act23side

The deed is still not done?

There was some serious kung fu on both sides, so we had no chance to strike.

Leave that young Candleholder to his own devices, he won't affect our plans.

But the woman from Lungmen was never accounted for, and she's still after us.

What a pain.

We'll keep an eye on things, and make a move when the time is right.

No, after these two clashes, the mandarins will definitely be on alert, so we have to be more cautious.

I can let the woman live for another two days, but our organization can leave no clues.

Right... Then what do we do now?

Just wait. It won't be long before he gives us fresh orders.

'The mounts, seas, and all in between shall be our master's.'

They've stolen the land without even knowing it... the people will pay for their arrogance.

Soon.

And who might you be waiting for?

Attempted assassination of a court official and disturbing the people's peace. Your conduct befouls the laws of Great Yan. It's like they mean nothing to you.

You have two options.

Lay down your arms and come with me. Or I bring you in.

You were followed.

It's the same man from before.

He turned the tables on you. Considering his skill, it's no surprise you couldn't do anything about it.

But in the end, it was still you who led this man here, do you understand?

Yes.

Good. Now, we'll get rid of him first, and then decide how to deal with you.

You dare?!

Late as it is, you're still awake?

We must be vigilant, lest something like yesterday's incident happen again.

Surely the Grandmaster has not invited me out so late to enjoy the scenery?

It's auspicious for Lord Wei to stand here with us at such a crucial moment. Indeed, it would have been best to take a stroll through the city of Yumen and enjoy its scenery.

The Lord Exorcist's decision naturally comes after careful consideration.

Perhaps this is not for me to say, but the Lord Exorcist's responsibilities reach far beyond the safety and security of Yumen.

The consequences of just one mishap are grave enough that the word 'trust' no longer carries much weight.

Indeed, it is so. General Zuo and I have worked together for decades, without relying on 'trust'.

I hope you understand.

Have I ever expressed any dissatisfaction?

Speaking of which, we have yet to properly catch up on each other's affairs.

The last time I came to Yumen was five years ago, and the time before that was ten, but both were hectic visits.

And our last meeting, let me think... we were in the capital.

Yes, the year you left the capital, I had happened to be there to report on my work.

I didn't expect you to remember something from so long ago.

Do you not remember it, Lord Wei?

I don't recall what year it was, exactly, but my memories tell me it was also spring then.

Late spring. A little later than the current season.

That's it.

At the time, you still wielded a sword... And you were not yet called 'Wei.'

There was much scenery to enjoy, and plenty of kung fu spectacles too. I have lived for so long, there are not many who leave a true impression.

But even now, as I evaluate the various styles of kung fu, I still think about Chi Xiao's ultimate move.

I'm honored to win such a praise from the Grandmaster of kung fu.

That night seemed like it was set to rain, the weather stifling, the clouds looming low.

I was on the keep, and far away, but even then I saw a light in the direction of the posthouse.

The sky abruptly broke with the chill of a sword. A sharp and decisive style of swordsmanship.

'As sword of stratus rent, once stood stand fast.'

Afterwards, Lord Wei must have left the city. In the end, the rain did not fall.

It was a very long time ago.

But I wonder why you're bringing this up?

The tower stands high, the two men's clothes rustle in the breeze.

Even though it is a windless night.

As far as the eye can see, Yumen's sentries and buildings stretch on without end. Only through the wind on the highest of points can one clearly perceive that the city is moving at a high speed.

There is treachery in the court, and minds can be unpredictable. Surely, no one understands this better than you.

But I also believe that whose mind is consumed by ambition and cunning could never wield that style of swordsmanship.

There is a matter that I would like you to help with.

I dare not refuse a request from the Grandmaster himself.

I would ask you to trust Yumen, just this once.

You and the Lord Exorcist are alike, shouldering the peace of Yan. There are many matters of concern... but in the end, Yumen is unlike Lungmen.

Yumen was built on strength of arms, and most of the people here practice kung fu. These people have great passion, but lack strategic thinking.

Regardless, everyone here acts for the country and its people, and there is nothing wrong with hating evil as an enemy.

I only fear that simple-minded people will be manipulated without their knowing.

General Zuo has agreed to a time limit of three days. Within these three days, you will get your answer.

Until then, I hope you will set your grievances with the Lord Exorcist aside, and stay your hand.

A guest must comply with his host, and the Lord Exorcist has asked me to wait in these barracks at ease. I simply wished to share his burden, but there is really nothing I can do.

I recall, that Envoy Lin of Lungmen from a few days past is indeed shrewd and capable, solving several cases cleanly in just a few days' work.

I imagine there must be several talents like her in your employ.

...You might be overthinking the situation.

Whether the Grand Tutor, the Lord Exorcist, or Wei Yenwu, every move is calculated for the safety of the people and prosperity of the country.

There should be no conflict between us.

But looking back over the few millennia... there have been those who shared a goal, but a number of them inevitably break and even turn against each other, yes?

Indeed, you are most qualified to speak of this.

Very well, for your sake... I will agree to your request.

You have my thanks, Lord Wei.

The night is no longer young, I suggest you retire.

Oh, but... there is another thing, I think I have yet to mention.

'Cloud-splitting sword' is not actually Chi Xiao's ultimate move.

(repressed gasping)

Now, you still hold the option to surrender. Choose that option, or you will never stand again.

(Anguished groaning)

Right now it is merely at your waist, move again and the dirt will bury you up to your shoulders.

Three more of you lie in hiding in the alley on the left, and two more in the eaves on the right.

Your actions were to draw out my weakness and create an opportunity for an ambush.

But you will not get such a chance.

I admit, I've underestimated your strength.

It's rare... for one to be proficient in both kung fu and Originium Arts.

You are unworthy to comment on my kung fu.

...Hmph.

Yesterday, Envoy Lin of the L.G.D. fended off an attack while returning to the city, and was followed today with errant intent. Earlier, a Sui Regulator Candleholder met with an assassin in the city center, these acts were most probably all your doing, correct?

To intercept and kill a Catastrophe Messenger, to steal Catastrophe data, just what are the Shanhaizhong planning in Yumen?

Who exactly is behind you?

You'd better check who's behind you first!

What—

Thank... thank you very much for saving my life...

I'm sorry for all that.

You shouldn't be wasting your time here.