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Fang Yimin led Song Shidao and his sister along the straight, wide central passage that seemed to lead straight to the sky, and they walked inwards.

Beneath your feet are massive, polished bluestone slabs, flanked by solemn, towering pines and cypresses. The air is filled with a blend of the fresh scent of grass and trees and the austere aroma of stone, causing those who walk among them to gather their thoughts and feel a sense of awe.

At the end of the passageway stands an extremely magnificent palace-style building, which is the core of Duzun Fortress—the Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness.

This hall features soaring eaves and arched beams, its grand scale almost comparable to the Yin'an Hall of a royal palace. Before the hall rise nine steps of white marble, flanked by two ancient, imposing, and solemn stone mythical beasts. The vermilion doors are wide open, their large copper studs gleaming with a cold, metallic luster in the sunlight.

Before even stepping through the palace gates, a heavy, imposing aura immediately enveloped them.

Fang Yimin stopped at the bottom of the steps, turned sideways and bowed, his tone becoming increasingly respectful: "The Lord of the Fortress is already waiting in the hall. Young Master, Miss, please."

Song Shidao nodded slightly, straightened his not-so-disheveled robes, and took the lead in ascending the steps. Song Yuzhi followed closely behind. Although she was naturally lively, she couldn't help but slow her pace in this environment, though her bright eyes still curiously surveyed her surroundings.

Stepping into the Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness, the first impression is one of spaciousness and grandeur. The hall is extremely spacious, easily accommodating hundreds of people. Supporting the dome are several massive pillars, each requiring two people to encircle, their dark red paint adding to the solemnity. The floor is paved with gleaming black marble, reflecting the shadows of those present.

The furnishings inside the hall were not elaborate, but rather simple yet powerful. On the walls on both sides hung landscape paintings with a desolate atmosphere and calligraphy scrolls with vigorous strokes, the contents of which were mostly verses expressing aspirations and highlighting loyalty and righteousness. The most eye-catching was the main wall directly opposite the entrance.

There were no decorations on the main wall except for a long, sheathed sword hanging there.

The scabbard was antique, seemingly made of ebony, with a dark color and a warm luster from years of handling. The hilt was slightly longer than that of a typical single-edged sword, allowing for a two-handed grip. Although not drawn, the concentrated killing intent and domineering will seemed to emanate from the scabbard, permeating the entire hall and making the temperature inside seem to drop slightly.

Most striking was the main seat at the far end of the hall, perched atop several steps. It was a large, intricately carved rosewood chair with a high back, adorned with a tiger descending a mountain. The tiger's eyes, inlaid with gemstones, gleamed under the lamplight, exuding an imposing, dignified presence. The person seated there, though not consciously displaying any power, had already become the unseen center of the entire Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness.

This man appeared to be around fifty years old, though perhaps a little older. While not exceptionally burly, he exuded a mountain-like, steady, and imposing presence. His face was square, with a broad forehead, a high, straight nose, and tightly pressed lips, their lines sharp and defined. A short, neatly trimmed beard, mostly white, adorned his chin, adding to his imposing presence. Most striking were his eyes, which gleamed with a piercing light, seemingly able to see right through one's soul. The authority of someone long accustomed to a high position blended perfectly with the profound aura of a martial arts master, making it impossible to look directly at him.

He wasn't dressed in particularly luxurious attire, just a navy blue brocade robe with a simple black belt around his waist, and nothing else. Yet, this simple attire, sitting on the tiger-head chair that symbolized power and status, revealed his identity more clearly than any jewels or precious stones.

He is Xie Hui, the master of Duzun Fortress, who is as famous as "Heavenly Blade" Song Que and is known as the "Judge of the Martial World".

Below and to the left of Jie Hui's seat, there were several guest chairs, all of which were empty at the moment, clearly prepared for distinguished guests.

Fang Yimin quickly stepped forward and bowed at the foot of the steps to report: "Lord of the Fortress, Young Master Song Shidao and Miss Song Yuzhi have arrived."

Song Shidao, neither humble nor arrogant, stepped forward two steps and stood in the center of the hall. He cupped his hands and bowed deeply to Xie Hui, who was seated in the main seat, showing great respect: "Junior Song Shidao, accompanied by my younger sister Yuzhi, has come to pay respects to Uncle Jie. It has been a long time since we last met. Uncle Jie's demeanor is even more impressive than before. I am delighted to see you."

Song Yuzhi also restrained her impetuous nature, followed behind her elder brother, and respectfully performed a curtsy, saying in a clear voice, "Yuzhi pays respects to Uncle Jieshi."

A faint smile appeared on Jie Hui's face as he sat upright, like the thawing of an ice lake. Though not intense, it instantly softened his imposing demeanor. He raised his hand and said in a loud voice, "Shidao, Yuzhi, there's no need for formalities. There are no outsiders here, so let's save on unnecessary formalities. Please take a seat."

Immediately, servants brought over two rosewood chairs and placed them in the closest position to the left of the main seat.

Song Shidao cupped his hands again and said, "Thank you, Uncle Xie."

Only then did he sit down with Song Yuzhi, his posture composed and elegant.

Jie Hui's gaze lingered on Song Shidao for a moment, a hint of admiration flashing in his eyes, before he slowly said, "More than a year has passed since we parted, and my nephew's cultivation has become even more refined. His demeanor is composed and his brilliance is restrained, quite like his father's style in his prime. Brother Song, it is truly enviable to have such a son."

Song Shidao smiled modestly and replied, "Uncle, you flatter me. My father often said that the path of martial arts is like rowing against the current. I am of dull talent and can only rely on diligence. I dare not compare myself to my father. On the contrary, Uncle, you are a powerful figure in Sichuan, and your name as the Judge is renowned throughout the martial arts world. You are truly worthy of respect."

Upon hearing this, Jie Hui laughed heartily, his voice echoing across the roof tiles, clearly quite pleased with himself: "Hahaha, you lad, you're not that old, but you're becoming more and more tactful and considerate in your speech, much better at handling things than your old man. Every time he sees me, all he does is discuss martial arts or argue about the state of the world, it's so boring."

After laughing, he turned his gaze to Song Yuzhi, his tone much gentler: "This must be Yuzhi, right? The last time I saw you was at your eldest sister's wedding banquet with Wenlong. Back then, you were just a little girl with yellow hair. In the blink of an eye, you've grown into such a graceful and spirited young woman, quite like your father in his youth. Your eldest sister often talks about you, this clever and mischievous girl."

Upon hearing the name of her eldest sister, Song Yuzhi's eyes lit up immediately, and she instantly forgot all her restraint. She asked eagerly, "Uncle Xie, how is my eldest sister? We came here to see her!"

Jie Hui's smile remained unchanged as he nodded and said, "Yu Hua is very good. She is gentle and quiet, and manages the inner quarters very well. It is a blessing for the Jie family that Wenlong has such a virtuous wife. She should be chanting scriptures in the Buddhist hall in the back garden right now. I have already sent someone to invite her, and you will be able to see her later."

Upon hearing this, Song Yuzhi's face immediately lit up with a bright smile, and she nodded repeatedly: "That's wonderful! Thank you, Uncle!"

Jie Hui nodded slightly, turned his gaze back to Song Shidao, his expression regaining its previous composure, and then turned the topic to business: "Nephew, you mentioned in your letter that this trip to Sichuan was mainly to deal with some 'obstructions' in the salt transport route between Sichuan and Lingnan recently?"

Song Shidao straightened up, his expression turning serious. His tone remained gentle, but now carried a hint of solemnity: "Indeed. Uncle, you are wise. For the past six months, the sea salt that my Song family transports to various prefectures in Sichuan via the Yangtze River has been repeatedly harassed by unidentified 'water bandits' in the Yuzhou and Bazhou areas. Although it has not caused significant losses, the frequency of these incidents has delayed delivery dates and has caused some complaints from our partner merchants. My father believed that such a minor matter was not worth your trouble, so he sent me to investigate and handle it, and also to pay my respects to you and inform you of this matter."

He phrased it tactfully, but his meaning was clear: In the Sichuan region under the control of your Duzun Fortress, our Song family's salt ships have run into trouble, and we hope you can provide an explanation or assist in resolving the issue.

Upon hearing this, Xie Hui's expression didn't change much, but his sharp eyes narrowed slightly. He tapped his fingers lightly on the armrest of the rosewood chair and pondered, "Such a thing... The waterways of Sichuan and Chongqing have always been managed by the Sichuan Gang and the Ba Alliance. Although there are occasional disputes, things have generally been stable. How dare someone touch the Song Clan's goods?" After a pause, Xie Hui looked at Song Shidao, his gaze sharp as lightning: "Do you know the origins of those 'water bandits'? What's so special about their methods?"

Song Shidao replied, "According to the descriptions of the boatmen who managed to escape, those people were excellent swimmers, familiar with the waterways, and moved swiftly, striking and leaving immediately without lingering in battle. It seemed their intention was to harass rather than plunder. The weapons they used were also varied and unlike those of a regular army; they were more like...江湖 (jianghu) forces."

After a moment of silence, his face revealing neither joy nor anger, Jie Hui slowly said, "...Recently, things have indeed been a bit unsettled in Shu. In recent years, I have been busy reorganizing the fortress affairs and have neglected to pay attention to the trivial matters of the martial world."

He changed the subject abruptly, his tone carrying an undeniable resolve: "Now that this matter has been brought to me, it concerns my Duzun Fortress. Within my Sichuan territory, no one will be allowed to disrupt trade relations with the Song Clan. I will immediately send people to investigate thoroughly. If anyone is truly blind to the truth, I will give you and Brother Song an explanation."

These words were resounding, demonstrating Duzunbao's responsibility in this matter, showcasing Xie Hui's determination to maintain relations with the Song Clan, and implying his absolute control over his territory.

This was exactly the attitude Song Shidao wanted. He immediately stood up, cupped his hands again, and said sincerely, "Thank you for your trouble, Uncle. If we can get your help to settle this matter, then our Song family's salt route will be unobstructed, and the people of Sichuan and Chongqing will be able to obtain a stable salt supply. It is a win-win situation. I thank you in advance."

"It's my duty, no need for thanks."

Jie Hui waved his hand, gesturing for Song Shidao to sit down: "The Song Clan's sea salt is of high quality and low price, which is beneficial to the people of Sichuan and Chongqing, and my Duzun Fort also benefits. Cooperation and win-win is the way to long-term success."

Just then, a series of slightly hurried footsteps came from outside the hall, and a young man's voice, tinged with joy, came through: "Father, I heard that Shidao and Sister Yuzhi have arrived?"

A young man dressed in a royal blue outfit, with a long sword at his waist, strode into the hall. He appeared to be about twenty-three or twenty-four years old, with handsome features. His eyebrows bore a resemblance to Xie Hui's, but his features were much softer, lacking some of Xie Hui's ruggedness and authority, and possessing a more carefree and unrestrained air. This was Xie Hui's son, Song Yuhua's husband, Xie Wenlong.

When Xie Wenlong entered the hall, he first bowed to Xie Hui and said, "Father."

His gaze then turned eagerly to Song Shidao and Song Yuzhi, his face beaming with a sincere smile: "Shidao, Yuzhi, it really is you! I heard from the servants that you were practicing in the training ground, so I came right away! It's been so many years since we last met, how have you been?"

When Song Shidao saw Xie Wenlong, a sincere smile appeared on his face, and he stood up to greet him: "Brother Wenlong, you are still as dashing as ever."

The two were clearly quite familiar with each other, patting each other's arms and appearing very close.

Song Yuzhi also stood up, looked at Xie Wenlong, blinked, and called out, "Brother-in-law!"

The word "brother-in-law" made Xie Wenlong's smile widen, and he nodded repeatedly: "Good, good! Yuzhi is becoming more and more beautiful! If your sister knew you were here, she would be so happy!"

Seeing his son enjoying a pleasant reunion with the Song siblings, Xie Hui's stern face softened with a gentle smile, instantly easing the heavy atmosphere from their earlier business discussion. He said, "Wenlong, you've come at the right time. Shidao and Yuzhi have come from afar; please entertain them well on my behalf. I have my own arrangements for the salt affairs; you young people don't need to worry about them too much. Go to the back hall and see Yuhua; she must be getting impatient."

Xie Wenlong quickly replied, "Yes, Father!"

He then smiled at Song Shidao and Song Yuzhi and said, "Shidao, Yuzhi, this way please. Yuhua will be so happy to see you that she will shed tears."

Song Shidao bowed to Jie Hui again to take his leave: "Uncle, my sister and I will take our leave now."

Jie Hui nodded slightly: "Go ahead. We'll have a banquet this evening and talk in detail then."

Watching Song Shidao and his sister leave with Xie Wenlong, Xie Hui's smile gradually faded, and he regained his unfathomable composure. His gaze swept across the empty Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness, finally landing on the painted mural on the dome. His fingers unconsciously tapped lightly on the armrest of the tiger-head chair.

In the midst of this stillness, with only the faint sound of pine trees rustling outside the window, a hand with distinct knuckles, yet exceptionally clean and gentle, gently lifted the curtain of the side door of the Hall of Loyalty and Righteousness.

A monk walked out slowly.

The monk's exact age was impossible to discern; his eyebrows and beard were as white as snow, with long white eyebrows drooping almost to his cheeks, while his skin was rosy like a baby's, showing few wrinkles. Most peculiar was his nose, which was at least an inch longer than normal, giving his face a unique and ancient appearance, and an air of solemnity and dignity.

Wearing a slightly worn gray monk's robe, he walked with a calm and serene gait, as if he were not walking in the heart of the mighty Duzun Fortress in Sichuan, but strolling along the pine-lined paths of his own Zen temple.

His eyes were half-open, half-closed, his gaze reserved, devoid of any sharp glint, but possessing a serene wisdom that came from years of experience and profound understanding of the world. He was none other than Master Zhenyan, one of the four great monks of Zen Buddhism, a master of the profound teachings of Buddhist mudras.

Jie Hui stopped tapping his fingers on the armrest, turned his gaze to Zhenyan, and asked, "Master, were you disturbed while you were meditating in the guest hall?"

Zen Master Zhenyan continued walking until he reached the right side of Jie Hui's seat, where he stopped and sat down slowly. He placed his hands naturally in a simple mudra on his knees, and spoke in a calm and gentle voice, devoid of any hint of arrogance: "Lord Jie is too kind. Although I am in the guest hall, I can still feel the gentle and refined demeanor of the young master of the Song clan, and the vibrant energy of the young lady of the Song family. How could I be disturbing you? It does remind me of some past events from my youth, which brings me joy."

Jie Hui nodded slightly. He held this highly respected monk in high esteem, not only because of his martial arts and Buddhist teachings, but also because of his transcendent status and wisdom in understanding the ways of the world.

"Brother Song has strict family discipline and a steady, capable teaching style, already showing the qualities of his father. As for Yu Zhi, although she is lively and unrestrained, she is also innocent and carefree, retaining the heart of a child. However..."

Xie Hui's tone shifted slightly, becoming more serious: "They came ostensibly for salt affairs, but in reality, they're visiting relatives. They also gave me a heads-up. It seems some people in Sichuan are already itching to test the waters with my blade!" (End of Chapter)