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[This animation is based on the novel
of the same name, "Tales Of Dark River",]

[by the contracted writer
Zhou Munan from bkneng.com.]

♪Who's coming under the dark clouds?♪

♪The world is full of blades and swords♪

♪Who comes close, who startles awake?♪

♪Who is to distinguish
between black and white?♪

♪Different paths, different destinies♪

♪Bloodshed without leaving a name♪

♪Traveling through deserts♪

♪To search for myself♪

♪In the dark corners♪

♪I keep my righteousness and integrity♪

♪Whose tales flowed in the dark river?♪

♪And in the end, who's gonna♪

♪Bury others forever♪

♪I soar up♪

♪In the storm on the blade♪

♪Bursting with passionate belief♪

♪Who defies absurd destiny with dreams?♪

♪I go against the current♪

♪Life and death
as vast as the heavens and earth♪

♪This life is worthwhile♪

[Tales Of Dark River]

[Copyright Disclaimer]

[The right to spread this animation series
on the Internet across the world]

[is exclusively owned by YOUKU.]

[Episode 01: Snowfall Killer]

Today is the day of Major Cold.

After today,

everything will be new.

Feasting and drinking to my heart,

I don't care about the road ahead.

Greetings, Second Master Tang.

I thought

this winter was already over.

Yet.

When the falling snow melts away,

we will have spring.

[Second Master Tang, Tang Faction]
People of our age

eagerly await

the end of winter every year.

But unfortunately,

it's snowing again

while winter has been over.

And here you are again.

I'm sorry to bother you.

Hahaha!

As a killer at my doorstep,

you're so polite and courteous yet.

You're the top expert of the Su family
in this generation.

The Umbrella Ghost,

Su Muyu.

I'm honored to have Second Master Tang

hear my name.

Dark River,

the number one assassin organization
in the world,

[can kill royal families
and powerful nobles in the imperial court.]

[Even capable
of wiping out major martial arts sects]

[in the martial arts world.]

And you, Umbrella Ghost,

[were chosen
by the top leader of the Dark River]

[to be the head
of their direct assassination squad,]

taking over the position of Kui.

So today,

did the top leader send you to kill me?

Second Master Tang, you got it wrong.

Today, I'm

[Su Muyu, Head of the Spider Shadow]
only a spectator.

So my real opponent is...

Naturally, it's me.

Forty years ago, I lost to you.

And we made a pact

to have a rematch in 40 years.

I thought that
when you became the top leader,

you wouldn't care
about these boring pacts anymore.

[Top Leader of Dark River]
Some agreements must still be honored,

even if they're boring.

Alright.

I've been living secluded
in this desolate city for many years.

It's about time
to stretch my muscles and bones.

As you wish.

After all these years,

you're still using silver needles
to clear the path.

Haven't you made any progress?

Back then,

you hadn't even started using a sword.

"Thousands of Blossoms",
what an impressive move.

When it comes to killing,

no one in the world can compare to you.

But this battle between you and me

should only be about victory or defeat,

not life or death.

I took the job of killing you.

That man's order

is something I can't refuse.

What a pity!

I was also told to kill you.

I'll take a rest

on the journey to the netherworld.

Don't keep me waiting too long.

Snowfall Plum.

You could have avoided it.

He's the Second Master Tang.

His plum must be laced with deadly poison.

But it was

the best chance to kill him.

Before coming here,

you told me that

it was just a match
that's been agreed upon for years.

We've fallen into someone else's trap.

We all thought we were
the ones making the moves

but ended up becoming pawns for others.

I'll take you back to the Dark River

and have the best doctor
from the Mu family treat you immediately.

We can't go back to Dark River.

Let's go to Qiantang City

and find someone named Bai Hehuai.

Top leader, you're worried that

if the other families
find out about your injury...

They've been waiting for a long time.

Maybe this is

all part of their plan.

To find Bai Hehuai,

we need to head north.

North?

Where are we going?

Home.

Home?

Yes.

Home.

[I'll take you to the one
you most want to meet.]

[Listening to the rain all night
in the small building.]

[Selling flowers in the deep alley
in the morning.]

[Today is the Rain Water,
and the geese are returning to the north.]

[Spring rain is as precious as oil
and silently nourishes everything.]

[Dragon, One of the Zodiacs
of the Spider Shadow]

[Ox, One of the Zodiacs
of the Spider Shadow]

What's up?

The fog is somewhat weird.

You guys go check around.

Yes!

No need to think about it.

Someone has set up a formation here
in advance.

Ever since we stepped
into this bamboo forest,

we've fallen into the opponent's trap.

This is...

♪The child of the Jia family
is 13 years old♪

♪Riches and glory
declines from generations♪

The children light the lanterns.

The ghosts are trying to take my life.

Do you remember

that you were

almost the child lighting the lamp?

Mu Yinzhe from the Mu family.

You dare to fight me.

Are you trying to betray the Dark River?

Is that so?

[Mu Yinzhe, Mu family]

But the news I got

is that you're plotting
against the top leader,

intending to treason.

I'm here to kill you

under the order of the Mu family.

To rescue the top leader.

Sounds like the Mu family is really loyal.

I've heard that Su Muyu,
the Umbrella Ghost,

possesses
the most powerful sword technique

known as the 18 Sword Formation.

But judging from your current demeanor,

it seems you believe

that I'm not qualified

to witness those 18 swords.

Indeed, you're not qualified.

[Back then,
I chose you to be the lantern child.]

[But in the end,
your companion Su Changhe replaced you.]

[He did a great job.]

[Among a group of 17 children,]

[only he survived.]

[I think I understand
why he took your place.]

[If it were you
who held the lantern back then,]

[You'd be dead.]

[It's hard to imagine]

[that the famous Umbrella Ghost
of the Su family,]

[the unknown man]

[crawling
out of the corpse-strewn purgatory,]

[and now serving as Kui,
the head of the Spider Shadow,]

[turned out to be someone
with a kind heart]

[and hesitated to harm a child.]

Your sword

is not as fast as I thought.

When did you...

Damn it!

How dare you stain me
with such filthy sludge!

It's disgusting!

Damn it!

You've soiled my clothes all over!

I can't stand it anymore!

Top leader.

It seems that the Mu family

has heard that you are severely injured.

Mu Zizhe, the Master Mu,

has never been one to hide his ambitions.

But I didn't expect him to come so quickly

and be so blunt.

He tried to kill me
just by sending Mu Yinzhe.

Ridiculous!

However,
it's unclear how much they know now,

whether they know the purpose of our trip

or if they have discovered
the whereabouts of the divine doctor.

With Zizhe's personality,

if he finds the doctor beforehand,

he will kill him without hesitation.

He's coveted my position for a long time.

Muyu.

It's too slow for us to move in a group.

You go ahead
to Baihe Medicine Manor in Qiantang City

and bring the divine doctor out first.

But if I leave...

Chief.

Looks like we've fallen for their ruse.

It doesn't matter.

I let you leave on purpose.

Only when you're gone

will he lower his guard
and reveal his identity.

Otherwise, it won't be easy

to break through this fog formation.

Go ahead.

I've suppressed the poison.

It won't be easy for them

to kill me now.

But if the doctor is killed,

we'll be in big trouble.

Alright.

You guys guard the top leader
and continue on your way.

Let's meet up at the Taoist temple
we mentioned earlier.

Don't stray even half a step away
from the top leader.

Don't worry, Chief.

The rest of the Spider Shadow members
are gathering in one place.

When our Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow
come together,

no one can harm the top leader even a bit.

Then I'll go ahead first.

Muyu.

Since the Mu family already knows,

it won't be long
before the Su family finds out as well.

If they also come to kill me,

what will you do?

I never dwell on things

that haven't happened yet.

The master ordered you to go to Qiantang

to kill the top leader

and bring back the Dreaming Dragon Sword.

If I kill him now,

isn't the master afraid
of taking the blame?

Mu Yinzhe from the Mu family
has already made a move,

and the Xie family has also set off.

The Su family
should also show some activity by now.

Su Muyu and Mu Yinzhe have clashed.

[Su Muqiu, Su family]

He almost killed Mu Yinzhe.

Mercy is his greatest weakness.

You know him well.

That's why
the master chose you to kill him.

We're the best of friends.

Isn't the master afraid
I'm gonna go easy on him?

From now on,

take this token with you.

You'll be in charge of the assassins
of the Su family.

[This girl is carrying a medicine chest.]

[This man looks really handsome.]

Hello, miss.

I'm not engaged.

I'm just kidding.
Are you asking for directions?

You're smart, miss.

I'd like to ask you

if there is a medicine manor nearby

called Baihe.

Do you want to see a doctor?

I'm quite skilled in medicine.

If that's the case, I can help.

Someone in my family is seriously ill.

He needs a doctor
from the Baihe Medicine Manor.

Thank you for your kind offer, miss.

How do you know that I'm not
from the Baihe Medicine Manor?

You…

Could it be that you are...

Snow falls on a branch of plum.

The wind and snow are white.

Miss!

Please take me to meet your master.

My master can't come here for a while.

I'll go and scout for him first.

Gentleman,

please lead the way.

[Xie Changze, Xie family]
[Xie Jinke, Xie family]

Are you done resting?

If we're late, we'll lose them all.

What's the hurry?

Let me finish polishing my boots.

Do you have anything important
on your mind?

Important thing?

With just the two of us

to kill the top leader

and seize the Dreaming Dragon Sword?

The top leader is seriously injured.
It's the perfect opportunity.

The young master said

that our Xie family was the first
to know about this.

We're gonna rise to great heights.

Watch out!

Impressive skills.

Miss.

Please.

We've arrived.

[Episode 02: The Unexpected Storm]

Chief.

You're just in time.

There seems
to be a problem with the top leader.

But

where is the divine doctor?

I'm standing right in front of you.

How come you can't see me?

Is this young lady

the divine doctor?

No! I'm not!

Forget it. Let's go.

Miss, please don't mind.

This is the divine doctor's disciple.

She's here to check the condition
on behalf of the master.

Come with me, Miss.

I feel like

there are ghosts here.

[Horse, One of the Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow; Tiger, One of the Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow]
Chief, you're back.

The top leader is waiting for you inside.

Miss.

Please come in.

Top leader.

The lady
from the Baihe Medicine Manor is here.

It's been a long time since we last met.

The last time I saw you,

you were still a snotty-faced kid.

The last time I saw you,

you were a god killer

ready to draw your sword at any moment.

I'm still ready
to draw my sword at any time.

Just that my hair has turned white.

Then I'll leave it at that.

Let's take your pulse first

and see

if you can still draw your sword.

Hey, handsome man.

Please suppress your killing intent.

If you startle me,

my hands might tremble a bit,

and your top leader
will be in big trouble.

Sorry.

You're quite polite.

Does my blood smell faintly of plum?

Snowfall Plum.

Hey, top leader.

I have a question

that I can't help but ask you.

What is it?

Why are you still alive?

Take it easy, Muyu.

After all,
I still have decades of cultivation in me.

Barely able to hold on without dying.

Snowfall Plum

is the Second Master Tang's unique poison.

It's said that
apart from the Second Master Tang,

no one can cure it.

Where is the Second Master Tang?

I killed him.

Well, that's troublesome.

Troublesome?

Could it be that
even the Medicine King Valley can't help?

The motto of our Medicine King Valley is,

as long as you're not dead,

you can be cured.

Then hurry up.

As long as...

As what?

As long as you pay enough money.

Deal!

That's fine.

I can cure him.

Miss, are you sure you can make the call

instead of having your master check again?

My master has been underground.

Xin Baicao's junior martial master
is already dead.

Hahaha!

Muyu.

This is Xin Baicao's junior martial master,

the junior sister
of the previous Medicine King,

and the first master
of the Medicine King Valley,

Li Yuzhen's last disciple,

[Bai Hehuai, Medicine King Valley]

I'm Doctor Bai Hehuai.

Greetings, top leader of the Dark River.

Greetings, Lord Kui.

Respected doctor,

may I speak with you privately?

Sure.

You borrow my ear.

I'll borrow some snacks.

You won't be able to finish it anyway,
right, top leader?

Let me help you.

Take them all.

Then I'll take them all.

Go ahead. Take them all.

You called me out separately

to ask me how long it will take
to cure the top leader, right?

Exactly.

I've forcibly suppressed the unique poison

in the top leader's body.

He won't die today for sure.

Today?

This is a unique poison
from the Tang Faction.

It can't be cured that easily.

But don't worry.

My master said I'm gifted.

I'm his last disciple.

Do you think I'm greedy for money?

With your superb medical skills,

it's only fair to charge more.

You're not honest.

By the way,

aren't you curious

about how I figured out your identity?

You and the top leader are acquainted.

I'm sure you've heard of us.

When I was young,
I didn't want to study medicine,

so I pestered my master
to tell me stories.

It was said to be
the world's most powerful assassin organization,

composed of three families,

[Su family, Xie family, Mu family]
[namely, Su, Xie, and Mu.]

[They are united
but have different roles to play.]

[Every few years,]

[one person is elected
as the ruler of the three families,]

[known as the Top Leader.]

[Under the top leader's command,
there is a special assassin team called]

[Tiger, Hare]
[Spider Shadow.]

[Dragon, Snake]
[The 12 strongest among them]

[Horse, Sheep, Monkey]
[are codenamed by the 12 signs of the Chinese Zodiac.]

[Rooster]

And you,

serve by the top leader's side,

with extraordinary demeanor,

and wear a demonic mask on your face.

Naturally, you're Kui,

the head of the Spider Shadow.

As a killer,

why do you
reveal your identity on your face?

The previous Kui said

it's a ritual.

It's a ritual.

Why are you speaking
in tongues all of a sudden?

It's not me speaking in tongues.

It's him.

Oh no!

What's wrong?

Is the man in the daylight

the previous Kui?

Is he holding a Buddhist staff?

Uncle Zhe is here.

Not only him.

There's also a guy with a mustache.

[Baihe Medicine Manor]
Hello!

Uncle Zhe,
have you ever seen the divine doctor?

No, I haven't.

Uncle Zhe.

Let's just kill the top leader.

Aren't you afraid
of Su Muyu turning against you?

[Su Changhe, Su family]

Then,

you kill him.

Me?

I'm the previous Kui.

I can't.

Hahaha!

I told you there was someone inside.

I wonder if your master

[Su Zhe, Su family]
is at home.

No.

He's out on his rounds.

Uncle Zhe.

It's as if there's no one here.

Stand aside.

I'm going out to look for the Master.

Then we'll wait here.

Be my guest.

She's not wearing a mask.

Oops, my bad.

I thought they were just
a couple of nasty wanderers.

Turns out they're also
from the Dark River.

You're not working together.

They're plotting to seize power!

Dragon!

Yes!

Take this divine doctor with you

and lead everyone
to continue heading north

to Jiuxiao City.

Yes!

Aren't you coming with us?

This is Hare.

[Hare, One of the Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow]
Divine doctor, please come with me.

I'll stay behind to stop them.

Lord Kui.

See you in Jiuxiao City.

You don't have to call me Lord Kui.

Just call me Su Muyu.

That's a nice name.

Just like me.

Nice names

should be paired with good-looking people.

Leave!

Xie family.

You truly live up to your famous reputation
as the Umbrella Ghost.

You even

blocked the blow just now.

In that instant,

the wind shifted.

You're kind of unusual.

The Purple Boots Ghost and Blade Yama
from the Xie family

shouldn't be here.

But you instantly
saw through our identities.

Our master heard
that the top leader had been seriously injured

and is anxious

to bring him back
to the main hall for treatment.

This line serves as a boundary.

Please do not cross it.

The top leader is fine.

Everything is fine.

Please go back
and tell Master Xie about it.

Thank him for his concern.

The top leader
is being guarded by the Spider Shadow.

So he doesn't need to worry.

The other auras
in the Taoist temple have disappeared.

Presumably, they have left.

If the top leader is alright,

please allow me to see him.

It's said that
you have recreated the 18 Sword Formation

created by Su Shiba,
the first master of the Su family.

It has been widely renowned,

and I'm very keen to witness it.

However, not everyone

is qualified to witness it.

The blade is hidden in the umbrella.

Why don't you dare to show it?

I'll do it!

The Wind Dancing Blade from the Xie Family

is not bad.

You really thought I was that weak?

Good use of the Inch Sword.

I have a message for Master Xie.

It's too late

to beg for mercy now.

Tell your master

that if he stops in time,

the top leader can sweep the recent events

under the rug as if nothing has happened.

Su Muyu.

I'm only going to say this once.

Don't you kill us?

The members
of the Dark River are all family.

It seems those two
from the Xie family are truly useless.

They even failed to force you
to use your 18 Sword Formation.

You're here.

It seems that

you're not pleased to see me, are you?

My good brother.

The men came with words from Master Xie.

I guess

you've also brought words from our master.

You're always smart.

You can read those old men's minds.

But you're also foolish.

Although you can read their minds,
you don't obey

or even comply.

What did the master say?

He said

you're the head of Spider Shadow,

but you're even a disciple of our Su family.

I am Kui, a ghost among puppets.

I belong to the Dark River,

not to any family.

You.

You're always so serious

without any sense of humor.

When you were a nobody,

you practiced sword day and night.

When you became an assassin,

you completed every mission
without a single flaw.

Even now, serving as Kui,

you're still so dedicated.

Your top leader is dying,

yet you insist
on accompanying him in death.

He's fine.

You shouldn't

talk about rumours like that.

Is it a rumour?

Within the Shadow Spiders,

all three families
have their trusted spies.

The top leader has fallen victim
to the Second Master Tang's Snowfall Plum.

He's already half-dead.

Otherwise,
you wouldn't have come looking for

Xin Baicao's junior martial master.

Kill him

and take the Dreaming Dragon Sword.

Once our master ascends
to the position of the top leader,

you can choose to continue serving as Kui

or return to the Su family.

And

you could even get the freedom

you've always dreamed of.

Freedom?

Yeah.

Freedom.

Leave the Su family.

Go wherever you want

and do whatever you want.

For hundreds of years,

no one has been allowed
to do such a thing.

But our old Master Su

is willing to make an exception for you.

With such a generous bargaining chip,

sometimes, I do feel a bit jealous of you.

Even though we're from the same purgatory,

the master favours you too much.

What if I refuse?

He fished you out of the river

and raised you for so many years.

But how many years
have you been with the top leader?

Do you have the same bond with him

as you do with the Su family?

My bond with the Su family is indeed
deeper than that with the top leader.

But now I'm serving as Kui.

I can only be responsible
for the top leader.

I'm sorry.

Uncle Zhe.

Uncle Zhe.

One hundred taels!

Uncle Zhe.

I made a bet with Uncle Zhe
in front of the masters.

I said you'd say that for sure.

I even guessed that you'd say sorry.

Uncle Zhe, you owe me 100 taels.

You're such a bad boy!

If I didn't know Muyu's personality,

I would've thought you two were plotting
to cheat me out of my money.

What did the master say?

He said,

"In that case, kill him!"

He really wants to rebel?

Not only him

but also the Xie family,

as well as the Mu family.

Then this position can only be taken

by whoever is stronger.

In the end,

all of this stems from you.

In previous generations,

the next top leader of the Dark River

was directly succeeded by Kui.

But this time, you're serving as Kui.

Who are you?

You are Su Muyu.

Just like me, Su Changhe.

We both come from humble origins.

A person from humble origins

is not qualified
to lead the entire Dark River.

I don't want to take this position.

Once the top leader
recovers from his injuries,

I'll talk to him about it

and ask him to choose a suitable successor

to take on the role of Kui.

Sometimes you're terribly strong,

and sometimes you're adorably naive.

If it weren't
for your martial arts skills,

you'd have died hundreds of times by now!

Muyu.

You and Changhe are both equally powerful.

But if I'm in,

what do you think?

If you and Changhe join forces,

then, of course, I'm no match for you.

But everything is worth a try.

Why?

Why is it that such a person

happens to be

my best friend?

Sugar-coated haws!

Give me a skewer.

Okay! Take it and enjoy.

I've packed it up for you.

Have a safe trip.

Next in line.

Sugar-coated haws!

Alright. I've packed it up for you.

Take a look. They're all fresh.

Shopkeeper,

have my mountain goods arrived?

Freshly baked buns.

Just arrived.

I was just about
to deliver them to you, young master.

Thank you.

[Severely ill, temporarily hiding in the Taoist temple;
delay may lead to unpredictable changes.]

[Episode 03: Roadblock by the Old]

Stubborn as a nut with a blockhead.

It's a miracle

that a man like you

has survived in this world.

Yet you've taken over the position of Kui.

It's really puzzling.

Interesting.

Little Changhe.

Changhe, don't push me.

I don't want to fight you.

Come on.

Show me your 18 Sword Formation.

If you keep defending like this,

you'll lose to me soon.

Changhe.

Don't push me any further.

Be careful!

Young Master Mu,

enjoying the show from the shadows,
are you satisfied?

Why don't you come out and have some fun?

[Mu Bai, Young Master of the Mu family]
Su Changhe of the Su family, are you planning a rebellion?

With the top leader critically ill now,

who wouldn't want to rebel?

The Su family,

the Xie family,

and even your Mu family,
who wouldn't want to rebel?

All you need is a reason to do it.

And the result

can only be determined
by your own strength.

How dare you!

As for the top leader

and my Mu family,

it's not for you to meddle.

The blow just now damaged your tendons.

If you don't find a place to recover,

you won't survive the night.

Su Changhe,

you'll pay for it.

I've heard that a lot.

Everyone wants me to pay the price.

But my price is very high,

and you can't afford it.

But Muyu,

you can.

Well, forget it.

Anyway, the top leader is already gone.

There's no point in beating you.

If you really use the sword formation,

it'll be a hassle for me to clean up.

Besides,

how could I really kill you?

We are the best of brothers.

Yeah, you're buddies.

Let's talk this over.

But if I fail to complete the mission
given to me by the Master,

I'll die when I go back.

That's why the top leader must die.

I must get the Dreaming Dragon Sword.

Muyu,

I'll give you a few more days
to think about it.

You know, Changhe often talks nonsense.

And there are few words worth believing.

But I believe in that statement.

He won't kill you.

You're the best of brothers.

Uncle Zhe, I've noticed
that when you speak seriously,

your Mandarin suddenly becomes fluent.

Is that so?

This carriage is quite interesting.

Sitting inside it

feels like we're completely cut off
from the world.

We can't sense any disturbances
from outside.

It's the work
of the third master from the Ban family.

It completely isolates the outside
from the carriage.

If someone comes to kill us,

we won't be able to detect it either.

The Third Master Ban said that

as long as he doesn't come personally,

even if hundreds of experts come,

they still won't be able
to breach this carriage.

But what if
the Third Master Ban does come?

Ten days after completing this carriage,

he died

of illness.

Then if I cure the top leader,

will I also die of illness?

Hahaha!

You're a divine doctor!

What kind of illness
could threaten your life?

Can you really cure me?

Snowfall Plum

is one of the toughest poisons
in the world.

I can't guarantee that I can cure you.

But I can promise

that you'll be safe in half a year.

Half a year should be enough.

You clashed with Su Muyu.

Yes.

We found out that
he had already found the divine doctor,

so we had to take action in advance.

It's our incompetence

that let him escape.

He is Su Muyu,

the most formidable person
under the top leader.

Who do you two think you are?

If you can defeat him,

then the Kui of the Dark River
would be a joke!

You dare to act without authorization

and alert the enemy in the process.

We missed a good opportunity by doing so.

Please punish us, Young Master.

Young Master!

When we were leaving,

[we noticed that Su Changhe and Su Zhe
from the Su family were also there.]

Based on their relationship with Su Muyu,

they won't form an alliance, will they?

It's impossible.

I've been on missions with Su Muyu.

Based on his code of conduct,

none of the three families at this moment

can strike a deal with him,

not even Su Changhe.

Nowadays, the masters of the three families
all want to take that position.

Whoever gets the Dreaming Dragon Sword first

will be the new top leader.

I'll spare you this time.

For the next mission,

if you fail...

Oh, I got caught.

Su Changhe!

Ouch, sorry, sorry for stepping on you.

Fanhua, you're right in your analysis.

It's true that
I didn't make a deal with Su Muyu

and almost got beaten up by him.

You're provoking me!

I wouldn't dare provoke anyone but you!

Xie Fanhua, the Sick Ghost,

I have important matters to attend to.

Goodbye, Young Master Xie.

Why do you always provoke
the Xie family for no reason?

The Xie family is the most interesting.

They're both incompetent and hot-tempered.

Let's go, Uncle Zhe.

The game has begun.

Stop.

You're no match for him.

You'll be humiliated for nothing.

[Chenghua Inn]

The master asked me to assist you

and follow your orders.

What's your plan?

The top leader's journey north

is simply a delay tactic to buy time

for the divine doctor to cure him.

In case he's cured

and returns to the Dark River,

those masters will definitely be fine.

As for us errand-runners,

we'll inevitably face repercussions.

So we must kill him.

[I'll send some people to stop Su Muyu.]

[They all share the surname Su.]

[Su Muyu won't kill them.]

[As long as we can delay Su Muyu
from catching up to the top leader for a while.]

Then we go and kill that divine doctor.

Both the top leader and the divine doctor

[are currently under the protection
of the Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow.]

[Are you so confident?]

I've sent a message
to the Imperial City in the north.

[There's a member of the Tang Faction
inside the Imperial City.]

[Letter for Tang Lianyue, the Black Tortoise Ambassador]
[Back then, he was quite famous in the martial arts world.]

Inside the Pipa Pavilion in Jiujiang,

he shocked the world

[with his three secret weapons]

[and is a supreme master who]

can be compared to the likes of Baili Dongjun
and Sikong Changfeng.

Tang Lianyue,

the future master of the Tang Faction.

The Second Master Tang is dead.

He must be the one
who desires revenge the most.

Changhe!

Your move

is risky.

With a change in royal power,

the entire nation could be at stake.

If the Dark River goes
through a power transition,

why shouldn't we take a risky move?

Brother Yu,
you truly live up to your name.

Wherever you go,

the rain follows.

Why are you here?

Did Changhe send you?

It's true.

I told him that I was no match for you.

But he said if I can't stop you,

I can only sleep with you.

Don't be so hasty, Hongxi.

You're not the only one in the Dark River
who covets Brother Yu.

I'm also willing

to take the lead to sleep with him.

You want to hold me back?

That's right.

Big Brother wants the top leader dead,

but he doesn't want you to die.

So the best way is to hold you back.

Did he tell you

that I won't kill you?

There's a deserted house up ahead.
Let's take a break.

This journey is dangerous,

and it's risky to stay in such a place.

If we keep on traveling like this,

your top leader will be in danger.

Do as the doctor says.

Yes.

Let's go!

Top leader.

Can I say something?

Just say it

as long as it's not I'm hopeless.

You're still in the mood for jokes.

Maybe I'm over-worried.

I can feel that

you're a bit uneasy along the way.

In my impression,

you're a fearless person.

Because Muyu is not here,

it's inevitable to feel a bit anxious.

Can he, alone,

be more trustworthy
than the Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow?

He is the master of weaving webs,

and only through the web

can the Twelve Zodiacs
become skilled hunters.

Su Muyu

is really amazing.

Doctor, you seem
to be particularly interested in him.

Who wouldn't be interested

in a good-looking and powerful man?

If you can cure me,

I'll have no problem convincing Muyu

to marry you.

Don't the people of the Dark River
never intermarry with outsiders?

Muyu is different.

Brother Yu,

I'm afraid if I turn my head too hard,

it might fall off.

I didn't draw my sword.

Changhe thinks I won't kill you,

so he sent you to stop me.

He thought he could read my mind.

I've killed many people,

and there have been times
when I couldn't control my killing intent.

Are you going to draw your sword on me?

No!

I just think it's too noisy.

Go back and tell him

that he can't kill the top leader.

He won't make it either.

Okay.

[Episode 4: Lianyue from the Tang Faction]

Go back and tell Changhe

that he can't kill the top leader.

He won't make it either.

Big brother has always
had an ambition in his heart.

He wants to build a brand new Dark River.

A new Dark River?

Top leader.

The next round of acupuncture

may be quite painful.

The most severe injury I've ever suffered

almost tore me apart.

But I managed
to survive that kind of pain.

Just a few needles.

I'm not afraid of that.

The pain I speak of goes
beyond just physical pain.

Oh?

With these 13 silver needles,

you'll be at your limit.

At your limit,

your consciousness will be uncontrollable

and remind you of something painful.

Painful things?

The last things you want to remember

will all come back to haunt you.

Why is it you?

[Su Hui, From the Su Family]
It's been a long time.

Wait, no.

I should say

I haven't heard your voice
for a long time.

Teacher, did Su Changhe

send you to stop me?

You always call me teacher.

But I'm just an instructor in purgatory,

in charge of your daily life.

I've never taught you sword technique.

I'm just here

to meet you

and play a game of chess.

Move C2 to C5.

If we had met on a normal day,

I'd have enjoyed myself with you.

But today, in this game of chess,

I'm afraid it's not between you and me.

It's Changhe.

You've worked together many times
to solve dangerous situations.

You're the most incredible partner

I've seen in the Dark River.

But today,

he wants to kill the top leader.

Does he deserve it?

Whether he deserves it or not.

Does the answer really matter?

When you answer one question

with another question,

it shows that your heart

is not firm enough.

Because there is no answer
to this question,

but only a choice.

The top leader

saved me and Changhe
from the trial of the Ghost Wailing Abyss.

We're all family.

But Changhe doesn't consider
the top leader as family.

He only thinks of you as family.

But now I'm in the position of Kui.

Serving as Kui,

I have to protect the top leader.

Sister, what are you looking at?

The moon.

You enjoy looking at the moon?

The moon

is the most beautiful thing in the world.

Look, you're so beautiful.

But you wear a mask every day.

What a pity.

You're much more interesting
than I thought, divine doctor.

Since I'm wearing a mask,

how can you tell if I'm beautiful or ugly?

I can read faces through bones.

I'm a divine doctor, after all.

Not to mention a living person
standing in front of me.

Even if I only see a hand,

I can imagine what the person looks like.

So you don't have to take off your mask.

I know you're stunningly beautiful.

And your companion, Ox,

Without even looking,

I know he's very ugly.

Don't disturb the divine doctor.

You're not good-looking at all.

Don't be afraid, divine doctor.

That's Ox.

Thank you, sister.

By the way, what's your name?

I'm called Mu Yumo.

What a poetic name!

It sounds similar to Su Muyu.

Are you two a couple?

Do we look like a couple?

Guard the door.

Don't eavesdrop.

It would be a shame not to try the food.

There won't be such
good osmanthus cake in the north.

Sister, you haven't
answered my question yet.

Naturally,
Lord Kui and I are not a couple.

If someone in the Dark River gets married,

they have to step down
to handle internal affairs.

Few of them go out on missions.

But what if they're not married,

it's just a simple mutual liking?

Does Lord Kui have feelings for someone?

I think he neither likes

nor dislikes anyone.

He's quite dull.

But his dullness is oddly interesting.

What's dull

also seems quite interesting?

Being good-looking but dull
is interesting.

Now, the top leader can draw his sword
in his dreams at any moment

and kill people with his eyes closed.

Evils and demons!

Ghosts and demons!

Is the Dark River a righteous sect?

You're nothing but demonic obstacles.

I'll kill you with my sword.

Just like before, time after time.

Be careful.

Perhaps the top leader
is still trapped in his dreams.

Top leader.

You're awake.

Get out of here.

So fierce.

It seems that you've come to your senses.

Then let's continue the treatment.

I've killed 832 people in my life.

These people often appear in my dreams.

Just now,

it was the same kind of dream.

Actually,

I'm not afraid of such dreams.

I killed them once.

Then I can kill them again.

Whether in reality

or in dreams.

But this time,

when I drew my sword,

it was

broken.

Is Muyu back?

Not yet.

Top leader.

Is he from the same sect as you,
with the same surname?

No.

He is nameless.

Nameless?

Kui?

We need to get Muyu back soon.

It seems that Kui

is the most reliable piece

on your chessboard.

You haven't changed.

Always so stubborn.

I've become a sword
in someone else's hand.

If I don't hold
any stubbornness in my heart,

I'm dead.

Teacher,

you have lost.

I heard that your sword technique
is getting better every day.

But I never expected your chess skills
to far surpass mine.

The only leverage I have to stop you

is perhaps

the last bit of friendship we have left.

Since there is a bit of friendship,

then, Teacher.

Can you let me go?

I'm sorry.

Can you wait for another incense stick?

Back then, Changhe and I

were set up and fell off a cliff.

It was you who saved us.

I've remembered this favour
for many years.

Today, you're using one incense stick
to exhaust this favor.

Is it worth it?

No.

But as you said.

There are no answers to many things.

There are only choices.

I heard that you encountered the killer
from the Mu family a few days ago.

The children light the lanterns.

The ghosts are trying to take my life.

Changhe wants to build a new Dark River,

where

there should be
no more children lighting lamps

or ghosts luring souls.

But it's still killing
to overthrow another killing.

A lot of people will die along the way,

a lot of people I care about.

Time's up.

See you around.

After the killing,

there will be a new Dark River.

There will be light.

I understand that
you want a win-win situation.

You want to protect everyone.

But the road ahead is long and hard.

I'll eventually reach the destination
if I keep going.

Take the top leader away.

It's a rare moment of respite.

Yet we have to run for our lives again.

Once you've cured me,

no one will dare to come after us.

As expected of the Spider Shadow.

You're always so quick.

Protect the top leader!

See you in Jiuxiao City.

Giddy up!

Leave your top leader here.

Who are you?

Dragon Whisker Needle.

You're from the Tang Faction.

This carriage is empty.

Don't try to fool me.

Go ahead, Horse.

I'll take care of this.

Alright.

Lord Kui will be here soon.

Be careful.

Who are you from the Tang Faction?

[Tang Lianyue, From the Tang Faction]
I'm Tang Lianyue

from the Tang Faction.

Tang Lianyue.

The Black Tortoise Ambassador
of Tianqi City.

You're not the one I'm looking for.

Where is your top leader?

I want to see him.

First, this is not Tianqi City.

Second, our Dark River
does not take orders from the court.

The top leader is not someone
you can simply meet.

I'm not here as the
Black Tortoise Ambassador of Tianqi City.

I'm here as a disciple
of the Tang Faction.

Your top leader of Dark River

killed the Second Master Tang
of our Tang Faction.

I'm here

to settle the debt.

Attack!

You used
the Illusion Paper Butterfly as bait

to have the Ghost Spiders sneak up on me.

You think I didn't notice?

Self-righteous fool.

Ghost Spiders originally attack opponents
with poisonous silk threads.

What did you put in the spiders?

I just put something

that your Tang Faction fears the most.

Naturally, it's the Thunderbolt
from the Lei Family of the Thunderbolt Hall.

You're the Spider Woman

from the Mu family of the Dark River!

I don't like that title.

It seems the
Black Tortoise Ambassador of Tianqi City

is not so difficult to deal with.

Our Tang Faction is not afraid
of the Lei Family Fort.

So,

I'm not afraid
of your Thunderbolt, either.

[Changhe has deployed so many disciples
from the Su family to intercept me,]

[trying to stop me
from joining the top leader and the others.]

I guess the top leader
and Zodiacs are in trouble too.

Dummy.

You almost killed me.

Luckily, the Black Tortoise Ambassador

showed mercy at the last moment.

Break!

Why hasn't Su Muyu come yet?

Enchantment.

Enchantment.

That wasn't an enchantment I used.

It was the Illusionary Steps.

Hmph.

It's all evil and wicked ways.

Oh?

So you were attracted to my beauty, huh?

You're right about the enchantment.

My beauty

has a natural charm.

This time

I won't show any mercy.

Inside the Pipa Pavilion in Jiujiang,

you shocked the world
with your three secret weapons.

It's an honor for me

to make you fight with all your might.

Now that you know my secret weapons,

yet you still walk into death's embrace.

[Episode 5: Ghost Wailing Abyss]

Don't move.

Otherwise,

these spiders will turn you
into an ice statue.

And with some tarantulas added in,

they'll blow you to bits.

Then try it.

This is Thousand Birds Echo,

the first of the three
secret weapons back then.

As one of the Four Guardians of Tianqi,

and one of the top experts
in martial arts,

do you really want
to kill such a weak girl like me?

The same enchantment

won't work on me again.

I told you it's not enchantment.

If there's any disturbance,

it's a disturbance of your heart.

Witch!

That's nonsense.

Take my needles.

Can you use a different secret weapon?

Getting pierced by so many needles

is hideous.

Can you give me a better way to die?

Witch!

Still playing tricks.

If, before my death,

I could witness the appearance
of your three secret weapons,

it would be enough for me
to brag about in the underworld.

What's this?

Blood Rose.

When it pierces your body,

blood will flow into the petals,

blooming into a bright red rose.

You...

It's beautiful.

Looks like

I'm really going to die today.

Su Muyu.

Where's your mask?

It's been knocked off by this lout.

Tang Lianyue.

I heard that you're serving as Kui now.

It's not a bad trip

to fight you.

Thousand Spider Formation.

Tang Lianyue.

I'll have another chance
to experience your secret weapons.

Are you alright?

It's been a while
since you've had such serious injuries.

It's nothing serious.

Actually, Tang Lianyue showed mercy.

Otherwise, I would have died.

By the side of the top leader,

apart from Su Muyu,

there are other people
you care about, right?

You mean

Yumo?

That girl.

I remember you used
to like her a lot before.

Don't worry.

I don't think anyone
in the world would kill Yumo.

Including Tang Lianyue,
who is as solid as a rock.

She actually used the White Colt Formation

to delay me.

What a scheming woman.

Fortunately, you fought with him.

Tang Lianyue,
the Black Tortoise Ambassador,

has always detested killing.

Nonsense!

He spared me

because he fell in love with me
at first sight.

It's true.

Just now, he claimed
I used enchantment on him

to delay his action.

Brother Yu.

Do you think I know how to charm people?

Many female disciples of the Mu family
are skilled in it.

But you've never learned it.

I know that.

Beauties often draw down ruins.

And men are attracted at first sight.

Brother Yu.

That fool should have broken
my White Colt Formation by now.

I'll get a carriage.

Did you walk all the way here?

Changhe sent people
to stop me along the way.

He knew exactly where we were.

Changhe is really...

Tang Lianyue is also here
to look for the top leader.

Could there be a traitor
inside the Spider Shadow...

There's a carriage here.

What are you doing?

I want

to buy this carriage.

Wait a moment.

I'll ask my client.

My client said,

take this carriage
if you need it urgently.

No need to pay.

Take good care of this young lady.

Another man is attracted at first sight.

Thank you very much.

Brother Yu.

What's up?

I heard you say earlier,

Changhe has become the leader
of this operation of the Su family.

You grew up together.

So do we really have to draw our swords

against each other this time?

We joined the Spider Shadow
on the same day.

Spider Shadow is sworn
to protect the top leader.

I remember that.

But...

As soon as he recovers from his illness,

he'll be back in charge
of the three families.

Then, the Su family
will naturally revoke the kill order,

and Changhe will be able to return safely.

I was thinking, maybe the both of us

don't have to draw swords
against each other.

Brother Yu.

Your sword technique is terrifying,

but your thoughts are...

Quite naive, aren't they?

Yeah.

He's always so naive.

You know full well that he's naive enough
to save the top leader.

Why did you lend him the carriage

and help him out?

By intercepting him here,

we can take advantage of Tang Lianyue

to kill the top leader.

If he dies,

I guess we'll both be killed here.

I've asked Uncle Hui to spread the news.

We need to go to Jiuxiao City

to make our next move.

You're here.

Who are you?

Why are you intercepting us here?

You're from the Xie family.

I thought it would be the Mu family.

Uncle Hui.

You can tell which family
they're from by their voices.

You're amazing.

Yes, Uncle Hui.

The Mu family didn't come.

What should we do now?

Uncle Hui.

Blind man!

You're Su Hui from the Su family.

Kill them.

Make sure to leave one alive.

What's exactly the Su family up to?

Don't ask questions you shouldn't.

Go back and tell your master,

if he wants to kill the top leader,

go to Jiuxiao City.

Uncle Hui.

Big Brother tasked us
with giving the message to the Mu Family,

but now we've given it
to the Xie Family instead.

We...

It doesn't matter.

Once the Xie Family knows,

the Mu Family will know too.

Will Brother Yu be in danger?

Let's leave Muyu

to Changhe.

I don't want to fight with Muyu.

Last time,

I only took action to satisfy the Master.

At the Dark River,

Muyu is the light that illuminates me.

[Young Su Changhe]

[NO.8]

Am I going to die here?

Who is it?

It's me.

You're No.19.

Come up quickly.

[Young Su Muyu]
The way back is not easy.

What are you doing here?

During the roll call for dinner,

you were the only one missing,

so I came out to look for you.

Look for me?

Come up quickly then.

Can I trust him?

What are you thinking?

Come on up.

Okay.

How did you end up in this hole?

Those guys lost a sword fight

and held a grudge.

They pretended to invite me
for a private match

and secretly set a trap to harm me.

When the instructor is away,

don't interact with others.

You're someone else, too.

You can rest assured.

I never owe anyone any favors.

As for your favor,

I'll definitely repay it in the future.

No need to worry about it.

[NO.19]
Stay close to me.

Your sword technique is a bit weak.

The outcome is still unknown.

Who says sword technique
has to be fierce to win?

We've fought four times.

You won twice.

I won twice.

Let's agree

that this round determines the winner.

It was a one-game deal.

But you lost the first round
and asked for two out of three.

Then you lost the third round

and asked for three out of five.

The outcome of this round really matters.

Okay.

It's fixed.

If you lose, go to the master's room

and steal that jar of good wine.

Okay.

Uncle Hui.

Haha!

I won.

These are the two nameless guys
you chose for the Su family?

Among this group of nameless ones,

no one is stronger

and more suitable
for the Su family than them.

Both their moves and sword techniques

are impeccable.

Take them to Wangshu Tower.

Don't be discovered
by those of the Mu family.

Understood.

[Wangshu Tower]

This is the Wangshu Tower, where the secret
sword manuals of the Su family are kept.

Uncle Hui.

You won't be punished
for sneaking us in, will you?

I'm blind.

I didn't see

or do anything.

Why would I be punished?

Then we won't hold back.

The surname ceremony is coming up.

No.19.

[18 Sword Formation]
Let's pick the most powerful one.

The trial for the nameless
will be held in three months.

For every 20 of you,

only one can come out
of the Ghost Wailing Abyss alive

and be chosen by the Dark River
as a new family member.

Inch Finger Sword

[Inch Finger Sword]
This is the top-notch dagger-handling technique in Dark River.

It's extremely dangerous,

both for the opponent and yourself.

It's a good match for me.

Then I'll take it.

That's a good choice.

No.19.

Have you done?

What are you reading?

18 Sword Formation.

Uncle Hui.

I choose it.

18 Sword Formation

is a fragment.

Since the death of Su Shiba,
a master of the Su family,

no one has been able
to recreate this martial art.

Are you sure you want to choose it?

Yes, I want it.

At the critical moment,

it's better to choose something
that can be learned quickly.

Uncle Hui.

I want it.

Then we worked together
with all our strength

and moved forward steadfastly.

At the age of the surname ceremony,

I still remember the words
Muyu said to me back then.

As long as you are strong enough,

you can be naive.

[Episode 6: Muyu & Changhe]

Changhe.

If we don't leave now,

the show at Jiuxiao City will begin.

Don't worry, Uncle Zhe.

Have a drink before we go.

Changhe.

Have you ever looked up

why you and Muyu were assigned

to the same group at the surname ceremony?

It was a scheme
by the Mu family back then.

Su Hui took them both to Wangshu Tower?

Yes.

[Mu Zizhe, Mu Family]
Those two kids really stood out.

If the Su family recruits both
of them at the same time,

it will inevitably
pose a threat to the Mu family.

Master, do you mean...

[Inch Finger Sword]

The Su family

shouldn't be too greedy either.

Just leave one for them.

Damn it!

We've been assigned to the same group.

[NO. 19]
Be careful.

[NO. 8]
Don't get separated.

[NO. 9, NO. 5, NO. 13, NO. 17]

How can we get separated?

[NO. 6, NO. 5, NO. 10]

Everyone knows you two
are skilled in sword technique.

Why don't we kill you together?

Then the rest of us will fight again.

There's still a chance of survival.

Hmph!

NO. 19.

I'll take care of the ten on this side.

A bunch of fools

are trying to kill us?

No way!

NO. 19.

Watch out for hidden weapons.

What sword technique is this?

18 Sword Formation.

You think you're impressive
after learning a fragment?

Let's beat him up!

Twin Star Slaying Formation.

A bunch of fools!

Why don't you kill them?

They're nameless ones.

Injuring them is enough.

If you don't kill them,

they're going to kill you.

As fellow nameless ones,

why not leave them a way out?

You haven't learned the first lesson
of the nameless ones.

The first lesson of the nameless ones
is to be heartless.

It's not that I haven't learned,

but I didn't want to.

He doesn't want to kill you,

so I'll do it for him.

I've never killed anyone before.

But you're forcing me
to break that rule today.

Look at them.

They're going crazy with killing.

Who treats you as a fellow?

As a killer,

you don't want to kill people.

You're truly ridiculous.

Ridiculous?

You don't deserve it.

You killed him.

You stubborn blockhead

finally get the hang of it.

It's not that.

Yet they're not worth it.

It's finally over.

We don't have to kill anybody anymore.

No.

It's not over yet.

What did you say?

Only one of us will make it out alive.

That's the rule
of the Ghost Wailing Abyss Trial.

Changhe, what are you doing?

This is what I owe you from back then.

I've said you don't need to repay me.

No one wants to die

if they can live.

But the rules
of the Dark River for centuries

dictate that only one can survive.

What they want is a killer.

We're the perfect two for the job.

They won't want to lose us in vain.

You're too naive.

If you're strong enough,

you can be naive.

You fool.

We're not getting out of here.

The list of this group is unreasonable.

[Su Jinhui, Su Family]
Any one of them dies,

it's a loss for Dark River.

I don't think so.

A heartless killer,

or two killers with lingering kindness.

Which one do we need more?

You!

Stop arguing.

[Xie Shuang, Xie Family]
Look at them.

It seems to be the worst outcome.

If two people are alive,

both of them have to be killed.

That's good.

It's been a long time since someone

dared to challenge
the authority of the Dark River.

We can't get out of here.

Both of us survived.

I'll give you one last chance.

Kill the one on your back,

then you can undergo
the surname ceremony,

officially becoming a member
of our Dark River.

Otherwise, both you and him

will die.

Both of us

have to live.

Great.

In times of crisis,

you don't want to leave him behind.

Looks like you're friends.

Unfortunately,

killers don't need friends.

Just kill me.

Don't be a fool.

Both of us have to live.

You're so arrogant.

Then let's give it a try.

Master, even if they are outstanding,

they're just two nameless ones.

It's not worth starting a conflict

with the Mu family for them.

[Stop!]

Greetings, top leader.

For centuries,

in the Ghost Wailing Abyss,

only one could survive.

You're challenging the authority
of the Dark River

by doing this.

You're also challenging my authority.

Both of us

have to live.

Do you think you two

are worth the Dark River

breaking this century-old rule for?

We're worth it.

Idiot.

We're both going to die now.

I promise that within six years,

we'll be the best killers
in the Dark River's history.

The entire Dark River

will change because of today.

Oh?

Among the three families,

which one do you want to join?

Top leader.

Don't listen to his nonsense.

As long as you are capable enough,

you can break the rules.

Dark River has broken many rules

in the past hundred years.

Today, I'll break the rule

and personally perform
the surname ceremony for you.

But if you fail
to live up to your promises,

after six years,

I'll take your life myself.

Dying by my hands

will be a hundred times more painful

than dying by anyone else's.

Thank you for your approval, top leader.

Both of us

want to join the Su family.

Su family

welcomes the two of you to join us.

Have you thought about

what name to use?

I'd like to be called Su Muyu.

Why?

On that day,
my entire family was killed.

My father placed me in a wooden barrel,

and I drifted here.

It was raining that day,
not heavy or light.

That's a nice name.

What about you?

What do you want to be called?

Su Changhe.

Su Changhe?

That's an ambitious name.

From today onwards,

Su Muyu and Su Changhe

officially join the Su family
of the Dark River.

[The word Chang]

[means prosperity]

[and bright.]

[Changhe]

[means to bring the Dark River
out of the darkness]

[and usher in the light.]

You slept well.

What kind of good dream did you have?

It's not a good dream,

just something
that happened a long time ago.

Back then,

it could be said
that the top leader saved our lives.

But now, I'm tasked by the Master

to hunt down him.

It's like repaying kindness with enmity.

Isn't that the first lesson you learned?

That's true.

The first lesson is to be heartless.

By doing this,

I'm also repaying the top leader

for his instruction.

When it comes to shamelessness,

you're number one in the Su family.

Uncle Zhe.

As an original disciple
of the Dark River,

you should be able
to get married and have children.

Do you have a family?

I used to have a daughter,

precious and delicate like jade.

She was very lovely.

But she died.

When Su Muyu floated down the river

in a barrel to the Dark River,

wasn't it raining like this?

[Light rain brings new flowers.]

[Thunder awakes
the hibernating creatures.]

[Today is the Awakening of Insects day.]

[All things begin anew.]

[Thunder calls forth the azure dragon.]

[Immortals travel in mortal world.]

Brother Yu,

you haven't rested along the way.

Why don't you take a break first?

We can't rest.

Even if Jiuxiao City has a spider nest,
it's still not safe.

There is a traitor

among the Spider Shadow.

Brother Yu,

haven't you ever thought about

that I could be the mole.

People from the Tang Faction
are really wealthy.

They've got a lot of junk on them.

I wonder if they'll recycle these items
if they get knocked away.

You got here pretty fast.

You're so eager to see me.

You should have left her behind.

She's hurt.

You can't go fast with a carriage.

I'll naturally catch up.

I'll stop him.

You run.

Brother Yu.

I told you

that I'm the mole.

I took it as a joke.

Changhe has found me before,

but I don't want to choose between you.

So, Brother Yu,

go and settle everything.

No need to be humble.

Both of you have to stay.

Leave!

Trust me.

This guy won't kill me.

Just run if you can't hold him off.

Don't worry, Brother Yu.

I've told you

that he won't kill me.

Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?

So what?

You're really confident.

The martial world is full
of passionate men.

But today you may be affectionate,

and tomorrow you may be heartless.

Although you were distracted
by me a few days ago,

after a few days,

perhaps you've forgotten,

or maybe revenge
is more important to you,

and affectionate feelings
can be discarded at any time.

Who said I was distracted by you?

Sigh.

Even though I'm naturally stunning

and the most beautiful woman
of the Dark River,

it's our first meeting after all.

The so-called love at first sight

is nothing more
than being attracted by looks.

You don't have much deep affection
for me after all.

Attracted by looks?

Do you want

to witness my Dragon Whisker Needles?

Dragon Whisker Needles?

No, thanks.

Oh, shit.

I didn't even notice.

So, as the Black Tortoise Ambassador,
one of the Four Guardians of Tianqi,

you're also affected by beauty.

Put me down!

Do you think I'm stupid?

If I put you down,

you're going to kill me again.

How boring it is!

You really think you can trap me
with a mere spider thread?

No matter how powerful
your martial arts are,

you're just a man

who doesn't understand affection.

Fine.

Witch!

I'll kill you.

[Episode 7: Sword Breaks Heaven Net]

[Jiuxiao City]

After settling unfinished grudges,

embark on a journey to Jiuxiao with you.

This is Jiuxiao City,

where Poetry Sword Deity
became famous with his sword.

People from Beili are skilled in swords,
while people from Nanjue excel in blades.

This tradition originated from him
during the founding of the nation.

Back then, nine-tenths of the countless men
and women in the martial arts world

dreamt of becoming the Poetry Sword Deity,

while the remaining
one-tenth of them wished to marry him.

I've heard this story before.

Even my master mentioned

that all the swordsmen in the world

yearned to visit Jiuxiao City
in their youth,

hoping to experience
the poetic sword energy

that split the Nine Heavens
even after hundreds of years.

What kind of sword could split
the Nine Heavens with a single strike?

According to the historical records,

when the Poetry Sword Deity killed
the Sword Demon with his final strike,

[the power of that strike]

[shattered the clouds in the entire sky.]

[Afterwards, the Poetry Sword Deity
left the city by stepping on his sword.]

[Then a heavy rain poured
over Jiuxiao City for ten full days.]

[In a northern city,]

[ten full days of heavy rain
is unheard of.]

[So there is a belief
that the sword of the Poetry Sword Deity]

caused a leak in the sky.

It's called Sword Breaks the Nine Heavens.

Top leader.

You also use a sword.

Didn't you ever want to visit Jiuxiao City
when you were young?

For ordinary people,
a sword is a sword.

But for those of the Dark River,
a sword is just a deadly weapon.

Besides,

I didn't use a sword when I was young.

I learned it later on.

What about Su Muyu?

Would he be interested in this legend?

His sword

is also a deadly weapon.

Here is Jiuxiao City.

The top leader should be
at the spider nest by now.

Have you arranged for someone
to infiltrate the Spider Shadow?

Yes.

Even the master has no way to make it.

I know Su Muyu very well.

I know exactly who he'll choose.

Uncle Zhe.

We've been traveling for so long.

Let's find a place to rest.

Rest?

If they enter

the hard-to-attack spider nest,

it won't be easy for us to strike again.

We don't have to.

I leaked the information
to the Xie family and the Mu family.

They will take care of it.

You, indeed,

are quite wicked.

Uncle Zhe.

I'm going to meet someone.

Father.

I also want to be a hero.

[Really ambitious.]

This guy is faster than I expected.

[Jiuxiao City]

Muyu.

Long time no see.

Although we haven't met,

I've met your people along the way.

Well, I'm just worried about you.

Let me stop you there, Changhe.

I won't change my mind.

Why are you so cold to me?

Get off your horse and have a drink.

I have important matters to attend to.

I'll have a drink with you when I'm done.

Giddy up.

What if I

insist on having a drink with you?

I've compromised many times along the way.

Don't push me.

You're my best brother, after all.

Unfortunately.

Even if you go now,

you won't be able to catch up
with the Xie family and the Mu family.

[No!]

Giddy up!

Muyu, I've been slow in making my move

because of you.

Don't look around.

This Ox

has held a grudge against me

just because I called him ugly.

Divine doctor.

You mentioned earlier

that you'd found a way
to cure me once and for all.

I wonder if you can tell me now?

Under the leadership of the Wen family,
the No.1 Poison Faction in the world,

there is a prestigious division
called Zhankui Hall

that specializes
in researching detoxification techniques.

These people are crazy.

When faced with an incurable poison,

they would test it on themselves.

If they could detoxify it, they live;

If not, they would die.

They have a saying:

Only when you're truly poisoned

can you understand it,

and only by understanding it

can you deal with it.

So they test toxins on themselves,

get poisoned, and then detoxify them.

It's like going crazy to survive.

But I don't understand.

Would you be willing to risk your life

to test the toxins just for a few cheques?

Of course not.

So you wouldn't say all this

just to make fun of me, right?

Have you heard
of the Soul Shifting Technique

of Medicine King Valley, top leader?

The Soul Shifting Technique?

Once I use this technique on you.

I can get in touch with your five senses.

And even take
over your consciousness completely.

Your past

and your current thoughts

will be thoroughly eroded by me.

And once I use the Soul Shifting Technique,

your life

will be completely under my control.

Hahaha...

Would you like to give it a try?

Let's try it.

We're here, top leader.

This is the so-called spider nest?

It looks quite ordinary.

Don't underestimate this courtyard.

Ordinary people will face 100 ways to die

if they step into this place.

That's why many people

don't want us to step in.

Protect the top leader!

Top leader.

They're from the Xie family.

I'm afraid it's not just the Xie family.

What's this?

The Mu family.

The Heaven Net Formation of the Mu family.

Top leader.

Let's get back to the carriage now.

It's too late!

Someone is already here.

It's Fanhua.

It's been a long time.

Top leader.

How are you?

Sick Ghost.

Your illness is deeply rooted
in your bones.

Even immortals can't cure it anymore.

That's right.

I'm a man destined to die soon.

That's why I dared to come.

How did you know my whereabouts?

You've lost your power.

Why don't you retire

and live out your days?

What if I refuse?

In that case.

I'll have no choice.

What you want is nothing more
than my Dreaming Dragon Sword.

The one who holds the Dreaming Dragon Sword
is the true master of the Dark River.

And now,
I'm holding the Dreaming Dragon Sword.

So, I'm still in charge

of the Dark River.

Hand over your position.

♪Children don't need to know words♪

[Su Muyu.]

[This is my place.]

[Let's see what kind of dirty tricks
you have up your sleeve.]

♪Riches and glory declining
from generations♪

Mu Yinzhe.

Get out of the way.

Get out?

Your good brother Su Changhe
has sold you out.

Otherwise,
I wouldn't have known you were here.

You don't have to sow discord.

I believe Changhe wouldn't do that.

You don't believe it?

Then you should ask Ox

who he gave the defensive map
of spider nest to.

I repeat.

Get out of the way!

Are you in such a hurry
to meet up with the top leader?

I don't have time to play with you.

Su Muyu.

You!

You filthy guys!

I never want to see you again!

Alas.

Mu Yinzhe of the Mu family
has failed again.

Let's go.

Notify the Xie family

to block Su Muyu at the next intersection.

Ghost Sword.

The bird is sending a message.

We've disturbed the spider nest.

Let's go.

Soul-enticing Incense.

Top leader.

I'm really dying now.

Let me heal you first.

[Episode 8: Impossible Escape]

Top leader.

You forced out the toxins
of the Soul-enticing Incense.

You're amazing!

I'm from the Mu family,

so I'm familiar with this incense.

Unfortunately,
they discovered my injuries.

This should be the purpose
of both the Xie and Mu families.

Is Muyu back?

Not yet.

Ox, enter the spider nest now.

Yes.

[Mu Kewen, Spider Nest]
Key.

How long have you been here?

Thirty years.

I never thought that in my life,
I'd have the honor of your presence.

I have no regrets.

You should have stayed here
to enjoy the rest of your life.

I've come to trouble you.

People like us

don't have the privilege
of enjoying peace in our old age.

Hold your breath and stay silent

at the moment you enter.

Concentrate and activate cultivation.

Let's go.

You can speak now.

Is this the Silent Formation?

Yes.

This is the Silent Formation.

Who is this young lady?

My name is Bai Hehuai.

If you had met me 50 years earlier,

I could have cured your hunchback.

She is the divine doctor
from Medicine King Valley.

You weren't born with this hunch.

It was caused by poison.

Thank you, divine doctor.

I have grown accustomed to it.

It's not incurable.

But the price

would be quite high.

Oh?

How much?

Why not give me this mansion instead?

You're quite greedy.

Legend has it that the spider nest is home
to countless Spider Shadows.

But here it's only you.

It's a waste.

Hahaha...

Top leader.

Please come inside and rest.

If anything happens,

release the wooden bird on the door,

and I'll come as fast as I can.

That old man

is truly loyal to you, top leader.

Why did you

pretend to be fine in front of him?

I did trust him before.

But after all,

we haven't seen each other for 30 years.

Interesting.

You can use the Soul-shifting Technique
on me today.

[Hard Work Pays Off]
Not today.

[Good fortune comes from the East]
Top leader.

You've been through a great battle.

You're extremely weak.

If you try
to use the Soul-shifting Technique now,

both our lives may be at stake.

As long as the spider nest is truly
as impenetrable as you say,

we can wait a little longer.

Only when you recover

can we use the Soul-shifting Technique.

Take a good rest, top leader.

Hmm, the moonlight is so beautiful today.

Yeah.

It's a beautiful moon.

Who is it?

Who are you?

Ghost Shadow Step.

How do you know Su family's martial arts?

You're mistaken.

I just dodged casually.

Interesting.

I thought I could kill you with one move,

but you surprised me.

Surprised?

There will always be more surprises.

Take off that hat.

Your eyesight is poor.

Su family's Three Needle Leading.

It's a skill that many Heaven-level killers
have failed to master.

Don't move.

Or I'll kill you.

I can't move anymore.

You only need to stick me
with one more needle,

and I'll be dead.

I won't be that foolish.

Who knows what you're up to?

Guards!

Although I'm getting curious about you,

it's best to kill you with one strike.

It's you.

You're back!

Who brought you here?

You handpicked every member
of the Spider Shadow.

Don't you trust them?

I trust the results more.

They're loyal to you.

But it doesn't mean
they're loyal to the top leader.

What?

They think your choice was wrong.

They're just trying to help you
get on the right path.

Stop talking.

Let's end it here today.

Su Muyu.

There are more surprises by your side

than I ever imagined.

Don't touch it.

Why?

Consider it a request from me.

You and the mustache guy

seem to have a good relationship.

Yes, we do.

Sigh.

The Dark River is a complicated place.

You've got a mole.

Sorry.

Please, divine doctor.

Don't tell anyone about this.

He almost killed me just now.

Are you out of your mind?

Miss.

You only need to do your best
to cure the top leader.

The rest is our own business.

Please don't get involved.

Can you tell the people of your Dark River

not to involve me when killing someone?

I promise you, Miss.

From now on,

until the top leader recovers,

no one will be able to harm you anymore.

Is that up to you?

To kill you,

they must kill me first.

[This guy is really reliable.]

Divine doctor from Medicine King Valley.

Assassination Technique of Dark River.

That's interesting.

What's so interesting?

It's you.

[Mu Qingyang, Mu Family]
Mu Qingyang.

How dare you come to Jiuxiao City?

Why wouldn't I dare?

Now is a good chance
to kill the top leader.

Whether it's a good chance or not,

you don't get to decide.

The divination is unfavorable.

Our Mu family members have arrived.

Oh, really?

I'm in a good mood today.

Let me read your fortune for free.

No need.

Whether you need it or not,

it's an ominous fortune, a narrow escape.

Meeting a monster like you

is truly an ominous fortune.

It's not just me.

Even the master of your Su family...

You're back.

Uncle Zhe, you're still up this late?

I was asleep.

But someone woke me up.

They're waiting for you at the inn.

Uncle Zhe.

Your ringtone is quite haunting.

I'm trembling

before even going up.

Good luck.

Always creating such an eerie atmosphere.

We're all family.

Family.

Go.

Master.

Do you still remember I'm your master?

Master, please forgive me.

Release him.

If you keep holding your swords
against him,

his dagger will slit your throats.

What brings you here, Master?

The top leader shouldn't
have entered Jiuxiao City.

Even if he did,

he shouldn't be allowed
to return to the spider nest.

It's my fault.

Master, let's talk this over.

Why did you draw your sword?

Did I say I'd kill him?

Master.

I'll get you the Dreaming Dragon Sword

within ten days.

You've never disappointed me before.

I hope you'll do the same this time.

How could I let you down, Master?

Where were you just now?

I went to scout ahead.

Alone?

Yes, alone.

Master gave you the token.

Why didn't you use the people

from the Su family in Jiuxiao City?

I didn't want the Su family
to confront Spider Shadow.

I'm afraid
it'll ruin the master's reputation.

I think

you're trying to save Su Muyu's life.

Chief.

When did you get here?

There are 36 traps in this spider nest.

Each one of them is extremely dangerous.

There are four ways to avoid them.

But no matter how,

it's impossible to avoid the one here.

Where?

Here.

This is the heart of the array
of the entire spider nest.

It's missing from the diagram
you gave to the Su family.

[Episode 9: Best Sword]

You gave the mechanism diagram
of the spider nest to the Su family.

I'm one of the Zodiacs
of the Spider Shadow.

I'm also Su Shanjun

from the Su family.

Once you join the Spider Shadow,

you're no longer a member
of the Su family.

Have you forgotten the oath
to join the Spider Shadow?

Top leader is coming!

Greetings, top leader.

Take your seats.

All masters.

The Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow suffered
heavy casualties on our last mission.

I also sustained severe injuries.

Today, I'll pass on my position as Kui

to the person chosen by the top leader.

This is the new one who severs as Kui,

Su Muyu.

Top leader.

Su Muyu is the nameless.

He's not qualified to serve as Kui.

According to the rules of the Dark River,

the position of Kui must be held by
a lineal descendant of our three families.

We can't break the rules.

That's right.

Who serves as Kui
will be the next top leader.

It's impossible to be a nameless one.

Hahaha.

Don't worry.

When I step down,

I'll hand over the Dreaming Dragon Sword.

Su Muyu will only serve
as the Head of the Spider Shadow.

He won't succeed me as the top leader.

Top leader.

The Dark River is in danger now.

Who of our lineal bloodlines
is a match for him?

We old guys are not powerful enough

to protect the Dreaming Dragon Sword.

If even the nameless are qualified,

the Mu family is full of talented people.

Since each family has talented people,

let's compete today.

Thanks for your kindness, top leader.

I'll do my best.

Good.

In that case,

please select the best of the best
from each family

to compete in the ring.

The winner will serve as Kui
after half an hour.

They will fight one by one in the ring.

All masters are not allowed
to watch up close.

Life and death are fated.

You should not hold grudges
because of this.

Brother Muyu.

Be careful.

Yumo.

The Mu family knows
you're no match for me.

Master Mu said,

if I can't kill you,

he'll kill me.

Yumo.

Trust me.

We'll be fine.

Brother Changhe.

You really want to serve as Kui?

No, I don't.

Then why did you
offend the three families?

I have to listen to the top leader.

Because of the homeland
you mentioned to me before?

Yes.

Changhe.

I'll get to that homeland,

together with everyone.

A place that seems elusive.

Why do you have such faith in it?

As an assassin,

the only thing you can trust

is the sword in your hand.

Then I'll use the sword in my hand

to cut the way out.

That's more like it.

I won't stop you
if you want to serve as Kui.

I just hope you can remember what I said.

The only things you can trust

are the sword in your hand

and

me.

Anyone else want a try?

Su Shanjun

from the Su family.

Seems like Su Shanjun from our Su family

will take the position of Kui.

Top leader.

I've won.

Good.

Haha.

Do you have anything else to say?

Losers!

Kill all of them from the Mu Family.

Hold on, Master Mu.

Top leader.

These people are the best
of the Dark River.

Please spare their lives.

We need to reorganize
the Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow.

Serving as the new Kui,

Muyu,

it's up to you to choose your men.

Thank you, top leader.

Once you put on the masks,

you're the new Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow

under the command of Kui.

Spider Shadow's duty is to protect
the safety of the top leader at all costs.

Spider Shadow will fight to the death
to protect the top leader.

Fight to the death
to protect the top leader.

We made that vow together years ago.

Chief.

Things have changed.

You should wake up!

You know better than anyone.

Top leader will die for sure.

Why are you so loyal

to die with him?

If the tide is turning,

and we're going with it,

what's the point of loyalty?

Chief.

Why don't you
take the Dreaming Dragon Sword?

I'll follow you.

You should leave.

Change your name and face.

Don't ever go back to the Dark River.

Chief.

Your sword technique is powerful.

But you can't protect everyone.

If you keep talking,

you won't be able

to leave today.

You shouldn't have let him go.

He's my family.

He just made a different choice.

You're an assassin.

Yet you're trying to be the good guy.

The best sword of the Xie family.

Are you here to help me and the Mu Family
attack the spider nest together?

Yes.

Do you agree

to my conditions?

Fine.

Once we're in the spider nest,

Su Muyu's fate will be in your hands.

Alright.

Let Xie Changze go with you.

I heard that the Xie Family
and the Mu Family have joined forces.

What do you think?

Me?

I'm just waiting for the show to start.

Waiting?

But the old master is impatient.

If he wants
to get the Dreaming Dragon Sword,

he has to be patient.

Besides.

It's such a good time.

Yoo-hoo!

Isn't this the Ox?

As one of the proud Zodiacs
of the Spider Shadow,

how come your mask is ruined?

Where are you sneaking off to?

Xie Changze.

You look like

a bereaved dog now.

What's it to you?!

[Xie Buxie, Xie Family]

Who are you?

To deal with your Spider Shadows,

each family has trained
a group of skilled killers.

No one is inferior to you.

Don't move.

He told you not to move.

I advise you not to move.

Hand over the mechanism diagram
of the spider nest,

and I'll spare your life.

You're dreaming!

Get him.

Stop wasting time.

You...

You killed him.

I still have a lot of questions to ask.

He won't tell you.

It's hard to catch a lone spider,

and now you've killed him.

[Mu Xuewei, Mu Family]

Who are you?

Who are you?

Xie Buxie.

What the hell?

You're the poisonous flower
of the Mu family,

Mu Xuewei.

The Mu family only sent you here?

Am I not enough?

Avoid it.

No need.

You're good with a sword.

Mu Xuewei.

You've been tricked.

[Lonesome Pavilion]

You're a pestering woman.

So,

is that a compliment?

That's enough.

I don't want to kill you.

But my patience is limited.

You claim you don't want to kill me,

but you've used secret weapons

without any hesitation.

I...

I'm dying.

The same trick again.

I won't be fooled again.

I don't like killing,

let alone killing a woman.

You...

You're still lying to me.

You can't let go of me after all.

You said you'd make sure I'm safe.

If I call out now,

will you appear?

Su Muyu!

How's the red rice cake from Jiuxiao City?

You scared me!

I said I'd keep you safe.

I wouldn't lie to you.

This red rice cake is far inferior
to the osmanthus cake in Jiangnan.

By the way,

I have something to discuss.

Just spit it out.

To cure the top leader,

you need to pay more money.

Divine doctor.

Why are you so obsessed with money?

Only with a worry-free life

can I focus on healing.

More money!

How much more do you want?

Not too much.

After things are done,

I'll take

this spider nest.

What do you want this place for?

It's safe with mechanisms here.

Just tell me, deal or not?

Jiuxiao City is in the north,

and the red rice cake
is not delicious either.

If things are done,

and I'm still alive,

I'll turn your Baihe Medicine Manor
in Jiangnan

into a place with mechanisms.

What do you think?

Then will you have the Zodiacs
to protect me?

Will you go too?

Well...

Su Muyu, since you didn't say anything,
I'll take that as a yes.

I came with a map of the spider nest.

You dare to kill me?

Who are you?

He is Xie Changze.

The guy with the top level of formations
and spells in this generation of the Xie family.

From the moment you landed,

you stepped into his formation.

Mu Qingyang.

That's right.

Come on.

Let me tell you the fortunes
of our joint operation.

Peach Blossom Coin.

Specially crafted by Zhao Yuzhen,
the Taoist Sword Deity of Qingcheng Mountain.

Sword represents danger,
blossom represents luck.

Your fortune-telling is so shabby.

Oh, dear.

The Way is simple.

Hmph.

You're indeed a fake Taoist.

Someone's coming.

Hahaha.

Impressive. Xie Buxie from the Xie family.

You're the first to spot me.

Playing tricks.

He's the chief commander
of this joint operation

between the Mu and Xie families.

I'm Mu Bai.

Is everyone here?

I didn't expect the person sent
by the Mu family to be you.

It's quite sincere.

Hmph.

But your Xie family is less than average.

They sent a dying man.

Who will die first is still uncertain.

Cough...

Now that we have a map of the spider nest.

On behalf of the Xie family, Xie Fanhua,

Xie Changze, Xie Buxie.

On behalf of the Mu family,

Mu Bai.

Mu Qingyang.

Mu Xuewei.

All right.

Let the six of us

explore the spider nest first.

[Episode 10: Mercy Moonlight]

Why hasn't Mu Yumo come back yet?

Once the mission is complete,

she'll be back.

You're so heartless.

So you have no feelings for Mu Yumo?

Yumo and I grew up together.

She's my family.

[Looks like
Yumo has really delayed Tang Lianyue.]

[Yumo, be careful.]

When will you start
treating the top leader, divine doctor?

Have someone prepare 100 red candles

and 18 bronze mirrors.

We'll start tomorrow night.

Alright.

I'm counting on you.

Once this news is released,

the three families of Dark River
will probably know about it.

The Soaring Sword from the Lei Faction.

It must be very expensive, right?

It was a gift from the Lei Faction
when we fought together.

It could save your life in a pinch.

The Lei Faction is a reputable sect.

How could they fight alongside Dark River?

The Dark River

is not anyone's enemy.

Uncle Zhe.

While you say time is running out,

you seem quite leisurely and relaxed.

I hope everything can come to an end

when the rain stops.

Yeah.

Rain,

please stop soon.

Boss.

We need two top-notch rooms.

Two rooms?

Got it.

The most expensive and best rooms.

Laifu.

Lead the guests upstairs.

Sir.

Here we are.

Thank you very much.

You lured Tang Lianyue here
to deal with the top leader.

Remain calm.

Why is Yumo with Tang Lianyue?

It seems

Yumo has fainted.

Yumo is no match for him at all.

Why didn't Tang Lianyue just kill her?

You know well

what she's capable of.

No.

I need to check on her.

Yumo.

It's you.

She belongs to our Dark River.

Since I'm here,

let me take care of her.

I'm supposed to kill the top leader.

The others have nothing to do with me.

But...

Eh?

It seems like you have some sympathy

for the most beautiful girl in Dark River.

Only I can heal her wounds.

Don't test me.

Then please take good care of her.

I'll take my leave now.

What are you looking at?

I'm looking at you.

What's so great about me?

What about me?

I don't know what you're talking about.

Hmph!

Your words don't match your thoughts.

I have no grudge against you,
and I don't want to kill you.

Why do you have to act so indifferent?

I'm staying here

just because I'm afraid your injuries

might worsen unexpectedly.

I see.

So you're going
to sit on the chair all night?

It's getting late.

How about

sleeping here?

I don't mean anything by it.

I'm only concerned
about your efforts to heal me.

I don't want you to catch a cold.

You're very weak now.

So, what you're saying is,

once I'm feeling better...

No.

I don't mean that.

It has always been others begging me.

Now it feels like I'm begging you instead.

The floor is cold and wet.

Do what you want.

I...

I'm going out.

Are you leaving?

I drank too much water.

Black Tortoise Ambassador.

Where are you going?

Going back to sleep.

If you truly care for my sister,

please stay here
and protect her for a few days.

Ridiculous.

Why should I protect people
from your Dark River?

The world of Jiuxiao City

is about to change.

I'll bring the head of the top leader

for you.

Hey, bad boy.

Why didn't you call me
when you started working?

Chief, the Zodiacs are ready for action.

Ox.

The real reason he left...

I think you can guess it yourself.

Everything

will have answers tonight.

Chief.

We'll follow your lead.

Tonight,

everyone must protect the spider nest

and the top leader at all costs.

Chief.

You have a better choice.

If you still think of me as your chief,

just remember our mission.

We'll honor our mission
and fight to protect the top leader.

Top leader.

Are you ready?

Divine doctor.

Let's begin.

Okay.

Have you cured the top leader?

You're a dreamer.

I just finished applying the needles.

The top leader is still conscious.

You, on the other hand,

should care more about yourself.

Carrying heavy burdens all day
must be tiring.

I'm sorry.

I just remembered something.

By the way,

you haven't told me

what's your relationship
with that mustache guy yet.

Changhe.

He...

Is he really your best friend?

Changhe and I were the nameless together.

We escaped
from the Ghost Wailing Abyss together.

And we joined the Su family together.

Who is it?

Chief.

It's the zodiac mark of Ox.

No need to look at me.

The top leader is still conscious.

Go ahead if you have something to do.

Dog.

Protect the top leader and the doctor.

I'll be right back.

Got it.

Ox.

It seems I did you harm

by letting you leave.

The Su family doesn't keep useless people.

Since you're a disciple of our family,

you can choose to end your own life.

It'll save you some face.

Please wait, old master!

The Dark River is currently
in need of capable people,

and the Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow
are undergoing reorganization.

How about

merging them into the Spider Shadow?

Hmph!

So?

You just took the position of Kui

and are trying to intimidate me?

I wouldn't dare.

I still hope you can consider
this favorably, old master.

Hmph.

Thank you, Lord Kui, for saving my life.

Don't keep it in mind.

After today,

we'll be the Spider Shadows.

Fight to protect the top leader.

Fight to protect the top leader.

Fight to protect the top leader.

From this day on,

we're family.

When you joined the Spider Shadow,

I made you a promise.

Though we chose different paths
in the end,

I still hope you can live well.

I just want you to live well.

Why did it turn out like this?

Be careful, chief!

Chief.

We've been risking our lives
to protect the top leader.

Was it worth it?

Since the moment we wielded our swords,

we never asked

if it was worth it.

If not asking if it's worth it,

what should we ask?

It's about what's in your heart.

Chief.

I believe in you.

Top leader will die for sure.

Why don't you take the Dreaming Dragon Sword
and succeed him?

Ox.

Is that what you're thinking?

That way, no one else would come after us.

I don't want the Dreaming Dragon Sword,

and I'll never take that position.

You've been with me for years.

You should know what I have in mind.

Yes.

Chief, you have your own beliefs.

But what about us?

We also have our own
selfishness and ambition.

We just want to live well.

We all made vows

that as long as I serve as Kui

and you are one of the Zodiacs,

protecting the top leader
is the only thing we need to do.

As for the rest matters,

I'll take care of them myself

once everything has settled down.

Chief.

Your sword technique is powerful.

But you can't protect everyone.

You want to live well,

so I let you leave this fight for a while.

But I didn't expect to harm you instead.

You're too naive.

Do you really think

that, at this point,

anyone can escape from this conflict?

But when Ox took off his mask,

he had nothing to do with it.

It's a ridiculous thought.

As long as we're in the Dark River,

no one can truly escape.

Even if his life or death

has nothing to do
with the end of this conflict?

There's no one around the top leader.

But only the stubborn Zodiacs
of the Spider Shadow left.

We made a vow back then

to protect the top leader at all costs.

Is this what you call a vow?

But you also said

that you would lead them to a good life.

The three families
are eyeing you like wolves,

using all means possible.

Where do you think

your chance lies?

The three families were once family,

and the top leader
did consider passing on his position.

You treated them as family,

but they want to kill you.

You're truly nuts.

Things have come to this.

All three families
have played their trump cards.

The top leader will die for sure.

How secure is the leadership position

obtained through slaughter?

[Oh no.]

Seems like we need
to use the Soul-shifting Technique now.

During the healing period,

no one is allowed to interrupt.

Zodiacs, be on high alert.

Yes.

Entering through the main gate leads
to the Silent Formation.

Remember not to make any noise.

Young Master,

if there's a Silent Formation here,

why do we have to go
through the main gate?

Because only by going through here

can we avoid encountering the Zodiacs.

As for Su Muyu...

You're still so stubborn.

Open your eyes wide, Muyu.

Isn't it you who caused this result?

Do you really want the Spider Shadows
to die because of your vow?

I still remember what I said at the time.

When holding a sword in hand,

I don't ask if it's worth it

but only ask my own heart.

I know.

You're still thinking
about the home, aren't you?

Is the divine doctor
still healing the top leader?

Yes.

It's been an hour already.

I wonder how it's going.

Young Master,

can we speak now?

Yes.

Hmph!

You talk the most.

Check it out.

It's the Mu family.

The Silent Formation will be activated
in a few minutes.

Xie Changze.

Oh, no!

We've been set up!

It's Mu Bai.

Xie Huxiao.

Your rival is me.

Go and stop them!

Xie Huxiao from the Xie family.

You're not as sharp as before.

Don't underestimate us.

He inherited the Dragon Tooth Sword.

Huxiao.

Looks like the Xie family
has a better sword than us.

Xie Buxie.

What are you waiting for?

Do it now!

I've been waiting
for this battle for a long time.

You two are mine today.

Trying to escape?

Stay put!

Die!

Let's go!

Giant Stone Enchantment,

activate!

Hahaha.

Not bad.

Let's see how the battle turns out.

Peach Blossom side.

Auspicious fortune.

[Episode 11: Soul-shifting Technique]

(The enemy has
broken the Silent Formation.)

(Dragon and Tiger are blocked
in the courtyard.)

(Rat.)

(Snake.)

(Activate formation.)

Giant Stone Enchantment,

activate.

Your formation is just
like the defensive map,

with no threat at all.

Thank you for your help.

Changze.

Let's see how the battle turns out.

Peach Blossom side.

Auspicious fortune.

Get out of the way!

Be careful.

She's the poisonous flower.

[Rat, One of the Zodiacs
of the Spider Shadow]

Where is Su Muyu?

Don't just focus on looking
for him once you're here.

We're here for business.

If you want to meet Su Muyu,

there's a way that's the simplest.

Just kill all these people.

[Horse, One of the Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow]
Horse.

[Sheep, One of the Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow]
Sheep.

If you want to see our leader,

you'll have to go through us first.

Mu Bai.

You're the only ones on the left?

Sheep.

Let's get out of here quickly

and support the others.

Okay.

Finish it quickly.

The Xie and Mu families have reached
the courtyard of the spider nest.

How is everything going here?

Top leader,

stay calm and focused.

Don't get distracted.

Otherwise, we'll all die in the illusion
of the Soul-shifting Technique.

The Xie family has broken the second level
of the courtyard formation.

Xie Family breaks the formation.

Mu family kills.

Haha!

It's great!

Monkey.

Go support the middle route.

Let's see how long you can hold on.

Wait for Su Muyu to come
and collect your bodies.

Muyu,

the time should be almost up.

If you don't go back soon,

I'm afraid the spider nest
will be taken over.

You!

You hesitated for too long.

I'm just trying
to help you make a quick decision.

No need to thank me.

Hey.

Wait for me!

Let's go together.

It's on the way, anyway.

The final formation in the courtyard
of the spider nest has been broken.

Get ready, Mu family.

Attack the backyard.

Yes.

Xie Buxie.

What are you doing?

Kill them!

This is not a tournament.

This is a fight of life or death.

I'm not here to kill anyone.

I'm just here for Su Muyu.

Besides,

they are also members of the Xie family.

We all know each other.

On the day they became the Spider Shadows,

they ceased to be part of the Xie family.

Becoming a Spider Shadow

is the honor of every member
of the Dark River.

Soul-shifting Technique.

Is this the inner world of the top leader?

It can be described as hell.

Don't let the Xie family take the lead.

Don't you want to see Su Muyu?

Hurry up and go.

Without Xie Changze's help
to break the formation,

why would you rush up so resolutely?

Aren't you afraid of death?

It's no big deal to break the formation.

Just kill all opponents we meet.

In that case, you have my four words:

I will follow you.

(What is this?)

Tonight,

we may die here.

Don't talk about dying.

Old Master.

After this cigarette,

I'll go out and kill them all for you.

It turns out to be this guy.

If we can make it out of here alive,

just leave the Dark River

and go see your wife and daughter.

Wife and daughter?

After experiencing this incident,

I finally realized

that my existence

is their biggest trouble.

For their sake,

I've already died here.

[Dog, One of the Zodiacs
of the Spider Shadow]

Where's Su Muyu?

Not bad.

You've managed to make it here.

[Pig, One of the Zodiacs of the Spider Shadow]
But you're not good enough

to fight with our leader.

Dog.

Su Muyu.

You guys step aside first.

I haven't seen you before.

Looks like the Xie family
has hidden a great saber.

I often ask my master

how is my skill with the saber?

He always tells me

that my saber technique is the best
in this generation of Dark River.

But compared to Su Muyu,
who is the best in sword technique,

I still have a long way to go.

Who is your master?

Xie Qidao

from the Xie family.

Uncle Qidao is indeed a great teacher.

As his disciple,

no wonder you've made it here.

I don't want your words of praise.

The best compliment you can give me

is to fight with me.

Since you want to fight,

I'll do as you wish.

Don't misunderstand me, please!

I'm not here to fight.

I'm here for Su Muyu.

Why is it that both men and women are

all here for our leader?

Am I not qualified

to make you use the 18 Sword Formation?

From what I see,

you're not good enough.

Fine.

The Art of Suppression.

Slash!

Back!

Rise!

18 Sword Formation,

activate!

This is the 18 Sword Formation.

Now that you have witnessed it,

so,

do you think you can cross over it?

I don't think he can.

You're brave enough to follow me.

Haha.

Muyu.

I remember you once told me

that there is only a point in crossing

over something that cannot be crossed.

Isn't that right?

Only when you win a losing game

does winning hold true meaning.

I've heard of your name.

Xie Buxie.

You're obsessed with sabers.

Maybe.

That's what they all say.

I used to say
that Su Muyu was obsessed with swords.

But he disagreed.

If he wasn't obsessed with swords,

how could he have learned
such a magical sword technique?

That's true.

And he recreated it
from a fragment of a manuscript.

I tried to persuade him.

But he didn't listen,

because at the first sight
of the sword manual,

he was crazy.

But in reality,

he could never fully grasp
the perfect 18 Sword Formation.

What happened in the end?

When we were about to be killed,

he suddenly performed
the perfect 18 Sword Formation.

Xie Buxie.

Remember one thing.

Only by facing life and death

can you truly see through the world.

You like sabers?

Yes, I do.

Why do you like them?

Sabers

are beautiful.

The curve of the saber is beautiful.

The line created
while the saber is swinging is beautiful.

Hold it.

Let me see how you wield it.

[Eight Saber House]

So, the so-called 8th saber

is actually the best

and the purest

first strike when holding the saber.

This is the 8th saber
that Master has always wanted to realize.

Today

is the chance to unleash that strike.

What a powerful strike!

Indeed, very powerful.

Master said
that if I learned the 8th saber,

then in this generation of Dark River,

I'll be the strongest.

But why

did I still lose?

You're obsessed

and infatuated with sabers.

But after all,
sabers are lifeless objects.

You need a reason
truly worth fighting for.

I don't understand.

Like now.

If I lose,

all those people behind me will die,

and those who follow me will also die.

Everyone seeks different meanings.

As for yours,

you need to find it yourself.

I still don't understand it.

But I'll do what it takes to beat you

to find the meaning
of what you're talking about.

You're leaving?

Don't forget our mission.

I didn't come here

to kill anyone.

From this moment on,

I'm leaving the Dark River.

If anyone has a problem with that,

feel free to come and kill me.

What's the matter?

You're worried I'll sneak in
and kill your little doctor.

Don't worry.

My dear brother.

Xuewei.

You...

Don't worry.

I just used some incense

to temporarily make them drowsy.

Xuewei.

Muyu.

You bear too much on your shoulders.

Alright.

I'll go back to the Su family
and report first.

[Episode 12:
Sword Rain Breaks the Blade]

Xuewei.

You want to fight me, too?

Fight you? No way.

You're hurt.

And you think I didn't notice?

This is a healing potion.

As the Poisonous Flower
of the Dark River,

why do you always
carry healing potions with you?

I don't want that title at all!

I'm forced to be a healer
in dealing with poison.

Do you really believe that divine doctor
can cure the top leader?

It's truly the unique Forever Claw
from the Wen family.

This is the mark I left for your father.

Even if he runs
to the ends of the earth

and never dares to see me again,

I'll haunt him for the rest of his life.

It's him!

He's still alive.

Who are you?

(It's impossible.)

(No one should be able
to see me in this illusion.)

(Unless…)

(His consciousness has awakened
within the dream.)

Who are you?

This-This is a dream.

A dream?

Yes.

I'm just a passerby in your dream.

You expect me to believe that?

Who sent you?

Ghost Shadow Step.

You're from the Su family.

They betrayed me.

Oh no!

His dream memories are getting mixed up
with his real ones.

The Su family betrayed me long ago.

The Mu and Xie families betrayed me too.

I see.

(Damn it.)

(If I'm killed in the illusion,)

(then am I dead in reality?)

(My master never mentioned this.)

Regarding the previous question,

I'll ask you again.

Who are you?

I'm Doctor Bai Hehuai.

How do you know the martial arts
of the Su family?

[Heaven Rewards Diligence]
You tried to use Soul-shifting Technique

to find the secret
of the Dreaming Dragon Sword.

You're not trying to cure me.

It's a misunderstanding.

Please believe me.

I don't mean any harm.

All of you want to know the secret
of the Dreaming Dragon Sword.

But sometimes,

the more you know,

the faster you die.

So?

You don't need me anymore

after getting your little doctor?

Of course not.

Top leader.

It's me, Su Muyu.

I didn't expect your little doctor
to be so beautiful.

Top leader.

But it seems
she's not very good at healing.

The top leader is trying to kill her?

Then I'll do it for him.

[Auspiciousness From East]
The Three Needle Leading of the Su family.

Who on earth are you?

You don't know who I am,

yet you're trying to kill me.

(Whatever.)

(Get some help first.)

(The rest can be dealt with later.)

Trap!

Get back!

The top leader is in danger.

Stop them!

Top leader!

What's wrong with you?

Top leader!

I'm Su Muyu.

Top leader.

Wake up!

I don't want to die!

Doctor!

Su Muyu, save me!

Hold me tight.

Hmm.

With me by your side,

you'll be safe.

Oh, no!

I can't believe you touched me.

I'm going to be poisoned to death!

Su Muyu and the divine doctor have fallen
into the secret passage.

I've poisoned the hole.

They'll die for sure.

Let's go!

Don't think I don't know

that you gave Su Muyu a Flowerless Pill

and sealed it in the hilt of his sword.

He won't die.

Our goal is the Dreaming Dragon Sword.

Let's go!

Top leader.

You're awake.

Yes.

Greetings, top leader.

Xuewei.

You're also here to kill me.

I'm sorry.

Back off.

Damn it!

Get lost!

Otherwise,

you'll die!

Doctor, are you alright?

Yeah, I'm fine.

What's this?

Why is there a flower floating down?

It's the poisonous flower of Xuewei.

Take it.

The dust is poisonous.

Hmph.

You only know that I'm the successor
of the Medicine King Valley,

but you don't know that my mother

is from the renowned Wen family,
the top faction that uses poison.

This poison won't work on me.

Leave it to the pursuers.

That girl covered in gauze
is practicing poisonous techniques.

Astute observation.

Xuewei practiced the Poison Palm
when she was young.

The Poison Palm is
not a profound martial art.

She must have made a mistake
during her practice,

causing the extreme poison
to spread throughout her body.

She should have died,

but somehow she survived.

Even though she's alive,

the poison remains,

turning her into a poisonous person.

A gentle touch from an ordinary person

will turn them into a puddle of water

within half an hour.

Xuewei is also a poor person.

I wonder if you can save her.

She tried to kill me the moment we met.

I had to escape
through a secret passage,

but she even
released a poisonous flower to kill me.

Now you're talking about saving her.

Is it appropriate?

She was forced to attack you

by family orders.

If after this is over,

both she and I are still alive,

and we're not enemies anymore,

I can save her.

But I have a condition.

Money...as much as you want.

It's cool to make a deal with Lord Kui.

But the immediate priority is

to get out of here first.

Come on, Uncle Zhe.

We're about
to get the Dreaming Dragon Sword.

So you finally decided to work, huh?

[Wine]

The Xie and Mu families
have entered the spider nest.

As far as I can tell,

if we hurry now,

we'll be just in time.

Looks like

the old master doesn't trust you, huh?

Oh, Uncle Zhe.

You really speak Mandarin well.

Hahaha.

Wait for me, Uncle Zhe.

Report!

Master.

The Xie and Mu families have joined forces
to break through the spider nest.

Su Changhe and Su Zhe
have just left Jiuxiao Inn.

What? They just left the Jiuxiao Inn?

Calm down, old master.

With Xie and Mu families teaming up
against the top leader,

Changhe might have a clever plan.

Hmm.

Let's wait a bit longer

to see what exactly
he has up his sleeve.

Don't worry, Doctor.

With me here,

I'll lead the way.

Doctor.

What's up?

Have you cured the top leader's poison?

Temporarily suppressed it.

We still need to do something
to cure it completely.

Thank you, Doctor.

You're welcome.

But judging from the situation,

whether he recovers or not,

his life is in great danger.

This conflict

partially stems from me.

If Uncle Zhe hadn't been injured,

perhaps...

Uncle Zhe?

He's the one you saw

speaking in tongues.

Strange.

How did we come full circle?

What kind of person is Uncle Zhe?

He severed as the previous Kui.

According to the Dark River rules,

who serves as Kui
will be the next top leader.

Unfortunately,

during a mission,

the top leader was attacked.

Uncle Zhe led the Zodiacs
to fight for their lives

and saved him finally.

But all Zodiacs were wiped out.

Uncle Zhe also suffered heavy injuries.

How are you?

I'm fine, just a few minor injuries.

Take this opportunity
to leave the Dark River

and reunite with your wife and daughter.

I've always dreamed
of going back to them.

But today, I finally understand

that as long as I'm in the Dark River,

they can only truly be safe

if I'm dead.

Then, leave the Dark River behind

and build a home

to protect our families.

Su Muyu.

You're hurt.

Don't move.

You have a doctor by your side.

Why are you still holding on
to your injuries?

Bear with it. It might hurt a bit.

Being in the Dark River,

maybe death isn't such a bad thing.

I'm hungry.

I want to eat osmanthus cake.

You have to get me out of here.

Alright.

I won't let you die easily.

You have to take me out.

There are so many paths.

Which one should we take?

No matter which path,

we must face it.

[Tales Of Dark River:]
Su Muyu.

[The End of Shocking Change]
Su Muyu.

♪The bamboo shadow bobbing on the water♪

♪And I'm wandering in the martial world♪

♪Joys and sorrows
like boundless mountains♪

♪A single boat crosses the river
to the other side♪

♪Who holds the umbrella
and breaks through obstacles alone♪

♪Who laughs boldly, intoxicated
in the endless dreams of the martial world?♪

♪Evil path, righteous path
which one leads to true freedom♪

♪Cruelty or kindness
everything is unpredictable♪

♪Life is full of sorrows
sailing on the sea of the mortal world♪

♪A solitary lamp accompanies me
through the passing of time♪

♪Meeting with a jug of wine
embracing bonds of feuds♪

♪I'm alone with my love and hatred♪

♪Countless mountains and rivers
soaring ambitions reaching the sky's embrace♪

♪Clear breeze and bright moon
who will join me?♪

♪Where is the homing swan?
Longing for you at the edge of the world♪

♪May you return, with the passing years
gone like a spring breeze♪