Chapter 9, The Secret to Staying Sober

Zhangsun Jingwu was slapped by Cai Feng, leaving him somewhat bewildered and a bit annoyed as he asked, "What is the reason for this? Is it possible that this fish fillet is poisonous?"

"Only one person was captured over there, while the others all fled, not even a trace of gold, silver, or jewels was found. It is truly strange," said Changsun Jingwu, filled with indignation.

Zhong Chuiyan smiled at Changsun Jingwu and said, "You are the one with a big head, we will not accompany you any longer"

The fish fillet landed heavily on the table, it was clamped by Cai Feng. The taste of the fish fillet was indeed somewhat unique, but it was certainly not because it was delicious that Cai Feng's expression changed drastically, nor could it possibly make him drop the fish fillet in his hand

Good! Mu Liwu raised his wine glass and waved to several tables around him, saying loudly, "Today we can set aside the mundane customs and drink to our heart's content. Come, everyone, let's toast together!"

Changsun Jingwu chuckled and said, "I did not inquire in detail; those two are tough nuts to crack. I can only follow your method and hand them over to Mu Liwu to deal with the headache."

Cai Feng was naturally unaware of what Yuan Ye Mei was thinking; he was simply a person who pursued what he wanted to do, indifferent to all external pressures. To him, those pressures seemed superfluous. This was a kind of arrogance that no one could rival, and it was also what made Cai Feng unique. As long as he aimed to achieve his goals, he would disdain all difficulties, believing that at the very least, he should try once so as not to have lived in vain.

Zhong Chuiyan smiled meaningfully and said, "What is wrong with that!"

Cai Fenggang was about to eat when he heard this and couldn't help but glance around at Mu Liwu and the others, who were also eating this kind of fresh fish. He couldn't help but ask in return, "Is that so?" As he spoke, he leaned in and pretended to sniff with a strange expression, and his face suddenly changed dramatically.

"Then, did Cai Shang still lead troops later on?" Cai Feng couldn't help but ask

Yuan Ye Mei was taken aback, yet she did not stop her steps, and was instead surrounded and escorted away by a group of maidservants as if she were the moon surrounded by stars

Cai Feng unconsciously turned his head to glance at the person, only to see him with a beaming face, his tall stature resembling a small mountain, and his smiling face almost glistening with oil. However, within the two eyes flanking the high-bridged nose, one could discern a cunning and greedy essence.

The county magistrate's residence was exceptionally luxurious, which made Cai Feng feel somewhat uncomfortable. Everyone knows that such ostentatious luxury is built upon the sweat and blood of the common people. However, what Cai Feng felt more was a deep sense of helplessness, for these issues could not be resolved by any single individual; they were merely the most tragic consequences wrought by this era and this world.

Zhong Chuiyan's facial muscles twitched slightly, and with a somewhat sorrowful smile, he said: "Peng Lianhu is a well-known master from the Southern Dynasties, and indeed very few people are unaware of his name. Moreover, I myself am from the Southern Dynasties, so I naturally know of Peng Lianhu." He then took a breath and continued, "I have once been defeated by him, which left me with a deep impression of his swordsmanship, hence I was able to recognize the sword techniques of these two individuals."

Yuan Sheng couldn't help but feel both angry and amused as he said: "If I don't wake you up, you would probably stand here and starve to death without even realizing it!"

Cai Feng suddenly thought of his master uncle Ge Rong. If he had succeeded in the uprising, would the world still be like this? Could it have changed the profound injustices of this world? Cai Feng fell into a moment of silence, and at this moment, he truly understood why his father had rejected Ge Rong's proposal to return to the martial world. Perhaps that was his father's genuine and far-reaching insight

"How does that fire starter say?" Cai Feng asked eagerly

"It seems that Master Changsun is particularly happy today?" the old man asked with a smile

"Master Changsun, Young Master Cai, welcome, welcome," Mu Liwu said with a beaming smile as he stepped forward to greet them

Cai Feng smiled and said, "We currently have no need to engage in futile disputes over such trivial matters; what we should focus on is how to identify who the poisoner is." As he spoke, he cast a sweeping glance at those in the hall who were struggling for their lives, and could not help but feel a deep chill in his heart

The spring messenger could not help but cover her mouth and smile, saying, "I shall go fetch water for the young master to wash up." After speaking, she turned and walked out.

Cai Feng cast a glance at Changsun Jingwu and said lightly, "Elder brother Changsun, why not exert some effort on the Laomingmen acupoint."

Mu Liwu felt his old face flush under Cai Feng's radiant gaze, and he couldn't help but chuckle, "Since Young Master Cai insists on not taking the seat of honor, let us all sit wherever we please. As long as we can enjoy ourselves tonight, that will be enough to satisfy me, Mu."

Cai Feng noticed that Yuan Ye Mei did not speak, and he couldn't help but feel disheartened, so he said to Zhong Chui Yan: "Third Master, I think it would be better for us to go drink together."

Zhangsun Jingwu cast a grateful glance at Cai Fengwang, picked up a slice of raw fish, and sniffed it, but could not discern any particular scent.

If you can wake him up, then I naturally won't have to stand in punishment" Changsun Jingwu said with a smile

"Hurry, go check the water source," Mu Liwu instructed in a low voice, appearing somewhat flustered.

"Mingmen Acupoint?" Changsun Jingwu exclaimed in astonishment

Cai Feng couldn't help but smile knowingly

Cai Feng smiled somewhat shyly and said, "You are too modest, old man. I merely won by chance; the real credit belongs to Master Zhong Chuiyan, Zhong San."

Cai Feng joyfully leaped onto the cart's yoke, unable to help but glance back at the seemingly motionless carriage. The thought that the beauty was right behind him made him feel a bit restless, yet he did not dare to be too reckless or impolite.

Cai Feng and Zhong Chuiyan returned to the residence together, which puzzled many people; however, few dared to ask. It was said that Zhong Chuiyan, as a distinguished guest, held a transcendent status that no one could challenge. As for Cai Feng, he had become the new favorite of the Yuan family. Not to mention Yuan Hao's favoritism, even Changsun Jingwu and Yuan Quan were not ones to provoke.

Cai Fengqiang, wearing a smile, clasped his fists and said: "It is truly a great fortune for me to meet so many distinguished individuals today. Master Wei, I extend my respects to you here."

Changsun Jingwu also felt quite displeased and coldly remarked: "It would be best to call a doctor to make an assessment, that would be the most prudent course of action"

"Hey, hey—what are you just standing there for!" Yuan Sheng said, giving Cai Feng's shoulder a pat and calling out loudly.

Zhangsun Jingwu finally felt relieved, approached the old man of He Shi, and placed his large hand over the acupoint of Mingmen, which was emitting steam, slowly channeling his true energy.

This is the head of the Wei family, Wei Gaishan, Mu Liwu hurriedly introduced.

Changsun Jingwu was also taken aback, looking around in alarm. Seeing that no one had heard him, he laughed and scolded, "Watch your mouth, or you might end up with a swollen backside. However, what you said is indeed a very good method"

Zhong Chuiyan found it quite amusing, saying: "Sometimes I feel like you are a formidable expert that one dares not approach, and other times you seem like a child who never grows up."

"Damn it, more cunning than a ghost," Long Sun Jingwu's curse startled Cai Feng and Zhong Chuiyan, bringing them back from their memories

The spring messenger came over the water, and Cai Feng took it and rinsed his mouth, questioning: "Where to?"

"The Great Method of Ten Thousand Cups Without Getting Drunk?" Changsun Jingwu could not help but laugh

"Where is the first knife of the Northern Wei currently residing?" Cai Feng couldn't help but ask tentatively

Yuan Sheng, not understanding Cai Feng's intention, replied: "This is not a problem; I am aware of several wolf dens outside the city."

Mu Liwu and Changsun Jingwu could not help but burst into laughter at Cai Feng's serious demeanor. Mu Liwu kindly placed his hand on Cai Feng's shoulder and said, "Young Master Cai, you truly are a good friend. I, Mu Liwei, have decided to befriend you."

It is indeed effective; otherwise, how could it be called the "Thousand Cups Without Getting Drunk" technique? However, I have comprehended another method, the "Ten Thousand Cups Without Getting Drunk" technique, which is even more effective than your "Thousand Cups Without Getting Drunk" technique," Cai said with a sense of pride and satisfaction

Young Master Cai guessed correctly; apart from the few who were tending the fire in the kitchen, everyone else has died from poisoning

Ah... ah... this, this dish... has... has poison..." Someone was clutching their throat, moaning in pain.

Cai Feng couldn't help but chuckle, saying: "If everyone could smell it, wouldn't that mean everyone could become the best hunter? This is an intuition and a sense of danger."

Zhong Chuiyan immediately understood, and with a single command of "Drive," the horse-drawn carriage began to move forward

Yuan Yamei, upon hearing this, could not help but stop in her tracks, turn her charming face, and gaze deeply at Cai Feng, softly calling out: "Cai Feng"

Cai Feng's heart stirred, and he blurted out: "When the wine enters the throat, does one feel sorrow? Soaring to the heavens, with a heart full of ambition, the blood of heroes flows with the courage of a sword and the sensitivity of a lute. One does not need to be drunk to transform into spring. The flowing water laughs at the world, at those who are infatuated, mad, obsessed, and intoxicated, only to realize that everything lies within the wine cup."

Cai Feng could not help but secretly admire this person's insight, yet he still smiled and said: "My lord, you may not be aware, but this is the secret just imparted by Brother Changsun that is taking effect. It won't be long before the truth is revealed. If it were not for Lord Mu's care and Brother Changsun's gracious teaching, I fear I would not even be able to get out of bed tonight, let alone attend the banquet"

Cai Feng showed no signs of displeasure; instead, he gently patted Yuan Sheng's shoulder and said with a wry smile, "Are you often bullied by the young lady?"

Mu Liwu and Wei Gaishan were startled and quickly spat out the fish slices, while only the old He Shi swallowed them, as Cai Feng's call came a moment too late. His expression turned exceptionally grim, filled with fear and unease

Mu Liwu smiled and said: "Today is primarily to celebrate the capture of these several bandits, and Young Master Cai is our great benefactor. Therefore, tonight we will focus on Young Master Cai, with the other brothers supporting him, including several heads of the Wei and He families.

Cai Feng shook his head, glanced at the faces of the crowd, which looked very grim, and said with certainty: "The poison must have been placed in the water, either in the water tank or the well. Everyone, hurry and check the water source."

"Good, good!" he exclaimed, clapping his hands in praise, and laughing heartily, he responded with a loud recitation, "Whether sour or bitter, drink it down, for the affairs of the world linger in the heart. The mundane is like dust, the matters of the world are like clouds; they pass with the wind and change with the rain. Only wine is good, only wine is good!"

"Indeed, indeed, Master Cai's words are quite reasonable. We should cast aside some mundane formalities; this is the true path to joy," Wei Gai Shan concurred.

Cai Feng could not help but feel a bit dejected, as if half of his spirit had been drained, and he weakly said: "Is this all there is?"

Come, let us raise this cup to cast aside some dust and the mundane rituals of books for today"s gathering" Long Sun Jingwu stood upright, holding up his wine cup and declared in a loud voice

Cai Feng laughed in exasperation and scolded, "Don't be so exaggerated, alright? Am I, Cai Feng, someone who just stands around waiting to die? Come on, let's go have a drink."

Changsun Jingwu was taken aback and said with a wry smile, "It can't be that serious, can it?"

Oh! Muliwei heavily patted the dry-laughing Changsun Jingwu beside him and said with a smile, "Well, you actually taught Young Master Cai to engage in deceitful practices. What punishment should be meted out for that?"

Cai Feng threw the fish fillet away because he needed to free one hand, which was used to grab the piece of fish from Changsun Jingwu's mouth, while simultaneously shouting: "You cannot eat it"

"How is it? Is it effective?" Changsun Jingwu asked with a hint of pride.

"How could this fish fillet be poisonous?" Mu Liwu said, unable to help but change color in response to the suspicious gazes of several people

Changsun Jingwu, feeling somewhat amused and exasperated, said: "You are not going to the guillotine, so why act so pretentiously? The county magistrate has specifically invited you, yet you refuse to go. I cannot assist you; if you need to be pushed, then so be it."

Yuan Ye looked at Cai Feng with a hint of melancholy and said calmly, "Thank you for saving my life today"

"It is natural to hear about it, but doesn't that mean a great waste of these fine wines? How terrifying! Drinking them would be equivalent to drinking nothing at all; what joy can there be in that?" Cai Feng retorted disdainfully

Cai Feng seemed to have springs installed within him, as he swiftly turned around and, unable to conceal his joy, asked: "Miss, what are your instructions?"

Cai Feng could not help but feel a sense of pride in his heart as he listened to Changsun Jingwu explain the method of circulating energy to dispel the effects of alcohol. While trying his luck, he soon felt his mind becoming clearer. He recalled the Xuanmen Qigong taught by his father and decided to alter Changsun Jingwu's energy circulation method. Following the route of Xuanmen Qigong, the alcohol within him dissipated more rapidly, filling his heart with joy. He completely disregarded Changsun Jingwu's instructions and instead utilized the Xuanmen Qigong route to expel all the alcohol from his body. Only then did he open his eyes and smile at Changsun Jingwu, who was still reciting the energy circulation method.

Cai Feng glanced at Zhong Chuiyan, who was driving the horse, and chuckled softly, "Of course, it will be after the dog injury is treated at the Tian residence."

Cai Feng felt a surge of anger in his heart, yet he did not show any outward signs. He picked up a piece of food from each dish with his chopsticks, sniffed it, and smiled, saying: "I fear that even a single dog would not suffice."

Cai Feng was taken aback and angrily shouted, "Are you seeking death? Why are you being so loud? You nearly scared my soul away, truly not a good friend!"

Mu Liwu's expression turned serious as he looked at Cai Feng and said, "Is it really that serious?"

Upon entering the Yuan residence, Cai Feng naturally did not dare to speak frivolously, yet it was inevitable that his eyes would wander. Yuan Yemei merely cast a deep glance at him and then averted her gaze. In Cai Feng's heart, there was a profound sense of dissatisfaction, but for Yuan Yemei, this was already the utmost limit.

Yuan Yamei retracted her smile and said softly, "Will the dog trainer have time tomorrow? I would like to seek your advice on some advanced dog training techniques, if that is alright?"

This cannot be blamed on Lord Mu; I believe he is also a victim of circumstances. Perhaps the situation in the kitchen at this moment is not very good either

Zhangsun Jingwu shouted to those who had not fallen down: "Why aren't you quickly checking around for any suspicious individuals?"

Changsun Jingwu picked up a piece of fresh fish and said with a smile: "Brother Cai, you truly have an eye for quality. This fresh fish is prepared by the finest chef in Handan City, and it is also the best in taste"

Indeed, today should be a day of great joy said Wei Gaishan with a hearty "Haha" interjecting a remark

It is of no concern, as long as you apply gentle force and gradually penetrate. When you encounter his own resistance, simply maintain the original state to prevent the toxin from entering the brain, and it will not cause any significant harm to his body. Cai Feng understood that Changsun Jingwu was worried about harming the elderly He Shi, and could not help but explain with a smile.

Wei Gai Shan, with a pale face, instructed the person beside him: "Go find a dog."

Cai Feng shamelessly grinned and said, "So, does Master San agree to tell me the story of the first knife of the Northern Wei?"

Cai Feng could not help but curse inwardly: "Damn it, I have no desire to befriend a black-hearted dog official like you." However, on the surface, he still put on a grateful expression and smiled, "It is truly a blessing for Cai Feng to be valued by Lord Mu." He then changed the subject and asked, "May I inquire which guests have been invited to the Lord's residence today?"

"Ah, did I sleep so soundly?" Cai Feng couldn't help but exclaim in surprise

"Old Second Wei, who are you chatting so happily with?" A hoarse voice came over.

Yuan Sheng could not help but feel quite embarrassed, while inside the car, Yuan Ye Mei couldn't help but laugh and said: "Ah Sheng, how could you possibly be a match for this little scoundrel? It would be better if you just remained silent."

"Not bad, not bad, let's see the true colors at the banquet soon!" Changsun Jingwu said with a hearty laugh

Zhangsun Jingwu shrugged his shoulders and said with a wry smile, "If I could manage to drink alone, why would I wait for you for more than half an hour? Today, the main guest is you, the great swordsman. Who could blame you for wielding those two swords so skillfully that the officials and soldiers regard you as a deity?"

Cai Feng said irritably: "Is this very strange? I can save you precisely because I am returning from Wu'an; otherwise, how could I coincidentally hear your cries for help"

Cai Feng could not help but take a breath and said, "If I am not mistaken, no results can be found anymore"

Cai Feng shrugged his shoulders, spread his hands in a gesture of helplessness, and smiled, "You know me, I have always been quite selfish. I think you have chosen the wrong master. However, there is a very good solution, which is to push all of this onto Mu Liwu. That way, you will be relieved. At worst, those bandits will come to rob again or steal from a family, and let the adults deal with Mu Liwu's backside. " As he spoke, he glanced around.

Cai Feng could hardly believe his ears, and he couldn't help but reach up to touch his scalp, his eyes squinting with excitement as he repeatedly said: "Of course I am available, I have been free these past few days. Even if I were not free, as long as it is your request, I would certainly make myself available."

Oh, truly, heroes emerge from the youth, even younger than I had imagined. I did not expect such achievements at such a young age; it is indeed a blessing for our country.

Wei Gai Shan and Chang Sun Jing Wu finally breathed a sigh of relief, withdrew their palms, and took several deep breaths to gradually calm their breathing

"What I said to the old man is exactly this: today, let that group of elusive thieves show a trace, and I will naturally be pleased. Would the old man not be pleased as well?" Changsun Jingwu retorted.

Yuan Sheng was taken aback, unable to believe that Cai Feng would so boldly ask such a question in front of Yuan Ye Mei. He felt a great deal of embarrassment. Although he knew that Cai Feng had always been audacious and reckless, unafraid of anything and unconcerned with trivial matters, it was still the first time he had heard someone speak such unrefined words in front of a young lady, and he could only respond with a wry smile

"Do you not know the secret of martial artists who can drink a thousand cups without getting drunk?" Changsun Jingwu said with a laugh, patting Cai Feng on the shoulder

"Master Changsun, greetings. Oh, this must be the young master Cai Feng, who single-handedly defeated the bandit, right?" A voice, aged yet commanding, carried over with a laugh.

"Cai Feng, when did you arrive at my residence?" Yuan Ye Mei in the car asked in astonishment

Cai Feng could not help but feel a sense of discomfort in his heart, as if it were exceptionally heavy. At that moment, he finally understood why his father despised war so much and revered a life without regrets. He couldn't help but become somewhat dazed, as his thoughts seemed to soar back to over a decade ago, standing beside his father, witnessing his captivating and awe-inspiring demeanor.

Indeed, damn it, who would have thought that this wretched City God Temple would have so many tunnels

Mu Liwu glanced at the corpse on the ground, its face a pale green, and an involuntary chill surged within him as he stammered, "Indeed, it is precisely in this state."

Cai Feng could not help but change his expression dramatically and asked in a deep voice: "Can the characteristics of those who have died be the same as the complexion of these individuals?"

Cai Feng could not help but admire this person's ability to act; just last night, he had been robbed of over 100,000 taels of gold and silver, yet today he could be so carefree.

"Young Master, you are awake!" Baichun had been waiting by the bedside for an entire afternoon, and upon finally seeing Cai Feng regain consciousness, she could not help but express her joy.

Cai Feng humorously said: "You better bring Yuan Sheng and Master Zhong San here for questioning, as these two are the ones who got me drunk. They are well aware of the situation; I am merely a victim"

My heavens, why is my life so bitter? Just these two swords have forced me to drink again, " Cai Feng exclaimed dramatically while covering his face with both hands. In an instant, he moved his hands away, and with a glimmer of hope in his eyes, he said, "Could you possibly dismiss it by saying that those two swords were just being wielded carelessly?"

Ah— Cai Feng hurriedly threw off the blanket covering her, sitting up in surprise, yet feeling somewhat bewildered about what to do next

Zhangsun Jingwu could not help but smile wryly at Cai Feng and said, "Brother Cai, with your exceptional martial arts skills, how about lending me a hand?"

Cai Feng couldn't help but sigh and said, "I really don't understand how you all handle things; this matter is becoming increasingly complicated."

Cai Feng gritted his teeth and said helplessly: "I have truly encountered a ghost. I will go all out. Quickly, teach me the method of drinking a thousand cups without getting drunk. Damn it, I won't rest until I waste at least two hundred jin of wine on him"

Cai Feng splashed cold water on his face and frowned, saying: "Are you mistaken? I am already completely drunk, and my mind is still in a muddle. If I drink more, it would be strange if I don't get completely wasted."

Inside the car, Yuan Yamei seemed to have long been aware of Cai Fengtian's fearless demeanor, having already experienced it at the Tian residence. After several days of tranquility, she found that Cai Feng's unrestrained and indulgent words felt even more endearing. Having grown up among many, everyone could only hold her like stars and the moon, cherishing her; whether wrong or right, it was all acceptable. This feeling, for a girl gradually coming of age, could only be an unfillable void. Cai Feng's wild and arrogant personality, along with his candid, humorous, and carefree remarks, indeed alleviated her sense of loneliness, even making her feel more understood, so she naturally did not blame him. She could not help but think that in just a few days, Cai Feng had already forged a close relationship with the key figures of the Yuan family, traveling all the way from Wuan to the Yuan residence to become a dog trainer, seemingly just for her. How could this not shock and move her deeply? Yet, she knew she could only regard Cai Feng as a friend, which was a profound pain and a tragedy of this era.

Zhong Chuiyan patted Cai Feng's shoulder and said with a smile: "Young people are indeed curious, but I advise you not to seek out Cai Shang for a duel. Although your swordsmanship is good, you will not be a match for Cai Shang."

Cai Feng naturally would be polite for a while, saying: "Why must Third Master speak in such a manner? The young lady was startled, and I, Cai Feng, would never wish for that. My actions were purely from the heart, not for anyone else. Third Master need not thank me; what I have to say is only that the young lady is blessed with great fortune. By the way, let us talk about the story of the first knife of Northern Wei."

"Goo goo—pu—" Cai Feng spat out the water in his mouth, startled, and asked, "Are you taking me out for drinks again?"

Cai Feng casually sat down beside Changsun Jingwu, elegantly glancing around at the crowd, and picked up a piece of fresh fish with his chopsticks

"Just in time with the boss, this is the young master Cai Feng, who has displayed great prowess today by slaying the notorious thief with a single sword strike. He is also the new dog trainer at the residence of Lord Yuan," Mu Liwei eagerly introduced the elderly man.

"Why is Young Master Cai so certain that the poison was placed in the water source?" Wei Gai Shan questioned.

They said that the cooks died because they first tasted the dishes, and the several who prepared the condiments also died after tasting the dishes because the cooks had died as well

Cai Feng hurriedly asked, "What happened, Brother Changsun? Did they all slip out through the tunnel?"

Yuan Yamei smiled sweetly and walked away like a fragrant breeze, leaving behind the foolishly dazed Cai Feng, who stood there gazing. Yuan Sheng also regarded the foolish Cai Feng as if he were observing a monster, while Zhong Chuiyan couldn't help but shake his head and sigh.

I really don't know how you drink, seeing that your martial arts are so good, yet these two cups of yellow liquor are still not enough to handle you

Cai Feng rubbed the back of his head and murmured, "How could I have drunk so much in such a muddled way? If my father finds out, he will definitely give me a good beating, showing no trace of a hunter's spirit at all..."

Oh! Cai Feng couldn't help but feel bewildered, yet he asked with some suspicion, "Given the martial arts of these two individuals, and that Third Master has also been defeated by this Peng Lianhu, isn't this person invincible in the world?"

Are you sure that this group of people is the very thieves who stole the treasures? Cai Feng said thoughtfully

Cai Feng could not help but turn his head to glance at the elderly He, noticing a slight expression of pain on his face. He sighed and said, "Let us first assist Elder He and see if we can expel the poison."

Cai Feng felt somewhat helpless, raising a wine flask and drinking alone in silence

Mu Liwu and others could not help but change their views on Cai Feng in an instant. The reasoning behind these words indeed requires them to regard this person, who is associated with books, with a new perspective, and they can no longer treat Cai Feng as a child who can be easily deceived.

Cai Feng smiled faintly and said: "What you say, Lord Mu, is indeed true. Regardless of where one sits, as long as we return with joy, we will not have failed the purpose of this banquet. Tonight is a celebration banquet, and what we seek is happiness and joy. We can relax some unnecessary formalities; only then can we create a more harmonious and lively atmosphere, right?"

Well, I don't know much either, but I can share a little. We will wait at the carriage, and once they have cleared the road, we will return to the residence together said Zhong Chuiyan with a smile

Zhong Chuiyan smiled indifferently and said, "That is not necessarily the case; how can my martial arts compare to those of the heroes of the world? Although Peng Lianhu is formidable, there must be others who are even more powerful. Peng Lianhu himself was once defeated by the renowned first sword of Northern Wei, Cai Shang. Although I have never seen Cai Shang, I know that his martial arts are absolutely beyond what Peng Lianhu can match. This information comes from Peng Lianhu himself, so it is likely to be true. In today's world, there is also the first master of the Er Zhu family, Er Zhu Rong, who is said to be on par with Cai Shang in martial prowess. Therefore, at least these two individuals are more formidable than Peng Lianhu, and there are undoubtedly many other hidden masters in the mountains and forests. Peng Lianhu cannot be considered an unparalleled master, but he is undeniably a skilled expert.

With a loud slap, a handprint was heavily imprinted on Changsun Jingwu's face, and at the same time, he let out a "wow" as he spat out the fish slice from his mouth

Zhong Chuiyan was astonished and perplexed by the unreserved conversation between Cai Feng and Changsun Jingwu, unable to comprehend the depth of the relationship between them.

Cai Feng, feeling helpless, could only say to Yuan Sheng: "Take me nearby tomorrow to have a look and find a few wolf dens."

"Give the order, start the banquet!" Mu Liwu said to a strong man beside him in a calm tone, then pulled Cai Feng to the main seat

"Brother Cai, you are truly too stubborn. Why can't you let go of this? It's not your wine that you're drinking, and you won't be spending any money on waste. Moreover, can you possibly drink all the fine wines in the world? Enjoyment doesn't require getting drunk. Come, I am prepared to teach you the art of drinking a thousand cups without getting drunk tonight. What do you say?" Changsun Jingwu laughed heartily.

The dishes on the table were knocked to the ground, and some people had already slipped under the table. Moans and cries of anguish immediately filled the entire hall. This time, it was truly the turn of Mu Liwu and Changsun Jingwu, among others, to change their expressions, with the most significant change coming from the old He family elder. However, his movements were the most agile; he immediately sat cross-legged, channeling his energy to hold back the fish fillet, intending to force it out of his body.

Oh, how could a mere junior dare to compare myself with the esteemed seniors?" Cai Feng feigned a look of utmost respect and trepidation.

It is now almost time for dinner, " reported Chunwen gently.

Wei Gai Shan was taken aback and quickly replied, "Young Master Cai is truly being modest. It is said that heroes emerge from youth, and today, to be able to drink with a young hero is an honor for me, Wei."

Wei Gai Shan chuckled dryly and said, "I merely wish to verify the nature of the toxicity; it is not that I do not trust Young Master Cai's words"

Cai Feng laughed and scolded, "I have no choice but to go, and I cannot waste any more. Will you teach me the little trick of drinking a thousand cups without getting drunk or not?"

"I suppose I misspoke, I suppose I misspoke, let me explain the intricacies to you..." Changsun Jingwu felt somewhat intimidated by Cai Feng's peculiar personality and could not help but quickly agree

When Cai Feng first heard this, he could not help but feel a surge of blood rushing through him. This was because he learned from others that his father was actually the renowned master of the Northern Wei, known as the greatest swordsman of his time. How could this not make his blood boil? Yet, Cai Shang had never mentioned any of this to Cai Feng.

"Young Master, Master Changsun has been waiting for you outside for nearly half an hour!" Lanxiang entered with a fragrant breeze and offered her greetings.

Cai Feng felt a wave of amusement in his heart and thought to himself, "How could I possibly seek out my father for a duel?" However, he was eager to learn about his father's past, and could not help but tug at Zhong Chuiyan's hand, pleadingly saying, "I beg you, Third Master, to show some mercy and tell me a story about it, wouldn't that be enough?"

Changsun Jingwu exchanged a glance with Cai Feng and immediately understood, but could only respond, "Let's talk about it then."

Cai Feng nearly drank himself to death during this bout, collapsing onto the bed in a state of near unconsciousness. Fortunately, Lan Xiang and Bao Chun provided exceptionally attentive service, and after drinking several large bowls of hangover soup, he felt somewhat better. However, he also slept through the entire afternoon before waking up, still feeling a bit dizzy and extremely uncomfortable

Those individuals finally came to their senses and hurriedly grabbed their weapons to rush outside

Cai Feng cast a disdainful glance at him and said dismissively: "I was merely making an estimate. If one uses a bit of common sense, it becomes clear that this poison is related to water; otherwise, I fear that at this moment, not a single person would be able to speak. Why did they not poison the wine? It is because they cannot penetrate deep into the residence"

"With me here, you certainly won't get drunk," Changsun Jingwu confidently declared, patting his chest.

"Oh, why didn't you wake me up earlier?" Cai Feng said as he hurriedly put on his shoes, reproaching.

Cai Feng stretched out his arms, raised his eyes to look at the spring report, and asked: "What time is it now?"

"What do you mean? I have already had more than 20 cups! Isn't that a lot?" Cai Feng asked with suspicion

Yuan Yamei couldn't help but chuckle at the pitiful appearance of Cai Feng, who looked as if he had died halfway. In that instant, her smile seemed to encapsulate the blooming of a hundred flowers in spring, nearly causing Cai Feng to faint.

Go to the county magistrate's office!" Changsun Jingwu said naturally

Changsun Jingwu humorously said: "Of course, otherwise why would I teach you the method of drinking a thousand cups without getting drunk? It is naturally to deal with those drunkards in the county magistrate's office. So, what do you think? Are you bold enough to waste it?"

Cai Feng said with a苦脸: "Just let me off this time, alright? I am a bit afraid of the smell of alcohol. If you want to drink, you can drink alone. I really can't handle it anymore"

Naturally, there is nothing strange about this. Cai Feng said with an air of invincibility, pausing for a moment before asking, "What should be done with those two bandits?"

Cai Feng could not help but feel a surge of exuberance, and he simultaneously laughed heartily with understanding. Yuan Sheng was not a fool either; seeing the two of them engaging in a lively exchange that seemed to carry deeper meaning, he too was filled with a sense of emotion.

Mu Liwu was momentarily taken aback, while the old man chuckled dryly and said, "How can this be? Today you are both the host and the guest, and your contributions are the greatest, so this seat should rightfully be yours. How can I take it?"

Changsun Jingwu said with a bitter smile: "Who told you to insist on having him come? It caused me to stand outside his room for nearly half an hour before I could wake him up with cold water. Can you imagine how terrible he must be when drunk and surrounded by books? If I didn't teach him a couple of tricks, wouldn't he have already collapsed before even reaching the dining table?"

Cai Feng reached out to pull Yuan Sheng, who was catching up, and then turned back to Changsun Jingwu with a smile, saying, "I haven't accomplished much today."

Cai Feng felt a deep sense of disgust, which stemmed from Mu Liwu's eyes. In the sharp sunlight that was as piercing as a knife, Cai Feng could only sense a sinister and cold emotion. Perhaps this person was a product of this society, yet Cai Feng could not afford to be rude. He patiently forced a smile and said, "There is no need for you to be so polite, Sir Mu. However, if you do not indulge in another bout of heavy drinking tonight, it would not be as enjoyable."

"There is no need to thank me; if you must express gratitude, direct it towards Officer Wei and Coach Changsun. However, you must take extra rest and diligently practice in the coming days, otherwise, I fear the remaining toxins may rebound, which would certainly not be a good thing." Cai Feng said calmly, yet one could discern a hint of indignation in his eyes

Zhong Chuiyan couldn't help but shake his head, but he smiled faintly and said, "As long as we investigate them, we will know what the matter is."

Cai Feng smiled bitterly, downed the wine in his cup in one gulp, then slammed the cup heavily on the ground, and said faintly: "Is it better to feel with the old?"

Oh dear—there are indeed very few young people today who can be humble and modest, and Mr. Cai is truly exceptional; his future prospects are bound to be limitless

After a long while, the old man He Shi finally let out a deep sigh, expelling a piece of fish fillet that had nearly dissolved and some remnants.

Good! The hall was immediately filled with jubilation, and everyone stood up, tilting their heads to pour the wine from their cups down their throats, and Cai Feng was no exception

Cai Feng glanced at Yuan Sheng behind the car and called out, "Yuan Sheng has returned home." He then winked at Zhong Chuiyan.

"Alright, let's take our seats now, so the dishes don't get cold," Mu Liwu said with a smile, easing the awkwardness of the situation.

"Do not linger here; let us escort the young lady back to her residence first, for this is not a suitable place," Cai Feng suggested

Young Master Cai, you are joking. I see that you are now full of energy. It is truly hard to believe that someone who has just been drunk could exhibit such behavior.

Ah, this matter cannot be spoken of in such a way. The reason I drew my sword today was to save my family's young lady. If my young lady were to host this celebration banquet, I would naturally not decline the position of honor. However, tonight's banquet is hosted by Lord Mu. Although it is a celebration banquet, the credit should not rightfully belong to me as the one in the foremost position, for I merely happened to be present and did not come with the genuine intention of capturing the thief. My actions were driven by a sense of duty to protect my master, which cannot be considered a merit; it can only be regarded as fulfilling my responsibilities. On the other hand, Brother Changsun and Lord Mu have been the ones who truly dedicated themselves to this matter. If credit is to be assigned, it should only be divided between the two of them. If there is to be any credit given to me, it should only come after acknowledging those brothers who wholeheartedly contributed to the capture of the thief. I wonder if everyone else thinks the same way?

Yuan Sheng was taken aback, but he understood Cai Feng's character. After four days of interaction, he had become accustomed to Cai Feng's peculiar style.

Cai Feng smiled faintly and said, "What I say is undoubtedly true, for I am a hunter, and this is the instinct of a beast"

Zhong Chuiyan glanced around at the people once more, noticing that they all hurried to the City God Temple. A few individuals were intently watching the entrance to the tunnel, while Yuan Sheng remained vigilant behind the carriage. He let out a low sigh and said, "No, later Cai Shang became a wanted criminal in the Northern Dynasty. After his defeat, some people in the court exaggerated the situation, which infuriated Emperor Xuan, leading to the confiscation of Cai Shang's general's residence. After recovering from his injuries, Cai Shang returned home and, upon discovering what had happened, killed the city guard in a fit of rage, even poisoning over a hundred members of the Wu Han family, including the martial guards. Wu Han was the one who had confiscated his property. Even more terrifying was that after severing Wu Han's head, he smashed it to pieces and took away the city guard's token. This caused a great uproar in the court, but due to the need to deal with the Southern Dynasty, there were no real experts willing to confront Cai Shang, and the matter could only be left unresolved. However, the people at Zhengyang Pass felt a sense of relief, and afterward, no one ever heard of Cai Shang again. Some said he went to the Southern Dynasty, others claimed he went overseas, and some even said he became a monk, but no one knew where this formidable expert had gone. Perhaps some knew but simply chose not to speak."

"Quickly go find the chef," shouted Mu Liwu at the person pouring wine beside him, while he swiftly made his way to the kitchen

The gaze of the crowd inevitably shifted once again, landing on an elderly man with gray hair and beard. His stride remained imposing, showing no signs of frailty. The faint wrinkles on his face were as subtle as delicate crow's feet, indicating that he was a person who had taken excellent care of himself

Cai Feng felt a great sense of embarrassment, unable to help but let out a dry laugh, yet he did not know what to say.

Zhong Chuiyan, without suspecting anything else, instead expressed gratitude, saying: "If it weren't for your timely intervention, today's situation would likely have turned into a one-sided scenario, which is equivalent to saving my life, Zhong Chuiyan."

How is it on Lord Mu's side? Cai Feng asked with a somewhat cold tone, a vague sense of discomfort rising in his heart

"Let us also go to the kitchen and take a look," Wei Gaishan suggested

The old man He Shi slowly opened his eyes and said gratefully: "Thank you!"

Cai Feng淡淡地说道: "This fish fillet is not only poisonous, but its toxicity is extremely strong. If you don't believe me, you can find a small dog to test it." He then said to the old man He, "Old He, quickly use water to cleanse the stomach and make it vomit."

Wei Gai Shan's old face flushed red, and he hurriedly responded, "Yes, yes, let's first expel the poison from the old man He before discussing anything else." As he spoke, he extended a large hand and placed it on the Tian Zhu acupoint on the back of the old man He.

"Oh, have Cai Feng and Miss met before?" Yuan Sheng said in surprise

Cai Feng could not help but smile and said, "Sir Mu, you are being too polite. However, the seating arrangement today is indeed incorrect. In terms of age, I am the youngest; in terms of seniority, I am also the lowest; and in terms of reputation, I am even less than everyone else. If we were to discuss the matter of the sword, it would be unreasonable for me to take the main seat. Therefore, I absolutely cannot sit in this position. I believe this seat is better suited for the elder He to occupy." Saying this, he hurriedly stood up, pulled the elder beside him, and pressed him into the seat.

"Let us go to the kitchen and take a look," suggested Changsun Jingwu, gripping tightly with both hands, clearly very angry.

Changsun Jingwu was momentarily taken aback, scratching his scalp with his hand, and stammered, "I, I am not sure either. Lord Mu said this might be those bandits, otherwise, how could there be such terrifying martial arts"