The Sword and the Exquisiteness (1)

Author: Gu Long 1

Translator: Athena 2

Editor: Grundle 3

--=={Chapter 1: A Sudden Calamity}==-- 4

Under an old tree in a dark shady courtyard stood an ageing man in a green robe.  His hair, eyebrows, and beard had all been coloured a curious shade of green by the low light.  Tranquil and carefree he watched a young man, sitting in front of him writing, while he folded his hands behind his back. 5

The young man was kneeling before a small table holding a brush in his hand.  The brush was about as thick as a baby's arm and seven meters long.  As he finished writing the final characters of an essay the young man set the brush down, raised his head, and said, "All the heroes of the realm wouldn't think of missing the gathering at Lake Huang. Aren't you going to go father?" 6

Smiling the old man replied, "You asked me this question after copying the scriptures of Nanhua, it seems that your cultivation has improved...but should you be asking this question in the first place? After all this time haven't you been able to see past the word 'hero'?" 7

After looking up and pondering for awhile the young man finally said, "Yes, you're right." 8

A gentle breeze was blowing and rustling the leaves when a black figure suddenly emerged from the tree tops.  In an instant he was able to noislessly descend.  The figure was a rather short and skinny man wearing a tight black robe that revealed his trained muscles.  Every part of his body seemed to be maintaining an accute vigilance. 9

The old and young man weren't startled at all, but just looked at him casually as if he had been standing there the entire time.  The man laughed saying, "The Old Man of Mount Yue, Yu Fanghe, does indeed have great self-control.  It is even more surprising that young master Yu has the same self-control. I, Black Pigeon, am deeply impressed." 10

Yu Fanghe smiled, "Oh, you must be Master Hei, one of the seven Heroes whose art of levitaion is famous throughout the realm." 11

"Old master should know that I am the weakest and most useless of the 'Seven Birds of Wulin'.  I am not even worthy to become a robber or an armed guard.  I just rely on my fast legs and tight mouth to deliver messages." 12

Happily Yu Fanghe replied, "Brother Hei does not take money that is earned dishonestly and that wins my deep respects, but I am wondering which old friend has asked you to deliver a letter?"   13

"If that person does not wish to reveal their identity I'm obliged to keep it a secret, that is my professional code.  I also know that you wouldn't force me to reveal their identity, however I am aware that this letter concerns an important secret of old master Yu."  When he finished speaking Hei Gezi took out an envelope and gave it to Yu. 14

Yu Fanghe hesitated for a minute, then returned the envelope and said, "Would you mind opening the letter and loudly reading its contents?" 15

Hei Gezi replied, "But this letter concerns a secret of your..." 16

"Because of that, I would like you to read it, because I have no secrets, and I am not afraid to let everyone know what is in the letter." Yu Fanghe said with a smile. 17

Hei Gezi was deeply impressed and smiled in return, "No secrets at all?!  Except for you who can say he has no secrets?" 18

He opened the envelope and pulled the letter out.  The pages were all stuck together so Hei Gezi wetted his finger on his tongue, separated the pages, and began to read the letter out loud, "Dear brother..." 19

Suddenly he fell down in convulsions.  Yu Fanghe was startled and rushed over to help.  After feeling his pulse he knew that Hei Gezi would die soon so he quickly asked, "Who gave you this letter? Who?" 20

Hei Gezi opened his mouth and tried to say something but couldn't even get out one syllable. 21

Yu saw the colour of Hei's face turn from from green to white, white to red, and finally red to black.  In a matter of seconds the colour of Hei's face had shifted four times and in a flash his face mysteriously disappeared leaving a black skull in its place. 22

"Goodness!  What a deadly poison!" exclaimed the young man feeling very frightened. 23

Out of Hei Gezi's robe rolled an ingot of gold.  The ingot of gold must have been the price of the letter, and also happened to be the price of his life. 24

Yu Fanghe looked at the ingot of gold for some time and then picked up the letter. 25

Startled, the young man said, "What are you going to do father?" 26

"This man died because of me," said Yu Fanghe now back to his calm self, "furthermore whoever tried to ambush me will try again and who knows who the next innocent victim will be.  It is best that I should die, instead of staying alive and feeling remorseful for all the deaths that will follow." 27

"But...But, father who would want to harm you?  You have never offended anyone in your life.  Who would..." 28

Suddenly they heard a thunderous noise as the ingot of gold exploded. The force of the explosion was so great that the leaves on the tree began to fall down.  Although it seemed like Yu Fanghe never moved, he actually retreated 11 meters back during the explosion, then returned to his previous position again afterwards. 29

His normally tranquil eyes were now filled with anger as he made a fist saying, "What a vicious person!  Not only does this person want to kill me but he wants to kill the messenger too.  He even planned to make sure the ingot would explode after the letter was delivered." 30

"Who could this person be?" said the young man who was also angry, "Not only does he have an evil heart, but a pair of crafty hands as well.  If this person is not stopped..." 31

Yu Fanghe interrupted him with a sigh, "Actually we cannot blame this person.  If he really hates me that much and wants to kill me with that much passion, then it is obvious that I must have done something to him."    32

The young man now with tears in his eyes said, "Father, you couldn't have done anything wrong your whole life!  Seeing the way you treat others, how can anyone still want to harm you?  Is there no justice in the world anymore?" 33

"Peiyu, don't be upset, and don't say there isn't any justice in the world.  Everyone is bound to make a few mistakes in their lives, even I, but right now I cannot remember exactly what I have done wrong." 34

At that moment they began to hear people shouting from a distance, "Where is Yu Fanghe? Where is Yu Fanghe?" 35

The shouting and cursing slowly became louder and louder.  Cries of surprise and the noise of doors being broken down could be heard as well. 36

The young man Yu Peiyu was surprised and mused, "Who would dare to invade our home?" 37

"We shouldn't stop visitors from entering," replied Yu Fanghe gently, "and since they have already entered our home why should we bother going outside to greet them..."  Yu Fanghe then turned around and smiled, "Do come in." 38

Five smartly dressed men had entered and were standing in the courtyard.  All of them seemed very fierce and looked ready kill, but when they saw that both father and son Yu were still very tranquil they were quite shocked.  The first man, holding a large broad sabre, arrogantly laughed, "Yu Fanghe, you despicable fiend!  I have finally found you!" 39

While he was still laughing arrogantly he raised his sabre and hacked at Yu Fanghe.  The power of the saber strike forced more leaves down, but Yu Fanghe just stood there unmoving, which made it seem like he wanted to be struck down.  Yu Peiyu only moved his finger, without even raising his head, and everyone heard a loud "PING".  The man's face turned pale when he realized one part of his body began to feel numb, his ears started ringing, and he couldn't hold on to his sabre any longer.  He no longer dared to attack, but he didn't retreat either.  He just stood there and stared at Yu Peiyu. 40

"Peiyu, do not harm them." Yu Fanghe called out. 41

As if in response Yu Peiyu stood still and didn't advance.  The man laughed arrogantly again, "Of course Yu Fanghe wants to keep his reputation as a benevolent man" he sneered, "he will never harm anyone, but I want to kill you, you old fiend and if you wound me, even in the slightest bit, you'll be nothing more than a hypocrite!" 42

After saying such a thing so violently it was obvious that this man was very unreasonable, "In that case you want to take my life?" continued Yu smiling unimpressed. 43

"You are absolutely right!" 44

He grabbed his sabre again and called out to the other four men, "Brothers, attack!" 45

There were now five weapons, a nine ringed sabre, a mourning sword, a tiger-headed hook, a judge's brush, and a chain spear, all aimed at Yu Fanghe. 46

Abruptly they were interrupted by a laugh, "With your abilities you could never harm old master Yu." 47

A shadow quickly passed by and dashed towards the five weapons.  The sabre was knocked away and flew headlong into a tree, the sword was broken into two halves, the judge's brush flew straight up into the air, the hook ripped open the abdomen of the sword user, and the chained spear found itself wrapped around the neck of the hook user. 48

This person was extremely fast with techniques executed like lightning.  Even both Yu's were impressed by this display. 49

When he stopped they saw that this person was a handsome young man wearing a purple robe.  His eyes were bright and shining but emotionless.  he knelt down and said, "On my way here I heard these men plotting something against old master Yu, so I decided to follow them and saw that old master Yu was still very polite to his own aggressors, however these ruffians were too rude for words.  In my anger I might have used too much force.  Please forgive me for exerting too much force in your home." 50

After helping out he asked for forgiveness instead of taking credit. 51

Yu Fanghe sighed deeply, "No matter what you did, it was because of me.  How could I blame you?  Don't ever say things like forgive and so on.  These five men..." Yu Fanghe sighed again, "I don't know what I have done to them, but it lead to their deaths." 52

After a while  he smiled again and turned to the young man and held out his hand wanting him to stand up, "You're not only young but also very handsome.  If you are the son of an old friend that would be most fortunate." 53

The young man wouldn't get up, but said, "Although you don't recognize me, my life was saved by old master Yu.  Old master Yu, you have done numerous benevolent deeds in your life, how could you ever remember a small child you once saved?" 54

Yu Fanghe held out his hands and said, "Now the child has grown up and has even saved my life.  It seems..." 55

Yu Fanghe suddenly stretched his arms out, flung the young man away, and stepped back three paces.  His was shaking as he said in a faltering voice, "Who...who are you?" 56

"Old man Yu," said the young man landing elegantly on the ground, "your palms have contracted my deadly "Instant Rutheless Depraving Needle.  Not even an immortal could save you now, and you will never know who I am..." 57

Yu Peiyu was already standing next to his father and noticed that his hands were swollen to twice their normal size and were entirely black.  His father looked deathly pale, was shaking terribly, and couldn't speak anymore. 58

"What quarrel do we have with you?  Why are you using such vicious tricks against us!?" shouted Yu Peiyu devastated. 59

The young man laughed, but remained emotionless, "I have no quarrel with you or your father.  I just want to take your lives." 60

Yu Peiyu looked at the bodies of the five men and hatefully ground through his teeth, "That was also one of your traps." 61

"Yes it was." replied the young man, "In order to take your lives not only did we have to sacrifice these six men..." 62

Suddenly he whistled and twenty odd men leaped from the walls holding swords and sabres.  Judging by their strides they were all experts.  Each one had a purple cloth to veil their face.  They must have been afraid that someone would recognize them.   63

"Yu, surrender now!  Further resistance is useless."  the young man arrogantly laughed, "We were afraid of old Yu's invincible 'Golden Silk Palms' but now he is impotent.  What can you hope to accomplish now?" 64

Yu looked around and saw that all of these men were considerably strong.  His heart was full of pain, anger, grief and shock.  If it had been anyone else they would have gone mad or would have blindly attacked their aggressors.  Yu, however, was different from anyone else. He set his father on his back so that he could carry him, and picked up the long brush he had been using.  They began to advance towards him somewhat surprised by the composure Yu Peiyu possessed. 65

Without warning the swords and sabres simutaneously hacked towards Yu encircling him in metallic light.  A rush of wind swept horizontally as the long iron brush made contact with the bladed weapons.  Some were broken, bent, and even knocked away.  The men were pushed back accompanied by a numbness in their shoulders which prevented them from being able to raise their arms.  None of them could believe that this handsome, gentle young man had such tremendous strength. 66

Another group of men began to advance, but didn't dare make contact with his brush.  More than twenty men had Yu Peiyu surrounded, but nobody could penetrate through the powerful wind generated by his brush.  Although the force of the brush was very powerful it was also very strenuous.  After only 20 stances Yu Peiyu began to sweat.   67

"Good tire him out!" laughed the purple robed man, "The rats are trapped and have no place to hide." 68

Although Yu Peiyu was fighting against these men, he kept his eyes trained on the young vicious man and his hands containing the poisonous needles. 69

Peiyu heard his father's breathing becoming weaker and weaker and the enemies around him were slowly getting closer.  Tired and heart-broken he finally yelled, "Enough!" 70

He knew that if he got away now it would be very difficult to find the mastermind behind this whole plot.  While he thought about this he flung his brush towards one of the men, who quickly rolled onto the ground terrified, to avoid being hit.  The brush flew past him and stuck into the ground.  Yu Peiyu used it to catapult him and his father over their attackers.   71

"Chase them, quickly!" ordered the vicious young man. 72

By the time the men were outside they couldn't find a trace of them.  The young man ordered them to spread out and search.  Because he was carrying his father on his back and already exhausted, he knew he couldn't outrun them anymore, so he hid underneath a nearby bridge.   73

"Should we check under the bridge to..." he heard one man say. 74

"Yu isn't an idiot!  Do you think he would sit underneath a bridge waiting for us to find him?"  yelled the vicious young man angrily. 75

Peiyu stayed hidden for a long time. When he thought that the attackers were gone he quickly carried his father back to the house.  He put his father on the bed, quickly went to the cupboard to retrieve some medicine, and gave some pills to his father.  These pills had been made by Yu Fanghe and were used to save many lives in the past.  How ironic that these very pills could not save his own.   76

Yu Peiyu burst into tears looking at his father.  Yu Fanghe's face had turned black.  He opened his mouth and weakly said, "Am I wrong?  What...what have I done wrong?" 77

"Father, you never did anything wrong in your life!" cried Yu Peiyu. 78

Yu Fanghe wanted to smile, but the muscles in his face had hardened to the point that he would never smile again.  With extreme difficulty he uttered his last words, "I have done nothing wrong.  You must remember my teachings.  Always be tolerant and forgiving...tolerant...and forgiving..." said Yu Fanghe as his voice lowered to a whisper and slowly died out. 79

Peiyu knelt down and cried until long after the sun had set. 80

As night descended it became very dark and quiet.  Yu did not know how long he had been sitting there in the dark, but he began to hear the faint sound of footsteps.  Judging by the sound they were walking towards the Yu residence. 81

Yu sat there and watched as the door was pushed open.  When the person began to cautiously enter the room, Yu Peiyu decided to stand up. 82

"Who are you?" said the person startled. 83

It should have been Yu Peiyu asking the same question as he watched the figure enter the room.  Judging by the shadow and figure of the intruder she appeared to be a young and graceful woman. 84

"You fiend," shouted the woman angrily, "how dare you commit such an evil crime and stay here!" 85

She drew her sword and made seven thrusts at Yu.  Her swordsmanship was swift and brutal, but Peiyu outmanoeuvered her seven deadly stances and said, "The Flowered Chestnut Swordsmanship?" 86

"You recognize the sword skills of the Lin family."  scoffed the girl, "You..." 87

"I am Yu Peiyu." sighed Yu Peiyu. 88

The girl was stunned and dropped her sword.  "Brother Yu, is uncle..." she said with a trembling voice. 89

When she looked at the bed her legs gave out and she fell to her knees.  She began to cry, "I can't believe it...it is impossible..." 90

Yu Peiyu stared at her while she sadly cried.  "I've cried enough, " she suddenly said, rasing her head, "tell me what happened." 91

Yu Peiyu lit a lamp and saw that the young girl was wearing mourning clothes.  The sight of her dressed this way shocked him, "Is uncle Lin...?" 92

"My father was murdered six days ago." 93

"Do you know who the killer was?" 94

"I don't know." replied the girl as the light illuminated her pretty face.  Although she looked somewhat ill her face still held a strong sense of character. 95

"You must think it's somewhat odd that I don't know who killed my father." she continued, "On that particular day I had gone out...by the time I returned my father was already dead, and there wasn't anyone else around." 96

Yu Peiyu felt sad when heard what had happened, but he was also amazed that a young girl like her was so strong after going through such a traumatic experience.     97

"I have cried enough now.  On my way here I cried five times." 98

"Five times?" asked Yu Peiyu. 99

"Yes five times.  Not only are our fathers dead, but also uncles Wang, Sheng, and XiMen." 100

"Uncle Wang of Taihu wields a pair of golden scissors and is said to be undefeated in his life!" said Yu Peiyu in disbelief, "Uncles Shen and Ximen both have extraordinary martial arts, how could they have been killed?" 101

"What about Golden Silk Palms and Flowered Chestnut Swordsmanship?" the girl asked softly. 102

Yu Peiyu lowered his head and murmured, "You're right, but...but could they have all been murdered by the same person?  Who could this person be?" 103

"I haven't seen their bodies, though." 104

"Then how do you know they are dead?" Yu Peiyu asked rasing his head. 105

"Their homes were all deserted and nobody was around."  The girl replied, "The circumstances were similar to our homes." 106

Yu Peiyu softly said to himself, "Home?  I don't have a home anymore." 107

"Where will you go?" the girl asked watching him. 108

"This is all one big conspiracy.  I have to investigate and find out the truth.  Let me ask you a question; If you were the mastermind behind this entire wicked scheme, what would you want to do with me?" 109

"Stamp the problem out at its source?" 110

"You are right," Yu Peiyu said smiling wryly, "and if you were me what would you do?" 111

"I would run, but where?" 112

"Anywhere safe." 113

"Safe...We don't even know who our enemy is.  He could be standing right next to us and we wouldn't even know that he's our foe.  Where could there possibly be a safe place?" 114

"There is one place" 115

"Where?" asked the girl. 116

"Lake Huang," replied Yu Peiyu, "where all the heroes of the world will be gathering.  This villian wouldn't dare to harm us if we went there." 117

"You have thought everything through. " nodded the girl, "You can go if you want to.  Don't worry about me." she said coldly and started walking away.  Yu Peiyu didn't try to stop her, but followed her instead.  After she had taken a few steps he saw her fall down and knew that the exhaustion from travelling so far and enduring so many overwhelming events had finally overtaken her.   118

Yu Peiyu went over, lifted her up, and said some consoling words to her.  She felt much better after hearing Yu Peiyu's comforting voice, but still pouted, "Why haven't you asked me my name?" 119

"I have already known your name for a long time." 120

Suddenly they heard an old voice shouting, "Young master! Young master!" 121

Yu Peiyu immediately recognized the voice of Yu Zhong, the old servant of their house. 122

"When I entered the house I didn't see anyone." said the girl. 123

"Perhaps he hid during the commotion." 124

Yu Zhong said, "Young master, Master Wang of Moling has arrived and is waiting in the hall." 125

"Righteous Wang YuLuo, second uncle Wang?" asked Yu Peiyu. 126

Yu Zhong nodded in affirmation. 127

Yu Peiyu quickly went to meet him and saw the famous Wang YuLuo, an elderly and distiguished gentleman, patiently waiting for him.   128

He knelt down and sobbed, "Uncle Wang, you're too late!  My father..." 129

"I know what happened to you and your father." sighed Wang YuLuo, "Why did such a thing happen?" 130

"I..." said Yu Peiyu wanting to tell him everything that had happened when he suddenly raised his head, "How do you know what happened?" 131

"Your father himself, my good brother Yu, told me everything." smiled Wu YuLuo. 132

Yu Peiyu was astonished and stammered, "My father...he...he..when...?" 133

"When I saw him he was very upset and completely ignored me.  I have no idea why the two of you were arguing, but in the forty years that I have known him, I have never seen your father so upset.  I have asked your third uncle Yun to accompany him in order to prevent you two from having another argument." 134

Yu Peiyu was so stunned, he blurted out, "My father...he was just...killed!" 135

"Dont talk nonsense!" chided Wang becoming angry, "It isn't right to say such a thing, even if you are fighting with your father." 136

"But my father is dead, he..." yelled Yu Peiyu. 137

Wang was now very angry and began to scold Yu Peiyu, "Enough already! Silence!" 138

"My father's body is right here.  Please follow me!" 139

"Alright show me." said Wang still angry. 140

Yu Peiyu lead Wang to his father's room, but the bed was empty and the body of Yu Fanghe had disappeared. 141

"Where is this body?" asked Wang. 142

Yu Peiyu cried out and ran quickly into the courtyard.  All six of the corpses were gone and everything was now clean and neat.  Yu Peiyu was confused, and terrified.   143

Angrily Wang said, "What do you have to say for yourself?" 144

"I..I.." stammered Yu Peiyu. 145

He suddenly remembered the young girl still standing there watching them, "She saw my father's body," he said hoping she would be able to help him out, "she is Lin Daiyu, the daughter of Master Lin the Flowered Chestnut Sword."     146

"Is this true, what he just said?" said Wang YuLuo sternly looking at Lin Daiyu. 147

"I...I just..."148

While Lin Daiyu was still sputtering four men walked into the courtyard.  The first man laughed, "When did you arrive brother Wang?" 149

A handsome and elderly gentelman walked in behind the first man carrying a magnificent sword.  Lin Daiyu began to tremble when she saw these four men and Yu Peiyu turned pale as if he had just seen a ghost.   150

He barely managed to speak, "Uncle Lin, aren't you...dead?" 151

Lin Daiyu and Yu Peiyu both recognized these four men as, The Dragon King of Lake Taihu, Silver Spear Shen, Ximen Feng of Mount Mao, and the Flowered Chestnut Sword Lin Shoujuan. 152

Before Lin Shoujuan had a chance to answer, Ximen Feng began to laugh, "Peiyu how could say your future father-in-law is dead?  That kind of joke is just too much." 153

Yu Peiyu turned around and looked at Lin Daiyu, "You told me...Why did you lie to me?" 154

Lin Daiyu raised her head and said with her beautiful eyes staring at Yu Peiyu, "Did I say that?  When did I say that?" 155

Yu Peiyu thought that the world had just gone completely crazy.  He backed away five paces when he began to feel his head spinning. 156

The five Wulin seniors merely looked at him.  Some had compassion in their eyes, others were simply amazed. 157

"Young master why don't you go have some tea with the guests." the old servant Yu Zhong said. 158

Yu Peiyu rushed forward and grabbed him by the collar, "Talk! Tell them what happened earlier!" 159

"What happened earlier?" asked Yu Zhong surprised. 160

Yu Peiyu turned even paler as Wang Yuluo turned to Yu Zhong and asked, "Has someone else, other than us, come by today?" 161

Yu Zhong shook his head, "No one came by today." 162

Yu Peiyu let Yu Zhong go and took a few steps backwards, "Why are you saying that?" 163

Yu Zhong looked at Yu Peiyu with a lot of compassion in his eyes, "Lately young master has been very occupied with his homework.  It could be that he..." 164

"It could be that I have gone mad, right?" screamed Yu Peiyu, "The way all of you are looking at me you probably think I've gone insane!" 165

Lin Shoujuan sighed, "Perhaps his father was too strict with him.  It looks like he has been pushed beyond his limits." 166

Yu Peiyu continued screaming, "Yes, I have been pushed way beyond my limits!" 167

When he finished speaking he punched a deep hole in the wall.  Ximen Feng, Wang Yulou, and Shen Yinqiang immediately rushed over and restrained him.  Lin Shoujuan took a small bottle out saying, "Listen to me Peiyu. Take this pill and after a good nights sleep everything will be just fine." 168

He tried to put the pill in his mouth, but Yu Peiyu refused to open it. 169

"Peiyu, what has brought this sudden change?" said Ximen Feng, "Do you really think that your future father-in-law would try to hurt you?" 170

Yu Peiyu suddenly pushed out his arms using all his strength and broke free from the hold the 3 martial arts masters had on him.  They were all surprised that a young man like him could possess such enormous strength.  Yu Peiyu left as quickly as he could using his lightness kung fu.   171

"Not even Yu Fanghe had such strength when he was young." exclaimed Ximen Feng. 172

Wang Yuluo sighed, "It's a shame he has gone mad...truly a shame." 173

Lin Daiyu knelt down and cried again. 174

Yu Peiyu began to look at the stars.  He felt like they were laughing at him too.  As he sat there he began to hear somebody crying.  Yu Peiyu looked around and saw someone standing by a tall tree.  He was a short, skinny old man with a long beard standing on top of a rock with a rope tied around his neck.  The old man was about to commit suicide, but Yu Peiyu rushed over and stopped him.  175

"Please let me die!" sobbed the old man, "I am the most unfortunate man in the world.  Why did you save me?  I have nothing to live for!"176

Yu Peiyu sighed, "Are you sure there isn't anyone more unfortunate than you?  Today I lost my family and my home, and the worst part, nobody believes me.  I can't trust anybody anymore.  The people I looked up to an respected are now plotting against me, the people that were closest to me have now turned against me.  In one single day my closest friends and relatives either want to take my life, or believe that I am a madman.  I think that I must be the most unfortunate man in the world."177

The old man was stunned by Yu Peiyu's narrative, "Campared to you my problems aren't that big after all.  You should be the one to commit suicide." said the old man handing the noose to Yu Peiyu.  After saying this he laughed happily and left.178

Yu Peiyu stared at the back of the strange old man and tried the noose on.  He thought to myself, "It would be so easy to do this.  After I die I wouldn't have any more worries or problems...Should I really die?"179

After thinking for sometime he laughed heartily saying, "Well, I have died once now."180

He immediately took the noose off and began to make his way to Lake Huang.181

Because he didn't have any money he usually had to rely on the generosity of other people just to get by.  Fortunately for Yu Peiyu, the majority of the generous people he happened to meet on the way were young women who were very happy to share their food with an extremely handsome young man.182

Yu Peiyu only had once thing on his mind during the journey, "Patience, patience, patience!"183

When he finally entered the Henan province his clothes had become worn out and he looked like he was a beggar.  He began to see a lot of Wulin people in this area, but nobody paid much attention to the young beggar.184

As the gathering at Lake Huang began to near, Yu Peiyu wondered what Lin Shoujuan and the others were planning.  He couldn't understand why they said that Yu Fanhe was still alive.185

Another begger came up to him and smiled, "Can I assume that you don't belong to our Beggars Association?"186

Yu Peiyu shook his head.187

"If you're not a beggar, you shouldn't be hogging the places of the true beggars." laughed the young beggar.188

Yu Peiyu apologized smiling and stood up.189

While Yu Peiyu looked at the stars a moment longer, the young beggar studied him.  It seemed that he found this young man quite interesting so he tapped Yu on his shoulder asking, "Judging by your accent you are probably from the Su province."190

Yu Peiyu confirmed the beggars observation.191

"What is your name?"192

Yu Peiyu peered at him for a quick second, but he didn't think the beggar had any hostile intentions so he told him, "My name is Yu Peiyu."193

"My name is Lian Honger."194

"Brother Lian."195

Lian Honger smiled, "You are a good person.  You're willing to call a man brother who can't even pay for his own food."196

"I'm not much better than you." said Yu Peiyu smiling wryly.197

Lian Honger continued to study Yu, "It seems that your martial arts foundation is quite good.  If I'm not mistaken you must the member of a Wuling Family.  Why are you disguised like this?"198

Yu Peiyu was alarmed by what Lian Honger said, "I'm...not...disguised.  I do...do not know any martial arts."199

"You dare deceive me?" said Lian Honger annoyed.200

He quickly raised his bamboo staff and struck towards Yu's "Lingxu" acupoint.  The cane moved with amazing speed and as the cane flew towards its target the force generated by his strike moved outwards to the other  18 major acupoints.  201

Yu Peiyu had just suffered an unbelievable tragedy and now believed that anyone could be in league with the strange "mastermind".  He swiftly avoided the strike while Liang Honger simultaneously withdrew the attack.202

"Telling lies at such a young age," he said coldly staring at Yu Peiyu, "what will happen to you when you grow up?"203

Yu Peiyu looked down saying, "I have my reasons."204

"Could you tell me, perhaps?"205

"If you were in my situation would you reveal your reasons to someone you didn't even know?"206

Lian Honger studied him for a moment and smiled, "Although you look very polite, that was an awfully rude response.  I'm afraid you have come all this way in vain, you won't be able to go to the gathering at Lake Huang."207

Yu Peiyu was stunned, "How do you know..."208

"My eyes are like a magic mirror.  All I need is one look and I know what another person's intentions are."209

Yu Peiyu gawked at him in awe.210

"Without an invitation or being a disciple of one the 13 great martial arts schools, you won't be able to attend the gathering."211

"I don't have an invitation and I don't belong to any of the 13 great schools." 212

Lian Honger nodded, "It's best for you to leave then."213

"Is the Beggars Association one of the 13 great schools?" 214

"Yes of course." replied Lain Honger, "Although Shaolin has held the chancellors seat of Wulin for the past 40 years they could not have done it without our support.  Without us it would have taken over by Wudang or Kunlun years ago."215

"Maybe if I mingled with the disciples of the Beggars Association I could..."216

Lian Honger interrupted him with a laugh, "You've thought it out quite nicely, haven't you?"217

Yu Peiyu knelt down and asked, "Could you perhaps help me?  Would you be willing to approach your leader on my behalf so that I could go to the gathering?"218

"Why should I help you, I hardly know you." said Liang Honger smiling.219

Yu Peiyu began to get up, "Because...because..." suddenly he sighed and  left.  Liang Honger merely continued to look at him with the same smile.220

Yu Peiyu continued walking until he saw some torches burning and people clapping and singing.  He recognized them as a group of beggars and this is the last place he wanted to be.  As he walked away an old beggar approached him saying, "Young master Yu, our leader knew you would come, therefore..."221

"I don't know your leader." said Yu Peiyu loudly.222

"Although you don't know our leader," said the old beggar smiling, "he has heard of you and has instructed us to welcome you and to give you a gift."223

Yu Peiyu clenched his fists and rebuffed, "Bring it on then!"224

The old beggar began to laugh, "You are mistaken, young master Yu.  We have no hostile intentions whatsoever."225

He took out a yellow envelope and respectfully handed it to Yu Peiyu.226

Yu took the envelope but didn't open it.  He still remembered the letter of death delivered to his father, so he gave the letter back to the old beggar and said, "Open and then lick the envelope first."227

"Young master Yu is a very cautious person." said the beggar amused.  He quickly performed the request, and once again handed the letter back to Yu Peiyu.228

When he saw that is was an invitation to the gathering at Lake Huang, Yu Peiyu felt slightly embarrassed by his behavior.  He was startled when he looked back up and saw that the beggars had all disappeared.  Everything that had been happening to him was so strange.  The most recent event just added to his confusion as questions began to swarm in his mind.  Why would the leader of the Beggars Association just give him an invitation?229

He just stayed there and thought about these things until he heard some people walking nearby.  230

"Don't move!" someone said.231

Yu Peiyu sighed deeply and when he turned around he saw seven men standing there looking at him.  Two of them were Taoist priests, one was a Buddhist monk, and there was also a young woman in the group.232

All seven of them were very young and appeared to have a good foundation in martial arts.233

"What are you doing here?" asked one of the young men who was wearing a black robe.234

"I suppose it is a crime to just stand here?" scoffed Yu Peiyu.235

The monk politely interjected, "Benefactor, I am Songshui of Shaolin.  These are my martial arts brothers and sisters of Wudang, Kunlun, Huashan, Diancang, and Kongtong.  Because of the coming gathering at Lake Huang, the masters of the thirteen schools are concerned that degenerates may come and stir up trouble.  This is why the disciples of the thirteen schools were intructed to keep watch."236

Yu Peiyu exclaimed, "You're disciples of the thirteen great schools?"237

"Is that your inivitation?" the young man in the black robe rudely asked.238

"Yes, it is."239

Without warning the young man drew his sword with blazing speed.  The young man was certainly worthy of being called a disciple of the thirteen great schools.  Yu Peiyu was so surprised by the sudden attack that it took him almost everything he had just to avoid it.  He barely saved his ear from being cut off.  240

"What do you think you are doing?  That invitation is a fake!" yelled the young man angrily.241

Yu Peiyu avoided seventeen of his stances and shouted, "What is going on?"242

"We can fight after we've asked a few questions." said the young woman coldly.243

The young man heard what she said and stopped his attack.  "Tell us," he said fiercly, "where did you get this invitation?"244

"Someone gave it to me."245

"Did you hear that everyone?" laughed the young man. "Someone gave it to him."246

Yu Peiyu was annoyed by his behavior, "What is so funny about that?"247

The Shaolin Monk Songshui had a very serious look on his face when he said, "Benefactor, that invitation is...too real.  There were seven different types of invitations sent out for the gathering.  Your invitation is yellow, which is only given to leaders of martial arts schools, or famous and respected Wulin seniors.  On top of that only the thirteen leaders are allowed to give away an invitation like that one.  And benefactor, you are neither..."248

The rude young man coldly finished the sentence for Songshui, "By the looks of it you're not a friend of any of the thirteen masters, so you must have gotten through fraudulent means."249

The young man drew his sword again as the other six surrounded Yu Peiyu.  The young woman ceased to speak while Yu Peiyu thought about what was happening.  He knew that this was a simple misunderstanding and he was now resenting that wicked leader of the Beggars Association.  Was it possible that their leader did this on purpose?250

The young man began tot use the genuine Diancang swordsmanship known as the "Descending Petals and Flying Flower Sword."  This type of swordplay was famous for its fast and vicious strokes that are difficult to avoid.  251

Yu Peiyu had no way to counter-attack and began to have a difficult time.  252

The young woman said, "Surrender now, or do you really want to..."253

Before she finished her sentence everyone heard loud laughter and looked up to see a shadow moving with incredible speed.  In an instant the figure had disappeared leaving red petals lazily falling from the sky.254

"A red lotus!" exclaimed the young man.255

The Shaolin monk Songshui said, "Benefactor, you're a close friend of Master Hong Lian.  Please forgive my rudeness."256

"You...sir," said the young man smiling wryly, "why didn't you tell us that you were befriended with master Hong Lian."257

"I don't know Hong Lianhua (Red Lotus)", said Yu Peiyu stunned.258

"Again please forgive me for being so rude." the young man repectfully added.259

Yu Peiyu just stood there smiling skeptically.  The young woman turned the gaze of her pretty eyes toward Yu Peiyu, "My name is Zhong Jing of Huashan.  Our school has organized a place up ahead to welcome all the distinguished guests.  Since you sir, are a good friend of master Hong Lian, you are also a good friend of Huashan.  Please honor us by attending our reception."260

The young man applauded, "What a good idea, and tomorrow our school will prepare a carriage to take, you sir, to the gathering."261

Yu Peiyu thought about these things for awhile and finally agreed.262

They took him to a nice looking place.  He was still puzzled about who this Hong Lianhua was and tried to figure out what his motives could possibly be.  263

His thinking was interrupted when he noticed fourteen portraits hanging on one of the walls.  He saw Taoist priests, Buddhist monks, women, and beggars of all ages.  Their stern and impressive expressions were the one common feature they all shared.264

"These 14 portraits are of the founders of the gathering at Lake Huang." said Zhong Jing with a smile, "Seventy years ago Wulin was faced with many problems, but ever since their first gathering the lives of those in Wulin has become more peaceful.  The efforts of these 14 leaders are truly great."265

Yu Peiyu stood and stared at the final portrait depicting an elderly and distinguished man holding a tranquil pose.266

"You must be surprised that there aren't paintings of abbot Fanying from Shaolin or reverend Tiejian from Wudang.  That one there is old master Yu.  He was the first senior that organized the gathering of Lake Huang, Xiantian Wuji(Innately Without Extreme) school was at that time very famous without being inferior to either Shaolin or Wudang.  267

"I know." Yu Peiyu softly sighed.268

"Old master Yu lead the gathering three times and was always a very respected member.  Thirty years ago 'Old Man Fanghe' became the leader of the Xiantian Wuji and retired from the gatherings.  My teacher and the masters of Shaolin and Wudang tried to persuade him to stay several times, but he always declined.  Senior Yu didn't like these matters and retired from Wulin at the age of 30 leaving thirteeen schools in the gathering."269

The young and beautiful Huashan disciple had kept her eyes on Yu Peiyu the entire time she narrated the Wulin history.  Yu Peiyu, however, felt extremely sad and didn't speak.  He couldn't sleep the entire night and was already awake when he heard Zhong Jing outside his room sweetly saying, "Sir, are you awake?  Diancang brother Yang JunBi has come to pick you up."270

Zhong Jing looked just as charming as the day before, and the Diancang disciple Yang JunBi continued to be respectful.  271

"Sir, my leading martial arts brother is waiting outside in the carriage."272

Yu Peiyu thanked him and walked outside.273

The carriage was quite large already holding nine young people.  One young man wore a purple robe and a pretty young girl sat there in a yellow dress.  These two were 'Young Master of the Divine Saber' and Jin Yanzi (Golden Swallow).  There were also two Taoist priests and another young man with a sword also wearing a yellow robe.  He was leaning his head out the window and talking to a friend which obscured his face from Yu.274

Yu Peiyu only glanced at the people and remained silent.  He didn't want to talk, and he didn't want anyone talking to him.  275

"Sir, we'll see each other again at the gathering." said Zhong Jing.276

The carriage doors were unceremoniously closed as the young man in the yellow robe turned around smiling, "Who's the friend of Hong Lianhua?"277

He had a pair of bright shining eyes with a rather pale countenance.  Yu Peiyu recognized him as the one who had ambushed his father, Yu Fanghe.278

When everyone else heard that he was Hong Lianhua's friend they admired him, but Yu Peiyu began to tremble.  He just sat there and stared at the young man in the yellow robe.  279

"My name is Xie Tianbi, I am also an old friend of master Hong Lian.  May I ask what your name is?280

"You...you don't recognize me, but I recognize you!" yelled Yu Peiyu.281

He shot his fists straight for Xie Tianbi.  The force from his strike was incredible, sending a strong wind outwards that everyone else in the carriage felt moving towards them.282

Xie Tianbi was surprised by this outburst and had a hard time avoiding the two blows.  He shouted, "What are you doing?"283

Continuing to attack Yu Peiyu said, "You will not escape today, I have looked for you high and low."284

Xie Tianbi was still surprised and began to get angry.  He was lucky that the carriage was large enough for him to move around so that he could avoid another seven fists, "I have never met you before in my life.  Why do you atta..."285

"Six days ago you killed my father, now you will die!" shouted Yu Peiyu.286

He stretched his left fist and at the same time his right fist pushed out, using a stance called 'Earth-Shattering and Heaven-Battering.'287

Xie Tianbi knew he couldn't avoid this stance, so he pushed out a fist and countered Yu's attack.  During the exchange, however, Xie was pushed up against the door of the carriage.288

As Yu Peiyu began to advance forward four voices called out, "Cease and desist!"289

Yu didn't have to look to know that he now had three swords aimed at his back, two hooks aimed at his neck, and a sharp sabre aimed at his chest.  The sabre was a good weapon, before making contact with Yu he could feel the coldness of the blade.290

Xie Tianbi looked even more pale and angrily asked, "What are you talking about?  Who is your father?  I don't even know what you are talking about!"291

"You know." Yu Peiyu calmy replied.292

Yu leaned to the left and landed in the chest of a taoist priest wielding a hook and pushed him down.  With his right hand Yu grabbed the other hook and diverted it to block two of the swords.  With his elbow he hit the third person using a sword in his waist, causing him to cry out in pain.293

When Yu Peiyu looked up the young man still had his sabre aimed at his chest.  The young man was the young master of the divine sabre.  "You have remarkable abilities," he said coldly, "but I suggest you sit down and discuss this slowly."294

The young man moved his sabre slightly, slicing open Yu's robe, and pointed the sharp tip at his chest.  He had no choice, but to sit down.  The man who had been hit in the waist began to get up wincing.  Everyone else in the carriage stared at the unknown young man in awe.  He was able to push the famous young leader of the Diancang School back, and in one stance was able to strike down a renowned wielder of the 'Touring Dragon Swordsmanship' Wu Tao.  Although Yu Peiyu used the element of surprise, it was still a remarkable achievement.295

"You have good martial arts but you are much too rash." said a big man, "Why did you attack brother Xie?  Could it be that you have mistaken him for someone else?"296

"Even if he turned to dust I would recognize him.  Six days ago he used a disgusting and lowly trick to kill my father in the city of Moling."297

Xie Tianbi retorted, "You must be dreaming, I just arrived from Mount Diancang.  On my way here I didn't stop and I have never been to the city of Moling, or near it,in the first place."298

"You've never been there?" Yu Peiyu angrily called out.299

One of the Taoist priests added seriously, "I can vouch for master Xie."300

"Why should I believe you?"301

"'The Two Friends of Immortal Mists' never lies." said the Taoist priest exasperated.302

Yu Peiyu was stunned when he heard it was 'The Two Friends of the Immortal Mists.'  He knew that the two of them didn't have any extraordinary skills, but they were famous for their chivalry and good reputations.  He knew their word could be trusted, but how could he deny whe he saw with his own eyes?303

The young master of the divine sabre asked, "Now what do you have to say?"304

Yu Peiyu ground his teeth.305

Wu Tao could finally stand up straight, "We cannot let him go.  The gathering is about to start and he attacked brother Xie.  He must have received orders from someone and probably has other plans hidden up his sleeve."306

The pretty young woman Jin Yanzi, who had kept silent looking aloofly upon the situation, said coldly, "Of course master Wu wants to pay back that blow on the waist."307

Wu Tao's face became flushed and he began to speak, but when he saw the sword on Jin Yanzi's waist and the Jade Dragon sabre the young master was holding he bit his tongue.  308

"Miss Jin, what do you suggest?" said Xie Tianbi.309

"I think this guy is crazy, just let him go." she said not even looking at Yu Peiyu.310

The young master replied, "No!  Even if we let him go we should at least interrogate him thoroughly first."311

Jin Yanzi snorted as she turned her head away while Wu Tao nodded head in agreement with the young master.312

The young master coldly said to Wu Tao, "I don't need your help." 313

When the carriage stopped everyone heard voices outside signalling their arrival to a city.314

Yu Peiyu no longer said anything.  He didn't know what to say anymore.315

"I'm very busy at the moment," said Xie Tianbi, "if brother Sima wants to take over this affair I would be very greatful.  Should we maybe consider master Hong Lian as an alternative?"316

Before he could finish his thought someone called out, "Master Xie are you in the carriage?  Is young master Yu with you?"  317

The speaker put his head through the window of the carriage and looked around.  Yu recognized him as the old beggar who gave him the invitation earlier. 318

One of the 'Two Friends of Immortal Mists' cried out happily, "Mei Simang, I haven't seen you for years!  Are you still that busy?"319

The old beggar, Mei Simang laughed, "I have some matters at hand today.  Our leader has instructed me to invite young master Yu to a meeting.  Afterwards I will drink to my hearts content with you two false Taoist priests."320

Mei ignored the young master's sabre and grabbed Yu's arm pulling him out of the carriage, "Young master Yu, did you know that the most righteous and friendly Wulin association is the Beggars Association?  On the other hand the most wealthy Wulin school is Diancang.  Young master is indeed fortunate to sit in such a luxurious carriage.  Master Xie, their leader, will definitely want to invite you for a drink after this."321

The young master of the divine sabre looked very unhappy about what was happening, but didn't say a word.322

"Xie Tianbi smiled, "Tell master Hong Lian, I would be more than happy to drink with him."323

With all of the commotion going on outside Yu Peiyu was very confused.  He began to ask himself; This Xie Tianbi was obviously the killer of my father, but what exactly is going on here?  Who is this master Hong Lianhua?  Why is he helping me?324

He heard Me Simang whisper to him, "Don't stand there, look around a little bit."325

Yu turned around and saw a pair of clear, beautiful eyes looking at him.  They were cold, but full of love.326

Mei Simang tapped Yu on the shoulder laughing and whispered, "This little swallow is full of sharp needles, watch out.  There is also a green eyed monster lurking at her side with a Jade Dragon Sabre.  Come on then, one look should be enough.  I think that the interesting commotion up ahead will be much more peaceful."327