Chapter 6, Ten Years, Reunion
We are afraid of her?" Feng Luoyang and Tang Dou exchanged glances, both snorting in unison, as if what Zu Jing had said was an enormous joke, "Just her?!
"... ... Ah?" Feng Luoyang weakly propped himself up against the wall and asked in a half-dead manner.
Hearing her words, Feng Luoyang suddenly awakened from his deep emotions, and a thought crossed his mind: "Have you mastered the Qingxiao?"
Tang Douyue leaped down from the betting platform, snatched the property deed and land contract that were placed on the platform by the Year Gang, and swaggered over to the leader of the Year Gang, Song Wuhen, saying: "Mr. Song, you should take good care of your gambling capital"
While boating in the center of the lake, he once saw the renowned sword manual hidden in a secret chamber. His senior brother, the sect leader, encouraged him to attempt reading the first chapter of the manual. However, upon catching sight of the elegant calligraphy on the manual, his mind was instantly filled with ethereal and transcendent sword techniques. Before his hand could even touch the cover of the manual, he was overwhelmed by waves of extraordinary moves and techniques surging through his mind, causing him to spit blood and faint on the ground. Finding someone in the martial world who could read the renowned sword techniques was as difficult as seeking a celestial being capable of ascension.
You... you, you..." Tan Heng stammered as he pointed at Tang Dou, yet he could not utter a complete sentence for a long time. After standing there awkwardly for a while, he finally waved his hand, leading a group of subordinates, and left the gambling house in a dejected manner, quickly disappearing from the sight of the crowd
Feng Luoyang saw Zu Jing approaching and immediately turned the back of the letter towards her.
"Little Master Uncle, it's me, Zu Jing! Do you remember?" The young girl, upon seeing him awake, immediately moved her body closer to him, grasped his hand, and shook it vigorously.
I will not meet her, and besides, does she care whether you are seriously injured? In this case, no matter how much she wants, just give it to her and quickly send away this plague god of hers. Tang Dou seemed to be quite apprehensive of the visitor, his words even carrying a slight tremor.
Zu Jing nodded vigorously, excitedly grasping Feng Luoyang's hand, and eagerly spoke: "This time I descend the mountain, I carry the expectations of my master and the various elders and uncles. I am to represent the Tianshan Sect and re-enter the martial world, seeking a talented young individual to bestow the Qincheng Sword Technique upon, in order to rectify the martial arts community"
"You can just call me Little Master Uncle, I've gotten used to it over the years." A hint of relief finally appeared on Feng Luoyang's gloomy face.
Feng Luoyang was seized from the bed by Tang Dou, like an old eagle catching a chick. An outer robe was carelessly draped over him, and he was pushed and shoved out the door, forced to walk towards Room 1 on the second floor of the Phoenix Inn.
Brother, a hundred rivers rise up
Feng Luoyang waited until the long sword rolled over Meng Duanhun's head, then immediately executed a heavy drop, kneeling on one knee, bending forward. He retracted the long sword with his right hand, the blade lightly flipping, and then with a flick of his hand, his entire arm along with the long sword seemed to unfurl like a piece of brocade, shaking in the wind. The posture was graceful, resembling a dashing gentleman, waving his sleeve in the breeze, singing joyfully over wine.
"What!" Ouyang Qingyun exclaimed in shock, "No... it’s impossible, how could Meng Duanhun possibly lose?"
Oh, here it is! Zujing reached into her bosom and took out the letter from the Tianshan Sect Leader, which she had kept close to her, and handed it to Feng Luoyang.
In the pitch-black darkness before Meng Duanhun, the sword strike just now replayed from beginning to end. Feng Luoyang's long sword soared, his figure flowed, coiling and transforming, as ethereal as a deity, leaving one feeling refreshed and invigorated. At that moment, he felt a release in his heart, as if all the strength in his body had been drained in an instant
Feng Luoyang clenched his palm, grasping the entire sheet of letter tightly. Then, with a swift motion of his arm, the crumpled letter transformed into a ball of flame, shooting up into the air and instantly turning to ashes.
Feng Luoyang's expression changed awkwardly, and he hurriedly made a clumsy attempt to twist the muscles on his face, feigning a nonchalant demeanor: "It's nothing, matters of adults are not convenient for children to know"
Feng Luoyang forced his scattered gaze to focus on Zu Jing, asking, "You... are you really Jing'er?"
Ah, there is no need to thank me. The matters of a good brother are my matters as well. " Tang Dou waved his hand gracefully, adopting an air of magnanimity as if it were of no significance.
This ... ... '' caused stars to swirl before Feng Luoyang's eyes, as if a heavy cauldron had pressed down on him and then soared away, leaving him feeling as if he had become half as light. In that moment, he was overwhelmed with emotions and at a loss for what to do.
You... be careful yourself" Tang Dou said in a hoarse voice
The Sword Technique of Captivating Cities? Reestablishing Order? Upon hearing this, Feng Luoyang felt a prickling sensation all over his body, his entire being trembling with a numbing fear. A solemn and heavy feeling seemed to press silently upon his heart like a thousand-pound stone: The Sword Technique of Captivating Cities, originating from the Sword God Gu Tianya, is the foremost divine sword throughout history.
Tang Bing silently nodded
What did you say! Hearing his words, Feng Luoyang suddenly shouted, pushing off the ground with both arms, his body shot up into the sky. He raised a hand to grab the Qingfeng Sword that was falling from mid-air, and with a powerful kick of his right leg, he stomped heavily on the branch of a green pine, his body resembling a gray-white ribbon charging forward. The Qingfeng Sword in Feng Luoyang's hand spun like a spindle along its central axis, whipping up a fierce wind as it swept towards Meng Duanhun's head. Meng Duanhun regarded this sword strike as if it were invisible; he raised his long sword, and a green light enveloped it. With a push of his arm, he struck towards Feng Luoyang's waist with the force of a hundred thousand grinding blades. The Qingfeng Sword in Feng Luoyang's hand spun like a spindle along its central axis, whipping up a fierce wind as it swept towards Meng Duanhun's head. Meng Duanhun regarded this sword strike as if it were invisible; he raised his long sword, and a green light enveloped it. With a push of his arm, he struck towards Feng Luoyang's waist with the force of a hundred thousand grinding blades.
Who won
What Jing'er mentioned is indeed my direct instruction. A copy of the Qingcheng Sword Technique's formula is enclosed with this letter. Please memorize it thoroughly and then destroy it
Little Master Uncle ... ... '' Watching Feng Luoyang's unsteady figure fade into the distance, for some reason, Zu Jing always had a sense of a hero departing never to return, '' Could this be the feeling of the Jianghu? '' she pondered silently
Of course. Junior Master, you didn't expect my skills to improve so quickly, did you? At this point, Zu Jing's face was completely devoid of any annoyance, leaving only genuine pride and joy.
"What are you doing? Little Master Uncle, let me see if there is the Qincheng Sword Technique up there. I have grown up and have never seen what the Qincheng Sword Technique looks like." Zu Jing pouted and said in a spoiled manner.
Who and - picture - book
Who exactly is it
"Little Master Uncle! The City-Toppling Sword Technique!" Upon seeing that the entire letter had been burned to ashes by Feng Luoyang's internal energy, Zu Jing was taken aback, stamping her feet in urgency.
What surprised Zu Jing was that Tang Dou's somewhat awkward voice actually came from the roof: "Alright, alright, I won't listen then. Really, still calling me brother." The sound of his clothes rustling in the wind suddenly arose, and Tang Dou used his lightness skill to float away.
Haha, my dear niece!" Tang Dou patted Zu Jing's shoulder with force, letting out a long sigh of relief, "In this world, there are many things you do not understand. Take your time to comprehend them.
"If he could defeat Lian Liuqing, how could he possibly lose to Feng Luoyang?" Murong Liu let out a desperate roar, his voice cracking.
You... how are you? Seeing Meng Duanhun hanging by a thread, with no more threats, Feng Luoyang let out a long sigh of relief, his legs going weak as he knelt before Meng Duanhun, saying, "I don't know how the Heavenly Demon Great Method works, but perhaps, Doctor Jiang..."
Tang Dou waved his hand dismissively and turned to face the evasive Tan Heng.
In a haze, he saw throngs of people on both sides of the road, bustling and clamoring, countless figures from the martial world cheering for him. As for how insincere these cheers were, perhaps only those people themselves knew. Feng Luoyang only knew that at this moment, he was still the number one sword in the world, and they still had to bow down beneath this dazzling title, no matter how unwilling they felt inside. Feng Luoyang had firmly established his place in the martial world, unshakable. Feng Luoyang only knew that at this moment, he was still the number one sword in the world, and they still had to bow down beneath this dazzling title, no matter how unwilling they felt inside. Feng Luoyang had firmly established his place in the martial world, unshakable.
Ah! Meng Duanhun released his grip on the long sword, tightly covering his eyes with his hand, and collapsed to the ground, writhing in pain. Wherever he touched, he felt several cold, sharp needles piercing into his eyes, as if they were the bone needles that had stabbed into his head during the duel. In the chaos of his mind, the image of Feng Luoyang's sword spinning like a spindle suddenly appeared.
Ah? Feng Luoyang looked at Zu Jing in confusion, completely unable to understand what she was saying
"You never would have thought that I could come down from the mountain at the age of eighteen, would you?" Zu Jing tilted her head back and gently swayed the hairpin that floated like clouds above her head
Let the martial world return to its original purity and innocence. Let the people of the martial world once again embark on the path of chivalry, aiding the distressed and supporting the vulnerable! Let the Tianshan Sect once again welcome its disciples. As Zujing spoke these words, a crystalline light appeared in her eyes, as if she had already begun to envision the scene of the new martial world in her dreams
Ah—hahaha! Looking at the brightly floating lanterns, Tang Dou laughed heartily, glancing around with pride, "I have long told everyone that buying Feng Luoyang would be a sure win; even if it costs my life, it would not be a mistake. Have I ever been wrong, Tang Dou? Have I ever deceived anyone?"
Meng Duanhun's azure sword aura grazed Feng Luoyang's back, cutting through with great force. He could even hear the creaking of Feng Luoyang's bones. The joy of imminent victory filled his heart, causing a triumphant expression to spread across his face. Just then, he saw several points of cold stars flickering before him, resembling fireflies flying across a summer night sky. Before he could discern the direction of the cold stars, a sudden sharp pain shot through his eyes, and everything before him instantly turned into a pitch-black void.
Zu Jing was extremely pleased: "Your whereabouts are truly not difficult to find. Everyone says that for the past ten years, you have never left Runzhou. As soon as I descended the mountain, I rushed straight to Wutong Ridge and met your sworn brother..."
That is certain
"Why don't you call Jing'er and see?" Feng Luoyang narrowed his eyes and glared fiercely at Tang Dou's hand, causing him to hurriedly withdraw his hand from Zu Jing's shoulder
"You should hurry and go out; I really don't want to see her." Tang Dou walked to the bedside and unceremoniously pulled Feng Luoyang up from the bed.
"Little Zu, come in, do not disturb your little master uncle." Tang Dou pulled Zujing's hand and they hid into the side room, firmly closing the door behind them
"Do not speak of you, this so-called number one sword in the world, even that person surnamed Zheng from back then is nothing more than a pile of dung in my presence." Meng Duanhun said this, looking up to the sky and laughing heartily, filled with utmost pride
A warm energy slowly rose within his lower abdomen, and Feng Luoyang felt a renewed strength to continue within him. He grasped the Qingfeng Sword tightly, using the blade to support his body as he staggered to his feet. Gradually, he turned his head and gazed at the Kongming lantern, the legendary lantern of fame, steadily placed at the edge of the cliff of the Headless Peak.
"I’m sorry, Jing'er, I..." As Feng Luoyang saw the person from Tianshan he had missed for the past ten years, a wave of excitement surged within him. The warm memories of practicing swordsmanship in Tianshan from a decade ago unfolded in his mind, page by page. He had so much to say to Zu Jing, yet in that moment, he did not know how to begin.
Can you see clearly
By the way, I saw Tang Dou trying to get close to Zu Jing. Feng Luoyang could only shake his head helplessly, reached out to push him back, and turned to ask Zu Jing: "Jing'er, you were doing well on Tianshan, why did you suddenly come down the mountain? Do the sect leader and the senior brothers know about your descent?"
In the past decade, he could only enjoy a brief moment of tranquility after a duel: he could lean softly against the tree trunk, quietly listening to the sound of the wind passing through the pines, the rustling of the pine needles, the soft chirping of the sparrows in the trees, watching the clouds unfurling in the morning breeze at the horizon, with his mind completely empty, devoid of any thoughts, only a vague sense of leisure.
You tell her that I am seriously injured and unable to get out of bed... Delay a bit, in my current state, I definitely cannot handle her. Feng Luoyang glanced at his companion, Zu Jing, and said with difficulty.
"What major event is it?" Hearing her mysterious tone, Feng Luoyang and Tang Dou curiously asked in unison.
"So soon? Have I... have I been unconscious for so long?" Feng Luoyang's face instantly turned pale upon hearing these words
Seeing the people around her either laughing or angry, some surprised and some delighted, with faces either glowing red or pale yellow, Zu Jing felt utterly perplexed and could not make sense of it. When Tang Dou and all the bettors had finished their dealings and turned around, she hurriedly jumped down from the betting platform and approached him, curiously asking: "Little... little uncle, what is wrong with them? Since, as you said, little master uncle has defeated a public menace in the martial arts world, everyone should be celebrating together. Why are some people so unhappy?"
Oh... Little Master Uncle, your memory is quite good. The letter has been burned... Well, it's fine. The Sect Master said that the world of martial arts is fraught with danger, so it's wise to be cautious. At this point, Zu Jing no longer had any doubts about Feng Luoyang's actions; instead, she felt much more at ease with Little Master Uncle as her support. "Little Master Uncle, your Tianshan Liuyang Gong just now was truly impressive."
Are you... have you grown up?" Feng Luoyang rubbed his face, trying to make himself feel more awake.
"Old Feng, you are being overly cautious. Do you think that I, Tang Dou, am like a hidden weapon that can fly up and injure someone?" Tang Dou said with a face full of disinterest
Tang Dou smiled slightly: "Mr. Song, I have just established myself in Jiangnan. In the future, when we meet more often, we can settle everything then. I am not in a hurry."
Following the young master to place bets is certainly a foolproof strategy
"How can you still have the face to say that? I waited for you on Tianshan for a full ten years! You haven't come back to see me even once! Everything you said ten years ago was a lie to me." At this point, Zu Jing wrinkled her nose and punched Feng Luoyang hard on the shoulder, venting her long-suppressed grievances. "I had no choice but to come down the mountain to find you, and to wander around the martial world while I was at it!"
In the future, whichever path the big brother chooses, I will definitely follow that path
Hey... hey... good... good swordsmanship!" Meng Duanhun desperately suppressed the spasms throughout his body, trembling as he said, "Only... only that last sword... barely had a semblance of being the best in the world... the best in the world. It was not in vain that I... I..." At this point, he could no longer control himself and spat out a mouthful of foul blood.
I will take you down the mountain immediately!" Feng Luoyang said as he grabbed his arm, preparing to carry him on his back
Hehehe, Tang Doule couldn't contain his excitement and shook his head, whispering, "This time I've made a fortune!" He released Feng Luoyang, helping him to stand steadily despite his swaying, then turned around and pointed behind him, laughing, "Old Feng, look who has come to see you!"
Feng Luoyang could no longer hold on, his body collapsing straight onto Tang Dou, weakly resting his head on his shoulder, and murmured: "Is there still no one betting on my victory?"
With unparalleled insight, Da Shao stands alone in the world
"You go stand in the corner." Feng Luoyang exclaimed.
A faint, helpless smile slowly appeared at the corner of Feng Luoyang's mouth, yet the onlookers mistook it for a victorious grin, instantly erupting in cheers. Before him, the young master of the Tang Clan, Tang Dou, strode forward amidst the overwhelming applause and cheers, spreading his arms wide and proclaiming loudly as he walked: "My hero! My good brother!"
"It doesn't matter, I have already memorized it. The other contents of the letter are not for outsiders to know," Feng Luoyang said, with his arms crossed over his chest, looking up and down at Zu Jing, as if deep in thought.
"This... cough cough, your cultivation is still shallow. Reading the Qincheng Sword Manual is more harmful than beneficial; it is better not to read it at all." Feng Luoyang turned half his body, using his back to shield Zu Jing.
"Not daring to see her and being afraid of her are two different matters!" Feng Luoyang tightened his outer robe, seemingly feeling a wave of unbearable cold. He gestured to Tang Dou, "You explain it to her. I... I, huff, I will go out to see her"
"Big... big, what do you want?" Tan Heng said with a fierce exterior but a timid heart.
Reestablishing the order of the martial world is an impossible task. This means not only revitalizing the Tianshan Sect but also reorganizing each of the other six major sword sects, half of which have significantly declined and suffered a loss of talent. Even more challenging is the necessity of reintegrating the eight prominent families, which have been stagnant for many years, back into the martial alliance. The eight families and the seven sword sects have harbored grievances for over thirty years and are already irreconcilable.
"Haha, come on!" Tang Dou excitedly rushed forward, embraced Feng Luoyang, and shook him vigorously.
The young girl, full of youthful sentiment and innocence, having just entered the world, was somewhat confused by the conversation between the two. Not understanding its meaning, she couldn't help but ask: "Little Master Uncle, what are you and Master Uncle Tang talking about? What is this about hurting someone? What does it mean to take action?"
"Don't be agitated, don't be agitated, Lao Feng!" Tang Du saw Feng Luoyang starting to search around for his Qingfeng sword, his face turning pale with fear. "You haven't looked at your left hand; it must be in your left hand. Look at your left hand first!"
"Yes, it's that interesting sworn brother of yours, he..." Before Zujing could finish her sentence, the door to the side room was pushed open. Tang Dou, dressed in splendid attire, swaggered in while waving a folding fan. He smiled broadly at Feng Luoyang and casually sat down next to Zujing, giving a hearty slap to Feng Luoyang's bed: "Old Feng, how's it going? Have you met your disciple's niece yet?"
Feng Luoyang pondered for a moment, and finally grasped Rentian's left hand, rolled up his sleeves, and a striking vermilion hue immediately caught his eye
Ah! Upon hearing Zujing call him that, Tang Dou immediately realized another downside to his name and couldn't help but let out a dejected sigh
Tang Dou! At this moment, Feng Luoyang vaguely recalled that it was this charming young master of the Tang family, renowned throughout the world, who had brought his ancestor Jing to meet him. Upon remembering this, cold sweat began to pour down his body, and waves of fear surged within him.
"What’s wrong, Junior Master? Let me see what the Sect Leader has written," Zu Jing said as she turned to Feng Luoyang, extending her hand to snatch the letter from the Sect Leader that he held.
Feng Luoyang, in a state of panic, pointed at Tang Dou and said: "You ... ... "
"You call me 'Young Master' in front of others, but when the door is closed, we are all family, and you call me 'A Dou'... Sigh, it doesn't matter, who told you that you are the niece of Old Feng?" Tang Dou said this, making a face of grievance.
Feng Luoyang stumbled to his feet, swaying as he approached Meng Duanhun. Trembling, he pointed his sword at Meng Duanhun's convulsing body and said in a quavering voice: "No... no one dares to speak of Senior Zheng like that, no one!"
The sharp pains from the numerous sword wounds all over his body, along with the swelling and pain radiating from the broken ribs in his waist, caused his muscles to twitch uncontrollably. These familiar sensations of injury roused him from his stupor, and suddenly, for no apparent reason, he felt a wave of hunger.
He quickly pulled out the introductory mantra of the Stunning City Sword Technique from the letter, glanced at it rapidly, recited it several times silently, and committed it to memory. After completing this task, he withdrew his gaze and continued reading the letter
Meng Duanhun trembled as he raised his arm and gestured, "You... just now, when I was channeling my magical powers, you provoked the bone needle. At this moment, my magical powers are out of control, rebounding upon myself. I... my life is not long... and even Doctor Jiang may be at a loss to save me"
"Old Feng, you really don't trust me at all. Given her relationship with you, how could I possibly..." Tang Dou quickly began to explain, but before he could finish his sentence, Feng Luoyang had already lifted a foot and kicked him in the chest, sending him to the farthest corner from Zu Jing. Then, he struggled to bring himself in front of Zu Jing, grabbing her right hand and rolling up her sleeve, revealing her arm as white as a jade lotus.
Feng Luoyang was unwilling to yield in the slightest and immediately retorted: "Even if you can't fly, have you not harmed others?"
Feng Luoyang opened his mouth and blew, dispersing the ashes that were falling from the sky away from his bed. A trace of smugness slowly appeared on his face: "It's not too bad, after all, I am now a heavenly..."
It is said that when the Qincheng Sword Technique is executed, people can hear the calls of the azure birds from the heavenly realm, and they can see the most cherished memories of their lives. It is said that those who die under the Qincheng Sword Technique wear a faint smile on their faces, and those who witness the Qincheng Sword Technique fall into a trance at that moment. It is said that swordsmen who have seen the Qincheng Sword Manual dare not speak of wielding a sword for the rest of their lives
A familiar fragrance suddenly wafted into Feng Luoyang's nose; it was the scent of the Tianshan snow lotus, a unique aroma that lingered on the Tianshan female disciples who spent their days joyfully picking snow lotuses above the snow line. How long had it been since he last smelled this fragrance? He could no longer recall. Feng Luoyang stared blankly at Zu Jing, struggling to connect the image of the little girl he had known at the age of eight or nine with the graceful young woman before him. However, his imagination, pale and weak after recovering from serious injuries, was utterly incapable of accomplishing this difficult task. Feng Luoyang stared blankly at Zu Jing, struggling to connect the image of the little girl he had known at the age of eight or nine with the graceful young woman before him. However, his imagination, pale and weak after recovering from serious injuries, was utterly incapable of accomplishing this difficult task
Jing'er is determined to descend the mountain, and her momentum is unstoppable. This girl is innocent and carefree, with lofty aspirations that are unrealistic, and I find myself helpless in this regard. However, Mr. Zu, in his later years, was blessed with a daughter whom he cherished like a treasure. Before he and his wife traveled far to the South Sea for business, he entrusted her to me with great care. I could only go along with his wishes and offer various evasions. My humble wife said: Jing'er is at the age of eighteen, experiencing the stirrings of love and longing for the world of martial arts, and there is a reason for this. I hope my brother will keep Jing'er by his side and find a young and accomplished man, skilled in martial arts, spirited, from a distinguished family, with integrity and exceptional looks, to encourage the two to marry soon. The City-Conquering Sword Technique is a gift from our sect, to be passed on to the groom. After the wedding, they should be sent back to the mountain immediately, so that Jing'er suffers no harm. As for the savior of the martial world and the reopening of the martial arts alliance, my brother should accompany Jing'er in a grand autumn dream, following her lead, acting perfunctorily, and must not take it seriously, remember this well. As for the savior of the martial world and the reopening of the martial arts alliance, my brother should accompany Jing'er in a grand autumn dream, following her lead, acting perfunctorily, and must not take it seriously, remember this well.
Feng Luoyang trembled as he extended his left hand to grasp Tang Dou's arm, rubbing his eyes with his right hand as he looked behind Tang Dou. Before him was a soft and hazy mist, within which a faint silhouette of a young girl appeared, yet it twisted and distorted in the blurred colors, making it impossible for him to see clearly. After a moment, a long-lost clear voice suddenly brought him back to his senses: "Little Master Uncle! I finally found you!"
Indeed, young master, it has been ten years since you descended the mountain. I am now eighteen years old.
This matter is of great importance. Do you have a letter personally written by the sect leader's senior brother?" Feng Luoyang was in a daze for a while, and finally struggled to regain his senses, speaking in a dazed manner.
"How about this, little master uncle? Since he calls you Old Feng, you can call me Little Ancestor. I will call you Brother Luoyang and him A Dou. What do you think?" Zu Jing chuckled.
"But aren't you all too afraid to see her?" Zu Jing asked seriously, pressing her fingertip against her pointed chin
When Feng Luoyang awoke from his coma, the sky had already turned to dusk. The heroes of the rivers and lakes on Wutong Ridge had also lowered their flags and descended the mountain, and the noise among the hills had faded away, returning to the tranquility and serenity of yesteryear. He slowly opened his eyes and found himself lying in a guest room of the Phoenix Inn, a place he often frequented. At the foot of his bed stood a young girl dressed in light-colored garments, her bright and enchanting eyes resembling a crescent moon, fixed intently upon him. He slowly opened his eyes and found himself lying in a guest room of the Phoenix Inn, a place he often frequented. At the foot of his bed stood a young girl dressed in light-colored garments, her bright and enchanting eyes resembling a crescent moon, fixed intently upon him.
For the past ten years, Feng Luoyang has seemingly been trapped in an endless nightmare, tirelessly inscribing his name on the fame lamp. To this day, he feels that he is on the verge of exhaustion
Song Wuhen looked at the item in Tang Dou's hand, a smirk appearing at the corner of his mouth as he raised his hand to take it: "Young Master, this time you are being rather generous."
Congratulations to the young master on his abundant wealth! The members of the Tang Sect gathered around him in unison, exclaiming loudly
Feng Luoyang let out a gentle sigh and stiffly extended both hands
"It is, it is... it is, it is... Feng Luoyang." Song Wuhen's gaze was sharp, and his skills were profound. Unfazed by the sunlight, he was the first to clearly see the name on the lantern and instinctively called out.
"Yes, do you remember now?" Zu Jing asked eagerly
"Yang Ming Deng is lit up!" The sharp-eyed individuals from the world of Jianghu at the Phoenix Gambling House immediately shouted upon seeing the flash on the Headless Cliff. Tang Dou, Song Wuhen, Ouyang Qingyun, Murong Liu, Tan Heng, and others rushed out of the broken doors of the gambling house without hesitation, desperately looking up towards the direction where Yang Ming Deng had risen.
The wind at Wutong Ridge howls like waves, hauntingly melodious, as if weeping and lamenting, evoking an inescapable sorrow. Feng Luoyang sits beneath a green pine, his green sword plunged into the earth, barely supporting his upper body, dazedly gazing at the rising sun slowly ascending into the sky. The blood-red dawn paints the cliff of decapitation, reminiscent of a warrior's blood. Everything appears calm and serene; the fierce battles and struggles that just transpired seem like a fleeting dream of early summer, now carried away by the wind. What fills his heart is only a vague sadness and a sense of loss.
Ah! Young Master? Upon hearing Feng Luoyang's words, Zu Jing was greatly astonished and could not help but ask.
Little Master Uncle ... ... Zujing, seeing Feng Luoyang and Tang Dou so tense, couldn't help but feel curious and quickly asked aloud, "Who is the person coming? Why are you so afraid of her!"
Where can one find such a genius swordsman, and where can one find such a natural leader? A savior of the martial world, does such a youth truly exist in this world?
What ... ... '' Feng Luoyang struggled to get up, speaking incoherently
In an instant, the mountainside of Wutong Ridge was bustling with people, with countless eager gazes focused on the floating lantern of fame in the air
"Hehe, how does my sword compare to the City-Charming Sword Technique of the Sword God Gu Tianya?" Meng Duanhun, having successfully executed a sword strike, proudly twirled his long sword around his side, pointed the tip of the sword at Feng Luoyang, and laughed.
Tang Dou strode over to Ouyang Qingyun, raised an arm to embrace his shoulder, and gave a hearty slap on his chest: "Your two hundred Eastern pearls." Releasing Ouyang Qingyun, he then approached Murong Liu, wrapped an arm around his shoulder, and also patted his chest: "Your ten thousand gold." Following this, he looked up at the sky, pointed his thumbs at himself, and declared: "Mine."
Feng Luoyang shot a glare at Tang Dou and said in a low voice, "Young Master, this is a matter of sect confidentiality; I kindly ask you to step aside." Tang Dou raised his hands, shrugged his shoulders, turned around, and gently closed the door behind him.
Meng Duanhun—! Feng Luoyang raised a hand, intending to lift Meng Duanhun's body to closely examine the symptoms appearing on him. However, a strong stench of decay suddenly emanated from his corpse, causing him to loosen his grip, lean back, and retreat several steps, ultimately sitting down on the ground. When he raised his head again, Meng Duanhun's body was already submerged in a pool of brown-black sewage, gradually rotting and deteriorating, vanishing into nothingness. After a few breaths, his entire body disappeared into the rubble and yellow earth of the Headless Cliff, as if this bizarre youth, whose ambitions soared higher than the heavens, had never existed in this world.
"Exactly, exactly." Tang Dou immediately appeared behind her, placing his hands on her shoulders, and said gently, "I also dislike it when people go around pretending to be seniors and lecturing others. How about this, my dear niece, from today onwards, you shall not call me Uncle Tang, and I will not call you my niece. You can call me Young Master, and I will call you Jing'er. What do you think?"
His words were only halfway spoken when a sudden sound of wind tearing through his clothing erupted. Tang Dou stumbled in from outside, panicked and shouting: "Old Feng, get up, something deadly has come."
"Ten years..." Feng Luoyang stared blankly at Zu Jing, "Indeed, I... I have been down the mountain for ten years. However..." For the past ten years, he had been trapped by the title of the world's number one sword, continuously facing endless challenges and duels, living a monotonous and tense life, never paying attention to the passage of time. In his consciousness, he had never noticed any changes in the surrounding world. The arrival of Zu Jing made him deeply feel the magic of time, and for a moment, his heart was filled with emotion and loss
Haha, good!" Tang Dou turned around and rushed back to the gambling house like a whirlwind. He leaped onto the betting platform where Zu Jing was seated, stretched out his hands, and loudly addressed the crowd of martial artists surrounding the platform: "Ladies and gentlemen, today my brother Feng Luoyang has defeated the Demon Sword Meng Duanhun, eliminating a menace for the martial world and contributing to the public good. I am truly delighted. This bet, aside from the Si Kuo Hall and the Ouyang Murong families, is given to all of you friends; my Tang Sect will not take a single cent. On another day, do not forget to visit the Tang Sect gambling house for some fun!"
The people in the gambling den had long lost their spirits and courage. At this moment, having narrowly escaped death, they felt as if a turning point had been reached, with fortune shining upon them, and they were overjoyed. They rushed to Tang Dou, expressing their heartfelt gratitude loudly.
"Hoo!" Feng Luoyang and Tang Dou both let out a sigh of relief
"I am looking for a savior in the martial world, my young master. This time, I have brought the secret manual of the Qingcheng Sword Technique down the mountain, specifically to find a... um, a young and talented individual, skilled in martial arts, full of vigor, from a distinguished family, with integrity and exceptional appearance, known as Bai Yulang. I wish to impart this sword technique to him, so that he may use it to exorcise evil, eliminate demons, restore order, and rebuild the martial arts world of today." Zu Jing spoke rapidly, her excitement growing with each word.
He extended his dry tongue to lick his cracked lips, then raised his hand to take out a reddish-brown tea egg from a small blue cloth bag tied at his waist. He pressed his thumb against the eggshell, which was adorned with three to five leaves of tea, while gently rotating the egg with his index and middle fingers. The eggshell softly struck against his fingertips, breaking into tiny fragments that fell to the ground like scattered stars, gradually revealing the light brown egg white. Feng Luoyang casually released his Qingfeng sword, cradled the tea egg, now devoid of its shell, in both hands, and buried his head deeply, taking large bites as if he wished to dive into the fragrance wafting from the tea egg.
This sword, in a rolling motion, successively lifted the six bone needles embedded in my head, and then, with a gentle force, adhered them to the blade. His final seemingly meaningless flick of the sword was precisely to shoot the bone needles out, aiming at my eyes. One lift, one adhesion, one flick—how exquisitely light and marvelous!
Zu Jing was about to speak out, but upon glancing at Tang Dou, she couldn't help but hesitate for a moment
Dear Junior Brother Feng
"Is it Tan Heng?" Tang Dou said softly, "Your hall master has lost his mind, sending you to deal with me? Go back and quickly have your subordinates pack up and leave. Within this month, if there is still a chicken or a dog from the Four Halls of Runzhou, consider me, Tang Dou, a coward"
Stumbling down from the Headless Cliff, the rugged and steep slope that Feng Luoyang could usually leap over with ease now posed a significant challenge. Although his numerous sword wounds had been initially bandaged, the trickles of fresh blood seeping from them were gradually sapping his strength. By the time he finally reached the entrance of the Phoenix Gambling House, his vision had begun to blur.
The members of the Tang Sect in the gambling den cheered in unison, calling out three times with an imposing momentum. The people from the martial world in the den looked at the silver coins on the betting table that had vanished without a trace, their faces pale as if they had seen a ghost, a sight too tragic to bear
I truly did not expect that. Even more unexpected was that you could find me so quickly... Feng Luoyang nodded dumbly and honestly expressed his thoughts.
In a duel between the top masters of the martial world, a secluded mountain wilderness is chosen, a place devoid of human presence. The battle takes place in the stillness of the mountains, at a time when all is silent. The victor gains fame, while the loser loses power. A Kongming lantern is released at a high vantage point, inscribed with the name of the victor, proclaiming it to the world and spreading the news to various sects. The winner of the duel thus becomes renowned throughout the land, which is known as the Lantern of Fame
... ... Hmm? That's it! '' Feng Luoyang meticulously scanned the area on Zu Jing's arm, but did not find what he was looking for. Suddenly, he became furious, abruptly raising his head and glaring at the speechless Tang Dou with fiery eyes, as if he were a lion, and roared, `` Tang Dou—! I will castrate you! ''
Song Wuhen glanced at the jubilant heroes filling the room, turned back to look at Tang Dou with a meaningful expression, slowly nodded, and clasped his hands together, saying: "Today, I, Song, am deeply grateful."
After consuming the entire tea egg, Feng Luoyang's tongue continued to greedily lick the remnants left on his lips, persistently capturing the elusive and fleeting hint of sweetness, until the last trace of the tea egg's aroma completely dissipated in the wind
What does it mean? Feng Luoyang still could not keep up with Zu Jing's line of thought and continued to ask in confusion
Upon hearing his words, Tang Dou not only did not get angry, but instead proudly puffed out his chest, lazily scratched his back with a folding fan, and gestured with his hand in small circles in front of him, indicating that this was indeed the true nature of Tang Dou.
"Look, I wasn't wrong, was I? Master Zhangmen even included the Qincheng Sword Technique in the letter, hoping you would pass it on to this young hero." As she spoke, Zu Jing leaned her head closer to Feng Luoyang, wanting to read the letter with him
Seeing the closed door, Feng Luoyang was somewhat surprised by Tang Dou's boldness. He scratched his head and immediately guessed Tang Dou's trick, then shouted loudly: "Tang Dou!"
"It's done," Tan Heng murmured softly, glancing fearfully at the young master of the Tang family.
However, since this title has already fallen upon me, I must bear it continuously... Feng Luoyang sighed heavily, kneeling solemnly before the bright lamp, bending down to pick up the pen beside it, and inscribing his name on the pristine lamp cover. He then lifted the lamp with his left hand and pushed against the base with his right. A gentle breeze swept by, but the wick at the base remained lifeless, devoid of any spark. Feng Luoyang gently bit his lower lip and pushed with his right hand once more. A warm wind brushed his face, and a wisp of faint blue smoke rose from the wick, yet still no spark appeared. Another gentle breeze passed, and the wick remained lifeless, without a single spark. Feng Luoyang bit his lower lip again and exerted himself to push with his right hand once more. The warm wind caressed his face, and the wick emitted a faint wisp of blue smoke, but still no spark emerged. A sweetness filled Feng Luoyang's throat, and he opened his mouth to spit out a mouthful of fresh blood, instantly staining half of the white lampshade a deep crimson. He let out a self-deprecating bitter laugh, glanced around, and seeing no one, he took out a match from his pocket, raised it against the wind, and as the flame flickered to life, he leaned towards the base of the lamp.
Fortunately... you haven't made your move yet," Feng Luoyang said as he carefully lowered Zujing's sleeve, feeling a sense of relief.
Haha, everyone need not thank me. Next time you place a bet, be sure to exercise utmost caution. When assisting the dealer and the bystanders, you must think it through carefully!" Tang Dou said with a smile.
Feng Luoyang took the letter, first flipping it over to glance at the wax seal. Upon seeing the emblem of the Tianshan Sect's leader, he nodded slightly. He then turned the envelope over to examine the signature on the front—"Tianshan Sect Leader Feng"—which was indeed in his senior brother's handwriting. Consequently, he tore open the letter, pulled out the paper, and anxiously began to read.
Feng Luoyang shook his heavy head slightly, staring blankly at the girl before him. He moved his lips, yet could not find the words to say. He instinctively felt that she should be someone very close to him, but in his swollen and aching mind, he could not recall who she truly was. That sense of loss and uncertainty left him at a loss for what to do.
Tang Dou turned around and pulled Zhu Jing's hand, smiling, "Don't you want to meet your little master uncle? Come with me!"
I am Jing'er, you used to call me that. You haven't forgotten my name, have you? Jing'er, do you still remember?" Zu Jing shook his body vigorously like a rattle drum, his face glowing with excitement.
I never expected you to have grown up so much!" Feng Luoyang murmured with a sigh
The mysterious gray-clad man and the man in black, who had just placed their final bets, cast one last glance at the Yangming Lantern, then immediately parted the crowd and swiftly descended the mountain, not pausing for even a moment. The identities and backgrounds of these two individuals thus lost all traces.
Upon seeing this, Feng Luoyang felt a heavy weight in his heart, a tightness in his chest that made it difficult to breathe: It seems there is no mistake. My senior brother, the sect leader, has shown me immense kindness; since he has entrusted me with this tremendous responsibility, I, Feng Luoyang, can only dedicate myself wholeheartedly, exhausting my life and efforts to seek out such a young hero.
At that moment, Tang Bing approached Tang Dou and whispered a few words. Tang Dou's entire body trembled, and he suddenly turned his head, excitedly asking, "Have they already descended the mountain?"
The sunlight is too glaring, making it difficult to see clearly
Of course I know, they are lining up to escort me down the mountain. They instructed me to find you as soon as I enter the world, asking you to assist me in accomplishing this significant task. Upon hearing Feng Luoyang's question, Zu Jing's face revealed a serious and solemn expression for the first time
"Listen to me..." Meng Duanhun suddenly pulled his hand away, "It's... it's too late, don't worry about me. I... I am merely their... vanguard. They will come one after another... you... you take care of yourself!" At this point, he suddenly opened his mouth and violently spat out a mouthful of black blood that resembled ink, his head tilted, and he fell to the ground, lifeless.
"Alright, Jing'er, go ahead and speak." Seeing that Tang Dou had finally disappeared, Feng Luoyang let out a long sigh of relief and nodded to Zu Jing.
Hmph! Zu Jing wrinkled her nose at him, "As soon as we meet, you immediately act all mature in front of me. You are only ten years older than I am, so you are not allowed to lecture me"
He widened his eyes in shock, wanting to see the appearance of the person who had arrived. However, a fleeting shadow appeared before him, and a delicate yet heavy body suddenly crashed into his embrace. Before he could react, his vision darkened, and he fainted.