"Were you deliberately toying with us?" For some reason, Tianshan Tonglao felt a surge of anger rise within her.
Song Qingshu sighed. "We're all old acquaintances, so let me speak frankly. Though I personally sympathize with the Guo family over the Chenqiao Mutiny, the victor becomes king and the loser a bandit. The Song dynasty has endured for a hundred years now. Though it has been weak in foreign wars, the realm is generally peaceful and prosperous."
"Especially in its generous treatment of scholar-officials. Who knew how many men of unyielding integrity it had fostered? If I joined you, I would surely be condemned by thousands and leave behind an eternal stain on my name. So I can only apologize and refuse your kind offer."
"Indeed." The Sweeping Monk wore a wistful expression. "How could we not know that the Song Court has the people's hearts? Yet with the hatred of our nation and families upon us, even knowing it cannot be done, we must still do it. It was only expected that Benefactor Song would not be willing to cooperate with us."
Song Qingshu bowed to him. "Thank you for your understanding, Senior."
The Sweeping Monk returned the bow. "But those who block the path must be removed. Benefactor Song, forgive me."
The moment he finished speaking, he stepped forward. In almost the blink of an eye, he appeared before Song Qingshu. His palm seemed like a breeze brushing one's face, soft and powerless, drifting uncertainly as it descended toward some part of Song Qingshu's body.
Tianshan Tonglao's expression changed drastically. Back then, their master Xiaoyaozi had taken three disciples, and the three of them had been evenly matched in talent.
But Li Qiushui had been obsessed with romance, while Wuyazi had pursued too many varied interests. Only Tianshan