Chapter 2: Cold River Island

The next day, two young men dressed in luxurious garments appeared in Xuanzhou City, delighting in storytelling. Naturally, they were Liang Xi and Zhuang Yunzheng. Liang Xi had originally intended to enter Xuanzhou quietly, but after hearing Shui Linglong’s account, he was filled with boundless heroic spirit. If he had truly been unaware, he could have left it be, but now that he knew, he could not ignore it.

Upon entering Xuanzhou, Liang Xi first inquired about the best place in the city, and soon learned that it was the Wangjiang Pavilion. With that, he formulated his plan. Zhuang Yunzheng, knowing his junior brother had come up with another new idea, cooperated with him wholeheartedly.

Liang Xi gave all his yuan crystals to the boatman, but that didn’t mean he was penniless; he pawned a hairpin for a thousand yuan crystals, enough not only to buy clothing but also to rent out the entire Wangjiang Pavilion. Born to a wealthy family, such actions came naturally to him. Liang Xi, already handsome, looked even more refined and spirited in his splendid attire.

The Wangjiang Pavilion’s manager had never seen anyone so generous—nine hundred yuan crystals to rent out the whole place, forgoing regular business. Only a fool would refuse. Yet the manager never imagined the young man would spend such a sum just to tell stories. Liang Xi had a notorious habit: he either did nothing, or, if he acted, he made a grand spectacle of it.

The tales told were, of course, Shui Linglong’s story, though the protagonist’s name was changed. Liang Xi’s eloquence was exceptional, making Wangjiang Pavilion bustling with people every day.

No one expected to hear such infuriating stories in Xuanzhou. Most of the audience were noblewomen and ladies of prestige, who felt the tale deeply, spreading it widely after returning home. This was precisely the result Liang Xi sought.

He wanted to see how the disciples of Cold River Island would react once they learned of these events. Several days passed, and Cold River Island’s disciples made no move. Liang Xi remained unfazed, thinking he had plenty of time now that he was in the city; if they didn’t come today, they would surely come in future.

In those days, Liang Xi made Shui Linglong’s story even more moving, embellishing many details. Dining and drinking were forgotten; the foremost activity was to listen to stories at Wangjiang Pavilion. Now, everyone knew the story referred to a certain island master of Cold River Island.

Cold River Island, already notorious, became a target of public scorn thanks to Liang Xi’s veiled criticisms. The island’s disciples stayed indoors, hoping this would resolve matters, but rumors only grew more outrageous: accusations of betrayal, thievery, every misdeed was attributed to Cold River Island. Why had the island’s people not responded or explained? The silence only fueled the gossip.

“Junior brother, is this method really effective? Why don’t we just storm in and seize Wan Ruyu, hand him directly to Miss Linglong? Wouldn’t that be simpler?” Zhuang Yunzheng was not unintelligent—quite the opposite. Both were clever, but Zhuang Yunzheng preferred straightforward action. Their master, Qi Ying, had seen this and thus passed him the Heavenly Scroll of the Cloud Atlas.

Liang Xi, knowing his senior’s temperament, smiled, “A wise man has his own strategy. From now on, we brothers shall eat, sleep, and play at Wangjiang Pavilion. Sometimes, fishing requires patience—doing nothing may yield unexpected rewards!” Zhuang Yunzheng found this agreeable. “Manager, your Wangjiang Pavilion’s river delicacies are said to be the best in Xuanzhou. From today, prepare a few dishes for me daily.”

“If I’m satisfied, there’ll be generous tips!” The manager initially thought the two youths were boasting, using Wangjiang Pavilion as a storytelling venue—what a waste.

Yet half a day later, the situation changed. Wangjiang Pavilion had always had decent business, but its prices were high due to its prime location. Now, as a storytelling venue, everyone could enter for a mere ten yuan crystals per person, and every day it was packed. The manager no longer dared underestimate Liang Xi and his companion.

Now, hearing that this benefactor planned to stop the storytelling, the manager was most reluctant. But offending him was out of the question, leaving him in a most uncomfortable predicament.

“You’re really stingy, manager! I’ve told stories for ten days straight and now wish to rest, and you object? Let’s see… Your Wangjiang Pavilion, located by Shi Ji, ten yuan crystals per person, at least a hundred patrons daily, thousands of yuan crystals per day, tens of thousands in ten days. I gifted you this fortune merely because I liked you. What, are you so greedy as to want this forever?”

“If you look so displeased, I’ll leave. Xuanzhou is vast; surely there’s another place for me. Wangjiang Pavilion may be famous, but it’s not truly Xuanzhou’s best. Senior brother, when I was young, I visited the Feiyan Hall with my parents. Let’s go there instead—I won’t tolerate this attitude. Forgive me, brother.”

Liang Yunsi had told Liang Xi that, in business, retreating at the right time was sometimes better than pressing forward. One must let the other party know who is master and who is servant; never let the order be reversed.

The manager had hoped to control Liang Xi and Zhuang Yunzheng, believing they would eventually need his help, but now Liang Xi threatened to go to Feiyan Hall. Impossible! He had always been at odds with Drunken Feiyan, the manager there. This benefactor seemed acquainted with him. For years, Wangjiang Pavilion was suppressed by Feiyan Hall; now, finally, there was a chance to shine—he could not let these two leave. Greedy and ruthless, the manager thought all yuan crystals belonged to him. If they wanted to leave, he would first deceive them, then force them to serve him!

“In the end, even if Drunken Feiyan finds out, it’ll be too late.” Of course, Liang Xi didn’t truly intend to leave. Though Feiyan Hall was good, he did not wish to disturb his family’s old friends. Moreover, the manager’s shifting expression suggested murderous intent. “Senior brother, I fear this manager cannot be allowed to stay. If he were merely greedy, he could be understood, but I used the Falling Star technique to observe—he is ruthless and has harmed many lives.”

“Father said, if yuan crystals choose you, it’s your good fortune. If you lack fortune and try to forcibly keep them, disaster will surely follow. Only a righteous heart can withstand the adverse effects yuan crystals bring.”

“I’ve disliked him for a long time. Removing him would be a blessing for Xuanzhou.” The manager, in tears, tried desperately to prevent the two from leaving. “Enough! A grown man, crying—how disgraceful. I won’t leave. Now get out and prepare two top-tier rooms for us, spotless. If I find a single speck of dust, hmm…”

Seeing the two willing to stay, the manager was delighted. He had no intention of showing them any real respect. They seemed formidable, but here in Xuanzhou, surely they would need his help in time. He underestimated them: perhaps the tall one had martial skill, but the refined gentleman surely could not. If he did, it would be the world’s greatest joke.

But he was wrong. Zhuang Yunzheng was resilient, mastering Golden Body Defense. As for Liang Xi, far from being pampered, he relished adventure and hardship; otherwise, how could he have cultivated the Cloud Atlas to its third chapter in just ten years?

Only one of great wisdom and courage could achieve such a feat. Besides, who was Qi Ying? If Liang Xi were morally corrupt, he would have been killed long ago instead of being taught the supreme heart technique. Moon-cold energy was deadly—if one’s heart was impure, it would backfire fiercely.

The three had already made up their minds: tonight, they would eliminate the manager! The top-tier rooms at Wangjiang Pavilion were elegantly furnished, with views of the vast Cloud River, lifting the spirits of the two.

“What a beautiful place—such a shame the manager is so vile. Senior brother, if my guess is correct, tonight he’ll make his move against us. Did you notice? He seems cunning, but is actually a martial arts master.”

“Indeed. His breathing is deep, and faint traces of light flicker in his palms. He must practice a refined palm technique, though I can’t see which heart method he uses.”

Zhuang Yunzheng had a natural talent for palm techniques; the prospect of facing such an opponent excited him. “Now that we know his intentions, let’s wait quietly for him. Isn’t this your fishing strategy?”

Late at night, the manager approached their rooms with remarkable stealth. He knew Wangjiang Pavilion inside out and could sense the breathing of Liang Xi and Zhuang Yunzheng. “Since you entered Yunzhou, the island master has been aware of you. He admires you both greatly. Your brief encounter with Shui Linglong outside Xuanzhou alerted him. He knows Shui Linglong’s abilities well, and was surprised you suffered no harm. Your presence at Wangjiang Pavilion was part of his plan. If things proceed as planned, your fate would be quite different!”

It turned out the manager was Wan Ruyu’s man, from Ying Island—one of Cold River Island’s four sub-islands. Wan Ruyu, though charismatic, was cold and ruthless. His affair with Shui Linglong was his greatest secret; if exposed, his years of planning would be ruined. His ultimate plan was simple: to destroy Cold River Island. He believed his intelligence and strength surpassed the head, Jiang Xuehan, but had always been suppressed.

He feigned friendship with Shui Linglong to acquire the supreme heart method “Mirrored Flower” of the Illusory Spirit Realm. He thought it would take years, but Shui Linglong proved easy to deceive. By spreading rumors, he left her defenseless; at last, Mirrored Flower was in his hands, and he began cultivation.

Now, he had fully mastered Mirrored Flower, but could not reveal his power yet. Unexpectedly, Shui Linglong, after all these years, remained relentless, trying to force him to leave Xuanzhou. Unable to do so herself, she had Liang Xi and Zhuang Yunzheng act for her. Thus, he sent his trusted subordinate—the manager, whose mastery of Wangjiang Palm was formidable.

Facing Liang Xi and Zhuang Yunzheng, he was confident. The manager struck gently—the first move of Wangjiang Palm, the first realm: No Thought. Wangjiang Palm was a heart method that harmed through the mind; its foundation lay in clarity of thought. But the manager, full of distractions, could never grasp its essence—he could only use it as a regular martial technique.

Satisfied with his strike, the manager said, “You two have suffered damage to your heart meridian. In Xuanzhou, only I can protect you. You chose Wangjiang Pavilion, now you cannot leave.”

“Senior brother, his palm technique is lacking—even his gaze is poor!” Suddenly, Liang Xi’s laughter sounded behind the manager. The manager reacted swiftly, countering with another No Thought strike.

Bang! Zhuang Yunzheng employed Wind Through Nine Heavens steps, countering with Clear Wind Jade Dew from his Sun and Moon Harmony Palm. Instantly, the manager’s body shuddered, knocked to the ground, his eyes filled with shock.

Finger touches water, sending ripples and hidden currents—that was the essence of Clear Wind Jade Dew. “My senior brother may lack other skills, but his palm technique is decent. Manager, surely you have other moves—show them now. My brother and I share your view: ruthless, venomous people like you cannot remain!”

Liang Xi refrained from acting, as agreed beforehand with his senior brother. “Hmph, you want to kill me? Not so easy!” The manager, inherently vicious, changed his palm technique to something far more aggressive. Not only his technique, his whole aura transformed, exuding fierce energy! The move seemed ordinary, but Zhuang Yunzheng sensed its power—he felt a surge of dominance.

“Junior brother, stand back. Since mastering the first seven moves of Sun and Moon Harmony Palm, I’ve lacked a worthy opponent—today is a good opportunity!”

“Fine, I’ll watch closely. Senior brother, don’t lose to such a repulsive creature!” Zhuang Yunzheng didn't reply; mist began to fill the room, signaling the use of Wind Through Nine Heavens steps—a dreamlike, elusive movement, enveloping all in mist.

“Hmph, mere mist. Boy, do you know Wangjiang Palm was created beside the Cloud River? This situation favors me.” The manager unleashed another move; the surrounding mist moved with his palm, continuous and unending. Bang, bang, bang—amidst the illusion, Zhuang Yunzheng and the manager exchanged three palms. Clear Wind Jade Dew and Endless Flow, in essence, both harmed through internal energy.

Both grunted, but neither gave up. Determined not to let the other live, they exchanged several more moves. Zhuang Yunzheng realized that continued use of Clear Wind Jade Dew would leave him seriously injured, so he changed his technique. A burst of cold pierced the manager’s body, and the mist transformed into icy air.

“Senior brother, what a splendid Proud Ice Dance!” Zhuang Yunzheng was more adept at this move. Once unleashed, it was dazzling—streams of cold palm shadows battered the manager. Unaccustomed to martial arts, he was stunned by such beautiful technique, momentarily forgetting to defend. Bang! Zhuang Yunzheng struck him, sending the fat manager crashing into the wall, spitting blood. Realizing he could not defeat the pair, his only option was escape.

“Your palm technique is formidable; I’m no match!” The manager leapt out the window to flee. Zhuang Yunzheng, knowing not to pursue a desperate enemy, refrained—this was Xuanzhou, after all, and a chase would cause too much commotion. “The manager is indeed formidable; taking several of my palms and surviving—Cold River Island is impressive!”

“Indeed, Miss Linglong said so: Wan Ruyu of Cold River Island is skilled in Wangjiang Palm. Our purpose is achieved—tomorrow, Cold River Island will surely send someone. Pity: Wangjiang Palm must be a powerful technique, yet the manager only grasped its basics and could still manage so much. Imagine how powerful Wan Ruyu must be!”

“That’s not important. Let’s see how Cold River Island responds tomorrow. Today’s battle taught me that, if I perfect Sun and Moon Palm, I can challenge any master in the world!” At that moment, Zhuang Yunzheng’s spirit soared.

“Right, right, senior brother—your palm technique is unmatched. I’m truly delighted.” Liang Xi knew Sun and Moon Harmony Palm was formidable. Now, he only wished to sleep.

“Have you heard? The two storytellers at Wangjiang Pavilion are actually skilled warriors. Last night, they fought Fat Yang—the manager—and he fled in defeat.”

“Hmph, even Fat Yang has met his match? Normally, he’s so arrogant, flaunting his Cold River Island status in Xuanzhou. Now he’s been taught a lesson—well deserved! I always suspected those storytellers weren’t ordinary, but I never expected them to subdue Fat Yang so easily!”

After just one night, the tale of Yun and Xi’s battle with Fat Yang was widespread. Meanwhile, Zhuang Yunzheng and Liang Xi slept soundly.

“Are Zhuang Yunzheng and Liang Xi present? By order of the island master, please come to Cold River Island.” At the door, a Cold River Island disciple spoke respectfully.

Yun and Xi awoke sharply, thinking, They arrived early. “Please wait, noble envoy; we’ll be right there!” Soon, the brothers strode out. The Cold River Island disciple, previously puzzled at what kind of people could warrant the island master’s attention, now saw for himself: truly outstanding men. Zhuang Yunzheng’s aura was restrained, obviously practicing pure yang techniques; Liang Xi was graceful, embodying yin. The disciple had met many people, but never any that inspired such awe and warmth at first sight.

His tone became much more respectful. “Since you are ready, please follow me. The island master dislikes waiting; forgive us.”

Disciples of Cold River Island and Su Yi Tower alike possessed extraordinary bearing. The Cold River Island disciple led Yun and Xi to their exclusive dock. “Please board. Don’t worry—this time, there will be no storms. Shui Linglong’s illusions are powerful, but she cannot tamper with this waterway.” It was again a small boat, but unlike before, there was a dedicated water route from Xuanzhou to Cold River Island.

Only the three of them aboard. Once seated, the boat moved by itself—no, it was propelled by the water. “You find this wondrous, as expected. In Xuanzhou, only the island master can move boats with the power of water; none other. Once on Cold River Island, remember: never mention Su Yi Tower. Cold River Island and Su Yi Tower have been rivals for a century, opposites like water and fire. Cold River Island is water; Su Yi Tower, though named elegantly, is based on fire.”

Yun and Xi understood not to speak carelessly. The disciple continued, “Yesterday you surely fought Fat Yang—the manager. He was never fit for martial arts, but the island master taught him Wangjiang Palm as a favor for managing Wangjiang Pavilion well. Unfortunately, he was too distracted; after years of practice, he remains stuck at the second realm: Fearless.”

“You’re curious about this water-powered boat? It’s the result of mastering Wangjiang Palm to its peak. Since the island master values you two, you’ll surely become pillars of Cold River Island!”

Mastering Wangjiang Palm to the utmost allows one to command boats from afar? Yun and Xi were astonished. They had suspected the palm technique was formidable, but never imagined it could achieve such marvels. “The island master possesses supernatural skill. We disciples must train diligently to earn his praise!” This disciple was deeply devoted to the island master—in fact, all Cold River Island disciples regarded him as omnipotent.

Soon, mountains appeared before Yun and Xi. “Ahead are the endless mountains of Cold River Island, all crafted by the island master’s great powers!”

The boat drew closer. Liang Xi finally saw Cold River Island clearly: aside from the main island, there were four sub-islands, connected by water paths. The water chain leading from the sub-islands to the main island was the broadest, resembling a giant hand laid across the Cloud River, with the longest, widest chain symbolizing inheritance.

“We’ve arrived. Please follow me.” At the dock, the disciple went ashore first. Along both banks, other Cold River Island disciples had gathered, eager to see today’s guests. Liang Xi’s noble demeanor amazed them—when had Xuanzhou produced such talent? If such a man became their disciple, how could Su Yi Tower be so arrogant?

Zhuang Yunzheng, meanwhile, radiated an impressive aura. He knew the place was dangerous, and so activated Golden Body Defense from the moment he stepped ashore—like a tiger lurking in the mountains, unmoving until it struck.

The accompanying disciple said nothing, turning left from the dock and entering the broad water chain to the main island. The water chain was not still but flowing, yet walking upon it felt as firm as land—a remarkable sight.

Entry to Cold River Island’s main island was restricted to main island disciples or those with the island master’s permission. Sub-island disciples could not enter the main chain; doing so meant certain death.

All the water chains were forged by the island master’s Wangjiang Palm, so he knew exactly who traversed them. On either side stretched the endless Cloud River; nearby, thunderous roaring could be heard—the mark of entering the main island. The Cold River Waterfall, under clear skies, filled the air with mist. The mountain seemed split in two by supernatural power, dividing the river flow. The waterfall was formed by the two streams colliding, producing the deafening sound.

Beyond the waterfall, the view opened up: strange rocks, mountain and water, misty corridors—an idyllic landscape. Xuanzhou lay north of Qingyang County, yet here the scenery resembled Yunzhou, stirring homesickness in Yun and Xi. The disciple finally spoke, “The island master is from Yunzhou, though he left young. Though now somewhat famous, he’s never returned.”

“To ease his longing, he made Cold River Island resemble his homeland.” Liang Xi and Zhuang Yunzheng felt a fondness for the unseen island master—those who cherish the past are often loyal in heart. Main island disciples could play and roam here. Ahead was the core, the Suyun Hall, named for longing for Yunzhou.

“Island master, Liang Xi and Zhuang Yunzheng have arrived.” Entering Suyun Hall, the atmosphere changed. Four men sat on either side, with the island master in the center.

“Well done. You’ve worked hard; go rest.” The island master addressed his disciple.

“My apologies for summoning you so directly. I am Jiang Xuehan, the island master. Let me introduce everyone. On the left, the chief is Yao Qianshui, master of Liang Island.” Yun and Xi saw Yao Qianshui’s sharp gaze; though dressed plainly, he exuded sword energy. Yao Qianshui, eyes closed, suddenly spoke: “Did you two recently visit the Ten Thousand Sword Temple in Tianyun, receiving the ‘Sword Qi as One’ and Sun and Moon Harmony Palm?”

“My old friend, Shang Ruyi—how is he? I haven’t seen him in years. To meet his two disciples brings me great joy. You probably don’t know: the elder who taught you ‘Sword Qi as One’ and the palm technique was Shang Ruyi. After so many years, he remains so calm. He was once unparalleled in sword and palm—how did he become so mild?”

“Senior, Ten Thousand Sword Temple vanished after we left.” Even after a year, it felt as fresh as yesterday.

“What? He finally chose that path. Island master, hearing my old friend is gone, I’ll leave for now. Call me if you need anything.” Yao Qianshui strode away.

“Qianshui and Shang Ruyi were friends for many years; his reaction is natural. You two needn’t worry about these matters for now. Since you inherited Shang Ruyi’s legacy, your victory yesterday was expected.”

“The second is Wan Ruyu, master of Ying Island. He practices martial arts but loves reading most, earning the nickname ‘Bookworm.’ Last night’s Fat Yang is his disciple. Wan, you caught Fat Yang before—bring him up now. His fate can be decided later.”

Wan Ruyu? Wasn’t he the one who hurt Miss Shui Linglong? He appeared handsome, dressed in blue, with an air of transcendence.

“Don’t worry, senior brother. For such a beast in my ranks, I won’t let him off. Bring him up!” Soon, Yun and Xi saw Fat Yang escorted in, unchained but unable to escape.

Seeing Yun and Xi, Fat Yang’s face changed drastically, then turned furious, eyes blazing. But with his elders present, he dared not act. If they were alone, another fight would surely ensue.

Had Yun and Xi not known the truth about Wan Ruyu and Shui Linglong, Wan Ruyu would have left a good impression. Alas, they knew his true nature—but would anyone believe them now? Of course not.

“My disciple offended you yesterday; his punishment will be decided by you. As his master, I have no objection.”

On the right, the chief was an old man with white hair, surrounded by the power of wind. “I am Feng Mengchen.” Master of Cui Island, he was always succinct.

“You carry a trace of cold yin energy, which suits me. I am Lin Guang. You can visit me on Lin Island; I am often lonely, since no one else likes to visit.”

“Now you know all the Cold River Island masters. I invited you here hoping you would become disciples of Cold River Island. You saw Shang Ruyi’s connection with us—his heirs should be cared for here.”

“I know you caused a stir in Xuanzhou with many rumors—your handiwork. But you are young and don’t understand everything. Shui Linglong killed many of my disciples in the past, with ruthless methods. Did you know Wan values emotion most? Yet he was hurt by a woman like Shui Linglong. As his senior, I couldn’t stand by.”

“Of course, you won’t believe me now. So, stay on Cold River Island for a time. Observe Wan for yourselves—see his true nature. Yunzheng, your worries are unnecessary. Extreme yin becomes yang; Cold River Island attacks with water, the world’s softest and hardest element!”

“As for Fat Yang, he ruined our reputation. Such a person is useless here. From today, strip him of his cultivation and expel him from Cold River Island!”

Fat Yang, having made many enemies, would not survive without the island’s protection. But he knew: once the island master decided, nothing could change it. Since he’d acted, he must accept the consequence.

“Are you satisfied with this punishment? To be frank, I received a letter from my old friend Gu Chuan a few days ago, full of praise for you two. His Yaksha Gate is now Tianyun’s first; I thank you for that. All these ties show you are destined for Cold River Island, so you should be my disciples. Otherwise, when I see Gu Chuan, I couldn’t explain myself.”

That suited them; even without Shui Linglong, the brothers had come to Xuanzhou to train. “Thank you, island master. But which of the four sub-islands should we go to?”

“Hahaha! Here on Cold River Island, only I, Jiang Xuehan, am qualified to teach you. All four sub-island arts were passed down by me. Do you understand now?”