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v5c56: The Truth Laid Bare Part 1
🕑 Added 2024-10-16 02:05:55 +0000 UTCSorry for the wait. Canadian Thanksgiving was yesterday and I ate too much.
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To Zang Zeng’s great surprise, he was not dead. It had not been something he was expecting.
The last thing he remembered was giving it all, of that thing in his head using him like a lance at the man on the ground. He had asked the man to grant him an honourable death… yet it appeared that had been denied to him. For a moment, his gut clenched. Had he killed the expert, and then been recaptured?!
He strained his senses, dull as they were. His meridians shook as he channeled the paltry amount of Qi he had, his reserves gone, and his dantian barely functioning. His sense of touch and hearing were likewise dulled. He strained himself, catching indistinct noises, until they suddenly sharpened into something he could understand.
“He should be waking up. Remain beside him please, something familiar may prevent him from lashing out.” a female voice instructed.
“Yes, Lady Meiling.” Shenhe’s voice stated. Zang paused at the voice and the feeling of Qi nearby. Shenhe? Here? What the hells was she doing here?
Zeng paused. Had she not been hunting demons in the north? When he had left, he thought it had been a worthless endeavour when he had left. Something that would not bear fruit. Yet she was here.. And her Qi was not at her maximum.
Had his messenger arrived? Had the sect been warned? That could be the only true option—at least a part of his plan had succeeded.
Nearby there were several additional standout signatures. The closest were some manner of Spiritual Doctors—One more powerful, and the other, their likely apprentice. Next one who had defeated him. Zeng had been skeptical initially that the one who had slain his son was a member of the Cloudy Sword Sect, but in that battle, he had learned the truth—there was no other thing he could be, to defeat him without killing him. The man’s Qi was already full, it felt to him.
Yet somehow, he was not the most powerful expert in the room. Another, whose Qi was low yet had an unrelenting weight to their presence was nearby. It straddled the line between Sky and Imperial—a sheathed blade.
As he concentrated, he could feel other signatures—his entire task force was revealed to him, as well as more signatures of the Shrouded Mountain Sect.
It was a great loss of face, for them to see him like this—how utterly shameful. Yet it also meant vengeance. The Cloudy Sword Sect was now here, and vengeance would wipe away this stain. The Demonic Cultivators would surely all be put to the sword, and that brought him some satisfaction.
“He is awake. I can feel his Qi patterns, he is probing.” An aged voice stated, and he felt the powerful expert’s intent settle on him. “But if he can move his body, that is another matter.”
Zang Zeng made to answer in the affirmative… but nothing happened. His body did not move. He grimaced internally at the damage the parasite had done to him. Again, he was shamed.
“What say you, granddaughter? Is there any aid to be rendered?” the older man asked.
“I don’t know…This is beyond me.” a female voice, the Spiritual Doctor, answered, before pausing. “Wait… if he can use his Qi, and it's lightning natured…Jin, didn’t you say our bodies muscles are all controlled by electricity?”
“Yes, electrical impulses through our nerves. If the damage is to where the connection from his brain to the rest of his body is, but he can still move his Qi, perhaps that is the answer? Use his own energy to puppet himself. Or at least bypass the damage.” the one who had defeated Zeng mused.
…that was not entirely news to a member of the Zang Clan. in fact, it was a secret of theirs that the body was controlled by lightning, something the First Patriarch had discovered. But… he had never thought of it like that. He flared his Qi twice, in what was a sign of acknowledgement amongst the outriders.
“He understands.” Shenhe answered for him, which was galling. He focused within himself, mapping out his own body with his Qi, and began.
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With his Qi as depleted as it was, it took Zeng an hour of meditation to fully figure out what to do—and he was only successful due to the powerful reagents the Spiritual Doctor was expending on him.
He ended up not needing to puppet his body around with his Qi—he simply needed to create a small “bridge” to the rest of his body. It would be woefully inadequate for combat, but it would suffice for now.
With a flex of his Qi, he opened his eyes. He was in a stone room. Shenhe was to his right, seated on her knees on the ground like a servant, which said all he needed to know about how he should approach the coming situation.
With as much dignity as he could, rose so that he could look at the members of the Cloudy Sword Sect, and show them what strength he had.
“Zang Zeng greets the Experts of the Cloudy Sword.” He stated, his voice raspy. The one who had defeated him looked was leaning against the wall, his arms covered in bandages, but otherwise looking no worse for wear.
“Good. You are up, and you didn’t take too long.” the eldest and most powerful of the cultivators in the room said. He was a man who drew the eye instantly—a pillar of absolute strength that could not be denied, even while he too had bandages beneath his robes. His eyes were steel grey pits, weighing and judging him. Zeng swallowed thickly at the intent. Even obviously injured and diminished, he was still as strong as the Patriarch. “For your conduct in the battle against my grandson, and fighting against the Puppet Worm’s control, this Shen Yu shall praise you, Zang Zeng.”
Zeng felt cold dread creeping up his guts. Shen Yu, the one who had seduced his great aunt, and had suppressed the previous Patriarch with a single blow? The Unconquered Blade?!
“Zang Zeng thanks the great expert for his praise.” he replied, his mind reeling. The whore had wanted them in conflict with this beast? She must have truly needed to destroy their sect then, for whatever schemes they had.
“Now that everyone is assembled and awake, the truth shall be laid bare.” The titan of a cultivator stated. “We shall begin with you, Zang Zeng. Yours is the only tale we have left to hear. How exactly did you come to be captured by the Demonic Cultivators? The whole story… including why you were in the Azure Hills in the first place. Your men were quite forthcoming.”
Zang Zeng paled. Shen Yu’s frown was mighty. A word of praise in one breath, and the silent fact of his execution in the other, should his tale prove not to be satisfactory. The story was not a flattering one. Having to admit to being… duped, especially in front of Shenhe, made him want to writhe in embarrassment and shame.
He briefly considered lying, to make himself look better… but the old Monster before him was clearly too canny for that.
He had cheated death once already. Best not to tempt the heavens. Zang Zeng swallowed his shame down.
“After the death of my son, and the letter we received from Lord Rou, I was… unconvinced of his ties to the Cloudy Sword Sect. It just seemed too convenient for such a thing to happen. My son, just when he started to get strong, was killed, and killed in a way in which I could not retaliate. It was an enormous loss of face for our sect.” He began, only for Shenhe to glare at him. He knew her… issues, the soft-hearted fool. “But with the Patriarch in closed Door Cultivation, matters were decided amongst the Elders… and the other Elders were convinced. The Inquisitors were deployed, and Shenhe took command of the Disciples to head north. I remained in the sect for a time, as I was under some suspicion, since it was my son who was taken. I was cleared by the Inquisitors within the month, but I was deeply dissatisfied with the decision, so I sought to relieve some of that stress by visiting a woman—there I met the whore.”
His entire body cracked with lightning at the mere memory of the bitch.
“Continue.” The old monster said, his intent shrouded.
“Her ways were subtle. In the moment, she would be pleasing, and I would feel relief, but upon my return to the sect, my rage would return tenfold, so I would return to her for her skills. She had no Qi to my senses, and I could taste nothing in my food or drink, and even her lips had nothing untoward. This continued for the rest of the winter, while the whore dripped poison into me, a poison subtle enough that neither my inquisitors nor my own body could identify it. Finally, after one too many inconveniences by the Inquisitors, my rage was stoked enough that I decided that I could no longer remain in the sect. I called up my men, and went on a resource gathering expedition, hoping that would still some of the wrath, but again I had no relief. After another two months of gathering resources and meditating upon what had happened, eventually the decision was made to find out the truth about who would dare attack the sect. Yet something else gnawed at me, warning me something was amiss. So instead of simply attacking, we entered the Azure Hills with the intention of gathering information about what truly happened at the Dueling Peaks.”
Both Lord Rou and the Elder of the Cloudy Sword Sect looked at him, but there was no outburst that he had admitted to defying the edict to stay out of the hills.
“Continue.” he was simply commanded again.
“The environment was poor, and information was not forthcoming. I exited the Azure Hills and went instead to Yellow Rock Plateau, while my outriders continued their work, but to no avail. Lord Rou’s agents skillfully hid any trace of him from my men. We could find nothing for months, and when we finally did get a lead, it was of one Rou Tigu.” Lord Rou tensed. “There, the whore counseled that we attack, and capture her. However, during our stay in the Plateau, I realised that my own anger and wrath seemed… unnatural. I truly felt that something was amiss, and again ordered my men to caution.” Zeng licked his lips, remembering the sudden feeling of clear headedness when he ate the rice, before continuing.
“Instead, we would wait and tail her. I began to suspect the whore then, even with her poison within my body. I began to suspect that for some reason, a third party wished for me to enter the hills, and begin an attack that would draw conflict. So I began to purposefully stall, and noted her budding rage. With her involvement, and the Demonic attack upon my Son, I concluded that she was not a lone actor. She was part of an organization. From then on my intention was to play along with her plan, lure out her supporters, and strike them all down when they least expected it, instead of attacking as she desired. We once more entered the hills, tailing Rou Tigu north, and the whore became more and more agitated when I still would not attack upon her askance. I drew out her support, and launched my attack. I managed a blow I thought was lethal, before she unveiled her defensive talismans. From there, her power spiked into the Earth Realm. To my great shame I was defeated, infected with the parasite, and now, I am before you.”
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I frowned, as Zang Zeng finished his tale. The way he spoke and referred to people really, really rubbed me the wrong way. The man was an asshole, through and through. Seriously, being more angry that your kid’s death made your organization lose face than you were that the kid died?
I had kind of wanted to punch him when he had said that.
And yet he had managed to resist a demonic poisoner who had full access to him for a full year, and it seemed like the only reason he was here in the first place was because he was deliberately targeted.
He had had a chance at attacking Tigu… and then he had managed to hold back.
I looked at Gramps. The old man looked mildly impressed by the guy, but again, passed it over to my court.
He had held back, and probably saved my ass; so there was only one thing I could do.
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Both the expert of the Cloudy Sword Sect and Lord Shen Yu considered his words, and weighed his actions.
Then, Lord Rou picked up a kettle, and poured a cup of tea, and placed it in front of Zeng. The intent upon his shoulders lessened.The man nodded at him. Zeng could tell the man did not much like him—but that was irrelevant. His strength was too great to ignore. Zeng had thought his death was imminent… and now, instead, he would likely be honoured.
The heavens were smiling on him, for following the path of the Patriarch. Strength above all. He took the tea, and sipped it, savouring the taste. It was a medicinal tea, and it spanked with draconic Qi—truly a treasure. But something about it was familiar—the way it settled into his body, and the feeling of clear headedness that came with it…
“Your story is acceptable.” Shen Yu said. “Indeed, the woman was part of an organization—an organization headed by an Imperial Realm Demonic Cultivator.”
Zang Zeng nearly spat out his tea.
“Shenhe. Tell us of everything from your point of view.”
His cousin complied. Zeng grimaced. Her tale put his own to shame—she was able to show her might, burning out demonic cultivators. It was a strike against the face of the sect that she too had been laid low and captured… but in the end she had been freed and saved the life of Shen Yu’s disciple.
On one hand, it was good for the sect. On the other hand, it was annoying that it was Shenhe. The Patriarch had given orders about the woman, to keep her in her place… but he didn’t know if those orders could stand, after this.
“And so Lord Shen Yu led the retreat.” Shenhe finished.
“Then… is this nor fortuitous?” Zeng asked. This was an opportunity to curry favour with the Cloudy Sword sect and this beast, wasn’t it? A chance to gain glory. “There are still enemies in the north. My messenger should soon reach the Sect—and then we may deploy the full might of the Shrouded Mountain Sect to root out and destroy the rest of these worms.”
Bold action was required—even if he was probably in no shape to do anything.
“That, I am afraid, is likely impossible.” Shen Yu stated. Zeng froze, and Shenhe grimaced. “Zang Shenhe, I promised you answers, and you have been patient. So now, I shall tell you why we were in the north, looking for you.”
“It began with us investigating your sect for demonic corruption. We determined that your sect was clean…. However, during the investigation, some information about your Inquisitors and the Patriarchs came to light—and came to light before the entire sect.”
The words were a hammer to Zeng’s soul. Dread clutched his heart, as he realised what exactly must have happened. Shenhe, on the other hand, just looked confused.
“Your Sect has likely just finished their civil war—your patriarch is dead, and your strength is much diminished.”
“Wha—what could have…?” Shenhe asked, looking faint.
Zeng, on the other hand, was very much not looking forward to this. Especially because of how the men would react.
“Gather your men. And all will see.” The man commanded. Shen Yu pulled out a gem that sparkled with lightning and swirled with mist.
Zeng wanted to stop it. He knew how Shenhe would react… as well as some of the softer rank and file.
But he couldn't because he was too weak. So the men were gathered… They were told of the sect’s fate.. and a vision began to play. It was backed by mist, and sparking lightning—and all who saw it knew it was truth.
A woman whose hair was of gold, and who had nine waving tails behind her approached an injured man in a crater…
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Sorry for being kind of info-dumpy words words words. Not entirely happy with this one, but I think its one of those ones that just needs to get out of the way to get to a better chapter.
Edited by: Plasma Regulators,
Comments
Moatdog
Nah fam she’s been getting lessons from Shennong, also years of medical knowledge is going to top a few months of cultivator knowledge. She might know more about cultivation related healing but thats it
Cranky Otter
I really appreciate how CF doesn’t let us forget Shen Yu is a Monster.
Prometheus
Meiling didn't remove the puppet worm, Rou did.
John D Jones
@ Mark Greenberg Has Zang Zeng every even once shown any respect/esteem toward any female characters thus far? To my knowledge, no, he hasn't. Shen Yu reacted to Meiling removing the Puppet Worm (while keeping Zeng alive) with respect bordering on sheer awe.
Mark Greenberg
I don't think misogynistic is appropriate. Zeng doesn't have anything agains women in general, just the demonic cultivator and Shenhe. The first poisoned and tried to control him and the second is related to "the arch traitor" Zang Wen. Depending on how much Zeng knows about the true history (and I'm looking forward to finding that out next chapter) he either distrusts her because her bloodline is weak (her aunt was a traitor) or he wants to supress her because he knows she's the rightful heir to the patriarch (Zang Yong) that HIS ancestor killed. While he dislikes weakness from ANYONE, he probably respects any strong cultivator, even women (except for these two).
tem
Casual i loved this info dump! This was a great chapter
Randall Brynsvold
Once she gets the true stories from the sword and from the recording that is just starting (at the end of this installment), she should level up quickly since her preferred style is much more compatible with her aunt's (and the First Patriarch's) than it is with the Second Patriarch's rules and requirements. All the basis for her doubts and self-hatred, which probably limited her progression, will be wiped away.
Randall Brynsvold
I think there's an even chance that Zeng swears allegiance to her and they go back together to put her in charge of the Reformed Shroudless Mountain Sect.
Randall Brynsvold
I'm starting to think that main-family Zangs learn not to get too attached to children because they're not *allowed* to protect them and their long-term survival rate is pretty low.
Randall Brynsvold
Ri Zu has some knowledge, technique, and institutional experience over Meiling, but Meiling is still Jin-level overpowered. Someone estimating position by apparent Qi power will pick Meiling over Ri Zu every time.
CringeWorthyStudios
Honestly I don’t think his reasoning was that complex. He’s just kinda an ass and went all in on the “power is everything and I have the power” mindset.
Robert Mullins
It's implied that Meiling has been getting training from visions of shennong.
Guy L.
I always love getting chapters from points of view other than Jin. I love him, but seeing how him and the world are perceived by by the more typical perspectives.
Will B
I would like a better understanding of the relative skill, power, and knowledge of our healers. It feels wrong that rizu would be anything but the best healer out of the two given the knowledge and training now.
Antony Claughton
The top demon was visiting from somewhere and Meiling’s dark twin retreated somewhere. Demons free on earth are a major issue, I suspect Shen Yu wants to hunt them down.
Antony Claughton
No, just we’re not seeing anything. She he herself should be getting significant attention.
ekwood
You know, I cannot help but think even other traditional, conservative sects would balk at TSM's, or at least Zeng's, downright mercenary approach to filial piety. One can only imagine what his upbringing must have been like.
Old Dog
Fa ram has already been desecrated by one battle, Jin won't want another.
Old Dog
I look at this chapter as a preface of the next book.
Wizard830
I think what the problem is that as you mentioned, this is the chapter that we come to after a hiatus. It IS a necessary chapter for story flow but it doesn’t really bring anything new to the table. It’s not a fun “welcome back” chapter. That might be coloring the feel of the chapter unnecessarily. It’s a perfectly fine chapter.
mag28
Honestly I'm hoping he's calling for help to help out Forest Sweeper. But it's probably to look for meis uncle and the master that got away. Also probably wants to brag/show off Jin and the farm.
mag28
I agree but I think you're linking zang getting up and everyone else being okay and healed. Zang is an earth realm cultivator, him getting up doesn't mean he's healed. Hell shenhe was up and fighting while still having the sp8kes in her.
Klown Keidra
Depends on how many went, as only half survived at all. It certainly will take a bit, but they have time now. The spikes are bad, but not lethal without someone pushing the spread.
Randall Brynsvold
The recording that was shown to Yingwen and Fenxian, and now the rest of the SMS field teams, is just the history of the sect from the mist containing the remnants of the original fox lady who lived on the mountain and the first patriarch. The same history that Yun Ren channeled for the tournament audience.
Antony Claughton
I liked the chapter. I would have liked an update on Nezim as well. Also, it does feel like it’s being glossed over how much healing must be occurring. All of the victims from the experiments must be having the demonic spikes cut out and demonic qi drained. Surely this is a big undertaking given how many there were being experimented on.
Antony Claughton
Given how brothels have been depicted in yhe story (both foxes and Shen) I’m comfortable with Zheng using whore here, in its proper context.
Antony Claughton
Shenhe cared more about that son than Zeng. She would be the one to have the moment with.
Alex
Doubtful. I think Shen Yu's claim that the civil war ended recently is more of an educated guess than a suggestion his sworn brothers will intervene in the matter. From what I've gathered, the Crimson Phoenix Empire holds the view that Sects are to be left to their own devices when it comes to internal affairs. The schism in the Shrouded Mountain Sect will have far reaching consequences in the Howling Fang Mountains, but it is ultimately an internal affair for the Sect, so I don't think any of the major players of the Empire would intervene. Face is everything in the Empire, and it would be Very Bad Form for a powerhouse like the Cloudy Sword Sect to go intervening in the internal affairs of another Sect.
Ormus Von Orbulon
I don't think so. He probably just said "assemble on my position" I can hardly wait for the Sworn Brothers to arrive.
Ormus Von Orbulon
Probably. I just want to see Shenhe's carefully assembled mask crack like Xulian's did, and then see her lose so, so badly at hockey. Oh, and for Zeng to be stigmatized and never be taken seriously by anyone ever again.
Gray Code
Right now, he's still a Guest, as are Shenhe and the Shrouded Mountain Survivors (Live at Fa Ram, Limited Engagement, tickets on sale now!) Guests attacking Guests would be uncouth, even without the potential of enforcement by the hosts, so he's probably safe....for now.
Brendan
Did Shen Yu send his friends to end the SMS civil war just to make sure the region was stable because of the demon cult?
John D Jones
@ Cranky Otter The point is that despite heroically resist the demonic mind control, Zang Zeng is still a shitty, misogynistic human being who is not a "good guy."
John D Jones
@ Fluffy druid He's done it twice. I dunno if that makes it a "habit." The first one probably tried to cock-block him from getting with the one aunt, so he got off light. The second one was going to kill Bi De, so he did NOT get off light. Shen Yu is another one who is one of the "good guys" who isn't necessarily a "good" guy. He's still the guy who slapped a dude across the face a hundred times so that person committed suicide from shame. And Shen Yu thinks that's funny. There are reasons that people refer to him as a "monster."
Kali Smith
Thank you! I really liked getting a chapter from Zang Zeng’s POV. And the fact he is an asshole but has a bit of dimension. Can’t wait for the next one!
Fluffy druid
Does Shen Yu have a hobby of suppressing SMS patriarchs? First the (no longer) current one, now we learn of the previous one as well.
Really_Big
Thanks for the chapter! This one definitely needs another pass with editing. I noticed a bunch of grammatical errors in this one, way more than any of the unedited chapters even.
Cranky Otter
Demian makes a good point. Vixen would be a viable alternative from Zeng’s context of hating foxes and demons more than anything else. It’s absolutely written for modern sensibilities though. It’s why we like Jin for mostly not acting like misogynistic jerk. I don’t find the term out of place for the character of Zang Zeng as much as I find it out of place for Casual Farmer. “He has to insult and demean someone” and my point is that using the word whore as a terribly demeaning insult … isn’t great. It absolutely does show that he’s a pretty nasty person. But it’s a choice. Jin calling that out immediately is a great change in tone - except Jin only calls it out in his head. I don’t know if he can do more without disrupting the scene, I still think it was worth pointing out that it makes the scene extra unpleasant to read. Zang uses the term with such venom *while being entirely comfortable with his role of hiring sex workers*. Her role as a whore isn’t the problem here, it’s her role as a demon. If she was serving him, say, poisoned food at his favorite noodle shop her actions would have been equally pernicious. And he might have still called her that because it has the connotation of a demeaning insult but that particular use as an insult doesn’t have to be perpetuated. there are other choices that don’t equate doing a job he loves to hire workers to do as the worst thing he can call someone when his personal sensibilities would consider demons and foxes the worst possible things. And if he leaves it that way because Zang Zeng is a nasty man that’s his choice, and my suggestion is to better balance that unpleasantness ~somehow~ to make the chapter feel more cohesive to the tone of the story. I didn’t actually feel like the chapter’s flaw was infodump, it was that Zang’s unpleasantness overpowered everything.
John D Jones
I like that not all of the "Good guys" are actually "good guys." Zeng heroically opposed being used as a weapon by the Demonic Cultivators to the point of trying to die rather than attack their enemies. But he's still a nasty misogynistic asshole.
Paul Birchenough
Yay!
Catherine
I am curious. If I recall correctly the beast code has the original story and wen’s? I think that’s what yun ren saw originally. But did the events of the sms add the more recent events to it or just the first 2 stories?
Truedragon5374
I forgot about Sheng. But yeah, Zang had multiple children. I hope the SMS doesn't decide on full line extinguishing. Bi De wants a rematch.
Laura Hemly
Good point, swishmcfish. I hadn't thought of it from that angle, probably because I'm just learning about Xianxia. But it makes good sense.
Nolan Bowling
"Spanked with draconic qi," is one of the funniest typos I've ever seen. Please leave it in. :D
Ormus Von Orbulon
If so, he'll tell them to take it outside, probably. Then he'll either let the lynching commence; or -- or something or someone will interfere in a way that mixes Shenhe up. Such as a tiny Nezan popping up. Or Washy poking his head in and everyone being derailed by the fact that they haven't simply been handed draconic medicine; Jin has an actual dragon who calls him "boss" Or perhaps shenhe decides on forbearance and takes a walk to reassemble her fragile demeanor and gets advice. Or maybe something completely different I haven't thought of. Or even everything! Something will happen, and I'm dying to find out!!!
Story Time Compass
On re-read... he might cough blood now the secret is out, as many comments pointed out. The truth was likely known by Zeng
Mark Greenberg
Yes, Zeng seems to know the truth but hasn't passed it on to his son yet. We saw how little respect Sheng had for his ancestor when he saw him in the memory crystal. Sheng's an ass but he's an honorable ass, one who believes in the "virtues" espoused by the SMS.
Gray Code
He is on the line of succession to the patriarchy. I think it's pragmatic to have him know and deal with it rather than have it sprung upon him upon ascension in an emergency and have to deal with both the emergency and potential qi deviation.
Truedragon5374
Well he won't be regenerating his brain tissue in the next 20 minutes. Which is about how long it will take for Senghe to learn the truth. After that only Guest Rights will save him. IF, and it's a big IF, Jin decides to interfere.
Logrus
Zeng is a very important character. He shows us that this story can contain traditional asshole cultivators.. while still making them at least somewhat complex and not cardboard cut outs. We all recognize his type from web novels, but you have succeeded in making him feel like a real person - an *actual* asshole, not an evil sociopath stereotype in a robe. Well done!
MasterKronus
@Demian Considering he knows the truth about the foxes, I don't see that unless he is deliberately posturing.
zdm
Lmao indeed he does.
Ormus Von Orbulon
I guffawed, yes. Honestly, should be left there. Besides, for someone of Zeng's character and proclivities, he might actually mean it that way.
Ormus Von Orbulon
I partially agree, and yet not. Zeng told his story barebones because he was on the chopping block, and further exposition on his overweening arrogance would have two effects; one, it would take up space in the narrative -- and nobody truly wants that much of Zeng's vitriolic bullshit. Two, we don't yet know if he's going to die horribly or have his dantian crippled in the next ten minutes -- and reader rage is a factor in how much is acceptable.
Ormus Von Orbulon
I'm not certain, but I think Zeng is actually in lesser Sky, not Earth. Either way, the Worm severed something in his spine/brainstem to take control, placing itself where Zeng now needs to make that "bridge". It remains unclear whether his body can regenerate that sort of damage at all, and he explicitly acknowledges that he is unfit for combat, and paralyzed if his Chi is disrupted or runs out. He isn't given time to process, practice or heal before the truth bomb's shockwave washes over him...and Shenhe. Who is kneeling RIGHT THERE. 2/3 of the troops present --including some of his own-- will want to lynch his ass, but Shenhe...? Zeng has been intentionally tormenting and bullying Shenhe all her life; knowing exactly, specifically how much of a multi-level bastard he was being the entire time. He'll be desperately lucky if he survives the next 10 minutes. Which he no doubt will, because forbearance. But Zeng will be humbled. Permanently. And for that sort of person... Well, that's far worse than death.
Kurlinni
While I agree his use of the word "whore" is jaring, it think it is supposed to be. Not just because he is an asshole, but he is an asshole who was taken advantage of. So as always he has to insult and demean someone.
Orion Skana
This story is not set in the modern era and should not adhere to modern sensibilities. Using the word whore in the setting is not jarring but authentic for a man like Zeng.
Jessica Emerson
I mean personally I think Zeng deserved a good Draconic spanking though
leopard eye
I don't think an earth realm cultivator is troubled long by something like that. They can regenerate quite well I think.
Dylan Dry
While I do get your dislike of the word, in this case the use of whore is justified. Not just because of how it provides characterization for Zeng but also because it is a literal and accurate description. Her cover identity was a prostitute working at a brothel. She was a whore. That is a factual description. And considering how much Zeng must hate her him referring to her in that way very much fits the story.
Demian Buckle
I'm pretty sure he is part of the core family, I get the impression from how he was acting at the end that he already knows most of the truths that the crystal contains. But was happy to maintain the lie because it kept his family in power and protect the face of the family which were the most important things to him.
WonderBread459
Even though they’re tearing apart and mashing together their enemies in vile experiments which take humanity as a suggestion and make a perverse mockery of the idea of decency, there is no excuse for a toxic work environment.
Demian Buckle
Interesting. I could see Zeng using the term whore but I can see what you mean by the term whore painting a specific picture of the woman in the narrative. Seducer might be more accurate. But Zeng using the term paints a picture of him as the type of man he is, I would have thought vixen would have been an interesting term to use as it would link to his distrust and hatred of the foxes.
Cranky Otter
The demons having some of the best run workplaces while being workplaces where they violate others’ autonomy & consent is really an interesting dichotomy.
Cranky Otter
This exactly. Work on your honor and let your reputation (face) be what it will be. You can’t chase face with dishonorable actions.
ItWasIDIO!!
Of course the asshole knew
Cranky Otter
Happy Thanksgiving! Remember it’s ok to take holidays & recover from illness. I agree this chapter could use some work. Overcoming paralysis with qi = cool/interesting [approval]. I’ve become unused to the use of whore as a pejorative, and found it jarring to read here. It equates sex work with negative character & contributes to attitudes that get women killed, so we shouldn’t do that. It helped that Jin immediately thought “what an asshole” but saying something would have been more powerful. And while it’s true that his word choice does contribute to demonstrating that he’s a jerk, it makes for an unpleasant read and I would appreciate more being said or done to indicate disapproval if you stick with that word choice. It’s also important that he puts a lot of blame on a woman who he then denigrates while admitting he kissed her (& more). And yeah, she was actively working against him and it’s good that he fought against that, but it’s definitely an asshole thing to diminish his responsibility in his actions and make it all a woman’s fault even when he personally thinks women aren’t all that. He’s a really unpleasant guy in general and the chapter is largely from his POV so I think maybe the chapter needs more bulk (another POV? more from Jin? Idk,) that isn’t so unpleasant, or some way to indicate more firmly that his unpleasantness won't be catered to to improve the reading experience.
Rebel Rebel
The chapter is fine, sometimes it’s necessary for a bit of an info dump to get everything squared away and let you move on to other things
Ormus Von Orbulon
Honestly, I waited with bated breath for what amounted to 8-9 entire DAYS for your update (I'm Canadian too) The false start a day early with the AU chapter was a straight-up kidney-shot, you know! Still, I'll take anything at this point; I'm not even mad. You may feel this needs to be polished, but It's Good Enough for now. Just what I needed.
Ormus Von Orbulon
Oh, yes Zeng. Your life was spared...By Jin. How fortuitous. Who can say if your pathetic, mostly paralyzed asshole existence can survive What Happens Next.
Mark Greenberg
Assuming noone left out any qualifiers, Shen Yu seduced the Patriarch's Aunt who is also Zeng's Great-Aunt, so there is a fairly direct familial connection between them.
Truedragon5374
Idiots like Zeng equate strength with secrets (and ruthlessness) considering Everybody knows how strong the CSS is, he probably assumes they also know this secret knowledge. He is also a luddite who has never been to a public Archive in his life.
Truedragon5374
Jin to Zang: "You speak of Honor and Face, but it is obvious which is more important to you. To protect your Face, you and those like you did many dishonorable things and hid them in the dark and justify them with your strength. Well look at me Zang Zeng. I have shared my fears with mortals and was given wise council. I have wept in the arms of my family and they bore me upon thier shoulders. I care not for this Face you so prize and my Honor is clean. You say strength justifies all. Well look upon my strength and ask yourself, was it truly worth it?"
Truedragon5374
Nah, Senghe will need a punching bag. Zang will do nicely.
Harish
I think Zeng should be a lot more surprised about a cultivator not of the SMS being aware of using lightning to move bodies. It seemed a bit underwhelming that he just accepted it.
Truedragon5374
Hmm. Zang and the Patriarch are from the same line right? Are they directly related? Is the Patriarch his father? Uncle? Cousin twice removed? They must have been somewhat close if Zang knows his sects darkest secret.
Harish
If we consider the actions that he took over the course of his search, Zeng is an arrogant bastard but he does have a brain. Enough to recognize that something was amiss, take action to root it out and maintain the needed composure without turning into a tropy Elder. Plus, CF does his best to ensure characters don't turn into strawmen. So, this does fit the bill. Sides, his thoughts still show that he is an absolutely scummy bastard Fa Ram would not want within a thousand Li.
James C
Zeng: "Behold! The greatest secret of my family, and the source of our great power!" Jin: "That's entry-level stuff. The sort of thing that all novicew need to learn before they are ready for intermediate techniques - much less advanced ones..."
M0och
Same here! Happy Thanksgiving!
martin m
Welcome back CF and Happy Thanksgiving!! Glad the truth is being revealed to the rest of SMS. Camt wait to see how they react to it
Allie
Not too heavy!
leopard eye
As they sang in scrubs. You have to face the future when the truth comes out.
Simon Casey
To be honest, zang zeng’s side of things happened so slowly over such a long time as a background story, that I appreciated having the whole thing summarized like this. Helped me put together the whole timeline.
CUI13
Learning that Zang Zeng is an asshole is one thing, but that he was an asshole AND was in on the coverup regarding the Shrouded Mountain Sect's origins makes it a bit unfortunate that Jin saved him
ParaParadox
Yeah, I agree with you that this chapter isn't my favorite, but it's not terrible. IMO, We already saw the events from Shenhe and Zang Zeng's perspective so an entire recap from their side feels weird. I imagine that next chapter will be from Jin or Shen Yu's perspective and that will flow better.
THEMIGHTYBOXHEAD
good chapter good chapter. lots of info. i like it
Andres Ceva
Nice chapter! When he had left, he thought it had been a worthless endeavour when he had left(repeated). The one who had defeated him looked (?) was leaning against the wall, Then… is this nor(t) fortuitous?”
Katharine Gould
I loved this chapter!
Ch W
Good effort on the chapter, I liked it. This solstice battle on 2 fronts was 3 months worth of writing. I liked getting a refresher and I can't wait for the time Shrouded Mountain Sect is a finished story arc.
Michael Foat
This should be interesting. I've been waiting for this reveal in the Beware of Chicken thread since the Beware of Cloud reveal
leopard eye
Don't be too sure about that. I think we have just seen more of it's softer side due to hanging out with good characters. If you look at dark timeline Meiling...
Aaron V.
I liked the chapter a lot tbh.
Desert Yeti
He knows. He knows the truth and still gave Shenhe shit. He was only honest because he couldn't lie and live. Oh, I'm looking forward to the reveal.
Melody Haren Anderson
I don't like him, but he's not purely deserving of hate, just disdain and trying to avoid him. Shenhe is great, and he's complicatedly not great. That's the thing, so many are complex. Like we find out the demonic cultivators ARE terrible, but some definitely believe this is for the best of humankind, stealing the power of demons to destroy demons in an invasion.
Megan
It's not going to be one of my favorite chapters but I say keep moving forwards because Zang Zeng really doesn't deserve a lot of your time.
Cam
I love the chapter! Thanks! It’s definitely a more serious chapter, but it didn’t feel like an info dump, or too monotonous! Thanks CF! <3
Purple Floof
Good chapter! Happy Canadian Thanksgiving! Hope your editor had a good one too, and that they can look over this chapter soon.
MrDragondude5
i looked it up and merriam webster has a definition that says askance can also mean to the side.
Jazzinald Von Hiemdallvinar
Mooooooore also tyftc but also, Mooooooore
swishmcfish
It makes sense he uses the Fancy Wording though, he's a Xianxia elder, they always speak with pretentiously.
Laura Hemly
That was a good chapter overall, CF, but yes, it could use some editing. Simplifying the language would help a lot, I suspect. It's a bit too fancy in it's wording, which complicates the story you're trying to tell. But it's good to learn just how long Zang Zeng had been trying to fight off the demonic woman and how he did it. You tell that story quite well!
Angel
He resisted thanks to Jin’s rice! 🤭
Toua77
It seems like he probably knows about the inquisition, as the mention of them is what makes him dread the revelations. He might not know the truth about the foxes, given that he follows the incomplete SMS mantra.
Angel
Agreed on all points! 😃
Angel
😂
Angel
But I got to laugh out loud…loudly! Best typo I’ve seen in awhile. 😂
Laura Hemly
Yeah, the rice -- or the rice from the Plateau that gained Qi when Jin killed Lu Ban -- was what regularly triggered his ability to fight the woman's attempt to turn him to the Dark Side.
Anzer'ke
I think it was either this or just skipping over them being told, and even if its a bit plodding this is vastly more satisfying than that option. Plus we get a look in Zeng's head. I'd say this is still a solid chapter Casual
Just A Dude
He's a good character, but not a good person. Important distinction there.
Bluebag
Yes this is the typical xianxia clan Patriarch, now he really shows his colors in the story. Funny how it took this long to get there, but that's why I love BoC. It has likeable characters, mostly.
Monkeytoster
I'm betting that he knew about the internal suppression of sect clans like the Han's. His reaction doesn't really fit if he knew the truth of the origin of the shrouded mountain with the true nature of foxes. He'll probably see the interal inquisitor bullcrap as 'pruning the trees' or some other shit like that, but be shocked about the true patriarchs death from treachery.
crusaderstar
"Zeng, on the other hand, was very much not looking forward to this." had me cackling, delightful understatement.
Duke of Coffee
So how much blood will be spat out from their mouths, I wonder?? 😜
D J Meigs
I kind of wanted Zang Zeng to come out as even more scummy, and arrogant, especially in his head. Not stupid, but more imbued with his own prowess. Like thinking that despite his extremely weakened state it ONLY took him an hour to sort himself out. Or seeing Jin’s wounded arms and assuming that his own attacks were the cause and thinking that if he hadn’t been resisting Jin would surely be in worst shape despite his power, or hearing that praise from Shen Yu and getting a bit full of himself before Shen Yu knocks him down a peg. Just enough arrogance that when he tells his story in a more reserved and meek way in the hopes to acquire the good will of the cloudy sword sect it feels completely fake and I want to rip his head off. I like the chapter’s content and it doesn’t need to be changed, but if it does get refined that’s the direction I hope it goes.
zdm
While I find the phrasing of "The tea spanked with Draconic Qi" very amusing, I assume "sparked" would be more appropriate.
BlueMage Theneras
Thanks for the chapter!
EqualPhysics
“Spanked” with draconic qi is a fantastic typo. Although, knowing how Washy treated PiPa when he first transformed… it’s actually pretty fitting.
zdm
Read moar chicken.
Tijay Arnie
I'm most Xianxia stories, I feel this would be the case, but I feel this is a (slightly) "softer" xianxia world
Sean Ulrich
I kinda wanted Jin and Zeng to share a moment, about how Jin never really met Zeng’s son… but if Zeng knew the sect’s secret… yeah that’s less likely
Kiryln
Have a good thanksgiving dinner? Thanks for the chapter.
Dwayne Parker
It was a medicinal tea, and it spanked with draconic Qi Is spanked the correct word here? Also, the bit where Zeng spots Jin is a bit wonky.
Old Dog
As always thank you for the chapter. Figured Thanksgiving "got in the way", so to speak, of the chapter being released. Wishing we could have some of Jin's rice and other foods for Thanksgiving (not that pizza he had though 💀). And as said by someone previously, MOAR!
Randall Brynsvold
Edits: "spanked with draconic Qi" -> sparked, sparkled. "upon her askance" -> insistence, importunity.
Justin
Thanks! And I hope you had a great Thanksgiving weekend! Do you live far enough north to see the northern lights on Thursday? Man it was a show.
Clifton Thrasher
I liked it fine
Baldanders
By our standards, yes. By the general standards in Xianxia he's actually a pretty decent person.
Klown Keidra
Funnily, the only reason he could fight back, was because of Jin's rice. I am hoping he finds out soon, after getting some food into him.
Ironforge
Wow, Zang Zeng seem to have been in on the secret of his sect. Guess the only question then is just how much of it did he know? Since from his thoughts I can't imagine he knew it all, otherwise his last scene in the chap doesn't make much sense.
taukid
Awesome! I've been waiting for this chapter!
linkhyrule5
> closed Door Cultivation Should probably be capital C > askance Means "with suspicion" or "disapprovingly"; probably want a different word here Nice! Interesting that Zang Zeng was part of the inner circle; this will definitely be an awkward conversation to follow lmao.
Alex Ingraham
"Blame Canada~! Blame Canada~!" - Mrs. Broflovski 🤣😏 My South Park joke aside, loved the chapter, CF! I don't think it's too wordy or too much of a lore dump. We've been wondering what Zeng's reaction to everything would be and I couldn't have asked for better! You did a great job balancing the arrogant asshole I expected him to be, but still principled. Also (not sure why I didn't see this coming...), ya surprised me with him apparently being aware of SMS' dirty secret. That's NOT going to help Jin's reaction to him lol
Baldanders
One of the unfortunate truths about politics - even in Xianxia land - is that sometimes you have to work with people you'd rather not have to work with to maintain cohesion. Since the sect is in civil war, there will be people who still favour the old ways and having Zang Zeng as an heir of the previous Patriarch there to help bolster Shenhe it might make things easier. Zang Zeng is an asshole, especially if he knew about this stuff already. But he's shown that in some respects at least he is an honest and reliable man, who resisted the manipulations of a demonic cultivator for a year. That's not someone you want to just throw away.
Some guy
I would consider him petty evil. The overall misery he has caused in his life has probably resulted in the death of multiple innocents, indirectly if not intentionally.
Bluebag
I like this Zeng guy, in a way. He's not like the other characters -- a massive asshole but not incompetent. Not quite evil, but power hungry and authoritative goes hand in hand with evil and injustice anyway.
Randall Brynsvold
He seems to have known that his Sect could not survive when the truth is revealed, and he's probably devoted to the continuation of the strength of his Sect. He may yet show that he thinks the secret is wrong and shameful, but revealing it will lead to the destruction of everything he knows.
mag28
I loved it. Also I hope shenhe sticks around in the village for the foxes Uncle was think about starting near the farm
Trevor Mergen
Thanks!
The Fergun
I dont know man dont agree there doubt Shenhe would like to work with him and you know his son, the one that fought Bi De, he immediatly was like na fuck this guy (the younger brother)
Kasinki
Hmmm. Question is now, does he know abt the truth in its entirety? That he knows only half of the motto, not the protect part of it, might show he's just an asshole, not an evil one that actively suppress the truth. But we shall see. Thanks for the chapter CF!
Bi-Dailey
TFTC
Baldanders
I'm more inclined to be a bit forgiving because the nature of sects in Xianxia land is basically brainwashing and as an heir of the direct line, he must have gotten a lot of it. It's hard to overcome your entire culture and upbringing - especially when your parents and family are powerful enough to kill you almost without effort if you do kick up a fuss. Dude's definitely an asshole but he is in a sense as much the victim of the crimes of his ancestors as everyone else, albeit in a different way. In terms of sect politicking, having him as someone from the line of the Patriarch who is subordinated and willing to work with Shenhe (which I think he will because I do see the glimmerings of a good man in there) could make things a lot smoother when Shenhe returns to the sect to rebuild it.
Patanahi
Thanks CF
Scholar of Endless Knowledge
MORE!!!!!
Angela Roberts
Oh this is going to be very interesting! I wonder how Zang will respond to strength tempered by love? (I dislike doing edits but you're right, some parts need reworking.)
James Faulkner
Tftc!
Anime Problem
Sometimes component people are just dicks he's also not particularly evil just not a nice person
Al
Good chapter. I’m annoyed that it’s split into 2 chapters but still… it’s a good chapter. I suppose that is the issue of reading stories released in serial.
Travis Holley
It was good for tension building. Now I'm smiling at how shenhe is going to crucify him over it all
Lena
I was going into withdrawal... Zang Zeng definitely knew about the whole conspiracy against the foxes, u can tell from his immediate reaction towards the end
Curtis Earl
Thanks so much!
Alex
Seems as though the main branch of the Zang family knows the truth.
Aki_Iokua18
Welcome back. Okay, any good will towards Zang Zeng is gone. For him to know, and not think his ancestor ISN’T an honorless kinslaying dog is a major black mark against him. Break his cultivation and exile him.
Albyihat
Chapter was just fine. But really, what was for thanksgiving?
WarStrider72
AND THE TRUTH.... SHALL SET YOU FREE! I'm happy that the truth about Shen Yu seducing Zeng's aunt was true 👍 and faceslapping the previous Patriarch
Story Time Compass
Man the Vision might kill Zeng, atleast he might throw up a cup a blood... or two...
Bruno Vieira
is this nor fortuitous = not?
Spellmonger
Cannot wait for Shenhe's reaction
Cyrus McEnnis
FWIW, I liked it and didn't find it too expositiony at all.
Homeless One
God I can't wait for the reaction. Love this update. Zang Zang is a jerk, but it really is impressive that he was able to fight back against the poisoning as well as he did
Randall Norman Pick
I don't know, I think it's pretty good - though let's see if Zeng can survive THIS after all the other blows.
Andrew Denton
Wait... Did Zheng already know the truth?
Apollo Above
S'all good. This needs to be shown happening and I'm glad you just didn't simplify it for expediencys sake
Devon
Still an asshole
Brendan
So Zeng knew the truth entire time and kept it going because his clan is favored and that means more access to power, resources and the benefits of prestige. Or he knew that the Head would kill him as well as the entire clan.
Pamela Gillespie
Thanks for the chapter, not every chapter can be a gem, some have to be bridges
CringeWorthyStudios
Shenhe’s gonna be so confused and possibly more than a little broken after that… finding out your entire life was a lie like this? Ouch. Thanks for the chapter!
Baldanders
TFTC Casualfarmer
Seiden Kyoukai
TFTC!!
Raraki Kraken
Finally!!!
WarStrider72
Thanks for the chapter boss!
Phallusar
Whew finally
