Chapter 4: A Gathering of Heroes Amidst Rising Winds and Gathering Clouds

How could I possibly know everything that happened that day?" Lian Qingyan said angrily

It is said that he is the foremost disciple of the legendary Ke Yanyue, the unparalleled sword of the Taihang Mountains. Having fully inherited his master's true teachings, given time, he could replace Ye Daohua Qing, the leader of the first stronghold in South Taihang, and become the leader of the southern forces of the Taihang Mountain stronghold.

They are the only two individuals born into the Luo family. Even if they are not responsible for this case, I will still hold them accountable. As long as I bring back the heads of these two today, the Hainan Sword Sect will command the martial world in the future, and who would dare to voice any objections? The words of this cold-faced swordsman were piercing and left everyone present seething with anger

"Senior brother, what... what should we do?" Zu Bei Qiu asked, trembling with fear and anxiety.

"Brother Zheng, a wise person should not hesitate any longer. If you do not think of yourself, you should at least consider your newly recognized junior disciple," said Dang Sandao coldly

Young Master Liu Shisangu smiled slightly: "The Palace Master shares a deep bond with the late Elder Luo, and the ancestors of the Luo family once rendered great kindness to the Palace Master's hometown. Therefore, upon the tragic massacre of the Luo family, the Palace Master was extremely enraged and has issued orders to capture the murderer at all costs. Some sacrifices, in comparison to apprehending a great villain, are necessary. Could it be that the esteemed Lord Guan, known for his strict enforcement of the law, wishes to show leniency at this moment?"

As soon as this person announced his name, the entire teahouse suddenly fell silent, as if everyone had received a death warrant from the King of Hell, their spirits dampened and their faces filled with despair

At this moment, Lian Qingyan had already exchanged a few words with Young Master Shuangliu and the Guanzhong brothers.

"If you want to compete with me in Luoyang, feel free to bring it on!" Lian Qingyan declared resolutely.

At this moment, Lian Qingyan disregarded the sarcasm in his words, stood up, and leaped out of the window

Zheng Dongting glanced at the curled-up Zu Beiqiu, sighed softly, and reluctantly raised his head to clasp his hands, saying: "Indeed, may I ask your esteemed name and what brings you here?"

Observing the chaos at the Wufu Teahouse caused by the appearance of the Hainan Divine Sword, Bai Li Zhan, Lian Qingyan smiled faintly and said, "Brother Gong truly has a way with words; just as you were about to kill Zheng and Zu, someone rushed out to do the job for you."

As soon as their names were mentioned, Zu Bei Qiu heard three hissing sounds of cold gasps coming from the swords of Zheng Dong Ting and the Guan Zhong brothers. Since the mid-Zhen Guan period, the Yue Nu Palace has been recruiting male disciples and establishing an external cabinet to study new styles of swordsmanship, leading to a surge of male swordsmen from the Yue Nu Palace in the Tang Dynasty's martial world. This Shuang Liu Gong Zi created the Hui Feng Wu Liu Sword based on the Yue Nu Palace's sword techniques. This sword technique requires the dual swords to be in perfect harmony and the minds to be interconnected, making it particularly suitable for twins to wield together. Once unleashed, it can devastate the enemy with astonishing power, which is why this Shuang Liu Gong Zi is referred to in whispers as the Yi Shan Shuang Sha, a fearsome character that instills dread in all who encounter him.

Watching his ever-changing sword techniques, even Qingyan's breathing gradually became hurried: "The Twenty-Four Constellations of the Eastern Lord, the solitary star pierces through layers of clouds, myriad shooting stars stir up dust, the Northern Dipper breaks the Eight Formations. The sword drawn in a unified four styles, he has actually mastered it!"

"Can you really help me find Qiutong?" Zu Bei Qiu asked loudly with surprise, but then he frowned, sighed, and shook his head, saying, "No, no. Even if you can help me find Qiutong, I have already become the murderer who killed her entire family; she will never pay attention to me again."

"In the Guanzhong Penal Hall, the instruments of torture are excessively brutal. Why are we, the Yue Women’s Palace, not allowed to handle this matter? Once the Soul Transference Technique of the Yue Women’s Palace is employed, no matter how stubborn the individual may be, they will inevitably speak the truth." One of the twin brothers coldly smiled and declared.

Invite Yun Liu Thirteen

Zu Bei, in a state of desolation, said: "I do not know either. I only hope to find Qiu Tong and bring her back to my hometown in Yizhou, so that I can forget all the rights and wrongs of the rivers and lakes. However, having reached this point, I do not even know whether I will live or die tomorrow, so what plans can I have."

"Hero Lian, I am unworthy, unworthy!" Zheng Dongting quickly rose to return the greeting. Lian Qingyan boldly waved his hand, saying, "You two need not be so formal, come, sit, sit."

The disciples of Guanzhong pay their respects to the Moon Hero

Although the Eighteen Villages of the South Taihang have been operating in the shadows, each village leader is a top expert with exceptional skills. Among them, the seven village leaders of the Head Seven Village are the most formidable. Despite his young age, Dang Sandao ranks second, and his knife technique surpasses that of Ye Duanhun, the leader of the Third Village, known for his Nine Turns to Reincarnation Blade, indicating that his martial arts are truly unfathomable

"Senior Brother, is he very impressive?" Zu Beiqiu couldn't help but ask.

My goodness, this is the renowned Yue Xia Lian Qingyan. A near-immortal figure in the martial world, it is said that he comprehended the sword path at the age of fifteen, mastering unparalleled sword techniques. After eight years in the field, he has shaken the Jiangnan and Jiangbei regions, single-handedly confronting the Dian Cang bandits, meeting the Gaochang wolf thieves under the moonlight, and decisively securing the western route of Tianshan, causing the Gaochang masters to no longer dare to covet Tianshan. I tell you, in another ten years, he will be the second Sword God.

At the moment when the two were discussing the heroes of the world, the roof of the teahouse suddenly collapsed. A young man, dressed in gray clothing, with a gray cloth wrapped around his head, wearing cloud boots and a golden belt, suddenly leaped down from the roof and gracefully seated himself at the tea table directly opposite Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu.

Brother Zheng's pursuit of the Thousand-Faced Fox has reached Lingnan; if we speak of the reward silver from the Righteousness Manor, Brother Zheng is truly deserving of it

At Wufu Teahouse, Dang Sandao seemed taken aback by Zheng Dongting's audacity. He stood with his arms crossed, his eyes blankly fixed on Zheng Dongting, appearing somewhat stunned.

"Will the great hero Lian be willing to speak on behalf of the two of us?" Zheng Dongting said in surprise

"Brother Zheng, what have you considered?" Party San Dao slowly turned his head and asked with a smile

The faces of the Guanzhong brothers and the Shuangliu brothers instantly turned ashen. At this moment, the Shuangliu brothers could no longer suppress their fear and simultaneously drew their renowned willow leaf twin swords, standing ready in a defensive posture

At this moment, four individuals of varying attire from the martial world have appeared in the Wufu Teahouse, and the overwhelming aura of murderous intent permeating the teahouse emanates from these four individuals.

"Lian Qingyan, what exactly are you hiding? If I find out, I fear you won't see the Luoyang competition this year!" Gong Tianying said sternly

Zheng Dongting, a man of great righteousness, is indeed a true hero. Zuba Qiu, having just entered the martial world, is innocent and naive; what crime has he committed? If you obstruct my rescue, and if you are a companion of evil, you must let me pass!

Zheng and Zu have slandered the heroic spirits; they deserve death and it would not be a loss to kill them. Although our prestigious sect is not in a position to take action, isn't it just right for the Party of Three Knives to eliminate them instead

Furthermore, in the opinion of my fellow disciples and me, both Brother Zheng and Brother Zu are men of honor and integrity, certainly not villains. The Luo family massacre should have nothing to do with them. I kindly ask you, Moon Hero, to investigate further and find the true culprit as soon as possible. Linghu Jie glanced at Zheng and Zu, who were peering curiously from the tea table, and said eagerly.

"Disciple, lift your head! Even if you are under the command of the Lord of the Pastoral Heavens, you should not be a coward who fears death," Zheng Dongting said sternly

Indeed! Linghu Jie followed closely behind his senior brother, gritting his teeth as he guarded the side of Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu

As soon as Linghu Jie revealed his name, a burst of clear and hearty laughter emanated from the mouths of the peculiar twin brothers

"What’s the matter? It seems that you all are unwilling to give me this face." Looking at the four in front of him, who appeared as if facing a formidable enemy, Bai Li's usually lifeless face revealed a rare glimmer of excitement. "Let’s take them on together," he said. His left hand swiftly pressed against the azure-blue sword sheath at his right waist, and a piercing sound of the sword echoed in response. His pure internal energy surged along the blade, causing it to emit a fierce roar, as if it were a monster eager to drink blood.

The sound of the golden blade's cloak was deafening as it rushed towards Zu Beiqiu and Zheng Dongting. Zheng Dongting forcefully pushed Zu Beiqiu's shoulder, shifting him three feet to the side, narrowly avoiding the strike. A flash of golden light revealed a token, resembling a golden dart, shockingly embedded in the tea table before them, buzzing and shaking. Zu Beiqiu focused his gaze and saw that the resplendent token prominently bore the five characters "Jianghu Arrest Warrant".

On the Shuyu Pavilion, Gong Tianying walked step by step towards Lian Qingyan. With each step he took, his left hand, resting on the sword sheath, would shift into a peculiar sword-holding posture. He was only four steps away from Lian Qingyan, their breaths almost mingling, yet his technique changed more than four times within that brief moment. With each alteration of his hand gestures, the aura surrounding him escalated by a level. Within those four steps, he instantaneously elevated his killing intent to its peak, as if a flood, blocked by a thousand-mile dam, was about to surge forth.

Changsun Zhonghe and Linghu Jie were deeply moved. Linghu Jie said in a solemn voice: "Are you two perhaps the renowned swordsmen, the Twin Willows, from the Yue Maiden Pavilion?"

I understand this point. Lian Qingyan smiled gently

"Hey, you bold one, these two were captured by my brothers first; it is not your place to meddle. Moreover, with their martial skills, how could they possibly kill a hundred members of the Luo family? If you kill them, you will be destroying evidence for the true culprit." The Punishing Evil Sword, Changsun Zhong, suddenly stood up and said sternly.

In today's circumstances, the safest approach is for you to stay with me, which can temporarily ensure the safety of both of you

Zu Bei Qiu and Zheng Dong Ting, having narrowly escaped death, let out a long sigh of relief while simultaneously peering towards the stairway.

Gong Tianying glanced at the sword technique of the Hainan Hundred Miles Slaughter, slowly shook his head, and coldly sneered: "The swordsmanship is half-baked, and the insight is as limited as that of a mouse. The Hainan Sword Sect has reached its end here."

Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu exchanged a glance, sitting down with trepidation before the renowned Moon Knight. Lian Qingyan casually tossed a teacup containing the eyeball of a hundred-mile kill to a nearby tea table, then reached into the air and grasped an intact teapot from that table. At the same time, he pushed two untouched teacups in front of Zheng and Zu. He gently shook the teapot, sensing that the tea inside seemed to have cooled. Thus, he tightened his grip, secretly channeling his energy, and immediately a stream of steaming hot tea surged from the spout of the teapot, accurately pouring into the teacups of Zheng and Zu.

The people of the martial world have given him countless nicknames, among which the title of "Knife-Wielding Living Yama" is the most resounding. He traverses the martial world relying solely on an unremarkable swallow-winged knife, yet this very knife has once severed the head of Fang Ruhui, a renowned master of the Guanzhong Sword Sect, causing the sect's strength to falter in the Jiangnan region. He also beheaded the leader of the Bashan Sword Sect, Tianyi Daoist, and casually took the head of the elder Zhuge Zheng of the Qingcheng Sect, who was visiting Bashan at the time. A year ago, he single-handedly infiltrated the Hainan Sword Sect's branch at Liyu Beach, personally eliminating the elder Xueshou Shiqianhu, who had the deepest enmity with the Southern Eighteen Villages, and defeated eighteen of the Hainan Sword Sect's most favored disciples. This battle solidified his reputation as the "Knife-Wielding Living Yama," making him a prominent figure in the underworld.

Recognizing ... ... Zheng Dongting was drenched in cold sweat, "This is the arrest warrant personally signed by Lord Guan"

Cold... At this moment, Zu Beiqiu couldn't help but lean over the tea table, trembling all over. Zheng Dongting quickly pushed the hot tea in front of him and whispered, "Drink it while it's hot; it will be even colder later."

It seems that Lian Xiong has long been certain in his heart that Zheng Zu and his companion are not the murderers" Gong Tianying said coldly. Lian Qingyan raised his hand to pour himself a cup of tea and replied calmly, "Zheng Zu and his companion are outnumbered and isolated, while the Luo family has hundreds of skilled experts. How could they possibly eliminate them all? This reasoning is quite straightforward; can it be that Brother Gong truly cannot see it?"

Hehe, Zheng Dongting said with a wry smile as he stretched lazily, "In the world of martial arts, we disciples know that sooner or later, this day will come. There is no need to mention any plans; today is uncertain, and tomorrow is unknown. We live one day at a time."

Ah! The party leader, San Dao, elegantly raised his hand, making a gesture that signaled no more nonsense, and declared loudly, "The perpetrator behind the extermination of the Luo family has vanished without a trace, employing methods that are clean and efficient, with no leads to follow. Such a person is a true genius. Instead of expending vast amounts of manpower and resources to find the real culprit, why not let us find someone nearby to serve as a front, saving us a lot of trouble? This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for both of you. To acknowledge yourselves as the heroes who annihilated the Luo family, and to join forces with the brothers from Beishang and Taihang to dominate the martial world together. I assure you that your status will undoubtedly rival that of the Thirty-Six Blades Hall and the Eighteen Southern Villages."

Looking at the despondent expression on Zheng Dongting's face, even Qingyan's countenance darkened, as if feeling a sense of guilt. He quickly cleared his throat and said in a solemn tone: "Gentlemen, the Luo family massacre seems to have stirred up a tremendous uproar in the martial world. You are at the very center of this turbulent current, at risk of being engulfed by the vicious waves at any moment. Currently, the Taihang Mountain stronghold wants to recruit you, the Guanzhong Punishment Hall aims to apprehend you, the Yue female palace seeks to extract your brains, and the Hainan Sword Sect is even more eager to take your heads. Not to mention the Year Gang and the Kunlun Demon Sect, who have yet to make their move. You are no longer safe in the martial world; I wonder what your plans for the future are?"

I, Changsun Zhong, the Sword of Justice, punish evil in the capital. " said the man with a sunfish tattoo on his head coldly

Baili Zhan let out a cold snort, stepping forward with a surge of killing intent, forcefully pushing back the Guanzhong brothers and the Liu brothers three steps. He then suddenly turned around, facing the man who had appeared out of nowhere, and sternly asked: "Who goes there?"

The heroes of the later generation, there are only you and I in the world. Unfortunately, even though there are only two, it still feels like too many!" After saying this, Gong Tianying laughed heartily, his eyes shining with brilliance.

Indeed, I am Fu Fengliu Twelve

At the moment when the killing intent gathered by Gong Tianying was about to burst forth, the long sword that Lian Qingyan had laid across the table suddenly unsheathed itself as if conjured from thin air. It was as if a purplish-red mist suddenly enveloped the second floor of Shuyuge, slicing through the overwhelming killing intent with a single stroke. In that instant when the sword was about to be drawn, Lian Qingyan gently lifted the scabbard, forcefully retracting the blade back into it, as if what had just transpired had never happened. At this moment, Gong Tianying's sharp momentum dissipated, his hands empty behind his back, as he strolled past Lian Qingyan, sighing, "The Zishuang Sword truly lives up to its reputation as a famous sword of Tianshan." After saying this, he let out a cold laugh and departed.

Upon hearing the words "Master Guan," Zheng Dongting shuddered all over, and the various torture instruments from the thirty-six major punishments and seventy-two minor punishments of the Guanzhong Penal Hall appeared one after another before his eyes. He felt his mouth corner twitching uncontrollably.

"What a fool! A wise man does not suffer immediate losses. If you refuse to cooperate alone, that is one thing, but dragging my maid from the Yue Kingdom into this is another matter. If the palace master finds out about this, you will surely face consequences." With gritted teeth, Fu Fengliu cursed angrily.

Brothers Zheng and Zu, I originally thought that you two were merely small-time figures in the underworld. Although you have not committed any major offenses, your deaths would not be regrettable. However, I did not expect that both of you would face the knife-wielding party of the living Yama with such composure, maintaining your integrity and refusing to sink into corruption. This spirit and moral fortitude are far more admirable than the so-called righteous heroes in the underworld who speak of benevolence and righteousness daily. I, Lian, am unworthy, and I would like to raise this cup of hot tea in honor of both of you.

Among them, two individuals were dressed in the neat attire of the northern Hu ethnic group, wearing short blue jackets and stepping into Xie Gong shoes, with four-foot-long swords inserted into their backs. At a glance, it was evident that they were brothers from the same school. Both had tattoos of the yin-yang fish symbol on their foreheads, one adorned with the yang fish and the other with the yin fish.

"How do you intend to treat this?" Lian Qingyan glared with wide eyes and asked sternly

Hmph. The swordsman from Hainan let out a cold laugh, standing in front of the tea table where Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu were seated, and said calmly, "I am Baili Zhan from Hainan"

As soon as he finished speaking, Zu Beiqiu, who had been slumped in his seat at the teahouse, suddenly let out a scream akin to that of a slaughtered pig. It turned out that he had discovered a bloodied eyeball in the teacup he had just used for drinking tea. Without needing to ask, it was clear that this was the eyeball that had been knocked out by Dang Sandao during the recent battle.

What they saw at first glance was a scholar's hat as white as summer clouds, followed by a gentle face of a light golden hue, warm like sunlight. He wore a moon-white fitted robe, a snow-white outer robe, snow-white bindings on his legs, and moon-white vine shoes. A snow-white deer-hide sword sheath hung diagonally across his back, with a long white sword tassel swaying back and forth in the air. On this bright afternoon, the visitor seemed like a celestial being, smiling as if draped in moonlight, descending from the clouds. He wore a moon-white fitted robe, a snow-white outer robe, snow-white bindings on his legs, and moon-white vine shoes. A snow-white deer-hide sword sheath hung diagonally across his back, with a long white sword tassel swaying back and forth in the air. On this bright afternoon, the visitor seemed like a celestial being, smiling as if draped in moonlight, descending from the clouds.

Lian Qingyan nodded slightly: "Considering that both of you are men of courage, I, Lian, will make an exception for you both this time."

"Shut up." Zheng Dongting was now completely slumped in the chair, not wanting to move at all

Among the swordsmen of the younger generation in Hainan, the most ferocious one is known as "Baili Zhan," who has seen blood three times in a single day. Since his debut, this individual has operated in both the underworld and the legitimate world, gaining fame for his combative nature. Whether facing underworld experts or renowned figures from the legitimate side, any encounter with him inevitably leads to a bloody battle. The sinister and formidable techniques of Hainan swordsmanship have been brought to their zenith by this person. To date, he has fought hundreds of battles, never suffering a defeat, and has countless souls under his sword.

Hainan swordsmen rarely expose themselves in the martial world, but whenever a Hainan swordsman appears, it is sure to be accompanied by a bloody storm. The swordsmanship of Hainan is insidious, treacherous, and fierce, aiming to bring the enemy to the brink of death in an instant; the outcome of a battle is determined in a split second, making it one of the most controversial and peculiar sword techniques in the martial world. Hainan swordsmen are competitive and ruthless, disregarding even their closest kin, and among their peers, they are quick to resort to life-and-death struggles; once they step into the martial world, they become even more merciless and brutal.

I am Linghu Jie from Guanzhong, known for my virtuous swordsmanship. " A man with a tattoo of a shadow fish on his head said sternly, "Since you are aware of the consequences, I invite both of you to accompany my fellow disciples to Guanzhong. Master Guan is currently awaiting you in the court of justice.

Baili Zhan's long sword remained firmly grasped in his hand, yet his silhouette began to tremble. Drops of blood slowly slid down the contours of his face, resembling crimson tears. Dang Sandao stood with his arms crossed, his right hand slanting under his armpit, gripping the Yan Chi knife, its tip raised high behind him like a brilliantly shining battle flag. On the gleaming tip of the knife were dark red bloodstains. Dang Sandao stood with his arms crossed, his right hand slanting under his armpit, gripping the Yan Chi knife, its tip raised high behind him like a brilliantly shining battle flag. On the gleaming tip of the knife were dark red bloodstains

"Please, no need for such formalities," said Zheng Dongting, quickly raising his teacup and drinking it all in one go. "Although I, Zheng, make a living from the rewards of the martial world, I have always been quite interested in rooting out treachery and evil."

It is a rare honor for us to seek your favor, and my brother and I have no complaints. We leave this matter in your capable hands. The brothers Liu Twelve and Liu Thirteen were taken aback and repeatedly cupped their hands in salute, as if they had gained an immense favor.

Or perhaps, the tone of Young Master Liu Twelve suddenly turned cold, "Are the two of you trying to take this credit from my brother?"

"Well, I hadn't thought of that. " The expression of Party San Dao changed slightly, and he then laughed heartily towards the sky: "A man without ambition is not a true man. What is wrong with killing one's in-laws for a woman? Brother Zheng, your junior has yet to navigate the martial world, speaking and acting in a hesitant manner; I shall not blame him. You have rolled in the martial world for many years and should know that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. How many people in the martial world spend their days rolling about, merely for the chance to stand out? Over the years, Brother Zheng has lived in the martial world as if it were a year in hell, living like a dead dog. If I were you, I would seize this opportunity firmly." You have rolled in the martial world for many years and should know that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. How many people in the martial world spend their days rolling about, merely for the chance to stand out? Over the years, Brother Zheng has lived in the martial world as if it were a year in hell, living like a dead dog. If I were you, I would seize this opportunity firmly.

"Hello, Party surname, if you dare to harm my two brothers today, the thirty-six guardians of the Yue Woman Palace will emerge from the Sword Pool tomorrow, and they will surely annihilate your Taihang Mountain stronghold" said Yao Yunliu Thirteen fiercely

The other two individuals appeared to be a pair of twin brothers, handsome in appearance, with tall and slender figures. Dressed in elegant robes with wide sleeves billowing in the wind, a three-foot-long green sword hung lazily at their waists like an ornament, exuding a hint of carefree charm.

"Ah, take it easy." This man suddenly broke into a smile, "I am not here to compete with you in killing." This man completely ignored Baili Zhan, instead respectfully clasping his fists towards Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu, "You two launched a night raid on the Righteousness Hall, bloodily wiped out the Luo family village, and killed hundreds of the Luo family's relatives in one go, achieving an astonishing feat. I truly admire you. I am Dang Sandao, the chief of the Second Stronghold of the South Taihang, and I am here to invite you both to my Taihang Mountain stronghold to discuss great matters together."

"Senior brother, you..." Zu Bei Qiu was startled and shivered all over, "You have really angered him!"

Hmph, the Luo family is renowned, yet they resort to such despicable tactics, relying on the strategy of using drugs to refuse the divorce papers, a group of people who seek fame and reputation! It seems that the expert who annihilated the Luo family actually did a good deed.

The Hainan Sword Technique takes an unconventional approach, reminiscent of the unique and innovative methods of the Song brothers' Chaotic Cloak Sword Technique from years past. It can be compared to the renowned Tianshan Sword God Gu Tianya and the Yue Maiden Palace Master Hua Jinghong, who dominate the world of swords. Among the various sword sects, the Hainan Sword Sect ranks fourth, standing shoulder to shoulder with the three long-established major sects: Tianshan, Yue Maiden, and Shaolin. Its strength is not easily matched.

The young men of the Yue Woman's Pavilion have met the Moon Hero!

As soon as these words were spoken, the brothers from Guanzhong involuntarily took three steps back, and with a clang, both swords were drawn simultaneously. Four eyes widened in shock, staring at him with fear and trepidation. Although Young Master Liu did not react to the extent of drawing his weapon in panic, he too stood up from his seat involuntarily. Zheng Dongting spread his legs and could not help but glance under the table. Among everyone, Zu Beiqiu had the least reaction; he merely clutched the teapot and drank deeply, only to find that the tea inside had already formed ice shards. Zheng Dongting spread his legs and could not help but glance under the table. Among everyone, Zu Beiqiu had the least reaction; he merely clutched the teapot and drank deeply, only to find that the tea inside had already formed ice shards

Hmph, on that day when entering the Luo family, besides Zheng and Zu, there was another person, was there not

Lian Qingyan cupped his hands towards Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu, smiling and saying: "You two are too courteous!"

Zheng Dongting smiled wryly and waved his hand: "For a person like me, a mere rat in the rivers and lakes, everything I do is a source of embarrassment. I do not expect people to spread tales of great achievements. I only hope to receive more rewards in gold and silver, and in the future, to become wealthy and prosperous, as that is the most important matter."

"That being said..." Gong Tianying raised his hand and drank the tea in front of him in one gulp, "These two, in order to sever ties, slander the heroic spirits; they deserve to die!"

Zheng Dongting wore a troubled expression.

A fleeting flash of intense red streaked across the eyes of the Guanzhong brothers' sword. Changsun Zhong was the first to speak: "What is there to laugh about?"

Party San Dao laughed heartily, saying: "Hahaha, interesting! I never expected that the spirit of the rogue Mu Tianhou's disciples would surpass that of the renowned Yue Nu of the world. What a pity, after today, who in the martial world will know that Brother Zheng is such a courageous man?" As he spoke, the dark gray Yan Chi knife in his hand suddenly radiated a brilliant light, and a fierce killing intent instantly enveloped all the martial artists in the teahouse.

Those who enter the Luo family are as numerous as the hairs on a cow; I am not in charge of the Luo family, how could I possibly know

"Our lives have all been saved by the great hero Lian, how could we dare to have any complaints? We shall set off for Guanzhong immediately to report everything to Master Guan. I believe he will not take offense at all," said Changsun Zhong with great joy.

Ladies and gentlemen, I understand that everyone is eager to know the true culprit behind the extermination of the Luo family. I have gathered some clues and need to verify them with these two individuals. If you could do me a personal favor and hand them over to me, I assure you that I will provide an explanation shortly.

Your fellow disciples from the Yue Maiden Palace are not necessarily much more accomplished than you are

"Is it Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu?" The swordsman asked calmly as soon as he entered the teahouse

Hmph, I thought that as a woman from the Yue clan, I was already quite formidable in the martial world, but I did not expect that the Hainan Sword Sect would be even more so. May I ask your esteemed surname and name? My brother and I, the Shuangliu brothers, would truly like to learn from you.

Brother Zheng, I have heard that your lifelong ambition is to marry twelve wives and concubines, indulging in luxury and extravagance. The treasures of gold and silver, as well as enchanting beauties, are all available in our Taihang Mountain stronghold. Whether it be the beauties of Jiangnan, the unique flowers of the northern frontier, the alluring Persian courtesans, the renowned prostitutes of Kucha, or the captivating women of the Great Food, just a word from you, Brother Zheng, and they will be delivered immediately. "" Party Sandao raised his head and smiled proudly, "" Moreover, Brother, I know you still have lingering feelings for the women of the Luo family. As long as you join the Taihang Mountain stronghold, we, the Taihang bandits, will take it upon ourselves to help you search for your wife across thousands of miles. Even if your wife has fled to the ends of the earth, we can ensure she is brought back to you safe and sound. Obtaining all of this will be effortless for you, as long as you join the Taihang Mountain stronghold.

His words were so venomous that they sent a chill down the spines of everyone present. Bai Li Zhan's face shifted between shades of green and red, and suddenly he let out a fierce roar: "Dang San Dao, do you think we are dead?" As soon as the words left his mouth, a deafening sound of sword cries echoed through the teahouse, and a whirlwind tore through the entire second floor as Bai Li Zhan drew his sword with his left hand, the dazzling sword light blinding everyone.

Zheng Dongting looked at the blood-soaked eyeball in the teacup with a pale face and white lips, remaining silent for a long time

Zheng Dongting glanced at the trembling Zu Beiqiu, sighed, and suddenly grasped his shoulder, straightening his body in the chair. He gritted his teeth and said in a deep voice: "Brother Dang, I appreciate your kind intentions. Although Zheng is currently down on his luck in the martial world, I have not yet fallen so low as to become a lackey for the bandits of Taihang Mountain"

Just as Gong Tianying uttered the words "must kill," an extremely cold and sinister aura suddenly surged in from the main entrance of the teahouse. Although it was already late spring, it evoked a chilling sense of winter's harshness. As this murderous aura approached, a tall, slender swordsman clad in a purple robe strode into the second floor of the teahouse. This man had a pair of lifeless, despairing eyes of a leaden gray, and his facial features were sharply defined, as if chiseled by a knife or axe. His lips were a bluish-purple, almost white, with the corners slightly curled up, revealing a hint of disdainful and indifferent amusement, as if he could easily decide a person's life or death. At his waist hung a blue-green scabbard made of shark skin, adorned with several dark red patterns on the upper diagonal, the origin of which—whether from blood or dye—was unknown. This man had a pair of lifeless, despairing eyes of a leaden gray, and his facial features were sharply defined, as if chiseled by a knife or axe. His lips were a bluish-purple, almost white, with the corners slightly curled up, revealing a hint of disdainful and indifferent amusement, as if he could easily decide a person's life or death. At his waist hung a blue-green scabbard made of shark skin, adorned with several dark red patterns on the upper diagonal, the origin of which—whether from blood or dye—was unknown.

"Such excellent swordsmanship, able to withstand my initial three strikes. In the martial world, a master like this is one less with each that falls, truly a pity," said Dang Sandao leisurely. "In light of this chaotic Wind-Dispersing Sword Technique, I have decided to spare your life in full."

"Can you recognize this sign?" asked the man dressed in frontier attire in unison.

The Young Master of Shuangliu and the brothers from Guanzhong, still in the teahouse, breathed a sigh of relief as if a heavy burden had been lifted. At the same time, they held their swords to their chests and respectfully bowed deeply towards the staircase.

Upon hearing his words, even Qingyan's expression turned serious as she exclaimed: "Zheng and Zu have just escaped a great calamity, their words and actions are disordered, and what they say cannot be fully trusted"

Observing the bustling scene in the Wufu Teahouse, a hint of disdain appeared on Qingyan's face: "They are all incapable individuals who follow the wind. It is lamentable that since Peng Qiu's drunkenness, our great Tang has seen no more heroes."

"So, you also believe that they were not lying just now? The Luo family indeed once poisoned?" Gong Tianying suddenly said

"Good, Brother Zheng, you are bold and courageous. My brothers and I shall live and die together with you today" exclaimed the Punishing Sword, Changsun Zhong, suddenly.

Zhangsun Zhongqiang, after calming himself, spoke: "Once the Soul Transfer Technique is employed, the recipient will be left foolish for life, with no remedy available. This method seems rather extreme"

Moments later, the Guanzhong brothers Jian and the Shuangliu brothers left the teahouse with beaming smiles, leaving only Lian, Zheng, and Zu in this teahouse in Yangzhou

"Who is it, Senior Brother?" Zu Beiqiu asked curiously

Zhu Bei Qiu desperately opened his eyes, wanting to see just how powerful Bai Li Zhan's sword was, but all he could see was a dazzling array of winter snow swirling above Dang San Dao's head. "The South Sea Chaotic Wind Sword Technique is reputed to be the most perilous in the world, and it truly lives up to its name." Suddenly, a dark gray flash of blade light darted through the myriad sword lights like a spirit steed passing through a gap, and in an instant, Dang San Dao's figure had already brushed past Bai Li Zhan. Originally, the two had been facing each other, but after that lightning-fast exchange, they now stood back to back.

Zheng Dongting struggled to raise his hand, barely clasping his fists, and in a thin voice exclaimed: "The second leader of the party is overly flattering my brother and me; with our martial arts skills, how could we possibly accomplish such a significant task"

At the Wufu Teahouse, the lives of Zheng Dongting and Zu Beiqiu are now hanging by a thread

Upon hearing Zheng Dongting's resounding words, Lian Qingyan's expression shifted, and he could not help but reach for the long sword on the table. However, just as he made this move, Gong Tianying suddenly stood up, hands clasped behind his back, facing Lian Qingyan. An overwhelming wave of murderous intent surged towards him, as if an invisible wall had solidified, blocking his path out of Shuyu Pavilion.

"Hmph, you two have bloodied the Luo family, a commendable deed. I have come specifically to collect your heads," the man stated bluntly

At this point, he took two steps forward, closing in on Zheng Dongting, his expression turning cold: "If you two remain obstinate and unyielding, do not blame me for being cold-blooded and ruthless. Not only will I kill you, but I will also eliminate all witnesses here. From now on, no one will know the murderer of the Luo family's extermination, and my Taihang Mountain stronghold can take full credit for this glorious achievement."

The original name of Party Sandao was Dang Zhihong, but due to his initial three knife strikes being so thrilling and terrifying, he became known in the martial arts world as Party Sandao, a name that serves to remind people of the horror of his initial three knife strikes. Over time, people gradually forgot his true name and became accustomed to his nickname

Just as Dang Sandao was about to erupt, two crisp bursts of laughter suddenly rang out from the entrance of the teahouse. This laughter, at first glance, sounded clear and melodious, yet it struck directly at the heart, as if a true immortal had just descended to the mortal realm, laughing heartily in the ears of the crowd. Upon hearing this laughter, Dang Sandao's expression changed; he suddenly sheathed his knife, rolled up the curtain, leaped through the window, and in a twist of his body, vanished without a trace. Meanwhile, the trembling Baili Zhan raised his sleeve to cover his face and, like Dang Sandao, jumped through the window, stumbling away in a panic.