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Chapter 25: Threefold Fire

Yue Ya’er tilted her head, her hands clasped on the round rosewood table. “Not so simple?”

Shi Hao said solemnly, “The Six Gates are motivated by wealth, power, and fame. Committing such acts won’t earn them a good reputation. And if this matter is exposed, the court will have to intervene, at least superficially.

“So, their primary motive must be financial gain. But what kind of profit could entice the Six Gates to participate directly in such a thing?”

The three women exchanged glances.

Yue Ya’er nodded, “Knowing their style, it’s certainly possible they would turn a blind eye to such things in exchange for money.

“But to actively participate, sending men to assist those child abductors and eliminate threats, that requires a hefty price.”

Shi Hao said, “More importantly, those children were being taken northwest. If they were being sent to the prosperous cities in the south, it would be understandable. But what’s in the northwest?”

County Mistress Li Tong also said, puzzled, “That’s right. Northwest of Jin Prefecture is practically the Gobi Desert.”

Yue Ya’er scratched her head, “This is troublesome. I came here to supervise the investigation. I never imagined the Six Gates would be involved in such a thing. I thought they were just being lazy and negligent, so I came to put some pressure on them, to make them do their job.

“I didn’t expect them to stoop so low. Without the Six Gates’ cooperation, I don’t have anyone trustworthy in Jin Prefecture. Even if I mobilize troops from the prefectural government, I don’t think it’s safe.”

County Mistress Li Tong said, “The prefectural guards are independent and have always been separate from the Six Gates, but…”

Shi Hao shook his head, “Having those guards investigate a case like this in the martial world would just make them pawns of the Six Gates.

“If possible, I hope Miss Yue can pretend to be unaware of the situation for now and continue to supervise the Six Gates’ investigation openly, but don’t take any other action. I’m a Jin Prefecture native and have some connections here. I can investigate secretly, and when necessary, I’ll ask you to mobilize troops for a decisive strike.”

Yue Ya’er readily agreed, “Alright, let’s do it that way!”

Du Yuejiao turned to County Mistress Li Tong, “Junior Sister, have you found out who attacked you on Red Mountain?”

County Mistress Li Tong shook her head, “Those people are quite secretive. We still don’t know their exact background. But my father said yesterday that attacks against the court and the royal family are becoming more frequent in various provinces. It seems there’s a secret organization uniting the scattered resistance forces. If this continues, things will become increasingly chaotic.”

She looked at Shi Hao, “Fortunately, we had Young Master Shi to save us last time…”

Du Yuejiao suddenly said, “Let’s not dwell on the past. Come, come, let’s have some tea.”

County Mistress Li Tong, mid-sentence, choked slightly.

Yue Ya’er, seeing Du Yuejiao’s suddenly serious expression, chuckled.

After a while, realizing that the city gates would soon close, County Mistress Li Tong and Yue Ya’er excused themselves.

Shi Hao and Du Yuejiao escorted them outside. A luxurious carriage awaited them, with a cavalry escort and eighteen Yingzhao beasts – mythical creatures with the head of a bird and the body of a horse, a rare sight.

County Mistress Li Tong and Yue Ya’er boarded the carriage. The Thunderclap Eighteen Riders mounted their Yingzhao beasts and flew into the air, escorting them.

After they left, Shi Hao and Du Yuejiao chatted for a while before returning to their respective residences.

That night, Shi Hao continued his cultivation.

After days of practice, both his Mysterious Charm Technique and Immortal Ice Technique had steadily improved.

He was even confident he could master both techniques before the next full moon.

This meant he had to quickly formulate a plan for obtaining the ingredients for the seventh-rank Immortal Formula and the one hundred living souls required for the demonic ritual. Ideally, he would advance to the seventh rank before the next full moon.

Obtaining the three main ingredients for the seventh-rank Immortal Formula was now much easier since he had connections to the Chongxian Sect.

But the one hundred living souls were a different matter. A living soul was a soul that hadn’t dissipated within an hour of death.

This meant he had to kill one hundred people.

Although this era showed signs of impending chaos, with more and more refugees arriving from the central plains, he couldn’t bring himself to harm innocent people.

The next morning, after helping Daoist Lan Ke with some chores, he had lunch with Du Yuejiao at her Wei Xiang Pavilion.

Although the monastery had a dining hall, it was natural for direct disciples like Du Yuejiao to have their own kitchens.

After lunch, Shi Hao found an excuse to ask Du Yuejiao to show him around Ming Kun Monastery.

Du Yuejiao agreed and led him around, explaining the various buildings and their functions.

They arrived at a hall with closed doors and windows, heavily guarded. It was quite far from the main hall, in a secluded area.

Shi Hao asked, “What is that place?”

Du Yuejiao whispered, “That’s the Golden Crucible Hall. My uncle often has unconventional ideas and conducts his experiments there. Many unique Daoist alchemy and crafting techniques were developed there.”

Shi Hao said, “I see. No wonder it’s so heavily guarded.”

Du Yuejiao shook her head, “That’s not the reason. My uncle used to work there undisturbed. But a recent experiment is too important, so the entire hall has been sealed off, waiting for officials from the sect and the court to take over.”

Shi Hao said, “I see.” He didn’t press further, worried about arousing Du Yuejiao’s suspicion. They turned and left.

But he knew he was one step closer to the information he sought.

In the afternoon, Du Yuejiao went to her lessons, and Shi Hao left Ming Kun Monastery, heading into the city alone.

After wandering around, making sure he wasn’t being followed, he changed his appearance using the Evil Shadow Disguise Technique and went to the secluded courtyard to meet with Old Qiu and Lu Tong.

After they were seated, Lu Tong asked, “Brother Hao, any clues about the God-Sealing Experiment?”

Shi Hao shook his head, “Not yet, but I’ve made some progress. Give me some more time, and I should have something.

“But I can confirm that your previous intel was accurate. Ming Kun Monastery and the Yue Ke Tai clan are indeed conducting some kind of experiment.

“It seems that in the beginning, due to Abbot Song Cui’s selfishness, the experiment wasn’t reported to the Chongxian Sect or the court. Now, they can’t hide it any longer, and the matter has escalated. The one conducting the experiment seems to be Daoist Lan Ke, one of the Twelve Perfected Ones, and the location is the Golden Crucible Hall behind Ming Kun Monastery.

“The entire hall is currently sealed off, waiting for the Chongxian Sect elders and the court to take over.”

Old Qiu said, “According to our investigation, although Daoist Lan Ke is one of the Twelve Perfected Ones, he is dedicated to crafting and alchemy, immersed in his research, and often has unconventional ideas. With his status, he should at least be the abbot of a branch monastery, or even higher, but because he avoids worldly affairs, he was assigned to this remote place and became an idle Daoist.

“If it’s him, it’s not surprising that he developed this ‘God-Sealing Experiment’ that could potentially impact the entire martial world.”

Shi Hao said impassively, “Give me some more time on this matter. But there’s another important issue I need your help with.”

Old Qiu said, “Just tell us, Righteous Hao. We’ll do our best to help.”

Shi Hao revealed some of the truth behind the child abduction case, but he was vague about how he obtained the information, not wanting Dark Thunder to suspect his true identity.

Even though these people were righteous martial artists who opposed the barbarian court, he still didn’t want to expose himself to them. Caution was always necessary.

Lu Tong said angrily, “Those Six Gates barbarian lapdogs, those treacherous villains! I knew they were no good, but I didn’t expect them to be this vile.”

Old Qiu said, “So, the local Six Gates are definitely involved in the child abductions. But they’re probably not the ones actually abducting the children. Besides the Six Gates, there must be other gangs involved.

“But the Six Gates aren’t just turning a blind eye in exchange for money, as they usually do. They’re actively participating. The profit behind this must be enormous, too tempting for those Six Gates villains to refuse. Or perhaps… other powerful families and officials are also involved?”

Shi Hao said, “I need to know which gang is cooperating with the Six Gates.”

Old Qiu nodded, “Rest assured, Righteous Hao. We’ve been investigating this matter, but we haven’t found many clues. We were already puzzled. Cases like this are usually handled by small-time gangs. Our informants should have been able to find something.

“We didn’t expect the Six Gates to be covering up the evidence. Now that we know they’re involved, and we know the children are being taken northwest, we should be able to unravel this mystery and find the gang behind it.”

Shi Hao said solemnly, “It would be best if we could rescue those children.”

Lu Tong looked at the young man with the slightly hooked nose and whispered, “You’re truly righteous and courageous, Brother Hao. Don’t worry, we’ll do our best.”

After bidding them farewell, Shi Hao changed back to his original appearance and returned to the monastery.

He was now officially considered Daoist Lan Ke’s disciple. Daoist Lan Ke was one of the Twelve Perfected Ones of the Chongxian Sect. Although he wasn’t the abbot of Ming Kun Monastery, even the abbot addressed him as Senior Brother.

The abbot had registered him and reported it to the sect. This meant he was now considered a direct disciple, like Du Yuejiao. The gatekeepers, mostly outer disciples who performed chores while practicing martial arts, didn’t question his comings and goings.

He continued learning from Daoist Lan Ke for two days. That afternoon, following Daoist Lan Ke’s instructions, he tried refining the simplest type of elixir, the Clarity Heart Pill, in an empty alchemy room.

The Clarity Heart Pill was an entry-level elixir that calmed the mind and neutralized some simple toxins.

For someone with an eighth-rank foundation and orthodox Daoist internal energy cultivation like Shi Hao, its effects were minimal, but it was often given to outer disciples who traveled outside the monastery.

Daoist alchemy wasn’t as simple as brewing medicine in an apothecary. It involved the use of true energy and divine sense, and the process itself was a form of internal energy cultivation.

Shi Hao sat before the alchemy furnace, flames roaring within.

He focused his divine sense into the furnace, observing the herbs and adjusting the flames with his true energy.

The first step in Daoist alchemy was mastering the Threefold Fire.

The Threefold Fire was achieved by perfectly harmonizing one’s body, mind, and spirit, drawing upon the hidden power within one’s soul and refining essence into energy.

Although called “fire,” it wasn’t actually fire, but a scorching aura that could ignite charcoal.

The ability to unleash flames from one’s palm to subdue demons and monsters was called “Threefold True Fire,” a technique Shi Hao hadn’t mastered yet.

And it seemed no one else possessed it either. It was likely a mythical ability from legends, used to deify Daoist cultivators.

The scorching aura ignited the charcoal at the bottom of the furnace, while true energy enveloped the herbs, refining their essence and adjusting the heat until all impurities were removed and the essence condensed into an elixir. This was Daoist alchemy.

However, being his first attempt, Shi Hao struggled to protect the herbs while controlling the heat. He saw the medicinal essence dissipating; at this rate, the herbs would be reduced to ashes.

Although Ming Kun Monastery had plenty of herbs for disciples to practice alchemy, he was still unwilling to waste them.

An idea came to him. He circulated both the Immortal Ice Technique and the Mysterious Charm Technique simultaneously within his body.

Using the Daoist method for controlling the Threefold Fire, he channeled the Mysterious Charm Technique, generating demonic fire, while using the true energy from the Immortal Ice Technique to protect the herbs.

The demonic fire, passing through the barrier created by the icy true energy, roasted and refined the herbs.

Normally, demonic fire couldn’t be used in Daoist alchemy.

The demonic sects also had their own elixirs, but they were created by obtaining demonic essence from the Demonic Realm through rituals and then refining it. Demonic fire, cultivated through demonic arts, couldn’t replicate the Daoist method of refining natural herbs into elixirs with the Threefold Fire.

This was because demonic energy represented “chaos” and couldn’t achieve the purity of Daoist true energy.

However, perhaps because he was the only dual cultivator of Daoist and demonic arts in history, Shi Hao was able to use the pure Daoist true energy to regulate and filter the unruly demonic fire, creating a unique, harmonized flame that replaced both the Threefold Fire and the charcoal fire.

Under his control, the dissipating medicinal essence recondensed, forming a perfect sphere.

The essence of the herbs rapidly solidified into an elixir, brimming with medicinal power, spinning within the unique flame…

Chapter 24: This Case Isn’t Simple

Shi Hao said, “I ran into that Yuan Jia last night. Since he’s from the Six Gates, he naturally has ways of finding out my identity based on my appearance.

“More importantly, they don’t know how much I know. They think that since I was able to track them to that location, I must be aware of their activities, so they’re trying to preemptively strike, making false accusations to protect themselves.”

Du Yuejiao said angrily, “Those despicable villains!”

Daoist Lan Ke stroked his beard, “That’s how the Six Gates operates. They have power and are used to abusing it. False accusations and framing innocent people are their specialties. It’s usually quite effective.”

Du Yuejiao said, worried, “If they can’t attack openly, they’ll resort to other methods.”

She looked at Daoist Lan Ke, “Uncle, why don’t you let Brother Shi stay at Ming Kun Monastery? Those Six Gates thugs wouldn’t dare cause trouble there.”

Daoist Lan Ke smiled, “It’s rare to see you so concerned about someone. Since I’ve already claimed him as my disciple, there’s no problem with him staying at the monastery.”

Shi Hao feigned hesitation, “Well…”

The best way to uncover the truth behind the “God-Sealing” experiment was to infiltrate Ming Kun Monastery.

As the saying went, “How can one enter the tiger’s lair and not capture its cub?” In that sense, the Six Gates’ actions had actually helped him.

But he had to pretend to be hesitant.

Du Yuejiao tugged at his sleeve and whispered, “Brother Shi, please listen to me. Stay at Ming Kun Monastery. Those people won’t dare touch you there.”

Shi Hao pretended to consider it, then nodded, “Alright, but I need to go to the Yuan Rong Merchant Guild and also retrieve some things from my residence.”

Du Yuejiao said cheerfully, “I’ll go with you.”

Daoist Lan Ke smiled, “Then I’ll leave you two alone. I’ll return to the monastery.” He flicked his whisk and left.

As they walked, Shi Hao said, “Thank you for your help at the courthouse, Miss Du… Yuejiao. But I’m worried about damaging your reputation. I’m truly sorry for any trouble this might cause you.”

Du Yuejiao lowered her head and whispered, “If it weren’t for you, Brother Shi, I would be dead. Reputation means nothing. You’re a righteous man. I was the one who acted rashly, causing this misunderstanding, damaging your reputation.”

Shi Hao smiled, “I’m a man. What do I have to lose? It’s you I’m worried about.”

They reached the Yuan Rong Merchant Guild’s headquarters. Deng Liang greeted them, “Brother Hao, I’m glad you’re alright.”

Shi Hao smiled, “You were the one who alerted the local merchants and gentry, weren’t you? That’s why there were so many people at the courthouse.”

Deng Liang grinned, “I was worried those Six Gates thugs might try something, so I spread the news.”

He pulled Shi Hao aside, glanced at Du Yuejiao, and chuckled, “You’re quite the charmer, Brother Hao. Even her… you’re amazing!”

Shi Hao, seeing his friend’s suggestive wink, remembered his earlier comments about Du Yuejiao:

—”Although she’s beautiful, she’s incredibly arrogant, like a celestial being, her words as sharp as needles.”

—”In my opinion, whoever marries that girl must have committed terrible sins in a past life.”

He shook his head, amused, and, pulling Deng Liang along, went to Du Yuejiao, “Yuejiao, this is my good friend, Deng Liang. He’s the young guild master here, and also the young master of the Jin Jin Yin Xiu Silk Emporium. They produce the finest silk in Jin Prefecture. You must have met before.”

Du Yuejiao, her hands clasped before her, curtsied gracefully, “Greetings, Brother Deng.”

Deng Liang, flustered by her unexpected politeness, stammered, “Greetings, Sister-in-Law! Greetings!”

Du Yuejiao blushed but said nothing.

After chatting with Deng Liang for a while, they left. Deng Liang escorted them to the entrance, where Du Yuejiao, surprisingly, curtsied again before leaving with Shi Hao. He couldn’t help but exclaim, “Amazing, Brother Hao! You’ve tamed even that shrew.”

Shi Hao returned to his residence to gather his belongings, then hired a carriage and went to Ming Kun Monastery with Du Yuejiao.

Inside the monastery, Du Yuejiao led him to a secluded courtyard filled with medicinal herbs, alchemy rooms, and the faint scent of incense.

In the distance stood a large, cylindrical, bronze hall with an octagonal roof, the sounds of clanging metal echoing from within.

Du Yuejiao said, “My uncle is one of the Chongxian Sect’s Twelve Perfected Ones. He’s a master craftsman and alchemist. Most of the divine crystals obtained by our temples are sent here for him to forge into magical weapons. And he also refines many elixirs and medicines.”

They entered an alchemy room, where Daoist Lan Ke was busy sorting and preparing herbs, carefully placing them into a steaming cauldron.

The heat emanating from the cauldron was intense, even Shi Hao and Du Yuejiao, standing by the entrance, felt uncomfortable. Daoist Lan Ke, however, seemed oblivious, working diligently amidst the steam.

Du Yuejiao called out, “Uncle! Brother Shi is here.”

Daoist Lan Ke, without turning around, said, “Good, good. Have him find an empty room in the courtyard.”

Du Yuejiao led Shi Hao away, “That’s how he is. He doesn’t usually handle the monastery’s affairs. He spends all his time on crafting, alchemy, and his… experiments.

“I heard he could have been promoted to a higher position within the sect, but he didn’t get along with the others, so he requested a transfer to this branch.”

She led Shi Hao to an empty room, explained the monastery’s meal times, and then left.

Shi Hao cleaned the dusty room, clearly unoccupied for a long time, lay down on the hard wooden bed, and began cultivating.

He heard steady footsteps outside, and then a man’s voice, “Senior Brother!”

Daoist Lan Ke’s voice followed, “Junior Brother Song Cui, what brings you here in such a hurry?”

The man said, “I heard you took on an outer disciple without authorization and are letting him stay at Ming Kun Monastery.”

Daoist Lan Ke said, “That’s right.”

The man said, his tone laced with displeasure, “Senior Brother, accepting a disciple and teaching him our techniques without informing the sect is forbidden. And I’m the abbot here. You didn’t even consult me.”

Daoist Lan Ke chuckled, “I just happened to find a cultivation manual and a sword technique. I saw this young man, noticed his talent, and gave them to him. If you have a problem with him staying here, Junior Brother, I’ll take him and leave. I won’t be back for a few years.”

The man hesitated, then said angrily, “What do you mean? You can’t just leave now, with everything that’s happening…”

Daoist Lan Ke said, “You call this a mess? I’m just a researcher. You were the one who wanted to take all the credit and didn’t report the God-Sealing Stones to the sect. And you were the one who let that thief steal the information. I didn’t say anything. I’m willing to share the blame.

“And now you’re giving me trouble for taking on a disciple and letting him stay here for a few days? Really, Junior Brother… I mean, Abbot?”

The man paused, his voice now subdued, “Since he’s your disciple, Senior Brother, I won’t interfere. But as the abbot, I have a duty to inquire about new disciples, especially those brought here without prior notice.

“Since he’s your disciple, I’ll register him and report it to the sect.”

Daoist Lan Ke said, “Good! Good! Thank you, Abbot.”

The footsteps faded away.

Shi Hao got up and went outside. Daoist Lan Ke was sorting herbs, tossing them in a large winnowing basket.

Shi Hao said, “I apologize for the trouble, Senior.”

Daoist Lan Ke chuckled, “It’s no trouble at all. That Yuejiao girl, she’s always been so proud and aloof. I was worried she wouldn’t be able to survive in the jianghu. Having you look after her puts my mind at ease. You’re the one I should be thanking.”

Shi Hao said, “You’re too kind, Senior. I heard you’re a master craftsman and alchemist. Would you be willing to teach me?”

Daoist Lan Ke put down the basket, stroked his beard, and smiled, “I would be delighted to. Come, come, let’s start with the basics.” He handed Shi Hao the basket, showed him how to sort the herbs, and then went back to his work.

Shi Hao felt like he had become an unpaid laborer.

Of course, learning alchemy was beneficial.

Although the Holy Jade Immortal had given him the recipe for the seventh-rank elixir, without alchemy skills, he would have to rely on others, which could be troublesome.

He spent the afternoon assisting Daoist Lan Ke, asking questions, which the old Daoist, despite his constant demands and instructions, answered patiently and thoroughly.

As evening approached, a young acolyte arrived, “Are you Brother Shi Hao? We have a guest. Please come to the Wei Xiang Pavilion.”

A guest? Shi Hao wondered.

After asking for directions, he went to the Wei Xiang Pavilion.

That morning, most of the Daoists had been attending their morning lessons, so the monastery had seemed relatively empty. Now, however, many people were coming and going.

The Chongxian Sect, claiming to be the orthodox leader of the Daoist sects, even this branch temple was grand and opulent, its grounds extensive, filled with pavilions and courtyards.

In a large training ground, young men in light green tunics practiced swordsmanship under the guidance of a Daoist priest. These disciples, trained en masse, weren’t direct disciples of the Perfected Ones or Recluses, their status far lower than inner disciples like Du Yuejiao.

They weren’t taught the orthodox Daoist internal energy cultivation techniques but other martial arts collected by the Chongxian Sect. Most would only reach the ninth rank, perhaps a few the eighth, if they were lucky.

However, a large number of ninth-rank martial artists, although not considered elite, still formed a considerable force, the foundation of the Chongxian Sect’s power.

And for many children from poor families, even becoming a small part of this foundation was a significant step up in life.

He reached the Wei Xiang Pavilion, a beautiful and elegant building surrounded by flowers and trees, its entrance flanked by incense burners. The sound of girls’ voices came from within.

“Brother Shi, you’re here,” Du Yuejiao greeted him, “Please come in.”

Shi Hao entered and saw not only Du Yuejiao but also Yue Ya’er and County Mistress Li Tong.

Yue Ya’er, wearing a flower garland and a colorful dress, looked like a flower herself. The smallest of the three, her attire made her appear even more youthful and charming.

County Mistress Li Tong, in a more subdued green and red dress with a butterfly pattern, seemed quieter and more reserved.

Du Yuejiao wore her usual Daoist robe, but this one was a light green, embroidered with the yin-yang symbol of the Daoist sects, along with pink flower petals and cloud patterns.

The robe, although brightly colored, still had an ethereal, otherworldly quality.

“Brother Shi, please have a seat,” Du Yuejiao said softly, gesturing towards a chair.

Li Tong and Yue Ya’er looked at Du Yuejiao, their expressions a mixture of surprise and confusion, as if they didn’t recognize her.

Shi Hao wondered what their impression of Du Yuejiao had been before.

He sat down, and Du Yuejiao, looking at him, said, “Sister Yue Ya’er heard about the incident this morning and came to find out what happened. I’ve already told her everything.”

Yue Ya’er, hands on her hips, said, her voice filled with indignation, “So, the Six Gates are involved in this child trafficking ring? No wonder they couldn’t find anything. If I hadn’t come here, I would have been wasting my time in Jin Prefecture.”

County Mistress Li Tong said softly, “Wasting your time would be the best-case scenario. More likely, they would have just arrested some random people, forced a confession, and closed the case.

“Although I’m familiar with the Six Gates’ corruption and incompetence, I still can’t believe they would be directly involved in something like this.”

Shi Hao shook his head, “This case isn’t that simple.”

Chapter 23: The Twelve Perfected Ones

“Your Honor!” The short, thin man stepped forward, raising his hands and presenting a badge. “I am Yuan Jia, a field agent of the Six Gates, specializing in undercover work, reconnaissance, and gathering intelligence among the lower classes.

“Recently, I was ordered to investigate the abduction and trafficking of children. I tracked those villains for several nights, finally locating one of their bases on Mount Fused Serpent in the northwest. Last night, while investigating further, I was discovered by their leader, who attempted to silence me.

“Fortunately, I possess some supernatural abilities. Although injured, I managed to escape with my life.”

Qiu Jiangping said, “Yuan Jia, look around the courtroom. Is the villain who tried to kill you here?”

Yuan Jia pointed at Shi Hao, “Your Honor, that’s him.”

An uproar erupted from the crowd at the entrance.

Qiu Jiangping said, “Yuan Jia, show everyone your wound.”

Yuan Jia ripped open his collar, revealing a sword wound on his shoulder.

Qiu Jiangping bowed towards the magistrate, “Your Honor, I’ve investigated. The wound on Yuan Jia’s shoulder matches the sword energy used by Shi Hao on Red Mountain, and it also matches the wounds on the bodies of our colleagues killed on Disordered Chess Mountain. Your Honor…”

He turned and pointed at Shi Hao, “This man is the murderer from Disordered Chess Mountain, and he is also the mastermind behind the recent case of child abduction and trafficking.”

He bowed again, “Your Honor, this is a major case, and the capital is also paying attention. Now that we have both witnesses and physical evidence, please pass judgment.”

Shi Yujun was aware of the importance of this case. Even Yue Ya’er, the daughter of the Yue Ke Tai family, had personally come to supervise the investigation with the Thunderclap Eighteen Riders. This case couldn’t be delayed; a swift resolution was needed!

He slammed the gavel and looked at the shackled Shi Hao, “Shi Hao, where were you last night?”

Shi Hao said slowly, “I was alone, camping in the mountains.”

Shi Yujun asked, “Can anyone testify for you?”

Shi Hao slowly shook his head.

Shi Yujun demanded, “Was the sword wound on Yuan Jia’s shoulder inflicted by you?”

Shi Hao’s expression remained unchanged. He shook his head, “No.”

Qiu Jiangping sneered, “Denial is useless. Yuan Jia saw you clearly last night.”

Shi Hao’s expression remained impassive, “He mistook me for someone else.”

Yuan Jia didn’t get angry but laughed instead, “I mistook you? You claim I mistook you?” He addressed the magistrate, “Your Honor, this man is a heinous criminal. He must not be spared.”

Qiu Jiangping also bowed towards the magistrate, “Your Honor, this Shi Hao secretly cultivated martial arts, but his background is unknown. Even if he practices Daoist internal energy cultivation, he is still unorthodox. I’ve sent people to investigate Small Han Mountain City. No one there knew he practiced martial arts.

“If he didn’t have ulterior motives and wasn’t plotting something illegal, why would he hide his martial arts training from everyone? Such unorthodox practices…”

Suddenly, a loud laugh came from outside, “Who says he’s unorthodox?”

The crowd at the entrance turned and parted. The laughter, loud and powerful, filled the courtroom, impossible to ignore.

An old Daoist priest entered. He wore a disheveled blue robe and a crooked Daoist cap, his horsetail whisk hanging loosely. He looked rather unkempt.

However, his laughter alone demonstrated his considerable strength.

Everyone in the courtroom, including Shi Hao, felt the laughter reverberate through them, deafeningly loud.

Qiu Jiangping clearly recognized the newcomer. His face darkened, but he also looked puzzled, probably wondering why this person was interfering.

The old Daoist entered the courtroom, flicked his whisk, and bowed to Shi Yujun, “Greetings, Your Honor. I am Daoist Lan Ke of Ming Kun Monastery.”

Shi Yujun, a civil official and not a martial artist, turned to his clerk.

The clerk quickly approached and whispered, “My lord, this is Perfected Lan Ke, one of the Twelve Perfected Ones of the Chongxian Sect and the senior brother of Ming Kun Monastery’s abbot.”

Shi Yujun suddenly understood. He nodded slightly and said to the old Daoist, “There’s no need for formalities, Perfected One. May I ask what brings you here?”

The old Daoist pointed at the shackled Shi Hao and smiled, “Constable Qiu claims his background is unknown and that he is unorthodox. I’ve come to clarify. Shi Hao’s martial arts were taught by me. In other words, he is an outer disciple of our Chongxian Sect.”

Another uproar came from the crowd at the entrance. Qiu Jiangping hurriedly stepped forward, “Perfected One! If he is an outer disciple of the Chongxian Sect, why didn’t Recluse Zhuo recognize him at the Marquis’ residence? Even in terms of martial arts, she only recognized his Daoist internal energy but couldn’t identify his sect.”

Daoist Lan Ke flicked his whisk again and smiled, “Is this the first time you’ve met me, Chief Constable Qiu? I do things as I please. Last year, in the mountains, I encountered this young man. I saw his talent and his respectful demeanor towards me, so on a whim, I taught him internal energy cultivation, gave him a profound external elixir, and established his martial arts foundation.

“As for his martial arts techniques, heh, our Chongxian Sect is the leader of all Daoist sects. We have countless techniques, and Junior Sister Zhuo can’t possibly know them all. I gave him a rare and unique sword manual, a secret technique of mine. It’s not surprising that Junior Sister Zhuo didn’t recognize it.”

Qiu Jiangping stammered, “But…”

He couldn’t understand. Shi Hao, whose background had no connection to the Chongxian Sect, had suddenly become their outer disciple?

He gritted his teeth and said coldly, “Even if he is your disciple, Perfected One, he has committed a serious crime. Is the Chongxian Sect going to protect him?”

Daoist Lan Ke said, “If he truly committed this crime, I naturally wouldn’t condone or protect him. But if someone is trying to frame my disciple, I won’t let them get away with it.”

Qiu Jiangping said, “We have both physical evidence and witnesses…”

Daoist Lan Ke said, “The so-called physical evidence is the coroner’s report? You claim that those who died on Disordered Chess Mountain were killed by sword-like finger strikes with a freezing aura. Heh, take me to see the bodies. I can tell whether it’s true or not with a single glance.”

Qiu Jiangping’s expression remained unchanged, “The bodies were cremated several days ago.”

The crowd at the entrance erupted in commotion. Daoist Lan Ke sneered, “Cremated? Since when do we have such a custom in West Shu?”

Qiu Jiangping said, “Most of those men weren’t from this prefecture. After their deaths, we had to send their remains back to their hometowns. Cremating them and placing their ashes in urns made it easier to transport them.”

Daoist Lan Ke sneered, “Transporting corpses over long distances isn’t a new practice. The Corpse Walker Sect and the Witchcraft Cult both offer such services. A person’s body is a gift from their parents. How can you cremate them without the consent of their families? Is this the way the Six Gates operates? Or are you afraid of someone examining the bodies?”

The crowd outside grew louder, and even Shi Yujun glanced at Qiu Jiangping, frowning.

It wasn’t that they didn’t trust the Six Gates, but the Six Gates’ habit of framing innocent people was well-known.

Qiu Jiangping’s expression remained impassive. He didn’t argue. Since the bodies had been cremated, no matter how much others questioned it, the coroner’s report remained the only evidence.

Shi Yujun said, “Even if the coroner’s report is insufficient as evidence, someone witnessed Shi Hao with the child abductors last night, and he even attempted to silence the witness. We have a credible eyewitness.”

Yuan Jia shouted, “That’s right! I saw him with my own eyes! He even injured me. I barely escaped with my life.”

A sharp, girlish voice came from outside, “That’s impossible.”

The crowd at the entrance parted, and a young woman floated in. She wore a peach-colored Daoist robe with a cloud pattern, her appearance delicate and beautiful, a sword at her waist.

Shi Yujun asked, “Who is this young lady?”

The girl bowed towards the magistrate, “I am Du Yuejiao of Ming Kun Monastery. Shi Hao was with me all last night. I can testify that he had nothing to do with the child abductions.”

Qiu Jiangping said, “Miss Du, you didn’t recognize him at the Marquis’ residence last time.”

Du Yuejiao said sharply, “Aren’t you the chief constable? How can you be so dim-witted? Of course, I didn’t recognize him before we met at the Marquis’ residence. But since we met there, I naturally recognize him now.”

Her sharp words, and her naturally sarcastic tone, made the crowd chuckle.

Qiu Jiangping’s face flushed red, then white, with anger. “You weren’t very friendly towards him back then.”

Du Yuejiao snorted, “I didn’t know he was my uncle’s disciple back then. Why should I have been friendly? After returning to the monastery and learning he’s a fellow disciple, why would I treat him poorly?

“In fact, I should apologize for my previous behavior!”

Yuan Jia shouted, “Even if you were together these past few days, I encountered this villain last night. He left secretly…”

Du Yuejiao said, “That’s impossible!”

Qiu Jiangping asked, “Why is that?”

Du Yuejiao pursed her lips, “We were together last night.”

Yuan Jia said, “It was the middle of the night.”

Du Yuejiao said, “We were together in the middle of the night.”

Qiu Jiangping asked, “Was anyone else with you?”

Du Yuejiao said, “Just the two of us. We were in the wilderness; there was no one else around.”

Qiu Jiangping said, “He could have left while you were asleep…”

Du Yuejiao said, “We weren’t asleep.”

Qiu Jiangping frowned, “The two of you, in the middle of the night, alone in the wilderness, and you weren’t asleep. What were you doing?”

The girl’s face flushed crimson. She stamped her foot and exclaimed, “None of your business!”

The crowd outside roared with laughter. Someone shouted, “A man and a woman, alone in the wilderness in the middle of the night, and they weren’t asleep. What do you think they were doing?”

The laughter grew louder, and someone even whistled. Another person shouted, “They were doing the wild thing!”

Shi Yujun banged his gavel repeatedly, “Order! Order!” But the courtroom remained chaotic.

Qiu Jiangping was speechless.

Shi Yujun frowned, glared at Qiu Jiangping, and, seeing the commotion outside, called his clerk over and whispered, “How should we handle this case?”

The clerk leaned in and said, “My lord, I don’t think the Six Gates’ evidence and witnesses are very credible. This Shi Hao saved the County Mistress. Small Han Mountain City is a prominent local family, and he now has connections to the Chongxian Sect. Based on this flimsy evidence…”

Shi Yujun knew the Six Gates were likely framing him.

But in the past, their victims had been powerless and unable to defend themselves. Their pleas of innocence had been ignored.

Frankly, if this young man were just the young master of Small Han Mountain City, wrongly accusing him wouldn’t be a big deal.

But now that the Chongxian Sect was involved, he didn’t want to antagonize such a powerful martial arts sect.

He slammed his gavel, “The evidence and witnesses in this case are unclear. Release the suspect! We will re-evaluate if new evidence emerges.”

Court guards removed Shi Hao’s shackles. Qiu Jiangping said urgently, “Your Honor…”

Shi Yujun glanced at him, “The case is closed. That’s final.” Although he didn’t know why the local Six Gates had a grudge against this young man, he didn’t want to get involved.

Helpless, Qiu Jiangping bowed and retreated.

Outside the courthouse, Shi Hao bowed to Daoist Lan Ke, “Thank you for your help, Senior.”

Daoist Lan Ke stroked his short beard and smiled, “Don’t thank me. My niece told me that if it weren’t for you, rescuing her from that demonic villain, she might have met a terrible fate. You saved my niece, so it was only right for me to help you.”

It turned out that Daoist Lan Ke’s surname was also Du. He was Du Yuejiao’s uncle in the Chongxian Sect and also her blood relative.

Du Yuejiao looked at Shi Hao and whispered, “You were with me last night. Why didn’t you say so in court and let me testify for you?”

Shi Hao hesitated, “Well…”

Du Yuejiao glanced at him, her heart softening. She whispered, “You…” She trailed off, lost in thought.

Qiu Jiangping approached them. Shi Hao sneered and walked towards him.

Qiu Jiangping’s eyes were sharp, but he forced a smile, “So, Young Master Shi is a disciple of Perfected Lan Ke of the Chongxian Sect. My apologies, my apologies!”

Shi Hao smiled faintly, “You’re too kind, Chief Constable.”

Qiu Jiangping stared at him, “Today’s events were a misunderstanding. Please don’t take it to heart, Young Master Shi. If we can put this behind us, should you ever need the assistance of the Six Gates, we will be at your service.”

Shi Hao smiled, “Of course, of course.”

They exchanged insincere bows, and Qiu Jiangping turned and left.

Shi Hao returned to Daoist Lan Ke and Du Yuejiao.

Du Yuejiao frowned and asked, puzzled, “Why would the Six Gates arrest you instead of pursuing the real criminals?”

Shi Hao sneered, “That constable called Yuan Jia is the supernatural ability user I encountered in the mountains last night.”

Du Yuejiao’s expression changed, “But that supernatural ability user is working with the child traffickers! Does that mean…”

Chapter 22: Cornered Beast

Shi Hao frowned, “It’s a pity I couldn’t save those children.”

Du Yuejiao said softly, “Since so many children have gone missing, the Six Gates shouldn’t ignore it. They’ll eventually find these people.”

Shi Hao shook his head without saying anything.

He didn’t really believe the Six Gates would put much effort into this matter.

But then he remembered that Yue Ya’er had brought the Thunderclap Eighteen Riders to Jin Prefecture specifically to pressure the Six Gates.

With pressure from a prominent barbarian family like the Yue Ke Tai clan, the local Six Gates wouldn’t dare to be too negligent in this case.

Under Shi Hao’s care, Du Yuejiao’s condition had greatly improved. Although she hadn’t fully recovered, she just needed a few more days of rest.

At daybreak, Shi Hao accompanied her back towards Ming Kun Monastery.

Along the way, they stopped at a town where Shi Hao bought her a set of clothes from a clothing store.

The town didn’t have any fine fabrics. The ready-made outfit was a simple blue cotton dress, the kind worn by ordinary commoner girls.

Du Yuejiao changed into the new clothes in the forest. Shi Hao saw that it fit her reasonably well.

Because she was naturally beautiful, even in such a simple dress, she looked like a delicate orchid in the forest.

They reached the gates of Ming Kun Monastery, and Shi Hao stopped.

Du Yuejiao turned to him, “Brother Shi…”

Shi Hao said slowly, “I’ll leave you here.”

Du Yuejiao lowered her head and whispered, “Brother Shi, won’t you come in and sit for a while? You saved me. My master will be very grateful.”

Shi Hao smiled faintly, “No, I haven’t been back to the city for several days. I should go back and check on things. And I need to report what I saw last night to the Six Gates. Although those people have probably moved, the Six Gates might still be able to find some clues.

“Also, I encountered that supernatural ability user last night. Perhaps someone in the Six Gates knows who he is.”

Du Yuejiao opened her mouth, wanting to say something, but then stopped.

Shi Hao bid her farewell and turned to leave. Behind him, the girl watched him silently until Zhuo Mulan and the others emerged from the monastery. She turned and went to greet her master.

Shi Hao entered Jin City and walked back towards his residence.

As he walked, he frowned.

Suddenly, he stopped in the middle of the street. Figures appeared on the rooftops, aiming crossbows at him.

“Six Gates official business!” The shout caused chaos in the street as people scattered.

Numerous martial artists, some in official uniforms, some in plain clothes, surrounded him.

Qiu Jiangping, the chief constable of the local Six Gates, stepped forward.

Dressed in a black tunic with embroidered eagles on the sleeves, Qiu Jiangping, as chief constable, also possessed an eighth-rank foundation.

However, not being a Daoist cultivator, the signs of his external martial arts training were obvious: his skin was bronzed, his muscles well-defined, his eyes sharp, his entire demeanor as sharp as a blade.

“Constable Qiu,” Shi Hao said calmly, looking at the approaching Qiu Jiangping, “What crime have I committed to warrant such a display of force?”

Qiu Jiangping sneered, “You should know what crimes you’ve committed. Are you going to surrender peacefully, or resist arrest and force us to kill you on the spot?”

Shi Hao slowly scanned his surroundings.

There were about sixty crossbowmen, all armed with powerful crossbows and sharp arrows.

Qiu Jiangping himself was an eighth-rank expert. The Jin Prefecture Six Gates couldn’t possibly have only one eighth-rank martial artist. There were likely a dozen or so ninth-rank experts, as well as many unranked but experienced martial artists recruited by the Six Gates.

He had no chance of escaping this encirclement.

Although many people were watching from the sidelines, the Six Gates constables were known for their arrogance and abuse of power, so no one dared to speak up.

Further down the street, several palanquins were blocked by the Six Gates’ operation. Attendants came to inquire about the commotion, and some lower-ranking constables quietly explained the situation.

Shi Hao untied his sword, tossed it aside, and said loudly, “I, Shi Hao, have a clear conscience. Although I don’t know what crime Constable Qiu intends to charge me with, since you’ve brought so many men, I’ll gladly accompany you.”

His voice, although not loud, carried far.

Qiu Jiangping snorted, “I, Qiu, always uphold the law. I wouldn’t wrongly accuse anyone. If you’re truly innocent, you won’t be unjustly convicted.”

He barked, “Take him away!”

Constables swarmed forward, placed Shi Hao in shackles, and escorted him to prison.

Inside the cell, Shi Hao sat cross-legged in his shackles, his mind racing. He couldn’t understand why the Six Gates were targeting him.

But he wasn’t worried. He had saved County Mistress Li Tong on Red Mountain. And Deng Liang, loyal friend that he was, had spread the news among the wealthy merchants and gentry. He had announced his name loudly in the street, ensuring the story would spread.

Unless the Marquis’ residence completely disregarded their reputation, they would definitely inquire about this matter.

He sat quietly in the cell, cultivating his internal energy. No one came to see him, and no one came to torture him.

Although the jailer brought him food, he didn’t touch it, sustaining himself with his true energy.

The next morning, Qiu Jiangping arrived with his men, gave him a cold look, and said, “Bring him to the court.”

They dragged him out of the cell and escorted him to the courthouse.

Shi Yujun, the prefect, sat on the magistrate’s bench, dressed in his official robes and hat.

The court guards shouted, “Order!,” their voices loud and imposing.

Shi Yujun glanced at Shi Hao and then gestured to Qiu Jiangping. When Qiu Jiangping approached, Shi Yujun whispered, “Are you certain you have the right person? The Marquis’ residence specifically instructed us not to use torture or force a confession.

“Even my wife mentioned it this morning. It seems the County Mistress has interceded on his behalf. If you don’t have solid evidence, it’s best to release him quickly.”

Qiu Jiangping also lowered his voice, “Rest assured, my lord. We have irrefutable evidence, both witnesses and physical evidence. And you don’t have to worry about the County Mistress. This case is being overseen by the young lady from the capital. Our men are counting on this case to earn merits.”

Shi Yujun pondered for a moment and nodded. He suddenly noticed a crowd gathering outside the courthouse.

Qiu Jiangping slammed the gavel, “Silence! What are you all doing here? Clerk, why aren’t these people being removed?”

The clerk hurried over and whispered, “My lord, these are representatives from the local gentry, along with many onlookers. The prisoner is the young master of Small Han Mountain City. Someone spread rumors that the authorities are arresting him to suppress the local gentry, making everyone nervous.”

Shi Yujun frowned and called Qiu Jiangping over again, “Are you certain there’s no problem with the evidence and witnesses? This man has a certain status. If you can’t build a solid case, you’ll bear the consequences.”

He was clearly aware of the Six Gates’ methods. He would be grateful if even half of their cases were legitimate, so he was skeptical.

Qiu Jiangping gritted his teeth, “Rest assured, my lord. There’s no problem.”

Seeing his confidence, Shi Yujun nodded, sat up straight, and slammed the gavel again, “Silence!”

The courtroom fell silent.

Qiu Jiangping approached Shi Hao and said loudly, “Shi Hao, I ask you, were you at Disordered Chess Mountain on the night of May 18th?”

Shi Hao was surprised by this first question, his heart pounding, but thanks to the Evil Shadow Disguise Technique’s control over his facial muscles, his expression remained unchanged, “Yes.”

Qiu Jiangping turned and addressed the magistrate, “My lord, that night, more than a dozen of our Six Gates men were killed on Disordered Chess Mountain, including Constable Zhao Haisong and the Rat and Bat Duo. They were all killed by this Shi Hao.”

Shi Hao’s heart sank. He hadn’t expected this to be revealed.

He had known that the Six Gates were villains who relied on the barbarian court and committed all sorts of evil deeds.

But today, he experienced their power firsthand.

He regretted underestimating them.

The crowd outside the courthouse fell silent.

Although the Six Gates had a bad reputation, killing more than a dozen of their men was a serious crime. Even if he escaped temporarily, he would be placed on the Six Gates’ blacklist, with nowhere to hide.

Unless he reached the level of the “Top Ten Experts on the Blacklist,” in which case the entire Six Gates would avoid him.

Those top-level experts were listed on the blacklist simply to warn the local Six Gates, “Don’t mess with this person.”

Qiu Jiangping pointed at Shi Hao and said sternly, “This man not only killed Constable Zhao and more than a dozen of our colleagues, but he is also the mastermind behind a recent major case.”

He looked around and said sharply, “Recently, a group of villains, taking advantage of the refugee crisis in the central plains, have been abducting and stealing children, engaging in child trafficking and profiting from this heinous act. We have confirmed that this man is the mastermind.”

An uproar erupted around him. Shi Hao turned to Qiu Jiangping, his eyebrows slightly raised.

Shi Yujun slammed the gavel to restore order and said loudly, “Shi Hao, do you confess to your crimes?”

Shi Hao looked up and said, “These are false accusations. I didn’t kill Constable Zhao, and I didn’t commit this crime.”

Qiu Jiangping said, “You secretly cultivated martial arts, hiding your skills from everyone. That night, many of our Six Gates men were killed on Disordered Chess Mountain, and you happened to be there as well. Do you really believe in such coincidences?”

He stepped forward and presented a stack of documents, “This is the coroner’s report. According to the examination, all the victims were killed by finger strikes. The attacker possesses at least eighth-rank strength. The wounds are thin and deep, indicating the use of fingers as swords, and there are signs of freezing around the wounds.

“On Red Mountain, many people witnessed Shi Hao using a branch as a sword. Using a branch as a sword and using fingers as a sword are similar. I personally witnessed Miss Du Yuejiao of Ming Kun Monastery exchanging a palm strike with him at the Marquis’ residence. His internal energy is orthodox Daoist, carrying a chilling aura, matching the attacker on Disordered Chess Mountain.

“This man was at Disordered Chess Mountain that night. His swordsmanship, his internal energy, everything matches. What are the odds of such a coincidence? If he’s not the killer, then who is?”

The crowd outside the courthouse murmured.

A strange expression appeared on Shi Hao’s face.

For a moment, he was truly shocked by Qiu Jiangping and the Six Gates’ abilities.

He had used a different appearance and different martial arts, yet they had still seen through him. The Six Gates’ abilities were truly terrifying and unpredictable.

But then he realized that Qiu Jiangping hadn’t actually found the real killer. He was simply framing him.

On Disordered Chess Mountain, although he had used finger strikes to kill Zhao Haisong, the Rat and Bat Duo, and the others, he hadn’t used his “fingers as swords,” and the wounds weren’t frozen, but burned by the Mysterious Charm Technique and the Severing Meridian Burning Heart Finger.

With Qiu Jiangping’s skills, he couldn’t possibly mistake these distinct techniques.

The coroner’s report presented by Qiu Jiangping was completely fabricated, false evidence designed to frame Shi Hao.

Qiu Jiangping knew that the killer on Disordered Chess Mountain and Shi Hao couldn’t possibly be the same person.

Finger techniques versus swordsmanship, burning energy versus freezing energy, demonic arts versus Daoist internal energy… Everything was different.

Yet, Qiu Jiangping was using fabricated evidence to frame Shi Hao… the real killer!

Shi Hao couldn’t control his expression, a mixture of amusement and disbelief appearing on his face… Was this a stroke of luck for Qiu Jiangping, or a stroke of misfortune for himself?

To be “identified” by the Six Gates in such a way?

Qiu Jiangping knew Shi Hao couldn’t possibly be the killer, but that didn’t stop him from framing him.

Shi Hao knew he was the killer… but Qiu Jiangping couldn’t possibly know that!

Shi Yujun quickly scanned the evidence presented by Qiu Jiangping and looked down, “Shi Hao, what is your defense?”

Shi Hao said calmly, “This is a false accusation. I…”

Qiu Jiangping stepped forward again, “My lord, I have other witnesses who can prove that Shi Hao intended to kill more than just those who died on Disordered Chess Mountain.”

Shi Yujun said, “Bring them forward!”

Qiu Jiangping turned and said, “Please bring Witness Yuan Jia to the stand.”

Shi Hao, still in shackles, turned and saw a short, thin man with a sharp, monkey-like face, dressed in an official uniform, enter with two court guards.

Only then did Shi Hao understand why Qiu Jiangping had suddenly targeted him, even risking offending the prefectural government and causing conflict, just to frame him.

Last night’s encounter had inadvertently cornered them…

Chapter 21: The Earth Dog Star

Thanks to Shi Hao’s meticulous care, after another day, Du Yuejiao’s condition significantly improved.

If not for his eighth-rank foundation and orthodox Taisu Immortal Pavilion techniques, her recovery wouldn’t have been so swift.

Du Yuejiao’s internal energy had mostly recovered, and although her body was still weak, she could move around with the help of her own power.

However, several of her meridians were still blocked, requiring many more days to heal completely. The villain’s finger techniques were truly brutal, and even Daoist true energy needed time to dispel the lingering effects.

That evening, Du Yuejiao, wearing the young man’s robe and a makeshift grass rope belt, sat under a tree, watching him barbecue with great interest.

Shi Hao’s skills seemed quite impressive. He carefully collected the dripping grease in a plate, mixed it with spices he carried with him, and brushed it onto the roasting meat repeatedly.

This was the first time Du Yuejiao had witnessed such a scene of outdoor cooking.

Having dedicated herself to cultivation in the Chongxian Sect, she had never needed to concern herself with such mundane tasks.

Now, watching him work so meticulously, she found it strangely captivating.

Shi Hao used his sword to cut into the half-cooked pheasant, allowing the marinade to penetrate deeper with the hot grease.

After a while, the pheasant was perfectly roasted, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.

He tore off a leg, carefully removed the slightly charred outer layer, and then sliced the tender meat into thin strips with a small knife before offering it to the girl under the tree.

Since she was recovering from a serious illness, she couldn’t eat anything too greasy.

His attentiveness touched Du Yuejiao.

As night fell, Du Yuejiao, having rested for a while, felt much better, her energy mostly restored, and wanted to walk around.

Shi Hao accompanied her on a stroll through the forest.

The new moon hung in the sky, a thin crescent.

The stars, in the dim moonlight, shone brightly.

Shi Hao remained mostly silent, not asking too many questions or doing anything unnecessary, simply accompanying her quietly.

Du Yuejiao couldn’t help but wonder what kind of person he was.

She recalled their first encounter, his arrogance and defiance, his refusal to yield.

Why was he so gentle now? This silent protection, this unspoken consideration, was completely different from the arrogance she had seen before, but it was precisely this difference that touched her even more.

Suddenly, a gust of wind swept past, and the young man behind her grabbed her wrist.

Du Yuejiao looked at him in surprise.

Shi Hao whispered, “There’s someone down there!”

He pulled her behind a tree, hiding in the shadows, and looked down the slope.

They saw a group of people escorting a number of children through the wilderness.

The men were dressed in grey tunics, armed with swords and sabers, their faces covered. The children, mostly frail and weak, looked like they came from poor families. Some, unable to keep up, collapsed.

The men in grey would roughly pull them up, yelling and forcing them to continue. If a child was truly unable to walk, they would carry him, not wanting to slow down.

Du Yuejiao whispered, “Who are they? What are they doing?”

Shi Hao whispered, “I heard there’s a group abducting children. It seems these are them. I didn’t expect to find them here.”

He thought to himself, “With so many refugees in the central plains, such incidents are inevitable. But both Dark Thunder and the barbarian court have noticed this trend. It must be quite widespread for even the barbarian court to pressure the Six Gates to investigate.”

He observed that the men in grey were organized and trained in martial arts.

Although most were unranked, there were at least three ninth-rank experts among them.

These were definitely not ordinary traffickers, but an organized gang.

He looked at the direction they were heading, even more puzzled. They were going northwest.

Even for child trafficking or smuggling, they should logically be heading south, towards more prosperous regions.

West Shu Province was already remote. Further northwest was desolate wilderness. What were they doing taking these children there?

Shi Hao knew that if it was just business, the children would at least be kept alive.

Although their fate might not be good, sold to brothels or beggar gangs, they would at least survive for a while.

But if they were needed by the demonic sects, even survival was uncertain.

Shi Hao himself was still worried about how he would obtain one hundred “living souls” to advance his demonic cultivation after he mastered the Mysterious Charm Technique.

Similarly, if someone’s advancement ritual required the blood of children… it was entirely possible.

He remembered the Enchanting Fire Witch Su Mei’s casual words, “The price isn’t your own,” and “Just find an unnoticed village and slaughter everyone,” her tone indifferent.

For the demonic sects, such things were perfectly normal.

Shi Hao turned to Du Yuejiao and whispered, “Miss Du, they’re moving so quickly. They must have a base nearby. I’ll follow them and see which sect they belong to and where their base is, so I can inform the Six Gates. You…”

Du Yuejiao blurted out, “I’ll go with you.”

Shi Hao shook his head, “You haven’t fully recovered yet, Miss Du. You shouldn’t exert yourself. Rest in the cave. Don’t worry, I’ll find out who they are and return quickly.”

Du Yuejiao opened her mouth, then lowered her head and nodded slightly.

Shi Hao left the cover of the trees, preparing to descend the slope. Behind him, the girl’s voice came again, “Wait.”

Shi Hao turned and looked at her.

The girl, looking slightly embarrassed, fidgeted with her hair and whispered, “Just… call me Yuejiao.”

Shi Hao nodded, “Miss Yuejiao… Yuejiao, wait for me.” Worried that the group might get too far away, he used his movement technique and sped off.

The girl watched him disappear into the darkness, thinking that he was not only willing to protect her, despite their previous animosity, but also concerned about those unrelated children.

She thought to herself, “He’s actually such a good person…”

Shi Hao secretly followed the grey-clad martial artists.

He hadn’t specifically trained in light-foot techniques, and he didn’t dare to use the Soul Chasing Locking Steps casually.

He had set a rule for himself: only use the Mysterious Charm Technique, Soul Chasing Locking Steps, and Severing Meridian Burning Heart Finger when disguised with the Evil Shadow Disguise Technique.

When appearing as himself, he would only use his Daoist foundation and the swordsmanship taught by the Holy Jade Immortal.

Dual cultivation of Daoist and demonic arts should be his hidden trump card, not to be revealed lightly.

It was the clever Enchanting Fire Witch who had anticipated this and taught him the Evil Shadow Disguise Technique.

Although the stars shone brightly, the faint moonlight of the new moon cast the surroundings in darkness.

The men were moving quickly, occasionally startling nocturnal animals in the desolate wilderness.

Although he hadn’t trained in specific light-foot techniques, the “Six Immortal Lightning Strikes” included movement techniques that complemented the swordsmanship. Using these techniques, Shi Hao was able to move swiftly through the forest, his feet barely touching the ground.

They continued deeper into the mountains, entering a desolate, ancient forest, a place rarely visited even by hunters.

He saw them ascend a mountain peak. That must be their destination.

The children, exhausted, were being carried by the men in grey.

Even the men were panting.

The mountain wasn’t tall, but the trees were dense, obscuring what lay within.

Shi Hao, not daring to be careless, followed them stealthily, staying close to avoid losing them.

A strange cooing sound echoed from ahead. Shi Hao quickly hid behind a tree.

The sound stopped abruptly. He peeked out but couldn’t see them anymore.

They had vanished into the dim forest.

Unwilling to give up, he flickered forward, using the trees for cover.

A dark figure dropped from a tree.

Shi Hao almost collided with a man with a sharp, monkey-like face.

The man, startled, let out a shriek.

He hadn’t noticed Shi Hao either, simply moving quickly through the forest, patrolling the area. He had almost bumped into him by accident.

His shriek alerted the others. Someone shouted, “Something’s wrong!”

A flurry of sounds followed.

Shi Hao thought, “This is bad,” and quickly retreated.

The short man with the sharp, monkey-like face darted around him. Shi Hao watched him leaping through the trees without making a sound.

This bizarre sight made him realize why he hadn’t detected him earlier… This was a supernatural ability user.

He wasn’t using some advanced light-foot technique, but a supernatural ability.

The man leaped from one tree to another, without even the slightest whoosh of wind that should accompany such movement, appearing beside Shi Hao instantly.

A blade flashed, attacking Shi Hao from the side, the angle cunning and unpredictable.

Shi Hao knew the man was trying to stall him, waiting for his companions to arrive. He wouldn’t be entangled.

He deflected the blade with his sword, his second strike carrying a chilling icy aura, aimed at the man’s throat.

The short man, startled, kicked off a tree and, with seemingly nothing to push against, abruptly changed direction, appearing on another tree in the distance.

Shi Hao was now certain he was a supernatural ability user… Changing direction mid-air without any support. If this was a martial arts technique, how powerful was this man?

He wasn’t even sure if the Holy Jade Immortal or the Enchanting Fire Witch could achieve such effortless movement.

Unwilling to engage, Shi Hao turned and used his movement technique to rush down the slope.

The man harassed him from behind, using his ghostly movements to attack and slow him down.

Shi Hao’s speed decreased, and the sounds of pursuit grew louder, closing in on him.

Just as the short man thought he had him, Shi Hao’s sword flashed, flying through the air – the “Mysterious Firefly Flying Sword” from the Six Immortal Lightning Strikes.

The sword energy, like a fleeting firefly, struck the man’s shoulder, drawing blood.

Shi Hao grasped his hand, and the sword flew back to him, its speed increasing, quickly leaving his pursuers behind.

Without the interference of the short man with the strange supernatural ability, the others couldn’t catch up. They could only watch as he disappeared into the darkness.

Shi Hao took a detour and returned to the cave just before dawn.

He saw a bonfire burning before the cave, and Du Yuejiao sitting beside it, looking anxious.

She sighed in relief when she saw him emerge from the forest and whispered, “What happened?”

Shi Hao shook his head helplessly, “I wanted to find their base and then secretly inform the Six Gates. But they have a supernatural ability user among them. His power is bizarre and unpredictable, not only incredibly fast but also completely silent.

“Although I was careful, I couldn’t detect him in advance, and my plan failed.

“Now that they know their location has been compromised, they’ll definitely move tonight. That mountain is far from here, even further from the city. Even if I inform the Six Gates now, it’ll be too late. Besides, the city gates are closed; I can’t enter the city.”

Du Yuejiao thought for a moment and said, “You’re probably talking about the ‘Earth Dog Star.’”

Shi Hao asked, “Earth Dog Star?”

Du Yuejiao said, “The Chongxian Sect has records of all the known divine crystals and the supernatural abilities they grant. The person you described has likely absorbed the ‘Earth Dog Star’ divine crystal. It’s an Earthly Fiend type, extremely suitable for assassination and stealth.

“It’s good that you returned safely after encountering such a supernatural ability user in the dark.”

As she said “It’s good that you returned safely,” she looked up at him, her eyes glistening.

Shi Hao thought about it and felt a sense of relief, “I was indeed careful. Although I didn’t detect him in advance, he didn’t notice me either. If he had seen me first, I probably wouldn’t have escaped his assassination.”

He realized the true power of supernatural abilities.

Like his Earthly Valor Tiger, which contained the Earthly Valor Star divine crystal.

As a magical weapon, its power could only be used once a day. But if he absorbed the divine crystal and became an Earthly Valor Star supernatural ability user, he could use the divine form and power at will, significantly increasing his strength.

The thought alone was tempting.

Although becoming a supernatural ability user meant he could no longer use any other magical weapons, a significant drawback, many people still couldn’t resist the temptation.

After all, the ability to use a supernatural power at will was incredibly alluring.