Set against a wuxia backdrop, this novel builds a vast and turbulent jianghu, a world teeming with heroes. The story begins after the Liao emperor retreats from Yanmen Pass. Xuzhu lives in seclusion at Lingjiu Palace, mastering the Xiaoyao Sect’s inner arts and the Beiming Divine Skill. In his later years, he writes Notes on Chan Dreams to pass his knowledge down to posterity. Huang Yaoshi, whose original name was Huang Gongxuan, comes to be known as the “Eccentric Hero.” A peerless martial artist who founds his own school, he earns the title “Eastern Heretic.” Duan Zhixing, grandson of Duan Yu, masters the One Yang Finger and shakes the lands south of the heavens, earning the title “Southern Emperor.”
Meanwhile, the Beggars’ Guild rises in prestige thanks to the Eighteen Dragon-Subduing Palms. Its young leader, Hong Qigong, becomes famous for championing justice and earns the title “Northern Beggar.” Ouyang Feng of White Camel Mountain in the Western Regions reigns supreme in the martial world with his Toad Skill, and is known as “Western Venom.” Wang Chongyang, founder of the Quanzhen Sect, invites four great masters to Mount Hua for a contest of martial arts. He wins the Nine Yin Manual and becomes the greatest fighter under heaven.
The novel also weaves in the rise and fall of the Ming Cult, the legendary swordsmanship of Dugu Qiubai, and Wu Song’s Red Leaf Saber technique. As Yue Fei fights the Jin, he creates the Yue Family Unarmed Techniques and writes The Martial Mu Testament, leaving a lasting influence. The love and hatred between Wang Chongyang and Lin Chaoying, along with the legend of the Wine-Fighting Monk writing the Nine Yang Manual, add rich cultural depth and emotional color to the story.
This novel not only showcases superb martial arts and battles of wit, but also delves deeply into the tangled relationships and shifting destinies of its characters. It is a fine work that brings together wuxia, romance, and history.
Caught me at once
This book is very good, well written
It's so messed up that I can't understand it.