Chapter 006: Struggle Before the Grave

Chao Tiehu heard his brother's scream, and for a moment, he was distracted. He was struck in the chest by Liu Zhengfeng, causing him to stagger back two steps and spit out blood. Liu Zhengfeng stepped forward and subdued him with a knife. Chao Tiehu had no choice but to drop the knife in his hand, fuming silently, staring blankly at the person who had suddenly appeared.

Liu Zhengfeng, noticing that he was aware of his background, could not help but scrutinize him for a moment: "May I ask your esteemed name, my friend?" Zheng Yuanshan chuckled and replied, "Haha. The name Zheng Yuanshan may not be very renowned; I suppose Liu Shaoxia may not have heard of it." Liu Zhengfeng glanced at the iron ruler in his hand and said, "So you are the first-class constable from Henan Prefecture, Iron Ruler Qianjun, Brother Zheng." "Oh? Liu Shaoxia actually knows me?" Zheng Yuanshan was somewhat surprised but pleased. He said, "So you are the first-class constable from Henan Prefecture, Iron Ruler Qianjun, Brother Zheng." "Oh? Liu Shaoxia actually knows me?" Zheng Yuanshan was somewhat surprised but pleased.

Du Zhong was shot in the leg and could not stand up. He wanted to wield his knife to kill, but it was also difficult for him to move. Zheng Yue was struck hard on the mountain and fainted, unable to regain consciousness for a while. Only Liu Zhengfeng was standing, tightly bound. In an instant, the situation had completely reversed.

Chao Tiebao suddenly said: "Second Brother, why are we wasting our breath on him? If it weren't for that Liu who captured Eldest Brother, he wouldn't have met such a tragic end. This debt must be settled with him eventually." Chao Tietu also came to his senses and shouted: "The grudge between us is crystal clear. Now that you understand, you are not a wronged ghost after all. Come on, let's have a good fight and see if you are worthy enough to accompany my brother in death." After saying this, the two raised their knives and moved closer.

With a single-minded focus, he urged Xiang'er to hide well in the crevice of the boulder, setting down the water jug and provisions. He comforted her, saying: "Don't worry, I run fast, they won't catch me. You stay here and don't let the bad people see you. I will rescue Uncle Liu very soon"

Chao Tiesheng glanced at the unconscious Zheng Yuanshan and the fallen Du Zhong, finding them to pose no threat. He then pushed Liu Zhengfeng down in front of the grave and bound him to the stone tablet. He picked up the short arrows scattered around and handed them to Chao Tiebiao, asking: "Here, can Third Brother handle this alone?"

Zheng Yuanshan was also a person who valued his reputation. Seeing that he was at a disadvantage and feeling exhausted, he decided to concede. Therefore, he deflected the strike from Liu Zhengfeng and called out, "Young hero, stop! Old Zheng concedes."

Liu Zhengfeng forcefully pushed aside the kneeling Chao Tiehu and once again cupped his hands in salute, saying: "In that case, I, Liu, can only offend you. If Brother Zheng wins, I will have no choice but to comply. If by some stroke of luck I manage to win a move or two, I hope Brother Zheng will show mercy."

Zheng Yuanshan said: "My brothers also find it strange. Young hero Liu possesses both exceptional character and martial skills, with a bright future ahead. Even if that pearl is worth a fortune, how could he be tempted to steal it? Indeed, there must be some injustice involved." Liu Zhengfeng let out a long sigh: "Alas. I, Liu, have been framed, and my family has been destroyed... How does Brother Zheng intend to deal with me?"

While he was peering around with the probe, suddenly someone patted him on the shoulder and asked, "Little monk, what are you looking at?" Yixin was startled and turned around, staring blankly at the person, stammering, "N-nothing..."

Liu Zhengfeng always respected him as an official from Henan Prefecture and was grateful for his timely rescue, initially showing deference in every way. Zheng Yuanshan did not think much of it and, swinging his iron ruler, launched a full-scale attack.

Chao Tiehu glared at the two with a huff and asked, "Where is my third brother?" Du Zhong replied with a smile, "Your third brother is just like you. The only one missing for the reunion is your fifth brother."

Liu Zhengfeng looked helplessly at Xiang'er. After a fierce battle with Zheng Yuanshan, he realized that the first-class constables of Henan Prefecture were no ordinary opponents. Dealing with one was already challenging, and now there were two standing before him, making it truly uncertain whether he could win through strength. Moreover, the two children were restrained by Du Zhong, and forcing a rescue might endanger them. If there were no attachments, he could simply leave, and they would likely not be able to stop him. But now, with his daughter and the innocent little monk trapped in their hands, how could he possibly leave?

Zheng Yuanshan struck Zhao Tiebao's wrist with a one-foot blow, causing the bamboo tube to fall to the ground and several short arrows to be ejected.

Zheng Yuanshan shouted at Du Zhong: "Du Zhong, you rascal, let the person go!" Du Zhong released his grip, his face flushed with embarrassment. After all, he was a first-class constable from Henan Prefecture, and to resort to such despicable means today left him feeling utterly ashamed.

Xiang'er and Yi Xin rushed to Liu Zhengfeng, crying loudly. Zheng Yuanshan and Du Zhong were at a loss for words, standing there in a daze, feeling quite uneasy inside

Du Zhong supported himself to stand up and asked, "What shall we do now?"

Zheng Yuanshan also sighed and said: "Brothers have always admired the character of Young Hero Liu. I am now somewhat aware of your situation. It would indeed be difficult to engage with you, and moreover, I, Old Zheng, am well aware that my martial skills may not be able to defeat you." Liu Zhengfeng replied: "Brother Zheng, you are being too modest. So, does this mean that Brother Zheng intends to show mercy?"

Liu Zhengfeng suppressed his anger and said, "First, let the child go."

Chao Tiesheng originally possessed considerable martial skills, but just now, he had three fingers severed by a young monk's short sword, rendering his right hand incapable of wielding a weapon, which significantly diminished his abilities. Furthermore, after a series of relentless pursuits, his physical strength was severely depleted and had not yet recovered, making him even inferior to Chao Tietu.

Du Zhong and Zheng Yuanshan exchanged a glance. They did not expect that the silent, emaciated prisoner in the jail was none other than the notorious thief and criminal, Chao Tielong, who had committed numerous offenses over the years. No wonder he had not committed any crimes in all these years; it turned out he had long been captured by Liu Zhengfeng and imprisoned, but no one recognized him. If what Liu Zhengfeng said is true, and Chao Tielong feigned deafness and muteness to escape from prison, it would mean he would once again pose a threat to the people.

Liu Zhengfeng sighed, shook his head, and said nothing further. Zhao Tiehu and Zhao Tiebao, recalling their elder brother's tragic death, could not help but fall silent.

With a glance, Liu Zhengfeng had already understood the situation from just a moment ago. He jabbed the handle of his knife into Zhao Tiehu's waist, causing Zhao Tiehu to immediately collapse to his knees. Liu Zhengfeng clasped his hands in gratitude towards Zheng Yuanshan, saying: "Thank you for your assistance, brother!"

There was no movement in the thicket. Zheng Yuanshan called out several more times, but there was no response.

Liu Zhengfeng did not take the two men seriously; however, without any weapons in hand, he found himself at a disadvantage. He had to be wary of their sudden attacks while secretly looking for an escape route. Chao Tiebao was the first to strike with a slash, but Liu Zhengfeng swiftly dodged. Following that, Chao Tieniu swung his blade towards him. The three of them then engaged in a fierce battle.

The big-bearded man snorted and said, "Not only did you lead people to eliminate my Cold Wind Stronghold, but you also captured my elder brother on the way. My brothers have come today to seek revenge on you."

Chao Tiesheng returned, greatly astonished, and seeing the situation was unfavorable, he turned around and fled

The two individuals exchanged blows, clashing fiercely. Due to the significant stakes of victory and defeat, both exerted their utmost effort. Two figures became entangled, and all that could be heard was the sound of blades colliding.

Chao Tiehu angrily said: "What a load of nonsense! It just so happened that on that day the prison caught fire, and my elder brother was burned to death inside."

Liu Zhengfeng said: "Thank you for your kind intentions, Brother Zheng. I trust you, but I do not trust those officials. I fear that upon my return, I will head straight to the execution ground, and it will be difficult for me to see the light of day again. I still have a twelve-year-old daughter to care for, and today I can only look after myself. If I can clear my name in the future, I will certainly return to apologize to all the officials."

Zheng Yuanshan exclaimed: "Young Hero Liu is truly remarkable! He must have severed a few fingers of this scoundrel before leaving, allowing me to take advantage of the situation."

Chao Tiebao suddenly had a wicked idea and shouted sharply: "Second Brother, Fifth Brother, that Liu fellow has a daughter, right? Let's capture that little girl and teach him a lesson in front of him. Wouldn't that be more satisfying?" Chao Tiesheng clapped his hands in approval

Xiang'er saw her father achieve victory, and a smile returned to her face. However, her mind was still focused on how to assist Uncle Liu in dealing with the two individuals hidden in the bushes

Liu Zhengfeng rolled on the spot, picked up Zhao Tiebao's broadsword, and was finally able to confront Zhao Tihu head-on. The two brothers, Zhao Tiehu and Zhao Tiebao, had not been able to prevail, and now with only one remaining, he was naturally at a greater disadvantage, being forced back repeatedly by Liu Zhengfeng.

With a single-minded focus, he took Xiang'er back to the small wooden cabin, first retrieving a short sword, then gathering sufficient provisions and a water bottle, before leading her up the densely forested mountain.

Zheng Yuanshan kicked him at the bend of his leg, and Chao Tiehu immediately knelt down. Du Zhong threw over a rope, and Zheng Yuanshan bound Chao Tiehu and tossed him beside Du Zhong

Zheng Yuanshan let out a gentle sigh: "What you worry about, Young Hero Liu, is indeed reasonable, but we are bound by our orders and cannot act unlawfully. Even if our martial skills are lacking, we can only exchange a few moves with you, Young Hero Liu." After saying this, he kicked aside Chao Tiebao, who was lying on the ground, and assumed a fighting stance.

Zheng Yuanshan was not clear about what had just happened, but he could see that the situation had changed. He walked over to Du Zhong and asked, "Brother Du Zhong, what happened to your leg?"

Zheng Yuanshan pushed aside the bushes with an iron ruler and leaped out. When Xiang'er saw this, she thought he was going to harm her father, and let out a cry of "Ah." Du Zhong clearly heard it and stealthily approached this way.

Before he could take a step, he heard Du Zhong let out a terrible scream as he fell to the ground, two short arrows embedded in his leg. Liu Zhengfeng was taken aback, and just as he was about to take a closer look, he heard a loud thud as Zheng Yuanshan also collapsed to the ground. Liu Zhengfeng was greatly alarmed

Chao Tiehu exclaimed in surprise, "Old Five, you have come at just the right time!"

Ignoring Xiang'er’s cries, Liu Zhengfeng hoarsely squeezed out a few words to Yixin: "Take Xiang'er away!"

"What does it mean to say this now?" Recalling the past, Liu Zhengfeng felt a chill in his heart and said sadly, "Chao Tielong has not yet been tried, yet I, Liu, have already been imprisoned by my own people. Otherwise, I would not have ended up in such a situation... Sigh. Chao Tielong is elusive, and few have seen his true face. My campaign against the Cold Wind Stronghold was originally unrelated to him. I, Liu, have been wronged; how could I have the heart to concern myself with his matters? Given Chao Tielong's cunning, he has likely already escaped amidst the chaos. Why do you still come to seek revenge on me?" Chao Tielong is elusive, and few have seen his true face. My campaign against the Cold Wind Stronghold was originally unrelated to him. I, Liu, have been wronged; how could I have the heart to concern myself with his matters? Given Chao Tielong's cunning, he has likely already escaped amidst the chaos. Why do you still come to seek revenge on me?

With a sudden stumble, nearly falling, the person had already rushed to the grave. Everything happened too abruptly; apart from the one who was focused, everyone else stood there in a daze.

Suddenly, a shadowy figure flashed before him. Zhao Tiebao was taken aback and hurriedly reached for the quiver, but grasped at nothing. The quiver had actually been swept away into the thicket by that figure.

"Father, I will not let you go. I will not let you go," Xiang'er cried out. Yixin also said, "Uncle Liu, I will not part with you; I want to be with you all."

Chao Tiesheng examined the ropes on Liu Zhengfeng, nodded, and returned to Chao Tietu's side: "It's entirely up to Second Brother to decide. Whatever you all want to do, just say it. I am not afraid of trouble."

Chao Tiebao readied his hidden arrows and glanced at Liu Zhengfeng and the other two, a smug smile appearing at the corner of his mouth

After hearing this, Zheng Yuanshan also nodded; this was indeed a feasible compromise. He then turned his gaze towards Liu Zhengfeng

Zheng Yuanshan sprang out from the thicket, swinging an iron ruler towards Chao Tieniu's waist. Chao Tieniu let out a loud shout and hurriedly dove to the side, barely evading this sudden attack. Before he could regain his footing, Zheng Yuanshan had already closed in, delivering three strikes in quick succession. Chao Tieniu raised his knife to meet the challenge, fighting while retreating. Zheng Yuanshan, having been ambushed and knocked down, felt a surge of indignation, which he now had the opportunity to vent, growing bolder with each confrontation. Chao Tieniu, caught off guard by the sudden turn of events, was filled with fear, and as he faced Zheng Yuanshan's fierce onslaught, his techniques gradually became disordered. In just over ten exchanges, Zheng Yuanshan struck him on the right shoulder with the ruler, rendering his entire arm immobile, and his knife fell to the ground.

Liu Zhengfeng's heart was like a knife twisting in pain as he looked up to the sky and sighed deeply: "I, Liu Zhengfeng, have been wronged and trapped by others, forced to flee for many years, and my grievances remain unresolved. My wife has already suffered and passed away, her lonely grave still exists. Now my daughter is also under the control of others, making it difficult for her to escape. Oh, heaven, is it truly the case that you will not leave me a way to survive?"

Chao Tiehu exclaimed: "How should this account be calculated?"

He placed his hands behind his back and turned to Zheng Yuanshan, saying: "Brother Zheng, I trust you. Go ahead and do it." Zheng Yuanshan was taken aback for a moment, then slowly stepped forward and whispered: "Young Hero Liu, you must think this through." Remembering his own tragic experiences and his daughter's desolate situation, Liu Zhengfeng's tears streamed down his face. He closed his eyes and, enduring the pain, said: "Go ahead and do it."

The two individuals approached quickly. Liu Zhengfeng scrutinized the two, not recognizing them, and asked: "I do not recall having offended either of you. Today, you have come to my door; may I ask if it is for public or private matters?"

Liu Zhengfeng said with a heavy heart: "Very well. Today, I will return with the two of you, but I ask that you spare my daughter and this young master, allowing them to..." He could not continue, understanding in his heart: they were merely two children; even if they were not implicated by the authorities, where could they possibly go?

What he said is indeed the truth. Although Liu Zhengfeng felt dissatisfied in his heart, he did not make things difficult for him on the surface, only saying: "Brothers' hard work, how could Liu not know? However, once I return, I fear there will be no day for the grievances to be avenged."

Chao Tiebao had been in one position for too long, feeling somewhat uncomfortable. He wanted to stretch his waist, but the movement aggravated his fractured rib, causing a sharp pain that nearly made him faint. He hurriedly set down the quiver in his hand and adjusted his posture to alleviate his discomfort

Chao Tiesheng glanced at the wound on Du Zhong's leg, where he had just pulled out a short arrow, blood flowing profusely. He nodded reassuringly and then went to assist Chao Tietu.

The person is named Chao Tiesheng, and he is the cousin of Chao Tieshu. Just now, taking advantage of Zheng Yuanshan's astonishment, he suddenly struck and knocked him down. He kicked Du Zhong and praised, "Third Brother's hidden darts are quite impressive"

Xiang'er and Yi Xin were both crying together in a heap

Chao Tiesheng crouched down to examine Chao Tiebao's injuries. He then heard Chao Tiebao scream in agony, likely because Chao Tiesheng had touched his broken rib. Chao Tiesheng shook his head and said, "With a broken rib, Third Brother will probably need to rest for a few more days." Chao Tiebao, enduring the pain, exclaimed, "If I can take revenge today, it feels good in my heart; lying down for a few more days is nothing. Haha... Ouch!"

Liu Zhengfeng has just realized the identities of the two: "So it turns out they are the leaders of Hanfeng Village, Chao Tiehu and Chao Tiebao. I have always wondered how you two managed to escape that day?" The bearded Chao Tiehu cursed, "If I and my third brother hadn't gone out that day, would your gang have been able to wipe out our stronghold? Upon learning that the corrupt official was going to pay tribute to the higher-ups, my brother and I went down the mountain to find our elder brother, but unexpectedly fell into your trap. Coincidentally, our elder brother also came to the stronghold upon hearing the news to discuss matters, and we ran into you. You seem quite pleased with yourself!"

Zheng Yuanshan turned back and called into the thicket: "Young Hero Liu, come out."

Liu Zhengfeng fell silent for a moment and asked, "Brother Zheng, having traveled a long way from Luoyang, have you come to this desolate mountain area for my case?" Zheng Yuanshan replied, "You guessed correctly. Young hero Liu originally had a bright future, but unexpectedly, trouble arose over two pearls. It is truly lamentable."

Zheng Yuanshan exerted little effort to subdue Chao Tiesheng, bringing him back and binding him with ropes as before. He then brought out Chao Tiebao, and the three of them were piled together.

Determined to break free from Chao Tiesheng's control, he set the wind-chasing frame in motion and sped away. Chao Tiesheng had lost three fingers to him and was unwilling to let go, pursuing him with all his might.

Zheng Yuanshan was known as "Iron Ruler of a Thousand Jun", excelling in offensive strength, but over time, it was inevitable that he would expend too much energy. After several dozen moves, his techniques began to slow down. Liu Zhengfeng, on the other hand, grew more and more courageous in battle, gradually forcing Zheng Yuanshan to the edge of the thicket.

Du Zhong said: "Since Young Hero Liu is unwilling to return, I, as your brother, have no ability to force him. Instead, let us first take your esteemed daughter back; firstly, having a hostage will reassure the adults and prevent my brothers from being put in a difficult position; secondly, Young Hero Liu will still be a free man and can continue to investigate the truth. When the day of clarity arrives, you and your daughter will be reunited, is that not good?"

No. The two children are quite quick at slipping away. Just as Chao Tiehu was feeling frustrated, he suddenly saw Chao Tiesheng holding the head of Yixin, shouting: "Old Five, have you caught the little monk? Quickly ask him about the library, where is that girl?"

Chao Tiehu said, "I will go catch that little girl right now." After saying this, he picked up his broadsword and chased after the direction in which Yixin and Xianger had left

Yixin could somewhat understand Uncle Liu's feelings. He wiped his tears, took Xiang'er by the arm, and said, "Xiang'er, let's go." However, Xiang'er was unwilling to leave, tightly embracing her father and crying bitterly. Under Uncle Liu's urging, Yixin resolutely pulled Xiang'er up and dragged her away with great difficulty.

Yixin was hiding far behind a large tree, peering towards the wooden cabin. Upon seeing Chao Tiehu standing inside, he couldn't help but be taken aback. He couldn't understand how Chao Tiehu, who had clearly been defeated by Uncle Liu, could possibly be here now

Xiang'er asked, "Yixin Gege, aren't we going to rescue Father? Why are we going up the mountain?" Yixin replied, "First, I need to find a safe place for you to hide, then I will go rescue Uncle Liu." Xiang'er said, "I want to go too." Yixin said, "If you go, you won't be able to rescue Uncle Liu. If they capture you, Uncle Liu will also be tied up by them." Xiang'er had no other ideas and could only listen to Yixin, but she was still worried about him: "Father has been captured by them, you must not be captured by them again, I... I am afraid..."

Liu Zhengfeng nodded and said, "So you two are bandits. That makes things easier to discuss." The man next to the big bearded man sneered, "How does that make it easier? Do you think you can escape today?" Liu Zhengfeng replied, "Ordinary ruffians and petty thieves are not worth my effort. Since you have determined that your brother is related to me, it seems he is someone of some standing. May I ask who he is?"

At this moment, Zhao Tiehu came out of the house, brushing the dust off his body, and cursed, "Damn it, there is nothing at all!"

Du Zhong said: "Brothers have been tirelessly working for three years on the case of Young Hero Liu. If we still cannot invite Young Hero Liu to return this time, I do not know how much longer we will have to continue our efforts. I am also compelled by circumstances, and I kindly ask Young Hero Liu for understanding."

Chao Tiehu discovered the fenced courtyard and strode in. He looked around and then kicked open the wooden door of the small house, charging in with a knife in hand

After a long time, there was still no sign of Chao Tiehu returning, and Chao Tiesheng couldn't help but stretch his neck to look around. Chao Tiebao said, "Old Five, go check on Second Brother, make sure he isn't running into any trouble; he can't handle it alone."

Hearing him say he was looking for a girl, I roughly guessed that he might be looking for Xiang'er. Not being one to lie, I found myself at a loss for how to respond. Chao Tiesheng pinched his bald head and scolded, "You're still a mute monk. Get lost!"

Two men, each holding a knife, stood about four to five zhang away from each other. One of them, a bearded man, shouted loudly: "You with the surname Liu, I have searched high and low for you! Today is the day of your demise!"

Zheng Yuanshan secretly admired Liu Zhengfeng's skills, as he single-handedly faced two opponents armed with knives and still gained the upper hand. Zheng Yuanshan thought to himself that he might not be able to match that. Suddenly, he noticed that the fallen Chao Tiebao was unfastening the bamboo tube on his back, aiming to launch it at Liu Zhengfeng, but due to Chao Tieniu's constant repositioning, he was unable to take action at that moment

With determination, he secretly drew out a short sword, suddenly slashed it above his head, turned his body, and ran away

Liu Zhengfeng, upon hearing their plan to deal with Xiang'er, could not help but curse loudly: "You dog beasts! If you have the guts, come at me! Don't engage in such shameless acts!"

Chao Tiebao said: "My elder brother is certainly clever; without saying a word, no one recognizes him. After enduring a few months in prison, the corrupt official, seeing there was no profit to be gained, decided to release him."

Yixin saw Chao Tiebao about to climb into the bushes to retrieve the quiver, so he stepped forward and kicked him hard. Chao Tiebao let out a miserable scream, glaring at him with resentment, his eyes almost blazing with fire. Yixin picked up the quiver and placed it beside Liu Zhengfeng, showing no interest in Chao Tiebao. Liu Zhengfeng smiled and said, "Well done"

Zheng Yuanshan glanced at the young monk, yet could not comprehend how it was that he had been saved by him, and did not dwell on it. Instead, he cupped his hands and said to Liu Zhengfeng, "Brother Liu, I apologize for the offense earlier." Liu Zhengfeng smiled and replied, "Let us not dwell on that for now; we should consider how to deal with those two scoundrels." "There are still two?" Zheng Yuanshan expressed slight surprise, then said, "That is of no concern; the two of us can certainly handle them." Liu Zhengfeng cautioned, "We must not be careless. The one who defeated you later seems to possess some skill; it is uncertain whether we can defeat him in a one-on-one encounter."

Du Zhong said, "It seems he has left. Young Master Liu was almost harmed by us, yet he did not wish to fall out with us, so he could only leave first. Truly..." Zheng Yuanshan sighed and said sadly, "Indeed, we have acted despicably today."

Seeing him in such a miserable and helpless state, Zheng Yuanshan could not help but shake his head and sighed repeatedly

Zheng Yuanshan rubbed his eyes and said with a choked voice: "Brother Liu, let us set off."

Chao Tiesheng was speaking with Chao Tietu, when he was momentarily taken aback, and in the blink of an eye, a cold light flashed, causing him to lose three fingers from his right hand

There is no one in the room. The inherent nature of Chao Tiehu, the mountain bandit, is difficult to change, as he begins to search around for valuable items.

Xiang'er wept bitterly, shaking her head desperately: "Father, I will not go. Father, I will not go." She turned her head resolutely, glaring at Du Zhong, filled with hatred for this villain who wanted to take her away.

Du Zhong emerged from the thicket with Yi Xin and Xiang Er

Du Zhong waved his hand and said, "Old Zheng, let it go. If it weren't for Brother Liu and this little monk, you and I would have died here today"

However, Chao Tiebao sharply said: "Wait a moment, Fifth! The one surnamed Liu has destroyed Hanfeng Stronghold, leaving us homeless, and caused our elder brother to be burned to death in prison. Such a great enmity, to kill him with a single blow, would only be letting him off too easily?" Chao Tietu thought the same: "What Third Brother said is right. These three are already meat on our chopping board; we can cut them or chop them as we please. We can let them die at any time. They must suffer a bit more before we can relieve our hatred. These three are already meat on our chopping board; we can cut them or chop them as we please. We can let them die at any time. They must suffer a bit more before we can relieve our hatred. Especially that one surnamed Liu."

Liu Zhengfeng hurriedly pulled Yixin into the thicket. Zheng Yuanshan also followed them in

Liu Zhengfeng was both shocked and angry, staring directly at Du Zhong: "Bullying a child and threatening me, is this the method of a top constable in Henan?" Zheng Yuanshan's face showed some embarrassment as he glared at Du Zhong and shouted: "Du Zhong, what are you doing?"

Liu Zhengfeng said: "I have entrusted my young daughter to the young master. As long as you let her go, Liu will be eternally grateful."

Chao Tiesheng helped Chao Tietu to his feet and massaged his lower back a few times, after which Chao Tietu was no longer in serious trouble. Chao Tiebiao had broken a few ribs and was unable to get up for the time being, so he simply lay there, continuing to admire his own masterpiece

Liu Zhengfeng had his hands bound behind his back, making it impossible for him to receive a blow from him. However, he was prepared to fight to the death. Once the strike came, he planned to kick him in the groin, hoping to gain at least one more victory before his demise

With a single-minded determination to shake off Chao Tiesheng, he hurried towards the grave.

Chao Tiebao laughed and said: "Don't worry. You just saw it, San Ge's sleeve arrow is not for show."

Zheng Yuanshan is also a straightforward person, readily agreeing: "This is very good. Please."

Chao Tiesheng had never seen Yixin, and those two did not inform him that Liu Zhengfeng's daughter had left with the little monk. He merely thought of him as a passing little monk, and then asked, "Have you seen a girl?"

Chao Tiesheng was filled with anger; it was clearly the little monk's doing, yet the blame fell on Liu Zhengfeng. However, he could not argue against it. If others were to find out that he had lost three fingers to a little monk, it would be even more humiliating

With determination, he used a short sword to cut the ropes binding Liu Zhengfeng, and helped him up, saying: "Uncle Liu, let's hurry and leave!" Liu Zhengfeng was momentarily taken aback before regaining his senses, shaking off the ropes from his body, and laughing: "Good lad. Let's go!"

After exchanging more than twenty moves, Liu Zhengfeng suddenly kicked out, striking Zhao Tiebao in the left rib. Zhao Tiebao fell to the ground with a thud, likely having broken three or four ribs, and for a moment, he could not get up, having also lost his saber.

Chao Tiesheng saw Chao Tietu and loudly asked, "Second brother, have you found it?" Yixin was greatly alarmed; this person was in cahoots with them and was indeed not a good person. He quietly reached for the short sword hidden in his bosom.

With a start, Yi Xin wondered why they had come to find Uncle Liu for a fight again. Zheng Yuanshan and Du Zhong were also taken aback, exchanging glances, unable to figure out the background of these two individuals, but they could ascertain that they were definitely not on the same side as themselves

Du Zhong stared blankly at the young monk, as if everything were still a dream. Liu Zhengfeng turned around and helped Zheng Yuanshan up, performing acupressure on him. Zheng Yuanshan slowly regained consciousness, and upon seeing Liu Zhengfeng standing calmly in front of him, he reached out to grab the iron ruler on the ground

Chao Tiebao shot two short arrows from a bamboo tube, hitting Du Zhong's left leg, and was quite pleased: "This is an improved sleeve arrow, capable of firing several shots in succession. However, it is somewhat larger in size, making it less convenient to conceal in the sleeve"

Suddenly, Chao Tiehu shouted from a distance: "Old Three, are those few still behaving?"

Zheng Yuanshan sighed and shook his head, truly unable to think of a better solution. He then took out a rope, binding Liu Zhengfeng while saying, "Young Hero Liu, rest assured, my brothers and I will certainly sign a joint guarantee for your safety. As for my niece, we will also send someone to protect her, ensuring that she suffers not the slightest harm"

Zheng Yuanshan shook his head: "Since you fled with your wife and daughter three years ago, Shangguan was furious and specifically selected twelve first-class constables, ordering them to pursue you across jurisdictions without setting a deadline. No one is allowed to return until you are captured. We are all in a difficult situation with families to care for." Liu Zhengfeng sighed: "So, it seems I have implicated you gentlemen." Zheng Yuanshan said with difficulty: "All the brothers are involved in this matter. As long as this issue remains unresolved, none of us will have good days ahead. We have gone through great hardships to find this place. Today, we are fortunate to meet; if we return empty-handed, not only will we fail to report back, but it will also be hard to explain to the brothers." Liu Zhengfeng gently nodded, and said sadly: "I never expected that this case would not only harm me, Liu, but also implicate all of you gentlemen, causing you to suffer as well." Zheng Yuanshan cupped his hands and said: "I hope that Young Hero Liu can understand the difficulties faced by the brothers and return with me. Even if there are grievances, the brothers are willing to sign as guarantors to assist you in uncovering the truth."

Chao Tiehu walked over and saw only Du Zhong sitting on the ground, while Chao Tiebao was nowhere to be found. He couldn't help but be greatly alarmed and shouted at the top of his lungs: "Lao San, Lao San!"

Chao Tiesheng walked up to Liu Zhengfeng, scrutinizing him, and said, "Now, strike him down with a single palm to avenge my elder brother!"

Liu Zhengfeng said with a bitter smile: "I, Liu, feel wronged in my heart, and I will not go into detail with Brother Zheng. Just this one thing: the matter of the stolen pearls has nothing to do with me. Back in the day, I took my wife and daughter and fled to a distant land, partly to save my life and partly to seek the truth. Now, after being wronged for many years, my wife has passed away, and my heart is already dead; I can no longer concern myself with matters of innocence or guilt."

"Brother Liu..." Du Zhong called out beside him, but he felt too embarrassed to ask for his help again, so he fell silent. Liu Zhengfeng stopped in his tracks, went over to help him sit up, and bandaged the wound on his leg. Du Zhong was filled with shame and was momentarily at a loss for words

Du Zhong felt guilty and sighed, "It is all due to my brothers' mistakes; not only did they harm Young Hero Liu, but they also implicated my little niece."

After a brief rest, the two of them rendered the martial arts of the Chao brothers ineffective and then escorted them back to Luoyang to report.

Liu Zhengfeng looked at his daughter with tears in his eyes, trying to control his grief and anger, and advised, "Xiang'er, you must listen to your brother Yixin from now on..." He could only say this one sentence before his throat choked up, and he could no longer continue.

Du Zhong's face also flushed red, yet he refused to let go, only saying: "I have already witnessed the martial arts of Young Hero Liu. Unfortunately, my life is at stake, and I cannot afford to be negligent, which is why I resorted to this desperate measure. I hope Young Hero Liu will not take offense."

Liu Zhengfeng was so furious that he was jumping up and down, yet there was nothing he could do. He could only hope that Yixin had already taken Xiang'er far away, so that he would not be able to catch up.

Liu Zhengfeng attempted to wipe away his tears with the sleeve of his garment, but could not reach it, and thus sorrowfully said: "I will go with you."

The big-bearded man said angrily, "You caused my elder brother's death; this debt must be settled." Liu Zhengfeng replied with a smile, "I, Liu Zhengfeng, have been in the world for over ten years and have never killed a single person. How could I have caused your elder brother's death?" The big-bearded man cursed, "Pah! How many brothers have fallen into your hands over the years? Even if you did not kill them with your own hands, what difference does it make if they ended up in the hands of the authorities?"

Zheng Yuanshan also clasped his hands and said, "Young Hero Liu's prestige remains undiminished from years past; I, old Zheng, am in admiration." Liu Zhengfeng was taken aback and asked, "Brother, do you recognize me?" Zheng Yuanshan replied, "In those years, Young Hero Liu acted with righteousness and punished numerous bandits and tyrants, which indeed shook Henan. Who does not know that there is a Young Hero Liu from the Songshan Sect?"

Upon hearing this, Xiang'er felt a sense of fear and tightly clutched Yixin's arm. The thought of a notorious thief, who had committed numerous crimes over the years, being burned alive in prison by a great fire sent shivers down the spines of Du Zhong and Zheng Yuanshan as well

Chao Tiebao sneered, "Look at you, getting anxious? This is what we call thrilling"

Suddenly, someone called out from the bushes: "Young Hero Liu, do you see who this is!"

Du Zhong shouted, "Catch him! He was the one who attacked from behind just now." Zheng Yuanshan felt a surge of anger in his heart, raised his iron ruler, and quickly pursued.

Liu Zhengfeng found it unnecessary to explain further to him, and simply entrusted, "Xiang'er is still young, Uncle is entrusting her to you, so you must take good care of her and not let anyone bully her. Take her away." After saying this, he threw the knife in his hand onto the ground

Yixin and Xianger's necks were just pinched by Du Zhong, rendering them unable to speak. Now, Du Zhong has lowered his hand, only gripping their arms. Xianger cried out in grievance: "Father, he is also a bad person"

Chao Tiehu saw that the two were moving too quickly, and he realized that he could not catch up even if he wanted to, so he decided not to pursue them. Suddenly, he thought that at this moment, only Chao Tiebao was guarding the grave, and feeling uneasy, he headed in that direction.

Liu Zhengfeng listened to his daughter's cries, his heart aching as tears streamed down his face, one line after another

Zheng Yuanshan pondered for a moment and said, "After this ordeal, it would be unreasonable for us to trouble Young Hero Liu again. Fortunately, we have captured the three bandit leaders of Hanfeng Stronghold today, and the long-standing case can finally be resolved. We will have something to report upon our return. It would be better to gather our brothers along the way and head back to report. "

Liu Zhengfeng shook his head with a bitter smile and said, "I fear that countless common people will suffer again."

After chasing around the valley for several laps, Chao Tiesheng was already panting, feeling a heaviness in his chest, and had no choice but to slow down and come to a stop. The blood flowing from his fingers was increasing, and the pain was becoming more intense.

Chao Tiesheng asked, "Second Brother, how should we deal with these people?" Chao Tietu replied, "Those two are from the yamen, just send them away. This one with the surname Liu has harmed countless brothers of ours, and our eldest brother also fell at his hands."

Liu Zhengfeng took a step back and clasped his hands, saying, "I concede. Thank you, Brother Zheng, for your support." However, Zheng Yuanshan merely shook his head, lamenting his inadequate martial skills that prevented him from winning, and it was not a matter of intentionally supporting him.

Du Zhong pointed at Chao Tiebao and scolded, "I was wounded by that scoundrel's hidden arrow. Which of his family's old five ambushed you? Those three scoundrels still plan to torture us thoroughly. The situation is different now. This is all thanks to that little monk"

"Proud... Hmph... What is there to be proud of..." A wave of bitterness surged in Liu Zhengfeng's heart, and he couldn't help but shake his head

With a heart full of urgency to come up with a plan to save Xiang'er and Uncle Liu, he found himself lacking the experience and means typical of the Jianghu. All he could do was struggle desperately, attempting to escape from Du Zhong's grasp.

Chao Tiehu shouted, "Catch that little monk!" Chao Tiesheng, disregarding the pain from his severed finger, hurriedly gave chase.

I will take care of this first, to prevent him from striking in the dark again. " After saying this, Zheng Yuanshan strode over, tied up Chao Tiebao with a rope, stuffed a stone into his mouth, and threw him into the bushes like a dead dog