Chapter 003: The Three Wonders of the Countryside

Ding Buer said: "How could such petty tricks deceive Brother Qiu and Brother Hu? It is merely that the three of you treat me sincerely and do not guard against me, while I, as a brother, have resorted to underhanded means. What a sin, what a sin. I suppose what Brother Qiu mentioned about betting is mostly about inviting me to drink with Brother Chen Kang, right?"

Faintly hearing Ding Buer's voice, he felt a surge of joy in his heart. Just as he arrived near the large rock, he overheard Ding Buer boasting about how he had deceived him into coming down the mountain. In an instant, his heart felt like it was being cut by a knife, his head spun, and tears rolled from his eyes.

"Chasing the Wind Rack?" Chen Kang was completely baffled. Qiu Huo, being well-informed and experienced, said to Chen Kang: "Hero Ding possesses exceptional lightness skills, traveling alone for thousands of miles. Now that the young monk has learned it, naturally, we cannot catch up with him."

Traveling through the valley between Nantai and Laogong Peak, heading southeast along the river, we are making our way directly to Shijui Town. Yangliuyu is nearly one hundred miles from Shijui Town, and it is impossible to arrive today

A burden of hills and valleys, the wild immortal Doctor Hu, and the inebriated Chen Kang, the three brothers are collectively known as the "Three Wonders of the Countryside". In addition to their unique abilities, they are renowned in the martial world for their chivalrous deeds.

The two smiled at each other, then each set up their own wind-chasing apparatus and sped away in succession

What is going on? There are guests... Who is this, big brother? Before the words were finished, the person approached the three of them.

Seeing the valleys and hills, he fell silent, and then continued: "At first, he deceived you into descending the mountain for the sake of a bet, which was indeed his fault"

Ding Buer was staring at himself with a fierce gaze, and hurriedly clasped his hands in apology and smiled to show goodwill, then turned his face away to avoid provoking him again. Upon hearing someone speak a fair word, Yixin's anger was somewhat alleviated.

Ding Buer was pleased to have someone help mediate, and did not step forward to disturb, but instead focused on squatting down to assist Dr. Hu in cleaning the steel needle pulled from the wolf's neck. Chen Kang, on the other hand, only enjoyed drinking, casually listening to the conversation from the side.

Qiu Huo and Doctor Hu exchanged a smile and walked over together. Qiu Huo said, "It is quite remarkable that Hero Ding can drink seven large bowls in a row. In that case, please..."

Regarding the matter of betting with the Tianshan Evil Spirit, Qiuhuo advised: "The Tianshan Evil Spirit and Mengkun are both extremely vicious individuals. Having suffered a loss, they will undoubtedly seek revenge. Luring you to the mountain to provoke Master Wuyah is already a wicked scheme. I fear that at this very moment, they have set another trap, just waiting for you to fall into it. In my opinion, it would be better not to attend this wager."

Then the elder brother smiled faintly, raised his bowl, clinked it with his, and drank it all in one go. The third brother showed an expression of displeasure and coldly said: "My brother treats you with good intentions, yet you use false words to deceive me. Isn't that rather ungrateful?"

Ding Bu'er also smiled and suddenly asked, "Why do I not see the wild immortal Hu Erge?" He had just been busy chatting with the two, and it was only now that he suddenly realized that the three wonders of the countryside should consist of three people, yet only two were present before him

Qiu He and Chen Kang both heard his call and also got up to come out and watch

Dr. Hu hurriedly stepped forward to take his pulse. Qiu Huo also looked on anxiously. Yi Xin squatted beside the fallen Chen Kang and asked, "What happened to him?" Dr. Hu gently placed Chen Kang's hand back and said softly, "He is just asleep." Ding Bu'er said, "Please rest assured, both of you. Brother Chen Kang is merely tired; after a nap, he will be perfectly fine."

Five people are seated around the campfire

Being praised by the renowned hero Qiu, who is regarded as the foremost among the "Three Wonders of the Countryside," Ding Buer naturally felt delighted. However, as he was seldom complimented in person, he could only shake his head and wave his hands, unable to bear the praise.

Qiu Huo picked up the bowl, took a sip of wine, then slowly set the bowl down and said: "Since I learned about your background and experiences, Hero Ding has begun to sympathize with your situation. From now on, every word I say to you is sincere, and can be said to be entirely for your benefit. Now think about it, is that not true?"

Everyone was stunned, not expecting that the stomachs of those two individuals could hold so much "bitterness"

Chen Kangdao: "Brother Ding, do not be anxious. We will split up to pursue him and bring him back."

Both Qiu He and Chen Kang found it hard to believe. Chen Kang asked, "You were manipulated by that old monk, lost your strength, how can you still bring the monk down the mountain? Having already escaped from the Foguang Temple, where will you go to find the monk from Foguang Temple?" Although Qiu He did not speak, he shared the same thoughts in his heart

"Do you know each other?" Dr. Hu approached with a cheerful smile and casually asked, then took the wild wolf from Yixin's shoulder and tossed it onto the ground beside the fire. Chen Kang handed over a bowl of wine and inquired, "Second brother, what is the story behind this dead wolf?"

"How is it? Has the little monk not arrived yet?" Chen Kang stepped forward to ask. Ding Bu'er shook his head and sighed. Qiu Huo handed over a hat he had picked up from the ground and asked, "Take a look, is this his?"

Chen Kangdao said, "Isn't the matter of the bet..." Ding Bu'er gazed aimlessly into the night, anxiously stating, "What is there to say about the bet now? I am only worried about my younger brother... I hope he is just angry that I left, and that he hasn't been taken by a wild beast or abducted by a villain."

Oh? Oh, hehe. It should be no big deal now. Dr. Hu was momentarily taken aback, but soon realized that his elder brother and third brother must have mentioned his visit for a consultation, so it was quite normal for Ding Buer to ask this question. He turned around and called out, "Little monk, come here! Why are you hiding away?"

After Ding Buyi proudly boasted for a while, he began to praise the little monk. Unfortunately, Yixin had already run far away and missed the opportunity to hear it.

Ding Buer recognized that the visitor was the second of the "Three Wonders of the Countryside," Doctor Hu, the Wild Immortal. Looking up, he saw that Doctor Hu was short in stature, somewhat balding, and had sparse, disheveled hair. He carried a large leather bag on his back

After finishing his urination, Yixin waited in place for Ding Bu'er, but he did not return for a long time, causing him to feel anxious. Suddenly, he noticed flickering lights nearby, so he quietly followed the light to investigate.

The tall man with fluffy hair, known as Lao San, was initially taken aback. Then, with a single push against the ground, he steadied himself and turned to look. That "big brother" said to Ding Buer, "If you do not mind, why not share a few bowls together."

Having run with all my might and broken a sweat, I was startled just moments ago. After that, I indulged in some roasted meat, and my mouth was parched. Upon receiving the wine bowl, I took a large gulp. Little did I expect that the bowl contained wine, not water, which caused me to choke and cough incessantly.

Hero Qiu was also pleasantly surprised. He put down his wine bowl and clasped his fists, saying: "Qiu Huo is honored. Today, it is a fortunate encounter with Hero Ding, and we must drink until we are intoxicated."

Upon hearing this, Qiu He relaxed and said, "That's just right, bring him over to join the fun!" Chen Kang also remarked, "It is just right to see what kind of little monk is so favored by the Thousand-Faced Thief."

Ding Buer and Chen Kang poured wine for each other, drinking and laughing heartily, exclaiming in delight. Doctor Hu, standing by, marveled, "I never expected that the master thief could hold his liquor to such an extent?" Qiu He smiled slightly and replied, "Rest assured. This is just the beginning; the 'Not Drunk' of the Third Brother is not just a name. Let Hero Ding drink a few more bowls, and he will fall into a deep sleep, allowing us to leave without worry."

Qiu Huo suddenly asked: "My brothers are accustomed to idleness and enjoy the rustic pleasures of the countryside, so they have built a fire here to eat and drink at their leisure. I wonder why you, Ding, have also come here so late at night"

Ding Buer silently bowed in gratitude and took the opportunity to sit beside Yixin. After Yixin drank some water and wiped his mouth, he unexpectedly chuckled to himself.

"Hush—" Qiu He hurriedly signaled him to lower his voice, lest they be overheard by Ding Bu Er. Dr. Hu lowered his voice and chuckled, "Old San's belly is just meant for holding wine; I never expected it would come in handy today." The two exchanged knowing smiles, both turning their gaze towards the two men drinking.

Ding Buer smiled proudly and said, "Haha. To tell you the truth, that is a method I created after many years of wandering."

Ding Buer shook his head: "No need, he has taken my wind-chasing frame, and I do not know how long he has been gone; I fear I will not be able to catch up with him."

Qiu He laughed and said: "Very well. Since Hero Ding has no objections, I shall take the liberty to proceed. However, your reputation as a master thief is too resounding; not only are your skills exceptional, but your wit is also sharp. I, Qiu, do not have a suitable topic at the moment and will need to discuss it with my second brother. Hero Ding, please enjoy a few bowls with the third brother first"

Ding Buer knew that the three extraordinary individuals from the countryside were all chivalrous people. Upon meeting them today, he felt an even stronger affinity and thus opened his heart, engaging in a one-on-one drink with Chen Kang. Yixin, finding it amusing, squatted beside the two, curiously looking up at them. Occasionally, the wine from Ding Buer's bowl splashed onto Yixin's head, prompting him to hurriedly wipe it away and shift back a little, fearing that the liquid might accidentally enter his mouth again

With a huff, she said, "I am not. He is not a good person, I will not pay attention to him."

With all her might, she broke free from his grasp and shouted at him: "You are not a good person!" Ding Buer knew that she was still angry and, for the moment, had nothing to say.

Ding Buer cupped his fists in apology and said: "I, Ding, was just joking with Brother Chen Kang, please do not take offense."

Then the third brother glanced at the money pouch in the hands of *Tu* and was taken aback. He hurriedly reached for his waist, grabbing at empty air twice before shouting, "You, you are... the Thousand-Faced Thief Ding Bu Er?"

Ding Buer, aware that he had been discovered, stepped out from behind the rock and approached, casually remarking: "Under the dim moonlight, beside the warm bonfire, the two of you are truly enjoying fine wine and good meat, how comfortable it is."

Determined and resolute, Yixin decided to follow Brother Ding, not asking many questions along the way. Ding Buer was very pleased and said to Yixin: "Brother Yixin, do you know where that Wind Chaser frame comes from?"

Ding Buer laughed and said: "Haha. I, Ding, have been wandering in the Jianghu for many years. Even if I am somewhat ignorant, how could I not know the great name of the 'Three Wonders of the Countryside'? It seems that Brother Chen Kang is still not as steady as Hero Qiu. Hahahaha"

Yixin Dao: "Isn't it what Brother Ding heard from someone? I wonder who is so remarkable as to have invented this marvelous method of walking."

Ding Bu Er Dao: "How could I not know this? However, we are still men who traverse the rivers and lakes. Although he is treacherous, we have nonetheless established a verbal agreement. If I do not go, would I not be ridiculed by him? It would also tarnish my reputation"

Dr. Hu suddenly realized: "Indeed, my elder brother is quite clever. I thought we were really going to make a bet, but it turns out we just need to get him drunk so that we can investigate first"

This is a unique method created by the elder brother, how can I possibly compare? However, I am not foolish; being able to follow behind the elder brother and run is just the right opportunity for training.

Then the third brother, Chen Kang, was even more astonished: "Do you recognize Chen?"

The wolf let out a long howl, as if calling for its companions. The sound echoed far into the quiet night

Ding Buer looked at them and said with a proud smile: "I won't hide it from you two, my brothers, I really did steal the monk from the Fo Guang Temple."

Ding Buer clasped his hands and said: "As for drinking, how could I, Ding, possibly compare to Brother Chen Kang? I fear that if I continue to drink like this, I will end up staying here. I am well aware of Hero Qiu's good intentions and am deeply grateful. However, the debts with the Tianshan Evil Ghosts are all of my own making; how could I let the three of you take risks on my behalf? It is out of necessity that I resort to this desperate measure, and I hope Brother Qiu can forgive me"

Qiu Huo saw Chen Kang was unoccupied, his expression slightly softened, and he turned around to complain: "Hero Ding, what do you mean by this?"

The man with dark marks on his face put down the bowl in his hand and said loudly: "Lao San, we have guests coming."

Two individuals are sitting cross-legged, drinking wine. One of them is gradually showing signs of white hair, with a faint black mark about the size of a half palm stretching from his left temple to his right cheek. He appears to be in his forties, exuding a calm and composed demeanor, while also emanating an imposing presence. Beside him lies an iron shoulder pole, as thick as a wrist.

When he spoke of sneaking into the Fogong Temple to abduct someone, he was unexpectedly subdued by Master Wuyá. Qiuhuo and Chen Kang were both nearly startled into a cold sweat. Qiuhuo exclaimed, "Indeed, it is extremely perilous. Hero Ding remained calm in the face of danger and was able to retreat unscathed, which is truly admirable." Chen Kang also consoled him, saying, "Brother Ding, do not be discouraged. I would say that not being able to abduct the monk is actually a good thing, as it prevents falling into the schemes of wicked people. Why should we take the words of such villains seriously?"

Qiu Huo patted the little monk on the shoulder and said with a smile: "He has passed on to you the skill of 'Chasing the Wind', which is the essence of guarding the home. Could it be that he is not sincere? We wish to learn, but he absolutely refuses. You are destined to be brothers, and you should be happy together. Why get angry just because he praised you a few times? Alright, alright, it's all fine now, don't be angry anymore. Have a bowl of wine and continue being brothers." Saying this, he brought a bowl of wine to him.

Lao San took an empty bowl, poured in some wine, and handed it over, casually asking: "May I ask how you are addressed? What brings you here at this late hour?"

Where am I right now? Where should I go? At this moment, my heart is filled with confusion, and I do not know what to do.

Ding Buer clasped his hands and said: "How polite. What a remarkable wild immortal, Doctor Hu. I presume that this time you will once again work wonders, and the medicine will cure the illness as soon as it is administered"

Taking advantage of the moment when Ding Buer was speaking with Doctor Hu, Qiu He whispered a few words to Chen Kang. Chen Kang then said: "A man's word, once spoken, is as hard to retract as a team of four horses cannot chase it back, and this is indeed not wrong. Brother Ding is truly a man of character. I wonder if you would be willing to honor me with a wager?" Ding Buer was slightly taken aback: "A wager?"

The little monk, with a blank mind, ran wildly for a while until he became exhausted and gradually came to a stop. He leaned against a tree and slowly sat down on the ground.

After a while of not hearing Chen Kang speak, Qiu He felt that something was amiss. Glancing over, he saw that Chen Kang was already unsteady on his feet and was about to fall. He hurriedly reached out to catch him and gently laid him down. A shock ran through him as he stared at Ding Bu Er, wanting to say something but hesitating. Dr. Hu was also taken aback and called out, "Lao San, what’s wrong?" Chen Kang's eyes were dazed, and he only managed to say, "Alcohol... medicine..." before falling asleep.

Yixin was both surprised and delighted: "Ah, Brother Ding. You are truly amazing." Ding Buer felt even prouder: "This is a skill that I, as your elder brother, have mastered and have also taught you. It shows how much I care for you, doesn't it?" "Thank you, Brother Ding," Yixin replied, feeling both respectful and grateful in his heart, "I will definitely practice diligently and will not let it go to waste."

Qiu Huo gradually understood what had happened and said: "I found it here on the ground. I think he heard our conversation."

Ding Buer proposed: "We need to go to Shizhuo Town, which is still about 100 miles away. Why don't we brothers compare our stamina and walk a few more miles together"

Ding Buer was taken aback: "This, this is exactly what I bought for him. How could it be in your hands?"

Ding Buer chuckled and said, "This is what is called that there is no absolute dead end in life. At that time, I also thought it was over, but by chance, I encountered a little monk who was chopping wood, a disciple of the Fo Guang Temple, and with just a few words, I managed to coax him down the mountain..." He then recounted the scene at that time in great detail, leaving Qiu He and Chen Kang in awe.

Dr. Hu took a sip of wine and slowly recounted the events that had just transpired: "As I was returning from my consultation, I suddenly heard a wolf howl and hurriedly approached to take a look. The wolf was scratching its claws on the ground, and that was when I noticed a little monk leaning against a tree above it. The little monk was asleep and did not realize the danger. In a moment of urgency, I took out a pack of steel needles from my waist and threw them all at the wolf. It was unfortunate for the wolf; it broke its neck in one hit and fell dead right there. The little monk also fell down. I quickly went over to check, and upon touching him, I found he was fine, just frightened. I shook him awake and had him carry the dead wolf back with us.

At this time, it is already late in the day

He stood there in a daze, his mind in disarray for a while, then he violently threw off his hat, tore at his new clothes a couple of times, wiped away his tears, and without distinguishing east from west, he ran off in a frenzy.

Doctor Hu raised his hand and stretched it forward, surprisingly not performing the customary fist and palm salute of the martial world, but rather appearing as if he was about to take a pulse and inquire about a diagnosis. He felt it necessary to show respect and quickly smiled, saying: "Ah, it is the great hero Ding, Hu Er pays his respects."

The other three were taken aback. They saw Yixin emerge from behind a large rock, with a dead wolf draped over his shoulder

After running continuously, he was already tired. Just now, he suffered another setback, and in his confusion, he felt even more exhausted. He looked disinterestedly at the scattered clouds and stars in the night sky, and gradually fell into a drowsy sleep

The moonlight is dim, and a chill sets in

Awakening suddenly from a dream, I vaguely saw something pouncing towards me, leaving me no time to react, and I stood there in a daze

Qiu Huo praised, "The little monk is compassionate, and Hero Ding is righteous. By following Hero Ding, he has found a way out, which is certainly good." Chen Kang, however, laughed from the side, saying, "Unfortunately, Brother Ding will no longer be traveling alone for a thousand miles in the future. Hahaha"

He grew up in the Fogong Temple, only moving around the mountains surrounding the temple, never stepping away from that mountain, let alone the world beyond Mount Wutai. This time, deceived into coming down the mountain, he only focused on following Ding Buer, with the entire journey guided by Ding Buer, and he had no recollection of the route. Especially after learning the marvelous method of the Wind Chaser, he was so excited that he ran wildly, going wherever he pleased, completely oblivious to his surroundings. Now, even though he wanted to return to the Fogong Temple, he had no idea how to get there.

Chen Kang's excitement was beyond words, yet he did not forget to jest, saying: "Big brother, I never expected to encounter the legendary master thief Ding Daxia today; we brothers must be cautious."

"Did the Yixin brothers come looking for me? Or..." A terrifying thought surged into Ding Buer's mind, causing him to break out in a cold sweat. He hurriedly turned around to discuss with Qiu Chen and the others.

Qiu Huo spoke slowly, "I know why you are angry." Yi Xin slowed down his chewing, looked at him, and remained silent. Qiu Huo continued, "You hate him for tricking you into coming down the mountain, feeling that he deceived you, don't you?" Yi Xin stared blankly at him, then turned to glance at Ding Bu Er, who happened to be looking at him as well. Ding Bu Er, fearing to interrupt their conversation, hurriedly pretended to be focused on arranging the wolf skin.

Dr. Hu said: "What you say, Hero Ding, is indeed correct, but this journey is fraught with danger, and one must not be led astray by a momentary impulse to follow the path of the unscrupulous." Ding Bu'er nodded and said: "Exactly, Brother Hu's reminder is well taken; I must be especially cautious."

Qiu Huo sighed, "My three brothers, with six eyes in total, were unable to keep watch. The master thief truly possesses remarkable speed." Doctor Hu, on the other hand, shook his head in disbelief, hardly able to accept it

At that time, Ding the Hero was captured by others, his powers completely lost. In order to evade pursuit, he truly needed your help, and thus concocted a lie to deceive you into coming down the mountain. Although he was in the wrong, it is also somewhat understandable. Qiu He glanced at the little monk's reaction, paused slightly, and then continued, "Do not think that I have colluded with him to deceive you together. Just calm your mind and think carefully about whether what he later told you makes sense."

He lowered his head in deep thought. At that moment, he was willing to follow Ding Buer, having been persuaded and understanding the reasoning behind it. Now, in his anger, he only resented that Ding had deceived him into descending the mountain for the sake of a bet with someone else. How could he not understand the reasoning behind this situation

Ding Buer was overjoyed and quickly stood up, rushing over to grasp Yixin's hand, asking: "Brother Yixin, where have you been? I searched everywhere for you. I was so worried about you."

Qiu Huo Dao: "Now it is well. The smoke has cleared and the clouds have dispersed. We are still brothers."

Upon hearing this, Chen Kang naturally felt delighted. He picked up his wine bowl and said, "Come, come, come, Brother Ding, let them discuss it; we shall just drink to our heart's content first!" Ding Bu'er laughed and replied, "Brother Chen Kang, you are known for being able to drink a thousand cups without getting drunk. I can only admire you and do my best to accompany you for a few bowls. Haha." Chen Kang was overjoyed, opened all the wine jars, arranged four wine bowls on the ground, filled them all with wine, and said with a smile, "Come, come, come, Brother Ding, please."

Ding Buer chuckled and said: "What is this about being a thousand-faced or not? I can barely accept the title of this thief. However, as for the two words 'hero', I truly do not dare to claim it. My brother, the deeds I have done, Brother Qiu is not unaware of; how could we dare to tarnish the word 'hero'? Haha, just joking, just joking"

Ding Buer waved his hand and laughed, saying: "I am fine. Lao San is done for." Doctor Hu laughed and said: "Hero Ding is joking. How could Lao San be drunk?"

Hearing him mention the word "wait," Ding Buer suddenly remembered that Yixin was still waiting for him behind that tree, and he thought to himself, "This is not good," as he stood up

Qiu Huo approached with a smile and said to him, "Little Master Yi Xin, please calm down and let me explain things to you slowly." He then guided him to sit by the fire and asked Chen Kang to tear off a piece of roasted rabbit meat for him. Yi Xin was indeed hungry; after a brief hesitation, he took a bite of the rabbit meat and began to chew heartily. Chen Kang asked, "Little Monk, is this rabbit meat delicious?" Yi Xin nodded while eating.

Qiu Huo bitterly smiled and said: "Indeed, Master Ding is astute. What more can I say? In that case, I wish Master Ding a safe journey."

Ding Buer had honed his keen eyesight over many years, and with vigilance, he scanned his surroundings. Suddenly, he noticed a flickering light behind a pile of large stones a hundred steps away. He quickly halted his steps and pulled Yixin to hide behind a tree. "What happened?" Yixin, unaware of the situation, asked.

Ding Bu'er caught the bowl with his left hand, tugged at his collar with his right hand, and invited him to sit together, saying: "I am just a wanderer, having dreamt my way here. Upon catching the scent of wine and meat, I shamelessly came. Come, let's drink!"

Ding Buer put down his wine bowl and innocently said to the older brother: "It seems that this gentleman is unhappy with me enjoying free drinks and is deliberately making things difficult with his words. Very well, brother, I will take out a little gift to mark our meeting, as a token for the wine." As he spoke, he took out a small blue cloth bag from his pocket and handed it to the third brother

Ding Bu'er briefly recounted the incident of disguising himself as a hunchbacked old man to play tricks on Meng Kun and the Tianshan Evil Spirit, which made Qiu He and Chen Kang burst into laughter

Ding Buer cupped his hands in thanks and took his leave with Yixin. Yixin occasionally turned back to glance, seemingly concerned about Chen Kang lying on the ground

Dr. Hu and Chen Kang both burst into laughter

Under the shadow of the trees, blood splatters... The wild wolf falls to the ground, a person collapses...

Ding Buer and the Three Wonders of the Countryside were engaged in lively conversation. However, Yi Xin remained silent, quietly listening. He was originally a young monk raised in the mountains, completely unaware of the affairs of the world. The people and events they spoke of were entirely foreign to him, and although he felt curious, he was reluctant to ask many questions.

Having lost his newly befriended little monk brother, Ding Bu'er sighed in lament. Qiu Huo and Chen Kang stood by, offering words of comfort.

Ding Buer stopped in his tracks and called back, "Brother, hurry up. We will rest under that tree." Yixin and Tushu ran for several dozen steps before catching up, bending over to support their legs, panting heavily, and nodding repeatedly. Ding Buer praised, "As a beginner in this path, your progress is truly remarkable. You are far better than I was in my early days."

Qiu Huo was taken aback and hurriedly asked, "What has happened? Why is Master Ding..." Chen Kang was equally perplexed, unable to make sense of the situation

Ding Buer put down his wine bowl, let out a burp, and with a flushed face turned to Qiu and Hu, grinning foolishly, said: "I can't take it anymore, hehe, I really can't."

Ding Bu'er set out on his journey with a single-minded purpose, first to fulfill the wager with the evil spirits of Tianshan, and then he could laugh proudly in the martial world

Alas! Ding Buer regrets it too late, only blaming myself for being too eager to speak and hurting my brother's feelings. He must have heard that I deceived him into coming down the mountain and assumed that I had lied to him completely, which made him leave in anger

Ding Buer hurried over to pat him on the back: "That is liquor, brother. How are you feeling now?" He took a gourd filled with clear water from Doctor Hu and gave it to Yixin. Yixin timidly tried to lick a bit, and only then did he confidently start drinking it down with a "gulp gulp" sound

Ding Buer took out a short sword from his bosom, fastened it to his waist, and stealthily concealed his figure as he approached the source of the firelight

Qiu Huo smiled and said, "Hero Ding, do not be nervous, it is merely a small trick. If you win, you may take the little monk to the appointment, and we shall have no further objections." Ding Bu'er frowned and asked, "What if I lose?" Qiu Huo hurriedly replied, "Hero Ding, do not overthink it. If by chance we win, we ask that you wait here for half a day. Once my brothers go to investigate and confirm there is no conspiracy, then you may proceed, how does that sound?"

There are no houses nearby. Only a few scattered trees in front may provide some shelter.

Behind the pile of stones, a fire blazes brightly, with a wild rabbit roasting on top.

Ding Buer quickly returned to the tree, yet he did not see a trace of Yixin. He called out several times, but there was no response, leaving him astonished

Chen Kang exclaimed, "Second brother has returned." Qiu He greeted, "Second brother, come quickly to meet the master thief, Ding the Hero of a Thousand Faces."

Another person, tall and with fluffy hair, was sitting with his back to the campfire, making his face invisible. He raised his wine bowl and urged, "Elder brother, why have you stopped? Keep drinking."

Qiu Huo waved his hand and said: "Brother Ding, your words are mistaken. Who among the common people does not know that you, this gentleman of the梁上, are indeed like a true gentleman. You only rob the rich to help the poor, never harming or killing anyone. You have always sought out the wicked and the powerful, never disturbing the ordinary citizens. If you cannot be called a 'hero', then who can?"

Yixin calmed down slightly and murmured to himself: "I should return to the temple. It is the only place I am familiar with; although it is hard, at least I can live a stable life there. But, how do I get back to Foguang Temple..."

Thank you, my friend, then I shall have a bowl of wine to drink. Ding Buer was also not polite, walking over to find a spot to sit down.

Ding Bu'er, fearing that others might be startled, did not dare to speak openly and casually said, "It's nothing, I'm just going to urinate." Yi Xin believed him wholeheartedly and replied with a silly smile, "Just in time, I also need to urinate." Ding Bu'er, still preoccupied with the flames, then said, "You can use this spot, I'll go over there. After I'm done, wait for me right here, and definitely do not leave." Yi Xin nodded in agreement, unbuttoned his pants, and began to urinate.

Ding Buer busily explained: "I was so focused on talking with the two of you that I completely forgot my brother Yixin is still over there waiting for me"

The night was dim and the surroundings were silent. The two, while chatting and laughing, approached the few trees.

Qiu Huo explained: "My second brother considers himself a doctor. Upon hearing that someone in the village ahead has fallen ill with a strange disease, he hurried off to provide treatment. The two of us will just wait for him here"

Ding Buer clasped his hands and said: "Thank you, Brother Hu Er, for saving my brother." Doctor Hu asked in surprise: "This little monk is the brother of Hero Ding?"

Ding Buer clasped his hands in greeting: "I have long heard of the three extraordinary figures in the countryside, known for their warm-heartedness and chivalry. Today, upon meeting them, I find them to be ten times more impressive than the rumors. I am but a habitual thief of the rivers and lakes, and to share drinks with the three of you is already a stroke of great fortune. How could I dare to trouble you to take on risks for me?" Qiu He waved his hand and said: "There is no need for you to be so polite, Ding hero. Just tell us if you dare to join us in this gamble?" Ding Buer felt grateful in his heart and truly had no reason to refuse the goodwill of the other party, so he replied: "Then I will follow Qiu hero's instructions completely."

With a focused mind, he raised his head to look at the person speaking in front of him, and could not help but glance at Ding Buer. This time, Ding Buer did not dare to look at him.

In the darkness, not far away, two green glowing eyes were staring at him. It was a wild wolf