Chapter Nine: The Contest for Marriage

As he walked further towards the destination, the unsettling thoughts in Jun Tianxie’s mind grew increasingly intense. Unable to contain himself any longer, he stopped a seemingly like-minded martial artist by the roadside and asked, "This esteemed brother, may I inquire if you know about 'Shengsi Peak'..."

The crowd erupted in a clamor; to become the favored son-in-law of the "golden patron" Luo Fuguan is akin to soaring to the top and becoming a phoenix, evoking both admiration and envy from others

Dugu Hanjin's face turned ashen as he sealed the acupoints in his arms to prevent further bleeding; however, this also effectively signified his surrender of the ability to continue fighting

As Ding Shenzhao's "hand knife" was about to strike his face, Dugu Hanjin suddenly crouched down, his limbs pressed against the ground like a spider, and then he swiftly began to spin, evading and countering, his claw-like movements rolling back like a wheel

Ding Shen felt an extraordinary and indescribable sensation surging within him; the pair of swords seemed like an extension of his own body. Holding them in his hands was entirely comfortable, and he could hardly perceive their expected weight, as if they had already become one with him

The two individuals each had their own thoughts, while the passersby they stopped frowned impatiently and said, "Are you done asking? I need to leave now"

The two individuals turned around in astonishment, only to see a man in a blue robe with pronounced features, sporting a pair of elegant mustaches at the corners of his lips, and a hint of nonchalance in his smile, greeting them.

Ding Shenzhao shook his head and said: "What if I become the champion? Wouldn't I have to marry the young lady on the other side? I currently have no plans to get married."

The martial arts world is a place filled with opportunities everywhere; every day, some rise while many others sink.

The sword becomes feathers, the knife becomes wings, conjuring a blade shadow and sword net in the air that is more profound and intricate than the 'Earthly Calamity Claw', cascading down towards Dugu Hanjin like the Milky Way pouring down.

Ding Shenzhao almost blurted out the words "nonsense" but managed to compose himself and said, "It was you who said you wanted to try your luck, so the solution is naturally up to you to think of."

Ding Shenzhao accepted the cheers of the crowd for the first time as a victor, feeling a mix of emotions in his heart, unsure of what flavor it truly was

Ding Shenzhao was still hesitating: "Isn't this... not very good?"

On the arena, a young man dressed entirely in black, with a cold and proud demeanor, has already won five consecutive matches and is currently battling his sixth opponent

Xiao Yao smiled and said to Jun Tian, "You, my brother Ding, truly have a unique personality"

Xiao Yao smiled and said, "Then let it be that I have my differences. After today, I will welcome your challenges at any time. How about we be friends for just one day today?"

Indeed, Jun Tianxie, one of the three heroes, is not an ordinary individual; even the slightest peculiarity about myself cannot escape his keen observation

Even if you win the arena, it does not necessarily mean you have to marry that young lady. You can feign that your achievements are not yet complete and that you do not wish to delay her youth, and so on. In short, one word is 'delay' and another is 'evade.' As long as the goal of becoming famous is achieved, it suffices.

Hearing this, Ding Shenzhao was taken aback, unsure of what to say, when Dugu Hanjin had already turned his back to him and walked down from the arena

Jun Tianxie chuckled and said, "My brother and I were so focused on getting to 'Death Peak' as soon as possible that we forgot to pay attention to the latest news"

Even if it is not to become the "golden son-in-law" of Luo Fuguan, the opportunity to witness the spectacle is something that an ordinary person would never miss

Xiao Yao smiled slightly and, showing no concern for the obviously fabricated name of Jun Tianxie, said: "Do the two of you want to get a closer look at the arena?"

In recent days, under the "guidance and instruction" of Ding Shenzhao at hetushu.com, there has been a certain understanding of notable figures in the martial arts world, no longer the ignorance of when one first entered the field

When ! ''

Although it is the most clichéd method of provocation, it remains an effective way to test the enemy's strengths and weaknesses. This is especially true as Dugu Hanhxin can easily discern Ding Shenzhao's lack of experience in the martial world, making it even more likely to yield results

Xiao Yao displayed an expression of interest and said: "Do you want to become famous? Then you should seek out the Dragon Hero or participate in the Third Challenge of the World."

The "Jinghua Hall" has rapidly risen to prominence within a mere three years, becoming a significant force in both the legitimate and illicit realms, and the contributions of its leader, "Financial Backer" Luo Fuguan, are undoubtedly indispensable

I hereby announce that Young Master Ding Si is the final victor of the martial arts competition for marriage

Unexpectedly, Ding Shen Zhao shook his head at this moment and said: "I am only here to compete in martial arts, and I have no interest in matchmaking whatsoever"

Ding Shenzhao was moved and said: "Good!"

The judge was momentarily stunned upon hearing this, and it took quite a while for him to comprehend and respond, saying: "This... how can this be..."

Ding Shenzhao unexpectedly became a "wanted criminal" worth a thousand taels of gold overnight, which he likely did not anticipate

If it were someone else, they would undoubtedly be deeply moved at this moment. Jun Tianxie is also moved, but he is touched by the fact that the efforts invested in Ding Shen over these past few days have not been in vain—this child is indeed teachable

Dugu Hanjin looked in astonishment at the wound on his arms, a gash extending from his tiger's mouth to his shoulder. In the face of Ding Shenzhao's blade, the "Asura Immortal Body" seemed as fragile as paper, unable to withstand a single blow

Xiao Yao did not take Ding Shenzhao's rudeness to heart at all; instead, he revealed an appreciative smile and said, "I dare not, I am precisely Xiao Yao."

The woman appeared to be in her thirties, possessing a voluptuous figure and attractive features, embodying the saying "a mature beauty still retains her charm." With a slender waist, rounded hips, and breasts that are full yet not sagging, Jun Tianxie could almost feel a certain part of his lower body rapidly engorging and standing erect.

Jun Tianxie pretended not to notice Ding Shenzhao's surprised gaze. After all, Xiao Yao was a member of the "White Path Alliance." If Xi Chunyu had already revealed that the list was in his hands, then the identity of "Jun Tianxie" should not be exposed at this moment

Dugu Hanjin's tone was arrogant, which easily provoked dissatisfaction among listeners. However, due to the disparity in strength and the formidable reputation of the "Asura Hall," despite the referee announcing three times on stage, no challenger dared to step onto the arena

Jun Tianxie smiled with bright eyes and said, "I see now, thank you for your guidance, elder brother"

As one of the three heroes of Xiao Yao, it is not a difficult task to have the crowd automatically part to make way. After having Ding Shen oversee the situation, it further solidified his determination to achieve fame

This is already the most sensational news in the martial arts world, are you not aware of it

Ding Shenzhao had long felt an itch in his hands; with a leap, he soared onto the arena, leaving Jun Tianxie unable to stop him in time

Jun Tianxie looked at his heart and thought: "It is the 'Shura Earth Tribulation Claw'! Dugu Xiaozai has truly shown his skills. This is a perfect opportunity to see my brother's true strength."

Jun Tianxie appeared calm on the surface, yet inwardly he was silently lamenting

I am here

He has not experienced the smell of blood for several days

Jun Tianxie patted him on the shoulder and said: "Don't worry, everything is covered as brothers. When the time comes, we will act according to the situation, and in any case, the library will not let you suffer any loss."

Xiao Yao shrugged his shoulders, his demeanor naturally charming as he said: "Why challenge me? I am merely a carefree wastrel."

Du Gu Han's last trace of arrogance faded from his face, replaced by an expression of utmost caution, clearly regarding Ding Shen Zhao as a true formidable opponent

The streets were bustling with people, yet no one noticed that his fingers were tightly clenched at this moment, and within the palm of his fist, blood was seeping out.

Ding Shenzhao's eyes lit up as he murmured, "What a remarkable third in the world..."

Who else wants to challenge?

This mindset has drawn crowds upon crowds around the magnificent arena constructed by "Jinghua Hall," as if the entire population of "Wuxi City" has been condensed and concentrated here, making it exceedingly difficult for later arrivals to push their way to the center.

The three individuals arrived at the arena in a line, each possessing a distinctive and outstanding demeanor, naturally attracting a considerable amount of attention along the way. Xiao Yao remained carefree and composed, Ding Shen Zhao appeared oblivious to it all, while Jun Tian Xie felt the most uncomfortable, as becoming the center of everyone's gaze was not part of his original plan

Ding Shenzhao exclaimed, "Postponed?"

The man laughed and said, "You are quite clever, my young friend. Very well, I shall tell you without hesitation. The young lady of 'Jinghua Hall' is currently holding a martial arts competition for suitors in 'Wuxi City'. It seems that your little brother behind you has also practiced martial arts for a few days. I suggest you both try your luck there. Even if you cannot become the prince consort, being selected as a guard for 'Jinghua Hall' would be enough to ensure a lifetime of comfort and security."

It is indeed the "Romantic Blade" Xiao Yao

What is commonly referred to as "hand blade" is not an extraordinary skill; however, to achieve the level of being able to emit blade energy from one's palm, as Ding Shenzhao does, truly reaching the point where the hand operates like a "blade," is not something an ordinary swordsman can accomplish, especially considering that Ding Shenzhao is so young

Ding Shenzhao said in a serious tone: "Because you are very famous"

The martial arts competition for marriage concluded in what resembled an unexpected farce, leaving "Jinghua Hall" utterly humiliated, having lost both its lady and its men. Naturally, they harbored a deep-seated hatred for "Ding Si," the instigator of it all. In a fit of rage, Luo Fuguan immediately issued a proclamation: anyone who could bring "Ding Si" before him, alive or dead, would be rewarded with a bounty of one thousand taels.

Just as Jun Tianxie was wandering the streets, searching for his "prey," a woman caught his eye and drew his attention.

When Jun Tianxie thought about when he had become a dog-headed strategist, a pleasant and melodious voice suddenly sounded behind the two of them

What is even more astonishing is Jun Tianxie; that seemingly unremarkable sword and blade are indeed extraordinary divine weapons, proving that one should not judge by appearances

Jun Tianxie looked at Ding Shenzhao with a wry smile and said, "It seems we have arrived a step too late"

Jun Tianxie maintained his thoughts in the realm of "Still Water, Bright Mirror" and spoke in an extremely natural tone: "Of course, we have never met; it is just that this gentleman's imposing presence momentarily left me in awe."

Xiao Yao smiled and said: "It is you two young brothers who are truly remarkable; otherwise, I would not have felt a desire to befriend you upon our first meeting."

Xiao Yao walked to the side of the arena with his hands behind his back. Looking up at the stage, he frowned and thought, "He has come too?"

Upon hearing this, everyone was in an uproar. The "Little Asura" Dugu Hanchin actually lost to an unknown young man, a result that no one had anticipated beforehand

Jun Tianxie hurriedly replied: "My name is Jun San, and he is Ding Si."

Ding Shen Zhao replied irritably: "Ding Si."

Jun Tianxie walked along the street for quite a while, his smile remaining unchanged on his face

Ding Shenzhao unexpectedly agreed with him, saying: "It is indeed a pity"

Ding Shenzhao also wore a grave expression; it would be simpler to kill him with a single sword than to force his way into such a crowd.

The crowd, drawn from all directions, packed the already sizable "Wuxi City" to the point of being impassable

Dugu Hanjin clearly did not possess the same level of composure as Xiao Yao, as evidenced by his slight astonishment at the pseudonym "Ding Si." Although it was a very subtle reaction, it provided Ding Shenzhao with the opportunity he sought to take action

At this moment, the audience below finally came to their senses and responded with thunderous applause

It seems that Lady Luck is still on his side

Dugu Hanjin displayed the demeanor of a prestigious family, subtly stating: "Defeat is defeat; how could I, Dugu Hanjin, seek excuses?"

That person cast a glance at the two individuals, seemingly reproaching them for their ignorance

Dugu Hanjin furrowed his brow, but being a scion of a prestigious family, he quickly regained his composure and said: "Alright! State your name."

Is there anyone else who wishes to challenge this Young Master Ding Si?

Jun Tianxie noticed a spider embroidered in silver thread on the chest of the young man in black. He immediately recognized this as the unique emblem of the "Asura Hall" among the Seven Factions of the Alliance. The person before him could not possibly be "Cold Asura" Dugu Bingxin, one of the Three Heroes, so he must be his younger brother, "Little Asura" Dugu Hanxin.

In Du Gu Han's eyes, a flash of brilliance appeared and quickly vanished, clearly recognizing that Ding Shen Zhao was different from the previous challengers. With a cold smile, he said: "You inexperienced young lad, are you also here to compete for a marriage proposal?"

This is truly a case of killing two birds with one stone

I lost

Jun Tianxie and Ding Shenzhao answered in unison without a moment's hesitation: "Of course we do"

Jun Tianxie revealed a radiant and friendly smile like the sun, saying: "This is how my good brother should be"

Ding Shenzhao apologetically said: "I believe Miss Luo will definitely find someone more suitable than me. I am truly sorry, my apologies."

Leaving the Sea of Trees, both individuals felt as if they had crossed into another world. Under the insistence of Ding Shenzhao, Jun Tianxie had no choice but to travel overnight towards the direction of "Death and Life Peak." This time, they naturally dared not to play any tricks of getting lost.

Ding Shenzhao thought for a moment and finally made up his mind, saying: "Alright! I will go along with your suggestion"

Gazing at the seemingly endless wall of people, Jun Tianxie at this moment is filled with such sentiments, only able to smile wryly in resignation

Ding Shenzhao's face showed no signs of joy, and he calmly said: "I rely on the advantage of weapons, winning through unfair means."

Although Dugu Hanjin is not as skilled as Dugu Bingxin, who ranks among the top three heroes known as "Cold Asura," his mastery of the "Asura Immortal Body" exceeds fifty percent, making him a prominent elite of the new generation

He employed methods akin to cunning plunder, combining forces with local powers to purchase essential goods such as salt, iron, and wine at low prices, and then sold them to other cities at prices exceeding ten times the original cost, accumulating a vast fortune in a short period of time

Ding Shenzhao said coldly: "Are you the 'Flirtatious Blade' Xiao Yao?"

Ding Shenzhao furrowed his thick eyebrows and asked in confusion, "What great opportunity?"

Dugu Hanjin was taken aback, yet remained calm in the face of danger, reorganizing the claw net into a defensive shield. He thought to himself, with your pair of broken copper and rotten iron, you cannot hope to sever my "Asura Immortal Body" with your knives, swords, and claws in a direct confrontation

Ding Shenzhao said lightly: "I was originally going to challenge them; however, since I have encountered you now, why seek the distant when the near is available"

That is the face of her mother

Having spoken, he executed his lightness skill, soaring over the heads of the crowd like a great roc. After a few rises and falls, he vanished without a trace, leaving behind a bewildered audience and a judge on the platform who appeared ashen.

Jun Tianxie could only respond with a bitter smile

Do the two little brothers want to go to the edge of the arena

He is not in a hurry to find Ding Shenzhao; aside from having a few matters to attend to, it would be easier for the latter, driven by his primal instincts, to come looking for him.

With a casual smile, the blade is drawn, and the sword moves

Heavenly and rebellious, he gazes upward, as the white clouds, propelled by longing, gradually transform into an unparalleled and exquisite visage.

Ding Shenzhao glanced at Jun Tianxie and said lightly: "I already have a brother, and I no longer need friends"

For some reason, he had a particular "interest" in women of this age. The woman felt the burning gaze directed at her face, and when she looked up, she met Jun Tianxie’s eyes. Her heart trembled, and she hurriedly turned her head away, thinking: "Why does this young man's gaze seem so wicked?"

Before the turmoil began, Jun Tianxie quietly left the crowd alone. Xiao Yao should have seen his actions, yet he showed no intention of stopping him.

Xiao Yao's every move remained so graceful and pleasing to the eye. He smiled faintly at the two and said, "I would also like to go to the arena to watch the battle. May I accompany you two brothers for a while?"

That person looked at Jun Tianxie and Ding Shenzhao, finding their appearances somewhat pleasing, and patiently explained: "When the great hero Long was engaged in battle with the Seven Beasts of the 'Underworld', he sustained injuries. Upon learning this news, the third in the world voluntarily announced that this duel would be postponed until the great hero Long has fully recovered"

Indeed, the third fruit of the world is truly the third of the world, and Lord Yanhuang has not chosen the wrong successor to defy the heavens

It is easy to imagine that such means of generating wealth will inevitably attract criticism and scrutiny. However, with money, one can achieve remarkable things. With Luo Fuguan's generous financial backing, establishing a private army that rivals the government is not a difficult task

Ding Shenzhao still would not let him go, saying: "The location and venue do not make much of a difference"

Xiao Yao's gaze fell upon Jun Tianxie, and with a hint of surprise, he said: "Does this young brother recognize me, Xiao?"

Jun Tianxie secretly laughed to himself, for only he knew the true reason behind Long Bufeifei's injury

Jun Tianxie quickly replied: "I see that you are also a well-informed person. You are in a hurry, which must mean that something significant is happening somewhere. To be honest, my brother and I are new to the world and are eager to find some opportunities in bustling places. We would greatly appreciate it if you could kindly point us in the right direction. We would be immensely grateful to you."

With a reverse grip, he drew the sword from behind with a sound of "clang" as it unsheathed. The "Grass-Cutting Sword" and the "Ring-Holding Blade" gifted to him by the mysterious figure in the forest felt like a pair of wings generated by the blades in his hands

Before Jun Tianxie could finish speaking, the person said: "You must also be going to 'Shengsi Peak' to watch the duel between Dragon Hero and the third in the world, right? I advise you not to make the trip in vain, as the duel has been postponed."

Xiao Yao was taken aback and said, "Hand blade?"

Ding Shenzhao's eyes flashed with a glimmer of light, and he said coldly: "You are also one of my targets for challenge"

Wherever there are beautiful women, there is his "pervert," which is a variable beyond his calculations

The duel was postponed, which not only demonstrated the demeanor of being the third in the world, but also indicated that he would not take advantage of others' misfortunes. Furthermore, it left Long Bufe with a debt of gratitude, and even if he remained psychologically unaffected, he had already lost a step in terms of momentum.

The referee, following the customary practice, sought the next challenger. However, after witnessing Ding Shen's effortless victory over Du Gu Han Xin, naturally, no one dared to step forward to humiliate themselves.

The person who fought against him was clearly no match for Dugu Hanjin, as he was knocked off the stage in less than ten moves, leaving with a face full of regret after his defeat

Jun Tianxie found that the crowd on the road to "Death Peak" was not as numerous as expected, leading him to speculate that something had changed, and the facts later proved that his inference was indeed correct

Jun Tianxie paid special attention to Xiao Yao's reactions beside him. He noticed that Xiao Yao always wore a smile on his face, yet it was impossible for anyone to discern his true thoughts.

At this moment, Jun Tianxie interjected, saying: "What a pity, what a pity, this is not a suitable place to determine a winner."

Xiao Yao said: "Indeed, I have yet to inquire about the names of the two esteemed individuals"

Jun Tianxie smiled faintly and stepped towards the woman, causing her already tense heart to rise to her throat. However, he brazenly walked past her and then disappeared into the crowd

However, having many people does not necessarily mean one can surpass a true martial arts master. Therefore, the quick-witted Luo Fuguan devised a plan: the "Martial Arts Competition for Marriage." Under this pretext, Luo Fuguan could easily gather various skilled individuals who had come from all directions, and among them, the most outstanding one would be chosen as his son-in-law

If it were someone else, they would surely regard Ding Shenzhao as a madman or a fool at this moment. However, Xiao Yao did not do so; he simply smiled and observed Ding Shenzhao for a while, then said: "Can I not be your friend instead of your enemy?"

The master "Dark Asura" Dugu Suifeng, who originated from a background as an assassin, established his own sect relying on his ruthless and practical killing techniques, as well as the "Asura Immortal Body," which ranks among the top three martial arts in the world. However, he despises mingling with the evil path, and his character, which harbors a deep-seated hatred for wickedness, has instead made him a formidable adversary that causes great headaches for the demonic sect. He remains a constant presence in the top five of the "Death List" year after year

Yet, despite her thoughts, her heart was uncontrollably "thumping," and her face had turned a shade of red.

The "Shura Hall" is considered one of the more controversial sects among the seven factions of the White Path Alliance

However, the third move in the world is also very impressive

Ding Shenzhao did not speak, but the fighting spirit in his eyes had clearly diminished, indicating that Xiao Yao's demeanor had garnered a certain degree of favor from him

Jun Tianxie clapped his hands and said: "Of course it is a martial arts competition for marriage. 'Jinghua Hall' is one of the top three prestigious families in the martial arts world. If you can emerge victorious in the arena, how could you not gain significant recognition?"

Only the woman remained standing in place, unsure whether to feel relieved or disappointed.

Unexpectedly, Ding Shen was not moved at all, and with a composure as steady as a mountain, he said: "I came up here solely to challenge you, and it has nothing to do with the marriage proposal."

Jun Tianxie bid farewell to that person with great gratitude, then turned to Ding Shenzhao excitedly and said: "Brother, your great opportunity for fame has arrived"

Xiao Yao shrugged and said, "That is truly a pity"

The palm traced a semicircle in front of the chest, following a mysterious path that subtly contained the principles of heaven, aimed at striking the solitary and cold heart.

"Employing talent is the only way for every faction to survive and thrive

Xiao Yao clapped his hands and said: "Little brother, your words have awakened those lost in dreams. This is the arena for martial arts competitions and courtship, not a place for life-and-death duels"