On the Road to Quanzhen / Defeating Zhao Zhijing

The Road to Quanzhen

The warm orange candlelight in the inn room had long since gone out.

When Lin Xuan woke, Shuang'er was curled up in his arms, her petite body nestled tightly against him. Her head was buried against his chest, and her breathing was steady and peaceful.

Lin Xuan reached out and gently stroked her silky hair.

As if sensing him, Shuang'er gave a soft murmur and slowly opened her eyes. The moment her gaze met Lin Xuan's deep eyes, she woke completely.

Shyness washed over her cheeks like a tide. Her naturally rosy face grew even redder, though there was also a trace of contentment and bashful sweetness in her expression. She hurriedly tried to get up and straighten her rumpled clothes, but Lin Xuan swept her back into his arms with one long arm.

"Did you sleep well, Shuang'er?" Lin Xuan asked, his voice low and gentle, with the faint rasp unique to early morning. His fingers lightly traced the ends of her hair by her ear, his movements full of tenderness and a subtle possessiveness.

Shuang'er buried her head against his chest and murmured softly, "With you here, Young Master, Shuang'er slept very well. I've never felt so at ease before."

"Silly girl." He gently pinched her delicate cheek, and Shuang'er's face turned even redder.

After they got up, Shuang'er began to carefully attend to Lin Xuan as he washed and changed. Her movements were gentle and practiced. Whether she brought him warm water or straightened his collar, she did everything just right—neither servile nor presumptuous, yet with a tenderness and obedience that came naturally to her.

She quickly picked up on every glance and subtle movement of Lin Xuan's.

She even prepared breakfast for him: a delicate, tasty spread of plain rice porridge and side dishes. She kept his life running smoothly, letting Lin Xuan truly experience the comfort and ease of being treated like a young master.

After breakfast, Lin Xuan prepared to continue his journey.

He bought a fine carriage and hired several trustworthy laborers.

The carriage was elegantly decorated, and its interior was fitted with soft cushions and pillows. Gauzy curtains hung over the windows.

The carriage carried them slowly northward, toward the towering Zhongnan Mountain.

That afternoon, the carriage rocked along a narrow mountain path. Lin Xuan rested with his eyes closed while Shuang'er sat beside him, carefully massaging his shoulders. Her touch was exceedingly gentle, with a natural, meticulous care, as though she were tending to a priceless treasure.

When she finished, Shuang'er did not immediately get up. Her gaze drifted to Lin Xuan's trouser leg, and her cheeks slowly flushed as if she had summoned all her courage.

"Young Master..." Her voice was as faint as a mosquito's buzz; had the carriage not been so quiet, it would have been almost impossible to hear.

Lin Xuan opened his eyes slightly and looked at her, his gaze warm and inquisitive.

Shuang'er followed the length of his leg and slowly, gently rested her head on his thigh. Her fingers twisted together nervously, betraying the shyness and boldness of someone new to intimacy, while her eyes remained fixed on his crotch.

After sitting for so long, and with the virile energy of the Yin Yang Deficit Supplementation Technique coursing through Lin Xuan, he had grown hard without realizing it.

Lin Xuan felt her warm breath and saw the shy yet eager look in her eyes. He understood. He said nothing, only reaching out to stroke her silky hair—a silent permission and encouragement.

With his approval, Shuang'er's heart began to race, and her cheeks turned scarlet. Gently, with her slender hands, she undid Lin Xuan's belt. Then, carefully and almost reverently, she freed his swollen member from its confinement.

She bent down and first rubbed her soft cheek against it, rousing it fully from its slumber. Then she opened her small, pretty mouth and, timid yet daring, took his thick member between her lips.

At first, Shuang'er's movements were awkward, but her earnestness and reverence were enough to make one's heart tremble. Her warm tongue gently licked him, and her delicate lips struggled to envelop him, trying to take all of him into her mouth.

Her breath was warm, mingling with her soft panting and the wind brushing past the carriage outside, filling the cramped space with an unmistakable air of intimacy.

A wave of exquisite tingling shot from Lin Xuan's lower body straight to his head. He leaned back against the cushion and closed his eyes, savoring the soft, moist suction. Shuang'er might have been inexperienced, but her wholehearted devotion and desire to please him made her service incredibly satisfying. She treated him as carefully as a priceless treasure, using all her tenderness and passion as she sucked and licked him, occasionally grazing him with her teeth and teasing his sensitive nerves.

The air in the carriage grew hot, and Lin Xuan's breathing grew heavy. He could feel Shuang'er improving as she tried her best. She had gone from being shy to giving herself over completely to pleasing him. Her devoted efforts filled him with pleasure, and the virile energy within him grew harder and harder to restrain.

"Mm..." Lin Xuan let out a low groan, gripping the carriage's handrail tightly.

Hearing his groan, Shuang'er worked even harder. Her little mouth was swollen and red, but she did not stop, wanting only to bring her Young Master more pleasure. At last, Lin Xuan felt a rush of warmth burst forth, splashing across Shuang'er's delicate face.

Shuang'er kept his freed member in her mouth until he had completely spent himself, then reluctantly let him go. She showed no disgust or discomfort. Instead, she extended her tender tongue and licked the sticky fluid from the corners of her lips. Her eyes glistened with moisture, and now held the satisfied exhaustion of someone who had just finished a task, along with a hint of anticipation, as if waiting for praise.

Lin Xuan slowly opened his eyes. Seeing how obedient and sweet she looked, he was full of approval and satisfaction. He reached out and gently stroked her swollen lips. "Shuang'er, you... did very well."

Lin Xuan's next destination was the Quanzhen Sect on Zhongnan Mountain. At Great Hero Guo's request, he was supposed to check on Yang Guo.

As a transmigrator, Lin Xuan knew all too well that Yang Guo had already left the Quanzhen Sect and gone to the Ancient Tomb Sect.

His main reason for making the trip was to meet Little Dragon Girl, who seemed untouched by worldly concerns, and learn all the Ancient Tomb Sect's martial arts.

After several days on the road, the carriage finally reached a small town at the foot of Zhongnan Mountain at dusk.

The town nestled against the mountain. A huge stone stele stood at its entrance, bearing the words "Shortcut to Zhongnan," which seemed to hint at an immortal's presence.

The town was livelier than Qinghe Town had been. Many martial artists stopped there to rest, preparing to visit the Quanzhen Sect the next day or attend a nearby martial arts gathering.

The noisy chatter from the taverns and the tales of people righting wrongs on the roadside filled the air without end.

Lin Xuan stepped down from the carriage and habitually looked around.

He turned to Shuang'er, a thoughtful look in his eyes.

"Shuang'er, there may be some inconvenience on this visit to the Quanzhen Sect," Lin Xuan said gently. "The Quanzhen Sect is a place of Daoist cultivation, with strict rules. It wouldn't be convenient for you to come along. Stay here at the inn for a few days while I take care of things."

His tone conveyed that he had already made up his mind, though his reasoning was perfectly sound.

A trace of disappointment flickered in Shuang'er's eyes. She had wanted to stay by Lin Xuan's side every moment, even if all she could do was quietly wait nearby.

But she knew he had his reasons, so she obediently agreed.

She looked up at him with reluctance and concern, yet nodded sensibly. "Shuang'er will stay at an inn in town. Once you've finished your business, Young Master, come back for me in a few days. Please take good care of yourself on the journey. Shuang'er will await your triumphant return."

Seeing how sweet and considerate she was, Lin Xuan felt even more tenderness for her. He gently caressed her cheek and kissed her forehead.

Shuang'er's face turned bright red, but she smiled happily.

She nodded firmly and watched as Lin Xuan led a black steed away. His figure gradually disappeared along the mountain road at the far end of town.

At dawn the next morning, the rising sun bathed Zhongnan Mountain in a sacred golden glow.

Alone, Lin Xuan led his horse up the rugged mountain path toward the Quanzhen Sect's gate.

Zhongnan Mountain rose grandly, its peaks layered one behind another and wrapped in clouds and mist. It truly had the air of an immortal realm, inspiring awe.

Groups of three or five martial artists made their way along the path, and their conversations could be heard from time to time.

"Ah, the martial world hasn't been peaceful lately. The Mongolian Tartars may have been held back for now, but they're still wolves at heart and won't give up easily," a burly man sighed.

"Isn't that the truth? Still, thank goodness we have 'Little Zhuge,' Young Master Lin. Otherwise, Xiangyang City would be in grave danger, and the people of Great Song would suffer again!" another man chimed in, sounding relieved.

"Exactly! Young Master Lin is a true strategist and a peerless martial artist! I hear he wiped out three thousand Mongolian cavalry outside Xiangyang City in a single night. He's practically a legendary figure!" A young man gazed ahead with admiration, clearly idolizing Lin Xuan.

"More than a legend! A few days ago, didn't a gang of bandits abduct a woman in a ravine near Qinghe Town? Young Master Lin happened to pass by alone on horseback. He didn't even draw his sword—just said a few words, and those vicious criminals were so terrified they went straight to the authorities and turned themselves in! With that bearing, that presence, who could refuse to submit? Even the authorities treat him with the utmost respect. Who in the martial world would dare defy him?" As the middle-aged knight spoke, his eyes burned with fervent admiration. He glanced unconsciously toward the path ahead, as if hoping for something.

All along the way, Lin Xuan kept hearing people discuss his name and his exploits, making him out to be more than human.

His expression remained calm.

This was the "fame" he had sought. Wherever he went, it paved the way for him and spared him countless petty hassles.

His reputation was more useful than any pass and more intimidating than any challenge. It made petty criminals keep their distance and caused obstacles in plain sight to vanish without a trace.

At the mountain gate, two Quanzhen Sect disciples stood guard. They wore Daoist robes and carried themselves with solemn, meticulous composure.

When they saw Lin Xuan approaching, one of them stepped forward, clasped his hands, and asked, "May I ask what brings you here, Young Master?" His tone was courteous, though tinged with the Quanzhen Sect's characteristic pride.

Lin Xuan stopped and looked calmly at the disciple, then handed him a letter of introduction written by Guo Jing himself.

The disciple took the letter and gave it a casual glance. But when his eyes landed on the words "Lin Xuan," he stiffened, his breath catching as shock and disbelief filled his eyes.

He looked up and studied the young man before him closely.

He had certainly heard of "Little Zhuge" Lin Xuan. The stir his name had caused in the martial world had even reached a quiet place of cultivation like the Quanzhen Sect.

The disciples had been talking among themselves about the young hero who had appeared out of nowhere, comparing him with Great Hero Guo. Some even said that the student had surpassed the master.

But rumors were one thing. Seeing him in person, the disciple realized that Young Master Lin was even younger than the stories claimed—and even more... dashing.

His composure and bearing were far beyond those of an ordinary martial artist. There was also an inexplicable, powerful charisma about him that made people instinctively revere him.

"Y-You're that... Young Master Lin? The one from Xiangyang City—'Little Zhuge' Lin Xuan?" The disciple's voice trembled, and he chose his words with great care, repeating the name that had resounded throughout the martial world as if he couldn't believe it.

Lin Xuan merely smiled calmly, which served as confirmation, and said nothing more. His unruffled manner made the disciple's heart tighten.

The other disciple hurried over, his face likewise full of surprise and awe. He snatched up the letter and said excitedly, "Please wait here, Young Master Lin! I'll report to the head priest at once! Quick! Go tell the head priest that Little Zhuge Lin has arrived at the gate!"

With that, he hurried through the mountain gate. He moved so quickly that he hardly seemed like a Daoist in retreat, but more like an ordinary man who had just received wonderful news.

Defeating Zhao Zhijing

Before long, Lin Xuan was led to the reception hall beside the main hall of Chongyang Palace.

The hall was simply but solemnly furnished, and filled with a strong Daoist atmosphere.

Two elderly Daoists in pale moon-colored robes were already seated on cushions.

One had the air of an immortal, with clear, refined features. He was "Jade Sun Zi" Wang Chuyi.

The other had a square face and a full head of white hair and beard, yet exuded a sharp presence. He was "Evergreen Zi" Qiu Chuji.

Several Quanzhen disciples sat below them, including Zhao Zhijing, with his sinister face and narrow eyes.

As soon as he saw Lin Xuan, a trace of disdain and jealousy flashed across his eyes. The boy was so young, yet already so famous throughout the land!

Lin Xuan stepped forward and clasped his hands in greeting.

"I am Lin Xuan. My respects to Daoist Wang, Daoist Qiu, and all the Quanzhen elders."

His voice was clear, and his bearing upright.

"There's no need for formalities, Young Master Lin." Wang Chuyi nodded. His tone was gentle, but there was a faint, hard-to-discern complexity in his refined expression. "Are Great Hero Guo and Sect Leader Huang well?"

"My master and my master's husband are both well. They've simply been busy day and night with the defenses of Xiangyang City, and haven't dared to let up for a moment."

Lin Xuan answered, then shifted the subject.

"This disciple has come at my master's request to attend to a family matter. My master's husband has been deeply concerned, so he sent me in person to inquire."

He paused, glancing around at those present, and continued.

"My master's husband and young Yang Guo are as close as father and son. Over the years, my master's husband has often thought of Yang Guo and worried that he might be alone in the world, with no one to rely on."

"Now that the fighting at Xiangyang has eased for the time being, my master's husband immediately sent me to the Quanzhen Sect to ask the elders about Yang Guo's situation."

Lin Xuan's words struck the Quanzhen Sect like red-hot needles.

Wang Chuyi and Qiu Chuji both felt their faces burn with shame.

Wang Chuyi's face reddened slightly. He was an honest man, and Lin Xuan's words left him deeply embarrassed.

Qiu Chuji gave a heavy snort and replied curtly, "That boy Yang Guo is talented, but arrogant and stubborn. He refused to heed instruction and has privately left our Quanzhen Sect! He's gone to the Ancient Tomb Sect behind the mountain."

Though Qiu Chuji sounded forceful, he was clearly somewhat uneasy.

Lin Xuan was amused. He had known all along that Yang Guo had slipped away to the Ancient Tomb Sect. Yet these two masters from the Quanzhen Sect still had the nerve to claim it was Yang Guo's own fault.

So he made a couple of sarcastic remarks.

A hint of regret and confusion crossed his face. He nodded slightly and said softly, "I see. It seems young Yang Guo was simply out of luck and had no chance to benefit from the teachings of the great Quanzhen Sect. What a pity."

Then he added, with a trace of concern, "But if, as Daoist Qiu says, he's such an 'arrogant and stubborn' boy, why would your sect simply let him go? If my master's husband knew, I'm afraid he'd be even more worried."

Each sentence cut deeper than the last. The first expressed regret while hinting that the Quanzhen Sect was not as great as it claimed, since it couldn't even teach a boy properly. The second expressed concern while accusing them of neglecting the son of an old friend and failing in their duty.

Wang Chuyi and Qiu Chuji blushed even more, unable to come up with a rebuttal.

Lin Xuan's words turned Zhao Zhijing's face a livid shade. He had already been jealous of Lin Xuan's fame, and now, seeing him shame his master and senior uncle with just a few words, he was beside himself with rage.

"Young Master Lin! That boy Yang Guo was unruly and disrespectful to his elders. He repeatedly broke the rules, so our Quanzhen Sect expelled him. We were merely cleansing our ranks. What's wrong with that?"

He went on, his tone full of contempt and provocation. "You're young, yet you've already rendered great service at Xiangyang and made a name for yourself. I admire you. But this is an internal matter of the Quanzhen Sect. Why have you come here to make accusations? Do you think that because you're relying on Great Hero Guo's reputation, you can order the Quanzhen Sect around?"

At those words, the atmosphere in the hall froze.

Wang Chuyi and Qiu Chuji's expressions changed, and they were about to rebuke Zhao Zhijing for his insolence.

But Lin Xuan did not get angry; he didn't even move an eyebrow. He simply looked calmly at the furious Zhao Zhijing.

"May I ask which Daoist you are?"

"I am Zhao Zhijing, a third-generation disciple of the Quanzhen Sect." Zhao Zhijing clasped his hands with an air of pride.

Lin Xuan thought to himself, So it really is you, Zhao Zhijing, you piece of trash.

He let out a slow sigh. "Daoist Zhao, you're mistaken. I came only to ask after the son of my master's husband's old friend. That's perfectly natural. How is that 'ordering the Quanzhen Sect around'? Or is it that, in your view, the Quanzhen Sect can't even tolerate someone asking a question? If so, wouldn't that be beneath the reputation of a great sect?"

His words seemed gentle, but they cut even deeper. He had taken Zhao Zhijing's personal provocation and turned it into a question of the entire Quanzhen Sect's reputation and magnanimity.

"You... you're twisting my words!" Zhao Zhijing was left speechless, his face flushing the color of pig liver.

"Fine words! In the martial world, everything ultimately comes down to skill!" Zhao Zhijing's long sword rang as it slid halfway from its sheath. He pointed its tip at Lin Xuan. "Since you're the prized disciple of Great Hero Guo and his wife, your martial arts must be impressive. This humble Daoist would like to challenge you! If you can defeat my sword, the Quanzhen Sect will let you say whatever you like! If you don't dare, then drop that false show of concern and leave the mountain at once!"