Chapter 9: Seizing Sizhou

“Tian Ziling? Do you think that just because you’ve returned, everything before you will change? It won’t. It never will. They will still die!” Liang Chen laughed maniacally. Today, anyone who opposed him would end up dead. The world believed that what Liang Chen truly desired was Sizhou, but they were entirely mistaken. Sizhou was not his ultimate goal. What he truly sought was the entire Liang clan. Everything he did was to accumulate power. His elder brother had always looked down on him? No matter, soon enough, his brother would pay dearly for his shortsightedness.

“So this is Sizhou? It’s quite different from what I imagined.” A sudden rush of galloping hooves kicked up a cloud of dust. When it settled, a group of people appeared. At the forefront was a youth in a royal blue robe, his handsome features marred only slightly by travel fatigue. The speaker was a beautiful woman in red standing to his left. Sizhou, located in a harsh and remote land, had never seen such an extraordinary beauty, and so the disciples of Sizhou blushed deeply upon seeing her. On the right was another woman in green, similar in age to the one in red, her complexion still somewhat pale despite a healthy flush.

These three were Liang Xi, Ji Anran, and Gu Zhenzhen. Behind them stood the disciples of the Heaven Shadow Sect. “We’re finally home. Today, we’ll settle things with Liang Chen once and for all.”

“Liang Chen, today, your opponent is me!” As the watery curtain dissipated, Tian Ziling struck suddenly, unleashing the Nine Nether Sun-Eroding Palm in a violent attack. Liang Chen was surprised, but he was experienced and reacted quickly, countering with the Mountain Collapse from the Tranquil Spirit technique.

Bang!

These two either avoided each other entirely or, upon meeting, fought fiercely. Today, however, it was not merely a contest of skill but a battle to the death, so both used their techniques at full strength.

“Haha, good lad, I thought you’d never dare show up. What’s this? You’ve been a coward for so many years—if you’d kept hiding, out of old friendship, I might have spared your life. After all, you’ve done much for me in the past, and I’m not an ungrateful man.” Liang Chen spoke lightly, but his thoughts were not so relaxed. For years, he had avoided direct confrontation with Tian Ziling. Even when they fought, it was brief, never truly to the death, because Liang Chen knew Tian Ziling’s power far surpassed his own. If they fought to the end, even if he won, it would be a pyrrhic victory.

“Old scoundrel, you’ve bullied my Heaven Shadow Sect for too long. Today, you won’t get away with it. I’ve already asked Brother Liang Xi—what’s the outcome we seek if we fight? Do you know what he said? He said, ‘As long as you don’t die, deal with him however you like!’”

“You want to bind him with family rules, but you forget that among all those with grievances against you, I am the one. Today, I’ll beat you half to death. Let’s see what you can do!”

Whoosh!

Liang Xi moved swiftly, blocking the disciples under Liang Chen’s command who tried to act. He smiled, “Gentlemen, please remain calm. This matter has nothing to do with you. Just watch in peace.”

Everyone marveled at Liang Xi’s exquisite movement and dared not make a move. “Brother Ziling, I leave the rest to you. I said, as long as Second Uncle doesn’t die, do as you wish. As for these rabble, I’ll deal with them for you. Second Uncle, I’m not breaking any rules here.”

A charming smile appeared on Liang Xi’s face as he stood alone, intimidating the rabble. They were not ignorant; they knew this handsome youth, who appeared only sixteen, possessed formidable power. Even if they all struck together, the outcome would not change. Self-preservation was now most important.

“Good, it seems you’re all smart. In that case, just watch quietly. This spectacle is not easily seen in ordinary times.”

Ji Anran and Gu Zhenzhen, with their long legs, approached gracefully, bringing a fragrant breeze. The three sat casually beneath a cool canopy. “Ah, after such a long journey, I’m exhausted. Let me rest comfortably for a moment,” said Liang Xi, laying his head directly on Ji Anran’s slender, toned thigh. Soon, the rascal’s breathing grew gentle—Liang Xi had fallen asleep.

Ji Anran never expected him to be so bold, doing such a thing in public. She gazed at Liang Xi’s handsome sleeping face, her expression softening. Sleep, I’m here. No one can hurt you. Her hand gently caressed his cheek, her eyes so tender they seemed almost to overflow. Already a rare beauty, she now appeared even more delicate, making hearts race.

Gu Zhenzhen placed Yuanhui’s leg on her own, allowing him to sleep more comfortably. Since their acquaintance, Yuanhui had always helped her. Now, this was all she could do for him.

To sleep on a beauty’s lap—everyone had heard of it, but seeing it now was truly breathtaking. “If you don’t want to die, get out. Brother is sleeping. If you wake him, none of you will leave alive. If you don’t believe me, try it!” Ji Anran, with her most stunning looks, spoke the harshest words, but no one doubted her. The flash of sharpness in her eyes earlier was witnessed by all. If this beauty were angered, the consequences would be unimaginable—she was likely even more terrifying than the sleeping Liang Xi.

Boom, boom, boom.

Liang Chen and Tian Ziling’s battle had grown fierce. Liang Chen knew that today, only one of them could leave alive. Half-dead meant barely breathing, but could Tian Ziling truly achieve that?

Both used the Nine Nether Sun-Eroding Palm. Liang Chen was experienced, but Tian Ziling had practiced the Seven Transformations of the Heavenly Demon for over ten years, his power unmatched. Both radiated intense sun-eroding cold energy. “Hmph, rascal, today I’ll show you something new! You know the second realm of Tranquil Spirit is ‘Qi Gathering.’ Now, if I gather the sun-eroding cold energy, let’s see how you resist!”

“Heaven and Earth Qi!”

After integrating the techniques for some time, Liang Chen realized Tranquil Spirit complemented the Seven Transformations of the Heavenly Demon—Tranquil Spirit’s qi was heaven, the demon’s yin qi was earth. Liang Chen unleashed a palm, the sky’s yin-yang energy wheel crashing toward Tian Ziling—a deadly move among his arsenal.

“Stay back. Do what you should. This old scoundrel is my opponent. If he wants to win, it won’t be easy!”

“Flame Dragon Soars!”

A sea of fire gathered in Tian Ziling’s hands, forming a blazing dragon. “Old scoundrel, who do you think I am? I’m the only one truly skilled in the Seven Transformations of the Heavenly Demon. Who are you? Even if you’ve combined two great techniques, so what? I’m not afraid!”

Tian Ziling’s spirit soared. His left hand formed the Flame Dragon, his right the Charging Bull, a deadly move that launched himself at the enemy. Now, used as a single punch, it was still effective. Both moves struck simultaneously—this old man might not win!

Bang!

Tian Ziling’s moves were absolutely fierce and forceful. Liang Chen’s face turned crimson; their exchange had left him with severe internal injuries. Yet, proud as ever, he forcibly suppressed the reaction with his power, only a trickle of blood at his mouth and his arm temporarily numb.

Liang Chen was shocked. Tian Ziling’s power was remarkable. Even wielding two great techniques, he couldn’t withstand even one move. Earlier boasts now rang hollow; if he truly lost, his subordinates would never follow him again.

“Good lad, I really underestimated you. When I killed Tian Hao, it took much effort—especially since he mastered the sixth transformation, Moon Collapse, which focuses on cold energy. Since you’ve used Flame Dragon, I’ll play with Moon Collapse’s chill.”

“Frost Radiance.”

A frigid aura erupted, engulfing the surroundings. “Boy, do you know what Frost Radiance is? It’s the power to freeze everything. Forcing me to use this move is impressive, but once released, it’s the end.”

Water and fire are incompatible—if someone can merge them, they will be a master, without exception. Frost Radiance and Flame Dragon both belong to the Seven Transformations, but today, one must prevail. “Hahaha, let’s see which is stronger, Frost Radiance or Flame Dragon!”

Bang!

The two world-shattering skills collided, a pure contest of power. At this point, retreat was impossible. All the disciples could do was watch. The Heaven Shadow Sect disciples were most pleased; before, they didn’t know their Sect Master Tian Ziling’s true power, but now, all were awestruck—he had forced the legendary Liang Chen to this point.

Crack.

Frost Radiance was formidable, but Tian Ziling harbored immense anger. “Old scoundrel, do you know how Flame Dragon is mastered? It’s through the heart—when wielded, it burns within, making my strength inexhaustible. Today, I’ll beat you half to death—do you believe it?”

Boom.

Tian Ziling punched Liang Chen square in the face—his fist carried the weight of a thousand pounds. Liang Chen was knocked to the ground, half his body paralyzed, only regaining consciousness after a long moment. Tian Ziling had used his full strength; Liang Chen was temporarily incapacitated.

“That punch was for my Sect Master. Scoundrel, when you killed him, did you ever imagine this day? So many disciples of the Heaven Shadow Sect have died by your hand. I’ve come for you today—that’s more than you deserve.”

How could Liang Chen accept defeat? He unleashed his fierce energy and began a new round of close combat with Tian Ziling. “Martial arts are survival of the fittest. Know this: a man without guilt is hated for his talent. If Tian Hao couldn’t protect the Seven Transformations, then the skill needs a new master. Am I truly wrong?”

“No, I am never wrong!” The two fought furiously, each blow landing hard. Yet Liang Chen continued to taunt—if only he could gather his qi, he might kill Tian Ziling, but this rascal’s power was overwhelming, not even giving him a chance. The Seven Transformations were truly formidable.

Tian Hao’s skills were impressive but could not compare to Tian Ziling’s years of practice. “Old scoundrel, now you truly feel the power of the Seven Transformations. I sense your energy waning.”

Bang.

“That second punch was for myself. Since becoming Sect Master, I’ve lived under your surveillance every day. I’ve long had enough of this life. Stand up—I know you still have power. If you don’t use it now, you’ll never have another chance.”

After such relentless attacks, even a man of iron could not withstand it. Liang Chen had lost all fighting strength. If he surrendered now, he would never be satisfied. “Liang Xi, will you just sleep through this? Seeing your Second Uncle reduced to this, will you not help?”

Liang Xi still slept. Ji Anran gazed at his handsome face, her tone cold though her expression remained soft. “Master Liang Chen, this is between you and Tian Ziling. Brother will not help either side. If your strength is lacking, just surrender—it will save much trouble. Hmph, since you seek help, why not let me assist you?”

If Ji Anran intervened, Liang Chen would have no hope. Since seeking help was futile, he could only rely on himself.

“You forced me. I have one last move—Pulling Down Mountains!”

Liang Chen had completely lost control. Pulling Down Mountains was the sole move of the third realm of Tranquil Spirit, the strongest killing technique—when qi and self are united, invincibility is achieved. This move could only be used once in a lifetime, and it was always fatal. Originally, Liang Chen intended to use it against Liang Xi, but now it would be unleashed here.

Even so, he did not regret it. Even if he could do it over, Liang Chen would make the same choice.

Boom.

Before Liang Chen could strike, Tian Ziling landed another heavy punch on his face—the strongest punch Liang Chen had ever faced in all his years. Even with the power of the third realm, he could not withstand this furious blow.

Liang Chen’s body was smashed into the earth, the force leaving cracks on the ground. “Hahaha, do you think you’ve beaten me? With two great techniques, I am the strongest man alive!”

Liang Chen burst from the ground, attempting his final move, but he found he had no strength left. Half his energy channels had been destroyed by that punch.

“That was the Killing Heart Fist, one of three in the final realm of the Seven Transformations. Old scoundrel, if I hadn’t promised Brother Liang Xi, you would be dead now. Though you survived, your energy channels are ruined and only a third of your power remains. Hmph, what can you do with so little?”

This fight had drained Tian Ziling greatly. His blood surged as he approached the nearly lifeless Liang Chen. “How was my technique? Will you admit defeat now? If not, we can keep fighting. Even if I level Sizhou today, I’ll finish you!”

“Do you think Sizhou is yours alone? Without me, what would Sizhou be? Today’s battle was exhilarating. Though you are despicable, you’re a worthy opponent. Looking back, I owe much of my success to you.”

Tian Ziling, bloodied and gravely wounded, was finally delighted—Sizhou had become the Heaven Shadow Sect’s territory.

“Cough, cough. When I first met you, you were just an unremarkable child beside Tian Hao. Who could have guessed that I, so proud, would fall to you? Back then, Tian Hao was my only rival. Later, I mastered Tranquil Spirit and seized my chance to kill him. Then I thought Sizhou and the Seven Transformations would be mine. Now I see I am still lacking.”

“Hmph, Sizhou was built by my own hands. If you want it so badly, take it. What does it matter? Hahaha, how ridiculous—after years of effort, I only made it easier for others. What purpose is there in living?”

Liang Chen, once so proud, lost completely today. Tian Ziling at that moment seemed a child again. He remembered their first meeting, greeting him, and now the child's face merged with the adult's. Liang Chen had lost everything. He wanted to die, but recalled his unfinished wishes and, summoning the last of his strength, fled, disappearing moments later.

“Nephew, we will meet again. When that time comes, I hope we can fight as equals!”

Liang Xi awoke—or perhaps he had never truly slept. He heard his Second Uncle’s departing words. Yes, this was the uncle he knew—no matter what he faced, he could confront it calmly. That was the Liang family’s way. “Alright, Second Uncle, if your power returns, I promise to fight you fair and square.”

“How comfortable!” Liang Xi sat up, stretching lazily. Clearly, he had rested well. “My legs are numb now, you rascal. Aren’t you going to apologize?” A beauty’s anger was formidable, but Liang Xi, inhaling Ji Anran’s fragrance, was in high spirits. “Alright, don’t be angry. Next time, I’ll let you rest your head on my lap. It may not be as lovely as yours, but it’s quite good. You can try it next time.”

Ji Anran blushed furiously—this rascal, saying such outrageous things in broad daylight. “Who… Who wants to try? Next time, if you do this without my permission, I won’t forgive you!” She realized Liang Xi was her fated nemesis—nothing good ever happened when she met him, yet the sweet warmth in her heart made her disdain herself. In front of her brother, she could never refuse.

Gu Zhenzhen, hoping to help Liang Xi rest, was now truly asleep herself, head drooping, breathing softly. Liang Xi quietly adjusted her position, letting her lean on Anran. Gu Zhenzhen had just recovered from internal injuries, and the journey to Sizhou had exhausted her. Now, a good rest was just what she needed.

“Mm, I saw that battle just now—you fought well. Thank you, Brother Ziling. My Second Uncle has always been proud and arrogant; losing to you today is a huge blow for him. He should be quiet for a long time. What he plans next, I don’t know. The future is hard to predict. Now that you’ve won, what will you do?”

As Tian Ziling was about to collapse, Liang Xi caught him. “I’m satisfied with my performance today. Now, I just want to rest well. Honestly, if you hadn’t been here to support me, even if I could win, it would have been a pyrrhic victory.”

“Good. Then rest. If you trust me, I’ll handle the aftermath. Second Uncle may be gravely wounded, but we can’t be sure his men won’t retaliate. That’s why I’m here!”

Liang Xi’s role was always to intimidate. He walked calmly to Liang Chen’s disciples. “I know you’re dissatisfied. So, I’ll give you a chance to strike back. You see Tian Ziling is wounded—if you want trouble, act now.”

“Remember, you only get this chance. If you wait until later, don’t blame me for being ruthless—your fate will be like this tree!” Liang Xi moved like the wind, striking a nearby ancient tree—a century old—and instantly reduced it to dust, using his full power from the Cloud Atlas. That should quell any rebellious thoughts.

Seeing such power, only a madman would challenge Tian Ziling now. “Blade Scarless, your master has been defeated. What will you do? Must you die here to be satisfied?” Liang Xi knew only Blade Scarless posed a real threat. With him present, the man wouldn’t dare act, but once he left, Blade Scarless would strike.

Blade Scarless was no match for Mortal Laughter—he was gravely wounded. Adjusting his breath, he snorted coldly, “There will be another chance in the future. Today, I’ll let you go.”

Blade Scarless never wasted energy in hopeless battles. The disciples lost all fighting spirit. “We willingly join the Heaven Shadow Sect. Sect Master, please accept us!”

Liang Xi clapped his hands. Excellent—matters were resolved perfectly. He glanced at Tian Ziling, eyes signaling: How’s that for intimidation? The rest is up to you. That’s all I can do.

The next few days were a period of rest. Sizhou, developed over many years, was rich and prosperous. Though the Liang family’s businesses spanned the world, they had not entered Sizhou, which Liang Xi disliked. In such a wealthy place, how could there not be a Liang family firm? So, three days later, he opened one in Sizhou. As the future head of the Liang family, this was easy. “When you return, explain everything to Father and Mother.”

“Don’t worry, young master, it’s simple,” replied a Liang family steward, disappearing soon after. Liang Xi disliked living in others’ homes; previously, circumstances at Mingyu Manor forced his hand. In Sizhou, he lived with Ji Anran and Gu Zhenzhen in a simple yet elegant estate. “What do you think of the garden?” he asked as they strolled.

“The young master is always true to himself. We’ve lived here, so saying we dislike it now would be dishonest. I can’t do that. But the garden is a bit big—is this really okay?” Ji Anran’s worry contrasted with Gu Zhenzhen’s joy. “Brother Yuanhui, is this really ours? Can I play however I want?” Don’t blame her—since birth, she’d lived in the Yasha School, bound by rules and training. For a while, it was tolerable, but over time, it became unbearable.

“Of course. While we’re in Sizhou, this is home. Do you like the room I prepared for you?” Both Ji Anran and Gu Zhenzhen had their own rooms. Though Liang Xi came from wealth, he disliked being waited on; all cleaning was done himself, a family rule.

His father, Liang Yunsi, always said: The Liang family is the richest in the world. If the children become spoiled, it will benefit neither themselves nor the clan. No matter how big the place, they must clean it themselves; tiring work ensures better sleep. Thus, Liang children always traveled alone—if surrounded by attendants, it would be problematic.

Gu Zhenzhen’s face glowed with happiness. “I like it. Anything brother Yuanhui gives me, I like. I never lie.” She was as innocent as any girl, hard to imagine she was a powerful martial artist.

Liang Xi took Ji Anran’s hand as they sat in the pavilion. “I know your worries. The rest is Heaven Shadow Sect’s business. As outsiders, we’ve done all we can. We can’t handle everything. Now, with such a good place, let’s just live in peace. If problems arise, I won’t ignore them—after all, Tian Ziling gets along with me very well.”

“Anran, come play in the water! The water in Sizhou is icy and wonderful.” Gu Zhenzhen dangled her long legs by the pool, clearly enjoying herself.

“Go play. You may be fierce, but don’t forget you’re only fifteen.” Ji Anran envied Gu Zhenzhen’s happiness. She herself had never known such joy before meeting Liang Xi; though young, her heart was mature.

Liang Xi understood and pulled Ji Anran along. “Alright, since my beauty never played before, today I’ll teach you how people our age should have fun!”

Ji Anran, dragged by Liang Xi to the pool, felt her mood improve. For the first time, she sat like an innocent girl, legs swinging over the stones. The water really was cold, and very pleasant.

At sunset, beside the pool, the two women leaned on Liang Xi—beauty like a painting.

Golden Lan River, Heaven Shadow Sect’s headquarters.

How many years had it been? Since childhood, the elders of Heaven Shadow Sect had worked toward this day, all for Sizhou. Many had given their lives for it. Today, Sect Master Tian Ziling could proudly say: Elders, all your efforts were worth it. Everything you sought, your disciple has achieved.

Tian Ziling was truly happy. Below him, the two great kings, three shadow demons, and four blade edges were silent, gazing at his youthful back. All their words condensed into one: Sect Master, you’ve truly done it!

Tian Ziling turned around, eyes red. “From today, Sizhou belongs to Heaven Shadow Sect. Since becoming Sect Master, I’ve pursued this goal. Now, it’s achieved, thanks to all of you. The Tian clan has wandered for a century, though blessed with the Seven Transformations of the Heavenly Demon. I know what the clan truly desires—a place to call home.”

“Liang Chen was harsh and unkind, never treating us well. His fate today is deserved. I’ve gathered you all for one thing: I hope to move the Tian clan into Sizhou, where we can live in peace. What do you think?”

“Sect Master, this should have been done long ago. Heaven Shadow Sect has existed a hundred years, but life has been bitter. Our ancestors were saved by the Tian clan, which led to the sect’s founding. If you trust me, let me handle it.”

Nightless Sky, the first shadow demon, knew the sect’s history well. The Tian ancestor was warm-hearted, finding joy in helping others, and created the Seven Transformations. Those he helped became disciples, forming the sect, whose creed was: If you are bullied, seek justice; if you are in trouble, help wholeheartedly.

Perhaps because the Seven Transformations were so powerful, over time, Heaven Shadow Sect gained a fierce reputation, and the Tian clan suffered hardships and exile. Now, all suffering was over—how could the disciples not rejoice?

“Nightless Sky speaks well, but there’s no hurry. For now, I want to say: From today, Heaven Shadow Sect and the Liang family are brothers for generations. You know that although I’ve mastered the Seven Transformations, I’d never faced anyone before. Liang Chen was my first real opponent—even when Nightless Sky accompanied me to Mingyu Manor, I was afraid.”

“I know you looked down on me, thinking I lacked a Sect Master’s courage. I thought so too. But Brother Liang Xi taught me to believe in myself, to shoulder responsibility for you, for Sizhou, and for the future of the sect. I won’t run anymore. I’ve evaded for years and hated myself for it, but today I truly say goodbye to my cowardly self. Will you trust me once more?”

The disciples were willing to trust him. Even Min You and others felt comforted—thankfully, the Sect Master was gentle. If he were truly incorrigible, the century-old sect would be destroyed by their hands, leaving them unable to face their ancestors.

“Sect Master, you’re mistaken. No matter when, we always believe in you. Our past complaints weren’t heartfelt. Seeing you now, we are reassured. Gratefulness should never be forgotten; that’s our duty. With Liang Xi’s strong support, Heaven Shadow Sect can rest easy.”

Tian Ziling breathed a sigh of relief. If they had refused, he would have been lost. “Good, now it’s decided. Tomorrow, I’ll go to the Tian clan’s current home in Green Mountain and bring everyone to Sizhou. Luckily, Green Mountain is close—half a day’s journey.”