Chapter 7, Introduction

The airship gradually descended into a small valley, and Ouyang Beichen, eager to show off, summoned his flying sword, stepping onto the broad sword sheath. With a sense of pride, he said: "Haotian, wait here for your elder brother. I will help you with the formalities. If all goes well, today you will become the 134th disciple of the Tianyi Sect. However, as your elder brother and also your master uncle, it feels somewhat awkward. At home, our father repeatedly urged me to find you a safe job, but I cannot guarantee this; I can only do my best." After saying this, he lightly stepped on the sword sheath and gracefully glided down from the air, landing in front of a row of old-style courtyard houses.

Hey, yes, I forgot this important matter. Sigh, I really am getting old. Beichen, you must also practice diligently to bring honor to your master

Ouyang Beichen's face flushed red as he said fiercely: "So you, He Xiling, really want to oppose me, don't you? If you have the guts, let's go outside and compete. I will make sure you regret it."

Zhou Qinghong shouted loudly, "Everyone, please take your seats. The cloud-hopping airship is about to accelerate; it seems there are strong air currents a few kilometers ahead." As soon as the words left his mouth, there was a buzzing sound, and the cabin shook even more violently. The entire airship ascended another hundred meters, its tail leaving a streak of blue and red light soaring into the sky

Ouyang Yue nodded with satisfaction and called Tian Maoping aside to speak softly: "Child, you are about to leave, and as your father, I truly feel reluctant. However, every young eagle will one day spread its wings and soar. While I feel reluctant, I am also very gratified. You must remember that this Zhou Qinghong is the one hundred thirty-second generation disciple of the Tianyi Sect, and by seniority, he is actually of the same generation as your second mother’s uncle. He is just more easygoing. Since your elder brother Ouyang Beichen has become a disciple of Ge Qingyun, he can be considered as our peer. But the rules cannot be broken; you must respect your teacher and value the way. You must not casually call him Uncle Zhou, but should address him as Master Zhou. You must remember that this Zhou Qinghong is the one hundred thirty-second generation disciple of the Tianyi Sect, and by seniority, he is actually of the same generation as your second mother’s uncle. He is just more easygoing. Since your elder brother Ouyang Beichen has become a disciple of Ge Qingyun, he can be considered as our peer. But the rules cannot be broken; you must respect your teacher and value the way. Haor, to speak frankly, you do not have as many advantages as your elder brother. You will become the one hundred thirty-fourth generation disciple. This is already quite fortunate. I have heard that every time the Tianyi Sect recruits apprentices, they must first serve as disciples at the mountain gate for three months before they can enter the hall. Those who do not meet the requirements are immediately sent home, so one can imagine how fierce the competition is! The family can only help you to this point; from here on, you must rely on your own efforts to steadily and diligently strive forward."

Time was short, and the airship gradually came to a stop. Ouyang Beichen stood up with a "clang," swiftly tidying his attire with lightning speed, shaking off his spirits as he awaited the opening of the cabin door

Known as He Xiling, the young man stood shoulder to shoulder, with a prominent nose and an extraordinary demeanor. He teasingly remarked, "Brother Beichen, this is where you are mistaken. We three are in the same city, and it is rare for us to return home, so we should gather. Could it be that someone with a grand family business has too many social engagements to spare time? If that is the case, then there is nothing to be done. No matter how fine the gift, it is merely an external object, and the sincerity behind it is indeed questionable. Fortunately, Junior Sister Wushuang is not Senior Sister Manrong; otherwise, you would be in for a cold reception! What was your nickname again? Let me think... Hahaha, 'Frozen Fool,' if I am not mistaken?"

Although Zhou Qinghong's combat ability is not remarkable, his years of experience in the world have honed his skills in discerning people's qualities, and he was able to recognize Tian Maoping's extraordinary traits. Fortunately, he recalled that Ouyang Haotian had been plagued by illness for three years, which had naturally tempered his character to be exceptionally resilient, so he did not take it to heart

Zhou Qinghong leisurely turned to the side, half leaning on his seat, took out a pipe, lit the tobacco, and began to smoke with a satisfying gesture, pointing outside: "Haotian, you can sit by the cabin door and enjoy the view of the Tianyi Mountain while reading books. From now on, this will be your second home. Perhaps, like me, you will stay here for a lifetime!"

Ouyang Beichen feigned magnanimity: "What are you talking about? We are both from the same school, and our friendship will endure even into old age. Taking care of my junior sister is an obligation that I, as her senior, should fulfill. Please do not speak such formalities again next time."

Ouyang Beichen introduced with a hint of pride: "This is our Tianyi Sect. The highest peak is where the main hall is located, a place of great importance, accessible only to core disciples. In addition, there are seven blessed lands, twenty-one preaching and martial arts cliffs, and eighteen mountain cities. The number of hidden abodes of our esteemed uncles and ancestors is countless. I have been in the sect for several years, yet I have barely grasped even one-tenth of the territory, which is truly regrettable"

The woman known as the unparalleled junior sister had an unhappy expression and scolded, "Hey, hey, why are you two acting like this again? It's really unbearable. Doesn't Senior Sister Manrong have enough suitors? You might as well take each other out; that would benefit others. I advise you to save yourselves!" After a brief pause, she pointed ahead and asked, "May I ask who this handsome junior brother is? I have never seen him before"

"Hehe, is it Haotian? That's fine, that's fine." The middle-aged man surnamed Zhou glanced at the ten large boxes lined up in front of the door, looking quite troubled: "Ouyang, can we reduce some of Beichen's luggage? I still need to pick up two other little ones, and the cargo hold on the ship is already full. Those are all urgent medicinal materials to be sent back to the sect. What do you think about this?"

Zhou Qinghong furrowed his brows slightly, perhaps due to the second-generation aristocrat's familiarity, showing no further expression. He then turned his gaze with interest towards Ouyang Haotian, wanting to see how this young master of the Ouyang family would react. To his surprise, he felt a chill in his heart: "Is that the gaze a youth should possess? It is deep yet filled with endless indifference, perhaps mixed with a hint of unruliness. Ouyang Beichen's words had no effect on him whatsoever; only those who have struggled on the brink of life and death countless times could possess such potential."

The second lady, dressed in a mink cloak, said with a charming laugh: "Brother Zhou, please help the child! Who doesn't know that among us at Tianyi Gate, your forged storage space is the most remarkable? Storing this little bit of cargo is simply a piece of cake. Moreover, how can my sister let you work hard for nothing? Here are a few small gifts as a token of our appreciation from us as a couple." As she spoke, she gestured for the maid to hand over a jade box.

Tian Maoping felt a warmth in his heart, as he was rarely cared for by others. If this little girl knew that the real Ouyang Haotian was already dead, she would be extremely saddened. Naturally, he raised his hand to gently stroke his cold face and comforted her, saying: "Don't be sad. Do you remember what we once said? We must live well. Also, remember our promise; the young master still relies on you to fulfill it"

Zhou Qinghong, while operating the machine, chuckled, "Being young is truly wonderful; one is always so full of energy! If it weren't for my short stature back in the day, I would have pursued your master’s wife long ago. Brother Ge is a good person in every way, but he is overly concerned with his pride, which has led to today’s situation. Nephew Beichen, you should advise your master more; it would be better to bring your master’s wife back to the mountain as soon as possible. In the midst of the stormy winds of the Giant Gate Star, who will look after her? What will happen if she encounters a cunning demon causing trouble?"

With the wealthy patron Ouyang Shizhi backing them, this trip can be considered a profitable venture. Zhou Qinghong adjusted the controls, and within moments, the cloud airship stabilized. Although there was still a slight sway, it was significantly better than before.

He Xiling is quite out of place and has come to stir up trouble: "Hmph, I am still your junior apprentice! Besides shouting and making a fuss, when have you ever helped a bit?" The two often bicker while looking at the *illustrations* and *books*, making the journey lively. Liu Wushuang playfully winked at Tian Maoping, finished the last bite of the egg flower cake, and whispered: "Thank you, Haotian. If you encounter any difficulties in the future, feel free to come find your sister. Remember, I am cultivating in the small Qing Tian Lang Huan blessed land."

Three days passed quickly, and Ouyang Beichen was eager to return to the Tianyi Sect. He felt quite impatient with the addition of a clumsy younger brother during the journey, so he roused the entire household before dawn to prepare for departure. Ten large boxes of items were lined up outside the door, and Ouyang Yue and the second madam naturally had to rise early to see them off

Oh? Why is Senior Brother Beichen up so early? Sister Wushuang and I thought we were going to the Ouyang residence to pick you up!

Haotian, you may call Uncle Zhou even before you have entered the sect, as it makes me seem younger. The sect's grand competition is a tradition that has been passed down through the righteous path since ancient times, held once every thirty years. Anyone under the age of forty-five is eligible to participate, and some peripheral branches may also come to verify their cultivation. If one achieves a good ranking, the sect leader will naturally offer rewards, so you must work hard!

"Hey, Haotian, have you had enough of your little maid? Uncle Zhou's cloud-stepping airship is about to arrive." Ouyang Beichen cast a disdainful glance, his tone neither warm nor cold

One cannot help but admire the exquisite craftsmanship of nature, which has created a paradise of hidden realms. The mountains are filled with winding paths leading to secluded spots, and the purple bamboo groves are enchanting. Occasionally, the glint of swords can be seen soaring above the mountain peaks and forests, or one might catch a glimpse of smoke curling up from ancient towns, adding countless vibrant colors to this beautiful tapestry. Tianyi Sect truly deserves its reputation as the second largest sect of the Purple Star, as even a distant bird's-eye view is enough to leave one in awe.

Tian Maoping perked up his ears to listen to the conversation between the two. He did not expect to obtain such important information just by sitting in the airship. He thought to himself, "Great, the grand competition will take place in two and a half years, but I wonder if there are any restrictions on the participants." After pondering for a moment, he decided to inquire further and interjected, "Elder brother, is the sect competition you mentioned with Master Zhou open to everyone? What are the benefits of winning?"

Liu Wushuang murmured softly, "What a stingy miser. " Then, with a blink of her big eyes, she came up with a mischievous idea and pretended to lose her balance, exclaiming, "Oh no!" as she slipped and fell to the ground

Ouyang Yue slightly cupped his fists and said: "I am grateful for Brother Zhou's concern. Both Jinghua and I are doing well, but I am worried about Chen'er. I have heard that this young lad has caused quite a bit of trouble for his master. At such a young age, he has already learned to be reckless and combative. His mother has already given him a good education, so I believe he will not cause any more trouble. This time, I would like to trouble you to take care of my second son Haotian. My wife and I plan to send him to Tianyi Sect for training. He is just recovering from a serious illness and this is his first trip away from home. He is unfamiliar with many rules, so please offer him some guidance. This child is quite sensible."

Overall, the harvest at the Ouyang residence is quite substantial. The relics inherited solely from Ouyang Haotian's mother have been exchanged for 2,830,000 Nayan. Tian Maoping has clearly underestimated the price levels in the righteous path, especially on Ziwei Star, which is a core planet that integrates elements of politics, trade, culture, and more. It is a hundred times stronger than his hometown, Qinyang Star, akin to the relationship between a super metropolis and a second-tier town, with no comparability whatsoever

Tian Maoping smiled helplessly, thinking that no matter how a willing "big brother" might behave, he shouldn't be happy. However, he did not expect Liu Wushuang to proactively promise that he could seek her help in times of difficulty. Although it may not be out of genuine sincerity, and the opportunity to visit the auspicious place of Xiaoqingtian Langhuan might not be easily attainable, it is evident that this girl knows how to navigate social relationships well

Upon entering the airship, it felt quite cramped inside, with only eight seats arranged in pairs. The cockpit at the front was relatively spacious, but it was messy. Tian Maoping chose to sit behind Ouyang Beichen and placed his only package on the adjacent seat

It was quite unexpected that the tense atmosphere was alleviated by the food. Cui Er's culinary skills were impressive, and she put great care into making these pastries. The soft and delicious texture left a lasting impression. Tian Maoping poured several cups of honey water for everyone to enjoy, and a gentle warmth flowed through their hearts, as if every pore in their bodies was opening up to breathe. He Xi Ling found the food so delightful that she couldn't get enough, but there were only four portions prepared, and there were no extras.

Alright, here it comes. Tian Maoping turned around and quickly took a few steps onto the suspended ladder, while the boxes lined up outside the gate had long been collected by Luo Qinghong

Liu Wushuang was eating elegantly, always savoring each bite. The airship was somewhat unstable as it soared into the clouds, and the sound of the machinery grew louder. Ouyang Beichen sat in the front, feeling gloomy, when he suddenly remembered that he had not yet given his gift. He hurriedly crossed his hands to take out a few items and leaned closer, saying loudly: "Wushuang Shimei, this bag contains ten diatom crystals, which are very beneficial for the skin when added to a bath. Additionally, my mother asked me to bring some jade skin cream. When you have time in the future, please visit the Ouyang residence more often; she will surely be very happy."

Oh, Master Uncle, please hurry and activate the defense formation! If ten thousand isn't enough, I'll pay twenty thousand. Saying that, he took out a Nayaun Jade Disc from his pocket and threw it directly.

"He Xiling, how did you end up with Junior Sister Wushuang?" Ouyang Beichen's expression was unfriendly, his eyes fixed on the young man slowly entering the cabin. When a striking figure appeared behind him, his hostile gaze softened slightly, and he forced a smile, saying: "Junior Sister Wushuang, how have you been these past few days? Your senior brother has prepared a few small gifts for you, and I hope you like them"

Tian Maoping does not have much understanding of the righteous sects. Although he has read extensively and is knowledgeable, being situated in the opposing camps of the demonic factions creates inherent limitations. Despite envying those planets rich in resources, he has lacked the ability to conduct on-site investigations over the past twelve years, with most of his experience coming from the black market of Qingtian Star and ancient texts from the folk.

Oh, Brother Beichen actually has a younger brother? I have never heard you mention this. Ouyang Haotian, is it? Hello, my name is Liu Wushuang, and this brother is He Xiling. It is a pleasure to travel with you.

Young Master, please take extra care on your journey. If you feel cold, add a few more layers of clothing. In the package, there are the egg flower pastries I made by hand, as well as a pot of fine honey water. You enjoy sweet foods, and these will be beneficial for your recovery. Cui'er reluctantly reminded him, as in her heart, Ouyang Haotian had already become everything.

Tian Maoping walked out lazily while yawning, feeling regretful in his heart: "Time is too short; I haven't fully grasped the secrets of the Ouyang family's ancestral hall and can only seek opportunities for further exploration." Turning around, he saw Cui'er with red, swollen eyes, lowering her head in silence. If this little girl didn't have pockmarks on her face, she would be quite pretty. A total of 300,000 Nayan, along with more than ten pieces of jewelry that he hadn't had time to sell, were left for her expenses. Of course, such a large amount of wealth had already been deposited in Yonghe Bank, as it would be easy to attract trouble otherwise.

The hatch of the airship folded outward, and a short middle-aged man in a blue shirt stepped out. He greeted warmly, "It has been a year since we last met. Ouyang brother-in-law, Jinghua sister, how have you been lately?"

The old man spoke earnestly, even Tian Maoping was moved, returning a cautious glance to reassure him. Ouyang Beichen called from behind: "Haotian, hurry up and board the airship! You cannot afford to miss the time."

After a full seven and a half hours, the cloud-hopping airship finally began its descent, indicating that they were nearing the Tianyi Gate. Zhou Qinghong turned around, stretched lazily, and said with great ease: "Alright, my task is basically complete. Wu Shuang and Xi Ling, you two disciples should take your flying swords back to your respective residences first. I will accompany Beichen and Haotian for a while longer, as they need to report to the senior brother in charge of personnel."

"Oh dear, look at this, how can I accept it?" A middle-aged man with the surname Zhou smiled broadly, feigning reluctance as he quickly accepted the gift without even opening it to take a look. The jade box vanished as their hands intertwined. He then cheerfully said, "Hahaha, since Master Bei Chen's nephew wants to take a gift back to honor Brother Ge, it is quite understandable. I will certainly help with this matter."

I apologize, dear disciple, but the consumption of the defensive formation's energy is too severe, and that all costs money! The points allocated to the sect last month are nearly exhausted. Please hold on a little longer; just half an hour will suffice. A small turbulence like this is easily manageable for the Cloud-Soaring Airship. Once we pass through this air current, I assure you that your journey ahead will be smooth and steady.

The words were filled with reminiscence and emotion. Tian Maoping took a few steps toward the cabin door, and suddenly, a cold wind rushed at him. The cloud airship was still a hundred meters above the ground. Looking far into the distance, he found himself in an endless mountainous region. The mountains rose and fell in a continuous chain, with peaks thousands of meters high capped in white snow. One could see the layers of mountains overlapping, the ridges intertwining, the green pines and cypress trees, all exuding a magnificent aura. To the left, the mountain terrain was slightly gentler, with rugged rocks and a riot of seasonal colors; to the right, the mountains were grand and majestic, soaring into the sky, with a peak standing tall in the center, like a sharp sword pointing directly at the heavens. One could see the layers of mountains overlapping, the ridges intertwining, the green pines and cypress trees, all exuding a magnificent aura. To the left, the mountain terrain was slightly gentler, with rugged rocks and a riot of seasonal colors; to the right, the mountains were grand and majestic, soaring into the sky, with a peak standing tall in the center, like a sharp sword pointing directly at the heavens.

Liu Wushuang took a breath, sat up while patting her chest, as if she had been greatly startled. With a slightly flushed face, she apologetically said: "I have troubled Brother Beichen again, how can I feel at ease about this?"

Ouyang Beichen was taken aback by these words, and then burst into hearty laughter, saying: "You, with your sickly condition, still wish to inquire about the matters of the sect's grand competition. It is truly laughable. Do you know what it means to overestimate your own abilities? That is precisely what you are doing now"

Zhou Qinghong's face lit up with joy, but he shook his head and laughed, saying: "You little rascal have truly become a protector of flowers! Don't blame your master for not reminding you, just endure for a while and you will fly over. Be sure not to become a fool who is taken advantage of."

At this moment, a faint humming sound came from the distant street, and a long shadow swiftly approached, cutting through the darkness before dawn. The scattered air currents surged forth; it was indeed an airship. Judging solely by its appearance, it was fairly decent, resembling a canopy-covered vessel with a blue exterior. The airship featured a small, swallow-tailed fin at the rear, measuring twenty-three meters in length, and its canopy was embedded with three crystal-clear windows. Tian Maoping glanced at it twice and estimated that this craft would not fly very fast, with a maximum speed of three moments. Similar to mechanical creations like the airship and the flying swords used by various sects, speed is measured in "moments," with one moment equating to one hundred kilometers per hour. Therefore, three moments would be three hundred kilometers per hour. It is said that certain exceptional flying swords can occasionally exceed twelve moments in a short time, creating a sonic boom. Unfortunately, I have never personally experienced such a thrilling rush, as the Qingming flying shuttle can only reach ten moments at high altitudes.

Ouyang Beichen scratched his head and said awkwardly, "I have never even met my master's wife. My master usually has a stern expression, and if someone brings up these matters in front of him, who knows what his reaction would be. However, you can rest assured, Uncle Zhou, in two and a half years, there will be a grand competition in our sect. At that time, regardless of distance, all disciples except for those who are permanent residents of the Taiyin Star and those in charge of the library must return. You will then be able to meet my master's wife, won't you?"

Tian Maoping uniformly categorized such girls as little girls, nodding gently: "I am also very pleased to be traveling with both of you. Here are some pastries; everyone has worked hard getting up early, especially Uncle Zhou. Let's have a little something to fill our stomachs first!" After saying this, he carefully took out a beautifully packaged egg flower pastry from his bag and distributed it to everyone on the airship.

Wushuang successfully transferred the attention of the two bulls. Ouyang Beichen cleared his throat and introduced, "This is my second brother, named Ouyang Haotian. This time, under our parents' orders, I have brought him back to Tianyi Sect for cultivation"

Hehe, thank you for your concern, Senior Brother! One does not receive rewards without merit; I will certainly speak well of you in front of Senior Sister when I return. By the way, Master Zhou does not need to disembark from the airship; the items that Senior Brother Xiling and I are carrying are not many, and storing them in our forging space is just enough. Her voice, like silver bells, is very pleasant to hear, and she is exceptionally beautiful, with a waterfall of long hair cascading down to her waist, and a pointed chin that accentuates her delicate features. She can truly be described as having "cherry lips, shoulders like a sculpted figure, and a waist like a willow." This woman is dressed in a light yellow wide-collared cloak, wearing deerskin boots, and has a beautiful dagger at her waist, exuding a blend of softness and a hint of strength.

"Yes, I understand, my lord!" Cui'er did not expect the young master to be so gentle, and his hand was very warm. A hint of crimson flashed across her cheeks as she nodded vigorously

I am truly grateful to my aunt; her thoughtfulness is remarkable. The mountain is wonderful in every way, except for the cold and dry air. I will definitely pay a visit next time I have the opportunity

Traversing through the strong air currents is quite uncomfortable; sometimes there are vertical jolts, and at other times, lateral sways. Liu Wushuang said irritably, "Master Zhou, could you not activate the cloud-stepping airship's defensive formation? At this rate, before we even reach Tianyi Gate, we will all fall apart."

"Yes, Master Uncle." As the hatch opened, Liu Wushuang and He Xiling exchanged brief farewells before leaping out in succession. A chilling cold wind rushed in, prompting Tian Maoping to tighten his clothing.

"Junior Sister, Wushuang Junior Sister, are you alright?" Indeed, there are people who fall for this, Ouyang Beichen hurriedly went to assist her, then turned around and shouted: "I say, Master Zhou, isn't it just the Yuan Points? I have as many as you need here, quickly open the defense array, all expenses will be covered by me"

Excluding the gifts given to Cui Er, there remains 2,530,000. Adding to this the 800,000 from the inexpensive old man Ouyang Yue and the 100,000 sponsored by Han Qianxue of the Heavenly Demon Sect, the total amounts to 3,430,000 Na Yuan. Additionally, there is another income, which is a gift received two days ago during the banquet at the Drunken Immortal Pavilion, amounting to approximately 23,000 Na Yuan after some processing, to be used for daily expenses. As the saying goes: "Money is the courage of heroes." This statement is certainly true; at least now there is more courage. I do not believe that with such a substantial material foundation, it would be impossible to secure a place in the top ten rankings of the Tianyi Sect within two years.

He Xiling let out a cold snort and pretended not to see. From his attire, Tian Maoping could tell that this fellow was not from a wealthy family; although not exactly plain, it was not much better. Being the one hundred thirty-third disciple of the Tianyi Sect certainly indicated great fortune or exceptional personal strength. This Liu Wushuang was also not simple; her appearance was sweet like a little cat, yet one could not shake the feeling that she was a cunning little fox, adept at navigating situations and enjoying herself, showing no signs of emotional fluctuation. In terms of true cultivation, she was likely much stronger than that fool Ouyang Beichen.

"Uncle Zhou, hurry and start the airship. We are going to pick up Junior Sister Wushuang. I promised to bring her ten diatom crystals, and my mother just happens to have some in stock. This time, that brat He Xiling is going to suffer. How can he even compare to me?"