Chapter 4, Xie Yun

The tethering line was unexpectedly swept away by her strike, and a massive stone, thick enough for two people to embrace, was immediately pulled up from beneath the water, abruptly surfacing right in front of the three individuals. The entangling line was so densely packed that it wrapped around the giant stone, creating a complex and inextricable bind between the two parties, resulting in a stalemate that fortuitously provided the three of them with a small glimmer of hope.

Once the mechanism is triggered, countless threads will surface, but this is not the most terrifying part. After all, it is a mechanical spring, and there are still traces to follow. While it has not fully activated, it is best for us to leave quickly. Do you see that small pavilion in the middle of the river? There are people living there, and there must be a passage... Although Young Master Xie talks a lot, it does not affect the speed. In the midst of his words, he led Zhou Fei and Li Sheng through the layers of threads and was already approaching the small pavilion in the river.

Zhou Fei was taken aback, thinking to herself: Is it a person or a ghost

Li Jinrong cast a cold glance at him, causing Li Sheng to lose his voice and dare not say more. He could only helplessly glance at Zhou Fei. Zhou Fei, even more so, did not dare to speak. She felt that no matter what she said to Li Jinrong, the outcome would always be counterproductive, and even good things could be turned into bad ones by her words

Li Yan was still in a daze, completely unaware of the thrilling events that had transpired in the Xi Mo River. She only knew that someone was about to have bad luck, and without a care in the world, she followed behind Li Jinrong, playfully making faces at Li Cheng. The sharp scratches left by the machine lines on the stone walls were still visible. Old Yu surveyed the surroundings, glanced at Zhou Fei and Li Cheng, who did not dare to lift their heads, and stroked his beard, saying: "The waves of the Yangtze River push the waves ahead, each generation surpassing the last. These two young heroes are truly remarkable. In all my years, this is the first time I have encountered such reckless youngsters who seek their own demise. I am in awe, truly in awe."

Li Jinrong asked expressionlessly, "What else did that person instruct you?"

This object is called Qianji. I have only seen it in books, and I never expected that today, thanks to the two of you, I would have the fortune to experience it in person. " Young Master Xie said slowly, " The ancients had a type of poison that was also called by this name. In the past ... ... "

Li Sheng almost went mad on the spot

Li Jinrong turned to the side and looked at him with an ambiguous expression: "What if that person is deceiving you?"

Before her voice had faded, all the stones beneath the small pavilion suddenly sank without warning. The young master Xie, who was at the front, had no time to retreat. He suddenly leaped into the air, throwing the luminous pearl from his hand. With a tip of his toes, he borrowed the strength of a feather, then spun around, narrowly retreating back to the stones behind him. He grabbed Zhou Fei's shoulder and forcefully pulled her back... but did not manage to move her.

If a foreigner does not have a reliable person to recommend them, it is indeed difficult to enter the village. Seeing his demeanor was open and sincere, Li Jinrong nodded and said: "It is a small matter. Young Master Xie, please allow us to extend our hospitality. Do not mind our humble means in Shu. This way, please—may I ask whom Young Master Xie wishes to send a message to? I will go and find them for you"

The young woman wielded her knife with decisive resolution, embodying the lingering essence of 'nine deaths without regret'... Young Master Xie initially engaged in polite conversation, offering half-hearted compliments, when he suddenly realized that this 'water grass spirit' was quite striking in appearance. Her pair of eyes was particularly unique; the outer corners were slightly longer than those of an ordinary person, the eyes themselves were long yet not slender, tapering into a very elegant curve that gently drooped, while her eyelids were slightly raised. Thus, when she widened her eyes to look at someone, her clear gaze seemed somewhat innocent, but when her eyelids drooped, she appeared distant and unapproachable. Her pair of eyes was particularly unique; the outer corners were slightly longer than those of an ordinary person, the eyes themselves were long yet not slender, tapering into a very elegant curve that gently drooped, while her eyelids were slightly raised. Thus, when she widened her eyes to look at someone, her clear gaze seemed somewhat innocent, but when her eyelids drooped, she appeared distant and unapproachable.

Zhou Fei has been subjected to various forms of beatings by Li Jinrong for many years, resulting in her skin being three layers thicker than others. Although she was startled for a moment, she was not as sensitive in her heart. As she followed that Young Master Xie, she paid close attention to his steps, feeling that he was advancing and retreating as if he knew the ins and outs of this water monster. She then asked, "What kind of mechanism is this?"

Li Sheng exclaimed, "Ah Fei, what are you going to do?"

Li Sheng quickly grabbed her braid. Zhou Fei felt a tightness in her scalp, and before she could react, she heard Li Sheng let out a painful grunt, softly pleading, "Aunt, I..."

The movement and stillness were truly terrifying. Zhou Fei suddenly raised her head and saw the massive stones lurking beneath the surface of the Ximo River rising and falling like the tide. Countless fishing lines slowly ascended, weaving into a large net that descended upon them like a shroud. The three of them, amidst the undulating river waters, resembled a few bewildered ants in the face of an impending catastrophe.

The proficiency in lightness of this unexpected guest is likely the highest that Zhou Fei has ever witnessed in her life... Although in her brief "life," she has not encountered many people.

Although Zhou Fei felt both exhausted and fearful, she had just played the hero in a grand manner and felt a bit pleased with herself, so she did not show it. Instead, her tongue felt numb, and for a moment she could not speak, merely lowering her eyelids expressionlessly and shaking her head like a transcendent being.

Li Sheng : `` ... ... ''

Zhou Fei was astonished by the dramatic change in demeanor of Young Master Li, who claimed to be gravely injured and on the verge of death, almost causing her to kneel alongside him

"Not bad, I, from the Forty-Eight Villages, will certainly offer a generous reward." Li Jinrong first followed up on Li Cheng's words and then added, "If Young Master Xie has any tasks, we will certainly do our utmost to fulfill them"

Xie Yun spoke a single sentence, and noticed that the expressions of those around him had turned strange, each person's face displaying three large characters—"You are finished." A vague, chilling suspicion surged within him, and he looked at the seemingly "gentle and kind" senior in front of him with a hint of disbelief.

One's martial arts practice, whether it leans towards strength or agility, and the depth of one's skill can be discerned from their hands, especially in moments of urgency when they pull or tug. However, Young Master Xie's hands resemble those of an ordinary, frail scholar.

The half blade in Zhou Fei's hand fell to the ground with a "clang," striking a stone before rolling into the water. Her hands went limp, and for a moment, she lost all sensation.

However, this collision was entirely different from the move she used when fighting Li Sheng—at that time, her anger was merely heightened, and the blade could be easily retracted after being thrust out, even skillfully hooking the purse that Li Yan had thrown at her. This time, however, there was no turning back; she charged forward without regret, her blade slicing through the mist above the river, almost emitting a muffled and ominous roar. In that moment, as if a single thread could affect her entire being, Zhou Fei's long sword, which she had carried for over ten years, shattered instantly, the break resembling a spider's web, with the tip of the blade plunging directly into the river.

My surname is Xie. The man in black gently shifted to one side, allowing the three paths of the pulling mechanism to pass. It was clearly a simple action, yet it inexplicably conveyed a sense of "flowing garments" when performed by him—despite the fact that the night attire was tightly fitted and could not possibly flow.

Li Sheng said tremulously: "What is this?"

Xie Yun assumed that both Li Sheng and Zhou Fei were under the command of the Qianzhong Sect. Seeing them address this woman as "Aunt" and "Mother," he initially formed the impression that this elder was gentle and kind, completely failing to associate her with the legendary "Li Jinrong," who was said to cause children to cry at night. After pondering for a moment, he felt that this matter of his, aside from Li Dazhangjiao himself, was not something he needed to fear discussing with others, and thus he spoke candidly: "I have been entrusted to deliver a letter. However, I did not expect the defenses of the Forty-Eight Villages to be so strict. As I am new here and have no way to seek a path, I had no other choice but to commit this impolite act. I hope the elder will not take offense." He pondered for a moment, feeling that this matter of his, aside from Li Dazhangjiao himself, was not something he needed to fear discussing with others, and thus he spoke candidly: "I have been entrusted to deliver a letter. However, I did not expect the defenses of the Forty-Eight Villages to be so strict. As I am new here and have no way to seek a path, I had no other choice but to commit this impolite act. I hope the elder will not take offense."

Upon his remark, any further inquiries from outsiders would seem impolite. Young Master Xie, being quite perceptive, smiled gracefully and indeed refrained from saying more. Li Sheng tugged at the tattered cloth on his body and cupped his fist in salute, saying: "Thanks to Brother Xie for your assistance. If we can escape today, we will remember this kindness, and in the future, should there be any need, we will not hesitate to go through fire and water for you."

It is rather strange that generally, people of Xie Yun's age in the martial world are greeted with the term "young hero" when encountered by others. However, in his case, it seems that everyone has an unspoken understanding, and they all refer to him as "young master".

Zhou Fei turned around to glance at the already sealed-off path and asked, "What does full activation look like?"

Li Jinrong's toes just happened to step on a small stone in the mountains. Upon hearing the words, she said nothing, lifted her foot slightly, and the stone crumbled into a pile, like a piece of steamed rice cake that had become soft and mushy, returning to dust.

Zhou Fei had not yet had the chance to speak when Li Sheng, having caught his breath, interjected: "This is my younger sister's nickname, casually used at home, any character will do."

Xie Yun : `` ... ... ''

Xie Yun replied: "The person who entrusted me with delivering the message."

For a full two breaths, the three individuals remained silent, their six eyes fixated on the delicate balance before them. Then, Young Master Xie gently exhaled and was the first to speak: "At least I guessed it right this time"

If misfortune could be ranked by seniority, Xie Yun felt that his luck was probably at the level of "winning three consecutive first prizes"

Then he unexpectedly covered his chest with cold sweat, swayed in place a couple of times, and with a "thud" fell to his knees on the spot

Li Jinrong rushed over in a state of anxiety, and upon seeing the chaotic scene under the heavy fog of the deep night, she nearly lost her footing. When she ordered the ropes to be lowered, she had already given up hope in her heart, yet she refused to show it and insisted on descending the cliff herself to search. Upon seeing the two fully intact little cubs in the river, Li Jinrong's eyes turned red, and for a moment, she was at a loss for words

Zhou Fei felt a sense of familiarity in the way this person spoke—this rambling, nonsensical style was almost inherited from her sickly father.

Zhou Fei, however, was unwilling to wait for death. She swiftly drew a knife from its sheath and, without a word, fiercely cut through a thread of the pulling mechanism.

Xie Yun nodded slightly: "The leader is indeed magnanimous, even disdainful of excuses. However, Elder Liang has already passed away and entrusted this item to his junior before his death. I have sworn to the heavens and the earth that this Anping Order must be delivered into Mr. Zhou's hands before I depart this world. As long as I am alive, unless I am turned to dust, I will never allow it to fall into the hands of a third party."

This "kind-hearted" lady is none other than Li Yechai herself

If misfortune could be ranked by seniority, Xie Yun felt that his luck was probably at the level of "winning three consecutive first prizes"

However, as the number of entangled threads around increased, being alive and witnessing the bizarre was still better than being dismembered. Zhou Fei chose the lesser of two evils and took a deep breath to catch up with the mysterious figure in black. Li Sheng was in an even more disheveled state, his clothes already in tatters, and he asked, "Which esteemed master do you belong to?"

He spoke with a hint of lightheartedness, his tone very festive, almost as if he were celebrating the New Year. One could hardly tell that just moments ago he had nearly been dismembered. He even took a moment to glance down and observe the remarkable young girl before him

As he turned his head, Li Sheng could barely make out in the dim light that this was a young man only a few years older than them. Suddenly, an inexplicable sense of discouragement washed over him—his day had indeed been a rollercoaster. In the first half of the night, he had been boasting grandly, feeling as if there was nowhere in the world he could not go. Yet in the latter half of the night, he felt utterly lacking, resembling a frog at the bottom of a well, oblivious to the vastness of the sky and the earth, convinced that anyone who happened by was superior to him.

Xie Yun knew that the Forty-Eight Villages and the false emperor of Beidu were mortal enemies. The person who entrusted him with the message was a prominent figure from the Southern Dynasty. He weighed the situation in his mind and felt that everyone shared a similar stance as "rebels," so he spoke frankly: "The item entrusted to me by that person is of great importance; even if there is an intention to make a fool of me, they would not treat this item lightly."

Where he lands, there is not a single drop of water, like a drifting ghost, yet his landing is remarkably precise. More and more threads of entanglement "sprout" from the river, and although he does not seem to evade them, not a single one can tear at the hem of his garment

Of course, Li Jinyong was well aware of the level of her own child. Hearing him speak politely and not taking credit for his achievements, her expression softened a bit more. However, she was still the leader of the 48th stronghold. Despite her appreciation and gratitude, she still discreetly probed, saying: "Here, apart from mountains, there are only more mountains; it is mostly barbaric with little education. Most of the disciples are rough and foolish, and there is really nothing picturesque. Young Master Xie must not have come to wash ink in the river at this late hour just to enjoy the river view."

Xie Yun originally thought he had suffered from bad luck for eight lifetimes. After all his efforts to choose a good opportunity, it turned out to be the most perilous moment. In order to save someone, he exposed himself in front of the entire Forty-Eight Villages, rendering the hard work of the past six months futile. However, upon hearing the words of the lady before him, he felt somewhat surprised and thought: Could it be that my luck is finally turning?

Xie Yun had not yet had the chance to speak when he heard a loud crash, and the machine that had previously forced them to scatter was slowly sinking into the water. Immediately, the banks of the Ximo River were illuminated, as Yu Lao and Li Da Dangjia finally arrived.

Zhou Fei: "... ..."

As Zhou Fei brought down her first strike, the sharp blade nearly sparked upon impact, while the massive tension lines remained utterly still. However, her blade was jolted back, and a crack instantly appeared on its edge. All the surrounding tension lines trembled in response, producing a deafening chorus of shrill cries, mockingly discussing the ignorance of this young girl who attempted to shake the colossal monster of the river with her own strength.

Li Sheng said, "Which elder in the village does Brother Xie wish to send a letter to? We will report back for you."

Young Master Xie paused without changing his expression and pondered, "Hmm, let me think..."

Li Jinrong angrily said: "Take it down!"

Li Sheng was taken aback and blurted out, "What happened to you?"

The road ahead has sunk, the path behind has been cut off, and seeing that there is no way to avoid it, Li Sheng's face turned pale, and his voice changed pitch as he exclaimed: "Since this is a mechanism, there must be checkpoints, right?"

Here, looking around in confusion, one finds oneself in the boundless heart of the Ink-Washing River, surrounded by the fangs of entanglement, with only this corner able to barely survive, the feeling is simply indescribable. Young Master Xie, however, lowered his head to adjust his collar and smiled, saying: "It’s nothing, with such a commotion, the people from your village will arrive soon, good people are always favored by heaven."

Xie Yun took half a step back, his gaze sweeping over the circle of people who had already taken up a defensive stance around him. He wiped the look of misfortune off his face. At this point, he could still manage a smile, unhurriedly addressing Li Jinrong: "So it turns out that the esteemed predecessor is the renowned Li Dazhangjia of Beidu. It is truly a stroke of luck to meet you today. Since the esteemed leader has given an order, I, as a junior, should not defy it. However, I am curious about how you would handle the Anping Order if I were to hand it over to you"

The two characters "Liang Shao" are enough for me to kill you with a single strike," Li Jinrong said, her smile fading, speaking each word slowly, "But you saved my daughter and nephew, which can be considered as a balance of gratitude and enmity. Hand over that old ghost's 'Anping Order', and you may leave; I will not make things difficult for you.

Xie Yun thought for a moment and said, "Oh, he probably had some misunderstandings with the esteemed leader Li from your village in his early years. It's not a major issue; it's just that the leader is extremely busy with numerous affairs, so it would be best not to disturb her."

The large net of the pulling machine that had come over naturally tugged at the stones submerged in the water where they had landed, one of which had already sunk. The dark river water concealed a profound and heavy murderous intent. Li Sheng's legs below the knees were completely soaked, and his feet were almost submerged in the water. The icy cold of the river transformed into a bone-chilling chill that crept up his back. Li Sheng's mind was blank, and in a moment of peril, a thought surged in his heart— I should not have come, nor should I have brought A Fei along.

Xie Yun focused his mind and listened intently, all the sounds of varying pitches converging into his ears. Suddenly, he raised his head and pointed with his hand before the second strike of Zhou Fei fell: "Chop that one!"

Li Jinrong stood still, turned around, and looked at him with a smile that was not quite a smile, asking: "Did Liang Shao not tell you that there is some 'misunderstanding' between him and me?"

At this moment, the cold sweat on Li Sheng's body had gradually subsided, and his three souls and seven spirits, filled with treacherous thoughts, returned to their rightful places. As soon as he heard Li Jinrong's voice, he knew she had grown suspicious. Earlier by the river, although he had indirectly inquired about Xie Yun's origins, the latter had indeed done him a favor. Now, fearing any misunderstandings, Li Sheng hurriedly whispered, "Aunt, Brother Xie did not need to show himself earlier; he only spoke up to remind us when he saw us triggering the mechanism in the water, and even personally came to guide us in the formation..."

Xie Yun reported his name and smiled, saying: "Senior, there is no need for excessive courtesy. I am merely passing by and have no particular business here. If I may say, it is largely thanks to this young lady's formidable swordsmanship."

Young Master Xie is quite knowledgeable; with a single glance, he discerned that Zhou Fei was using the Qianzhong style of knife technique to cut the thread. He assumed that the two of them belonged to the 'Qianzhong' faction among the Forty-Eight Villages. Noticing that the young man, although polite in speech, still seemed somewhat wary of him, he introduced himself: 'I am Xie Yun. I have come to your esteemed place solely to deliver a letter. As a newcomer, I have no means of entry or exit, and out of necessity, I thought to try this route. I mean no harm.'

Since the time she started using chopsticks, Zhou Fei had been scolded and beaten by Li Jinrong during her training, resulting in a solid foundation in her skills. It is safe to say that even though she was currently nervous, it would be impossible for anyone to easily move her, even if she were just standing there in a daze. However, when he suddenly pulled her, Zhou Fei was taken aback, as the hand of this "master" was unexpectedly soft

This name is one that the younger generation has never heard of, and the disciples all wore puzzled expressions. However, a sudden jolt ran through Zhou Fei's heart, and an ominous premonition surged within her.

The words "Old Liang has passed away" left Li Jinrong momentarily stunned, as if she found it hard to believe. In that brief moment, Xie Yun suddenly moved; he almost transformed into a fleeting shadow, rushing out like a gust of wind. By the time he calmly finished the entire sentence, he was already several zhang away!

As she spoke, her long sleeves fluttered slightly, and her palm strength was already poised to strike. Zhou Fei had just regained her senses from the sudden turn of events. Although she was utterly confused, she could not allow her mother to strike Young Master Xie to death. In a moment of desperation, she took a step forward, intending to act recklessly.

However, she had to take into account that there were still outsiders present. Li Jinrong stepped forward, sizing up Xie Yun. Noticing that this person was handsome and exuded an indescribable calm demeanor, she felt a sense of goodwill towards him and clasped her fists, saying: "Thank you, young sir, for your assistance. May I ask your name?"

Li Sheng and Zhou Fei, one called "Auntie" and the other "Mother", had just narrowly escaped with their lives, and now they were behaving exceptionally well, their rebellious spirits and defiance momentarily subdued, waiting obediently to be punished. Li Jinrong's heart sank heavily in her chest, causing sparks to fly; if it weren't for the inappropriate circumstances, she would have truly wished to press their heads into the river to give them a thorough washing.

Young Master Xie immediately changed his tone and asked, "Is your name 'A Fei'? Which character is it?"

Xie Yundao: "Is Mr. Zhou Cunke from Gantang present in your village?"

What time is it, and he still wants to! Is this Young Master Xie out of his mind?

Li Jinrong's footsteps suddenly came to a halt, without turning back, and others could not discern her expression. After a long while, she softly asked: "Who told you that this person is in the Forty-Eighth Village?"

The doubt in Zhou Fei's heart flashed by, leaving no time for contemplation, as the entire Ximo River became agitated. A massive whirlpool emerged on the water's surface, and the eerie sound of the thread of fate resonated like the light twang of a string instrument. Young Master Xie stood still, shaking his head and sighing: "Amitabha, young lady, your golden words are truly effective for good and effective for mischief."

Young Master Xie glanced at Li Sheng and, with an air of mastery, smiled at him leisurely, saying: "Don't call me senior, it makes me feel like I've aged ten years in an instant"

Zhou Fei could sense the approach of the thread of fate. If she had fur, she would have likely curled up into a ball at this moment, her nerves taut to the extreme, as the ferocity deep within her veins seemed to be ignited by a flame. Instinctively following Xie Yun's guidance, her wrist swiftly turned in the air, her hands gripping the hilt of the knife, and in a flash, she struck once more at the thread of fate, employing the same technique she had used to mock Li Cheng that day, "Colliding with the Southern Mountain." Instinctively following Xie Yun's guidance, her wrist swiftly turned in the air, her hands gripping the hilt of the knife, and in a flash, she struck once more at the thread of fate, employing the same technique she had used to mock Li Cheng that day, "Colliding with the Southern Mountain."