Wandering Sword Seller's Life in the Qin Dynasty

Ordinary matters are unlikely to cause him any emotional fluctuation.

But this moment is different.

The reason lies in the two moves Xu Qing used.

These two moves were clearly from the Guigu Sword Technique.

Guigu has two sets of sword techniques: the Vertical Sword Technique and the Horizontal Sword Technique. Each set of sword techniques has its own ultimate move, called "Hundred-Step Flying Sword" and "Horizontal Sweep Across the Eight Directions". When these two moves are used together, it becomes the supreme secret of Guigu School, "Vertical and Horizontal Alliance". However, because Guigu disciples are sworn enemies, even though the Vertical and Horizontal Alliance move is extremely powerful, it is very difficult to appear in the world.

Only the victor among the two heroes of Guiguzi throughout history, after becoming Guiguzi and inheriting all the traditions of the sect, will have the opportunity to learn another sword technique and master the art of alliances and counter-alliances.

Guiguzi, of course, knew this trick.

If it were a matter of forming an alliance, it wouldn't be surprising if it came from either of his two disciples. Although each disciple only knew half of the Ghost Valley Sword Technique, their relationship was quite good, and they might have even started exchanging information and knowledge with each other.

This kind of thing can still happen.

Ultimately, it was because Guiguzi had been away from his two disciples for many years and was not very clear about their current situation.

Gai Nie, on the other hand, seems to know everything.

He followed the trend and joined the Qin state, and now he is thriving there.

The problem lies in Wei Zhuang's whereabouts. He doesn't know where he is now. Back then, Wei Zhuang chose to go against the tide and chose the weakest country, Han. Unfortunately, Han was also the first country to be destroyed. After Han was destroyed, he disappeared.

Although Guiguzi believed that Wei Zhuang would not die so easily, it was a fact that his whereabouts and current situation were unknown.

But right now, the one who used these two moves was not one of his disciples, but the sword seeker named Xu Qing in front of him.

Guiguzi's thoughts raced, his mind filled with doubts, but Xu Qing's sword energy had already swept over him, leaving him no time to think further. He could only suppress his horror and focus all his strength on dealing with it.

With a sudden flick of his sleeve, Guiguzi unleashed his inner energy without reservation. Countless sword energies shot out from his sleeve, densely packed like a torrential downpour. Each sword energy contained the essence of the Horizontal and Vertical Sword Technique, sharp and domineering, and met Xu Qing's two sword energies head-on.

He refused to believe that his lifelong mastery of the Horizontal and Vertical Sword Technique was no match for the same move performed by a young junior.

But the next moment, the horror on Guiguzi's face turned into deep fear, and his eyes were filled with disbelief.

Xu Qing's two sword energies, one horizontal and one vertical, seemed simple and plain, yet they seemed to encompass all things in heaven and earth, containing infinite Daoist rhyme. They actually brought the understanding of Dao by the Guigu School of Diplomacy to its extreme.

The sword energy that shot out from Guiguzi's sleeves melted and vanished the moment it came into contact with Xu Qing's two sword energies, just like ice and snow meeting the scorching sun, without even causing a ripple.

Xu Qing's strategy of alliances and counter-alliances has long surpassed the limitations of the Guigu School's tradition, evolving to a supreme level. With each horizontal and vertical stroke, he can destroy everything and maneuver freely, as if the Dao of Heaven has descended, making him invincible.

Guiguzi stared intently at the two sweeping sword energies, and for the first time, he felt a sense of helplessness.

He had devoted his life to rigorous training and thought he had thoroughly grasped the art of diplomacy, but when faced with Xu Qing's move, he realized that what he had mastered was merely the tip of the iceberg.

That sense of powerlessness that arose from the depths of his heart made this once-renowned master of the Guigu School feel fear for the first time—a fear of being unable to resist absolute power.

This is also an incredible thing.

In the realm of martial arts, heaven and man are supreme.

In this world, the strongest beings are the celestial beings.

Guiguzi reached this level many years ago.

Although he had always remained hidden in the mountains and never appeared in the world, it was only because he felt that this era belonged to the young people, and that there was no need for them, the old people, to interfere too much.

The era belongs to the young, but that doesn't mean he has to be suppressed and beaten by them.

Not to mention that the opponent was using his Guiguzi techniques.

Using Guiguzi's techniques, he was plunged into fear by Guiguzi.

Is this reasonable?

This is clearly unreasonable!

However, even though it was unreasonable, Guiguzi had no choice but to face this move. With no other option, he opened his mouth and, with each breath, the surrounding天地元气 (heaven and earth energy) surged towards him.

As he raised his arm, a short sword shot out from his sleeve, then, like a dragon soaring into the sky, it suddenly flew towards Xu Qing's sword energy.

As a result, he was swung away.

Although the outcome is not yet decided, the result is practically certain.

The difference in strength between the two is simply too great.

Chapter 387 A Famous Sword Conceals Its Edge

Two sword energies, one vertical and one horizontal, soared into the sky. They were like the embodiment of the Dao of Heaven. As they intersected, they continuously drew in the surrounding天地元气 (heaven and earth energy), deflecting Guiguzi's short sword. This was one aspect of their power, but it was not their most powerful moment.

As it drew ever closer to Guiguzi, its power reached its peak in an instant.

How would Guiguzi respond?

It can only be said that he is indeed a senior figure; when faced with a crisis, his methods are unimaginable to ordinary people.

I surrender!

The three words came from Guiguzi's mouth, clear and decisive, without the slightest hesitation.

Upon hearing this, Xu Qing's eyes flashed with a barely perceptible surprise, and his fingertips twitched slightly as he had no choice but to restrain the power of his move.

There was no situation where the user could not control the move once it was unleashed and went out of control. In an instant, the sharp sword energy that crisscrossed the heavens and earth suddenly disappeared, the energy between heaven and earth gradually calmed down, and the dust in the sky also settled down.

With each release and withdrawal, Xu Qing moved with effortless ease, making Guiguzi secretly sigh inwardly that Xu Qing's control over power had reached its pinnacle, far exceeding his imagination.

Xu Qing looked at Guiguzi and gained a new understanding of this master.

He had seen too many extremely arrogant masters, such as the former Donghuang Taiyi, who, even when trapped in a desperate situation, never lowered his pride and would rather die than bow his head. But Guiguzi was completely different. Despite being a giant at the Celestial Realm, when he realized that the difference in strength between the two sides was too great and that continuing to fight would be futile, he was able to admit defeat so decisively, without the slightest hesitation or resentment.

However, this decisiveness seems somewhat out of place with his usual style.

Xu Qing pondered to himself, Gai Nie was aloof and arrogant, and Wei Zhuang was unruly and rebellious. Both of them were proud and unyielding, but their master, Guiguzi, was so flexible and adaptable, which was somewhat beyond his expectations.

Guiguzi was unaware of Xu Qing's thoughts, nor did he explain why he decisively admitted defeat.

In his view, admitting defeat is not a disgrace, but a sensible choice. Rather than fighting to the death, it is better to accept the gap with equanimity, which can preserve one's dignity and fulfill one's promise. Why not?

As the battle ended, he raised his hand, and the short sword that had been knocked away by Xu Qing's sword energy earlier came hovering in mid-air with a soft sound, landing steadily in his palm.

The short sword was smooth and lustrous, with a long and narrow blade. Although it was not particularly thick or heavy, it subtly exuded a restrained sharpness.

Guiguzi gripped his short sword, looked at Xu Qing, and said frankly without the slightest embarrassment, "Mr. Xu, since you have come to seek the sword, I have lost, and I am naturally willing to accept defeat."

Before he finished speaking, he flicked his wrist, and the short sword in his hand flew out like a meteor, heading straight for Xu Qing. The speed was not fast, but the accuracy was extremely high.

Xu Qing raised his hand to catch it, and the moment his fingertips touched the blade, he felt a warm sword aura spreading from his fingertips.

He lowered his head slightly, examining the short sword in his hand, and Guiguzi's voice rang out again: "This sword is called Chisu. It is an ancient sword. Although its name is not as famous as Yuchang or Juque, its power should not be underestimated. It is exceptionally sharp. What is even more rare is that it is light enough and easy to carry. Over the years, I have always carried it with me and have never let it go."

Xu Qing stroked the blade of the Chisu Sword with his fingertips, his gaze slightly narrowed, and a guess gradually formed in his mind.

This short, light, and agile sword was a perfect match for Gai Nie's Hundred-Step Flying Sword technique.

Upon closer examination, the Hundred-Step Flying Sword technique emphasizes striking and retreating in an instant, taking things by surprise, and is not suitable for use with a long sword.

While longswords are powerful, they are somewhat cumbersome, difficult to conceal, and hard to maneuver freely. Shortswords, on the other hand, are completely different. They are lightweight, easy to conceal, and flexible to control. They can launch a surprise attack silently and withdraw quickly after a successful strike, perfectly capturing the essence of the Hundred-Step Flying Sword.

It is likely that Guiguzi used this short sword to practice the Hundred-Step Flying Sword technique on a regular basis. Perhaps, the Hundred-Step Flying Sword technique that Gai Nie learned in Guigu was initially practiced using such a short sword.

Xu Qing's fingertips continued to caress the blade of the Chisu Sword, his expression calm. He didn't rush to activate the swordsmith's ability to comprehend the sword's past. Instead, he looked up at Guiguzi and said in a calm but direct tone, "Senior said earlier that you possess some fine swords. Surely you have more than just this Chisu Sword? I wonder where the rest of your swords are?"

Guiguzi was taken aback at first, then chuckled and shook his head. There was no displeasure in his eyes. He said softly, "Mr. Xu is indeed impatient. But since I am willing to accept defeat, I will naturally not hold back."

As soon as he finished speaking, he turned and walked into the depths of the mountains, saying as he went, "Follow me. Those swords are all hidden in my residence."

Xu Qing nodded, carefully sheathed the Chisu Sword at his waist, and followed closely behind Guiguzi.

The two walked through the ancient, towering forest. Upon seeing this, Xuanhu cautiously raised his head, hesitated for a moment, but ultimately dared not follow. He remained prostrate in place, only daring to watch the direction the two had left from afar.

After walking for about half an incense stick's time, a secluded bamboo house came into view. The house was surrounded by green bamboo, and a stone table was placed in front of the door. Several bamboo scrolls were also placed on the stone table, exuding an elegant and leisurely atmosphere.

Guiguzi pushed open the bamboo house door and gestured for Xu Qing to enter: "Please come in. Those swords are all sealed in the sword box in the inner hall."

Xu Qing stepped into the bamboo house, his gaze falling directly on a row of sandalwood sword cases in the inner hall. The sword cases were simple and heavy, with intricate patterns carved on them. Faint sword energy emanated from the cases, intertwining and becoming increasingly rich and mellow.

Guiguzi stepped forward and opened the sword boxes one by one. In an instant, brilliant sword lights burst forth, illuminating the entire inner hall.

Among them are ancient short swords that are as famous as the Chisu Sword, with a smooth blade and restrained sword energy; and famous swords passed down from the Spring and Autumn Period, with a cold and sharp blade and a majestic aura.

Among them, two swords are particularly eye-catching. Both swords have an ancient and simple design. One of them is full of ancient kingly aura, while the other sword, although not bright, gives people a feeling of being as radiant as the sun, and a righteous aura is released from the sword.

However, what Xu Qing cared about most was the inscription on the sword.

"Zhanlu" and "Chunjun"!

"What a fine sword!" Xu Qing exclaimed in a deep voice, looking at the inscription on the blade, deeply impressed.

These two swords were also made by Ou Yezi and are among the ten most famous swords in ancient times. They are undoubtedly legendary swords. However, in the original work, these two famous swords were never heard of appearing in the world. No one expected that these two peerless swords, which only appeared in legends, would be hidden in the hands of Guiguzi.

Guiguzi noticed Xu Qing's expression, smiled faintly, raised his hand to gently stroke the blade of the Zhanlu sword, and slowly explained, "Mr. Xu must be quite surprised, right? My Guigu school has a unique swordsmanship, and has produced many heroes throughout the ages, with a profound foundation. Some of these swords were collected by me after I went into seclusion; while others are actually treasures left behind by my ancestors, passed down from generation to generation without ever being lost."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over the array of swords before him, a hint of emotion in his voice: "Famous swords are meant for heroes. It's such a waste that these swords are kept sealed in their sheaths, never seeing the light of day. They should be galloping across the battlefield, shining brightly in the hands of masters. If the opportunity arises in the future, I wouldn't mind giving these swords to their truly suitable owners, allowing them to return to the martial world and live up to their names."

"So, I'm afraid you'll have very little chance," Xu Qing said after hearing Guiguzi's lament.

"How do you know?" A hint of surprise flashed in Guiguzi's eyes, clearly not expecting Xu Qing to say such a thing, and he subconsciously asked.

“Now that the world is unified and the six states of Shandong have all fallen to Qin, it will be very difficult for you to make these swords appear on the battlefield.” Xu Qing looked up at the green bamboo outside the window and said slowly, “Of course, there is also the Jianghu outside the battlefield, but because the world is unified and the laws are strict, it will be increasingly difficult for people in the Jianghu to survive in the future. Being brave and fierce and fighting recklessly is itself an illegal act.”

He withdrew his gaze, glanced at the sword case on the table, and said in a flat tone: "Comparatively speaking, these swords are better suited as collectibles or decorations."

Upon hearing this, Guiguzi remained silent for a long time, gently stroking the blade of the Zhanlu sword with his fingertips, before slowly nodding, his tone tinged with melancholy: "Perhaps you are right."

This sense of loss is not only for these famous swords that have nowhere to display their brilliance, but also for the future of the Guigu School of Diplomacy.

Xu Qing's words were true. Once the world was unified, there would be no more room for alliances and counter-alliances. The reputation of Guiguzi, who could "make the feudal lords tremble with anger and bring peace to the world when he lived in peace," would eventually become a thing of the past.

He kept these feelings to himself, but never spoke them aloud.

After a moment of silence, Guiguzi raised his eyes to look at Xu Qing, the melancholy in his eyes gradually fading, replaced by a hint of inquiry: "If I'm not mistaken, the sword technique you just displayed..."

Xu Qing seemed to have seen through his thoughts long ago. Before he could finish speaking, she said frankly, "It is your Ghost Valley's Vertical and Horizontal Sword Technique."

“I know you’re curious about where I got the Ghost Valley Sword Technique.” Xu Qing nodded slightly, his tone still calm. “I can only say that it’s related to your two disciples.”

He paused, his gaze falling on the Chisu sword in Guiguzi's hand, his tone becoming more teasing: "The Guigu School possesses so many famous swords, yet you prefer to keep them sealed in a box rather than give them to your two disciples. That's really stingy. As a result, your two disciples don't even have a single suitable sword to use."

“I am a kind-hearted person and could not bear to see this happen, so I personally took action and forged a suitable sword for each of your two apprentices.”

Upon hearing this, Guiguzi showed no anger whatsoever. Instead, he chuckled and shook his head, his eyes filled with relief: "So that's how it is."

He already knew in his heart that Xu Qing's swordsmanship originated from Gai Nie and Wei Zhuang, but he did not blame him in the slightest.