Chapter 10, I know even if you do not say it

Liu Li was holding back a mischievous smile, deliberately avoiding looking at You Fang, and with an air of self-satisfaction, gazed into the distance while muttering to himself: "Little Youzi, you truly live up to your name, even more slippery than the fish in Daming Lake. If I let my guard down for just a moment, you've slipped all the way to Jinan."

On the other hand, if you can see through these tactics and do not wish to get entangled, the simplest approach is to overcome your curiosity and the desires for wealth, safety, health, bargains, and other forms of luck and greed. Simply ignore them, and then there will be no trouble at all

Wandering Traveler: "In the rivers and lakes, why must we pry into the depths? I have not offended the senior in any way, nor have I inquired about the senior's background, have I?"

Liu Li, in front of You Fang, inadvertently spoke and acted with the nuances of the martial world, as if deliberately teasing him—"Kid, let's see how you respond?" It also seemed to be a subtle reminder—"I am also an old hand in this game, don't try to pull tricks in front of me." You Fang, unable to shake off Liu Li, was curious to see what tricks the old man could come up with, so he cooperatively replied, "What have you figured out, old sir?"

Liu Li glanced at him from the corner of her eye and said, "I can only speak based on what I see; if I am mistaken, please do not take offense. ... ... Some among them may no longer be alive; if they are, they might be divorced or often have conflicts due to disharmony in their relationships. ... ... Regardless of the circumstances, it ultimately gives you a sense of estrangement. ... ... You are still a good child, and I hope you can honor your parents."

Looking around, I had to admit that the old man was speaking the truth. I could only respond: "I came in a hurry and did not take in the full view of Jinan, but from what I have seen here, according to the principles of feng shui, Daming Lake is indeed a place where spiritual energy converges, and this small Canglang Pavilion is the central position of this feng shui arrangement. ... ... However, I still do not understand. I just happened to come here today; I did not consider feng shui at all when I left home."

Youfang suddenly slapped his forehead: "That's not right. If the senior knew I was coming to Jinan, it would make sense for them to wait here. But how can you be so sure that I would definitely come to Jinan? I have already traveled from Hebei to Shandong. What means did you use to detect my whereabouts?"

Liu Lihuang shook his head and replied: "What is known as spiritual perception is something that everyone experiences at times, a moment of insight that allows one to perceive what is usually unnoticed. When spiritual perception spontaneously awakens, one may feel it at any time, yet often does not understand the reason behind it. This can lead to considerable distress, making one susceptible to external influences and disturbances, or causing the spirit to lose its autonomy, resulting in calamities related to books and knowledge. The 'Minor Thunder Sound Incantation' that I teach you is a method for cultivating the body and mind to dispel demonic obstacles. Once you have achieved success in your practice, and your primordial spirit manifests with clarity in both internal and external sensations, you will be able to use it freely and understand its reasons; at that time, it can be referred to as divine consciousness."

Liu Li, on the contrary, was no longer anxious. He waved his hand and said, "The sun is still early; why not enjoy the scenery by the Daming Lake, feel the wonderful convergence of the earth's energy, and chat a little more while we're at it"

The old man began to recite the names of the dishes as if he were performing a comedic dialogue, and if he continued, he might start drooling. The itinerant quickly interrupted him, saying: "Old senior, let us go now."

Liu Li pointed around and asked, "Look at this place. Jinan is known as the City of Springs, and the Daming Lake, where numerous springs converge, is the 'spiritual eye' of Jinan. The small Canglang Pavilion where we stand is the gathering point of this spiritual eye. You see for yourself, isn't it?"

Liu Li snorted through his nostrils and said: "You have yet to gain a true understanding of feng shui and the energy of the land. Must you use another set of reasoning to explain this principle in order to feel justified and enlightened? ... To be honest, if you arrived in Jinan and did not realize you were here, I wouldn't even bother to see you again"

You Fang frowned: "At the door, whose door? Your speech is too colloquial; it's fine to be more professional, I can understand."

Liu Li: "It is indeed very relevant. Since you are an expert and currently in Jinan with an injury, according to the principles of feng shui and the energy of the land, do you still need me to tell you where is the most suitable place to stay?"

Liu Li smiled and said: "In the world of martial arts, no one is willing to easily reveal their true self. It's fine if you don't want to tell me, but I can see through it."

This old man, when You Fang was avoiding him, would chase him for hundreds of miles without feeling bothered. However, when You Fang respectfully sought his guidance, he immediately adopted an air of superiority, demanding to be treated with the utmost care and attention.

Liu Li, however, changed the subject and inexplicably asked, "Little traveler, do you know any religious monks?"

Liu Li interrupted, saying: "No amount of empty talk will lead to true understanding; only through practice will one gain insight, and that can only be experienced personally. ... ... Oh, are you seeking my guidance, old man?"

Liu Li nodded: "Therefore, you are neither of these two types of people, but rather somewhere in between. You understand its principles, yet you doubt its fallacies; you have touched upon some true mysteries but remain somewhat bewildered. The shortcoming lies precisely in the lack of establishing genuine knowledge and insight." It is rare to see him speak so solemnly and peacefully, and at this moment, he also appears dignified and exudes an air of a wise person.

You are referring to me, Senior? Am I the latter type of person? However, I did not come here today to practice feng shui, nor do I consider myself particularly clever. Moreover, believing in feng shui and believing in religion are two different matters, aren't they? I merely understand some aspects of feng shui and recognize that certain elements have their rationale; I do not blindly adhere to it.

You Fang was somewhat taken aback. After a moment of thought, he replied: "I have an elder who serves as the abbot in a temple, but I have never considered him a true monk; he merely deceives tourists for their offerings of incense and oil."

If someone who is not knowledgeable were to encounter this, they would surely be astonished, thinking they have met a living deity. Liu Li's seemingly casual remarks are, in fact, remarkably accurate—one could almost say he possesses prophetic insight

"What is the problem?" You Fang asked with an expressionless face.

The old man and the young one each had their own thoughts as they leaned against the railing in the small Canglang Pavilion, gazing into the distance. A gentle breeze blew by, and the lotus leaves on three sides unfurled and rolled like green waves. Liu Li took a deep breath and asked, "Young traveler, have I not inquired about your origins yet?"

It is indeed a phrase that awakens those lost in dreams, and the traveler has also come to realize this. According to the principles of feng shui, water can gather yin energy, especially in still waters such as lakes and ponds. However, during the daytime, by the lakeside under the sunlight, the water surface gathers yin and reflects yang, making it the most harmonious place for nurturing vitality and spirit. Daming Lake is the focal point of Jinan City, while Xiaocanglang Pavilion is the central hub of the feng shui configuration in this area.

So it is, Youfang was taken aback. Since yesterday, he had been hearing a strange wailing sound coming from the ancient sword in his bag. Last night, he even had a rather terrifying nightmare, and he had thought that this illusion was due to his injured primordial spirit. Could it be that Liu Li also heard the wailing from the sword and followed the sound all the way here? He quickly stepped forward and asked, "Senior, there is indeed an ancient sword in my backpack; did you also hear the strange sound it makes?"

In the eyes of the people in the martial world, this maneuver is referred to as "raising the threshold for Dingbi." By focusing on the "opportunity," various means are employed to compel the other party to elevate their own status. Managing their food and expenses is merely the first step; after "raising the threshold," there is also the concept of "ascending the heavenly ladder." The more one is elevated, the more difficult it becomes to lower their status, necessitating a continuous and respectful service.

Liu Li grinned and said, "I did not find you; rather, I am just here waiting for you to arrive." Seeing You Fang's incredulous expression, he smiled and explained to *Tu* *Shu*, "You understand Feng Shui, and to receive a 'understanding' evaluation from me, Liu Li, is quite remarkable. Since you have come to Jinan and your primordial spirit has been injured, I can just wait for you at the Xiao Canglang Pavilion; as long as the weather is good, you will definitely come... Hehehe, the weather is really nice today, isn't it?"

If the wandering monk is the immensely powerful Monkey King, then today he has encountered the Tathagata Buddha Liu Li. He resembled a defeated little rooster, leaning against the railing, weakly saying: "Old senior, I completely admit defeat. How did you find me?"

If the other party responds with "How did you know?" or "What did you see?", then there is room for elaboration. The "gap" indicates that the "demand" has been established. After the "demand", the next step is "pressing", which involves employing various means to achieve one's goals, such as pretending to be mysterious or knowledgeable, engaging in business transactions, or deceiving others for food, drink, and profit. If it is not a one-time transaction and there is a desire to continue business dealings, there are further tactics such as "raising the threshold" and "ascending the ladder". After the "demand", the next step is "pressing", which involves employing various means to achieve one's goals, such as pretending to be mysterious or knowledgeable, engaging in business transactions, or deceiving others for food, drink, and profit. If it is not a one-time transaction and there is a desire to continue business dealings, there are further tactics such as "raising the threshold" and "ascending the ladder".

Youfang, however, was even more perplexed and shook his head, saying: "Does what you said have any relevance to this time and place?"

He is like a fish swimming aimlessly in the water, while Liu Li is aware of where this fish feels most at ease, so he waits at the small Canglang Pavilion. Upon thinking of this, You Fang couldn't help but nod: "I see, it is indeed in the intentional and unintentional. Feng Shui inherently encompasses the principles of environmental science, and it is not difficult to explain."

You Fang straightened his body and asked in confusion, "How did you know for certain that I would come here?"

Of course, I would like to ask for your guidance, senior!

You Fang nodded and said: "So the sutra recitation technique that my senior taught me is called the Little Thunder Sound Mantra. Hearing your explanation, I almost understand what spiritual awareness is. As for consciousness, I do understand your words, but..."

Liu Li: "Just like a fish thrown into a pot of oil, it creates quite a commotion! This is where the earth's vital energy converges, and it is also where the Yang energy by the water gathers. The sword you carry is imbued with heavy Yin and malevolent energy, stirring up the earth's energy in turmoil; it would be difficult not to notice! ... I can sense the location of the sword on you; as long as it remains within my spiritual awareness, I can track your movements from afar, and of course, I know you have arrived in Jinan."

Liu Li was just waiting for this question. He immediately raised his head and stroked his beard, saying: "Your forehead is full, but there is a flaw in your beauty; the hair at your temples encroaches upon your eyebrows. Your parents must have issues, and your family is certainly not ordinary. The reason you ran away from home is related to this."

Liu Li raised one hand, extending his fingers one by one: "First, because this sword is not ordinary; it is not merely heavy with yin and malevolent energy. Second, because your primordial spirit has been injured, making you susceptible to external disturbances and the illusionary realm. Third, and most importantly, you have just touched the threshold."

The old man's gaze seemed to mock: "This is what is called easy for those who understand; those who do not will never comprehend in their lifetime. Do you know what you resemble in my eyes at this moment?"

Liu Li: "It may be due to your accomplishments in martial arts, or perhaps your insights gained from studying Feng Shui, or it could be that recent experiences have touched you. In any case, your level of perception has improved, and you have developed a spontaneous spiritual awareness. Ordinary people do not possess your capabilities, and naturally, they would not encounter such troubles; even if they do have issues, they cannot identify the underlying causes. As for you, having injured your primordial spirit makes it even easier for you to experience problems"

"Divine consciousness? Spiritual perception? Could you please explain, esteemed elder?" asked Youfang.

The wanderer did not know where it was, but rather had simply not paid attention. He had certainly heard that such items should not be placed carelessly in a residence, otherwise unexpected calamities might occur. He just did not take it too seriously, and moreover, in the past couple of days, he had no choice but to carry the sword with him, even tossing his backpack beside the bed while sleeping at night

Jinan is now the capital of Shandong Province, and one must certainly try Shandong cuisine when visiting. Among the four major culinary traditions of Su, Lu, Chuan, and Yue, Shandong cuisine relies heavily on old broth for flavor; it cannot be made well without dedication, and its prominence has noticeably declined in recent years. ... ... Young traveler, consider yourself fortunate to encounter me, for today you will experience authentic Qilu cuisine: Nine-turn intestines, marinated fish slices, soup-exploded double crisp, and stir-fried tenderloin strips ... ... Young traveler, consider yourself fortunate to encounter me, for today you will experience authentic Qilu cuisine: Nine-turn intestines, marinated fish slices, soup-exploded double crisp, and stir-fried tenderloin strips ... ...

Why does Youfang always want to avoid Liu Li? Firstly, it is because Liu Li witnessed his act of murder; secondly, he is well aware of the intricacies of the martial world and does not wish to get entangled in them. However, at this moment, there is no other way out. He has a handle in Liu Li's hands, cannot escape, and has already stepped into the threshold set by the other party. He can only force a smile and ask, "I am not familiar with Jinan, and I do not know what you prefer, just like yesterday. Please choose a place, senior."

Liu Li was somewhat surprised, but then laughed with a hint of schadenfreude, saying: "Sound? I didn't hear anything! I'm not sleeping with it, after all. Look, www.hetushu.com.com, you have plenty of troubles coming your way. That is a good item; if it could be reactivated and brought to light, hanging it in the study could ward off evil spirits and protect the house. But placing it in the bedroom, over time, most people can't stand it, let alone someone like you who already has spiritual awareness; it would be strange if you didn't encounter problems! ... As for me, with you carrying such a heavy aura of malice and a box of grave soil running around, how could my spiritual awareness not pick up on it? ... Oh, you're not a novice either; why don't you know these considerations?"

At the beginning, one actively entangles the other, but in the end, it appears to outsiders as if the other party is always seeking after oneself. To play this way, one must possess genuine skill or effective means, capable of seizing the "opportunity".

Liu Li: "You seem to know quite a few people! In this world, some individuals are very devout in their faith, yet they lack true understanding; it is merely a temporary psychological solace. What they believe in is of no use to them and cannot solve real problems. There are also those who claim they do not believe and dare not believe, yet they are quite knowledgeable about the intricacies, constantly taking advantage of this system. They think they are clever, but little do they realize that this too is a barrier to true understanding"

I know without you saying it! This is a common opening line among people in the underworld, originating from the "Jingmen" but applicable across the eight major schools. The term "Kongzi" refers to a target that one has set their sights on, also known as "Ding." In the context of a fortune-telling stall, this phrase translates to "Ding is needed on the stall"—this is underworld slang, and setting up a stall for business is also referred to as "opening a stall."

There was originally nothing of concern, but unexpectedly, in front of the Iron Lion in Cangzhou, I was inadvertently invaded by a pressure aura that affected my primordial spirit, resulting in some issues! He spoke in a tone of inquiry: "I have indeed heard about these matters, but I didn't pay much attention to them before, and it seemed there were no significant problems. Why am I encountering so much trouble today?"

Liu Li glared with a fierce look: "Young traveler, you should understand some of the rules of the jianghu, right? Do you wish to seek fortune with empty sleeves? Didn't we agree before you left yesterday to find a nice place today to eat and drink while continuing our conversation? Are we really going to drink the cold wind in this park?"

The Ling Shui River is surrounded by lotus leaves, facing the tranquil lake that ripples gently, vibrant under the sunlight with a harmonious balance of yin and yang. The wandering spirit is injured; according to feng shui, the place where the earth's energy nourishes the form and spirit the most is also the most comfortable. Whether guided by the spirit unintentionally or merely by coincidence, the wanderer found the most suitable place to stay in the city of Jinan

You Fang lowered his head and looked at himself: "What do I look like?"