Chapter 07: Gifted and Talented

The willow branches subtly indicate something amiss, hurriedly adopting a pitiful appearance: "Who said it's nothing? It hurts!"

Will Lu Li really stop paying attention to her?

Liu Shao'er, do not be angry anymore, come quickly to eat the buns

Willow branches ask in surprise: "Where to?"

He pleaded for mercy, and the captain of the guard agreed in person, only to turn around and beat the man to death on the spot

Crystal printed cake! The willow branches suddenly turned to look.

Success! Liu Shao finally vented her anger, disregarding her disordered internal energy, and pointed at her mockingly: "Who is the one that wants to concede!"

With the consent of the guard, Liu Shao rarely enjoyed freedom. By the stream, the two children sat side by side on a large rock. Liu Shao gazed at the babbling mountain stream before her, feeling somewhat listless. The crystal cake no longer tasted as sweet in her mouth, and her hand occasionally brushed against the bun in her arms, which had already become dirty, cold, and hard.

Bai Fengmian lay on the ground, pale as paper, seemingly understanding something, both shocked and angry as she pointed at her: "You can control the technique! You haven't even finished learning the martial arts moves, and you've already learned to control the technique!"

The willow branches gazed at his silhouette, the medicine bottle in hand still warm, yet a sense of loss lingered in the heart.

He clearly knows that Bai Feng is bullying him, having previously stood by and watched, and now he still wants to intercede! Liu Shao has long been seething with anger, and hearing these words is undoubtedly adding fuel to the fire. Without any hesitation, he raised his foot and stomped down hard on Bai Feng's hand.

Bai Feng's face alternated between red and white, and she clenched her fist tightly in secret

The two individuals were locked in a stalemate on stage, with Bai Feng steadfastly refusing to concede defeat. Liu Shao was contemplating how to make her suffer a bit more when Lu Li, who had been watching for some time from below the stage, suddenly spoke up: "That's enough, Liu Shao'er"

You

Liu Shao shivered slightly and shook her head repeatedly, saying, "No, no, I do not want to go out"

The two girls have never gotten along, with Bai Feng deeply disliking Liu Shao, and Liu Shao equally resenting her for her underhanded tactics. In this round of competition, they drew the same group and both displayed their utmost hostility towards each other

"Who are you to meddle!" Liu Shao, disregarding the pain, gritted her teeth and forcefully pushed him away, saying in a stern voice, "Get away! You, get away!"

So what? He listens to me. Who doesn't know that you like him? Unfortunately, he ignores you, you ugly monster

Lu Li was not angry either and turned to leave

Liu Shao nonchalantly stuffed the bun into her bosom, then arrogantly glanced at the crowd before turning to Su Xin and saying: "Let’s go"

Liu Shao did not fully understand these words; she only felt they were profound and reasonable. She had long lost her fondness for martial arts, so she echoed with a "yes" and then asked, "Does the lord agree?"

Su Xin angrily reprimanded: "Since it is a competition, how can one resort to a sneak attack?"

Liu Shao had already been checking her injuries and found that it was merely pain, which immediately relieved her. Looking at Bai Feng's feigned expression, Liu Shao absolutely did not believe that she had shown any mercy. In her moment of luck, she couldn't help but feel secretly astonished—she had thought that after receiving such a heavy kick, her shoulder bone would surely be shattered.

After a long while, Su Xin finally spoke softly: "Just now... you didn't do it on purpose, I know."

The willful girl has already learned to know when to stop and has become adept at reading the room.

Bai Feng approached with a tense expression, saying: "I... I didn't mean to..."

Lu Li protects her, and the heir pays attention to her, isn't it simply because she is fair and beautiful? If she were to become an ugly creature, who would still care for her

I have come here today specifically to bid you farewell, " Su Xin hesitated for a moment and said, " If I have the time, I will come back to see you.

Liu Shao sensed danger and almost instinctively dodged, but in her haste, she was still a step too slow. Her right shoulder took a heavy kick, causing her to cry out in pain as she fell off the combat platform

After mastering the condensation technique, Fang Weichang began to teach martial arts. Liu Shao studied diligently, but unfortunately, years of living as a young lady had left her delicate and weak. Among the children, she could barely be considered average. Fortunately for her, the outcome of victory or defeat had little impact, as Lu Li had never let her go hungry

Seeing that he really wanted to check, Liu Shao quickly straightened up and held his arm: "No need, it's fine now"

... ...

Really? Liu Shao suddenly raised his face; he could tell that Lu Li should know as well

The competition in the arena has concluded, and a boy has been injured and withdrawn. Liu Shao and Bai Feng leaped onto the stage, engaging in combat without any unnecessary words. The assassins are not apprentices; what Commander Fang has taught are the most ruthless killing techniques in martial arts. Their strikes are aimed at absolute kills, seeking either to eliminate their opponent in one blow or to perish together. The children, being novices, struggle to control their attacks and defenses, making the confrontation extremely perilous. To date, two children have already lost their lives due to the mistakes of their opponents. The assassins are not apprentices; what Commander Fang has taught are the most ruthless killing techniques in martial arts. Their strikes are aimed at absolute kills, seeking either to eliminate their opponent in one blow or to perish together. The children, being novices, struggle to control their attacks and defenses, making the confrontation extremely perilous. To date, two children have already lost their lives due to the mistakes of their opponents.

"I... I won't leave," Liu Shao replied insincerely. How could she not want to leave? Yet he was completely unaware of what was happening behind the scenes

Liu Shao knew that her martial skills were inferior to Bai Feng's, and she did not dare to be the slightest bit careless. Her only advantage was her proficiency in gathering energy, which had become increasingly apparent as she mastered it. By gathering energy quickly, she could harness sufficient spiritual energy to execute her martial techniques, resulting in doubled power in her strikes. Therefore, she resolved from the very beginning to take the initiative, adopting an offensive strategy to trap Bai Feng and leave her no opportunity to counter.

No wonder Duke Wu Yang was so courteous to the immortal who came to hold him accountable; it turns out he was preparing for his son to enter the realm of immortals

Su Xin was beside him, and the boy did not dare to snatch it away, leaving in a dejected manner

Su Xin nodded, and just at that moment, it was time for the meal. The victorious children all went over to collect their buns. He hurriedly asked Liu Shao, "Aren't you going to eat?"

Lu Li said with a smile that seemed neither here nor there: "Oh, how quickly things are getting better"

"Take this medicine." Su Xin placed the small vial into her hand, his eyes reflecting comfort, concern, sadness, and an unmistakable determination.

Lu Li lightly touched the ground with his toes and lifted her into his arms: "Liu Shao'er."

Since experiencing the incident with Feng Xiaoxing, Liu Shao has finally accepted reality, no longer fearing ridicule, and has naturally accepted Lu Li's protection. In such a place, she lacks strength but possesses beauty that captivates Lu Li, which destined her to have no friends.

Who said I am angry

The sharp nail was about to scratch her face, and at that moment, her delicate face seemed destined for complete ruin, eliciting sounds of regret from the crowd

"You don't want to leave?" Su Xin was surprised; he thought she would be happy and grateful.

Liu Shao did not truly expect him to give everything to her, yet upon hearing this response, she still felt dissatisfied. Just as she was about to make a scene again, footsteps approached from behind, accompanied by a long-missed, enticing fragrance

She did not expect her to be so ruthless, and Liu Shao was taken aback, standing still as if she had forgotten to evade

Bai Feng merely sneered and evaded, occasionally countering.

Once a person has fallen off the stage, it signifies defeat. No matter how much resentment Liu Shao may feel, there is nothing that can be done. Enduring the pain, she forced a smile at Su Xin and said: "It's nothing!"

Su Xin's face turned red, and she remained silent, only holding onto her hand tightly.

Do not say that Bai Feng and the others have murderous intent in their eyes; even Su Xin could not help but reproach: "Liu Shao'er, he means well"

The changes occurred too rapidly, and no one was able to react in time

Bai Feng was born into poverty, enduring hardships and laboring diligently. With her exceptional talent, her martial skills had long surpassed those of others. Noticing that Liu Shao was inferior to her, she disdainfully said: "I advise you to concede; it is better than seeking unnecessary suffering."

Bai Feng is certainly not unattractive; she is simply taller than other girls, with a healthy complexion that gives her a somewhat spirited appearance. Compared to Liu Shao, who is fair and delicate, Bai Feng does not possess the same level of beauty, and Liu Shao's remark reflects her own sense of pride.

There are eight pieces of cake on the plate, with a delicate and translucent outer layer, each imprinted with eight different patterns, fragrant and soft, which used to be her favorite to eat

The willow branches have mouths that cannot speak, filled with both regret and grievance. She was merely acting out of momentary anger, inadvertently exerting too much force. Moreover, if it were not for him, how would Bai Feng have had the opportunity to retaliate? Her arm was nearly rendered useless! Even Su Xin was willing to help her; what does it matter if he protects Bai Feng?

The bun rolled onto the ground

He mentioned his injury, and Liu Shao also felt pain in her left shoulder. She hurriedly wanted to loosen her clothing to check, but her hand was held down.

She is utterly disgusted by her own weakness. Every time she resolves to break free from him, she ultimately remains so dependent on him. Without him, she would quickly starve.

The assassin is merely a tool, so what is there to discuss about fairness? It is simply that the other party is the heir, and she would never dare to speak out against him

In a moment of hesitation, the white phoenix on the ground suddenly leaped up and kicked towards her in mid-air

Lu Li wisely chose not to speak any further, merely furrowing his attractive brows slightly to express his disapproval

"I have never aspired to martial arts," Su Xin said, "After the heavenly punishment back then, demons invaded the human realm and caused chaos. The sects of immortals were weak and unable to protect themselves. It was the esteemed Martial Sovereign who established martial arts to teach humanity self-defense. However, human hearts are complex, swayed by personal desires. Everyone seeks to exploit martial skills for profit, bullying the weak and killing each other. The martial way has long since fallen into disarray; who outside does not harbor hatred?"

Liu Shao was completely unaware of the defeat, muttering under her breath: "Hmph! With so many moves already, do you really think you can win? Just wait and see if Lu Li will laugh at you!"

Liu Shao took the crystal cake from the water m. hetushu. com without hesitation and pushed Lu Li's hand away, saying: "Who would want to eat this!"

Faced with her angry gaze, Lu Li compromised: "Alright, you are not angry."

Seeing that the captain Jian Fang did not respond, Liu Shao understood that her complaint would not succeed, and retorted: "What I learn first has nothing to do with you! Whoever wins is the one who is powerful!"

Liu Shao suddenly became furious, kicked him away, and snatched the bun: "Who gave this to you!"

Before she took the stage, she deliberately got close to Lu Li to provoke Bai Feng, and then continued to taunt and provoke, waiting for this very moment

The willow branches are filled with energy but have no outlet, and I changed my words to say: "I want it all!"

Liu Shao felt an inexplicable sense of guilt and let him go, and indeed saw Bai Feng's face turn pale as desired, achieving her goal, Liu Shao displayed even more pride.

"Seeking death!" After being provoked repeatedly, Bai Feng finally lost her composure. A fierce glint flashed in her eyes as suppressed anger surged within her. Without saying a word, she swiftly moved in front of Liu Shao, transforming her palm into a claw and executing her most skilled and powerful move.

Liu Shao raised Su Xindao: "Let us go play in the past."

Bai Feng immediately cast a grateful glance

Three months have passed again, by the fighting platform, the willow branches and the white phoenix eyes are staring wide open

Su Xin nodded

Bai Feng was taken aback, and by the time she reacted, the two were already too close to avoid each other. Suddenly, she felt a sharp pain in her upper abdomen, and her whole body was sent flying, landing at the edge of the high platform, nearly falling off. It was also because Liu Shao was not ruthless enough, not targeting a vital area; otherwise, this punch would have certainly cost her life

I wish to enter the immortal sect. Upon mentioning this matter, the young gentleman's gentle face also radiated a compelling brilliance, dispelling the faint trace of melancholy between his brows

"Does your injury still hurt?" Su Xin took out a small jade bottle, "I have some medicine here, a gift from the palace, it is very effective."

Su Xin had long noticed her different background, and it was not surprising that she recognized this. She merely smiled gently and was about to hand over the cake when she saw Lu Li and Baozi beside her: "This..."

Will the Immortal Sect accept you

Su Xin! Liu Shao heard that voice and turned her face to the side in delight

The opportunity is fleeting, and Liu Shao, leaning against the defense line, endures a blow without yielding easily. Naturally, she will not give up lightly and immediately raises her fist, exerting all her strength to strike out!

For some reason, the willow branches began to tremble, and in front of him, she did not want to show any fierce demeanor at all

The air wave was not strong enough, even somewhat thin, yet Bai Feng felt as if her strength had plunged into water, encountering resistance akin to that of water waves, making it increasingly difficult to push forward

Bai Fengsu has always been diligent, and her unique skills, when unleashed, are indeed not to be underestimated

Su Xin stood at the foot of the stage, dressed in a light blue robe today, with a snow-white collar and the hem embroidered with exquisite patterns, complementing his gentle brows and eyes, resembling a figure from a painting

With a blink, the air wave vanished

This is excessive

The willow branches stared blankly at the sky beneath the water, the voice somewhat weak: "Well... that's very good."

Lu Li smiled and said, "How could that be? Let me take a look."

Bai Feng endured the pain and turned over to stand up

Bai Feng let out a low cry of pain

Liu Shao had not learned many techniques, and soon ran out of them, having to repeat from the beginning. This was tantamount to giving her opponent an opportunity; the more frequently a technique was used, the easier it became for the opponent to discern its weaknesses, especially since her execution of the techniques was not particularly skillful.

Liu Shao did not know what he was going to do, so he had no choice but to sit alone on a stone and wait. The victorious children received their food, and the snow-white buns were larger than a fist. When broken open, the aroma of the meat wafted into his nostrils. Liu Shao quietly swallowed, lowering his head to look at the ground

Bai Feng struggled helplessly and gritted her teeth, saying: "Liu Shao, remember this!"

"It's alright," Liu Shao forced a smile and said, "You are here, so come and play with me more often." With him around, perhaps it could lessen her suffering a bit

A boy quietly approached to pick up the bun on the ground

The willow tree nodded its head.

Seeing that Bai Feng was indeed trembling with anger, Liu Shao raised her face and called out loudly: "Lu Li! Lu Li!"

With a sideways glance from the willow branches, she bit her lip, yet could not bring herself to step down a second time. In her frustration, she decided to move her foot and intended to kick Bai Feng off the stage

How she longs to go along!

At the very moment Bai Feng thought she had succeeded, Liu Shao suddenly smiled mysteriously, and a layer of translucent white aura unexpectedly rose around her body

Liu Shao coldly laughed defiantly: "Who is afraid of you!"

The two individuals lowered their voices during their banter, and no one heard them. Lu Li was talking with a few boys when he heard the words and walked over to ask: "What happened?"

Su Xin smiled and said, "Father has already received a reply from the master of the Qinghua Merchant Palace, and the master has agreed to accept me"

The willow branches are suddenly clear

Su Xin expressed disappointment: "I thought you wouldn't like it here"

Lu Li looked at her and said, "Your foot is fine"

The surrounding gossip grew louder, and the girls were all gloating. Being treated so unfairly, Lu Li would certainly no longer pay her any attention

Faced with the fierce onslaught, Liu Shao became somewhat flustered. After approximately twenty exchanges, it was evident to the discerning that she was showing signs of physical exhaustion

"Willow tip! Willow tip!" Someone is calling her

Indeed, after she demonstrated three times, Bai Feng began to counterattack, targeting the flaws with every move.

Su Xin shook his head and said, "I am leaving"

Bai Feng and the others were indeed unwilling to offend Lu Li, but Liu Shao had never dared to sleep soundly at night. The girls did not openly target her, yet they constantly engaged in subtle actions behind the scenes, such as accidentally bumping into her, teaming up to squeeze her during tasks, and even stepping on her hand when she fell. Liu Shao had suffered many such silent grievances. Initially, she reported these incidents to Lu Li, but after receiving only a few words of comfort, she gradually stopped speaking to him about it.

The Marquis of Wu Yang is ruthless in his actions, yet he shows great affection towards his son. For him, it may not be a good thing for his son to enter the martial path. Over the years, he has made countless enemies, and one must eventually grow old. His son's gentle and kind nature may struggle to cope with retaliation. It would be better to let him enter the immortal sect, escape from this life, and seek a marriage alliance with an immortal in the future, thus preserving the Su family's lineage. Moreover, it is a falsehood to say that people do not yearn for the concept of 'longevity.' The Marquis of Wu Yang is aware of his own inferior roots and knows he is destined to have no connection to the immortal path in this life. His son, however, possesses excellent roots and has a great opportunity. It would be better to let him enter the immortal sect, escape from this life, and seek a marriage alliance with an immortal in the future, thus preserving the Su family's lineage. Moreover, it is a falsehood to say that people do not yearn for the concept of 'longevity.' The Marquis of Wu Yang is aware of his own inferior roots and knows he is destined to have no connection to the immortal path in this life. His son, however, possesses excellent roots and has a great opportunity.

Lu Li treated her so well, and now she only seeks to please the Crown Prince

The Immortal Gate! Liu Shao immediately recalled the brilliant night sky, the figure playing the zither while stepping on the sword, her heart stirred with excitement, followed by confusion, "But your father... isn't the Marquis a martial artist?"

What does it matter if one can condense energy quickly? A person's strength is inherently limited, and there will always be times of fatigue

A person like you is simply unworthy

Martial arts consist of two components: "Wu" and "Shu". The formation is a type of "Shu". Compared to "Wu", "Shu" is evidently of a higher order, as it can assist in attacks to inflict greater damage and also provides a certain level of defense, such as the "Dou Shui" technique that Liu Shao just used. "Shu" has high requirements for energy concentration, and Liu Shao's strength lies in her ability to condense energy quickly, which is an innate advantage. Ordinary beginners cannot focus on "Shu" first. Liu Shao understands that she cannot compete with others in martial practice, and upon realizing this, she capitalizes on it, which is why Bai Feng suffered a significant loss.

Su Xin nodded and suddenly said seriously: "But I am afraid you will change, everyone who survives in Uncle Fang's hands changes..." He paused, as if having made up his mind: "I will ask Uncle Fang to let you go too!"

Lu Li found it difficult: "That won't do"

Liu Shao had heard of the Immortal Gate long ago; it was something very distant to her at that time. She learned about it from countless stories, such as the Nanhua Sect, the Qinghua Palace, and the immortal beings who flew with swords, living forever, slaying demons and eliminating evil... protecting all living beings, and being greatly respected by the world... Reflecting on the grandeur that dominated the night sky, it was something she could never hope to reach.

Then, he stood up and left

Seeing his expression, Liu Shao became even angrier and said with a stern face: "I want to eat two!"

How can true friendship possibly escape unscathed from the mire?

The willow branches bent down: "It seems that I have sprained my ankle."

Not long after, Lu Li walked up to her and handed her a bun

Although both individuals are relatively young, Su Xin holds a certain status, and Liu Shao was once a young lady from a wealthy family; they are both aware of the etiquette expected of them. Liu Shao suddenly realizes this and quickly pulls her hand away, her face gradually becoming warm.

Liu Shao deliberately raised her eyebrows high in response, saying: "Even if I lose, there is still Lu Li. You should worry about yourself instead!"

Su Xin, startled, ran over and asked: "How are you? It's all my fault..."

Lu Li did not hesitate to accommodate: "Alright"

Su Xin seemed to have understood something, and after saying "Wait for me," turned around and left

The willow branches allowed her to rise, but she pounced and firmly pinned her down.

Liu Shao bit her red lips tightly, not going to answer.

The room gradually became emptier, and companions dwindled one by one. Liu Shao witnessed this change firsthand, and the initial compassion had long since faded, leaving only a heart full of numbness. Unbeknownst to her, the little girl's heart had hardened considerably.

The willow branches did not respond, only gazing at Fang Weichang