Section 4

When he spoke these words, he paid close attention to Tang Tingyu's expression; however, there was only confusion on Tang Tingyu's face. This confusion inadvertently caused a look of bewilderment to appear on Zhao Peng's face as well

He originally thought that Tang Tingyu should understand the meaning of his words. Now it seems that Tang Tingyu is unaware of the inside story; this makes him feel incredulous, as someone of Tang Tingyu's status should not be kept in the dark about such matters

Zhao Peng chuckled and waved his hand, saying, "Three days? I can't stay alone for even one day!" As he spoke, another layer of doubt arose in his heart; the relationship between Tang Tingyu and the Xuanwang Mansion seemed a bit too close, didn't it?

He has gradually become accustomed to Zhao Peng's unexpectedly unique way of speaking

Tang Tingyu gazed at the starry sky, pondering: "The battle between Yunmeng and Iga Island took place five months ago. In this span of five months, her internal injuries have not fully healed, which can only be attributed to two reasons: first, her skills are not far removed from those of the Iga Island ninjas; second, the martial arts she practices have significant flaws, the most notable being the slow recovery from injuries"

Tang Tingyu said: "Are you—moved by her?"

Zhao Peng further stated: "However, your words do hold some truth. Her martial arts indeed have flaws, but these flaws are due to her own reasons"

Zhao Peng stared at him: "You don't care which one?"

Tang Tingyu pondered and said: "Cloud Stepping? I have not heard of it."

Tang Tingyu naturally knew

Tang Tingyu said nonchalantly, "The prince will make the most appropriate choice."

Zhao Peng smiled and said: "Of course, there is a deep connection. My great-grandfather was Ji Yaoguang, the twin brother of Ji Yaohua, who is known as the 'Goddess of Wushan.' Just look at how much face you have; this is a secret we have never shared with anyone before."

Zhao Peng smiled as he assessed the situation and said: "It seems that today, Gu Chuan has a significant influence over the daughter of the East Sea King. Moreover, he is a rather steady and pragmatic person, not one to resort to violence easily, making him a good negotiating partner. I will approach Gu Chuan to propose marriage, asking him to persuade the various islands of the East Sea, especially Feiyu Island, to allow Yunmeng to hold a martial arts competition for marriage. You can then marry her, and without bloodshed, we can avert a potential bloody conflict between the East Sea and the Jiangdong martial arts community, how does that sound? Given your family background and character, I believe Feiyu Island and Gu Chuan will have no objections. Furthermore, to be honest, during the East Sea War years ago, the Jiangdong martial arts community did not gain much advantage. Over the past decade, talent has dwindled significantly, and we are not as strong as before. If we were to engage in another battle, I fear that no family would be able to bear the consequences."

Zhao Peng looked at him with great interest and said, "What do you want to ask? You seem hesitant to speak up."

Tang Tingyu listened to him speak eloquently, and a peculiar feeling gradually arose in his heart. He thought of Yunmeng, who stood against the wind on the lookout tower. Yunmeng and Zhao Peng were entirely from different worlds, yet there was a certain similarity in their demeanor and temperament, as if they were different vessels made from the same material

Zhao Peng said solemnly: "Do you find it amusing? Did you not just mention that deep affection and absolute indifference are indeed the two extremes of yin and yang? The Wushan Yunyu lineage, which embodies the most profound and capricious emotions in Wushan martial arts, aligns perfectly with the natural, unselfish love embodied in the Spring Breeze Sword Technique passed down by Master Tang. It is akin to the most harmonious yin and yang. When you see Yunmeng, it is as if you are seeing yourself in a mirror, naturally evoking a sense of familiarity."

Tang Tingyu hesitated for a moment and said: "I indeed have a sense of familiarity with the daughter of the King of the East Sea. This is precisely what confuses me."

Zhao Peng examined Tang Tingyu and finally sighed, "It seems that when we first met, I underestimated you, thinking you might be the abbot of Taiyi Temple in the future." He then became spirited again, "Do you know which one is the adopted daughter of King Xuan?"

At the moment of parting outside the city of Quanzhou, Zhao Peng said: "If I were King Xuan, I would have you lead this battle against the pirates of the East China Sea, allowing you to establish your authority early on, so as to prevent future discontent among the people."

Tang Tingyu recalled Yunmeng's demeanor; her gaze was as clear as the sky, indeed lacking the elusive shimmer of flowing and changing light that Zhao Peng had described.

Zhao Pengyang raised his eyebrows: "The punishment of the quiet room?"

Tang Tingyu hesitated for a moment and then said softly: "I was selected by the Xuanwang Mansion when I was twelve years old. It was finalized three years ago. However, I still need to wait a little longer before it can be announced."

Zhao Peng said: "These pirates are incredibly fierce, so we must first dull their sharpness before questioning them; otherwise, they would rather die than speak. It is important to understand that a person who does not fear death relies solely on a momentary courage; if one does not fear death for a day, what about ten days? A month? A year? Thus, the ancient saying goes: it is easy to bravely face death, but difficult to calmly sacrifice oneself."

Zhao Peng continued, "The disciples of Wushan are well aware that beauty and passion are the sharpest weapons, and they must be honed. Therefore, they all pay great attention to the elegance of appearance and the gracefulness of temperament. Even those whose looks are not particularly outstanding must possess a certain quality that captivates the hearts and souls of others, enabling them to conquer without a fight. Yumen is certainly beautiful, yet she has chosen to wear a veil, thus relinquishing this most potent weapon. Moreover, it appears today that her expression lacks that kind of beauty, which evokes endless fantasies in the world; instead, it carries a cold and solemn demeanor that keeps others at a distance."

Zhao Peng further stated: "The disciples of Wushan, due to infighting, ultimately left only the Jiang family lineage passed down from Ji Yaoguang. The martial arts of Wushan are entirely preserved by the Jiang family, and apart from the Qingping Le lineage, they only pass down other martial arts without teaching them. Except for those in charge of the texts, no one else could possibly know how to practice any internal or external skills other than Qingping Le. Currently, the one in charge of the texts is my mother. Therefore, Yunmeng definitely did not learn the Wushan martial arts from the Jiang family"

At this point, he suddenly leaned in with a grin and asked, "Have you gotten engaged?"

He felt a deep respect rising within him. The Zhao family of Suzhou was renowned, and the person in charge bore an especially heavy responsibility. Zhao Peng had already taken on this burden, which was no easy task; moreover, the Zhao family of Suzhou was the most powerful in this line of business. If other merchants encountered significant issues, they could seek assistance from the Zhao family, but if the Zhao family faced a major problem they could not resolve, there was no one to help them, and they could only fight alone. Outside the Zhao family, Zhao Peng had no allies, and within the Zhao family, he could only consult with the widow, Madam Jiang. The others were either too weak and inexperienced in worldly matters or too distant and indifferent to the stakes involved.

Tang Tingyu frowned and said, "Rumors often carry embellishments; the court presided over by Master Shan has never been associated with bloodshed." Suddenly, he smiled, "If Brother Zhao were to fall into Master Shan's hands, I suspect he would certainly sentence you to solitary confinement."

Tang Tingyu paused for a moment and then said: "Indeed, deep affection and absolute indifference are two extremes of yin and yang, inseparable from one another"

Zhao Peng frowned and said, "You aren't planning to become a Taoist, are you?"

Tang Tingyu thoughtfully remarked: "I have also speculated that perhaps you practice this type of martial arts; otherwise, it would be impossible for you to maintain a tranquil and untainted state of mind, perceiving everything, amidst the gentle surroundings of the Jinxiuguo."

Tang Tingyu said: "Isn't your ship supposed to take on fresh water and provisions at Quanzhou Port? The people from the Xuanwang Mansion are waiting for me at Quanzhou Port"

Tang Tingyu gazed at Zhao Pengjun's face, which was as beautiful as jade under the starlight. Heaven creates people, and in the end, it is fair; one cannot have everything.

Tang Tingyu could only accompany him with a bitter smile. At the same time, he recalled that Zhao Peng had shown displeasure upon first meeting him; if even Zhao Peng held such an opinion, what could be expected from others? Zhao Peng's words were indeed a profound truth

He turned around and looked at the pirates on the ground: "As Brother Zhao suggested, let's first lock them up and temper their sharpness before questioning them. However, perhaps it would be quicker to have the Xuanwang Mansion conduct the interrogation."

Zhao Peng looked at him with a strange expression and said, "The Cloud and Rain of Wushan is precisely the martial art practiced by the Wushan Goddess in those years"

The fleet of the Zhao family in Suzhou has set sail once again, and the sailors are cleaning the deck

He recalled Zhao Peng's evaluation of Yunmeng. Although Zhao Peng was casually observing Yunmeng from a distance, he had already made such meticulous observations and understood it so thoroughly, with an evaluation that was so apt. A peculiar feeling arose within him, and he couldn't help but say, "Brother Zhao, I would like to ask you something."

Without waiting for the Tang court to inquire, he continued: "Before the goddess of Wushan ascended, she entrusted Ji Yaoguang to deliver the martial arts manual she had personally compiled to the old Tang Tianshi. This set of manuals is referred to as the 'Goddess's Legacy' by the Taiyi Temple and has been kept in the temple. The daughter of the East Sea King must have attempted to steal the Wushan martial arts; this is the only possibility. After you return to the Taiyi Temple, you can investigate this matter."

Tang Tingyu looked at him inquiringly

Zhao Peng was taken aback and then burst into laughter: "Of course, it's impossible"

Zhao Peng replied: "Because you give people the impression of being a carefree young master who is oblivious to the world." As he spoke, he burst into hearty laughter

The ancient and mysterious Wushan Sect, though few in number, boasts disciples who are all exceptionally talented individuals, which is why the Wushan Sect has always held its head high in the world. However, despite the Wushan disciples being invincible, no other sect dares to easily challenge them; they have been unable to escape the cycle of internal strife. Each time a conflict arises, many disciples perish, and it takes years, sometimes decades, to recover. Just as they begin to revive, a new round of internal turmoil ensues, leading to a continuous decline in talent within the Wushan Sect. The last internal conflict occurred approximately eighty years ago, resulting in the sect being left with only one disciple, known as the "Goddess of Wushan," Ji Yaohua, who has lived in seclusion in the Wushan mountains for her entire life, though she passed away many years ago. Over the past few decades, the martial world has long forgotten the once-dominant Wushan Sect. Tang Tingyu did not expect that Yunmeng actually hailed from the Wushan Sect.

After dinner, Zhao Peng and Tang Tingyu sat by the window, with a sky full of stars and a gentle sea breeze.

Zhao Peng quickly suppressed his momentary emotions, stood up, and said: "We will arrive at Quanzhou Port by noon tomorrow. I have decided not to go to Nanyang and will disembark with you."

Tang Tingyu let out an "oh" and said, "Brother Zhao, do you know her lineage? I can only tell that her lightness skill and mental methods are not from the Flying Fish Island school."

Zhao Peng sighed and said: "Of course not. The lightness skill she practices is called 'Stepping on Clouds', which is as ethereal as the steps of cloud gas. It can tread on snow without leaving a trace, and can also crush stones into powder. It is both soft and hard, entirely dependent on the focused application of the mind"

He looked at Tang Tingyu and asked, "When do you plan to hand over these pirates to the Xuanwang Mansion?"

Tang Tingyu expressed some surprise: "Indeed. Brother Zhao has a very clear understanding of the martial arts of the Taiyi Temple"

Tang Tingyu truly found himself in a situation that was both amusing and exasperating, and could only say: "Although I have not formally betrothed myself, it is nearly the same as if I had."

Tang Tingyu was taken aback, feeling both amused and bewildered: "What kind of reason is this?"

Tang Tingyu expressed his doubts, saying: "Since you claim that the martial arts practiced in Yunmeng, which are derived from the Cloud and Rain of Wushan, come from the Wushan Goddess, then she should have a close relationship with the Zhao family of Gusu. How could it have resulted in such an irreconcilable situation now?"

Zhao Peng laughed heartily: "Well, you are indeed honest; you have not lied. If you did not feel a sense of familiarity, that would be strange"

Zhao Peng stated: "Although Yunmeng practices the martial arts of Wushan, her demeanor and character belong to the East Sea rather than Wushan, which limits her understanding of Wushan martial arts. The Wushan Yunyu lineage requires practitioners to possess an uncontrollable and infatuated passion, thereby embodying a natural and flowing charm. Whether with feelings or without, whether with intention or without, like the form of a flower, like the light of water, elusive and flickering, impossible to grasp. Only in this way can one truly comprehend the essence of the four characters 'Wushan Yunyu'"

Tang Tingyu could not help but take a deep breath: "So that's how it is"

Zhao Peng said: "The martial arts she practices from Wushan are stolen."

Zhao Peng kicked a pirate at his feet and said with a smile, "Brother, congratulations, you are about to go to the Xuan Wang Mansion to broaden your horizons. I have long heard of the formidable reputation of the Mountain Old Man at the Xuan Wang Mansion. Everyone says, 'Better to meet the King of Hell than to encounter the Mountain Old Man.' Examining these fellows, I suppose it will be a piece of cake."

Tang Tingyu shook his head: "The prince has not made a final decision yet"

Tang Tingyu pondered: "Why is it that people's hearts are not in accord?" He questioned himself, believing that with his family background and mentorship, entering the residence of the Xuan Wang should not evoke any feelings of discontent or discord.

He himself is also aware of the significant responsibilities that lie ahead, especially since he has always been nurtured by numerous elders; moreover, the Xuān Wang Mansion has the support of the Taiyi Temple, a powerful ally from beyond the ordinary. Within the mansion, there are also many warriors and strategists who have been passed down through several generations, whose loyalty and competence allow him to entrust his life to them

Tang Tingyu smiled and then said, "Would I feel that she seems familiar, just for this reason?"

He sighed: "If she could experience the taste of 'emotion', perhaps she could elevate the clouds and rain of Wushan to the utmost in 'illustration'; or if she practiced another martial art more suited to her, her achievements would be even greater"

Zhao Pengyi smiled: "There may be other reasons, such as her continuous battles over the past few years, which have led to excessive energy consumption, resulting in a slower recovery. However, if you claim that the martial arts she practices have significant flaws, you are gravely mistaken"

Tang Tingyu fell silent for a moment before saying: "If we were to discuss the similarities in martial arts, perhaps there is more between us. The sword technique I practice is called 'Spring Breeze Sword Technique.' It embodies the essence of spring, nurturing all things, perpetually thriving and endlessly flowing. Practitioners must possess a selfless love akin to 'Heaven and Earth are indifferent, viewing all things as mere fodder.' But why do I not feel that you seem familiar?"

Zhao Peng's smile blossomed even more: "I really want to bring the two of you together to make up for the regret of the ill-fated romance between the Goddess of Wushan and Master Tang in the past"

Zhao Peng said: "That is the lightness skill of the Wushan Cloud and Rain lineage within the Wushan Gate"

Zhao Peng smiled and said: "The Spring Breeze Sword Technique is the direct lineage martial art passed down by the old Master Tang, isn't it?"

Zhao Peng sighed and said, "You shouldn't respond too quickly; being overly clever is not advisable, as it may invite the jealousy of heaven"

Zhao Peng said with a smile: "As the leader of the islands in the East China Sea, Yunmeng's words are always without regret. Since he has stated that he will return to the Suzhou Zhao residence for guidance after a year, he will certainly wait until that time. Therefore, there is no need for me to personally oversee this matter. I must return to assist you in facing Yunmeng. To be honest, it is not that I underestimate you; it is just that without the Suzhou Zhao residence, it would not be easy for you to deal with the disciples of Wushan. As for confronting the pirates of the East China Sea, it would likely require much more effort without the Suzhou Zhao residence."

Zhao Peng said: "It is said that before Master Tang became a monk, he had a romantic relationship with the Goddess of Wushan; however, no one knows why they later parted ways, with one becoming a monk and the other living in seclusion for life. Nevertheless, since their acquaintance, the martial arts of Wushan and those of Taiyi Temple have gradually developed a remarkable similarity. For instance, the martial arts passed down in my family, known as Qingping Le, have drawn inspiration from the martial arts principles of Taiyi Temple, no longer indulging in worldly love, but rather emphasizing the understanding of such love. I practice Die Lian Hua, while my mother practices the even higher-level Wangqing Pu." As he spoke, he smiled and said, "The moment I saw you, I felt a connection; perhaps this is the reason."

Tang Tingyu laughed in astonishment and said, "Only you, Brother Zhao, could come up with such an idea of defeating the enemy without fighting. Why don't you do it yourself?"

Zhao Peng stated: "The martial arts of Wushan actually originate from Daoism. Due to their unrestrained nature and dedication to exploring the pleasures of love in the world, they have taken a different path. However, at their core, they still share similarities and connections with the Daoist principles of tranquility and minimal desires as taught by the Taiyi School."

Asu received the order and withdrew. Bao'er and Rou'er hurried to prepare paper and ink.

Zhao Peng said: "Taiyi Pavilion"

Zhao Peng leaned back against the window frame and murmured: "Since I took on the heavy burden of the Suzhou Zhao family at the age of thirteen, I chose to study 'Die Lian Hua' (Butterfly Lovers). At that time, I believed that nothing was more important than a heart that remains eternally calm; however, now I truly want to know what kind of woman I would be attracted to if I had not studied 'Die Lian Hua'. Yet, I will never have that opportunity again, unless I abandon my martial arts. You, on the other hand, have been given the chance, but you choose to give it up. I hope you will not regret it in the future."

Zhao Peng entered Tang Tingyu's cabin and saw three pirates on the ground, immobilized and unconscious. Noticing that Tang Tingyu was about to release the pirates' acupoints to interrogate them, Zhao Peng said: "If I were you, I definitely would not wake them up to ask for their statements at this moment"

He did not state it explicitly, but Zhao Peng understood that the children of King Xuan had all passed away many years ago. King Xuan had long abandoned any thoughts of having children and had only taken in a few daughters of the royal family to raise by his side, as a means to alleviate the desolation of his lineage. The court was very concerned about the future heir of King Xuan and had inquired several times through edicts. King Xuan believed that although the weak descendants of the same clan could inherit his title and carry on the bloodline of the Xuan royal house, they would be unable to manage the royal estate or take on the heavy responsibility of leading the martial arts community of Jiangdong. Therefore, he wished to adopt a daughter and pass the royal estate to her husband for management. This had become an open secret in Jiangdong. However, up to this point, King Xuan had not announced which daughter of the royal family he would adopt or which family’s son he had his eye on.

Tang Tingyu fell silent for a moment and said: "No wonder Brother Zhao handles matters so smoothly; when it comes to understanding and grasping people's hearts, Brother Zhao truly has a keen insight."

He glanced at Tang Tingyu's expression and said, "It is of no consequence to tell you. The internal cultivation method I practice is called 'Butterfly Loves Flower.' The butterfly is heartless, while the flower is full of affection. Naturally, I will cherish all the good women in the world, yet I am destined to be indifferent to anyone, simply because I have lost my heart"

Zhao Peng's candid and perceptive attitude made Tang Tingyu feel considerably at ease, as if he could naturally express any extraordinary thoughts in front of Zhao Peng

Zhao Peng suddenly said: "Have you also been moved? Do not lie."

Tang Tingyu raised his eyebrows, waiting for Zhao Peng to continue speaking

Tang Tingyu looked at Zhao Peng warily and said, "No. Why are you asking this?"

Tang Tingyu said: "A few years ago, I was quite mischievous. Once, I caused a significant trouble and was caught by the old master of the mountain, who confined me in a quiet room for three days. Inside the quiet room, I could not hear a single sound from the outside; it was so silent that I could hear my own heartbeat and the flow of my blood. By the third day, I was on the verge of breaking down. Since then, I have really restrained myself quite a bit." He examined Zhao Peng: "I estimate you could probably endure more than three days, right?"

Tang Tingyu could not help but ask, "You are so familiar with everything about Wushan Gate; you must have a significant connection with Wushan Gate, right?"

Zhao Peng let out a sigh of relief. From now on, he would be able to receive the strongest support from the Xuan Wangfu.

Tang Tingyu asked in surprise: "Why?"

Tang Tingyu fell silent for a moment and said, "If that is truly the case, then the theft of martial arts skills from the eastern sea must have been going on for quite some time. The Taiyi Temple has failed to discover this, and it cannot escape responsibility for that. Thank you for the reminder, Brother Zhao"

Tang Tingyu was taken aback, raising his head to look at him

Tang Tingyu could only smile. No matter what Zhao Peng said now, it would no longer surprise him. This had already been the greatest shock he had received.

Tang Tingyu pressed further, saying: "Then the only possibility is—"

As he watched the carriage of the Marquis of Xuan depart, Zhao Peng turned around and said, "Prepare two pairs of carrier pigeons; this time, the letter for the lady will be relatively long."

Zhao Peng said: "Of course not. You are a disciple of the Taiyi Temple and also a member of the Tang family from Xiangzhong, so you must know Master Tang, the Celestial Master, right?"