Chapter 1, The Exile Land

Episode Synopsis

Tianbao Prefecture, deriving its name from the phrase "the treasures of nature and the splendor of heaven," is rich in mineral resources, with treasures found everywhere, making it a dazzling metropolis of myriad colors

This is a perilous land, where water, soil, and air are all toxic, and where monstrous beasts roam freely, along with terrifying earth barbarians, making it a place of doom for practitioners.

This is also a treasure land, rich in mineral resources, where items that are rare and precious elsewhere can be easily obtained, attracting countless people to venture here and make their mark in the world

This is even more of a chaotic place. Do you know what is the most worthless here? Human life! Xie Xiaoyu, who has been exiled and feels as if her heart is dead, unexpectedly encounters the family of Li Guangzong, who has returned from the Central Plains to Tianbao Prefecture, and is taken in by them

By a stroke of luck, Xie Xiaoyu accidentally obtained a sword cultivation secret method titled "Sixfold Method" and learned that Li Guangzong is also a half-hearted practitioner.

In order to repay Li Guangzong's kindness and to one day return to the Central Plains to avenge the inexplicable grievances, Xie Xiaoyu decided to guide Li Guangzong and his companions in their cultivation of martial arts, while she herself would completely abandon her past teachings and embark on the path of sword cultivation

He quickly selected the finest set of clothes and respectfully presented it. The young man showed no hesitation and immediately removed his prison garb, changing into the new attire. The clothes were slightly long, but everything else was satisfactory. It was a blue long gown, cinched at the waist with a brocade belt. He also requested a purple silk ribbon to tie his hair back neatly at the nape of his neck

"Make yourself at home," Li Guangzong said with a smile

The actor and one of the merchants also recognized Li Guangzong, and they all cupped their hands in greeting

Upon seeing such a large group of people enter, those in the courtyard were momentarily taken aback. Then, a woman clapped her thigh and exclaimed joyfully, "Brother Li, Sister-in-law, how come you are back?"

"It would be good to have a place to live," Li Guangzong exclaimed, then sighed, "We have been away for fifteen years, and this city has grown much larger."

Li Guangzong slapped his son on the head and sternly reprimanded, "It would be enough if you didn't get me into trouble. Do you think I don't know where your dog-like eyes were looking on the way here?"

West City? Aunt Li had a troubled expression.

He appeared to be around fifteen or sixteen years old, with hair that had not been combed for a long time, long and disheveled, falling loosely. His appearance was above average, and although his eyes were not large, his gaze was sharp as a knife

The actors spoke of the changes in Tianbao Prefecture, while Li Guangzong discussed the events occurring in the Central Plains

Everyone who knows Li Guangzong is very warm-hearted, bringing out all the good things they have. Upon seeing this scene, Li Guangzong no longer objected. After all, he kept this favor in mind. With so many people, there were also many who offered their help. Soon, more than a dozen tables were set up in the courtyard, and a row of stoves in the kitchen flickered with flames, as the women showcased their culinary skills

At the other end of the street, a group of fellow townsmen was waiting, surrounding a middle-aged woman with graying hair and a face full of anxiety.

The streets here are wide, flanked by buildings that generally range from five to seven stories, with the shortest being three stories. The ground floor facing the street is certainly occupied by shops, offering a variety of goods. The same items in these shops are priced significantly lower than those at the stalls around the docks

The young man could tell that this was dried blood. He did not know what to make of it, whether it was a show of force. He also did not understand why this guy had targeted him, thinking he was easy to bully

The journey is long, and boredom sets in. The women gather together, holding needles, thread, and scissors, engaging in needlework while chatting casually; the men appear much more languid. At the beginning of the journey, they were quite excited, getting to know one another, but after half a year, they have exhausted all topics of conversation. They either sleep or gather in small groups to play chess.

The young man was the last to disembark, tilting his head to glance at the sky. After half a year, he had become accustomed to the dim light of the cabin, and for a moment, he felt somewhat out of place.

"Your return this time is truly unwise." The actor finally recovered, but he no longer wished to discuss the previous topic, so he changed the subject: "With several consecutive black tides, pollution in most areas has worsened significantly. In the past, with some caution, one could last for a decade or two, but now it is no longer feasible. Whether descending into mines or entering dense forests, at most five or six years, and a person is rendered useless."

As soon as the three words "snatch the rice bowl" were uttered, everyone fell silent, burying their heads in their meals. Erzi also wore an awkward expression but could not say anything; he could only hold the wine jug, refilling Li Guangzong's cup the moment it was empty, while he himself stood by in attendance

Since he boarded the ship, he has been like this, sometimes even writing and drawing on the cabin walls. During the six months of the voyage, he has not spoken a word to anyone, as if he does not belong here at all

Is everything alright in the city?" Li Guangzong asked with a frown

The man with the iron chain was enraged, swinging the blood-stained chain fiercely at the boy. He did not intend to kill him outright, so he aimed for the shoulder. He wanted to break the boy's limbs and cut off his genitals to sell to the old rabbit head in the West City

Li Fulü seemed a bit naive, as if returning here was a good thing, and he said with a smile: "My sister and I were both born here; we were still young back then"

Those who had remained silent just now all lowered their heads, clearly frightened. Knowing that this was somewhat ungracious, they still decided to stay in the city to seek a stable meal.

The so-called rush work is just that. In the copper shop, there are ready-made copper pipes; all one needs to do is cut a section according to the dimensions and then have someone bend it. There is no need for a master; simply pulling in an apprentice will suffice to get everything done.

Just as he had finished putting things away, he heard shouting and cursing from outside. Without a doubt, troublemakers had arrived.

My family also has a string of sausages

"I will keep an eye on them," Aunt Li replied

Li Fulou was already afraid of his father. He spoke out just now without thinking, but after receiving a reprimand, he no longer dared to say anything.

At that moment, a burly man with a face full of flesh approached and asked, "Kid, what are you daydreaming about?"

Attention everyone, attention everyone, we are about to reach our destination, Tianbao Island. Please prepare to disembark. The announcement is being repeated continuously.

I apologize, the child does not understand and may have offended you. A man in his forties quickly stepped in beside me

Everyone came together, having spent half a year on the boat, and from now on, we will make a living here. It can be considered a fate. Come along with us. I cannot guarantee that you will become wealthy, but you can at least have enough to eat. The uncle kindly invited.

Before he could finish speaking, a shard of porcelain flew into his mouth, cutting his lips and tongue, and knocking out his teeth

Suddenly, with a loud bang, the massive vessel shook violently, causing everyone on board to stagger. Fortunately, the shaking lasted only a moment before it stabilized.

The sky is a clear blue, and the blazing sun hangs high in the zenith. On the boundless expanse of clouds, a giant vessel is slowly making its way. The giant vessel cleaves through the sea of clouds, truly evoking a sense of cutting through waves and surging forward.

The giant vessel appears to fly slowly, but in reality, it can cover over 200 miles in one hour, allowing it to travel 2,400 miles in a single day and night. Therefore, in just a short while, the coastline is already within close reach

"Bald Brother, this is my territory. Why didn't you let me know you were coming?" The constable first exchanged a few teasing remarks with the bald man, and his words revealed a hint of dissatisfaction.

"Dare you say that my goods are all a deception? Do you want to die?" The vendor, infuriated, suddenly stood up and swung his hand to slap.

The people here are truly warm-hearted. As soon as I got off the boat, someone rushed to give me money, the young man praised. He wore a broad smile, appearing quite innocent.

At this moment, two individuals turned the corner. The one in front appeared to be in his thirties, slightly plump, dressed in a dark robe, with a wild chicken feather tucked into the side of his square hat, and a wooden badge pinned to his waist; he was a constable. The person behind him was indeed an actor. This constable was the actor's savior.

The cabin is shaped like a flat disc, covering an area of several acres. It is surrounded by windows, all of which are circular and the size of pot lids. Through the portholes, one can see the scenery below.

The resources in Tianbao Prefecture are abundant, with gold and silver being inexpensive. The fellow who fainted was wearing a shiny gold necklace around his neck and had his hands adorned with numerous gold rings.

Even the actors are unwilling to engage. Yesterday, no one noticed; now that it is known that this individual is a master, naturally, no one dares to be negligent

One by one, step outside, do not push, check your belongings before leaving; if anything is left behind, we will not be responsible. Another crew member stood at the door, holding a large metal horn, shouting loudly. The passengers disembarked with their families, calling out to friends, creating a noisy and chaotic scene. After a considerable amount of time, the ordinary passengers finally all got off the ship. At this moment, the sealed cabin was finally opened, and the thugs emerged one by one; now it was their turn. The passengers disembarked with their families, calling out to friends, creating a noisy and chaotic scene. After a considerable amount of time, the ordinary passengers finally all got off the ship. At this moment, the sealed cabin was finally opened, and the thugs emerged one by one; now it was their turn.

"Elder brother, why have you returned? How is sister-in-law?" the man asked. This person was only in his forties, yet his hair was already grizzled, and his face was covered in wrinkles, making him look like a shriveled old man

"Brother Li, now that you have finally returned, we must celebrate a little." The second son's wife grabbed a basket and ran out. With no fish or meat at home, it was impossible to entertain guests with just vegetables and tofu.

The person who knocked over the vase had not yet figured out what was happening when he was sent flying out. Just as the person who had been knocked down was getting back up, Xie Xiaoyu delivered a kick to his face, causing him to lie down once more

Xie Xiaoyu took a glance at the craftsmanship and understood it roughly; the skill was indeed commendable. He did not want to demonstrate on the spot, as that would reveal the secret

This enormous vessel is exceptionally large, measuring two li in length, over one li in width, and reaching a height of one hundred zhang, making it somewhat larger than an ordinary city wall. Although most of it is empty, the entire vessel resembles a giant airbag; however, the cabins suspended beneath the vessel are still packed with people, with at least one to two thousand aboard

The young man turned his head and saw a person standing behind him who was not much older than himself. He had a crew cut, a round face resembling a baked bun, and was dressed in coarse cloth. His face was rough and dark.

Father, take me to have a good look. I was born here, yet I do not know what this place is like

Let my sister-in-law and niece stay" said Erzi's wife hastily

The ship is not solely characterized by peace and tranquility

Erzi is no longer working at the dock. Li Guangzong knew his wife was anxious and quickly explained: I finally found out that he is now working at Renhe Hall in the West City

"Are you also advising me not to go to the mine?" Li Guangzong could easily guess what Erzi wanted to say

This young man has quite the skill, able to make the bald guy suffer a setback; you could say he is quite remarkable in this regard. Saying this, he gave a thumbs up.

"Huangnigang? Wasn't it a mass grave back then?" Aunt Li murmured.

I am waiting here. Xiaoyu Xie couldn't even be bothered to discuss the price; he never regarded money highly. The master went in with the blueprints. After more than an hour, he came out with a large pile of items.

"Brother Li, I trust you are well." The actor spoke in a refined manner, his voice soft and gentle

"I am too," responded several people in succession

"Don't, you are looking down on me. Such matters are quite common; if we have a fight and make the other party submit, then no one will come to trouble us in the future. In fact, you would be doing me a great favor." Li Guangzong was unwilling to let Xie Xiaoyu spend money and quickly intervened.

In Tianbao Prefecture, communication is conducted with fists rather than tongues. Who do you think you are, coming out to uphold justice, treating others as fools?" Spitting at that person, Xie Xiaoyu picked up her belongings and continued walking

This is clearly a heart-wrenching topic. The actor pointed to himself and weakly shook his head. The expressions of the others were similar. For those who come to Tianbao Prefecture to seek their fortunes, the first choice is to become a miner. There are mines everywhere here; although being a miner is tough, the income is stable. After working for five or six years, one can marry and start a family. Li Guangzong spent ten years in the mines, and the wealth he accumulated through frugality was enough for him to return to the Central Plains and live a decent life. If it were not for the pressing circumstances of the year, their household would definitely be considered well-off. The second choice is to become a hunter, which is relatively dangerous. In Tianbao Prefecture, demonic beasts run rampant, posing a grave crisis. Being a hunter allows for quick earnings, but it also leads to a swift demise.

The rear half of the cabin contains a segregated compartment. The walls of the compartment are made of iron, and the portholes are positioned very high and are quite small, not even allowing a head to protrude.

He was troubled when the pharmacy assistant, Erzi, returned

Although it is not a lavish feast, just some simple dishes, it is already quite difficult for the people in the building to have the opportunity to enjoy these

If there were truly a background, there would be no need for such tactics. Tianbao Prefecture is a lawless place; as long as one is strong enough, committing murder is trivial, and playing the "staged accident" game is no longer a viable option. If one were to use a broken pot for such a scheme, there might still be some assurance; but using such a beautiful item for a staged accident, unless the other party is a person of stature who particularly values their reputation, a broken pot cannot be presented, and one must find something of quality. But is that possible? Xie Xiaoyu walked forward with confidence and boldness. As they passed each other, the person on the left suddenly bumped into him.

Tianbao Prefecture is rich in minerals, with gold, silver, copper, iron, and tin all significantly cheaper than in the Central Plains. There are also many skilled craftsmen adept at creating household items, leading to a detailed division of labor. Here, one can find not only gold shops and blacksmiths but also copper workshops. Gold shops specialize in crafting gold and silver jewelry, blacksmiths produce heavy tools or weapons, while copper workshops focus on creating intricate items. Upon arrival, without inquiring about prices, Xie Xiaoyu directly placed a blueprint on the table

"Kid, the Four Seas Alliance is recruiting. From now on, follow me. If you refuse, I will have someone sever your tendons and sell you to a rabbit den as a consort." That person swung the iron chain, making a clanging sound.

"How could you..." The person who upholds justice has indeed emerged.

The person holding the vase was momentarily taken aback, and only then did he come to his senses. He threw the vase to the ground, but before he could shout, Xie Xiaoyu had already spoken up first

Outside the fence lies an open space, chaotic and disordered, with people everywhere spreading oilcloth on the ground to sell their goods, while others carry baskets and call out their wares along the way. Many more are either just disembarking from ships or preparing to leave by boat, accompanied by a large number of friends and family members welcoming or bidding farewell, creating a noisy, bustling, and frantic atmosphere. This place is completely different from the world he had previously lived in. The young man wandered aimlessly, his gaze constantly sweeping over the items on the stalls.

"TOEFL, TOEFL." Li Guangzong also repeatedly clasped his hands in salute

Others may one day leave this land, but they cannot. To leave, he must rely on his own strength to cross the vast and boundless sea. The young man took a deep breath

Upon witnessing the resourceful tactics of this constable, Xie Xiaoyu immediately understood that this matter would no longer stir up any further turmoil

Can you help me take a look? Can this thing be printed? The master took one look at the drawing and immediately recognized it as the work of a skilled artist

If time drags on too long, Li Guangzong is likely to fall behind

"Should we send him to https://m.hetushu.com Rabbit's Nest?" the young man asked the soldier.

As the dispute settled, the elder lowered his head and said to the young man: "Little brother, you have just arrived here, haven't you? Are you all alone?"

"Name your price." Xie Xiaoyu did not say much more. He had already inquired before coming here; this shop is the largest copper workshop in the West City, and the skills of several craftsmen are quite good. The items he wanted could be easily obtained, at most they would be a bit expensive.

The young man was not pretentious and immediately agreed. He had not yet figured out his next step, and the other party seemed quite familiar with the area, so spending some time with them might be a good choice.

If it were an ordinary person, they would surely stumble and then bump into the person on the right holding a vase, ultimately causing the vase to shatter on the spot, resulting in the other party successfully engaging in a scam.

Li Guangzong spoke of the disaster, a faint hint of murderous intent flickering across his face, clearly indicating that it was not merely a natural calamity, but likely involved human misfortune as well

Last night, more than twenty of them crowded into a barn filled with dust and cobwebs, yet in the morning, he was completely spotless.

"Hurry up!" shouted a soldier nearby.

The people on the ship have long been eager to set foot on solid ground again; the lengthy journey of six months has been nothing short of an ordeal

"Others should stay at home and not run around, to avoid getting into trouble." Li Guangzong glanced at Aunt Li. While others may not understand the gravity of the situation, his wife had lived here for over ten years and surely knew the implications.

I came here with my uncle when I was twelve years old, and I became prosperous here. Fifteen years ago, I returned to the Central Plains. I thought I would never come back in this lifetime, but unexpectedly, due to poor harvests and continuous disasters in my hometown, it became impossible to continue living there, so I had no choice but to bring my family back here.

Two crew members ran over, turning a large winch. With a series of light sounds resembling "clank, clank," the hatch at the bow of the ship slowly opened

None of the items on the stall caught the attention of the youth, nor did anyone inquire about them; however, there are certainly people in the Central Plains who would eagerly want them. Those scraps would be considered quite good items elsewhere.

"Please assemble the table," said Xie Xiaoyu. This remark reminded everyone.

The drawing is not complicated; it is merely a large, round copper kettle with a high spout, which appears somewhat odd. The lid has a screw opening, with a note indicating the need for sealing; in addition, there is a strangely shaped copper pipe, with a section that twists and turns, resembling coiled intestines

This gentleman speaks in a gentle manner, yet his hands crackle with sparks, with threads of electric light weaving between his fingers

With a series of piercing sounds, the bald man on the opposite side felt a violent tremor at the Tian Tu acupoint. Five streams of hidden energy struck there in succession. The true energy enveloping his body blocked the first three strikes, but the fourth penetrated through, followed by the weakest fifth strike. Although the final blow was feeble, it was sufficient to injure him. The bald man staggered back several steps, leaned against the wall for support, and spat out a mouthful of blood

Before leaving, he had already inquired about the location of the nearby vegetable market

That person crouched on the ground with their mouth covered, and their fingers were all covered in blood.

... ... ''

At that time, you were only a few months old, and your sister was just over one year old. Li Guangzong reminisced about the past. The three of them were talking as they had already crossed the street

Each person has their own aspirations ... ... " Li Guangzong paused. He could not bring himself to say those heavy words

Huangnigang is not far from Renhetang, so this journey is not very long. As soon as we crossed the intersection, we indeed saw a large archway.

The people in the cabin, in a state of drowsiness, were all awakened by the sound of shouting. The women hurried back to their men; some of the men began to pack their belongings, while others ran to the porthole to look outside

Xie Xiaoyu cast a fierce glance around her

The heart of the youth, once as lifeless as a withered tree, rekindled a glimmer of hope; perhaps he could find an opportunity that belonged to him here

The vendors in this place may not necessarily know each other, but they share an unspoken understanding; they all rely on deceiving newcomers to make money. Thus, they immediately grasp the situation and swiftly draw out long swords, cleavers, and other weapons from beneath their stalls

The young man recognized this as a repeating crossbow; as soon as the trigger was pulled, it would instantly shoot out six arrows, which were specifically designed to penetrate various protective energy shields.

Now, what I worry about the most is that one day those barbarians will come to attack the coast. The merchant also picked up his wine cup. The uncle felt a deep sense of anxiety. Had he known this, he would not have returned; enduring hardship in his hometown for two years, even if it meant gnawing on tree bark, would have been better than coming here to risk his life

Should we still strike?" Xie Xiaoyu refrained from taking lethal action. If he truly killed this person, that individual's subordinates might seek revenge, and Li Guangzong's wife and daughter would still be residing in the city. Wouldn't that lead to trouble?

Ahead lies the destination of the journey, which is also the largest city in Tianbao Prefecture—Linhai. Looking down from above, one cannot see the edge; as far as the eye can see, there are houses everywhere.

He does not kill, but he wants the other party to know that he can take their life at any moment. As long as the person is not foolish, they will certainly not dare to act rashly

My surname is Xie, and my name is Xiaoyu. I am from Dayuzhou

Although the air is quite fresh, he sensed a hint of something uncomfortable lurking within it. Before coming here, he had heard that the water, soil, and air of Tianbao Prefecture were all toxic. While the toxicity is not severe, it is like a maggot clinging to the bone, difficult to remove, and it accumulates over time, deepening day by day. For cultivators, this is a land of doom

As the saying goes, "birds of a feather flock together." Among those brought out by Li Guangzong, more than half are quite similar to his son, some are rather dull, and others somewhat lack common sense

A row of bamboo poles is lazily arranged above the ceiling, with clothes hanging out to dry on them. There are also men in the ceiling; several small traders are tidying up their stalls, while a performer with a face full of white powder is practicing his vocal exercises there

The soldier looked at the young man with some surprise. After a moment, he said nonchalantly, "If you have that ability, go ahead. The lives of people here are very cheap; his life is cheap, and so is yours. Whether he dies or you die, no one will care."

Not only are there many shops, but there are also many people. Most of them are poorly dressed and hurried, as if driven by an invisible whip. There are also wealthy individuals, who leisurely ride in two-wheeled carts pulled by people, flaunting themselves in the streets. Unlike in the Central Plains, there are many women here standing by the roadside, posing and preening.

No wonder everyone knows that this place is dangerous, yet those who cannot get by elsewhere all come here to seek opportunities

Li Guangzong led the group inside. Erzi urged him to come directly, assuring that there would be no issues. Before entering, they heard a commotion coming from within.

A circle of soldiers stood around the giant vessel, each holding a flat box measuring two feet in length and over one foot in width, with a hole in the center the thickness of a finger

Below, there are no longer clouds and sea; in the distance, a winding and continuous coastline can be seen, and even further away, there are faint shadows of mountains.

The young boy, like picking beans, pulled out all six of his gold teeth, still stained with blood. Although it was not as terrifying as the bloodied chain, it still sent chills down one's spine and made the hair stand on end.

As soon as she thought of the trouble she had caused, Xie Xiaoyu leaped out, her left hand sweeping, and from a distance of two zhang, she surprisingly pulled Li Guangzong back forcefully. His right hand curled into a fist, and he unleashed a series of rapid strikes.

They stayed on the same boat for six months. Although the young man was in a cell, he could still see outside. This family was quite interesting. The uncle was nothing special and did not stand out, but the people he brought along were very amusing, and their conversations often elicited laughter. People on the boat frequently played tricks on them, yet they did not get angry

At that very moment, the actor let out a sigh, a sound that resonated with rhythm, filled with unspeakable sorrow

He casually tossed a golden bean onto the counter and instructed the copper shopkeeper to help him wrap the items and place them into a bamboo basket for him to take away

Breaking the rules and thinking one can brush it off with a single remark? Is it that easy? The vendor at the stall stood his ground. He insisted that the other party had just arrived, was unaware of the local intricacies, and had no backing. While speaking, he also cast a glance at several other stall owners nearby.

In the future, do not speak carelessly. The vendor warned the young man with a pancake-like face, then ceased his admonition and sat back down.

Xie Xiaoyu turned around and came out; this matter was his oversight

There was a large formation blocking the way, which was somewhat passable. However, elderly and frail individuals could not endure it; during that period, there were daily trucks transporting corpses out. The actor seemed to recall those terrifying days, his lips trembled slightly, and he was at a loss for words

The people from the same village immediately followed suit, their bundles in hand representing all their possessions. A group of individuals, clutching their bundles and carrying their luggage, trailed behind Li Guangzong

Uncle Li, count me in

The five colors captivate the eyes, and the five desires stir the heart; this bizarre and fantastical city truly lives up to its reputation as the Great Magic Capital. They walked very slowly along the way. It was not due to a lack of stamina among the group, but rather because there were always people pulling and tugging at them—some urging them to buy things, while others, such as prostitutes, directly approached them. To the locals, newcomers are seen as easy targets and fools, and the time spent dealing with these individuals often exceeds the time spent on their journey. As evening approached, they finally found Renhe Hall. To the locals, newcomers are seen as easy targets and fools, and the time spent dealing with these individuals often exceeds the time spent on their journey. As evening approached, they finally found Renhe Hall

As people gradually dispersed, even the most thick-skinned among them felt embarrassed to stay longer, leaving only Li Guangzong's companions and the Erzi family behind

"You are being extravagant again," Li Guangzong complained.

I have a piece of salted fish, perfectly suited for pairing with wine

"Are others unwilling to go together?" Li Guangzong confirmed once again

When everyone had become accustomed to the long and tedious journey, a sudden sound came from above the cabin.

The young man walked leisurely with his hands behind his back, glancing here and there, not missing a single stall. The launch and landing point for the massive airship was clearly one of the liveliest places in the city. Not only was the square bustling with activity, but the surrounding streets were equally vibrant, lined with vendors on both sides of the road

The giant vessel gradually slowed down and gently descended

Li Guangzong's opponent was a tall man with a waxy complexion and a bald head. This individual was approximately in his early thirties, wearing a copper belt about the width of a palm around his waist, and dressed in a fitted short coat that left his bare arms exposed. His waxy yellow skin glimmered with a dull yellow sheen. He struck with broad, sweeping motions, lacking any particular technique, yet he prevented Li Guangzong from getting close.

"Tomorrow, I will send you to the mine; everyone must go to the mine. You are full of youthful vigor and absolutely cannot stay in this place, or else it is easy to go astray," Li Guangzong said decisively. He was someone who had been through it; in the past, he had seen too many people swallowed by this alluring brilliance, ultimately leaving nothing but scraps behind.

The troubles are not limited to the toxic gas and miasma. Ten years ago, the indigenous tribes united and elected twelve leaders, and since then, they have become increasingly fierce. Two years ago, Qianmu City, the year before last, Zigui City, and last year, Fenglan City, were all conquered by them. It is said that on the day the cities fell, all the men were killed without exception, while the women and children were captured and taken back as slaves. It is unknown how those indigenous people manage to keep them alive. The actor poured himself a drink, clearly drowning his sorrows in alcohol. It is said that on the day the cities fell, all the men were killed without exception, while the women and children were captured and taken back as slaves. It is unknown how those indigenous people manage to keep them alive. The actor poured himself a drink, clearly drowning his sorrows in alcohol.

With just a glance, Xie Xiaoyu understood. The bald man practiced the Vajra Toughness and Arhat Body, having already reached the realm of iron skin and bronze bones

One of the two individuals is holding a large vase in their hands, which is adorned with a myriad of colors and is quite beautiful; however, it can be confidently asserted that it is a counterfeit.

I enjoy tranquility, so I curl up alone in the corner, next to me is a very untidy large fellow. The youth does not wish to mention his identity as an exile.

Scamming typically involves several individuals working together, with one person initiating the act while others provide support. At this moment, among the pedestrians on the road, there are certainly accomplices from the other party, waiting for someone to step forward to mediate the situation

Turning around, the captain once again cupped his hands in salute towards Xie Xiaoyu

In the past, he would not have cared at all, but now he can only obediently comply. Unlike the ordinary passengers, he and those thugs radiate a red glow. This is a sign.

"Do not give face if you do not deserve it." The middle-aged man crossed his arms over his chest, then raised them above his head, reciting: "Loyalty, righteousness, benevolence, and filial piety, united as one."

"Have you been here before?" asked Xie Xiaoyu

Indeed, the young man nodded in agreement. He had a favorable impression of this family

He could not resist, so he came here. After exiting the gate, the young man looked around.

This strike was undoubtedly fierce, as even those a hundred paces away could hear a muffled thud, accompanied by a sound reminiscent of an egg cracking

Seeing that most people had left, Li Guangzong, who had been drinking all along, put down his glass and said, "Everyone come over, I have something to say"

"Your sister-in-law is outside." Li Guangzong wanted to catch up properly, but this was not the place for conversation. The middle-aged man quickly walked to the door, greeted Aunt Li, and then turned back to Li Guangzong, saying: "I can't leave here, you take your sister-in-law to my house first. The place where I currently live is the old Huangnigang. After you cross the street corner, you will see a large archway."

However, the people around him all looked straight ahead, not daring to meet his gaze, and their expressions were no different from those of the prisoners who had shared a boat with the young man for half a year

Due to the large number of people and the crowded conditions, the air is not circulating, making this cabin particularly stuffy. Everyone else is bare-chested, with many even reduced to just their underwear, yet he is dressed neatly and impeccably.

A square eight-immortal table can accommodate eight people. The men are seated at the front of the table, with Li Guangzong occupying the main seat. The seat next to Li Guangzong is empty, reserved for Erzi. To his left is an actor, and the other five at the table are also his old acquaintances

"Even if you don't think of yourself, you should consider the children." Erzi patted Li Guangzong on the shoulder. Li Guangzong felt his resolve wavering.

"Do it immediately?" The master seemed somewhat troubled.

"If he can go out, why can't I?" Li Fulu exclaimed.

Before he could walk out of the archway, a series of muffled sounds like "crack" echoed, and the air suddenly vibrated. A fight had broken out.

Unfortunately, Xie Xiaoyu is not an ordinary person; his heels seem to be rooted in the ground, his body does not sway at all, and instead, those who collide with him are the ones who are sent flying out.

Li Fulou was unwilling in his heart, yet he did not dare to show it on his face; otherwise, his father would not merely reprimand him verbally, but would certainly resort to using his hand.

Here lies a vast open space, surrounded by a circle of fencing. Outside the fence, people are bustling about, and numerous stalls are haphazardly arranged, creating an exceptionally lively atmosphere

After wandering around the row of stalls filled with the smell of fish and the stench of chicken and duck droppings, he found himself holding a straw nest made of rice straw, neatly containing two hundred eggs. Each of these eggs had been carefully selected by him, and under the sunlight, there was absolutely no shadow on any of them. All the eggs were secured with straw, with additional straw packed in the middle to prevent any collisions.

Da Li Guangzong responded and led the group away

"This thing is not difficult," the master replied

The archway consists of three tiers, with eaves that curve elegantly upwards. It is adorned with red and gold embellishments, giving it a rather grand appearance. Behind the archway lies a courtyard, flanked on both sides and at the back by a circle of main buildings, which rise six stories high.

"If you want to fight, move away from here so as not to dirty the ground; it looks disgusting," said a soldier standing guard by the fence.

Unfortunately, no one is interested in the scenery outside the window. When they first boarded the ship, everyone on board felt quite fresh and spent the whole day leaning against the window, gazing outside. Most of these people usually face the yellow earth and turn their backs to the sky; how could they have ever seen the vast expanse of clouds beneath their feet like an ocean? However, as time passed, everyone grew tired of it—what could be seen over the course of half a year was either the sky or the clouds, or else the sea.

When the actor was leaving, he happened to see a bald man leading a group of people rushing this way. Someone was shouting about a large red archway. Looking in that direction, it was indeed heading towards where he lived, so he hurriedly called for reinforcements, only to find that the situation here had already concluded.

Dressed in this manner, he no longer appeared as a long-haired prisoner, but rather like a scholar embarking on a study abroad.

Would you like to give it a try? the master asked

"Your subordinates are blind and wish to deceive me. You actually did not bother to inquire properly and recklessly came to confront me. Now, let us settle this matter thoroughly." Xie Xiaoyu walked over step by step

With a firm squeeze, the necklace, rings, and gold teeth were all crushed into a lump, transforming into a gold ingot

Forget it, I originally planned to leave tomorrow, but now I can only stay for one more day. Tomorrow I will take you around to see if anyone is willing to do me a favor.

In terms of physique and facial features, this young man is fundamentally incomparable to the surrounding thugs and villains. However, there are hardly any people around him; everyone would rather squeeze a little closer than approach him too closely. Unlike others who appear drowsy, this young man is deep in thought.

One of the combatants is Li Guangzong. His punches and kicks are swift, akin to flashes of lightning, and as he moves, he always seems to carry strands of electric light. At times, when he throws a punch, an arc of electricity may shoot out.

The young man lazily turned his head and asked the soldier: "If there is no bloodshed, is it permissible to kill someone?"

This person speaks in a rude tone, and keeps swinging a thick iron chain in his hand. The chain has a slight reddish hue, but it is not rust.

The uncle and his son seem to have some impression of him. They both dislike that ugly and dirty fellow, so they never go near him

On the way back here, he did not conceal his movements at all. That group of scam artists must have accomplices, which is why they followed him all the way to this place

Upon seeing such a exquisite counterfeit, he felt increasingly at ease

In addition to the eggs, he also had a paper bag in his hand, which was filled entirely with insect seeds, each no larger than a pinhole.

The fellow townsmen he brought along quickly gathered around.

My surname is Li, and my name is Guangzong. This is my son, Fulu. We came from Beihai Prefecture. The uncle said: "We are a group of more than twenty people, all fellow villagers."

Hello everyone, it's not easy for us to gather together. It's just noon, so I will go order some snacks for everyone to enjoy together," said Li Guangzong. This fight was inexplicable; although they won, he was worried that something might happen to his wife and daughter while he was away. It would be much better if the constable surnamed Zhang could take care of them a bit.

Li Guangzong walked in alone and called out to a dozing clerk at the counter. The clerk opened his eyes, stared for a while, and then jumped up in surprise

The land beneath our feet is named Tianbao Prefecture, derived from the phrase "Wuhua Tianbao". This place is rich in treasures, with the most abundant being various mineral resources. Over the past three hundred years, more than sixty gold mines and over two hundred silver mines have been discovered, while copper, iron, and tin mines are countless. In earlier years, many people stumbled upon gold nuggets while walking, leading them to wealth, which is why this continent is regarded as a land of riches and opportunities

Li Guangzong initially intended to refuse, but upon considering the dangers at the mine, he ultimately could not bear to do so and silently agreed.

The small courtyard was crowded with people, mostly women. They gathered together, picking vegetables while chatting, discussing the gossip of the Zhang and Li families. Nearby, there was a well, with people constantly coming to draw water, while a circle of others washed clothes beside it

After a moment of reflection, Xie Xiaoyu understood that her prompt payment had likely sparked some thoughts in certain individuals. Indeed, just after crossing a street, she saw two people approaching her.

The onlookers on both sides avoided him as if he were a plague, all taking a wide detour around him. By the time they returned to the archway, it was only noon. Xie Xiaoyu entered the inner room with her belongings. As for the bronze vessels, that was one thing, but the eggs and insect seeds absolutely must not be bumped.

Only one boy sitting cross-legged in the corner was somewhat different from the others

Early the next morning, Xie Xiaoyu stepped out of the archway

The tables were moved, the chairs were moved, and soon four tables were pushed together, accommodating more than twenty people who all sat down.

Suddenly, those traders were all rendered speechless. They certainly understood what this represented; whether true or false, they could no longer continue to entangle themselves in the matter

The youth has gained some understanding of the abundance of this land

This person is quite clever; when unable to win, he directly concedes and pleads for mercy

"Help me print it out immediately, I am waiting here." Xie Xiaoyu pulled over a stool and sat down there

"What can I do?" Li Guangzong laughed heartily. A few people were there exchanging pleasantries and chatting, while Xie Xiaoyu was looking around on her own.

"You have all heard what was just said. Do you have any thoughts?" Li Guangzong did not press the matter. He was the one who brought these individuals out, and now it seemed he had made a mistake, so he did not wish to err again.

Tianbao Prefecture is a lawless place, where the authority of the government is limited, and the public officials may not necessarily be able to maintain order. However, this head constable seems to be familiar with both Baldy and Li Guangzong, and he is quite slick, undoubtedly a skilled mediator. Such a person is exactly what is needed to reconcile the situation.

I will take it. Li Guangzong reached out to take it and turned to his son, saying: "Fulou, support your mother and sister; it is not a short distance from here." Li Fulou responded affirmatively

Turning around, the captain couldn't help but shout at Li Guangzong: "Brother Li, it's been over ten years since we last met, and you look even more spirited than before."

At first, everyone was quite lively in their conversation, but the atmosphere gradually became somber. The actor let out a soft sigh and pointed towards the sky

Erzi was holding two food boxes, containing the side dishes he bought from Qingfeng Building after closing. In total, there were four dishes: stir-fried lamb offal, pork belly, braised fish, and shredded meat with water bamboo, all filling four large bowls.

"I have some matters to attend to outside." Xie Xiaoyu said as she greeted.

Vendors dare not be negligent. This land belongs to the ruthless; only those who are cruel and powerful can walk with impunity, until they encounter someone even more ruthless and stronger.

"Making a living in the city is not easy." This statement caused everyone to stop their chopsticks and put down their wine glasses

The young man wandered aimlessly down a street, continuing to walk and observe, occasionally stopping to rummage through the stalls.

"What do you call a two-wheeled vehicle? It's not easy to make a living here; we should save wherever we can," Aunt Li said busily. She stood up and picked up the large bundle that was under her.

"Why be polite among brothers?" Erzi sat down next to Li Guangzong, picked up the wine jug and filled it for him first, then poured a cup for himself. After clinking glasses with Li Guangzong, Erzi shook his head and said, "However, there is one thing I must mention"

It was a large pharmacy, with a prominently displayed character for "medicine" written in large letters on the blue-green wall. The sign itself was not big, merely embedded above the entrance.

Including the actors, all these men were strong and robust when they first arrived here. They had all worked in mines and forests, but later their health deteriorated, which led them to seek alternative livelihoods

Just as he was squatting on the ground flipping through a string of bracelets, a deep, resonant voice suddenly came from behind: "My father said that everything here is a scam, it's best not to buy."

The young man certainly would not let this opportunity slip by. He first removed the jewelry, then pried open the fellow's mouth. Just a moment ago, when the fellow grinned, a dazzling golden light shone from within, revealing indeed six gold teeth.

Xie Xiaoyu walked at the back. He was the most relaxed, carrying nothing, and along the way, he looked around curiously. Linghai City was the initial settlement of people in Tianbao Prefecture. Over the course of more than 300 years, this place has transformed from a small village into its current scale

"My bamboo basket, which I bought for three thousand taels of silver, has actually been damaged by you two bastards!" He slapped his hand in anger, delivering a resounding slap.

The exterior of this archway is quite splendid, yet the interior appears rather simple, constructed entirely from moso bamboo. Not only the archway, but even the residential buildings are made with moso bamboo serving as columns and beams, which are then built up with mud bricks. The junctions between the moso bamboo and the mud bricks are compacted with a mixture of mud and coir.

"There is no need to go to such expense." Li Guangzong quickly intervened

As the sky gradually darkened, Erzi's wife suddenly remembered something and waved her hand to have people move the table and chairs

"Father, I will follow you," Li Fulü was the first to speak, as he did not want others to think he was there to take away their livelihood

"Sister-in-law, I haven't seen you for fifteen years, yet you still look the same." Aunt Li happily stepped forward and took the woman's hand

In the end, the small trader remained calm and said: "For those of us who cannot work in the mines, we can only find other ways to make a living. A few years ago, business was somewhat easier, but now it has become difficult, as more and more young people are afraid to leave the city. Everyone is competing for jobs within the city; furthermore, some people, unwilling to work hard for a living, have resorted to illicit paths. As a result, the city is becoming increasingly chaotic, and life is becoming more and more difficult."

I have no objections; it would be fine to go to the mine with you." Xie Xiaoyu said calmly and unhurriedly.

These fifteen years have truly been marked by continuous natural disasters. Later, there were three occurrences of the black tide, but they were not as terrifying. " a merchant said淡淡地说道. He had become numb and appeared to be rather indifferent.

Of course, this is only one reason. Another reason is that he wants to see the backing behind Li Guangzong. Xie Xiaoyu has not forgotten the actions Li Guangzong performed in front of the stall and the incantation he recited; this is certainly a mark of a local gang.

Back then, you were quite fortunate; less than six months after you left, a massive black tide arrived, unprecedented in scale. Everyone at the mine where you had been stayed perished completely.

"Is this matter due to me, or shall I take care of it?" Xie Xiaoyu pinched a golden bean and placed it in the actor's hand, "I am not familiar with this place, so I will trouble you."

Li Guangzong's skills are superior to that person's, but he suffers a disadvantage in terms of martial arts techniques. The opponent has a body as tough as bronze and iron, impervious to blades and spears; when Li strikes with his fists and feet, the opponent merely sways a little at most.

Those people sent him here, seemingly offering him a way to survive and granting him freedom, but in reality, they are allowing him to fend for himself.

He stood there contemplating what his next step should be

"Why haven't I seen you before?" the young man asked with a puzzled expression

He certainly has his reasons for getting up so early. Vegetable sellers only come out in the morning and evening. In the evening, prices are a bit cheaper, but the selection is limited. In the morning, prices are higher, but he can choose freely.

Holding these items, he did not return to the archway, but instead went to a copper shop

Call for a two-wheeled vehicle. The West City is quite far, and my mother cannot walk. Li Fulü is dutiful to his mother. He was still young when he left this place and does not remember much, but he often heard his parents talk about their days here, so he has some impression of the situation.

The bald man leaned against the wall and spat out a mouthful of blood, filled with regret. However, he was also puzzled as to how such a skilled individual could reside in such a humble place. With his back against the wall, the bald man clasped his hands together, cupped them slightly, and hoarsely said: "Esteemed sir, I was blinded by ignorance and did not recognize your depth; I have offended you. I offer my apologies here. However, a bachelor only strikes nine times, not a tenth; shall we leave some room for each other?"

There is still a piece of cured meat in my home

The slightly more complicated task involves the copper kettle, which requires first hammering out two hemispheres, and then welding them together to form a complete sphere. A significant portion of the effort is indeed spent on the welding process.

In the small cabin, there were two to three hundred people crowded together, most of whom had fierce expressions, some with scarred faces and others covered in tattoos, making it immediately clear that they were not of good character

As soon as he stepped outside, he felt that someone was watching him

"You are in such a hurry, I will expedite the work for you, and charge you fifteen taels of silver." The master directly quoted a high price, raising the cost of something worth three taels to five times that amount.

Li Guangzong turned his head and said: "Everyone be careful with your bundles, do not carry them on your backs, hold them all in front. This place is not safe; there are people everywhere stealing things"

No need. He often goes to the rabbit hole, knows the way, and understands how to get there said the soldier with a hint of schadenfreude. The young man did not rush to leave; instead, he bent down to search the unconscious man. He first stripped the man of his clothes and casually tossed them to a nearby vendor, saying, "Help me exchange for a set of clothes that I can wear."

The young man did not look back, lightly swatting as if shooing away a fly; the iron chain was immediately redirected, making a full circle before landing between the legs of that person