishing his martial arts and dissipating all his internal force.

Ye Bai Yi explains that removing the nails without first eliminating his internal force would cause his already withered meridians to rupture. He dismisses any other alternatives, including the fantastical idea of resurrecting the Healer Valley Chief. Zhou Zi Shu, unwilling to give up his martial arts, politely declines the treatment, stating that life and death are up to fate.

As they part, Ye Bai Yi cautions Zhou Zi Shu about Wen Ke Xing, implying he is not to be trusted. Zhou Zi Shu retreats to a rainy pavilion, where Wen Ke Xing follows. Zhou Zi Shu reveals he has only two years left to live. Wen Ke Xing is heartbroken, pleading with him to accept the treatment and promising to find a way to restore his martial arts.

However, Zhou Zi Shu is resolute, declaring he would rather live freely for ten days than against his true self for ten years, arguing that without his martial arts, he would cease to be himself. Wen Ke Xing, overwhelmed by emotion, laments his life as being "out of sync with time," unable to achieve what he desired, and now facing the loss of Zhou Zi Shu just as his lifelong revenge is within reach.

Zhou Zi Shu, visibly agitated by Wen Ke Xing's mournful display, scolds him, asserting that he is the one dying and that Wen Ke Xing's sorrow is unwarranted. He defiantly states that if even Wen Ke Xing advises him to cling to life, then their acquaintance was meaningless.

Zhou Zi Shu then walks away, leaving Wen Ke Xing drenched and despondent, playing a sorrowful tune on his flute on a bridge and reciting a poem about the melancholy of meeting too late. Later, Gu Xiang arrives at the Ghost Valley's Thin Feelings Department to find it ravaged.

A wounded Yun Zai informs her that Gao Chong led the Five Lakes Alliance in a night raid, killing many Ghost Valley disciples, including Hong Lu, and capturing Tragicomic Ghost, Luo Fu Meng. Gu Xiang is devastated by the losses and suspects an internal betrayal, pointing fingers at other Ghost Valley members for their inaction. She rushes to find Wen Ke Xing to deliver the grim news. She discovers him still on the bridge, soaked and lost in his grief.

Desperately, she relays the attack and Tragicomic Ghost's capture, but Wen Ke Xing remains unresponsive, consumed by his despair over Zhou Zi Shu's impending death. He laments the irony of achieving his revenge just as he is about to lose his soulmate, questioning the meaning of his journey. Gu Xiang, seeing his profound sorrow, is deeply worried.

Meanwhile, Qing Song, the newly appointed leader of the Mount Tai Sect, accompanied by his disciples in mourning, seeks justice for the late Ao Lai Zi from Elder Huang He of the Beggar Gang. Qing Song expresses his inexperience and the perceived inaction of other sects, gratefully accepting Huang He's support.

Huang He assures Qing Song that the Beggar Gang and Mount Tai Sect are united against the deceitful Five Lakes Alliance, praising Ao Lai Zi's integrity and promising to help bring justice. Afterward, Tao Hong and Lv Liu question Huang He's strategy, wondering why he isn't immediately acting on the leverage he holds against Gao Chong and Shen Shen.

Huang He, however, advises patience, comparing the meticulous process of undermining their enemies to "roasting a chicken"—it must be "cooked long enough" for the desired outcome. He tasks them with managing public relations while he orchestrates a more subtle plan. In the Five Lakes Alliance's prison, Tragicomic Ghost, Luo Fu Meng, is severely beaten and held captive. Zhao Jing visits her, expressing sorrow at seeing his former lover, now a ghost dedicated to killing unfaithful men, in such a state.

She does not recognize him, calling him a "fake righteous dog" and daring him to inflict his worst. Zhao Jing, witnessing her memory loss, muses on the Ghost Valley's "Water of Lethe" ritual, realizing its truth as she has forgotten him, her deepest obsession. He apologizes for her tragic transformation from a "noble girl" to a vengeful ghost. She recoils when he tries to touch her.

Heartbroken, Zhao Jing tells her to forget everything and expresses a wish never to meet her again in another life before leaving. Luo Fu Meng lets out a desperate scream after his departure. Wen Ke Xing informs Liu Qianqiao about the Thin Feelings Department attack and Tragicomic Ghost's capture. He predicts that Gao Chong will not immediately kill Tragicomic Ghost but instead will save her for a public execution at the Heroes Conference.

He orders Liu Qianqiao to disguise herself as Yu Qiu Feng to discreetly gather intelligence on Tragicomic Ghost's location and ensure her safety, strictly forbidding any action that might alert the enemy. Liu Qianqiao suggests a prison break, but Wen Ke Xing dismisses it as premature and beyond her current capabilities, asserting that he has a master plan for the Heroes Conference, where "Iron Judge Gao Chong will have his hands full."

Meanwhile, Cao Weining's senior, Cao Wei Xu, arrives in Yueyang for the Heroes Conference and learns of Cao Weining's infatuation with Gu Xiang. He urges Cao Weining to focus on "something serious" instead of romance. Cao Weining passionately defends his pursuit of Gu Xiang, expressing his desire to avoid a lonely life like his uncle's, even if it means foregoing mastery of martial arts.

Upon hearing that Gu Xiang is unwell and in a clinic, Cao Weining immediately rushes to her side, leaving Cao Wei Xu exasperated but resigned. Shen Shen and his disciples are meticulously preparing the Heroes Conference venue when a chilling wind sweeps through, scattering yellow papers and revealing a Ghost Valley banner. Shen Shen immediately recognizes this as an omen of attack and orders his disciples to prepare for battle.

Shortly thereafter, Qing Song of the Mount Tai Sect, accompanied by his mourning disciples and Elder Huang He with his Beggar Gang, storms the venue. Qing Song, in a dramatic protest, orders his disciples to smash the decorations and preparations, plunging the site into chaos. Liu Qianqiao, disguised as Yu Qiu Feng, arrives at the Yueyang Sect, seeking Shen Shen. A disciple informs her that Shen Shen is currently inspecting the conference venue and won't be back soon.

Liu Qianqiao insists on waiting inside, requesting some tea. As she enters, news of an attack on the conference venue causes most of the Yueyang Sect disciples to rush to its defense, leaving the sect's main compound sparsely guarded. Liu Qianqiao sees this as a prime opportunity to rescue Tragicomic Ghost. However, she then encounters the "real" Yu Qiu Feng, who is astonished to see her in his likeness.

Liu Qianqiao reveals her true identity and her mission to rescue her master, Tragicomic Ghost, who is imprisoned within the Yueyang Sect. To secure his help, she offers him a piece of the Glazed Armor, reminding him that Tragicomic Ghost once saved her.

Overwhelmed by a sense of past guilt and his deep obligation to Liu Qianqiao, Yu Qiu Feng agrees to help her rescue Tragicomic Ghost without demanding the Glazed Armor, even if it means "losing my life and honor." He advises her to remove her disguise and to leave the Yueyang Sect immediately for her safety, promising to lead the way to the prison.

At the vandalized Heroes Conference venue, Qing Song vehemently accuses Shen Shen of orchestrating Ao Lai Zi's murder and the theft of the Glazed Armor. Shen Shen fiercely denies the accusations, asserting that the Ghost Valley was responsible. However, Qing Hua, a Mount Tai disciple who survived the attack, steps forward as a witness.

He recounts that Impermanent Ghost explicitly stated he was "on orders from the leader of the Mount Dagu Sect" (Shen Shen) to kill Ao Lai Zi and the Mount Tai disciples before severely wounding him. Shen Shen dismisses Qing Hua's testimony as a frame-up. Qing Song further accuses Shen Shen of pursuing Ao Lai Zi from Mount Tai to Tai Lake specifically for the Glazed Armor.

Shen Shen, in his defense, inadvertently claims the Glazed Armor belonged to his "Third Brother, Lu Tai Chong." Elder Huang He immediately seizes upon this, declaring it an admission of guilt for the brutal killing of Ao Lai Zi over the artifact. Elder Fan Huai Kong of the Gentle Wind Sect attempts to defend Shen Shen, questioning the credibility of Qing Hua's testimony, arguing that no assassin would openly reveal their employer.

He suggests they await the arrival of Chief Gao Chong for an impartial judgment. As the crowd demands answers, Gao Chong finally appears. From a nearby pavilion, Wen Ke Xing observes the unfolding drama, while Zhou Zi Shu watches, disguised within the crowd.

Gao Chong acknowledges the Five Lakes Alliance's responsibility for Ao Lai Zi's death but frames it as Ao Lai Zi dying heroically for "loyalty" in protecting Zhang Cheng Ling, a task entrusted to him by his "third brother." Wen Ke Xing, unimpressed by the performance, sarcastically remarks on the unfolding "play" and recites a somber verse, anticipating further tragedies for Ghost Valley.

Episode 15 Recap

Gao Xiaolian sat by Deng Kuan’s bedside in the medical hall, where he remained unconscious. She spoke to him softly, revealing that the Heroes Conference was set for tomorrow, and her father, Gao Chong, intended to announce her marriage to Zhang Cheng Ling there. She wondered if Deng Kuan would resent her if he ever woke up. Soon after, Gu Xiang stumbled in, feigning illness and collapsing.

Gao Xiaolian, concerned, helped her to a nearby bed, noting her feverish hands and chiding her for being careless. Gu Xiang secretly planned to use an "Unfaithful Nail" given by Liu Qianqiao to capture Gao Xiaolian, hoping to exchange her for Luo Fu Meng. Before she could act, Cao Weining rushed in, worriedly bringing snacks, which completely disrupted Gu Xiang’s scheme.

As Gao Xiaolian went to fetch medicine, Cao Weining attentively cared for Gu Xiang, trying to feed her sweets, much to Gu Xiang’s annoyance, who cursed his untimely arrival. At the Heroes Conference, Huang He and Qing Song pressed Gao Chong to punish Shen Shen for the murder of Ao Lai Zi. Gao Chong parried their accusations, questioning if they had witnessed Shen Shen's actions directly.

He blamed the Ghost Valley for Ao Lai Zi's death and reaffirmed that the conference was convened to avenge the fallen, cautioning everyone against internal strife. Huang He then pivoted, reminding Gao Chong of his promise to reveal the truth about the Glazed Armor.

When Gao Chong questioned his motives, Huang He, along with the leaders of the Iron Fist Clan and Eagle Claw Clan, reiterated their demands for answers, recounting the heavy losses and lost martial arts secrets suffered by their respective clans during the Battle of Mount Qingya. The crowd grew agitated, demanding an explanation. Meanwhile, Zhou Zi Shu spotted a veiled figure, Pretty Arhat, a Scorpion assassin, hastily departing the conference.

He pursued her, but she threw a hidden weapon and vanished. Zhou Zi Shu later conveyed his concerns to Wen Ke Xing, asserting that Pretty Arhat's presence signified trouble. Wen Ke Xing, however, remained indifferent, believing the situation was already dire and their only concern should be Zhang Cheng Ling’s safety. He dismissed Zhou Zi Shu’s suspicions, attributing Scorpion's involvement to their desire for the Glazed Armor.

Zhou Zi Shu disagreed, citing a pattern of suspicious events, including the theater corpses linked to Scorpion assassin Qin Song and the presence of strange drug men at the Zhao family's coffin home. He concluded that the Ghost Valley and Scorpion had colluded, with a malevolent schemer orchestrating events from behind the scenes.

Wen Ke Xing merely found the unfolding drama entertaining, likening the gathered sects to "starving animals fighting over food" in a "blood-filled play" and insisting that none of them were truly innocent. Zhou Zi Shu accused Wen Ke Xing of letting hatred blind his judgment, preventing him from seeing that Gao Chong was being manipulated. Wen Ke Xing admitted he was aware of the setup but applauded the instigator, eager to watch Gao Chong’s response.

Under immense pressure, Gao Chong finally conceded that the Glazed Armor was indeed held by the Five Lakes Alliance. He explained that after the devastating Battle of Mount Qingya, the martial arts world was too fragile for further conflict, so he and his four sworn brothers had divided the Glazed Armor into five pieces for safekeeping, awaiting an opportune moment to open the Armory for the greater peace of the martial arts world.

However, the leader of the Funiu Sect and Feng Xiao Feng immediately demanded the Glazed Armor for redistribution, accusing the Five Lakes Alliance of hoarding secrets. Gao Chong argued that the Glazed Armor had historically caused bloodshed, and the current circulation of fake pieces in Yueyang City was exacerbating the chaos, labeling the artifact a "curse."

Feng Xiao Feng provocatively suggested that the Five Lakes Alliance itself was responsible for creating the fake Glazed Armor, but other sects quickly silenced him. Huang He then proposed a new plan: first open the Armory to retrieve and distribute the martial arts manuals, then collectively attack the Ghost Valley. The crowd clamored for the Armory to be opened and the Glazed Armor to be handed over.

Gao Chong, cornered, stated that the Glazed Armor alone was insufficient to open the Armory and announced he had a witness to corroborate his claim. While the conference was in an uproar, the lax security at the Yueyang Sect provided an opportunity for action. Yu Qiu Feng and Liu Qianqiao infiltrated the dungeon to free Luo Fu Meng, only to find she was being abducted by a group of masked men. After a fierce battle, they successfully rescued her.

At the same time, as Gao Xiaolian, Gu Xiang, and Cao Weining left the medical hall, they were ambushed by Tao Hong Po and Lu Liu Weng. Cao Weining fought to protect them but was swiftly overpowered and knocked unconscious while shielding Gu Xiang. Tao Hong Po and Lu Liu Weng seized Gao Xiaolian and fled. Gu Xiang, distraught, used an emergency pill to revive Cao Weining, feeling a pang of affection for him.

Back at the conference, Gao Chong presented his witness: the young leader of Longyuan Cabinet, Long Xiao, a renowned master of mechanical arts. Long Xiao confirmed that Rong Xuan had indeed stolen numerous martial arts secrets and tricked his father, Long Que, known as "Ban Zhu Ge," into designing the Armory, a structure so complex that the Glazed Armor alone could not safely unlock it.

When pressed to open the Armory, Long Xiao declared he lacked his father’s full inheritance and could not. He then publicly accused Gao Chong of attempting to bribe and coerce his father into opening the Armory for his own selfish gain, stating his father would never comply. The crowd turned hostile, accusing Gao Chong of planning to embezzle the Armory’s treasures.

Shen Shen vehemently defended Gao Chong, denying any coercion, while Zhao Jing, kneeling, apologized to Gao Chong for inadvertently causing him trouble. Gao Chong, after restoring order, swore an oath to the heavens, disavowing any selfish motives regarding the Armory. He promised that once the Ghost Valley was eradicated, he and Long Xiao would lead everyone to distribute the Armory’s martial arts secrets among all sects, vowing to be “cut into thousands of pieces” if he reneged on his word.

Long Xiao then quietly departed. Gao Chong proceeded to announce the betrothal of his daughter, Gao Xiaolian, to Zhang Cheng Ling. He declared that after their marriage, they would jointly lead both the Mirror Lake Sect and the Yueyang Sect, while he himself would renounce worldly affairs and become a monk. Shen Shen protested this decision, but Gao Chong remained resolute. Wen Ke Xing interpreted Gao Chong’s actions as a manipulative tactic, using Zhang Cheng Ling as a shield.

However, Zhou Zi Shu countered that since Zhang Cheng Ling had already surrendered his piece of the Glazed Armor, Gao Chong gained nothing from such a maneuver. Gao Chong then displayed the "Token of Honor," the sacred artifact of Mount Changming’s Sword Immortal, which empowered its holder to rally the martial arts world against the Ghost Valley should it pose a threat.

He urged everyone present to join a blood oath against the Ghost Valley, promising camaraderie to those who stayed and safe passage to those who wished to leave. Huang He scoffed at Gao Chong's persuasive power. As various heroes came forward to take the oath, Feng Xiao Feng interjected, demanding clarification on the fate of the "unowned items": the Combined Six Cultivation Method and the Yin Yang Book.

Gao Chong explained that the Combined Six Cultivation Method belonged to Rong Xuan's original sect and would be returned there, while the Yin Yang Book, belonging to the Healer Valley, would also be restored to its rightful owners. This explanation, however, only ignited further disputes.

Representatives from the Feisha Gang, Five Tigers Broken Knives Clan, Twelve Chain Cove, and Funiu Sect each argued their own claims to the artifacts based on friendships, sacrifices, or historical lineage, descending into a chaotic exchange of insults and threats. Wen Ke Xing reveled in the pandemonium, finding the spectacle utterly "exciting."

Zhou Zi Shu, dismayed, questioned Wen Ke Xing's true identity and whether his hatred extended to the entire martial arts world, reminding him of his earlier denial of being Rong Xuan’s son.

Wen Ke Xing maintained he had never lied to Zhou Zi Shu but reiterated his belief that the so-called "righteous clans" were no different from the Ghost Valley, merely concealing their avarice behind a veneer of "benevolence, justice, and morality" before eagerly "tearing off their human skin and starting barking and biting" at the first scent of advantage. Recognizing their fundamentally opposing views, Zhou Zi Shu declared that their paths diverged and that they should go their separate ways.

Meanwhile, in the prison, a solitary guard watched over the captives. A whistle blew, and Deng Kuan, seemingly in a trance, suddenly awoke and killed the guard. Elsewhere, Pretty Arhat conveyed Scorpion's orders to Changing Ghost, who, declaring it his turn, affirmed he would follow his "Master's" plan. Deng Kuan then appeared dramatically at the Heroes Conference, shocking Gao Chong and the assembled crowd, who believed him dead.

From the Ghost Valley side, Changing Ghost brazenly accused Gao Chong of colluding with the Ghost Valley to eliminate Zhang Yu Sen, Ao Lai Zi, and Lu Tai Chong, only to betray them after acquiring three pieces of the Glazed Armor.

Deng Kuan then stepped forward and publicly condemned Gao Chong, accusing him of disloyalty for abandoning the Five Lakes Alliance, disrespect for murdering his brothers, inhumanity for harming the Mirror Lake orphan, and injustice for colluding with the Ghost Valley. He confessed to aiding the Long-tongued Ghost in infiltrating the Mirror Lake Sect and massacring the Zhang family, all at Gao Chong’s command. To validate his accusations, Deng Kuan tragically committed suicide, proclaiming he would "die with" Gao Chong.

Gao Chong was stunned, demanding to know who had manipulated Deng Kuan to frame him. Wen Ke Xing observed with a sardonic smile, identifying Changing Ghost as the mastermind behind this "dark chess piece" and sarcastically commending him for "abandoning the dark and casting a bright future."

Episode 16 Recap

Witnessing Deng Kuan's suicide before him, Gao Chong was devastated. He defiantly stood before the martial arts sects, declaring that he had lived his life with integrity, owing nothing to the heavens or his martial arts brethren, and that despite being entrapped in a complex scheme, his conscience was clear. Shen Shen immediately pledged to live and die with Gao Chong. Huang He, however, rallied the crowd against Gao Chong and Shen Shen.

Mu Si Yuan, who had lost a son in the Mount Qingya battle, was the first to charge, but Gao Chong merely broke his sword, not inflicting a fatal blow. Observing the suspicious turn of events, the elder of the Qingfeng Sword Sect discreetly withdrew his disciples, deeming the situation too murky to get involved. Huang He then commanded the Beggar Gang to attack Gao Chong and Shen Shen.

Zhou Zishu, seeing Zhang Cheng Ling caught in the escalating conflict, attempted to lead him to safety. Zhao Jing intervened, blocking Zhou Zishu. Unaware of Zhou Zishu's true identity, Huang He offered to help him rescue Zhang Cheng Ling. Zhou Zishu responded with a barrage of insults, prompting Huang He to order his disciples to attack. As Huang He lunged to kill Zhang Cheng Ling, Wen Ke Xing arrived just in time, shielding the boy.

With Gao Chong surrounded, Zhang Cheng Ling watched in fear. Gao Chong urged Zhou Zishu and Wen Ke Xing to take Zhang Cheng Ling to safety, and they complied. Gao Chong and Shen Shen fought valiantly but were overwhelmed. Feng Xiaofeng seized the opportunity to knock over the Five Lakes Monument. Gao Shan, Gao Chong's loyal subordinate, rushed to his aid but was fatally stabbed by Feng Xiaofeng.

As the monument crashed to the ground, Gao Chong's hopes shattered, and he let out a wrenching cry of despair over Gao Shan’s tragic death. Zhao Jing implored Gao Chong to surrender the Glazed Armor, while Huang He continued to pressure him.

Zhao Jing knelt before Huang He, begging him to spare Gao Chong and urging his older brother to abandon his stubbornness for the sake of Gao Xiaolian, so she wouldn't have to carry the burden of their generation's sins. Gao Chong, after much deliberation, agreed to hand over the Glazed Armor, hoping for Gao Xiaolian to live an ordinary life. Shen Shen tried to intervene, but Gao Chong, having made his decision, knocked him unconscious.

Gao Chong then furiously accused the assembly of using despicable methods to frame him and force him to surrender the Glazed Armor. He produced three pieces of Glazed Armor, publicly severed his ties with the Five Lakes Alliance, crushed the armor into fragments, and cast them to the ground, much to Huang He's anguish. As heavy rain poured down, Gao Chong charged into the ruins of the Five Lakes Monument, dying instantly.

Zhang Cheng Ling wept uncontrollably, held by Zhou Zishu, while Wen Ke Xing stood in shock, haunted by the countless lives lost due to the Glazed Armor. Wen Ke Xing, Zhou Zishu, and Zhang Cheng Ling sought shelter in a cave. Standing at the entrance, Wen Ke Xing mused about his own villainy and the ironic turn of events, confessing that he had come to gloat at others' misfortune, only to find himself a player in the very same drama.

He wondered if he had been "too smart for his own good." Zhou Zishu, however, retorted that Wen Ke Xing was merely "too dumb for his own good," criticizing him for his emotional reaction to being outmaneuvered. Zhou Zishu explained that the intricate scheme was orchestrated by a mastermind, perhaps more than one, whose true motives remained unclear, though he suspected it was beyond just the Glazed Armor.

He highlighted Zhao Jing's cunning, noting how Zhao Jing had masterfully retreated at crucial moments, pretending to be weak, and completely absolving himself of blame. Zhou Zishu recalled Zhao Jing's old nickname, "Zhao Xuan De," remarking on his superb act of feigned tears and moral persuasion to win over the masses.

Zhou Zishu elaborated that while truth is elusive and a scheme hard to plan, even the most elaborate plot can be broken by unforeseen circumstances, such as human betrayal or a sudden storm. He emphasized that the truly perfect scheme adapts continuously, requiring the controller only to guide it with timely nudges. He pointed out that while human hearts are unpredictable, human nature is easily manipulated, as endless greed is an inherent part of it.

Zhou Zishu warned Wen Ke Xing against his persistent belief in being able to see through human nature, reminding him of his repeated errors, from the Four Sages of Anji to Gao Chong. Wen Ke Xing, unwavering, declared his goal to banish all demons from this world back to the eighteen layers of hell, and Zhou Zishu promised to assist him wholeheartedly.

It was revealed that Zhao Jing was indeed the orchestrator of the entire conspiracy and was the Scorpion King's godfather. Zhao Jing praised Scorpion King for using sorcery to muddle Deng Kuan's mind, leading to his suicide, acknowledging that it would have been difficult to bring down Gao Chong otherwise.

Zhao Jing, who had feigned weakness for over twenty years, reveled in his success, stating that Gao Chong’s heavy burdens and their twenty-year long game had finally led to his downfall. He lamented that the plan hadn't gone perfectly due to Tao Hong and Lv Liu kidnapping Gao Xiaolian. However, he decided to let Gao Xiaolian live and thrive, intending to use her as a living testament to his own "righteous and loyal" character.

Scorpion King recounted how he had killed Song Huai Ren, another of Zhao Jing's godsons, for refusing to hand over the Glazed Armor without a proper token, confirming his own loyalty and ensuring no one else could ruin their plans. Zhao Jing then entrusted the complete Glazed Armor to Scorpion King, who proudly wore it around his neck, declaring him his only trusted son.

Zhao Jing further instructed Scorpion King to pacify Mu Si Yuan, explaining that even an "idiot" like Mu Si Yuan could serve as a "lead sheep" to guide the "sheep herd" of the martial arts world wherever they desired, even into a "wolves' den." He proclaimed that with their united efforts, the entire martial arts world and the realm would eventually fall into their hands.

Meanwhile, Shen Shen, disheartened by Gao Chong’s death, resolved to find Gao Xiaolian and retire with her to the bamboo forests of Mount Dagu, leaving the Five Lakes Alliance to Zhao Jing. Zhao Jing feigned concern, trying to persuade Shen Shen to stay, but Shen Shen's mind was made up. Scorpion King proposed killing Shen Shen to eliminate any future threats, but Zhao Jing forbade it.

He desired Shen Shen to live and witness his ultimate triumph, so that his lifelong ambition would not be a "walk in the dark" without an old friend as a witness. Zhao Jing then handed Scorpion King a list of names, ordering him to eliminate them brutally, leaving no survivors, to instill fear as a means of control, not just greed.

Ye Bai Yi then arrived, bringing Long Xiao with him to Zhou Zishu, Wen Ke Xing, and Zhang Cheng Ling. Wen Ke Xing immediately began to ridicule Ye Bai Yi, calling him an "old toad monster" and taunting him about his martial arts. An argument quickly escalated into a near-fight, which Zhou Zishu managed to de-escalate, suggesting they choose a sunny day for their duel instead of fighting in the rain.

Zhang Cheng Ling, who had hoped the sack Ye Bai Yi carried contained Gao Xiaolian, was disappointed to find it was Long Xiao. Ye Bai Yi explained that Long Xiao was the "key" to unraveling the twenty-year-old mysteries surrounding Rong Xuan and the Glazed Armor, as the Longyuan Cabinet held these secrets.

Episode 17 Recap

Cao Weining awoke from his injuries to find Gu Xiang by his side. He shared a vivid dream where he failed to protect her and even died, waiting for her at the Bridge of Helplessness, only for her to appear too soon, implying an early death, which Gu Xiang teasingly admonished him for. He was told that Leader Yu of the Mount Hua Sect had saved him and that he was recovering at the sect's courtyard.

Gu Xiang also informed him that Gao Xiaolian had been abducted by the elder duo, Tao Hong Po and Lv Liu Weng, and Cao Weining, despite his weakened state, expressed a desire to save her. Later, Liu Qianqiao and Yu Qiu Feng visited Cao Weining. Gu Xiang questioned Liu Qianqiao about how she managed to get the Mount Hua Sect leader to help rescue Luo Fu Meng, also known as the Tragicomic Ghost.

Liu Qianqiao explained that Yu Qiu Feng's son had been killed by the Five Lakes Alliance, and she had promised to help him exact revenge in exchange for his assistance. Gu Xiang, sensing Yu Qiu Feng's cunning nature, advised Liu Qianqiao to be cautious. Meanwhile, Tao Hong Po and Lv Liu Weng held Gao Xiaolian captive in a rundown temple, attempting to force her to eat and reveal the whereabouts of the Glazed Armor.

Gao Xiaolian, however, remained defiant, refusing to cooperate. Tao Hong Po, growing frustrated, became aggressive, while Lv Liu Weng suggested that since the girl seemingly knew nothing, they should either kill or release her, a proposal Tao Hong Po quickly dismissed, unwilling to waste their efforts. They continued to pressure Gao Xiaolian, reminding her of her father's death. Zhou Zishu and Wen Kexing, along with Zhang Chengling, Ye Baiyi, and Long Xiao, continued their journey to the Longyuan Cabinet.

Along the way, Zhou Zishu had Zhang Chengling practice the Flowing Cloud Nine Palaces Steps while being pulled by a horse. Exhausted and sweating, Zhang Chengling pleaded for a rest. Wen Kexing intervened, suggesting the boy needed a break, but Zhou Zishu remained firm, stating that a "clumsy bird shall fly first" and he couldn't protect Zhang Chengling forever, then added an extra hour to his training.

Wen Kexing, though annoyed, respected Zhou Zishu's decision, while Zhou Zishu wondered about Wen Kexing's unusual demeanor. Later, as they camped by a lake, Wen Kexing prepared fish soup. Zhou Zishu instructed Zhang Chengling to deliver a bowl to Young Leader Long Xiao. Zhang Chengling, curious, asked about the Longyuan Cabinet and its connection to the Glazed Armor.

Zhou Zishu explained that Long Que, a close friend of his grand master and the former head of the Longyuan Cabinet, had established the armory at Rong Xuan's request. He described Long Que's mysterious disappearance and how the Four Seasons Manor's mechanical knowledge originated from the Longyuan Cabinet, which was rumored to be a "portable fortress" whose true location remained elusive. Wen Kexing playfully mocked Zhou Zishu's past futile attempts to find it.

Zhao Jing officially assumed the position of Chief of the Five Lakes Alliance, receiving congratulations from the Unchanging Ghost, Lovelace Ghost, and Happy Ghost. He then urged them to swiftly locate the Glazed Armor and the Hanged Ghost. The Unchanging Ghost questioned whether the Glazed Armor destroyed by Gao Chong was fake and how many pieces Zhao Jing himself possessed.

Zhao Jing, evading the question, asserted that Gao Chong had destroyed fake pieces to deter the martial arts world and had safely hidden the real ones. He stated that he would only reveal information on a need-to-know basis. The ghosts discussed their true goal: to escape the Ghost Valley and return to the human world, enjoying its pleasures. The Unchanging Ghost, in particular, hoped to use the Healer Valley relic within the armory to cure his speech impediment and disfigurement.

During a meeting, Zhao Jing noted the absence of the Jujing Gang and Purple Wave Cove leaders, who had declared their departure from the alliance. While outwardly understanding, he was inwardly furious. The other leaders confirmed Gao Chong's alleged collusion with the Ghost Valley and recounted recent gruesome massacres, attributed to the Ghost Valley seeking revenge for Gao Chong, which had plunged the martial arts world into fear and resentment towards the Five Lakes Alliance.

In a stirring address, Zhao Jing called for unity, promising to defend the alliance's reputation and ensure its prosperity for a hundred years. However, the Jujing Gang's leader, Wang Moxuan, privately dismissed Zhao Jing as an incompetent and cowardly leader, predicting the alliance's downfall under his leadership. Zhao Jing, accompanied by Scorpion King and his four assassins, confronted Wang Moxuan. Zhao Jing claimed that the Scorpion had now pledged allegiance to the Five Lakes Alliance.

Wang Moxuan, refusing to align with the Scorpion, ordered them to leave. Enraged, Scorpion King swiftly killed Wang Moxuan. Zhao Jing then feigned anger, chastising Scorpion King for his impulsive actions. Meanwhile, Zhao Jing learned from his trusted disciple, Wu Yang, that their plan to abduct Luo Fu Meng (the Tragicomic Ghost) had failed.

Wu Yang, whom Zhao Jing had sent disguised as an assassin to coordinate with the Scorpion, reported that Yu Qiu Feng and an unidentified powerful female ghost had intercepted them. Later, Scorpion King tried to curry favor by having the headquarters redecorated in the lavish style of Sanbai Manor. He became visibly jealous witnessing the fatherly affection Zhao Jing showed toward Wu Yang.

Zhao Jing dismissed Scorpion King's efforts and jealousy, admonishing him for being distracted by trivial matters and urging him to focus on their true goals. At an inn, Wen Kexing and Ye Baiyi were enjoying tea, while Zhou Zishu oversaw Zhang Chengling's continued training. Zhang Chengling complained about the heavy weights he was carrying. Wen Kexing interjected with some training advice, which directly contradicted Zhou Zishu's instructions. Zhang Chengling's internal energy soon became unstable, causing him distress.

Wen Kexing quickly intervened, stabilizing his internal force and discovering that Zhang Chengling possessed unusually wide meridians, a rare sign of a martial arts prodigy. Ye Baiyi, however, remarked on Zhang Chengling's apparent dullness despite his excellent physique, to which Wen Kexing retorted, defending Zhang Chengling as Zhou Zishu's disciple. Later, Wen Kexing engaged in heavy drinking with Ye Baiyi, challenging him to a drinking contest.

As Wen Kexing became severely inebriated and grew boisterous, provoking Ye Baiyi, Zhou Zishu intervened, firmly escorting a drunken Wen Kexing back to his room. Ye Baiyi then pointed out Zhou Zishu's newly visible gray hairs and the worsening of his internal injuries, explaining that his organs were weakening and his vital energy could no longer suppress the pain, a grim sign of his approaching end.

Ye Baiyi urged him to seek treatment, but Zhou Zishu declined, asserting that he only had two paths: to live fully or to die with dignity, refusing any compromise. Ye Baiyi lamented Zhou Zishu's stubborn resolve. Zhou Zishu found Wen Kexing still drinking alone in his room. Wen Kexing earnestly expressed his wish for Zhou Zishu not to die, confessing that he was the only true friend he had met in years.

Zhou Zishu, however, rejected his pity, accusing him of wearing a mask and lacking sincerity. Wen Kexing insisted on his genuine concern. As Zhou Zishu helped him into bed, he affirmed that he would cherish his remaining time and would wait for Wen Kexing to truly open up to him. Wen Kexing was visibly disheartened, fearing that if Zhou Zishu ever discovered his true identity, their friendship would be irrevocably broken. He questioned what was so worthwhile about seeing his heart, a "ghost realm," but Zhou Zishu countered that only by understanding him could he truly help.

Episode 18 Recap

After waking up, Zhou Zi Shu put Long Xiao in a basket and had Zhang Cheng Ling carry him. They were headed into a dense forest, and Ye Bai Yi led the way. Zhang Cheng Ling stumbled upon a skull, but managed to regain his balance thanks to his training. Ye Bai Yi warned them not to fall behind, or they would fall into Longyuan Cabinet's traps.

Long Xiao secretly threw a marble at a tree, triggering a trap that sent countless swords flying. Ye Bai Yi quickly destroyed the trap. Ye Bai Yi warned Long Xiao against repeating his actions, threatening to have Wen Ke Xing break his fingers. Wen Ke Xing protested, claiming to be a great philanthropist and unable to do such a cruel thing. Zhang Cheng Ling wondered why the Longyuan Cabinet Leader would live in such a remote, heavily trapped place.

Ye Bai Yi speculated that he wanted to isolate himself from the world. Ye Bai Yi led them to a long floating bridge, which Long Xiao claimed led to Longyuan Cabinet. Wen Ke Xing offered to carry Long Xiao across, but Zhou Zi Shu immobilized him with a pressure point strike to prevent any tricks. Ye Bai Yi crossed the bridge first, followed by Wen Ke Xing, Zhou Zi Shu, and Zhang Cheng Ling.

Wen Ke Xing triggered a weight-based trap that caused the bridge to collapse. Zhou Zi Shu, Zhang Cheng Ling, and Wen Ke Xing fell into the abyss. Ye Bai Yi was shocked but it was too late to save them. Wen Ke Xing and Zhou Zi Shu managed to get Zhang Cheng Ling back onto the bridge before they both fell, triggering another trap that landed them in a dark cave.

Wen Ke Xing was severely injured, and Zhou Zi Shu used his internal force to heal him. Above, Zhang Cheng Ling cried, but Ye Bai Yi assured him that Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing would survive. Long Xiao appeared in a wheelchair and unleashed Drug Men to feed on Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing's blood. Zhou Zi Shu was shocked that Long Que's only son had partnered with the Scorpions to create Drug Men.

Long Xiao insulted his father for being too upright. He claimed that the Yin Yang Book from Healer Valley in the armory could cure his disability, but Long Que refused to get it for him. He mentioned that Yue Feng Er had used the Yin Yang Book to save Rong Xuan. Wen Ke Xing retorted, calling Long Xiao a madman.

Wen Ke Xing claimed to be a descendant of Healer Valley and knowledgeable about the Yin Yang Book, but Long Xiao didn't believe him. He ordered the Drug Men to attack, and Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing fought them. Meanwhile, Ye Bai Yi brought Zhang Cheng Ling to Longyuan Cabinet, but no one responded to their calls. Ye Bai Yi told Zhang Cheng Ling to wait while he searched inside, but Zhang Cheng Ling fell through a trapdoor.

Ye Bai Yi rushed to help, but the floor was intact. Zhang Cheng Ling ended up in a large underground palace. Long Xiao arrived and claimed that Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing were dead. Two of his men attacked Zhang Cheng Ling, who fought back. Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing fought their way out of the cave and found themselves on a cliff. Wen Ke Xing tossed a ball and found a cave across from them.

They both jumped over and tumbled out into a beautiful garden. They asked a man in a straw hat for directions but discovered he was a puppet. Zhou Zi Shu realized it was a trap and pulled Wen Ke Xing out of the way just before the puppet exploded. Wen Ke Xing's sleeve caught fire, but Zhou Zi Shu quickly cut it off.

Ye Bai Yi arrived, and Zhou Zi Shu learned that Zhang Cheng Ling had fallen into Longyuan Cabinet's trap. As Ye Bai Yi tried to find a way in, a puppet resembling Long Xiao delivered a map of Longyuan Cabinet. Zhang Cheng Ling tried to escape in the underground palace but was trapped.

Long Xiao had him tied to an iron torture device, threatening to gouge out his eyes and revealing that he was transferring his hatred for Long Que onto Zhang Cheng Ling. Just as one of Long Xiao's men pierced Zhang Cheng Ling's head with a steel needle, Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing blasted through the ceiling and rescued him. Zhou Zi Shu demanded that Long Xiao reveal how to remove the needle.

When Long Xiao refused, Ye Bai Yi arrived and pulled the needle out himself. Ye Bai Yi planned to take Long Xiao to see Long Que. The puppet led them to a cave where Long Que was chained up. Long Que recognized Zhou Zi Shu. Ye Bai Yi accused Long Que of enabling Long Xiao. Zhou Zi Shu noticed that Long Que's legs had been amputated. Long Que revealed that Long Xiao had imprisoned him after he refused to retrieve the Yin Yang Book, which Long Xiao wanted to cure his legs.

Episode 19 Recap

Long Xiao angrily confronted his father, Long Que, questioning why he withheld information about the Yin Yang Book in the armory, which Long Xiao believed could cure his disability and reverse life and death. Long Que insisted the book lacked such power, having told his son this countless times.

Long Xiao retorted that his father had relocated Longyuan Cabinet for his deceased wife and endured years of suffering for his "dead good friends" like Rong Xuan, yet refused to open the armory for his own living son, whom he had allowed to be a "wreck for over a decade." Unable to tolerate Long Xiao's rants, Wen Ke Xing threw a hidden weapon, silencing him by damaging his throat.

Ye Bai Yi then pressed Long Que about his connection to Rong Xuan and the past events. Long Que acknowledged that his wife, Yu Zhui, had been introduced to him by Yue Feng Er, the senior disciple of the Healer Valley, also known as Fairy Ganoderma. The revelation that Yue Feng Er was Rong Xuan's wife shocked Zhou Zi Shu and the others.

Wen Ke Xing directly asked if Rong Xuan had deceived Long Que into building the armory or if Gao Chong had coerced him to open it, as Long Xiao had claimed. Long Que vehemently denied these accusations, stating he willingly helped Rong Xuan reconstruct the armory and that no one had ever forced him to open it. This information stunned Wen Ke Xing, who harbored deep hatred for his father, believing him to be a villain.

Zhou Zi Shu was careful not to reveal Wen Ke Xing's identity to Long Que. Zhou Zi Shu then requested the full truth about the armory. Long Que began his account by explaining that Qin Huai Zhang, Zhou Zi Shu’s master, was the first among their group to befriend Rong Xuan. Subsequently, Long Que and others became acquainted with him, spending carefree years traveling the Jianghu, upholding justice and fighting evil.

Long Que emphasized that while Rong Xuan was their leader, the armory was a collective effort, built by all of them for him. Learning that Zhang Cheng Ling was the son of his old friend, Zhang Yu Sen, Long Que was saddened to hear that Zhang Cheng Ling's father had died protecting the Glazed Armor. He stressed that acquiring the Glazed Armor was pointless without Rong Xuan's key, as the armor was merely a lock.

Ye Bai Yi grew impatient and aggressively demanded to know the key's location. Long Que steadfastly refused, citing an oath he had sworn. Wen Ke Xing attempted to intervene, but Ye Bai Yi angrily insisted on knowing the truth about Rong Xuan's death, startling everyone by declaring Rong Xuan was his disciple. Long Que was shocked by this revelation.

He then recalled that Rong Xuan had instructed his wife, Yue Feng Er, to find a way to send the Glazed Armor key to his master on Mount Changming, along with a full explanation and an apology on his behalf. Meanwhile, Zhao Jing triumphantly placed Gao Chong’s memorial tablet in an ancestral hall, among rows of other deceased martial artists, including Rong Xuan. He openly expressed his satisfaction, recalling how he was once belittled and manipulated by them.

He cursed Rong Xuan for his "foolish" idea of the armory and berated Gao Chong for his past decisions. Zhao Jing gloated that he, the sole survivor among the armory’s original builders, had now achieved his lifelong ambition to lead the Five Lakes Alliance, asserting his perceived superiority and declaring that only he could make the alliance prosper. After revealing his connection to Rong Xuan, Ye Bai Yi demonstrated a sword technique.

Long Que, recognizing the martial art, identified him as Ye Bai Yi, Rong Xuan’s legendary master, and was deeply moved to find him still alive. Seeing Ye Bai Yi's preserved youth, Long Que was astonished by the power of the Combined Six Cultivation Method. Long Que's eyes gleamed as he fondly recalled the bygone days.

He clarified that Qin Huai Zhang had initially discovered the ancient underground palace that became the site of the armory, which Long Que then skillfully adapted. He also revealed that the Glazed Armor and its accompanying key were collected by Qin Huai Zhang and his friends during their earlier travels. Long Que then described a fateful duel where Rong Xuan challenged Zhao Jing, Gao Chong, Shen Shen, Lu Tai Chong, and Zhang Yu Sen.

During the skirmish, Gao Chong inadvertently wounded Rong Xuan with a sword tainted with Triplex Corpses Poison. In her fury, Yue Feng Er immediately banished the five companions. Since the armory required all six individuals—five holding pieces of the Glazed Armor and Rong Xuan possessing the key—it remained unopened after their falling out, with the Combined Six Cultivation Method still inside.

Desperate to save her beloved husband, Yue Feng Er resorted to using the forbidden Yin Yang Book from the Healer Valley, an act against the natural order, which tragically drove Rong Xuan into madness. Long Que explained that the Yin Yang Book's "raising the dead, reversing Yin and Yang" effect came at a horrific cost, requiring the heart of one living person to restore another's life force.

In his deranged state, Rong Xuan accidentally killed Yue Feng Er, his beloved wife. Overwhelmed by remorse, he lost his last vestiges of sanity, becoming completely demonized and subsequently hunted by the entire martial arts world. Knowing she could never return to the Healer Valley due to her use of a forbidden art, Yue Feng Er had entrusted Zhen Ru Yu and his wife to seek a cure for Rong Xuan at her sect.

She also gave them the armory key. However, this was too late. When Zhen Ru Yu rushed back to Mount Qingya, Rong Xuan was already surrounded and gravely wounded by Jianghu factions who, under the pretense of hunting a demon, were mostly coveting the armory's key. Zhen Ru Yu pleaded with them, offering to take Rong Xuan back to the Healer Valley for healing and to atone for Rong Xuan's sins for the rest of his life.

However, Rong Xuan, in his madness, struck Zhen Ru Yu unconscious, then fought the crowd until he was killed. With Rong Xuan dead and no key recovered, the Jianghu turned their attention to Zhen Ru Yu, demanding the armory's secret. Zhen Ru Yu, torn between loyalty to his friend and filial piety to his sect, refused to divulge anything.

These self-proclaimed righteous martial artists, using "good and evil cannot coexist" as an excuse, coerced the old valley chief to disown Zhen Ru Yu. In truth, they intended to use the Healer Valley to pressure the Zhen couple. Adding to the tragedy, the Healer Valley's second disciple and his wife associated with bandits, leading to their expulsion by the old valley chief, who later passed away. The once-renowned Healer Valley subsequently retreated from the Jianghu.

Long Que, learning of these events too late, deliberately spread the false rumor that Longyuan Cabinet held a method to open the armory. He did this to draw attention away from the Zhen family, who had vanished with the injured Zhen Ru Yu and their infant son, hoping they would remain hidden and safe from the Jianghu's greedy pursuit.

Wen Ke Xing was profoundly touched by Long Que's unwavering righteousness, and Zhou Zi Shu was equally moved by his tale of loyalty and sacrifice. Ye Bai Yi offered to fulfill any of Long Que's wishes. Long Que, however, appeared resigned, stating he had no desires except for death. He then questioned why Ye Bai Yi, being Rong Xuan's master and having mastered the technique, never taught it to his gifted disciple.

Long Que suggested that Rong Xuan's eventual theft of the book was understandable for a martial arts enthusiast drawn by the allure of "unity of man and nature." Ye Bai Yi dismissed Rong Xuan as a fool and vehemently stated that the Combined Six Cultivation Method was a dangerous art, which was why he had never taught it.

He expressed deep regret for not destroying the book earlier, calling its very name, "Tian Can Di Que" (Crippled by Heaven and Earth), a warning. Long Que, understanding the weight of Ye Bai Yi's words, glanced at his own disabled son, Long Xiao, and let out a profound sigh.

Episode 20 Recap

Long Que, enlightened by Ye Bai Yi's words, finally understood that parents only withhold things from their children if those things cannot be given. He hoped his son, Long Xiao, would eventually grasp this profound truth. With his end near, Long Que instructed Zhou Zi Shu to retrieve two maps from the library in the bamboo building: one of Longyuan Valley and an armory tectonic chart, asking him to deliver the latter to Ye Bai Yi.

He also entrusted Zhou Zi Shu with two books containing the Longyuan Cabinet's unique skills, hoping he would find a successor. Zhou Zi Shu proposed Zhang Cheng Ling. Long Que was overjoyed, acknowledging Zhang Cheng Ling as Zhang Yu Sen's child and Qin Huai Zhang's grand-disciple. He envisioned Zhang Cheng Ling mastering the unique skills of three different sects, thus honoring their brotherhood.

Zhang Cheng Ling knelt and reverently addressed him as Master Long, promising to diligently study martial arts and revive the prestige of Four Seasons Manor and Longyuan Cabinet. With his wishes fulfilled, Long Que requested that the iron chains embedded in his body be cut. Wen Ke Xing urged him to reconsider, explaining that after being confined for so long, removing the chains would cause his meridians to rupture, putting his life at risk.

However, Long Que insisted he did not want to meet his deceased brothers in the afterlife still bound, fearing their ridicule. Despite his sorrow, Wen Ke Xing, at Long Que's repeated pleas, used the White Clothes Sword to sever the chains. This act severely depleted Long Que's life force, leaving him on the brink of death. Zhang Cheng Ling tearfully begged Master Long not to die.

Zhou Zi Shu held Wen Ke Xing close, urging him to reveal his true identity to Long Que. However, Wen Ke Xing lacked the courage to admit he was Zhen Yan, Zhen Ru Yu's son. Seeing Wen Ke Xing's reluctance, Zhou Zi Shu gently told Long Que that the Zhen family had successfully concealed their identities and were living peacefully.

He assured Long Que that their child had grown into a capable young man, proficient in martial arts, thanks to Qin Huai Zhang, who had helped them disguise themselves and accepted the child as his disciple and Zhou Zi Shu's junior. Greatly relieved and smiling, Long Que peacefully passed away. Overwhelmed with grief, Wen Ke Xing knelt beside Long Que, weeping profusely and thanking Zhou Zi Shu for his words.

Zhou Zi Shu then gently led Zhang Cheng Ling away, leaving Wen Ke Xing to his sorrow. Meanwhile, Gu Xiang meticulously cared for Cao Weining. Cao Weining, having learned about the Heroes Conference, felt he needed to return to the Gentle Wind Sword Sect. He suspected his master had left the conference early with the Glazed Armor and feared his sect was in danger. He asked Gu Xiang to accompany him, and she agreed.

While feigning concern for his injuries, she was secretly eager to investigate the Glazed Armor's whereabouts for her own master, telling herself that this was a mission he had given her. Elsewhere, Yu Qiu Feng, aware that Zhao Jing had deserted Luo Fu Meng (Tragicomic Ghost) and caused her transformation into a demon, sought to use this scandal to ruin Zhao Jing's reputation. Liu Qianqiao initially disagreed, arguing that society typically forgave men for such indiscretions.

Yu Qiu Feng countered that he intended to use the secret as leverage to force Zhao Jing to reveal the Glazed Armor's location. Furthermore, he offered to obtain the Yin Yang Book from the armory for Liu Qianqiao, claiming it could cure all ailments and "transform" her. Liu Qianqiao was visibly swayed by this offer.

Zhao Jing, now the Chief of the Five Lakes Alliance, leveraged the allegiance of the Sirius Fortress and the Striking Cloud Hall to expand his power. However, the disappearances of Gao Xiaolian and Zhang Cheng Ling remained a persistent worry. Under a guise of righteousness, Zhao Jing urged all sects to help search for them.

To consolidate his power before restarting the Heroes Conference, Zhao Jing ordered Scorpion King to eliminate Bai Qi Feng, the chief of the Fairy Ray Sect, and Long Xiao, as they both knew too much about the past. Scorpion King assured his adoptive father that he had sent people to search for the missing Long Xiao. Wen Ke Xing and Zhou Zi Shu confronted Long Xiao, pressuring him to reveal the mastermind behind Gao Chong's framing.

Wen Ke Xing threatened to push him off a cliff, but Long Xiao defiantly refused to speak. Instead, he leaped into a cave, rang a bell, and summoned his Drug Men, who swarmed and consumed him. After his gruesome death, Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing decided to take Zhang Cheng Ling to the library. Soon after, Ye Bai Yi arrived at Yu Zhui's grave to pay his respects.

Scorpion King's men, hidden nearby, observed everyone's arrival in Longyuan Valley and hastily sent word back to their master. Gu Xiang visited Liu Qianqiao to bid farewell, advising her to leave the Mount Hua Sect with Luo Fu Meng, as Yu Qiu Feng was untrustworthy. Liu Qianqiao gave various excuses, explaining that Luo Fu Meng's mind was unstable due to "Soul-Dissociation" and the effects of the Water of Lethe.

She also expressed fear of the other Ten Ghosts, who constantly schemed against each other. Liu Qianqiao had sent her subordinates to leave marks for the Valley Chief, hoping he would contact them. She then advised Gu Xiang to cherish her time with Cao Weining, as moments with a loved one were the most precious. Later, Zhou Zi Shu proposed that he, Wen Ke Xing, and Zhang Cheng Ling return to Four Seasons Manor to restore its former glory.

Wen Ke Xing vehemently rejected this, stating he was unworthy to face the sect. The suggestion plunged him into a painful memory of the past: his father, Zhen Ru Yu, had his meridians severed by the chief of Healer Valley. The family, including his mother Miao Miao and himself as a boy named Zhen Yan, were hunted down until rescued by Qin Huai Zhang.

During that time, the young Zhen Yan befriended Zhou Zi Shu, and Qin Huai Zhang disguised the family, agreeing to take Zhen Yan as his disciple. Pulled back to the present, Wen Ke Xing's turmoil prompted Zhou Zi Shu to finally deduce his identity. He openly addressed him as "Zhen Yan," explaining how the character "衍" (Yan) could be split to form "客行" (Ke Xing).

He pressed Wen Ke Xing about why he now used the surname Wen, but Wen Ke Xing simply insisted his surname was Wen. When Zhou Zi Shu continued to inquire, a distraught Wen Ke Xing fled to a lake, leaving Zhou Zi Shu and Zhang Cheng Ling behind. Zhou Zi Shu told Zhang Cheng Ling to let him be, understanding that he needed space.

Episode 21 Recap

Scorpion King summoned Lovelace, Happy Ghost, and Changing Ghost, ordering them to eliminate the Fairy Ray Sect. Changing Ghost protested, expressing his weariness of endless fighting and his desire to follow Chief Zhao to quit the life of bloodshed. He argued that the Fairy Ray Sect had no connection to Ghost Valley and wished to withdraw from the mission.

Scorpion King retorted that Chief Zhao valued their killing prowess, mockingly asking if devils who don't kill would instead take up farming. Happy Ghost then rudely interjected, telling Scorpion King that even Chief Zhao wouldn't dare speak to Changing Ghost with such disrespect. In response, Evil Bodhisattva discreetly incapacitated Happy Ghost with a scented powder. Enraged, Changing Ghost demanded the antidote, calling Evil Bodhisattva a wicked witch.

Scorpion King intervened, admonishing Changing Ghost for disrespecting their allies in his presence, but instructed Evil Bodhisattva to provide the antidote. He then reiterated that Chief Zhao had his reasons for sending them to wipe out the Fairy Ray Sect, and if they were unwilling, they could leave, but any future encounter would treat them as foes. Faced with this threat, Changing Ghost reluctantly agreed to comply.

Scorpion King dispatched Pretty Arhat to accompany the trio, ostensibly to ensure success, but secretly to monitor them. He also instructed Evil Bodhisattva to ensure that Pretty Arhat left a few survivors from the Fairy Ray Sect to spread the news of their demise throughout the martial arts world. Scorpion King declared that with the century-old Fairy Ray Sect wiped out by Ghost Valley, no one in the martial arts world would be able to remain indifferent.

Later, Lovelace confronted Changing Ghost about their predicament, with Happy Ghost present. Lovelace mocked Changing Ghost, leader of the Ten Devils, for serving Zhao Jing like a dog. He argued that while Wen Ke Xing was erratic, at least he was "in their boat," sharing their fate, and noted that Wen Ke Xing's recent actions seemed designed to provoke the entire world against them.

Lovelace added that Zhao Jing’s intentions were no different, aiming for both Ghost Valley and the righteous sects to annihilate each other. He expressed his despair, believing that while Changing Ghost might secure a favorable outcome by serving Zhao Jing, he and Happy Ghost, with their blood-soaked pasts, would merely be discarded tools. Changing Ghost dismissed his complaints, stating their betrayal of Wen Ke Xing was a done deal, and accepting Zhao Jing's protection was their only recourse.

He challenged Lovelace to return to Ghost Valley and seek Wen Ke Xing's mercy. Changing Ghost reminded Lovelace, who was newer to the valley, that Wen Ke Xing had seized control not by eating the former Chief as rumored, but by flaying him alive in front of everyone, striking terror into all. Meanwhile, Zhang Cheng Ling, Zhou Zi Shu, and Wen Ke Xing were traveling together.

Zhang Cheng Ling asked why their grand master, Qin Huai Zhang, hadn't taken Wen Ke Xing back to Four Seasons Manor when they met as children. Zhou Zi Shu explained that Qin Huai Zhang had pressing matters and could not take the injured Zhen Ru Yu and his family at the time.

He promised to return in three months, but upon his return, the village had been razed, leaving Qin Huai Zhang with a lifelong regret over his inability to save his second disciple, Zhen Yan (Wen Ke Xing). Zhang Cheng Ling surmised that Wen Ke Xing must have recognized Zhou Zi Shu long ago but refused to acknowledge it.

Zhou Zi Shu believed Wen Ke Xing harbored a painful secret, possibly due to Zhen Ru Yu being an adopted son of the Healer Valley Chief, leading Wen Ke Xing to resent the name "Zhen" as his birth name was Wen. He speculated that Zhen Ru Yu and his wife had likely perished after being expelled from the Healer Valley, a tragedy too painful for Wen Ke Xing to speak of.

Zhou Zi Shu instructed Zhang Cheng Ling not to inquire further if Wen Ke Xing did not bring it up himself. He affirmed that regardless of Wen Ke Xing's acceptance, he would always regard him as his junior fellow disciple, lamenting that good people like Zhen Ru Yu and Rong Xuan often met tragic ends. Wen Ke Xing, who had been secretly listening, then rejoined them. Zhang Cheng Ling affectionately embraced him, calling him "Uncle Master."

Ye Bai Yi, who was also present, inquired why Wen Ke Xing was still there, remarking on how his noble parents could produce such an annoying child. Despite his harsh words, Ye Bai Yi offered to fulfill one of Wen Ke Xing's wishes to atone for his "bastard disciple" Rong Xuan's wrongs against Wen Ke Xing's parents.

Wen Ke Xing's only desire was for Ye Bai Yi to heal Zhou Zi Shu’s injuries, ensuring his lifespan and martial arts remained intact, in exchange for wiping their past grievances clean. Ye Bai Yi, though admitting he couldn’t personally heal Zhou Zi Shu, declared he knew someone who could. He instructed them to wait at Four Seasons Manor and swiftly departed.

Wen Ke Xing, despite joking about Ye Bai Yi's eccentric temperament, was overjoyed, realizing Ye Bai Yi’s departure meant Zhou Zi Shu’s injuries could indeed be cured. Zhou Zi Shu, while skeptical of Ye Bai Yi’s boasting, was encouraged. Zhang Cheng Ling, delighted by the news, exclaimed that they could finally "go home." Meanwhile, Yu Qiu Feng visited Zhao Jing, who expressed disappointment at his absence from the Heroes Conference.

Yu Qiu Feng recounted a prevalent rumor: Luo Fu Meng, also known as the Tragicomic Ghost, was once Zhao Jing’s fiancée. Zhao Jing had jilted her on their wedding day, eloping with the wealthy daughter of the West Zhejiang Observer, driving Luo Fu Meng to madness and turning her into a demoness who sought to kill all unfaithful men.

Yu Qiu Feng feigned disbelief at such scandalous rumors about the upright Zhao Jing, claiming he had already punished those spreading such gossip and urged Zhao Jing to be wary of slanderers. After Yu Qiu Feng's departure, Zhao Jing pondered how these old secrets had resurfaced. He grew suspicious that Yu Qiu Feng was holding Luo Fu Meng, especially after the men he sent to move her had been killed at Yueyang.

Scorpion King, enraged by the rumors, offered to eradicate the Mount Hua Sect, but Zhao Jing cautioned against such rash action. He reminded Scorpion King that Yu Qiu Feng, as a leader of a noble sect, had just left their presence, and attacking his sect immediately would lead to public criticism. Zhao Jing decided to wait until Yu Qiu Feng had left Yueyang, assuring Scorpion King that taking Yu Qiu Feng’s life could be done at any time.

He then instructed a messenger named Wu Yang to deliver a letter to Lovelace at the Ghost Valley fort, noting that most of the ghosts were already on the Fairy Ray Sect mission. Separately, Wen Ke Xing, seeing a secret message from the Thin Affectionate Division, met with two of their surviving members. They recounted their ordeal after Ghoul descended into madness and began craving human flesh, forcing them to flee.

They had later received a message from Beauty Ghost, saying she had rescued their master and was helping her recuperate, advising them to lay low. The women, being weak in martial arts, sought Wen Ke Xing’s guidance, expressing their desire to return to Mount Qingya, the only place they considered home.

Wen Ke Xing sternly forbade them from returning, declaring that in Ghost Valley, one either hunts or is hunted, and without the ability to protect themselves, they had no place there. He ordered them to find refuge elsewhere and never again step foot into Mount Qingya, under penalty of death. Later, Zhang Cheng Ling, frustrated by Zhou Zi Shu’s dry storytelling, begged Wen Ke Xing for a bedtime story.

Wen Ke Xing, relenting, recounted a parable about a traveler caught between wolves above, snakes below, and stinging bees, hanging by a fraying rope in a well. Despite his perilous situation, the traveler found a moment of bliss by tasting honey oozing from a beehive on the wall, forgetting his impending doom. Wen Ke Xing concluded that life itself is but a fleeting dream, and what people desperately chase is merely the fleeting pleasure of that "honey."

Back at Mount Hua, Lovelace arrived, encountering Liu Qianqiao (Green Siren) while searching for Luo Fu Meng. They engaged in a fierce battle, during which Yu Qiu Feng escaped. Lovelace subdued Liu Qianqiao and attempted to assault her. Just then, Scorpion King and Evil Bodhisattva arrived. Luo Fu Meng emerged, disoriented and repeatedly calling out "Jing Lang." Scorpion King was visibly stunned by her state.

Lovelace, misinterpreting Scorpion King’s reaction, taunted him about his "heavy taste" for a madwoman, implying Scorpion King was infatuated with Luo Fu Meng. Enraged by the insult, Scorpion King swiftly killed Lovelace. Liu Qianqiao pleaded with Scorpion King to spare Luo Fu Meng, emphasizing her madness. At that moment, Yu Qiu Feng returned, remorseful for his earlier flight. He offered a piece of Glazed Armor in exchange for Liu Qianqiao’s life.

Liu Qianqiao, touched by his return, confessed that the Glazed Armor she had given him earlier was fake, merely a ploy to use him to save her master. Evil Bodhisattva then exposed Yu Qiu Feng as the "world's foremost unfaithful man," detailing how his jealous wife had publicly humiliated and disfigured Liu Qianqiao by parading her naked, while Yu Qiu Feng remained hidden. After this, Liu Qianqiao had joined Ghost Valley.

It was also revealed that Yu Qiu Feng’s next lover was Liu Qianqiao’s sister. Liu Qianqiao knelt before Scorpion King, pledging her servitude if he would release her master. Upon learning that Luo Fu Meng had drunk the Water of Lethe, causing her dementia and memory loss, Scorpion King, perhaps touched by her tragic fate, ordered Evil Bodhisattva to take both Liu Qianqiao and Luo Fu Meng to Scorpion’s branch fort, instructing them to keep their presence secret.

As Zhou Zi Shu, Wen Ke Xing, and Zhang Cheng Ling continued their journey towards Four Seasons Manor, they stopped at a tea stall. They witnessed a group of injured Fairy Ray Sect disciples passing by. The tea stall owner informed them that the Fairy Ray Sect had been burned down two days prior, and its leader, Chevalier Bai, had perished, attributing the attack to Ghost Valley. Zhou Zi Shu, disturbed by the news, decided to investigate.

Around the same time, Gu Xiang and Cao Weining were also traveling and came across the burnt ruins of the Fairy Ray Sect. Gu Xiang found the sight and smell repulsive and criticized the surviving disciples for not burying their comrades. Cao Weining lamented the loss of Leader White, a righteous figure.

He also mused that if they had arrived two days earlier, they might have been able to help, but Gu Xiang cut him off, suggesting they might have simply become more casualties. Despite his limited martial arts, Cao Weining insisted he wouldn't shy away from danger given the close ties between Fairy Ray Sect and his Gentle Wind Sword Sect. They then encountered Zhou Zi Shu, Wen Ke Xing, and Zhang Cheng Ling.

Zhang Cheng Ling, still uncomfortable with the sight of the dead, was advised by Zhou Zi Shu to drink water. Wen Ke Xing questioned why they were getting involved in the Fairy Ray Sect's misfortune when they were headed for Four Seasons Manor. Zhou Zi Shu, taking Wen Ke Xing aside, stated that the nature of the deaths at Fairy Ray Sect indicated professional assassins, not merely random chaos.

He theorized that someone was using Ghost Valley’s name to eliminate rivals and frame them. Wen Ke Xing agreed that the motive would be self-gain. Zhou Zi Shu reflected that he initially suspected Gao Chong, but now believed there was another master manipulator within the Five Lakes Alliance. He concluded that both Shen and Zhao, one feigning ignorance and the other weakness, were likely complicit, and that Gao Chong's fate was orchestrated by his own "brothers."

Wen Ke Xing added that both men were treacherous and faithless, deserving whatever came their way. However, he expressed concern that if one of them was genuinely loyal and the other deceitful, they might inadvertently harm an innocent party. Zhou Zi Shu retorted, "Who is innocent?" and then dismissed the topic, urging them to continue to Four Seasons Manor.

Episode 22 Recap

Gu Xiang excitedly suggested they eat at a roadside tavern. An old beggar approached them, praising Cao Weining and Gu Xiang as a "kind young master and pretty young lady," and wishing them to "live in harmony till old and grey and have cute kids." Cao Weining blushed with happiness. Gu Xiang, despite her usual cynical views on charity, gave the beggar some money, which noticeably displeased Wen Kexing.

Cao Weining quickly assured Zhou Zishu that Gu Xiang was merely "tough in words but kind in heart." Observing Wen Kexing's mood, Zhou Zishu warned Cao Weining that he had "a tough battle ahead" in gaining his approval. Inside the tavern, Wen Kexing continued to show his annoyance with Cao Weining. Zhou Zishu noticed Cao Weining's pale face and detected residual poison in his system.

Cao Weining explained he had been injured by Tao Hong and Liu Lv's concealed weapon, and although Gu Xiang had been taking good care of him, the poison lingered. Wen Kexing sarcastically inquired about Gu Xiang's newfound nursing skills. Gu Xiang then revealed that Tao Hong and Liu Lv had abducted Gao Xiaolian, who was once engaged to Deng Kuan. She added that Deng Kuan had since disappeared and was likely dead.

Finding this suspicious, Wen Kexing suggested he and Zhou Zishu step out to buy medicine for Cao Weining. Outside, Zhou Zishu theorized that Deng Kuan, who was slated to marry Gao Xiaolian and inherit Gao Chong's position, must have been coerced with immense leverage to publicly accuse his master at the Heroes Conference.

Wen Kexing initially considered the possibility of Deng Kuan speaking the truth, but Zhou Zishu dismissed it, arguing that Gao Chong would not use his daughter to manipulate an orphan if he already possessed the Glazed Armor from Zhang Chengling. Wen Kexing countered that Gao Chong could simply have intended to kill Zhang Chengling later. As Wen Kexing and Zhou Zishu walked, the same beggar who had complimented Gu Xiang earlier approached them again, this time begging.

Wen Kexing, recognizing the trick, dismissed him, jokingly remarking that Zhou Zishu "does a similar job." The beggar then dropped his act and attacked. Just then, Shen Shen appeared, warning them and joining the fight. Soon, numerous Scorpion assassins surrounded them. With Shen Shen's help, they quickly dispatched the attackers, but Shen Shen was wounded by a poisonous scorpion's tail thorn. Zhou Zishu offered an antidote, which Shen Shen accepted.

Shen Shen expressed profound gratitude, recalling their assistance to Gao Chong at the Heroes Conference, their rescue of Zhang Chengling, and now for saving him. Wen Kexing, ever the cynic, questioned if Shen Shen still remembered Gao Chong. Shen Shen affirmed his unwavering loyalty. Upon learning that Zhang Chengling was nearby and potentially in danger from the ruthless Scorpion assassins, Shen Shen agreed to accompany them.

Back at the tavern, Gu Xiang pressed Zhang Chengling for details of his recent travels. Before he could answer, a waiter presented a "free side dish." As Gu Xiang lifted the lid, poison gas erupted. Reacting instantly, she slit the waiter's throat with a concealed weapon, yelling at Cao Weining to take Zhang Chengling away.

Immediately, a horde of assassins wielding curved blades stormed into the tavern, forcing Gu Xiang, Cao Weining, and Zhang Chengling into a desperate struggle to escape. Outside, the old beggar, now exposed as an assassin, pleaded for help from Zhang Chengling. Gu Xiang swiftly killed him. When Cao Weining questioned her actions, she retorted, "So what?" Cao Weining argued that the beggar might not have attacked them, but Gu Xiang countered, "But what if he did?"

She angrily explained that her brutal upbringing in a world where people constantly kill each other meant she couldn't afford to hesitate, preferring to "kill the wrong person than let one go" if there was even a one-in-a-hundred chance. She emphasized that without such ruthlessness, she "wouldn't be alive today." Cao Weining, however, gently insisted that despite her tough exterior, she had a good heart and would indeed feel remorse for killing an innocent.

As more assassins appeared, Wen Kexing, Zhou Zishu, and Shen Shen arrived. Wen Kexing, with deadly precision, eliminated all the attackers. Zhou Zishu attempted to stop him, hoping to leave a survivor, but Wen Kexing declared, "It's too late." Gu Xiang, still seething from Cao Weining's criticism, rebuffed his attempts to console her. She reiterated her philosophy of ruthless survival, stating that she was unlike him, who had a supportive network of masters and fellow disciples.

Cao Weining gently urged her to consider her compassionate side, before she snapped at him for prying into her difficult childhood and ran off. Meanwhile, Shen Shen, seeing Zhang Chengling again, was deeply moved. He confessed that his reserve toward Zhang Chengling stemmed from the pain of seeing him, as it reminded him of Zhang Chengling's two deceased elder brothers.

Shen Shen then praised Zhang Chengling for possessing the same "pure and filial" nature as his father, Zhang Yusen, whom he described as the kindest and most honest of the five sworn brothers. Zhang Chengling, however, doubted his own strength, fearing he could not live up to his father's legacy. When Zhou Zishu joined them, Shen Shen was surprised to learn Zhang Chengling had become Zhou Zishu's disciple, expressing renewed gratitude.

Zhang Chengling then directly asked Shen Shen about the alleged misunderstandings between his father and the other brothers, and about Deng Kuan's accusation that Gao Chong colluded with Ghost Valley to murder his father. Shen Shen vehemently denied this, swearing that Gao Chong would die himself rather than hurt Zhang Yusen.

He further revealed Gao Chong's plan for Zhang Chengling to marry Gao Xiaolian, merge their martial arts, revive the Mirror Lake Sword Sect, and ultimately become a great chevalier and the "Chief of the Five Lakes Alliance." Zhang Chengling, however, expressed no desire for such a path.

Addressing Zhou Zishu's suspicions, Shen Shen dismissed Deng Kuan's accusations as false, explaining that 20 years prior, Gao Chong had proposed either destroying the Glazed Armor or exposing its secrets, a suggestion met with fierce opposition. He argued that if Gao Chong had coveted the Glazed Armor, he would not have endured for so many years, and admitted his profound confusion regarding Deng Kuan's betrayal.

Zhou Zishu then brought up a popular rhyme, "The water from the Five Lakes gathers around the world; who else deserves the supremacy in the martial arts world?" and questioned if Gao Chong had spread it to consolidate power. Shen Shen strongly denied this, asserting Gao Chong's integrity.

After their conversation, Zhou Zishu, connecting the dots, told Wen Kexing that he suspected Deng Kuan was controlled by "soul-hunting poison," a theory consistent with the presence of "drug men" in various Scorpion-related incidents. He concluded that Zhao Jing, who often "pretends to be stupid to kill more powerful opponents," was very likely the true leader of the Scorpion, and thus the one who used "Sanshi poison" on Gao Chong's sword to indirectly cause Rong Xuan and his wife's demise.

Zhou Zishu then pressed Wen Kexing on the true identity of Long-tongued Ghost. Wen Kexing, visibly uncomfortable, gave a vague answer, claiming he only knew Long-tongued Ghost as one of the Ten Devils, who inherited the "Soul Winding Box" from Hanged Ghost and led the killing of the Mirror Lake Sect. Privately, Wen Kexing was relieved that Zhou Zishu hadn't noticed his near slip-up, fearing that a full revelation of his identity would create an irreparable rift.

Meanwhile, Cao Weining, eager to impress Wen Kexing, attempted to prepare his bath, but Gu Xiang intervened and sent him away. Scorpion King reported to Zhao Jing that his spies had located Zhang Chengling, who was accompanied by Zhou Zishu ("the master of the Window of Heaven"), Wen Kexing ("the leader of evil ghosts"), and surprisingly, Shen Shen ("the descendant of the Sword Immortal"). Scorpion King also reported the deaths of Long Que and Long Xiao.

Zhao Jing remained unfazed, dismissing Long Que as a "dispensable shield" and welcoming Long Xiao's death. He then revealed his true motive: the armory key. He confessed that he had cheated Long Xiao about its location, and that the key had always been in the "most dangerous yet safest place"—Ghost Valley. This, he explained, was why he always wanted to exterminate Ghost Valley.

Zhao Jing detailed his elaborate "interlocking plan" to frame them: orchestrating the extermination of the Mirror Lake Sword Sect, the theft at Sanbai Manor, and the murder of Ao Laizi, all "to let people know that the Ghost Valley took the Glazed Armor." Scorpion King noted that the fake Glazed Armor had disrupted the plan, though it facilitated the earlier framing of Gao Chong.

When Scorpion King questioned Zhao Jing's deep-seated hatred for Gao Chong, Zhao Jing became enraged, ranting about the unfairness among sworn brothers, where some are domineering while others are forced to "stoop to compromise." He declared that only under his guidance would the Five Lakes Alliance become powerful. After Scorpion King apologized, Zhao Jing chastised him for the assassins' failure to eliminate Zhang Chengling.

Scorpion King offered to intervene personally, but Zhao Jing reminded him that both Wen Kexing and Zhou Zishu had previously "escaped unscathed from you," ultimately deciding he had his own plan. Later that night, Gu Xiang found Zhou Zishu standing alone. She playfully scolded him for being awake so late and shared her observation that Wen Kexing drinks when sad but finds no relief.

Zhou Zishu, in turn, explained that wine is also known as a potion to forget one's sorrows. Gu Xiang then expressed deep concern for Zhou Zishu's deteriorating health, having overheard that he "is not gonna live for long." She tearfully urged him to "stay healthy" for Wen Kexing, stating that Wen Kexing "has finally got himself a friend." She even theatrically threatened to drag him back from the afterlife and kill him again if he abandoned Wen Kexing.

At this moment, Wen Kexing, who was secretly listening, gently pulled Gu Xiang's ear and sent her to fetch more wine. Shen Shen then approached, directly addressing Wen Kexing as "Yan" and asking about his parents. Wen Kexing, initially thinking Zhang Chengling revealed his identity, glared at him, but Zhang Chengling clarified that Shen Shen had guessed it himself. Wen Kexing, consumed by a surge of anger and grief, called Zhang Chengling an "idiot."

Shen Shen, overwhelmed with guilt, knelt and profusely apologized. Wen Kexing, in a choked voice, recounted the horrific suffering of his father, Zhen Ruyu, who had his "hamstrings all torn," lost the protection of his master, and endured immense persecution, yet "still stuck to his brotherhood and covered for his so-called brothers." Dismissing Shen Shen's apology, he lamented, "It's too late. They can't hear your apologies anymore."

Overwhelmed by his traumatic memories, Wen Kexing suddenly coughed up blood and collapsed unconscious. Zhou Zishu immediately took charge, sternly correcting Shen Shen by stating, "My junior's name is Wen Kexing. He chooses this name. Please respect his choice." He then revealed that his master, Qin Huaizhang, leader of the Four Seasons Manor, was the one who saved Wen Kexing after the devastating events of Mount Qingya. Shen Shen was overjoyed to hear this.

When Zhou Zishu questioned why Qin Huaizhang never mentioned their connection, Shen Shen explained that after the battle, Qin Huaizhang "terminated our contact" due to the brothers' perceived "disloyalty and injustice." Shen Shen acknowledged his own cowardice and profound regret. Zhang Chengling, recalling Zhou Zishu's suspicion, asked if Shen Shen was the one who poisoned Gao Chong's sword, causing Rong Xuan's madness. Shen Shen vehemently denied ever harming his brothers and vowed to seek revenge on the true culprit.

When Zhou Zishu asked who the current leader of the Five Lakes Alliance was, Zhang Chengling named "Chevalier Zhao." Hearing this, Shen Shen was enraged and demanded to wake the unconscious Wen Kexing for answers. Zhou Zishu intervened, delivering a scathing indictment of Shen Shen and the other brothers, asserting that if they had possessed even a shred of conscience years ago, Wen Kexing "wouldn't have been miserable for half his life."

Dismissing Shen Shen's excuses, Zhou Zishu left him to his own conscience, declaring that "Karma works every time," and that the other brothers also "met a bad end." He emphasized his desire for Wen Kexing to "not suffer from the past hatred" and ordered Shen Shen to leave, firmly stating, "Let us never meet again." He then instructed Zhang Chengling to escort Shen Shen out.

Episode 23 Recap

Shen Shen, having accepted Zhou Zi Shu's previous help, prepares to depart with Zhang Cheng Ling. He confirms his injuries are minor but acknowledges the profound debt he owes the Wen family. His immediate goal is to locate Gao Xiaolian and arrange for her safety at the Mount Dagu Sect.

Expressing concerns about his own fate, Shen Shen makes a heartfelt request to Zhang Cheng Ling: if he should die, Zhang Cheng Ling is to protect Gao Xiaolian, irrespective of any romantic involvement, and ideally bring her to Four Seasons Manor for shelter, as she would be utterly alone. Zhang Cheng Ling solemnly promises to honor his request. Meanwhile, Wen Ke Xing remains unconscious for a full day and night.

Gu Xiang diligently keeps vigil by his side until Zhou Zi Shu relieves her, learning from her that Wen Ke Xing frequently suffered similar episodes as a child. As Zhou Zi Shu checks his pulse, Wen Ke Xing, still in a semi-conscious state, instinctively grasps his hand.

He experiences haunting flashbacks of his harsh upbringing in Ghost Valley, where the former Valley Chief indoctrinated him with a philosophy of brutal survival, grooming him to become the formidable "King of all venomous worms, leader of all evil." Upon regaining consciousness, Wen Ke Xing is enraged to discover that Zhou Zi Shu allowed Shen Shen to leave. He vehemently wished to kill Shen Shen to avenge his parents.

Zhou Zi Shu calmly counters, explaining that Shen Shen, though flawed and selfish, was ultimately a victim of manipulation and has endured years of guilt, making him undeserving of death. He gently persuades Wen Ke Xing to direct his vengeance towards the true mastermind, Zhao Jing, rather than further staining his hands with blood.

Wen Ke Xing, after an impassioned outburst about the suffering of the righteous versus the excuses of villains, reluctantly agrees, deciding that letting Shen Shen live to witness the Five Lake Alliance's demise would be a more profound revenge. Zhou Zi Shu promises to stand with Wen Ke Xing in confronting Zhao Jing once he fully recovers.

Gu Xiang then rushes in, overjoyed to see her master awake, but Wen Ke Xing, still irritable, finds her noisy, prompting Zhou Zi Shu to leave them. Elsewhere, Scorpion King holds Liu Qianqiao and the delirious Luo Fumeng captive. Having learned that the Water of Lethe can make a person forget their deepest obsessions, he orders Liu Qianqiao to find its formula, promising her freedom in return for her cooperation.

Gu Xiang, noticing Wen Ke Xing's underlying turmoil, questions why he was forced to drink the Water of Lethe at such a tender age. Wen Ke Xing reveals that powerful figures sought to erase his memories, but the "blood feud" was too deeply etched to be forgotten. He discloses that his childhood episodes of debilitating headaches, vomiting blood, and comas were the agonizing price of his will fiercely resisting the Water of Lethe's effects.

He admits his fear of eventually succumbing to madness but vows that all his enemies will perish before that day arrives. He sternly rejects Gu Xiang's offer to assist in his revenge, declaring his path leads to hell. Wen Ke Xing then confronts Gu Xiang about her feelings for Cao Weining, forcing her to confess her affection by threatening to harm Cao Weining if she denies it.

He instructs her to return to the Gentle Wind Sword Sect with Cao Weining for a peaceful life, believing its shrewd leader, Mo Huaiyang, will keep the sect out of the brewing conflict, thus ensuring her safety. Gu Xiang tearfully admits that her initial intent in approaching Cao Weining was to glean information about the Glazed Armor for Wen Ke Xing, but she subsequently developed genuine feelings for him.

She pleads with Wen Ke Xing not to target the Gentle Wind Sword Sect, not wanting Cao Weining to be harmed or to hate her. Overwhelmed by her past as the "Heartless Amethyst Fiend" from Ghost Valley, she expresses profound insecurity, fearing that her true identity will inevitably destroy her relationship with Cao Weining. Wen Ke Xing is visibly moved by her distress.

He promises to spare the Gentle Wind Sword Sect and keep her entirely out of Ghost Valley matters, advising her to conceal her past from Cao Weining and to remain on Mount Qingfeng unless he specifically summons her. He dismisses the Glazed Armor as nothing more than a "cover." Following this, Wen Ke Xing calls Cao Weining aside. He recounts rescuing a young Gu Xiang, emphasizing their shared suffering and interdependence.

He tenderly describes Gu Xiang as his cherished sister, almost like a daughter, and credits her with being the sole source of warmth in his life, effectively saving him from utter despair. He implores Cao Weining to take Gu Xiang back to the Gentle Wind Sword Sect the following day, demanding an unyielding promise that he will never betray her, always protect her, and ensure her lifelong happiness and peace.

Cao Weining, deeply touched, pledges a solemn oath to Heaven and Earth, swearing eternal loyalty to Gu Xiang and vowing to take his own life if he ever fails her. Wen Ke Xing, though still cautioning him about the complexities of human nature, accepts his sincere promise. Zhou Zi Shu, having discreetly overheard the conversation, emerges to playfully tease Wen Ke Xing about his fierce "father-in-law" demeanor.

Zhou Zi Shu then inquires why Wen Ke Xing is so eager to send Gu Xiang away. Wen Ke Xing replies that having found his "lifelong reliance" in Zhou Zi Shu, he now wishes to settle Gu Xiang and then retreat with Zhou Zi Shu to live a tranquil, "fairy-like" existence.

Wen Ke Xing takes a sip of Zhou Zi Shu's wine, grimacing at its sour and bitter taste, implicitly hinting at Zhou Zi Shu's fading senses due to his self-inflicted injuries. Zhou Zi Shu dismisses it, blaming the remote location for the poor quality, but promises to unearth a hidden stash of fine wine from the plum forest at Four Seasons Manor upon their return.

Zhang Cheng Ling, oblivious to the underlying meaning, expresses surprise at the mention of a plum forest, prompting Zhou Zi Shu to proudly share the manor's legendary reputation: "Flowers bloom all four seasons, all things in the world are known." Meanwhile, Zhao Jing receives a report from Scorpion King. Unperturbed by the deaths of Long Que and Long Xiao or the alliance of Wen Ke Xing and Zhou Zi Shu, Zhao Jing unveils the full scale of his intricate plan.

His ultimate objective is to obtain the Armory key from Ghost Valley. He orchestrated the Mirror Lake Manor massacre, the theft at Sanbai Manor, and Ao Laizi's assassination, all to create the illusion that Ghost Valley had stolen the Glazed Armor, thereby sowing chaos in the martial arts world.

When Scorpion King questions why Gao Chong was killed, Zhao Jing erupts in fury, revealing that he endured two decades of servitude under Gao Chong solely to engineer this moment of vengeance. After accepting Scorpion King's apologies, Zhao Jing, learning of the failed attempts to assassinate Zhang Cheng Ling, severely reprimands him. Zhao Jing further elaborates on his current strategy: he intends to exploit the sects' escalating fear of Ghost Valley by publicly disseminating a "Book of Ghosts."

This act will effectively sever any escape routes for the ghosts, forcing them back into Ghost Valley for a decisive annihilation. He plans to manipulate the ghosts into wildly accusing one another, then find a "witness" among them to "prove" that Ghost Valley had deliberately framed the Five Lake Alliance to destabilize the martial world.

By doing so, Zhao Jing will clear the Five Lake Alliance's name, lead the righteous sects in eradicating Ghost Valley, and thereby consolidate his position as the undisputed leader of the martial arts world, wielding both immense power and moral authority. Scorpion King, utterly captivated, profusely praises Zhao Jing's unparalleled genius.

Zhao Jing, however, expresses minor concern about the missing Lovelace (Yu Qiu Feng) but remains confident that with all the sects now actively searching for the ghosts, Lovelace cannot remain hidden indefinitely. The next morning, Cao Weining prepares a carriage and luggage for the journey. Wen Ke Xing, Zhou Zi Shu, and Zhang Cheng Ling are there to bid them farewell. Gu Xiang, feigning anger at Cao Weining, insists on staying with Wen Ke Xing.

Wen Ke Xing playfully "sells" Gu Xiang to Cao Weining for a laughably low sum, then ultimately gives her away for free. Cao Weining, with sincerity, declares that he will return and formally marry Gu Xiang with all traditional rites, including a grand dowry, and pledges a lifetime of devotion, assuaging her fears. Zhou Zi Shu lightheartedly teases Wen Ke Xing for his lack of knowledge regarding marital customs.

Episode 24 Recap

Zhou Zi Shu, Wen Ke Xing, and Zhang Cheng Ling arrived at Four Seasons Manor, a place of stunning natural beauty. Wen Ke Xing was captivated by the scenic wonders, remarking on the manor's splendid views and its unique charm throughout the four seasons, from the profusion of azaleas in spring to plum blossoms in winter. Zhou Zi Shu shared memories of his great master's wife and Aunt Bi, highlighting their kindness to animals.

He recalled how his great master's wife would fiercely protect the rabbits, the offspring of her own brood, and once even chased his master across the mountain for hunting a deer. Zhang Cheng Ling chimed in, noting the similarity with his own mother often chastising his father despite his imposing public persona. As they approached the main courtyard, Zhou Zi Shu pointed out a Mo Ya stone carving, which his master had created for Qin Jiu Xiao's one-month-old birthday.

However, the manor itself was overgrown and desolate. Zhou Zi Shu felt a pang of sadness, but Wen Ke Xing and Zhang Cheng Ling quickly reassured him, promising to clean and restore the place. Zhang Cheng Ling eagerly pledged his efforts alongside Wen Ke Xing. Zhou Zi Shu then meticulously described the manor's layout, explaining the intricacies of every stone and wood, and detailing the 28 Constellation arrays designed by Master Long.

He warned them not to touch the old, rusty mechanisms until they could be properly repaired. Inside the conference hall, Zhou Zi Shu recalled his master testing their homework and everyone gathering around the stove during holidays. His eyes fell upon a painting of 81 plum blossoms, symbolizing the 81 disciples of their generation at Four Seasons Manor. He expressed profound regret, feeling he was responsible for their tragic end.

Meanwhile, Cao Weining and Gu Xiang continued their journey to the Gentle Wind Sword Sect. Cao Weining was puzzled by Gu Xiang's distant demeanor, wondering why she remained cold to him after he confessed his feelings. Gu Xiang, however, was secretly burdened by her true identity. She believed that the truth would eventually be revealed, but for now, she cherished the present moments with Cao Weining.

Their path soon led them to an unsettling scene where Zhu Yao Zhi, Gao Chong's disciple, was being brutalized by members of the Five Lakes Alliance, led by Mu Si Yuan. Mu Si Yuan accused Gao Chong of conspiring with the Ghost Valley and openly declared Wen Ke Xing to be the valley chief, revealing that Zhao Jing had circulated Wanted posters for Wen Ke Xing and the Ten Devils throughout the martial arts world.

Zhu Yao Zhi vehemently defended his master and Wen Ke Xing, pointing out that Wen Ke Xing had saved Zhang Cheng Ling and was too young to be the Ghost Valley chief. Mu Si Yuan scoffed at this, claiming that evil magic could grant eternal youth. Gu Xiang listened in horror, realizing Wen Ke Xing's cover was blown.

Mu Si Yuan then tried to force Zhu Yao Zhi to denounce Gao Chong, but Zhu Yao Zhi refused to betray his master and fought back. Just as the situation escalated, Shen Shen arrived, intervening to stop the fight. Seeing her opportunity, Gu Xiang discreetly rejoined Cao Weining. Later, she questioned Cao Weining about his sincerity, expressing her fears about being an orphan and her unknown past.

Cao Weining reaffirmed his unwavering commitment, promising to marry her and even elope if his master and elders disapproved. His earnest words deeply moved Gu Xiang. That night, Wen Ke Xing was tormented by a vivid nightmare from his childhood. He relived the horrifying moment when the original Ghost Valley chief and Luo Fu Meng murdered his parents. He heard the valley chief's subordinates describing him as a natural-born demon.

He recalled Luo Fu Meng pulling him aside, lamenting her inability to save his parents but vowing to protect him, and then forcing him to drink Water of Lethe to erase his memories. However, young Wen Ke Xing adamantly refused to forget. He awoke with a start to find Zhou Zi Shu convulsing in pain, calling out for his junior brother, Qin Jiu Xiao. Wen Ke Xing immediately used his internal energy to alleviate Zhou Zi Shu's suffering.

Once the immediate crisis passed, Zhou Zi Shu spoke of the constant pain from the seven nails, which flared up every night with varying intensity. Wen Ke Xing then questioned the slow progress of Ye Bai Yi, jokingly likening him to a slow-crawling turtle. Zhou Zi Shu playfully admonished him for cursing Ye Bai Yi behind his back, but Wen Ke Xing retorted that he would say it to his face as well, criticizing the old monster's unreliability.

Seeing Wen Ke Xing's concern, Zhou Zi Shu decided to share his painful past. He recounted how, as the chief of Four Seasons Manor, he was ordered by Prince Jin to eliminate Officer Jiang, a benefactor to him, Qin Jiu Xiao, and Luo Hao Ning. Officer Jiang's daughter was even Qin Jiu Xiao's fiancée.

Luo Hao Ning and Qin Jiu Xiao pleaded with Zhou Zi Shu to spare Officer Jiang, arguing that while they might not understand the complexities of court politics, martial artists valued gratitude. Luo Hao Ning declared he would die protecting Officer Jiang rather than live as a coward. Zhou Zi Shu, seemingly persuaded, offered them "Drunk Like A Dream" wine, which caused them to fall into a five-day slumber.

By the time they awoke, Officer Jiang's fate was sealed, and Qin Jiu Xiao, filled with resentment, left without a word. Later, Qin Jiu Xiao died tragically while attempting to rescue Zhou Zi Shu, mistakenly believing him to be in peril. His fiancée, after an arduous journey, brought his body back to Zhou Zi Shu.

The full extent of their relationship remained unknown to Zhou Zi Shu at the time, and to his lasting regret, he unknowingly forced Qin Jiu Xiao's beloved to ingest a fast-acting poison. Overwhelmed by guilt, Zhou Zi Shu called himself a coward and a deserter, believing they would curse him in another world. Wen Ke Xing comforted him, assuring him that they would understand. But Zhou Zi Shu insisted they never truly knew the real him, blinded by their admiration.

Zhou Zi Shu then revealed that after his master's sudden death, he was entrusted with the Four Seasons Manor at a young age. Faced with relentless threats from both righteous and villainous factions, he watched helplessly as his uncles and brothers sacrificed their lives to protect the manor. Unable to bear the burden, he fled. His father, a loyal aide to the former Prince Jin, had connections to the current Prince Jin, Zhou Zi Shu's cousin.

The Prince, concerned about lacking trusted allies, wrote to Zhou Zi Shu for help. Zhou Zi Shu met the Prince, who was distraught over the unjust death of his teacher, imprisoned and tortured by the Prince's own father on false charges. The teacher had committed suicide in jail, leaving behind a wall covered in blood-written poems that condemned the corrupt "Window of Heaven" and highlighted the injustice of the world.

The Prince recounted his father's cruelty, leaving the teacher's body unburied for wild dogs to scavenge. Zhou Zi Shu, horrified, pledged to retrieve and properly bury the teacher's remains. This led Zhou Zi Shu to lead all the brothers of Four Seasons Manor to serve Prince Jin, only to find themselves ensnared in a quagmire of power and desire. He watched his brothers, one by one, perish before his eyes, including Qin Jiu Xiao.

After Jiu Xiao's death, feeling as though there was nothing left to live for, Zhou Zi Shu fled once more. He lamented that all that remained were the seven nails in his body, and everything he wished to protect had slipped through his fingers like sand. Despite his despair, he acknowledged a sliver of hope that Heaven had granted him a second chance through Zhang Cheng Ling.

Wen Ke Xing assured him that Ye Bai Yi would find a cure, but Zhou Zi Shu remained skeptical, acknowledging the unpredictability of fate. Nevertheless, he expressed profound joy at Wen Ke Xing's return and companionship. As Wen Ke Xing stepped outside for some fresh air, Zhou Zi Shu softly mused that although Wen Ke Xing bore the name of a disciple of Four Seasons Manor, he was free to choose his own path.

He believed his master, if he knew, would be overjoyed that a child of the Wen family had returned to the manor. The following morning, Zhang Cheng Ling informed Zhou Zi Shu that Wen Ke Xing had specifically asked for him to be allowed to sleep longer after a restless night. Zhou Zi Shu soon found Wen Ke Xing meticulously repairing a painting of his master.

Wen Ke Xing explained that the damage was not severe and it merely needed re-mounting and careful color restoration by an expert, after which it would be as good as new. Touched by Wen Ke Xing's thoughtfulness, Zhou Zi Shu embraced him. Meanwhile, outside, Ye Bai Yi overheard common folk discussing Wen Ke Xing's alleged identity as the Ghost Valley chief. They gossiped that he must be an ancient being using dark arts to maintain a youthful appearance.

Ye Bai Yi, angered by their disrespectful tone and the slander, demanded to know Wen Ke Xing's name. The villagers responded rudely, confirming that the Five Lakes Alliance, at Zhao Jing's command, had indeed distributed images of Wen Ke Xing and the Ghost Valley's primary figures to various sects. Enraged by their insolence and the defamation of Wen Ke Xing, Ye Bai Yi lashed out, injuring the disrespectful men.

Episode 25 Recap

The night was cool and rainy. Zhou Zi Shu awoke and went to get charcoal for warmth, finding Wen Ke Xing lost in thought on the porch. He invited Wen Ke Xing to share some wine and warm up.

Wen Ke Xing then confided in Zhou Zi Shu about a dream he had of his childhood: when he was seven, his family arrived at Four Seasons Manor, his parents set up a small clinic at the foot of the hill, and he would practice martial arts during the day before returning home for a warm meal at night.

In his dream, the "medicine men" were like wild dogs, chasing him relentlessly, and Zhou Zi Shu, sometimes as himself, sometimes as their old dog Zhen Yi Guo, would stand in front of him, protecting him.

Wen Ke Xing revealed that he had recognized Zhou Zi Shu's connection to the Four Seasons Manor earlier, having followed him after seeing his Swift Moving Steps, but he was only certain of Zhou Zi Shu's identity after seeing him draw his White Cloth sword and state his family name.

Zhou Zi Shu, who had once intended to wander the world until his final days, now decided to settle permanently at Four Seasons Manor with Zhang Cheng Ling, warmly welcoming Wen Ke Xing to return whenever he wished. Wen Ke Xing was deeply moved by this sentiment. Meanwhile, Cao Weining and Gu Xiang were on their way to the Gentle Wind Sword Sect.

Cao Weining recognized Tao Hong and Lv Liu, who were disguised, and noticed that Gao Xiaolian, who was with them, had her acupuncture points sealed. Cao Weining immediately wanted to rescue Gao Xiaolian, but Gu Xiang, worried for his safety, tried to stop him, reminding him of his previous near-fatal injury.

Unable to abandon Gao Xiaolian, Cao Weining insisted on helping, prompting Gu Xiang to suggest a plan: Cao Weining would follow the captors and leave identifying marks, while Gu Xiang would go to the nearby Broken Sword Manor, a sect of the Five Lakes Alliance, to seek help. As Tao Hong and Lv Liu continued their journey, they were met by Huang He.

Huang He revealed that he had been exposed in Great Stone Town and chased by the Scorpions, confirming his suspicion that Zhao Jing had betrayed them. He claimed Zhao Jing was responsible for Gao Chong's death and was indifferent to Gao Xiaolian's fate, wanting her dead to eliminate any witnesses. Huang He then declared Gao Xiaolian worthless as a hostage and threatened to sell her to a brothel.

Tao Hong, enraged and seeing through Huang He's scheme to gain all the benefits himself, suggested they simply kill Gao Xiaolian if she was truly useless, to end her suffering. Cao Weining, who had been hiding and listening, then stepped out to protect Gao Xiaolian, appealing to Huang He to abandon his villainous ways. Tao Hong, realizing Huang He's deceit, began to fight him.

Cao Weining used the distraction to escape with Gao Xiaolian, but they were quickly pursued by Tao Hong and Lv Liu. Cao Weining was knocked unconscious protecting Gao Xiaolian. At that critical moment, Gu Xiang arrived with Shen Shen. Shen Shen swiftly injured Lv Liu.

Gao Xiaolian, recalling Tao Hong's protection during her captivity, pleaded with Shen Shen to spare the couple, explaining that Huang He was the true mastermind and that Tao Hong, despite her actions, had a good heart. Tao Hong, however, remained defiant, vowing to avenge her son's death by haunting Gao Chong in the afterlife. Lv Liu, deeply moved by Gao Xiaolian's unexpected kindness, offered to retire from the martial world if Shen Shen would spare them.

Shen Shen, acknowledging that Gao Xiaolian was innocent in the previous generation's grudges and touched by Tao Hong's protective actions towards his niece, decided to let them go, challenging them to confront him directly if they still sought revenge against the Five Lakes Alliance. After Tao Hong and Lv Liu left, Shen Shen confronted Gu Xiang, revealing her identity as Amethyst Fiend, a trusted subordinate of the Ghost Valley Chief.

Gu Xiang admitted her identity, explaining her desire to leave behind her life as a "lone ghost" and find a normal life with Cao Weining. She begged Shen Shen and Gao Xiaolian to keep her true identity a secret from Cao Weining, even suggesting they tell him she was killed by Huang He. Gao Xiaolian pleaded for Gu Xiang's life, and Shen Shen, despite his reservations, decided not to kill her, leaving with Gao Xiaolian.

After days of hard work, Wen Ke Xing and Zhang Cheng Ling successfully restored Four Seasons Manor. Zhou Zi Shu began teaching Zhang Cheng Ling the basic Eight Trigram Palm, the same martial art his own grand master, Qin Huai Zhang, had used to introduce him to martial arts. Zhang Cheng Ling then requested to visit Qin Huai Zhang's tomb to pay his respects.

Wen Ke Xing, who also felt a deep sense of gratitude to Leader Qin, agreed, and the three made their way to the gravesite. At the tombs of Qin Huai Zhang and his wife, Zhang Cheng Ling knelt and spoke at length, promising to honor and bring glory to Four Seasons Manor and updating his grand master on his progress. Zhou Zi Shu gently advised him that sometimes silent reflection was more fitting.

Wen Ke Xing then asked Zhou Zi Shu and Zhang Cheng Ling to leave, wishing for some private time at the graves. Alone, Wen Ke Xing poured out his heart, questioning the existence of a netherworld and whether Qin Huai Zhang had seen his parents there. He confessed his fear that they would witness the dark path he had taken and be ashamed, believing he had disgraced the Four Seasons Manor.

He recalled how, in his deepest suffering, he used to pretend his torment was just a nightmare of his former self, Zhen Yan, hoping to awaken to the moment Qin Huai Zhang had taken him as a disciple. However, he now understood that his innocent past as Zhen Yan was the true dream.

Railing against the injustice of the heavens, he declared that since good and evil went unpunished, he had chosen to become a devil to demand justice from fate. For twenty years, his veins had coursed with hatred, and only the thought of revenge had propelled him from hell to become the lord of ghosts and the king of venom.

He vowed to fulfill Zhen Yan's curse to slaughter all who had betrayed and wronged his family, those "demons in human skin," and cast them into hell. He was prepared to bear the burden of "a mountain of corpses, a heinous crime," and perish with this corrupt world. Yet, he expressed a profound conflict: why, after being plunged into hell, was he now shown a path back to the human world?

He concluded by proclaiming that his life as Wen Ke Xing was ruined and he was unworthy to call Qin Huai Zhang his master, but he thanked him for the fleeting moments of brightness he had been granted, hoping to repay his immense kindness in a future life, if such a thing existed. Back in their temporary lodging, Gu Xiang tended to Cao Weining until he awoke.

Cao Weining was relieved to hear from Gu Xiang that Gao Xiaolian had been safely taken back to the Five Lakes Alliance. Gu Xiang, considering his recurring injuries, wondered if their fates were at odds, but Cao Weining quickly dismissed the idea, blaming his own inadequate skills and vowing to train harder to protect her. He apologized for his previous misunderstanding and promised never to mistreat her.

Gu Xiang, deciding to keep her identity as the Amethyst Fiend a secret from him to safeguard their burgeoning relationship, offered him some roasted buns. Cao Weining happily declared them the most delicious food in the world.

Episode 26 Recap

Wen Ke Xing woke from a strange nightmare, feeling disoriented after using Zhou Zi Shu's Drunk Like A Dream incense. He found Zhang Cheng Ling diligently practicing martial arts in the courtyard, having started early in the morning. Zhang Cheng Ling confessed he couldn't sleep, haunted by the Ghost Valley's evil deeds and the suffering it caused, making him eager to quickly master martial arts like Wen Ke Xing and Zhou Zi Shu to seek revenge.

Wen Ke Xing, without revealing his true identity as the valley chief, corrected Zhang Cheng Ling's posture, instructing him on the principles of Eight Trigram Palm and other martial arts, emphasizing that true skill takes time to cultivate. He also offered to get some calming incense from Zhou Zi Shu to help Zhang Cheng Ling sleep better. Zhou Zi Shu, witnessing Wen Ke Xing's willingness to teach his disciple, felt a deep sense of relief.

A messenger from the Ping An Bank arrived, bringing a letter for Zhou Zi Shu from Ye Bai Yi. Zhou Zi Shu, accompanied by Wen Ke Xing and Zhang Cheng Ling, went to the bank. There, he met Ping An, the manager of the bank's Central Plain branches.

Ping An revealed that the bank was owned by Prince Qi and primarily served to gather information for Da Wu, using mechanical birds that Zhou Zi Shu himself had taught Da Wu to create years ago. Zhou Zi Shu was surprised to learn that Ye Bai Yi had sought out Prince Qi and Da Wu to heal his injuries.

Ping An clarified that upon hearing of Zhou Zi Shu's poor health, Prince Qi decided to travel to Kun Prefecture with Da Wu. Zhou Zi Shu was worried about Prince Qi venturing into the Central Plains, but Ping An assured him that Kun was far from Prince Jin's influence. Wen Ke Xing realized that Da Wu and Prince Qi were old acquaintances of Zhou Zi Shu from their time serving Prince Jin, who they both left after being disillusioned.

Ye Bai Yi, impatient for the rare herbs Da Wu and Prince Qi needed to gather, had returned ahead of them and sent a letter to Zhou Zi Shu. The letter, full of complaints and demands for pork and cabbage dumplings for the winter solstice, highlighted Ye Bai Yi's frustration at being reduced to a "postman" for old friends who already knew each other.

Zhou Zi Shu explained that he had initially not wished to live, which was why he hadn't sought them out earlier. Meanwhile, the Unchanging Ghost, Happy Ghost, and other Ghosts approached Scorpion King, furious that Zhao Jing had publicly distributed the "Ghost Book," which detailed the appearances, martial arts, origins, and misdeeds of the Ghost Valley Chief and the Ten Devils.

They argued that this made it impossible for them to operate and exposed them to every sect in the martial arts world. Scorpion King, however, casually dismissed their concerns, suggesting they simply use disguises and noting that notoriety was beneficial for "badasses" like them. The Ghosts, feeling betrayed and cornered, declared that their alliance was over if Zhao Jing resorted to such despicable tactics.

Scorpion King mockingly called them hypocrites for accusing others of being despicable and allowed them to leave, sending them off with a sarcastic farewell. After the Ghosts' departure, Scorpion King received a letter from Liu Qian Qiao detailing the recipe for the Water of Lethe. He revealed his discovery that Water of Lethe is made from Nepenthes mixed with seven poisonous insects, causing one to forget their most obsessive memories.

Conversely, mixing Nepenthes with seven scented flowers creates Drunk Like A Dream, which can counteract the Water of Lethe and unlock sealed memories. To avoid harming Luo Fu Meng's mind with potent oral doses, Scorpion King had been using an incense version of Drunk Like A Dream, exposing her to it for seven days in a special room. He believed that once she regained her full consciousness, she would reveal the truth, thereby clearing Zhao Jing's name against mounting rumors.

Soon after, Liu Qian Qiao appeared before Scorpion King, offering her service as his loyal servant in exchange for the release of Luo Fu Meng and Yu Qiu Feng. Scorpion King acknowledged her past contribution in finding the Water of Lethe recipe, but stated that while he would not kill Luo Fu Meng and Yu Qiu Feng, he wouldn't release them solely based on her plea. He promised to reward her if she proved her usefulness.

Concurrently, Cao Weining and Gu Xiang arrived at the foot of Gentle Wind Sword Sect's mountain. Gu Xiang, in her usual blunt manner, commented on the desolation of the place. They were greeted by Elder Fan Huai Kong and Senior Disciple Mo Wei Xu. Cao Weining was overjoyed to be home for the New Year. Fan Huai Kong immediately began to question Gu Xiang about her background, her martial arts, and her family.

Gu Xiang cleverly evaded the questions, claiming to be a servant to a reclusive, temperamental master who forbade her from revealing his name. She also stated she was an orphan, which resonated with Fan Huai Kong, who noted that she and Cao Weining were "fated" to be together.

Fan Huai Kong, delighted with Gu Xiang, promised to arrange their marriage after the New Year, lamenting that the sect's leader had recently issued a strict order to block the mountain and refuse all outsiders, which was why Gu Xiang had to stay in a small house halfway up the mountain instead of in the main sect. Cao Weining tried to ask about the reason for the blocked mountain, but Fan Huai Kong quickly changed the subject.

Wen Ke Xing, while out with Zhou Zi Shu, excused himself and followed Yun Cai, a cleaner ghost who had been sheltered by Gu Xiang, to a hidden gathering of Ghost Valley disciples. The disciples, led by Old Corpse Eater, were in disarray and hiding. They confirmed that the "Ghost Book" had indeed been circulated, leading to a widespread hunt for ghosts, causing them to be like "rats on the street."

They pleaded with Wen Ke Xing to return to Ghost Valley, reorganize their forces, and lead them in a decisive battle against Zhao Jing. Wen Ke Xing inquired about the status of the Ten Devils, specifically Luo Fu Meng and Beauty Ghost, and was told they had not been seen since before the Heroes Conference. He also learned that the Five Lakes Alliance was planning another Heroes Conference.

Meanwhile, Scorpion King confronted Zhao Jing, demanding to know why their relationship remained a secret despite Zhao Jing's rise to power. Zhao Jing, feigning vulnerability, spoke of his hardships and how he had been forced to rely on Scorpion King's support in the shadows. He used emotional appeals, declaring Scorpion King his only family and the sole heir to his vast enterprise, asking him not to doubt their bond.

Scorpion King then produced a blood-stained handkerchief inscribed with "If you don't disappoint me, I won't disappoint you," which he had received from Yu Qiu Feng, and questioned Zhao Jing's past sincerity. Zhao Jing, initially evasive, then launched into a fabricated story. He claimed to have loved Luo Fu Meng, the young mistress of Neon Palace, while he was a poor commoner. Her family opposed their union.

He claimed the handkerchief was a token from Luo Fu Meng expressing her unwavering resolve. He then accused Li Yao, his later wife, of being a "vicious woman" who blackmailed him with knowledge of his involvement in stealing from the armory, forcing him to marry her to protect his "brothers."

He said that on the day of his wedding to Li Yao, Luo Fu Meng, driven mad by grief, attacked Neon Palace, and he, despite being injured by her unique martial arts while subduing her, secretly sent her to Heal Valley for treatment. He finished by confessing to killing Li Yao out of anger for ruining his life, framing it as a tragic necessity and a deep personal shame he had intended to take to his grave.

Scorpion King was momentarily swayed by Zhao Jing's dramatic confession, feeling regret for questioning his "father." However, Luo Fu Meng, now fully recovered thanks to Scorpion King's Drunk Like A Dream incense, was also present with Liu Qian Qiao. She immediately exposed Zhao Jing's lies.

She revealed that her father, heartbroken by her constant tears over Zhao Jing abandoning her for the high-born Li Yao, was the one who blackmailed Zhao Jing with the armory's secret and offered him the position of Neon Palace Master to force him to marry her. On their wedding day, Zhao Jing ruthlessly colluded with traitors within the palace to massacre the entire Neon Palace, not Luo Fu Meng.

Luo Fu Meng expressed gratitude that she hadn't married Zhao Jing, realizing she would have suffered the same fate as Li Yao. She warned Scorpion King that Zhao Jing was a master manipulator who kept "trophies" of his every major scheme, listing his master's ring and the sword that poisoned Rong Xuan as examples. She predicted that Zhao Jing must have given Scorpion King a special token as well, supposedly representing his "sincerity."

Hearing Luo Fu Meng's account, Scorpion King looked deeply troubled and conflicted. Back at the manor, Zhou Zi Shu, knowing Ye Bai Yi's penchant for good food, told Wen Ke Xing to prepare plenty of cabbage and pork dumplings, along with fine wine and other dishes for the upcoming winter solstice. Wen Ke Xing bemoaned Ye Bai Yi's enormous appetite but agreed to go to Qingshui Town for supplies.

Zhang Cheng Ling wanted to join him, but Zhou Zi Shu insisted he stay home and continue his training. As night fell, Wen Ke Xing expressed his readiness for the "big fight" ahead, preparing for the inevitable confrontation.

Episode 27 Recap

Ye Bai Yi, weary from his journey, encountered Zhou Zi Shu waiting for him outside Four Seasons Manor. Ye Bai Yi expressed his frustration, believing Zhou Zi Shu had mocked him by sending him to the Grand Wizard when they were already close friends. He felt foolish for "showing off his acquaintances" to the former Master of Window of Heaven.

Zhou Zi Shu sincerely apologized, explaining he had personal reasons for not seeking medical help from the Grand Wizard and genuinely hadn't realized Ye Bai Yi's friend was the Grand Wizard. Ye Bai Yi then revealed that Wen Ke Xing was the Chief of Ghost Valley.

Zhou Zi Shu calmly stated he was already aware of Wen Ke Xing's true identity, explaining that Wen Ke Xing was the son of Zhen Ru Yu—a close friend of both Ye Bai Yi's disciple, Rong Xuan, and Zhou Zi Shu's own master—making him Zhou Zi Shu's long-lost junior and soulmate. Ye Bai Yi, enraged at being deceived by two "brats," accused Zhou Zi Shu of being "in cahoots" with the Chief of Ghost Valley.

Zhou Zi Shu clarified that he had only learned Wen Ke Xing's identity as Zhen Yan after entering Longyuan Cabinet. He stressed that Wen Ke Xing became his junior first, before entering Ghost Valley, and if they had brought him back to Four Seasons Manor earlier, tragedies might have been averted. He argued that Wen Ke Xing still retained his good nature and the sins of Ghost Valley shouldn't solely fall on him.

Ye Bai Yi dismissed this, reminding Zhou Zi Shu of the "bloodshed" caused by Ghost Valley and accusing him of abandoning "justice" for "brotherhood." He reiterated his oath to "eradicate" Ghost Valley if its devils ever "bring disasters to the world." Zhou Zi Shu offered to share half of Wen Ke Xing's culpability, which Ye Bai Yi found unacceptable.

The tense situation escalated into a fight, and Ye Bai Yi injured Zhou Zi Shu, who adamantly blocked the path to Four Seasons Manor, vowing Ye Bai Yi would have to "step over my body first" to enter. Wen Ke Xing arrived just in time, joining the battle against Ye Bai Yi. He was quickly overwhelmed and severely injured.

As Ye Bai Yi pressed him to "take his own life," Wen Ke Xing defiantly declared he would rather die fighting "this damn world's evils." Zhou Zi Shu intervened, fiercely condemning Ye Bai Yi. He reminded Ye Bai Yi that Wen Ke Xing's parents were killed while protecting Ye Bai Yi's disciple, Rong Xuan, leaving Wen Ke Xing an orphan who "lost his parents at a young age" and was forced into Ghost Valley.

Zhou Zi Shu passionately argued that Ye Bai Yi had no right to judge Wen Ke Xing and that his own Master, Qin Huai Zhang, would have shown compassion, guiding Wen Ke Xing to "change his ways and learn from the good," rather than being "opinionated and indiscriminate." He challenged Ye Bai Yi to "kill both of us" if he wished.

Moved by Zhou Zi Shu's words, Ye Bai Yi relented, warning Wen Ke Xing to remain within Four Seasons Manor or face certain death if he ventured out again. Wen Ke Xing apologized to Zhou Zi Shu for his deception, but Zhou Zi Shu merely teased him for his "cowardly" demeanor, revealing he had already deduced Wen Ke Xing's plan to intercept Ye Bai Yi before he could expose his identity.

As they painfully made their way back, supporting each other, Wen Ke Xing confessed his remorse for his past actions. He admitted to deliberately creating the latter half of the "Five Lakes Water, World Gathers" ballad, knowing it would "sow the seed of doubt" and cause all those coveting the Armory to "fix their eyes on the Five Lakes Alliance."

He acknowledged that while he didn't personally kill Zhang Cheng Ling's family, their tragedy was indirectly caused by him, leaving him uncertain how to face Cheng Ling. Zhou Zi Shu consoled him, promising to help him find the true culprits behind the Mirror Lake Sect's massacre after his own injuries healed. They would then reveal the truth to Cheng Ling together.

Zhou Zi Shu emphasized that regardless of Wen Ke Xing's identity, he was first and foremost his junior, urging him not to "worry about eternal sorrow" and to embrace a simpler life. Wen Ke Xing later contemplated his path, yearning for a life "without secrets and haze" and "someone to accompany him forever" as he watched Zhang Cheng Ling diligently practicing martial arts. Meanwhile, in the Qingfeng Sword Sect, Mo Wei Xu delivered a letter to Cao Weining.

Gu Xiang, recognizing it was from Wen Ke Xing and Zhou Zi Shu, quickly snatched and concealed it. Mo Wei Xu then privately questioned Cao Weining about Gu Xiang, expressing concern over her "evil aura." Cao Weining fiercely defended her, clarifying that her Master, a respected elder, had entrusted her to him, but he was bound by a promise not to disclose her Master's identity. He affirmed his trust and love for Gu Xiang, vowing never to betray her.

Mo Wei Xu then revealed that Gao Chong had entrusted the three pieces of Glazed Armor to Mo Huai Yang, explaining the reason for the Qingfeng Sword Sect's sealed mountain policy. Cao Weining, having already suspected this, accepted the heavy responsibility. Scorpion King, having learned that Gu Xiang and Cao Weining were at the sealed Qingfeng Sword Sect and Mo Huai Yang hadn't been seen for months, reported his suspicions to Zhao Jing.

Zhao Jing dismissed Scorpion King's concerns, prioritizing the upcoming Heroes Conference. He revealed he had long suspected Mo Huai Yang possessed the Glazed Armor, citing Mo Huai Yang's abrupt departure from the previous conference, Fan Huai Kong's inaction during Gao Chong's death, and the subsequent lack of Glazed Armor news as proof. When Scorpion King suggested using his Drug Men to turn the Qingfeng Sword Sect into a "dead realm," Zhao Jing became furious.

He reminded Scorpion King he had ordered all Drug Men destroyed, fearful that any association with such "demon tricks" would ruin his carefully cultivated reputation and cost him the position of martial arts alliance leader. He harshly rebuked Scorpion King, who finally realized Zhao Jing's true manipulative nature and that he was merely a tool to be discarded once useless.

Back at Four Seasons Manor, Ping An arrived with an update from the Grand Wizard, who was delayed because he was custom-making a special medicine for Zhou Zi Shu. Ping An also delivered a letter from Ye Bai Yi, sealed with the "Token of Honor" (Shan He Ling). The letter was a challenge, calling upon all martial arts sects to unite and "wipe out" Ghost Valley. Zhang Cheng Ling was overjoyed, eager for revenge for his family.

Episode 28 Recap

Han Ying, severely wounded, returned to Prince Jin's palace. He reported that his team, while searching for the Glazed Armor, was tracked and ambushed by Scorpion assassins, resulting in the death of all his men except himself. Han Ying presented a scorpion tail thorn recovered from his wound as evidence, suggesting that there might be spies within the Window of Heaven who leaked their whereabouts.

Prince Jin, seemingly understanding, thanked Han Ying for retrieving a piece of the Glazed Armor and informed him that Duan Pengju had already been dispatched to Jiangnan to continue the search due to Han Ying's prolonged absence. Prince Jin then dismissed Han Ying for rest, promising him an award. Unbeknownst to Han Ying, Prince Jin already suspected his disloyalty and had him followed.

Later, a subordinate confirmed Han Ying's betrayal, reporting that Han Ying had sneaked into Prince Jin's study room for a long time and then proceeded to Zhou Zishu's residence. Prince Jin viewed Han Ying as a "good fish bait" to catch bigger targets and wondered about the "alternative plans" Zhou Zishu might still have. Duan Pengju met with Zhao Jing. Duan Pengju expressed gratitude to Zhao Jing for suggesting that the Glazed Armor might be hidden within the Ghost Valley.

Zhao Jing, while not entirely certain, believed that if Gao Chong had indeed colluded with Ghost Valley, then Gao Chong's pieces of the Glazed Armor, along with the one Zhao Jing had lost, were likely there. He promised to repay Prince Jin once he conquered the Ghost Valley.

Duan Pengju acknowledged Zhao Jing's value and urged him to prove himself to Prince Jin, hinting at rewards beyond merely becoming the Chief of the martial arts world, possibly even the title of Marquis or Grand Master. Zhao Jing modestly dismissed such grand ambitions. Zhao Jing also requested that Prince Jin spare the Five Lakes Alliance from consequences due to Gao Chong's actions, which Duan Pengju agreed to. Later, a visibly intoxicated Zhao Jing summoned Scorpion King.

He excitedly informed Scorpion King that the Glazed Armor belonging to the Long-tongued Ghost was now with the Window of Heaven, viewing this as a significant advantage for his plans against Ghost Valley, especially with the impending collaboration with Prince Jin. Scorpion King inquired if Zhao Jing was still upset with him. Zhao Jing apologized, reaffirming their unbreakable father-son bond, promising to face any future challenges together.

Scorpion King then encouraged Zhao Jing to seize this opportunity to "change your fate." Zhao Jing, however, saw it as a "high-stakes gamble" with uncertain odds, prioritizing "stability." He explained his fear of the severe repercussions of treason, which could lead to his entire family's extermination, unlike mere disputes in the martial world.

Scorpion King, declaring he had "nothing to lose," proposed a plan: since their connection was a secret, he would publicly pledge loyalty to Prince Jin and gather all the Glazed Armor. If successful, all rewards would go to Zhao Jing; if he failed, he would bear the full penalty alone, ensuring Zhao Jing remained untainted. Zhao Jing was swayed by this offer. Meanwhile, Evil Bodhisattva, discovering Duan Pengju was in Yueyang, sought him out.

She playfully chided him for not visiting her first upon arriving in Jiangnan, accusing him of prioritizing a meeting with the Chief of the Five Lakes Alliance. Duan Pengju claimed ignorance of her presence in Yueyang, stating he had planned to visit her and Scorpion King in Huzhou after his duties.

He also mentioned Prince Jin's keen interest in Scorpion King's progress with the Drug Men, for which Evil Bodhisattva scornfully remarked that Prince Jin only cared about the Drug Men's utility in battle. Duan Pengju insisted his true concern was for his "beautiful and charming Bodhisattva." Their flirtatious exchange was abruptly interrupted by Scorpion King, who questioned why Prince Jin sought the Glazed Armor from others when he was available. At the Four Seasons Manor, it was New Year's Eve.

Wen Kexing had purchased an abundance of paper-cuts. Zhang Chengling enthusiastically began pasting them under Wen Kexing's playful direction, who teased Zhou Zishu about his "poor sight." After finishing one, Zhang Chengling remarked that the manor felt "more like a home now." Zhou Zishu, amused, playfully chided Wen Kexing for his extravagance, suggesting he bought so many paper-cuts solely because the seller was "a beauty."

Wen Kexing retorted, calling Zhou Zishu "lazy and gluttonous" and warned Zhang Chengling not to follow his example, emphasizing the importance of a clean house for the new year. Zhou Zishu, in turn, quipped about Wen Kexing's "carefree life." For the New Year's Eve dinner, Wen Kexing tasked Zhang Chengling with killing a chicken, much to the boy's terror.

When Zhang Chengling hesitated, Wen Kexing playfully accused both him and Zhou Zishu of being "slackers, gluttonous, and lazy," jokingly saying they had "cheated me here to be your servant" and insisted they participate in preparing dinner. Zhang Chengling, holding a knife, chased the chicken around, screaming for help from Zhou Zishu as the kitchen descended into chaos.

Zhou Zishu mused on Zhang Chengling's sheltered upbringing, while Wen Kexing commented that Zhang Chengling's innocence was a kind of "luck," contrasting it with Zhou Zishu who "takes all advantages in this world, but only without luck, which is complementary." Alone on New Year's Eve, Gu Xiang felt a profound loneliness, pondering the human need for festivals which seemed to only highlight her own isolation.

Her solitude was broken when Cao Weining, along with his martial uncle Mo Weixu and senior fellow disciple Fan Huaigu, arrived at her courtyard to celebrate with her. His companions revealed that Cao Weining had been "restless for you all day long," and they explained they couldn't leave her alone on such an occasion, having rushed there without dinner after ancestor worship.

He presented a variety of New Year's treats, including jujube cake, pumpkin pie, fried lotus root with stuffing, and even raw dumplings prepared by his martial uncle, which he promised to cook for her. Overwhelmed by their kindness, Gu Xiang apologized, calling herself a "hoyden" and tearfully confessed that "there's no one who has treated me so well."

Mo Weixu, comforting her, assured her that the Gentle Wind Sword Sect was now her home and that they would protect her if Cao Weining ever bullied her. The quiet courtyard instantly filled with warmth and laughter. Separately, a drunken Zhao Jing entered his ancestral hall. He first toasted his deceased sworn brothers and then Rong Xuan, mockingly telling Rong Xuan to drink "over there" as it was his rightful place.

He then addressed his former Master's memorial tablet, questioning if he was his most proud disciple, sneering that all those his Master admired were now dead. Turning his wrath to his deceased wife, Li Yao, he spat insults, calling her a "bitch" and gloating that her prophecy of his downfall was false, as he now had "liquor, meat, and women."

He arrogantly declared that by next year, he would be "the supreme leader of the martial arts world," not just the Five Lakes Alliance Chief, promising to show them "how I reach the peak of the world step by step." He then dismissively stated that they wouldn't see it because "You are all dead." In a fit of rage, he kicked over the incense burner, then defiantly urinated on Rong Xuan's tablet.

Scorpion King, arriving with sobering soup, witnessed this horrifying scene. He noticed the various "trophies" Zhao Jing kept by the memorial tablets—his Master's thumb ring and the poisoned sword that killed Rong Xuan—confirming Luo Fumeng's accusations. Enraged by this revelation of Zhao Jing's true nature, Scorpion King’s presence further infuriated Zhao Jing, who violently drove him out, yelling at him to "Get out."

Back at Four Seasons Manor, Wen Kexing presented a lavish New Year's Eve dinner, complete with freshly picked edible fungus and simmering chicken soup. Zhou Zishu, Wen Kexing, and Zhang Chengling enjoyed the feast, with the two adults doting on Zhang Chengling, ensuring he ate well as he was "in the growth period." Zhang Chengling was overcome with emotion, nearly shedding tears, but Wen Kexing lightheartedly warned him against crying on New Year's Day to avoid "bad luck."

Zhang Chengling confessed his happiness, having believed he "wouldn't have a home in my life" but now able to "celebrate the Chinese New Year like this." Zhou Zishu echoed the sentiment, admitting this was the "warmest Chinese New Year I've ever had," reflecting on his past as a "stodgy person" consumed by power struggles, and recognizing the true value of companionship.

Wen Kexing cheerfully affirmed Zhou Zishu had already "mastered top martial arts" and now had "someone to drink with at night." As fireworks lit up the night, Wen Kexing and Zhou Zishu engaged in a lively drinking game. Zhang Chengling, distracted by the fireworks, accidentally broke a plate but was quickly pardoned by Zhou Zishu and sent out to enjoy the spectacle. Moments later, a frantic Zhang Chengling returned, reporting that a man had "jumped in across the wall."

They rushed out to find Han Ying, gravely injured and covered in blood. Han Ying, addressing Zhou Zishu as "My Lord," struggled to produce a piece of the Glazed Armor, explaining he had "stolen it back" for Zhou Zishu. He revealed that he had learned about the "Yin Yang Book of the Healer Valley," which he believed could cure all intractable diseases, including Zhou Zishu's, by "changing life with life and converting Yin and Yang."

Zhou Zishu, concerned, chastised him for taking such a risk. Han Ying then recounted the full story: someone in the Window of Heaven had recognized Zhou Zishu at the Heroes Conference in Yueyang. Han Ying intercepted this information and, as exposure became imminent, he "killed them all and framed it to the Scorpion" to protect Zhou Zishu. Knowing this deception could only last temporarily, he resolved to find something useful for Zhou Zishu before his inevitable escape.

He sneaked into Prince Jin's study, where he "found the secret of the Glazed Armor." However, he only managed to retrieve one piece before being discovered by the Window of Heaven. Fortunately, Xing Ming covered for him, allowing Han Ying to escape from Jin. Han Ying, declaring himself Zhou Zishu's "loyalist," reiterated his willingness to "serve you when alive and die for you when you die," stating, "If you're gone one day, my Lord, how could I live alone?"

He then shared a shocking discovery: a "secret letter" found on Prince Jin's desk revealed that Zhou Zishu's "father was killed secretly for the charge of treason by the former Prince Jin." Zhou Zishu was stunned, vehemently denying it, insisting his father had "died of illness" and was the "best friend" and "trusted subordinate" of the former Prince Jin. Wen Kexing urged them to discuss the matter later, focusing on Han Ying's worsening condition.

Han Ying, fading, repeated his plea to gather all five Glazed Armor pieces to open the armory and retrieve the Yin Yang Book. Reminded by Wen Kexing that "the Grand Wizard of South Xinjiang is coming" with Wu Xi and Bei Yuan already on their way, Zhou Zishu immediately decided to "go down the mountain and find Ping An, and try to bring the Grand Wizard back at the earliest."

He entrusted Wen Kexing with sustaining Han Ying's life, to which Wen Kexing vowed to "try my best to keep Brother Han alive," declaring that "even if the Guardians of the Netherworld come," they wouldn't take Han Ying's soul.

Episode 29 Recap

Zhou Zishu rushed to Ping An Bank to inquire about the Grand Wizard's whereabouts, only to find the doors tightly shut and no one inside, leaving him at a loss. Meanwhile, Wen Ke Xing exerted all his internal force to heal Han Ying. Han Ying, sensing his own imminent death, urged Wen Ke Xing to stop, expressing concern that further exertion would only harm Wen Ke Xing and that he felt unworthy of such a sacrifice.

Wen Ke Xing, however, was overcome with guilt and vowed to save Han Ying at all costs, even if it meant his own exhaustion. He explained that Zhou Zishu would be devastated by Han Ying's death, especially after the trauma of losing Junior Jiu Xiao. When Zhang Cheng Ling offered his own meager internal force to help, Wen Ke Xing gently dismissed him, playfully chiding him for being lazy in his training.

Han Ying, in a moment of lucidity, expressed his admiration for Zhang Cheng Ling becoming Zhou Zishu's disciple and wistfully wished he could have been one too, even for a day. Zhang Cheng Ling promised that once Han Ying recovered, they would ask Zhou Zishu to accept him as a senior disciple, and they could all live, train, and tend the gardens together at Four Seasons Manor. Overwhelmed by remorse, Wen Ke Xing blamed himself for Han Ying's critical condition.

He regretted duplicating and circulating the fake Glazed Armors, believing it led to Han Ying being ensnared in Prince Jin's trap and risking his life for a mere replica. Outside, Zhang Cheng Ling heard a commotion and discovered that Window of Heaven agents were surrounding Four Seasons Manor. Zhou Zishu, returning to the area, saw numerous sky lanterns signaling danger.

From a vantage point, he spotted Duan Peng Ju leading the Window of Heaven forces, and his heart sank with worry for Wen Ke Xing and Zhang Cheng Ling. Upon reaching the manor, Zhou Zishu was relieved to find them safe, with Zhang Cheng Ling having already repelled the initial attackers. Zhou Zishu immediately instructed Zhang Cheng Ling to activate the manor's defensive mechanisms.

He rushed inside to check on Han Ying, only to discover that Han Ying had already severed his own heart meridians, choosing death to avoid being a burden. Wen Ke Xing clutched Han Ying's lifeless body, weeping uncontrollably and consumed by self-blame. He lamented not heeding Han Ying's earlier plea to abandon him and protect Zhang Cheng Ling, realizing that his actions with the fake Glazed Armor had precipitated this tragedy.

Overwhelmed by grief and depleted internal energy, Wen Ke Xing collapsed into unconsciousness. Zhou Zishu, examining Wen Ke Xing's pulse, noted its chaotic nature and his empty elixir field, a sign of severe internal damage that could lead to the loss of his martial arts or even death if not swiftly treated. Zhou Zishu instructed Zhang Cheng Ling to hide Wen Ke Xing and Han Ying's body in a secret room.

Zhang Cheng Ling initially refused, determined to face death alongside them. Zhou Zishu reassured him by revealing his past as the former leader of the Window of Heaven and Prince Jin's cousin, explaining that the current forces only sought to capture him, not kill him. He stressed the urgency of Wen Ke Xing's condition, stating that he was on the verge of a martial arts deviation due to extreme internal force depletion and needed immediate care.

He urged Zhang Cheng Ling to protect Wen Ke Xing, and once Wen Ke Xing recovered, they could then come to Jin to rescue him. Outside, Window of Heaven agents loudly announced Prince Jin's decree, summoning Zhou Zishu back to Jin. With no other choice, Zhang Cheng Ling reluctantly complied, leading Wen Ke Xing and Han Ying's body into the secret passage. Zhou Zishu then opened the manor gates to confront Duan Peng Ju.

Duan Peng Ju mocked Zhou Zishu's apparent health despite the "Nails of Seven Torments" and accused him of always being loyal to Four Seasons Manor, not Prince Jin. He revealed that Han Ying had been Zhou Zishu's secret agent, whose discovery led them to the manor, and that the Glazed Armor Han Ying stole was a fake, part of Prince Jin's carefully laid trap.

With a cruel smirk, Duan Peng Ju ordered the manor to be set ablaze, declaring that Han Ying would serve as a "funeral object" for the Four Seasons Manor, thus achieving a "fitting end." As the beautiful manor was consumed by flames, Zhou Zishu watched, his heart filled with agonizing pain. Duan Peng Ju further relayed Prince Jin's ruthless command: "If he is loyal to his old sword, break it. If he cannot depart from his homeland, then ruin it."

Zhou Zishu reflected on his past, recalling his earnest desire to establish the Window of Heaven to bring light to a dark world, only to realize that his self-sacrifice had inadvertently served to empower the very evils he fought against. Duan Peng Ju then ordered Zhou Zishu's arrest and their departure to Jin. Meanwhile, Gu Xiang and Cao Weining enjoyed a peaceful existence, though Gu Xiang still harbored a longing for Wen Ke Xing and Zhou Zishu.

Noticing her wistfulness, Cao Weining offered to accompany her to Four Seasons Manor, but Gu Xiang hesitated, fearing Wen Ke Xing's displeasure. She confessed that she was simply unaccustomed to such tranquility and worried that their happy days might vanish. Cao Weining, holding her hand, sincerely promised never to leave her side. Their tender moment was interrupted by the blare of a warning horn from the mountains.

Cao Weining recognized it as an invasion alarm, while Gu Xiang immediately identified the sound as belonging to the Scorpion's Drug Men army. Without hesitation, she led Cao Weining towards the mountain. They arrived at the Gentle Wind Sword Sect to find a scene of devastation, with many disciples wounded or dead. They quickly made their way to the back mountain, where the remaining disciples had taken refuge in an ancestral cave.

Cao Weining expressed concern for Mo Huai Yang, who had gone to fight the Drug Men and whose fate remained unknown. Gu Xiang offered a special antidote powder to the injured disciples, explaining that it was made by a friend of her master and specifically countered the corpse poison carried by the Drug Men. She described the Drug Men as once-living people, transformed into tireless, pain-immune monsters through dark witchcraft, whose toxic claws required caution.

Fan Huai Kong, overhearing this, angrily accused the Ghost Valley of creating such abominations, and explicitly named Wen Ke Xing as the valley chief. Cao Weining was stunned and disheartened to learn that his admired "Brother Wen" was the notorious leader of the Ghost Valley. Wen Ke Xing, still unconscious, was tormented by nightmares of his childhood. He relived the memory of his parents, Zhen Ru Yu and Zhen Miao Miao, living in seclusion, awaiting Qin Huai Zhang's arrival.

Instead, Zhao Jing appeared, pressuring his parents to hand over the armory key. His mother, Miao Miao, had secretly poisoned Zhao Jing's tea, offering only a three-month antidote and using it as leverage to protect her family. She warned him that the poison was incurable without her family's continued existence.

Young Wen Ke Xing, watching from behind a door, witnessed the entire exchange and subsequently blamed himself for bringing Zhao Jing to their home, only to be comforted by his mother. Waking from the terrifying dream, Wen Ke Xing was consumed by rage and grief, convinced that Zhao Jing was responsible for his parents' deaths. He tried to rush out to seek revenge, but Zhang Cheng Ling desperately struggled to restrain him.

At the Four Seasons Manor, the Grand Wizard, Wu Xi, and Prince Qi, Jing Bei Yuan, surveyed the charred ruins. Wu Xi, after a thorough search, found a single charred male body and concluded it was Zhou Zishu, ordering it buried. Jing Bei Yuan, however, remained skeptical, believing that Prince Jin would not easily kill Zhou Zishu and that his loyal former subordinates from Four Seasons Manor would protect him.

Wu Xi, with a heavy heart, revealed to Jing Bei Yuan that Prince Jin had, in fact, long since massacred all of Four Seasons Manor's former disciples, which was the true reason Zhou Zishu had abandoned the Window of Heaven and wandered the world. Just then, they encountered the frantic Wen Ke Xing, still trying to break free from Zhang Cheng Ling's grip and yelling about vengeance.

Zhang Cheng Ling quickly explained that Zhou Zishu had been captured by the Window of Heaven and that Wen Ke Xing was suffering from a martial arts deviation. Wu Xi intervened, swiftly subduing Wen Ke Xing, telling him that Zhou Zishu was safe though captured, then instructed him to rest, assuring Zhang Cheng Ling that Wen Ke Xing was merely exhausted. Back in the cave, days passed, and food supplies dwindled rapidly.

Cao Weining and Mo Wei Xu discussed their precarious situation, debating whether to launch a desperate counterattack against the Drug Men outside. Gu Xiang resolutely volunteered to join the fight, asserting that she was no outsider and was willing to die alongside them, adding with defiance that she had probably killed more people than Mo Wei Xu.

Episode 30 Recap

Scorpion King and Evil Bodhisattva had surrounded the Gentle Wind Sword Sect, where the remaining disciples, along with Cao Weining and Gu Xiang, were hiding in a cave. Evil Bodhisattva expressed concern about Mo Huai Yang bringing reinforcements, but Scorpion King, dismissively, stated they would eliminate anyone who dared to interfere. To lure the hungry disciples out, he instructed his men to fan the smoke from their roasted meat towards the cave entrance.

Inside the cave, Cao Weining offered food to Gu Xiang and, with much hesitation, questioned Wen Ke Xing's true identity, struggling to reconcile his image as a kind individual with the rumor of him being the chief of Ghost Valley. Gu Xiang, sensing his inner conflict, asked if he would kill her if she were truly a "lonely ghost from Mount Qingya" who had inadvertently come to the human world and deceived him.

Cao Weining firmly declared that if she were a Ghost Valley spy who had deliberately infiltrated his sect to harm his brethren, he would kill her. However, he immediately vowed to then take his own life to accompany her, promising they would be together in the next life, where he would protect her from all hardship. Deeply moved, Gu Xiang embraced him and tearfully recounted her past.

She explained that she had been in Ghost Valley since childhood, one of many children kidnapped by the old chief for his evil cultivation. She survived only because Wen Ke Xing, then a young teenager, pleaded for her life, keeping her as a "living toy" and promising to eventually lead her to the human world.

Gu Xiang further revealed that Wen Ke Xing later orchestrated a bloody coup, killing the old chief and replacing all the Ten Devils, earning him the name "Wen the Lunatic." His true purpose in ordering the ghosts to retrieve the Glazed Armor, she explained, was a pretense for his deep-seated revenge against the wicked of the world.

Cao Weining was stunned to learn that Wen Ke Xing had been kidnapped to Ghost Valley after his parents' deaths, and despite drinking the Water of Lethe to erase his memories, his unwavering resolve had allowed him to secretly harbor his hatred for years. Meanwhile, Wen Ke Xing awoke, having been treated by Jing Bei Yuan and Da Wu. Upon learning that Zhou Zi Shu had been taken to Jin, he was desperate to rescue him.

However, Jing Bei Yuan cautioned that they were severely outnumbered, and Zhou Zi Shu was likely already in Jin, making a direct rescue attempt exceedingly difficult. In Jin, Zhou Zi Shu was brought before Prince Jin by Duan Peng Ju. Prince Jin, adopting a facade of old friendship, used Zhou Zi Shu's former sword to cut his bindings and invited him to share a jar of aged wine from Qingluan Courtyard, reminiscing about their decade-old pact.

Zhou Zi Shu somberly observed that none of their old companions remained: Yun Xing was exiled, Qing Luan committed suicide, Prince Qi was poisoned by Prince Jin, and Jiu Xiao fell in battle. Only he and Prince Jin were left. Prince Jin, with feigned regret, urged Zhou Zi Shu to rejoin him, offering to forgive their past grievances. Zhou Zi Shu rejected his offer, accusing him of hypocrisy.

Prince Jin then questioned how Zhou Zi Shu had managed to circumvent the Nails of Seven Torments, even deceiving Duan Peng Ju. Zhou Zi Shu clarified that he hadn't avoided the punishment but had endured it in an agonizing, prolonged manner, inserting one nail every three months over 18 months.

This allowed him to adapt to the pain and retain some martial arts, ensuring he upheld the rules he himself had established for his men, believing he couldn't face his fallen brothers in the afterlife if he made an exception. Prince Jin dismissed his suffering, arguing that such sacrifices were necessary for his grand vision of a peaceful world.

Zhou Zi Shu furiously overturned the wine table, condemning Prince Jin's ambition and asserting that his brothers died for Prince Jin's selfish desires, not for any righteous cause, citing Han Ying's death as a prime example. Enraged, Prince Jin disparaged Han Ying as a "cheap orphan slave" and mocked Zhou Zi Shu for defending him.

Zhou Zi Shu retorted that Han Ying was also a human life, only twenty-two years old, and reminded Prince Jin of the countless lives lost for his supposed "righteous path." Their argument escalated, with Prince Jin dismissing Zhou Zi Shu as a "commoner." Overwhelmed by anger, Zhou Zi Shu placed his dagger at Prince Jin's throat.

When guards rushed in, Zhou Zi Shu struck Prince Jin with the Freezing Aroma Palm, a unique Four Seasons Manor martial art, causing him to cough up blood and collapse. Severely injured, Prince Jin ordered his guards not to kill Zhou Zi Shu. Outside the cave, Scorpion King's Drug Men maintained their siege. Suddenly, Mo Huai Yang arrived, accompanied by Zhao Jing.

Upon seeing Scorpion King, Zhao Jing angrily slapped him, branding him an "unfilial rascal" and ordering him to withdraw his "disgusting monsters." Scorpion King was utterly disheartened, finally understanding Zhao Jing's betrayal. Mo Huai Yang demanded an explanation for the siege and the deaths of his disciples. Zhao Jing, feigning complete ignorance and profound shame for his "son's" actions, promised a satisfactory recompense.

Mo Huai Yang, holding three pieces of Glazed Armor, made it clear that mere apologies were insufficient for the lives lost. He reminded Zhao Jing of their covenant and what was expected. Zhao Jing, eager to secure the Glazed Armor, agreed to Mo Huai Yang's unspoken demand, promising to personally deliver Scorpion King's head once their plans were fulfilled. Meanwhile, Duan Peng Ju relentlessly tortured Zhou Zi Shu, attempting to force him to heal Prince Jin.

He revealed that Prince Jin's injury from the Freezing Aroma Palm had severely damaged his heart meridians, condemning him to be bedridden for life, and emphasized that only Zhou Zi Shu possessed the knowledge to cure it. Duan Peng Ju threatened Zhou Zi Shu with a brutal death, including being drawn and quartered, if he refused to cooperate.

Zhou Zi Shu, however, remained resolute, stating that his own death would ensure Prince Jin's demise, as he intended to wait for him in the netherworld. He had no desire to save the man who had destroyed his life and those he cherished. Realizing Zhou Zi Shu's unwavering defiance, Duan Peng Ju left him to suffer, hoping time would eventually break his will.

Episode 31 Recap

Changing Ghost and Black Grim Reaper reported to Scorpion King about the recent battle at the Gentle Wind Sword Sect, detailing 47 losses and 3 injuries. Scorpion King, acknowledging their efforts, instructed Liu Qianqiao to distribute their monthly antidotes. Lovelace Ghost then presented Cao Weining and Gu Xiang to Scorpion King, who noticed Gu Xiang was upset about her antidote.

Scorpion King, referring to Gu Xiang as "Amethyst Fiend," ordered Liu Qianqiao to untie her, stating his intention to have a private conversation with her. Meanwhile, at the Gentle Wind Sword Sect, Fan Huai Kong confronted Mo Huai Yang about their sect's principles and the apparent alliance with questionable figures. Mo Huai Yang defended his actions, explaining that his alliance was with Zhao Jing, the Five Lakes Alliance Chief, not directly with evil cults.

He clarified that Zhao Jing was the one colluding with Scorpion King and the Ghost Valley. Mo Huai Yang revealed that he had not given the real Glazed Armor to Zhao Jing and that their cooperation was merely a pretense. He argued that his primary goal was to preserve the Gentle Wind Sect's legacy, even if it meant sacrificing his own reputation.

He aimed to become the martial arts leader at the upcoming Heroes Conference and lead the charge against Ghost Valley. Realizing his misunderstanding, Fan Huai Kong apologized to Mo Huai Yang. Bi Xing Ming, Cheng Zi Chen, and other former Window of Heaven disciples bravely infiltrated Prince Jin's prison, successfully rescuing Zhou Zi Shu.

However, they were ambushed by Duan Peng Ju, who revealed he had intentionally allowed the prison break to discreetly eliminate Zhou Zi Shu and blame it on an escape attempt. Cheng Zi Chen bravely sacrificed himself to protect Zhou Zi Shu. Just as Duan Peng Ju prepared to deliver the killing blow, Wen Ke Xing dramatically descended, instructing Bi Xing Ming to lead the others to safety.

Duan Peng Ju, recognizing Wen Ke Xing as the Ghost Valley Chief, initially dismissed him as a lone opponent but was quickly overwhelmed when Wen Ke Xing summoned a multitude of Ghost Valley's phantoms. Terrified, Duan Peng Ju and his men fled. Wen Ke Xing then gathered the former Window of Heaven disciples, explaining that Han Ying, before his death, had entrusted them to him with the hope that they would join Four Seasons Manor.

Wen Ke Xing then led them in kneeling before Zhou Zi Shu, formally acknowledging him as their lord. Overcome with emotion, Zhou Zi Shu accepted. They brought Zhou Zi Shu to Jing Bei Yuan and the Grand Wizard's residence. Seeing Zhou Zi Shu's severe injuries, Gu Xiang expressed her anger and vowed revenge on Prince Jin. Wen Ke Xing anxiously awaited the Grand Wizard's assessment.

The Grand Wizard confirmed that while Zhou Zi Shu's Nails of Seven Torments were challenging, they were not insurmountable. Wen Ke Xing gratefully promised to repay their kindness. Jing Bei Yuan remarked on his long-standing friendship with Zhou Zi Shu, a fact that surprised Wen Ke Xing. Zhou Zi Shu suggested that the formal master-disciple ceremony for the new disciples should wait until Zhang Cheng Ling returned.

Later, Wen Ke Xing asked Zhou Zi Shu why he wasn't surprised by his arrival, to which Zhou Zi Shu replied that he always knew Wen Ke Xing would come for him. At Jing Bei Yuan's home, Jing Bei Yuan and the Grand Wizard questioned Gu Xiang and Cao Weining about their elopement. Gu Xiang proudly explained that Cao Weining chose her over the rigid rules of the martial world.

Cao Weining recounted how he was deeply troubled by his master Mo Huai Yang's alliance with Zhao Jing and the defection of some Ghost Valley figures to Zhao Jing's side, which his "Uncle Master" (Fan Huai Kong) only vaguely explained as "far-reaching plans." Disillusioned, Cao Weining decided to abandon the martial arts world and elope with Gu Xiang for a simple life, a proposal Gu Xiang joyfully accepted.

However, when pressed about how they reunited with Wen Ke Xing, Gu Xiang hesitated, and Cao Weining revealed that Wen Ke Xing had explicitly forbidden her from discussing his secret agreement with Scorpion King. Later, Gu Xiang confronted Wen Ke Xing, urging him not to return to Ghost Valley. She expressed her deep concern, having witnessed Scorpion King controlling other ghosts with secret medicine, and feared Wen Ke Xing was "asking a tiger for its skin."

Wen Ke Xing dismissed her fears, assuring her he would return quickly after relinquishing his position as Chief and settling matters with Luo Fu Meng. He reiterated that he had a plan and would not be outsmarted by Scorpion King, implying he was the true manipulator. He specifically instructed Gu Xiang not to reveal any details of his agreement with Scorpion King to Zhou Zi Shu. Meanwhile, at Mount Dagu Sect, Zhang Cheng Ling trained relentlessly.

Shen Shen received a letter from the Five Lakes Alliance, confirming an "Exorcism Assembly" at White Deer Town, located near Mount Qingya, the burial site of Ghost Valley's first chief. The assembly's goal was to annihilate Ghost Valley. Knowing Wen Ke Xing would be there, Shen Shen asked Zhang Cheng Ling for his opinion on whether they should attend. Returning to Ghost Valley, Wen Ke Xing found Scorpion King seated on the Chief's throne.

Wen Ke Xing, undeterred, mockingly offered him the position, which Scorpion King humbly declined. A frightened maidservant's reaction prompted Wen Ke Xing to muse that even the fiercest ghosts yearn to become human once they find a path back to the mortal world. Luo Fu Meng, having taken "Drunk-Like-a-Dream" to counteract the "Water of Lethe," regained all her memories.

She tearfully acknowledged Wen Ke Xing's childhood name, "Ah Xing," and expressed deep regret for not saving his parents, who had shown her great kindness in Healer Valley, and for failing to care for him properly. Wen Ke Xing then confided his true intentions. He admitted that his eight years as Ghost Valley Chief, living in constant paranoia and plotting revenge, brought him no peace, even after eliminating his parents' direct murderers.

He realized his true torment stemmed from his own role in their demise. This led him to meticulously engineer a grand scheme to eradicate all the "filthiness" in the world and the hypocritical "righteous" martial artists he viewed as "greedy ghosts in human skin." He confessed he had no Glazed Armor; he had secretly killed Hanged Ghost and fabricated the theft as a pretext to reignite a massive conflict, aiming for mutual destruction, including his own.

However, meeting Zhou Zi Shu had fundamentally changed him, teaching him that hatred, like greed, merely imprisons oneself, and that his survival was meant for a life beyond vengeance. He revealed he had struck a mutually beneficial deal with Scorpion King. Wen Ke Xing urged Luo Fu Meng to take Liu Qianqiao and the other women of the Department of the Unfaithful, whose poisons Scorpion King would remove, and return to the human world. Luo Fu Meng, though acknowledging his path, firmly declared her own choice to remain in the Ghost Valley and endure her suffering forever.

Episode 32 Recap

After Jing Bei Yuan rescued Zhang Cheng Ling and returned him to Shen Shen and Gao Xiaolian, he assigned his disciple Ah Qin Lai to serve him. However, when Shen Shen revealed that Wen Ke Xing was the chief of Ghost Valley, Zhang Cheng Ling became deeply distraught, crying profusely. Overcome with a desire for revenge, he dedicated himself to relentless martial arts training, dismissing Gao Xiaolian's attempts to console him and even angrily sending Ah Qin Lai away.

Zhou Zi Shu's injuries had gradually healed. He hosted a banquet, gathering Grand Wizard, Jing Bei Yuan, Gu Xiang, and Cao Weining. During the feast, where Grand Wizard playfully restricted Zhou Zi Shu's drinking due to his recovery, Ah Qin Lai returned. He reported that Zhang Cheng Ling, having discovered Wen Ke Xing's true identity, was consumed by rage and had sent him away.

Realizing the depth of Zhang Cheng Ling's pain and the severity of the misunderstanding, Zhou Zi Shu declared his intention to go to Ghost Valley himself to mediate. Before he left, Grand Wizard, stressing the potential for severe injuries and the need for preparedness, presented Zhou Zi Shu with a potent elixir, capable of sustaining life for five days, suggesting it could also be for Wen Ke Xing, which Zhou Zi Shu accepted.

Zhou Zi Shu immediately rode towards Mount Qingya. Along the way, while at an inn, he overheard other patrons discussing a major event unfolding: the chief of the Ghost Valley was trapped in a siege, cornered on White Deer Cliff by the Five Lakes Alliance, and was about to be killed. Upon hearing this, Zhou Zi Shu's anxiety surged, and he hastened his pace, realizing Wen Ke Xing was in grave danger.

Upon reaching White Deer Cliff, Zhou Zi Shu found Wen Ke Xing severely wounded and surrounded by Zhao Jing's forces. Shen Shen had also arrived, bringing Zhang Cheng Ling with him. Zhao Jing urged Wen Ke Xing to surrender, promising him a whole body, but Wen Ke Xing defiantly refused.

Cornered and desperate, Wen Ke Xing brandished the key to the armory, declaring it could open the legendary vault without the Glazed Armor, and offered it to anyone brave enough to kill him. Scorpion mocked Wen Ke Xing's claim to fair play. Zhao Jing then proclaimed that Wen Ke Xing's death was destiny.

Shen Shen, seeing Wen Ke Xing, condemned him as a "devilish son" of the honorable Zhen Ru Yu, declaring his intent to "erase the shame" for his late brother. Wen Ke Xing, overcome, admitted his regret for harming the Zhang family, stating Zhang Yu Sen had done no wrong to his father, and offered to let Zhang Cheng Ling kill him for revenge, promising not to resist because he was tired.

Shen Shen, suspicious, tried to stop Zhang Cheng Ling, warning him not to trust the devil's words. Zhang Cheng Ling initially accused Wen Ke Xing of lying, but then seemed to have a realization, muttering that Wen Ke Xing hadn't lied to his master. At this critical moment, Zhou Zi Shu dramatically descended, shielding Wen Ke Xing.

When Zhao Jing warned him against aiding a demon, Zhou Zi Shu retorted fiercely, asking if they wished to fight him one by one or all at once. Just as the confrontation escalated, Ye Bai Yi appeared, swiftly engaging Wen Ke Xing in battle, fulfilling his vow to kill Wen Ke Xing if he ever saw him again in the martial arts world. Zhou Zi Shu tried to intervene but was held back by Impermanence Ghost and Lovelace Ghost.

Unexpectedly, Zhang Cheng Ling, amidst the chaos, hurled a hidden weapon, striking Wen Ke Xing and causing him to lose balance. Wen Ke Xing stumbled and plummeted from the cliff. Zhou Zi Shu, horrified, cried out "Lao Wen!" and lunged after him, but Ye Bai Yi intervened, snatching Zhou Zi Shu from the fall.

As Wen Ke Xing vanished below, Zhao Jing let out a triumphant laugh, and Scorpion immediately urged everyone to search for the armory key on Wen Ke Xing's body. Zhou Zi Shu awoke in Ping An Inn, initially believing the ordeal to be a dream. However, the innkeeper's nonchalant remarks, combined with the celebratory clamor of the townsfolk rejoicing over Wen Ke Xing's death and complaining he had received a "whole body" instead of being desecrated, shattered his illusion.

Overwhelmed by grief and fury, Zhou Zi Shu coughed up blood. Meanwhile, Zhao Jing hosted a celebratory banquet, showering praise on Ye Bai Yi for his pivotal role in their victory. Ye Bai Yi, however, diverted the credit to Scorpion, noting that it was Scorpion's cunning plan to lure Wen Ke Xing out of the heavily fortified Ghost Valley that made the victory possible. After briefly acknowledging the accolades, Ye Bai Yi, stating his dislike for crowds, departed.

Zhao Jing then publicly introduced Scorpion as his "most beloved son, Zhao Xie Er," to the assembly. This revelation, along with another martial artist inadvertently mentioning "the famous leader of the Scorpion" while toasting, cemented Scorpion's true identity to the attendees. Though Zhao Jing feigned humility, stating his goal was merely to uphold justice and vanquish evil rather than leadership, the attendees' fervent support for him as the new martial arts alliance leader was undeniable.

Fan Huai Kong, witnessing these developments, silently departed from the banquet. Gu Xiang and Cao Weining sought information about Wen Ke Xing and found Fan Huai Kong, Cao Weining's paternal uncle, who reprimanded Cao Weining for associating with Gu Xiang. Cao Weining, however, stood firm, declaring Gu Xiang his fiancée and vowing to protect her even at the cost of his own life. Gu Xiang, distraught, then directly asked Fan Huai Kong if Wen Ke Xing was truly dead.

Meanwhile, Zhou Zi Shu arrived at the Five Lakes Alliance. He saw Liu Qian Qiao burning paper money outside, a solemn ritual. Forcing his way inside, he found Wen Ke Xing's body. As Five Lakes Alliance disciples rushed to confront him, Zhou Zi Shu, determined to prevent any further desecration of Wen Ke Xing's remains, kicked a burning piece of firewood towards the body, igniting it in a protective blaze. Overwhelmed with pain, he departed.

Soon after, Gu Xiang and Cao Weining found Zhou Zi Shu. A grief-stricken Gu Xiang confronted him, desperately asking if he had saved her master as promised. Zhou Zi Shu, with a heavy heart, admitted his failure and explained he had set the body on fire. Gu Xiang, consumed by sorrow, fainted. Zhou Zi Shu then instructed Cao Weining to take Gu Xiang away to safety.

He advised them that if the Central Plains became too dangerous, they should return to South Xinjiang with Jing Bei Yuan and Zhou Zi Shu's eighteen new disciples, where Jing Bei Yuan would ensure their lasting peace. When Cao Weining inquired about Zhou Zi Shu's own plans, Zhou Zi Shu remained silent. Drowning in sorrow over the loss of his soulmate, Wen Ke Xing, Zhou Zi Shu retreated to the riverside where Wen Ke Xing had fallen.

He sat alone, drinking and reminiscing about their shared past, particularly recalling Wen Ke Xing's declaration of him as a "soulmate." In his grief, Zhou Zi Shu finally understood Wen Ke Xing's profound desire: to incinerate the corrupt human world and the ghost realm alike, to see those consumed by greed and hypocrisy suffer the consequences of their actions, and to burn the tainted world as a pyre for his murdered parents.

Though he had once deemed Wen Ke Xing's vengeful path too extreme, Zhou Zi Shu now fully comprehended his anguish. With this clarity, and a fierce resolve, Zhou Zi Shu made the perilous decision to remove the seven nails from his body, a procedure Grand Wizard had warned would cause internal meridians to rupture unless protected by a special elixir. Uttering, "The world is not important, but my soulmate is.

Since my soulmate is gone, what do I have to care about?" , he began the agonizing process, determined to fulfill Wen Ke Xing's unfinished legacy. Zhao Jing announced that the Heroes Conference would restart the following day, on "Insects Awaken," with the goal of completely eradicating Ghost Valley and electing a new martial arts alliance leader.

He began by toasting his "deceased brothers," invoking their spirits to bless the Five Lakes Alliance in selecting a virtuous leader to destroy Ghost Valley. He then toasted the assembled "brothers," encouraging them for the hard fight ahead against the well-defended Ghost Valley, and expressed his wish for their "safe return" to celebrate for days. While some attendees confidently dismissed the Ghost Valley as a negligible threat after its chief's death, others remained cautious.

Shen Shen then raised a toast to Zhao Jing, wishing him success in fulfilling "Big Brother's unfinished career." Zhang Cheng Ling also toasted "Uncle Zhao," expressing his hope that Zhao Jing would achieve his aspirations and that his deceased father and uncles would bless his quest for revenge. Scorpion, too, toasted his "godfather," openly wishing him to become the "supreme leader of the martial arts world."

Zhao Jing, while pretending modesty and claiming his motivation was solely for justice and demon elimination rather than leadership, inwardly beamed with satisfaction as the various martial artists lauded his accomplishments and acclaimed him as their next leader.

Drinking alone, Ye Bai Yi bitterly reflected on his deceased disciple, Chang Qing, whom he called an "idiot" for creating the Ghost Valley and its "Water of Lethe" with the misguided intention of offering redemption to evildoers, a path that ultimately led to his own demise after practicing the formidable Combined Six Cultivation Power. He chastised Chang Qing for attempting to shoulder the burdens of the world like a "Bodhisattva," only to be betrayed by fate.

Ye Bai Yi revealed that he had promised Chang Qing to destroy the Ghost Valley but had never dared to tell him that "our child" died outside Mount Qingya, and how Rong Xuan's death, and that of another young man, unexpectedly led to that young man's son, Wen Ke Xing, becoming the Ghost Valley chief – a cruel twist of fate. Meanwhile, Liu Qianqiao, cleverly disguised as Duan Peng Ju, confronted Zhao Jing.

She accused him of being a duplicitous figure, "playing both sides against the middle" as both the Five Lakes Alliance chief and the leader of Scorpion. Zhao Jing, caught off guard, attempted to downplay his involvement, claiming his multiple identities were strategic secrets and offering a selective explanation. However, Liu Qianqiao, in her disguise, condemned Scorpion's heinous acts of "hurting and pillaging everywhere," and "buying people to make Drug Men," declaring such actions anathema.

She severed any ties with Zhao Jing, warning that supporting such a figure would jeopardize the Window of Heaven, and vowed to treat him as an enemy in any future encounter. Zhao Jing, desperate to maintain his facade, denied being the Scorpion King, asserting Scorpion was merely his "ally" and "godchild" whose "evil deeds" he was unaware of, even feigning ignorance about "Drug Men."

After the confrontation, Liu Qianqiao relayed Zhao Jing's true intentions to Scorpion: he planned to restart the Heroes Conference, eradicate Ghost Valley, and then eliminate Scorpion to absorb his forces. Hearing this chilling confirmation of Zhao Jing's betrayal, Scorpion was left profoundly disheartened.

Episode 33 Recap

Liu Qianqiao, disguised as Duan Pengju, reported to Scorpion King that Zhao Jing, without hesitation, pledged to handle everything perfectly to secure his alliance with the Window of Heaven and uphold the reputation of the Five Lakes Alliance. Scorpion King questioned whether Zhao Jing's words were truly spontaneous or came after some struggle, but Liu Qianqiao, still in disguise, stated that the test was entirely superfluous, as Zhao Jing's true treacherous nature was already abundantly clear.

Later, Scorpion King, acknowledging his own misplaced trust in Zhao Jing, ironically called Liu Qianqiao a "Fanatic" for her lingering hope. Liu Qianqiao admitted she wished to give Zhao Jing and herself one last chance. Moved, or perhaps simply seeing an opportunity, Scorpion King decided to make one more "superfluous action" for her benefit. He presented Liu Qianqiao with two complete antidotes for the Slave Voodoo, along with the recipe for a monthly maintenance cure.

He told her he was fulfilling her long-standing wish to free Yu Qiu Feng, deeming Yu Qiu Feng's position as Mount Hua Sect leader insignificant. Scorpion King offered these as a "wedding gift" if Yu Qiu Feng chose to abandon his leadership and elope with her.

He then gave Liu Qianqiao a critical choice: either fully free Yu Qiu Feng with the complete cure or use the monthly Slave Voodoo to keep him eternally subservient to her, emphasizing that she deserved to make her own choice after a life of suffering. Liu Qianqiao found Yu Qiu Feng and pleaded with him to run away with her.

Yu Qiu Feng, however, deflected, bringing up the imminent Heroes Conference and feigning willingness to escape, but using their shared Slave Voodoo affliction as an excuse, claiming they would both die within a month without the cure. Seeing through his cowardice, Liu Qianqiao proposed they at least spend a month together.

She desperately tried to convince him of the extreme danger posed by the Ghost Valley and the high likelihood of their demise in the upcoming battle, urging him to escape with her to cherish their remaining time. When Yu Qiu Feng continued to make excuses, fearing the consequences of fleeing, Liu Qianqiao, her resolve hardened, declared she would leave that very night and gave him a final chance to join her.

Yu Qiu Feng, now visibly panicked, begged her not to leave, revealing his true fear that Scorpion King would not spare him. Liu Qianqiao retorted that she had offered him a choice, implying he had made his. Finally, heartbroken, she told him she no longer wished to hear his words. She handed him the complete Slave Voodoo cure, urging him to take it and flee White Deer Town, reiterating the genuine danger of the Ghost Valley.

She then returned a fan, a cherished memento of their past, signifying the complete end of their relationship. Yu Qiu Feng, concerned only for his own survival, asked if there were more cures and if she had taken one herself. Liu Qianqiao, her voice filled with sorrow, declared that his words made her sacrifice worthwhile, and tearfully severed their ties. She then dramatically tore the fan into pieces, vowing to forget him forever.

Yu Qiu Feng, devastated, watched her depart, reciting a poem about eternal longing, before reluctantly taking the antidote. The Heroes Conference officially commenced, with martial artists from various sects gathered. Shen Shen proposed electing a leader to guide the assault on Ghost Valley, nominating Master Ci Mu of the Shaolin Temple, praising his virtue, martial prowess, and Shaolin's prestige. Master Ci Mu, however, humbly declined, stating that his monastic vows precluded him from leading such a violent endeavor.

Zhao Jing then stepped in, proposing Mo Huai Yang, leader of the Gentle Wind Sword Sect, citing his past as a champion and his presumably advanced martial arts from secluded practice. Zhao Jing argued that the leader should be chosen based on martial skill.

Mo Huai Yang, in turn, rejected Zhao Jing's nomination, instead emphasizing that a leader for such a large-scale mission against Ghost Valley required not only virtue and prestige but also strong leadership, strategic acumen, and battle experience. He then declared Zhao Jing, the Chief of Five Lakes Alliance, to be the most suitable candidate, a sentiment echoed by many in the crowd.

They agreed that martial prowess should be the deciding factor and proposed a public duel, with the winner becoming the martial arts alliance leader. The crowd enthusiastically supported the idea. Zhao Jing and Mo Huai Yang exchanged formal greetings, and as their duel began, the onlookers expressed surprise at Zhao Jing's unexpected martial skill, noting he was holding his own against the formidable Mo Huai Yang. Suddenly, Zhou Zishu descended onto the stage, deriding the spectacle as "ridiculous."

He challenged Zhao Jing's right to stand there, asserting that a martial arts leader must possess both virtue and talent. Zhou Zishu then began to expose Zhao Jing's past, revealing his humble origins as a servant's son and how he cunningly manipulated his way into the Five Lakes Alliance by becoming the foster son of the Tai Lake Sect leader after the legitimate heir's suspicious death.

Zhao Jing's followers in the crowd tried to silence Zhou Zishu, but he pressed on, detailing how Zhao Jing had secretly poisoned Gao Chong's sword during a sparring match with Rong Xuan after the armory was built. This led Gao Chong to falsely believe he had harmed Rong Xuan, causing Rong Xuan to go mad and die.

Zhou Zishu highlighted that Gao Chong died with regret, unable to clear his name, and that the "five sons" of the alliance subsequently fractured, living in sorrow, all due to Zhao Jing's machinations. He challenged the heroes to consider if they would accept such a disloyal and immoral man as their leader. At that moment, Mo Huai Yang's disciples rushed to his aid, as he had been injured. The crowd condemned Zhao Jing's "sneak attack" with a hidden weapon.

Zhao Jing, dismissing the accusations, brazenly claimed Zhou Zishu was an "accomplice of Chief of Ghost Valley," recalling how Zhou Zishu had protected Wen Kexing previously. He then falsely accused Zhou Zishu of launching the hidden weapon that injured Mo Huai Yang. Ignoring Zhao Jing's attempts to deflect blame, Zhou Zishu identified himself as the leader of the Four Seasons Manor and challenged Zhao Jing to a duel.

Just then, Wen Kexing dramatically appeared, questioning who had declared the Four Seasons Manor doomed. The crowd was stunned, having believed him dead after his fall from the cliff. Wen Kexing then offered to fight in Zhou Zishu's stead. A voice from the crowd immediately identified Wen Kexing as the "Chief of Ghost Valley." Wen Kexing acknowledged his name but claimed to be "Wen Kexing of the Four Seasons Manor," implying it was merely a shared name.

Zhao Jing scornfully dismissed this, accusing Wen Kexing of treating the heroes as fools and insisting he was the true Chief of Ghost Valley, as recorded in the "Ghost Book." Wen Kexing countered that the "Ghost Book" was Zhao Jing's creation, and an unjust man like him could easily frame someone. Shen Shen then proposed bringing forth the three "betraying ghosts"—Impermanence Ghost, Black Grim Reaper, and Happy Ghost—to identify the true Chief.

Zhao Jing presented them, but to his utter fury, all three ghosts, secretly instructed by Scorpion King, feigned ignorance and denied knowing Wen Kexing. Another voice from the crowd further undermined Zhao Jing, reminding everyone that the Chief of Ghost Valley, Wen Kexing, was supposedly killed at White Deer Cliff and his body was still at the Five Lakes Alliance stronghold, questioning if Zhao Jing was deliberately misleading them. Zhao Jing, realizing Scorpion King's betrayal, was consumed with rage.

Wen Kexing, to definitively prove his identity, borrowed the White Cloth Sword from Zhou Zishu and performed the "Eighteen Moves of Qiuming." The crowd immediately recognized it as the unique martial art of Zhen Ru Yu, the Divine Healer from Healer Valley, demanding to know Wen Kexing's relation to him. Wen Kexing's tone turned bitter as he questioned why they remembered his father now, yet were absent when Zhen Ru Yu was persecuted, stripped of his martial arts, and murdered.

Elderly Nun Zhi Yin of the Emei Sect demanded a direct answer, and Wen Kexing confirmed Zhen Ru Yu was his late father. Zhao Jing immediately interjected, calling it "bullshit" and pointing out Wen Kexing's earlier claim of being surnamed Wen. Wen Kexing clarified that his father's original surname was Wen, changed to Zhen by the Healer Valley Chief, but he reverted to Wen after his father was abandoned by the sect.

He then addressed Elderly Nun Zhi Yin directly, recounting how Emei female knights had sewn him a patchwork cloak as a baby, a deeply personal detail that startled her. Zhao Jing quickly interrupted, warning her not to be confused and insisting that the upright Zhen Ru Yu could not have sired such a "vile son." Zhao Jing further accused Wen Kexing of orchestrating the ghosts' betrayal as a trick.

Shen Shen then blamed Ghost Valley for his brother Gao Chong's unjust death and claimed Wen Kexing had already stolen four of the Five Lakes Alliance's Glazed Armor pieces and was now targeting the last one. Wen Kexing sharply silenced Shen Shen, stating he was unworthy of calling Gao Chong "Big Brother."

Zhao Jing then dramatically turned on Shen Shen, accusing him of colluding with Ghost Valley to murder Gao Chong, leak the Glazed Armor secret, kill Ao Laizi of the Mount Tai Sect, and kidnap Gao Xiaolian to force Gao Chong's suicide. Shen Shen vehemently denied these accusations, calling them "nonsense." Suddenly, Gao Xiaolian appeared, denouncing Zhao Jing's words as lies.

She recounted Zhao Jing's rise to power, how he, a servant, had manipulated his way into the Tai Lake Sect by caring for its leader after his son's death. She passionately demanded to know why Zhao Jing hated her father so fiercely, not only taking his life and position but also utterly discrediting him.

She suggested it was because her father had witnessed Zhao Jing in his "miserable" and "humble" state decades ago, noting that all who knew Zhao Jing in his early days had tragically died, questioning if these were mere coincidences. Zhao Jing weakly tried to dismiss her claims. Zhang Chengling then stepped forward, introducing himself as the son of Zhang Yusen, and presented a letter his father had written to Ye Baiyi before his death.

The letter explicitly stated that Rong Xuan's madness 20 years ago was caused by Zhao Jing secretly poisoning Gao Chong's sword during their sparring, leading to a chain of tragedies and ultimately making Zhao Jing responsible for the "thousands of casualties in the battle of Mount Qingya." Zhao Jing, feigning hurt, dismissed Zhang Chengling as "talking nonsense."

Wen Kexing then intervened, sarcastically asking Zhao Jing how it felt to be "unable to speak in self-defense," reminding him of how he had slandered Wen Kexing's own father with partial truths. Gao Xiaolian then presented Deng Kuan, the elder disciple of the Yueyang Sect, who was believed to have committed suicide.

She recalled how Deng Kuan had publicly accused her father at the Mount Jun Heroes Conference, forcing her father to die to prove his innocence, and questioned his subsequent disappearance. Deng Kuan, still disoriented, cried out, "Zhao Jing set me up!" and expressed remorse to his master. Gao Xiaolian explained that Deng Kuan had been captured by Zhao Jing and brainwashed with "occult tricks" to falsely accuse her father, and despite their efforts, he had not fully recovered.

She concluded by declaring Zhao Jing the "evil backstage manipulator" and the "shame of the martial arts world." Gao Xiaolian, identifying herself as a powerless woman who risked her life to expose Zhao Jing, appealed to the heroes to uphold justice. The crowd, now fully enraged, erupted with chants of "Kill him, kill him, kill him!" Zhao Jing, facing universal condemnation, stubbornly refused to admit defeat.

He lunged his sword at Gao Xiaolian, but Wen Kexing swiftly blocked him, effortlessly knocking Zhao Jing to the ground. Zhao Jing still refused to confess, making a desperate lunge at Wen Kexing with his sword. Wen Kexing held his sword to Zhao Jing's throat, intending to take revenge for his parents. The crowd roared its approval. Zhao Jing, with a defiant laugh, admitted to making a "wrong move" but declared he had not truly lost.

He boasted of manipulating the entire martial world for over two decades, turning it "upside down," and claimed to have lived "freely and died gloriously," feeling no regret. He warned that killing him would only ensure they "all live under my shadow." Wen Kexing, unfazed, vowed to make Zhao Jing "wish you were dead" before wounding him.

Immediately after, Scorpion King approached the incapacitated Zhao Jing and forced a pill into his mouth, explaining that since Zhao Jing was so good at talking and could easily sway him, he "shouldn't speak" anymore, condemning him to a life of silence before telling him to "rest well." Wen Kexing then returned the White Cloth Sword to Zhou Zishu, gently suggesting they "go back home."

He promised to explain everything once they were home and accept any "punishment or reward" Zhou Zishu deemed fit. Wen Kexing, smiling, confessed this was the "happiest moment" of his life, playfully asking Zhou Zishu not to beat him there. Zhou Zishu, with a fond smile, agreed to "mark it on the book first." Zhang Chengling, having witnessed everything, greeted his "Master" and "Uncle Master," and Zhou Zishu affectionately called him a "little idiot," telling him, "Let's go back home."

As they prepared to leave, Mo Huai Yang suddenly blocked their path, identifying Wen Kexing as the "Chief of the Ghost Valley" and challenging his departure. Zhou Zishu immediately confronted Mo Huai Yang about his disrespectful address.

Mo Huai Yang argued that while Zhao Jing's demise was deserved, the true purpose of the conference was to "crusade against this Chief of the Ghost Valley," demanding Wen Kexing account for the "public indignation" and accusing him of being shameless for not admitting his identity. Wen Kexing, with a slight smirk, finally admitted, "I'm the chief of the Ghost Valley," explaining he was "just kidding" earlier to facilitate Zhao Jing's public judgment.

Elderly Nun Zhi Yin was outraged, but Wen Kexing apologized, stating the deception was necessary for his plan. He then declared that his entry into Ghost Valley was "due to all of you" in the martial arts world, sarcastically asking Elderly Nun Zhi Yin if it wasn't ironic for her to call his father "Benefactor" now, and questioning the whereabouts of the Emei Sect and his father's other friends during his family's time of crisis.

Mo Huai Yang interjected, asserting that Zhen Ru Yu's fate was a consequence of protecting Rong Xuan and hiding the armory's secret, and declared his intention to "settle scores" with Wen Kexing. At that moment, Ye Baiyi suddenly arrived, asserting his authority by stating that anyone wishing to challenge Wen Kexing must go through him first, emphasizing that it was "not your turn" to settle scores.

The martial artists eagerly welcomed Ye Baiyi, urging him to lead them to "wipe out the Ghost Valley." Ye Baiyi confirmed his intention to "definitely" destroy Ghost Valley, ominously declaring that "everyone of the Ghost Valley is doomed to die."

Episode 34 Recap

Ye Baiyi appeared at the martial arts conference, where various sect leaders pleaded with him to lead an assault to wipe out the Ghost Valley. Ye Baiyi declared his intention to destroy the Ghost Valley and stated that all its inhabitants deserved to die. However, a monk spoke up, suggesting that Wen Kexing's actions were understandable given his circumstances. Ye Baiyi quickly dismissed this, branding Wen Kexing's crimes as unforgivable.

He confronted Wen Kexing, demanding to know why he, as the Ghost Valley master, had broken the ancient rule of "Once one enters the Ghost Valley, they are forever separated from the mortal world," thus allowing ghosts to wreak havoc. Wen Kexing humbly admitted his guilt. Ye Baiyi then pronounced his sentence: Wen Kexing was to permanently seal the Ghost Valley and ensure that all its ghosts never again set foot in the human realm.

He asked if Wen Kexing could commit to this, to which Wen Kexing readily agreed. Ye Baiyi then urged him to leave immediately. Confusion arose among some, but Ye Baiyi clarified his decision, explaining that by sealing Mount Qingya, the Ghost Valley and its inhabitants would naturally dissipate within a century, eliminating the need for further bloodshed. The Abbot of Shaolin and a nun praised this peaceful resolution, agreeing it was far better than perpetuating a cycle of endless revenge.

While most sect leaders consented, Mo Huaiyang was silently resentful but dared not voice his opposition. Ye Baiyi again instructed Wen Kexing to depart, and he, accompanied by Zhou Zishu and Zhang Chengling, left the conference, which Ye Baiyi then formally concluded. Back in the Ghost Valley, Gu Xiang light-heartedly chastised Wen Kexing for causing her so much grief with his supposed death, to which he playfully submitted to a punitive drink.

She then questioned how Zhou Zishu had seen his body, which Wen Kexing revealed was a meticulously prepared corpse, disguised to resemble himself and strategically left in the deep pool under a waterfall to thoroughly deceive Zhao Jing. When Gu Xiang playfully called him crafty and demanded another drink, Wen Kexing defended his use of such tactics against a villain.

Gu Xiang, realizing the extent of the deception, was surprised, asking Shen Shen when he had allied with Wen Kexing, especially after previously advocating for the destruction of the Ghost Valley. Wen Kexing then explained to Gu Xiang and Cao Weining that he had revealed his true identity to Shen Shen and Zhang Chengling much earlier, allowing them to choose whether to trust him.

He clarified that his "fake death" was an extremely risky maneuver, only possible with their support, particularly Shen Shen's internal assistance, which prevented Zhao Jing from closely inspecting the body and discovering the ruse. Gu Xiang then inquired if Ye Baiyi had also been part of the plan.

Wen Kexing confirmed Ye Baiyi's crucial role, admitting that without his powerful intervention, he would not have been able to expose Zhao Jing's conspiracy and escape with his life, given his identity as the Ghost Valley master. Shen Shen, reflecting on the situation, expressed relief that Wen Kexing had found a way to resolve his deep-seated grievances without further bloodshed, praising Ye Baiyi for achieving a peaceful outcome. Everyone present raised a toast to Ye Baiyi for his instrumental role.

Jing Beiyuan also lauded Wen Kexing's ingenious strategy, acknowledging his brilliance. The discussion then shifted to why Zhao Jing's life was spared. Wen Kexing explained it was a pact with Scorpion King. To prove Zhao Jing's conspiracy, the testimony of Deng Kuan, Gao Xiaolian's senior, was essential. Deng Kuan, whom Scorpion King had kept as an insensible "Drug Man," was the one whose false accusation had initially wronged Chief Gao.

Scorpion King agreed to restore Deng Kuan's consciousness in exchange for Zhao Jing's life. Gu Xiang, perplexed by Scorpion King's complex relationship with Zhao Jing, inquired further. Amidst the joyous celebration of Wen Kexing's vengeance, Zhou Zishu sat quietly, a poignant sadness weighing on him, as he reflected on his own dwindling time now that his friend's purpose was fulfilled.

After the revelation of Wen Kexing's alliance with Scorpion King and the surprising decision to spare Zhao Jing's life, Scorpion King frequently visited the incapacitated Zhao Jing, who was left unable to speak or care for himself. Scorpion King meticulously arranged for Zhao Jing's care, all while delivering a scathing monologue. He bitterly accused Zhao Jing of betrayal, stating that he would have done anything for his foster father had he simply asked, eliminating the need for deception.

Scorpion King reflected on the numerous people who had perished due to Zhao Jing's machinations, including those who genuinely loved him, confessing his own constant fear of meeting a similar end. He acknowledged that he had willingly allowed himself to be deceived for years, which sustained their illusion of a harmonious father-son relationship. Scorpion King then scorned Zhao Jing's ambition to become the supreme leader of the martial arts world, dismissing it as utterly ridiculous.

He pointed out Zhao Jing's hypocrisy, recalling how he had always condemned Scorpion King's research into "Drug Men" as evil, yet now found himself in such a vulnerable state. With a triumphant air, Scorpion King revealed that the Window of Heaven had become his ally, and even Prince Jin now accorded him respect. He questioned why Zhao Jing had always underestimated and disdained him, even attempting to betray him for mere subordinates.

He wondered if his unwavering devotion and love for Zhao Jing had inadvertently made him seem worthless. Scorpion King explained that his cooperation with Wen Kexing had a singular purpose: to orchestrate Zhao Jing's downfall at the pinnacle of his pride, thereby proving that he, Scorpion King, held ultimate control over Zhao Jing's destiny. He emphasized that he had extended numerous opportunities to Zhao Jing, but his foster father had squandered them all.

Scorpion King concluded by telling Zhao Jing to enjoy a life of passive existence while he, Scorpion King, embarked on a grander ambition: to kill Prince Jin, seize the throne, and make Zhao Jing a mere retired emperor, declaring this to be his "real cause." Wen Kexing and Zhang Chengling approached Zhou Zishu to offer a toast, acknowledging their deception regarding Wen Kexing's fake death.

Zhang Chengling, however, turned the tables, playfully "punishing" Zhou Zishu with a drink for withholding Wen Kexing's past and their plan from him, questioning if Zhou Zishu doubted their bond. Wen Kexing admitted his part in the scheme, praising Zhang Chengling's newfound mastery of Longyuan Cabinet mechanics, which was crucial in modifying the "Piercing Rain Needles" to facilitate the fake death.

Zhou Zishu, still visibly upset, sternly questioned why he was kept in the dark, forcing his own disciple to "kill" Wen Kexing with a self-defense weapon he had personally given him. He challenged Wen Kexing's trust. Shen Shen intervened, explaining that the fake death was essential to lower Zhao Jing's guard, allowing Wen Kexing to present all human and material evidence at the martial arts conference, publicly expose Zhao Jing's crimes, and clear the names of his victims.

He also relayed the Grand Wizard's advice to Wen Kexing against informing Zhou Zishu due to his severe injuries, emphasizing the need for rest and avoidance of any further physical or emotional strain. Zhou Zishu, dismissing their excuses, asserted his authority and demanded if Wen Kexing deserved punishment. Wen Kexing agreed, and Zhou Zishu ordered him to drink three large pots of liquor in rapid succession.

Later that night, a heavily inebriated Wen Kexing sought out Zhou Zishu, finding him in his room. He gleefully announced having out-drunk everyone and confessed the deep sorrow he had felt previously when drinking with Ye Baiyi, fearing Zhou Zishu's impending death, his potential rejection, and his own unworthiness of their brotherhood. All those anxieties, he declared, had now vanished. Wen Kexing poured out his heart, revealing his past desire to destroy both the world and himself.

He tearfully thanked Zhou Zishu for changing him, for showing him the profound ease and joy of living as a dignified man, a feeling he had never experienced before. He expressed a newfound sense of peace, believing his parents and master would be smiling at him if they could see him now.

Finally, Wen Kexing made a heartfelt request: after Gu Xiang's wedding, he wished for Zhou Zishu to accompany him back to the old farmhouse where he had lived with his parents. He lamented that his parents' bodies lay unburied for over two decades, and he had never dared to revisit the place alone. With Zhou Zishu by his side, he felt he could finally do it. Zhou Zishu, deeply moved, readily agreed.

The Ghost Valley was adorned with lanterns and vibrant decorations for Gu Xiang and Cao Weining's wedding. It was Zhou Zishu's first visit to the valley, and he found himself amused and slightly irritated when the ghosts greeted him as "Uncle Zhou." Gu Xiang clarified that Cao Weining had suggested the title, as Wen Kexing preferred to avoid the nicknames "Sick Dude" or "Ah Xu." After a light-hearted exchange, Zhou Zishu accepted "Brother Zishu" from Gu Xiang.

He then playfully chided her for her mischievousness, mentioning that Luo Fumeng was diligently preparing her dowry. Gu Xiang insisted that a bride should never prepare her own dowry. Cao Weining, in his nervous groom's attire, joined them, reminding Gu Xiang that the couple shouldn't meet before the ceremony, to which she retorted good-naturedly. Zhou Zishu teased Cao Weining, promising to support him against Gu Xiang's antics once they settled in Four Seasons Manor.

Zhou Zishu then decided to explore the Ghost Valley, with Zhang Chengling offering to accompany him. Gu Xiang then expressed her reluctance to move to Four Seasons Manor, wanting to stay with Wen Kexing. He gently reminded her that a married woman should not remain in her maiden home. Gu Xiang, in a mock tantrum, threatened to cancel the wedding if she couldn't stay by his side.

Wen Kexing, while touched, firmly but kindly chided her, reminding her of Cao Weining's profound sacrifices for their union. He then declared his intention to permanently seal the Ghost Valley after the wedding, fulfilling his promise to Ye Baiyi to restrain all ghosts within its confines. He framed this decision as a personal reconciliation with fate, accepting both the hardships and the invaluable gifts life had bestowed upon him.

Seeing her sadness, Wen Kexing quickly reassured her that he would still "sneak out" to visit them regularly, promising that in a few years, once true peace settled in the valley, everything would be well. Wen Kexing then turned to Zhang Chengling, asking him to decide the fate of Changing Ghost and his followers, who were imprisoned in the Chill Lake Jail. Wen Kexing admitted he had confined them because he no longer wished to shed blood.

Zhang Chengling, echoing his master's wisdom, decided to keep them in the Chill Lake Jail for reflection, emphasizing that killing them wouldn't undo the past and that "eyes are at the front of our head, so we are supposed to look ahead." He added that it would be inappropriate to cause death on Gu Xiang's wedding day. Gu Xiang playfully called Zhang Chengling a "little sage," much like Zhou Zishu.

Zhang Chengling then recalled Ye Baiyi's philosophy that the Ghost Valley's original purpose was to offer a path to redemption for lost souls. When Gu Xiang inquired about Ye Baiyi's whereabouts, Zhang Chengling explained that Ye Baiyi had taken Rong Xuan's remains to Mount Changming to be buried alongside his parents.

Meanwhile, in a quiet scene, Ye Baiyi was seen eating noodles, contemplating his extended life and the unique peace found in a "living death," vowing to eat more in memory of Changqing and Rong Xuan. For Gu Xiang's wedding, Wen Kexing had Luo Fumeng and Liu Qianqiao oversee the preparation of a lavish dowry, which left Gu Xiang beaming with joy. The other ghosts in the valley were also delighted, commenting on Gu Xiang's beauty and the festive atmosphere.

Liu Qianqiao remarked on the extensive traditional requirements for a dowry and subtly noted that Wen Kexing seemed to have prepared everything in a rush. Gu Xiang, however, expressed that having Luo Fumeng and Liu Qianqiao there for her was the greatest happiness. Luo Fumeng then presented Gu Xiang with a special gift: a pair of hairpins, which her own master had given her for her wedding.

She reassured Gu Xiang that the pins carried no ill omen, as her master had enjoyed a harmonious marriage and a full family, and she herself had never worn them. Gu Xiang, touched, wished for Luo Fumeng to escort her on her wedding day, dismissing any superstitious taboos. However, Luo Fumeng gently but firmly refused, explaining that matters of marital happiness were too significant to disregard tradition.

She informed Gu Xiang that she would go into seclusion in the back mountains and thus would not attend the ceremony, leaving Liu Qianqiao to manage the wedding arrangements. Luo Fumeng expressed her sadness, knowing that with the valley soon to be sealed, their next meeting would be far in the uncertain future. Despite her disappointment, Gu Xiang asked Luo Fumeng to place the hairpins on her head.

Liu Qianqiao stepped in, urging Gu Xiang to comply, emphasizing that all their actions were for her well-being, and promised to remain by Luo Fumeng’s side. Liu Qianqiao then gracefully adorned Gu Xiang's hair with the pins. As the wedding preparations continued, Gu Xiang inquired if Liu Qianqiao was also choosing to remain in the Ghost Valley, then casually asked about Yu Qiufeng. Liu Qianqiao responded with a blank "Who is Yu Qiufeng?"

, indicating she had completely moved on from that past. Wen Kexing then arrived, bearing a special wedding gift from the Grand Wizard: a unique, blessed red thread, of which only one pair existed in the world. He explained that it was believed to ensure lovers would meet in all their future lives.

Having already tied one on Cao Weining, Wen Kexing personally tied the other on Gu Xiang, who, despite joking about wanting a different partner in her next life if she grew tired of Cao Weining, eagerly accepted it. In his crimson wedding robes, Cao Weining was overwhelmed with nervousness, constantly sipping water. He confessed that he had always envisioned his wedding day with his master and fellow disciples present, never imagining he would marry in the Ghost Valley.

Zhang Chengling then remembered a message from Cao Weining's Senior Master, Fan Huaikong. Mimicking Fan Huaikong's stern yet heartfelt tone, Zhang Chengling relayed the message: Fan Huaikong urged Cao Weining to remember that "before right and wrong, there's good and evil," and expressed hope that he and Gu Xiang would lead a life of good deeds. Fan Huaikong promised to gradually persuade Cao Weining's Master, Mo Huaiyang, and asked for his grand-disciple to be brought to visit him someday.

Cao Weining was deeply moved by his Senior Master's unexpected blessing and forgiveness. Gu Xiang, witnessing his profound reaction, affectionately called Cao Weining a "big white rabbit," contrasting his innocence with Mo Huaiyang, the "old fox." Just then, an attendant announced the arrival of guests from Cao Weining's sect. Cao Weining was ecstatic, believing his Master, Mo Huaiyang, had come to accept his marriage after receiving the good news that he'd brought lavish betrothal gifts.

He eagerly moved to welcome them, and Gu Xiang, full of hope, wished to join him. Wen Kexing initially hesitated, but Zhou Zishu gently persuaded him, arguing that since the guests had come in good faith, they should be welcomed. Wen Kexing reluctantly agreed. Hand-in-hand, Gu Xiang and Cao Weining stepped out to greet Mo Huaiyang and his contingent. Cao Weining immediately knelt to kowtow to his Master.

However, Mo Huaiyang, looking directly at Gu Xiang, delivered a chilling insult, "So she is the siren who lured you to elope with her?" This accusation, meant to denigrate Gu Xiang, shattered the hopeful atmosphere of the wedding day.

Episode 35 Recap

Mo Huai Yang arrived at Ghost Valley, carrying a betrothal gift, ostensibly to celebrate the wedding. Cao Weining was overjoyed and eagerly went out to greet him. Gu Xiang wanted to accompany him, but Wen Ke Xing vehemently objected. After Zhou Zishu's persuasion, Wen Ke Xing reluctantly agreed.

As Gu Xiang and Cao Weining stepped out hand-in-hand to welcome Mo Huai Yang and his entourage, Mo Huai Yang, seeing Gu Xiang, harshly branded her as the siren who had lured Cao Weining to elope. He scornfully remarked that he had expected an exceptional beauty, but she was merely "so-so." Cao Weining knelt, pleading with his master, "Master, Ah Xiang is not a siren. Although she comes from Ghost Valley, she is quite pure and kind in personality.

She has been through a lot together with us in Mount Qingfeng. You didn't know it for not getting along with her, but Master knows it." Mo Huai Yang cut him off, accusing Gu Xiang of bewitching his junior and even his junior brother, Fan Huai Kong. He then demanded to know if Cao Weining was truly willing to "fall to the demonic path" for this "siren."

Cao Weining, unwavering, declared he had made up his mind, having sworn an oath never to betray Gu Xiang. He affirmed his master's teaching to honor promises and stated he could not go back on his word to his fiancée. Enraged, Mo Huai Yang chastised him for being unwilling to betray a mere "siren" while being ready to make the Gentle Wind Sword Sect a laughingstock of the martial arts world.

He expressed his disappointment, having raised Cao Weining with high hopes, only to be repaid in such a manner. Cao Weining, in a desperate plea, begged for his master's mercy and approval of their marriage, promising to uphold justice with his wife in the future. Ignoring his pleas, Mo Huai Yang mercilessly twisted Cao Weining's neck, killing him instantly.

Gu Xiang watched in horror, clutching Cao Weining's lifeless body, her joyful "Brother Cao" turning into a cry of anguish, fueling an intense hatred for Mo Huai Yang. With a chilling "Great!" and an order to "Take action!" , Mo Huai Yang commanded his Gentle Wind Sword Sect disciples to slaughter the Ghost Valley wedding party. The sounds of battle erupted. Suddenly, a drum signal echoed through the valley, summoning other martial sects who had been lying in ambush outside.

They stormed into Ghost Valley, and a fierce battle ensued between the ghosts and the various sects. Gu Xiang, enraged, attacked Mo Huai Yang to avenge Cao Weining but was severely wounded in the confrontation. Amidst the fighting, Scorpion King observed the pandemonium he had orchestrated. He addressed Zhao Jing, who was present but incapacitated, revealing his comprehensive scheme. Scorpion King gloated that everyone was fighting for the Glazed Armor, unaware that he already possessed all pieces, including the key.

He recounted how Wen Ke Xing's faked death meant the key found on the body was also fake, and that the real key had been given to him by Wen Ke Xing as part of their cooperation. Scorpion King further revealed that he now had all but the last three pieces of the Glazed Armor, which Mo Huai Yang was unknowingly bringing to him.

He mocked Zhao Jing's long-held ambition, declaring all these coveted items were now in his hands, asserting that ambition was his, while for others, it was mere delusion. He sarcastically noted that Zhao Jing, however, had no heart. Wen Ke Xing finally appeared, crying out "Stop!" as he witnessed the massacre, joined by Zhou Zishu and other allies as reinforcements.

In the chaos of the renewed fighting, Liu Qianqiao, who had consumed Meng Po soup, confronted and killed Yu Qiu Feng but was then fatally stabbed from behind. Wen Ke Xing saw Gu Xiang, who was already gravely wounded, struggling to her feet again. Mo Huai Yang seized the opportunity, holding Gu Xiang hostage. He threatened to kill her if Wen Ke Xing did not hand over the Glazed Armor and the armory key.

Wen Ke Xing, distraught, promised to give him anything if he would just release Gu Xiang, pleading that "She is just a little girl." Mo Huai Yang scoffed, calling her a powerful siren who had bewitched his disciple and junior. Gu Xiang, in her pain, accused Mo Huai Yang of killing them. He silenced her just as the formidable Drug Men army appeared on the horizon, summoned by Scorpion King. Alarmed, Mo Huai Yang yelled, "Retreat! Quickly!"

and abandoned the gravely wounded Gu Xiang, fleeing in haste. Wen Ke Xing rushed to Gu Xiang, who was bleeding profusely. Crying "Ah Xiang! Ah Xiang!" , he embraced her, vowing, "I'm going to kill him!" Gu Xiang, mistaking him for her "Master," echoed his desire for revenge. Wen Ke Xing corrected her, saying, "I'm not your master! I'm your elder brother!" Gu Xiang, calling him "Brother," made a final plea, "Kill him for me.

I've never begged you for anything, but kill him for me." Wen Ke Xing promised, "I'll kill him for you. I'll kill him for you." As she lay dying in his arms, Gu Xiang thanked her brother, urged him to "Please take good care of yourself," and lamented that she could no longer care for him. With her last breath, she said she was going to find "Brother Cao, that fool," and then closed her eyes forever.

Wen Ke Xing cried out her name in agony. Later, Wen Ke Xing gently laid Gu Xiang and Cao Weining's bodies together, fulfilling their unconsummated marriage by placing a phoenix coronet on Gu Xiang's head. Driven by grief and Gu Xiang's dying wish, Wen Ke Xing, now a figure of raw fury, pursued Mo Huai Yang. Mo Huai Yang, who had barely escaped the Drug Men, cursed Scorpion King for his betrayal, only to be confronted by Wen Ke Xing.

Wen Ke Xing declared, "Leader Mo, I come on behalf of one who entrusted me to see you off." They engaged in a brutal duel. Despite suffering a wound himself, Wen Ke Xing furiously stabbed Mo Huai Yang’s eyes, blinding him, and then struck him down, killing him. Wen Ke Xing looked at Mo Huai Yang's corpse, murmuring, "I'm sorry, Ah Xiang, I've made his death too easy.

Wait a moment, I'm coming to you," indicating his own intention to follow her in death. Severely wounded, Wen Ke Xing leaned against a tree. Scorpion King and Evil Bodhisattva arrived, finding Wen Ke Xing in a miserable state. Scorpion King, noting Wen Ke Xing's past grandeur compared to his current despair, retrieved the three pieces of Glazed Armor from Mo Huai Yang's body.

When Evil Bodhisattva expressed her desire to kill Wen Ke Xing, Scorpion King insisted he would handle such a significant figure personally. Just then, Zhou Zishu arrived, drawing his sword and holding it to Scorpion King’s throat, declaring, "You even dare to hurt someone from my Four Seasons Manor?" Scorpion King, surprised by Zhou Zishu's enhanced martial arts, questioned his presence. Wen Ke Xing, weakly, called him an "idiot" and asked why he was there.

Zhou Zishu replied he was there "To die with a lunatic like you!" Scorpion King proposed a negotiation, suggesting they were all clever people and should find a "second choice" rather than dying together. Zhou Zishu agreed, offering to give Scorpion King the Glazed Armor if he would allow Zhou Zishu to take Wen Ke Xing away. Scorpion King, prioritizing the Glazed Armor, consented and departed with Evil Bodhisattva and his men.

Wen Ke Xing, in a daze, reached for Zhou Zishu, mumbling about the "light" he felt from him, before finally succumbing to his injuries and fainting. In the aftermath, Scorpion King's Drug Men army launched a full assault on Mount Qingya, wiping out the remaining sect leaders. Duan Pengju was ecstatic, praising the Drug Men's power and attributing the decimation of the martial arts world to be as significant as opening the armory.

Evil Bodhisattva, however, rebuked Duan Pengju for his self-serving joy, pointing out that his "merit" came from harming others. She dismissed his claims of matching her in "obtaining wealth," seeing him as a short-sighted and foolish old man. She clarified that the martial artists, who "violate bans with their martial arts" and "fish for fame," were always destined to be cleared by Prince Jin's rising army. She mocked Duan Pengju and Zhao Jing for their endless plotting, finding it tiresome.

Meanwhile, Wen Ke Xing remained unconscious, experiencing a vivid dream. Gu Xiang appeared, calling him "Master" and saying she had seen their parents, who wanted to thank him. Wen Ke Xing, feeling weak, told her to come back another day. Gu Xiang offered him a cup of tea, but Wen Ke Xing, still in his dream-like state, said he was tired and told her to "Get out."

Gu Xiang, accepting his words, bid him farewell, telling her "Brother" to "Please take good care of yourself," before fading away. Wen Ke Xing awoke with a start, calling out her name, but found himself alone. With the help of Grand Wizard and Jing Bei Yuan, Gu Xiang and Cao Weining's bodies were retrieved from Ghost Valley. Zhou Zishu and Zhang Cheng Ling buried them in a beautiful, serene spot.

Zhang Cheng Ling asked how to write the tombstone, unsure whether to use "Miss Xiang" or "Mrs. Cao" since they hadn't formally wed. Zhou Zishu declared they should use "Mrs. Cao," saying, "Ah Xiang would love it." Zhang Cheng Ling then inquired about Wen Ke Xing, who was still unconscious. Zhou Zishu revealed he had given Wen Ke Xing "Drunk Like a Dream" because he didn't know how to face him.

He then entrusted Zhang Cheng Ling with Wen Ke Xing's care, asking him to "take good care of your master." When Zhang Cheng Ling asked where he was going, Zhou Zishu mused that while he had hoped to settle down, "roaming all over the world" might be his true destiny. Grand Wizard, upon examining Zhou Zishu, discovered that he had removed all the nails from his body before the Heroes Conference to regain his full power.

Distraught, Grand Wizard exclaimed, "Zi Shu, why did you do that to yourself?" Zhou Zishu calmly stated he had to recover his full power to avenge his loved ones and had another crucial task: to stop Prince Jin from opening the armory, adding, "Not many days left." Zhang Cheng Ling, heartbroken, pleaded with Grand Wizard if there was any other way, pointing out Zhou Zishu's seemingly strong spirits.

Grand Wizard confirmed it was too late, even with a peerless master and the best medicine. Jing Bei Yuan, offering all his resources to find rare materials, also desperately sought a solution. However, Grand Wizard reiterated that Zhou Zishu's "holy medicine" had already been consumed and that even if the chief of the Healer Valley were alive, it was beyond saving. Zhou Zishu resignedly said, "Since my fate is sealed, there's no need to force anything else."

Still unwilling to give up, Zhang Cheng Ling impulsively suggested finding the Yin Yang Book for a "life for a life" exchange, offering his own life for his master's. Zhou Zishu, touched by his disciple's devotion, gently admonished him, saying, "Idiot. With your love and care, I've already been satisfied. Be obedient."

Episode 36 (Ending) Recap

Zhang Cheng Ling questioned why his master, Zhou Zi Shu, would not kill the wicked Prince Jin. Zhou Zi Shu explained that while he harbored deep personal grievances against Prince Jin, for the sake of the greater good, taking his life was not an option. Prince Jin commanded immense power in the Northwest, yet he was surrounded by ambitious opportunists.

If Zhou Zi Shu were to kill him, these factions would undoubtedly rise in revolt, plunging the entire land into widespread war and devastation. Instead, Zhou Zi Shu planned to severely injure Prince Jin, confining him to his sickbed. This would prevent any single contender from easily seizing power, thus creating a delicate balance among the vying forces and potentially securing a few years of peace for the people.

Jing Bei Yuan corroborated this strategy, adding that the Jin army's rebellion was inevitable, and simply replacing Prince Jin would only perpetuate the conflict. Zhang Cheng Ling, though initially struggling with the concept, eventually understood the profound sacrifice his master was contemplating. Zhou Zi Shu, regretting the brevity of his mentorship with Zhang Cheng Ling, imparted his final lesson that a true hero serves the country and its people.

He then solemnly entrusted Grand Wizard and Jing Bei Yuan with the care of Zhang Cheng Ling and Wen Ke Xing, whom he considered his dearest family, expressing his complete faith in them. Jing Bei Yuan then revealed a long-held secret: Prince Jin’s true ambition was not merely the Yin Yang Book, but a mythical treasure vault said to hold the "secret for a long-lasting country."

He explained that his own ancestors, despite receiving a national surname for their service, were originally part of the Tuojie imperial kinsmen. An ancient legend within their clan spoke of a treasure vault, established by their forebears, containing the key to enduring prosperity. This vault was said to be secured by six keys, each held by a leader of a different clan. Jing Bei Yuan noted the striking resemblance between this legend and the Glazed Armor with its corresponding keys.

He recounted how the former Prince Jin had once been on the verge of uncovering this secret but was thwarted by a "turncoat," a period that tragically coincided with the secret execution of Zhou Zi Shu’s father, who was accused of betrayal. This history led Zhou Zi Shu to conclude that the Glazed Armor and keys that Qin Huai Zhang had collected were originally given to him by Zhou Zi Shu’s own father.

Despite Jing Bei Yuan's attempts to persuade him that the legend was a baseless rumor, Zhou Zi Shu remained steadfast in his decision to confront Prince Jin. He reasoned that with his own life nearing its end, whether the legend was true or false, he had nothing to lose. Success would bring no regrets, and failure would be a sacrifice for justice.

Before his departure, Zhou Zi Shu pulled Zhang Cheng Ling aside and reminded him of the elaborate deception they were to maintain: Zhang Cheng Ling was to tell Wen Ke Xing that Zhou Zi Shu was gravely wounded and had been taken by Grand Wizard and Jing Bei Yuan to a distant, mythical mountain for healing. Zhang Cheng Ling and Wen Ke Xing were to remain and rebuild Four Seasons Manor, awaiting his return.

Zhou Zi Shu sternly warned Zhang Cheng Ling about Wen Ke Xing's unpredictable nature, stressing the severe consequences if Wen Ke Xing were to discover the truth about Zhou Zi Shu's terminal condition. Zhang Cheng Ling promised to perfect his performance, and they shared a poignant farewell, clinging to the hope of a future reunion. Meanwhile, Scorpion King and Duan Pengju, leading their forces, finally reached the heavily frozen armory.

With a show of false magnanimity, Scorpion King offered Duan Pengju the honor of opening the vault. Duan Pengju ordered his men to break through the thick ice encasing the entrance. He then attempted to unlock the massive door using the Glazed Armor and what he believed to be the genuine key. The door, however, remained immovable. Duan Pengju quickly realized the key was a fake, sending Scorpion King into a furious tirade against Wen Ke Xing for his deception.

As Scorpion King raged, Zhou Zi Shu suddenly appeared, descending from above. He swiftly attacked, killing Duan Pengju on the spot. Scorpion King, demanding Wen Ke Xing and the real keys, was met with Zhou Zi Shu's derision, who scoffed that if Glazed Armor could be faked, so could keys. Zhou Zi Shu also noted Prince Jin's absence. At that precise moment, a colossal snowslide erupted from the mountain.

Scorpion King hastily ordered a retreat, but many of his men were engulfed and buried. Zhou Zi Shu, resigned to his fate, closed his eyes. To his astonishment, Wen Ke Xing suddenly materialized, rushing to his side. He pulled a hairpin from Zhou Zi Shu’s hair, which then transformed into the true key for the armory. Zhou Zi Shu, surprised and concerned about Wen Ke Xing's severe injuries, questioned his presence.

Wen Ke Xing chastised him for attempting to face death alone, reminding him of their sacred promise to live and die together. He explained that Ye Bai Yi had repaired his internal injuries, allowing him to track Scorpion King’s trail to find the armory. He also revealed that the hairpin, disguised by his parents, had always been the authentic key, which he had cleverly hidden on Zhou Zi Shu before faking his own death.

As Wen Ke Xing inserted the key, the armory doors swung open, and they quickly sought refuge inside just as the torrent of snow sealed the entrance behind them. Inside the armory, Wen Ke Xing attempted to light a fire, but Zhou Zi Shu warned of limited air. Wen Ke Xing reassured him that the armory, used by Rong Xuan for martial arts practice, must have a specialized air passage.

He then playfully mocked Zhou Zi Shu's sudden aversion to death, to which Zhou Zi Shu replied that no one truly desires death when the possibility of life exists, especially now with Wen Ke Xing by his side. They discovered a vast library within, which Wen Ke Xing identified as the site of ancient swordsmanship contests. He quickly located the Yin Yang Book, hailing it as a treasure from Healer Valley, and asked Zhou Zi Shu to safeguard it.

As they continued their search for the Combined Six Cultivation Method, Zhou Zi Shu observed countless books on various martial arts, including the "Thirteen Changeable Moves of Cloud and Fog" from the Mount Heng Sect. Surprisingly, he also found numerous agricultural texts, such as "Arts for the People." They eventually unearthed the Combined Six Cultivation Method hidden within a treasure box.

Delving deeper, they found that many chambers were not filled with riches, but with farming tools, grains, and agricultural texts translated into the Tuojie language. Zhou Zi Shu finally grasped the true meaning of the "secret for a long-lasting country." He realized that the Tuojie ancestors' legacy was not martial power or material wealth, but the fundamental knowledge of agriculture.

This wisdom would enable a nomadic people to settle, cultivate their own food, and become self-sufficient, thereby ensuring the stability and longevity of their nation. Wen Ke Xing found this revelation hilariously ironic, considering Prince Jin’s relentless pursuit of what he believed to be a grand, mystical secret.

Zhou Zi Shu further deduced that his father, entrusted by the former Prince Jin to uncover this secret, had deliberately concealed its mundane truth from everyone, including Qin Huai Zhang, to protect them from the Prince's wrath. Unaware of the armory’s true contents, Qin Huai Zhang later gave the key to Rong Xuan, who then used the effectively empty storehouses as a place to collect martial arts manuals. Wen Ke Xing eagerly anticipated Prince Jin’s reaction to this humbling truth.

Trapped within the armory by the snow, Zhou Zi Shu wondered how long they could survive on only ice and snow. Wen Ke Xing then revealed the true, devastating cost of cultivating the Combined Six Cultivation Power, knowledge he had gained from Ye Bai Yi. He explained that Ye Bai Yi's century-long existence on Mount Changming, sustained solely by ice and snow, was a side effect of achieving this "god-like" state.

Such a practitioner must perpetually reside in an extremely cold environment and abstain from all secular food; otherwise, they would suffer "withering." Ye Bai Yi, weary of this "living-dead" existence, had deliberately broken this curse by consuming human food, even though it meant gradually losing his powers and facing his ultimate demise. Wen Ke Xing clarified that the Combined Six Cultivation Power demanded immense, painful torture to reshape one’s meridians and achieve rebirth.

Crucially, it required two practitioners, not just for mutual support with genuine Qi during critical junctures, but because one individual had to willingly sacrifice themselves as a "furnace." This person's body would refine the fierce genuine Qi before transferring it to the other practitioner. In doing so, the "furnace" would have their meridians utterly destroyed and their hair turn white overnight, while the recipient would achieve complete recovery.

Wen Ke Xing confessed that he had intentionally misled Zhou Zi Shu earlier about the shared nature of the cultivation, considering his deception a minor transgression necessary to save Zhou Zi Shu's life. He then poignantly stated that the one left behind to mourn is always the one who suffers the most. Following Wen Ke Xing’s profound sacrifice, Zhou Zi Shu recovered completely.

However, Wen Ke Xing's hair turned white overnight, and his meridians were irrevocably shattered, leaving him in a severely weakened state. The massive snowslide at the armory had permanently buried Zhao Jing and Scorpion King, effectively ending the Scorpion sect's influence in the martial arts world. Years later, Zhang Cheng Ling and Gao Xiaolian were happily married and had a daughter, Zhang Nian Xiang.

Zhang Cheng Ling, now a respected master in his own right, frequently gathered his disciples to recount the heroic tales of the past, particularly emphasizing the deep bond and ultimate sacrifice between Zhou Zi Shu and Wen Ke Xing, ensuring their extraordinary legacy would live on through generations.