Chapter 002: The True Scripture of the Northern Wilderness

However, in the following few instances, Grandfather looked at him intentionally or unintentionally. Hong Lie understood in his heart and took the initiative to say: "Grandfather, Second Brother's injuries looked serious yesterday, but they are not life-threatening. When I visited him last night, he had already improved significantly"

This morning, Hong Yu suddenly thought that a brick could be used to strike out a representation of a novice monk from the "Secret Research Sutra." If other texts were used, for instance, martial arts manuals, would there be any effect?

From now on, you will keep a close watch on this little beast

Hong Yilan greeted her elder brother again and then took a seat at the lower position of Hong Lie.

The pieces are two fingers wide, all made from the finest white jade, exuding a warm and smooth quality that creates an illusion, as if grasping them would feel like holding a handful of mutton fat

Hong Sheng did not express any surprise; he merely shot a fierce glare at Hong Lie. Hong Lie felt a burning sensation on his face; he had just claimed that his second brother seemed to have turned over a new leaf, only for Hong Yu to cause trouble again.

Hong Shengri visibly breathed a sigh of relief, yet bitterly remarked, "This useless beast deserves to die outside, so as not to bring shame to our Hong family!" As he spoke, he forcefully took several bites of his meal.

What weaves together those simple pieces is a golden cord made of nine strands of gold. Just from these external elements, one can discern that this roll of jade slips is an exceptionally precious volume within the entire military library!

Indeed

Elder Hong Yuchao slightly bowed and said, "I would like to borrow some classics"

For decades, Old Master Hong has fought in battles across the south and north, collecting martial arts classics in abundance, with at least those stored in the military library being of sixth rank or higher. Any one of these, if released, would incite a storm of bloodshed and fierce competition within the Great Xia territory.

As Hong Yu was about to sit down heavily on the ground, the unknown acupoint within his body suddenly caused the novice monk to slightly move his lips, as if a faint Buddhist chant was emanating. A stream of golden light sand began to radiate from his mouth, swirling around Hong Yu's entire being

Grandfather

Among those floating texts, there are varying levels of importance, and the same applies to those that remain unchanged. This indicates that the function of a brick is not related to its level of significance

Clear at a glance

In the Qingyuan Continent, martial artists are classified into nine ranks, but below the ninth rank, there are countless unranked martial artists.

And when he thought of this, a word suddenly emerged in his mind: fate

In his room, several old books were scattered about, consisting of a collection of Confucian essays. Hong Yu had already tried them with no response, but he remained undeterred, heading straight to the military library without even having breakfast.

Hong Yu stood here, and the numerous profound martial arts secrets seemed to resonate with something within his body

At that moment, the second steward, Hong An, hurriedly entered, saying: "Master, Young Master, Miss, you should go take a look quickly, the Second Young Master has gone mad again..."

Later, although Old Master Hong was greatly enraged, the person who secretly purchased the "Xuan Yuan Mo Huo Po" feared the power of the Hong family and voluntarily returned the text. However, since this technique had already been disseminated, that individual must have secretly made a copy.

In a moment of daze, Hong Yu heard the voice of "Grandfather"

Hong Yu has already rushed into the military library, which was originally guarded by three hundred elite troops from the Martial Valor Camp summoned by Old Master Hong, along with the four top-tier experts of the Hong residence. However, how could these individuals dare to truly obstruct Hong Yu

Yes. Just as Hong Lie had taken his seat, a girl of about thirteen or fourteen, with her hair styled in a ponytail and dressed in a dashing boy's outfit, walked in.

Five years ago, my youngest daughter, Hong Chengyao, went missing during the battle against the northern Di Rong.

Those who remain utterly still, and whose fate has yet to arrive.

... ...

It is impossible for the Nine-Rank Martial Code to be cultivated to the Eighth Rank.

Within Hong Yu's body, the monk's dharma form gradually ceased the sound of the Buddha's teachings. The golden mist of light converged back from within him, enveloping the outer layer of the monk's dharma form, forming a cloud of light.

Among those numerous classics, some appear to "float" in his eyes, while others seem like rocks in water, remaining utterly still

These massive iron pillars and bookshelves naturally divide the entire military library into several areas. In the center of these areas, there may be an ancient stone tablet, inscribed with a technique inherited from the primordial ancient times; or a tower-shaped platform with seven layers, stacked layer upon layer, at the top of which is enshrined a legendary technique left by a certain supreme powerhouse; or perhaps a sturdy cage made of deep-sea dark iron, imprisoning a peerless demonic technique that drives one to madness and obsession. Alternatively, there may be a tower-shaped platform with seven layers, stacked layer upon layer, at the top of which is enshrined a legendary technique left by a certain supreme powerhouse; or perhaps a sturdy cage made of deep-sea dark iron, imprisoning a peerless demonic technique that drives one to madness and obsession

Hong Yilan also wore a look of disbelief, but chose not to argue with her elder brother

In his previous life, he was always cautious, lacking background and family heritage, in a society where "sexual relationships occurred in turns," where even a small amount of power could oppress the common people who were unable to resist.

It would be strange if the little girl did not hate him

Hong Yu saw Hong Yi Lan snort coldly from a distance, completely ignoring her brother. With a swift twist of her slender waist, she left decisively, secretly shaking her head and smiling wryly. He still remembered why this "younger sister" was so unfriendly towards him.

I shall obey your command

He wandered through the military library, and before he knew it, he had arrived in a certain area. In the center of this area stood an ancient bronze long table, upon which was cast a bookshelf made of a mixture of gold and silver, elegantly displaying a scroll of jade tablets.

Hong Yushen reached out to pick up the jade tablet, unable to resist stroking it. This exquisite jade indeed felt exceptional in his hand. He gently unfolded it, and ancient characters leaped into view, expounding a profound yet grand martial arts philosophy.

Even those battle-hardened veterans cannot withstand the might of Hong Shengri, let alone Hong Yu, a useless and foolish scion

Although he no longer cares for his two grandsons, the Hong family’s third generation consists of only three children, facing the predicament of having no successors at any moment. How could he truly not be concerned about his grandsons? Even if he is completely disappointed, he still harbors a glimmer of hope that one day his grandsons will truly awaken to their responsibilities

Just like those acupoints and meridians, he may know their names, but when it comes to their specific locations and functions, he is completely in the dark, knowing nothing at all

Around each iron pillar, there are six massive cast iron bookshelves encircling it, filled with numerous bound ancient books as well as a considerable number of bamboo slips

Hmph! Hong Shengri snorted heavily and said: "Don't speak well of that little beast! Sudden realization? How many bad and foolish things has he done over the years? If he could suddenly realize, the sun would rise from the west!"

The second son, Hong Chenglue, and his wife sacrificed their lives for the country seven years ago

On the grasslands of the Northern Di Rong, the finest steeds of the Qingyuan Continent are produced. Since childhood, my younger sister, who has always preferred martial attire over feminine adornments, has longed for such a batch of dragon foals.

However, if you are only practicing a second-tier cultivation method, then the possibility of advancing to a first-tier integration is almost completely severed

A thought stirred within him; perhaps in this lifetime, he need not live as he did in the previous one. He could act according to his own will, reflect upon his heart before the mirror, and simply ensure that he has no regrets towards heaven and earth above, nor towards his kin below. Everything else would be as he wished, relishing in the joys and sorrows, and boldly forging ahead!

Over the years, Old Master Hong has kept a low profile, and it seems that his temper has improved significantly. The large-scale mobilization of experts has not occurred for four or five years.

Hong An helplessly said: "The second young master has barged into the military library! Sir, you have instructed that without your command, no one is allowed to enter the military library!"

From Hong Yu's memory, this is indeed the case

My younger sister saved money for several years to buy a Dirong foal, which she cherished immensely. However, it was secretly taken out and slaughtered, and then a group of friends enjoyed a lavish barbecue feast of horse meat by the Angry Water River outside Wudu City

When my younger sister Hong Yilan mentioned our second brother, she also curled her lips, her expression somewhat disdainful

"Grandfather." Hong Lie bowed respectfully and inquired. Hong Shengri, seated at the center of the family banquet hall, waved his hand slightly: "Sit down and have breakfast."

Hong Yu immediately felt a weight lifted off his shoulders, breathing became smooth. Thus, standing before his formidable grandfather, a general of unmatched might, he straightened his body, resembling an ancient pine tree

Hong Shen!" With a loud shout from Hong Sheng, one of the four third-rank divine saints originally guarding the military library stepped forward and cupped his fists in response, saying: "This subordinate is here!"

"As you command," Hong Yu replied with a slight bow, feeling a surge of joy in his heart. He still harbored some resistance towards his own identity, unable to call out 'grandfather' or refer to himself as 'grandson'.

Since the disappearance of our daughter at a young age, my elderly wife has begun to shut herself away, and she has not come out until now

Although the Great Xia Dynasty maintained harmonious relations with the neighboring states of Canglan, Chuyue, Hesang, and Hualang, it had a longstanding enmity with the northern Di Rong. The two sides did not engage in trade, and the Di Rong dragon steeds were already expensive; due to the lack of trade, these steeds were exceedingly rare. My younger sister was only able to purchase this batch of dragon steeds by relying on her identity as the granddaughter of General Hong, yet they ended up being consumed by him

Although Hong Yu is notoriously known as a wasteful second-generation rich, a spendthrift, and a foolish playboy, he is still the continuation of the old man's bloodline. It is acceptable to obstruct him a little, but despite the old man beating him severely each time, if someone else were to hit him, the old man would undoubtedly fly into a rage, like a cat whose tail has been stepped on.

Hong Shengri observed that streak of defiance and couldn't help but feel suspicious: Has this young man truly changed his ways after being severely beaten? If that is the case, he should have refrained from excessive protection earlier and allowed him to be beaten up a bit sooner.

... ...

"Borrowing?" The old man revealed a hint of a mocking smile: "Could it be that you're short on funds again?"

As he read line by line, Hong Yu felt dizzy. He came from a world of technological civilization where traditions had declined, and he was completely unaware of the basic principles of martial arts, meridians, and acupoints mentioned in the ancient texts.

Hong Yu disregarded those who obstructed him and continued to walk in on his own. He was convinced that these individuals would never truly resort to violence, so despite the difficulties along the way, he successfully entered the military library.

What good deed has that beast done now? Hong Shengri remains as unyielding as a mountain. Hong Yuchong has collided with the imperial carriage, flirted with the Holy Maiden of the Daoist sect, and even attempted to seize the military achievements of the soldiers. He has committed all sorts of misdeeds, and regardless of what he does or what schemes he concocts, Hong Shengri is not the least bit surprised.

Martial artists who have only refined their martial skills but have not been able to condense their martial energy are all classified as inferior grade. Although there are vast differences in strength among those in the inferior grade, no one is interested in categorizing these inferior individuals into detailed levels

After a moment of watching, Hong Yu felt dizzy and shook his head with a bitter smile. He reached out to touch the brick in his arms, its hardness giving him a glimmer of confidence

Hong Yu stood there, feeling somewhat perplexed by Hong Shengri's thoughts. He was very concerned that the master had previously been "deeply sinful," which made it difficult for the old man to trust him. If that were the case, it would complicate the implementation of his plans

Hong Lie stepped forward and, feeling somewhat gratified, patted him on the shoulder: "Second Brother, keep it up. As long as you are willing to study hard, the entire Hong family supports you!"

Instead, Hong Yu stood before Hong Shengri, unmoved, with an air of calmness and composure.

This is merely Hong Yu's own feeling; to outsiders, there appears to be no change in Hong Yu's eyes.

... ...

Now, Hong Yu has unexpectedly broken into the military book treasury again, and Hong Shengri's expression darkened instantly: "What does this little brat want to do again? Is he out of money once more? Didn't he just come up with the idea of forcibly seizing merchants' property? Why is he back to targeting the family's collection of classics?"

Especially these four masters of the three realms are very clear that last night, although the old man appeared calm on the surface, he was actually secretly mobilizing experts to investigate the matter of Young Master Hong's injury.

What are you doing in the military library?" Hong Shengri asked sternly.

Hong Shengri finished the porridge in one gulp, wiped his mouth, and strode out: "Watch me beat this wicked creature to death!"

This matter infuriated Hong Shengri, who personally took action to beat Hong Er Shao to the brink of death. He then declared that henceforth, without his command, no one is allowed to enter the military book repository.

The establishment of the Military Book Repository was, for the Hong family, a monumental achievement spanning generations, intended to benefit future descendants. However, no one anticipated that within just three generations, the Hong family would be on the brink of extinction

Humph! The old master let out an angry snort, and his imposing aura suddenly diminished. The two third-grade celestial beings behind him, who had been channeling their martial energy to withstand the old master's pressure, found themselves without an opponent and involuntarily staggered.

Hong Shengri waved his hand and said: "Alright, we will do as you say. Remember this: study diligently and do not entertain any mischievous ideas. If anything goes wrong, I will break your dog legs!"

He looked around; the area of the military library was vast, measuring fifteen zhang in length and ten zhang in width. Massive iron columns stood upright within, supporting beams of steel.

Hong Shengri maintained a fierce expression on the surface, yet was somewhat surprised internally

Hong Yu had a realization in his heart; his own eyes, "clear at a glance," should be a special skill brought about by a certain novice monk's appearance. Those that were floating should be what he could currently "strike" using the brick and wooden fish, while those that remained completely still were evidently not affected.

Hong Yu was even more so; just now, he barged in without a care, exuding a sense of complete liberation. It was as if a person had been curled up for too long and suddenly stretched out, the feeling of refreshment was self-evident

If grandfather feels uneasy, I can come to the military library every day to read here. Before I leave, please have the expert guarding this place count the number of books, and only let me go if the count matches. However, I must not be disturbed while reading.

The servants and the illustrated books presented a light and delicious breakfast, and the three members of the family ate quietly without speaking.

Today, Hong Yu is no longer the foolish and extravagant young man he once was. His rush into the military library is certainly not for the purpose of stealing martial arts texts to sell for money; rather, he genuinely wishes to examine these precious items that have secured the Hong family's livelihood and existence.

Then, a prestigious martial arts classic of the third rank, if it were to be auctioned, could fetch at least 3 million taels of silver as a precious treasure, yet it was sold by Young Master Hong for merely 100,000 taels of silver

The old general once, during a certain campaign when the battle was going unfavorably, shocked the thirty thousand troops with his anger

Hong Yu, this prodigal second-generation heir, is truly a source of distress for the Hong family. In the past, Hong Shengri tried countless methods to guide him back to the right path, but this little rascal simply refuses to learn. He spends all his time with a group of dubious friends, being incited by them, causing minor troubles every three days and major ones every five days. After several years, Old Master Hong has also lost all hope.

The monk's dharma form, lurking within a certain acupoint of his, slowly raised its head and opened its eyes, instantly filling Hong Yu's vision with a golden light

The old man's mustache twitched as he asked, "Do you really want to read?"

Hong Lie behind him let out a sigh of relief, fearing that his grandfather would say nothing and immediately give him a beating. The second brother was frail and had just been injured; he truly could not withstand another round of punishment.

Just as he was about to take out the brick, a furious roar came from outside: "Little beast, get out here now!"

Now this young man actually knows how to study, which is definitely a good start. The old man appears to be very stern on the surface, his old face still gloomy, but in reality, hope has been rekindled in his heart.

This volume of jade tablets contains the first-class martial arts text "Beihuang Zhenjing". It was precisely with this top-tier martial arts that Hong Shengri became the foremost general of the Great Xia Dynasty, establishing his status as a top-tier expert in the second rank of divine opening.

Then, he drove everyone out, closed the door, and sat alone in the military library, finally letting out a slight sigh of relief

"Lan'er has arrived, let's eat together." Hong Shengri saw a hint of a smile on his granddaughter's face

However, today, Hong Yu stood tall before him, his eyes no longer reflecting the timidity of the past, but instead revealing a hint of guilt and stubbornness

Hong Lie let out a quiet sigh; his grandfather was well aware of everything, and the matter concerning his second brother could not be hidden from him at all

Hong Yu felt helpless, as the matter was indeed initiated by the master, but now it all had to be attributed to him

The Armory Library is the collection hall of the Hong family, but it exclusively houses invaluable martial arts classics. In the Great Xia Dynasty, martial artists are categorized into nine ranks, and martial arts classics are similarly divided into nine grades. To cultivate to a higher realm, the foremost requirement is to possess martial arts classics of the corresponding level

In such an environment, who is not cautious and careful, constantly weighing the pros and cons

Hong Yu felt a sense of emotion; his elder brother seemed to always be so kind, even after being deceived many times, he still willingly chose to believe in him

Hong Shengri finished his arrangements, snorted, and waved his sleeve as he left. In the moment he turned to exit, a strange sense of joy surfaced in Hong Shengri's heart: has this brat really made some progress?

Last night, during his sleep, Hong Yu felt little. At that moment, he discovered the remarkable utility of the novice monk's form, and he was secretly astonished, not expecting that this novice monk's form could be so powerful

This grandson is quite useless; in the past, he would act like a mouse seeing a cat whenever he encountered me. However, today, in my fury, my second-grade divine cultivation surged forth, and the killing intent honed through thousands of battles erupted fiercely. I estimate that this grandson will either be so frightened that he loses control of his bowels or will certainly collapse to the ground on the spot

This military book repository was originally prepared for future generations, thus both the eldest son Hong Chengye and the youngest granddaughter Hong Yilan were qualified to enter and study the martial arts classics within. However, four years ago, the prodigal son Hong Yu, facing financial difficulties and lacking funds, infiltrated the military book repository and stole an invaluable third-grade martial arts classic titled "Xuan Yuan Mo Huo Po"

Grandfather was truly furious, completely disregarding the feelings of those around him. As the two third-rank celestial beings entered with Hong Sheng, they could not help but take a step back, while Hong Lie and Hong Yilan retreated even further, avoiding Grandfather's oppressive aura. Hong Lie thought of Hong Yu, who was directly opposite Grandfather, and couldn't help but shout, "Grandfather, the second one can't take it..."

Hong Shengri understood the good intentions of his old wife, yet he felt a bitterness in his heart: this old woman, even if she truly helped you advance to the rank of a first-class Hezhen, what difference would it make? The Hong family is already in such a state

Old Master Hong has fought for decades, remaining incorruptible and dedicated to public service, with no other hobbies except for an obsession with martial arts. He has amassed a vast collection, further supplemented by his subordinates who deliberately flatter him with offerings. Over the years, the Hong family's military library has accumulated a significant number of martial arts techniques, each one worth its weight in gold

Hong Shengri looked at the vast banquet hall, where only three generations of his family were dining, and felt a sense of desolation in his heart. Among the four great pillars of Wudu, which family was not filled with children and grandchildren, thriving with life? ... Only he, Hong Shengri ... . The old man silently shook his head

Hong Lie pondered for a moment and then said, "Grandfather, I feel that this time after Er Di was injured, he seems a bit different from before. Perhaps he has truly had a sudden realization."

Corresponding to the nine ranks of martial artists, martial arts techniques are also divided into nine ranks. The evaluation of these techniques is based on their "potential" classification. In other words, only by practicing a first-rank technique can one possibly reach the realm of first-rank integration. However, this does not mean that merely practicing a first-rank technique guarantees the attainment of first-rank integration.

The heavy iron doors of the military library creaked open, revealing the towering figure of Hong Shengri at the entrance. Even at home, the broad and hefty Duori treasure sword remained at his waist, never leaving his side. At that moment, the grandfather's hair stood on end, his eyes blazing with anger, his hand resting on the battle knife. An imposing aura surged forth like a flood, like a mountain, overwhelming Hong Yu in an instant, making it difficult for him to breathe. His already frail body felt as if it could not bear the weight, swaying precariously.

It is worth mentioning that he has three children, but the current situation of his eldest son, Hong Chengye, is rather lamentable, and it is better left unsaid

Hong Lie was drinking the plain rice porridge in his bowl when he suddenly felt something. He looked up and saw his grandfather staring at him, but the gaze quickly shifted away.

However, in reality, Hong Lie and Hong Yilan immediately received their grandfather's authorization, while only Hong Yu was excluded.

Hong Shengri need not feel guilty, for the Hong family is a family of generals. A family of generals does not believe in tears, but only in achievements! Hong Yu need not be held accountable for past actions, but he must repay with the best results in the future

The next morning

Hong Shengri had little expression on his face, but in his heart, he was muttering: This brat wants to read? My second grandson can read? When has this little rascal ever been so diligent? If he were truly this hardworking, how could he have ended up in such a mess?