Chapter 3, Encounter
Fang Tianqiang endured the pain and said, "Gongsun... young lady, I... I didn't... it wasn't intentional! ... cough ..." Unable to hold back any longer, he spat out another mouthful of blood. In a moment of confusion, he fainted.
Without further ado, it is said that Fang Tian, having written a few characters, was exempted from paying for his meal, which greatly pleased him, and he enjoyed the meal immensely. Later, Yue Ming remarked to Fang Tian that his demeanor at that time resembled that of a petty person who had just achieved a small success
Fang Tian was even more startled, so he gathered all his strength and sprinted at full speed. Just at that moment, a door to a room swung open, and a person stepped out. Fang Tian could not stop his momentum and collided with that person, resulting in a "close-range" encounter.
Can Fang Tian bear to watch this little brother suffer?
When Fang Tian woke up, his drowsiness had long since vanished. After some thought, he sat down in a cross-legged position, preparing to practice his skills
At this moment, a plump man in his forties approached and said: "This young gentleman is most courteous. I am the proprietor of this establishment. Upon seeing your remarkable talent, I believe your couplets would be a perfect fit for our shop. May I ask if you would be willing to leave behind your esteemed work? Our establishment will certainly treasure it. Of course, all your expenses here will be completely complimentary."
Fang Tian released Gongsun Yan and narrowly dodged the sword that Yue Er had thrust at him from behind. He called out loudly, "Wait a moment, Miss Gongsun, this is..." Before he could finish his sentence, a thunderous voice interrupted, "You audacious scoundrel, how dare you bully my young lady!" A heavy fist wind and force surged from behind, and he immediately felt an overwhelming pressure enveloping him, making even the slightest movement feel exceedingly difficult. The power of this punch was indeed formidable!
Gongsun Yan also realized something was amiss, her expression darkening. She struck towards Fang Tian's chest with the back of her hand, while simultaneously a sword wind pierced towards Fang Tian's back. "You audacious rogue, quickly release my young lady!" The voice was clear and crisp, belonging to Gongsun Yan's green-clad maid, Yue'er.
After Yue Ming's interruption, Gongsun Yan clearly believed she had guessed correctly, her lips curling into a smile of great satisfaction. Strangely, Fang Tian not only felt no aversion to this expression of pride, but was instead captivated, unable to control his emotions.
Gongsun Yan said: "I am Gongsun Yan, a disciple of the Shuhui Palace. My master is the fairy Shuhui. May I ask how my senior brother is addressed? How is the foolish Master Uncle doing these days?"
Gongsun Yandao: "This is quite simple. Generally, how could an ordinary person think of Yunyin Temple in an instant? The young master was able to think of this place in a moment, which suggests he is extremely familiar with it. Moreover, in the realm of Jianghu, Yunyin Temple is a mysterious place; I fear very few people have been there. Considering this, could it be that the young master was born in Yunyin Temple?"
Yue Ming remained silent, while Fang Tian was astonished by the cleverness of this woman's thoughts, even though she had guessed incorrectly. It was truly embarrassing; if it were not for the fact that most of the materials in the master's library were about the Three Immortals from m.hetushu.com, and Fang Tian held great admiration for these Three Immortals, he would not have had such a deep impression, making it difficult to recall in a moment.
At that moment, there was a commotion coming from the left wing, with someone shouting, "Protect the escort vehicle!" and "Quick, find the escort leader!" The noise was overwhelming.
The fat shopkeeper received a treasured calligraphy, which brought him great joy. Upon seeing the astonished expressions of everyone, he realized that this piece of writing was exceptionally outstanding, which made him even more delighted
In the midst of surprise at this discovery, he also realized that his hand was resting on something soft and squishy, which felt exceptionally comfortable and smooth.
It is indeed this person. However, I have not seen him escorting goods in recent years, the innkeeper said with a sense of nostalgia. The carriage and boat shops, as well as the local government offices, are all places where information flows freely, especially since this is a major transportation hub, and the shopkeepers possess keen insight.
Gongsun Yan ignored the pale-faced Gongsun Wei, while the latter smiled and said: "What this young master said is quite right. 'Great man' is an adjective, while 'heavenly guest' is a noun. Indeed, they do not match perfectly, but it can still be considered a superior work. Could it be that this young master has another masterpiece?"
Have you ever visited Yunyin Temple? I was inspired by this and happened to compose a couplet.
Yue Ming, however, was not very pleased; his gaze towards Fang Tian was sharp as a thorn, and he looked down upon Fang Tian's self-satisfaction with disdain. Was he perhaps envious of my many talents? Fang Tian secretly speculated with a petty mindset.
Fang Tian quickly opened the door to the room and looked next door. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught a glimpse of a shadow flashing by, and then it vanished in an instant. Fang Tian was greatly startled and swiftly rushed to the door of Yue Ming's room. He pushed it open with one hand, only to find the room empty, with no sign of Yue Ming. This shock was not trivial; Fang Tian shouted, "Ming Di," and then darted to the left, towards the place where the shadow had disappeared.
This... this is not something a small person can know, but I heard it is to be transported to Yangzhou. The distance from Chang'an to Yangzhou is not short... Oh, I heard..." The shop assistant looked around and said quietly, "A few mysterious individuals are staying in that room, one of whom seems to be the leader of the Thunder Blades."
Oh, Third Brother, you can come up with it, that's wonderful, quickly tell me! Regarding Gongsun Wei's literary talent, Gongsun Yan has always admired it. After pondering for a long time, he still had no clue, and he was very pleased that Third Brother could come up with it.
Gongsun Wei was originally a collateral branch of the Gongsun family, having long distanced himself from the core of the family's power. However, this individual was exceptionally talented from a young age, excelling in both literary and martial skills, and was recognized by the family head, Gongsun Feilong, allowing him to enter the upper echelons of the family. He also earned the esteemed title of one of the Seven Young Masters of the Martial World. Upon seeing that scholar who had won the favor of Yan Mei, he naturally did not wish to diminish his own reputation.
"Uncle Ding, stop! This is a misunderstanding!" Gongsun Yan had already recovered and spoke out to halt Ding Rushan's pursuit
After this disturbance, Fang Tian found it difficult to explain his identity. Looking at Gongsun Yan's somewhat angry face, he couldn't help but feel anxious. Among the "Three Immortals of the Universe," the most formidable was undoubtedly Yan Ni. Of course, no one dared to call her that anymore (to call someone Yan Ni to their face is akin to courting death; what is said behind their back also depends on one's courage). Everyone must respectfully refer to her as the Shuhui Fairy. From the perspective of martial arts lore, although this fairy possesses wisdom as vast as the sea, she is not deserving of the title "Shu"; her temperament is like raging fire, capable of turning clouds with a flick of her hand and summoning rain with a wave. Her temper is unpredictable, even to gods. Among the "Three Immortals of the Universe," the most formidable is still Yan Ni. Of course, no one dares to call her that anymore (to call someone Yan Ni to their face is akin to courting death; what is said behind their back also depends on one's courage). Everyone must respectfully refer to her as the Shuhui Fairy. From the perspective of martial arts lore, although this fairy possesses wisdom as vast as the sea, she is not deserving of the title "Shu"; her temperament is like raging fire, capable of turning clouds with a flick of her hand and summoning rain with a wave. Her temper is unpredictable, even to gods. Where there is a master, there are disciples; offending Yan Ni's disciples is no small matter. Stealing a glance at the enchanting figure, he thought about how he could explain that he had no connection with the foolish monk, and the idea of being this beautiful woman's convenient senior brother made him feel somewhat pleased.
That person turned out to be Gongsun Wei
At that moment, a low sound came from the next room where Yue Ming was, followed by a brief and urgent "No...". In the haste, it was hard to hear clearly, but it seemed to be Yue Ming's voice.
Yue Ming noticed that Fang Tian did not oppose Gongsun Yan's words, and he also believed that Fang Tian was a disciple of the deluded monk. With this delightful misunderstanding, Fang Tian chose not to clarify it. This young brother resembled someone from the sect, and Fang Tian did not wish for the sect to know of his existence before the Mid-Autumn Festival next year. Yue Ming's misunderstanding would conveniently facilitate his actions. As for the truth being revealed later, heh, Fang Tian has not admitted to anything at this point. Hehe. As for the truth being revealed later, heh, Fang Tian has not admitted to anything at this point. Hehe.
Yue Ming also looked at Fang Tian, thinking that he could not discern that Fang Tian possessed this ability
With a thud, Fang Tian felt a heaviness in his chest, and a trace of blood seeped from the corner of his mouth, indicating he had already sustained internal injuries. Fortunately, Gongsun Yan, in her moment of urgency, did not exert too much force; otherwise, it would have been enough to overwhelm Fang Tian.
Yue Ming was quite surprised and asked, "How do you know he has a connection with the mad monk senior?"
Many years later, everyone had to admire the insight of the plump shopkeeper. He obtained the handwritten couplet and name of a legendary martial artist for the price of a meal. In the future, this sign brought him prosperous business, attracting many martial artists to pay their respects to the relics of their predecessors, resulting in an exceptionally thriving business. The handwritten characters of that legendary figure were framed by the shopkeeper and kept as a family treasure, and there were instances where someone offered 100,000 taels of silver to purchase it, but to no avail.
Seeing that no results could be obtained in a timely manner, it was futile to speculate, merely wasting mental energy. Thus, one remarked: "Alright, let’s not concern ourselves with this any longer. Whatever they choose to protect is none of our business. Why bother with it? ... Sigh, I am truly exhausted. Shall we rest early?"
Fang Tian was indeed tired, lying in bed but unable to fall asleep. The words spoken by Yue Ming before leaving stirred Fang Tian's thoughts. If only a date could be arranged... Hehe. For a moment, his mind wandered, drifting through fanciful and chaotic thoughts.
Upon hearing Fang Tian's explanation, Gongsun Yan's expression slightly cleared. Although Ding Dashan's actions had come to a halt, his eyes remained fixed on Yue Ming, suggesting that any further inappropriate movements would certainly lead to consequences for them.
"Stop talking nonsense, what can you do, junior sister? It would be truly impressive if I could master the teachings of Zhou Gong." After saying this, he stretched his back and let out a sigh.
Gongsun Wei was initially quite annoyed that Fang Tian had overshadowed him. However, upon discovering that Fang Tian was the direct disciple of the mad monk, he refrained from expressing his anger. Instead, a smile appeared on his face as he joked, provoking the "Three Immortals of the Universe" is no trivial matter
Regardless of the circumstances, Fang Tian was in a rather pleasant mood at that time, and the concern about the beautiful woman discovering that he was impersonating her senior brother was cast aside. What a joke, if the other party were not a beauty, who in this world would he fear? He was the disciple of the leader of the foremost sect, with his master being a Martial Saint, and among the top ten experts in the martial world, he ranked first among the one saint, two unmatched, three immortals, and four oddities. However, he felt somewhat disheartened, as this was not Fang Tian's own strength; until he broke through to the seventh level of power, he was at best merely a first-rate expert. What a joke, if the other party were not a beauty, who in this world would he fear? He was the disciple of the leader of the foremost sect, with his master being a Martial Saint, and among the top ten experts in the martial world, he ranked first among the one saint, two unmatched, three immortals, and four oddities. However, he felt somewhat disheartened, as this was not Fang Tian's own strength; until he broke through to the seventh level of power, he was at best merely a first-rate expert.
After speaking, he waved to the waiter, who had already brought the Four Treasures of the Study. Out of modesty, he naturally invited the young scholar Huang to write first, followed by Fang Tian. Fang Tian's calligraphy was vibrant and dynamic, flowing seamlessly, with strength penetrating the paper. Huang was greatly impressed. After that, none of the others dared to pick up a brush. Gongsun Wei also wanted to show his skills, but after seeing Fang Tian's writing, he had no choice but to hide his talents. This is not boasting; under the strict guidance of his master, Fang Tian's skills in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting are unmatched by very few in the world. After that, none of the others dared to pick up a brush. Gongsun Wei also wanted to show his skills, but after seeing Fang Tian's writing, he had no choice but to hide his talents. This is not boasting; under the strict guidance of his master, Fang Tian's skills in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting are unmatched by very few in the world. What a joke, if Fang Tian's level were too low, wouldn't that be a disgrace to his master!
The crowd erupted in applause. Gongsun Yan also repeatedly expressed her approval, her eyes sparkling as she frequently glanced at Gongsun Wei. Gongsun Wei, even more pleased with himself, displayed an air of condescension towards the talents of the world as he looked around.
At the critical moment of life and death, Fang Tian exerted all his strength to elevate his consciousness, as the Yin-Yang true energy swiftly circulated, resisting the immense pressure surrounding him like a mountain. In the precarious balance between life and death, the mysterious Yin true energy within him suddenly contracted, and his meridians had already suffered severe damage, causing Fang Tian to spit out a mouthful of fresh blood. At that moment, the mountain-like external pressure unexpectedly converged into the Yang true energy, causing it to surge dramatically. As it flowed, he immediately felt a reduction in pressure. Fang Tian dared not hesitate; he fully activated the "Carefree Movement" technique and the "Star Shift" maneuver. In an instant, Fang Tian vanished from his original position and reappeared three zhang away, immediately sitting down, already heavily injured.
"Ming Di, what kind of escort is the Xiongwei Escort Agency undertaking this time? Is it really necessary to mobilize so many people?" Fang Tian placed great importance on Yue Ming's experience in the martial world. Fang Tian was self-aware; having just entered the martial world himself, he understood that many aspects could not be grasped solely through reading materials. Although Yue Ming was younger than him, he had entered the profession earlier, even if it was just by a day, he would surely have more experience than Fang Tian.
Wow! Is that really the case? How could one go and grab someone else's hand like that?
Naturally, one should stay in the guest room of the Natural Residence courtyard at night, as it is a place worth staying at. Moreover, it is also the best inn in this city
Fang Tianxin pondered quietly, realizing that this escort mission was indeed not simple. Delivering to Yangzhou coincided with Fang Tian's destination, suggesting that there would be many encounters along the way. He exchanged a glance with Yue Ming, both understanding each other's thoughts, and thus fell silent as they entered their respective rooms. The innkeeper arranged for their washing up and brewed a pot of fine Longjing tea before respectfully withdrawing. Little did he expect that just a piece of calligraphy would lead him to treat them as esteemed guests, which surely made him quite proud.
Yue Ming observed Fang Tian's affected behavior and grew increasingly suspicious that Fang Tian was up to no good. However, he felt it was inappropriate to inquire further, so he hesitantly made his way to his own room
When Fang Tian walked into the courtyard, he couldn't help but be taken aback. In the courtyard, three escort carriages were parked in front of the left wing, adorned with the flying tiger flag of the Xiongwei Escort Agency. Beside them stood four well-dressed strongmen keeping watch. The innkeeper who accompanied Fang Tian and the others tactfully remarked: "Those are the people from the Xiongwei Escort Agency, who checked in this afternoon and will set off early tomorrow morning. They are all staying in the left wing, with more than thirty of them."
Upon witnessing such absoluteness, some expressed opposition, filled with astonishment, and thus focused their full attention in silence, awaiting further developments
In a moment of crisis, Fang Tian knew that dodging this palm strike and sword thrust was not difficult; the challenge lay in the fact that after he dodged, the sword could very likely strike Gongsun Yan. In a hurry, Fang Tian steadied his mind, exerted force from his waist, and embraced Gongsun Yan to leap out a distance of ten feet, while simultaneously gathering his energy to firmly receive Gongsun Yan's palm strike.
As a result, Gongsun Yan's fondness for Fang Tian and the others significantly diminished, and she no longer maintained any pretense of politeness, directly returning to her own table to sit down
Gongsun Yan expressed her admiration and then stood up to bow to Fang Tian, saying: "May I ask how this young gentleman is addressed in relation to the 'Three Immortals of the Universe,' particularly the esteemed monk of Yunyin Temple?"
"Thunderbolt?" Fang Tian asked in astonishment.
The fat shopkeeper said: "We have them all, we have them all. Today, so many extraordinary individuals have come to our establishment, and naturally, they will all leave their inscriptions. Our shop takes pride in having the honor of your esteemed presence for a lifetime."
Gongsun Wei, having attracted the attention of the crowd, felt even more pleased and, with a radiant expression, remarked: "When one visits the Great Buddha Temple, the Buddha is greater than the person."
Fang Tian quickly grabbed Yue Ming, observing the strength in his hands. If Fang Tian had not held him back, he would have certainly embraced Gongsun Yan tightly. He said, "Miss Gongsun, my younger brother is young and lacks manners; please do not take offense."
This escort mission must be quite significant. The skills of those seven scholars at the tavern are commendable, but they are only visible on the surface. If Thunder Tiger is involved behind the scenes, it can only indicate that this escort is indeed very important. What kind of escort would require Thunder Tiger to take action personally? And what about those mysterious individuals? Is there someone even more important than Thunder Tiger involved?
What kind of darts are they transporting
Gongsun Yan's face already showed a look of disgust, while Ding Rushan had even rolled up his sleeves, indicating that the large hand resembling a fan was about to reach out and strike someone
Yunyin Temple, Yunyin Temple... Gongsun Yan lowered her head in contemplation, and suddenly raised her head, saying: "Yunyin Temple, could it be that the monk wanders in Yunyin Temple, while the temple hides the wandering monk? What a good couplet! The wandering monk addresses the guest from the heavens, absolutely!" At that moment, there was great admiration.
Unbeknownst to him, Fang Tian was even more astonished. Just by giving a hint, this young girl was able to deduce the entire connection, which clearly demonstrated her exceptional literary talent. Immediately, Fang Tian's evaluation of this beauty rose significantly.
Fang Tian did not initially want to engage in this matter, but upon hearing that he could enjoy free food, drinks, and accommodation, he was immediately intrigued. He humbly remarked: "The creation of this couplet is the result of everyone's efforts, especially that of Brother Huang. Without Brother Huang's exquisite first line, this masterpiece would not have come to be."
Oh no, I didn't expect that this woman was actually a disciple of Shuhui, one of the "Three Immortals of the Universe." It would not be wise for Fang Tian to continue pretending to be a disciple of the foolish monk. Fortunately, there is still a chance to correct this mistake. Just as I was about to explain to her, an even greater mistake occurred.
Yue Ming spoke up first: "My name is Yue Ming, my elder brother is Fang Tian, this sister is very beautiful, where do you live? Shall we have a good chat tonight?"
Under the immense impact, Fang Tian rolled over with that person, landing more than one zhang away before coming to a stop. After regaining his composure, he realized that the person beneath him was actually Gongsun Yan
This is a small courtyard behind the inn, where the environment is quite tranquil. The main building has a total of ten rooms, all of which are first-class guest rooms. Fang Tian and Yue Ming are staying in rooms 1 and 2 on the right side. (Why are there two rooms? Firstly, Yue Ming insisted on having two rooms; secondly, since he is not paying, why not enjoy the free accommodation?)
Yue Ming curiously glanced at Fang Tian and said, "Are you already tired this early? Aren't you supposed to be going to meet some junior sister?"
For some reason, Fang Tian felt a strong aversion towards this person, especially the sense of superiority that made him feel uncomfortable. In a moment of impulse, he blurted out: "Although this couplet is quite good, the phrase 'greater than others' may not be suitable for 'guest from the heavens'"
Yue Ming struggled while saying, "Big brother, what are you doing... Oh, I'm sorry, I'm sorry! ... I didn't mean to... actually, I..." It seemed that Yue Ming recalled something, speaking incoherently as he tried to hide behind Fang Tian.