Chapter One: Dawn

Su Zhen nonchalantly picked up the teapot and filled the cups, a cold smile playing at the corners of her mouth as she said: "Old monk, do not act out of unwarranted anger; he is here for me, so let me entertain him!" As soon as she finished speaking, her figure had already darted outside the door

Two guests who had just settled their bills were about to leave when they unexpectedly collided with the man in white. Under his gaze, they felt a chill surge from the soles of their feet straight to their foreheads. These two guests were robust and not typically timid or fearful, yet at that moment, they could not help but lower their heads and attempt to pass by each other on either side.

Master Yixin remained expressionless and asked calmly, "What would happen if this old monk were to unfortunately lose?"

He fought fiercely with the Biluojian Sect for half the night before managing to escape, and instead of hastily fleeing a thousand miles away, he leisurely settled down in a teahouse in this small county, waiting for the young girl in blue to arrive

Su Zhen smiled slightly and said: "You are finally one of the few upright individuals who dare to speak the truth. If I wanted to leave, I could have done so the moment you entered this small county, without needing to wait until now, allowing others to point a Zen staff at my head"

The young lady also ordered a pot of hot tea, and then smiled, saying: "Sir, you are truly trustworthy; not only did you arrive here early to wait, but you have also set up the chessboard."

The county town, which had been sound asleep for the night, suddenly awakened. The shops along Drum Tower Street began to open one after another, with the shopkeepers eagerly peering outside, wishing they could pull in the passersby walking by their storefronts.

Su Zhen snorted, "Master Yixin, you are a monk; why do you always speak of who has taken advantage?"

A middle-aged monk could no longer contain himself and shouted, "Su Zhen, we are here to settle old scores with you!" After saying this, he waved his staff and pointed it at the back of Su Zhen's head. The tea house was immediately filled with exclamations, and some even hid in the corners to peek, as it was not every day that one could witness a great monk in a fight.

However, the more this was the case, the bolder the man in black became. He boldly ventured alone into the prestigious Yunlin Zen Temple of the Tianlu Orthodox Sect, causing a great uproar. In the Mahavira Hall, he inscribed the eight crimson characters "Six Roots Impure, Heaven's Way Unrelated" on the golden Buddha, as if no one were present, and finally left gracefully using a technique of evasion. From the abbot, Master Yixin, down to the small novice sweeping the floor, there were over a thousand monks in Yunlin Zen Temple, yet none could do anything to stop him.

Master Yixin cast a glance downward, and the two individuals in his arms were completely purple, already devoid of life, having not even had the chance to let out a scream from beginning to end. Their garments were covered with a layer of glistening blood-red frost, and black blood was still oozing from the corners of their mouths.

Her words were ambiguous, subtly implying a warning, which Su Zhen naturally could discern. However, he merely responded with a cold laugh, saying: "If I, Su, were to lose this match, I would retreat to the mountains with both hands clapped together, never to emerge again, allowing Tianlu to return to peace. Isn't this precisely the outcome that the Water Fairy desires?"

Su Zhen smiled and said, "Master Yixin, what have you understood this time?"

Master Yixin smiled and said, "I understand, my humble self."

With the emergence of this matter, both the righteous and demonic factions cast their eyes upon it, and the name "Su Zhen" became even more renowned, overshadowing the other figures among the top ten masters of the demonic path, and standing alongside the demonic sect leader Yu Yi as a formidable rival, thus becoming the number one enemy of the righteous path

Su Zhen looked at Master Yi Xin, a faint smile appearing at the corner of his mouth as he said, "Are you afraid that I, Su, will run away after finishing the game?"

As I was musing, the bustling sounds of people seemed to respond to an unspoken command, falling into a synchronized silence. Those seated with tea, those standing in conversation, the attendant carrying a copper kettle, the fortune-teller pretending to be blind, and even the yellow dog dozing under the counter—all at once, hundreds of eyes turned in unison towards the entrance of the teahouse. Some guests, even forgetting the half-finished yawn, stared blankly with their mouths agape, as if entranced.

Manager An of the "Gao Shan Tea House" was sitting behind the counter with a smile, surveying the bustling crowd in the shop, most of whom had been loyal customers for decades

It is said that a common man is innocent, yet he bears the blame. Several months ago, it was unknown who leaked the news that the long-lost "Spring Mountain in the Morning Cold" had been acquired by this man in black. Instantly, a storm brewed in the world. Countless masters from both the righteous and demonic paths watched with keen interest, ready to intercept him from miles away, all in hopes of seizing it for themselves

Su Zhen also received a punch on his shoulder, his clothing emanating wisps of icy blood mist, which instantly evaporated into faint smoke. With his hands clasped behind his back, he appeared unconcerned, and spoke to Ling Yunhe in a deep voice: "Get lost and send your elder brother instead"

Master Yixin inquired: "May I ask, what matter does Su wish to discuss with me?"

The four middle-aged monks all turned pale, yet Master Yixin merely smiled faintly, choosing not to argue with Su Zhen. Instead, he fixed his gaze on the girl in blue and said: "So it turns out that the Water Fairy of Tianyi Pavilion is also here. I have long admired your esteemed name, and it is indeed a great fortune to meet you today"

The water is light and graceful, smiling in reverence: "How can such lightness bear the praise of the master? The master's Buddhist teachings are profound, and his compassion in guiding others is indeed light, yet it falls far short. I am also deeply respectful."

He held a jade meditation staff in his hand, which was three feet taller than his head. The staff was engraved with a line of Zen incantation written in Sanskrit, stating "Namo Amitabha Buddha"

Suddenly, a calm and aged voice came from the doorway, gently saying: "Well done, well done. It truly impresses this old monk that Master Su has such enlightenment"

The girl in the blue dress was equally unpretentious, adding with a hint of confidence: "Thus, the lightness gives me an additional half measure of assurance against Mr. Sheng."

Su Zhen said: "Master Yixin, you are one of the few upright individuals that I, Su, hold in high regard. Allow me to speak a word of fairness: if I were to employ the art of Qimen Dunjia to make my escape right now, in this crowded teahouse, how confident are you in intercepting me?"

He stood up from behind the counter, only to see a middle-aged man in white standing outside the door, though he did not know when he had arrived. In the cold winter, this man surprisingly held a folding fan in his hand, on which was vividly painted a snowy scene. Strangely, the snowflakes were blood-red, each one as large as a maple leaf

"Not bad," Su Zhen replied, "It's a pity that after only taking two steps, Master, you have already brought people here. If we were to engage in battle again, I truly do not know when my game of chess would be completed."

In the teahouse, the sound of clattering cups and overturned tables echoed as the two guests collided, knocking over three tea tables in their path, charging towards Su Zhen's back. Master Yi Xin, sitting to one side, slightly raised his white eyebrows; his slender figure swayed as he left his seat and swiftly returned, so fast that one could hardly perceive he had ever left the chair, yet he had caught each of the two guests in his arms.

As dawn broke, the city gate was opened amidst the clamorous calls of the crowd by a yawning guard. A group of vegetable farmers, hurrying to the morning market, entered the city in a line, each carrying a heavily laden shoulder pole.

Master Yixin sat down with a smile on the chair to the right of Su Zhen and asked, "Su Benefactor, may I take the liberty of observing your game of chess this time?"

Master Yixin murmured, "Are you afraid, Su, that I will secretly assist the Water Fairy in winning this game?"

If it were someone else, they would have long sought refuge in a remote mountain or desolate area, first to comprehend the mysteries of the "Morning Cold Spring Mountain Painting" before proceeding. Yet this man in black is so arrogant and unrestrained that he goes against the grain, flaunting the treasure scroll in various places across the heavens and the land. In just two or three months, he has engaged in over one hundred battles, both large and small, and has managed to retreat unscathed each time, only to provoke an even fiercer round of pursuit and interception.

Master Yixin paused for a moment, thought it over, and replied honestly: "On that day at Yunlin Zen Temple, I did not stop the benefactor; today, given the circumstances in the teahouse, it is even more difficult."

In contrast, this young girl had spent the night replenishing her energy, thus gaining considerable advantage. Although chess is not a contest of celestial cultivation, it similarly requires a calm mind and steady spirit, which is why she made such a statement. However, Su Zhen was overly self-assured and did not take this significant hidden disadvantage to heart, insisting on continuing the game.

Every day, before the tea house opens its doors, there are people wrapped in thick winter clothing sitting on the steps, eagerly waiting for a cup of steaming hot strong tea. They then gather with a few familiar or unfamiliar tea drinkers to engage in lively conversation for the entire morning, only realizing it's time to head home when their stomachs start to rumble

Su Zhen said with a hint of sarcasm: "You are too naive. Even if I, Su, were to hide somewhere, would those greedy individuals give up their pursuit? A thought of goodness? As long as their greed remains, the world will never see a true day of peace."

Master Yi Xin said: "Therefore, Su benefactor has arranged to meet with the Narcissus once again to continue their previous engagement"

Manager An couldn't help but steal glances at him several times. On such a cold day, this guest was surprisingly only wearing a black robe, showing no signs of feeling cold at all. He appeared to be in his thirties, with a long sword sheathed at his back, somewhat resembling a wanderer of the martial world. However, Manager An always felt that this person was quite different from the martial heroes he had encountered before, yet he could not pinpoint exactly what that difference was.

Master Yixin pondered and said: "I wonder what stakes Su Shizhu and Shui Xianzi are wagering on this game of chess?"

Ling Yunhe glared at Su Zhen with resentment and venom, blood gushing from the gaps between his fingers, and coldly sneered, "What a fine move, Wang's Finger Point. I will surely repay this double in the future!" With a push of his toes, he suppressed the hot blood surging in his throat and vanished over the rooftop.

The two exchanged glances for a moment, and suddenly, each understood and smiled, embodying a mutual admiration akin to that of heroes recognizing one another.

The young girl glanced at the chessboard and nodded, saying: "Indeed, we were interrupted right here yesterday. It is rare for you to remember each move so clearly."

Su Zhen chuckled and said: "Master Yixin, I made a bet with the Water Fairy on a game of chess yesterday. After managing to play a few moves, we were interrupted by people from the Biluo Sword Sect. I attempted to negotiate with them, but when that failed, I decided to turn hostile and fought fiercely. In the end, they suffered heavy losses and were unable to detain me, but I also could not finish my game of chess."

Su Zhen said calmly: "If the master is willing to wait a moment, I will finish this game with the Water Fairy, and then I will go with the master to fight outside the city. Our lives and deaths are determined by fate. If I lose, without further ado, I will return to Yunlin Zen Temple with the master to plead guilty. Whether I live or die will be at the discretion of your esteemed temple"

The crowd could not help but feel disappointed, casting their resentful gazes towards the man in black. He continued to lower his head, arranging the chess pieces, and replied calmly, "If you do not come soon, I shall leave."

Su Zhen said: "Master, you may return to your residence, continue your vegetarian diet and recite the Buddha's name, and do not concern yourself with my matters any further, how about that"

Lingyun He's hand-held folding fan was also a shock. Before he made his move, although he had seen Master Yixin, he did not recognize him. Seeing his unremarkable appearance and aged features, he did not take him seriously. Unexpectedly, Master Yixin's Buddhist skills were so profound, likely far beyond his own. He just did not know whether he was a friend or foe of Su Zhen.

Su Zhen laughed and said: "Master Yixin, I, Su, do not wish to visit Yunlin Zen Temple for the second time just yet. I will consider it when I am in the right mood. If it weren't for your eagerness to join the excitement surrounding the Xiaohan Chunshan painting, sending out a few large men to chase after me, I would have no interest in going to that dilapidated temple filled with monks to compose poetry."

Su Zhen replied: "I might as well tell you, if the Narcissus loses, she must marry me; from then on, she will follow me as a wife, never to regret it. If I lose, I will immediately retreat to the mountains and forests, never to step into the mortal world again"

The surrounding tea patrons could see everything clearly, and immediately there was a commotion with people running about in a panic. One shouted, "Someone has died, quickly call the authorities!" Another cried, "Run away, help!"

Master Yixin's gentle face, adorned with flowing white whiskers, entrusted the two corpses to his disciples behind him, and with hands clasped together, he softly chanted: "Amitabha Buddha"

Master Yixin shook his head and said: "Benefactor Su has misunderstood. In the eyes of this humble monk, all things are empty; gain is empty, and loss is also empty. It is merely that the benefactor is attached to these notions in his heart, which leads to such thoughts."

The girl in the blue dress sighed softly and said: "The current turmoil in Tianlu has arisen because of this map. If you, sir, are willing to retreat and thus alleviate this calamity, it would indeed be a great act of kindness. I can only press you to use the chess game as a wager, as there is truly no other way, and I do not dare to insist on anything else"

The anger and discontent of the tea patrons grew even greater; this man had quite the arrogance. If such a fairy-like young lady were to smile at him, he would gladly give up several years of his life in exchange, yet this fellow actually uttered such words. Looking at him, he was so poor that he had only a single garment to cover himself, and it was truly incomprehensible what this young lady saw in him that was worthy of her attention

Master Yixin raised his hand lightly, and the middle-aged monk respectfully accepted the ritual implements. Su Zhen continued, "Then do you understand why I, Su, do not leave?"

Su Zhen remained motionless and slowly said: "Master Yixin, can we discuss a negotiation?"

Master Yixin smiled and said, "It sounds like the old monk is taking more advantage, doesn't it?"

The solemn and peaceful chant resonated throughout the tea house, completely drowning out the clamor and anxious voices, akin to the morning bell and evening drum, striking at the hearts of everyone present. Somehow, the crowd's chaotic emotions were calmed, and they all stood still, turning to look at Master Yixin.

The "Morning Cold Spring Mountain Painting" is a relic from ancient times, concealing half a volume of the "Tao of Heaven". If one can comprehend it, they may transcend and become an immortal, which is not an exaggeration. For many years, it has been a coveted object sought after by countless masters from both the righteous and demonic paths in the realm of Tianlu.

The man in black coldly snorted, "Su does not care."

Su Zhen snorted, "If you are afraid of losing this game, you might as well turn around and back out early. Otherwise, Su will finish this game today no matter what."

Su Zhenhei said: "What a well-spoken old monk. Let us not dwell on theories; do you agree to my earlier proposal?"

Master Yixin said: "After obtaining the Xiaohan Spring Mountain painting, Su benefactor did not wish to remain hidden; instead, he boldly attracted countless masters from both the righteous and demonic paths to pursue him. Perhaps this is to set up a lifelong gamble with the Water Fairy? However, it seems that in this wager, Su benefactor has gained some advantage."

Master Yixin smiled wryly and said: "This journey is indeed arduous, but if I do not undertake it, my days will likely be even more difficult. On that day, when you, Benefactor Su, breached my mountain gate and inscribed a poem on the Golden Buddha, it provoked the anger of the entire temple and sullied the ancient monastery. I have no choice but to endure this hardship, hoping to invite you to our humble temple to sincerely repent before the Buddha and cleanse yourself of your sins."

Fortunately, he was solely focused on arranging the chess pieces, completely oblivious to the laughter and chatter of those around him. Strangely enough, although more than eighty percent of the seats in the teahouse were occupied, no one dared to sit at the three empty chairs at his table. With this in mind, Manager An felt a bit of a headache; it seemed that a pot of tea would occupy a table for an entire morning, making this transaction destined to be unprofitable

Su Zhen leisurely walked back to his seat at the tea house, where silence reigned. Countless gazes, filled with a mix of fear, admiration, and awe, were fixed upon him. He, however, remained indifferent, simply picking up his cup and taking a sip, saying: "Water Fairy, it is your turn to go."

With the discerning eye of Master Yixin, it was immediately apparent that this was the "Ice Corruption Heart Letter" from the Ice Palace of the Northern Land. Although the man in white had not been seen before, judging by his age and appearance, he must be the biological brother of Ling Yunxiao, the palace master of the Ice Palace, namely the Fourth Palace Master, Ling Yunhe. His presence here was also likely for Su Zhen.

As they spoke, a small-framed old monk entered the tea house, his white eyebrows extending over half a foot, hanging down to his cheeks. His face, dry and yellowed, was so gaunt that one couldn't help but worry he might be blown over by a strong gust of wind

The old monk was draped in a red robe with golden edges, yet on his feet were the most ordinary black cloth shoes. Behind him followed four middle-aged monks, each radiating a remarkable aura, glaring fiercely at Su Zhen.

Who would have thought that as soon as he lifted his foot and walked to the man, neither of them saw any movement from the man in white. Suddenly, he felt a tingling in his chest, and a chilling stream of ice coursed through his entire body, causing him to involuntarily fly up and crash through the door. The shopkeeper, An, watched in astonishment, exclaiming in his heart: "My goodness, what kind of people have come today?"

Su Zhen dismissively remarked: "The outcome is still undecided, and it remains uncertain who will prevail; Shui Xianzi's words seem a bit premature." Without a moment's hesitation, he placed another piece, reflecting his usual style of action—fierce, unrestrained, and full of killing intent

This young girl resembled a fairy untouched by the mundane world, evoking a sense of self-deprecation in those who beheld her. However, when everyone caught sight of the gentle smile that blossomed like a spring breeze at the corners of her crimson lips, and the bright gaze that softly brushed against their faces, their hearts warmed, and they could not help but feel a surge of courage

Everyone was thinking: "Given the circumstances, she must be here to find someone, but could it be me?" Finally, the girl's eyes lit up as they fell upon the man in black sitting in the corner. With a voice more melodious than a lark, she said with a charming smile: "Mr. Su, you are indeed here, making it quite difficult for me to find you."

However, recalling from long ago, there were rumors in Tianlu that Su Zhen and Shui Qingying shared an extraordinary relationship, often appearing together as if they were shadows of one another. It seems this was indeed the case. Thus, these four monks, inadvertently, developed a sense of disdain towards Shui Qingying.

Shui Qingying secretly admired, "Yunlin Zen Temple is reputed to be the foremost authority on the true path of heaven and earth, and this reputation is indeed well-deserved. Master Yixin's 'Lion's Roar of the Buddhist Gate' is devoid of any violent or domineering aura, yet it is filled with a broad and compassionate spirit. Only with his over 150 years of cultivation can one achieve such a consummate level of skill."

The girl in the blue dress gazed at the chessboard and pondered for a moment, then smiled gently and said: "Sir, this move appears grand and imposing, yet it places the pieces amidst a heavy encirclement by the enemy. Unless there is a brilliant maneuver to turn the situation around, or a bold decision to withdraw and abandon the pieces, victory can be easily secured with a light touch."

Su Zhen, however, remained completely unconcerned, continuing to roam the mountains and waters, following his own path, and showing no regard for others. Thus, wherever he went, it was bound to be a scene of blood and chaos, with conflicts arising from all directions

The teahouse was once again filled with a clamor, and the young girl had already taken a seat opposite the man in black. A waiter, who had been eyeing the situation for quite some time, was the quickest on his feet, rushing to the table with a beaming smile and asking, "What would you like to order, miss?" The other waiters, however, were a beat too slow, standing in place wishing they could slap themselves twice, and then drag the one who had jumped the queue into the kitchen for a good beating.

This seemingly unremarkable old monk is, in fact, the abbot of Yunlin Zen Temple, Master Yixin, one of the top ten masters in today's Tianlu Zhengdao. He has not stepped into the secular world for over sixty years and is revered by the people as the Buddha of all families. The fact that he has been stirred this time is enough for Su Zhen to feel proud

Master Yi Xin said: "Benefactor Su, please feel free to ask for anything. As long as it is within my capabilities, I shall certainly grant it."

Su Zhen sat with her back to the old monk, her expression unchanged as she calmly said: "Master Yixin, what swift feet you have. It is a long journey of three thousand miles from Yunlin Zen Temple to here; you have worked hard, esteemed sir."

Manager An was taken aback, turning his head to look towards the door, and his eyes, like those of everyone else in the teahouse, became fixed. On the steps of the teahouse stood a young girl dressed simply, with almost no adornments or makeup from head to toe. Even the bronze hairpin in her hair was the most common type found in the market. Yet everyone felt that it was precisely this simplicity that was the most natural, for no matter how luxurious the jewelry in the world, it could not match the beauty of the girl before them

Yesterday afternoon, he was engaged in a game of chess with the young girl until the middle game, but was besieged by the leader of the Biluojian Sect, known as one of the Seven Great Sword Sects of Tianlu, Master Tingxin, who sought to recover the "Xiaohan Chunshan Tu" that he possessed

As the crowd had yet to clearly see, two figures, one black and one white, were swirling and battling fiercely in one spot, leaving onlookers dazzled and unable to take it all in. Suddenly, there were two muffled thuds, and Ling Yunhe was sent flying back like a bundle of firewood, a stream of fresh blood splattering in the air. He barely managed to steady himself on the opposite eaves, clutching his chest with a pale face, and his folding fan had been split into two pieces, clearly suffering a significant loss during the recent exchange of blows.

Manager An can almost name all the returning customers who have visited the Gaoshan Tea House. Greeting them upon entry and seeing them off at the door is his unchanging rule in business. However, the earliest customer to enter today is someone Manager An has never seen before. Since sitting down, this customer has remained solitary, merely placing a chess manual on the table, without even touching the tea that was served.

The man in black did not respond, but with a "snap," he placed a piece on the chessboard. The young girl did not rush to make her move, and with a charming smile, she said: "Sir, do you know that in a subtle way, lightness has already gained a significant advantage."

The four middle-aged monks then realized that the girl, resembling a celestial being, sitting opposite Su Zhen was actually Shui Qingying, the direct disciple of Tianyi Pavilion, whose reputation surpassed that of the Seven Great Sword Sects. They were taken aback. It is no wonder, as Tianyi Pavilion is renowned as one of the three sacred places of Tianlu, and Shui Qingying is a rare talent that emerges once in a millennium, her fame well-known across the Nine Provinces. Yet, here she was, playing chess with the most notorious demon of Tianlu in a tea house, which indeed surprised countless people.

Manager An, huddled behind the counter, let out a sigh of relief upon witnessing the situation. He quietly wiped the cold sweat from his forehead with his sleeve. If these strange individuals were to truly engage in a fight within his teahouse, not only would all the customers be frightened away, but it was likely that the meager savings he had painstakingly accumulated would also be swept away with a mere flick of the monks' staffs.

Master Yixin glanced at the chessboard on the table, understood in his heart, and smiled knowingly, saying: "I understand now."

The man in black placed down his last piece and said indifferently, "It is my turn to make a move."

In the frigid early spring of February, with the earth frozen and the air cold, the tea in the cup continues to emit swirling steam.

Su Zhen coldly laughed and said: "If the two of you wish to flatter each other, you might as well step outside and not disturb my chess strategy."

Perhaps it was the particularly bright and cold gaze of this guest that caused the first encounter with his eyes to make An, the shopkeeper, inexplicably skip a beat. The man's eyes were as sharp as two knives, seemingly capable of piercing right into his heart. With his many years of experience in reading people, An knew that this guest was certainly not someone to be trifled with

Su Zhen said proudly: "That also depends on whether you, Master, can win Su's Blood Red Sword!"

Mr. Su, why must you be like this