The memories of all humanity are awakening, except for mine.

A burst of scorching flame shot out from the tip of the sword, instantly engulfing the Frost Jade Bear King.

However, the monster was clearly immune to fire. It let out an angry roar, and the cold air emanating from its body became even stronger.

"This monster is stronger than I imagined." Jiang Chuan thought to himself, "I must be careful!"

Just as Jiang Chuan was locked in fierce combat with the Jade Bear King, Qing Tian and the mercenaries finally found a temporarily safe place. Jiang Wei's condition was extremely dire; an ice spike was embedded in his chest, and his breathing was weak.

"We have to find a way to save him," Qingtian said anxiously. "We can't abandon him!"

“But…” one of the mercenaries said, “now is not the time to discuss this! We need to figure out how to get out of here first!”

Just then, a violent explosion came from afar. Looking up, Qing Tian saw that the battle between Jiang Chuan and the Cold Jade Bear King had entered a fierce stage.

"That young man..." she murmured to herself, "Why did he help us?"

Jiang Chuan had already used various Five Elements Sword Qi attacks on the Frost Jade Bear King, but the effect was not obvious. He knew he had to find the beast's weakness.

"Five Elements Sword Qi - Water!"

He channeled his water-attribute true energy, condensing a stream of water on the sword's edge. The water sliced ​​through the air like a knife, striking the Frost Jade Bear King precisely in the eye.

"what!"

The Jade Bear King let out a painful howl, its massive body swaying slightly. Jiang Chuan seized the opportunity, quickly retreating to create distance.

"Five Elements Sword Qi - Earth!"

He channeled his earth-attribute true energy, conjuring an earthen wall on the ground. The Jade Bear King's attack was blocked by the earthen wall, but it was clearly enraged to the extreme.

"It's over," Jiang Chuan muttered to himself. "Let me see... just how strong you really are!"

Meanwhile, at a safe location not far away, Qing Tian and the mercenaries were anxiously awaiting the outcome of the battle.

As time went on, Jiang Chuan gradually adapted to the Cold Jade Bear King's attack rhythm. His Five Elements Sword Qi became more and more proficient, and his understanding of the five attributes—metal, wood, water, fire, and earth—became more and more profound.

"Five Elements Sword Qi - Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth!"

He suddenly unleashed all the Five Elements Sword Qi, condensing a dazzling light at the tip of his sword. This strike contained the essence of the Five Elements power, instantly knocking the Jade Bear King back several steps.

"The Five Elements unite!" Jiang Chuan shouted, "Die!"

After letting out a final, mournful roar, the Jade Bear King collapsed to the ground. Its body was covered with wounds of all sizes, clearly indicating that it had been completely defeated by the Five Elements Unity Strike.

Jiang Chuan stood there, panting heavily: "It's finally over."

The moment the Jade Bear King crashed to the ground, Qing Tian and the mercenaries were all stunned.

They couldn't believe their eyes—this young man in black robes had actually defeated the peak second-tier Frost Jade Bear King! Qian Feng and Jiang Wei exchanged a glance, their eyes filled with shock and admiration.

"Thank you for saving me, Brother Jiang!" Qian Feng was the first to rush forward and bow to Jiang Chuan.

Jiang Chuan waved his hand, his tone indifferent: "It was nothing."

Qingtian quickly walked to Jiang Chuan's side and carefully examined his injured hand: "Your hand is injured, let me treat it for you."

Jiang Chuan paused for a moment, then gave a wry smile: "This little injury is nothing."

"No!" Qingtian said angrily, "You helped me save all of us, I should at least do something for you."

Jiang Chuan nodded helplessly. Qing Tian took out a bottle of wound ointment from the medicine box and gently applied it to his wound.

Her fingers were delicate and warm. As Jiang Chuan gazed at her focused profile, a strange feeling arose in his heart.

"You... are amazing," Qing Tian said softly, her eyes filled with admiration.

Jiang Chuan shook his head: "I was just lucky."

“No…” Qingtian said seriously, “Your swordsmanship, your judgment, your courage… these are things that others cannot learn.”

Jiang Chuan smiled slightly: "Thank you for the compliment."

After treating the wound, Qingtian took the initiative to start a conversation with Jiangchuan.

She was curious about Jiang Chuan's identity and background, while Jiang Chuan also developed a strong interest in this strong yet gentle alchemist.

"Where are you from?" Qingtian asked.

“Heyang City,” Jiang Chuan replied. “I am from the Marquis of Heyang’s residence.”

"Oh..." Qingtian seemed to be thinking, "Then what brings you here?"

“My master sent me to find the Heart of the Mysterious Serpent in Hidden Spirit Mountain,” Jiang Chuan said softly. “This is the task he entrusted to me before he passed away.”

"That sounds dangerous," Qingtian said with concern. "Isn't it too risky for you to come to Dushan alone?"

"No," Jiang Chuan said with a smile, "I'm already used to it."

"Then... why did you become a sword immortal?" Qing Tian suddenly asked.

Jiang Chuan paused for a moment: "Because I want to protect the people I care about."

After a moment of silence, Qing Tian said, "I... I hope to become a better alchemist. I want to use my abilities to help more people."

Jiang Chuan nodded: "You are very kind."

“You’re kind too,” Qingtian said with a smile. “If it weren’t for you, we might all be dead here.”

Just then, Jiang Wei suddenly let out a painful groan.

Qingtian immediately put down what she was doing and ran over to check on his injuries.

"How is it?" Qian Feng asked anxiously.

“His injuries are severe,” Qingtian said, frowning. “The ice picks have frostbitten his internal organs. If he doesn’t receive treatment soon…”

Jiang Chuan suddenly spoke up: "I can help you."

Qingtian was taken aback: "What do you mean?"

“I cultivate the Five Elements Sword Qi,” Jiang Chuan explained. “One of them, the fire attribute sword qi, can help dispel cold and heal injuries.”

"Really?" Qingtian's eyes lit up. "That's great!"

Jiang Chuan walked to Jiang Wei's side, circulated his fire-attribute true energy, and injected a warm energy into his body. Jiang Wei's complexion gradually improved, and his pained expression eased considerably.

"Thank you!" Qian Feng said gratefully.

Jiang Chuan shook his head: "No need to thank me. The most important thing is that you survived."

That evening, everyone sat around the campfire. Qian Feng and Xiao Fei roasted the Cold Jade Bear King's paws until they sizzled, filling the air with an enticing aroma.

Despite his serious injuries, Jiang Wei insisted on eating meat and drinking alcohol.

"Jiang Wei!" Qing Tian frowned. "You'll worsen your injuries like this!" "Miss!" Jiang Wei laughed heartily. "We're all江湖人 (jianghu people), why bother with so many formalities? Come... have a drink with me!"

Jiang Chuan couldn't help but smile: "Miss Qing, people in the martial world are naturally unrestrained. It's okay to indulge once in a while."

Qingtian glanced at Jiang Chuan with a hint of annoyance, and finally nodded in relenting: "Alright... but only a small cup!"

Jiang Wei laughed loudly and raised his wine bowl: "That's great! This is the true taste of the martial world!"

As the campfire gradually died down, Dushan Mountain appeared exceptionally tranquil in the night.

Jiang Chuan stood alone to one side, gazing at the starry sky, lost in thought. Qing Tian walked up to him and asked softly, "What are you thinking about?"

"I've been thinking..." Jiang Chuan said softly, "Why do people like us choose this kind of life?"

After a moment of silence, Qingtian said, "Perhaps it's because we all have a dream that can never be realized."

“You mean…” Jiang Chuan asked.

“For example…” Qingtian pointed to the stars in the sky, “I want to see the secrets behind those stars. But as an alchemist, I can’t stay away from the ground for too long.”

Jiang Chuan nodded: "I understand."

"And you?" Qingtian asked, "Why are you so determined to become a sword immortal?"

Jiang Chuan gazed into the distance: "Because I promised someone... I would fulfill his last wish no matter what."

The morning sunlight filtered through the leaves and dappled the mountain path of Dushan, adding a touch of life to this desolate place.

Jiang Chuan stood atop the mountain, gazing at the winding mountain road in the distance, a pang of reluctance rising in his heart. Last night, he had spent an unforgettable night with Qing Tian, ​​Jiang Wei, Qian Feng, and Xiao Fei.

Around the campfire, Jiang Wei, Qian Feng, and Xiao Fei released their grief for their fallen comrades over drinks. Their words were filled with longing for their departed companions and uncertainty about the future, but even more so with gratitude for Jiang Chuan.

Jiang Chuan silently practiced the "Great River Sword Intent" on the side, his sword energy drawing graceful arcs in the air.

While half-asleep, Qing Tian spoke with Jiang Chuan and learned that he had other purposes for going into the mountains and would not be coming down with them. Although she felt a little disappointed, she understood his choice.

"Be careful," Qingtian said softly. "The depths of Dushan are more dangerous than I imagined."

"I will," Jiang Chuan nodded. "Please give my regards to the people of Heyang City."

Qingtian nodded, a complex emotion in her eyes: "I hope we can meet again."

Meanwhile, the situation in Heyang City became increasingly complex.

The news of Mu Suifeng's entry into Hulao Pass puzzled both He Zongzheng and He Zongtang, who was far away in Handan. The general guarding Hulao Pass was a confidant of Prince Zhao Huan of Yan, and Mu Suifeng's trip was tantamount to walking into a trap.

However, King Zhao Huan of Yan was pleased by this, believing that Mu Suifeng would be at his mercy once he entered Handan.

In the Chamber of Commerce in Heyang City, Yu Youwei was playing the murderous "Ambush from Ten Sides".

There was an unsettling quality to her music, as if it foreshadowed an impending storm.

Mu Qingling was in a bad mood because of Jiang Chuan's departure.

She stood by the window, gazing at the distant street, her heart filled with longing and worry.

Mu Chen noticed that his sister was in low spirits, so he comforted her with humor and suggested that they go for a walk together.

"Let's go!" Mu Chen said with a smile, "I'll take you to try the new pastry from Furonglou—'Golden Wind and Jade Dew'!"

Mu Qingling was attracted by the pastries Mu Chen mentioned and readily agreed.

The sixth princess, Zhao Ling'er, also joined them.

On the streets of Heyang City, Mu Chen, Mu Qingling, and the Sixth Princess Zhao Ling'er were heading towards Furong Tower. The tower's new pastry, "Golden Wind and Jade Dew," was the talk of the town, and Mu Chen wanted to use this opportunity to cheer his sister up. However, they were unaware that a deadly attack was quietly approaching.

"Brother, do you think that 'Golden Wind and Jade Dew' is really that delicious?" Mu Qingling asked softly, a hint of anticipation in her eyes.

Mu Chen smiled and nodded: "I heard it melts in your mouth, is sweet but not cloying, and even the imperial chefs in the palace praise it highly."

Sixth Princess Zhao Ling'er also smiled and said, "Qingling, you must try it later, don't let Mu Chen's good intentions go to waste."

As the three were chatting and laughing, Mu Chen suddenly felt a chill creep up from behind. He frowned, paused slightly, and whispered, "Be careful, someone's following us."

Upon hearing this, Mu Qingling and Zhao Ling'er immediately became alert. Although they were still young, as scions of noble families, they were already accustomed to this kind of undercurrent-filled atmosphere.

“Friend, now that you’re here, why hide?” Mu Chen turned around, his gaze sharp as he looked down into a small alley behind him.

From the depths of the alley, a dark figure slowly emerged. Dressed in black, holding a short sword that gleamed coldly, the man was none other than Huang Laoxie, the top assassin of the Blood Shadow Tower.

"Young Master Mu is indeed astute." Old Master Huang sneered, "Unfortunately, you are destined to die today."

Mu Chen remained calm and said indifferently, "Blood Shadow Tower assassins dare to act recklessly in Heyang City? It seems you're tired of living."

Without another word, Huang Yaoshi flashed forward, his short sword aimed straight for Mu Chen's throat. His speed was extremely fast, the sword light flashed like lightning, and his killing intent was chilling.

Mu Chen quickly retreated, drawing his sword to block Huang Laoxie's attack. However, Huang Laoxie's strength far exceeded his expectations, and after a few moves, Mu Chen was already struggling.

"Brother!" Mu Qingling exclaimed, wanting to step forward to help, but was pulled back by the Sixth Princess Zhao Ling'er.

"Don't go there, it's too dangerous!" Zhao Ling'er whispered, her eyes filled with worry.

Just as Huang Laoxie's short sword was about to pierce Mu Chen, a sword light suddenly attacked from the side, forcefully blocking Huang Laoxie's attack.

"Ding!"

The sword flashed and the short knife clashed, producing a crisp sound.

Mu Chen looked closely and saw that it was Lu Zheng who had made the move. However, Lu Zheng was completely different from usual. He held a black jade sword, his gaze was cold and stern, and he exuded a powerful aura.

"Brother Lu?" Mu Chen was somewhat surprised.

Lu Zheng did not answer, but instead looked coldly at Huang Laoxie: "The assassins of Blood Shadow Tower dare to run wild in Heyang City?"

Old Master Huang looked wary, but quickly regained his fierce expression: "Mind your own business!"

He quickly changed his target, focusing his attack on Lu Zheng. However, Lu Zheng's strength far exceeded his expectations.

Lu Zheng swung his black jade sword, the sword light flashing like lightning, instantly forcing Huang Laoxie back several steps.

"Four Symbols Sword - White Tiger!" Lu Zheng shouted, and the sword light transformed into a huge white tiger phantom, rushing straight at Huang Yaoshi.

Huang Yaoshi was terrified and tried to dodge, but it was too late. The white tiger phantom instantly swallowed him, and his body flew out like a kite with a broken string, crashing heavily to the ground.

Lu Zheng stepped forward and coldly looked at the dying Huang Laoxie: "The assassins of Blood Shadow Tower are nothing more than this."

After he finished speaking, he beheaded Huang Laoxie with a single sword stroke, then held the severed head in his hand and turned back to Mu Chen.

"Your Highness, this is a message Lord Zhao Dun asked me to convey." Lu Zheng handed Huang Laoxie's head to Mu Chen and said in a low voice. (End of this chapter)