MD 981 to 990

 

Miracle Doctor Chapter 981

Master Shangling’s three consecutive slaps left the black-clad fat man completely dazed.

The final slap sent him flying five meters.

He crashed to the ground, face bruised, nose swollen, blood trickling from his mouth, utterly humiliated.

“From this day forward, Wu Qiang is barred from setting foot on this mountain.”

Shangling pointed at the two fake Taoists following the fat man, “And you two—never come back.”

“If I catch you impersonating Wudang Taoists and causing trouble again, I’ll report you to the authorities, and you’ll spend the rest of your lives in prison.”

“Get lost!”

Shangling’s final word carried inner force, like a thunderclap, scaring Wu Qiang and the two impostors into scrambling away in terror.

The scene finally quieted.

Shangling approached Ye Qiu, bowing, “Master Ye, your visit honors us. I apologize for not greeting you properly.”

“About this incident, allow me to explain.”

“Wu Qiang and those two were homeless drifters. My master, out of compassion, let them stay as laborers.”

“Last year, I discovered they were posing as our disciples, extorting tourists. I reprimanded them harshly.”

“Not only did they not repent, they doubled down. Furious, I expelled them.”

“But they went on to scam villagers at the mountain’s base, pretending to be Wudang disciples, performing rituals and fortune-telling, swindling plenty of money. The villagers caught on, tied them up, and brought them back here.”

“To prevent further chaos, I had no choice but to keep them as laborers again.”

“Recently, they extorted 20,000 from tourists. When my junior brother Shangzhen found out, he expelled them once more.”

“Who’d have thought they’d linger here and offend Master Ye and this lady? I’m deeply ashamed and apologize to you both.”

Shangling bowed ninety degrees to Ye Qiu and Xiao Yiren.

Ye Qiu smiled, “Just a minor hiccup. No need to dwell on it, Master. Where is your master, Master Chongxu?”

“My master is in the inner courtyard. Please follow me, Master Ye.” Shangling gestured invitingly, leading Ye Qiu through the palace gate.

Crossing the threshold, they navigated several turns, and the view opened up.

Ancient buildings stood atop the peak, shrouded in mist, like a fairyland.

As Shangling led the way, he introduced the mountain to Ye Qiu:

“Since the late Han Dynasty, Wudang has been a retreat for Taoist immortals.”

“In the Tang Dynasty, it was listed as the ninth of the seventy-two blessed lands.”

“Most of these palaces were built during the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty.”

“Ming Emperor Chengzu, Zhu Di, ordered officials from the Ministry of Rites and Works, leading over 300,000 soldiers and craftsmen, to build Wudang over twelve years, known as ‘building the Forbidden City in the north, restoring Wudang in the south.’ Zhu Di also declared Wudang a ‘Great Mountain,’ ranking above the Five Sacred Mountains.”

“In the thirty-first year of Jiajing, the court named Wudang the ‘Mountain of Governance,’ elevating it as the supreme imperial temple. At that time, Wudang became the premier Taoist mountain.”

“Since its founding, Wudang has produced countless talents.”

“The most famous, with the deepest impact on Taoism, is our founder, Zhang Sanfeng!”

Shangling, like a tour guide, spoke endlessly about Wudang’s history.

Ye Qiu listened, nodding along.

As they talked, they climbed weathered stone steps.

Along the way, they passed many robed Taoists who paused to bow to Shangling.

Shangling returned their greetings.

Wudang’s strict discipline was evident.

They continued onward.

Shangling added, “Master Ye, you may not know, but Wudang is divided into outer and inner courtyards. The outer courtyard handles tourists and major ceremonies, while the inner courtyard is off-limits to outsiders, except for our disciples.”

“This is to prevent tourists from disturbing the inner disciples’ cultivation.”

“Oh, I forgot to introduce—this is my junior brother, Shangzhen.”

Shangling presented the middle-aged Taoist to Ye Qiu.

“Greetings, Master,” Ye Qiu said with a smile.

Shangzhen laughed, “I’d heard Master Ye was young, but seeing you today, you’re even younger than I imagined. Truly, the new generation surpasses the old.”

Ye Qiu replied politely, “You flatter me, Master.”

They kept walking.

Finally, they reached a palace perched on a cliff, built against the mountain, supported by wooden pillars, at least thirty meters above ground—a perilous sight.

Ye Qiu scanned the area. No path led to the palace, but every six meters or so, a square stone protruded from the cliff, like bricks.

“My master is up there.”

Shangling pointed to the palace, then leaped, his toes lightly tapping a protruding stone, propelling him upward. He stepped on the next stone and, in moments, reached the palace door.

“Master Ye, come up!” Shangling called, waving from above.

“Yiren, want to go up?” Ye Qiu asked.

Xiao Yiren shook her head, “No path? Too dangerous.”

“No worries. With me, you’re safe.” Ye Qiu wrapped an arm around Xiao Yiren’s waist.

Her face flushed red. Before she could react, her vision blurred, wind whistling past her ears. Looking back, they were ten meters off the ground.

“Ah!” Xiao Yiren screamed.

“Don’t be scared, you’re fine,” Ye Qiu’s gentle words soothed her like a breeze.

Instantly, Xiao Yiren felt safe, clinging tightly to him.

Soon, they stood before the palace.

Half a minute later, Shangzhen arrived from below, smiling at Ye Qiu, “Master Ye, so young yet so skilled. I’m impressed.”

“No need for modesty, Master. Your cultivation is impressive too,” Ye Qiu said, having sensed Shangzhen’s strength rivaled Dragon List experts.

Shangling bowed to the closed palace doors, announcing loudly, “Master, Master Ye of Dragon Gate is here to visit.”

Ten seconds passed.

Clang!

The palace doors swung open.

A laugh echoed from within, “My path has never been swept for guests, but today it opens for you…”

Ye Qiu’s expression shifted.

Could Master Chongxu be like Master Longbrow, an old flirt?

Miracle Doctor Chapter 982

Shangling noticed Ye Qiu’s uneasy expression and asked with concern, “Master Ye, are you feeling unwell?”

“Just some minor injuries, nothing serious,” Ye Qiu brushed it off with a casual excuse.

He couldn’t exactly say, “Your master seems like an old flirt, right?”

Shangling took it at face value, “Wudang has many healing remedies. I’ll get some for you later, Master Ye.”

“Thank you, Master,” Ye Qiu said politely.

Moments later, a figure emerged from the palace.

An elderly Taoist, likely in his seventies, dressed in a white robe, with white hair and beard, a rosy complexion, and holding a whisk, looking like an immortal sage.

His kind face and refined features suggested he was quite the looker in his youth.

As he moved, an intangible aura of Taoist charm enveloped him, making his depth unreadable.

This is Master Chongxu, the head of Wudang?

Truly extraordinary!

Ye Qiu suddenly understood why Master Longbrow always called Chongxu “Old Bullnose.” It was likely jealousy.

Chongxu outshone Longbrow in appearance, stature, demeanor, and cultivation. As the leader of the Taoist world, revered by thousands, his status was unmatched. How could Longbrow not be envious?

Put yourself in Longbrow’s shoes—both Taoists, yet Chongxu was just better. Why?

“Greetings, Master!” Shangling and Shangzhen bowed as the old Taoist stepped out.

“Ye Qiu of Dragon Gate, greetings, Senior,” Ye Qiu clasped his fists, preparing to bow.

After all, Chongxu was Wudang’s head, a figure of great respect. Ye Qiu’s main goal was to access Wudang’s scripture library to study martial arts manuals and boost his cultivation, so he had a reason to be courteous.

But before he could bow, a gentle force held him up.

“No need for formalities, Master Ye. I’m delighted you’ve come to Wudang,” Chongxu’s voice was like a spring breeze, naturally inspiring warmth.

Ye Qiu looked up, smiling faintly.

Chongxu studied Ye Qiu, then chuckled, “So young, yet already leading Dragon Gate. Truly, new talents rise to lead for centuries. I’m impressed.”

Ye Qiu said humbly, “You’re too kind, Senior. I just got lucky.”

“No need for modesty, Master Ye. With your jade-like grace and restrained aura, you’re destined for greatness. Your leadership is Dragon Gate’s fortune—and the nation’s,” Chongxu said, then added, “Master Ye, Shangzhen mentioned you’ve cultivated innate true qi?”

“Yes,” Ye Qiu didn’t hide it.

During the farewell to the Ninth Prince in Miaojiang, when Forbidden City agents caused trouble, Ye Qiu had displayed his innate true qi in combat, with Shangling present as a witness.

Chongxu said, “I’ve never seen innate true qi. Could you show me, Master Ye?”

“Sure,” Ye Qiu agreed, channeling his qi.

Roar, roar, roar—

Three earth-shaking dragon roars echoed, followed by three radiant golden beams of innate true qi manifesting behind Ye Qiu’s head, making him look like a divine being.

Everyone present gazed curiously at the three streams of true qi behind Ye Qiu.

Like true dragons, utterly mystical.

After a while, Chongxu exclaimed, “For centuries, those who cultivate innate true qi are martial arts prodigies. Your talent, Master Ye, truly makes me envious.”

Ye Qiu retracted his qi, smiling, “You’re too generous, Senior. Years ago, you were second on the Dragon List. If I’m not mistaken, your skills now could rank in the top five of the God List, right?”

From the moment he saw Chongxu, Ye Qiu had been gauging the Wudang head’s cultivation but was shocked to find he couldn’t read it.

Normally, anyone below six streams of true qi couldn’t hide from Ye Qiu’s perception.

This meant only one thing: Chongxu’s cultivation was unfathomably deep.

How many streams of true qi has this old Taoist cultivated? Ye Qiu wondered.

Chongxu smiled, sidestepping the question, his gaze shifting to Xiao Yiren.

After a glance, he said, “Radiant and refined, like a lotus emerging from water. Master Ye, you’re a lucky man!”

Xiao Yiren’s face flushed instantly.

Ye Qiu didn’t clarify, instead cutting to his purpose, “Senior, last time in Miaojiang, Master Shangling said you’d allow me three days in Wudang’s scripture library. Is that true?”

“Absolutely,” Chongxu smiled. “But the library hasn’t been opened to outsiders for sixty years. For you, I have a condition.”

Ye Qiu had expected this. Getting into the library so easily would be too good to be true.

Master Longbrow had mentioned that even Old Tang was denied access, yet now it was open to Ye Qiu for three days—something was off.

“What’s the condition?” Ye Qiu asked.

Chongxu said, “I’d like you to do something for me—no, for Wudang.”

Ye Qiu grew serious, “Please, tell me.”

Chongxu said, “Before I explain, I ask that you agree first.”

Ye Qiu’s guard went up.

Is this old Taoist setting a trap?

If he agreed now and Chongxu asked him to do something extreme, like suicide, what then?

Ye Qiu frowned, “Senior, please just tell me. I’m worried I might not be up to the task.”

Chongxu laughed, “Rest assured, Master Ye. It won’t violate martial world ethics or endanger your life. And I believe you can handle it.”

“You’re sure?” Ye Qiu was still skeptical.

Chongxu said, “As head of Wudang, my word is my bond.”

Ye Qiu thought it over. His goal was the library. If Chongxu’s request proved impossible, he could always back out later.

“Since you put it that way, Senior, I agree,” Ye Qiu said. “Now, can you tell me what you need me to do?”

“No rush. Let’s head to the scripture library first,” Chongxu said, then flashed down the cliff to the ground.

Ye Qiu, holding Xiao Yiren, followed closely.

Shangling and Shangzhen trailed behind.

Chongxu led the way, and soon they arrived at a palace.

Miracle Doctor Chapter 983

The palace was grand, with five stories, adorned with carved beams and painted pillars, exuding an ancient, solemn aura.

Ye Qiu looked up and saw a bronze plaque above the main gate, engraved with three characters: Scripture Library.

“Master Ye, women cannot enter the Scripture Library. Shall I have Shangling and Shangzhen take this lady for a tour around the mountain?” Chongxu asked.

Ye Qiu glanced at Xiao Yiren.

She nodded, “Alright.”

Chongxu gave Shangling a look, and immediately, Shangling and Shangzhen led Xiao Yiren away.

Ye Qiu scanned the area, noticing no guards or sentries, and asked curiously, “Senior, the Scripture Library is a vital place for Wudang. Why is it unguarded?”

Chongxu sighed deeply but didn’t answer, saying instead, “Master Ye, please follow me.”

They approached the door, secured by a large, old-fashioned copper lock.

Chongxu pulled a long key from his robe sleeve, unlocked it, and pushed the door open.

A musty smell of dust hit them.

“My apologies, the Scripture Library hasn’t been opened in years, so it’s quite dusty,” Chongxu said, gesturing invitingly. “Master Ye, please.”

Chongxu stepped inside first.

Excited at the thought of seeing countless martial arts manuals, Ye Qiu followed quickly.

But upon entering, he froze.

The spacious room was filled with countless bookshelves, all empty—not a single book in sight.

Where were the martial arts manuals?

Puzzled, Ye Qiu glanced upstairs, wondering if the manuals were on another floor.

Before he could ask, Chongxu said, “Master Ye, please follow me.”

He led Ye Qiu up a wooden staircase to the second floor.

The second floor was the same—dust-covered, empty shelves, nothing else.

Ye Qiu couldn’t hold back, “Senior…”

“Master Ye, be patient. Follow me,” Chongxu interrupted, leading him to the third floor.

The third floor was identical—empty shelves, no manuals.

A sinking feeling hit Ye Qiu. Was the Scripture Library just a facade?

“Master Ye, let’s continue upstairs,” Chongxu said, guiding him to the fourth floor.

The fourth floor had no bookshelves, only a dozen portraits hanging on the walls.

Chongxu pointed to them, “These are portraits of Wudang’s past headmasters. After they ascend, their portraits are hung here for posterity to honor. When I ascend, mine will be here too.”

Ye Qiu didn’t care about this. He only wanted to know one thing: where were the martial arts manuals?

He tried again, “Senior, why haven’t I seen…”

“Master Ye, to the fifth floor,” Chongxu cut him off, heading up.

Ye Qiu had no choice but to follow.

The fifth floor was smaller, housing only a golden statue of Zhang Sanfeng.

Nothing else.

Chongxu knelt before the statue, kowtowed several times, and lit incense.

Ye Qiu respectfully followed suit, kowtowing and offering incense.

Zhang Sanfeng, Wudang’s founder and a revered figure, deserved such respect.

After the ritual, Chongxu said, “Master Ye, you’re wondering why there’s not a single martial arts manual in the Scripture Library, aren’t you?”

Ye Qiu nodded, “Yes.”

Chongxu explained, “That’s because, years ago, the Scripture Library was robbed, and all the martial arts manuals were taken.”

What?

Ye Qiu didn’t believe it.

Wudang had produced countless masters since ancient times. Who could steal from the Scripture Library?

A peerless expert sneaking in and taking a few manuals might be plausible, but emptying the entire library? Impossible.

This was several floors of manuals—tens of thousands of books.

Unless they used trucks, how could they move them?

And with so many Wudang masters, wouldn’t they notice?

Wouldn’t they stop it?

So, Ye Qiu didn’t buy it.

“Master Ye, you don’t believe me?” Chongxu gave a bitter smile. “I speak the truth, with no intent to deceive.”

“This is why, for sixty years, Wudang has never opened the Scripture Library.”

“When Old Tang, the highest authority, visited and asked to see it, I refused.”

“Because there’s not a single manual left—they were all stolen.”

Ye Qiu asked, “Senior, who was so capable as to steal several floors’ worth of manuals?”

Chongxu sighed, “It’s a long story.”

“Sixty-one years ago, on the fifteenth of August, I was just a young Taoist. That night, dark clouds gathered, thunder roared, and rain poured.”

“In the middle of the night, I got up to relieve myself and heard fighting from the Scripture Library.”

“Curious, I sneaked closer to see what was happening.”

“When I got there, I saw a group of masked men breaking into the library to steal manuals.”

“They made a lot of noise, alerting the library’s guards, and a fight broke out.”

“Within half an hour, all eighteen guards were killed.”

“The headmaster at the time, my master, led dozens of experts to stop them.”

“But the masked men were too skilled, killing and injuring many more.”

“My master was gravely wounded in the fight.”

“The masked men threatened that if we kept resisting, they’d slaughter everyone on Wudang, leaving no survivors.”

“To protect Wudang’s disciples, my master had no choice but to let them take the manuals.”

“The masked men spent hours moving everything, clearing out the library just before dawn, then vanished.”

“This has never been shared outside Wudang. It’s our secret and the greatest shame in our history.”

Chongxu continued, “Master Ye, you promised to help Wudang with something. You won’t go back on your word, will you?”

Ye Qiu had a bad feeling, suspecting he’d fallen into Chongxu’s trap. He asked, “Senior, the task you want me to do—is it related to the stolen manuals?”

“Exactly,” Chongxu said solemnly. “I hope you’ll help Wudang recover those stolen martial arts manuals.”

Miracle Doctor Chapter 984

Hearing this, Ye Qiu’s expression darkened.

His purpose for coming to Wudang Mountain this time was to enter the Scripture Pavilion and read martial arts manuals, but who knew it would turn out like this.

Damn it, I’ve been tricked!

Ye Qiu cursed inwardly. This old Taoist looked kind and benevolent, but he was full of schemes, truly a…

cunning old fox!

Feeling quite depressed, Ye Qiu said:

“Senior, you overestimate me. The manuals have been stolen for so many years without being found. How could I possibly locate them?”

“Besides, it’s been over sixty years. The person who stole the manuals has probably long passed away.”

“Even if I wanted to help find them, I’m powerless!”

Taoist Chongxu said: “Actually, since the manuals were stolen, Wudang Mountain has been secretly investigating.”

“For a whole cycle of sixty years, we never gave up.”

“After all, it wasn’t just one or two manuals lost, but the entire Scripture Pavilion’s collection.”

“Master Ye, you may not know, but before my master ascended, he went thirteen days without eating a grain of rice or drinking a drop of water, refusing to pass on, because he felt he had no face to meet Wudang’s ancestors, as the pavilion was stolen during his tenure as head.”

“Only when I told my master I would spend my life searching for the manuals did he finally close his eyes.”

“Over these years, this old Taoist has put in great effort and finally found a clue.”

Oh?

Ye Qiu’s eyes flashed with interest, and he quickly asked: “What did you find, Senior?”

Taoist Chongxu said gravely: “I suspect the masked thieves who stole the manuals back then were experts from the Forbidden City.”

Ye Qiu asked: “Why do you say that, Senior?”

Taoist Chongxu replied: “I’ve investigated for years and never saw outsiders using Wudang techniques in the martial world, meaning those thieves didn’t scatter the manuals after stealing them.”

“They likely hid the manuals somewhere else.”

“Considering their terrifying skills, I thought long and hard, and only one force in the martial world has such strength: the Forbidden City.”

Ye Qiu asked again: “Any evidence?”

Taoist Chongxu shook his head: “The Forbidden City’s people are peerless experts. If it was them, they wouldn’t let me find evidence.”

“Even if I found proof, this old Taoist could do nothing against them.”

“Those people are all unparalleled powerhouses!”

Ye Qiu gave a bitter smile: “Senior, even if the Forbidden City did steal the manuals, I can’t help you retrieve them.”

“You just said they’re all unparalleled powerhouses.”

“How could I be their match?”

“Master Ye, don’t underestimate yourself. I’ve seen countless people, and you definitely have the ability to help Wudang recover the manuals,” Taoist Chongxu said, seemingly confident in Ye Qiu, continuing: “Your martial talent is the best among the younger generation. I believe in a few years, those old monsters in the Forbidden City won’t be your match.”

“Actually, years ago, I sought someone else to help recover the manuals.”

“That person agreed, but later, alas…”

Taoist Chongxu sighed deeply, his face showing sorrow.

“What happened later?” Ye Qiu pressed.

“Later, something unexpected happened, and that person’s fate became unknown,” Taoist Chongxu said: “Coincidentally, that person shared your surname.”

Also surnamed Ye?

Ye Qiu’s heart jolted, thinking of someone. Could it be…

“That person was the former number one expert, Ye Wushuang!”

Taoist Chongxu said: “Ye Wushuang agreed to help me recover the manuals. He investigated the Forbidden City in secret and seemed to find some clues, but unexpectedly, something happened.”

“Over twenty years ago, Ye Wushuang was ambushed by many and has since been missing, dead or alive.”

Ye Qiu was somewhat surprised. He hadn’t expected his father to have such a connection with Wudang.

“Senior, if even Ye Wushuang couldn’t do it, I certainly can’t. Please find someone else!”

Though Ye Qiu and the Forbidden City were mortal enemies, he gained no benefit from this. Agreeing to help Taoist Chongxu would be foolish, wouldn’t it?

As if anticipating Ye Qiu’s reaction, Taoist Chongxu said: “Master Ye, rest assured, you can agree to help this old Taoist.”

Ye Qiu rolled his eyes: “Can I take it back if I agree?”

Taoist Chongxu: “…”

After a moment of silence.

Taoist Chongxu added: “Master Ye, if you agree to help Wudang recover the manuals, I won’t let you suffer.”

“Though I live secluded in the mountains, I understand worldly ways.”

“Back then, Ye Wushuang agreed to help because I gave him an incomplete treasure map.”

What?

Ye Qiu was shocked inwardly, thinking: “Could the treasure map Ghost Servant gave me be the one Father got from Taoist Chongxu?”

Taoist Chongxu continued: “Though the Scripture Pavilion’s theft led to the loss of many manuals, Wudang, with centuries of history, still has some foundation.”

“If Master Ye agrees to help recover the manuals, I can let you read the peerless divine skill left by our founder, Zhang Sanfeng.”

Ye Qiu asked curiously: “Senior, what divine skill are you referring to…”

Taoist Chongxu smiled faintly and uttered five words: “Pure Yang Limitless Skill!”

Instantly, Ye Qiu’s face was full of shock.

As far as he knew, the Pure Yang Limitless Skill, created by Zhang Sanfeng, was Wudang’s highest internal cultivation method.

This method trained the internal organs and external muscles, bones, and skin, combining inner and outer practice, motion and stillness.

Moreover, it had the effect of prolonging life.

Zhang Sanfeng lived to a great age precisely because he cultivated this skill.

As for how old Zhang Sanfeng lived, it’s unverifiable now, but according to the “Ming History, Biographies, Chapter 187, Fangji,” Zhang Sanfeng was born in 1247 and died in 1464, living over two hundred years.

Zhang nearlyfeng was active throughout most of the nation, so much so that from the first to fifteen fifteenth Ming emperors, all sixteen sought this legendary figure.

There were even a rumor that Zhang Sanfeng appeared during the Qing Dynasty.

Such a legendary figure’s peerless divine skill—across the world, who wouldn’t be tempted?

Ye Qiu was no exception.

“Senior, if I agree to help Wudang recover the stolen manuals, will you let me read the Pure Yang Limitless Skill?” Ye Qiu asked.

“Yes,” Taoist Chongxu said to ease Ye Qiu’s concerns: “The Pure Yang skill has always been stored in the head master’s residence, so it was spared during the theft.”

“Good, I agree,” Ye Qiu said. “As long as you show me the Pure Yang Limitless skill, I’ll help Wudang find the stolen manuals.”

Taoist Chongxu said: “Master Ye, think carefully. A gentleman’s promise is worth a thousand gold. Once you agree, you can’t go back.”

“Senior yourself, I may not a gentleman, but I understand the principle of keeping my word,” Ye Qiu said solemnly.

“With your words of Master Ye, I’m at ease.”

Taoist Chongxu beamed, like a sly old fox whose scheme had succeeded.

Miracle Doctor Chapter 985

Seeing the smile on Master Chongxu’s face, Ye Qiu’s heart skipped a beat.

This old Taoist isn’t trying to scam me again, is he?

Damn it, if he tries to pull one over on me, I’ll give him a beating!

Ye Qiu clenched his fist and asked, “Senior, when can you take me to study the Chunyang Wuji Technique?”

“Right now. Master Ye, follow me,” Master Chongxu said, leading Ye Qiu out of the scripture repository.

Soon, they arrived at another palace.

The palace wasn’t large but was impeccably clean, with a serene environment.

“This is my residence,” Master Chongxu explained, guiding Ye Qiu inside to a study.

The wooden bookshelf held hundreds of thread-bound Taoist texts.

Ink paintings adorned the walls, exuding a natural Taoist charm.

Sandalwood incense wafted through the air.

The room was steeped in an ancient aura.

Master Chongxu found a thick book on the shelf and pressed it lightly. With a whoosh, the wall behind the bookshelf slid aside, revealing a secret chamber.

“After the scripture repository was robbed, my master feared the Chunyang Wuji Technique would be stolen too, so he built this chamber,” Master Chongxu said. “Master Ye, please.”

He led Ye Qiu into the chamber.

The space was small, about twenty square meters, containing only a stone bed and nothing else.

Where’s the Chunyang Wuji Technique?

Ye Qiu, puzzled, scanned the room.

Master Chongxu stepped forward, knocked heavily on a wall, and three seconds later, it parted, revealing a mottled bluestone stele.

The stele, about three meters tall and two meters wide, was engraved with over a dozen practice diagrams.

Ye Qiu’s eyes locked onto it instantly.

He could tell at a glance that this was a profound internal cultivation technique.

“This stele was carved by our founder, Master Zhang, and contains the cultivation method for the Chunyang Wuji Technique,” Master Chongxu said. “Master Ye, you’ve seen the technique. About the promise you made…”

“Senior, rest assured. I won’t go back on my word. Whether the stolen scriptures are in the Forbidden City or not, I’ll help you retrieve them,” Ye Qiu said.

“Then I’ll thank you in advance, Master Ye,” Master Chongxu smiled. “Since you’ve seen the Chunyang Wuji Technique, let’s head out.”

Head out?

No way!

I finally found a supreme technique and haven’t even practiced it—why would I leave?

Ye Qiu stated his position, “Senior, to be honest, I urgently need to improve my cultivation, so I want to practice the Chunyang Wuji Technique.”

Master Chongxu shook his head, “That won’t do.”

“Why not?” Ye Qiu was annoyed. “Senior, I’ve promised to help you recover the scriptures. Are you reluctant to let me practice this technique?”

“Not at all. Master Ye, you don’t understand. Wudang’s martial arts have always been taught only to insiders. As you’re not a Wudang disciple, you can’t practice our techniques,” Master Chongxu said. “How about joining our Wudang Sect?”

“If you join, you can practice any Wudang technique.”

Ye Qiu immediately saw through Master Chongxu’s intentions.

“This old Taoist is trying to trick me into joining Wudang. Dream on!”

Ye Qiu cursed inwardly and said, “Senior, I’m the master of Dragon Gate. If I join Wudang, what happens to Dragon Gate?”

“Plus, if I become a Taoist, what about my confidante? Abandoning her would make me ungrateful.”

“And I have a mother to care for, with worldly affairs unfinished.”

“So, I won’t join Wudang…”

“Master Ye, hear me out,” Master Chongxu interrupted with a smile. “You can become an outer disciple of Wudang.”

“This way, you can practice Wudang techniques, marry, have children, and still handle your affairs, including healing people.”

“It’s a win-win solution. What do you think?”

Sounds too good to be true?

Ye Qiu was skeptical.

He now understood: Master Changmei was unreliable, and Master Chongxu was a cunning old fox.

Would this schemer really have my best interests at heart?

Ye Qiu didn’t buy it.

“Senior, is there a catch?” Ye Qiu asked.

Master Chongxu laughed, “Not really a catch. Just that if you become our outer disciple and Wudang faces trouble, you can’t stand by and do nothing.”

Ye Qiu’s face turned green with anger.

This isn’t taking a disciple—it’s recruiting a free thug!

“Senior, I won’t join Wudang. Since you won’t let me practice the Chunyang Wuji Technique, I’ll take my leave.”

Ye Qiu bowed and turned to go.

“Master Ye, please wait!” Master Chongxu called out. “Don’t be angry.”

“Actually, whether you join Wudang or not, your promise to recover our stolen scriptures is enough for me to let you practice our techniques.”

“But I’m afraid you can’t practice the Chunyang Wuji Technique.”

Ye Qiu was confused, “Why not?”

“Master Ye, look here.” Master Chongxu pointed to a line of small text in the stele’s bottom left corner.

Ye Qiu read softly, “Chunyang Wuji requires a virgin body to practice. If not a virgin, practicing it will cause meridians to shatter and lead to death.”

Damn it!

Ye Qiu was furious enough to curse.

Only now did he realize Master Chongxu had been setting him up from the start, luring him into promising to recover the scriptures.

Not only that, but Master Chongxu hadn’t mentioned this upfront and even tried to trick him into joining Wudang.

So cunning!

“If I’d agreed to join Wudang, I still couldn’t practice this divine technique. Senior, you’re quite the schemer!”

Ye Qiu laughed in anger.

Master Chongxu smiled, “Master Ye, don’t be upset. I knew from the start you wouldn’t join Wudang, so I was just joking.”

“Though you can’t practice the Chunyang Wuji Technique, to thank you for helping recover our scriptures, I’ll gift you another Wudang supreme technique.”

Master Chongxu walked to the stone bed, bent down, and tapped it several times.

Click, click—

With a soft sound, the bed slid half a meter, revealing a square stone slot in the floor.

Master Chongxu retrieved an iron box from the slot, saying solemnly, “Master Ye, this contains the secret manual of Wudang’s foundational technique, also created by Master Zhang.”

“I’m lending it to you temporarily.”

“You can’t take this manual out of this chamber. Study it here, and return it to me after you’ve learned the method.”

“I won’t disturb you, Master Ye. See you later.”

Master Chongxu handed the iron box to Ye Qiu and left the chamber.

Ye Qiu opened the box.

Miracle Doctor Chapter 986

Ye Qiu opened the iron box and found an old, thread-bound book inside.

The cover was yellowed.

Clearly an ancient artifact.

“What kind of divine technique does this manual record?” Ye Qiu wondered.

Curious, he picked up the book and flipped open the cover.

The next moment, a few traditional Chinese characters caught his eye.

Instantly, Ye Qiu gasped.

“Wudang’s Cloud Ladder!”

He never imagined the Wudang sect’s treasured technique, given to him by Master Chongxu, would be the Cloud Ladder.

The Cloud Ladder was an unparalleled lightness skill created by Zhang Sanfeng, dubbed the pinnacle of lightness techniques. It emphasized agile movement, allowing the practitioner to move as lightly as a swallow, scaling mountains as if walking on flat ground.

A single step could cover ten zhang!

“Once I master this, I’ll have another trump card to save my life. What an unexpected bonus.”

Ye Qiu quickly opened the manual and began reading.

The manual had nine pages.

Each page featured a practice diagram.

Beside each diagram were a few lines of small annotations.

Ye Qiu studied them carefully.

Five minutes later, he closed the manual, the Cloud Ladder’s cultivation method fully etched in his mind.

He returned the manual to the iron box and began practicing.

A while later, a golden light flashed under Ye Qiu’s feet, and his body shot into the air, his head slamming into the ceiling of the secret chamber.

“Clang!”

A loud crash.

Ye Qiu fell back to the ground, lucky his body was tough, or his skull would’ve cracked.

“This chamber’s too small, the ceiling’s too low, it’s not suitable for practicing the Cloud Ladder. I need a new spot.”

He placed the iron box back in the stone groove and left the chamber.

Outside, he didn’t see Master Chongxu in the study and didn’t think much of it, starting to practice the Cloud Ladder in the courtyard.

After a while, he realized no matter how he tried, he couldn’t truly grasp it.

At best, he could manage a step of one zhang.

“What’s going wrong?”

“Did Master Chongxu hide something from me?”

“Or is the key cultivation method not in the manual?”

“Damn it, that old schemer tricked me again!”

Ye Qiu was furious.

He wanted to find Master Chongxu right then and give the old schemer a beating.

Soon, he calmed down.

“If the old Taoist really hid something, confronting him won’t make him admit it.”

“He’d probably say something like I’m not destined for the Cloud Ladder.”

“Like hell I can’t master it.”

Ye Qiu kept practicing.

…

Ten minutes earlier, after handing Ye Qiu the iron box, Master Chongxu left the chamber.

As he exited the sect leader’s residence, he saw Shangling and Shangzhen waiting outside.

“Why are you two here?” Chongxu asked, puzzled. “Didn’t I tell you to show Miss Xiao around?”

Shangling replied, “Master, Miss Xiao didn’t want us to accompany her, so we came back.”

Shangzhen asked, “Master, where’s Sect Leader Ye?”

“He’s inside studying the manual,” Chongxu said openly. These two were his direct disciples, his most trusted confidants.

Shangzhen’s face lit up, “Master, did Sect Leader Ye agree to join Wudang?”

Shangling smiled, “Sect Leader Ye is young, with extraordinary cultivation and unmatched medical skills, plus he’s the Dragon Gate leader. His joining Wudang would be all benefit, no harm.”

“I heard Master Longbrow tried to recruit him for Dragon Tiger Mountain, but Ye turned him down.”

“Master, convincing Sect Leader Ye to join Wudang is incredible!”

Shangzhen added, “Master, your talent for gathering great people is a boundless merit. I admire you.”

Hearing his disciples’ flattery, Chongxu’s old face flushed, and he sighed, “Sect Leader Ye didn’t join Wudang.”

What?

Shangling and Shangzhen exchanged a glance, both seeing shock in the other’s eyes.

A moment later, Shangling said, “Master, you’re not joking, are you?”

“Wudang’s techniques are never taught to outsiders.”

“If Sect Leader Ye didn’t join, why did you let him see the manual?”

Shangzhen added, “Master, since Wudang’s founding, no outsider has ever been allowed to view our manuals. Why show Sect Leader Ye our sect’s treasured technique?”

Both were utterly confused.

Chongxu said, “I have my reasons.”

“Don’t worry, Sect Leader Ye is a man of his word. I trust he won’t leak the Cloud Ladder.”

“Besides, even if he memorizes the cultivation method, he can’t succeed.”

“The Cloud Ladder is Wudang’s supreme lightness skill, created by our founder, Master Zhang. To master it, one must first grasp the Pure Yang Limitless.”

“Though Sect Leader Ye has cultivated innate true qi, he hasn’t practiced Pure Yang Limitless, so he can’t learn the Cloud Ladder.”

Shangling said, “Master, Sect Leader Ye’s martial talent is extraordinary, I’m worried…”

“No need to worry,” Chongxu smiled. “I’ve studied for sixty years, practicing Pure Yang Limitless and the Cloud Ladder, and I’ve only grasped the basics. Do you think Sect Leader Ye can learn it?”

Shangling hesitated, “Master, if you knew he couldn’t learn it, why show him the manual? It’s pointless.”

“Pointless?” Chongxu’s face broke into a sly grin. “Sect Leader Ye promised to recover Wudang’s stolen manual.”

At this, Shangling and Shangzhen were overjoyed.

They also admired Chongxu’s cunning.

“Sect Leader Ye saw the manual but can’t learn it, yet he promised to retrieve our stolen manual. Master, that’s a brilliant deal.”

Shangzhen bowed to Chongxu, “Master, your methods are masterful, I’m in awe.”

Shangling added, “Sect Leader Ye is still too young. Be it cultivation or scheming, how could he match Master?”

“A little trick from Master, and Sect Leader Ye fell right into it.”

“As the ancients said, old ginger’s the spiciest.”

“Master, my admiration for you is like the endless flow of a mighty river, like the Yellow River flooding, unstoppable…”

Chongxu beamed.

He loved his disciples’ flattery, and his mood could be summed up in three words—

Pure bliss!

“Master, what if Sect Leader Ye realizes he can’t learn the Cloud Ladder and comes to confront you?” Shangling asked.

Chongxu chuckled, “Easy, I’ll just tell him he’s not destined for the Cloud Ladder…”

“Who says I’m not destined for the Cloud Ladder?”

Ye Qiu’s voice cut in.

Chongxu and his disciples turned quickly, seeing Ye Qiu at the doorway, smiling faintly. In an instant, he was right in front of them.

One step, ten zhang!

Miracle Doctor Chapter 987

Master Chongxu’s eyes widened, his mouth slightly agape, looking as if he’d seen a ghost.

Shangling and Shangzhen were equally dumbfounded.

Ye Qiu had mastered the Cloud Ladder?

Ignoring their expressions, Ye Qiu smiled, “The air on Mount Wudang is so fresh, one breath makes me feel refreshed and at ease.”

Chongxu snapped out of it, asking, “Sect Leader Ye, you’ve learned the Cloud Ladder?”

Ye Qiu nodded, “Yes.”

Chongxu couldn’t believe it, “How is that possible? To master the Cloud Ladder, you first need to grasp Pure Yang Limitless, but you haven’t practiced it…”

He stopped mid-sentence, realizing in his shock he’d let slip too much.

Damn, this old schemer really set me up, Ye Qiu cursed inwardly.

When he first tried practicing the Cloud Ladder, he couldn’t get the hang of it. Calming down and thinking it over, after several attempts, he realized the issue was insufficient internal energy.

So, he activated the Nine-Turn Dragon Art.

To his surprise, it worked instantly, the Cloud Ladder made a huge leap forward.

In no time, he’d fully mastered Wudang’s supreme lightness skill.

Chongxu asked, “Sect Leader Ye, how did you learn the Cloud Ladder?”

“Want to know, Senior?” Ye Qiu countered.

Chongxu nodded slightly, “I’ve practiced for years and only grasped the basics, so I’d like to consult you.”

Ye Qiu said, “The Cloud Ladder is simple, you just need one condition to master it.”

Chongxu eagerly asked, “What condition?”

Shangling and Shangzhen also stared at Ye Qiu, full of anticipation.

Years ago, they’d studied the Cloud Ladder manual too, but still hadn’t mastered it.

They desperately wanted to know how to learn it.

“The condition is…” Ye Qiu paused deliberately, glancing at the master and disciples, “Never mind, I won’t say.”

Chongxu and his disciples, their curiosity fully piqued, were so frustrated they nearly spat blood.

Come on, don’t leave us hanging!

Chongxu urged, “Sect Leader Ye, you must tell us.”

“I’m sincerely asking for your guidance.”

“Whether I can learn it or not, I want to know the condition, please share it.”

Ye Qiu looked reluctant.

Seeing his expression, Shangling said, “Sect Leader Ye, please, you have to tell us.”

Shangzhen added, “Sect Leader Ye, that’s not fair, why hold back now? Spit it out, or I’ll feel suffocated.”

Don’t worry, you’ll feel even worse soon.

“Alright, since all three of you want to know, I’ll tell you.”

“The reason I mastered the Cloud Ladder is because I’m…”

“Good-looking!”

What?

The three were stunned.

Ye Qiu said, “Confucius said, ‘Good looks bring good luck.’ Maybe that’s me!”

“I’m off to find Yiren, bye!”

As he left, Ye Qiu deliberately used the Cloud Ladder, covering ten zhang in a step, vanishing from their sight.

Already frustrated, Chongxu and his disciples nearly coughed up blood watching him show off.

After a while, Shangling said, “Master, my fears came true, Sect Leader Ye’s martial talent is terrifying.”

Shangzhen said, “I’m puzzled, how did he learn the Cloud Ladder without practicing Pure Yang Limitless?”

Shangling replied, “Junior Brother, can’t you see the simple truth?”

“Sect Leader Ye must have found a special way to learn it, he just won’t tell us.”

Shangling glanced at the expressionless Chongxu, asking, “Master, what do you think his special method is?”

Chongxu rolled his eyes, “If I knew, would I need to ask him?”

“I don’t know how Ye Qiu mastered it, but I know he’s lying.”

“If good looks were enough, I’d have learned it long ago.”

Shangling and Shangzhen were speechless.

Master, at a time like this, can you not be so narcissistic?

“Sigh!” Chongxu sighed, “Sect Leader Ye won’t tell us because he’s upset with me.”

“I set traps for him, and he figured it out.”

“I never expected he’d actually master the Cloud Ladder.”

Chongxu grew angry, “I spent sixty years and barely scratched the surface, but he learned it in moments, why?”

“Is my martial talent lacking?”

“If it was, could I be the second-ranked master on the Dragon List?”

“Am I not diligent? I’ve practiced through all seasons, I’ve worked hard.”

“Shangling, Shangzhen, why’s the gap between people so huge?”

“How did he learn it so fast?”

“Why him?”

“Why!”

Shangling and Shangzhen knew their master’s mentality had cracked.

As Wudang’s sect leader, Chongxu had spent most of his life studying the Cloud Ladder, yet only grasped the basics. Ye Qiu learned it instantly, it was crushing.

Shangling comforted, “Master, it’s not that your talent’s lacking or you’re not diligent. From what I’ve seen, Sect Leader Ye is full of secrets. Honestly, I’m not surprised he learned it.”

Shangzhen added, “Master, in centuries, how many have mastered innate true qi?”

“For Sect Leader Ye to achieve it at his age shows he’s favored by the heavens.”

“He’s a man of great fortune.”

“Master, don’t compare yourself to him.”

Chongxu, a transcendent figure, took a deep breath, “I lost my composure just now.”

“Everything in the world is preordained.”

“That Ye mastered the Cloud Ladder is his destiny.”

“But in a century, no one in Wudang has mastered it, so we must get him to share his method.”

Shangling said, “Master, I’m afraid he won’t easily reveal it.”

“I know,” Chongxu replied, “So, to make him talk, I’ll offer him a deal he can’t refuse.”

A deal he can’t refuse?

Shangling frowned.

What could Ye Qiu not refuse?

After thinking, Shangling suddenly realized something, looking at Chongxu in shock, “Master, are you planning to…”

Miracle Doctor Chapter 988

“Master, could it be you’re planning to…”

Before Shangling could finish, Shangzhen suddenly shouted, “I get it!”

“Master, you’re planning to kidnap Sect Leader Ye, and if he doesn’t talk, you won’t let him leave the mountain. Right?”

Right, my foot.

Smack!

Chongxu swung his whisk, hitting Shangzhen on the head, scolding, “Fool!”

“Ye Qiu is the Dragon Gate leader. If I kidnapped him, wouldn’t the ten thousand Dragon Gate disciples come for Wudang?”

“Besides, with his skills, even if I wanted to kidnap him, I might not win.”

Shangzhen asked, “Master, then how will you get Sect Leader Ye to share the Cloud Ladder’s cultivation method?”

“You want to know?” Chongxu asked.

Shangzhen nodded, “Yes.”

Chongxu said, “The answer is… guess!”

Shangzhen froze.

Guess?

If I could guess, would I need to ask you?

Shangzhen was about to press further, but when he snapped back, Chongxu and Shangling were already far off.

“Master, wait for me…” Shangzhen shouted, chasing after them.

…

When Ye Qiu found Xiao Yiren, she was on a peak, taking photos with her phone.

“Nice view, huh?” Ye Qiu said.

Hearing his voice, Xiao Yiren turned quickly, smiling, “Wudang Mountain lives up to its name as a Taoist holy site, the scenery’s beautiful, the air’s fresh, I love it here.”

“By the way, Dr. Ye, weren’t you at the Scripture Pavilion? Why’re you back so soon?”

Ye Qiu replied, “Finished my business, so I came out.”

I see.

“Dr. Ye, can we take a photo together?”

Xiao Yiren’s cheeks flushed as she glanced at Ye Qiu, nervous he might say no.

“Of course,” Ye Qiu agreed readily.

Xiao Yiren beamed, stepping close to Ye Qiu, half-leaning into him, whether on purpose or not, snapping dozens of photos.

A handsome man and a beautiful woman.

Paired with stunning scenery.

They looked like an intimate couple.

After the photos, Xiao Yiren stepped back, saying, “Dr. Ye, thanks for taking pictures with me.”

“No need to thank me, I should thank you for coming to Wudang with me,” Ye Qiu said. “Yiren, let’s head back.”

“Head back?” Xiao Yiren was surprised, “To Jiangzhou?”

“Yes,” Ye Qiu said. “I have urgent business there.”

Though Xiao Yiren wanted more time alone with Ye Qiu, hearing he had urgent matters, she said, “Alright, I’ll go with you.”

She didn’t know Ye Qiu had no urgent business.

He wanted to return to Jiangzhou quickly because he knew if he stayed, Chongxu and his disciples would pester him to reveal the Cloud Ladder’s cultivation method.

Besides, this Wudang trip was fruitful enough, no need to linger.

They turned to leave Wudang Mountain.

But after a few steps, they saw Chongxu and his disciples approaching.

“Sect Leader Ye, in such a hurry, where are you off to?” Chongxu asked, puzzled.

Before Ye Qiu could answer, Xiao Yiren said, “There’s an emergency in Jiangzhou, we’re heading back.”

Oh?

Chongxu grew suspicious, “Sect Leader Ye, what emergency in Jiangzhou? Mind sharing with this old Taoist…”

“Not convenient,” Ye Qiu said. “Dragon Gate internal affairs, I can’t disclose.”

“If it’s not convenient, I won’t press,” Chongxu said. “But before you leave Wudang, please share the Cloud Ladder’s cultivation method.”

“If you do, you’ll be Wudang’s benefactor from now on.”

“Whenever you need Wudang, just say the word, we’ll go through fire and water without hesitation.”

That was no small promise.

But Ye Qiu didn’t buy it.

From their brief interactions, he’d seen through Chongxu’s cunning nature.

Ye Qiu smiled, “Senior, didn’t I already tell you the method?”

Chongxu said, “Sect Leader Ye, that method of yours wasn’t reliable, give me the real one!”

Shangling chimed in, “Sect Leader Ye, if you share the Cloud Ladder’s method, I’ll set up a tablet for you on Wudang Mountain and pray for your blessings daily.”

Ye Qiu scoffed.

Prayers? What use are those?

I’d rather pray to Buddha.

“Senior, Masters, I’ve said all there is to say,” Ye Qiu said.

“Shangzhen!” Chongxu suddenly barked, “Sect Leader Ye won’t talk, what do you think we should do?”

Shangzhen’s face fell, “Master, I…”

Bang!

Chongxu kicked Shangzhen’s knee, making him collapse with a thud.

“Sect Leader Ye, look, Shangzhen’s kneeling for you, still not talking?”

Ye Qiu was dumbfounded.

This works?

Could you be any more shameless?

“Sect Leader Ye, looks like this old Taoist must beg you personally,” Chongxu said, bending his knees as if to kneel.

Ye Qiu watched coldly, not stopping him, knowing the old Taoist wouldn’t actually kneel.

Sure enough, Chongxu suddenly yelped, “Ouch,” straightening up, clutching his lower back, “I threw out my back.”

Shameless!

Ye Qiu looked at him with disdain, “Senior, you graduated from Beijing Film Academy, didn’t you? Shame you didn’t go into acting.”

Chongxu, unfazed, said, “Sorry, Sect Leader Ye, made you laugh. Didn’t expect to throw my back out.”

Ye Qiu said, “Senior, I’m a doctor, want me to check?”

“No need, it’ll be fine soon,” Chongxu said, rubbing his back dramatically, then added, “Sect Leader Ye, a word in private.”

They stepped aside.

“Senior, what do you want to say?” Ye Qiu asked warily.

“Sect Leader Ye, I’m not trying to trouble you, but in a century, no one in Wudang has mastered the Cloud Ladder, so I’m desperate to know how you did it.”

“If you share the method, I won’t let you lose out.”

“After all, you know my character.”

Ye Qiu rolled his eyes.

Character?

You have any?

Chongxu said, “To show my sincerity, I’ll offer you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Ye Qiu frowned, “What opportunity?”

Miracle Doctor Chapter 989

Instead of answering directly, Master Chongxu asked, “Sect Leader Ye, do you know the true purpose of those masked men who raided the Scripture Pavilion back then?”

Ye Qiu said, “They were after martial arts manuals.”

Chongxu gave him a thumbs-up, “Sect Leader Ye, you’re sharp, nailed it in one.”

Ye Qiu was speechless.

Such an obvious question, who wouldn’t guess it?

What irked him most was Chongxu’s thumbs-up and praise.

So fake.

“Senior, what are you really getting at?” Ye Qiu asked.

Chongxu smiled faintly, “Since you guessed their purpose, take another guess, what specific martial arts manual was worth emptying the entire Scripture Pavilion for?”

Ye Qiu thought for a moment, “Could it be a technique left by Master Zhang?”

“Exactly,” Chongxu said. “Those men were after our founder’s martial arts.”

“As everyone knows, our founder, Master Zhang, was a martial arts grandmaster.”

“He created Pure Yang Limitless, Cloud Ladder, Wudang True Martial Swordsmanship, and many other peerless techniques.”

“But his greatest creation was the Taiji Thirteen Forms.”

Taiji Thirteen Forms?

Ye Qiu’s heart stirred.

From ancient times to now, when Wudang’s martial arts come up, Taiji is unavoidable.

Whether in old tales or modern films and novels, Wudang is synonymous with Taiji.

There’s a saying in the martial world, “No Taiji, no Wudang.”

That shows Taiji’s immense influence.

Chongxu said, “The Taiji Thirteen Forms is an internal martial art.”

“This fist technique encompasses the five organs and eight meridians internally, with five steps and eight methods externally, blending Taoist health-preserving alchemy, totaling thirteen forms, hence the name.”

“Before creating it, Master Zhang visited dozens of sects, studying tens of thousands of martial arts manuals.”

“Ultimately, he drew from the strengths of countless schools to create the Taiji Thirteen Forms.”

“This technique is firm yet yielding, yielding yet firm, blending firmness and softness.”

“At its highest level, it achieves yin-yang balance, harmony with the heavens.”

“Without exaggeration, it’s a treasure of martial arts, the essence of Taiji.”

“Since Wudang’s founding, it’s been our sect’s cornerstone.”

Ye Qiu got the gist.

“Senior, so the masked men’s true goal in raiding the Scripture Pavilion was the Taiji Thirteen Forms?”

Chongxu nodded, “Yes.”

Ye Qiu asked, “Did they steal it?”

Chongxu shook his head, “No.”

Ye Qiu’s eyes lit up, “So the Taiji Thirteen Forms is still with Wudang?”

“Precisely,” Chongxu smiled. “If you share the Cloud Ladder’s cultivation method, I’ll let you see the Taiji Thirteen Forms’ manual.”

“My grandmaster once told me it holds the secret to immortality.”

“Sect Leader Ye, want to become immortal?”

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance, seize it~”

Ye Qiu stared at Chongxu.

For some reason, that smiling face made him feel this old schemer was up to another trick.

But Ye Qiu couldn’t care less, any chance to boost his cultivation was one he couldn’t miss.

“Senior, I want to see the manual first,” Ye Qiu said.

“No way,” Chongxu replied. “You must share the Cloud Ladder’s method first.”

“Senior, what if I tell you and you don’t show me the manual?”

“Sect Leader Ye, I’d never deceive you, trust my character.”

“Sorry, I haven’t seen a shred of character in you.”

Chongxu: “???”

The air fell silent.

An eerie atmosphere settled over them.

A moment later, Chongxu said, “Sect Leader Ye, are you saying I have no character?”

“Yes.”

Chongxu: “…”

“Senior, I’ll share the Cloud Ladder’s method after seeing the manual. No manual, no deal,” Ye Qiu said firmly.

Chongxu was beyond frustrated.

As Wudang’s sect leader and a Taoist authority, who dared negotiate with him?

Yet Ye Qiu was haggling like it was nothing.

After hesitating, Chongxu gritted his teeth, “Fine, you can see the manual first.”

“But after you do, you must share the Cloud Ladder’s method.”

“Let’s be clear, if you trick me, don’t blame me for getting rough.”

“I know you’re powerful, with ten thousand Dragon Gate disciples, but if you play me, Wudang will spare no effort to keep you here.”

Ye Qiu laughed, “Relax, Senior, I don’t monkey with monkeys, I keep my word.”

“Good…” Chongxu’s smile froze, “Wait, who’re you calling a monkey?”

“Not important. Senior, let’s see the manual.”

“Sect Leader Ye, follow me.”

Chongxu led Ye Qiu back to the Scripture Pavilion, digging up a bluestone tile from the entrance.

The tile was ten inches thick, three feet wide.

Its underside was engraved with a single form’s manual.

“Sect Leader Ye, take a look,” Chongxu pointed at it.

“This is the Taiji Thirteen Forms?” Ye Qiu asked.

“Yes,” Chongxu nodded with a smile. “Those raiders thought emptying the pavilion would get them the Taiji Thirteen Forms, unaware it was right under their feet.”

Ye Qiu asked, “Isn’t it thirteen forms? Why’s only one form engraved?”

Chongxu said, “The other twelve are lost.”

Damn!

Ye Qiu wanted to smack the old Taoist, thankful he’d insisted on seeing the manual first, or he’d have been duped again.

“Senior, that’s low.”

“Thirteen forms, and now you tell me twelve are lost?”

“You’re scamming me, aren’t you?”

Ye Qiu was ticked off.

Chongxu laughed, “Sect Leader Ye, calm down.”

“Though twelve forms are lost, my grandmaster said with enough martial talent, even one form can unlock Taiji’s true essence.”

“Sect Leader Ye, want to give it a shot?”

At this point, Ye Qiu had no choice but to try.

“Sect Leader Ye, we agreed, whether you grasp Taiji’s essence or not, you’ll share the Cloud Ladder’s method afterward,” Chongxu said with a smile.

“I know,” Ye Qiu waved impatiently.

“Then I won’t disturb you,” Chongxu said, turning to leave.

Ye Qiu focused, eyes locked on the bluestone’s manual, and began practicing.

Miracle Doctor Chapter 990

Ye Qiu practiced the form etched on the bluestone for a while, but couldn’t grasp its essence.

Though it appeared as just one form, it was profound and vast.

So, he sat cross-legged, eyes fixed on the manual, focusing intently.

Gradually, his brows furrowed.

He discovered, almost magically, that this seemingly simple move contained countless variations.

Time slipped by quietly.

In a blink, ten minutes passed.

Yet Ye Qiu remained seated, motionless.

Not far off, Shangling said, “Looks like Sect Leader Ye’s hit a wall.”

Chongxu smiled, “It’s Master Zhang’s divine technique, after all. How could it be grasped so quickly?”

Shangling asked, “Master, how long do you think it’ll take Sect Leader Ye to master this form?”

Before Chongxu could answer, Shangzhen said, “Master took three years to learn this form. For Sect Leader Ye to master it, I’d say at least three years.”

“I don’t think so,” Shangling countered. “Sect Leader Ye’s martial talent is terrifying. Maybe he’ll need just two years to grasp it.”

“Master, what do you think?”

Chongxu pondered, “Though Sect Leader Ye’s talent is exceptional, mastering this form isn’t easy.”

“Master Zhang poured immense effort into creating this technique.”

“In my view, it’ll take him one or two years. No matter how gifted, he can’t grasp it in half a year…”

Before he finished, Shangling exclaimed, “Master, look, Sect Leader Ye’s moving!”

Chongxu looked up and saw Ye Qiu rise, squatting into a horse stance.

Then, Ye Qiu slowly raised his arms, channeling strength, striking the opening pose of the Taiji Thirteen Forms’ first form!

Shangzhen gasped, “Did Sect Leader Ye grasp the first form?”

“Impossible,” Chongxu said. “It took me three years to understand it. No matter how prodigious he is, he can’t…”

Boom!

A loud blast cut off Chongxu’s words.

Ye Qiu pushed his hands forward, his inner energy surging, shattering a thousand-pound boulder ten meters away into dust.

“Heavens, Sect Leader Ye’s got it,” Shangling said, stunned.

Chongxu, equally shocked, muttered, “How is this possible?”

“How did he grasp it so fast?”

“Is this kid a freak?”

Shangzhen said smugly, “Looks like I was right, Sect Leader Ye really mastered the first form.”

Smack!

Chongxu slapped Shangzhen’s forehead.

Shangzhen winced, whining, “Master, why hit me?”

“Hmph, it’s your jinx mouth’s fault.”

Chongxu glared at him, never expecting Ye Qiu to master the first form so quickly.

“This kid’s a monster!”

Chongxu looked at Ye Qiu, his eyes mixed with jealousy and admiration.

Shangling said, “Master, since Sect Leader Ye’s grasped the first form, he should share the Cloud Ladder’s cultivation method, right?”

“I’ll ask him,” Chongxu said, starting toward Ye Qiu.

Just then, he saw Ye Qiu sit cross-legged again.

Chongxu paused, puzzled, “What’s he doing?”

Shangling said, “The Taiji Thirteen Forms are profound. Most who learn one form become experts. Sect Leader Ye just grasped the first, he’s likely consolidating it.”

“I don’t think so,” Shangzhen said. “I bet he’s trying to practice the second form.”

Shangling laughed, “With only one form’s manual, how could he practice the second?”

Shangzhen said, “With his terrifying talent, maybe he can deduce the second form from the first.”

Shangling chuckled, “That’s even less likely. Master tried that too, ask him, did he succeed?”

“Master can’t compare to Sect Leader Ye…”

Before Shangzhen finished, he felt a chill, turning to see Chongxu’s icy glare.

Shangzhen wanted to slap himself.

I blurted out the truth and offended Master, what now?

He quickly thought of a way out.

“Shangzhen, you think I’m inferior to Ye Qiu?” Chongxu asked, his face dark.

“Master, how could you think that?”

Shangzhen said righteously, “Master, you’re the sect leader, a Taoist pillar, revered by thousands.”

“Ye Qiu’s just an underworld boss, how could he compare to you?”

“I meant that if you couldn’t do it, Sect Leader Ye can’t either.”

“Master, I’ve held back some words for a long time, if I don’t say them, I’ll burst.”

Chongxu asked coldly, “What words?”

“Master, you won’t get mad if I say them, right?” Shangzhen looked nervous.

Chongxu barked, “Speak!”

Shangzhen adjusted his robe, “Master, I’ve wanted to say this for ages, but never found the right moment.”

“Today, I can’t hold back, even if you hit or scold me, I must tell you.”

“Master, in my heart, you’re not just the person I respect most, but my lifelong role model.”

“Though you practice in Wudang, your fame spreads across seas.”

“Though your hair and beard are white, your charisma never fades.”

“You guided me from immaturity to maturity.”

“You led me from ignorance to wisdom.”

“You tirelessly, selflessly, poured your heart into training me.”

“My gratitude is beyond words, I just want to say, I, I, I love you!”

Shangling stared, shocked, speechless you’re shameless enough to say that?

“Shut up!”

Chongxu scolded, “As a monk, how dare you say such things?”

“No more of that.”

“Thank you, Master,” Shangzhen thought, relieved, knowing he’d dodged punishment.

“But Shangzhen, you said one thing right.”

“Ye Qiu’s just an underworld boss, how could he compare to me?”

Chongxu said, “I spent years trying to deduce the Taiji Thirteen Forms’ second form and failed, he can’t possibly succeed either…”

Boom!

A sudden loud blast rang out.