Chapter 9, the decisive battle is upon us

"The rules are made by people; today, I will make an exception for Young Master Liu." The young woman in green smiled slightly, seemingly quite pleased with her decision

What nonsense are you talking about? Feng Luoyang frowned and said, "Jing'er has never seen him at all"

Guess what he looks like

Seeing the situation change so rapidly, Zu Jing was at a loss and couldn't help but exclaim: "Isn't the Wind Riding Society our friend? How could it turn into an enemy? I was just chatting with Miss Qin Shuiyao a moment ago"

Hmph. The young woman in the green attire cast a cold glance at him, "If Yu Dangjia were here, she would sell you whatever news you wanted, and we would have no objections. Now that she has gone to the southern frontier, I am in charge here. I have decided to agree to Liu Qingyuan's request and refuse to sell any information or sword manuals related to him."

Grand opening, grand opening

You see the portraits on the wall. Feng Luoyang raised his hand and pointed to several portraits of the sages of the Wind Riding Society hanging on the wall, saying, "This one, this one, and this one."

"What friends, hey. This is a group of women who prioritize relationships based on appearance over friendship. The Wind Riding Society has already severed ties with the Tang Sect, refusing to sell any information regarding Liu Qingyuan, and has even generously shared information about Lao Feng with the Yue Nu Palace. They have chosen to side with Liu Qingyuan; this is the Tang Sect, the territory of me, Tang Dou, and Lao Feng. All of Liu Qingyuan's lackeys must get lost!" At this point, Tang Dou's tone had become stern and fierce. They have chosen to side with Liu Qingyuan; this is the Tang Sect, the territory of me, Tang Dou, and Lao Feng. All of Liu Qingyuan's lackeys must get lost!" At this point, Tang Dou's tone had become stern and fierce.

Seeing the master of the door in a rage, Tang Bing dared not be negligent. With a swift wave of her hand, she led a dozen skilled members of the Tang Sect to rush to the second floor, systematically clearing each room one by one

However, a hint of anger appeared on Qin Shuiyao's delicate face, as if she was eager to defend Liu Qingyuan, but she quickly suppressed this emotion, forcing a smile that once again revealed a radiant expression. "However, the world of martial arts is full of uncertainties. Since Liu Qingyuan knows that his swordsmanship is two levels inferior to that of Young Master Feng, and he is currently disabled, why would he dare to challenge Young Master Feng? Are you not afraid that during this time, he might suddenly comprehend some unparalleled sword technique, thus gaining increased confidence?"

Feng Luoyang shot him a glare, raised his hand to push open the green wooden door in front of him, took a deep breath, and walked into the hall. Tang Dou raised his hand to tuck the folding fan into the collar at the back of his neck, clasped his hands within his sleeves, and followed him inside. As soon as the two entered the courtyard of the Chengfeng Society's branch, they noticed an inexplicable hostility permeating the entire branch. It was as if they had become the common enemies of the entire martial arts world. Every passerby among the wind messengers cast wary and guarded glances at them. Even the maid sweeping the courtyard looked at them with a cold gaze, as if coated in a layer of frost.

Zuqing watched the people coming and going in the Tang Sect, bustling about like busy worker bees, and she felt a surge of eagerness in her heart, hoping to join the ranks of the busy. She attempted to speak with the chief steward, Tang Bing, but he was caught up in a flurry of martial arts figures, exchanging greetings with one person after another, his mouth seemingly ready to split into two as he engaged with them, leaving no room for her. And who among the other disciples of the Tang Sect would dare to give orders to this niece of Feng Luoyang, the grandniece of Tang Dou? Everyone regarded him with utmost reverence, not daring to show the slightest neglect. Just as she felt somewhat lost and helpless, a figure clad in purple robes, a colorful feathered matchmaker, suddenly waved at her.

"Young Master, please restrain yourself. This is the territory of Longmen and Chengfeng Society. If they see you like this, Tangmen will definitely not take it well" Feng Luoyang said softly

All news regarding Feng Luoyang, I will generously offer this time to the Yue Nu Palace for free. If the two of you have no other matters, please take your leave. Having said this, Miss Zhao flicked her sleeve, stood up, and gracefully walked into the back hall

The Chengfeng Society has a close relationship with the Tang Sect, which is both respected and feared by the upper and lower ranks of the Tang Sect. In order to accommodate the influential leaders of the Chengfeng Society in the martial world, the chief manager of the Phoenix Inn, Tang Bing, instructed the staff to vacate the best guest rooms for Cai Lingfeng and her companions to rest, and provided them with the finest meals and hot water. Other skilled practitioners from various sects and guilds had to settle for lower-quality accommodations or even the storerooms, while many capable individuals from smaller sects were assigned to stay in the Thousand-Person Cave located at the back of the Phoenix Inn.

"Jing'er, have you seen the portrait of Liu Qingyuan?" Feng Luoyang turned to ask, "You should know that he may not look as handsome as he does in the painting"

Miss Zu! Tang Bing, who was directing the people of the Tang Sect in managing the Phoenix Inn, hurried over upon hearing her call. "The young master and Young Master Feng have gone to Runzhou to gather information for the Fenghui branch."

It turns out that Sister Zu possesses a celestial heart of an otherworldly being, which is naturally different from us mundane people who roll about in the mortal world. If you wish to travel everywhere, just let me know. The Thirteen Roads of the Great Tang, the Northern Icefield, the Immortal Mountains of Hainan, the Dragon Palace of the East Sea, the Kunlun Mountains of the West, and any other place you desire to visit, I, your sister, can take you there at any time. Qin Shuiyao casually tossed her hair, raised her head proudly, and smiled with satisfaction. If you wish to travel everywhere, just let me know. The Thirteen Roads of the Great Tang, the Northern Icefield, the Immortal Mountains of Hainan, the Dragon Palace of the East Sea, the Kunlun Mountains of the West, and any other place you desire to visit, I, your sister, can take you there at any time. Qin Shuiyao casually tossed her hair, raised her head proudly, and smiled with satisfaction.

"Hoo! What are your thoughts?" Hearing Feng Luoyang's words, Tang Dou took a deep breath, calmed his emotions, and asked in a low voice.

"I can hear the sound of your saliva dripping onto the ground very clearly," Feng Luoyang said in a muffled voice

"Are you calling me?" Zuojing exclaimed, pointing excitedly at her own nose.

"Miss Zhao, you are a clever person. Surely you are aware of our relationship with the fish merchant. If this matter reaches Fish Shao, I fear you will not be able to keep your position of authority," Tang Dou said, his anger flaring as he let out a cold, sinister laugh.

"Then, if Young Master Liu comes to buy information, you wouldn't sell it to him, would you? If that's the case, it would still be fair, and I would have nothing to say." Feng Luoyang sighed and said helplessly

Since the Six Dynasties, Xijin Ferry in Runzhou has been a vital transportation hub in the Jiangnan region. After the construction of the Grand Canal during the Sui Dynasty, Xijin Ferry suddenly became an important port for grain transportation connecting the north and south. Since the Tang Dynasty, the grain, silk, and tributes from the eastern route of Jiangnan had to pass through here to reach Luoyang and Chang'an in the north. Owning a piece of land at Xijin Ferry at this moment is akin to unearthing a gold mine. Every time Tang Dou arrives here and gazes at the endless stream of grain transport boats on the river, his eyes become bloodshot with desire and greed. Owning a piece of land at Xijin Ferry at this moment is akin to unearthing a gold mine. Every time Tang Dou arrives here and gazes at the endless stream of grain transport boats on the river, his eyes become bloodshot with desire and greed

Upon hearing her words, Qin Shuiyao's displeasure gradually faded, replaced by a radiant smile: "Miss Zu, you are being too modest. In the martial world, those who can offer a single insightful comment are worth their weight in gold. If you wish to make a name for yourself in the martial world in the future, it would be a simple task."

What? Feng Luoyang and Tang Dou stood up simultaneously, dumbfounded

Whenever it snows, Zu Jing always follows Feng Luoyang to the peak of the snow-covered mountain. Under the shadow of his sword, she silently practices alongside him. Watching him stand alone against the wind and snow, proudly independent at the summit of the world, he seems like a deity defying fate, striving to compete with the heavens. That striking and heroic demeanor has forged an indelible image of a hero in Zu Jing's heart. In her eyes, her junior master is the strongest person in the world.

After nearly a month of enduring the elements and traveling tirelessly, tonight, Zu Jing sleeps exceptionally soundly in the bedroom of Feng Luoyang. In her dreams, she envisions the Heavenly Pool, the Watchtower, the Sword-Testing Pool, and her fellow disciples playing by the water's edge. She even dreams of the rumbling sound of melting snow from the snow-capped peaks of Tianshan. Her entire being is enveloped in a warmth reminiscent of spring returning to the earth, as if she is drifting on a small boat in the boundless azure waves. A carefree sense of happiness fills her heart. Gradually, the rumbling sound transforms into the clamor of human voices, the hoarse shouts echoing like the beating of war drums, awakening her from her heavy slumber.

Tang Dou turned his head and saw a painting on the opposite wall depicting the founder of the Wind Meeting, Yu Yao Xia, who single-handedly broke into the Central Plains to confront the Taixing Blade Array alongside the Martial Arts Alliance. In the painting, Yu Yao Xia is seen with a Zheng family silver bow slung over his shoulder, dressed in an orange-red robe, exuding a heroic demeanor and radiating brilliance

I understand the relationship between Fish Home and you better than you do yourselves. I am capable of making this decision and am not afraid of the consequences said Miss Zhao, the person in charge of the Runzhou branch coldly

"Hey, how are you speaking to my brother? Do you believe I will cut out your tongue!" Tang Dou was furious, unable to restrain himself as he pointed and shouted.

A shout, increasingly loud, made Zuojing unable to linger in bed any longer. She helplessly opened her eyes, propped herself up with her soft arms, and lazily raised her body, glancing around. The room was empty; Feng Luoyang, who had fallen asleep in the chair last night, was nowhere to be found.

He is truly remarkable. Sister Qin, to be honest, almost all the seniors of our Tianshan Sect are masters of swordsmanship. However, in my opinion, despite their decades of practice, they cannot compare to the swordsmanship that Master Feng has mastered in just three years. Therefore, when I just came down the mountain and heard that he was going to duel with the formidable sword demon Meng Duanhun, I never worried about him at all. Zujing, fearing that Qin Shuiyao might not believe her, said with a serious expression.

"Who have you provoked again?" Upon seeing this situation, Feng Luoyang glared fiercely at Tang Dou once more

Hmm! The colorful feathered wind messenger smiled and nodded, then made an inviting gesture towards her

The places my sister mentioned sound truly captivating. Once I have completed my mission in the Central Plains, I will definitely go to those wonderful places with my sister to have some fun. Zhu Jing eagerly rubbed her palms together, and a flush of excitement rose on her delicate face.

Indeed. It seems they learned about this news several days earlier than us, and all the prominent figures from the Thirteen Paths have gathered.

Oh... could it be that you too... what bad luck, another one. Tang Dou glanced at Zu Jing and immediately displayed a look of sudden realization, "Old Feng, even Xiao Zu has been captivated by that demon from Liu Qing."

A subtle expression of pride gradually appeared on Qin Shuiyao's face. She suddenly stood up, mimicking the manner of a man, and cupped her hands towards Zu Jing, saying, "Miss Zu, thank you for your guidance." Without waiting for Zu Jing to return the gesture, she abruptly turned and hurriedly dashed out of the inn, her figure flashing and disappearing in an instant.

"My young master once told me that once these eight sword techniques are employed, the person becomes as if enchanted, compelled to complete all eight moves, much like suddenly recalling a beloved mountain song, feeling the need to sing it through to the end, regardless of how inappropriate the timing may be." As she spoke, Zu Jing's voice trembled involuntarily, as if the eight sword techniques themselves possessed an incredible magic that could influence her emotions at that moment

Feng Luoyang was taken aback and said, "Indeed, that is the case"

Ah? Young Master! This... the members of the Chengfeng Society cannot be offended. Hearing Tang Dou's words, Tang Bing was startled and quickly reminded in a trembling voice

Upon hearing Qin Shuiyao's praise, Zu Jing's face blossomed with joy, and she couldn't help but cover her mouth with her hand, laughing softly: "To be honest with Sister Qin, before I descended the mountain, I secretly thought about making a name for myself in the martial world and impressing my masters. However, due to an important mission, I dared not let my mind wander. Now that I have come down the mountain, I realize that the martial world is filled with hidden talents and formidable experts. The thought of making a name for myself is beyond my reach, but I must certainly enjoy myself to the fullest."

What? Hearing his words, Tang Dou's eyes widened in surprise as he exclaimed loudly. Even Feng Luoyang, who had been bowing his head to drink tea, suddenly raised his head and cast a concerned and tense glance at Zu Jing.

Tang Dou and Feng Luoyang sat uneasily on the guest chairs in the main hall, feeling as if they were sitting on pins and needles. Feng Luoyang swallowed, cleared his throat, and cupped his hands towards the young woman in blue, saying: "You must be Miss Zhao. I am Feng Luoyang, pleased to meet you."

The young woman in the blue attire waved her hand and coldly said: "Enough small talk, you want to buy information about Liu Qingyuan and the sword manual, right?"

Although Master Feng has gained fame in the martial world for many years, all his achievements are confined to the execution ground at the Cliff of Severed Heads on Wutong Ridge. Apart from those who have dueled with him, others find it difficult to glimpse the profundity of his swordsmanship, inevitably leading to much suspicion about him. Now, upon hearing Miss Zu's words, it is indeed evident that his swordsmanship is unfathomable. Qin Shuiyao gently caressed her hand, revealing a look of serene longing, saying, "I wonder what kind of ethereal demeanor he possesses when he showcases his most proud sword techniques; it truly makes one yearn for it."

What has happened? The Chengfeng Society has actually taken the initiative to befriend the Yue Nu Palace?" Tang Dou grabbed his folding fan and vigorously waved it by his ear, "If the Yue Nu Palace and the Chengfeng Society join forces, the martial arts world in the Eastern Jiangnan, Western Jiangnan, and Huainan regions will surely follow their lead. My Tang Sect has only recently entered Jiangnan, yet I did not expect that the Yue Nu Palace, as a place outside the martial world, would want to hinder my momentum. The Chengfeng Society was originally a loose alliance of interests, but now, borrowing the strength of the Yue Nu Palace, they seem determined to seek dominance. Is this aimed at me, Tang Dou? My heavens..." Tang Dou suddenly turned his head and said to Feng Luoyang, "My plans must be completely changed; I must urgently mobilize the elite forces from Yizhou to head north and prepare for a tough battle.

These techniques, just from their names, all carry a sense of poignant sorrow. Qin Shuiyao's eyes sparkled as she spoke in a low voice

Then what about the Wind Meeting? We are currently in need of assistance from others, so you must not act like a spoiled young master on their territory. Feng Luoyang cautiously looked around and said in a low voice

"If you come to buy news, then just buy it. What is there to discuss? Hypocritical!" The welcoming attendant said coldly, "Our branch is managed by Miss Zhao; you can speak with her." After saying this, he turned around and swaggered into the back hall

"Is that true? Did Sister Ashao really say that? Can she really predict the future?" Upon hearing Qin Shuiyao's words, Zu Jing's heart skipped a beat, momentarily thinking that her search for a savior in the martial world had already been revealed to Yu Shao. However, when she saw the look of indifference on the face of this colorful feathered matchmaker, she suddenly realized and repeatedly waved her hands, "Oh, is that new star referring to me? No, no, Sister Ashao is overpraising me."

"My surname is Qin, and my given name is Shuiyao." The charming Feng Meiran smiled lightly, brushing her hair aside, "Miss Zu, you are too modest. Your name has already spread throughout our Wind Riding Society. The Fish Master has informed us that a new star is about to rise in the martial world, and has instructed us to pay special attention to you. To receive the Fish Master's favor upon our first meeting, you are the second person in the entire martial world, besides..."

Tang Dou grabbed Tang Bing by the collar and asked sternly, "Have all the colorful feathered messengers of the Wind Riding Society arrived?"

Uh... upon hearing the conversation between the two of them, Zu Jing's cheeks flushed red, her face burning with embarrassment, wishing she could find a hole in the ground to burrow into and never come out again. Her lips trembled repeatedly, wanting to say something, yet unable to utter a single word.

Originally intending to approach Feng Luoyang to inquire about the situation, Zu Jing was startled upon hearing Tang Dou's words from a distance. She quickly turned around, stood on her tiptoes, and asked loudly: "A Dou, why are you making things difficult for the members of the Chengfeng Society? Aren't they friends of Sister A Shao?"

The woman from Yue, Liu Qingyuan, has issued a challenge to Feng Luoyang!

Tang Dou, feeling wronged, spread his hands and shook his head vigorously

Oh, that last part is a bit exaggerated, but the rest is absolutely true. Zhu Jing covered her mouth with her hand, chuckled, and then nodded seriously.

"Jing'er, what is wrong with you?" Feng Luoyang asked, unable to contain his concern upon noticing the unusual behavior of Zu Jing.

What! Feng Luoyang and Tang Dou were both stunned by Miss Zhao's last words, standing frozen on the spot, unable to speak for a long while

"It depends on what you talked about with her," Tang Dou said, biting his lip, his expression tense. Zu Jing noticed that the muscles in his face began to twitch involuntarily, and his voice carried an unmistakable tremor, completely lacking the carefree and bold demeanor he had displayed just a few days prior when she first met him

I do not know. In any case, I believe that the young master will definitely be able to defeat him. In fact, I think he can defeat anyone, as long as he wishes to. Zujing rested her chin on her hand, her thoughts involuntarily drifting back to her childhood ten years ago. Over the course of three years, regardless of wind or snow, she could always see the young master at the peak of the Tianshan Mountains, vigorously wielding his sword.

"Young Master, Young Master!" Feng Luoyang quickly stopped him, repeatedly waving his hands, "Don't cause trouble, we bought the information and will leave."

"Five percent chance of success..." Tang Dou sighed heavily, "It's better than having no chance at all. This time in the sword duel, you have no information about Liu Qingyuan, and these eight sword techniques might be our last lifeline. I never expected that after Tang Men had just enjoyed a few days of glory in Jiangnan, we would have to walk on the edge of danger again."

You ... ... '' Upon hearing Miss Zhao's blunt mockery of Feng Luoyang, Tang Dou could no longer contain himself and was about to stand up and lash out, but was held back by Feng Luoyang.

Little Master Uncle! Zujing pushed aside the thin blanket covering her, sprang up from the bed, put on her shoes, and rushed out the door. Looking around, she saw disciples of the Tang Sect coming and going in the corridor of the Phoenix Inn, bustling with activity. Some were moving tables and chairs, cleaning up, while others were carrying large baskets of vegetables and fruits in and out of the kitchen. Some were posting the betting slips issued by the Phoenix Gambling House along the corridor. Outside the courtyard, the sounds of roosters crowing and dogs barking filled the air, as over a dozen cooks in the various kitchens of the Phoenix Inn wielded their cleavers, slaughtering cattle and sheep.

I should send a team of poisonous thorns to stealthily attack Lianhua Peak at night, first leveling the Divine Maiden Hall at the entrance of the Yue Nu Palace, then turning to charge up Guangming Peak, bloodily cleansing the Burial Sword Pool. At the same time, I will personally lead the Night Flower Team to stabilize the eighteen branches of the Chengfeng Society in Jiangnan. Tang Bing will hold the Phoenix Inn with the Bone Piercing Team, ready to restrain the four forces of the Nian Gang, Si Koutang, Ouyang, and Murong. The most important thing is to be steady, precise, and swift, resolving all battles before they can react. Oh, haha, many will die, but no one! No one can stop the Tang Sect from establishing a foothold in Jiangnan; those who block me shall die!" Tang Dou desperately rubbed the folding fan in his hand, his gaze flickering as he paced back and forth in the main hall of the Runzhou branch, his face flushed with excitement.

"So, you are saying that he is currently competing in martial arts with the first son of the Yue woman, Liu Qingyuan, and you are not at all worried that he might lose?" Qin Shuiyao asked cautiously

Feng Luoyang received no response to his soliloquy, merely contemplating silently as he circled the walls surrounding the main hall.

Clear out all the rooms for me

Little Master, A Dou!" Zujing pushed open the door, walked into the corridor in a daze, and shouted loudly

Zuqing squeezed her way through the crowded throng to stand before the woman adorned with a colorful feathered headdress, hurriedly pulled over a chair for herself, sat down in a rush, and cheerfully nodded in greeting: "Hello, sister, it's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Zuqing."

Not long after Qin Shuiyao had just left the Phoenix Inn, Feng Luoyang and Tang Dou, both wearing dark expressions, walked side by side into the Phoenix Inn. Upon seeing these two significant figures finally appear, Tang Bing and the Tang Sect disciples who were attending to the guests around them quickly gathered around, eagerly inquiring about the results of the two's trip to Runzhou for the Fenghui branch's acquisition news.

I have nothing to worry about. Zhu Jing and the librarian shrugged their shoulders and calmly shook their heads, saying, "I heard that Liu Qingyuan lost an arm when he fought against the Sword Demon Meng Duanhun. And when my junior master fought the Sword Demon, Meng Duanhun was defeated and died. This means that my junior master's swordsmanship is two levels higher than Liu Qingyuan's. How could I possibly worry?"

There is no ... ...

"The painting is quite good, but I can't see anything particularly special about it," Tang Dou murmured

Did I do something wrong? Seeing everyone in the room staring at her, Zu Jing felt a wave of tension wash over her, her skin prickling as if it were being stabbed by needles, and she couldn't help but ask.

Feng Luoyang wore a gloomy expression, unwilling to converse with anyone. He cast a glance at Tang Dou, reluctantly greeted a member of the Tang Sect, and then sulkily found an empty table to sit down. He poured himself a cup of bitter tea and silently sipped it.

Ah, buy news?" Zu Jing widened her eyes

Hey, the Longmen have taken control of the Sanjiang Waterway, and the entire Yangtze River has become theirs. Coupled with the transportation along the Grand Canal, such abundant resources are still not enough to satisfy them. I have heard that they are also planning to advance into the Two Lakes region and occupy the Xiang River. Next, it is likely that even the Dujiang and Li River will bear the shadow of the Jin Fan. The Tangmen will inevitably confront them sooner or later; what is there to fear?

"No, there is still a glimmer of hope." Feng Luoyang suddenly slammed the table and said in a deep voice, "Although Liu Qingyuan's Super Sea Sword Technique is invulnerable, my three-part Unyielding Sword has eight techniques that can nearly match him. My ancestor won decisively against the Yue Maiden Sword Technique with these eight moves. I believe that news of my eight sword techniques has not yet spread in the martial world. As long as I reveal them unexpectedly during the final battle, I will have at least a fifty percent chance of victory"

"No... no need to be polite..." Zu Jing stood up in confusion, gazing in the direction where Qin Shuiyao had disappeared, feeling a sense of loss.

Damn it. Liu Qing must have been waiting for the duel between Lao Feng and Meng Wangba, secretly preparing, wanting to compete with the victor. The members of the Chengfeng Society had long known this news but helped him conceal it... "Tang Dou gritted his teeth, making a grinding sound, "Tang Bing, kick out all the colorful feathered messengers of the Chengfeng Society from the inn."

The most interesting thing is that after he practiced his swordsmanship, the Tianshan Liuyang energy radiating from him melted all the accumulated snow around him. On one occasion, I personally witnessed a Tianshan snow lotus blooming right at his feet. Whenever the topic of my junior master uncle arises, Zu Jing's heart is always filled with excitement and enthusiasm, often speaking with abandon and spitting as he talks.

"Enough, Da Shao." Feng Luoyang seemed unable to tolerate Tang Dou's arrogance any longer, and helplessly said, "Not everyone and everything is about you."

Isn't it very similar to this one? Feng Luoyang pointed to the previously viewed "Night Walk in the Jianghu" painting.

Speaking of the impressive swordsmanship of the young master, I must mention the eight techniques of the "Three Unrelenting Swords" in the middle section. The first technique is "Love Turns to Ashes Like Snow," the second is "Thinking of You Only Brings Frost to My Head," the third is "Tears of Parting by the Green Maple by the River," the fourth is "The Cold Light on the Waves of the Uncertain River," the fifth is "The Great Waves Wash Away the Body in Dreams," the sixth is "The Moonlight Shines a Thousand Miles on One Person," the seventh is "The Meandering River Flows Away Empty Water," and the eighth is "The Clouds and Rain of Wushan Leave One Heartbroken." Zujing lowered her voice and whispered to Qin Shuiyao.

The renowned Battle of Liufeng has spread throughout the martial world in less than a day, and heroes from all corners of the land have set out in haste to Wutong Ridge. Notably, among the sixteen most active Fengmei of the Chengfeng Society in the martial world, only the leader Yu Shaoyuan has not come from the southern frontier, while the other fifteen Fengmei have cast aside their cumbersome affairs to gather at Wutong Ridge

Set up the gambling table, set the stage

The snow of Tianshan was once the darkest memory in Zu Jing's life, as the overwhelming snow covered all signs of life. Even the disciples of Tianshan had to hide behind the sturdy walls of the Tianshan residences, gathering around the stove for warmth to dispel the cold. However, ever since the young master uncle arrived at Tianshan, the snow of Tianshan was no longer a confinement imposed by the heavens on Zu Jing, but rather became an exhilarating form of training.

Tang Dou and Feng Luoyang exchanged a glance, both momentarily taken aback. As the foremost swordsman in the world, Feng Luoyang, despite facing numerous doubts, had remained unyielding, earning the respect of the martial world, where he was often referred to as Young Master Feng. On the other hand, Tang Dou, as the leader of the Tang Sect, commanded thousands of elite disciples, wielding immense power and influence, and people feared his authority, always addressing him as Young Master. However, this woman simply referred to them as "the two of you," clearly showing that she did not regard them highly. This led them to begin questioning whether their standing in the martial world had indeed fallen to such a low point.

"Refusal to sell? This does not align with the regulations of the Chengfeng Society, does it?" Feng Luoyang could not help but speak up

Thus, it can be said that this fellow is a monster. Tang Dou slammed the table forcefully, as if he could find an opportunity to scold Liu Qingyuan, which made him feel extremely relieved

As soon as he finished speaking, the curtain in the back hall was drawn aside, and a young woman in a plain blue robe, draped in a moon-white silk shawl, gracefully approached the chair in the main hall. With a casual wave of her long sleeves, she said, "You two, please take a seat"

The two individuals walked heavily into the main hall of the branch, greeting the host responsible for welcoming guests. Feng Luoyang pulled Tang Dou behind him and spoke, "This brother, I am Feng Luoyang. I have come to visit with the intention of discussing matters with the person in charge of your branch in Runzhou."

Is it really? Although Qin Shuiyao, the seasoned leader of the wind media, was accustomed to the ways of the world, she was nonetheless taken aback upon hearing Zu Jing's account

Following Zhang Tao is the painting "Banquet in Luoyang" by Huaxinzi Zhang You. This predecessor of the wind media entered the world with the identity of a wind media, starting his career through gambling, and eventually becoming the wealthiest person in Luoyang. When the ancestor of the Yu family intended to establish the Chengfeng Society, he generously invested and became the founder of the Chengfeng Society, leading a life full of legendary colors. In the painting, Zhang You hosts a night banquet for the great nobles of Luoyang, inviting them to jointly create the Chengfeng Society. At the banquet, he raises his cup to toast, passionately and generously, exuding a charismatic and unrestrained demeanor, embodying the spirit of a true gentleman.

"Indeed, and why does everyone in the paintings 'Zhang Tao's Breakout Map' and 'Zhang You's Night Banquet in Luoyang' look so similar?" At that moment, Tang Tou felt as confused as a monk who couldn't see the light.

This is a rare grand event in the martial arts world, occurring once in a decade, attracting countless renowned masters who are unwilling to remain in obscurity to visit the Phoenix Inn. It is uncertain whether these individuals are here to see Feng Luoyang and Liu Qingyuan, or to witness the fifteen extraordinary and elusive wind messengers of the Chengfeng Society. In her lifetime, Zu Jing has never seen so many beautiful women gathered in one place, causing her to be dazzled, unsure whether she is in the mortal realm or has flown into a paradise of immortals.

Indeed, he is even less likely to become the object of your affection. Tang Dou quickly concurred

"Yes, he is my junior master uncle," Zu Jing said with a chuckle. "Sister Qin, you must be wondering why I add the word 'junior.' It's because he is only a few years older than me. My other master uncles are fully qualified to be his uncles, but he is exceptionally talented. When he first entered the school, his swordsmanship was a top choice. The seniors among the masters did not dare to claim seniority in front of him; they could only pay homage to the ancestors and take him as their disciple. Thus, he boldly became my master uncle. In fact, I entered the school a year earlier than he did."

Adjacent to the "Night Journey in the Jianghu" is the "Breakthrough Map of Hengzhou's Turkic Alliance," featuring Zhang Tao, the Wind Messenger, riding alone through Hengzhou. In the image, Zhang Tao stands proud amidst a thousand troops, his gaze seemingly divine, embodying the elegant demeanor of an unparalleled young gentleman

I haven't done much at all!" Tang Dou touched his face and murmured

"Is his swordsmanship really that impressive?" Upon hearing this, Qin Shuiyao's expression involuntarily became serious

Big business is coming!

Of course not. Miss Zhao said in a low voice, "What kind of status does Young Master Liu have, that he would stoop to seeking information about his rivals."

"Have you ever seen Liu Qingyuan?" Feng Luoyang asked.

Hmm? Tang Dou raised his head to carefully observe the various portraits on the wall. These portraits depict the remarkable achievements of several predecessors from the late Sui and early Tang dynasties in the martial world. Among these portraits, there is one that illustrates Pu Cao Fei Zhang Fang's daring night raid on Junshan Island, revealing the lair of the Qing Feng Hall. In the portrait, Zhang Fang is depicted as galloping away with an air of elegance and charm that is beyond words

Sigh... I should have guessed that this group of wind messengers would target you. Now, everything about Old Feng has been uncovered, and it is all too late. Hearing Zujing's words, Tang Dou's legs went weak, and with a thud, he collapsed onto a nearby yellow wooden chair, pressing his hand to his forehead and shaking his head repeatedly

I will let them pass for your sake," Tang Dou glanced at the gate of the Chengfeng Association's Runzhou branch right in front of him, unable to suppress his disappointment, and said softly

Observing Tang Dou's expression, Zu Jing felt increasingly flustered. After hesitating for a moment, she finally spoke honestly: "I talked with her about the junior master and his experiences practicing swordsmanship on the mountain."

The ancestors of the Yu family were indeed full of vigor, and the women were no less than the men... Tang Dou could not help but exclaim in admiration upon seeing the beautiful woman, but suddenly, he sensed something amiss. "Wait a minute, why does the face of the person in this painting of Yu Yao Xia look like..."

Look at this painting again." Feng Luoyang pointed to a portrait hanging on the opposite wall

We have settled this matter. Qin Shuiyao extended her delicate hand and gently tapped the table, as if sealing the agreement with a decisive gesture. She slowly withdrew her hand to her chest, palms together, resting them against her chin, and lowered her voice to softly inquire: I have heard that Cousin Ancestor and Young Master Feng are both disciples of Tianshan.

Hearing the two of them becoming increasingly outrageous, Zu Jing felt both embarrassed and anxious. Finally, unable to contain herself, she stood up straight, slapped the table in front of her with both hands, and shouted loudly: "Where are you two headed with your thoughts? I have no interest in Liu Qingyuan. It's just that... I have told Qin Shuiyao all eight moves of my junior master's sword technique."