Chapter 104: The Rising Wind

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Under the scorching summer sky, the seemingly tranquil martial world always harbors subtle ripples beneath its calm surface. Recently, the widely circulated rumors about the Grandmaster have mysteriously transformed into something quite different, though no one knows exactly when this change occurred.

In inns and taverns scattered across the martial world, where news and intelligence are exchanged, conversations buzzed.

“Hey, have you heard? One of the three legendary treasure maps has already been snatched up.”

“Really? I always thought those stories were just tall tales. Is it true?”

“Of course! Why would I lie about this?”

“Oh? Then tell me, what’s the meaning of this? Even without mentioning the other two treasure maps that remain missing, the one that was taken must belong to someone of considerable status, right?”

“Hmph, it’s true the other two remain lost, but you’ve got it wrong about the one that was taken.”

“What do you mean?”

“The person who got hold of the treasure map has no background or status whatsoever. Their martial skills are mediocre at best. It was purely luck—the treasure map practically fell into their lap.

Now, I’ve already uncovered this person’s identity and current whereabouts. Brother, my rise to sect leader is just around the corner. Rest assured, once I soar to the top, I won’t forget you.”

“What? You’ve investigated thoroughly? Tell me, who is this person? Given our friendship, I can lend you a hand.”

“Come on, if this plan really succeeds, we can’t exactly split the spoils evenly. But since we’re brothers, I’ll tell you what I know about this person. As for the treasure itself, that depends on each of our fates.”

“Loyal to a fault! Hurry up and tell me. If I’m lucky enough to find it, I’ll never forget you.”

“Well... it’s easy to say, but I spent quite a bit gathering this information.”

“Hah, no problem. Here’s ten taels of silver. Keep it safe. If things develop, there’ll be a generous reward waiting.”

“Alright. That person’s name is...”

Scenes like this repeated endlessly throughout the martial world...

Elsewhere, at the foot of Mount Song.

“Senior brother, look— is that person lying there alone?”

“Huh? What kind of question is that? It’s obviously a single person. Why are you just standing there? Hurry, help him!”

Three days later, the rescued man awoke in a secluded courtyard of the Mount Song sect.

“Thank you, great heroes of Mount Song, for saving my life. I have no way to repay this debt. Please accept my deepest bow.”

The man, wrapped in bandages, struggled to rise, attempting to kowtow in gratitude.

“Brother, please rise. Your wounds are not yet healed; there’s no need for such formality.”

“Thank you for your rescue, honorable heroes.”

“Saving lives is the duty of righteous people. Don’t burden yourself. But I have one question—may I ask you to clarify something?”

“Please, speak. I will answer truthfully.”

“There’s no other reason, but although you seem physically strong, you have no martial arts skill. Why do you bear so many wounds from blades, swords, and strange weapons?”

“Alright, I’ll be straightforward. I’m a tomb raider—one of the three infamous tomb raiders whose exploits have been the talk of the martial world lately.

After obtaining the treasure map, I thought my time to bring glory to my family had come. But I never imagined this was just the beginning of my nightmare.

Someone leaked the news that we had the treasure map. Since then, I’ve been relentlessly pursued. If not for the timely help of the Mount Song heroes a few days ago, I would have died long ago.”

Hearing his story, the visiting disciples of Mount Song exchanged glances. Then one stepped forward, speaking softly.

“Brother, so you are one of those notorious tomb raiders... Fate has brought us together. Judging by your current state, the treasure map in your possession has already been taken from you?

Our Mount Song sect despises such acts. Tell us who took your treasure map. We will stand up for you.”

“Sir, you flatter me. Though I have no martial skill, I’m no fool. The treasure map has long been hidden in a place only I know.”

“Ah? That’s... good, very good.”

“May I ask if Mount Song has any interest in this treasure map? To repay your kindness in saving my life, I am willing to offer it with both hands.”

“That would be improper. After all, you risked your life to obtain it. Mount Song helps without expecting anything in return.”

“I naturally trust the virtues of the Mount Song heroes. But I am truly terrified of those pursuing me. I’ve been wandering for some time now, my gold and silver nearly depleted.

To be honest, I offer this treasure map not merely out of gratitude, but to end the relentless chase. And if I could gain a little silver as well, that would be even better.”

At these words, the disciples exchanged glances, their eyes shining with delight.

“Brother, we understand your plight and wish to help. But this matter is not ours to decide. Please rest for a few more days while we report to our elders for a decision.”

“Very well. Thank you all, heroes.”

“You’re welcome...”

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At the same time, beyond the martial world, the Khitan royal court.

“Is it true? You say you want to offer the Grandmaster’s treasure map?”

“Your Majesty, it is indeed me.”

“You’re a subject of the Jing dynasty, yet you offer treasure not to your own emperor, but to me? Speak—do you harbor some hidden scheme?”

Yelü Hongji toyed with the treasure map in his hands, then suddenly slammed the table, tossing the map to the floor.

“Your Majesty, you misunderstand. I come sincerely to pledge allegiance.”

“Hah! Do you think I would believe you? Tell me one reason why I shouldn’t kill you.”

“Well... since I obtained this treasure map, I have been constantly pursued. I’ve had enough of this life.

Originally, I planned to present the map to the Jing emperor, but Your Majesty must have heard the rumors about the Jing court. Even if I offered it, who knows if it would reach the emperor’s hands? And even if it did, I wouldn’t be the one to gain the reward.

I come here not for any other reason but to seek a future, to strive for glory and wealth.”

After saying this, Yelü Hongji narrowed his eyes, staring long and hard at the man offering the treasure. Suddenly, his expression shifted, and he laughed heartily.

“Good! The Khitan have always rewarded merit and punished faults. Your idea is sound. The Jing dynasty is old and decayed; only we Khitan can offer hope!”

“Your Majesty is wise. What you say is exactly what I think. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have traveled so far to seek your favor.”

“Very well, I have one more question. How can you prove this treasure map is genuine?”

“Well...”

“No need for excuses. I will assign you a troop and give you three months. If the treasure you speak of does not appear before me, think about what will happen to you.”

“Thank you for your trust, Your Majesty. I will not fail your expectations.”

The man knelt in gratitude, his face alight with ecstatic joy. This gleam was more genuine than gold itself. He had never imagined this mission would bring unexpected fortune, bringing him one step closer to becoming a commander in the Western Depot!

Daily Novella House

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