Xue Yuan(the snow ape) hurried before the two young women, forming a fist with his right hand and covering it with the left in a formal martial salute. The two ladies, amused by his solemn posture, returned the gesture with faint smiles.
The Elder of Tianshan asked kindly, "Little girl, what is your name?"
Ling Xian'er replied, "This humble girl is surnamed Ling, given name Xian'er."
The Tianshan Elder drew a small porcelain vial from the front of his robe and handed it to her. "Here are three pellets. Take one first to treat your internal injuries."These pills could enhance longevity, restore vitality, and greatly increase one's inner power.
Ling Xian'er bowed. "Many thanks, Senior."She respectfully received the vial with both hands, joy welling in her heart. Pills bestowed by the Tianshan Elder were anything but ordinary. She immediately swallowed one, chose a spot, and sat cross-legged to circulate her qi.
The pill was refined from the essence of Tianshan's spiritual herbs—ganoderma, ginseng, snow lotus. Once taken, she guided the medicinal power through her entire body. Her root became firm, her upper body light, breath and intent moving as one. As the pill dissolved, a warm current rose from her abdomen. She refined this heat with her cultivation method; it cleared toxins, relieved bruises, and invigorated the meridians. Those who practiced martial arts were keenly sensitive—she felt a wave of comfort wash over her. Her inner power had increased by twenty to thirty percent.
Before long, Ling Xian'er rose to her feet. Wu Tong stepped forward respectfully."Senior, fate has granted us this meeting. It is our blessing to have encountered you. Yet we have urgent duties awaiting us. We shall take our leave today and pay our respects another day."
After embracing the snow ape, Wu Tong and his companions exchanged farewell gestures. They departed Tianshan and began their journey back to the Uyghur capital.
Wu Tong and his party had been dispatched to eliminate the Western Holy Sect; the round trip alone had taken over a month. When they finally returned to the Uyghur capital, the entire court and populace had long awaited their news. Upon hearing of their triumphant return, everyone rejoiced. Crowds spilled into the streets, packing both sides of the road, eager to behold the heroes.
As Wu Tong approached the capital gates, people lining the streets waved and cheered, offering him the highest respect. Wu Tong and the two ladies returned the greetings from time to time. The Uyghur people even bestowed upon him the honorific title "The Falcon of the Desert," a mark of supreme admiration.
That night was the Mid-Autumn Festival, the fifteenth day of the eighth month. The Khagan held a grand banquet and rewarded them generously. Wu Tong distributed the rewards among the Uyghur brothers who had accompanied him. The feast ended in high spirits, everyone drinking and celebrating to their hearts' content.
The next day, Wu Tong and the two ladies bid farewell to the Khagan and the princess. After months of hardship in the vast desert, they finally embarked on their journey home. Their longing for home needed no words.
Crossing the Han River — Song Zhiwen (Tang Dynasty)
Beyond the mountain passes, all letters cease;Through winter and then another spring.So close to home, yet more afraid—I dare not ask the travelers of news.
After passing through Hangu Pass, the three entered an inn. Starving, they ordered wine and several dishes and began eating. Before long, three men entered—arms thick, muscles well-defined. Liu Yun's sharp eyes instantly recognized them.
"Is that not Cui Fuyun, Chief Arbiter of the Jianghu?"
These three were indeed the foremost judges of the martial world: Cui Fuyun, Judge's Brush Li Yan, and Judge's Blade Sun Tian.
Cui Fuyun looked over, delighted, and strode toward them."What a fortunate meeting! It is an honor for Cui to encounter Hall Master Wu and his two ladies here."
Wu Tong quickly rose and saluted. "A timely coincidence indeed. We've just returned from the Western Regions. Please, all three of you, have a seat."
Once everyone was seated, Chief Arbiter Cui cupped his fists."Hall Master Wu, you are trusted by the imperial court. This long journey must have been a heavy responsibility."
Wu Tong said, "It has been half a year since we last met. To see the three seniors here today is truly a blessing."
Judge's Brush Li Yan spoke frankly, "Since fate has arranged this meeting, I shall speak plainly. Our Sect of Life-and-Death Arbiters has just accepted a commission. The client insists that Hall Master Wu of the Loyalty Hall must be present as witness."
Wu Tong raised a brow. "Oh? Such a matter?"
Judge's Blade Sun Tian explained, "This time, our sect has been entrusted by Yin Li of the 'Monument-Shattering Devil Palm'. A duel will be held on the twentieth of the ninth month, at Dongda Temple near Huangshan Palace."
Liu Yun asked, "Is his opponent the 'Black-Eater King' Sima Lun?"
Cui Fuyun nodded. "Exactly. Word is that Yin Li traveled to Tibet and discovered a ten-year snow lotus. After consuming it, his power has surged, far greater than before."
Wu Tong replied, "Senior Cui, no matter the circumstances, I will be there. I shall make all necessary arrangements. For now, the three of us must return to report our mission."
Cui Fuyun said solemnly, "For a man esteemed by the imperial court to willingly attend to a matter of the martial world—Hall Master Wu's sense of loyalty and righteousness truly befits the reputation he bears."
Wu Tong smiled. "You three have traveled far as well. Let us share a meal."
Liu Yun suddenly called out loudly, "Waiter! Bring more dishes! And three catties of white liquor, plus five catties of braised beef!"
"Right away, honored guests!" the waiter replied.
And so they drank and feasted, heroes of the jianghu eating meat by the chunk and wine by the bowl—living freely, as one ought in this wandering life.