Swordsman: Sovereign

 

This FanFiction is loosely based on Jin Yong's Smiling Proud Wanderer and the new 2012/2013 series.

 

" Speech "

 

' Thoughts '

 

Salute = The Bao Quan Li - the wrap fist greeting/Fist Wrapping Rite

 

Chapter: 8

 

-xXx-

 

On an dusty road, on an overcast day, around noon. A pair of horses were seen traveling down said road. One was dressed in a beautiful red-purplish robe the other his wife, was dressed in a beautiful red and pink robe. Though married, one may not notice this fact, as to the eye it would seem one was trying to avoid the other. This though was what had become of the relationship of the once loving couple.

 

“Pingzhi wait for me!” Yue Lingshan called out repeatedly from her horse.

 

Without even bothering to look back, Lin Pingzhi kept on towards his destination unimpeded by his wife's continual cries.

 

-xXx-

 

Yu Canghai sat with around twenty of his disciples at an outdoor inn, enjoying a small break before he continues with this travels. Hearing the sound of horses headed towards their direction. The blue and green robed sect chief put up his guard, incase the people coming were for him; a trait which had served him well over the years.

 

Indeed this day was no different, as he locked eye's with the man he was trying to avoid, as his horse came to a still.

 

“Yu Canghai, you know very well I won't spare you. Why won't you run away?” Lin Pingzhi asked with a smirk.

 

This caused the Qingcheng Sect disciples to stare back at their master in anger, waiting for instructions to attack.

 

“Master Yu, are you waiting for death here?”

 

Yu Canghai looked around him to his disciples. Though he was feeling nervous at facing the much younger man he put on a defiant face, to not show weakness.

 

“I just expect you to die here,” he said defiantly, though in his heart he was growing more and more afraid.

 

“In order to get my family's Evil-Warding Swordplay manual you killed both of my parents. Today, I will show you every move of the skill you desire so much.”

 

Lin Pingzhis' look suddenly changed from one of amusement to one of pure hatred.

 

“Make sure to learn it well,” he spat out venomously.

 

These words served as a signal to attack for the Qingcheng disciples; in their minds no one would insult their master in such a way and still live.

 

The battle was short as Lin Pingzhi made short work of those that chose to attack him. His skill and speed had increased tenfold, making the green robed disciples that fought him like sheep being lead to the slaughter.

 

'Such fast and skilled movements. It looks like he really has learned the Evil-Warding Swordplay,' Yu Canghai thought from his seat in a bit of awe.

 

After a few minutes, and five dead bodies. Lin Pingzhi pleased with his handiwork flipped back onto his horse, but at the same time unleashed an energy sword swipe causing the straw roof of the inn to fall on Yu Canghai and the rest of his disciples.

 

Without saying another word Lin Pingzhi and Yue Lingshan rode away leaving the Qingcheng Sect leader to stew on the floor in anger and embarrassment.

 

-xXx-

 

“Master Yu, you have no where to go?”

 

A half hour had passed since the earlier incident at the outdoor inn. Yu Canghai was now being carried on a sedan chair by four of his disciples while the rest followed behind.

 

“Yu Canghai, where are you going?”

 

Getting tired of being mocked; especially in front of his disciples. Yu Canghai decided to take the initiative and attack first.

 

“Prepare to die!”

 

Both martial artist's jumped at each other and began to exchange numerous sword strikes.

 

At the same time the mortal enemies were fighting. Yue Lingshan had her own issues as she had gotten off her horse nearly at the same time as her husband and started engaging the Qingcheng disciples. Though skilled to a degree, especially now that she learned the Anti-Five Mounting School Swordplay which was hidden in the cave on Repentance Cliff. Yue Buquns' dauthers skills weren't anything to take particular notice of.

 

“Pingzhi! Pingzhi!” she called out for help, while continuing to block and parry sword strikes.

 

Her cries though seemed to fall on death ears as her husband seemed to only care for finding Yu Canghai who had lost track of when he had focused on a group of Qingcheng disciples who chose to help their master.

 

But thankfully for her, six armed men in black robes, suddenly came out of no where and began to fight off her assailants. Before she even knew what had happened the men made short work of the Qingcheng Sect disciples.

 

“W-why are you saving me? Who are you men?” she asked with apprehension.

 

Yue Lingshan was appreciative for them most likely saving her life, but knew not to let her guard down with strangers and hoped the men weren't there to cause her harm.

 

“Our chief commanded us to save you,” one of the men said with a polite bow.

 

Yue Lingshan looked towards the direction the man was pointing to in confusion and saw a horse drawn carriage in the distance; slowly approaching them.

 

“Madam Lin, if you wish please have a rest in the carriage,” another one of the men mentioned respectfully.

 

“How do you know who I am?...” she asked with genuine surprise.

 

At that moment Lin Pingzhi came riding on his horse and ordered his wife to get on her horse. Yu Canghai had escaped him by using the surrounding bushes to hide himself. Lin Pingzhi could only blame himself if he were honest. He played around with his opponent far too much during their fight instead of finishing him off quickly. It was a mistake that the young martial artists could regret later.

 

“Leave me alone...” Yue Lingshan said angrily, that strangers came to her aid instead of the one who vowed to protect her on their wedding day.

 

“Are you just going to stay with these men? Who are they, friends?” Lin Pingzhi asked with suspension.

 

“You can go first, I will catch up...”

 

Lin Pingzhi gave one last look of annoyance before riding off. He knew he had done his wife wrong by not coming to her aid sooner. But, his pride, also his growing distrust of her made him remain silent.

 

“Please thank your chief for me. May I know your names and what sect you are from?”

 

“You will have to ask our chief's,” another one of the men stated.

 

Though she found the answer highly suspicious Yue Lingshan decided to drop the subject entirely.

 

“I must leave...Please thank your masters for helping me,” she said with a polite salute.

 

Yue Lingshan then got on her horse and road away after her husband. The six men stared as she left but after a few second made their way to the carriage to give a report as to what happened.

 

-xXx-

 

The litter is a class of wheel-less vehicles, a type of human-powered transport, for the transport of persons.

 

A more luxurious version consists of a bed or couch, sometimes enclosed by curtains, for the passenger or passengers to lie on. These are carried by at least two porters in equal numbers in front and behind, using wooden rails that pass through brackets on the sides of the couch. The largest and heaviest types would be carried by large animals.

 

Private chairs were an important marker of a person's status. Civil officers' status was denoted by the number of bearers attached to his chair.

 

Why was this form of transport of importance?...

 

After traveling for a few days Linghu Chong, Dongfang Bubai, Xiong and six other disciples decided to stop at an inn to get some rest. Mo Da and Feng Buping were left behind since they weren’t needed for this event.

 

Mo Da seceding his role of sect leader would already be big enough news. But Feng Buping joining them would cause more eyes to be on the sects actions then Dongfang Bubai was comfortable with at the moment. She knew that eventually their movements would be tracked and even spies sent to infiltrate them. But to delay, and have the time to set up proper counter measures was one of the things she was trying to accomplish.

 

“Sir, Madam, would you like a table?” the middle aged shop owner asked politely, as he greeted them at the inn's entrance.

 

“Someplace quiet, we don't wish to be disturbed,” Dongfang Bubai said coldly.

 

The brown robed inn keeper instinctively shivered, but quickly composed himself and lead the group to a set of tables on the second floor. The thought of making money acting as a strong deterrent for his fear.

 

“Bring some food and your best wine,” Linghu Chong said as he sat down across from his wife.

 

'Interesting...'

 

Dongfang Bubai could feel the blood lust coming from some of the patrons. obviously something whether involving them or someone else was going to happen soon she wagered.

 

But to the former cult leader it did not matter if the men sought their lives. If they tried such a foolish act. Like others in the past, they would find out why she is called Invincible in the East.

 

“This should prove to be interesting. I wonder if they are here for us or someone else?” Linghu Chong said nonchalantly, like his wife sensing the blood lust.

 

“Chief shall we attack first?” Xiong whispered, readying himself, along with his martial brothers for combat.

 

“No, lets see what they do first. No need to shed blood if they are not here for us,” Linghu Chong replied calmly.

 

The group didn't have long to wait to figure out what was going on. As Yu Canghai walked into the inn followed by a few of his disciples; most notably Ren Hao; the only remaining member of the Qingcheng four elegant's.

 

The group then went and occupied three tables. Ren Hao and his master sat at one, while the other disciples, ten in all, sat at two large tables.

 

Not even five minutes later, Lin Pingzhi casually walked in and calmly took a seat at a table a few feet from where Yu Canghai and Ren Hao were sitting.

 

“Waiter!”

 

“Coming sir, coming!”

 

Lin Pingzhi ordered the waiter to get him some food and a bottle of wine. As the man ran off, the Lin family heir turned his full attention to the pair sitting only a few feet away.

 

“You're Ren Hao?” he said, as he took out a purple, silk handkerchief and gently patted his neck and cheeks.

 

“That day when my whole family was killed, you were also there. Even if you turn to ash I can still recognize you.”

 

“I am Ren Hao, so what?!” Yu Canghai's best disciple said defiantly.

 

“Qingcheng's headmaster and hero. But according to me, you don't have the flair of a hero at all. So laughable what people deem as a hero these days.”

 

“How dare you insult me!” Ren Hao said as he stood from his seat, while slamming his right hand on the table in anger.

 

Ren Hao was going to respond more but was stopped by his master. The outburst also caused some of the patrons to run in fear, thinking a fight was about to break out. But, the men hired by Yu Canghai and his disciples didn't move a muscle, waiting for the orders to attack.

 

“Please sit down, you don't want me to kill you just yet do you?” Lin Pingzhi said with an amused laugh.

 

-xXx-

 

“Chief, how come your brother Lin's body emits so much fragrance?” Xiong asked curiously.

 

Linghu Chong stared at Lin Pingzhi intently. Indeed the younger man certainly seemed quite different from the last time they had met. Besides his choice to wear woman's perfume. His voice also seemed a bit lighter. Even his fashion sense seemed to have changed. If Linghu Chong had to give the changes a term. More womanly was the first thing which came to mind.

 

“The Sunflower Manual...” Dongfang Bubai said coldly.

 

This caused both husband and wife to look intently at each other before turning their attention back to the fracas below.

 

On the way they had observed Yue Lingshan and Lin Pingzhi battling Yu Canghai. It seemed like he could have finished the sect leader off anytime he wanted but chose to terrorize him instead. A foolish move, but not unexpected for one so inexperience in life, and completely consumed with getting revenge.

 

“I believe this is a trap meant for Lin Pingzhi,” stated Linghu Chong.

 

Indeed the men were there for Lin Pingzhi. They were hired by Yu Canghai, who didn't just flee his enemy blindly. He, for months had hired men and kept them on standby, in case the extra man power was needed. Once seeing that Lin Pingzhi was so focused on tormenting him and drawing out the revenge against his parents death. Yu Canghai had purposely led the younger man to this particular inn to await ambush.

 

“I like his way of dressing though,” Dongfang Bubai said nonchalantly.

 

-xXx-

 

Everyone suddenly turned their attention towards Mu Gaofeng as he came causally walking in with Yue Lingshan slowly following him.

 

“So many friends are here,” the old hunchback said with a smile.

 

“Come here!” Mu Gaofeng said as he held Yue Lingshan by the shoulder and walked over to an open table.

 

Yue Lingshan gazed at her husband with longing, though Lin Pingzhi didn't return the gaze as he turned his head away, as to not betray his emotions.

 

“Junior brother Lin, I brought your wife here. She just got lost but thankfully she met me.”

 

“Really?” responded Lin Pingzhi coldly.

 

“So he speaks!” Mu Gaofeng said with a gruff laugh.

 

“I have helped you with such a huge favor. How will you repay me?”

 

“What do you want?”

 

“It's very simple. I was just wondering how you suddenly got so skillful. I just want you to lend me your Lin family's Evil-Warding Swordplay manual so I can take a look at it. After that I will return it to you.”

 

Lin Pingzhi simply smiled before turning his full attention towards the old hunchback.

 

“Seems everyone wants to see my family's Evil-Warding Swordplay. Why don't you ask Hero Yu, he's seen it.”

 

“Really? You really saw it? Congratulations then,” Mu Gaofeng said turning his attention towards Yu Canghai.

 

Yu Canghai was feeling very uneasy. Though he had planned to ambush Lin Pingzhi he was not counting on Mu Gaofeng showing up and potentially throwing a monkey wrench into his plans.

 

“That's right, he really has learned the Evil-Warding Swordplay. His skills have grown by leaps and bounds,” replied the Qingcheng Sect Headmaster calmly.

 

“But I heard a rumor that the Evil-Warding Swordplay was taken by Huashan Sect's Yue Buqun. How did you see it?”

 

“I've never seen the swordplay manual. But I saw the person using this swordplay.”

 

“Oh?...I have heard that there is real and fake manual. Lin Yuan Tu's descendants learned the fake kind. And it's only some petty martial arts. It's a joke when they use it. But, did you see the real kind or the fake kind?” Mu Gaofeng said trying to a take a jab at Lin Pingzhi's family pride.

 

“This I do not know.”

 

“And you call yourself a Sect Leader. You can't even tell the difference between real and fake?” he said with a mocking tone.

 

“Whether what I saw was the real or fake Evil-Warding Swordplay I really cannot distinguish. But Hero Mu you have seen more martial arts then me. I think that you should be able to tell the difference.”

 

“As long as I see it I can definitely tell if its real or fake,” the hunchback said confidently.

 

“Okay, then open your eyes very wide!”

 

Lin Pingzhi grabbed a chopstick laying on the table. He channeled some of his energy into it and threw it straight up and caused it to land dead center on the table where his wife and Ma Gaofeng were sitting.

 

“Now you've seen Lin family's Evil-Warding Swordplay play, right?” Lin Pingzhi said smugly.

 

“Punk, don't mess around. Your wife is still in my hands,” Mu Gaofeng said angrily, as he aggressively grabbed Yue Lingshan shoulder.

 

“And you call yourself a hero? You are truly despicable. If you don't want to die now then kneel down to me, bow three times, and call me grandpa three times. Maybe I can let you live another year. After a year I will come find you again.”

 

“You punk. Back then on South Hengshan you pretended to have a hump, and even kneeled to me and called me grandpa. You wanted grandpa to teach you martial arts. Grandpa wouldn't teach you martial arts, so you turned and became Yue Bu Qun's disciple instead.”

 

Mu Gaofeng sneered before continuing, hoping his next statement would inflict the most pain possible.

 

“Finally! You were able to lie your way to getting this wife!”

 

This comment, more so the truth in it. Caused Lin Pingzhi to lose his composure as he unsheathed his sword from its scabbard and in one smooth motion unleashed an energy wave headed straight for the table Mu Gaofeng and his wife were sitting at.

 

-xXx-

 

“Xiong, save her!” Linghu Chong said giving no room for argument.

 

Floating down, Xiong just caught Yue Lingshan as she was stumbling back from narrowly avoiding the destroyed table.

 

“Miss are you okay?!” Xiong asked with concern as he firmly held the older woman in his arms.

 

“T-thank you but who are you?” she said looking at Xiong strangely.

 

“Wait, are you with those men who saved me before?” she asked after realizing her young savior was wearing the same type of robe.

 

“Yes Miss, our chief ordered me to save you.”

 

Yue Lingshan began to wonder who this person was that sought to insure her safety.

 

'First when I was getting attacked by the Qingcheng Sect disciples, now this. It almost seems like he/she is trying to watch over me, but why would they?...'

 

Yue Lingshan didn't ask anything more. She along with Xiong turned their attention towards Lin Pingzhi just as he slit the throat of Ren Hao mercilessly and awaited for Yu Canghai to make a move.

 

Mu Gaofeng seeing the swiftness of Lin Pingzhi attacks immediately tried to run away; his motto of fleeing when you don't have the advantage kicking in. But before he could get to the entrance a sword pierced his hump and came out of his chest.

 

Lin Pingzhi smiled at his handy work, though that was until a green gas came out of the fake hump on his victim's back and into his eyes. He soon cried out in excruciating pain as blood came out of each of his eyes.

 

“My eyes! My eyes!” the young martial artist cried out.

 

Yu Canghai stood still. The Qingcheng Sect leader thought about attacking the injured man himself but decided on caution. As the saying goes, an animal can at be its most dangerous when wounded.

 

“Now attack!!” the Qingcheng headmaster barked out, deciding to let his hired men and remaining disciples do the dirty work for him.

 

All of the remaining patrons; except for Linghu Chong and Dongfang Bubais' group. Took out swords and knives and ran towards the injured martial artist.

 

Xiong was about to leave Yue Lingshans' side and give aid, until the six other Sword Sect disciples suddenly jumped down and engaged the attackers.

 

For the next few minutes a fierce battle raged. Six against twenty five would normally be one sided. If not for the fact that the six disciples were the best at grasping their new sects sword skills. Though it did help that none of the men they were fighting weren't anyone of particular high skill level.

 

Yu Canghai realizing the battle may not go the way he wished. Quietly slipped out unnoticed with some of his disciples, leaving the hired men and any stragglers from his sect who did not notice their master sneaking off, to fend for themselves.

 

“Pingzhi! Pingzhi!,” Yue Lingshan said frantically.

 

“My eyes! My eyes!” he cried out frantically as he waved his sword and body in pain, causing everyone to stay far away from him.

 

“Pingzhi!” Yue Lingshan continued to cry out.

 

The young woman wanted to go to her husband but was restrained by Xiong as he saw going to Lin Pingzhi in his current state might cause someone to lose a limb.

 

“Let go, let me go to him!” she said trying to break free from Xiong's grip.

 

“Not now miss, let him calm down first!” Xiong replied, while continuing to keep her in his grasp.

 

Ten minutes later the battle was over. Whomever of the hired killers and Qingcheng disciples that weren't dead, had run away in fear after seeing the battle was hopeless and that not even one of the six men had been killed or injured.

 

Yue Lingshan took the opportunity to finally go over to her husband who had calmed down considerably and was strangely laughing.

 

“Pinzhi, congratulations on killing Mu Gaofeng. But your eyes have become poisoned. You need to clean them immediately.

 

“Go away!” he said angrily as he pushed his wife away.

 

“Pinzhi, open your eyes! You need to clean the poison from them immediately or else you may never get your sight back!”

 

From the corner of his eyes Xiong saw a small bottle heading his way. Quickly catching it, he read the description on the label and knew why it was thrown to him; and also by whom.

 

'Chief certainly does care about his former martial brother and sister.'

 

“Miss Yue, this is some medicine, please apply it to your husbands eyes,” he said walking up to Yue Lingshan and handing her the bottle.

 

Yue Lingshan took a look at the bottle and for a second her eyes went wide in shock.

 

“How do...Thank you, thank you...”

 

Yue Lingshan then went to apply the ointment, but her hand was knocked away angrily by her husband.

 

“No need! Whether I live or die, I don't need him or you to be concerned! I don't need anyone's pity!” Lin Pingzhi shouted.

 

“Pinzhi! Hengshang's miracle medicine is renowned. Also, can't this little brother...”

 

“Can't he what? He treats you so well. If you like him so much then follow him and be his lover!” Lin Pingzhi said with a smug smile.

 

“Shut your mouth! How can you can say such vulgar things?!” Yue Lingshan responded angrily.

 

“Who are you calling despicable? Yu Canghai and Mu Gaofeng, in order to steal my family's Evil-Warding Swordplay. They murdered my father and mother. But your father, every time he would use treacherous tricks. Though he was not responsible for my parents death. Your father has proven to be the most despicable person!”

 

“What did you say? That isn't true! Take that back!” Yue Lingshan said getting right up in her husbands face.

 

“Yue family !”

 

“Lin Pingzhi! How dare you call me that?!” she screamed at him angrily.

 

“, get away from me!”

 

Lin Pingzhi suddenly grabbed his wife's' shoulder, then roughly threw her to the floor. Linghu Chong who was silently watching the scene, squeezed his fist tightly at seeing his little martial sister treated in such a way.

 

“Senior, please stop. A husband shouldn't treat their wife this way...”

 

“Why shouldn't I?! Father and daughter plotted to bait me. Huashan Sect's precious daughter; why would she marry a nameless and penniless man? You and Linghu Chong were all but engaged. Yet when I came along am I to believe your heart suddenly changed so easily?”

 

Lin Pingzhi shrugged off Xiongs' restraining hand and bent down so he was only inches from his distraught wife's face.

 

“Isn't it because of my Lin family's Evil-Warding Swordplay?! Now that they acquired the swordplay you don't need me anymore!”

 

Yue Lingshan couldn't believe what she was being accused of. Never in her wildest dreams would she have envisioned a day like today happening.

 

“If I Yue Linshan had any intention to use you I'll die a horrible death! And be punished by heaven and earth!” she screamed at him, while on the verge of tears.

 

“Only God knows what kind of hidden agendas you have. Father and daughter are both terrible and disgusting people.”

 

“No matter what you think. You will know in the future that my love for you is real...”

 

Yue Lingshan sought to calm down. She knew that despite the horrible things being said to and about her, getting over emotional was the last thing she should be doing.

 

“Pingzhi lets go back to Huashan. When we return, I will tend to your wounds. No matter what. No matter whether or not your eyes can be cured my feelings for you will be the same as before. They will never change. If I am not entirely devoted to you then I'll die a more terrible death than that evil hunchback Mu Gaofeng.”

 

Lin Pingzhi in turn grabbed the front of his wife's cloak with his right hand and brought their faces even closer.

 

“Let me tell you. Don't tell me these alluring lies. I don't trust you anymore...”

 

Lin Pingzhi seemed like he wanted to say more but instead suddenly cried out as his eyes began to burn.

 

“My eyes! My eyes! It feels like fire is in my eyes!”

 

“Pinzhi, I beg you. Let's go see a doctor okay? Come with me to see a doctor!” she pleaded through tears.

 

Though he still had his reservations, common sense finally won over in Lin Pingzhi's mind as he decided to listen to his wife's advice.

 

-xXx-

 

As the estranged couple walked out of the inn, Linghu Chong watched them leave with conflicting feelings.

 

“You are worrying about that little girl?” his wife asked after catching the slight signs of worry on her husbands face.

 

“There are many things I cannot understand no matter how much I think about it. How distant little martial sister and Lin Pingzhi seem to be, despite being married. And the things he was accusing her and master of doing...”

 

“You are afraid that she will be harshly treated by Lin Pinzhi then since he believes they were trying to trick him to get the Evil-Warding Swordplay manual?”

 

Linghu Chong signed heavily before answering. His mind was working overtime to get his thoughts and emotions back in check.

 

“What happens between that couple is not for me, an outsider, to care about,” he said not even believing his own words.

 

“So what happens with them is none of your concern? That's not the Linghu Chong I know...The man who butts into everyone's business,”

 

Linghu Chong just stared at his wife for a few seconds before a small smile appeared on his face.

 

“Seems you know me all to well,” he said softly.

 

“Of course. What type of wife would I be if I didn't?” she said returning his smile with one of her own.

 

“Besides, I think you are also afraid that Yu Canghai will go after them? Makes sense, I would probably do the same if I were him.”

 

“Those two are both injured. If Yu Canghai wants to deal with them now, It would be extremely easy,” he replied somberly.

 

“If it's like that then shouldn't we go save them?”

 

To this, Linghu Chong let out another frustrated sigh.

 

“If we go and interfere I am afraid that it will affect the couple's feelings for one another.”

 

“Afraid that it will affect the couple's feelings for one another? It's only one out of many reasons right?” Dongfang Bubai asked skeptically.

 

“Well yes...They are not the same as they were back on Mount Huashan...”

 

Dongfang Bubai stared at her husband intently. Knowing there was something else he was keeping back from her; and having a pretty good idea of what it was.

 

“I see...I think you're really concerned that I won't be happy. Don't think that way. Why wouldn't I be happy? What makes you happy, make me happy...”

 

Linghu Chong gave his wife an appreciative smile. He knew that she didn't like Yue Lingshan and may never like her. But for his sake, for his happiness and peace of mind, she were willing to put aside her own personal feelings.

 

“So lets go save your little martial sister and her lame husband.”

 

Laughing lightly at his wife's dry sense of humor. Linghu Chong put a bit of money to cover the meal ordered but also he added a little extra to help out the shop owner cover for the damages done.

 

-xXx-

 

Some time later the carriage Linghu Chong and Dongfang Bubai were traveling in came upon Yue Lingshan and Lin Pingzhi being attacked by a group of five men about a hundred yards away.

 

Linghu Chongs' fears proved to be warranted. Five of Yu Canghai's hired men had tailed the pair and waited for the right time to attack. Catching them completely by surprise. The scraggly group managed to knock Lin Pingzhi nearly unconscious; with a blow to the side of the head. From there two of them tied him to a tree, while the other three engaged Yue Lingshan in a sword fight.

 

Yue Lingshan fought valiantly. For being outnumbered and with the stress of the days events still playing in her mind, to hold out for as long as she did was quite impressive. But in the end, she succumbed to share numbers, despite the men being of average martial skill. And now stood with two swords pointed at her neck.

 

“Young miss, I suggest you give up. If you do so we will spare both of your lives.”

 

Though reluctantly, Yue Lingshan complied and dropped her sword. But as soon as she did, she instantly regretted it as she noticed the lustful looks of her attackers.

 

“So your chief was the one who was defeated by his own disciple and nicknamed as the gentleman sword, right?” one of the men said.

 

“I've heard about Yue Buquns' daughter for a long time now. That she's beautiful, a real belle among the younger generation. But the one we meet today is just so so,” said another.

 

This caused the rest of the men to snicker.

 

“However, for men like us plain and beautiful don't matter. Before we deliver them to Chief Yu it's good for us to have a little fun with her first,” one of the two who were holding a sword to her neck said lustfully.

 

The same man then roughly threw Yue Lingshan on the ground. The others slowly approached her, leering and snickering wickedly while they did so.

 

“Enough!” a male voice suddenly called out.

 

Startled by the sudden voice. The men, along with Yue Lingshan looked around for the source. Turning towards the sky, they observed as a man came floating down from the sky. The five hired thugs took a cautious step back and observed the newcomer wearily.

 

He wore what appeared to be a rather expensive white robe and held a closed fan in his right hand. But they noted what was truly peculiar about him was the white and red fox mask he wore which completely concealed his face, save for the two small holes for his nose and mouth.

 

“I shall give you all a chance...You may take your own lives or castrate yourselves if you wish to live. Don't make me have to punish you for your crimes,” Linghu Chong said coldly.

 

Linghu Chong changed his voice under the mask using his Qi. He made his voice sound strange, like an echo, a trick his wife taught him.

 

Naturally the men were shocked and unnerved, not only by what was said but by how it sounded. But after a few seconds the surprise was overcome by anger. Once they fully processed what was spoken to them.

 

“Hmph, and who might you be, a friend of the Yue ?!” one of the men blurted out, while pointing his sword at Linghu Chong.

 

“Yue ?...” Linghu Chong whispered.

 

“Hey, maybe he's here because he wants some of her to,” another man said with a erted laugh.

 

That comment caused the other five men to burst out laughing, which only served to irritate Linghu Chong even further.

 

“To bad, I gave you a chance but you chose death instead. For insulting this young sister, none of you will leave here alive...” he said coldly.

 

The men became tense as they could feel the killing intent directed towards them. Casually placing both hands behind his back, Linghu Chong waited for them to attack. He didn't have to wait long, as they all sprang towards him with their swords drawn.

 

As if the men weren't even there, Linghu Chong causally unfolded the fan in his right hand and began to leisurely cool himself. The six men suddenly stopped running and before anyone knew what happened each dropped to the ground lifeless.

 

Yue Lingshan was left speechless, even Xiong and the rest of the Sword Sect disciples were stunned.

 

Unseen by everyone except for his wife. When Linghu Chong unfolded his fan. He at the same time sent out six embroidery needles from his sleeve and into the men's foreheads; the only evidence of his actions being a small red dot in each of their skulls.

 

“Filth like them deserve their fate,” he said coldly.

 

Yue Lingshan quickly overcame her shock and ran over to her husband and began to untie him from the tree.

 

“Pingzhi we've been saved!” she said happily.

 

“H-how do you know he's not another one of Yu Canghai's hired men?!” he said a bit groggily; still suffering the effects from being nearly knocked unconscious.

 

“Pingzhi! He just saved our lives! If he were working for Yu Canghai why would he attack his own comrades?!” Yue Lingshan said angrily at her husbands apparent ungratefulness.

 

“You are a naive little girl. He could just be trying to gain a bigger reward for himself! Besides he's using his inner energy to disguise his voice. Why be so secretive if he were tying to help us?!”

 

In the blink of an eye and catching the younger man completely off guard. Linghu Chong darted over to Lin Pingzhi and struck him with a palm strike to the stomach, followed by an elbow to the back of the head once his former martial brother doubled over, knocking the younger man unconscious.

 

Lin Pingzhi slumped to the ground with his forehead hitting the ground hard. Yue Lingshan seeing her husbands condition immediately was at his side trying to wake him.

 

“Save your breathe little girl he will not wake up anytime soon,” Linghu Chong said trying his best to sound cold and indifferent.

 

“Please sir don't harm him. I thank you for saving us. If he has offended you in anyway I beg you to forgive him!”

 

Linghu Chong turned his back to his little martial sister and folded his hands behind his back.

 

“Silly child, if I saved you two why would I harm you? I knocked this fool out so he wouldn't harm himself further. Plus his excessive chatter was becoming irritating.”

 

Yue Lingshan was overjoyed to hear her saviors words and bowed before Linghu Chong with her head touching the ground.

 

“I will never forget your kindness. May I know your name and sect brother?”

 

Linghu Chong remained silent and instead began to walk back to the litter.

 

Yue Linshan was worried she had offended the masked stranger in someway, but his next words filled her with even more joy then before.

 

“Since we are not far from the Golden Saber compound. You two can ride in the carriage with me. He is Lin Pingzhi the grandson of the Golden Saber correct? If so then that old blowhard will gladly tend to his wounds.”

 

“How do you know who...”

 

Yue Linshan stopped talking as Linghu Chong made a gesture with his right hand.

 

“Just get in before I change my mind,” he said sternly.

 

Linghu Chong didn't like being so blunt with his former love. This was not how he imagined their reunion after such a long time after not seeing each other would go.

 

'But I couldn't just leave them to fend for themselves in their current state. If they were to meet some more of Yu Canghai's hired men I doubt they would escape with their lives.'

 

-xXx-

 

“And what is this you have dragged in here?” Dongfang Bubai asked bluntly.

 

“Be calm my love...They were in distress. I couldn’t just leave them...Remember you were in agreement with saving them,” Linghu Chong said calmly, while gently his wife’s right hand.

 

Yue Lingshan smiled back at the woman directly in front her but could feel the animosity directed at her. She noted the woman wore a long red dress with beautiful white lining going throughout across the top, bottom, sleeves and the middle. Though elegant, it also had a sense of simplicity to it which added to the wearer's attraction. Yue Lingshan knew could tell this woman was very high class and must be exceptionally beautiful. She could only guess at Dongfang Bubais' looks though, since the former cult leader hid her head and the bottom portion of her face with a long red and white head scarf.

 

“True I did...Though I wonder what kind of strays they will be. The kind that you can feed and nurture and won't bite those who are good to them. Or the type you let fend for themselves, or else they may repay your kindness with a bite to the hand.”

 

To this clear insult Yue Lingshan nearly jumped from her seat. But remembering she was in the strange mans debt, she did her best to remain calm.

 

“I would never repay kindness like that! Brother Fox has shown mercy to me and my husband. Once Lin Pingzhi is healed I will have my father invite you to Huashan Sect to thank you personally and to give a feast in your honor.”

 

“I wish nothing from mister Yue...” Dongfang Bubai stated bluntly.

 

“Brother Fox what do you think?” Yue Lingshan said completely ignoring Dongfang Bubai's statement. Which as you can imagine served to irritate the former cult leader.

 

And infuriate it did. If Linghu Chong weren’t around, Dongfang Bubai would have already snapped the naive girls neck.

 

“Brother Fox?...”

 

Linghu Chong let out a loud laugh at the name Yue Lingshan had given him.

 

“You haven't told me your name or what sect you are from. I thought your fox mask was the easiest way to address you. If I may be so bold which sect are you people from? I've never heard of someone in the martial world wearing a fox mask.”

 

Yue Lingshan didn't know why she felt such a strong sense of familiarity from the stranger. She had only just met the man yet felt as if they had known each other for years.

 

“I do not mind the name...As for the sect I belong to, you will have to wait until we get to the Golden Saber compound to find out.”

 

Without giving her a chance to reply Linghu Chong ordered the carriage to stop right when they were passing by a small pond.

 

“Quickly, take him and wash out his eyes before he wakes up. Given his stubbornness he will likely refuse treatment for whatever foolish reason if you wait until he his awake.”

 

“How do you know about the poison? Oh, you were also at the inn...”

 

“Enough talk, just go!” Linghu Chong said forcefully.

 

Yue Lingshan stared at the stranger before her in wonderment before obediently doing what she was told.

 

-xXx-

 

About twenty minutes later the carriage was back on its way. Yue Lingshan had managed to successfully wash out what she could of the poison in her husbands eyes without waking him. At first she was concerned that she may not be able to do it by herself; for fear of hurting him further while she dragged him to the pond. But Brother Fox; as Linghu Chong was now being called by the younger woman. Had ordered two of his disciples to help carry Lin Pingzhi and hold his eyes open while she washed them out.

 

Yue Lingshan could feel the animosity coming from who she presumed was brother fox's wife. Though the mysterious woman’s head and the lower portion of her face were covered. Yue Lingshan could tell she was young like herself; perhaps only five to ten years older.

 

Dongfang Bubai gently grabbed Linghu Chongs's left shoulder with both arms, then leaned her head against him. Yue Lingshans intuition was telling her that the show of affection was an attempt to rub their affection in her face.

 

'But that can't be. I've never seen them before. What reason would she have for despising me?' Yue Lingshan thought truly perplexed.

 

“You seem troubled miss Yue,” Linghu Chong asked with concern.

 

Yue Lingshan didn't want to bring up what she thought about her savior's wife. Instead she settled on another subject which was plaguing her almost as much as the recent problems with her husband.

 

“I...I was just thinking of my senior martial brother. Perhaps you've heard of him, Linghu Chong? He's gone missing and no one knows where he is at. I worry something terrible may have happened to him,” she said sadly.

 

Linghu Chong could hear the sadness in Yue Lingshan voice. Which warmed his heart a bit knowing that she still cared for him in some way apparently.

 

“Yes, I've heard the rumors about him myself. The only man to be made chief of the nuns of North Hengshan. He seems like quite a fellow...”

 

“Oh so you have heard of him Brother Fox. Senior martial brother always treated me so well, despite everything...” Yue Lingshan said happily.

 

Yue Lingshan countenance seemed to beam talking about Linghu Chong which caused Dongfang Bubai to stare daggers at the younger woman.

 

Linghu Chong sensing his wife's unease, he gently began the back of her hand.

 

“He's been missing for months now and rumors are beginning to spread saying he died in a fight with that villain Dongfang Bubai...”

 

“Oh...You seem quite fond of him. Do you have feelings for your senior martial brother?” Dongfang Bubai said bluntly.

 

Yue Lingshan was taken aback and completing blindsided by the straightforwardness of the comment.

 

“Of course not... I am a married woman afterall. It's just that we grew up together like a real brother and sister. Wouldn't you be concerned to if someone who was like your family went missing, then is feared dead?”

 

Dongfang Bubai was not convinced. Like with the incident with Ying Ying while Linghu Chong was still recovering from his injuries. If anyone tried to take Linghu Chong away from her...

 

'They won't! I made a vow that we will never be apart again. I will crush whomever tries to take him from me!'

 

Tilting her head upwards the former cult leader leaned into her husband to give him a passionate kiss. But before she lowered the portion of the scarf around , Dongfang Bubai grabbed and unfolded a white umbrella which was located by her left hand, so that it was blocking Yue Lingshan view.

 

The action caused the one receiving the kiss and the other conscious rider in the carriage to go wide eyed.

 

“That's just a sample of what tonight will be like,” she said seductively.

 

Linghu Chong was for lack of a better word speechless. Yue Lingshan was also speechless. The boldness of this woman was certainly eye opening for her.

 

Dongfang Bubai pulled back up the scarf to cover and closed the umbrella. She stared at Yue Lingshan as if looking down on her, then resumed to lean her head on her husbands shoulder.

 

'This woman! Why does she hate me so?!' Yue Lingshan thought now clearly pouting, which caused Dongfang Bubai to smirk.

 

Though the former cult leader was far from finished with her torment of the younger woman.

 

“Madam Lin, why does your husband have on so much fragrance, has he been studying the Sun Moon Holy Cult's Sunflower Manual?” Dongfang Bubai asked coldly.

 

“What do you mean, what is the Sunflower Manual? What would that have to do with...”

 

Yue Lingshan stopped in mid sentence thinking over the sudden change which Lin Pingzhi had undergone. How he became colder and colder towards her since the day they were married. How they didn't even make love that night. He had gotten so drunk that he passed out, leaving her there to silently cry on the bed.

 

'But we haven't done anything since that night. He won't even come near me when night falls.' she thought with sadness.

 

“Why would this Sunflower Manual cause someone to wear more fragrance?”

 

“Ask him yourself when he wakes up. Given your response I see he hasn't told you the truth,” Dongfang Bubai said deciding to completely drop the subject.

 

“The truth of what?” Yue Lingshan asked bluntly.

 

“Enough of this conversation Qiang...Little sister Lingshan already has enough to think about,” Linghu Chong said sternly.

 

Dongfang Bubai was going to say more, a lot more. But decided against it; knowing she would get scolded by her husband if she did.

 

-xXx-

 

Lanterns and colored banners decorated the compound. The dazzling sight and sound of firecrackers went off, along with men playing different musical instruments, marking the arrival of the auspicious hour.

 

Unbeatable Golden Saber, Wang Yuanba, stood in the middle of the courtyard welcoming and saluting everyone around him who came to join in his birthday celebration.

 

“Welcome, welcome everyone!” the elder martial artists said joyfully.

 

Among the guest's could be seen many from famous clans. From Shaolin, Wudang, reps from the Five Mountain Schools, Kunlun, Beggars Clan, Kongtong Sect. And not just martial artist's came. But a few civil servants and government officials also came to pay their respects to such a famous individual as Wang Yuanba.

 

Ning Zhongze, Yue Buqun's chivalrous and kindly wife, dressed in a beautiful pink and blue robe, was also among the guests mingling with each other. She came as a substitute for her husband who had declined the invitation; using the excuse that he needed to prepare for the upcoming meeting of the Five Mountain Schools. To decide if they should merge as one sect and if so, to then choose a leader.

 

'I understand that Songshan Sect’s Zuo Lengchan gave no room for not attending and arriving on time. But what type of preparations is Martial Brother doing that he can't even take time out to come to this event?'

 

Ning Zhongze was indeed frustrated with her husband of late. Not only was he consumed with practicing the Evil-Warding Swordplay the man she knew was also disappearing bit by bit.

 

'He promised me he would stop practicing it, but I know better. He thinks I'm a fool who can be tricked by a few sweet words. This swordplay harms him, yet he continues to do it. What is so important that he is willing to throw his life away for?!' she thought angrily.

 

'We've been married for twenty years. How could he hide things from the very person by his side?!' she thought in anguish.

 

Composing herself, Ning Zhongze continued to mingle with the other guests.

 

'First the issues with Senior Martial Brother, then the situation with Chong'er. Ling'er and Pingzhi haven't been seen in weeks, and Chong'er in months...How can I not worry...My children could be dead and my husband hardly seems to care...'

 

Heroine Ning desperately wanted her life to go back to what it was. To a time when her worst worry was how severely her husband would punish Linghu Chong, Yue Lingshan and the other disciples when they misbehaved. In her heart, she knew that those days were long gone and to reflect on them too much would bring about added sadness.

 

“Someone get a doctor!” a female voice suddenly yelled.

 

Ning Zhongze caught site of her daughter and another person propping up Lin Pingzhi and dragging the unconscious man into the compound.

 

“Ling'er what happened?!” she said running over to her daughter.

 

“Mother!” Yue Lingshan said happily.

 

“Pingzhi! Pingzhi, what happened to you?!” Wang Yuanba said with worry after seeing his unconscious grandson.

 

“Quickly get him inside! Call for doctors immediatlely!” he barked out.

 

Yue Lingshan was going to follow but hesitated. The way her husband had spoken to her left the young martial artists doubting if her husband still cared for her.

 

'Or if he ever cared to begin with...' she thought sadly, as the idea that their entire relationship had been a lie nearly broke her heart.

 

“Ling'er what happened?”

 

Yue Lingshan could hear the concern in her mothers voice, which caused her to run over to her and cry into her shoulders.

 

“Mother I don't know what is going on. Pingzhi accused father of so many horrible things.”

 

“Okay, just calm down and tell me what happened,” Ning Zhongze said trying to calm her daughter.

 

Ning Zhongze led her daughter to a spot not occupied by many guests so they could have some privacy. For the next few minutes, she listened intently to Yue Lingshan tale, fascinated and disheartened at what she was hearing.

 

“A man wearing a fox mask saved you and Pingzhi...”

 

“Yes, first he had six of his men come to my rescue. Then he sent one of his servants to help me bring Pingzhi in to get medical treatment. Mother, if it weren't for this man's kindness. I...I shutter to think what would have happened to myself and Pingzhi. When he comes, please help me thank him properly.”

 

Ning Zhongze nodded in agreement, though she found the person's actions suspicious.

 

'Perhaps it's just being a pugilist for so long. Normally, someone doesn't help stranger's for no reason.'

 

Deciding not to worry or give too much thought to her suspicions, Ning Zhongze instead turned her attention back to trying to ease her daughters anxiety.

 

'The things Pingzhi accused senior martial brother of are horrible, but may be true...He did steal the Evil-Warding Swordplay manual and was going to conceal his theft by burning it. Who knows what else he was planning, or still has planned...'

 

“Mother are you okay,” Yue Lingshan asked after seeing her mothers troubled face.

 

'How can I let Ling'er know her father has become such a despicable person', she thought sadly.

 

Looking at her daughter intently Ning Zhongze steeled her emotions knowing what had to be done.

 

“Ling'er there is something I must tell you about your father...” Ning Zhongze said sadly, deciding honesty was the best course of action and frankly the right thing to do given the situation.

 

Suddenly, the clear and crisp voice of the young man who had the responsibility of announcing special guest's came from the entrance.

 

“South Hengshans' Chief and Madam have arrived!” he bellowed.

 

A strong wind suddenly blew through the compound after he finished speaking. Rose petals began to fall from the sky and blanket the area catching everyone by surprise. But peoples surprise didn't stop there as six young men dressed in black robes were seen using their lightness skills to carry a large elegant litter.

 

“I can't believe you had them carry rose petals in those backpacks. And here I am thinking they were just carrying extra supplies for the trip,” Linghu Chong said in near disbelief.

 

“It's called style my love,” Dongfang Bubai said with a playful wink. “How else should we make our grand entrance?”

 

Linghu Chong just stared at her blankly before laughing while shaking his head.

 

As the carriage touched down to the ground. All eyes waited with baited breath, eager to see who would make such a grand entrance.

 

 

-xXx-