Rescuing the Poor and Lonely, The Gentle Lady Takes a Liking; Forming a Good Match, The Drunken Immortal Acts as a Go-Between. - Sword Xia of the Shu Mountains

The father and daughter listened intently, deeply moved. Yun Cong inquired again about how they had saved him. The old man replied, "My name is Zhang Laosi, but people call me Zhang Laoshi for my honest nature. My wife passed away early, leaving just my daughter Yuzhen and me to carry on. We've been tending the temple's vegetable garden for over a decade. Who would have thought that these monks could be so ferocious? By this reasoning, although you've managed to escape with your life today, come tomorrow, when the rain clears and the monks inspect the cavern, they'll certainly trace your escape to my home. Although I learned some martial arts in my youth, it's impossible for me alone to fend off the monks. If my daughter and I get involved, it's less of a concern, but your life would be in great danger. It was my daughter Yuzhen who woke me, saying a young man had fallen from the wall. Initially, I thought you might be a wanderer who sought refuge at the temple and ended up injured, fleeing to my yard. I planned to help you recover, find out your story, and then send you on your way. To my surprise, you are a scholar and candidate of the recent imperial examination. Dawn is breaking, and things are getting dangerous. You must quickly decide on your next step." Hearing this, Yun Cong was both shocked and fearful, so despite the pain in his limbs, he quickly turned over and knelt, pleading for help. Zhang Laosi responded, "Please rise, young master. Let me discuss with my daughter, and we’ll figure out a plan." He called Yuzhen out, and after a long discussion outside, they came back to Yun Cong. "There's no perfect solution to this. For my daughter's safety, the best would be to tie you up and turn you over to the temple, which would clear us of any suspicion and gain us favor from the monks. But I, Zhang Laosi, would never do such a thing. There are two paths: I can open the door now and let you flee. I won't report you. But this area is all under the temple's domain, with many spies around, so your escape will depend entirely on luck. The second is that my daughter and I escape with you. It's still uncertain, but relatively safer. Leaving my home and risking my life to save you is difficult for an old-timer like me. But with just one daughter, I cannot go against her wishes. However, if we leave and you escape successfully, where will my daughter and I find a place to settle? You must give me a clear answer." Yun Cong saw Zhang Laosi's bright spirit and knew he was no ordinary farmer. The sacrifice he offered during such trying times was deeply touching. He replied, "Your chivalrous spirit, elder sir, is something I can never repay. I have significant family property, and you may rely on me for anything. The thought of you leaving your home for my sake weighs heavily on my heart." At this point, Yuzhen entered. Zhang Laosi said, "Since you understand the stakes and the urgency of the situation, there's no need for idle chatter. I'm not afraid of betrayal anyway; you're a scholar, well-aware of the proprieties between men and women." Yun Cong replied, "Your words are misplaced, elder. I am versed in the principles of propriety regardless of our situation. Even without your presence, I wouldn’t dare display any unbecoming behavior toward your daughter—that would be beastly!" Zhang Laosi frowned, "You're truly a bookworm. How exactly do you plan to escape?" Yun Cong was perplexed, having not considered practicalities. Zhang Laosi remarked, "You've been pampered in luxury. After enduring hazards recently, you're weakened and injured in this storm. The heavy rain hasn't stopped, and you can't hope to cover much ground, let alone one or two miles." The reminder made Yun Cong aware of his wounded state. Rising to his feet, he winced in pain and began to cry in frustration. Zhang Laosi comforted him, "Don't worry; if there were no solution, why would my daughter and I risk our lives to accompany you?" Yuzhen returned, carrying two bundles and a length of summer cloth. She said, "It's nearly daybreak. Everything is ready. Father, wrap the young gentleman's back. I'll fetch some food, and we should depart immediately to avoid trouble." She then went outside again. Zhang Laosi tore the fabric into strips, binding Yun Cong's back with a cross pattern and wrapping his legs. Yuzhen came back with a tray of cold dishes and rice, which they hastily ate together. She stepped outside again, urging them to move. Zhang Laosi carried Yun Cong on his back, securing him with a cross knot and wrapping his hips. Yuzhen swapped her long robe for a short gray jacket, secured with a warrior’s knot, tucked her weapons, and balanced the bundles across her shoulders. Zhang Laosi extinguished the lamps, and the three quietly slipped out the back door, heading for the main road. Although the rain had lightened, it hadn't stopped. The muddy path was treacherous without light, but the father and daughter pressed on until dawn, having covered five or six miles. In the dim morning light, they saw a cottage with smoke rising. Yuzhen suggested, "Father, isn't that Uncle Qiu's tofu shop? Let's rest and switch loads." Zhang Laosi agreed, "I almost forgot. It's safe to take refuge at Uncle Qiu's." They approached the cottage but spotted a swaying, raggedly dressed Daoist with a wine gourd, staggering out. Zhang Laosi quickly pulled Yuzhen aside to hide, watching as the Daoist passed, seemingly unaware of them. The cottage owner, Qiu Lin, was a close friend of Zhang Laosi. Seeing them, he greeted warmly and led them inside. Zhang Laosi introduced Yun Cong and they dried their clothes by the fire. Qiu Lin asked about Yun Cong, and Zhang Laosi recounted the tale. Qiu Lin inquired about Yun Cong's plans. Yun Cong declared, "While I escaped, sixteen of my peers were murdered. I intend to report this to Chengdu and seek justice against these monks." Qiu Lin advised, "Young master, those monks are influential and have ingrained good reputations here. They won't be easy to bring to justice, and they maintain close ties with local officials. Even if you succeed in filing a complaint, they'll get word and retaliate, likely with more assassination attempts. They are skilled, wealthy, and well-connected—more than we can handle." Just as Yun Cong was about to reply, a gust of wind swept through, and a figure appeared, laughing, "Meeting you again is unexpected." Zhang Laosi and his daughter were startled, but Qiu Lin calmed them, introducing the man as the renowned Sword Sage, Drunken Daoist. Previously unseen by Yun Cong during their escape, he promptly bowed in recognition. Drunken Daoist explained his earlier suspicion upon spotting them on the road but returned upon seeing them enter Qiu Lin's house. Yun Cong expressed admiration for the Daoist since meeting him at the Wangjiang Pavilion and lamented his own ignorance. Having survived many dangers, Yun Cong decided to abandon worldly pursuits, wishing to follow Drunken Daoist into the mountains to cultivate the Dao. Kneeling, he declared his resolve. Drunken Daoist burst into hearty laughter, "Stand up, stand up. You want to be my apprentice? Easier said than done. You have potential, and accepting you isn't difficult, but there are three conditions you must fulfill. First, life is about filial piety and loyalty. You are the only heir in your family, and becoming a monk would cut off your lineage. Who would care for your parents and elders? You must return home and marry; only after securing an heir should you follow me into the mountains. Second, our order serves as remnants of the previous dynasty. We cannot allow our disciples to serve a foreign power. Third, as sword-wielding knights-errant, we must confront oppressors when we see people suffering at the hands of cruel foes. I will teach you our order’s rules after you become my disciple. Can you commit to these?" Yun Cong, naturally intelligent and eager to seize this rare opportunity, knelt again to agree wholeheartedly, performing the ritual of apprenticeship. Yuzhen, who had been watching in a daze, suddenly had a thought and also knelt, requesting Drunken Daoist take her as a disciple, too. He said, "Please rise, young lady. I don't take female disciples. In time, you’ll find a teacher more suitable than me. Both of you will one day bring honor to our sect, so there's no rush now." Despite her continued pleading, Drunken Daoist remained firm, and Yuzhen had to stand, blushing. Turning back to Yun Cong, Drunken Daoist added, "I forgot to mention something to you. On that day at the Wangjiang Pavilion, I noticed deathly auras around all seventeen of you. Except for you, who had a chance of survival, the others were doomed. As heaven has a virtue of preserving life, I couldn’t look on without helping. Just as I intended to follow you, an elder from our sect tasked me with an urgent matter, delaying me for three days. When I returned and sought your whereabouts, I didn't expect to find you had escaped. Last night, amidst the storm, I saw a child attempting suicide in the woods. I saved him and brought him to Qiu Lin's home. Just before dawn, he regained consciousness—it was your servant, Xiao San’er. He explained he hadn't heard from you for three days and, unable to learn the temple’s location, despaired. After a monk visited their inn and argued with the keeper, the innkeeper expelled him. Out in the storm, feeling lost without you, he attempted an end out of hopelessness. From his account, I suspected you were in grave danger and was just planning to investigate the temple when you fortunately escaped.” At this point, Xiao San’er overheard the familiar voices outside and rushed out. Upon seeing his master, he broke into tears of relief. Drunken Daoist tended to Yun Cong’s wounds with herbs, saying, “It’s getting late, and with more people on the roads, along with the many eyes from the temple, you should rest inside today. Qiu Lin and I will deal with any matters here.” Yun Cong headed inside, leaning against the bed in faux slumber. Only Yuzhen sat with a full heart, feeling frustrated over failing to become a disciple, steeped in quiet discontent. By afternoon, the temple discovered Yun Cong’s escape. The rain had obliterated all traces of his path, and searches, including two visits to Qiu Lin’s house, turned up empty, brushed off by his deft words. Only later did they learn of Zhang Laosi’s escape with his daughter. Realizing they were involved, they found themselves at a loss. After a day’s rest at Qiu Lin’s, through conversations, Yun Cong learned Qiu Lin was a famed Emei swordsman nicknamed "Divine Eye Qiu Lin," stationed there to monitor temple activities under the guise of selling tofu. Zhang Laosi, known as “Water-Splitting Swallow” Zhang Qiong, had been a legendary hero of the Sichuan waterways before choosing a peaceful life tending gardens. Reflecting on these events, Yun Cong felt deep gratitude for the Zhangs' selfless bravery, especially noticing Yuzhen’s careful attention. Their life-saving act was fundamentally her idea. Such kindness from a noble woman moved him profoundly. He glanced at Yuzhen, noting her delicate, graceful figure, beauty tinged with a spirited aura, evoking both admiration and respect. Yet her often-furrowed brows hinted at inner sorrow, leaving Yun Cong puzzled by frequent disputes with her father. After a night, with clear skies and wind-tamed at dawn, Qiu Lin and Drunken Daoist urged their departure. Outside, four fine horses awaited for Zhang Laosi, his daughter, Yun Cong, and Xiao San’er. Yun Cong hesitated, thought perhaps Drunken Daoist wouldn’t accompany them, or there weren’t enough horses, planning to share with Xiao San’er. Drunken Daoist chuckled, "You think there aren't enough horses? I don't need one. Let's hurry up." Complying, Yun Cong bid farewell to Qiu Lin and set on the journey home with the Zhangs. To his surprise, Drunken Daoist vanished as they set off but reappeared by evening, awaiting them at the inn, gourd in hand, relishing in his drink. Settled in the inn, after dining, Drunken Daoist laid out the basics of internal martial arts and sharp perception techniques. Yun Cong, naturally gifted, grasped the concepts easily, and the Zhangs, already versed in such matters, listened with rapt attention. Suddenly, Drunken Daoist turned serious towards Yun Cong, "There's something vital I haven't told you. You must heed it carefully." Respectfully, Yun Cong asked for guidance. Drunken Daoist declared, "I despise heartless ingrates. Zhang sir and his daughter risked their house and lives to save you. How do you intend to repay this after reaching home? Speak honestly." Zhang Laosi started to interject, but Drunken Daoist signaled him to pause. Yun Cong asserted, "I’ve always read and understood not to repay kindness with ingratitude. I'll treat Zhang sir as an honored guest, providing and dividing estate shares for his wellbeing. Is that acceptable to my master?" Drunken Daoist responded, "You misunderstand. Zhang sir has seen countless riches in his travels. Do you think he saved you for your wealth? Such repayment isn't suitable nor welcomed. Think again." Yun Cong, embarrassed, sought further wisdom, "Master, I am ignorant of the proper way to repay kindness. Please advise me." Drunken Daoist mused, "To repay grand kindness, one should hold it as unspoken. Zhang sir's treasure is his daughter, Yuzhen; her risking so much for you likely stemmed from admiration for your talent. You match in age and worth, so allow me to propose to Zhang sir for her hand in marriage. A son-in-law has the duties of a son. Later, you can repay the grace by caring for them into old age, achieving multiple ends. How does that sound?" This suggestion thrilled the Zhangs to no end, deeply grateful in silence. Yun Cong too recognized the sincerity and righteousness in his master's words. Yuzhen was not only beautiful but also wise, proficient in martial arts. Marrying her would offer lifelong companionship and mutual learning. Moreover, she was his lifesaver. Despite not having consulted his parents, as an adopted son in the family, he was usually well regarded and confident that, given the circumstances, they'd consent. Pondering a while, Yun Cong found himself very willing but shy to articulate it. Yuzhen, on her part, initially urged her father to rescue Yun Cong out of admiration for his talent. Over the past two days together, her appreciation for his calm, responsible demeanor grew, deeming him a reliable partner. She often hinted to her father, who was, however, cautious given the disparity in their statuses. Fearing a dismissive rejection blamed on the parents would bring shame, he decided to discuss it after reaching their destination. Yuzhen, unable to directly appeal to her father or propose herself, was internally frustrated. Suddenly, Drunken Daoist’s bold match-making, while making her outwardly bashful, inwardly delighted Yuzhen. Expecting a favorable response from Yun Cong, she waited patiently, but when none came, she feared he found her family unworthy, resenting him for being heartless. Feeling a deep, unspeakable sorrow, she couldn’t help lifting her gaze towards Yun Cong. At that moment, Yun Cong happened to lift his head and their eyes met, as if drawn together by an electric force. Both quickly looked away in embarrassment, their cheeks flushed with a rosy hue. Drunken Daoist, observing their mutual interest, turned to Zhang Laosi and said, "I trust, sir, my previous suggestion was not too forward. My disciple has no objections; your final decision is what remains." Initially, Zhang Laosi had wanted to speak, but restrained himself out of respect for Drunken Daoist’s interjection. Now, as he was asked directly, he replied, "Since washing my hands of the past a decade ago, I've loved Chengdu's landscapes and chose to rent the temple's vegetable plot for its seclusion after knowing the monks briefly. It was peaceful until this spring when a monk named Mao Tai suspiciously accused me of being an Emei spy and demanded Zhitong expel me. But Zhitong, knowing of my quiet life over ten years and seeing no interactions, refused. Despite their reassurances, I considered leaving. Then, when Young Master Zhou landed in my garden while fleeing, at first I did what I could. Yet my daughter Yuzhen insisted, urging me to save him wholly, which led to us leaving home. I've seen the young master’s character and ability, and with a lineage of esteemed swordsmanship, far from being beyond reach, I'm eager for the match. Yet he comes from a wealthy family. Engaging under such circumstances—whether it's truly his wish—is unclear without clarity. I hope the Immortal Master can inquire plainly." Drunken Daoist laughed heartily and questioned Yun Cong, "There’s no outsider here. Stand like a man and don’t act coy. If this is your wish, go and bow to your father-in-law without hesitation." Reluctantly, Yun Cong stepped forward, knelt, and addressed Zhang Laosi as father-in-law, expressing gratitude for Drunken Daoist’s match-making aid. Drunken Daoist continued, "Now that it’s settled, it eases my mind. Call each other siblings on the road for propriety. Once home, inform your parents and wed quickly. Here’s a book, 'Introduction to Swordsmanship,' detailing necessary paths of inner and external skill. After marrying, study it day by day with your wife. I will return in two years to guide you further." With that, he handed over an old book, which Yun Cong received while kneeling. Drunken Daoist then took out a sword from his belt, about three feet six inches long, in an ancient, well-adorned sheath. "This sword is called Shuang Tan, a famous blade from the Warring States period, capable of slicing through hair, cutting iron like mud. It’s flexible, useful for defense in dire times. Now I gift it as a betrothal token. Preserve it well, you and your wife must not let down my faith in your talent." Elated, Yun Cong bowed once more to receive the sword, calling Zhang Laosi "father-in-law" and accepting the weapon. Recognizing its quality, Zhang Laosi brushed it lightly, unsheathing only a few inches to reveal the gleaming edge and chilling aura, expressing admiration. He and Yuzhen thanked Drunken Daoist for his kindness, offering Yuzhen's jade pendant as a return gift. Drunken Daoist said, "I have business in Chengdu and cannot linger. Remember the swordsmanship teachings carefully. Farewell." With that, he vanished in a blur. The three rushed outside, spotting a white speck in the sky, flying back the way they’d come, leaving them in awe. Yun Cong chatted a while with Zhang Laosi, then each retired to their rest. The next day, they cheerfully set off toward Yun Cong’s home. Meanwhile, on the third day after Yun Cong’s escape, Zhizong heard news of Zhang Laosi's sudden disappearance with his daughter. Inspecting the garden, he realized Yun Cong had escaped with the Zhangs' help, regretting not heeding Mao Tai’s warning. Fearing Mao Tai's mockery for his poor judgment, he made excuses to cover up, intensifying defenses while secretly selling temple assets in preparation for a new haven. What will happen next? Stay tuned for the next chapter.