Chapter 8: The Art of Taiyi Divides Heaven and Earth

She spoke these words, and could not help but feel a sudden shock, thinking to herself: "If I had not witnessed this matter with my own eyes, I would inevitably think of Yu Lang day and night, making it difficult to let go. Only with such an arrangement could I see things so clearly and develop a resolute heart. Although this strange person from the Tai family possesses formidable means, there truly is no better way than this. " She felt grateful for Pan Yan's actions, yet also resented him for his tricks, her emotions in extreme conflict. Although this strange person from the Tai family possesses formidable means, there truly is no better way than this. " She felt grateful for Pan Yan's actions, yet also resented him for his tricks, her emotions in extreme conflict.

Dong Caiqi asked, "Then what did you say to Yulang?"

I had Brother Wenchao find Yulang and say to him: My young lady wishes to marry, but there is a difficulty. She has heard that you have a sweetheart outside, and her heart is filled with hesitation. You should send her away to avoid putting the young lady in a difficult position

Dong Caiqi pinched his flesh and said: "Alright, you insult me as a little dog and a little pig. Based on your words, I must learn it all today."

As the conversation progressed, it suddenly turned to martial arts. The people of Shebo City have a strong martial spirit. Although Dong Caiqi is a daughter from a prestigious family, she has not only studied etiquette, music, and national literature, but also practiced horsemanship, archery, and weaponry. Despite being only seventeen years old, she can be regarded as a well-rounded talent in both literature and martial arts, a remarkable woman. When the topic of martial arts was brought up, her eyebrows danced with excitement, and she became very enthusiastic.

Dong Caiqi said angrily: "Since you have promised to teach me, you must not go back on your word. You must teach me thoroughly and cannot have any regrets at this moment, nor can you mislead me."

The grand feast of Pan Yan is currently being led by Dong Caiqi, heading straight towards the imperial kitchen

Although Dong Caiqi was angry at Pan Yan's commotion, she couldn't help but laugh. After a moment of quiet reflection, she realized that she didn't miss Yu Lang at all. Aside from encountering this con artist, she had a remarkable ability to recognize and employ talent, which is why she had several capable individuals loyal to her. Now that she had Pan Yan, who was indeed competent, her mood was quite good.

Dong Caiqi, with a shift from anger to joy, laughed and said: "You may speak; as long as you are willing to stay, nothing is beyond negotiation."

Pan Yan was taken aback and cautiously explained to her. Dong Caiqi nodded repeatedly, exclaiming "Oh!" with a look of delight. Suddenly, she executed the "Cai Feng Palm," with residual shadows in her palm technique, which was a distraction technique of Taiyi Qiansi. Upon seeing this, Pan Yan felt a pang of regret, thinking to herself: "Had I known this girl could learn it, I would not have taught her, wouldn't that mean she has stolen my unique treasure?"

This art of numerology is entirely opposite to the widely practiced Bagua numerology in the world. In comparison, although Bagua also possesses various marvelous transformations, it cannot match the unconventional nature of Taiyi numerology. Bagua is like a strong wind, while Taiyi resembles a cold breeze; Bagua is akin to the scorching sun, whereas Taiyi is like the cool moon. Bagua governs the myriad phenomena of the Yang realm, while Taiyi encompasses the laws of the Yin realm. It is precisely because he integrates Taiyi numerology into his internal energy that it becomes so bizarre and filled with strange rhythms, unusual sounds, and illusory mirages.

She wiped away her tears, mustered her courage, unwilling to lose face, and said boldly: "The heart of the jade gentleman is as venomous as a snake or scorpion. In order to gain my trust, he would even go so far as to kill his lover. Such a scoundrel deserves his fate; let him be."

Dong Caiqi felt a sudden darkness before her eyes, nearly fainting. However, Pan Yan released her acupoints, allowing her to rush out of the cabinet. Dong Caiqi, disregarding the filth and stench, grasped Yu Lang's body and checked for his breath, confirming that he was indeed dead. Instantly, tears streamed down her face, and she wept inconsolably

Pan Yan could not remember who he was, and it could be said that he was utterly alone, drifting without a fixed abode. On the other hand, Dong Caiqi was of noble birth; it was said that her grandmother was from the Tai family, the original clan. With her as a connection, it would be much easier to gather information. In the future, relying on her, he would naturally not have to worry about food and drink. Having made his calculations, he said: "Since the young lady does not mind my unclear origins, how could I dare to refuse such kindness? However, I must establish three rules with the young lady to avoid any future misunderstandings and complications."

The serpent coiled silently, standing behind it, with a joyful expression in its eyes, as if witnessing the outcome of this matter brought it immense satisfaction. Dong Caiqi turned around, his eyes seemingly ablaze, and asked: "What is going on? What kind of wicked sorcery did you use to harm Yulang?"

The girl speaks insincerely, there must be hidden feelings. Alas, how could you have feelings for me when you possess such beauty, talent, and status, and are not unable to marry? How can one love one person after another?

As Pan Yan observed her energetic and spirited demeanor, he couldn't help but complain, "The further we go, the more difficult it becomes. You are so pleased with yourself at the moment, yet it does not necessarily mean you can truly surpass me."

At this moment, he was teaching Dong Caiqi the art of Taiyi numerology, not expecting her to understand even a bit, but merely intending to tease her. To his surprise, although Dong Caiqi had no foundation, she was naturally attuned to this skill. The first time she listened, it was as if she heard dogs barking and cats meowing, completely incomprehensible; however, by the second time, she suddenly seemed to have an epiphany.

Pan Yan smiled faintly, pointed at the firewood in the stove, and Dong Cai understood the hint. Gritting his teeth and holding back tears, he walked out of the house and set fire to various places, igniting the wooden pillars and beams. At that moment, there was just the right amount of wind, and the wooden house was highly flammable. In an instant, the raging flames engulfed the house.

The study of the Eight Trigrams and numerology is difficult to master; even beginners can speak about it eloquently. However, those who truly understand its profound applications are few and far between in the present day. The entry into the Taiji numerology is particularly challenging, with perhaps only one in tens of thousands able to comprehend it. Yet, once understood, one can make remarkable progress, as if aided by divine intervention. Both are fundamental principles of the mysterious arts of Qimen Dunjia, and when practiced to the highest level, they are difficult to distinguish from one another, each having its own strengths. Nevertheless, the art of the Eight Trigrams ultimately prevails over the Taiji numerology by a slight margin.

The Pan Yan Road: "This Xiao girl is a songstress from Xuelifang in the southern district. I bribed a friend of hers and told her: It is heard that the daughter of the current Grand Commandant has been seduced by a minor official under his command, and they have pledged their lives to each other. This minor official has a concubine at home, and upon learning of this matter, the Grand Commandant was furious and imprisoned the minor official along with his family. Soon after, they were all executed, while the informant concubine was heavily rewarded and even taken into the Grand Commandant's household. This shows that in the northern countries, the treatment of noble ladies' private affairs is indeed marked by clear rewards and punishments."

Pan Yan smiled and said: "The people of Hanshan are the most greedy for fame and profit, appearing to be in harmony while being distant in spirit. With just a little provocation, they will immediately turn against each other. However, this Xiao girl and Yu Lang are particularly wary of each other, having long harbored dissatisfaction, which is why they are easily deceived and act ruthlessly."

Pan Yan listened to her teasing tone and replied seriously: "I am not feeling bitter or envious because I see you making progress; rather, I am taking precautions to prevent future issues, urging you to be humble and not to be hasty."

She said: "You are currently my guest, a servant of the family. Your stealthy skills are rather peculiar and must not be kept secret. Quickly reveal your most formidable techniques to broaden my horizons. If they truly prove effective, I will gladly accept them and reward you handsomely."

Dong Caiqi's face instantly turned red, and he anxiously said: "You really dare to think of yourself as some kind of treasure. Why would I ever take a liking to you? However, you do have some use; you are from the Tai family. I will keep you by my side to serve as an aide and guard, so you can offer some ideas in the future"

In the dimness of the room, coiled and hidden in the shadows, a pair of eyes transformed into a serpentine shape, glowing faintly with a chilling smile that sent shivers down Dong Caiqi's spine. He said: "The true nature of a person's heart is revealed only in dire circumstances. Whether this person is good or evil, what their true nature is, all the usual disguises and facades count for nothing. Now I will show the young lady this person's true nature; are you still satisfied, young lady?"

Dong Caiqi chuckled lightly and said: "Yes, yes, Master Taiyi is a scholar of extraordinary talent, and I can only look up to him from behind, unable to catch up with his dust. I am truly far from your level, so there is no need for you to harbor any jealousy. In the future, if there are any points of confusion, I will still need to seek your guidance, and I hope you will not be stingy with your teachings."

Pan Yan exclaimed, "How would I know if you can truly learn? If I had known, I would have spoken carelessly long ago." He felt resentment in his heart and did not hide it any longer, speaking out directly.

Before he could finish speaking, he was suddenly subjected to a severe beating by Dong Caiqi. He screamed in agony, rolling and crawling as he escaped, shouting as he ran: "You don't have to agree, but why hit someone?"

She is not far apart in age from Pan Yan. When they sit down to drink and chat, they feel quite compatible. Compared to this person, who speaks in a more interesting manner, Yu Lang's sweet talk seems monotonous. Reflecting on the year spent in romantic exchanges with Yu Lang, the tediousness and banality of his words make her feel a deep sense of shame, causing her to break out in a sweat.

Pan Yan could not resist her and had no choice but to recite the outline of the Taiyi numerology, which consisted of ten thousand characters. Although Dong Caiqi could occasionally grasp the superficial meaning, he felt a deep sense of awe upon encountering such a lengthy scripture. He earnestly committed it to memory, realizing that the entirety of Taiyi's teachings was profoundly vast, and this ten thousand-character outline was merely a summary. After a day and a night of diligent memorization, Dong Caiqi finally had it firmly etched in his mind

Dong Caiqi scolded, "You learned it in just one day, yet your internal strength is still lacking. You are just boasting, and I don't believe you at all"

Dong Caiqi sneered, "Have I ever allowed you to cause the death of Yulang? You have gone too far in this matter. I am not even as angry as I should be; how could I possibly let you go?"

Pan Yan was stumped by her question, feeling frustrated and unable to respond. Just then, his stomach growled with hunger. Dong Caiqi, knowing his fondness for food, smiled charmingly and said, "The master has worked hard in teaching, and as his little disciple, I must show my filial piety. Come on, I will treat you to a good meal at the imperial kitchen."

Dong Caiqi observed the pained expression of Pan Yan, who was clutching his wrist, and smiled, saying: "You are such a miser, unable to bear seeing others do well"

Dong Caiqi asked, "What message did you convey"

With a proud demeanor, he crossed his arms over his chest and declared, "I have achieved sudden enlightenment, and thus I comprehend everything comprehensively"

Dong Caiqi angrily said: "What do you mean by agreeing or not agreeing? How could I engage in such shameless acts? You are taking advantage of me in a roundabout way; how could I possibly let you off the hook?" He ordered his men to capture Pan Yan and fiercely beat him on the buttocks with a wooden stick. Pan Yan's cries were deafening, and Dong Caiqi calmed down a bit before releasing him again

The first matter is that the young lady must not summon me into her boudoir without reason; the second matter is that the young lady must not lay hands on me; the third matter is that the young lady must not disrobe in my presence. These three rules are simple and easy to understand, yet as strict as military discipline, and those who violate them will not be easily forgiven

The two returned to the palace, and Pan Yan asked, "Miss, I have fulfilled your wish, so you should return my gold and let me go, right?"

As she began to learn this profound knowledge, although she did not see immediate results, the joy of delving into it far surpassed the efforts of those who relied on brute force to practice and learn. Ideas and inspirations would occasionally spring forth in her mind, as if her skills were on the verge of transformation, giving rise to unimaginable applications.

Dong Caiqi blinked and smiled, saying: "How many years did the master practice back then"

Dong Caiqi wept in anger and exclaimed: "If Yulang were to kill her for this, how could he be such a cruel person"

The winding path: "It is not complicated, it is merely a few words that have been passed down."

Pan Yan smiled and said, "It seems as if I am begging you to learn martial arts." His internal strength was only slightly superior to Dong Caiqi, but it was based on the strange and mysterious arts, which did not emphasize solid and profound skills, but rather relied on cunning to achieve victory. He then recited a passage of incantation, which was a branch of metaphysics known as Taiyi Numerology.

Dong Caiqi angrily said: "This woman intends to kill my beloved Yu Lang because of this."

It turned out that this Xiao girl, having listened to her friend's words, was deeply afraid of the matter being exposed. Therefore, she planned to take the initiative and poison Yu Lang, then report to the Lord of Snake City, claiming that he had seduced a noblewoman with ulterior motives. She would portray herself as a pitiful victim, claiming to have endured in silence, and would achieve her revenge in one fell swoop. In this way, she could leave no evidence behind, gain the favor of the city lord, and with a few more clever words, she could also win his affection, possibly even gaining entry into a wealthy family.

Dong Cai felt a strange chill, sensing that this person was frightening, yet beside him, her heart was inexplicably calm. It seemed that although this person was cunning, he was sincere and honest with her, truly a straightforward and genuine individual.

Pan Yan sighed and said: "I am a person who values my promises above all else. Not only have I made a promise to you, but even when it comes to small dogs and pigs, I always follow through on my words. How could I give random advice?"