Chapter 10, The Siege of Chu from All Sides

A wave of shock swept through the crowd; although Lin Qing's words were merely conjecture, they were not without reason

Rong Xiaofeng sighed, saying: "I am certain that General Ming must have some scheme, yet I cannot discern any clues at all."

At this moment, everyone realized that even if they obtained the "Heavenly Mandate Manual," it would be of no help against the large army within the Crossing Tribulation Valley, yet their hearts seemed to leap into their throats, suppressing all their doubts.

The object murmured: "What kind of medicine is General Ming selling in this gourd? It would be understandable if he couldn't guess the secret exit, but there is absolutely no reason for him not to see even a single soldier!"

The object sighed: "At this point, I suppose it is only a matter of death, so what is there to fear? I might as well rush out and fight the enemy. I would rather kill a few before dying in the chaos of battle than stay here, not knowing whether I will die from suffocation or drowning. Even if I can hold my breath, once I see water seeping from the mountain, the general's troops will surely search for the exit of the tunnel..."

Upon hearing Xu Moyang's words, the doubts in everyone's hearts deepened

With a loud crash, a stone block measuring half a foot on each side fell from above, seemingly about to crush Wu Youxin's shoulder, yet he remained focused on picking the lock, completely unaware. Rong Xiaofeng, quick-witted and swift, managed to push the stone aside with his hand, but the water spring above erupted, instantly drenching several people. The crowd exchanged glances, fearing that time no longer permitted Wu Youxin to slowly search for a way to unlock it.

A strong mountain wind blew into the cave from outside the Crossing Tribulation Valley, carrying the fragrant aroma of the herbs within the valley to the nostrils, refreshing the mind; a ray of sunlight broke through the morning mist, faintly revealing the peculiar stone formation just a few dozen steps away.

Although it is said that things are determined by the heart, it is indeed a matter of admiration for Lin Qing. He is well aware that the metal box is embedded in the stone, with a completely smooth surface, leaving no place to exert force. Yet, Lin Qing was able to extract it solely with his internal energy, which is truly impressive. He reflects that with his nearly sixty years of cultivation, he might not necessarily be able to achieve the same.

Although they did not mention General Ming at all, each person had their own speculations in their hearts. Seeing that there was not a single figure or horse in the several miles around, and no signs of a hasty retreat, they pondered whether General Ming had deliberately ordered that no personnel or horses be allowed to enter the Ghost Valley, making it difficult to discern his intentions. However, at this point, they could only set aside concerns for life and death and act according to the situation.

At this moment, everyone no longer hesitated and walked towards the exit. After walking for the duration of an incense stick, a large stone blocked the way ahead.

Things are driven by the heart, and thus I applaud: "Alright, alright, that Mechanism King has completely dismantled the mechanisms in my Hero's Tomb, which I find quite unacceptable. Let me have one final duel with him and see if he can find the bow I have hidden." Observing his exuberant demeanor, it is akin to a child coming up with a fun idea.

Rong Xiaofeng sighed and said: "At first, I thought that General Ming had perfected the Flowing Transformation Technique to its utmost, which allowed him to dominate the martial world for decades. Who would have thought, based on the words in the letter, that his martial arts still hold tremendous potential to be tapped into? The Flowing Transformation Technique truly deserves to be regarded as an unparalleled skill in Taoist martial arts..." The crowd fell silent, carefully contemplating Rong Xiaofeng's words, each feeling a sense of dejection; in comparison, the joy of obtaining the Sun-Exchange Arrow seemed insignificant.

Things are driven by the heart: "Then let us fight them to the end. Even if we ultimately perish amidst the chaos of battle, we must ensure that the names of us few are remembered in the martial world. We must also let General Ming know that not everyone is subdued under his tyranny!"

Rong Xiaofeng grasped a protruding stone with his hand: "As long as I rotate left three times, the large stone will move aside, revealing the entrance to the Tribulation Valley. Taking advantage of the enemy's unpreparedness, it would be best to rush into that stone formation, using the terrain to slightly hinder the enemy and strive to kill a few more. " At this point, facing General Ming's formidable troops that struck fear beyond the borders, they had lost all confidence in breaking through and only sought to hold on a little longer, hoping to stain their blades with the blood of a few more enemies.

Although I have lived for a considerable number of years, I am not very familiar with these figures from the martial world, and I listen with great interest: "Goodness, in the past, when I saw these names on my tombstone, I did not think much of it, but now hearing them truly sends chills down my spine. There are so many formidable experts in the martial world, what are we still doing here?"

Everyone held their breath, and for a moment, all fell silent. In the vast tunnel, only the sound of dripping water could be heard, continuous and unending

Upon hearing his name mentioned, Lin Qingfang suddenly became alert and smiled faintly: "You flatter me, I have never harbored any hopes of victory. I only wish that regardless of success or failure, it can inspire the heroic spirit that has been suppressed for many years by General Ming's might in the martial world."

Lin Qing laughed heartily: "If I were truly to become the number one in the world, I fear no one would be convinced. Those reclusive masters would surely come to trouble me. Shuang'er, aren't you putting me in danger?" His expression changed, as he gazed at the ever-rising water level on the ground: "Moreover, faced with the overwhelming siege of tens of thousands of troops, even the most extraordinary masters would not be able to escape unscathed."

Yang Shuang'er interjected, "Could it be the 'Destiny Codex'?" Everyone in the group agreed in their hearts. Given that both skill and clumsiness are well aware of impending death, it would be reasonable to assume that the 'Destiny Codex', a treasured artifact of the sect, would not be left unentrusted beforehand. If it were hidden in this place, waiting for a fated person to discover it, that would also make sense.

Listening to the heart, everyone initially intended to laugh, yet they all felt a heavy weight on their chests as if a large stone was pressing down, rendering them unable to laugh. The four of them were all highly skilled martial artists with proud hearts. Initially, they were tasked with forging the Stealing Heaven Bow to confront General Ming, fully aware that it would be fraught with difficulties, yet they remained confident. Little did they expect that this mere weapon would lead to so many complications. Not to mention that the general personally led a large army to attack the Laughing View Villa, but the renowned figures from all directions had already mobilized, including Po Mo, Deng Ping, Bai Shi, and Hei Shan. Although Lin Qing shot and killed Gu Qingfeng, Du Si sacrificed himself for the bow, and the Laughing View Villa fell into enemy hands. Moreover, they were further besieged by the Mechanism King, who flooded the underground passage with spring water, leaving them with no options but to face a desperate battle against an army of over ten thousand, outnumbered and outmatched.

As the King of Hidden Weapons, Lin Qing immediately sensed something unusual with the arrow in his hand. Although the arrow appeared to be identical in shape to a typical arrow, it possessed a certain weight. The shaft was straight and sturdy, exhibiting considerable strength, while the fletching was light, elegant, and evenly proportioned. It felt smooth to the touch, akin to cool, soft jade, though the material from which it was made was unknown.

A few days ago, I encountered the rebellious disciple Mingzong, who appeared to be in a state of deep frustration, with all his internal energy retracted. It seems he is on the verge of reaching the seventh level of energy extinction. Even if he wields the bow of stealing the heavens and shoots the arrow of changing the sun, the outcome remains uncertain; it is merely a matter of exhausting one's efforts

Lin Qing understood that Wu Youxin was proficient in the mechanism of the spring lock, and immediately stepped aside, signaling Wu Youxin to operate the mechanism.

Lin Qing observed the low spirits of those present and, after some contemplation, slowly remarked: "It is not entirely the case that way. Generally, those who have particular interests will make corresponding associations upon encountering any matter. For someone like Bai Shi, who is well-versed in the study of mechanisms, upon entering the manor, he will inevitably first consider the hidden doors and secret passages. It is merely a matter of habit."

With a long sigh, it is said in the letter: "In the history of the Haokong Sect, apart from the Haokong Zhenren, all other ancestors could only cultivate the Transcendental Divine Skill to the seventh level. However, General Ming, who began his cultivation at the age of fourteen, is already considered late. Now in his middle age, he has reached such a level. His innate talent is indeed unparalleled in the world, earning great admiration..."

Lin Qing's heart surged with countless heroic feelings, almost wanting to let out a long howl to bolster this resolute spirit of embarking on a righteous cause. She nodded heavily at Rong Xiaofeng, eagerly awaiting the moment the cave entrance opened, ready to be the first to charge out.

Rong Xiaofeng also said: "Observing the actions of the master of skill and clumsiness, although there are occasional acts that exceed the norm, they all carry profound meaning. This arrow should not be an ordinary object"

Yang Shuang'er questioned, "Are there ambush troops in the back village? Then why haven't those who left the village a few days ago returned to report?"

Lin Qing remained calm and composed, saying lightly: "Fortunately, the Mechanism King acted quickly. If we had chosen the detour through the mountain and encountered the backflow of the underground spring deep within the mountain, I fear we would all have turned into drowned ghosts with our bodies swollen and purple."

Rong Xiaofeng is well-versed in the affairs of the martial world, and he remarked: "If we speak of masters, there are certainly more than just these individuals. To my knowledge, there are also the esteemed Wei Nanyan of the capital, the audacious He Qikang, the father of Shuang'er, Yang Yunqing, the lord of Wushuang City, Zhao Xingshuang, the master of the Falling Flower Palace in Hainan, and 'Knife King' Qin Kong... These are all well-known figures who have long made a name for themselves, and they are not without their strengths to rival General Ming. Perhaps there are also some unknown masters lurking in the wilderness, hidden from public knowledge." He seemed to glance at Wu Youxin intentionally or unintentionally: "Moreover, there are the elder-level figures from the legendary families of Dianjing Pavilion, Pianxian Tower, Gentle Village, and Hero's Tomb."

Yang Shuang'er felt delighted, tugging at her heart's beard: "As long as the other party likes it, what is wrong with marrying the cook?"

The object was relatively short, so I first placed a large stone under my feet, reached my hand into the ditch, closed my eyes, and murmured: "Strange, this metallic object is about an inch square, yet it is so smooth that it offers no grip, and there are no switches or levers of any kind. Could it be a clutch lock?"

Everyone's face changed color; even though they possessed martial skills, how could they possibly resist the might of nature with mere human strength while trapped in a confined underground passage

Yang Shuang'er asked Xiang Xumoyang: "I have never seen the Master of Skill and Clumsiness, yet I do not know how his martial arts are like"

I observe the way of heaven and hold the actions of heaven. I only hope to eliminate the rebellious disciples within the door, restore order to the world, and bring peace to the hearts of the people. I am aware that I am presumptuously invoking the secrets of heaven, and my life is not long for this world; I leave these words for those who are destined to encounter them

Although everyone saw that Lin Qing spoke in a joking tone, his face was solemn, and they felt quite uneasy in their hearts. However, since the situation had come to this point, there was no other choice but to make a desperate attempt. In their hearts, they could not help but admire his calm and composed demeanor at this moment

Looking at this momentum, if General Ming does not take action, it will be one thing, but once he does, it will surely be a shocking and earth-shattering event. If we consider the worst-case scenario, it is likely that hundreds of thousands of troops have already been mobilized to this place, and we must ensure that we cannot break through the encirclement

Everyone dared not be negligent and hurried forward with Rong Xiaofeng. Although the path here is quite wide, the water cannot fill it up at once. However, if the road ahead collapses and blocks the way, there would be nothing left but to wait for death.

Rong Xiaofeng looked at Lin Qing, and upon his signal, activated the mechanism to open the exit

Xu Moyang said: "Why not engrave the words 'Change Day'?"

Wu Youxin pressed his ear against the rock wall and listened for a while, wondering: "It is eerily quiet outside, not a sound to be heard. Could it be that the Mechanism King has accurately calculated the exit, and the soldiers are lying in wait with their weapons ready?"

With the experience from last time, it took only half an hour to navigate through the imposing stone formation and arrive at the Valley of Shadows. Along the way, however, not a single person was in sight, and occasionally, morning birds were startled from the roadside. It seemed there were no ambushes nearby. Looking up, one could faintly see the pavilion of the Hero's Tomb emerging from the mist.

Lin Qingqian said: "I come and go alone, and I am not burdened by family ties, unlike others who have many concerns." He smiled slightly: "Moreover, openly challenging General Ming will undoubtedly lead to a fair and open confrontation, without having to face the likes of Shui Zhihan and Gui Shijing, which, in comparison, seems to be taking advantage of the situation."

At this moment, the rocks on the surface of the cliff were all loose and falling off, revealing a variety of shapes in the underlying bedrock. It would not be surprising to see such a gully; on ordinary days, one would certainly overlook it. However, everyone had their minds preoccupied with that bow in recent days, and upon seeing it suddenly, they could not help but be startled, their gazes inevitably drawn to the Sky-Stealing Bow carried on Lin Qing's back

The object, arising from the heart, inquired: "This tunnel sees few visitors; could it be left behind by a master of skill and clumsiness?"

A few people were stunned for a moment, and upon seeing that there was no other anomaly around and hearing no sound of mechanisms activating, they could not help but cheer. Only the object of the heart was still somewhat unconvinced, and in a fit of pique said: "No matter how exquisite the mechanism, encountering a barbarian like you is akin to forcing a refined young lady to marry a cook; no matter how reluctant she may be, she can only resign herself to fate!"

Xu Moyang finished reading the last word, lost in thought as he reminisced about the voice and demeanor of the master of skill and clumsiness during his lifetime, rendered speechless. The crowd learned from the letter that not only was the name of the "Change of Day Arrow" mentioned, but it also subtly revealed the background of General Ming, stirring a wave of emotions among them.

The object of resentment is expressed through the heart: "Alright, alright, let me go find the most vulgar cook to be my granddaughter's husband..." The crowd burst into laughter

Lin Qing smiled and said: "I was wrong, Shuang'er, your skin is smooth and tender. Even if you were to drown, you would surely turn pale... Haha!"

Everyone assured themselves that there was no hope for survival, yet upon reaching this point, they were all greatly excited, completely forgetting the predicament they were in at that moment

Lin Qing slowly gazed at the crowd, observing the white-haired figure with a heart full of determination, the smiling wind with a straight beard, Xu Moyang with a resolute expression, and Yang Shuang'er biting her lip tightly. Each held their weapons firmly in hand; although they were all quite tense, their eyes reflected a spirit of valiant sacrifice, preferring to be shattered like jade rather than remain intact like broken tiles.

Yang Shuang'er’s voice trembled slightly: "Grandpa Wu, do you have any way to open the mechanism?"

The object smiled and said: "Perhaps the master of skill and clumsiness has left another arrow, on which is surely engraved the character '日' (sun)."

For a moment, the cave was filled with swirling smoke, steam mingling with dust rising up, while rocks of various sizes continuously fell from the walls, some even splashing out with force. Water gushed out from the cracks, initially slow, but soon surged violently like a waterfall. Several lower-lying rock walls along the path could not withstand the powerful pressure from the underground spring, collapsing with a thunderous roar, creating a scene as if an earthquake had occurred

Everyone fell silent; with skills like those of the Mechanism King, if he were to wholeheartedly assist General Ming, it would indeed be quite a headache for everyone

"What if there is no chance of victory?" Lin Qing said solemnly, slowly reciting: "To reflect and not to shrink back, even if in tattered clothes, I shall not be afraid. To reflect and shrink back, even if faced with thousands, I shall still advance." His fierce gaze swept over the crowd: "Therefore, I want you to promise me that regardless of whether I die in battle at the hands of General Ming, you must never lose your fighting spirit. If even one person can break through the encirclement, it will be our victory!"

Yang Shuang'er spat, "Uncle Lin, stop talking. It's one thing to drown a ghost, but to describe it as having its whole body swollen and purple is truly disgusting"

Yet the object, driven by the heart, still maintains its posture, standing at the entrance of the tomb, not moving an inch, as if entranced.

Ah! Xu Moyang and Wu Youxin both exclaimed at the same time, as the sharp corner of the ditch was straight and distinct, its outline resembling a crescent moon, clearly taking the shape of the Stealing Heaven Bow

The matter is driven by the heart, yet one is entirely focused on the impending battle between Lin Qing and General Ming: "If this arrow is not necessarily the 'Arrow of Day Change' as mentioned by the Master of Skill and Clumsiness, do you have any chance of victory, Brother Lin?"

Xu Moyang sighed: "General Ming is a hero of his time, and cannot be judged by ordinary standards. Moreover, the Master of Craft and Skill is his master and uncle, so General Ming will undoubtedly have reservations about the Stealing Heaven Bow, and he is determined to obtain it. Brother Lin, I fear you may also have been plotted against by him."

Things are perceived through the heart and wisdom is profound. After some contemplation, I thought: "Generally, those who practice martial arts tend to have a particular skill in which they excel. The master of finesse has diligently studied the 'Heavenly Mandate Classic' for decades. Although I do not fully understand it, I gather from its words and meanings that it likely pertains to the martial arts of Taoist principles and the changes of the universe, rather than being intended for the purpose of competing with others. Moreover, the 'Heavenly Stealing Bow' possesses an overwhelming killing intent, which greatly contradicts the Daoist mindset of peace and desirelessness. If one cannot integrate the bow and arrows with the inherent potential of the human body, it is likely that their true power cannot be unleashed.

The words hold some truth. Just like when a person acquires a sword capable of cutting through iron as if it were mud, they psychologically gain a sense of reliance. They may neglect the fundamentals and instead focus on how to use the sword to sever their opponent's weapon. This might work against ordinary individuals, but it is ineffective against formidable foes like General Ming. Xu Moyang and Yang Shuang'er nodded in agreement upon hearing this. Although Wu Youxin often appears eccentric, his insights into martial arts are indeed remarkable. Wu Youxin may seem mad at times, but his understanding of martial arts is truly exceptional.

Lin Qing looked at Xu Moyang and said, "Brother Xu, as a military man, do you have any good strategies?"

The arc groove, although much smaller than the Stealing Heaven Bow, is suspended in a dark area above, making it difficult to see clearly. However, when the covering rock falls, the outline of the arc groove faintly emerges, its lines and angles delineated as if it were a smaller version of the Stealing Heaven Bow. It seems to have been carved with some weapon; the iron hooks and silver scratches add to its robust and graceful appearance, exuding a vigorous spirit. Although it is a static object, it possesses a sense of strength and vitality, as if it could take flight at any moment.

Yang Shuang'er said: "If the Master of Skill and Clumsiness relies on the Stealing Heaven Bow and the Changing Sun Arrow, along with his deep understanding of General Ming's martial arts weaknesses, he should have a chance to contend."

Only the heart understands itself; he had not exerted any force just now, yet the large stone retreated as if it were a living entity. What made his heart race even more was that the stone's retreat was perfectly synchronized with his palm strike, as if the door opened at his command. To outsiders, it appeared as though he was pushing the stone, but in reality, there was an almost imperceptible gap between his right palm and the stone's surface. Despite having harnessed decades of internal energy, not a single ounce of force was applied to the stone!

Everyone looked at each other in confusion; the anticipated danger had unexpectedly transformed into a scene of tranquility. Although it was a pleasant surprise, no one dared to believe that the general would simply let them go. For a moment, everyone felt strange, and no one had any idea what to do.

Lin Qing took a deep breath, then retrieved the arrow from the box. Even with his calm and indifferent disposition, he felt his lips dry and his fingers tremble slightly at that moment

Although the divine weapon is cast by the Five Elements method, without arrows, it falls short. Even with the ability to steal the heavens, it lacks the power to change fate. There are hidden mysteries within, which are difficult to comprehend. This arrow is made with feathers from the soaring crane of the heavens, arrowheads from the running leopard of the earth, and a shaft of ironwood from the southern sea, which, when combined with the divine bow, may increase its power tenfold. Let us keep this a secret until a destined hero obtains it, to complete the Three Powers.

"Look here," Lin Qing raised the change arrow in her hand before the crowd, revealing a small character "change" engraved on the shaft. The arrow shaft was as thin as a pinky finger; had it not been for the fact that several of them possessed exceptional martial arts skills and keen eyesight, they would certainly not have been able to see it clearly in the dimly lit tunnel

Xu Moyang also said, "Even under the scrutiny of thousands, no matter how General Ming tries to conceal it, this news will still spread throughout the martial arts world. I'm afraid many experts will take this opportunity to challenge General Ming, which will make his future days even more difficult."

A large stone fell from above, splashing a spray of water. Several people were already drenched and did not attempt to evade it. Everyone thought of the army outside the tunnel and felt somewhat discouraged. Faced with the current predicament, they were all at a loss for solutions.

Rong Xiaofeng smiled and said, "Brother Lin, feel free to make your move. If you do not perceive the intricacies within, even when facing General Ming's troops, it will weigh on your mind incessantly." The others all laughed, looking at Lin Qing, their expressions filled with anticipation.

Rong Xiaofeng interjected, "Not to mention that the Master of Skill and Clumsiness is General Ming's master uncle, just based on the 'Heavenly Mandate Manual' alone, being able to condense one's lifetime of wisdom and enlightenment into internal strength, and then transmit that power to a second person, this level of supernatural ability is already astonishing and extraordinary.

Xu Moyang said solemnly: "This statement also holds some truth. Over the years, although General Ming is renowned as the foremost expert in the martial world, there are still many accomplished masters across the land who can rival him. For instance, alongside General Ming, there are the six great masters of the evil path: Bei Xue Xue Fen Fei, Nan Feng Feng Nian Zhong, the Lord of Wang Si City Li Qing Sheng, the Chief Steward of the General's Mansion Shui Zhi Han, and the Dragon Judge of Qiang Tian Fort in East Sichuan, in addition to the leader of the first major righteous faction, the Lie Kong Gang, Xia Tian Lei, Master Hua Shan Wu Yu, and the two kings of assassins, Master Chong and Gui Shi Jing..."

Xu Moyang's face showed concern: "With General Ming's military strategy, if he truly has set an ambush to surround the villa completely, it would certainly be done without anyone noticing, capturing everyone in one fell swoop, and there would be no chance for anyone to escape and report back..."

They spoke as they walked, their feet never stopping, rushing forward. Rong Xiaofeng slowed down, forced a smile, and said: "If we walk another hundred steps or so, we will reach the exit. Even if I suddenly encountered thousands of troops lined up in formation, I would not be surprised."

The object hesitated and said: "Could it be that it is not merely the result of skill or clumsiness?" Naturally, no one could provide him with an answer

Yang Shuang'er said: "This is the best course of action. If Uncle Lin can defeat General Ming, even if we ultimately perish amidst the chaos of battle, it would still significantly undermine his prestige."

Yang Shuang'er, being clever, understood Xu Moyang's intentions and stuck out her tongue: "Indeed, if I were to hold the Stealing Heaven Bow, I fear I wouldn't even be able to draw it, let alone discuss defeating the enemy. Under heaven, perhaps only Uncle Lin is truly qualified to wield this divine bow."

Lin Qing's elbow remained still, her fingers slightly raised, and the lid of the box gently popped open, drawing several gazes that converged on the contents within the box

Having studied the "Heavenly Mandate Canon" for over thirty years, I have deeply understood the profound principles of the interdependence and endless cycles of all things in the universe. After six years of arduous contemplation, I finally realized the divine artifact capable of breaking the cyclical sacred power of this school. Thus, I use the Three Talents as a guide, forge the vessel with the Five Elements, and rely on the Bow of Stealing Heaven to overcome the rebellious disciples of my sect

Yang Shuang'er wore a look of astonishment: "General Ming's Transcendent Skill is currently only at the seventh level. Over the years, he has firmly established himself as the number one expert in the world. If he were to practice it to the ninth level of the Astonishing Realm, would there be anyone in the world who could restrain him?"

However, the metal box has a common latch that can be easily opened. Lin Qing's hand rests on the lid of the box, yet she remains motionless for a long time

Xu Moyang nodded and said, "Not bad. Since Brother Lin has issued a challenge to General Ming, he will not miss the opportunity to establish his authority among his subordinates. He will definitely fight Brother Lin. Let him try the power of the Stolen Sky Bow!"

Xu Moyang was also taken aback: "Indeed, Xiaowang Mountain Villa is located on the highest peak of the Gods in the Ge Yun Mountain Range, and there are no other high peaks nearby for observation. Logically, our movements should not be detectable by the enemy, unless..."

Yang Shuang'er continued, "In the martial world, talented individuals emerge in succession. The reason General Ming has been able to hold the position of the foremost expert for so long is likely because true masters disdain to challenge him for mere fame."

Lin Qing gazed at the four large characters "Heaven and Earth are Unkind" on the pavilion, her mind momentarily lost in thought. She reflected on her status as one of the renowned figures in the capital, though she could not claim any significant power, she had enjoyed a certain prestige. Who would have thought that this quest for the Stealing Heaven Bow would awaken her ambitions? First, she had issued a challenge to the world’s foremost expert, General Ming, in front of thousands, and then, following the tragic death of Du Si, she had shot and killed Gu Qingfeng, the King of Dengping, who was her equal, thus incurring the wrath of the Ink Splash King. Even if she escaped this calamity today, not to mention how the General's residence would deal with her in the future, she would always have to be on guard against the manhunts in the capital. It seemed she could only drift through the rivers and lakes, wandering the world, with her past glory now just a memory. Who would have thought that this quest for the Stealing Heaven Bow would awaken her ambitions? First, she had issued a challenge to the world’s foremost expert, General Ming, in front of thousands, and then, following the tragic death of Du Si, she had shot and killed Gu Qingfeng, the King of Dengping, who was her equal, thus incurring the wrath of the Ink Splash King. Even if she escaped this calamity today, not to mention how the General's residence would deal with her in the future, she would always have to be on guard against the manhunts in the capital. It seemed she could only drift through the rivers and lakes, wandering the world, with her past glory now just a memory. Truly, fate plays tricks on people. Yet at this moment, she felt no regret whatsoever, but rather thought that in life, if one cannot muster the courage and passion to achieve something grand and significant, what joy is there to be had? Thus, as soon as her eyes fell upon the four characters "Heaven and Earth are Unkind", she felt a warmth surge in her chest as if she had drunk a cup of old wine, almost wanting to kneel on the ground in reverence to the heavens and earth, and to the deities above.

Yang Shuang'er still did not understand: "But why not directly leave the skill and clumsiness to Master Rong?"

Everyone was taken by surprise, standing still in astonishment, both shocked and delighted. They suppressed the cheers that threatened to burst forth from their lips, holding back the boiling blood of excitement within. After exchanging a few glances, they shared a faint smile, embodying a solemn joy.

Xu Moyang let out a bitter laugh and said, "After all, it is just a bloody battle, so why bother with so much?"

Yang Shuang'er smiled and said, "Uncle Lin, don't be polite. Now that you have the Sky Stealing Bow and the Sun Changing Arrows, you will definitely be able to defeat General Ming. Then, the title of the number one master in the world will be yours."

Lin Qing sighed and said: "Brother Rong, your insight is indeed profound, and I share the same thoughts. The workings of fate are difficult to predict. Observing the doubts subtly revealed in the letter from the master of skill, I fear that even he himself is uncertain whether this arrow truly possesses the power to change the day, which is why it is hidden here and not directly handed over to Master Rong."

Yang Shuang'er looked around and said, "Why don't we find a concealed place to hide the Heavenly Bow? It is certainly better than falling into General Ming's hands"

Inside is an arrow that is four feet long.

Rong Xiaofeng and Lin Qing exchanged a glance, and Rong said, "Unless there are hidden troops in the rear village, they would not be so certain that we are hiding in the tunnel, seeing that we did not escape from the rear village."

Everyone felt a chill run down their spines. If what Xu Moyang and Rong Xiaofeng said was true, then General Ming's schemes were indeed profound. In the past few days, although the enemy forces outside the village appeared to be stationed in place, seemingly no different from usual, they must have secretly deployed heavy troops and established layers of defenses. Not to mention the ambush behind the village, even the entire Ge Yun Mountain range was likely under their control, making it nearly impossible to escape even if one had wings.

Rong Xiaofeng exerted force with his hands, turning the mechanism, as the large stone silently shifted aside, revealing the splendid morning glow and the radiant sunlight outside the cave.

Yang Shuang'er suddenly realized: "The so-called good tool chooses its master, I suppose this is the situation."

As everyone observed the object, their hearts spoke, and their breaths caused their beards to rise and fall, likely due to nervousness, with their hearts filled with a mix of surprise and joy. Given the presence of such intricate mechanisms, it must be an extremely important item left by a master of craftsmanship. However, if it cannot be opened according to the rules, it would be in vain

Xu Moyang and Yang Shuang'er had just heard the names of the four major families for the first time. They wanted to know more details, but they saw the hesitant expression on Zhiwu's face. Considering the many taboos within their sect, it was not appropriate to ask Rong Xiaofeng directly.

The words "换日箭!" are on the lips of everyone, but no one utters a sound. Instead, there is even more confusion in their hearts. If the skilled master has already made the "换日箭", why would they hide it in such a concealed location? Several people stood still for a moment, unaware that the dripping water above their heads was soaking their bodies.

The nineteenth-generation disciple under the Haokong Sect, Qiaozhuo, wrote this.

Rong Xiaofeng looked towards Lin Qing, his eyes filled with encouragement. "Speaking of the Thief God's Bow, among all the martial artists in the world, perhaps only the King of Hidden Weapons is qualified to use it."

The object has a worried expression and said: "I can use the mechanism skills of my sect to divert some of the water flow, but I cannot support it for too long. In my opinion, it is better to use our remaining physical strength to break through now. The enemy may not know where we will appear from, and if caught off guard, we may be able to break through the encirclement."

This statement is not without reason. The crowd nodded secretly, which eased their minds slightly and diminished their admiration for Mechanism King.

Xu Moyang was deeply concerned that these words would affect Lin Qing's fighting spirit. He exchanged glances with Wu and Yang, and the two understood the cue to remain silent. However, when they stole a glance, they noticed that Lin Qing seemed to be lost in thought, staring into space, and they did not dare to disturb him

Don't worry, don't worry!" The object shook its head and let out a loud cry, sweat dripping down its forehead. It knew that everyone was currently in a desperate situation, helpless and hoping that this mechanism could bring a glimmer of hope. Throughout his life, he had been carefree and nonchalant, never taking anything seriously like he did now. However, he had no confidence and felt anxious, his lips moved slightly, but he couldn't utter a word.

物由心 strode to the tomb under the pavilion, turned around and bowed deeply to the ground, saying, "I have been here for nearly ten years without any guests. Today, so many dear friends have come to visit me. Let me entertain you well." Seeing the exaggerated posture of Wu Youxin, everyone burst into laughter.

Lin Qing looked at everyone, smiled slightly, and said slowly: "I will now attempt to forcibly pull this object out. If it triggers any mechanism that buries everyone alive here, do not blame me."

Xu Moyang sighed: "Being trapped in the encirclement of a large army is nothing like the chaotic battles in the rivers and lakes. Every moment, one faces arrows as dense as locusts and various weapons with hardly any gaps, leaving no opportunity to evade or maneuver. I have spent many years in the army and understand its severity well. Even if one's martial arts were to be ten times greater, when confronted with an endless stream of enemies, one would ultimately only be able to exhaust oneself to death. The current strategy is solely to kill as many enemies as possible, preferably to eliminate a few enemy commanders."

Fortunately, as we proceeded, the terrain gradually rose. Although spring water continued to seep from the walls on both sides, it was far less fierce and turbulent than at the deepest part of the tunnel. However, the ground was entirely muddy, and in this narrow passage, we could not fully utilize our agility. Everyone's feet and the hems of their trousers were stained a dark yellow from the mud, and their bodies were also damp, making them look quite disheveled

Xu Moyang presented the sword and asked, "Do we need to make the trench a bit wider?"

The object smiled and said, "My dear granddaughter is right. The reason I couldn't think of a way to block the water is that I was afraid of putting in so much effort only to find the tunnel completely empty, wouldn't that be a huge joke? Oh, wait, that's not right," he seemed to suddenly realize something, his brows furrowing, and his hands twisting his long white beard in a comical manner, yet his face bore an unusual seriousness: "How does the Mechanism King know that we haven't retreated from the back estate but are in the tunnel? Does he have eyes that can see a thousand miles?"

Well. I may have exaggerated the abilities of the Mechanism King a bit. Yang Shuang'er embarrassedly pats her head and says, "Besides, breaking through the wall and diverting the flow requires a lot of manpower. Even if it's just the Mechanism King alone, it's impossible to accomplish."

Things are determined by the mind: "So, you knew about my background all along," Rong Xiaofeng patted his shoulder and smiled without saying a word.

This is too coincidental. The ditch was originally hidden under the rocks, no different from the surrounding area. If it weren't for the mechanism king blocking the underground spring, causing the surface rocks to fall off and revealing this arc-shaped ditch, it would have been difficult to discover. Even if ordinary people saw this ditch, they would not associate it with the Theft of the Sky Bow, even if they thought the shape was strange. Fortunately, they stopped here to discuss countermeasures, and Yang Shuang'er happened to think of finding a place to hide the bow. Through various coincidences, they finally found this mechanism. Even if ordinary people saw this ditch, they would not associate it with the Theft of the Sky Bow, even if they thought the shape was strange. Fortunately, they stopped here to discuss countermeasures, and Yang Shuang'er happened to think of finding a place to hide the bow. Through various coincidences, they finally found this mechanism.

It makes sense when everyone thinks about it. At this moment, they let go of their worries and walked out of the tunnel towards the direction of the gloomy valley. Suppressing their lingering doubts, they laughed loudly, pointing out the scenery. In their hearts, they actually hoped to lure out the hidden soldiers and defeat them in one fell swoop, rather than being completely unaware of the general's intentions like a drum in the mist.

Lin Qing gently touched the hilt of his sword and said in a deep voice, "With the pride of General Ming, he will surely accept a fair fight with me before the encirclement of the army, refusing to let the army weaken my strength first."

Xu Moyang suppressed his turbulent emotions and slowly read the letter

As soon as the hand touched the stone surface, a continuous sound of "gege" was heard, and the large stone indeed slowly retreated inward. The onlookers saw that the object was effortlessly moved as if it weighed nothing, seemingly pushed aside without any effort despite its several hundred pounds. Everyone cheered in delight, and Yang Shuang'er was especially excited, clapping her hands incessantly and shouting joyfully.

Rong Xiaofeng shouted, "Follow me," and took the lead, heading towards the fork in the road that led to the entrance of the Tribulation Valley.

Lin Qing is deeply immersed in the art of hidden weapons, and her tactile sensation is exceptional. After a few touches just now, she has a general understanding of the reality and illusion in that trench. Without further ado, she boldly declares: "Old object, take a break; let me give it a try."

A ray of morning light filtered through the leaves, and the path beneath seemed to be adorned with the crimson and pale purple of the horizon. Along the way, the forest was lush, the morning breeze was refreshing, the scenery was pleasing to the eye, and the grass and trees swayed gently. After several days of continuous battles and witnessing the tragic death of Du Si, their hearts were heavy with gloom. Yet at this moment, upon seeing the enchanting beauty akin to a fairyland, they found their spirits unexpectedly lifted. Yang Shuang'er even began to hum a tune from the mountains, showing no trace of the anxiety that came with impending danger. After several days of continuous battles and witnessing the tragic death of Du Si, their hearts were heavy with gloom. Yet at this moment, upon seeing the enchanting beauty akin to a fairyland, they found their spirits unexpectedly lifted. Yang Shuang'er even began to hum a tune from the mountains, showing no trace of the anxiety that came with impending danger.

With a smile that fluctuates like the weather, Rong Xiaofeng looked towards Lin Qing and asked, "What should we do next?"

Xu Moyang said: "We originally planned to secretly take down a few soldiers, change into their uniforms, and blend in to escape, but now that not a single soldier of General Ming can be seen, this plan is no longer feasible"

Just now, witnessing Du Si's death, everyone, united in their enmity, had long prepared themselves to fight to the death against the enemy. However, when the moment arrived, considering that even if they risked their lives, the painstakingly crafted Stealing Heaven Bow would ultimately fall into General Ming's hands, it truly felt like a complete defeat. For a moment, no one could speak, each lost in their own thoughts about the impending bitter battle

Rong Xiaofeng pondered for a moment: "The master of skill and clumsiness must have profound intentions. Could it be that he fears we might become complacent, believing that with divine bows and excellent arrows in hand, we could surpass General Ming, and thus become lax and neglect our rigorous training?"

Lin Qing sighed softly: "Others may not necessarily think this way, which is why Deng Pingwang was moved to seize the bow..." The crowd then recalled the tragic death of Du Si, and all fell silent.

The top of the trench is not high, as it is located a foot and a half above their heads. Lin Qing took a few steps forward and reached out to touch it: "The four corners of this trench are perfectly rounded, with no protrusions, indicating it was likely man-made..." He then extended his hand into the trench, his expression peculiar: "In the midst of the rocks, there is a chilling sensation, as if something metallic is embedded within, suggesting there may be a mechanism."

Lin Qing shook her head, her face showing not the slightest hint of joy, remaining as indifferent as usual. She countered, "Have you ever considered why the Master of Craft and Skill chose to hide the Sun-Change Arrow in this secret place? Does he not want us to obtain the Sun-Change Arrow?"

The long hair, dampened by water, became a great burden, forcing her to wind it around her neck. Along the way, she cursed incessantly, enumerating the ancestors of the Mechanism King one by one, yet she could not help but admire: "The Mechanism King's response is indeed swift; if I were him, I would not have thought of such a cunning and vicious method in a short time."

Twenty-nine years ago, Senior Brother Zhangmen Wang Nian followed the late master's command to accept the twentieth generation disciple Ming Zongyue. Ming began to practice the Transcendental Divine Skill at the tender age of fourteen and, after twelve years, reached the fifth level of the Opening and Closing realm, truly a prodigy of unparalleled talent. However, on the day of his achievement, he betrayed the sect and left, seeking fame and fortune in the capital, greatly deviating from the path of righteousness. Moreover, he gathered a crowd in the rivers and lakes, wielding weapons across the seas, almost to the point of being eliminated but to no avail, which has brought great shame to our sect.

Why must we adhere to the last wishes of the esteemed master? What connection does General Ming have with the master of Craft and Skill? At that time, General Ming was merely in his teens; unless he had a remarkable background, even if his talent moved Master Wang Nian, it would not necessarily mean that he had to follow the master's last wishes

Xu Moyang stepped forward and indeed saw a letter inside the box. He took it in his hand and slowly unfolded it, only to see a few words at the top: "Seeing the object reminds me of the person," and his eyes immediately turned red: "This is indeed the handwriting of the Master of Skill and Ingenuity..."

Several people were speaking, but their gazes were fixed on that arrow. Only Lin Qing looked towards the box: "There is still a letter inside the box, which should be able to answer our questions. I would like to invite Brother Xu to take a look."

The first name on my hero's tomb will have the surname Lin

Lin Qing reached into the ditch and pressed down on the metallic object: "What do you think this is?"

Rong Xiaofeng examined it closely, yet frowned: "The strokes of this character are quite peculiar, especially the last stroke, which seems to have been hastily completed. I am well acquainted with the handwriting of the master of skill and clumsiness; each character is crafted with iron hooks and silver strokes, penetrating the paper. However, this character does not resemble his style at all"

General Ming's voice, which seemed both distant and near, drifted leisurely from the grave: "Although I had anticipated that you would arrive here, I have already waited for half an hour. Brother Lin, have you disappointed me too much?"

Things are praised by the heart: "Indeed, indeed, as soon as I entered this manor, I began to contemplate where I would start if I were to set up a tunnel."

The tomb door was originally a large stone weighing several hundred pounds, which required a mechanism to open. The child, with a heart full of mischief, intended to show off a bit. He first moved it left and right, unlocking the mechanism, but did not directly open the tomb door. Instead, he pressed his right palm against the large stone, intending to use his decades of refined internal energy to push open this expansive stone measuring six feet wide.

The brilliance in Rong Xiaofeng's eyes flickered: "We have all witnessed the astonishing power of the Stealing Heaven Bow. If it is combined with the Changing Sun Arrow, the divine bow and arrow may suddenly appear in the world, perhaps truly capable of surpassing General Ming."

Xu Moyang said in a deep voice: "This arrow is kept so secretly, it must have a significant origin"

Xu Moyang clapped his hands and said: "This is precisely the point. How can a great man stand idly by, allowing General Ming to act with such arrogance? Brother Lin, you have chosen to face difficulties head-on, disregarding life and death; such a spirit is truly admirable to us all"

The object sighed: "Indeed, if one does not employ the proper methods, even a divine bow is no different from scrap iron. Even if I possess the Stealing Heaven Bow, I would not know how to contend with General Ming."

Lin Qing also understood General Ming's intentions. After a moment of contemplation, he said: "It is impossible for the tens of thousands of troops to withdraw all at once. We should still follow the original plan and first take refuge in the tomb of Wu Lao for a period of time, waiting for the right opportunity to act"

If General Ming were to witness the earth-shattering arrow shot by the King of Hidden Weapons that killed King Deng Ping, his heart would surely resonate like a heavy drum

Yet, Lin Qing took a deep breath, his complexion shifting from pale to red, his garments fluttering as if stirred by an unseen wind, and his body seemed to swell. With a loud shout, a metal box over four feet long was pulled from the ditch by his palm, and sand and gravel fell from above his head like a rain of sand

Xu Moyang silently calculated: "We have only been in the tunnel for about one hour, and the Mechanism King has already made adjustments. This does not even account for the time taken to mobilize a large force to block the waterway, as if he had anticipated that we would take the tunnel in the first place"

All along the way, I have been bound hand and foot. I originally hoped to finally forge the Stealing Heaven Bow, living up to the trust placed in my skills, but unexpectedly, everything I did fell completely into the enemy's calculations. Although it is easy to speak of things as they are from the heart, if I were to abandon the bow and flee again, it would truly result in achieving nothing in the end, merely leading to my own demise. My heart is filled with a complete loss of fighting spirit, and I am utterly dejected.

Outside, there is a profound silence, devoid of any human presence.

Lin Qing nodded and said, "The relationship between the Haokong Gate and General Ming is likely far more complex than it appears on the surface"

Xu Moyang pondered, "This idea is indeed worth considering. This bow is a divine object, and in the future, it may be obtained by someone fated to have it. However, I fear it may not escape the keen eyes of the Mechanism King..."

Yang Shuang'er said: "Shui Zhihan and Gui Shiqing are both from the General's Mansion, no wonder General Ming's influence is so great"

Everyone had the same thought in their hearts, a mix of excitement and a hint of doubt: If the master of skill and clumsiness had something happen and left, why not directly hand it over to Rong Xiaofeng, but instead hide it in this tunnel

Things are governed by the heart, and with a chuckle, one thinks: "Let us consider the secrets of the mechanisms within our sect..." The voice suddenly stops, yet it is the heart's thoughts that lead to the realization that both the King of Mechanisms and the skilled craftsmen are masters of this art. How could my own boastful words not become a source of ridicule? Moreover, the narrowness of the ditch makes it inconvenient to turn my hand; after groping for a long time, I find no trace whatsoever. My peculiar eyes glance around, yet I see no abnormalities in the surroundings, still unable to find any clue.

Yang Shuang'er said: "Regardless of what tricks he has, we have long made up our minds to fight to the death. At worst, it will just end in death anyway."

Lin Qing was suddenly shaken: "If this is true, then it indicates that General Ming has no intention of letting us go!" He took a deep breath, and his face slightly changed: "The reason he is delaying the attack is merely to make us feel at ease, while secretly mobilizing troops, waiting to strike and seize the Heavenly Bow only after it is forged. Could it be that I have misjudged him?"

Yang Shuang'er was puzzled: "What does this indicate?"

The others had no idea that Lin Qing harbored so many thoughts in her heart, yet they still engaged in lively conversation.

Lin Qingdao: "You may have noticed what was mentioned in the letter regarding skill and clumsiness: Senior Brother Zhangmen has forgotten the late master's command to accept the twenty generations of disciples, Mingzong and Yue, as his students..."

With a dry cough, he broke the silence: "I suppose I am indeed a master of both skill and clumsiness. Just now, I fear no one would have thought that there would be an arrow in this box. But does such a trivial arrow really require such a grand display? It truly leaves me perplexed."

The rocks of the Ge Yun Mountain Range are extremely hard. If it were not for this natural underground waterway, it would be unimaginable for an ordinary person to conceive that the Xiaowang Mountain Villa could accomplish such a monumental project. Moreover, the entrance to the tunnel is also quite secretive. The King of Mechanisms was able to discover it so quickly, truly deserving of the title of King of Mechanisms

Rong Xiaofeng said: "If Brother Lin can truly surpass General Ming, not to mention whether it will provoke challenges from various masters in the martial world, just the psychological blow to General Ming would be enough to hinder his martial progress." His words are not without reason; for someone with martial skills as profound as General Ming's, diligent practice becomes secondary, while the cultivation of one's state of mind is of utmost importance.

Although Lin Qing's face remained calm, her heart was filled with uncertainty. She could see that the water level in the tunnel was gradually rising, and the low-lying areas behind her had already been submerged. Fortunately, the terrain here was elevated, and the water pressure had decreased significantly. Although some loose small stones continued to fall from the rock wall, the seepage had greatly eased, flowing down along the wall, unlike the earlier violent surge. However, despite being temporarily safe and free from the immediate threat of drowning, this situation could not last long. Regardless of how many troops were poised for action at the exit, they had no way to retreat, much like gamblers who had already lost all their wealth, forced to brace themselves and stake their lives in the next high-stakes gamble.

However, looking at the tone of the letter from the master of skill and clumsiness, even if the bow and arrow are in perfect harmony, it seems there is no confidence in surpassing General Ming

Xu Moyang recalled something: "Although Master Qiaozhuo had never mentioned the Haokong Sect to me before, he did mention that there was only one senior brother and one nephew within the sect. His senior brother, Master Wangnian, passed away several years ago, and his nephew, General Ming, has already defected from the Haokong Sect. Master Qiaozhuo is now the sole inheritor of the Haokong Sect. So, where could the 'Heavenly Mandate Manual' be kept?"

The object was pulled aside by Lin Qing, and while still needing to discern a few words, I noticed several people with their clothes completely soaked. I also heard the loud sound of water in the tunnel, realizing the urgency of the situation, I could only let out a long sigh in silence

With admiration, Wu gazed at Lin Qing and sighed, "Only now do I realize how much courage it takes for the King of Hidden Weapons to challenge General Ming to a duel"

Everyone turned their gaze towards the sound, illuminated by the flickering light of Rong Xiaofeng's fire. They noticed an arc-shaped groove appearing on the upper left side of the square rock wall, measuring four inches in width and about a foot in length, dark and deep, its depth unknown.

Things are heavy with sentiment as I return to the old place, filled with great excitement, busy introducing a few people to the scenery of the Nether Valley, reminiscing about the circumstances of our first meeting that day, and discussing Du Si, all with a sense of nostalgia.

Xu Moyang nodded slowly: "Although the Master of Skill and Clumsiness has never displayed his martial arts in front of me, and he himself admits to being inferior to General Ming, I believe his martial arts should be no less than that of any one of us."

Yang Shuang'er’s searching gaze stopped at the upper left, and she exclaimed in surprise: "What is that?"

With a shift in topic, Rong Xiaofeng remarked: "In this vast world, there are indeed many who are qualified to battle General Ming, but to claim that one can secure a victory is far from easy. I fear that even the likes of Shui Zhihan and Gui Shijing would struggle to pass that threshold. Thus, over the years, although some have coveted the position of the world's number one expert, none have dared to openly challenge General Ming. Consequently, the aura of the General's residence has risen dramatically, and from the martial arts circles of the Central Plains to the borders of the northern deserts, no one dares to confront its edge!"

Xu Moyang, seasoned in battle, knew that at this moment one must not show fear in the face of the enemy, as it would diminish one's own spirit. He smiled at Yang Shuang'er and said, "Miss Yang, do not overstate the abilities of the Mechanism King, lest you undermine your own prestige."

The essence of the matter lies in the heart: "The disengagement lock is such that the lock mouth and the mechanism are not located in the same place, but are secretly connected by a resilient thread. Opening this type of lock requires careful handling; if the method of opening is incorrect, the resilient thread that connects the moving mechanism will snap, and then there will be no further recourse." He furrowed his brow slightly: "I have seen the most exquisite disengagement lock, with the lock mouth being a full thirty paces away from the lock source, and in this chaotic underground passage, it will be difficult to find..."

Several individuals listened to Lin Qing's candid remarks about being no match for General Ming, yet they faced death with calm resolve, hoping to inspire morale with their own lives. A surge of indomitable spirit welled up within them, and they extended their hands to grasp each other tightly. As they exchanged glances, their eyes reflected a shared determination to fight to the death with unwavering resolve and intensity

This sacred art was transmitted by the founder, Master Haokong, who harmonized the essence and energy of heaven and earth, guiding the primordial spirit through the heart's thoughts. It employs intention to drive force, carrying the external to the internal, with movement and stillness ceaseless, and transformation unending, which is termed as circulation. The practice is divided into nine levels: the first is Clear Thought, the second is Stopping Thoughts, the third is Quiet Illumination, the fourth is Sheltering from the Mundane, the fifth is Opening and Closing, the sixth is Dispelling Spirits, the seventh is Extinguishing Qi, the eighth is Condensing Emptiness, and the ninth is Startling the Dao. The methods are profound and extensive, containing mysteries that even spirits and deities find difficult to fathom. The Haokong Sect has been established for eight hundred years, spanning nineteen generations of disciples. Except for Master Haokong, who attained the eighth level, all others, despite dedicating their entire lives, have only reached the seventh level, which is the greatest regret of our sect. The practice is divided into nine levels: the first is Clear Thought, the second is Stopping Thoughts, the third is Quiet Illumination, the fourth is Sheltering from the Mundane, the fifth is Opening and Closing, the sixth is Dispelling Spirits, the seventh is Extinguishing Qi, the eighth is Condensing Emptiness, and the ninth is Startling the Dao. The methods are profound and extensive, containing mysteries that even spirits and deities find difficult to fathom. The Haokong Sect has been established for eight hundred years, spanning nineteen generations of disciples. Except for Master Haokong, who attained the eighth level, all others, despite dedicating their entire lives, have only reached the seventh level, which is the greatest regret of our sect.

Yang Shuang'er asked: "What is a clutch lock?"

Everyone was astonished that Lin Qing, in this moment of danger, still had the presence of mind to jest, treating the formidable enemy as if it were nothing. They were all filled with admiration and were further inspired by his immense confidence, which revitalized their spirits, cast aside their concerns, and restored their morale.